bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nested case-control study investigating factors affecting initial adoption of HIV self-testing among men who have sex with men in Guangzhou, China: amidst comprehensive service coverage
Authors: Gu Yuzhou , Yang JiaLi , Luo Yefei , Zhan Lishan , Liu Fanghua , Zeng Wenting , Xu Huifang , Lu Yongheng , Cai Yanshan , Han Zhigang
Published: January 2025

Background

China has been exploring HIV self-testing (HIVST) among men who have sex with men (MSM) since 2014. Currently, both non-profit and commercial initiatives HIVST services have achieved comprehensive coverage. Investigating the factors influencing the initial adoption of HIVST among MSM in this context can help develop tailored HIVST service strategies of and further promote HIVST adoption among MSM communities.

Methods

We selected 230 participants from a prospective cohort on HIV infection among MSM population in Guangzhou, China, who had no prior experience of HIVST. Among the study participants, 43 who initially adopted HIVST during the follow-up period were designated as the case group, while the rest comprised the control group. Electronic questionnaires were used for baseline and follow-up surveys to collect demographic information, sexual behavior characteristics and HIVST utilization in the past 6 months. Logistic regression models were applied to analyze the factors influencing the initial adoption of HIVST.

Results

Among the study participants, 18.7% (43/230) initially adopted HIVST during the follow-up period. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that individuals who primarily sought sexual partners through offline venues in the past 6 months (aOR = 5.28, 95% CI: 1.01–27.79), had more than one sexual partner in the past 6 months (aOR = 2.76, 95% CI: 1.33–5.74), engaged with more than two casual partners in the past 6 months (aOR = 3.02, 95% CI: 1.35–6.78), or had more than one regular partner (aOR = 3.37, 95% CI: 1.51–7.51) exhibited an increased likelihood of initiating HIVST.

Conclusion

In the context of comprehensive promotion and coverage of HIVST service, the development of personalized, adaptable, and innovative HIVST strategies for MSM with a higher number of sexual partners, particularly those in regular partnerships and those seeking partners offline, may further increase the adoption of HIVST among MSM.
The effect of blood flow restriction training on core muscle strength and pain in male collegiate athletes with chronic non-specific low back pain
Authors: Liu Yixuan , Liu Jiahuan , Liu Min , Wang Minzhuo
Published: January 2025

Objective

The objective of this study is to compare the effectiveness of low-load blood flow restriction training (LL-BFRT) to heavy-load resistance training (HL-RT) in male collegiate athletes with chronic non-specific low back pain (CNLBP).

Methods

Twenty-six participants were randomly assigned to LL-BFRT (n = 13) or HL-RT (n = 13). All participants supervised exercises (deep-squat, lateral pull-down, bench-press and machine seated crunch) cycled 4 times per week for 4 weeks (16 sessions). LL-BFRT was done at 30% 1-repetition maximum (1RM) with 70% arterial occlusion pressure (AOP). HL-RT was done at 70% 1-RM. The outcomes were isokinetic core strength, isometric core endurance, pain intensity, and lumbar function disability level, measured at baseline and 4 weeks. Intra-group differences were evaluated using t-tests.

Results

Pain intensity and function disability level in LL-BFRT had extremely significant improvement at 4 weeks (p < 0.001, ES = 1.44–1.84). Participants in LL-BFRT and HL-RT showed significant differences in core extensors peak torque-body weight ratio (PT/BW) at isokinetic 120°/s and 30°/s, respectively (LL-BFRT: p = 0.045, ES = 0.62; HL-RT: p = 0.013, ES = 0.81). Isometric core extensor endurance was significantly increased in both groups (LL-BFRT: p = 0.016, ES = 0.78; HL-RT: p = 0.011, ES = 0.83).

Conclusion

Four weeks of LL-BFRT significantly reduced pain and functional disability while inducing similar strength gains as HL-RT in male collegiate athletes with CNLBP. Thereby, BFRT may qualify as a valuable training strategy for people with physical limitations.
Sex and gender differentials in the prevalence of obesity and its association with multimorbidity among reproductive-aged individuals in India
Authors: Murmu Jogesh , Sinha Abhinav , Agrawal Ritik , Rout Bhagyashree , Kanungo Srikanta , Pati Sanghamitra
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The increase in the prevalence of obesity has become a common public health issue worldwide, with low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) like India witnessing an equal rise. It makes a considerable contribution to chronic diseases as it is a major risk factor for other chronic illnesses. Multimorbidity, or the presence of two or more chronic illnesses, is becoming more common in LMICs, resulting in poor health outcomes. However, research on obesity and multimorbidity in younger populations in LMICs is scarce, with most studies focusing on older persons. The study analyzed sex differences in the prevalence of obesity among reproductive-aged persons and its association with multimorbidity, as well as investigated their health-seeking behaviors.

Methods

Data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) involving 751,831 females and 100,656 males were analyzed. Multimorbidity was defined by the presence of two or more chronic conditions out of the eight included chronic conditions. Multivariable logistic regression was applied to identify factors associated with obesity.

