bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Q Angle in Hallux Valgus and Healthy Individuals
Authors: Yılmaz Kamil , Yurttaş Ayşe Nihal
Published: November 2024

Objectives: To compare the Q angle in individuals with hallux valgus (HV) and healthy individuals and to explore the correlation between HV and Q angle.
Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 15 individuals with HV (HV group-mean age: 41.60 ± 18.66 years) and 15 healthy individuals without HV with similar characteristics (Control group-mean age: 39.80 ± 8.59 years) participated. Hallux valgus angle (HVA) and Q angle were measured with a universal goniometer while demographic information was recorded.
Results: No significant difference was found between the Q angle values on both the right and left sides in the HV group and the control group (p=0.056, Effect Size (ES)=0.730; p=0.376, ES=0.331, respectively). A weak positive correlation was found between the right-sided HV and right-sided Q angles of the study participants (r=0.446, p=0.013). When the relationship was analyzed according to the groups, a moderate positive correlation was found between right-sided HV and right-sided Q angles in the control group (r=0.533, p=0.041).
Conclusion: There is a relationship, albeit weak, between HVA and Q angle in individuals with HV and healthy individuals. HVA should be taken into consideration when evaluating lower extremity alignment.
A boolean-algebraic approach to completeness for normal modal predicate logics
Authors:   Xidian University, Shi Weijun
Published: November 2024

This paper introduces an innovative methodology for demonstrating completeness for normal modal predicate logics. Traditional proofs typically involve constructing canonical models, wherein possible worlds are defined as maximal consistent sets possessing specific properties, with a heavy reliance on the Barcan Formula to affirm the existence of these worlds. Our approach deviates from the classical method by utilizing Boolean algebras and ultrafilters to construct models. Unlike conventional methods, our construction of possible worlds does not depend on the Barcan Formula; rather, these properties are ensured by Tarski’s Lemma. Furthermore, our proof distinguishes itself from other Boolean-algebraic completeness proofs in two key respects: it employs Kripke semantics instead of algebraic semantics and exclusively relies on ultrafilters, thereby offering a more concise approach. This methodology facilitates a natural extension from modal propositional logic to modal predicate logics and circumvents the added complexity of Q-filters. In our model, the equivalence class of each theorem of a normal modal predicate logic is a member of all worlds, while the equivalence class of each non-theorem is a member of some worlds. Consequently, the structure of these worlds ensures that non-theorems are false in the model.
Either drink tea or hang yourself, or Logical aspects of desires in argumentation about actions
Authors:   Institute of Philosophy of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Lisanyuk Elena
Published: November 2024

We propose a methodology for logical-argumentative analysis of desires employed as premises of deliberative arguments, the non-demonstrative practical arguments about actions intended to fulfill them. Representation and evaluation of deliberative arguments are hampered by the non-cognitive nature of desires, difficulties in distinguishing between their cognitive and non-cognitive elements, and vague criteria for their acceptability. We suggest a solution by dividing desires into relative, which require bringing the state of affairs in accordance with the desired, and absolute, which do not imply this; reconstructing deliberative arguments using the “to consequences” argumentation scheme; distinguishing between a noncognitive goal premise expressing a priority desire and a conditional cognitive goal-means premise expressing agent’s opinion about efficacy of her preferences in the way of its implementation; and representing the conclusion of such an argument as an intention by which the agent makes a commitment to adhere to the line of behavior, by analogy with the commitment to consider the conclusion of a demonstrative argument true. Based on the idea of the conditional obligation in dynamic deontic action logic, we semantically explicate the conditioning the preferences by the priority and evaluate the acceptability of such arguments depending on whether the preferred way allows the priority desire to be fulfilled. This provides an explanation why only relative, but not absolute desires can be justified or criticized in that way. We illustrate the results using the examples from the Russian literature.
Andean bear tree selectivity for scent-marking in Ecuadorian cloud forests
Authors: Filipczykova Eva , Clapham Melanie , Horn Russell C. Van , Nevin Owen T , Barros Jorge Luis Armijos , Vorel Aleš
Published: November 2024

Olfactory signalling is the most efficient mode of animal communication between a signaller and a receiver when receiver's presence is unpredictable. Scent-marking requires selective strategies to increase the likelihood that these signals persist in the environment and are successfully received. Bears are solitary, non-territorial carnivores, which scent-mark trees, substrate, and other objects to communicate with conspecifics. Signallers place scent marks on trees to increase the detectability of their signals, and possibly also to communicate their size and status. We assessed scent-marking tree selectivity of Andean bears, Tremarctos ornatus, in Ecuadorian cloud forests at two spatial scales: the individual-tree level and at a local scale (3-m radius). We recorded characteristics of marked and unmarked trees along bear trails (5.49 km in total) in the Eastern Cordillera of the Ecuadorian Andes, near the Sumaco Biosphere Reserve. To decrease dimensionality and multicollinearity before explanatory analyses, we performed Principal Component Analysis on data from 467 trees (65 marked trees, 54 control trees, 348 radius plot trees) of 48 tree species. We then used Generalized Linear Models, model selection, and model averaging to discover that Andean bears preferred rubbing leaning trees, aromatic tree species, and hardwood trees with smaller and thicker leaves containing less nitrogen. Thirteen of 59 marking sites contained multiple marked trees, but site-level data do not indicate why bears marked multiple trees at some sites but not others. We thus encourage further analyses of marked-tree cluster sites and their relationship to productive food resources and reproduction, which might present important communication hubs for ursids.
Hearing impairment and vestibular function in patients with a pathogenic splice variant in the LHX3 gene
Authors: Kjellgren Åsa , Lundgren Elenor , Golovleva Irina , Kriström Berit , Werner Mimmi
Published: November 2024

