bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Percutaneous internal fixation with the monoplanar pedicle screws in the treatment of multilevel thoracolumbar fractures: a case series of 6 cases
Authors: Li Xianglong , Zhang Yongfeng , Liu Hao , Xu Shuang , Li Lidong , Chen Beiyu , Wang Zhe , Ding Tan 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Fixed-axis screw and polyaxial screw exposed many disadvantages in the treatment of multiple thoracolumbar fractures. This is the first report on the treatment of multiple thoracolumbar fractures with percutaneous axial monoplanar pedicle screw. Six patients with multiple vertebral fractures were treated with monoplanar pedicle screw implantation and distraction reduction under general anesthesia. The height correction of injured vertebrae, T11-L2 kyphosis angle, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores were measured before and after operation to evaluate the effectiveness of surgical treatment. All patients underwent smooth surgery, with an average operation time of 117.5 minutes and an average intraoperative blood loss of 71.7 ml. All patients were able to walk with the aid of a waist brace on the 3rd postoperative day and discharged on the 4th postoperative day. Low back pain symptoms were significantly relieved after operation. VAS score, ODI dysfunction index, the height correction of injured vertebrae, T11-L2 kyphosis angle and LL were all satisfactorily corrected immediately after surgery, and satisfactory results were maintained at 6 and 12 months after surgery. All patients received minimally invasive removal of internal fixation at the original surgical incision during 12–14 months after surgery, and the injured vertebrae were well reduced without significant height loss of the injured vertebrae. The use of percutaneous monoplanar pedicle screws for the treatment of multiple thoracolumbar fractures is a minimally invasive technique with satisfactory long-term reduction effect.
A finite element biomechanical study of anterior transpedicular root screw plate fixation system in the lower cervical spine
Authors: Xu Xiaoping , Hou Zhipeng , Zhao Liujun 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

To compare the biomechanical properties of anterior transpedicular root screw (ATPRS), anterior transpedicular screw (ATPS) and anterior cervical locked-plate (ACLP) in the lower cervical spine by finite element method. We collect CT data of the cervical spine from a healthy 34-year-old adult male volunteer. Use Mimics 10.01 software to build a nonlinear complete model of the lower cervical spine. These models were subjected to 75N axial force and 1.5 N·M to induce various movements. The range of motion (ROM) and stress distribution of each model under different working conditions were compared. Compared with the intact model, the ROM in the ACLP, ATPS and ATPRS groups decreased to 0.65, 0.58 and 0.62 during flexion and extension. In terms of titanium mesh graft stress, the ATPS and ATPRS groups had the largest load during extension and the smallest load during flexion. In terms of bone-screw interface stress, the peak stress around screw C7 was higher than that around screw C4 during extension in ACLP, ATPS and ATPRS groups, respectively. Our results indicate that the biomechanical characteristics of anterior transpedicular root screw system are favorable.
Nomogram for early major adverse event in infants after cardiac surgery: a retrospective study
Authors: Yang Fan , Li Xia , Zhu Zhiyuan , Lu Zhongyuan , Wang Shilin , Yue Chao , Duan Leilei , Wang Xu 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background Early major adverse event has a high mortality rate after cardiac surgery. In this study, our goal was to investigate the risk factors associated with early MAE in infants after cardiac surgery, develop a prediction model, and assess its accuracy in predicting outcomes.
Methods A model was constructed incorporating 766 patients at our Hospital from January 2020 to December 2021. Participants were randomly divided into modelling and validation group using a 7:3 ratio. We utilized the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression analysis to screen the variables, and then conducted a multiple logistic regression analysis to create a prediction nomogram.
Results The risk factors of MAE were weight, aortic clamp time, postoperative 8th hour lactate, off-CPB blood glucose and postoperative 4 hours urine output. The Hosmer−Lemeshowtest demonstrated that the model was a good fit (χ²=6.105, p=0.636). The clinical decision curve analysis showed significantly better net benefit in the predictive model, as well as that in the validation cohort.
