bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Estimation of the Achilles tendon twist in vivo by individual triceps surae muscle stimulation
Authors: Lecompte Laura , Crouzier Marion , Baudry Stéphane , Vanwanseele Benedicte 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe Achilles tendon (AT) is composed of three distinct subtendons, each arising from one of the three heads of the triceps surae muscles: gastrocnemius medialis (GM), gastrocnemius lateralis (GL), and soleus (SOL). These subtendons exhibit a twisted structure, classified as low (Type I), medium (Type II), and high (Type III) twist, based on cadaveric studies. Nevertheless, the in vivo investigation of AT twist is notably scarce, resulting in a limited understanding of its functional significance. The aim of this study was to give insights into the complex 3D AT structure in vivo. A total of 30 healthy participants underwent individual stimulation of each of the triceps surae muscles at rest with the foot attached to the pedal of an isokinetic dynamometer. Ultrasound images were captured to concomitantly examine the displacement of the superficial, middle and deep AT layers. SOL stimulation resulted in the highest AT displacement followed by GM and GL stimulation. Independent of the muscle stimulated, non‐uniformity within the AT was observed with the deep layer exhibiting more displacement compared to the middle and superficial layers, hence important inter‐individual differences in AT displacement were noticeable. By comparing these individual displacement patterns during targeted stimulations with insights from cadaveric twist classifications on each subtendon area, our classification identified 19 subjects with a ‘low’ twist and 11 subjects with a ‘high’ twist. These findings enable us to move beyond cadaveric studies and relate the twisted microstructure of the AT in vivo to its dynamic behaviour.
Functional anatomy of the wing muscles of the Egyptian fruit bat (Rousettus aegyptiacus) using dissection and diceCT
Authors: Kissane Roger W. P. , Griffiths Amy , Sharp Alana C. 
Published: September 2024

AbstractBats are unique among mammals for evolving powered flight. However, very little data are available on the muscle properties and architecture of bat flight muscles. Diffusible iodine contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (diceCT) is an established tool for 3D visualisation of anatomy and is becoming a more readily accessible and widely used technique. Here, we combine this technique with gross dissection of the Egyptian fruit bat (Rousettus aegyptiacus) to compare muscle masses, fibre lengths and physiological cross‐sectional areas (PCSA) of muscles with published forelimb data from an array of non‐flying mammals and flying birds. The Egyptian fruit bat has a highly specialised pectoralis (pars posterior) architecturally optimised to generate power. The elbow flexion/extension muscles (biceps brachii and triceps brachii) have comparable PCSAs to the pectoralis, but shorter fibre lengths, which are optimised to generate large forces. Our data also show that the Egyptian fruit bat is more similar to flying birds than non‐flying mammals with its highly disparate muscle architecture. Specifically, the Egyptian fruit bat have uniquely enlarged pectoralis muscles and elbow flexion and extension muscles (bicep brachii and triceps brachii) to aid powered flight. Finally, while the Egyptian fruit bat has a comparable heterogeneity in pectoralis (pars posterior) fibre length across the cranial‐caudal axis to that seen in birds, the average normalised fibre length is larger than that seen in any of the surveyed birds. Our data here provide a greater understanding of the anatomy and functional specialisation of the forelimb musculature that powers flight.
Age‐Friendly Healthcare: An Evolutionary Concept Analysis
Authors: Zisberg Anna , Rayan‐Gharra Nosaiba , Danial‐Saad Alexandra , Rogozinski Amos , Fraiman Paule‐Sarah , Segel‐Karpas Dikla 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTAimsAging populations require adapting healthcare systems for older adult's specific needs. Numerous initiatives to improve older‐patient care have emerged, but the field lacks a unified framework. The current study aims to provide a systematic concept analysis of ‘age‐friendly healthcare’, examining its characteristics, components and structure.DesignRodger's evolutionary concept analysis.Data SourcesSearches were conducted in ProQuest, CINAHL, PubMed and Scopus databases between November 2022 and October 2023, utilising the PRISMA 2020 reporting checklist.MethodsA literature search using specific terms relevant to age‐friendly healthcare retrieved 1407 articles. After screening for duplicates and relevance, 140 articles were examined for eligibility based on inclusion criteria for age‐friendly care, language and full‐text availability. Following full‐text screening, 65 articles were included for data extraction by multiple researchers to synthesise theoretical, methodological and design elements.ResultsOur findings highlight key attributes of age‐friendly healthcare: Respect for older adults' autonomy and needs; leadership and organisational knowledge and support; Proactive policies and processes of care; holistic care environments; and communication and follow‐up with awareness of challenges and barriers as well as prioritisation of continuity‐of‐care.ConclusionThe concept of age‐friendly healthcare is still developing, with much research focused on development and implementation rather than evaluation of real‐world patient and health‐system outcomes. Our analysis of the concept may help unify the field and clarify future research directions through identification of areas requiring further study and enable development of improved practices and policies for implementing age‐friendly healthcare in a variety of settings.No Patient or Public ContributionThis concept analysis did not include any patient or public involvement.Reporting MethodThis study utilised the PRISMA reporting checklist.
