bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cardiac Functional Assessment by Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Jiang Mengdi , Lu Minjie , Zhao Shihua 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The assessment of cardiac function using echocardiography has gained a strong foothold in clinical practice. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging harbors distinct advantages over echocardiography, as it is not affected by limitations of acoustic windows and operator dependence. CMR is also designed to non-invasively assess cardiac morphology, ventricular geometry, myocardial wall motion, and intra-cardiac flow quantification without the use of ionizing radiation. These inherent features make CMR appropriate for diagnosing cardiovascular diseases, monitoring patients after treatment, and providing longitudinal follow-up. In this paper, the state-of-the-art work that has demonstrated the aspects of cardiac function by CMR is reviewed, and acquisition techniques and clinical applications are covered.
The Impact of SARS-CoV-2 on Work Absence: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Vaccinated and Unvaccinated Workers
Authors: Etli Dominic , Wiewior Antonina , Malone Alex , Locke Ken , Bullock Nicholas , Howard Raina 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objectives
Compare SARS-CoV-2 infection and work absence rates between vaccinated and unvaccinated employees during a two-year pandemic period.

Methods
Cross-sectional study with 2,107 participants. Primary outcome: total days missed; main exposure: vaccination status. Analyses included t-tests to compare absence days and ANOVA to evaluate confounders. Mixed-effects logistic regression assessed infection risk, incorporating community prevalence as a fixed effect and work location as a random effect.

Results
Vaccinated employees missed slightly fewer days (0.16 days), though not statistically significant (p = 0.574). Symptom severity and job status were linked to higher absenteeism. Vaccination had a small but significant protective effect (p = 0.045). Remote work correlated moderately with reduced absenteeism.

Conclusion
Vaccination lowered infection risk but not absenteeism due to uniform quarantine policies. Remote work reduced absenteeism and should be integrated into future interventions to support vulnerable workers.
Assessment of UK Heavy Goods Vehicle drivers' lifestyle behaviours: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Ruettger Katharina B , Willis Scott A , King James A , Clemes Stacy A 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objective
Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) drivers face difficult working conditions, promoting unhealthy lifestyle behaviours which are associated with an elevated prevalence of long-term health conditions.

Methods
109 drivers across the UK completed an online survey investigating differences in lifestyle behaviours between drivers with (N = 54) and without obesity (N = 55), including differences on work and non-workdays using an exploratory data analysis approach.

Results
Drivers with obesity (49.6%) perceived more barriers to healthy eating and being active than drivers without obesity. Drivers with obesity reported choosing more unhealthy options as snacks, ate more often at fast-food chains, and fewer fulfilled the physical activity guidelines. Additionally, the two groups differed regarding food and beverage choices on work and non-workdays.

Conclusions
HGV drivers with obesity exhibit various dietary and physical activity behaviours associated with overnutrition and poor cardiometabolic health.
Impact of Persistent Combat-Related PTSD on Heart Disease and Chronic Disease Comorbidity in Aging Vietnam Veterans
Authors: Stellman Steven D. , Kaiser Anica Pless , Smith Brian N. , Spiro Avron , Stellman Jeanne Mager 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

Objectives
To assess combat and combat-related posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as risk factors for heart disease and non-cardiac chronic disease comorbidity in deployed Vietnam veterans 50 years post-War.

Methods
A random sample of 735 Vietnam-deployed American Legionnaires was surveyed in 1984, 1998, and 2000 for combat exposure, probable PTSD, and history of diagnosed chronic illnesses.

Results
Twenty-eight percent reported a diagnosed heart condition; combat exposure in Vietnam was a significant predictor (OR = 1.92, 95% confidence interval 1.13-3.31). Veterans with heart disease reported significantly more comorbid chronic illnesses, including arthritis and respiratory conditions: sleep apnea, emphysema, and asthma. Chronic illnesses were reported more often by men with PTSD.

