bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The L1 spino-pelvic (L1SP) angle: a simplified approach for the assessment of the PI-LL mismatch in hip surgery
Authors: Boudali A Mounir , Chai Yuan , Farey John E , Vigdorchik Jonathan , Walter William L
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

Pelvic incidence - lumbar lordosis (PI-LL) mismatch is often considered when assessing spinopelvic alignment in the sagittal plane. The mismatch is conventionally obtained by measuring 2 separate angles on lateral spinopelvic radiographs. This study describes a simplified approach for assessing spinopelvic mobility and measuring the PI-LL mismatch through the evaluation of the L1-spinopelvis angle (L1SP).

Methods:

96 standing lateral radiographs were obtained from consecutive patients presenting for total hip arthroplasty between November 2020 and July 2021. 3 operators were recruited to annotate landmarks on digital radiographs. Correlation analysis and error analysis were applied. Measurement reproducibility was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results:

The correlation coefficients of the 3 variables were respectively 0.87 for PI, 0.94 for LL, and 0.96 for L1SP. The normalised root mean square error between the 2 measurement sets was 9.96% for PI, 5.97% for LL, and 4.41% for L1SP. The absolute error was 3.49° ± 4.63° for PI, 3.23° ± 3.78° for LL, 2.68° ± 3.19° for PI-LL conventional, and 2.35° ± 2.88° for PI-LL via L1SP, respectively. In terms of reproducibility, measurement of L1SP outperformed that of PI and LL (ICC = 0.97 versus 0.83 and 0.93, respectively).

Conclusion:

The simplified L1SP method, through the measurement of a single angle, produced similar measurements to the conventional PI-LL method. The measurement repeatability between operators was improved using the L1SP method. From a clinical practice perspective, both methods are equivalent. The new method is readily reproducible using commercially available PACS software during preoperative templating.
Analysis of Serum Bile Acid Profile Characteristics and Identification of New Biomarkers in Lean Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease Based on LC-MS/MS
Authors: Wang Bing , Zhang Fei , Qiu Hong , He Yujie , Shi Haotian , Zhu Yuerong
Published: September 2024

Objectives:

Plasma bile acid (BA) has been widely studied as pathophysiological factors in chronic liver disease. But the changes of plasma BA level in lean metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) remains unclear. Here, we clarified the BA metabolic characteristics of lean MAFLD and explored its significance and mechanism as a marker.

Methods:

We employed ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry based on BA metabonomics to characterize circulating bile acid in lean MAFLD patients. Explore its significance as serum biomarkers by further cluster analysis, functional enrichment analysis, and serum concentration change analysis of differential BAs. Evaluation of diagnostic value of differential BAs by ROC analysis.

Results:

A total of 65 BAs were detected and 17 BAs were identified which showed different expression in the lean-MAFLD group compared with the normal group. Functional annotation and enrichment analysis of KEGG and HMDB showed that differential BAs were mainly related to bile acid biosynthesis, bile secretion, cholesterol metabolism, and familial hypercholangitis, involving diseases including but not limited to cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, chronic active hepatitis, colorectal cancer, acute liver failure, and portal vein obstruction. ROC analysis displayed that the 6 BA metabolites (GCDCA-3S, GUDCA-3S, CDCA-3S, NCA, TCDCA, and HDCA) exhibited well differential diagnostic ability in discriminating between lean MAFLD patients and normal individuals with an area under the curve (AUC) ⩾0.85.

Conclusions:

We delineated the characteristics of BA level in patients with lean MAFLD, and identified 6 potential plasma BA biomarkers of lean MAFLD.
Effect of heat input on ultrahard Fe-Cr-B-C-W-Mo-Nb hardfacing
Authors: Gramajo J , Gualco A , Svoboda H
Published: September 2024

Multicomponent alloys (Cr, Mo, W, Nb, C, B) nanostructured iron base with complex carboborides have been developed to provide great protection against abrasive wear to elements of agricultural and mining machines. These overlays are subject to severe material losses due to impact and abrasion of hard particles and therefore optimizing their wear resistance is critical when it comes to their lifespan, increasing it as a result. The objective of this work was to study the influence of heat input on the wear resistance through of the analysis of the solidification rate. In this sense, the increase of welding speed was produced a decrease of heat input and refined of microstructure. In order to explain these effects, an analysis was made of of the influence of welding speed on the geometry of the deposited metal, dilution with the base metal, microstructural evolution and hardness of iron-based nanostructured deposits with complex carbides. For this, four samples were welded with different speeds; these being 1, 2.5, 5 and 12 mm/s. A semi-automatic welding process was used with a 1.6 mm wire rope used to provide gas protection. The chemical composition was analyzed on a dilution free welded sample. For the each welded sample the dilution percentage was determined, the dimensional survey of the beads was carried out and the microstructure was characterized by X-ray diffraction and optical and scanning electron microscopy. In addition, Vickers microhardness tests were measured in the central area of the beads and the microhardness of phases were measured. The dilution of the deposited metals ranged from 17% to a maximum of 28%. A microstructure formed by a matrix with complex metal carbides and carboborides was observed. The hardness of the beads varied between 960 and 1350 HV2. The highest wear resistance was found in the sample with highest speed welding.
Development and validation of the Telehealth Etiquette Competency Checklist: A Delphi study
Authors: Pittmann Rachel , Danaher-Garcia Nicole , Adair White Bobbie Ann , Thompson Anne
Published: September 2024

Background

Providing telehealth care requires unique professionalism skills (i.e. telehealth etiquette) to ensure patients have a positive experience. Given the effect of patient–provider relationships on healthcare outcomes and the limited evidence for healthcare professionals to learn and practice these skills, developing a telehealth etiquette competency tool is necessary.