Navigating Uncharted Waters: A Mixed Studies Systematic Review of Elective Female Fertility Preservation for Women
Authors: Cheong Daphne Yu Bing , Pereira Travis Lanz‐Brian , Huang Zhongwei , Shorey Shefaly 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTAimThis study aimed to review studies exploring the experiences and perceptions of healthcare students and providers regarding their personal choices for elective female fertility preservation and their recommendations of the same to patients.Design/MethodsEmploying Pluye and Hong's convergent qualitative synthesis approach, a mixed‐studies review was conducted. The appraisal of studies was performed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool and data analysis utilised Thomas and Harden's thematic synthesis approach.Data SourcesSix electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Scopus and Web of Science) were searched from their inception till November 2023.ResultsAbout 24 studies were reviewed, uncovering four major themes: varied personal perspectives, knowledge gaps and role ambiguities, perceived temporal and financial constraints and apprehensions related to fear and stigma.Conclusion/ImplicationThis review underscored the challenges faced by healthcare professionals and students in their personal pursuit of elective fertility preservation. Addressing these challenges demands the implementation of fertility navigators, culturally and religiously sensitive public health campaigns and staff training. Moreover, standardised guidelines, transparent cost and process reporting, evidence‐based education, counselling on risks and success rates and governmental support in the form of subsidies can mitigate barriers, enhance cost‐effectiveness and promote equitable access to care. Collaboration among stakeholders is imperative to ensure equitable access and maintain quality care in elective female fertility preservation.Reporting MethodThis mixed studies review followed the reporting guidelines in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) statement.Patient or Public ContributionNo Patient or Public Contribution.Trial Registration: This review has been registered on the Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) database (CRD42023395406)
Elastic Bands Improve Oral Appliance Treatment Effect on Obstructive Sleep Apnoea: A Randomised Crossover Trial
Authors: Opsahl Ulrik Leidland , Berge Morten , Lehmann Sverre , Bjorvatn Bjørn , Johansson Anders 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundOral appliances (OAs) that limit mouth opening during sleep, such as monobloc appliances, have shown superior treatment effects in subgroups of patients with obstructive sleep apnoea. The application of elastic bands on bibloc appliances may resemble these benefits.ObjectivesThe primary objective was to investigate if application of elastic bands to bibloc appliances improves treatment success (> 50% reduction of respiratory event index (REI)), in addition to other subjective variables. Furthermore, we aimed to identify variables predicting the need for elastic bands in OA treatment.MethodsIncluded patients (n = 69) were randomly assigned to OA treatment with or without elastic bands. After 3 weeks, treatment effect was investigated with home respiratory polygraphy and questionnaires. Thereafter, patients changed treatment modality, with identical follow‐up regime. Statistical analyses were performed using Student's t‐test and Pearson's chi‐squared test to investigate differences between the two treatment modalities, and logistic regression analysis was conducted to investigate variables tentatively associated with treatment success.ResultsBased on REI, the success rate with OA treatment was in favour of elastic bands (53.9% vs. 34.6%, p = 0.002). Male sex and larger maximum mouth opening were identified as predictors for increased treatment success with elastic bands. The main benefit with elastic bands seemed to be greater reduction of REI when supine. However, patients seem to prefer OA without elastic bands.ConclusionsElastic bands improved OA treatment effect by reducing the REI in supine position. Patient groups that seemed to benefit from elastic bands in OA treatment were men with large maximum mouth openings.
