bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Total Aortic Arch Repair With Double-Fenestrated Physician-Modified Endograft Under Local Anesthesia And Sedation: A Prospective Study
Authors: Bacri Christoph , Hireche Kheira , Alric Pierre , Canaud Ludovic
Published: December 2024

Objective: Endovascular aortic arch repair is an emerging procedure for all aortic pathologies, not only in high-risk patients. Little is known about the association between the type of anesthesia and outcomes. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the feasibility on short-term clinical outcomes of patients undergoing total aortic arch repair with double-fenestrated physician-modified endografts (PMEGs) under local anesthesia with sedation (also known as monitored anesthesia care [MAC]). Methods: From January to May 2024, data were prospectively collected on all procedures for total aortic arch repair with double-fenestrated PMEGs. Exclusion criteria were general anesthesia (GA). Study endpoints were technical success, time spent in the operating room, hospital stay, 30-day mortality, short-term complications, and re-interventions, according to the type of anesthesia. Results: Between January and May 2024, prospective data were collected on 20 procedures at a single referral center. A total of 14 procedures were performed under MAC. Technical success was 100%. In total, 71% of the patients were treated electively, and all major aortic pathologies were encountered (aneurysm, acute and chronic dissection, trauma, etc). In total, 93% of the procedures were done totally percutaneously, and MAC was no limitation for femoral surgical cutdown. No conversions from MAC to GA were necessary. The mean procedure time was 54 minutes (range=29-108 minutes). At 30 days follow-up, there were no major endoleaks, stent occlusions, or graft migrations. No patient died or experienced stroke. One patient had an asymptomatic retrograde dissection discovered on the follow-up computed tomography (CT) scan at 1 month requiring open surgical replacement. There were no cases of acute lung, myocardial, bowel, or kidney injury. The mean hospital stay was 4.9 days (range=2-23 days) and the mean intensive care unit (ICU) stay was 1.1 days (range=0-23 days). Conclusion: Endovascular total aortic arch repair with double-fenestrated PMEGs is feasible under local anesthesia with sedation. The short-term outcomes in a small patient cohort are promising for the development of MAC in aortic arch repair.

Clinical Impact

The outcomes of local anesthesia and sedation (also referred to as monitored anesthesia care) in endovascular aortic arch repair are not well-studied or widely reported. This study aims to demonstrate the feasibility and safety of this approach using physician-modified endografts for total aortic arch repair and showing it is a promising alternative to general anesthesia. Only a few exclusion criteria necessitate performing the procedure under general anesthesia and no conversions to general anesthesia were required.
Finite element simulation analysis of compression damage in X-weft-knitted spacer fabrics
Authors: Wu Zijuan , Xia Fenglin
Published: December 2024

In order to analyse the deformation mechanism and force distribution of spacer fabrics during compression progress, it is established that the loop structural model of weft-knitted spacer fabric with spacer filaments arranged in X-shape by Rhino software in this paper, and the flat plate compression behaviour of the spacer fabrics was simulated by finite element method in Abaqus software. By combining the experimental and finite element simulation, the stress distribution and change trend on the fabric were analysed when the compression amount was 5%, 20%, 35%, 50%, 65% and 80%, to investigate the failure mode of WKSFs under flat plate compression, and to achieve the progressive damage analysis of the surface layer and spacer layer yarns in the process of compression.The simulated curves of the stress-strain were consistent with the experimental results, which indicated that the model was able to reveal the compressor mechanism of the WKSFs,and provides a basis for optimising the structural design and mechanical properties of weft-knitted spacer fabrics.
Enhancing vibration control in multi-cable hybrid network systems: A parametric study and optimization evaluation
Authors: He Qi , Zhen Xiaoxia , Gu Lixiong , Zhang Zhuojie , Chen Wei
Published: December 2024

For large-span cable-stayed bridges, cross-ties and dampers can work together for vibration mitigation of cables. Common analyses pay attention to the effectiveness of cross-ties and external dampers on two adjacent cables, fewer studies are available on the combined effect in multiple-cable networks. Investigating the optimization of multi-cable system parameters is a crucial problem for effective vibration mitigation. This paper proposes a model of the multi-cable hybrid network (MCHN) system. The corresponding characteristic equation is derived, and the analytical solutions for modal frequency and damping ratio are calculated. Furthermore, the results are verified through comparison with finite element and experimental results of a three-cable hybrid system. An analysis of the in-plane natural vibration characteristics of MCHN systems is presented, utilizing a numerical example of a three-cable MCHN system. Key parameters such as cable length differences, mass-tension ratio, cross-tie stiffness, damper number, damper location, and damping coefficient are considered to investigate their influence on the damping. A multi-modal optimization criterion (MANDR) based on maximizing the average of damping ratio is proposed by normalization of the system modes. When dampers are selected according to the optimization criterion of MANDR and installed in appropriate locations, the damping capacity can be better utilized.
Characterizing esophageal mixed neuroendocrine–non-neuroendocrine neoplasms: insights from a retrospective multicenter study of clinical outcomes and prognostic indicators
Authors: Hong Qian , Wu Kaiming , Chen Chen , Dang Yan , Zhang Qiuju , Zhang Xue , Wang Liting , Han Rui , Zhao Chenguang , Yi Hang , Li Fang , Zhang Renquan , Mu Juwei , Li Jiagen
Published: December 2024

Background:

The esophageal mixed neuroendocrine–non-neuroendocrine neoplasm (MiNEN) is an extremely rare but poor prognosis tumor.