Background: LHX3 is a gene coding for a LIM-homeodomain transcription factor important for the fetal development of several organs such as the pituitary gland, spinal motor neurons and the inner ear. Pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants in the LHX3 gene are infrequent and result in a rare syndrome known as Combined Pituitary Hormone Deficiency-3, CPHD3.
Methods: We have studied hearing and vestibular functions in a group of nine individuals, 8-36 years old, all homozygous for a specific variant in LHX3 (NM_178138.4) c.455-2A>G. We have re-examined the results of consecutive hearing-tests from newborn until April 2024.
Results: Our data show that all tested patients have a progressive sensorineural hearing deficiency ranging from moderately severe to complete loss. We have performed vestibular testing in six patients and, for the first time, demonstrated that a mutation in the LHX3 gene not only affects hearing, but also is associated with vestibular impairment.
Conclusion: The human pathogenic variant c.455-2A>G in the LHX3 gene on chromosome 9q34, present as a founder mutation in the population in northern Sweden, is responsible for phenotypes with progressive hearing loss and balance impairment. This proves that the LHX3 gene is crucial for the function of both cochlear and vestibular organs.
The Therapeutic Effects of Tai Chi on Patients with Essential Hypertension: A Single-Arm Meta-Analysis
Authors: Li Quanzhi , Sun Yawei , Peng Wan , Xue Weiqi , Wu Zeyou
Published: November 2024

Objective: This study aims to through a Meta-analysis to explore the differential effects of various Tai Chi forms, durations, frequencies and daily exercise duration on systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), fasting blood glucose (FBG), and nitric oxide (NO) in patients with essential hypertension.
Methods: We conducted searches in PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Cochrane Library, Chinese Biomedical Database (CBM), Wanfang Database and Web of Science databases. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the therapeutic effects of Tai Chi on essential hypertension were collected according to the "PICOS" criteria. The Review Manager 5.4 software was utilized for the meta-analysis, with "I2" serving as the indicator of heterogeneity among studies. When I2 < 50%, indicating mild heterogeneity, a fixed-effect model was used; when I2 > 50%, a random-effect model was employed.
Results: The results of the methodological quality assessment are as follows: Random Sequence Generation: 13 studies were rated as low risk, 2 as unclear risk, and 1 as high risk. Allocation Concealment: All 16 studies were rated as low risk. Blinding of Participants and Personnel: Due to the nature of Tai Chi, double-blinding was challenging. Therefore, 5 studies were rated as low risk, 9 as unclear risk, and 2 as high risk. Blinding of Outcome Assessment: 4 studies were rated as low risk, 2 as high risk, and 10 as unclear risk. Completeness of Outcome Data: All 16 studies were rated as low risk. Selective Reporting: All 16 studies were rated as low risk. Other Sources of Bias: All 16 studies were rated as low risk. The Meta-analysis revealed that, compared with the control group, the Tai Chi group showed significant reductions in systolic blood pressure (SBP) (MD=–7.97, 95%CI[-13.38,–3.55], P=0.0004), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (MD=–4.06, 95%CI[-6.61,–1.51], P=0.002), total cholesterol (TC) (MD=–0.45, 95%CI[-0.72,–0.18], P=0.001), triglycerides (TG) (MD=–0.56, 95%CI[-0.94,–0.17], P=0.005), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (MD=–0.86, 95%CI[-1.30,–0.42], P=0.0001). Subgroup analysis indicated that an intervention cycle longer than 12 weeks is most effective for SBP reduction, while a cycle of 12–20 weeks is optimal for DBP reduction. Moreover, different frequencies of Tai Chi exercises significantly impacted SBP reduction, with a frequency of 5 times or more per week showing the best improvement in DBP. In terms of antihypertensive effects, the optimal daily exercise duration of Tai Chi should be maintained at over 60 minutes.
Conclusion: The optimal intervention for essential hypertension patients involves practicing 8-form or 24-form Tai Chi with an intervention cycle of more than 12 weeks, a frequency of at least 5 times a week, and a daily exercise duration of over 60 minutes.
Preoperative [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT in patients with suspected brain tumors of glial origin – imply on diagnosis and early prognosis - a prospective clinical trial
Authors: Pełka Kacper , Koczyk Kacper , Koperski Łukasz , Dziedzic Tomasz , Nowak Arkadiusz , Królicki Leszek , Kunert Przemysław , Kunikowska Jolanta
Published: November 2024