Result

The prevalence of obesity was 48.90% (95% CI: 48.60–49.20%) among males and 57.10% (95% CI: 57.00–57.22%) among females. Waist-to-Hip Ratio (WHR) revealed higher obesity rates in females with multiple chronic conditions (70.8%) compared to males (65.1%). Males with multimorbidity had a 47% higher likelihood of having obesity (AOR: 1.47, 95% CI: 1.13–1.89, p < 0.003) compared to individuals without obesity.

Conclusion

The study highlights high obesity prevalence among reproductive-aged individuals in India, with females having higher obesity rates overall. However, males with multimorbidity exhibit a significantly greater likelihood of obesity than males without. These findings emphasize the need for gender-specific public health strategies addressing obesity and multimorbidity, including promoting healthier diets, increasing physical activity, and improving disease management for both women and men.
Relationship of smoking cessation duration and cognitive function among middle-aged and older adults in China: a national cross-sectional study
Authors: Zuo Wenhang , Peng Jin , Wu Jinhui
Published: January 2025

Background

Population aging and smoking are both major challenges worldwide, particularly in developing countries. We preliminarily explored the relationship of smoking cessation duration and cognitive function among middle-aged and older Chinese.

Methods

The data comes from China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) wave 4. Smoking information was collected by standardized questionnaire. Global and memory-specific cognitive functions were assessed. We used restricted cubic spline to explore curvilinear relationship. After discretizing the duration of ex-smokers (quitting ≤2 years, 3–8 years, 9–19 years, and ≥20 years), multiple linear regression models were established with current smokers as reference.

Results

A total of 5,561 respondents (67.7 ± 6.2 years; 54.1% men) were included. Respondents who quit smoking for longer showed better global cognitive function. This trend leveled off among respondents who had quit smoking for ≥20 years. There were significant differences in global cognitive function among those who quit smoking for ≥9 years (9–19 years, β = 0.75, 95%CI 0.32–1.18; ≥20 years, β = 0.94, 95%CI 0.42–1.46). The differences mainly came from men. In immediate memory, all ex-smokers performed better. In delayed memory, only those quit for ≥9 years had significant differences.

Conclusion

Compared with current smokers, both never smokers and ex-smokers showed better cognitive function. Respondents who quit smoking for longer had better cognitive performance, especially those who had quit for at least 9 years.
Hallmarks of aging: middle-aging hypovascularity, tissue perfusion and nitric oxide perspective on healthspan
Authors: Phua Teow J.
Published: January 2025

Aging is a complex process marked by various changes at both cellular and systemic levels, impacting the functioning and lifespan of organisms. Over time, researchers have pinpointed several significant hallmarks of aging that lead to the gradual deterioration of tissue function, regulation, and homeostasis associated with aging in humans. Despite this, the intricate interactions and cumulative effects of these hallmarks are still mostly uncharted territory. Understanding this complex web is a major challenge in Geroscience, yet it is crucial for developing effective strategies that promote healthy aging, reduce medical costs, and ensure the sustainability of health systems. Gaining insights in this area is essential for creating interventions that can slow the aging process, enhance healthspan, and decrease the likelihood of age-related diseases. The integration of knowledge from various fields concerning the middle-aging nitric oxide (NO)-mediated hypovascularity hypoxia hemodynamic hypothesis points to a systems-based approach to the biological hallmarks of aging. Key evidence suggests a systemic connection between the endocrine system (specifically sex hormones), endogenous NO deficiency, and the vascular system, which serves as a network of microvascular structures crucial for tissue perfusion functions at cellular level. These processes also involve oxidative stress and inflammation triggered by hypoxia.
A bird’s-eye view of the biological mechanism and machine learning prediction approaches for cell-penetrating peptides
Authors: Ramasundaram Maduravani , Sohn Honglae , Madhavan Thirumurthy
Published: January 2025

Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) are highly effective at passing through eukaryotic membranes with various cargo molecules, like drugs, proteins, nucleic acids, and nanoparticles, without causing significant harm. Creating drug delivery systems with CPP is associated with cancer, genetic disorders, and diabetes due to their unique chemical properties. Wet lab experiments in drug discovery methodologies are time-consuming and expensive. Machine learning (ML) techniques can enhance and accelerate the drug discovery process with accurate and intricate data quality. ML classifiers, such as support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF), gradient-boosted decision trees (GBDT), and different types of artificial neural networks (ANN), are commonly used for CPP prediction with cross-validation performance evaluation. Functional CPP prediction is improved by using these ML strategies by using CPP datasets produced by high-throughput sequencing and computational methods. This review focuses on several ML-based CPP prediction tools. We discussed the CPP mechanism to understand the basic functioning of CPPs through cells. A comparative analysis of diverse CPP prediction methods was conducted based on their algorithms, dataset size, feature encoding, software utilities, assessment metrics, and prediction scores. The performance of the CPP prediction was evaluated based on accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC) on independent datasets. In conclusion, this review will encourage the use of ML algorithms for finding effective CPPs, which will have a positive impact on future research on drug delivery and therapeutics.
Cultural and urban city living expectations of knee motion in a Southeast Asian city: implications on total knee arthroplasty outcomes
Authors: Tan Yong Yao , Ang Ke Xin Magneline , Wong Ching Yi Aliza , Mehta Kinjal Vidyut , Loh Sir Young James
Published: January 2025

