bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Lumbar offset distance: A simplified metric for evaluation of the lumbar spine alignment
Authors: Shirodkar Kapil , Gavvala Sai Niharika , Ariyaratne Sisith , Jenko Nathan , Nischal Neha , Iyengar Karthikeyan P. , Mehta Jwalant , Botchu Rajesh 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
A healthy lower back is essential for optimal spinal function and overall wellness. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become the gold standard in assessing lumbar spine disease. This article aims to evaluate the precision and efficacy of the lumbar offset distance (LOD) as a novel MRI parameter designed to determine the lumbar spine alignment. normally measured as we compared it to a new parameter based on length.

Materials and Methods:
Supine sagittal magnetic resonance images of 101 patients who underwent lumbar spine MRI scans were analyzed. We focused on L1–L5 lumbar lordosis angle (LLA) and LOD to assess lumbar spine alignment. Diagnostic cutoff values for LOD measurements were determined, and their diagnostic accuracies were evaluated.

Results:
The normal LLA in our dataset was 23°–45°, and the normal LOD was 5–15 mm. Using linear regression, the range of 6–14 mm correlates to the LLA range of 20°–45°, which would define the standard lumbar offset as normal between 6 and 14 mm. Hence, lumbar hypolordosis was defined as <6 mm, and lumbar hyperlordosis was defined as more than 14 mm. Our study showed a good correlation between the LOD and LLA and is particularly useful in identifying cases of normal lumbar lordosis, hypolordosis, and hyperlordosis.

Conclusion:
Linear measurements show good diagnostic accuracy of LOD in evaluating lumbar spinal alignment, including normal alignment, hypolordosis, and hyperlordosis.
Short-term outcomes after spinal surgery for metastatic breast cancer: A single-center analysis
Authors: Gomes Nicole Iafigliola , de Almeida Rômulo Augusto Andrade , Joaquim Andrei Fernandes 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
Advances in detection and breast cancer treatment lead to higher survival rates, with more patients living with spine metastases. Those surgeries are palliative; however, they can improve the quality of life (QOL).

Objective:
The aim of this study is to report pain and neurological function outcomes after surgery for spinal metastatic disease of breast cancer patients of a single institution. Complications were recorded.

Materials and Methods:
A retrospective, single-center, single-arm study was performed. Consecutive patients who underwent spinal surgery were included. We analyzed demographic, surgical, histopathological, and clinical data.

Results:
Seventeen women were included. Three patients (17.6%) did not present pre- and postoperative pain (n = 3), 6 (35.3%) had pain in both situations, and 8 (47.1%) were pain-free postoperatively (P = 0.013). Ten (58.8%) patients had preoperative deficits: 3 (30%) did not improve and 7 (70%) improved after surgery. Six cases (35.2%) did not present preoperative deficits and did not get worse (n = 6). The Frankel classification after the following time showed that 11 patients (64.7%) remained stable after surgery and 5 patients (29.4%) got better. A single patient (5.6%) had deterioration of strength. Two patients (11.7%) had intraoperative complications.

Conclusions:
Pain was significantly improved by surgery, with also a possibly positive effect on functionality. Considering the low complication rates, surgery is still a useful tool in the management of spinal metastases in breast cancer patients and may be related to better QOL.
The “Mustache sign:” An ancillary radiological sign for detecting L5/S1 spondylolisthesis
Authors: Adlan Amirul , Ariyaratne Sisith , Velicheti Sandeep , Petrou Elias , Iyengar Karthikeyan P. , Jenko Nathan , Botchu Rajesh 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction and Aims:
Grade 1 spondylolisthesis can be challenging to detect on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), particularly for spinal surgeons and radiologists with limited experience interpreting spinal MRIs. This study aims to describe a unique sign described as a “mustache sign,” which may assist in detecting subtle Grade I spondylolisthesis on sagittal sequences on MRI of the spine.

Patients and Methods:
A retrospective review of 50 lumbar spine MRI scans of patients with Grade I spondylolisthesis of L5/S1 performed over 3 years was conducted at a tertiary orthopedic spinal center in the United Kingdom. The scans were assessed for the presence of the “mustache sign” and findings were independently recorded by one musculoskeletal radiology registrar and one fellowship trained musculoskeletal radiologist with over 10 years of experience.