PET/CT targeting prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) is commonly used in patients with prostate cancer. PSMA has been found in other solid tumours, including primary brain tumours. The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT for preoperative diagnosis and 2-year prognosis. We prospectively screened patients with suspected glioma tumour. The PET/CT qualitative and quantitative results were compared to the histopathological examination. We compared glioblastoma (GBM) diagnostic data or between high-grade (HGG) and low-grade (LGG) gliomas. Overall (OS) and progression free survival (PFS) were analysed. Forty-four patients met the inclusion criteria. Twenty of them had positive and twenty-four negative scans. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value for HGG diagnosis were 71.4 (95% confidence interval – 51.3–86.8), 100.0 (79.4–100.0), 100.0 (83.1–100.0), and 66.7 (44.7–84.4), respectively. For differentiation between GBM vs non-GBM tumours, the best parameter was the tumor-to-background ratio, with the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve 0.81 (0.66–0.96; 42.2) (95% CI; cut-off). Patients with positive PET/CT scans had similar PFS and OS to patients with HGG. PSMA accumulation negatively affected the PFS and OS of patients with diagnosed GBM. [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT showed optimistic diagnostic results and may be prognostic a factor.
Registration at www.clinicaltrials.gov 09/06/2023 with number NCT05896449
Machine Learning and AVO Class-II Advanced Prospectively Workflow in Upper Messinian; A Successful Story, Offshore Nile Delta, Egypt
Authors: Abd-Elfattah Nadia , Dahroug Aya , Kammar Manal El , Fahmy Ramy
Published: November 2024

This study presents a comprehensive workflow to detect low seismic amplitude gas fields in hydrocarbon exploration projects, focusing on the West Delta Deep Marine (WDDM) concession, offshore Egypt. The workflow integrates seismic spectral decomposition and machine learning algorithms to identify subtle anomalies, including low seismic amplitude gas sand and background amplitude water sand. Spectral decomposition helps delineate the fairway boundaries and structural features, while Amplitude Versus Offset (AVO) analysis is used to validate gas sand anomalies. The entire seismic volume is classified into facies domains using machine learning, which isolates target features from seismic background data. The study area, covering 1850 km2, includes major structures such as the Rosetta fault and Nile Delta offshore anticline, with reservoirs consisting of layered sandstones and mudstones. Over 90 wells, including exploration and development wells, have been drilled in the area. Seismic amplitude data, including full and partial offset stacked, were analyzed to classify gas, water, and shale zones. The workflow's performance is demonstrated through the successful identification of the low-amplitude Swan-E Messinian anomaly, characterized as a high-risk gas prospect. Machine learning techniques, specifically neural network models, were trained to differentiate seismic features such as low-amplitude gas sand from background-amplitude water sand and shale. By iterating over multiple attributes and validating the models on blind test sets and on a blind section, which excluded a known shallow gas field, the workflow significantly improved the ability to detect potential hydrocarbon reservoirs characterized by low seismic amplitude. The results show that this integrated approach reduces exploration risk, quantifies the chance of success, and enhances decision-making in well placement and hydrocarbon exploration. This method is particularly useful for identifying low seismic amplitude anomalies, which are often challenging to detect with conventional seismic analysis. • This study developed a workflow to detect low seismic amplitude gas fields in near-field exploration. • It uses a machine learning algorithm to classify and explore low-seismic-amplitude gas sand reservoirs. • This approach helps estimate the likelihood of success and reduces the risk associated with hydrocarbon exploration wells.
Improvement of persistent impairments in Executive Functions and Attention following Electroconvulsive therapy in a case control longitudinal follow up study
Authors: Hammar Åsa , Ronold Eivind Haga , Spurkeland Alden , Ueland Rita , Kessler Ute , Oedegaard Ketil J. , Oltedal Leif
Published: November 2024

Background
How cognition is influenced by electroconvulsive treatment (ECT) and major depressive disorder (MDD) is still debated. The development and etiology of neurocognitive impairment in MDD was examined by investigating the cognitive profile following ECT related to the state-, scar and trait-perspectives, with the former predicting improvements parallel with depressive symptoms, while the two latter expected persisting impairments. executive functions (EF) and attention are central to cognition and alterations in these functions could influence other domains like memory. The main aims of the present study were to examine short- and long-term effects of ECT on EF and attention in patients with major depressive disorder by exploiting the rapid antidepressant effect of this treatment.
Methods
A case-control longitudinal follow-up design was used to investigate the effects of unilateral brief-pulse ECT on EF and attention in patients with depression (n = 36) compared to untreated healthy controls (n = 16). EF and attention were measured pre-treatment (T1), approximately three weeks (T2) and 6 months post-treatment (T3).
Results
The patient group showed significantly worse performance on most tests compared to healthy controls pre-treatment, and no short- or long-term worsening of EF and attention following ECT was found. Significant improvement was identified in patients’ attentional capacity, processing speed and inhibition after ECT.
Conclusions
The present study showed that there was no cognitive worsening after ECT treatment. An improvement in several of the tests measuring inhibition, attention and processing speed was parallel to symptom reduction, with the former showing associations to symptom change, suggesting state-related effects from improved mood. Still, the patient group performed significantly worse on most measures both pre-treatment and at the short- and long- term follow-ups, indicating prevailing trait or scar effects on cognitive functions and potential lack of practice effects.
Clinical trial number:
Not applicable.
Research on the comprehensive control technology of anchor- shotcreting- grouting for soft rock roadway: A case study
Authors: Wu Jianxing , Jiao Jiankang , Zhou Shishi
Published: November 2024