Methods

This multiround Delphi study utilized subject matter experts’ opinions to validate a telehealth etiquette competency checklist, using Lawshe's content validity measurements. Panelists were diverse in professional backgrounds, years of experience, telehealth teaching, clinical experience, and involvement in telehealth professional society and governmental policy making.

Results

Consensus and validation were achieved on the checklist by the 17 panelists in Round 1 for 19 of 20 competencies. Following revisions based on their expert opinions, consensus was achieved by all 16 panelists in Round 2 for 20 competencies.

Discussion

The Telehealth Etiquette Competency Checklist (TECC) provides a validated telehealth etiquette tool that can be used by health professionals to improve their telehealth videoconsultations, thus enhancing patient satisfaction.
Developing and validating an L2 writing willingness to communicate scale: A sequential embedded mixed-methods approach
Authors: Zhang Yujie , Zhang Lawrence Jun
Published: September 2024

Current willingness to communicate (WTC) scales center on WTC in general second language (L2) learning, while L2 writing WTC is underrepresented. This study intended to close this gap by developing and validating an L2 writing WTC scale. A three-phase sequential embedded mixed-methods design was adopted to overcome the over-reliance on quantitative data and provide adequate evidence of validity. Nineteen items were generated based on our literature search and thematic analysis of the interview data ( n = 10). With quantitative data collected from 288 learners of English as a foreign language (EFL), the psychometric properties of the initial scale were examined by exploratory factor analysis. After that, the revised 17-item questionnaire was validated by confirmatory factor analysis and other validation methods with data from 224 EFL learners. The results indicated that the underlying structure involved writing task traits, English language ideology, writing teacher support, interest in English language, and self-perception of English language proficiency. The scale was further validated through factor analysis of the quantitative data ( n = 173) and thematic analysis of the immediate retrospective interview data ( n = 12) from EFL learners to test its generalizability in other L2 learning contexts and for face validity evidence. The findings showcased a promising mixed-methods design for scale development and clarified the underlying factors of L2 writing WTC. Implications for scale development and the teaching and learning of L2 writing were discussed.
Reconnecting genealogies of criminal justice and excise tax enforcement
Authors: Yeomans Henry
Published: September 2024

Although various state and non-state agencies are central to criminal justice, our understandings of criminal justice's past remain dominated by histories of public police and modern prisons. Inspired by Braithwaite's call to reconnect genealogies of criminal justice and business regulation, this article presents an original historical study of the Excise as a criminal justice agency. It illustrates that criminal justice has historically involved a shifting ensemble of regulatory actors whose remits and functions have converged, diverged or been transferred over time. Importantly, this perspective illuminates the usually hidden offending of more privileged or powerful social actors, adding a significant historical dimension to wider efforts to rebalance criminology away from ‘crimes of the streets’ and towards ‘crimes of the suites’.
An image-based bridge displacement field measurement method with self-vibration elimination
Authors: Liu Yu-Fei , Liu Jia-Hao , Wei Xiao-Chen , Liu Xiao-Gang , Li Bao-Luo
Published: September 2024

Displacement is a critical indicator that reflects the degeneration of overall stiffness for bridges. However, for most bridges, contact displacement measurement is difficult to achieve due to the lack of reference points and technical limitations. In this paper, a unique dual-camera visual sensor system for the whole field displacement measurement of bridge undersurfaces was developed. The visual sensor system relies on feature point algorithm and several algorithms are involved to improve the accuracy and efficiency. The dual-camera equipment can independently eliminate the impact of the camera vibration, thereby solving the problem of camera vibration caused by ground vibrations and wind loads at outdoor inspection sites when measuring bridge displacement. In a laboratory testing environment, a steel plate simulated a bridge and different experiments were conducted to test the visual system in situations with and without vibration disturbances to the camera. The results verify the accuracy of the developed visual sensor, especially the effectiveness of the vibration reduction method.
What is a sustainable diet in the Norwegian context?
Authors: Meltzer Helle Margrete , Abel Marianne H. , Knutsen Helle K. , Amberntsson Anna , Brantsæter Anne Lise , Budin-Ljøsne Isabelle , Husøy Trine , Iszatt Nina , Lund-Iversen Kaja , Paulsen Mari M. , Thomsen Cathrine , Torheim Liv Elin , Haug Line S.
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

Sustainable diets promote health and wellbeing and have low environmental impact. They should be accessible, affordable, safe, equitable and culturally acceptable. Translating these general principles into Norwegian-specific dietary recommendations is essential, as foods beneficial for health tend to also be environmentally sustainable. Following the dietary recommendations is an important step towards sustainability.

Aim:

To identify challenges and potential solutions for transitioning towards more sustainable diets in Norway.

Methods:

We used scientific articles, reports, policy documents, and statistics on Norwegian food production and consumption to discuss a sustainable diet in a Norwegian context.

