bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
COVID-19 and Youth Psychopathological Distress in Umbria, Central Italy: A 2-Year Observational Study in a Real-World Setting
Authors: Menculini Giulia , Pomili Giorgio , Brufani Francesca , Minuti Agnese , Mancini Niccolò , D’Angelo Martina , Biscontini Sonia , Mancini Enrico , Savini Andrea , Orsolini Laura , Volpe Umberto , Tortorella Alfonso , Steardo Luca 
Published: May 2022

IntroductionAdolescents and young adults represent a vulnerable population in the context of the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The present retrospective study aims to investigate the pandemic’s psychological impact on adolescents and young adults by analyzing data from an outpatient mental health service dedicated to youths in Umbria, central Italy.Materials and MethodsThe clinical charts of subjects aged 14–24 who first accessed the service in the timeframe between March 1st, 2019, and February 28th, 2021, were reviewed. Subjects were divided into two subgroups according to the period of time when they accessed the service (pre-COVID-19 vs. during- COVID-19 outbreak). Bivariate analyses were performed using the Chi-square test and the Welch’s t-test. A secondary analysis was performed considering only subjects suffering from psychiatric disorders. Furthermore, data concerning individuals who were already followed by the service before the pandemic were analyzed by the McNemar’s test and the t-paired test to assess changes in treatment features.ResultsThe number of new accesses during the pandemic period remained stable. After the emergency onset, youths accessing the service showed a higher prevalence of anxiety disorders (p = 0.022). During the COVID-19 period, services were more frequently delivered by using a digital mental health approach (p = 0.001). Psychopharmacological treatment was more frequently prescribed among subjects that were referred to the service after the pandemic onset (p = 0.033). As for substance use, a highly significant reduction in opioid use was observed (p = 0.003). Family therapy was delivered less frequently in the during-COVID-19 subgroup, especially in the subpopulation of subjects suffering from psychiatric disorders (p = 0.013). When considering subjects referred to the service in the pre-COVID-19 period, the number of interventions provided to this population increased after the pandemic outbreak (p = 0.038).ConclusionIn the context of the COVID-19-related public health crisis, youths represent an at-risk population for which pathways to care should be reinforced, and targeted interventions, including psychosocial treatments, should be implemented.
Decreased Serum Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Poststroke Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Chunhui , Wang Xuefang , Zhu Qinghua , Mei Yongxia , Zhang Zhenxiang , Xu Hui 
Published: May 2022

BackgroundsThere were conflicting results on the comparison of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels between poststroke depression (PSD) patients and stroke patients without PSD among previous studies. Thus, we conducted this systemic review and meta-analysis to explore the alteration of serum BDNF levels in PSD.MethodsThis study included articles from the Web of Science and PubMed databases that were published before December 2021. STATA 12.0 software was used to compute the standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) regarding the comparison of serum BDNF in PSD and stroke patients without PSD.ResultsWe collected the mean value and standard deviation (SD) of serum BDNF in PSD and stroke patients without PSD from six studies (PSD: n = 268, stroke patients without PSD: n = 425). The present meta-analysis showed decreased serum BDNF level in patients with PSD, compared to stroke patients without PSD with a random-effects model (mean value of BDNF level [PSD vs. stroke patients without PSD]: 14.106 vs. 17.995 ng/ml; SMD = –1.578; 95% CI: –2.820, –0.337; I2 = 97.8%, p-value for Q test &lt; 0.001).ConclusionBrain-derived neurotrophic factor may work as a potential biomarker to predict the risk of PSD among stroke survivors. More large-sample clinical trials exploring the alteration of serum BDNF levels in PSD among stroke patients need to be conducted to verify this result.
Venlafaxine as an Adjuvant Therapy for Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients With Anxious and Depressive Symptoms: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Liang Chang , Chen Pingrun , Tang Yu , Zhang Chuheng , Lei Na , Luo Ying , Duan Shihao , Zhang Yan 
Published: May 2022