Effective and safe support in soft rock roadways remains a critical challenge in underground coal mining due to the rocks' extreme weakness and susceptibility to weathering and water invasion. In this paper, the tailgate of the longwall panel 2606, a typical soft rock roadway, excavated along the edges of mined-out areas with thin pillars of Lvtang Coal Mine in Guizhou, China is taken as the engineering background. Despite the use of a combination of rock bolts, cable bolts, and surface support systems, significant roadway deformation was observed. The mechanisms behind the significant deformation were analyzed through in-situ tests and clay mineral composition analysis. The analyses revealed that the primary causes of the roadway's large deformation were the low strength and susceptibility to weathering of the coal and surrounding rock. A novel synergistic control strategy combining anchor, shotcreting and grouting was proposed for supporting soft rock roadways. Detailed numerical simulations were conducted to evaluate the deformation and stability of the tailgate under various support scenarios, validating the effectiveness of the proposed support scheme. The synergistic support strategy was implemented to reinforce the 2606 tailgate, and field monitoring was conducted to assess its effectiveness. Monitoring data indicated that the rib deformation with the new support design was reduced by 66% compared to the original design. The results demonstrated that the improved synergistic support system effectively eliminated large deformations and maintained the stability of the tailgate. These findings provide a valuable engineering reference for supporting and reinforcing soft rock roadways under similar geological conditions.
The Role of Endoscopic Ultrasound in the Diagnosis and Characterization of Focal Liver Lesions
Authors: Hashim Ahmed Morad , Gamal Gamal Eldin Mansour Mohamed , Abdellatef Abeer , Ahmed Hany Hagag
Published: November 2024

Background: Incidentally discovered focal liver lesions (FLLs) are a common reason for referral to hepatobiliary services. These lesions are frequently found in patients with colorectal cancer, cirrhosis, or incidentally during evaluations for abdominal pain or shock. Several established diagnostic tools such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), transabdominal ultrasound (US), and computed tomography (CT) are well-studied for assessing liver diseases. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), traditionally used for evaluating the mediastinum, biliary tract, esophagus, stomach, and pancreas, is increasingly complementing these traditional diagnostic methods in hepatology. The study aimed to delineate the endoscopic ultrasound elastography role in visualization and hepatic focal hepatic tissue differentiation of lesions in comparison to the routine radiological and laboratory methods.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted, we enrolled 41 patients with hepatic focal lesions, abdominal ultrasonography, triphasic CT abdomen, and Endosonography examinations were performed on all participants.
Results: There was a highly significant difference between the studied groups as regards the Strain Ratio and Echogenicity (P0.01).
Conclusion: Ultrasound elastography and strain ratio are promising, non-invasive, nondependent on any contrast material techniques that could significantly enhance routine grey-scale sonographic examinations of the liver by better delineating the characteristics of hepatic focal lesions.
The Brass Tacks of Gadolinium Toxicity: Precipitation of Gadolinium Oxalate from Magnetic Resonance Imaging Contrast Agents
Authors: Wagner Brent , Henderson Ian , Benavidez Angelica , Mowry Curtis , Bachand George , Watt John , Kirk Martin , Dokladny Karol , DeAguero Joshua , Escobar Gladys
Published: November 2024

The formation of gadolinium-rich nanoparticles in multiple tissues from intravenous magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents may be the initial step in rare earth metallosis. The mechanism of gadolinium-induced diseases is poorly understood, as is how these characteristic nanoparticles are formed. Gadolinium deposition has been observed with all magnetic resonance imaging contrast agent brands. Aside from endogenous metals and acidic conditions, little attention has been paid to the role of the biological milieu in the degradation of magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents into nanoparticles. Herein, we describe the decomposition of the commercial magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents Omniscan and Dotarem in the presence of oxalic acid, a well-known endogenous compound. Omniscan dechelated rapidly and preluded measurement by the means available, while Dotarem underwent a two-step decomposition process. The decomposition of both magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents by oxalic acid formed gadolinium oxalate (Gd2[C2O4]3, Gd2Ox3). Furthermore, both observed steps of the Dotarem reaction involved the associative addition of oxalic acid. Adding protein (bovine serum albumin) increased the rate of dechelation. These reactions could occur at lysosomal pH. Through these studies, we have demonstrated that magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents can be dissociated by endogenous molecules, thus illustrating a metric by which gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) might be destabilized in vivo.
Genome-Wide Analysis of ARGOS and Its Homologous Genes in Brassica Crops and Stress Tolerance Verification of the BnaC6.ARGOS in rapeseed
Authors: tian tian , long zhengxi , gong xian , wang zhen , zhang chao , miao liu
Published: November 2024

