bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Work conditions and determinants of health status among industrial shift workers: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Javanmardi Sasha , Rappelt Ludwig , Baumgart Christian , Niederer Daniel , Heinke Lars , Freiwald Jürgen
Published: January 2025

Introduction

This study investigated potential health status differences among forging, manufacturing, and logistics workers.

Methods

We included 403 participants (age: 41 ± 12 years) from a medium-sized steel company (forge: 64, manufacturing: 299, logistics: 99). Health status was multifactorial assessed: (1) Frequency of musculoskeletal complaints (German Pain Questionnaire). (2) Pain intensity, physical and psychological load [visual analog scales (VAS) 0–100 points]. (3) Occupational moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), total MVPA, and sedentary behavior [Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ)]. (4) Quality of life [Short Form Health Survey (SF-36)]. Between-group effects were analyzed via one-way ANOVAs with post-hoc Tukey correction.

Results

308 workers (76.4%) reported at least one musculoskeletal issue. A significant between-group difference was revealed for left shoulder [F(2,40) = 5.40; p = 0.008; ω2 = 0.17], occupational MVPA [F(2,368) = 9.49; p < 0.001; ω2 = 0.04] and total MVPA [F(2,368) = 6.90; p = 0.001; ω2 = 0.03]. Post-hoc tests revealed a difference (p ≤ 0.007) between manufacturing (left shoulder: n = 22; 42.5 ± 24.8; occupational MVPA: n = 219; 6,978 ± 5,137 METs min/week; total MVPA: n = 219; 8,471 ± 5,390 METs min/week) and logistics workers (left shoulder: n = 14; 70.4 ± 26.3 au; occupational MVPA: n = 96; 9,640 ± 4,605 METs min/week; total MVPA: n = 96; 10,856 ± 4,680 METs min/week). No other between-group differences were observed.

Discussion

Variations in health disparities across work conditions were observed. Yet, clear distinctions between work conditions and health outcomes remain a challenge. Effective interventions should be focused on job-specific and personalized health profiles rather than a stratification of work conditions to enhance health, productivity, and workforce sustainability.
Does urban–rural integration contribute to environmental health? Exploring the interplay between urban–rural integration and air quality dynamics in Yangtze River middle reaches city cluster
Authors: Yang Jixin , Fu Bowen , Cui Xufeng
Published: January 2025

Background

Exploring the coordinated relationship between urban–rural integration and air quality has significant implications for promoting urban–rural development, preventing air pollution and ensuring residents’ health. This study takes Yangtze River middle reaches city cluster as a case study, calculates the levels of urban–rural integration and air quality development, analyzes their coupled coordination relationship and driving factors, and explores the path of coordinated development.

Methods

This study constructs a coupling coordination degree model to analyze the relationship between the urban–rural integration development level and air quality development level. We use the trend surface method to analyze the spatial divergence characteristics of the coordination degree between urban–rural integration and air quality. In addition, we used a geographic detector to analyze the factors affecting the coordination degree.

Results

(1) The overall level of urban–rural integration development showed an upward trend. High-value regions were concentrated in the Wuhan, Chang-Zhu-Tan, and Nanchang metropolitan areas. (2) The Air Quality Index showed an overall decline, with the most significant improvements observed in Wuhan, Changsha, and Jiujiang. (3) The coupling degree increased from 0.570 in 2013 to 0.794 in 2021, and the coordination degree increased from 0.337 in 2013 to 0.591 in 2021. The link between urban–rural integration and air quality has deepened over time, and the two promote each other, making city cluster develop towards environmental friendliness. The spatial distribution of coordination degree shows a “high in the west and low in the east, high in the north and low in the south” trend. (4) Per capita GDP, non-agricultural employment ratio, urban–rural spatial circulation media, population urbanization level, and fixed asset investment were identified as the core factors driving the coordination degree between urban–rural integration and air quality.

Conclusion

This study confirms that the urban–rural integration and air quality of Yangtze River middle reaches city cluster are gradually changing in the direction of high-quality coordination. However, there are great differences among cities, regional imbalance is prominent, and coordination degree is driven by multidimensional factors.
Development of a statewide network hub for screening, referral, and enrollment into food as medicine programs across Kentucky
Authors: Mayfield Christa , Lauckner Carolyn , Bush Joshua , Cosson Ethan , Batey Lauren , Gustafson Alison
Published: January 2025