Results and discussion:

There is a large gap between dietary guidelines and actual consumption. More than 60% of the calories in the Norwegian diet are based on imported foods and feed. Changing people’s diet is identified as central in transforming the food system to become more sustainable, as is prioritizing the use of local resources. Good animal health and welfare are also fundamental premises for a sustainable food system.

Conclusions:

Transitioning to a more sustainable diet requires comprehensive efforts at multiple levels. There is considerable room for action to increase the use of Norwegian resources in a sustainable and responsible way. Potential strategies include reducing meat intake in favour of plant-based foods and fish, consuming more local products, decreasing food waste and supporting agricultural practices that promote environmental and social sustainability. A more sustainable diet may also lead to significantly increased self-sufficiency and food security in Norway.
Finnish translation, validation, and reproducibility of BREAST-Q modules relevant to breast cancer treatment
Authors: Homsy Pauliina , Repo Jussi , Kuhlefelt Charlotta , Lindford Andrew , Ihalainen Hanna , Kauhanen Susanna , Jahkola Tiina
Published: September 2024

Background and objective:

Breast cancer and its treatments can have a marked impact on the patient health-related quality of life. The aim of this study was to produce and validate Finnish versions of the breast-conserving treatment, mastectomy and breast reconstruction modules of the BREAST-Q, a patient-reported outcome tool designed specifically for women undergoing treatment for breast cancer.

Methods:

The relevant BREAST-Q modules were translated to Finnish according to established guidelines. Altogether 777 preoperative women were recruited at the Breast Surgery Unit and the Plastic Surgery Unit of Helsinki University Hospital between December 2019 and March 2021. This included 541 patients scheduled for breast-conserving surgery, 86 for mastectomy, and 150 for breast reconstruction. Postoperative patients were recruited through a postal survey, approaching 500 women operated for breast cancer in 2017, including 250 women who had undergone breast-conserving surgery and 250 women who had undergone mastectomy, as well as 339 women who had undergone breast reconstruction between August 2017 and July 2019. The patients were invited to fill the BREAST-Q modules relevant to their treatment and the general health-related quality-of-life instrument SF-36. A repeat administration of the BREAST-Q was done 2 weeks later.

Results:

A total of 665 (41%) women participated in the study, 339 (44%) preoperatively and 326 (39%) postoperatively. The BREAST-Q subscales showed high internal consistency with most Cronbach’s alphas > 0.8. The repeatability of the subscales was excellent with most intra-class correlation coefficients > 0.75. Low or negligible correlation was observed between BREAST-Q subscales and SF-36 domains.

Conclusions:

The Finnish version of the BREAST-Q modules breast-conserving treatment, mastectomy, and breast reconstruction performs well in assessing the health-related quality of life of women undergoing surgery for breast cancer or breast reconstruction.
Socio-cultural and contextual resources shaping the initiation of closings of public utility service interactions
Authors: Al-Ali Mohammed Nahar , AlDwairi Raneem B
Published: September 2024

This article investigates the pre-closings of interactions between inquirers and public utility service providers to find out what strategic sequential components the participants utilize to bid the closings of their conversations. We examined how these components are co-constructed and linguistically realized and what socio-cultural and co-textual influences have given rise to these sequences. The data analyzed was based on recorded face-to-face interactions between seven employees in public utility services and 100 Jordanian participants who approached the organization to inquire about utility services. Contrary to prior research on pre-closings, our results reveal a more elaborate sequential organization consisting of eight strategic component options, most of which (e.g. supplicating, praising, showing hospitality, invoking compassion) have not been encountered in other similar discourses analyzed. Some components are socio-culturally motivated, others are religiously affiliated, and some others are co-textually and contextually bound. Such findings will, hopefully, contribute to understanding how interlocutors use socio-cultural and religious affiliations to co-construct the preclosing of their interactions
Integrating halal tourism principles into Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs
Authors: Shahidul Islam Mohammad
Published: September 2024

The research note highlights the potential of integrating Halal principles with Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs to better cater to Muslim travelers’ motivations. It proposes a model incorporating spiritual and religious dimensions into Maslow’s traditional psychological frameworks, aiming to offer a comprehensive understanding of motivations in Halal tourism. This integration enriches academic discourse and provides practical insights for the tourism industry, promoting more inclusive, respectful, and culturally sensitive tourism practices.
Moral judgment, self-determination, and toleration: Reflecting on reform intervention at the outer limits
Authors: Rafanelli Lucia M
Published: September 2024

Here, I reply to three commentaries on my recent book, Promoting Justice Across Borders: The Ethics of Reform Intervention. The main topics include the scope of the category “reform intervention,” to what extent it is appropriate to evaluate economic activity using moral criteria, the meaning of collective self-determination and its relationship to democracy, and the limits of toleration as a moral ideal.
Schooling for integration? Reception of refugees in discourse and practice in Swedish rural municipalities 2015–2022
Authors: Rönnlund Maria , Öhrn Elisabet , Beach Dennis , Johansson Monica , Rosvall Per-Åke
Published: September 2024