Rapeseed (Brassica napus) is the second largest oil crop in the world, which the yield and stress resistance of has always been the primary goal of researchers. Here, a rapeseed gene Auxin Regulated Gene involved in Organ Size (ARGOS; BnaC6.ARGOS) was isolated, and its overexpression could significantly increase the organ size in Arabidopsis. In the present study, 7, 5, and 19 putative ARGOS and their homologous genes were identified in Brassca rapa (B. rapa), Brassca oleracea (B. oleracea) and rapeseed, respectively. The results of subcellular localization experiments showed that the BnaC6.ARGOS expressed on the cell membrane. Different spatiotemporal expression patterns were displayed of BnaARGOS and homologous genes, and whose promoters were abundant in the light-, abscisic acid (ABA-), Methyl jasmonate (MeJA-) and drought stress cis-elements. In addition, BnaC6.ARGOS in rapeseed has been shown to be regulated by light, drought, and ABA concentration. In addition, overexpressing BnaC6.ARGOS significantly increases the germination rate of rapeseed seeds under drought stress compared to wild-type plants. The research results contributed to understanding the evolutionary relationship between ARGOS and its homologous genes in Brassica crops, and validate the biological function of BnaC6.ARGOS, making it a candidate gene for improving rapeseed yield and drought resistance.
Biomechanical changes in the lumbar and hip joints after curved acetabular osteotomy
Authors: QU yongzhen , Tang Hao , Lu Ning , Yang Tingdong , Li Peng , Li Wenjing , Huangfu Wenfei , Xu WenTe , Zhou AnLi , Sun ZhiHang , Chen Jia , Xu Shisen , Han Xiechuan , Xu Ping , Zhou Taoyong
Published: November 2024

Background
The alignment of the spine and pelvis significantly impacts overall body balance; therefore, alterations in hip and lumbar spine biomechanics following curved acetabular osteotomy (CPO) can help surgeons optimize acetabular correction. To achieve this goal, we conducted patient-specific finite element analyses to compare hip and lumbar disc contact pressure (CP) between patients with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) and healthy individuals. Additionally, we examined the influence of CPO on the CP of both the hip and lumbar discs in patients with DDH.
Methods
We conducted finite element analyses of the hip and lumbar spine before and after CPO and compared them with those of a healthy human model. Subsequently, we simulated CPO on the preoperative model. Nonlinear contact analysis was employed to calculate the CP of the acetabular cartilage and lumbar discs during a single-leg stance.
Results
The maximum and average acetabular CP in patients with DDH were 5.4 MPa and 4.5 MPa, respectively. The average CP for the five lumbar discs were 3 MPa, 2.5 MPa, 2 MPa, 3.5 MPa, and 4.4 MPa. In contrast, the maximum and average acetabular CP in normal subjects were 3.7 MPa and 2.1 MPa, respectively, and the average CP of their lumbar discs were 1 MPa, 2 MPA, 1.88 MPa, 2.1 MPa, and 2.1 MPa, respectively. After CPO, the maximum and average CP of the hip decreased, as did the average CP of the lumbar discs. The maximum and average compressive stress of the acetabulum decreased to 3.79 MPa and 2.3 MPa, respectively, and the average compressive stress of the five intervertebral discs decreased to 1.96 MPa, 0.79 MPa, 0.78 MPa, 1.13 MPa, and 3.14 MPa, respectively.
Conclusion
Our finite element analysis indicated that CPO effectively normalizes hip contact pressure while reducing lumbar disc contact pressure. However, further investigation is required to elucidate the specific biomechanical mechanisms underlying these changes.
Graph Neural Networks and a temperature based pruning technique
Authors: Lapenna Michela , Faglioni Francesco , Fioresi Rita , Bruno Giovanni
Published: November 2024

We study the dynamics of the weights of a Graph Neural Network layer during training and we employ the concept of neural network temperature to prune unimportantinput features. We give a theoretical understanding of the results and make comparisons with similar experiments on Convolutional Neural Networks.
Assessing the Clinical Support Capabilities of ChatGPT-4o and ChatGPT-4o Mini in Managing Lumbar Disc Herniation
Authors: Wang Suning , Wang Ying , Jiang Linlin , Chang Yong , zhang Shiji , Zhao Kun , Chen Lu , Gao Chunzheng
Published: November 2024

Purpose: This study evaluated and compared the clinical support capabilities of ChatGPT-4.0 and ChatGPT-4.0-mini in diagnosing and treating lumbar disc herniation (LDH) with radiculopathy.
Methods: Twenty-one questions (across 5 categories) from NASS Clinical Guidelines were input into ChatGPT-4.0 and ChatGPT-4.0-mini. Five orthopedic surgeons assessed their responses using a 5-point Likert scale for accuracy and completeness, and a 7-point scale for safety. Flesch Reading Ease scores were calculated to assess readability. Additionally, ChatGPT-4.0 analyzed lumbar images from 53 patients, comparing its recognizable agreement with orthopedic surgeons using Kappa values.
Results: Both models demonstrated strong clinical support capabilities with no significant differences in accuracy or safety. However, ChatGPT-4.0 provided more comprehensive and consistent responses. The Flesch Reading Ease scores for both models indicated that their generated content was “very difficult to read,” potentially limiting patient accessibility. In evaluating lumbar disc herniation images, ChatGPT-4.0 achieved an overall accuracy of 0.81, with LDH recognition precision, recall, and F1 scores exceeding 0.80. The AUC was 0.80, and the Kappa value was 0.61, indicating moderate agreement between the model's predictions and actual diagnoses, though with room for improvement.
Conclusion: While both models are effective, ChatGPT-4.0 offers more comprehensive clinical responses, making it more suitable for high-integrity medical tasks. However, the difficulty in reading AI-generated content and occasional use of misleading terms, such as “tumor,” indicate a need for further improvements to reduce patient anxiety.
Perceptions and Acceptance of herbal medicine Utilization among The Egyptian Population during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: El-Hosari Doaa G. , Elgendy Marwa O. , Elgendy Sara O. , Abdelrahim Mohamed E.A.
Published: November 2024