Widespread recognition of food as medicine interventions’ role in reducing food insecurity and improving health outcomes has recently emerged. Several states have released In Lieu of Services, state-approved alternative services that may be offered by managed care organizations in place of covered benefits, or 1,115 Medicaid waivers, which may allow for expanded nutrition services to reduce food insecurity and improve health outcomes. However, there are significant gaps in understanding how to create a statewide system for delivering “healthcare by food” interventions. The University of Kentucky Food as Health Alliance first piloted the development of a statewide hub facilitating referral to, enrollment in, and evaluation of food as medicine programs across two healthcare providers (one urban and one rural). We then used a quasi experimental study design to examine effects on systolic and diastolic blood pressure in a target population of Medicaid eligible individuals aged 18–64 with high blood pressure and/or type 2 diabetes in rural and urban areas. Participant allocation was based on geographic location for each program arm with no control group. This feasibility case study aims to: (1) outline the development of a referral system between healthcare and food as medicine providers; (2) describe gaps in referral and enrollment; (3) summarize lessons learned from a statewide network as a blueprint for other states; and (4) present clinical outcomes across three food as medicine programs. Ninety-two referrals were received from UK HealthCare with 21 enrolled in medically tailored meals and 28 enrolled in a grocery prescription (53% enrollment rate). Thirty-two referrals were received from Appalachian Regional Healthcare with 26 enrolled in meal kits (81% enrollment rate). On average, the reduction in systolic blood pressure was 9.67 mmHg among medically tailored meals participants and 6.89 mmHg among grocery prescription participants. Creating a statewide system to address food insecurity and clinical outcomes requires key support from a host of stakeholders. Policy steps moving forward need to consider funding and infrastructure for screening, referral, enrollment and engagement hubs for improved health outcomes.

Clinical trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT06033664.
Traditional Chinese medicine trade among RCEP countries: structural characteristics and determinants
Authors: Fang Yue , Tang Meng Xue , Liu Xu
Published: January 2025

Background

With the increasing global focus on health and the growing popularity of natural therapies, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) products, including extracts, crude drugs, and herbal preparations, are widely utilized as both primary and complementary medicines worldwide. The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), spanning 15 countries across East Asia, Southeast Asia, and Oceania, offers a vast market for TCM. However, limited research has been conducted on the complex trade relations among RCEP members.

Methods

The structural features and nodes attributes are analyzed using Social Network Analysis (SNA). Influencing factors are studied through the Quadratic Assignment Procedure (QAP) model. We also compiled a list of medicinal plants among RCEP member countries and the main TCM export products.

Results

The scale of TCM trade among RCEP members has fluctuated over time, with a temporary spike during the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by a gradual normalization. The trade network does not exhibit small-world properties, indicating a relatively balanced trade relationship. Due to its resource advantages, China occupies a central role acting as a dominant producer and leading exporter. Vietnam’s export performance has been excellent in recent years, with the highest annual growth rate. Emerging markets, such as Myanmar, warrant closer attention. Economic size and population significantly positively affect trade value, while geographic distance and land adjacency have no significant impact. Trade activity is positively influenced by cultural and linguistic similarities, and countries with higher levels of economic freedom tend to engage in more trade. Tonifying TCM products with antioxidant and immune-boosting properties are more widely recognized in international markets.

Conclusion

RCEP has established an excellent trade platform for the export of TCM. The factors influencing TCM trade are predominantly long-term and structural, rather than being driven by the occurrence of any single, isolated event. Member states should strengthen collaboration in standardization, technology coordination, and knowledge sharing to establish a mutually beneficial trade ecosystem for TCM.
Preliminary study on the correlation between thyroid magnetic resonance parameters and radiation dose after radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Lu Kuan , Zhou Chenxia , Ren Jiaming , Ni Jialu , Yang Weisen , Wang Yeqing , Jin Dan , Qian Jianjun , Zhu Yaqun , Shi Dai , Hu Wentao , Xu Liang
Published: January 2025

Background

Hypothyroidism is a common sequela after radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has gained prominence in thyroid imaging, leveraging its non-ionizing radiation, high spatial resolution, multiparameter and multidirectional imaging. Few previous studies have investigated the evaluation of radiation-induced thyroid injury by MRI.

Methods

MRI and radiotherapy data of 32 patients who were first diagnosed with nasopharyngeal carcinoma in our hospital from April 2015 to April 2024 and underwent radiotherapy in the radiotherapy department were retrospectively collected. Before, during and after radiotherapy, the thyroid morphology was observed on MR images, and the quantitative parameters of size (width, thickness) were measured on T1-weighted images. The signal intensity (SI) of the thyroid gland was measured on T1-weighted imaging (T1WI), T2-weighted imaging (T2WI) and contrast-enhanced T1-weighted imaging. The differences in thyroid parameters at different time points before and after radiotherapy were compared. The correlation between the MRI quantitative parameters of the thyroid and the radiation dose volume of the thyroid and the radiation dose of the pituitary were analyzed.

Results

The width, thickness and volume of the thyroid decreased gradually before, during and 6 and 12 months after radiotherapy. They were negatively correlated with the mean thyroid dose and V50 (p < 0.05), but were not significantly correlated with the maximum and minimum thyroid doses, V30 and V35 (p > 0.05). The T1WI relative signal intensity (RSI), T2WI RSI, and enhanced T1WI RSI of the thyroid gland gradually decreased from before radiotherapy to during radiotherapy and 6 months and 12 months after radiotherapy. The T1WI RSI, T2WI RSI, and enhanced T1WI RSI during radiotherapy and 6 months and 12 months after radiotherapy were negatively correlated with the mean radiation dose, V40, V45, and V50 of the thyroid gland (p < 0.05), but were not significantly correlated with the maximum radiation dose, minimum radiation dose, V30, and V35 of the thyroid gland or the radiation dose of the pituitary gland (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Quantitative MRI analysis can non-invasively and effectively show the changes in thyroid shape, size and signal intensity in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma before and after radiotherapy, which is crucial for early and accurate assessment of thyroid damage, enabling timely treatment to preserve thyroid function.
Grammar-constrained decoding for structured information extraction with fine-tuned generative models applied to clinical trial abstracts
Authors: Schmidt David M. , Cimiano Philipp
Published: January 2025