Results:
There were 35 females (70%) and 15 males (30%). The patient’s mean age was 54.3 years (13–82). The “mustache sign” was present in 13 (26%) of these patients. Twelve of 13 scans (92%) positive for the sign also demonstrated pars interarticularis defects (P < 0.001, Fisher’s Exact test), compared to those without the sign. There was excellent interobserver reliability with a kappa of 1.

Conclusion:
The “mustache sign” on MRI spine correlates well with the presence of Grade I spondylolisthesis. This ancillary sign can complement other previously described radiological findings on sagittal MRI sequences to confirm Grade I spondylolisthesis.
Correlation between sagittal morphology of lower lumbar end plate and degenerative changes in patients with lumbar disc herniation
Authors: Yu Yang , Xu Chongqing 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

Objective:
As an important anatomic factor in the process of lumbar disc herniation (LDH), the correlation between end plate sagittal morphology and intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is unclear. Moreover, research on imaging data of lumbar end plate in patients with LDH is still insufficient. Our study aimed to observe the morphological change of the lower lumbar end plate (L3-S1) in patients with LDH on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and analyze its correlation with the degree of IDD.

Materials and Methods:
A total of 116 patients were included in the study. Based on their MRI, we divided end plates into three types (concave, flat, and irregular), assigned intervertebral discs with Grade I–V given 1–5 points successively according to the Pfirrmann system, and determined whether there was Modic change of each end plate. The correlation between the morphology of the end plate and the degree of IDD was analyzed.

Results:
There was an excellent interobserver agreement for each item we analyzed (interclass correlation coefficient >0.75). Concave end plate appeared most frequently (187, 53.7%) and was mainly distributed in L3/4 and L4/5, whereas irregular end plate was the least common type (54, 15.5%) and mainly concentrated in L5/S1. The IDD degree of the corresponding disc increased gradually from concave (3.27 ± 0.81) to irregular end plates (4.25 ± 0.79) (P < 0.05). Irregular end plates were more likely to have Modic changes than concave and flat end plates (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:
The sagittal morphology of the lower lumbar end plate is related to modic changes and degree of IDD (based on the Pfirrmann grading system) in patients with LDH, and the concave end plate mostly reflects a lower degree of lumbar disc degeneration, which has substantial clinical significance.
Treatment of Infected Nonunion of Fracture of the Proximal Third of Tibia Using Ilizarov Ring Fixator: A Case Series
Authors: Kulkarni Madhura Sujay , Kulkarni Milind , Kulkarni Ruta 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Nonunions (NUs) of the fractured proximal third of the tibia are challenging to manage owing to a capacious canal and scarce anterior soft-tissue cover. Infection further complicates the use of internal fixators in such patients. We present a study of 25 cases of infected NU of the proximal third of the tibia that we treated using the Ilizarov ring fixator over 10 years.

Materials and Methods:
Twenty-three men and two women with infected NU of the proximal tibial meta-diaphyseal junction were studied. The mean age of the patients was 39.2 years. Treatment involved thorough debridement of the NU site with freshening of the bone ends followed by the application of a 3-ring hybrid Ilizarov construct. The patients were followed at regular intervals to assess the infection control, union, limb function, and complications.

Results:
Successful union and eradication of infection were achieved in 21 patients. Union was not satisfactory in four cases. The average fixator time was 7.12 months. Average knee flexion of 99.2° was observed. The Association for the Study and Application of the Methods of Ilizarov score was excellent in 56% of cases and good in 28%. Six patients required soft-tissue reconstruction. One patient suffered a fracture at the distal pin site while one had a refracture 4 months after treatment completion. Three patients developed a discharging sinus which required debridement and oral antibiotics.

Conclusion:
The Ilizarov construct provides multilevel, multidirectional, and multiplanar stability, aiding early mobility. Appropriate case selection, sound soft-tissue reconstruction, robust infection control, and good patient compliance are important for the success of the treatment.
Clinical Profile of Patients with Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Yareeda Sireesha , Afshan Jabeen S. , Neeharika Mathukumalli L. , Kandadai Rukmini M. , Turaga Suryaprabha P. , Borgohain Rupam 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objective:
The prevalence of pediatric onset multiple sclerosis (POMS) is 0.69–26.92 per 100,000 individuals. Here we describe the clinical profile and follow-up of patients with POMS from India where the data are scarce.