Conclusion
Emerging evidence suggests that 50 years after Vietnam combat and associated PTSD may contribute to heart disease and comorbid conditions.
IgG4-related retroperitoneal fibrosis presenting as a peripancreatic mass: a case series
Authors: Badshah Maaz Bin , Khan Qaisar Ali , Kazi Naima , Ansari Rabia Aslam , Verma Ravina 
Published: December 2024

Introduction:
IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a chronic, immune-mediated disorder characterized by widespread inflammation and fibrosis, leading to potential organ dysfunction if untreated. Often underdiagnosed due to subtle and varied symptoms, the disease can affect multiple organ systems. This case series highlights two patients who were diagnosed as cases of IgG4-related retroperitoneal fibrosis.

Methods:
A total of two patients were included in this prospective case series who presented to the gastroenterology department of a tertiary care hospital with the same signs and symptoms and were diagnosed with IgG4-related retroperitoneal fibrosis (IgG4-RPF).

Case summary:
Two patients were included in our case series, aged 25 and 26 years. The chief complaints included dull, radiating epigastric pain, other symptoms include diffuse abdominal pain, intensified, accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and episodic diarrhea, and a history of B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-)-guided biopsies were performed, showing findings consistent with (IgG4-RPF). Both patients were started on a regimen of prednisolone, pantoprazole, and vitamin D, which they tolerated well without adverse effects. They were advised to follow up with a CT scan after one month

Conclusion:
IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a rare, chronic condition often presenting as retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) and affecting multiple organs. Serum IgG4 levels can be normal in certain cases, histopathological and radiological investigations are necessary for the correct diagnosis. Early initiation of immunosuppressive drugs are necessary for the disease control.
Impact of being lateral and sitting position for spinal anesthesia administration on maternal hemodynamic variability and the timing of hypotension among cesarean section patients in a resource-constrained area: a prospective observational cohort study
Authors: Samuel Sintayehu , Kasahun Blen , Demeke Tsegaye , Reshad Seleman , Shemsu Nesredin , Kedir Abdulkadir , Achule Astemamagn , Mamo Temesgen , Dendir Getahun , Genetu Sinishaw , Wolde Yisehak 
Published: December 2024

Background:
Type of anesthesia used for cesarean section can be general, spinal, or epidural. However, peripheral nerve blocks, such as the lower and upper extremity nerve blocks, can be referred to as other types of anesthesia. Spinal anesthesia is the most frequently used method because of its ease, dependability, and rapidity in attaining proper anesthesia. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of spinal anesthesia induction position on maternal hemodynamics and the timing of hypotension.

Method:
A prospective observational cohort study design was employed. A simple random sampling technique was used. A total of 190 patients received spinal anesthesia, with 95 in the lateral and 95 in the sitting position in each group. The data were entered into Epi Data version 4.6 and then exported to SPSS version 26 for analysis. Independent sample t-tests and chi-square (χ
2) tests were performed. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and log-rank test were used and P value ≤0.05 considered significant.

Results:
The overall incidence rates of hypotension in the lateral and sitting groups were 54.6% [95% CI, 52.3–72.1] and 73.8% [95% CI, 69.8–87.2], respectively (P = 0.025). The timing of first hypotension was 8.86 minute [95% CI, 8.690–13.272] and 15.75 minute [95% CI, 14.569–19.372] (P = 0.001) for sitting and lateral, respectively.

Conclusion and recommendation:
In this study, we found a significant difference between the lateral and sitting groups with different measurement parameters, such as blood pressure, intraoperative adverse events, and onset of hypotension. The incidence of hypotension, intraoperative adverse effects of spinal anesthesia, and fluid consumption were lower in the lateral groups. Nonetheless, instead of being technically challenging during spinal anesthesia induction, the lateral position results in better hemodynamics and onset of hypotension than in the sitting posture.
Klippel–Trenaunay syndrome in a child presented with bladder hemangioma: a rare manifestation of a rare syndrome
Authors: Bannoud Nour , Haddad Sultaneh , Kababeh Karam , Hijazi Yara , Aladwan Khaledah , Al Nserat Buthena , Khouri Lina , Alsiddig Hind , Ahmed Shahd Ibrahim Ali , Dalati Husam 
Published: December 2024

Introduction:
Klippel–Trenaunay syndrome (KTS) is a rare congenital anomaly. Involvement of visceral organs is rarely described, especially in the gastrointestinal system, liver, spleen, mediastinum, and genitourinary system, which typically leads to internal hemorrhage and may present as hematuria or hematochezia. Rectal and bladder bleeding in patients with KTS I are rare conditions.

