bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Role of Probiotics in Halitosis of Oral Origin: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Studies
Authors: López-Valverde Nansi , López-Valverde Antonio , Macedo de Sousa Bruno , Rodríguez Cinthia , Suárez Ana , Aragoneses Juan Manuel 
Published: January 2022

Halitosis or oral malodor is a condition caused by the putrefaction of sulfur-containing amino acids. It affects 30–50% of the population and causes social rejection, reducing quality of life, and self-esteem. Probiotics, especially Lactobacillus species, have been proposed for the treatment of genuine halitosis, due to their ability to reduce bacterial colonization. Our objective was to evaluate their use for the treatment of oral halitosis. Applying the PRISMA statement guidelines, we searched PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases for scientific articles from the last 15 years, up to July 2021. The keywords used were “Probiotics”; “Halitosis”; “Mouth diseases”; “Oral health”; “Humans”; “Randomized Clinical Trials” according to the question, “Are probiotics effective for the reduction or elimination of oral halitosis?” Fourteen studies were identified, although only four met the inclusion criteria. We evaluated 283 participants treated with two different probiotics, with a follow-up of at least 2 weeks. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration tool. A fixed-effects meta-analysis was performed. No statistical significance was found (p = 0.53). Despite the limitations of this meta-analysis, we believe that some probiotics have a beneficial effect on halitosis, although more clinical trials are needed to establish real evidence on this aspect.Systematic Review Registration:https://doi.org/10.37766/inplasy2021.9.0009, identifier: INPLASY20211900.
Can Routine Blood and Urine Parameters Reveal Clues to Detect Bladder Cancer? A Case–Control Study
Authors: Wang Dan-Qi , Shuai Juan , Zheng Hang , Guo Zhong-Qiang , Huang Qiao , Xu Xiao-Feng , Li Xiao-Dong , Zi Hao , Ming Dao-Jing , Ren Xuan-Yi , Zeng Xian-Tao 
Published: January 2022

ObjectiveLimited attention has been paid to abnormal blood and urine test results for patients with bladder cancer. The present study aimed to identify whether blood and urine parameters are associated with bladder cancer.MethodsWe used a case–control design and matched each patient with bladder cancer with three healthy controls of the same age and sex. Univariate conditional logistic regression was used to calculate the crude and adjusted odds ratio (OR) and its 95% CI. Multivariate conditional logistic regression was performed for confounders adjustment, and Spearman’s correlation coefficient was used to assess the correlation between tumor T stages and urine parameters.ResultsPatients with bladder cancer (n = 360) and controls (n = 1050) were recruited. In the univariate conditional logistic analysis, higher urine pH was associated with a decreased risk of bladder cancer (OR = 0.67, 95% CI = 0.57–0.78), while higher values of urine protein (OR = 4.55, 95% CI = 3.36–6.15), urine glucose (OR = 1.56, 95% CI = 1.18–2.05), and urine occult blood (OR = 4.27, 95% CI = 3.44–5.29) were associated with an increased risk of bladder cancer. After adjustment for body mass index, fasting blood glucose, hypertension, red blood cells, white blood cells, lymphocytes, neutrophils, and platelets, significance still remained for urine pH (OR = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.53–0.88), urine protein (OR = 1.97, 95% CI = 1.21–3.19), urine glucose (OR = 2.61, 95% CI = 1.39–4.89), and urine occult blood (OR = 3.54, 95% CI = 2.73–4.58).ConclusionThis study indicated that lower urine pH and higher values of urine protein, urine glucose, and urine occult blood might be risk factors for bladder cancer.
The Mutational Landscape of Early-Onset Breast Cancer: A Next-Generation Sequencing Analysis
Authors: Andrikopoulou Angeliki , Chatzinikolaou Spyridoula , Kyriopoulos Ilias , Bletsa Garyfalia , Kaparelou Maria , Liontos Michalis , Dimopoulos Meletios-Athanasios , Zagouri Flora 
Published: January 2022