Objectives:

This retrospective study aimed to analyze the clinical characteristics of MiNEN and to investigate postoperative survival and prognostic factors.

Design:

This retrospective study analyzed 69 patients diagnosed with esophageal MiNEN at two major esophageal cancer centers in China from January 2000 to December 2021.

Methods:

We assessed demographic data, tumor characteristics, treatment modalities, and survival outcomes. Statistical analyses included Kaplan–Meier survival curves and Cox regression models to evaluate prognostic factors.

Results:

The most common histological types were combinations of small-cell carcinoma and squamous carcinoma (91.3%). The correct diagnostic rate of preoperative pathologic biopsy was only 4.3%. The median overall survival (OS) was 24.0 months, and disease-free survival (DFS) was 16.6 months. The 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rates were 84.1%, 34.8%, and 25.3%, respectively. A peak period of recurrence or metastasis occurs in the first year after surgery, and regional lymph node recurrence is the main route of postoperative recurrence or metastasis. Tumor size, T-stage, N-stage, and tumor, lymph node, metastasis (TNM) stage were significant prognostic factors. Subgroup analyses showed that in patients with limited-stage MiNEN in stages I–III, the postoperative adjuvant treatment modality failed to improve OS and DFS compared with surgery alone. Postoperative adjuvant therapy also failed to prolong OS and DFS in patients with lymph node-positive MiNEN. No significant survival benefits were observed with different surgical techniques or adjuvant chemotherapy regimens.

Conclusion:

Esophageal MiNEN has aggressive behavior and a poor prognosis. In China, the pathologic type of esophageal MiNEN may be dominated by a combination of small-cell carcinoma and squamous carcinoma. Early-stage disease significantly correlated with improved survival outcomes. Current treatment protocols, similar to those for other esophageal cancers, show limited efficacy in improving patient survival.
A comatose vertebrobasilar occlusion patient recovering with bilateral hearing loss following full recanalization with mechanical thrombectomy
Authors: Bajrami Arsida , Senadim Songul , Geyik Serdar
Published: December 2024

Acute occlusion of vertebrobasilar artery mostly presents with severe neurologic impairment. Bilateral sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) as the first clinical symptom on onset is a rare phenomenon. Clinical benefit of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in terms of hearing loss in these cases is poorly understood. We describe a case of a patient with vertebrobasilar occlusion who presented with only sudden bilateral SNHL and recovered poorly in terms of hearing loss after full recanalization with MT. We describe a 52-year-old right-handed male patient with an unremarkable medical history. On admission, he was hypertensive to 200/102 mm Hg; neurological examination was significant for mild right facial palsy and bilateral SNHL, later confirmed by an audiogram. diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) showed infarction of bilateral anterior cerebellum, cerebellar peduncles, and pons with negative flair. Computed tomography angiography showed occlusion in the level of the vertebrobasilar junction. Patients’ neurological status deteriorated within hours into a comatose status with anarthria and quadriplegia. He was treated with MT and stenting and full recanalization was achieved. All neurological examination findings have completely resolved, except for the bilateral SNHL. Acute onset of sudden bilateral deafness in isolation or accompanied by vestibular, cerebellar, and/or brainstem signs may indicate large vessel occlusion. Although rapid recanalization with MT helps improve the symptoms, the specific impact over SNHL varies between patients.
Animal-derived free hydrolysate in animal cell culture: Current research and application advances
Authors: Fan Guanghan , Li Ying , Ye Qinghua , Niu Qinya , Zhao Xinyu , Chen Ling , Gu Qihui , Zhang Youxiong , Wei Xianhu , Wu Shi , Wu Qingping , Wu Yuwei
Published: December 2024

Fetal bovine serum (FBS) plays a crucial role in the composition of animal cell culture medium. However, conventional serum-based medium face numerous challenges. The use of animal-derived free hydrolysate (ADFH) has garnered significant attention in research and applications as a viable alternative to FBS-containing medium in animal cell culture. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the effects, mechanisms of action, and applications of ADFH in animal cell culture. ADFH serves as an effective substitute for FBS-containing medium, enhancing various cellular processes, including cell proliferation, viability, protein synthesis, production, survival, and stability. Several mechanisms of action for ADFH have been elucidated through scientific investigations, such as nutrient provision, activation of signaling pathways, regulation of protein synthesis and folding, protection against oxidative damage and apoptosis, as well as cell cycle regulation. Researches and applications of ADFH represent a promising approach to overcoming the limitations of FBS-containing medium and advancing the field of animal cell culture. This review provides a theoretical foundation for promoting the development of sustainable and alternative hydrolysates, as well as the continued progress of animal cell culture.
Pre-exposure prophylaxis access, uptake and usage by young people: a systematic review of barriers and facilitators
Authors: Warzywoda Sarah , Fowler James A. , Dyda Amalie , Fitzgerald Lisa , Mullens Amy B. , Dean Judith A.
Published: December 2024

Background:

Young people’s sexual health decision-making, including decisions to access and adhere to HIV prevention strategies such as Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), are influenced by a range of internal and external factors. Synthesizing these factors is essential to guide the development of youth-focused PrEP health promotion strategies to contribute to international goals of ending HIV transmission.