Conclusion The prediction model based on perioperative factors was developed to screen the occurrence of early MAE in infants after cardiac surgery. It provided physicians with an effective tool for the early prediction, and took timely preventive measures.
Strengthening Climate Disaster Education for Youth in Black Communities across Western Canada
Authors: Acharibasam John Bosco , Datta Ranjan , Sindani Nicole 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Strengthening climate disaster education for youth in Black communities across Western Canada is critical for enhancing their resilience to climate risks and developing sustainable communities. Strengthening climate disaster education for youth in Black communities across Western Canada, particularly in the province of Saskatchewan, is essential. Saskatchewan faces increasing vulnerability to climate-related risks such as snowstorms, forest fires, heatwaves, droughts, and floods. Recognizing Black communities' unique perspectives and experiences is vital for developing youth engagement with climate disaster risks. We used decolonial research as our theoretical framework and focused on community-based participatory research design to engage Black youth in meaningful climate disaster education. We followed sharing circles as our research method to engage Black youth in Saskatchewan, ensuring their voices were heard and their specific educational needs were addressed. Our study highlights the importance of tailoring educational programs to meet Black youth's unique experiences and needs, ultimately promoting resilience, agency, and empowerment within Black communities. We hope in this paper, our study findings have the potential to significantly impact Black youth in navigating the extreme effects of climate change in Canada.
Facilitating heart disease prediction using deep learning models founded on routinely accessible health data
Authors: Zou Runjie , Li Aimin , Chen Dekun , Li Min 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases are the primary cause of non-natural deaths globally, accounting for over 18 million fatalities annually. Therefore, expandable and low-cost cardiac risk prediction systems are crucial for mitigating the impact of heart diseases on human health. In this work, we deploy a Heart Disease Risk Prediction System (HDRPS) ,a deep learning-based cardiac risk prediction system that utilizes affordable health data and electrocardiogram (ECG) images for cardiac risk assessment. In the data prediction segment, a Deep Neural Network Classification Model (DNNCM) was initially developed based on the original 13-feature UCI dataset, achieving a binary classification accuracy of 0.9655. After removing five hard-to-obtain features from the 13-feature UCI dataset, the α part of Heart Disease Risk Prediction Model (HDRPMα), a deep neural network model was developed based on the 8-feature UCI dataset. This model, utilizing eight easily accessible health data points, reached a binary classification accuracy of 0.917. In the image prediction segment, we use a database established from ECG images easily exported from smart wearable devices. The HDRPMβ convolutional neural network model developed for this database achieved an accuracy of 0.95. In the field of AI-driven cardiac disease prediction, HDRPS has significantly improved upon the practical limitations of previous research models, making substantial advances in usability. HDRPS could potentially be employed for national-level large-scale cardiac risk screenings and personal cardiac health monitoring, contributing to humanity's fight against heart disease.
Differential effects of calcineurin inhibitors on plasma cells: Potential therapy for antibody- mediated rejection
Authors: Tsai Ching-Yi , Lin Yu-Li , Lai Ting-Yu , Chen Jia-Huang , Chiang Chih-Kang , Lee Chih Yuan 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Calcineurin inhibitors, including cyclosporine and tacrolimus, are widely used to prevent postoperative rejection after solid organ transplantation and have successfully prolonged the survival of allografts since their introduction. The use of calcineurin inhibitors has dramatically reduced the rate of acute cellular rejection; however, the long-term survival of allografts is still compromised by the damage caused by alloantibodies and antibody-mediated rejection (AMR). Currently, AMR is the most important issue in controlling organ transplantation rejection. The pathophysiological mechanism of AMR is associated with organ damage after prolonged exposure to alloantibodies, which are synthesized and secreted by plasma cells. Therefore, targeting plasma cells to develop a treatment for AMR is an important issue. Since the introduction of tacrolimus (FK506) into the field of organ transplantation, FK506 has successfully suppressed the incidence of acute cellular rejection but is not satisfactory in terms of antibody-mediated rejection. In our study, we found that cyclosporine (CsA) induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in plasma cells, which was lower in the presence of FK506. The expression of CD138 in plasma cells can prolong the half-life of plasma cells; we found that ER stress in plasma cells induced by CsA could downregulate the protein expression of CD138, inhibit the p-STAT3 signaling and reduce cell survival, thus leading to cell death. Our findings offer an updated insight into the pharmacological effects of CsA on plasma cells, providing valuable options for tailoring treatment strategies in transplant patients undergoing treatment for AMR.