Background and AimsThe effect of antidepressant therapy on Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) remains controversial. This trial aimed to assess whether adding venlafaxine to standard therapy for IBD improved the quality of life (QoL), mental health, and disease activity of patients with IBD with anxious and depressive symptoms.MethodsA prospective, randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted. Participants diagnosed with IBD with symptoms of anxiety or depression were randomly assigned to receive either venlafaxine 150 mg daily or equivalent placebo and followed for 6 months. Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire (IBDQ), Mayo score, Crohn's disease activity index (CDAI), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and blood examination were completed before the enrollment, during, and after the follow-up. Mixed linear models and univariate analyses were used to compare groups.ResultsForty-five patients with IBD were included, of whom 25 were randomized to receive venlafaxine. The mean age was 40.00 (SD = 13.12) years old and 25 (55.6%) were male. Venlafaxine showed a significant improvement on QoL (p &lt; 0.001) and disease course (p = 0.035), a greater reduction in HADS (anxiety: p &lt; 0.001, depression: p &lt; 0.001), Mayo scores (p &lt; 0.001), and CDAI (p = 0.006) after 6 months. Venlafaxine had no effect on IL-10 expression, endoscopic scores, relapse rate, and use rate of biologics and corticosteroids, but did reduce serum level of erythrocyte estimation rate (ESR; p = 0.003), C-reactive protein (CRP; p &lt; 0.001) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α; p = 0.009).ConclusionsVenlafaxine has a significantly beneficial effect on QoL, IBD activity, and mental health in patients with IBD with comorbid anxious or depressive symptoms. (Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ID: ChiCTR1900021496).
Predicting the Risk Factors Associated With Severe Outcomes Among COVID-19 Patients–Decision Tree Modeling Approach
Authors: Kumaran Mahalakshmi , Pham Truong-Minh , Wang Kaiming , Usman Hussain , Norris Colleen M. , MacDonald Judy , Oudit Gavin Y. , Saini Vineet , Sikdar Khokan C. 
Published: May 2022

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic has seen a large surge in case numbers over several waves, and has critically strained the health care system, with a significant number of cases requiring hospitalization and ICU admission. This study used a decision tree modeling approach to identify the most important predictors of severe outcomes among COVID-19 patients.MethodsWe identified a retrospective population-based cohort (n = 140,182) of adults who tested positive for COVID-19 between 5th March 2020 and 31st May 2021. Demographic information, symptoms and co-morbidities were extracted from a communicable disease and outbreak management information system and electronic medical records. Decision tree modeling involving conditional inference tree and random forest models were used to analyze and identify the key factors(s) associated with severe outcomes (hospitalization, ICU admission and death) following COVID-19 infection.ResultsIn the study cohort, nearly 6.37% were hospitalized, 1.39% were admitted to ICU and 1.57% died due to COVID-19. Older age (&gt;71Y) and breathing difficulties were the top two factors associated with a poor prognosis, predicting about 50% of severe outcomes in both models. Neurological conditions, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and renal disease were the top five pre-existing conditions that altogether predicted 29% of outcomes. 79% of the cases with poor prognosis were predicted based on the combination of variables. Age stratified models revealed that among younger adults (18–40 Y), obesity was among the top risk factors associated with adverse outcomes.ConclusionDecision tree modeling has identified key factors associated with a significant proportion of severe outcomes in COVID-19. Knowledge about these variables will aid in identifying high-risk groups and allocating health care resources.
Anxiety and Coping Stress Strategies in Researchers During COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Batista Patrícia , Afonso Anabela , Lopes Manuel , Fonseca César , Oliveira-Silva Patrícia , Pereira Anabela , Pinho Lara 
Published: May 2022