Objective:

To understand the individual, interpersonal, sociocultural and systemic barriers and facilitators to PrEP access, uptake and use experienced by young people 24 years and younger.

Design:

A systematic review that adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items of Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols.

Data Sources and Methods:

Eight databases (PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, Medline, CINAHL, JBI, EMBASE, Web of Science) were systematically searched using terms related to young people, HIV and PrEP use. A narrative synthesis approach was used to delineate key barriers and facilitators to PrEP access, uptake and use.

Results:

Of 11,273 returned articles, 32 met the eligibility criteria for inclusion: 18 from the United States, 10 from African nations and two from Brazil. Barriers and facilitators to PrEP access, uptake and use experienced by young people were identified across intrapersonal, interpersonal, community and systems levels. These factors are described under four overarching themes that relate to knowledge, side effects and perceptions of risk; attitudes and perceptions of family and partners; community attitudes and stigma; and negative healthcare provider experiences and difficulties navigating complex costly healthcare systems.

Conclusion:

Findings suggest individual-level factors need consideration alongside the impacts of healthcare systems and broader systemic sociocultural structures within young people’s relationships when developing PrEP health promotion strategies and services. Without considering these wider external implications to access, uptake and use of PrEP, global targets towards the elimination of HIV transmission will likely remain out of reach.

Registration:

This review was registered with Prospero (CRD42022296550).
External validation of ID-BactER and Shapiro scores for predicting bacteraemia in the emergency department
Authors: Quintero Montealegre Sebastián , Flórez Monroy Andrés Felipe , Garzón Herazo Javier Ricardo , Perez Mendez Wilfran , Piraquive Natalia María , Cortes Fraile Gloria , Muñoz Velandia Oscar Mauricio
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

The blood culture positivity rate in the emergency department (ED) is <20%; however, the mortality associated with Community-acquired bacteraemia (CAB) is as high as 37.8%. For this reason, several models have been developed to predict blood culture positivity for the diagnosis of CAB.

Objective:

To validate two bacteraemia prediction models in a high-complexity hospital in Colombia.

Design:

External validation study of the ID-BactER and Shapiro scores based on a consecutive cohort of patients who underwent blood culture within 48 h of ED admission.

Methods:

Scale calibration was assessed by comparing expected and observed events (calibration belt). Discriminatory ability was assessed by area under the ROC curve (AUC-ROC).

Results:

We included 1347 patients, of whom 18.85% were diagnosed with CAB. The most common focus of infection was the respiratory tract (36.23%), and the most common microorganism was Escherichia coli (52.15%). The Shapiro score underestimated the risk in all categories and its discriminatory ability was poor (AUC 0.68 CI 95% 0.64–0.73). In contrast, the ID-BactER score showed an adequate observed/expected event ratio of 1.07 (CI 0.85–1.36; p = 0.018) and adequate calibration when expected events were greater than 20%, in addition to good discriminatory ability (AUC 0.74 95% CI 0.70–0.78).

Conclusion:

The Shapiro score is not calibrated, and its discriminatory ability is poor. ID-BactER has an adequate calibration when the expected events are higher than 20%. Limiting blood culture collection to patients with an ID-BactER score ⩾4 could reduce unnecessary blood culture collection and thus health care costs.
Adenocarcinoma originating from presumed liver ectopic thyroid in a cat
Authors: Caprioli Lucia , Parisi Francesca , Caprioli Lisa , Massaro Maria , Buracco Paolo , Dilli Noemi , Borgonovo Simone , Abramo Francesca
Published: December 2024

Case summary

Ectopic thyroid tissue is rarely reported in dogs and cats in its prediaphragmatic location and has never been described in the liver. A 15-year-old spayed female domestic shorthair cat was diagnosed by ultrasound with a heterogeneous hypoechoic nodular area in the liver at the periphery of the quadrate lobe. A generic diagnosis of carcinoma was made after ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration and cytological examination. The patient underwent staging by CT scan and subsequently underwent hepatic lobectomy. Histologically, a diagnosis of thyroid adenocarcinoma was made, confirmed immunohistochemically using positive thyroglobulin staining; the tumour was suspected to be of metastatic origin. CT scans excluded primary thyroid involvement; in addition, lesions at other sites were not detected. Therefore, a final diagnosis of thyroid adenocarcinoma arising from ectopic thyroid tissue in the liver was made. The cat recovered uneventfully from surgery.