Materials and Methods:
This is a retrospective observational study; the data were collected from the ongoing MS registry from 2007. The clinical and demographic profile was studied and therapy response was documented.

Results:
There were nine patients with POMS with a mean age of 16.8 years (13–19). The lag in the diagnosis ranged from 0 to 8 years (mean of 2.5 years). Six had relapsing remitting variant of MS (RRMS). Optic neuritis was the most common presentation (44%). Oligoclonal bands were positive in 5 (55%).

Conclusion:
Optic neuritis was the common symptom followed by ataxia due to brainstem or spinal cord involvement. The lag period was long and the impairment in academic performance and social functioning was a concern.
Genetic Studies of Extra Early Maize Genotypes Under Low Nitrogen
Authors: Amuzu G. , Ribeiro P.F. , Asante M.D. , Lamptey J.N.L. 
Published: September 2024

Nitrogen (N) is a major limiting factor associated with maize production in sub-Saharan Africa. Low N tolerant hybrids can absorb and utilise N from the soil as well as applied fertilisers, making them efficient users of N. This study focused on identifying inbred lines with desirable GCA for grain yield and other agronomic traits under low N, determining the gene action governing grain yield and other agronomic traits under low N and estimating the genotypic variability for grain yield and other agronomic traits among extra early maize hybrids. Ten extra early white endosperm maize inbred lines were crossed to five testers in a line tester mating design to -1 generate fifty (50) single cross hybrids (SCH) which were evaluated under low N (30 kg N ha ) -1 and optimum N (90 kg N ha ). The combined analysis of variance (ANOVA) under low and optimum N showed significant mean squares for the environment and hybrids but non-significant hybrid environment interaction mean squares for grain yield (GY) under low N. General combining ability of line and tester as well as specific combining ability showed significant mean squares for GYunder both low and optimum N environments. Non-additive gene action governed GY under low and optimum N. GY had moderate genotypic coefficient of variability and high genetic advance as a percentage of mean under low and optimum N. Lines CRIZEEL-W-242 and CRIZEEL-W-261 were the best inbred lines identified under low and optimum N conditions, hence should be used in recurrent selection or other hybridization programmes.
Genetic variations of rice yellow mottle virus disease on selected rice (<i>Oryza sativa L</i>) genotypes and their effects on yield and yield-related traits
Authors: Amadu B. , Asante M.D. , Oppong A. , Tawiah I. , Gamenyah D.D. , Adetimirin V.O. , Kyung-Ho K. 
Published: September 2024

Rice yellow mottle virus (RYMV) is one of the most important disease affecting rice production in Africa. This research aimed to estimate the effect of RYMV disease on some yield-related traits in Korean rice germplasm recently introduced into Ghana and identify new sources of RYMV resistance for use in breeding. One hundred and seventy-six (176) rice genotypes including two highly resistant and a susceptible check, were used for this research. The experiment was laid in 4 × 44 lattice design with four replications in RYMV inoculated and non-RYMV inoculated environments in a screen house at CSIR-Crops Research Institute (CRI), Fumesua, Ghana, in 2019. The non- RYMV inoculated environment served as a control. Significant positive correlations were observed between disease severity and percentage grain yield reduction. RYMV reduced the culm length, tiller number, plant height, panicle number, biomass, and grain yield. The first five principal components explained 92.39% of the variation in the germplasm, with panicle number, tiller number, heading date, grain yield/plant and disease severity being the main discriminatory traits. The biplot indicated that genotypes 8261112 and 8261119, together with Gigante and Tog7291 (resistant checks), were the least impacted by the disease. We identified four main clusters from the hierarchical cluster analysis. Five highly resistant and 10 resistant genotypes were identified. The newly identified resistant genotypes will be used in breeding for resistance to RYMVdisease in Africa.
Effect of organic fertilizers on growth performance of <i>Mansonia altissima</i> A. Chev. seedlings
Authors: M.O. Ojo  , I.O. Asinwa  , O.H. Odomo  
Published: September 2024