This study explores the integration of migrants in education and the labour market from the perspectives of professionals working with young migrants in Swedish rural municipalities. It compares interview data referring to the situation during the refugee crisis in 2015 with data referring to the period 2019–2022. It addresses the organisation of teaching, how professionals talked about integration in relation to the local labour market and how integration-related practices and discourses developed from 2015 to 2022. The findings indicate a major change over time in the educational integration strategies and practices. Migrant children were mainly taught in separate preparatory classes in 2015, but by 2019–2022 there was a general aim to integrate them rapidly in regular classes. In terms of labour market integration there was also a discursive change. In 2015 the main hope was that the migrants’ reception would create short- and long-term jobs for the local population and contribute to the survival of local services and life. In contrast, in 2019–2022 the main expressed hope was that migrants would stay permanently and contribute productively to their new societies’ labour forces.
Research on dynamic modeling and control strategy of four anti-swing cable system for ship-mounted cranes
Authors: Ren Zhaopeng , Huang Zhe , Zhao Tingqi , Wang Shenghai , Chen Haiquan , Sun Yuqing , Fang Nan
Published: September 2024

Ship-mounted cranes are becoming increasingly essential to modern ocean shipping. However, due to the continuous influence of waves, currents, and winds, achieving accurate and fast lifting is difficult because of the large payload swing during the lifting operation. Therefore, this study proposes a Four Anti-swing Cable System (FASCS) for ship-mounted cranes. Firstly, a dynamic model of the FASCS was established by using Robotics and Newton method, and a tension control method (TCM) is designed to reduce the swing angle of the payload. Concurrently, a sliding mode variable structure controller with improved reaching law (SMVSC-IRL) is designed to control the cooperative movement of the anti-swing cables and prevent the occurrence of snap. The dynamic characteristic analysis by MATLAB/Simulink shows that the swing angle suppression effect reaches 89.3% on average, and the projected area of the payload trajectory was reduced by 60%, which can significantly improve the efficiency of ship-mounted cranes lifting operations. In addition, the length and speed of cables in errors can approach 0 within 7 s, and the strong robustness of the designed SMVSC to control the cooperative motion of the anti-swing cables is proved. The results of this study contribute to the in-depth optimization and engineering verification of the FASCS for ship-mounted cranes.
Five-year outcomes of patients with diabetes mellitus treated with a sirolimus-eluting or a biolimus-eluting stents with biodegradable polymer. From the SORT OUT VII trial
Authors: Trøan Jens , Christiansen Evald Høj , Hansen Kirstine Nørregaard , Eftekhari Ashkan , Jakobsen Lars , Mæng Michael , Freeman Phillip , Jensen Rebekka Vibjerg , Christensen Martin Kirk , Noori Manijeh , Ellert-Gregersen Julia , Støttrup Nicolaj Brejnholt , Kahlert Johnny , Veien Karsten Tange , Jensen Lisette Okkels
Published: September 2024

Background

Diabetes mellitus is associated with higher risk of target lesion failure (TLF) after percutaneous coronary intervention. We studied the 5-year outcome in patients with diabetes mellitus treated with biodegradable polymer stents.

Methods

The SORT OUT VII was a randomised trial comparing the ultrathin sirolimus-eluting Orsiro stent (O-SES) and the biolimus-eluting Nobori stent (N-BES) in an all-comer setting. Patients ( n = 2525) were randomised to receive O-SES ( n = 1261, diabetes: n = 236) or N-BES ( n = 1264, diabetes: n = 235). Endpoints were TLF (a composite of cardiac death, target-lesion myocardial infarction (MI), target lesion revascularization (TLR)), definite stent thrombosis and a patient related outcome (all-cause mortality, MI and revascularization) within 5 years.

Results

Patients with diabetes mellitus had higher TLF (20.6% vs 11.0%, (Rate ratio (RR) 1.85 95% confidence interval (CI): (1.42-2.40) and patient related outcome (42.0% vs 31.0%, RR 1.43 95% CI: (1.19-1.71)) compared to patients without diabetes. Among patients with diabetes mellitus, TLF after 5 years did not differ between O-SES and N-BES (21.2% vs 20.0%), RR 1.05 95% CI: (0.70-1.58), p = 0.81). Cardiac death, MI, TLR, and definite stent thrombosis did not differ between the groups.

Conclusion

In patients with diabetes mellitus, 5-year outcomes were similar among patients treated with biodegradable polymer O-SES or N-BES.

Clinical trial registration

URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov . Unique identifier: NCT01879358.
Qualitative Insights Into Healthcare Professionals’ Perceived Barriers in Providing Equitable and Patient-Centered Care to Members of the LGBTQI+ Community in Greece
Authors: Pagkozidis Ilias , Haidich Anna Bettina , Athanasiadis Loukas , Dardavesis Theodoros , Tsimtsiou Zoi
Published: September 2024