Background

The prevalence of knee osteoarthritis in Southeast Asia has increased steadily over the years. When conservative management options fail, total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a reliable surgical option. Despite over 90% post-operative satisfaction, the high volume of TKAs performed means that even a small percentage of dissatisfied patients holds significance. Dissatisfaction often arises from unmet expectations, which are influenced by cultural and urban factors specific to the region. Surgeons must counsel patients on likely post-operative activities, but limited data on knee range of motion (ROM) for daily tasks in Southeast Asia renders personalised guidance challenging.

Aim

The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the minimum knee ROM required for daily activities (walking, stair climbing, squatting, kneeling, and sitting cross-legged) in a healthy Southeast Asian urban population. The secondary aim was to determine the association between anthropometric measurements and knee ROM required for the activities. This information is useful in managing patient expectations after TKA.

Methods

An email describing the study was sent to hospital staff to recruit them as volunteers for the study. Enrolled participants were required to be between the ages of 21 and 65 years and capable of providing informed consent. Interested volunteers with a past medical history involving the lower limbs and spine were excluded. Those with a history of lower limb joint pain or back pain within the last 1 year were also excluded. The KINEXCS KIMIA device (KIMIA Recover System, 2022 edition v1.0) was used to measure the knee ROM. The overall characteristics of participants were summarised using descriptive statistics. Anthropometric measurements and their association with knee ROM during the various activities were analysed. Variables with p-values <0.3 in univariate analysis were included in the multivariable analysis.

Results

Fifty participants (32 men, 18 women) were enrolled in the study. The average age of participants was 28.5 years (SD 5.57). The average height was 168 cm (SD 0.0870), and the average body mass index was 23.02 kg/m2 (SD 2.82). The average knee ROM requirements for various activities are as follows: walking on flat ground and stair climbing required less than 90°, squatting and kneeling required at least 127°, and sitting cross-legged required 106°. Lower limb length, leg length, and calf circumference were significantly correlated with the knee ROM required to perform the activities.

Significance

The findings of this study, combined with an understanding of cultural expectations, might prove valuable for counselling and managing patients undergoing TKA in an urban Southeast Asian country.
Septic arthritis of the temporomandibular joint–a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Araidy Shareef , Maalouf Naseem , Front Eran , Abu El-Naaj Imad
Published: January 2025

Septic arthritis occurring in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) has received significantly less attention than it deserves. This condition can severely compromise joint functionality, especially if left untreated. Its typical presentation includes pain, fever, swelling, and the loss of TMJ functions. We report a case of TMJ septic arthritis arising in the left joint of a 52-year-old woman. Our report, along with a review of the literature, highlights the importance for early detection of TMJ septic arthritis, its clinical and radiographic characteristics, as well as the management of this rare disease and the proposed etiologies of its pathogenesis. Raising awareness among healthcare providers can promote early diagnosis, improving outcomes and preventing complications of TMJ septic arthritis.
Effect of dry needling, ischemic compression and cross-taping of the masseter in patients with orofacial myofascial pain: a randomized comparative study
Authors: Macedo de Sousa B. , López-Valverde N. , López-Valverde A. , Neves D. , Santos M. , Rueda J. A. Blanco
Published: January 2025

Background and objective

Temporomandibular disorders, of multifactorial etiology, refer to a series of pathologies that affect the temporomandibular joint and the associated musculature of the orofacial region and are the result of alterations in the physiological relationships of the stomatognathic system, responsible for functions such as chewing, phonation and swallowing. They produce, among other symptoms, mainly pain, which affects the quality of life of the patients who suffer from them. To alleviate the discomfort of neuromuscular pathology in the orofacial region, various therapeutic strategies are employed, ranging from non-invasive to more invasive methods. The aim of the study was to compare the efficacy of three therapeutic methods (dry needling, ischemic compression and cross-taping) in reducing or relieving masseter pain in individuals with orofacial myofascial pain.

Materials and methods

A multicenter randomized comparative clinical trial was conducted in 60 subjects over 18 years of age, divided into three groups: dry needling, ischemic compression and cross-taping. Pain intensity was assessed, randomly, by a single blinded evaluator, according to the Numerical Pain Rating Scale in the pre-treatment period, immediately after, 1–2 weeks and one month later.

Results

Immediately after applying the therapies, there was a greater decrease in pain intensity in dry needling, followed by ischemic compression and a smaller decrease in the cross-taping technique (p < 0.0001; p = 0.0001; p = 0.0014, respectively). After 1–2 weeks, there was a noticeable increase in the dry needling technique, however, there was a decrease in pain in the cross-taping technique. After 1 month of application, both dry needling and ischemic compression showed a slight reduction in pain intensity, in contrast to the cross-taping group, which showed an increase in pain intensity.