Mansonia altissima A. Chev plays an important role in timber industry but is a very slow growing species at seedling stage. The study, therefore, investigated the influence of different organic fertilizers on the growth potentials of M. altissima with a view to producing seedlings of high vigour for the establishment of healthy plantation. Two weeks old uniform seedlings of M. altissima were transplanted into the polythene pots containing topsoil amended with different organic manures. There were four (4) treatments {Topsoil + Goat droppings (T1); Topsoil + Poultry droppings (T2); Topsoil + Pig droppings (T3) and Topsoil alone (control) (T4)}, replicated five times. The experimental design was a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Data on shoot heights (cm), collar diameters (mm), leaf area (cm2) and leaf production were collected weekly and analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA). There were significant differences (p<0.05) among the treatments in shoot heights, leaf production and leaf area. But there was no significant difference in collar diameter (p>0.05). T1 had highest mean shoot height (9.9±1.35cm), Leaf production (2.0±0.29) and Leaf area (29.17±5.60 cm2) while the least leaf production (1.89+0.24) was observed in the control treatment. Application of different organic fertilizers had significant effects on the growth performance of Mansonia altissima seedlings within period of study with the best performance in the seedlings raised with T1.
Assessment of potential contributions of biomass load to fire hazards in Arakanga Forest Reserve, Ogun State, Nigeria
Authors: O.B. Banjo  , R.O. Adewale  , W.A. Salami  , M.A. Kolapo  , A.O. Oso  , A.B. Balogun  
Published: September 2024

Forest fire is an uncontrolled combustion that burns through the forest's organic materials, such as trees, brush and grasses. Arakanga Forest Reserve is prone to fire outbreak and there is lack of data to understand fire risks, extent and potential biomass load that contribute to fire outbreak and biomass loss. fire risk indices (FRI) were determined from historical records in 2021 of six (6) burnt patches identified in the forest reserves. Eight (8) temporary sample plots (TSP) of 20m x 20m were systematically demarcated in each of the identified burnt patch where complete enumeration of tree species, including their height and diameter at breast height (DBH) were measured. Above ground biomass (AGB) was computed from combination of tree height, DBH, form factor and biomass expansion factor (BEF). Data were analysed using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Total of 520 tree stands, comprising of Azadirachta indica, Gmelina arborea, Pinus carribaea and Tectona grandis were enumerated. Mean DBH and height of tree observed were 10.3 ± 0.41 cm and 12.60 ± 3.23 m respectively. Burnt patches identified in Arakanga Forest Reserve from historical records ranged between 4.32 ha and 10.4 ha. The amount of AGB load was highest in Patch 1 at 828.77 ± 166.35 Mg/ha, followed by Patch 3 at 806.89 ± 246.05 Mg/ha, with the least AGB load occurring in Patch 4 as 514.55 ± 215.38 Mg/ha. There was no significant difference (p > 0.79) in the AGB load among the burnt patches identified in the forest reserve. However, FRI was significantly (p<0.05) highest in Patch 1 where AGB was highest and least in Patch 4 where AGB was lowest. This study provides documentary evidence of amount of potential AGB load that could contribute to significant fire risk and destruction of forest ecosystem.
Influence of irrigation regimes, variety and cow dung rates on selected chemical properties of a sandy clay loam soil in Sokoto, Nigeria
Authors: M.M. Sauwa  , A. Abdulkadir  , S.T. Abu  , O.J. Mudiare  
Published: September 2024

Adoption of appropriate soil, water and crop management practices could be the gate way to enhanced soil chemical quality, crop productivity as well as national and global food security. A study was undertaken to assess the influence of irrigation regimes, with two rice varieties and varying cowdung manure application rates on some selected chemical properties of a sandy clay loam soil in a semi-arid zone of Sokoto, Nigeria. The study evaluated four water management practices [alternate wetting and drying (AWD) treatments: AWD1: irrigating when water level was 10 cm below the soil surface, AWD2: irrigate when water level was 15 cm below the soil surface, AWD3: irrigate when water level fell to 20 cm below the soil surface and CF: continuous flooding] with two rice varieties (FARO 44 and TOFA) and with four rates of cowdung amendment (0, 5, 10 and 15 t ha-1). The Plots were arranged in a split-split plot design replicated three times. Rice was grown on the field in 2020 and 2021 seasons. Measurements of chemical properties of the soils were carried out using standard procedures. The results revealed that water management and rice varieties had no significant effect on the chemical properties of the soils. The results showed significant effects of cow dung rates on OC, Ca and K contents of the soils with 5, 10 and 15 t ha-1 better than 0 t ha-1. The study recommended that similar research should be extended to 3-4 years to assess residual effects of the management practices imposed on soil chemical quality.
Urban agriculture and its determinants in Kidfarmaco estate, Kikuyu Town
Authors: Chesang Brigid J. , Njuguna Mugwima B. , Munala Gerryshom K. 
Published: September 2024

