bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional Outcomes of Immediate Weightbearing After Arthroscopic Lateral Ankle Ligament Repair: A Prospective Randomized Single-Center Trial
Authors: Zhao Yujie , Gu Xicheng , Chen Ziyi , Li Hongyun , Hua Yinghui
Published: November 2024

Background:

Previous studies have revealed that early postoperative rehabilitation of chronic lateral ankle instability is just as crucial as surgical intervention. Immediate weightbearing has yielded good clinical results; however, randomized controlled studies have been limited.

Purpose:

To compare the clinical outcomes of patients with immediate weightbearing after lateral ankle ligament repair with those with delayed weightbearing after 2 weeks in a prospective randomized controlled study.

Study Design:

Randomized controlled clinical trial; Level of evidence, 1.

Methods:

Patients who underwent arthroscopic anterior talofibular ligament repair between August 2021 and December 2022 were randomized into 2 groups—immediate weightbearing with a hard ankle brace and nonweightbearing casting for 2 weeks followed by cast removal and weightbearing. Primary outcomes were the ankle function scores as assessed using the visual analog scale at rest and during activities, the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, and the Karlsson Ankle Functional Score (Karlsson score). Secondary outcomes were the time to return to unsupported walking, jogging, work, and exercise and change in the ankle range of motion (ROM) at 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-ups.

Results:

A total of 88 participants were included, consisting of 58 men and 30 women, with a mean age of 30.26 years. Computerized randomization resulted in 44 patients per group. These 2 groups displayed no difference in the AOFAS score, Karlsson score, and ankle ROM at all follow-ups. Patients who underwent immediate weightbearing had a significantly shorter time of returning to unsupported walking ( P < .001). No differences were observed in the time of returning to work, jogging, and sports exercise.

Conclusion:

For patients with chronic ankle instability after arthroscopic anterior talofibular ligament repair, immediate weightbearing allowed patients to return to unsupported walking more quickly and had no negative effects on the AOFAS score, Karlsson score, times of returning to normal life, jogging, sports exercise, and ankle ROM at 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-ups compared with cast fixation.

Registration:

ChiCTR2100049612 (Chinese Clinical Trial Registry; https://www.chictr.org.cn/ ).
Effects of the Vitality Acupunch Exercise Program on Older Adults With Probable Sarcopenia: A Mixed Methods Pilot Study
Authors: Murley Brittany , Chen Kuei-Min , Gipson Christine S. , Gosselin Kevin , Thornhill Jenna , Ross Allison , Gladding Kennedy , Mastel-Smith Beth
Published: November 2024

Purpose: Age-related loss of muscle mass and strength is a highly prevalent condition in older adults in long-term care (LTC) facilities. This pilot study aimed to test the effects of a vitality acupunch (VA) exercise program on muscle mass, muscle strength, muscle endurance, functional fitness, activities of daily living, quality of life, and sleep quality of older adults in LTC facilities with probable sarcopenia in the United States and understand the experiences of residents who participated in the VA program. Design: A mixed-methods experimental design was used for this study. Methods: The quantitative phase included a sample of 27 participants randomly assigned to the control ( n = 13) or VA ( n = 14) condition. The VA condition consisted of three weekly 40-minute instructor-led seated exercise sessions over 24 weeks. Measures were obtained at baseline, three, and sixmonth intervals. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore participant's experiences of the program. Findings: Statistical comparison revealed significantly higher handgrip strength for the VA group ( p = .008). Narrative analysis revealed that the program had a positive impact on participant's daily lives. Conclusions: The VA program offers a holistic, evidence-based exercise program for older adults with probable sarcopenia living in LTC facilities.
Mechanical, thermal and gas separation properties of copolyimides and their thermal rearrangement copolymer membranes with spirobisindane structures
Authors: Wang Xianzhi , Lu Yunhua , Hou Mengjie , Xiao Guoyong , Li Lin , Wang Tonghua
Published: November 2024

In this work, two kinds of dimaine monomers with spirocyclic structures, including 3,3,3′,3′-tetramethyl-6,6′-bis[3-amino-4-hydroxyphenoxy]-1,1′-spirobisindane (TBAHS) and 3,3,3′,3′-tetramethyl-bis(5-amino-6-hydroxyphenyl)-1,1′-spirobisindane (TBHAS) are firstly synthesized. Then, the two diamines TBAHS and TBHAS are copolymerized in different molar ratios with equimolar 4,4′-(hexafluoroisopropenyl)diphthalic anhydride (6FDA) to synthesize poly(amic acid) (PAA) solution, followed by thermal imidization to obtain a series of copolyimide (coPI) membranes. Next, these coPI(TBAHS-TBHAS) specimens are subjected to thermal rearrangement (TR) treatment at 450°C to obtain the corresponding coTR(TBAHS-TBHAS) copolymer membranes. The influences of the molar ratio of TBAHS to TBHAS, thermal treatment temperature and time on the microstructures and properties of the PI and TR copolymers are investigated. With the increase of rigid TBHAS molar ratio, the glass transition temperature ( Tg) and d-spacing value of the coPI(TBAHS-TBHAS) samples are significantly enhanced. Furthermore, as the thermal treatment temperature increases, the mechanical properties of the copolymer membranes display a sharply decline trend, but the d-spacing values are obviously increased. When the molar ratio of TBAHS to TBHAS is 7:3, the gas permeabilities of the coTR membrane reach 1140.5, 1180.6, 306.6, and 44.9 Barrer for H2, CO2, O2, and N2, respectively. Meanwhile, the ideal selectivity of O2/ N2 is 6.82, suggesting a superior separation performance close to the 2015 upper limit. Furthermore, with the increase of thermal treatment temperature and time, the gas permeabilities are also improved.
Research Progress of Maillard Reaction and its Application in Processing of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Authors: Shengbu Meniga , Ai Li , Shi Qian , Zhao Qi , Liu Xinan , Lai Xianrong
Published: November 2024