Conclusions

Dry needling and ischemic compression were more effective than cross-taping for immediate reduction of orofacial myofascial pain. Further short- and long-term research is needed to confirm these findings.

Clinical Trial Registration

clinicaltrials.gov, identifier (NCT0660604).
Navigating water discord: a review of water conflicts in the common resource management system in coastal areas
Authors: Hasan Md Hasibul , Hossain Mohammad Jobayer , Nipa Sultana Afrin
Published: January 2025

Water disputes are a prevalent global concern because of the scarcity of freshwater supplies and intricate interplay between hydrology, environment, and society. Water disputes can arise due to a variety of factors, including interests of stakeholders, allocation of resources, process of decision-making, power dynamics, and governance system. If left unresolved, these confrontations have the potential to escalate into acts of violence. This review focuses on the evolution and dynamics of local-level water conflicts that received limited attention but has significant impact on Community-Based Natural Resource Management, with a deep-dive focus on coastal Bangladesh. We examined the history of water management and causes and impacts of water conflicts in coastal polders from macro to micro scale along with identifying the strategies and approaches to eliminate water conflicts at local-level. The findings emphasize the need for stakeholder engagement, collaborative approaches, and improved water management strategies to mitigate conflicts and promote sustainable water resource management. The findings emphasize on the redistribution and decentralization of power and interest-based resource management system, collaborative approach and stakeholder engagement, a mix method approach presence of Irrigation Management Transfer, participatory irrigation management, transformative analysis, and improved water management strategies to mitigate conflicts and promote sustainable water resource management.
Soil preferential flow dynamics in the southern drylands of India—a watershed based approach
Authors: Pushpanjali  , Reddy K. S. , Dhimate Ashish S. , Karthikeyan K. , Samuel Josily , Reddy A. G. K. , Ravi Kumar N. , Rao K. V. , Pankaj Prabhat Kumar , Rohit Jagriti , Kumar Manoranjan , Singh V. K.
Published: January 2025

Preferential flow refers to the specific pathways through which water flows, including biopores, fractures, and macropores. Soil preferential flow has become increasingly important in the face of changing climates, erratic rainfall patterns, and for effective rainwater management. In semi-arid regions, watersheds serve as fundamental hydrologic units, providing a holistic perspective for the study of soil preferential flow. Given that limited research has been conducted on soil preferential flow in the dryland regions of southern India, the Hayathnagar watershed in Hyderabad was selected for this study. Land uses at different elevations were considered to systematically collect data on soil preferential flow, allowing for an analysis of how variations in elevation and land use influence flow dynamics across the landscape in the watershed. Brilliant blue tracer experiments were conducted at selected sites within the Hayathnagar watershed to assess soil preferential flow and investigate the subsurface movement of water across three land uses (cropped, fallow, and forest) under varying elevations. Vertical profile images were captured using a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera, producing high-resolution images (5184 × 3456 pixels). These digital images were then processed using ArcGIS 10.3 and ImageJ. The presence of preferential flow was clearly evident across all three different land uses and elevations within the watershed. The lower reach, with the least elevation, exhibited the highest dye coverage, correlating with greater uniform infiltration depth values. Furthermore, the middle reach displayed the maximum soil preferential flow, as indicated by the higher preferential flow fraction values, which were further justified by the preferential flow evaluation index. Heterogeneous matrix flow and fingering were observed both at the surface and sub-surface, along with macropore flow with low and mixed interactions. The findings and methodology of this study have significant implications for understanding preferential flow in diverse watersheds across the region. By enhancing our understanding of soil–water dynamics and flow patterns within the soil profile, this research contributes to the development of effective water management strategies in such areas.
The causes and impacts of flood risks in South Africa
Authors: Raphela Tlou D. , Matsididi Mollin
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Floods are classified as one of the hydrological hazards affecting many countries worldwide. With most weather-related disasters occurring in developing countries, demographics and socioeconomic pattern changes have contributed to many losses relating to water-related disasters such as floods. South Africa is among the developing countries most frequently affected by natural disasters, particularly floods. Thus, this study assessed the causes and impact of floods on the communities of Bronville and Hani-park in Welkom in the Free State Province in South Africa.

Methods

The study adopted a quantitative approach, using a structured questionnaire to collect the data. The study used an R statistical package to analyze the data and applied descriptive statistics and a series of Generalized linear models to examine the impacts of floods in the community.

Results

The findings reveal a community-wide concern about flooding impacts. There was a statistically significant difference between whether floods affected your physical structure as an outcome variable and how the flooding affected participants (Wald χ62 = 30.364; p = 0.001). Also, a significant difference was found regarding how floods affect the water quality in your community (Wald χ2 = 1.496; p = 0.030). The subjective perception of flood impacts on households has been reported to be aligned with observed damage to physical structures, underscoring the direct influence of floods on various household elements. The study also emphasises the costly nature of flood recovery and the potential strain on household resources due to flooding. Respondents indicated floods adversely affect vegetation, soil stability, and ecological dynamics. he study also, reveals that while some residents affected by flooding reach out to their municipalities for support, many do not seek or receive financial assistance.