Spatio-Temporal Analysis of Shoreline Movements along the Coast from Keta to Kedzi in the Volta Region-Ghana
Authors: Jnr Gameli Agbleze , Dadson Ishmael Yaw , Asamoah Yaw 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

In response to the inadequacy of traditional mitigation methods along Ghana's eastern shoreline and other eroded coastal areas, this study investigates the spatio-temporal dynamics of shoreline movements along the coastal stretch from Keta to Kedzi, in the Volta Region of Ghana. The research spans the period from 1990 to 2020 and employs shoreline data derived from high-resolution aerial imagery, alongside Landsat 7 and 8 images. Utilizing Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS) software 5.1 and ArcGIS/ArcMap 10.8.2, the analysis incorporates key metrics such as Shoreline Change Envelope (SCE), Net Shoreline Movement (NSM), and End Point Rate (EPR). The findings reveal a nuanced pattern, with approximately six out of eight kilometres experiencing moderate to high accretion, while the remaining stretch faced significant erosion. Specifically, Keta exhibited an average NSM of 99.98 metres and an EPR of 5.26 metres per year. Vodza recorded an average NSM of 130.21 metres and an EPR of 6.85 metres per year. Conversely, Kedzi displayed an average NSM of -73 metres and an EPR of -3.87 metres per year. This study underscores the necessity for periodic monitoring, recommending a five-year interval for researchers and relevant stakeholders, including the Ministry of Water Resources, Works, and Housing. Additionally, it emphasizes the imperative for targeted intervention, especially Kedzi due to the pronounced and pervasive nature of erosion in that area.
Assessment of Genetic Diversity of Euphorbia hirta Linn in the Philippines using sequence-related amplified polymorphism (SRAP) markers
Authors: Moreno Patrick Gabriel G. , Relacion Patrick R. , III Francisco M. Heralde 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Euphorbia hirta Linn. is a medicinal plant found in the Philippines and known for its application for dengue management. E. hirta collected from different geographical locations have demonstrated variations in anti-thrombocytopenic activity in vivo. Hence, it is necessary to determine the intraspecific diversity of E. hirta to provide insights on the observed bioactivity. In this study, thirty-one (31) E. hirta plant specimens were collected from various geographic locations in the Philippines. Species identity was confirmed through DNA barcoding using rbcL and matK primers. Identification of intraspecies genetic variations were made through Sequence-Related Amplified Polymorphism (SRAP) analysis. Three (3) SRAP primer pairs produced 23 distinct and reproducible bands with average percent polymorphism of 84.63. The average values of the evaluation indices Nei’s genetic diversity (H) and Shannon’s diversity index (I), and the Polymorphic Information Content (PIC) of the primers were 0.332 ± 0.017, 0.484 ± 0.024, and 0.425, respectively. A moderate genetic differentiation (Fst = 0.172; P value = 0.001) were also found in the E. hirta accessions. UPGMA clustering based on the presence or absence of these bands grouped the plant samples into three clusters. Geographical distance did not play a role in the clustering. Two gene loci were also identified to have a potential use as markers for species identification. The study has shown the utility of SRAP markers to generate DNA fingerprints and identify E. hirta genetic variants. This may be adapted as a standard method in the molecular characterization of medicinally important plant samples.