The Maillard reaction, also known as the ‘non-enzymatic browning reaction’, involves a reaction between reducing sugars and amino compounds, including amino acids and proteins. The Maillard reaction has been increasingly used in the production of traditional Chinese medicine and food. This study thoroughly examines the mechanism of the reaction, the factors that influence it and the techniques used for extracting, separating and purifying Maillard reaction products (MRPs) in food and Chinese medicine processing. Additionally, the article explores the physiological functions of MRPs, highlighting their antioxidant, hepato-protective, antibacterial, immune-boosting, anti-mutagenic, anti-inflammatory, health-promoting, detoxifying and antiviral effects. MRPs have diverse outcomes because of various influencing factors; they can contain trace amounts of potentially harmful constituents, such as acrylamide, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural and advanced glycosylation products. The study also includes a comparative analysis of common methods used for the separation and purification of concentrated MRPs. These methods consist of ultrafiltration, macroporous resin, gel chromatography, ion exchange chromatography and dialysis. Results indicate that each method has advantages and disadvantages, and thus careful consideration should be placed on specific applications. Furthermore, a future outlook for the research and development of Maillard reaction and its products is proposed. Given that the physiological activities of MRPs are diverse, thorough qualitative and quantitative analysis of the reaction mechanisms, influencing factors and pharmacologically active ingredients is needed. This study offers valuable insights into the advancement of MRPs for industries involved in food and traditional Chinese medicinal material processing. These insights can be effectively utilised in healthcare and clinical practice, offering innovative ideas for scientific and technological professionals involved in research and development.
Algorithmic camouflage: Exploring the shadowbans imposed by algorithms to moderate the content of Chinese gay men
Authors: Zhao Longxuan
Published: November 2024

This study employs semistructured interviews and algorithmic ethnography to explore how algorithmic shadowbans have been used to moderate content related to Chinese gay men and achieve targeted algorithmic governance. Through a multimethod approach combining both thematic analysis and discourse analysis, this study claims that algorithms impose seemingly tolerant but actually restrictive shadowbans, which are thematized as “(im)permissible searching” and “(un)smooth posting,” on Chinese gay men. This study conceptualizes such algorithmic shadowbans as “algorithmic camouflage,” emphasizing the opacity of the roles, behaviors, and purposes of algorithms toward specific users from an interactive perspective, highlighting the “hypocrisy” of algorithms. Under hypocritical algorithmic shadowbans, this study suggests that a highly camouflaged “de-gaying” discourse—through compositions of dehumanization, de-emotionalization, and dramatization—is being shaped by algorithms on Chinese digital platforms.
Removal of sequencing adapter contamination improves microbial genome databases
Authors: Moeller Andrew H. , Dillard Brian A. , Goldman Samantha L. , Real Madalena V. F. , Sprockett Daniel D.
Published: November 2024

Advances in assembling microbial genomes have led to growth of reference genome databases, which have been transformative for applied and basic microbiome research. Here we show that published microbial genome databases from humans, mice, cows, pigs, fish, honeybees, and marine environments contain significant sequencing-adapter contamination that systematically reduces assembly accuracy and contiguousness. By removing the adapter-contaminated ends of contiguous sequences and reassembling MGnify reference genomes, we improve the quality of assemblies in these databases.
Associations between various anthropometric indices and hypertension and hyperlipidaemia: a cross-sectional study in China
Authors: Feng Chuyao , Lu Cihang , Chen Kang , Song Bo , Shan Zhongyan , Teng Weiping
Published: November 2024

Background

This study aims to explore the association and determine the distinguished potential of anthropometric adiposity indices in screening for hypertension and hyperlipidaemia in the Chinese population.

Methods

A recent nationwide cross-sectional study, called the Thyroid Disorders, Iodine State, and Diabetes Epidemiological Survey (TIDE 2015–2017), provided the newest data on the relationships between anthropometric adiposity indices and hypertension and hyperlipidaemia and included 65,231 subjects. The area under the curve (AUC) was used to assess the feasibility of using these indices to distinguish hypertension and hyperlipidaemia. After age stratification, a restricted cubic spline (RCS) fitted for generalized linear regression was used to visualize the relationships of the body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), the waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), the body roundness index (BRI), and the “a body shape index” (ABSI) with hypertension and hyperlipidaemia.