Background

In the field of structured information extraction, there are typically semantic and syntactic constraints on the output of information extraction (IE) systems. These constraints, however, can typically not be guaranteed using standard (fine-tuned) encoder-decoder architectures. This has led to the development of constrained decoding approaches which allow, e.g., to specify constraints in form of context-free grammars. An open question is in how far an IE system can be effectively guided by a domain-specific grammar to ensure that the output structures follow the requirements of a certain domain data model.

Methods

In this work we experimentally investigate the influence of grammar-constrained decoding as well as pointer generators on the performance of a domain-specific information extraction system. For this, we consider fine-tuned encoder-decoder models, Longformer and Flan-T5 in particular, and experimentally investigate whether the addition of grammar-constrained decoding and pointer generators improve information extraction results. Toward this goal, we consider the task of inducing structured representations from abstracts describing clinical trials, relying on the C-TrO ontology to semantically describe the clinical trials and their results. We frame the task as a slot filling problem where certain slots of templates need to be filled with token sequences occurring in the input text. We use a dataset comprising 211 annotated clinical trial abstracts about type 2 diabetes and glaucoma for training and evaluation. Our focus is on settings in which the available training data is in the order of a few hundred training examples, which we consider as a low-resource setting.

Results

In all our experiments we could demonstrate the positive impact of grammar-constrained decoding, with an increase in F1 score of pp 0.351 (absolute score 0.413) and pp 0.425 (absolute score 0.47) for the best-performing models on type 2 diabetes and glaucoma datasets, respectively. The addition of the pointer generators had a detrimental impact on the results, decreasing F1 scores by pp 0.15 (absolute score 0.263) and pp 0.198 (absolute score 0.272) for the best-performing pointer generator models on type 2 diabetes and glaucoma datasets, respectively.

Conclusion

The experimental results indicate that encoder-decoder models used for structure prediction for information extraction tasks in low-resource settings clearly benefit from grammar-constrained decoding guiding the output generation. In contrast, the evaluated pointer generator models decreased the performance drastically in some cases. Moreover, the performance of the pointer models appears to depend both on the used base model as well as the function used for aggregating the attention values. How the size of large language models affects the performance benefit of grammar-constrained decoding remains to be more structurally investigated in future work.
Accelerating computational fluid dynamics simulation of post-combustion carbon capture modeling with MeshGraphNets
Authors: Lei Bo , Fu Yucheng , Cadena Jose , Saini Amar , Hu Yeping , Bao Jie , Xu Zhijie , Ng Brenda , Nguyen Phan
Published: January 2025

Packed columns are commonly used in post-combustion processes to capture CO2 emissions by providing enhanced contact area between a CO2-laden gas and CO2-absorbing solvent. To study and optimize solvent-based post-combustion carbon capture systems (CCSs), computational fluid dynamics (CFD) can be used to model the liquid–gas countercurrent flow hydrodynamics in these columns and derive key determinants of CO2-capture efficiency. However, the large design space of these systems hinders the application of CFD for design optimization due to its high computational cost. In contrast, data-driven modeling approaches can produce fast surrogates to study large-scale physics problems. We build our surrogates using MeshGraphNets (MGN), a graph neural network framework that efficiently learns and produces mesh-based simulations. We apply MGN to a random packed column modeled with over 160K graph nodes and a design space consisting of three key input parameters: solvent surface tension, inlet velocity, and contact angle. Our models can adapt to a wide range of these parameters and accurately predict the complex interactions within the system at rates over 1700 times faster than CFD, affirming its practicality in downstream design optimization tasks. This underscores the robustness and versatility of MGN in modeling complex fluid dynamics for large-scale CCS analyses.
Robust predictive framework for diabetes classification using optimized machine learning on imbalanced datasets
Authors: Abousaber Inam , Abdallah Haitham F. , El-Ghaish Hany
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Diabetes prediction using clinical datasets is crucial for medical data analysis. However, class imbalances, where non-diabetic cases dominate, can significantly affect machine learning model performance, leading to biased predictions and reduced generalization.

Methods

A novel predictive framework employing cutting-edge machine learning algorithms and advanced imbalance handling techniques was developed. The framework integrates feature engineering and resampling strategies to enhance predictive accuracy.

Results

Rigorous testing was conducted on three datasets—PIMA, Diabetes Dataset 2019, and BIT_2019—demonstrating the robustness and adaptability of the methodology across varying data environments.

Discussion

The experimental results highlight the critical role of model selection and imbalance mitigation in achieving reliable and generalizable diabetes predictions. This study offers significant contributions to medical informatics by proposing a robust data-driven framework that addresses class imbalance challenges, thereby advancing diabetes prediction accuracy.
Evaluation of positions of four lingula shapes for mandibular ramus surgery
Authors: Hsu Kun-Jung , Chen Pei-Jung , Chen Han-Sheng , Lee Kun-Tsung , Chen Chun-Ming
Published: January 2025

Background

The lingula is an important landmark for conducting certain mandibular surgery procedures, such as sagittal split ramus osteotomy (SSRO) and intraoral vertical ramus osteotomy (IVRO). The purpose of this study was to investigate the location of the lingula in both horizontal and vertical planes among four different shapes of the mandibular ramus.