LGBTQI+ individuals often face health disparities, with encumbered outcomes. We investigated the perspectives of a wide range of Greek health professionals using a battery of questionnaires examining LGBTQI+ health-related knowledge, attitudes, and clinical preparedness, while exploring the potential challenges they face when providing care for LGBTQI+ patients via qualitative analysis of their free text answers. In total, 220 health professionals participated, including physicians, nurses, dentists, physiotherapists, social workers, nutritionists, medical laboratory professionals, pharmacists, radiographers, and health promotion specialists. Four main themes were revealed concerning the barriers to providing equitable and patient-centered care to LGBTQI+ individuals: (1) Inadequate knowledge (1a. Distinctive health issues of the LGBTQI+ community, 1b. Community-related terminology), (2) Insufficient communication skills (2a. General approach of LGBTQI+ patients, 2b. Addressing LGBTQI+ individuals, 2c. Managing critical attitudes of colleagues/third parties), (3) Personal perceptions (3a. Attitudes toward the LGBTQI+ community, 3b. Perceptions on the necessity of sexual health history), and (4) Ambiguous bureaucratic procedures. Self-identification, contact with community members in personal life, as well as LGBTQI+ patients’ openness during the encounter were reportedly enabling inclusive care. Most participants (83.2%) expressed willingness for further training on LGBTQI+ health issues. Going forward, study participants identified this field, in conjunction with communication skills, as important areas of focus for training health providers and empowering them to provide equitable, patient-centered, high-quality care to the LGBTQI+ community.
Establishment of an in Vitro Three-Dimensional Vascularized Micro-Tumor Model and Screening of Chemotherapeutic Drugs
Authors: Ye Qian , Wang Juanru , Wang Boyang , Zhao Min , Wu Zhengsheng , Liu Xiaoli
Published: September 2024

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women worldwide, and major challenges in its treatment include drug resistance and metastasis. Three-dimensional cell culture systems have received widespread attention in drug discovery studies but existing models have limitations, that warrant the development of a simple and repeatable three-dimensional culture model for high-throughput screening. In this study, we designed a simple, reproducible, and highly efficient microencapsulated device to co-culture MCF-7 cells and HUVECs in microcapsules to establish an in vitro vascularized micro-tumor model for chemotherapeutic drug screening. First, to construct a three-dimensional micro-tumor model, cell encapsulation devices were created using three different sizes of flat-mouthed needles. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence assays were conducted to determine vascular lumen formation. Cell proliferation was detected using the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay. Finally, to observe the drug reactions between the models, anticancer drugs (doxorubicin or paclitaxel) were added 12 h after the two-dimensional cultured cells were plated or 7 days after cell growth in the core-shell microcapsules. Vascularized micro-tumors were obtained after 14 days of three-dimensional culture. The proliferation rate in the three-dimensional cultured cells was slower than that of two-dimensional cultured cells. Three-dimensional cultured cells were more resistant to anticancer drugs than two-dimensional cultured cells. This novel sample encapsulation device formed core-shell microcapsules and can be used to successfully construct 3D vascularized micro-tumors in vitro. The three-dimensional culture model may provide a platform for drug screening and is valuable for studying tumor development and angiogenesis.
Left Thoracoscopic Robot-Assisted Excision of a Left Lower Paratracheal Parathyroid Adenoma for Cure of Primary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Inra Matthew L. , Guerrero Dominick , Reisner Adin , Paul Subroto , Miles Brett A.
Published: September 2024

We present a case of a 38-year-old male patient with symptomatic hypercalcemia secondary to primary hyperparathyroidism. After evaluation, the source of the excess parathyroid hormone was found to be an adenoma localized to the middle mediastinum. Specifically, it was located in the left paratracheal space along the lesser curve of the aortic arch. We discuss this case with a corresponding video to demonstrate the necessary equipment and setup as well as the 5 operative steps recommended to access this paratracheal subaortic location from a minimally invasive transthoracic approach. The pitfalls for this operation are also discussed. The purpose is to make this operation more reproducible for other surgeons.
Some minutes matter more: Groin-to-recanalization is the main time-related predictor of outcome in acute ischemic stroke
Authors: De Mase Antonio , Spina Emanuele , Servillo Giovanna , Barbato Stefano , Leone Giuseppe , Giordano Flavio , Renna Rosaria , Ranieri Angelo , Iorio Walter Di , Muto Massimo , Guarnieri Gianluigi , Muto Mario , Candelaresi Paolo , Andreone Vincenzo
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) is the standard of care for selected patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and large vessel occlusion (LVO), associated with intravenous thrombolysis, when indicated. While many studies focused on pre-hospital and in-hospital pathways, only few analyzed the relationship between groin-to-recanalization (GTR) time and functional outcome.

Aim

To explore whether GTR time is an independent predictor of outcome in patients undergoing EVT.

Methods

All patients with anterior circulation stroke treated with EVT at a high-volume center from January 2021 to December 2023 were included. The cohort was divided into two groups according to GTR time shorter or longer than 30 min. Regression analysis assessed the association between GTR time and 3-month good outcome, defined as modified Rankin Scale 0–2.

Results

The study included 419 patients. The groups had similar baseline characteristics and similar onset to recanalization (OTR) time. Regression analysis showed shorter GTR time is an independent predictor of favorable outcome (OR 2.49 [95% CI 1.26–4.94]). Age, baseline NIHSS, ASPECT score and bridging IVT were also found to be independently associated with outcome.