Relevance and novel information

This report describes an unusual case of an adenocarcinoma originating from presumed thyroid ectopic tissue within the liver of a cat. Ectopic thyroid tissue has been rarely reported in both dogs and cats and, to the authors’ knowledge, it has never been described in the liver of a cat.
Evolution of Medical and Community Resource Services Within a Student-Run Clinic Following COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Zaremba Samantha , Hand Allison , Wright Alexis , Thampy Daphne , Ramirez Hillary , Aldrich Jennifer , Maher Zoe
Published: December 2024

Introduction/Objectives:

With redistribution of resources and time during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Thrive Bridge Clinic altered its focus, alongside the changes in the healthcare system and needs of the population. This paper describes how the Thrive clinic services have been altered between 2019 and 2022 as a result of COVID-19.

Methods:

Data was collected via retrospective chart review of patient encounters.

Results:

Following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, utilization of acute medical triage decreased while community resources requests increased. Of the community resources requested, all services increased with the largest increase being transportation. Primary care, specialty medical care, legal assistance, and substance use were additional topics commonly discussed.

Conclusion:

Social support and community resource requests now act as the primary focus of the Thrive Bridge Clinic following the COVID-19 pandemic. Future studies can focus on better understanding whether these resources truly reflect patient needs and how often resources that we refer are being utilized.
The Pedagogical Content Knowledge and Occupational Socialization in Preservice Physical Education Teachers
Authors: Zhang Dong , Shi Zhenyu , Cheng Yafei
Published: December 2024

The goal of this study was to predict the preservice physical education teachers’ (PPETs) occupational socialization (OS) by their pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) and to investigate the relationship between them. The participants were 56 PPETs from a physical education teacher education (PETE) undergraduate program in the northeastern United States. This research work utilized the mixed-methods research design. An online survey with the PCK standard test, the teachers’ occupational beliefs survey, and a semistructured interview were used to collect data. The PPETs’ PCK significantly predicted their OS. More PCK would lead to more positive and professional OS development. Furthermore, the methods classes were the most important resource to learn PCK and develop the OS of the PPETs. There is a close and direct relationship between PPETs’ PCK and OS, and early field experience (EFE) is a common carrier. It is possible to use PPETs’ PCK to infer their OS development, and quantitative methods are effective for examining both factors. PETE programs should purposefully set up EFEs to improve PPETs’ PCK and OS simultaneously.
Topic Mining and Sentiment Analysis based on the Online Review from MOOC Platform’s Logistics Course
Authors: Zheng Yanling , Zeng Minling , Deng Baiding , Bin Hou , Liu Fei , Lin Xuejun
Published: December 2024

In the context of ongoing curriculum teaching reform accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, evaluating online logistics courses from the learners’ perspectives and identifying strategies for improvement have become critical areas of inquiry. Despite the growing body of literature on online education, existing studies often overlook the specific topics of interest and emotional tendencies of online logistics course learners. This study addresses this gap by utilizing the push-pull-mooring (PPM) theory, originally developed for human migration studies, to elucidate the transition of learners from offline to online environments, while exploring the formation process and significance of online logistics course instruction. We employ the ROST Content Mining System (ROST CM) software to conduct word frequency analysis, semantic network analysis, and sentiment analysis on review text data from two logistics courses offered on the China University massive open online courses (MOOC) platform. Our findings indicate that online learners prioritize three key aspects: “teacher,”“course,” and “learning content,” with high-frequency words revealing a hierarchical structure of “topic → transition → emotion.” While most learners expressed positive and satisfactory sentiments, a minority conveyed neutral or negative emotions. Based on these insights, this paper proposes targeted recommendations focusing on instructor guidance, enhancing online interaction, and fostering reflective teaching practices.
Digital Transformation of Rural Banks: Scale Development and Validation
Authors: Chao Nan , Zhou Yu , Yang Haifen
Published: December 2024

The digital transformation of banks has recently attracted significant interest from both academia and practice. However, despite the proliferation of relevant academic and non-academic literature, there is no validated scale to measure the level of digital transformation of rural banks (DTORB). This study attempts to fill this gap using a mixed-method approach. First, we used transcribed interviews with 45 rural banking experts and an extensive literature review to construct initial items for the DTORB scale. Then, the initial scale was quantitatively validated using questionnaire data collected from 685 Chinese rural bank managers. The results of the study provide a scale consisting of 18 items conceptualized into five factors: digital technology, digital products, digital strategy, digital inputs, and digital cooperation. The scale was validated by exploratory factor analysis and validation factor analysis. This research suggests three policy implications. First, government departments should formulate and improve policies to support the digital transformation of rural banks. Second, the government should emphasize the construction of digital ecology in rural areas. Third, government departments should actively promote the construction of public technology service platforms. This study provides a theoretical foundation for subsequent in-depth research on digital transformation in rural banks, as well as important insights for rural bank owners and managers.
Neonatal Chronic Granulomatous Disease With Septic Arthritis and Osteomyelitis: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenge With Literature Review
Authors: Abd Alwahab Sura , Hasan Hussein Mohsin , Al-Fatlawi Nabeel , Al-Badri Sajjad Ghanim
Published: December 2024