Case presentation:
We present a rare instance of a 13-year-old female who experienced an unprompted visible hematuria for several days without any additional urinary symptoms. An investigative cystotomy was performed, which unveiled a hemangioma surrounding the opening of the left ureter and a large intramuscular hemangioma on the posterior wall.

Discussion:
A review of the cases showed that most patients with bladder hemangioma associated with KTS were men with an average age of 16 years (range: 3–37 years). The symptom that we have detected in nearly all cases, including ours, was gross hematuria, except in one case with microscopic hematuria.

Conclusion:
Pediatricians should suspect this syndrome in any child with one of its symptoms, especially since the skin manifestation is distinctive and indicative of this syndrome.
Comparison of modified Mallampati test with and without phonation for prediction of difficult laryngoscopy and intubation among adult surgical patients: cross-sectional study
Authors: Yirga Samson , Samuel Hirbo , Markos Zekarias , Yohannes Wontagab 
Published: December 2024

Background:
The modified Mallampati test (MMT) is one of the most widely used airway assessment tests, for predicting laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation difficulty. The MMT without phonation is routinely performed, but its specificity in identifying easy intubation is controversial. This study aimed to compare the MMT with and without phonation in predicting difficult laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation in adult elective surgical patients who underwent general anesthesia.

Materials and methods:
An institution-based cross-sectional study was performed on 258 adult elective surgical patients who required tracheal intubation. A systemic random sampling technique was employed to select study participants, and the MMT, with and without phonation, was performed during the preoperative assessment. A laryngoscopic view was recorded at the time of tracheal intubation and classified as easy or difficult for tracheal intubation. The collected data were entered into Epi-info and analyzed using the statistics package of social science software version 26. Statistical significance was defined as a P value of less than 0.05. This study used specificity, sensitivity, accuracy, and positive and negative predictive values as the statistical measures.

Results:
The prevalence of laryngoscopy and intubation difficulties was observed to be 13.6% and 10.5%, respectively. MMT conducted without phonation had the higher sensitivity for predicting difficult laryngoscopy and intubation, than MMT with phonation. But MMT performed with phonation had higher specificity for identifying easy intubation, than MMT without phonation.

Conclusion:
The MMT with phonation has higher accuracy, specificity, and positive predictive value for difficult laryngoscopy and intubation than the non-phonation approach. MMT combined with phonation can be used as an alternative assessment tool to predict difficult airways.
Use of ultrasonic bone dissector in diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis involving the cervical spine
Authors: Scalia Gianluca , Giuffrida Massimiliano , Ponzo Giancarlo , Furnari Massimo , Chaurasia Bipin , Umana Giuseppe E. , Nicoletti Giovanni F. 
Published: December 2024

Introduction and importance
Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH), or Forestier’s disease, is characterized by ligament and enthesis calcification, mainly in the thoracic spine. Cervical involvement can cause dysphagia due to soft tissue compression, necessitating surgical intervention when conservative measures fail. We assess the efficacy of anterior cervical osteophytectomy with an ultrasonic bone dissector in relieving symptoms and improving outcomes.

Case presentation
A 73-year-old male presented with progressive neck pain and dysphagia caused by DISH in the cervical spine. Conservative treatment was ineffective, requiring anterior cervical osteophytectomy using an ultrasonic bone dissector. Postoperative imaging confirmed spinal cord decompression, and the patient experienced significant symptom relief. The ultrasonic bone dissector enabled precise bone resection, facilitating resolution of dysphagia and improving quality of life.

Clinical discussion
This case highlights the effectiveness of ultrasonic bone dissection for cervical DISH. The device ensures precise bone removal with minimal soft tissue trauma, reducing complications and promoting recovery. While initial outcomes are promising, long-term studies are needed to compare this method with other interventions.