Results

The results showed that there were significant differences in the BMI, WC, the WHtR, the BRI, and the ABSI among the different age groups (P < 0.0001). After adjusting for sex, age, education, income, smoking status, urban or rural residence, and ethnicity in model, The WHtR and BRI had greater discriminatory power in identifying hypertension (AUC = 0.665, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.660–0.671 for both), hypercholesterolaemia (AUC = 0.629, 95% CI 0.624–0.634 for both), and high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C; AUC = 0.659, 95% CI 0.653–0.664 for both) status in the overall population. When distinguishing hypertriglyceridaemia among the general population, the BMI (AUC = 0.711, 95% CI 0.706–0.716) and WC (AUC = 0.715, 95% CI 0.710–0.720) had greater discriminatory ability than the other anthropometric indices did. The BMI (AUC = 0.631, 95% CI 0.625–0.637) had the highest power for low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) status in the general population.

Conclusions

Several anthropometric indices show significant correlation with hypertension and hyperlipidaemia. The WHtR and BRI were better in distinguishing hypertension, hypercholesterolaemia and high LDL-C status, while the BMI was better in hypertriglyceridaemia and low HDL-C status. The use of combined indices, such as the BMI, WC, the WHtR and the BRI, can be included in an individual’s medical history and can be used as tools for cardiovascular health screening, which may yield superior results for public health.
Shared and unique patterns of autonomous human endogenous retrovirus loci transcriptomes in CD14 + monocytes from individuals with physical trauma or infection with COVID-19
Authors: Koo Hyunmin , Morrow Casey D.
Published: November 2024

Since previous studies have suggested that the RNAs of human endogenous retrovirus (HERV) might be involved in regulating innate immunity, it is important to investigate the HERV transcriptome patterns in innate immune cell types such as CD14 + monocytes. Using single cell RNA-seq datasets from resting or stimulated PBMCs mapped to 3,220 known discrete autonomous proviral HERV loci, we found individual-specific variation in HERV transcriptomes between HERV loci in CD14 + monocytes. Analysis of paired datasets from the same individual that were cultured in vitro with LPS or without (i.e. control) revealed 36 HERV loci in CD14 + monocytes that were detected only after activation. To extend our analysis to in vivo activated CD14 + monocytes, we used two scRNA-seq datasets from studies that had demonstrated activation of circulating CD14 + monocytes in patients with physical trauma or patients hospitalized with COVID-19 infections. For direct comparison between the trauma and COVID-19 datasets, we first analyzed 1.625 billion sequence reads from a composite pangenome control of 21 normal individuals. Comparison of the sequence read depth of HERV loci in the trauma or COVID-19 samples to the pangenome control revealed that 39 loci in the COVID-19 and 11 HERV loci in the trauma samples were significantly different (Mann-Whitney U test), with 9 HERV loci shared between the COVID-19 and trauma datasets. The capacity to compare HERV loci transcriptome patterns in innate immune cells, like CD14 + monocytes, across different pathological conditions will lead to greater understanding of the physiological role of HERV expression in health and disease.
Phlebotomine sand fly survey, blood meal source identification, and description of Sergentomyia imihra n. sp. in the central Sahara of Algeria
Authors: Benallal Kamal Eddine , Mefissel Mohammed , Dib Yassine , Depaquit Jérôme , Kavan Daniel , Harrat Zoubir , Dvořák Vít , Volf Petr , Halada Petr
Published: November 2024

Background

Phlebotomine sand flies (Diptera: Psychodidae) are important vectors of various pathogens, mainly Leishmania parasites. In the Old World, the most important genus in term of pathogens transmission is the genus Phlebotomus, which includes many proven or suspected vectors of several Leishmania species, while the genus Sergentomyia remains so far unproven as a vector of human pathogens. Algeria is one of the most affected countries by human leishmaniasis.

Methods

In the present study, an entomological survey was carried out in two provinces, Ghardaïa and Illizi, located in the north and central Sahara, respectively, where cases of human leishmaniasis are recorded. Our goal was to understand the role of the local sand fly species in the transmission of Leishmania parasites and to analyze their blood meal preferences. Collected sand flies were identified by a combination of morphological and molecular approaches that included DNA-barcoding and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) protein profiling. In addition, female blood meals were analyzed by peptide mass mapping using MALDI-TOF MS.

Results

In total, 640 sand fly specimens belonging to Phlebotomus and Sergentomyia genera were collected in the two provinces. Sergentomyia antennata and Se. fallax were most abundant species in Ghardaïa, and Ph. papatasi and Ph. alexandri in Illizi. In addition, a new sand fly species was described in Illizi named Sergentomyia (Sergentomyia) imihra n. sp. Blood meal analysis of the engorged females revealed various mammalian hosts, especially goats, but also humans for Phlebotomus papatasi and Ph. alexandri, suggesting that these vector species are opportunistic feeders.

Conclusions

Integrative approach that combined morphological analysis, sequencing of DNA markers, and protein profiling enabled the recognition and description of a new Sergentomyia species, raising the number of the Algerian sand fly fauna to 27 species. Further sand fly surveillance in the central Sahara is recommended to identify the thus-far unknown males of Se. imihra n. sp.

Graphical Abstract
Association between unintentional firearm injury characteristics and deaths in adolescents
Authors: Hollo Ashley A. , Dillon Mairead , Hoffmann Jennifer A. , Blanchard Ashley , Haasz Maya
Published: November 2024

Background

Approximately 15% of pediatric firearm injuries are unintentional. While demographic characteristics of unintentional firearm injuries have been described, the relationship between injury characteristics and mortality is not well understood. In this study, we identified injury characteristics associated with fatality among unintentional firearm injuries in adolescents.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective (May 2022-May 2023) cross-sectional study of unintentional firearm injuries among adolescents 12–17 years old using the Gun Violence Archive. Variables included victim age and sex, shooter age and sex, injury location, injury circumstance, number of firearms, type of firearm, firearm owner, census region, and shooter relationship to the victim. Logistic regression was used to identify variables associated with fatality.