This case report underlines the diagnostic and therapeutic dilemmas in a 19-day-old neonate who had presented with features suggestive of chronic granulomatous disease (CGD). The baby had a history of fever, lethargy, and masses on the skin, for which an extensive diagnostic workup was needed to rule out infective etiology given no improvement with initial empiric therapy. Laboratory investigations, including imaging and genetic studies, confirmed the diagnosis of CGD. In addition to the very early manifestation of disease, which is quite rare, our case emphasizes the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion for immunodeficiency disorders in neonates with severe infections. The report highlights the fact that a high level of suspicion for an underlying immunodeficiency, especially conditions like CGD, must be maintained in neonates with unexplained symptoms, and the diagnosis has to be multidisciplinary in terms of management. Considering its rare inflammatory complications in neonatal CGD, the present case adds important data to the pediatric medical literature. It emphasizes that critical clinical evaluation and detailed diagnostic procedures are mandatory in cases of rare neonatal sepsis and inflammatory disorders.
Vitrectomy With Short-Term Perfluorocarbon Liquid Tamponade for Retinal Detachment With Inferior Retinal Breaks and Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy
Authors: Citirik Mehmet , Ilhan Cagri , Horozoglu Ceran Tugce , Teke Mehmet Yasin
Published: December 2024

Purpose: To assess and compare the results of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with short-term perfluorocarbon liquid (PFCL) tamponade and combined PPV with scleral buckling to treat rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) with inferior retinal breaks complicated by proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR). Methods: The medical records of patients who had vitreoretinal surgery for RRD with inferior retinal breaks complicated by PVR were reviewed. Group 1 had PPV with PFCL, and Group 2 had PPV with scleral buckling. Silicone oil tamponade was used in all cases of PPV with scleral buckling. The anatomic and functional outcomes and duration of surgery were compared between the 2 groups. Results: Group 1 comprised 48 eyes and Group 2, 36 eyes. No statistically significant differences were found in the demographic and baseline clinical characteristics between the groups ( P > .05). The mean (±SD) duration of the initial surgery was 42.82 ± 15.25 minutes (range, 25-65) in Group 1 and 81.46 ± 37.48 minutes (range, 45-115) in Group 2. The difference was significant ( P < .001). At the end of the follow-up period, recurrent RD occurred in 3 eyes (6.2%) in Group 1 and 2 eyes (5.5%) in Group 2, with no significant difference ( P > .05). There was no significant difference between the groups in the mean best-corrected visual acuity or mean intraocular pressure at 6 months ( P > .05). Seven eyes (14.5%) in Group 1 had anterior chamber cells and flares after the initial surgery. The inflammation resolved with topical steroid application. Conclusions: The results of PPV with PFCL are similar to those of PPV with scleral buckling for managing RRD with inferior retinal breaks complicated by PVR. Favorable anatomic and functional outcomes are maintained.
Study of Prevalence of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder in Nursing Students
Authors: Lone Falak Rashid , Singh Manmeet
Published: December 2024

Background:

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a common yet underdiagnosed mental health problem among women of reproductive age group with a significant potential to perturb social, academic, occupational, and interpersonal milieu of suffering women. The aim of this study is to see the Prevalence of PMDD in Nursing Students.

Methods:

A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among the nursing students of the Acharya Shri Chander College of Medical Sciences Nursing School, Jammu and they were screened for the presence of PMDD using the Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool.

Results:

Prevalence of moderate to severe Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) was 28.1% and PMDD was 6.1%. The commonest premenstrual symptom among the cases was fatigue or lack of energy. In the moderate to severe PMS category, it was anger, and in the PMDD category, it was anxiety. Impairment of college efficiency, or productivity was in 81.3% and 100.0% of students having moderate to severe PMS and PMDD, respectively.

Conclusion:

PMS and PMDD were prevalent among a substantial proportion of nursing students with significant negative influence on academic performance, emotional well-being and behavior. Strategies should be adopted in college health programs for the timely recognition and management of PMS and PMDD in nursing students.
The first serological survey of C. Burnetii in domestic animals in Poland
Authors: Turlewicz-Podbielska Hanna , Ruszkowski Jakub Jędrzej , Pomorska-Mól Małgorzata
Published: December 2024

Background

• Q fever, known as coxiellosis in animals, represents a global zoonotic threat caused by the intracellular bacterium Coxiella burnetii (C. burnetii). The disease affects many animal species, including those considered significant reservoirs, such as cattle, sheep and goats. Transmission of the pathogen to other domestic animals, including companion animals, and then to humans has also been observed, highlighting the importance of understanding the epidemiology and prevalence of C. burnetii among companion animals. The present study aimed to determine the frequency of seroreagents for C. burnetii within pet dogs, cats and rabbits from urban Poland areas and identify possible risk factors for these animals.

Results

• In total, serum samples from 491 dogs, 427 cats and 93 rabbits were used in the study. The seroprevalence of anti-C. burnetii antibodies in dogs and cats reached 0.61% (3/491; 95% CI: 0.21–1.78) and 0.23% (1/427; 95% CI: 0.04–1.31), respectively. No significant differences in seroprevalence across species and different subpopulations (age group, gender, exhibited symptoms, or sampling location) were found. All 93 samples from rabbits were negative for anti-C.burnetii antibodies.