Chromosome‐level genome assembly of a rare karst‐growing Rhododendron species provides insights into its evolution and environmental adaptation
Authors: Wen Sulin , Cai Xiaowei , Yang Kun , Hong Yi , Fan Fuhua , Wang Qian , Zhang Bingxue , Hou Qiandong , Leng Yuxing , Qiao Guang , Wen Xiaopeng , Shen Xiaohui 
Published: September 2024

AbstractRhododendron is a significant plant genus, with over 600 identified species in China. The subgenus Hymenanthes holds the largest number of Rhododendron germplasms and showcases strong environmental adaptability. However, there remains a lack of understanding regarding Rhododendron's evolution and environmental adaptations. Rhododendron bailiense Y.P.Ma, C.Q.Zhang & D.F.Chamb., an exceedingly rare species, thrives in the alkaline karst landforms of Guizhou, southwest China, different from the typical growing environment of other Rhododendron species. In this study, we present a chromosome‐level genome assembly of R. bailiense, revealing a genome size of 923.3 Mb, a contig N50 of 24.5 Mb, and a total of 47 567 predicted genes. An evolutionary analysis indicated that R. bailiense diverged from its ancestors prior to the other subgenus Hymenanthes rhododendrons, with the expanded and contracted genes being notably enriched in “stress response” and “growth,” respectively. Rhododendron bailiense is predominantly found on limestone soil in the mountains of Guizhou, with only two wild populations known. The genome of R. bailiense contained a high copy number of ankyrin repeat (ANK) and Ca2+‐ATPase (CAP) genes, primarily involved in Ca2+ transport, shedding light on how R. bailiense copes with karst high‐calcium stress. In contrast, the structures of the ANKs displayed unique characteristics, while the CAPs showed conservatism. The R. bailiense genome provides new insights into the adaptation and evolutionary history of Rhododendron plants in karst environments, potentially offering valuable information for adaptive breeding and ecological enhancement in such challenging settings.
Follow‐up post‐HCV virological response to DAA in advanced chronic liver disease
Authors: Romano A. , Zeni N. , Caspanello A. R. , Phillips S. , Piano S. S. , Angeli P. 
Published: September 2024

AbstractDirect‐acting antivirals (DAA) achieve high virological response rates with minimal side effects for many patients. Despite their significant impact on the progression and epidemiology of hepatitis C virus (HCV) associated liver disease, the global annual incidence of chronic infections is expected to remain relatively constant, averaging 1.42 million new cases each year until 2030. Furthermore, by 2030, there will be a 14–17% increase in end‐stage liver disease outcomes such as liver‐related deaths, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and decompensated cirrhosis in adults aged 18 years and over. Although reductions in liver decompensation, HCC occurrence, and mortality have been shown in patients with advanced liver disease who achieved sustained virological response (SVR) with DAA, these benefits may be less significant in those with decompensated liver cirrhosis. This review aims to summarise the impact of the virological response to DAA on liver disease progression and outcomes in patients with advanced chronic liver disease, which appears to be crucial for defining patient‐specific follow‐up.
Endolithic Algae (Ostreobium) Diversity in Porites Corals at the Western Atlantic and Tropical Eastern Pacific
Authors: Giraldo‐Vaca Juan Sebastián , Sánchez Juan Armando 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTOstreobium comprises endolithic algae commonly seen in conjunction with scleractinian corals. In the past, it was solely recognized as a coral skeleton bioeroder. Their relationship with corals is critical because they give photosynthetic byproducts and help the coral when it loses its primary symbionts due to stress. The variety of these algae in coral species of the genus Porites in the Tropical Eastern Pacific and western Atlantic was investigated. Ostreobium samples from seven Porites species including two from the Tropical Eastern Pacific (TEP) (P. panamensis and P. lobata) and five from the Caribbean (P. furcata, P. porites, P. colonensis, P. branneri, and P. astreoides) were extracted. Published rbcL sequences from algae found within various coral species from other parts of the world were also compared. A biogeographic analysis and two methodologies, PTP (Poisson tree process) and GMYC (general mixed Yule‐coalescent), were used to delineate the different species. The findings revealed a significant degree of genetic diversity within Ostreobium, with more than 15 groups of not more than three individuals and 40 individual lineages. Its origins date back to the Ordovician, 500 Ma, and it does not appear to preserve host specificity. The sampled locations still have a wide variety of Ostreobium. Biogeographically patterns were also confirmed, making it impossible to pinpoint the precise origins of most clades. The ancestry analyses revealed convergent events for not only the emergence of Ostreobium in a few genera of local corals, but also the phenomenon occurred in genera from far‐off places.