BackgroundAround 5%–7% of breast cancer cases are diagnosed in women younger than 40, making it the leading cause of female cancer in the 25- to 39-year-old age group. Unfortunately, young age at diagnosis is linked to a more aggressive tumor biology and a worse clinical outcome. The identification of the mutational landscape of breast cancer in this age group could optimize the management.MethodsWe performed NGS analysis in paraffin blocks and blood samples of 32 young patients with breast cancer [&lt;40 years] and 90 older patients during the period 2019 through 2021. All patients were treated in a single institution at the Oncology Department of “Alexandra” Hospital, Medical School, University of Athens, Greece.ResultsBreast tumors were characterized more frequently by HER2 overexpression [25% vs 18.9%], higher ki67 levels [75% vs 61%] and lower differentiation [71.9% vs 60%] in the younger group. PIK3CA [6/20; 30%] and TP53 [6/20; 30%] were the most frequent pathogenic somatic mutations identified in young patients, while one case of BRCA2 somatic mutation [1/20; 5%] and one case of PTEN somatic mutation [1/20; 5%] were also identified. PIK3CA mutations [16/50; 32%] and TP53 mutations [20/50; 40%] were the most common somatic mutations identified in older patients, however other somatic mutations were also reported (ATM, AKT, CHEK2, NRAS, CDKN2A, PTEN, NF1, RB1, FGFR1, ERBB2). As for germline mutations, CHEK2 [3/25; 12%] was the most common pathogenic germline mutation in younger patients followed by BRCA1 [2/25; 8%]. Of note, CHEK2 germline mutations were identified less frequently in older patients [2/61; 3%] among others [BRCA1 (2/61; 3%), ATM (2/61; 3%), APC (1/61; 1,6%) and BRCA2 (1/61; 1,6%)].ConclusionWe here report the mutational profile identified via NGS in patients with early-onset breast cancer compared to their older counterparts. Although the sample size is small and no statistically significant differences were detected, we highlight the need of genetic testing to most patients in this subgroup.
Characterization of aEEG During Sleep and Wakefulness in Healthy Children
Authors: Löffelhardt Verena T. , Della Marina Adela , Greve Sandra , Müller Hanna , Felderhoff-Müser Ursula , Dohna-Schwake Christian , Bruns Nora 
Published: January 2022

IntroductionInterpretation of amplitude-integrated EEG (aEEG) is hindered by lacking knowledge on physiological background patterns in children. The aim of this study was to find out whether aEEG differs between wakefulness and sleep in children.MethodsForty continuous full-channel EEGs (cEEG) recorded during the afternoon and overnight in patients &lt;18 years of age without pathologies or only solitary interictal epileptiform discharges were converted into aEEGs. Upper and lower amplitudes of the C3–C4, P3–P4, C3–P3, C4–P4, and Fp1–Fp2 channels were measured during wakefulness and sleep by two investigators and bandwidths (BW) calculated. Sleep states were assessed according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. Median and interquartile ranges (IQR) were calculated to compare the values of amplitudes and bandwidth between wakefulness and sleep.ResultsMedian age was 9.9 years (IQR 6.1–14.7). All patients displayed continuous background patterns. Amplitudes and BW differed between wakefulness and sleep with median amplitude values of the C3–C4 channel 35 μV (IQR: 27–49) for the upper and 13 μV (10–19) for the lower amplitude. The BW was 29 μV (21–34). During sleep, episodes with high amplitudes [upper: 99 μV (71–125), lower: 35 μV (25–44), BW 63 μV (44–81)] corresponded to sleep states N2–N3. High amplitude-sections were interrupted by low amplitude-sections, which became the longer toward the morning [upper amplitude: 39 μV (30–51), lower: 16 μV (11–20), BW 23 μV (19–31)]. Low amplitude-sections were associated with sleep states REM, N1, and N2. With increasing age, amplitudes and bandwidths declined.ConclusionaEEGs in non-critically ill children displayed a wide range of amplitudes and bandwidths. Amplitudes were low during wakefulness and light sleep and high during deep sleep. Interpretation of pediatric aEEG background patterns must take into account the state of wakefulness in in clinical practice and research.
Role of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Adults and Children With Refractory Septic Shock: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yang Yufan , Xiao Zhenghui , Huang Jiaotian , Gong Ling , Lu Xiulan 
Published: January 2022