Conclusions

• The seroprevalence rates of C. burnetii in dogs and cats were low; however, our results confirm that pet dogs and cats in Poland can be exposed to C. burnetii and may exhibit serological reactions. It has been reported that people who come into contact with secretions and excretions from the reproductive systems of dogs and cats (such as breeders, veterinarians, and veterinary clinic staff) may be at risk of contracting C. burnetii. Based on the findings, it is advised to be particularly cautious, especially when assisting with dogs and cats giving birth. Coxiellosis should be considered a potential cause of reproductive disorders in these animals. The results indicate that rabbits are probably less important in the circulation of the C. burnetii in the present study. This is the first serological survey of C. burnetii in pet dogs, cats and rabbits in Poland.
Targeting scapular muscles with facilitatory movement patterns to improve upper extremity function in gangliocapsular stroke: a case report
Authors: Saklecha Akshaya , Quershi Moh’d Irshad , Raghuveer Raghumahanti , Harjpal Pallavi
Published: December 2024

Background

Gangliocapsular stroke is a specific type of hemorrhagic stroke that primarily affects the basal ganglia and internal capsule due to rupture of the lenticulostriate perforating arteries. Patients afflicted with this condition often present with contralateral motor deficits, particularly affecting the upper extremity. Additionally, these individuals may experience challenges in coordination and stability, largely due to the involvement of the shoulder and scapular girdle. The stability of proximal joint is essential to increase the limited functions and distal movement of the upper extremities. Malalignment of scapula further complicates the execution of daily activities, profoundly affecting patients’ overall well-being and reducing engagement in society. Therefore, restoring upper limb function is imperative for a successful return to daily routines, with a focus on improving arm function being a crucial aspect of stroke therapy. Many methods have been explored for enhancing the function of upper limb in stroke, but the emphasis is more toward developing independence in grasp and improving scapular stability is often neglected. This case reports aim to examine the effect of targeted scapular proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation on upper limb function in a patient who suffered a gangliocapsular stroke.

Case presentation

A 54-year-old South Asian man was presented with left-sided hemiplegia following a right gangliocapsular stroke. He reported challenges in using his left upper limb and weakness of the left side of the body, which severely impaired his ability to perform activities of daily living. Radiological findings indicated a right gangliocapsular hemorrhage. The patient underwent a 4-week physiotherapy rehabilitation program, with outcome measures including the palpation meter, Fugl–Meyer assessment of upper extremity, and functional independence measure. Following the treatment period, significant improvements were observed in scapular alignment and upper limb functions, underscoring the effectiveness of rehabilitation strategies for optimal outcomes and recovery.

Conclusions

The study underscores the beneficial outcomes of targeted scapular muscles through facilitatory movement patterns to improve upper extremity function in gangliocapsular stroke. Implementing scapular proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques led to a beneficial change in scapular positioning, consequently improving upper limb function, and quality of life significantly.
In ovo sodium butyrate administration differentially impacts growth performance, intestinal barrier function, immune response, and gut microbiota characteristics in low and high hatch-weight broilers
Authors: Akram Muhammad Zeeshan , Everaert Nadia , Dunisławska Aleksandra
Published: December 2024

Background

Hatch weight (HW) affects broiler growth and low HW (LHW) often leads to suboptimal performance. Sodium butyrate (SB) has been shown to promote growth through enhanced intestinal health. This study investigated how broilers with different HW responded to in ovo SB injection and whether SB could enhance gut health and performance in LHW chicks. Ross 308 broiler eggs were injected on incubation d 12 with physiological saline (control) or SB at 0.1% (SB1), 0.3% (SB3), or 0.5% (SB5). Post-hatch, male chicks from each treatment were categorized as high HW (HHW) or LHW and assigned to 8 groups in a 4 × 2 factorial design. Production parameters were recorded periodically. Intestinal weight, length, and gene expression related to gut barrier function and immune response were examined on d 14 and 42. Cecal microbiota dynamics and predicted functionality were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing.

Results

SB treatments did not affect hatchability. HHW-control group exhibited consistently better weight gain and FCR than LHW-control group. SB dose-dependently influenced performance and gut health in both HW categories, with greater effects in LHW broilers at 0.3%. LHW-SB3 group attained highest body weight on d 42, exceeding controls but not significantly differing from HHW-SB3 group. LHW-SB3 group showed upregulation of gut-barrier genes CLDN1 in ileum, TJP1 in jejunum and anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 in both jejunum and ileum on d 14. Additionally, LHW-SB3 group upregulated mucin-producing MUC6 gene in ileum, while HHW-SB5 group increased pro-inflammatory IL-12p40 cytokine in caecum on d 42. LHW-SB3 group demonstrated shorter relative intestinal lengths, while HHW-SB5 had longer lengths. HHW-control group had higher bacterial diversity and growth-promoting bacteria while LHW-control group harbored the potential pathogen Helicobacter. SB reshaped gut microbiota biodiversity, composition, and predicted metabolic pathways in both HW categories. The LHW-SB3 group exhibited highest alpha diversity on d 14 and most beneficial bacteria at all timepoints. HHW-SB5 group presented increased pathogenic Escherichia-Shigella and Campylobacter on d 42.