Discussion and conclusions

Our study showed GTR time is an independent predictor of good outcome in patients undergoing EVT with similar OTR time, emphasizing procedural time as a key prognostic factor, even greater than other well-known pre-hospital and in-hospital time-dependent variables. These findings may raise the issue of developing alternative approaches or early “rescue” strategies for complicated procedures.
Pipeline embolization device as a standalone curative approach for recurrent sigmoid sinus DAVF
Authors: Sharashidze Vera , Chung Charlotte , Nelson Peter Kim , Shapiro Maksim , Riina Howard , Nossek Erez , Raz Eytan
Published: September 2024

Dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVFs) can occur as complications after surgical procedures, especially following the resection of meningiomas near the dural sinus. This case report presents a 74-year-old male who developed a recurrent sigmoid dAVF following meningioma resection. Initially treated with transvenous embolization and middle meningeal artery embolization, the dAVF recurred with worsening clinical symptoms. Conventional treatment options, including sinus sacrifice and transarterial embolization, were unsuitable due to the critical role of the patient's dominant right sigmoid sinus in cerebral venous drainage. Consequently, a reconstructive approach was employed using a pipeline embolization device (PED) construct. The PED successfully occluded the dAVF while preserving the function of the sigmoid sinus. A follow-up angiogram confirmed stable occlusion and normalization of intracranial venous drainage. This case underscores the potential of flow diversion as a viable treatment option for dAVFs, particularly in scenarios where preserving venous sinus function is paramount.
FreeClimb 88 catheter with Tenzing 8 delivery for contact aspiration mechanical thrombectomy of anterior circulation large vessel occlusions
Authors: Alexander Matthew D. , Caldwell James , Lee Shane SH , Kim Warren T. , English Joey D. , Kim Jaehyun , McGuinness Ben J. , Page Matthew , Belachew Nebiyat F. , Grossberg Jonathan A. , Tonetti Daniel , Khalife Jane , Shaikh Hamza , Kass-Hout Omar , Colasurdo Marco , Priest Ryan , Varjavand Bahram , Khangura Rajkamal S. , Chaudhry Thymur A. , Settecase Fabio
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Contact aspiration mechanical thrombectomy (CAMT) with 0.088-inch catheters may improve first-pass success rates, but delivery of such catheters can be challenging and limit effectiveness. This study examines the initial multicenter experience using the FreeClimb 88 catheter paired with the Tenzing 8 delivery catheter.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective analysis was performed of consecutive patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO) of the internal carotid artery (ICA) or M1 segment of the middle cerebral artery treated with off-label CAMT using the FreeClimb 88 and Tenzing 8 at eight sites participating in the early limited release for these devices. Demographic and procedural variables were collected and analyzed with descriptive statistics and multivariable analysis.

Results

Fifty-three consecutive patients were treated. Large vessel occlusion was located in the ICA in 19/53 (35.8%) patients; 34/53 (64.2%) were in the M1 segment. FreeClimb 88 was successfully delivered to the site of occlusion in 50/53 (94.3%) of patients. First-pass TICI 2c or 3 was achieved with FreeClimb 88 delivered by Tenzing 8 in 36 (67.9%) cases. Among cases with successful FreeClimb 88 delivery 9/50 (18.0%) required additional smaller devices to perform thrombectomy of distal occlusions after recanalization of the initial LVO. No complications or symptomatic hemorrhages occurred following thrombectomy.

Conclusion

Contact aspiration mechanical thrombectomy performed for ICA or M1 LVOs using FreeClimb 88 delivered with Tenzing 8 was safe, effective, and efficient in this early experience, with first-pass TICI 2c or 3 was achieved in 68% of patients without procedural complications occurring in any cases.
Hip and groin pain in sport
Authors: Worthington Shane
Published: September 2024

Hip and groin pain is a common symptom in the athletic population. Kicking sports are the most affected, with groin injuries accounting for almost one fifth of all injuries in male club football. Despite the frequency at which these injuries occur, diagnosing the cause of hip and groin pain can be a challenge. Correct diagnosis and management of hip and groin injuries in primary care can improve outcomes in patients by reducing the likelihood of re-injury and avoiding the development of chronic issues. This article aims to discuss the common causes of hip and groin pain in sports, and how to assess, investigate and manage these injuries.
Clinical and device-based predictors of improved experience of activities of daily living after a multidisciplinary inpatient treatment for people with Parkinson’s disease: a cohort study
Authors: Oppermann Judith , Tschentscher Vera , Welzel Julius , Geritz Johanna , Hansen Clint , Gold Ralf , Maetzler Walter , Scherbaum Raphael , Tönges Lars
Published: September 2024

Background:

The inpatient Parkinson’s Disease Multimodal Complex Treatment (PD-MCT) is an important therapeutical approach to improving gait and activities of daily living (ADL) of people with PD (PwP). Wearable device-based parameters (DBP) are new options for specific gait analyses toward individualized treatments.

Objectives:

We sought to identify predictors of perceived ADL benefit taking clinical scores and DBP into account. Additionally, we analyzed DBP and clinical scores before and after PD-MCT.

Design:

Exploratory observational cohort study.

Methods:

Clinical scores and DBP of 56 PwP (mean age: 66.3 years, median Hoehn and Yahr (H&Y) stage: 2.5) were examined at the start and the end of a 14-day inpatient PD-MCT in a German University Medical Center. Participants performed four straight walking tasks under single- and dual-task conditions for gait analyses. Additionally, clinical scores of motor and nonmotor functions and quality of life (QoL) were assessed. Using dichotomized data of change in Movement Disorders Society Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale Part II (MDS-UPDRS II) as a dependent variable and clinical and DBP as independent variables, a binomial logistic regression model was implemented.