Discussion

The study concludes that floods have a considerable socioeconomic impact on households and communities, particularly regarding repair costs for flood-related damages. In addition, the study concludes that floods have significant implications for drinking water quality in the community, with statistical evidence supporting the claim that floods contribute to water quality degradation. The findings of flood preparedness suggest a clear gap in early warning dissemination and evacuation planning tailored to the study community’s needs. The findings of this study underscore the urgent need for comprehensive and sustainable flood mitigation strategies in vulnerable communities like Bronville and Hani-park.
Advancements in NIR sensing for tuberculosis detection using dilute III-V semiconductors: current status and future prospects
Authors: Mamo Melaku Dereje , Zigyalew Yaschelewal , Gelan Seid Emamu , Ntsendwana Bulelwa , Sikhwivhilu Lucky
Published: January 2025

This mini-review focuses on the use of dilute III-V semiconductors for near-infrared (NIR) sensing and the detection of tuberculosis (TB) in both humans and animals. These composite materials could greatly improve the sensitivity and efficiency of NIR detection. Well, we start off with the effects of TB, old methods of detecting it, and the rise of NIR sensing technologies. The significance of dilute III-V semiconductors for NIR sensing is discussed and the fabrication, properties, and performance of these semiconductors with organic matrices is explored. In this study we test the efficiency of NIR sensors in detecting TB across different species, and discuss the problems and drawbacks that are inherent in the use of these sensors. Lastly, we offer some suggestions for the field of future research and development, stressing the importance of this need for constant innovation. The purpose of this is to hopefully show the possible uses of these hybrid materials, and how they can enhance NIR sensitivity, and open the door to new diagnostic platforms.
Effects of an exercise program with augmented reality on functional fitness and physical activity of community-dwelling older adults
Authors: Ferreira Soraia , Marmeleira José , Del Pozo Cruz Jesus , Leite Nilton , Bernardino Alexandre , Moradell Ana , Raimundo Armando
Published: January 2025

Background

This study aims to investigate the effects of a multimodal program using augmented reality on the functional fitness and physical activity of older adults living in the community.

Method

Seventy-eight older adults living in the community participated in this study. Participants were divided into three groups: a control group that maintained their usual activities, and two experimental groups, one with multimodal training (EG1) and the other with multimodal training combined with augmented reality (EG2). Participants were assessed at baseline and post-intervention, after 12 weeks. Functional fitness was assessed using the Rikli and Jones Senior Fitness Test, handgrip strength, the functional reach test, and the Fullerton Advanced Balance Scale. Physical activity was measured using accelerometry.

Results

In EG1, lower limb flexibility, agility, cardiorespiratory fitness, and balance improved significantly between baseline and the 12-week outcome (p ≤ 0.001 for all). In EG2, improvements were observed in upper and lower limb strength, lower limb flexibility, agility, cardiorespiratory fitness, handgrip strength, and balance (p < 0.05 for all). Sedentary behavior increased in EG1 after the intervention. The clinical effect sizes of the interventions were large for balance (ES = 1.19) in EG1 and for upper limb strength (ES = 1.24) in EG2, and medium for cardiorespiratory fitness (ES = 0.74), agility (ES = 0.50), and lower limb flexibility (ES = 0.65) in EG1, and lower limb strength (ES = 0.61) and cardiorespiratory fitness (ES = 0.79) in EG2.

Conclusion

Both intervention programs led to improvements in several functional domains. However, the multimodal training combined with augmented reality program showed improvements across more domains, resulting in greater changes. Physical activity did not show significant improvements.
Pre-service teachers' perceptions of physical, socioemotional and cognitive traits in gifted students: unveiling bias?
Authors: Ferrándiz Carmen , Ferrando-Prieto Mercedes , Infantes-Paniagua Álvaro , Fernández Vidal Maria Carmen , Pons Rosa María
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Attitudes and beliefs guide our decision-making. In the educational context, prior research has noted the existence of prejudices and stereotypes among teachers that make it difficult to identify and care for gifted students. Stereotypes towards gifted students can hinder the identification and development of potential and the development of personality. This study examines Spanish pre-service teachers' stereotypical conceptions of gifted and non-gifted students focusing on physical appearance and athletic ability.

Methods

Following a mixed methods research with between subjects design and using a convenience sampling, 455 last-year pre-service teachers enrolled during 2023–2024 in one of three university degrees or one Master's degree related to teacher training at University of Murcia were randomly assigned a vignette in order to rate the intellectual ability, motivation, prosociality, and physical characteristics of a fictitious 12-year-old student whose ability level (gifted/non-gifted) and gender (girl/boy), varied. Additionally, participants were asked to describe how they imagined the fictitious student's physical appearance. After exploring measurement invariance (SPSS AMOS 29), a MANCOVA was performed to compare the results across vignettes (SPSS 28). The study delves specifically into the physical characteristics attributed to gifted students through qualitative analysis addressing co-occurrence coefficients (Atlas.ti 9).