Conclusions

HW significantly affects subsequent performance and SB has differential effects based on HW. LHW chicks benefited more from 0.3% SB, showing improvements in growth, intestinal development, health, and gut microbiota characteristics.
Effects of anthropogenic disturbances on adult Odonata fauna in Akure, south west Nigeria
Authors: Bakare Ayodeji Bidemi , Adu Babasola Williams , Ehikhamele Erhomosele Isaac
Published: December 2024

Background

Human activities such as deforestation, urbanization, industrialization, canalization, and water abstraction, negatively affect biodiversity. This study was carried out to determine the effect of anthropogenic activities on the composition, distribution, and abundance of Odonata of Akure South Local Government Area.

Results

A total of 2376 Odonata individuals (1363 dragonflies and 1013 damselflies) in 6 families (Libellulidae, Ceonagrionidae, Calopterygidae, Platycnemididae, Chlorocyphidae) and Gomphidae, 19 genera and 36 species were recorded in this study. Pseudagrion ‘A’ kersteni (651) is the most frequent species followed closely by Trithemis arteriosa, they were found in all the sites, therefore are generalists. Eight species including Lestinogomphus minutus, Pantala flavescens, Copera sikassoensis, etc., are least represented in the study, they were made up of one individual each. Leo study site has the richest odonate fauna (Simpson dominance: 0.8497, Shannon–Wiener H_: 2.234 and Margalef: 3.021); while, the least was Oda (Simpson dominance: 0.7899 and Shannon Wiener H_: 1.932). The distribution of the species was highest at Oda (evenness E: 0.4931), followed closely by Leo (evenness E: 0.4916); while, Ijapo (evenness E: 0.3852) is the least.

Conclusion

The few stenotopic species and, proliferation of eurytopic species in the study sites proved that the sites are undergoing intense anthropogenic disturbance and conservation efforts must therefore be put in place to prevent the extinction of these species and their restoration in sites they were absent.
Nutritional and pharmacological attributes of baobab fruit pulp
Authors: Abdulwaliyu Ibrahim , Arekemase Shefiat O. , Batari Musa L. , Oshodin Joy O. , Mustapha Razaq A. , Ibrahim Dahiru , Ekere Abeh T. , Olusina Owolabi S.
Published: December 2024

Foods, especially medicinal foods, play a vital role in providing nutrients for healthy growth and in the management of clinical disorders. Unfortunately, half of the global population lacks access to affordable healthcare and a nutritious diet. Therefore, it is important to identify traditional and scientifically proven therapeutic foods for disease management and the prevention of micronutrient deficiencies. Baobab, one of nature ‘s gifts to mankind, is the focus of this study. The aim was to provide an overview of its medicinal and nutritional benefits through a literature search. Research indicates that baobab fruit pulp is a rich source of fiber, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and notably vitamin C, about five to 10 times the content found in oranges. Additionally, baobab fruit pulp has been found to possess various therapeutic properties, including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, anticancer, and antiulcer characteristics. Furthermore, it is considered safe for consumption. These findings emphasize the importance of increasing baobab plantations and raising public awareness about the health benefits of the fruit through educational initiatives. Further research is necessary to explore the potential of baobab fruit pulp as a therapeutic agent for improved health.

Graphical Abstract
Adaptive capabilities of the circulatory system in children diagnosed with glomerulonephritis
Authors: Kundina Viktoriia , Storozhchuk Yuliia , Medvediev Volodymyr
Published: December 2024

Introduction.Glomerulonephritis (GN) is characterised by a polysystemic lesion and early involvement of the cardiovascular system (CVS) in the overall pathological process. Cardiovascular lesions in patients with GN are primarily going with the presence of arterial hypertension syndrome and varying degrees of circulatory failure.
Aim of the study. Determination of the peculiarities of circulatory system adaptation in children with GN with nephrotic syndrome (NS) using ultrasound with doppler assessment of intracardiac flow.
Materials and methods of research. 50 children were diagnosed with acute GN (AGN) with NS, and 100 patients were diagnosed with nephrotic form (NF) of chronic GN (CGN). The control group consisted of 30 practically healthy children. Echocardiography was performed on a combined ultrasound system GE with a special cardiological programme for cardiac examination in M-, B- and Doppler modes using a mechanical sectoral transducer of 3.5 MHz. Echocardiography was performed from the parasternal position along the long axis of the heart. In this case, the transducer was placed to the left of the sternum in 3 to 4 intercostal spaces and the central ultrasound beam was directed perpendicular to the surface of the chest.
Echocardiography was used to determine the main haemodynamic parameters: ejection fraction (EF), minute blood volume (MBV), cardiac index (CI), velocity parameters of transmitral (TMK) and transaortic (TAK) blood flows according to the standard method [1]. The echocardiography method was used in 150 children. The average age of the subjects was 8.2 ± 1.3 years.
Results. Hypokinetic and hyperkinetic circulation types were found with equal frequency (42.8%) in 12 patients with AGN. In CGN, a different picture was observed: 11 patients had a normokinetic type of blood circulation (40.7%), while hypokinetic was found in 9 patients (33.3%) and hyperkinetic in 7 patients (26%). The normokinetic type of hemodynamics at the second stage was observed in 4 patients (19.1%) with AGN and in 19 patients (51.4%) with CGN. The percentage of patients with a hypokinetic type of hemodynamics decreased in the case of AGN from 42.8% to 33.3%; in the case of CGN - from 33.3% to 16.2%. In 36 patients with chronic GN after completion of GC and CS therapy, the predominant type of haemodynamics was normokinetic, which was observed in 22 patients (61.2%), hypokinetic and hyperkinetic types of circulation were diagnosed in 14 patients (19.4%, respectively).
Conclusion: In case of CGN, before treatment, hyperkinetic and hypokinetic types of haemodynamics prevail, and after treatment discontinuation, the hypokinetic type slightly prevails, and hyper- and normokinetic types of haemodynamics occur with equal frequency, indicating heterogeneity of adaptive reactions of the cardiovascular system.
Stochastic Modeling of Age at Menarche for Nepalese Girls and Developing Menarchial Life Table
Authors: Gaire Arjun Kumar , Gurung Yogendra Bahadur , Bhusal Tara Prasad
Published: December 2024