Methods

Ninety patients, 60 female and 30 male, underwent cone beam computed tomography scans to evaluate the measurements of the lingula tip (Li) in relation to the anterior border (AB), posterior border (PB), sigmoid notch (SN), and inferior border (IB) of the ramus. The proportional relationship of the Li in both the horizontal and vertical planes is indicated by the Li–AB/AB–PB ratio and Li–SN/SN–IB. lingula shapes were categorized into triangular, truncated, nodular, and assimilated shapes. Statistical analyses were performed to compare the variations in the measurements between different shapes of lingula and genders.

Results

The mean Li–AB distance was 18.88 mm, and it was determined to be significantly greater with the truncated shape when compared to the other three shapes. The mean Li–PB distance was 15.23 mm, with no significant differences observed among the four shapes. The mean Li–AB/AB–PB ratio was found to be 55.3%. The truncated shape had a ratio of 57.2%, which was significantly higher compared to the nodular shape (54%) and assimilated shape (50.4%). The mean distance was 19.95 mm for the Li–SN and 31.34 mm for the Li–IB. There was no significant difference in these distances among the 4 lingula shapes. The mean Li–SN/SN–IB ratio was 38.5%. There were no significant differences in measurements between male and female.

Conclusion

Significant differences were observed in the 4 lingula shapes in relation to the Li position, which was situated superiorly and posteriorly to the central point of the ramus. Therefore, it is crucial to take into account the differences in lingula shapes during SSRO and IVRO procedures on the ramus.
Factors influencing salivary lactate dehydrogenase levels in oral squamous cell carcinoma and oral potentially malignant disorders
Authors: López-Pintor Rosa María , González-Serrano José , Vallina Carmen , Ivaylova Serkedzhieva Katerina , Virto Leire , Nuevo Paula , Caponio Vito Carlo Alberto , Iniesta Margarita , Rodríguez Santamarta Tania , Lequerica Fernández Paloma , Iglesias Velázquez Óscar , Hernández Gonzalo , de Vicente Juan Carlos
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Salivary Lactate Dehydrogenase (sLDH) levels seem to be higher in patients with Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) and Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders (OPMD) than a control group (CG).

Methods

Case-control study. Patients with OPMD [oral leukoplakia (OL) and oral lichen planus (OLP)] and OSCC who attended two services in Spain were selected. sLDH in saliva was measured. Epidemiological, periodontal and specific variables related to OPMD and OSCC were collected.

Results

A total of 92 patients were included: 12 with OSCC, 51 with OPMD (17 OL and 34 OLP), and 29 controls. sLDH values were higher in the OSCC, followed by the OPMD and CG groups, although no significant differences were observed. In the OSCC group, larger tumor size was associated with higher sLDH levels. In the OLP group, sLDH values were higher in patients with symptomatic lesions than in patients with only white lesions, but not significantly. No associations were observed between sLDH and the type of OL (homogeneous vs. non-homogeneous) and the degree of dysplasia. When analyzing periodontal variables among OSCC, OPMD and CG, periodontal probing depth (PPD) and bleeding on probing were significantly higher in the OSCC group, while the plaque index was higher in OPMD patients. The linear regression model for sLDH in the total group identified age and PPD as significant predictors of sLDH levels.

Discussion

Although sLDH values were higher in OSCC and OPMD patients than in a CG, the results do not support the use of sLDH as a reliable prognostic biomarker of malignancy. Future studies need to consider other factors that may influence sLDH levels, such as age and periodontal status.
Primary dysmenorrhea and its associated factors among female high school students in Nekemte town, East Wallaga Zone, Western Oromia, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Gindaba Bekan Gudata , Abera Gudeta Tesfaye , Sebu Lemane Dereje , Zerihun Gindaba Ebisa , Abdisa Misgana Tesgara
Published: January 2025

Background

Primary dysmenorrhea is a common gynecological problem characterized by recurrent, periodical, and cramping pain in the lower abdomen that occurs before or during menstruation, usually without pelvic disease. Its magnitude has not been well studied; some of the associated factors are inconclusive. Therefore, the goal of this study was to fill gaps on the magnitude, and associated factors of primary dysmenorrhea among female high school students in Nekemte town.

Objectives

To assess the magnitude of primary dysmenorrhea, its associated factors among high school students in Nekemte town, East Wallaga, Western Oromia, Ethiopia, 2023.

Methods

An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among high school students in Nekemte town from June 05 to 19, 2023. The calculated total sample size was 534, and data were collected from four governmental high schools and one private high school that were selected by multistage stratified sampling. The collected data were entered into Epi Info version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Binary and multivariable logistic regressions were used to find associations between dependent and independent variables.