Results

Of 319 unintentional incidents, 212 (66.5%) were non-fatal and 107 (34.5%) were fatal. Of all shootings, 176 (55.2%) occurred in a residence. A shooter was identified in 256 (80.3%) cases; 43.0% of these were a peer of the victim. The adjusted odds of fatality were higher when a peer was the shooter (aOR 5.38, 95% CI 2.57, 11.80) compared to self-inflicted injury and when the shooting took place in the victim’s residence (aOR 2.87, 95% CI 1.07, 7.88) or another residence (aOR 3.03, 95% CI 1.45, 6.67) versus a public location (Fig. 1).

Conclusions

Unintentional firearm injuries were more likely fatal when a peer was the shooter and when the shooting occurred at a residence. This amplifies the importance of safe home firearm storage and exploring other evidence-based approaches to decreasing youth access to firearms.
Injuries from border wall falls after 2018 are more severe: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Whitcher Gregory H. , McLean Susan F.
Published: November 2024

Background

The U.S.-Mexico “border wall” between El Paso, Texas and Ciudad Juárez, Mexico was raised and extended beginning in 2018 in accordance with Presidential Executive Order 13,767. We hypothesized that these changes resulted in increased incidence and severity of injuries of individuals attempting to cross the border wall in the El Paso region.

Methods

A retrospective cohort review was conducted of University Medical Center of El Paso Trauma Registry charts from 2001 to 2022. Year of injury, gender, age, Injury Severity Score, hospital length-of-stay, ICU length-of-stay, ventilator days, and survival were analyzed by Chi-square analysis with Fisher’s exact test for categorical variables and Independent Samples T-test for continuous variables. An independent samples Mann Whitney U Test was used to compare border wall fall injuries before and after 2018.

Results

Of the 842 patients reviewed, 69 patients presented before 2018 and 773 presented from 2018 to 2022. Statistically significant differences were identified in the mean Injury Severity Score which increased from 6.3 (SD ± 3.8) to 8.3 (SD ± 5.5, p < .001) and the mean hospital length-of-stay which increased from 6.7 days (SD ± 5.5) to 9.5 days (SD ± 8.0, p < .005).

Conclusion

The incidence, severity, and hospital length-of-stay related to injuries crossing the U.S.-Mexico border have increased with changes in height of the border wall since 2018. Additional resources should be allocated to Emergency Departments and Trauma Centers along the Southwest Border to serve this unique patient population. Additional consideration should be given to the cost of the border wall.
Blue light reflectance imaging in non-perfusion areas detection: insights from multimodal analysis
Authors: Leitão Guerra Ricardo , Barbosa Gabriel Castilho Sandoval , Leitão Guerra Cezar , Badaro Emmerson , Roisman Luiz , Lucatto Luiz Filipe , Novais Eduardo
Published: November 2024

Design

A retrospective, cross-sectional image analysis using a convenience sample.

Subjects

Five cases selected based on the availability of comprehensive imaging data.

Methods

This study involved a retrospective review of images from five cases, focusing on the use of retinal monochromatic blue light reflectance (BLR) imaging to detect non-perfusion areas. Two cases of sickle-cell retinopathy demonstrated peripheral retinal non-perfusion identified through widefield fluorescein angiography. Three other cases—one with branch retinal vein occlusion, one with branch retinal artery occlusion, and one presenting paracentral acute middle maculopathy showed focal macular non-perfusion detected by structural OCT and OCTA. The areas of nonperfused retinal tissue, confirmed by fluorescein angiography, OCT, and OCTA, were then correlated with findings from the BLR image. This correlation aimed to identify any potential associations between these imaging modalities.

Main outcome measures

Enhance understanding of the utilization of retinal monochromatic BLR images as a non-perfusion biomarker.

Results

The perfusion defects identified through fluorescein angiography were qualitatively correlated with hypo-reflective regions observed in the BLR images. A notable correlation was also observed between the OCTA deep capillary plexus findings and the BLR images. Additionally, areas of retinal thinning identified on structural OCT thickness maps corresponded with the hypo-reflective regions in the BLR images. This indicates the potential of BLR in identifying non-perfused retinal areas.

Conclusions

This study reinforces the evidence, through OCT, OCTA, and angiographic correlation, that the BLR can effectively identify areas of retinal non-perfusion in a non-invasive manner. Further research is warranted to assess the method’s sensitivity, specificity, and limitations. While the interaction of blue light with the retina, leading to specular reflections and scattering, is established, this research represents a pioneering effort in suggesting which specific retinal structures may be implicated in this phenomenon. This novel insight opens avenues for deeper exploration into the underlying mechanisms and potential clinical applications of utilizing the BLR imaging technique for assessing retinal vascular abnormalities.
Fermented marine foods of the indigenous arctic people (Inuit) and comparisons with Asian fermented fish
Authors: Daily James W. , Park Sunmin
Published: November 2024