Anatomic association between the gastrocolic trunk of Henle and right colic artery by high-quality CT venography
Authors: Zhao Xinzhe , Zhang Hongda , Zhao Hengyu , Kong Decan , Zeng Weijie , Gao Feng , Meng Xiaochun , Ke Jia 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

In hepatic flexure and transverse colon cancer surgeries, mobilizing the right mesocolon and precisely dissecting the gastrocolic trunk of Henle (GTH) are crucial. Previous classifications of GTH tributaries do not guide radical right hemicolectomy due to post-procedural anatomical acquisition. This study analyzed vessel associations, including the middle colic vein (MCV) converging site, right colic artery (RCA) presence, and other GTH tributaries, using ultra-thin CT for reconstruction. GTH anatomy was categorized into medial and lateral types based on colic tributary convergence relative to ASPDV. Results showed the colic tributary joined GTH lateral to ASPDV in 45.81% and medial in 54.19% of cases. RCA presence was strongly linked to the lateral GTH type (56.76% vs. 43.24%, p < 0.001) when RCA was absent. MCV converged into the superior mesenteric vein (SMV) on the left side in 23.15% of cases, correlating with the right colic vein presence (odds ratio = 3.563, p = 0.007). This novel GTH variation pattern via high-level CT venography significantly correlates with RCA presence, aiding surgeons in anticipating GTH anatomy during laparoscopic radical right hemicolectomy.
Impact of Water Absorption on the Mechanical Properties of PLA and PLA/CF Composites with Reduced Infill Density
Authors: N VINOTH BABU , Venkateshwaran N , Vandhana Catherine , Shivakumar Rohit 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Additively manufactured Polylactic Acid (PLA) and Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polylactic Acid (PLA/CF) composites are promising materials for use in applications involving moisture environments. Carbon fiber (CF) is known to enhance the mechanical properties of PLA composites. However, recent studies suggest that the addition of CF may not consistently improve mechanical performance under moisture exposure. Moreover, most existing studies on moisture absorption use specimens with 100% infill density, whereas practical applications often require reduced material usage to enhance performance under loads with reduced weight, necessitating infill densities lower than 100%. One of the critical aspects of additive manufacturing is the integration of topology optimization in products, which often involves using less than 100% infill density to achieve optimized designs. This study aims to fill the gap in the literature by providing valuable insights into the effects of moisture absorption on PLA and PLA/CF composites with less than 100% infill density. This study aims to conduct a comparative analysis between PLA and PLA/CF in moisture environments by immersing samples in distilled water and sea water for a period of five weeks. Results indicate that PLA/CF composites exhibit higher moisture absorption rates and more significant dimensional changes compared to pure PLA, particularly when exposed to sea water. Mechanical testing, including tensile, flexural, and inter-laminar shear strength (ILSS) tests, as well as vibration tests, reveals that both materials experience strength degradation due to water absorption, with PLA/CF showing more pronounced reductions, especially in sea water conditions.
Development of a Nomogram Model for Predicting Severe Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Pneumonia in Children and Adolescents: A Multivariate Analysis Approach
Authors: Sun Qi , Zhou Ying , Cao Tong , Lu Jing , Li Songtao , Zhou Jin 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The objective of this study was to develop a nomogram model for the prediction of severe Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (SMPP) in children and adolescent. Through multivariate analysis, a total of six predictors, namely gender, PCR result, cough days, Neutrophil (N), hemoglobin (Hb), and platelet (PLT) were identified. These predictors were then incorporated into a nomogram to estimate the likelihood of developing SMPP. The nomogram exhibited favorable predictive accuracy, as evidenced by a C-index of 0.865. Moreover, and the discriminative ability of the nomogram was validated through ROC analysis, yielding an AUC value of 0.865. Furthermore, the clinical utility of the nomogram was evaluated by employing DCA curves, which demonstrated its efficacy in predicting the occurrence of severe pneumonia. Additionally, mediation analysis elucidated that cough days, N and PLT partially mediated the relationship between PCR result and the development of SMPP. In summary, our findings indicate that the nomogram holds significant potential as a valuable predictive tool for clinicians in the context of SMPP.
A multi-observer study on the effectiveness of Dual-energy CT in diagnosing sacral fractures: assessment of diagnostic accuracy and intra- and inter-rater reliabilities
Authors: Oda Takahiro , Kitada Shimpei , Hirase Hitoshi , Iwasa Kenjiro , Niikura Takahiro 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Evaluating sacral fractures is crucial in fragility fractures of the pelvis. Dual-energy CT (DECT) is considered useful for diagnosing unclear fractures on single-energy CT (SECT). This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of DECT in diagnosing sacral fractures.