Medicinal plants provide a wide range of health benefits, including strong antiviral effects. Additionally, many herbal treatments are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and their ability to boost the immune system, making them a valuable preventive option against viral infections. This study aimed to evaluate public awareness, attitudes, and practices regarding herbal medicine during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were collected through an online survey conducted from April 2021 to May 2023 in Egypt, with participants from across the country. The survey was divided into three main sections to assess beliefs and attitudes towards herbal medicine. The first section looked into participants' experiences with coronavirus infection, the second examined health beliefs related to coronavirus and herbal medicine, and the third evaluated general knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding herbal medicine. A total of 910 participants took part, with 60.7% expressing satisfaction with the results of using herbal medicines, and 49.5% reported using herbal medicine during their coronavirus infection. The median knowledge score about herbal medicine in this survey was 8 out of 10. Overall, the study revealed that participants had a good understanding of herbal medicine, held positive attitudes towards it, and were open to its use.
Creating a sense of place when implementing a new emergency department in Denmark: A qualitative study
Authors: Kirk Jeanette Wassar , Nilsen Per , Andersen Ove , Stefánsdóttir Nina Thórný , Lindstrøm Mette Bendtz , Powell Byron J. , Tjørnhøj-Thomsen Tine
Published: November 2024

Background
Physical locations play an essential yet often overlooked role in healthcare implementation processes. Implementation Science frameworks such as the Theoretical Domains Framework, the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, and the Implementation in Context framework acknowledge the importance of the physical environment, but they often treat it as a passive backdrop for change. However, from a cultural geographic perspective, spaces and places are dynamic, influencing behavior, social structures, and the acceptance of new practices. This study aims to explore how managers and staff develop a sense of place in a new emergency department (ED) and how these spatial dynamics influence the implementation process.
Methods
This study used a multi-sited ethnographic design, tracking the implementation process across multiple hospital locations from 2019 to 2023. Fieldwork was conducted in settings such as management meetings, micro-simulation training, and tours of the new ED construction site. A total of 53 participants, including managers, nurses, and physicians from 12 specialized departments, were purposively selected. Data were collected through ethnographic field notes (750 single-spaced pages) and semi-structured interviews averaging 39 minutes. Analysis was guided by situational analysis and cultural geography, integrating human and nonhuman elements. A deductive approach was used, applying a coding system to identify key themes related to spaces, places, traces, and sense of place.
Results
Five themes emerged regarding the development of a sense of place: (1) comfort, influenced by physical elements such as daylight and indoor climate; (2) spatial organization, affecting collaboration, workflow, and professional identity; (3) familiarity, highlighting cultural practices and equipment in fostering belonging; (4) time, where construction delays enabled deeper emotional engagement; and (5) involvement, showing that initial criticism transformed into stronger ownership through increased engagement.
Conclusion
This study highlights the importance of a sense of place during pre-implementation of new physical locations in healthcare. Factors such as comfort, spatial organization, familiarity, time, and involvement are key to participants’ development of a strong sense of place in the new ED. These insights are crucial for designing implementation processes that address both physical and emotional needs, influencing outcomes such as acceptability, adoption, and sustainability.
Research on the material basis and anti-influenza mechanism of Jingyin granules
Authors: Jiang Meifang , Liu Xinjuan , Liu Zhiqiang , Wang Dandan , Zhang Tong
Published: November 2024

Introduction: In recent years, due to the high incidence of viral influenza, anti-inflammatory and antiviral drugs have gradually attracted widespread attention. Jingyin granules (JYG) is a Chinese medicine preparation composed of 9 herbs, which is a commonly used for respiratory diseases and played an important role in anti-COVID-19, but its complex chemical composition hindered its recognition for clinical application.
Methods: In this study, we used LC-MS and GC-MS techniques combined with database analysis to obtain the main components of JYG. Then, we predicted the influenza pathways and targets of JYG by Network pharmacology. Finally, zebrafish and 16 HBE cells stimulated by lipopolysaccharides (LPS) were used to verify the anti-inflammatory effects.
Results: We identified 50 chemical components from JYG aqueous extract, 4 of which were volatile oil (JJVO). Network pharmacology predicted that JYG mainly exerted anti-inflammatory effects on interleukin-1β(IL-1β), interleukin-6(IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Both JYG and JJVO can effectively inhibit the activation of LPS-stimulated centriocytes in zebrafish and reduce the mRNA levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α factors. 16 HBE cells assay showed that JYG and JJVO could reduce the mRNA and proteins expression levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α, which was consistent with the results of zebrafish experiments.
Conclusions: JYG identified 50 components that targeted anti-inflammatory effects, Both JYG and JJOV could inhibit LPS-induced inflammation by inhibiting IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α.
Protective effects of colchicine against osteoarthritis in rat induced by monosodium iodoacetate
Authors: Ibraheem Medhat , Mahmoud Ahmad Mostafa ,   Nahla Abd Elaal Ahmed3, Aziz Hekmat O. Abdel , Elnasr Suzan Elsayed Abd
Published: November 2024