The Inuit, sometimes referred to as Eskimos, are indigenous people to the remote circumpolar regions of the northern hemisphere that remain relatively inaccessible to outsiders. The traditional diet consisted almost entirely of raw animal foods eaten fresh, dried, or fermented and was similar to the diets of wild carnivorous animals. From the 1950s onward, the Inuits gradually adopted Western foods. With the adoption of a more Western diet, there has also been a corresponding increase in Western diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and some cancers. Asians have also consumed salted fermented fish, but the fermented fish are different due to environmental temperatures. Although the microbial content of Inuit fermented foods is uniquely different from that of Asian fermented foods, Asian and Inuit fermented foods appear to be similarly important for supporting gut and immune health. The benefits of Asian fermented fish for improving the biodiversity of the microbiome and the generation of bioactive amines from proteins may be similar to the fermented marine foods of the Inuits. This study reviewed traditional fermented fish consumed by the Inuit people and Asians, highlighting various aspects that can offer valuable insights into the nutritional, cultural, and health dimensions of these practices.
Genetic predisposition to thyroid dysfunction: a case–control study investigating TSHR gene polymorphism (rs2268458) in Indians
Authors: Tyagi Shama , kaur Manpreet , yadav Anita , Gupta Ranjan
Published: November 2024

Background

Variations in the TSHR gene have been implicated in a spectrum of thyroid diseases. Previous studies have implicated variations in the TSHR gene, including SNPs rs179247, rs12101255, and rs2268458, in thyroid diseases, but their association with hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism in the Indian population has not been investigated.

Aim

In this study, we aimed to examine the relationship between candidate SNP rs2268458 and susceptibility to hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism in the Indian population. We carried out a case–control genetic screening of the TSHR gene.

Methods

We analyzed the variant of the TSHR gene using the PCR–RFLP technique in a total of 318 participants, including 130 controls and 188 individuals with thyroid disorders (124 hypothyroid and 64 hyperthyroid). Demographic information was collected, and biochemical parameters were assessed using enzymatic methods. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS-23.

Results

The SNP rs2268458 demonstrated a significant association with hypothyroid and hyperthyroid patients (p-value < 0.05). Using the dominant genetic model, we calculated an odds ratio of 3.52 (confidence interval: 2.09–5.93, p-value: 0.0001) for the risk of hypothyroidism and an odds ratio of 2.34 (confidence interval: 1.26–4.31, p-value: 0.0001) for the risk of hyperthyroidism.

Conclusion

This pioneering study in the Indian population reveals a significant association between the C allele of TSHR gene SNP rs2268458 and an increased risk of developing both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Our findings suggest that the C allele may be a common genetic risk factor for thyroid dysfunction in Indians.
Updated 5-Year Institutional Bibliometric Profiles for United States Neurosurgery Residency Programs and the Relationship Between Social Media Presence and Objective Departmental Metrics
Authors: Chang Andrew N. , Boyett Deborah , Chou Dean , Chan Andrew K.
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

The authors report current 3-year and 5-year institutional bibliometric profiles and investigate the correlations between objective metrics of neurosurgical residency programs and social media presence, including residency program size, faculty count, Doximity rankings, and measures of research output.

METHODS:

A list of neurosurgery residency programs was obtained through the Doximity Residency Navigator. Publication history of faculty members was compiled using Scopus and analyzed to create institutional bibliometric profiles from 2018-2022 to 2020-2022. Mann-Whitney U tests were used to compare departmental metrics for institutions with and without social media accounts. Spearman rank correlations were used to examine the relationship between social media following and metrics, and between Twitter following and methods of Twitter use.

RESULTS:

74% (n = 86) of neurosurgery programs have a Twitter account, 47% (n = 55) have a Facebook account, 63% (n = 73) have Instagram accounts, and 16% (n = 19) have LinkedIn accounts. The most notable differences were found when comparing departments with and without Twitter accounts, where a difference was found in all metrics except the average H-index. Residency program size, faculty count, average H-index, 3-year and 5-year publication and citation counts per faculty, and institutional H-indices were significantly correlated with Twitter following. Higher Doximity rankings were correlated with Twitter following and Facebook likes. There is a greater increase in 5-year citations per publication from 2009-2013 to 2018-2022 for institutions that created departmental Twitter accounts after 2013. Articles that were tweeted about had higher 3-year citations per publication than the institution's overall 3-year citations per publication.

CONCLUSION:

Our findings provide updated insight into the relationship between social media presence and objective academic metrics of neurosurgery departments. We identify and quantify correlations between social media platforms and program characteristics, with a focus on research output. These metrics can be used to guide programs in their development of social media.
Sustainable urban development policies and practices in the United States
Authors: Sargsyan Tigran
Published: November 2024

Sustainability approaches have a special significance in terms of ensuring a long-term and balanced multi-dimensional urban development. The purpose of the study is to reveal and describe the main features of sustainable urban development in the United States in terms of urban policymaking and practical implementation. In the theoretical part of the paper, various interpretations of sustainable urban development and sustainable cities were discussed and summarized. Meanwhile, a brief description of the current state of global urbanization processes was given. Through secondary data analysis (governmental reports, descriptions of missions and target activities, legislative acts, etc.), comparison and generalization, the main actors (governmental bodies at federal level) and priorities of the U.S. urban policy with a special focus on sustainability were identified and discussed. In addition, the framework of the U.S. sustainable urban development policymaking was suggested and generalized. Different city rankings (based on sustainable development goals, green development, etc.) reveal the leading role of Pacific Coast urban areas, Washington D.C., Boston and New York City in terms of urban sustainability practices. Various urban innovations are implemented in the same and other urban areas, promoting the further development of smart sustainable city concept in the United States.
Η μουσική των ειρμών και των στιχηρών της Μεγάλης Εβδομάδος από τις πρώτες καταγραφές μέχρι και τις πρώτες έντυπες εκδόσεις
Authors: Αριστείδου Χρίστος
Published: November 2024