Abstract: Menarche is one of the first and most significant milestones in a woman's fertility lifespan. It is a biological event in every girl's life; however, its timing is influenced by several biological and socioeconomic factors. Most studies on age at menarche have been mainly concerned with describing the statuses, differentials, and determinants. Skew distributions have been applied to fit the distributional pattern of age at menarche, and results are used to construct the menarchial life table. The objectives of this research are to explain the age at menarche of women by an efficient probability model, to identify the model that best fits age at menarche of women, to determine the characteristics of age at menarche of girls described by the model, cohorts analysis, and to construct a menarchial life-table to compute the expected age of menarche of girls. A secondary data set was taken to fit the skewed probability model, and different statistical tools were used to test and validate the model's fitting. The Skew-Log-Logistic model is found to be a significant fit for menarche data, and the results are applied to formulate the menarchial life table. The average age of menarche was estimated using the life-table technique for different cohorts. The distributional pattern of age at menarche is changing from a normal to skewed curve, and the mean age at menarche has decreased for recent cohorts. The Skew Log-Logistic model is a significant fit for Nepalese females' distributional pattern of menarche data, and the results were applied to formulating the life table.
Corruption, Consumption, and Chaucer's Reenchantment of Craft in The Canon's Yeoman's Tale
Authors: Lears Adin E.
Published: December 2024

Abstract: With its emphasis on alchemy's deadening effects on the alchemist's body, The Canon's Yeoman's Tale expresses a preoccupation with "the world grown old": the corrupting change of postlapsarian life. Through this topos, the tale raises questions about human labor and about the consumption of materials and bodies as resources. In doing so, it reveals a little-acknowledged ecological perspective in the poem that augments the emphasis on waste emerging in medieval ecocriticism. Scholarship on the tale has persistently emphasized a suspicious or melancholic perspective on the Yeoman's devitalized or wasted body, interpreting it as a warning against the alchemists' misplaced faith or misplaced work. Yet the tale's ecological imaginary also lies in its critique of a form of scientific materialism, dramatized in the Canon's dismissal of his apprentice's "amase[ment]," which cultivates the supremacy of the knower over the known world. More pointedly, its ecocritical perspective is evident in its gesture toward an alternative to such materialism: a form of craft knowledge evident in the Yeoman's lists, redundancies, and asides, through which the artisan could come to an understanding of natural philosophy through a materially poetic engagement with the world. With this gesture, Chaucer's Yeoman offers a reenchantment of craft that endows the Yeoman with a form of subjectivity open to wonder at the mutability and flux of earthly life.
Lost in Transcription: A New Textual Tradition of Thomas Hoccleve's Letter of Cupid
Authors: Ross Charlotte E.
Published: December 2024

Abstract: In 1402, Thomas Hoccleve composed the Letter of Cupid , a loose translation of Christine de Pizan's L'Epistre au dieu d'amours that voices the complaints of women through the device of a letter written by the allegorical persona Cupid. Roughly nineteen years later, in 1421–22, Hoccleve copied the Letter into his holograph, HEHL, MS HM 744. The survival of the poem in the author's hand creates the rare opportunity to study Hoccleve's linguistic style without scribal interference, and for this reason the poem has so far predominantly been studied through the text in the holograph. However, the Letter survives in eleven non-holograph witnesses, and when they are scrutinized closely and considered collectively in comparison to the holograph it is possible to recover the existence of an earlier draft of Hoccleve's poem. This article proposes that these non-holographs descend from a Variant Original of the Letter , following J. A. Burrow's terminology. It analyses the entire manuscript corpus to demonstrate the existence of a lost archetype and reconstructs this text in order to study the revisions Hoccleve made to his poem across drafts. The evidence of a Variant Original of the Letter thus allows us to deconstruct the notion of the immoveable author in late medieval England and to address the reluctance to conceive of a text existing in multiple authorial versions.