The current COVID-19 pandemic has affected the whole world, leading to changes in one's personal and working life. Researchers have undergone extensive changes in their roles, mainly in the area of health care, with research into the virus now the priority.AimTo assess the anxiety, depression, stress, fears, and coping strategies of Portuguese researchers during the COVID-19 pandemic.Participants and MethodsA total of 243 researchers, with an average age of 37.9 ± 9.6, participated in an online questionnaire. The study was performed between 1 June 2021 and 11 August 2021. The questionnaire included depression, anxiety, and stress (DASS-21), fear of COVID-19 scale (FCV-19S), and coping inventory for stressful situations (CISS).ResultsThe findings suggest being female and younger seem to be related to more significant fears. Singles and younger researchers showed higher values of stress, depression, and anxiety. Research areas, such as medical and health sciences, presented higher levels in the DASS-21 depression and stress scale (p &lt; 0.05). Also, the results showed a moderate or moderate strong significant positive linear relationship between the scales (p &lt; 0.001): DASS-21 stress, DASS-21 anxiety, and DASS-21 depression (r &gt; 0.70); CISS-21 emotional-oriented with DASS-21 stress (r = 0.683), DASS-21 depression (r = 0.622), and DASS-21 anxiety (r = 0.557); and emotional fear and cognitive fear (r = 0.652).ConclusionThe findings of this study support the growing concern for the psychological well-being of researchers and the need for intervention with more extensive and diverse studies.
Variability in the Aerobic Fitness-Related Dependence on Respiratory Processes During Muscle Work Is Associated With the ACE-I/D Genotype
Authors: Gasser Benedikt , Frei Annika , Niederseer David , Catuogno Silvio , Frey Walter O. , Flück Martin 
Published: May 2022

BackgroundThe efficiency of aerobic energy provision to working skeletal muscle is affected by aerobic fitness and a prominent insertion/deletion polymorphism in the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE-I/D) gene for the major modulator of tissue perfusion. We assessed whether variability in the fitness state is dependent on the contribution of multiple aspects of oxygen transport to the development of muscle power, and the respective control coefficients, are associated with the ACE-I/D genotype.MethodsTwenty-five women and 19 men completed a ramp test of cycling exercise to exhaustion during which serial steps of oxygen transport [oxygen uptake (L O2 min−1) (VO2), minute ventilation in (L min−1) (VE), cardiac output in equivalents of L min−1 (Q), arterial oxygen saturation (SpO2), muscle oxygen saturation (SmO2), and total hemoglobin concentration (g dL−1) (THb) in Musculus vastus lateralis and Musculus gastrocnemius, respiration exchange ratio (RER)], blood lactate and glucose concentration, were continuously monitored. The contribution/reliance of power output (PO) on the parameters of oxygen transport was estimated based on the slopes in Pearson's moment correlations (|r| &gt; 0.65, p &lt; 0.05) vs. power values over the work phase of the ramp test, and for respective fractional changes per time (defining control coefficients) over the rest, work, and recovery phase of the ramp test. Associations of variability in slopes and control coefficients with the genotype and aerobic fitness were evaluated with ANOVA.ResultsAll parameters characterizing aspects of the pathway of oxygen, except THb, presented strong linear relationships [(|r| &gt; 0.70) to PO]. Metabolic efficiency was 30% higher in the aerobically fit subjects [peak oxygen uptake (mL O2 min−1) (VO2peak) ≥ 50 ml min−1 kg−1], and energy expenditure at rest was associated with the fitness state × ACE-I/D genotype, being highest in the fit non-carriers of the ACE D-allele. For VO2, VE, and RER the power-related slopes of linear relationships during work demonstrated an association with aerobic fitness, being 30–40% steeper in the aerobically fit than unfit subjects. For VE the power-related slope also demonstrated an association with the ACE-I/D genotype. For increasing deficit in muscle oxygen saturation (DSmO2) in Musculus vastus lateralis (DSmO2 Vas), the power-related slope was associated with the interaction between aerobic fitness × ACE-I/D genotype.ConclusionLocal and systemic aspects of aerobic energy provision stand under influence of the fitness state and ACE-I/D genotype. This especially concerns the association with the index of the muscle's mitochondrial respiration (SmO2) which compares to the genetic influences of endurance training.
A Re-examination of the Measurement of Foot Strike Mechanics During Running: The Immediate Effect of Footwear Midsole Thickness
Authors: Zhang Zhenyuan , Lake Mark 
Published: May 2022