BackgroundThe benefits of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in patients with refractory septic shock remain controversial. Current guidelines on the management of refractory septic shock recommend the consideration of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation as a salvage therapy. The difference between adults and children with septic refractory shock treated with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation has not been previously analyzed. We aimed to review peer-reviewed publications on the role of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in adults and children with refractory septic shock.MethodsStudies reporting on mortality in both adults and children with refractory septic shock supported with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation published in PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase databases were included in the meta-analysis. Study eligibility was independently assessed by two authors, and disagreements were resolved by a third author. The outcome measure was survival at discharge. Subgroup analysis included the adult and pediatric groups.ResultsOf the 293 articles screened, 14 original articles were identified for systematic review and meta-analysis. The cumulative estimate of survival (14 studies, 535 patients) in the cohort was 39% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 27–51%). During the subgroup analysis, the cumulative estimate of survival at discharge in the adult group (6 studies, 276 patients) in the cohort was 18% (95% CI: 10–27%), and that in the pediatric group (8 studies, 259 patients) was 53% (95% CI: 47–59%).ConclusionsThe survival rate of adults with refractory septic shock requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was 18%, and children with refractory septic shock requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation had a higher survival rate (53%) than adults.
Rivastigmine Regulates the HIF-1α/VEGF Signaling Pathway to Induce Angiogenesis and Improves the Survival of Random Flaps in Rats
Authors: Liu Yingying , Li Wenjie , Ma Xinyi , He Jibing , Lin Yi , Lin Dingsheng 
Published: January 2022

Random skin flaps are frequently used to repair skin damage. However, the ischemic and hypoxic necrosis limits their wider application. Rivastigmine, a carbamate cholinesterase inhibitor (ChEI), has also been shown to reduce ischemia–reperfusion injury (IRI) and inflammation. This study was performed to examine the effect of rivastigmine on flap survival. Sixty male Sprague–Dawley rats with a modified McFarland flap were randomly divided into three groups: control group, 1 ml of solvent (10% DMSO + 90% corn oil); low-dose rivastigmine group (Riv-L), 1.0 mg/kg; and high-dose rivastigmine group (Riv-H), 2.0 mg/kg. All rats were treated once a day. On day 7, the skin flap survival area was measured. After staining with hematoxylin and eosin (H&amp;E), the pathological changes and microvessel density (MVD) were examined. The expression of inflammatory factors IL-1β and IL-18, CD34, hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was examined by immunohistochemical staining. The malondialdehyde (MDA) content and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were examined to determine the degree of oxidative stress. Lead oxide/gelatin angiography showed neovascularization and laser Doppler blood flowmetry showed the blood filling volume. Rivastigmine significantly increased the flap survival area and improved neovascularization. CD34, VEGF, and HIF-1α expression were increased, These changes were more pronounced in the Riv-H group. Treatment with rivastigmine reduced the level of MDA, improved SOD activity, and reduced expression of IL-1β and IL-18. Our results indicate that Rivastigmine can increase angiogenesis and significantly improve flap survival.
Mueller Matrix Ellipsometric Approach on the Imaging of Sub-Wavelength Nanostructures
Authors: Käseberg Tim , Grundmann Jana , Siefke Thomas , Klapetek Petr , Valtr Miroslav , Kroker Stefanie , Bodermann Bernd 
Published: January 2022