Results

The magnitude of primary dysmenorrhea was 68.4% (95% CI = 64.3%, 72.0%). Anxiety (AOR = 2.41, 95% CI = 1.31, 4.43), family history of primary dysmenorrhea (AOR = 4.64, 95% CI = 2.74, 7.86), sexual intercourse (AOR = 0.34, 95% CI = 0.21, 0.55), drinking tea <4 cups per day (AOR = 0.38, 95% CI = 0.22, 0.60), and physical activity (AOR = 0.06, 95% CI = 0.03, 0.11) were factors associated with primary dysmenorrhea.

Conclusion

The magnitude of primary dysmenorrhea was high among high school students in the study area. Sexual intercourse, physical activity, drinking tea, anxiety, and family history of primary dysmenorrhea were significantly associated with primary dysmenorrhea.
Impact assessment of green infrastructure and urban growth on stormwater runoff through geospatial modeling
Authors: George Agnes Liji , Kumar Pramod , Gupta Kshama
Published: January 2025

Kochi city in southern India periodically experiences waterlogging or urban floods due to unabated urban growth and extreme rainfall events. This study aims to mitigate urban flood hazards through green infrastructure (GI) and its effective management. Assessment of storm water runoff (SWR) modeling is carried out in four scenarios, viz., baseline, past, severe, and green, using urban growth and GI driven simulations. Urban growth modeling and GI suitability analysis are carried out using Cellular Automata Markov (CA-Markov) and urban planning guidelines, respectively. The study provides insights into how GI influences SWR reduction and urban environment conservation, with 16% SWR reduction as compared to the baseline scenario and 18% when compared to the severe scenario.
Systems-thinking innovations for water security
Authors: Alamanos Angelos , Xenarios Stefanos , Assubayeva Aliya , Landis Conrad Felix Michel , Dellis Kostas , Koundouri Phoebe
Published: January 2025

The concept of water security has progressed from a narrow emphasis on water supply infrastructure, primarily viewed through an engineering lens, to a comprehensive perspective encompassing technological, economic, environmental, and governance dimensions. The evolution of the water security concept, as evidenced in the relevant literature briefly reviewed in this paper, signifies a significant shift. This shift is toward a more comprehensive consideration of diverse values, stakeholders, and viewpoints by representing in an equitable manner as possible human-centric and ecosystem-based priorities. It also underscores the pressing need for transdisciplinary and more integrated approaches, as the challenges in representing the water security notion more effectively continue to mount. In response to these pressing challenges, the Global Climate Hub (GCH) initiative, operating under the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, employs interdisciplinary approaches comprising optimal dynamic combinations of technologies, economic analysis, and policies to devise national and regional water security strategies through inclusion approaches with relevant actors and stakeholders.
Exploring athletes’ experiences and perspectives on an educational program for athletes in the Pacific Islands
Authors: Hong Hee Jung , Kim Sungkyung , Minikin Brian
Published: January 2025

This exploratory study aims to understand athletes’ experiences and perceptions of the “Voices of Athletes” (VOA), an athlete support program specifically designed and implemented in the Pacific Islands. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, combining questionnaires and short interviews, data were gathered from 414 athletes (questionnaires) and 104 athletes (interviews) during the 2019 Pacific Games in Samoa. While a Chi-square test was used for quantitative analysis to assess the association between familiarity with the VOA and interest in learning more about the program, content and thematic analyses were employed to qualitatively examine participants’ perceptions and attitudes towards the VOA. The Chi-square result indicated that although the majority of athletes were initially unfamiliar with the VOA, there was a significant association between familiarity and interest in learning more about the VOA. Accompanied by the results from the quantitative data analysis, the results of the content and thematic analysis demonstrate that athletes who participated in the VOA onsite reported positive experiences and acknowledged the program's benefits in terms of personal growth and development. Participants emphasized the educational and informative aspects of the VOA, highlighting its role in increasing athletes’ awareness of contemporary social issues, empowering them to make informed decisions, and nurturing leadership skills within their communities. The results also highlighted the potential for integrating VOA into school curricula and using it as a model for support initiatives in other countries. Expanding the program could promote personal development, responsible decision-making, and leadership among a wider young population. Overall, the VOA offers significant benefits and has strong potential for broader application and customization across diverse environments. This can significantly contribute to the comprehensive growth of athletes and young people worldwide.
Achilles tendon morphology adaptations in chronic post-stroke hemiparesis: a comparative analysis with neurologically intact controls
Authors: Liang Jing Nong , Bashford Greg , Kulig Kornelia , Ho Kai-Yu
Published: January 2025

Introduction

In individuals with chronic post-stroke hemiparesis, slow walking speed is a significant concern related to inadequate propulsion of the paretic limb. However, an overlooked factor is this population's altered morphology of the Achilles tendon, which may compromise the propulsive forces by the paretic limb. This study aimed to explore changes in Achilles tendon morphology, including gross thickness and intra-tendinous collagen fiber bundle organization, following stroke-induced brain lesions.

Methods

Fifteen individuals with chronic post-stroke hemiparesis (at least 6 months post-stroke) and 19 neurologically intact controls participated. Ultrasound imaging was used to evaluate Achilles tendon thickness and collagen organization in the paretic and non-paretic limbs of post-stroke participants, as well as in the right limb (control limb) of the neurologically intact control group.