PurposeMidsole cushioning thickness (MT) is a key component of running footwear that may influence the stiffness setting of the joints, performance enhancement, and injury prevention. Most studies that have investigated the influence of manipulating shoe midsole characteristics on foot strike patterns and vertical force loading rates have not considered the dynamic conditions of initial landing and the associated initial lower limb joint stiffness. In this study, we examined the effect of running in shoes with large changes in MT on both the posture and dynamics associated with foot strike.Methods12 injury-free runners with habitual rearfoot strike patterns ran at 4.5 m/s along a 40-m runway in shoe conditions with MT of 30, 42, and 54 mm, respectively. Ground reaction force and the right leg kinematic data were collected. One-way repeated measures ANOVA was conducted to statistically analyze the effect of MT on key variables linked to foot strike.ResultsIncreased midsole thickness resulted in a slightly flatter foot strike posture (p &lt; 0.05), a decreased shank retraction velocity (p &lt; 0.05), and an increase in forward horizontal foot velocity (p &lt; 0.05), all at initial ground contact. Vertical force loading rates were reduced with increasing MT (p &lt; 0.05), but this was associated with large increases in the initial ankle and knee joint stiffness (p &lt; 0.05).ConclusionAdjustments in the initial conditions of contact with the ground during running were seen in both the posture and dynamics of the lower limbs. To help to mitigate the impact severity from foot-ground collision with the thinnest shoe condition, there was an increased shank retraction velocity and decreased forward velocity of the foot at landing. These active impact-moderating adaptations likely served to reduce the changes in impact severity expected due to midsole material properties alone and should be considered in relation to altering the risk of running-related injuries.
Virtual-Augmented Reality and Life-Like Neurosurgical Simulator for Training: First Evaluation of a Hands-On Experience for Residents
Authors: Petrone Salvatore , Cofano Fabio , Nicolosi Federico , Spena Giannantonio , Moschino Marco , Di Perna Giuseppe , Lavorato Andrea , Lanotte Michele Maria , Garbossa Diego 
Published: May 2022

BackgroundIn the recent years, growing interest in simulation-based surgical education has led to various practical alternatives for medical training. More recently, courses based on virtual reality (VR) and three-dimensional (3D)-printed models are available. In this paper, a hybrid (virtual and physical) neurosurgical simulator has been validated, equipped with augmented reality (AR) capabilities that can be used repeatedly to increase familiarity and improve the technical skills in human brain anatomy and neurosurgical approaches.MethodsThe neurosurgical simulator used in this study (UpSurgeOn Box, UpSurgeOn Srl, Assago, Milan) combines a virtual component and a physical component with an intermediate step to provide a hybrid solution. A first reported and evaluated practical experience on the anatomical 3D-printed model has been conducted with a total of 30 residents in neurosurgery. The residents had the possibility to choose a specific approach, focus on the correct patient positioning, and go over the chosen approach step-by-step, interacting with the model through AR application. Next, each practical surgical step on the 3D model was timed and qualitatively evaluated by 3 senior neurosurgeons. Quality and usability-grade surveys were filled out by participants.ResultsMore than 89% of the residents assessed that the application and the AR simulator were very helpful in improving the orientation skills during neurosurgical approaches. Indeed, 89.3% of participants found brain and skull anatomy highly realistic during their tasks. Moreover, workshop exercises were considered useful in increasing the competency and technical skills required in the operating room by 85.8 and 84.7% of residents, respectively. Data collected confirmed that the anatomical model and its application were intuitive, well-integrated, and easy to use.ConclusionThe hybrid AR and 3D-printed neurosurgical simulator could be a valid tool for neurosurgical training, capable of enhancing personal technical skills and competence. In addition, it could be easy to imagine how patient safety would increase and healthcare costs would be reduced, even if more studies are needed to investigate these aspects. The integration of simulators for training in neurosurgery as preparatory steps for the operating room should be recommended and further investigated given their huge potential.
Significance of Pseudomeningocele After Decompressive Surgery for Chiari I Malformation
Authors: Balasa Artur , Kunert Przemysław , Bielecki Mateusz , Kujawski Sławomir , Marchel Andrzej 
Published: May 2022