Conventional spectroscopic ellipsometry is a powerful tool in optical metrology. However, when it comes to the characterization of non-periodic nanostructures or structured fields that are much smaller than the illumination spot size, it is not well suited as it integrates the results over the whole illuminated area. Instead, imaging ellipsometry can be applied. Especially imaging Mueller matrix ellipsometry is highly useful in nanostructure characterization and defect inspection, as it is capable to measure the complete Mueller matrix for each pixel in a microscope image of the sample. It has been shown that these so-called Mueller matrix images can help to distinguish geometrical features of nanostructures in the sub-wavelength regime due to visible differences in off-diagonal matrix elements. To further investigate the sensitivity of imaging Mueller matrix ellipsometry for sub-wavelength sized features, we designed and fabricated a sample containing geometrical nanostructures with lateral dimensions ranging from 50 to 5,000 nm. The structures consist of square and circular shapes with varying sizes and corner rounding. For the characterization of their Mueller matrix images, we constructed an in-house Mueller matrix microscope capable of measuring the full Mueller matrix for each pixel of a CCD camera, using an imaging system and a dual-rotating compensator configuration for the ellipsometric system. The samples are illuminated at 455 nm wavelength and the measurements can be performed in both transmission and reflection. Using this setup, we systematically examine the sensitivity of Mueller matrix images to small features of the designed nanostructures. Within this contribution, the results are compared with traceable atomic force microscopy measurements and the suitability of this measurement technique in optical nanometrology is discussed. AFM measurements confirm that the fabricated samples closely match their design and are suitable for nanometrological test measurements. Mueller matrix images of the structures show close resemblance to numerical simulations and significant influence of sub-wavelength features to off-diagonal matrix elements.
Implementing an Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing Treatment-Program for Women With Posttraumatic Stress Disorder After Childbirth
Authors: Kranenburg Leonieke W. , Bijma Hilmar H. , Eggink Alex J. , Knijff Esther M. , Lambregtse-van den Berg Mijke P. 
Published: January 2022

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to describe the implementation and outcomes of an Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) treatment-program for women with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after childbirth.MethodsA prospective cohort-study with pre- and post-measurements was carried out in the setting of an academic hospital in the Netherland. Included were women who gave birth to a living child at least 4 weeks ago, with a diagnosis of PTSD, or severe symptoms of PTSD combined with another psychiatric diagnosis. All received up to 8 sessions of EMDR-therapy. The posttraumatic stress disorder Checklist for DSM-5 was administered before and after treatment. Trauma history was assessed before treatment with the Life Events Checklist for the DSM-5, the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire and the Childbirth Perception Scale. Descriptive statistics were used.ResultsForty-four women were referred, 26 met the inclusion criteria. After treatment, none of the women met the criteria for diagnosis of PTSD after on average 5 weekly sessions of EMDR- therapy. These outcomes are promising, as they were achieved in women with relatively high levels of psychiatric comorbidity (64%) and high rates of previous mental health treatment (80%).ConclusionImplementing an EMDR-treatment program for women with PTSD after childbirth in the setting of an academic hospital is feasible and effective. Key factors for success include a close collaboration between the relevant hospital departments and a thorough case conceptualization addressing the etiology of the PTSD.
Impact of Gender Difference on Anxiety in COVID-19 Patients in Quarantine Wards
Authors: Sun Peng , He Tao , Fan Duo-jiao , Xu Chao , Wang Ying , Song Shuang-wei , Jin Feng , Chen Xiao-xue , Yang Mei 
Published: January 2022

ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the gender difference in anxiety in novel coronavirus pneumonia (COVID-19) patients in the quarantine ward during the outbreak.MethodsThe self-rating anxiety scale (SAS) was used on the seventh day of isolation to analyze the anxiety levels of a total of 242 suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients in the quarantine wards of two hospitals; 232 of these patients (112 males and 120 females) completed the anxiety scoring. The anxiety scores were compared between male and female patients using the t-test, and a scatter diagram was used for analysis.ResultsThe SAS scores of females in quarantine wards were higher than those of males at seven days of isolation.ConclusionWomen with COVID-19 are more prone to anxiety than men while in isolation. It is necessary to give more attention to female patients in quarantine wards in the future, and psychological counseling may be necessary.
“Wherever I Go, I Have It Inside of Me”: Indigenous Cultural Dance Narratives as Substance Abuse and HIV Prevention in an Urban Danza Mexica Community
Authors: Fernandez Angela R. , Beltrán Ramona E. 
Published: January 2022