Results:

Young age, high perceived ADL impairment at baseline, high dexterity skills, and a steady gait were significant predictors of ADL benefit after PD-MCT. DBP like gait speed, number of steps, step time, stance time, and double limb support time were improved after PD-MCT. In addition, motor functions (e.g., MDS-UPDRS III and IV), QoL, perceived ADL (MDS-UPDRS II), and experience of nonmotor functions (MDS-UPDRS I) improved significantly.

Conclusion:

The logistic regression model identified a group of PwP who had the most probable perceived ADL benefit after PD-MCT. Additionally, gait improved toward a faster and more dynamic gait. Using wearable technology in context of PD-MCT is promising to offer more personalized therapeutical concepts.

Trial registration:

German Clinical Trial Register, https://drks.de ; DRKS00020948 number, 30 March 2020, retrospectively registered.
Algerian Artemisia herba-alba (Asso): Extract and Essential Oils Investigation
Authors: Saida Medjeldi , Rym Essid , Sélim Jellouli , Nadia Fares , Amel Delimi , Amina Amrani , Olfa Tabben
Published: September 2024

Background/Objective: Numerous studies have demonstrated the ethno-and pharmacological properties of various Artemisia species. However, this plant genus which grows abundantly and wildly in the ‘Tébessa’ Algerian region has not been investigated. This study focuses on the phytochemical characterization, biological activities evaluation with the antibacterial fraction identification of the aerial part aqueous extract (AE) and essential oil (EO) from Algerian Artemisia herba alba ( Aha) growing wild in the ‘Tebessa' region. Methods: Polyphenols, flavonoids, and condensed tannins were analyzed by spectrophotometer and the antimicrobial activity was determined by the gel diffusion followed by micro-dilution methods. The antioxidant effect was assayed using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrilhidrazil (DPPH), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and ferric reducing power (FRAP) tests. The cytotoxic and anti-leishmaniasis activities were experienced on Raw 264.7 cell line and on L. infantum and L. major promastigotes respectively. Thin-layer chromatography (TLC)/autobiography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) techniques were used to isolate and identify the antibacterial compounds. EO profile was determined by GC-MS analysis. Results: The extracts (AE and EO) demonstrated antioxidant activity, with the AE exhibiting the most pronounced levels. Both extracts showed antimicrobial activity against all the strains tested however; the EO effect was more effective, especially against the E. feacalis strain with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of 0.0625 mg/mL. The antibacterial fraction exerted by AE towards E. feacalis was identified. AE and EO extracts showed antileishmanial activity and no toxic effect however, volatile extract was the most effective. EO profile revealed 19 identified compounds, led by camphor (51.14%), followed by 1,8 Cineole (19.30%), camphene (6.90%) and chrysanthenone (5.68%). Conclusion: As a result, the both extracts promise a high potential applications in agri-food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic sectors. This study aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3, 12, and 15, emphasizing potential health benefits, the responsible use of natural resources, and biodiversity conservation.
A Network Pharmacological Study on the Treatment of Diminished Ovarian Reserve with Nourishing Yin Formula
Authors: Ma Qianwen , Gao Yuehua , Wu Jianfei , Shen Mingxia , Ye Chenshu , Tan Yong , Chen Wenjun
Published: September 2024

Objective

To identify the principal constituents of Nourishing Yin Formula, analyze its active substances and effective targets for treating DOR, and explore its potential mechanism of action.

Methods

The primary active constituents of Nourishing Yin Formula and their putative targets for treating DOR were identified through a search of Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (BATMAN-TCM), GeneCards, OMIM, and Uniprot databases. A protein-protein interaction network was constructed using the String database to identify shared targets between the drug and disease. These drug-disease shared targets were then subjected to GO analysis and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis using the DAVID database.

Results

After screening, the primary chemical constituents of Nourishing Yin Formula for treating DOR were identified, including progesterone, beta-sitosterol, 17-Beta-Estradiol, quercetin, kaempferol, etc Among the 52 critical targets for Nourishing Yin Formula in DOR treatment, the core targets were AKT1, INS, IL6, TNF, EGFR, ESR1, MYC, CTNNB1, NOS3, ERBB2, EDN1, and ESR2.

Conclusions

The potential mechanism of Nourishing Yin Formula in the treatment of DOR may involve the herbal compound's impact on AKT1, INS, IL6, TNF, and EGFR pathways. It regulates ovarian granulosa cell proliferation and apoptosis, and restores ovarian blood supply.
Kaurane Diterpenoids from Xylopia aethiopica Inhibits Alpha-Amylase and Alpha-Glucosidase: A Combined in Silico and in Vitro Approach
Authors: Famuyiwa Funmilayo G. , Patil Rajesh B. , Famuyiwa Samson O. , Olawuni Idowu J. , Olayemi Uduak I. , Oyeleke Ibukun O. , Awotuya Iyanu O. , Sangshetti Jaiprakash N. , Shalom Esther O. , Faloye Kolade O.
Published: September 2024

Background/Objectives

Diabetes mellitus is among the leading cause of death worldwide. This study evaluated the alpha amylase and alpha glucosidase inhibitory properties of kaurane diterpenoids (kauran-13-ol (D1), xylopic acid (D2) and kauran-16α-ol (D3)) from the fruit of X. aethiopica.