Results and discussion

Compared to control individuals, the paretic limb in individuals post-stroke showed increased tendon thickness at the Achilles tendon insertion and 2 cm above it. The collagen fiber bundle at the Achilles tendon insertion of the paretic limb showed reduced organization compared to that in the control limb. Individuals post-stroke also exhibited slower walking speed, and increased plantarflexor muscle tone in the paretic limb compared to controls. In conclusion, individuals with chronic post-stroke hemiparesis demonstrated tendon thickening and collagen disorganization in the paretic limb, particularly at the insertion site of the Achilles tendon, likely due to an abnormal loading environment influenced by increased plantarflexor muscle tone, muscle co-activation, and muscle disuse and atrophy. These changes may increase tendon compliance, impair force transmission and propulsion, and contribute to slower walking speed. Addressing Achilles tendon integrity should be incorporated as a component of strategies to improve neuromuscular control in this population.
Bacillus Spizizenii FMH45-based biofertilizer enhances growth and halotolerance of cherry tomato plants under hydroponic cultivation systems
Authors: Masmoudi Fatma , Saadaoui Imen , Ben Khedher Saoussen , Tounsi Slim
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Hydroponic cultivation systems using desalinated groundwater may play pivotal role in reducing freshwater consumption for irrigation. However, reliance on desalination remains unsustainable due to its high cost, energy demand, and the serious environmental impacts of its brine byproducts. Producing a biofertilizer that enables groundwater irrigation in hydroponics by enhancing plant halotolerance and resistance to salt stress offers a promising solution to address freshwater scarcity and low soil quality in arid and semi-arid regions, such as the Arabian Gulf.

Methods

This study investigates the potential of Bacillus spizizenii FMH45 in field experiment to enhance tomato plant production under greenhouse cultivation in hydroponics using directly groundwater for irrigation without desalination.

Results and discussion

Results demonstrated that the FMH45-based biofertilizer (HB45) significantly improved plant physiological parameters under greenhouse conditions. These improvements included a notable increase in shoot elongation (>13%), enhanced SPAD index values (>8%), and significant rises in flower and fruit counts (≃ 11% and 22%, respectively). B. spizizenii HB45 showed significant potential to increase bacterial densities by over 100-fold in various plant organs under saline irrigation and prevent salt infiltration into internal plant tissues. Furthermore, HB45-treatment enhanced the plant oxidative stress response as evidenced by stable catalase activity, an approximately 50% reduction in lipid peroxidation markers such as malondialdehyde (MDA), and a 35% decrease in reactive oxygen species (ROS), including hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). These findings demonstrate that B. spizizenii FMH45 holds significant potential for the development of effective biofertilizers capable of mitigating salt stress while boosting crop productivity. This approach offers a sustainable alternative to desalination-dependent hydroponics, particularly for arid and semi-arid regions, including Qatar.
Preoperative anemia is associated with prolonged hospital stay and increased facility discharges after glioblastoma resection
Authors: Almekkawi Ahmad K. , Adenwalla Ammar , Caruso James P. , Hicks William H. , Rail Benjamin , Bagley Carlos A. , Breshears Jonathan D. , El Ahmadieh Tarek Y. , Garzon-Muvdi Tomas , Goldlust Samuel A.
Published: January 2025

Background

Despite numerous operative and non-operative treatment modalities, patients with glioblastoma (GBM) have a dismal prognosis. Identifying predictors of survival and recurrence is an essential strategy for guiding treatment decisions, and existing literature demonstrates associations between hematologic data and clinical outcomes in cancer patients. As such, we provide a novel analysis that examines associations between preoperative hematologic data and postoperative outcomes following GBM resection.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent GBM resection from January 2016 to December 2020. Standard demographic and clinical variables were collected, including pre-operative complete blood count (CBC), and inferential analyses were performed to analyze associations between CBC parameters and postoperative outcomes.

Results

One hundred and eighty nine (189) patients met inclusion criteria, with a mean age of 60.7 years. On multivariate regression analysis, controlling for age, gender, and performance status, we observed trends suggesting anemic patients may have longer lengths of stay (t statistic = 3.23, p = 0.0015) and higher rates of discharge to inpatient facilities [OR 3.01 (1.09–8.13), p = 0.029], though these associations did not reach statistical significance after correction for multiple comparisons (Bonferroni-corrected significance threshold p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Preoperative anemia may be a useful pre-operative predictor of postsurgical GBM outcomes. Further study is required to determine whether pre-operative hemoglobin optimization can improve postoperative clinical outcomes, and whether other hematologic and inflammatory markers are predictive of postoperative recovery and functional status.
Hemorrhoidal disease: what role can rectal artery embolization play?
Authors: Panneau Julien , Mege Diane , Di Bisceglie Mathieu , Duclos Julie , Khati Idir , Vidal Vincent , Gallo Gaetano , Tradi Farouk
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Hemorrhoidal artery embolization, also known as Emborrhoid, has emerged in recent years as a minimally invasive treatment option for patients with recurrent and unresponsive to medical therapies hemorrhoidal bleeding symptoms. We present here an overview of the profile of rectal artery embolization based on the most relevant and recent literature.