Association between low‐calorie sweetener consumption during pregnancy and child health: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Gebremichael Bereket , Lassi Zohra S. , Begum Mumtaz , Zhou Shao Jia 
Published: September 2024

AbstractWe examined the association between low‐calorie sweeteners (LCS) consumption during preconception, pregnancy, and breastfeeding and child health outcomes. A systematic search of electronic databases in PubMed, Embase, Cumulated Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, the Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, ProQuest Health and Medical, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Google Scholar was conducted up to 21 September 2023. A random effects model with restricted maximum likelihood estimation was used for the meta‐analysis. Seventeen eligible studies were included. The standardised mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) in birth weight between those who frequently consumed LCS (≥1 serve/day) during pregnancy and those who did not consume LCS was 0.04 (0.00, 0.08) (four cohort studies). Any LCS consumption during pregnancy compared with no consumption was not associated with birth weight [SMD (95% CI) = 0.03 (−0.03, 0.08)] (four cohort studies). Any LCS consumption during pregnancy was not associated with body mass index z‐scores. The weighted mean difference (95% CI) was 0.00 (−0.05, 0.06) at birth, 0.06 (−0.29, 0.40) at 6 months, −0.04 (−0.19, 0.10) at 1 year, 0.00 (−0.16, 0.17) at 3 years, and 0.10 (−0.15, 0.34) at 7 years of the child age, compared with no intake (five cohort studies). The odds of being overweight at 1 year among children exposed to LCS during pregnancy was 1.19 (OR [95% CI]: 1.19 [0.81, 1.58]) compared with unexposed children (two cohort studies). The effect sizes were not precise for all the outcomes as the 95% CI indicated the effect estimates could range from small protective to a higher risk. The effect of LCS consumption on child behaviour and cognition was inconsistent. There is not enough evidence to confirm LCS consumption during pregnancy affects birth weight and risk of overweight in children. However, frequent consumption increased birth weight and the risk of overweight at different ages, though the effects were imprecise. More robust research evidence is required as the quality of evidence is low.
FAAH inhibitor URB597 shows anti‐hyperalgesic action and increases brain and intestinal tissues fatty acid amides in a model of CRF1 agonist mediated visceral hypersensitivity in male rats
Authors: Larauche Muriel , Mulak Agata , Ha Chrysanthy , Million Mulugeta , Arnett Stacy , Germano Peter , Pearson James P. , Currie Mark G. , Taché Yvette 
Published: September 2024

AbstractBackground and AimsThe endocannabinoid (eCB) system includes ligands (anandamide and 2‐arachidonoyl glycerol, 2‐AG), receptors and catabolizing enzymes (fatty acid amide hydrolase, FAAH and monoacylglycerol lipase) expressed in both the brain and gut. We investigated whether the FAAH inhibitor, URB597, influenced visceral pain to colorectal distension (CRD) in an acute stress‐related model of visceral hypersensitivity induced by the selective corticotropin‐releasing factor receptor subtype 1 (CRF1) agonist, cortagine.MethodsMale Sprague–Dawley rats were injected subcutaneously (SC) with URB597 (3 mg/kg) or vehicle and 2 h later, intraperitoneally with cortagine (10 μg/kg) or vehicle. The visceromotor responses (VMR) were assessed to a first CRD (baseline) before injections, and to a second CRD 15 min after the last treatment. Brain, jejunum, and proximal colon were collected from treated and naïve rats for levels quantification of three fatty acid amides (FAAs) [anandamide (arachidonyl‐ethanolamide, AEA), oleoyl‐ethanolamide (OEA) and palmitoyl‐ethanolamide (PEA)], and 2‐AG. In separate animals, defecation/diarrhea were monitored after URB597 and cortagine.Key ResultsURB597 inhibited cortagine‐induced increased VMR at 40 mmHg (89.0 ± 14.8% vs. 132.5 ± 15.6% for vehicle SC, p < 0.05) and 60 mmHg (107.5 ± 16.1% vs. 176.9 ± 24.4% for vehicle SC, p < 0.001) while not influencing basal VMR. In URB597 plus cortagine group, FAAs levels increased in the brain and intestinal tissue while 2‐AG did not change. URB597 did not modify cortagine‐induced defecation/diarrhea versus vehicle.Conclusions and InferencesURB597 shows efficacy to elevate brain and intestinal FAAs and to counteract the colonic hypersensitivity induced by peripheral activation of CRF1 signaling supporting a potential strategy of FAAH inhibitors to alleviate stress‐related visceral hypersensitivity.