Methodology

In vitro alpha amylase and alpha glucosidase inhibitory assays were performed on D1, D2 and D3 (0.03125, 0.0625, 0.125, 0.25, 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 mg/mL) and acarbose (0.003125, 0.00625, 0.0125, 0.025, 0.05 and 0.1 mg/mL) followed by molecular docking studies, molecular dynamics simulation and MMPBSA to examine their mode of interaction, binding affinity, binding mode and binding energy established with the enzymes. Also, ADMET properties of the studied diterpenes were examined to explain their druggability potential.

Result

The in vitro alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase studies identified D3 as the most promising inhibitor among the kaurane diterpenes with lower IC50 values of 0.65 and 0.17 mg/mL. The molecular docking analysis showed that D1, D2 and D3 established vital hydrogen bond, hydrophobic and pi-interaction with the receptors, while the molecular dynamics simulation showed the kaurane diterpenes exhibited good stability at the enzymes’ binding pocket. The MMPBSA binding energy values showed the diterpenes had good binding energies that corroborated that of molecular docking. The ADMET properties identified the compounds as promising drug candidate.

Conclusion

The study demonstrated that the kaurane diterpenoids have good inhibitory effect on the diabetes enzymes. Further comprehensive investigation into the antidiabetic properties of the diterpenes may lead to the identification of new hit molecule.
An Evidence-Based Update on Fixation Procedures for Acute and Chronic Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus
Authors: Nakasa Tomoyuki , Ikuta Yasunari , Haraguchi Naoki , Park Chul Hyun , Weber Christian David , Rikken Quinten G.H. , Dahmen Jari , Stufkens Sjoerd A.S. , Kerkhoffs Gino M.M.J. , Takao Masato
Published: September 2024

Osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT) involve the subchondral bone and the overlying articular cartilage. Various surgical treatments for these lesions are available, such as bone marrow stimulation (BMS), autologous osteochondral grafting, and fixation of an osteochondral fragment. Treatment choice depends on the condition of the lesion, which includes lesion size, morphology, location, and the presence of cysts. Among the surgical procedures available to date, in situ fixation of the osteochondral fragment has the advantage of restoring the articular surface while preserving the native hyaline cartilage and its subchondral bone. Fixation for OLT has been shown to be clinically successful for the treatment of both acute and chronic lesions. Moreover, the indication for osteochondral fragment fixation is expanding as recent studies have found good clinical outcomes in relatively small-sized lesions. The present article describes the current evidence on fixation for acute and chronic OLT.
Development and validation of a risk prediction model for linezolid-induced anemia in elderly patients: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Ma Hongling , Gong Zhaotang , Wu Rihan , SiRi GuLeng
Published: September 2024

Background:

Linezolid-induced anemia (LI-AN) is a severe adverse reaction, but risk factors of the LI-AN for elderly patients have not been established.

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to develop a nomogram capable of predicting LI-AN in elderly patients.

Design:

This is a retrospective study to develop and validate a nomogram for anemia prediction in elderly patients treated with linezolid.

Methods:

We retrospectively screened elderly patients treated with linezolid at Inner Mongolia People’s Hospital from January 2020 to December 2023 and validated our findings using the MIMIC-IV 2.2 database. Anemia was defined as hemoglobin reduction to 75% of baseline value. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify predictors and construct the nomogram, which was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, calibration plot, and decision curve analysis.

Results:

A total of 231 patients were enrolled in this study. The training set comprised 151 individuals, and anemia occurred in 28 cases (18.54%). In the external validation set of 80 individuals, 26 (32.5%) were diagnosed with anemia. The predictors included duration of linezolid therapy, patient estimated glomerular filtration rate value, and sequential organ failure assessment score ⩾2. The ROC curve for the training set was 0.830 (95% CI: 0.750–0.910), while a similar ROC curve of 0.743 (95% CI: 0.621–0.865) was obtained for the validation set. The calibration curve demonstrated good correlation between predicted and observed results, indicating that this study effectively predicts risk factors associated with LI-AN in elderly patients.

Conclusion:

The developed prediction model can provide valuable guidance for clinicians to prevent anemia and facilitate rational linezolid use in elderly patients.
Effect of fibre-quality parameters on pulp properties by using multiple linear regression and artificial neural network
Authors: Uddin Mohammad Nashir , Likhon Md. Nur Alam , Rahman Md. Mostafizur , Jahan Md. Sarwar
Published: September 2024

Paper strength is developed through pulp refining. This paper investigates a correlation of pulp fibre properties changes by pulp refining with the development of papermaking properties by multiple linear regression (MLR) analysis and artificial neural network (ANN). A total of 21 observations were made on the samples. The available dataset was divided into two groups: 81% of experimental results were selected as training data and 19% for model verification. A satisfactory level of the correlation between simulation data and experimental data was obtained. The linear regression analysis could be used for predicting tensile index (Adj. R2 = .85), tear index (Adj. R2 = .97) and burst index (Adj. R2 = .91) based on the fibre characteristics such as fine content (%), fibre length (mm), fibre width (μm), degree of external fibrillation (%), curl index, kink index and coarseness (mg/m). However, the tensile index, tear index and burst index could be estimated by ANN more efficiently ( R2 > .95).