Methods
Thirty cases suspected of sacral fractures who underwent SECT, DECT, and MRI, and were diagnosed for the presence of fractures by three inexperienced surgeons (group I) and three experienced surgeons (group E). Diagnoses were made initially using SECT (pre-DECT) and then reassessed including DECT (post-DECT). This process was repeated twice. Presence of fractures was determined based on MRI. Sensitivity, specificity, inter-rater and intra-rater reliability, and diagnostic accuracy were calculated. Diagnostic accuracy was statistically compared between two groups.
Results
Sensitivity was 0.73 in pre-DECT and 0.9 in post-DECT, while specificity was 0.83 in pre-DECT and 0.91 in post-DECT. Sensitivity significantly improved with the addition of DECT (McNemar test: p < 0.001). Intra-rater reliability (Fleiss' kappa coefficient) was 0.44 in pre-DECT and 0.76 in post-DECT. Inter-rater reliability (Cohen's kappa coefficient) was 0.6 in pre-DECT and 0.81 in post-DECT. Diagnostic accuracy was significantly lower in group I than group E in pre-DECT (P = 0.019, 0.048), but there was no significant difference between two groups in post-DECT.
Conclusion
Combined use of DECT with SECT improved the detection rate of sacral fractures and enhanced intra-rater and inter-rater reliability. High diagnostic accuracy was achieved regardless of the observer's experience. These results indicate that DECT is a useful imaging modality for diagnosing sacral fractures.
Case Report: CSF hypotension secondary to a free syringo subarachnoid peritoneal shunt
Authors: Johnson Agustin Ruiz , Rugilo Carlos Adrian , Argañaraz Romina Alejandra 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Syringomyelia is present in 40% of pediatric patients with Chiari malformation. Typically treated with posterior fossa decompression, some cases require further intervention such as syrinx shunting. We report a 16-year-old female with Chiari type 1 malformation and syringomyelia who underwent posterior fossa decompression and subsequent free syringo-subarachnoid-peritoneal shunting. The patient developed symptoms of CSF overdrainage, and imaging indicated CSF hypotension. Distal catheter ligation temporarily improved symptoms, but eventually, a programmable ventricular shunt was necessary due to shunt dependence. This case highlights the rare complication of CSF overdrainage from syrinx shunting and the importance of shunt selection considerations.
Reduplicative paramnesia after right basal ganglia hemorrhage
Authors: Fellbrich Anja , Heldmann Marcus , Münte Thomas F. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Reduplicative paramnesia (RP) is a delusional misidentification syndrome first described by Arnold Pick in which individuals believe they are in a duplicate location. RP can manifest as place reduplication, chimeric assimilation, or confabulatory mislocation, with parallels to person misidentification syndromes like Capgras and Fregoli. Though associated with various conditions, stroke-induced lesions are the most common cause, as evidenced by studies identifying brain network disruptions linked to RP.
Case presentation
This case study involves a 71-year-old hypertensive male who presented with a right-sided caudate nucleus hemorrhage, leading to intensive care, ventricular drainage, and rehabilitation. Fourteen months post-stroke, the patient exhibited delusional beliefs that his apartment had been swapped with a similar one in another town. Comprehensive neuropsychological assessment and advanced neuroimaging were performed to elucidate the underlying neural correlates. Neuropsychological testing revealed normal verbal memory and interference control but significant deficits in spatial perception and memory for geometrical shapes. Neuroimaging identified a lesion centered upon the right caudate nucleus, consistent with structural disconnection maps associated with RP.
Conclusions
This case highlights RP as complication following stroke, in this case due to functional disconnection of frontal and temporal regions on the right hemisphere. The findings underscore the importance of considering RP in differential diagnoses of post-stroke confusion and the potential utility of advanced imaging techniques in identifying at-risk patients.