The history and use of the timed barium esophagram in achalasia, esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction, and esophageal strictures
Authors: Blonski Wojciech , Jacobs John , Feldman John , Richter Joel E. 
Published: September 2024

AbstractBackgroundDysphagia is one of the most common complaints that gastroenterologists encounter in the outpatient setting. To evaluate this common complaint, patients are often sent for a barium esophagram, a test that is widely available, inexpensive, and easy to perform. This simple test provides a reliable method to evaluate esophageal anatomy and structural abnormalities.PurposeThis narrative reviews the history of the development and validation of the timed‐barium esophagram (TBE), along with its strengths and limitations, and discusses its use in the pre‐ and posttreatment assessment of patients with achalasia, esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO), and esophageal strictures. Providing excellent anatomic detail of the esophagus and an accurate assessment of esophageal emptying, over time, the TBE has become part of the standard workup in our Swallowing Center for patients with dysphagia.
Effect of hiatal hernia and esophagogastric junction morphology on esophageal motility: Evidence from high‐resolution manometry studies
Authors: Kayali Stefano , Calabrese Francesco , Pasta Andrea , Marabotto Elisa , Bodini Giorgia , Furnari Manuele , Savarino Edoardo V. , Savarino Vincenzo , Giannini Edoardo G. , Zentilin Patrizia 
Published: September 2024

AbstractBackgroundHigh‐resolution Manometry (HRM) is the most sensitive and specific test available for clinical assessment of hiatal hernia (HH), a common condition defined as the separation between the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) and crural diaphragm (CD). While the link between HH and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is established, the potential association of HH with esophageal dysmotility, independently from GERD, is uncertain. This study aimed to analyze if HH, with or without GERD, can associate with esophageal motility disorders.MethodsConsecutive patients without previous esophageal surgery who underwent HRM between 2018 and 2022 were enrolled. All patients with symptoms suggestive of GERD underwent impedance‐pH testing off‐therapy. HH was defined as a separation >1 cm between LES and CD, and esophagogastric junction (EGJ) morphology was classified as: Type I, when there was no separation between LES and CD; Type II, in case of minimal separation (>1 and <3 cm); Type III, when ≥3 cm of separation was present. Demographic and clinical characteristics were collected at baseline, including Age, Gender, Alcohol‐, Coffee‐ and Smoke‐habits, GERD diagnosis and symptoms' duration. Two cohorts of patients, with and without HH, were retrospectively individuated, and their association with Ineffective Peristalsis, Hypercontractile Esophagus and Outflow Obstruction was analyzed with univariate and multivariate Logistic regressions using the statistical software R.Key Results848 consecutive patients were enrolled, and 295 cases of HH (34.8%), subdivided into 199 (23.5%) Type II‐ and 96 (11.3%) Type III‐EGJ patients, were identified. Ineffective peristalsis was diagnosed in 162 (19.1%) subjects, Hypercontractile esophagus in 32 (3.8%), and Outflow Obstruction in 91 (10.7%), while GERD was present in 375 (44.2%) patients. HH was significantly associated with Ineffective Peristalsis (p < 0.001) and GERD (p < 0.001). Furthermore, HH resulted to be a risk factor for Ineffective peristalsis (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.4–2.8, p < 0.001) both when the analysis was conducted in all the 848 subjects, independently from GERD, and when it was carried out in patients without GERD (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.02–5.3, p = 0.04). The risk for Ineffective Peristalsis increased 1.3 times for every centimeter of HH. No statistically significant association was found between HH and Outflow obstruction or Hypercontractile Esophagus.Conclusions & InferencesAn increasing separation between the LES and CD may lead to a gradual and significant elevation in the risk of Ineffective Peristalsis. Interestingly, this association with HH is true in patients with and in those without GERD, suggesting that the anatomical alteration seems to play a major role in motility change.