Methods

A comprehensive review of literature on Hemorrhoidal artery embolization, was conducted on PubMed–Medline. The most relevant literature was summarized narratively.

Results

Current literature confirms the feasibility, efficacy and safety of rectal artery embolization for bleeding hemorrhoids. To date, the results of nearly 250 patients who have undergone hemorrhoid embolization have been published in several studies. All these authors have reported high immediate technical success, with also high clinical success, ranging from 63% to 94%, without major complications. Because of its beneficial safety profile, rectal artery embolization represents an attractive option for selected patients. In case of recurrence of bleeding it is possible to consider repeating the embolization procedure. Treatment failure may be due to the presence of anatomical variants such as dominant middle rectal arteries, which can be investigated and treated in the second session if necessary.

Conclusion

Rectal artery embolization represents a valuable addition to the therapeutic armamentarium of bleeding hemorrhoidal disease, if patients are selected appropriately.
Prepancreatic postduodenal portal vein discovered in a pediatric patient undergoing total pancreatectomy with islet autotransplantation: a case report and review of literature
Authors: Colak Muhammed Ali , Trout Andrew T. , Heinzman Christie , Freeman A Jay , Rasmussen Sara K. , Abu-El-Haija Maisam , Nathan Jaimie D.
Published: January 2025

Background

Prepancreatic postduodenal portal vein (PPPV) is a rare anatomic variant where the portal vein (PV) runs anterior to the pancreas and posterior to the duodenum. Only 20 cases of PPPV, all in adults, have been reported in literature. We report the first case of PPPV in a pediatric patient discovered intraoperatively during total pancreatectomy with islet autotransplantation (TPIAT) and the third known case in which the PPPV could be isolated intraoperatively.

Case

A 10-year-old girl with debilitating acute recurrent pancreatitis requiring daily pain medication was admitted for elective TPIAT operation. Genetic workup for hereditary causes of pancreatitis was negative. Preoperative magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography did not identify an abnormal course of the PV. During operation, dissection of tissues anteriorly overlying the pancreas revealed the variant PV anatomy. The PV was adherent to the anterior neck of the pancreas and coursed cranially posterior to the duodenum. Although prior reports have described PPPVs as thin-walled and fragile, the morphology and caliber of the PPPV appeared normal in our patient. The pancreas was adherent to and coursed between the PV and the superior mesenteric artery. The pancreas was meticulously dissected off the vessels and resected. The PPPV was successfully isolated and preserved for islet infusion later in the procedure. After isolation, 2/3 of islets were infused into the PV, and the remaining 1/3 were placed within the peritoneum due to persistently elevated portal venous pressures. There were no complications during the case, and the patient recovered as expected after operation.

Conclusion

Our case highlights the first reported case of PPPV in a pediatric patient and one of the three instances wherein it could be safely isolated intraoperatively. Recognition of such anatomic variations is crucial for the safety of operations such as TPIAT that include extensive vascular dissection in chronically scarred operative fields.
Hemostatic effect of oxidized regenerated cellulose vs. topical tranexamic acid in total knee arthroplasty—a prospective randomized controlled trial
Authors: Li Bowei , Pan Wenjie , Ma Jianbing , Huang Yuanchi
Published: January 2025

Aims

This study compared the hemostatic effects and complications of oxidized regenerated cellulose (ORC) and topical TXA in total knee arthroplasty (TKA), thus providing a reference for the use of ORC as an alternative hemostatic agent to TXA in TKA.

Methods

A total of 105 patients were included in this study and randomized into blank control, ORC, and TXA groups. The primary outcomes were total blood loss, hemoglobin drop (Hb drop), transfusion rates, and incidence of thrombosis. The secondary outcomes included operation time, tourniquet duration, coagulation parameters, inflammation markers, and complication rates.

Results

Total blood loss was 1,002.47 ± 308.58 ml and 964.68 ± 273.00 ml in the ORC and TXA groups, respectively, both significantly lower than that in the blank control group (1,168.94 ± 405.04 ml) (P1 = 0.043 and P2 = 0.014, respectively). Hb Drop was statistically insignificantly different between the ORC (36.03 ± 12.17 g/L) and TXA (34.32 ± 10.19 g/L) groups (P = 0.555). There was no statistically significant difference in transfusion rate, operation time, tourniquet duration, coagulation parameters, inflammation markers, and complication rates among the three groups.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our prospective randomized controlled trial (RCT) highlights that, oxidized regenerated cellulose (ORC) can reduce postoperative invisible blood loss in total knee arthroplasty and achieve a hemostatic effect similar to topical tranexamic acid (TXA). This provides a safe and effective hemostatic option for patients with severe underlying diseases or contraindications to tranexamic acid.