Background
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a debilitating condition that can severely limit an individual’s mobility and quality of life. This study evaluated the efficacy of colchicine therapy in promoting cartilage healing in a rat model with monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced knee OA. This was assessed through semiquantitative radiographic features as well as histological and biochemical alterations.
Methods
Rats were given an intra-articular injection of MIA on day zero to induce knee OA. After that, 40 Wistar albino female rats were split into 4 groups at random (10 rats/each group): a negative control group, an osteoarthritic control group, an osteoarthritic reference group receiving a meloxicam®, and an osteoarthritic group receiving an intraperitoneal injection of colchicine. The body weight and knee diameter were recorded once per week. Semiquantitative radiographic imaging and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELIZA) analysis of serum inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1beta (IL-β) and anti-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-10 (IL-10), were carried out before the end of the trial. Finally, hematoxylin/and eosin stains were used for histological investigation.
Results
Colchicine significantly reduced the osteoarthritic conditions after six weeks of supplementation. We observed decreased joint diameters in response to treatment in OA animals. Colchicine significantly decreased IL-1β (p = 0.000) and increased the IL-10 (p = 0.000) in the serum of osteoarthritic rats in response to treatment in OA rats compared to the OA group with no treatment. Colchicine improved the histological structure of the knee joint and lowered the radiographic scores of osteoarthritic rats.
Conclusion
These results point to the potential benefit of colchicine in treating rats with MIA-induced knee OA by postponing cartilage deterioration and reducing the activity of inflammatory mediators.
Outcomes of Adjuvant Radiation Treatment Following Subtotal Resection of World Health Organization Grade II Meningiomas
Authors: Petitt Jordan C. , Murayi Roger , El-Abtah Mohamed E. , Momin Arbaz , Halima Ahmed , Potter Tamia , Ahorukomeye Peter , BA Jakub Jarmula , MA Mihika Thapliyal , Murphy Erin S. , Chao Samuel T. , Suh John H. , Recinos Pablo F. , Kshettry Varun R.
Published: November 2024

Purpose: Existing literature on adjuvant radiation after subtotal resection (STR) of WHO II meningiomas is limited by heterogenous patient cohorts, combining adjuvant and salvage radiation, gross total resection (GTR) and STR, primary radiation treatment vs re-treatment, or grade II and III meningiomas, all of which have different expected outcomes. Tumor control estimates in a large homogenous patient cohort are needed to accurately counsel patients.
Methods: A retrospective review of patients that had immediate post-operative imaging-confirmed residual WHO grade II meningioma followed by either adjuvant intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) or stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) between 1996 to 2020 was conducted. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and log-rank test was used to assess progression-free survival (PFS).
Results: Thirty-nine patients met inclusion criteria (IMRT=32; SRS=7). Overall, the 3-, 5-, and 10-year PFS was 81.1%, 61.2%, and 44.6%, respectively. Median follow-up time was 37 months. When comparing IMRT and SRS cohorts, baseline characteristics did not differ significantly between groups, but significantly larger residual tumor volumes were treated with IMRT (22.2 cm3 vs 6.3 cm3, p=0.004). PFS was not significantly different between IMRT and SRS at 3 years (81.1% vs 80.0%) or 5 years (65.5% vs 40%) (p=0.19). There was no significant difference in radiation necrosis between groups (IMRT=3/32 patients vs SRS=0/7 patients, p=0.32).
Conclusion: Our homogenous patient cohort displayed acceptable control rates at 3 years using SRS or IMRT as adjuvant therapy. No significant difference in PFS or radiation necrosis was noted between patients treated with adjuvant IMRT versus SRS.
Photon Irradiation Prompts Autophagy in Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Wächter Sabine , Knauff Franziska , Roth Silvia , Krasser-Gercke Norman , Roth Katrin , Bartsch Detlef Klaus , Fazio Pietro Di
Published: November 2024