Η παρούσα διδακτορική διατριβή εξετάζει την εξέλιξη του μέλους των ειρμών και των στιχηρών της Μεγάλης Εβδομάδος. Μελετώνται διάφορες μελωδικές εκδοχές, ανά εποχή με ονομαστική αναφορά σε συγκεκριμένους μελοποιούς και φθάνουμε μέχρι τις πρώτες έντυπες εκδόσεις του 19ου αι. Ως προς την ανάλυση του μέλους των ειρμών εξετάζονται οι εξής εκδοχές: βυζαντινή, κουκουζέλεια, Θεοφάνης Καρύκης, Ιωάσαφ ο νέος Κουκουζέλης, Χρυσάφης ο νέος, Γερμανός Μητροπολίτης Νέων Πατρών, Μπαλάσιος, Πέτρος Πελοποννήσιος, Πέτρος Βυζάντιος, Νέα Μέθοδος.Η ανάλυση του μέλους των στιχηρών αφορά τις παρακάτω μελωδικές εκδοχές: Βυζαντινή, Χρυσάφης, Γερμανός, Πέτρος Πελοποννήσιος και Νέα Μέθοδος. Όλα τα μέλη περιλαμβάνονται σε δύο ξεχωριστά Παραρτήματα. Η έρευνα έδειξε ότι το μέλος αλλάζει κατά εποχή, αφού εάν συγκρίνει κανείς τις διάφορες μελωδικές παραλλαγές, εύκολα κατανοεί τις διαφορές.
Pancreatic exocrine carcinoma in a lohmann brown chicken
Authors: Aydogan A , Avcı H , Birincioğlu B , Birincioğlu SS
Published: November 2024

A 23-month-old lohmann brown breed chicken showed symptoms of anorexia, depression and diarrhea before dying. It presented to the pathology laboratory for necropsy. The necropsy confirmed serosal, white and nodular widespread tumor infiltrations in different sizes in the intestines and periton adjacent to the pancreas. In the histological examination, poorly differentiated epithelial cells were seen to form tubular structures in the pancreatic tissue located between the duodenum. According to pathology, this case was diagnosed as pancreatic exocrine carcinoma. This case report provides histologic descriptions of the pancreatic exocrine carcinoma in a chicken that have been reported extremely rare in poultry and pet birds.
An estimation of vertical transmission of Neospora caninum in dairy cattle, in Khorasan Razavi Province, Iran
Authors: Shahidi M , Maleki Mohsen , Razmi G
Published: November 2024

Neospora caninum is an important agent of abortion and reproductive loss in dairy cattle. The objective of this study was to determine the rate of  vertical transmission of N.caninum in dairy cattle, KorasanRazavi province, Iran. Two dairy farms with history of Neospora abortion were selected and two hundred -eighty blood samples of dairy cattle in the third trimester of gestation were collected from January 2018 to April 2019. The serum samples of each dairy cattle were examined by an indirect ELISA. At the calving, the colostrum samples of seropositive dams with blood samples of their precolostral calves were collected and again examined by the ELISA method. The seroprevalence of Neospora infection was determined by 16.59% (41/247) in dairy farm 1 and 12.12% (4/33) in dairy farm  2 (P>0.05).  In the present study, 100% of precolostral calves born of seropositive dairy cattle had antibodies against Neospora caninum before colostrum ingestion. Based on the seroprevalence of  dam and daughter, the vertical transmission was estimated at the highest rate (100%).  In conclusion, the results are shown the importance of vertical transmission to remain and contribute to N.caninum infection in two dairy farms.
GH, SEMA3E and TLX gene polymorphism and its association with egg quality traits of quail
Authors: Ilhan F
Published: November 2024