Conclusion
Surgical intervention, particularly anterior cervical osteophytectomy with ultrasonic bone dissection, is effective when conservative treatments fail. Advanced surgical techniques improve patient outcomes and warrant further investigation to establish their role in managing cervical DISH.
Trends in complications of cardiac and vascular prosthetic devices, implants, and grafts mortality rate in the United States (1999–2020)
Authors: Rahman Hafsah Alim Ur , Salman Afia , Fahim Muhammad Ahmed Ali , Moeed Abdul , Hasibuzzaman Md. Al 
Published: December 2024

To analyze mortality rates due to complications of cardiac and vascular prosthetic devices, implants, and grafts in the United States, International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, codes were used on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Wide-Ranging OnLine Data for Epidemiologic Research (CDC WONDER) database to retrieve death certificate data between the years 1999 and 2020 for patients aged 55 and above. Age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMRs), per 100 000 people, and annual percentage change along with their respective 95% confidence intervals were also calculated. Complications of cardiac and vascular prosthetic devices, implants, and grafts were responsible for 91 539 deaths among adults aged 55 years and older. The overall AAMR decreased from 9.2 in 1999 to 3.4 in 2020. AAMRs for men were higher than for women (overall AAMR men: 7.5; women: 4.5). Stratifying patients according to race the order of AAMRs from highest to lowest was as follows: non-Hispanic Black or African American (6.8), NH White: (5.9), NH American Indian or Alaska Native (5.7), Hispanic or Latino (4.0) and lastly NH Asian or Pacific Islander (3.2). State wise the top 90th percentile states with regard to mortality included West Virginia, South Carolina, Mississippi, North Dakota, and Alabama. In census regions the South had the highest AAMR (6.2) followed by the Midwest (6.0), the Northeast (5.4), and the West (5.1) with nonmetropolitan areas having higher AAMRs (7.0) than metropolitan areas (5.4). Further research and a more individualized pattern of treatment of older patients are necessary moving forward.
Anterior chamber and retropupillary iris-claw intar ocular lens fixation comparison of clinical outcomes: a systematic review
Authors: Moghib Khaled , Salomon Izere , Abdelglel Yasmeen , Amer Samr A. , Salah Ammar , Batarseh Suhel F. , Abbas Nagham Bushara , Hassan Amr K. 
Published: December 2024

Background:
In cataract surgery, optimal intraocular lens (IOL) placement is typically within the capsular bag. However, in the absence of sufficient capsular support, alternative techniques such as scleral-sutured IOLs, anterior chamber IOLs, and iris-fixated IOLs either in the anterior chamber or retropupillary are employed. The choice between these methods depends on factors like surgeon expertise, patient-specific anatomy, and clinical circumstances, with anterior chamber iris-claw IOLs offering a more straightforward approach and retropupillary techniques potentially providing additional benefits requiring advanced skills.

Objective:
This systematic review aims to evaluate the clinical outcomes of anterior chamber versus retropupillary iris-claw IOLs fixation.

Methods:
Adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis guidelines, a comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Cochrane Central, Scopus, and Web of Science databases until May 2024. These searches focused on specific terms related to the methods, and data were extracted using a standardized online sheet.

Results:
The review encompassed nine studies, including two randomized control trials (RCTs) and seven observational studies (Cohort and case controls). A total of 714 patients were evaluated, comprising 295 females (41.3%) and 419 males (58.7%), with a mean age of 60.11 years (SD = 10.22).

Conclusion:
The studies underscore the ongoing debate regarding the optimal surgical approach for IOL implantation in cases of insufficient capsular support. Both anterior chamber and retropupillary techniques demonstrates efficacy, with the latter offering potential advantages through retropupillary iris-claw IOL implantation via scleral approach. However, larger-scale studies with longer follow-up periods are still needed to definitively establish the relative merits of the different procedures.
Management of a cauda equina syndrome in a 24 years old military person: a case report
Authors: Poudel Sabin , Adhikari Samikshya , Pokharel Aashutosh , Mishra Anup , Pratik Mrigank 
Published: December 2024

Introduction:
Cauda equina syndrome (CES) is a rare condition that arises due to various underlying conditions and comprises pentad back pain, saddle anesthesia, bowel bladder disorder, sensory and motor dysfunction, and sexual dysfunction.