BackgroundPseudomeningoceles (PMCs) as abnormal collections of cerebrospinal fluid are quite common findings on follow-up MRI after Chiari decompression surgery (CDS). However, the importance of their identification has not been truly determined, especially when PMCs are described occasionally in the process of radiological follow-up. We retrospectively analyzed surgical outcomes and imaging findings after CDS depending upon the occurrence and thickness of PMCs.MethodsA total of 76 adult patients who underwent CDS were analyzed. The clinical and radiological outcomes of patients with a pseudomeningocele (wPMC) were evaluated and compared to those of patients without a pseudomeningocele (w/oPMC). Radiological morphometric measurements were performed and compared between groups. Comparisons of the maximal PMC thickness were made within the wPMC group.ResultsPMCs were recognized in 27 (35.5%) patients, of whom 3 (11.1%) required reoperation. Differences in satisfactory result rates regarding gestalt assessment and Chicago Chiari Outcome Scale were statistically insignificant between the w/oPMC and wPMC groups (p = 1 and p = 0.56, respectively). The postoperative syringomyelia decrease and cerebellar tonsil elevation were similar between the groups (p = 1 and p = 0.74, respectively) in the long-term follow-up. Additionally, the clinical or radiological outcomes with radiological details were not related to PMC thickness in the long-term follow-up. However, radiological details showed the cooccurrence of PMCs with a postsurgical of cerebello-tentorial distance increase (p &lt; 0.05), basion-pontomedullary sulcus distance decrease (p &lt; 0.05) and tonsillo-graft distance decrease (p &lt; 0.05).ConclusionsWe found no significant relationships between PMC presence or thickness and clinical or radiological outcomes. However, postoperative changes within the posterior fossa associated with PMCs resemble brain sagging, which occurs in intracranial hypotension. Therefore, extradural cerebrospinal fluid escape may also be responsible for symptoms in some patients with PMCs after CDS.
Case Report: Adrenocortical Oncocytoma in a Patient with a Previous Contralateral Adrenalectomy for a Cortisol-Secreting Adenoma
Authors: Canu Letizia , Perigli Giuliano , Badii Benedetta , Santi Raffaella , Nesi Gabriella , Pradella Silvia , Maggi Mario , Peri Alessandro 
Published: May 2022

BackgroundOncocytomas are uncommon benign tumors that arise in various organs and are predominantly composed of oncocytes. Adrenocortical oncocytomas are extremely rare and are generally non-functioning.MethodsWe report the case of a 40-year-old patient with a progressively enlarging left adrenal mass. At the age of 19 he had undergone right adrenalectomy for a cortisol-secreting adenoma. Radiologic features were not typical of an adenoma and positive uptake was detected at 18F-FDG-PET. Because of the uncertain nature of the growing lesion, it was decided to proceed to surgical resection.ResultsThe surgeon managed to remove the left adrenal mass, sparing the normal adrenal gland, and histology was consistent with adrenocortical oncocytoma. Corticosteroid supplementation was prescribed, but at reassessment, adrenal function was found to be preserved and treatment withdrawn.ConclusionsAdrenal oncocytoma is a rare diagnosis, but should be considered in the presence of a growing mass with non-specific radiologic appearance.
Magneto-Dielectric Effects in Polyurethane Sponge Modified with Carbonyl Iron for Applications in Low-Cost Magnetic Sensors
Authors: Bica Ioan , Iacobescu Gabriela-Eugenia 
Published: May 2022

In this study, magnetizable polyurethane sponges (MSs) were obtained from commercial absorbent polyurethane sponges (PSs) doped with carbonyl iron microparticles (CIPs). Based on MSs, we manufactured cylindrical capacitors (CCs). The CCs were subjected to both a magnetic field and an alternating electric field, with a frequency of f=1 kHz. Using an RLC bridge, we measured the series electric capacitance, Cs, and the tangent of the loss angle, Ds. From the functions Cs=Cs(δ)CCs and Ds=Ds(δ)CCs, we extracted the components of the complex dielectric permittivity. It was found that the CIPs embedded in the MS matrix aggregated, leading to magneto-dielectric effects such as the enhancement of the complex dielectric permittivity components when applying the magnetic field as a principal effect and the enhancement of the electric capacitance and time constant of the capacitors as a secondary effect. The obtained results represent landmarks in the realization of low-cost magnetic field sensors, deformation and mechanical stress transducers in the robotics industry, etc.