This study attempted to determine the relationship between the GH, Sema3E, and TLX genes and egg quality traits using the PCR-RFLP technique in Japanese quail. Three genotypes and two alleles were obtained by cutting the GH gene with the MspI enzyme, the Sema3E gene with the HaeIII enzyme, and the TLX gene with the PstI enzyme. The allele frequency and the frequency of heterozygous genotypes were higher for all genes. There was no statistically significant relationship between egg quality traits and genotypes. However, it was found that the eggs of the animals with the A allele for the GH gene had a higher shape index. Similarly, eggs from animals with the A allele for the Sema3E gene were found to be heavier. In light of previous studies and these results, it is believed that these genes can be used as selection markers for egg quality traits.
Quorum Sensing System in Pathogenic Aeromonas hydrophila: Discovery of LuxRI Homologs ahyI and ahyR Genes Responsible for N-Acyl Homoserine Lactone Signal Molecules
Authors: Filik N , Önem E , Kubilay A
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT
In the pathogenesis of infections; intercellular communication system called Quorum Sensing System (QS), which regulates production of many virulence factors, is held responsible. QS genes of Aeromonas hydrophila strains that cause Motile Aeromonas Septicemia in fish was investigated by PCR method in reserach. AhyI and ahyR genes responsible for virulence of 20 A. hydrophila strains and A. hydrophila ATCC 7966 reference strain isolated from disease fish were investigated by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). By PCR analysis, both ahyI and ahyR genes responsible for generation of virulence in management of QS were detected in all A. hydrophila strains. In A. hydrophila strains, it initiates disease process by preventing premature stimulation of immune system by critical gene expressions such as virulence factors in management of QS. Ultimately, QS is responsible for virulence of A. hydrophila, and thus bacteria manage disease process. Keeping diseases under control by blocking communication between them by inhibiting of QS, which is critical in disease formation, is an important strategy in fight against bacteria. With identification of QS and all members of system (AHLs, AI, QSI e.g.), early diagnosis of disease is brought to agenda and it is expected to break new ground in diagnosis of fish diseases. As a result, A. hydrophila secretes AHL signal molecule with LuxI and ahyI gene, and detects AHL signal molecule with LuxR and ahyR gene. In this study, both ahyI and ahyR genes responsible for pathogenicity and virulence in management of QS were detected in all A. hydrophila strains by PCR analysis using 20 bp long primers. Thus, it has been proven that pathogen bacteria A. hydrophila possesses LuxI/LuxR-Type QS.
 
Keywords: Interbacterial communication, A. hydrophila, Quorum sensing system, ahyI and ahyR Genes, PCR
Antioxidant and antiproliferative effects of different Raphanus Sativus L. extracts
Authors: Tiraş S , Kaya Kartal Y , Ercan N , Sel T
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to investigate the phenolic and flavonoid levels, antioxidant activities and antiproliferative effects of Japanese, Chinese, Black, and Kohlrabi radish species on HEK293 immortalized human embryonic kidney cells in cell culture medium. DPPH radical scavenging activity, total polyphenol, and flavonoid content of the extracts were measured spectrophotometrically. The highest total flavonoid content in sap of radish extraction and methanolic extraction was 0.12±0.02 mg/g RE and 0.10±0.00 mg/g RE in Chinese radish; the highest total polyphenol content was 0.32±0.03 mg/g GAE and 0.23±0.03 mg/g GAE in Black radish; the DPPH radical scavenging activity is approved 39.68±2.43 µg/g GAE in Japanese radish in sap of radish extraction and 84.59±3.50 µg/g GAE in Black radish in methanolic extraction respectively. DPPH radical scavenging activity was higher in the methanolic extraction of all radishes. The antiproliferative effects of different extracts in HEK293 cells were investigated by the MTT method. The IC50 concentration was found at lower doses in the methanolic extraction of whole radishes compared to the sap of radish extractions. The lowest dose of antiproliferative effect was observed in red radish (160 mg/ml) in methanolic extraction, and the antiproliferative effect increased dose-dependent. As a result, both antioxidant content and antiproliferative effect may vary depending on the type of radish, soil, and geographical conditions of the region where it is grown.
The effects of early feeding with different pre-starter diets on growth performance, morphological development and microorganism content of the small intestine of broiler chicks
Authors: Bedirhan Celik A , Sarica Ş , Suicmez M
Published: November 2024

The present study was conducted to compare the effects of feeding 2 different pre-starter diets to broiler chicks at 2 different times on growth performance, slaughtering parameters, morphological development of the small intestine segments and the microorganism content of the ileum of broilers. A total of 600 day-old Ross 308 male broiler chicks were randomly distributed into 5 treatment groups with 5 replicates of 24 chicks each. The experimental treatments included: SD10: broiler chicks were fed a corn-soybean meal-based starter diet for 0-10 days; 1PSD5: chicks were fed a first pre-starter diet based on corn-soybean meal for 0-5 days, afterwards they were fed a starter diet based on corn-soybean meal for 5-10 days; 1PSD10: chicks were fed the first pre-starter diet for 0-10 days; 2PSD5: chicks were fed a second pre-starter diet based on rice-soybean meal for 0-5 days, afterwards they were fed a starter diet based on corn-soybean meal for 5-10 days; 2PSD10: chicks were fed the second pre-starter diet for 0-10 days. Broilers were fed a basal diet based on corn and soybean meal until the end of the experimental period. The 1PSD5, 1PSD10, 2PSD5 and 2PSD10 treatments significantly increased final body weight (BW) and BW gain, decreased feed intake (FI) and improved feed conversion ratio (FCR) of broilers from 0 to 42 day compared to the SD10 treatment. The lowest FI and the best FCR of broilers during the period of 0 to 42 day were obtained by the 2PSD5 treatment. The 1PSD5, 1PSD10, 2PSD5 and 2PSD10 treatments significantly enhanced the hot- and cold-carcass yields and villus heights (VHs) and decreased crypt depths of small intestine segments of broilers on day 42. However, the experimental treatments did not significantly affect the the E.coli and Lactobacillus contents of ileum of broilers on day 42. In conclusion, feeding of chicks with the pre-starter diet based on rice-soybean meal supplemented with enzyme complex and synbiotic for 0-5 days was a more effective treatment in terms of performance especially FI and FCR, carcass yields and VHs of small intestine segments of broilers.
Comparison of methods for measurement of somatic cell count in goat milk
Authors: Zazharska NM
Published: November 2024