Case presentations:
The authors hereby present a case of CES in a 24 years old military person who was actively involved in exercise and heavy weight lifting. He was received at the emergency department with symptoms of low back pain with bladder and bowel incontinence, diagnosis of CES was made based on history, clinical examination, and radiological assessments. He was treated under expert surveillance. After the initial treatment he was admitted in the ward for almost a month due to intolerable low back pain. However currently he is showing good signs of recovery in 6 months follow-up.

Clinical discussion:
Early diagnosis of CES is likely to be beneficial as it helps delay deterioration, prevents further complications and improve the quality of life of patients but the diagnosis of this syndrome is usually delayed due to unavailability of diagnostic facilities in every health care center. So, assessment of this syndrome should be made among patient presenting with suggestive symptoms for timely diagnosis and better outcome.

Conclusion:
CES is a surgical emergency requiring early diagnosis and early intervention to prevent further complications.
Ectopic ureter presenting as a scrotal fistula associated with unilateral atrophic kidney: a rare case report
Authors: Gyawali Sushil , Gyawali Sushila , Neupane Subita , Koirala Dinesh Prasad , Dahal Geharaj 
Published: December 2024

Introduction:
An ectopic ureter is the one that reaches any place other than the trigone in the bladder, in the bladder neck or distal to it and is often associated with a single or duplicated collecting system, associated with renal dysplasia and obstruction. Ectopic ureter opening into the scrotal base as urocutaneous fistula is a rare finding.

Case presentation:
A 14 years old male child presented with intermittent serous discharge from the base of scrotum for 2 months, and unilateral scrotal swelling for 1 week. On evaluation of the condition as scrotal sinus, the X-ray fistulogram and micturating cystourethrogram suggested to be urocutaneous fistula, later confirmed with computed tomography of abdomen and pelvis to be right ectopic ureter opening into scrotum associated with hypoplastic right kidney. The patient underwent open excision of ectopic ureter with right nephrectomy. The histopathological report also confirmed our diagnosis.

Discussion:
An ectopic ureter, a congenital anomaly, may open anywhere from the bladder neck to the perineum and into the vagina, uterus and even the rectum; however commonly in posterior urethra, seminal vesicle, prostatic utricle, and ejaculatory duct in boys. Scrotum is an unusual site for single right ectopic ureter opening, as presented in our case. For this urocutaneous fistula associated with non-functioning atrophic right kidney, the complete removal of the right kidney and ectopic ureter was performed.

Conclusion:
Ectopic ureter can present rarely as scrotal fistula. Although difficult to diagnose, early suspicion of ectopic ureter in symptomatic pediatric age group with proper imaging modality can help to evaluate the disease condition, help in timely treatment and decrease the morbidity.
Assessment of the levels of resistance ofTropilaelaps mercedesaeto a variety of synthetic miticide
Authors: Gill Maggie C , Chuttong Bajaree , Davies Paul , Earl Avril , Tonge George , Etheridge Dan 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThe introduction of the western honey bee Apis mellifera to Asia has seen the parasitic mitesVarroadestructor andTropilaelapsspp. transfer from their native Asian honey bee hosts (Apis cerana and Apis dorsata respectively) to infest the brood of A. mellifera causing significant damage to colonies and colony losses.T. mercedesaewas recently detected in Europe for the first time in A. mellifera colonies and is considered a more damaging parasite of A. mellifera thanVarroa. Beekeepers rely heavily on the use of synthetic miticides and organic chemicals to controlVarroaandTropilaelapswhich has resulted inVarroadeveloping resistance to many synthetic miticides and these treatments becoming less effective. Less is known about chemical resistance inTropilaelapsas no study has been undertaken that specifically looks at this issue, but there is evidence to suggest thatTropilaelapsdo have resistance to chemicals such as Amitraz, Coumaphos, Flumethrin and Fluvalinate. The use of synthetic miticides is widely recommended for surveillance and detection ofTropilaelapsand this recommendation forms a part of the contingency response of several government agencies. The study developed a novel chemical resistance test forTropilaelapsand sought to test the efficacy of commercially available synthetic miticides and found that mites were resistant to all the synthetic chemical treatments tested apart from Amitraz which was shown to be 64% effective. Understanding and managing miticide resistance in this species is critical to prevent its further spread and colony losses.