Although promising results have been obtained for anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) therapy, this therapy still needs to be improved. In addition to the currently approved therapies, radiotherapy alone or combined with adjuvant immunotherapy could be beneficial for patients affected by ATC. The patients affected by this aggressive solid malignancy could benefit from the modulation of autophagy in cancer cells. This study focused on detecting autophagy players in ATCs and bursting autophagy process via photon irradiation to induce decay in irradiated ATCs. The transcript expression of autophagy genes was detected in tumor tissue resected from 19 patients and in C643 cells, four primary ATC cell lines and primary follicular thyroid cell line (Nthy-ori-3-1) photons irradiated with 4 or 6 Gy. The protein level of Beclin1 was detected by immunofluorescence in 10/19 patients. The levels of autophagy markers were detected by RT‒qPCR and western blotting in irradiated cells. Autophagy and maturation of autophagosome vesicles were monitored in C643 cells stably transfected with the GFP-RFP-LC3B plasmid. All patients included in the study exhibited significant overexpression of autophagy transcripts. Additionally, the Beclin1 protein was expressed in resected tumor tissue. Furthermore, the analysis of autophagy-related gene transcripts revealed significant increases in the expression of these genes in C643, Patient 2 and Patient 3 cells irradiated with 4 or 6 Gy. Additionally, irradiation with 4 or 6 Gy downregulated the expression of all the proteins involved in the autophagy process. Thus, the ongoing catabolic process was confirmed. Interestingly, the levels of AMPKα and its active phosphorylated form were strongly downregulated, which excluded its involvement in autophagy activation. 6 Gy photon irradiation caused an increase in both green and red fluorescence in C643-derived spheroids. An increase in fluorescence was detectable for up to 28 days. The spheroids gradually exhibited an increase in fluorescence, which probably caused the dismantling of their ultrastructure. This finding provides evidence of the bursting of autophagy and its ability to affect spheroid integrity. Photon irradiation exacerbates autophagy in anaplastic thyroid cancer cells and could represent a valid target for focused therapy against this aggressive malignancy.
Forearm bone mineral density as a predictor of adjacent vertebral refracture after percutaneous kyphoplasty in patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture
Authors: Wang Jinzhou , Xie Xiansong , Gou Yuwei , Wu Yucheng , Pu Hongyu , chen qian , He Jiangtao
Published: November 2024

Background: The incidence of adjacent vertebral body re-fracture after percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) is associated with a number of variables, of which decreased bone mineral density is one of the major risk factors. Forearm bone mineral density (BMD) measurements are gaining attention because of their convenience and validity, but there is a lack of systematic research on the specific relationship between forearm BMD and the risk of adjacent vertebral re-fracture after PKP.
Purpose: to investigate the correlation between forearm BMD and the risk of adjacent vertebral re-fracture after PKP in osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures（OVCF）patients.
Methods: Retrospective evaluation of 198 OVCF patients receiving PKP was conducted in this study. The patients were divided into two groups: the no-fracture group and the re-fracture group, according to whether or not they had undergone vertebral re-fracture. Basic data were obtained, including age, gender, BMI, history of smoking, history of diabetes, and surgery segment. Using computed tomography, the mean Hounsfield unit (HU) values for the BMD of the L1 lumbar spine were determined. For the dual-energy X-ray (DXA) BMD test, the distal one-third lengths of the patient's nondominant forearm's radius and ulna were chosen. Receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC) were utilized to evaluate the predictive value of forearm BMD versus lumbar CT values for vertebral re-fracture, and univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed to identify characteristics related with vertebral re-fracture following PKP.
Results: Re-fracture rate after PKP was 17.2% at a minimum 12-month follow-up. The mean forearm BMD (0.21 ± 0.05 vs. 0.36 ± 0.08, p < 0.05) and mean HU values (88.7 ± 11.9 vs. 124.3 ± 16.3, p < 0.05) were lower in the re-fractured group than in the unfractured group. In multifactorial logistic regression analysis, forearm bone density (OR 0.819; 95%CI 0.753-0.894, p = 0.006) and HU values (OR 0.806; 95%CI 0.752-0.881, p = 0.004) were independent risk factors for vertebral re-fracture. The area under the curve (AUC) for forearm BMD values and HU values predicting adjacent vertebral re-fracture were 0.956 and 0.967, respectively.
Conclusions: Forearm BMD is an independent risk factor for re-fracture of adjacent vertebrae after PKP. In addition, forearm BMD, as a valid indicator of postoperative re-fracture after PKP in patients with OVCF, and the HU value of lumbar spine CT were both powerful tools for predicting re-fracture.
Housing distance, Salt intake and Cardiovascular Risk in Rural Aceh Tamiang: Insights from a 10 Year Non-Laboratory Assessment
Authors: Fitri Nadya Keumala , Saragih Yusrina Br , Sari Dina Keumala
Published: November 2024

Ischemic heart disease and stroke are among the primary reasons for mortality, making a substantial contribution to the nation's health challenges. Implementing public health campaigns that emphasise prevention, early detection, and effective management is essential, especially in rural areas. Consequently, targeted screening programs within these communities are greatly warranted. To examine the representation of CVD Risk in the Karang Baru region in Aceh Tamiang. A cross-sectional survey using a questionnaire survey. The 10-year cardiovascular risk scores were calculated based on the region-specific World Health Organization cardiovascular disease risk charts. Among 1035 participants, 22.5% are within the high-risk range, The majority (40.8%) is within the 5–10% estimated 10-year risk. Notable significant predictors with the strongest is the unmodifiable gender, and followed by the modifiable smoking, salt consumption, and house distance to the assigned CHC. This study highlights the demographic characteristics and significant relationships between different risk classes, providing valuable insights into the distribution and characteristics of various risk groups in the Karang Baru region.