Clinical Trial registration

https://www.chictr.org.cn/bin/project/edit?pid=186370, identifier (ChiCTR2200066633).
Evaluation of a transverse perineal approach to the canine vagina and vestibule
Authors: Saylor Sarah E. , Mathews Kyle G.
Published: January 2025

There are a variety of surgical conditions impacting the canine vagina and vestibule that require access through a caudal approach. A standard vertical episiotomy involves making an incision beginning ventral to the anus and extending ventrally through the dorsal commissure of the vulva and into the lumen of the vestibule and distal vagina. The objective of this study was to determine if complex vaginal procedures could be performed via a transverse perineal approach, thus eliminating the need to incise and reconstruct the vulva as performed in a standard episiotomy, and to evaluate the feasibility of vaginal resection with vulvar-sparing vestibular urethrostomy using this transverse approach. Ten canine, female cadavers were obtained and randomly split into two equally sized groups. Cadavers in Group A (n = 5) had a vaginal resection-anastomosis cranial to the urethral papilla. Cadavers in Group B (n = 5) had a complete vaginectomy and vulvar sparing vestibular urethrostomy. Procedures for both groups were approached through a transverse perineal incision. Postoperatively, cadavers of both groups had right lateral pelvic radiographs taken with a calibration marker in the field. The distance between the location of the anastomosis (Group A) or vaginectomy site (Group B) and the skin incision was measured. The procedures in both Group A and Group B were successfully performed through a transverse perineal approach in all 10 cadavers. The mean transverse perineal incision length was 2.88 cm ± 0.49 cm, compared to a mean standard episiotomy length of 5.83 cm ± 0.79 cm. The mean distance between the location of the anastomosis (Group A) or vaginectomy site (Group B) and the skin incision measured on pre-contrast right lateral pelvic radiographs was 2.54 cm ± 0.34 cm. The results of this study confirm the feasibility of performing complex vaginal procedures through a transverse perineal approach. The described approach is shorter than the standard episiotomy, which may result in diminished discomfort and decreased surgical/anesthetic time. This approach also eliminates the need to reconstruct the vulva. Further evaluation in clinical patients is warranted.
Case report: Surgical closure of a facial defect in an African wild dog (Lycaon pictus) utilizing a transpositional skin flap
Authors: Brus Armen M. , Spinner Maureen , Rooney Tess , Thompson Kimberly A.
Published: January 2025

Veterinary intervention in zoological species can be complicated by species-specific social dynamics. African wild dogs are a pack species and removal or separation of an individual may disrupt established pack hierarchy resulting in conspecific aggression. Therefore, medical interventions that optimize a quick return to health are ideal to minimize the duration of absence from the pack. These principles were utilized for a three-year-old male intact zoo-housed African wild dog (AWD) that presented with an episode of severe, acute, right-sided facial swelling. Swelling initially responded to medical management, however 6 days later the facial swelling worsened. The AWD was anesthetized and required extensive debridement of necrotic tissue. The absence of deep bacteria on histopathologic evaluation and a negative bacterial culture was suggestive of envenomation. The resultant open wound was managed every other day with debridement and topical manuka honey covered with a tie-over bandage. Each wound therapy treatment required general anesthesia but resulted in a healthy granulation tissue bed 9 days following initial debridement. Rather than proceeding with second intention healing and continued bandage changes, a transpositional skin flap surgical procedure was performed and enabled full closure of the large skin defect with complete tissue apposition and a good cosmetic outcome. The surgery reduced the number of anesthetic events and time that would have been required for second intention healing of the defect, which enabled a more rapid and ultimately successful reintegration of this individual into the pack without any perceived changes to the hierarchical structure.
Effect of fructo-oligosaccharides on growth performance and meat quality in broilers
Authors: Yan ZhiHui , Tang XiaoWu , Wu RunTao , Yang Can , Jiang YunMiao , Wang Xuan , Tang QingHai , Hu YongLing , Wang LeLi , Jiang Zhi
Published: January 2025

This study investigated the fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) on growth performance and meat quality in broilers. Total 160 Xianghuang broilers aged 2 months were randomly assigned into 2 groups, CON (control), FOS (supplemented 0.5% fructo-oligosaccharides in diet). After 38 days, the breast, thigh muscle and liver samples were collected for further analysis. Results showed that no significant effect of 0.5% FOS on growth performance such as average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI) or feed-to-gain ratio (F:G) were observed (P > 0.05). Broilers in FOS group had a yellower breast than that in CON group (P < 0.05). Breast pH45min and thigh pH24h value of FOS group were greater than that in CON group (P < 0.05). Max shear force and work of shear of cooked breast (pectoralis major) muscle was lower in FOS group compared with CON group (P < 0.05). Hardness (P = 0.065), fracturability (P = 0.063), gumminess (P = 0.079), chewiness (P = 0.080) of cooked thigh meat tended to be higher in FOS group compared to the CON group. Addition of 0.5% FOS resulted in lower thigh total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) activity compared to CON group (P < 0.05). The malonaldehyde (MDA) concentration (P = 0.066) of breast muscle tended to be lower in FOS group compared with CON group. There was an increasing trend for total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) activity of thigh muscle in FOS group compared to CON group (P = 0.053). Relative mRNA expression of breast catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), thioredoxin reductase 1 (TXNRD) were up-regulated by FOS supplementation compared with CON group (P < 0.05). In conclusion, FOS can be utilized at 0.5 % to improve meat quality such as elevating pH value, yellowness and decreasing max shear force of muscle through enhancing the antioxidant activity in broilers.