Results

The results suggest that pre-service teachers described gifted students as more intelligent and with better physical attributes, especially gifted females. Furthermore, gifted students of both genders were defined as more intelligent, creative, and tall. They considered gifted girls to be attractive and gifted boys to be good at sports, highly fit, formally dressed, and wearing glasses.

Discussion

The results are relevant as they allow a greater understanding of the perception of these students. As pointed out by pioneering studies in the field, implicit theories relate intelligence to physical appearance. This evidence could improve the training of future teachers, and therefore, the identification and assessment of gifted students from different areas.
An environmental assessment through load capacity factor: the dynamic effects of technological cooperation grants and energy depletion in Pakistan
Authors: Ullah Sami , Lin Boqiang
Published: January 2025

The global phenomenon of environmental deterioration often signifies the increase in ecological footprint and emissions levels that adversely affect the earth's biocapacity. This results from the use of substantial fossil fuels energy sources, industrialization, and extensive economic activities in developing countries. In this context, the study examine the impact of energy depletion, technical cooperation grants, and industrialization, on the load capacity factor of Pakistan from 1970 to 2022. To accomplish this, this study employs the innovative dynamic autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) simulation approach, providing fresh insights that contrast with earlier conclusions. The authors contribute to focusing the supply-side dynamics of ecological deterioration indicators, namely load capacity, from the viewpoint of Pakistan, distinguishing our research from existing academic publications. Our results, however, demonstrate a markedly favorable effect of technical cooperation grants on the load capacity factor in enhancing environmental safety. Furthermore, energy depletion and industrialization adversely impact the load capacity dynamics, exacerbating environmental deterioration. Moreover, the study conducts a sensitivity analysis by comparing the results obtained using the load capacity factor with those derived from ecological footprints. Consequently, we advocate for the development of realistic policies to mitigate the adverse impacts of energy depletion and industrialization via the effective use of energy sources to preserve biodiversity.
From disease management to prevention, hip prosthesis joint infections in the past 20 years: a global research trends and top 10 cited articles analysis
Authors: Li Fei-Long , Qi Xing-Yu , Chen Jin-Lun , Zeng Yi-Rong
Published: January 2025

Background

There are few literatures comprehensively analyzed the global research in hip prosthesis joint infections (HPJI). We aim to clarify the global research trends and analysis the top 10 cited articles in the HPJI field.

Methods

We identified the core collection of articles/reviews in the HPJI field from 2001 to 2021 through the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC). VOSviewer and online bibliometric tool were used to conduct the visualized and knowledge maps. Annual trends of publications, research hotspots and the top 10 cited articles were analyzed.

Results

A total of 5,477 publications were finally included. Generally, an increasing trend was observed in the number of publications from 2001 to 2021. The authors, journals and institutions with largest number of publications all belong to the USA. Co-occurrence analysis of keywords showed that surgical techniques, risk factors, revision surgery strategy, epidemiology, diagnoses and prevention were the 6 major research directions. Total hip arthroplasty, replacement, outcomes, risk factors and diagnosis were the keywords that occurred most frequently. The top 10 cited articles were all published in Journal Citation Reports (JCR) Q1 journals, providing valuable reference value from the perspectives of clinical guidelines, perioperative management, causes and diagnostic methods of infection, epidemiological investigation, risk factors and prognostic analysis.

Conclusions

The number of publications in HPJI field had been on the rise over the past 20 years, from disease management to prevention. An intensive reading of the top 10 cited articles is beneficial to understand the focus of HPJI research comprehensively.
Surgical options for Evans-Jensen type IV intertrochanteric femur fractures in the elderly over 65: a comparison between total hip arthroplasty and proximal femoral nail antirotation
Authors: Sun Ming , Liang Hai-Rui , Zhang He , Bai Tong , Xu Rong-Da , Duan Si-Yu , Cai Zhen-Cun
Published: January 2025

Background

Currently, there is no clear standard for the surgical options for Evans-Jensen Type IV intertrochanteric femur fractures in elderly patients over 65 years old. This study aims to retrospectively analyze and compare the early postoperative limb function and quality of life of patients treated with total hip arthroplasty (THA) and proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA) for this type of fracture. We hypothesize that there is no significant difference in complications and postoperative recovery between the two surgical methods.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients over 65 years old with Evans-Jensen Type IV intertrochanteric femur fractures who were treated between 2020 and 2023. The patients were divided into two groups based on the treatment method: the PFNA group (20 cases) and the THA group (20 cases). General patient information, operative time, intraoperative blood loss, time to postoperative mobilization, time to weight-bearing on the affected limb, Harris hip scores at 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively, excellent and good rates, SF-36 scores, and postoperative complications were recorded.