Urban agriculture is an important multifunctional aspect of the urban ecosystem that contributes to the sustainability and resilience of urban areas. The unplanned transition from the traditional spatial character of agriculture to that of urban agriculture presents a challenge in the residential areas of Kidfarmaco Estate, Kikuyu Town. To understand the character of urban agriculture, the paper sought to describe urban agriculture and its determinants. The study took a quantitative research approach and a survey design. Snowballing was identified as the best sampling method for the study. Data was collected from a total of 93 resident farmers. The sample size was determined during data collection upon data saturation. Questionnaires with statements describing urban agriculture and its determinants were rated on a 7-point Likert scale by resident farmers. The data was analyzed using multiple linear regression to establish whether these determinants explain urban agriculture within the Estate. Economic and social factors were found to be significant in explaining the likelihood of a resident of Kidfarmaco Estate, Kikuyu Town practicing urban agriculture at a significance of 0.000 and 0.026 respectively. Independent variables accounted for 30.7% of the variance of urban agriculture. The regression line predicted by the independent variables explains a significant amount of the variance in urban agriculture (F (6,86) =6.339, P<0.05). Economic factors included; employment creation, land productivity, and improved economy. Social factors included; food and health literacy, health and well-being, and recreational opportunities. Economic and social factors of urban agriculture should therefore be capitalized on to facilitate sustainable urban agriculture in Kikuyu Town. For ease of implementation, these strategies should conform to the legal framework (the constitution of Kenya, the Urban Areas and Cities Act, and the Agricultural Act); and be in line with the municipal, county, and national spatial plans.
Adoption of SIPs among small-scale mango growers in Kitui County, Kenya
Authors: Kagimbi Njoki , Turoop Losenge , Majiwa Eucabeth , Obiero Clifford , Uckert Gotz , Sieber Stefan , Muriungi Mervyn 
Published: September 2024

Sustainable Intensification Practices (SIPs) continue to be generally acknowledged as a key factor for increasing agricultural productivity while being environmentally benign. SIPs assure the safety, quality, and availability of food. However, despite the potential benefit of SIPs, their adoption among smallholder farmers in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) – particularly mango growers – remains low. The low adoption of SIPs is generally attributed to differences in the biophysical and socioeconomic circumstances present on respective farms. Thus, this study investigates the adoption of SIPs and their determinants among mango producers in Kitui County, Kenya,Specific objective focusing on assessment of adoption of various SIPs in given counties,investigate factors determining adoption of SIPs and assessment of SIPs on production. using data collected from a cross-section survey of 438 mango farmers. The study adopted the t-tests and negative binomial regression analysis. The findings reveal that, on average, mango farmers adopted at least four (4) different SIPs. Modern crop management SIPs (5.0) having the highest mean of adoption, followed by soil management SIPs (3.0), and crop varieties and inter-crops SIPs (3.0). Water management SIPs (2.0), local crop management SIPs (2.0), and post-harvest management SIPs (0) had the least mean adoption. Comparing mango farmers who adopted SIPs versus those who did not reveals that those adopting various SIPs have significantly higher mango yields. The negative binomial regression indicates that access to market information, off-season selling, access to training, credit access, household income, distance to the tarmac, and cultivation period influences the adoption of SIPs. The results provide useful insights to direct further efforts required to encourage greater adoption of SIPs and strengthen the enabling environment for mango farmers. In addition policy makers are recommended to provide SIPs that enable farmers to produce mangoes throughout the year; Strengthen farmers SIPs capacity through training, Improve skills of extension officers and increase training's channel, Help farmers adopt measures that access credit. In addition, farmers to adopt the seed varieties that mature early to enable them sell their produce during off-season;