Introduction“Mexican American Indian” (MAI) is a large and diverse population for which little empirical research on alcohol and other drug (AOD) use and HIV is available, yet for which there is a disproportionate risk. Indigenous health narratives and participation in place- and settings-based cultural practices can be protective in chronic and co-occurring disease prevention and health promotion for Indigenous people. This study explores the role of participation in cultural dance in generating narratives of prevention and health promotion among a sample of MAIs from an Urban Danza Mexica Community (UDMC), framed within a decolonizing narratives of health (DNOH) model.MethodsThis secondary data analysis (n = 9) is drawn from a qualitative AOD and HIV health needs assessment of UDMC living in the Pacific Northwest and the Rocky Mountain West (n = 21). This study uses a community-based participatory research approach and employs narrative, Indigenized methods to analyze in-depth interviews from adult cisgender females (n = 5) and males (n = 4). The DNOH model is developed as a relational, analytic framework that contextualizes Indigenous stories in relationship to three distinct yet interconnected levels—the personal, the communal, and Indigeneity in the larger world. These levels of narrative analysis function as culturally grounded, relational pathways through which to articulate health education and promotion approaches.ResultsNarratives delve into the complex and nuanced relationships within participants' internal worlds (personal), between themselves and their Danza community (communal), and between themselves and their complex, intersectional Indigenous identities within society (Indigeneity). Stories of ancestral teachings about health and prevention shared within the Danza circle create spaces wherein participants navigate complex conversations that resist oppressive colonial narratives, reconnect with and strengthen their Indigenous identities, and strive toward ancestral visions of health and well-being.DiscussionThis study contributes to Indigenized theoretical and methodological expansion and the development of place/settings-based, narrative, cultural health interventions aimed at preventing chronic and co-occurring disease and promoting wellness among populations similar to the UDMC. Identifying cultural practices as Native Hubs (relational, socially constructed places) that foster decolonizing narratives helps increase understanding of their role in public health education and promotion through recognition of Indigenous knowledge systems and frameworks.
Does Integrating Cognitive and Psychological Interventions Enhance Wellbeing After Acquired Brain Injury? Study Protocol for a Phase II Randomized Controlled Trial of the VaLiANT (Valued Living After Neurological Trauma) Group Program
Authors: Sathananthan Nick , Morris Eric M. J. , Gillanders David , Knox Lucy , Dimech-Betancourt Bleydy , Wright Bradley J. , das Nair Roshan , Wong Dana 
Published: January 2022

Background and ObjectivesCognitive and emotional changes affect the majority of individuals with acquired brain injury (ABI) and are associated with poorer outcomes. The evidence for “siloed” rehabilitation approaches targeting cognition and mood separately remains mixed. Valued living (i.e., acting consistently with personal values) is associated with better psychological functioning and participation in work and other productive activities. Rehabilitation interventions that concurrently address cognitive and emotional barriers to valued living may therefore result in improved outcomes. VaLiANT (Valued Living After Neurological Trauma) is an 8-week group intervention developed by our team, which uniquely combines cognitive rehabilitation and psychological therapy to improve wellbeing and meaningful participation (i.e., valued living) following ABI.MethodThis protocol describes the design and implementation of a Phase II parallel-group randomized controlled trial with blinded outcome assessors, to evaluate the potential efficacy of VaLiANT and the feasibility of a Phase III trial. Participants are adults with a history of ABI at least 3 months prior to study entry, who experience cognitive and/or emotional difficulties and associated reduced participation in valued activities. Random allocation to the treatment condition (8-week VaLiANT group program) or a usual care waitlist control condition occurs at a 2:1 treatment: control ratio. The primary outcome is wellbeing, measured by the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale. Secondary outcomes include measures of valued living, mood, cognitive complaints, quality of life, community participation, post-traumatic growth, and self-efficacy. All measures are collected across three time points by blinded assessors (baseline, 8-week follow-up, 16-week follow-up). Trial feasibility will be evaluated against recruitment rates, drop-out rates, intervention acceptability, and treatment fidelity (manual adherence and therapist competence).DiscussionThis trial will extend current knowledge on how to improve long-term outcomes following ABI by evaluating an innovative integrated, multi-domain approach to rehabilitation concurrently addressing cognitive and emotional barriers to participation in meaningful life roles.