Results

Compared to the PFNA group, the THA group had a longer operative time (86.7 ± 9.6 vs. 51.5 ± 5.3 min, p < 0.001) and more intraoperative blood loss (212.0 ± 35.5 vs. 76.5 ± 16.1 ml, p < 0.001). However, the THA group had an earlier time to first postoperative mobilization (3.1 ± 1.4 vs. 43.3 ± 13.09 days, p < 0.001) and earlier time to full weight-bearing on the affected limb (33.5 ± 3.1 vs. 77.9 ± 12.0 days, p < 0.001). The Harris hip scores and SF-36 scores at 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively were higher in the THA group (p < 0.05 for all). There was no significant difference in the overall incidence of postoperative complications between the two groups (p = 0.41).

Conclusion

For elderly patients over 65 years old with Evans-Jensen Type IV intertrochanteric femur fractures, especially those with underlying diseases who cannot tolerate prolonged bed rest, hip replacement surgery (THA) may be preferred. Postoperative patients can begin rehabilitation exercises earlier, preventing the exacerbation of internal medical conditions. Early recovery of hip function on the affected side is faster, and the quality of life of patients is higher.
Assessment of the magnitude, economic impact, and factors associated with expired veterinary pharmaceuticals in animal health facilities in South Wollo, Ethiopia
Authors: Mekasha Yesuneh Tefera , Belay Mekonnen Ermias , Gessese Abebe Tesfaye , Berrie Kassahun , Melaku Beyene Achenef , Dessalegn Bereket
Published: January 2025

Background

The issue of veterinary pharmaceutical expiration is a significant concern in animal health facilities globally. The existence of veterinary pharmaceutical expiration can be mainly associated with inadequate inventory control, store management, and a lack of effective pharmaceutical regulatory policies and guidelines. Hence, the study aimed to evaluate expired veterinary pharmaceuticals’ scope, economic impact, and contributing factors.

Methods

A cross-sectional, explanatory sequential study design involving a mixed quantitative and qualitative approach was employed among 13 animal health facilities from March 2022 to December 2023 in and around Dessie town, South Wollo, Ethiopia. A key informant interview guide was used to retrieve the qualitative data that were analyzed through thematic content analysis. Then, the collected data were coded and analyzed using SPSS version 25. A mean score was used to determine the critical factors associated with veterinary pharmaceutical expiration.

Results

The study found that the magnitude of expired veterinary pharmaceuticals in the fourth fiscal year was 7%. This wastage rate of veterinary pharmaceuticals led to a loss of approximately 69,564.54 USD. From expired veterinary pharmaceutical unit pack perspectives, approximately 403-unit packs (66%) expired in veterinary clinics, resulting in a loss of approximately 38,229.33 USD, and 209-unit packs (34%) expired in private veterinary pharmacies, incurring a loss of approximately 31,335.22 USD. From Anatomical Therapeutic Classification (ATC), antibiotics accounted for 14.8% of the total financial loss. Additionally, approximately 53% of liquid dosage forms were expired. The quantitative study identifies the lack of an information system and necessary software, poor store management, and lack of strict accountability as critical contributors to veterinary pharmaceutical expiration. Additionally, inadequate inventory management systems and a lack of adherence to established policies and guidelines for managing veterinary pharmaceutical expiration were the most vital contributors as key informants cited.

Conclusion

The financial burden associated with expired veterinary pharmaceuticals exceeded the permissible threshold of 2%, indicating a significant concern for animal health budgets and the aquatic environment. This study underlines that the issue of veterinary pharmaceutical expiration is a critical problem that necessitates policy implications. To mitigate the expiration rate of veterinary pharmaceuticals, collaboration among multidisciplinary veterinary professionals, the Ethiopian Agricultural Authority, pharmaceutical supply chain agency, and researchers is essential.
The future of flourishing in veterinary medicine: a systems-informed positive psychology approach in veterinary education
Authors: Corrigan Virginia K. , Newman Rebecca L. , Richmond Philip , Strand Elizabeth B. , Vaisman Josh M.
Published: January 2025