The aim of the study was to compare the efficiency of determining the number of somatic cell count in goat milk by different methods. Somatic cells in individual samples of milk from 28 goats were studied using analyzers "Somatos", "SomaCount Flow Cytometer" and by the counting method in milk films stained according to Romanovsky – Giemsa, May-Grünwald and with pyronin Y. For the counting of somatic cells in goat milk by Prescott and Breed method, it is recommended to stain milk films by the May-Grünwald method, because the cytoplasm and nuclei of somatic cells are clearly stained, and the cost of dyes is much less than the pyroninY method. When counting cells in milk films stained by any method, no samples with the SCC up to 100 ´ 103 cells/ml were found. Direct counting of somatic cells in milk films stained by any method reveals a greater number of cells than with the help of devices. It was found that the fat content in goat milk with SCC >3000 ´ 103 cells/ml is significantly higher (P < 0.05) compared to milk with SCC < 1000 ´ 103 cells/ml. The quality of goat's milk smears for counting of somatic cells quantity stained by the May-Grünwald method corresponds to the recommended method with pyronin Y, and the cost of dyes is 28.4 times lower. The distribution of somatic cell ranges is similar between different methods of staining smears, which once again proves the accuracy of the method of direct cell counting in milk films, although it is more labor-intensive than hardware methods.
Effect of different levels of turmeric (Curcuma longa) on productivity in broiler chickens
Authors: Moniei F , Gharahveysi S , Seidavi A , Irani M
Published: November 2024

This research was conducted to evaluate the effect of different levels of turmeric powder on the performance, blood parameters, immunity, intestinal morphology, carcass characteristics, cecum microbial flora, fatty acid profile and sensory evaluation of breast meat of broiler chickens. A completely randomized design was used including four levels of turmeric powder (250, 500, 750 and 1000 mg/kg diet) and a control treatment (without turmeric), in 5 replications. The growth performance was measured periodically and at the end of the 42-day period, three chickens from each experimental unit were killed for carcass examination. In order to check blood parameters at the end of the course, blood samples were taken from three chickens from each experimental unit. To check the immunity of broiler chickens, the weight percentage of immune glands was also evaluated. To measure the morphology of the cecum, one chicken from each experimental unit was killed to check the desired traits. The results of the experiment showed that different levels of turmeric had a significant effect on performance, carcass characteristics, blood parameters, immunity, intestinal morphology, cecal microbial flora, fatty acid profile, and the sensory evaluation of breast meat (P<0.05). The results of the experiment showed body weight, feed intake and feed conversion ratio (FCR) at the end of the period were significant in the treatments that received turmeric powder (P<0.05). Survival percentage, produced body weight per square meter, and final profit was also significant (P<0.05). Relative weight of abdominal fat, villus height and villus height/ crypt depth of the small intestine were significant in the treatments receiving turmeric powder (P<0.05). By adding turmeric powder to the diet of broiler chickens, the microbial population of the cecum also became significant (P<0.05). The concentration levels of uric acid, total cholesterol, glucose, HDL, albumin and liver enzymes alkaline phosphatase and ALT were significant in the birdsreceiving turmeric powder (P<0.05). Turmeric powder in the diet of broilers also had a significant effect on chondroitinic acid, linoleic acid and total polyathenoids (P<0.05). Turmeric powder was significant on the lactobacilli microbial population (P<0.05). The results of this experiment showed that fat content, juicyness, crispyness, chewability, elasticity, mouthfeel and general acceptance were significantly improved (P<0.05). In this research, the treatment receiving 500 mg of turmeric powder per kg had the greatest effect on the measured characteristics of broiler chickens. It can be concluded that the addition of the powder of these medicinal and aromatic plants to the diet of broiler chickens has beneficial effects on the carcass characteristics and meat quality.
Keywords: fatty acid, blood plasma, abdominal cavity, triglyceride, feed conversion ratio, Curcuma longa
Effects of Oregano Aromatic Water (Oreganum onites L.) Supplementation on Diets of Lactating Dairy cows on Milk Production Performance, Metabolic Health and Antioxidative Defense Mechanism
Authors: Özkaya S , Taşkın K , Erbaş S , Ozkan O , Neja W , Tüzün CG , Şanlı ER
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to validate the effect of oregano aromatic water (OAW) on blood parameters, oxidative stress, and production and composition of milk when used as a feed additive. Thirty lactating Holstein cows (average 570 kg), average 74 days in milk and 2.44 lactation number, were randomly divided into three groups for a period of 60-days.  These groups included: (G1) control ration, (G2) control ration + OAW (10 mg/kg of DM), (G3) control ration + OAW (20 mg/kg of DM). Milk production (MP) were unaffected by OAW doses (P>0.05). The supplementation of OAW did not affect the milk composition, and somatic cell count (SCC) (P>0.05). OAW supplementation did not affect blood biochemical values except ketone and glucose. The glucose value increased as the ketone decreased with OAW supplementation (P<0.05). The hematological blood values were not found to be significant. OAW significantly decreased Total oxidant capacity (TOC) and oxidative stress index (OSI) while increasing Total antioxidant capacity (TAC).  The current study's findings indicated that OAW can be used as a feed additive to improve cow health and milk production.