Individuals in the veterinary profession are experiencing significant mental health and wellbeing challenges. A holistic view of wellbeing, which encompasses both physical and mental health, underscores their interconnected nature. This integrated approach reduces the artificial separation of wellbeing facets, and highlights how mental states influence not only individuals, but also their interactions with animals, the environment, and others in the workplace. Wellbeing challenges in veterinary medicine may contribute to negative impacts in animal, human, and environmental health. Veterinary education institutions and systems are also experiencing complex challenges as they adapt to rapidly changing societal, workforce, and professional wellbeing related pressures. This review paper explores the field of positive psychology and its application in educational contexts, commonly known as positive education. A thorough exploration of the systems-informed positive education approach and ways in which it can proactively enhance veterinary professional wellbeing from within the veterinary education ecosystem are presented. It is important to recognize that individual self-care, while valuable, cannot compensate for systemic dysfunctions such as poor team dynamics, ineffective leadership, or organizational culture issues. Addressing these systemic factors is critical for creating environments that support sustained flourishing. Positive psychology interventions delivered through the pathways of individuals, groups, and organizations specifically within a veterinary education context are discussed. Limitations, considerations, and proposed measurement strategies are reviewed. The implications of implementing a systems-informed positive psychology approach to enhance wellbeing in veterinary education include creating curriculum and cultures that enable flourishing within veterinary education institutions. Strengthening the individual and collective wellbeing of veterinary professionals has the potential to enhance the quality of care provided to animals, which has myriad positive implications for animal caregivers, their communities, the environment, and society.
Chronic enteropathy in dogs affects the quality of life in both dogs and their owners—are veterinarians proficient in handling the caregiver burden?
Authors: Lyngby Janne Graarup-Hansen , Nielsen Lise Nikolic , Ankerkilde Stine , Bentzen Amanda Wissendorf , Bjørnvad Charlotte , Lund Thomas Bøker , Sandøe Peter
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Chronic disease is generally known to affect dogs’ quality of life (QoL) as well as being associated with increased strain on their owners. Gastrointestinal (GI) disease is a common problem in companion animal practice, yet little is known about the QoL of dogs with chronic enteropathy (CE) and how their owners and veterinarians assess it.

Methods

The aim of this study was to explore: (i) how dog owners and veterinarians observed and evaluated QoL for dogs with chronic GI disease, (ii) how having a dog with CE affected the owner’s QoL, and (iii) characteristics of the communication and relationship between the dog owner and veterinarian. Twenty owners of dogs with CE and 20 companion animal veterinarians were included in this qualitative, interview-based, exploratory study.

Results

Owners evaluated QoL based on their dog’s apparent emotional state, the presence of clinical signs, or restrictions in their daily life. In their assessments, veterinarians looked at the presence or absence of normal behavior, but also at disease severity and the emotional state of the dog. The majority of owners experienced many concerns and burdens that impacted their own QoL, including daily logistical challenges, implementing therapeutic regimens such as diet restriction, administering multiple daily medications, and the strain of nursing responsibilities on the owner-dog relationship. Dog owners generally felt that communication with their veterinarians was good, while veterinarians found the communication laborious and time-consuming.

Discussion

In general, owners and veterinarians were aligned in their QoL assessments, and the majority of veterinarians relied heavily on the owners’ input and observations. However, assessments were not done in a standardized fashion among either group. Logistical challenges of having a dog with a chronic GI disease often lead to lifestyle changes for the owners, including altering working hours and cancelling holidays or other social arrangements. Having a dog with CE therefore affected the owners’ QoL even when the dogs were clinically stable. Providing owners with written material about the condition in addition to medical and feeding regimen instructions may help the owner, improve compliance, and decrease the non-billable hours the veterinarian must spend communicating with the owner about their dog’s CE.
Masticatory muscle changes on magnetic resonance imaging of dogs with Neospora caninum compared to meningoencephalitis of unknown origin
Authors: Zilli Jessica , Fleming Kathryn , Fisher Chloe , Sparks Tim , Harcourt-Brown Tom , Ives Edward
Published: January 2025

Infectious meningoencephalitides represent an important differential diagnosis for meningoencephalitis of unknown origin (MUO) in dogs. Treatment of the latter requires immunosuppression, but laboratory test results for infectious agents may take several days to return. This study investigated whether the presence of masticatory muscle changes on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the head can be used to distinguish dogs with neosporosis from those with MUO at the time of diagnosis. Cases diagnosed with neosporosis or MUO at two referral centers in the United Kingdom (UK) were retrospectively collected. Clinical data were reviewed, and each MRI study was blindly assessed by a radiologist, a neurologist, and a neurology resident for the presence of masticatory muscle changes by consensus opinion. Statistical analysis was performed on obtained data. Twenty-two neosporosis cases and 23 MUO cases were enrolled. In the neosporosis group, six dogs (27%) had masticatory muscle changes, compared to one dog (4%) in the MUO group (p = 0.047). All six neosporosis cases had bilateral, multifocal, T2W and FLAIR hyperintense, contrast enhancing muscular changes, with three having concurrent masticatory muscle atrophy. The only MUO case with muscle changes had a mild, focal, unilateral temporal muscle lesion which was only visible in the T1W post-contrast images. Within the neosporosis group, dogs with masticatory muscle lesions had significantly higher cerebrospinal fluid WBC counts (p = 0.017) and protein concentrations (p = 0.025) compared to those without muscle changes. In conclusion, characteristic bilateral, multifocal masticatory muscle changes should raise the index of suspicion for neosporosis in dogs with an imaging diagnosis of meningoencephalitis and starting early antimicrobial treatment is recommended. However, the absence of masticatory muscle abnormalities does not exclude active Neospora caninum infection. In these cases, whether immunosuppressive or antimicrobial treatments are started prior to receiving further test results should still be based on the clinical status of the animal and index of suspicion using a combination of all available clinical information at that time.