bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic value of syndecan-1 for coronary artery lesions and correlation analysis of laboratory indicators in Kawasaki disease patients
Authors: Dai Ling , Zhang Lingbo , He Jie , Huang Rui , Tang Wenwen , Guo Huan , Shang Xiaoke 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Background
To explore the application value of syndecan-1 (SDC-1) in the diagnosis of coronary artery lesions (CALs) in Kawasaki disease (KD) patients and the correlation of multiple laboratory indicators in KD patients.

Methods
86 pediatric Kawasaki disease (KD) patients and 52 healthy controls admitted from January 2018 to December 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. Venous blood samples from KD patients were analyzed for white blood cells (WBC), platelets (PLT), C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), syndecan-1 (SDC-1), coagulation parameters, and lipid profiles. Correlations between these laboratory indicators were assessed. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis determined the diagnostic value of SDC-1 for coronary artery lesions (CALs) in KD patients. SDC-1 levels were further compared across different CAL severity groups.

Results
The levels of ALT, AST, WBC, PLT, CRP, IL-6, and SDC-1 in the KD group were significantly higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05). Coagulation function analysis showed that APTT, TT and FIB levels were significantly increased in the KD group compared with the control group (P < 0.05). Lipid profile analysis revealed that TC, HDL-C, and ApoA1 were significantly decreased, whereas TG, LDL-C, and ApoB100 were significantly increased in the KD group (P < 0.05). Refractory KD patients exhibited significantly higher levels of ALT, AST, SDC-1, CRP, WBC, and TG compared to responsive KD patients (P < 0.05). Correlation analysis indicated a strong positive correlation between PLT and LDL-C (r = 0.227, P = 0.035) and between IL-6 and TG (r = 0.491, P = 0.000), while CRP was negatively correlated with ApoA1 (r = -0.265, P = 0.014). Among the 86 KD patients, 41 (47.67%) developed CALs, with 19 classified as mild, 15 as moderate, and 7 as severe. For predicting CALs among KD patients, the threshold of SDC-1 was identified as 5.5 ng/ml, with a sensitivity of 70.7%, specificity of 64.4%, positive predictive value of 65.91%, negative predictive value of 69.05%, and an AUC of 0.762 (95% confidence interval 0.662–0.861, P < 0.001). SDC-1 levels significantly differed among the CAL severity groups (P = 0.008), with higher levels observed in moderate compared to mild CALs, and in severe compared to moderate CALs.

Conclusion
In conclusion, SDC-1 has strong clinical value in the diagnosis of CALs in KD patients, and there is a close relationship between the levels of inflammatory factors, coagulation function and lipid levels in KD patients.
Characterizing humpback whale behavior along the North-Norwegian coast
Authors: Ytterhus Utengen Ingvild , Vogel Emma F. , Biuw Martin , Van Ruiten Meghan , Rikardsen Audun H. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Background
Studying movement patterns of individual animals over time can give insight into how they interact with the environment and optimize foraging strategies. Humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) undertake long seasonal migrations between feeding areas in polar regions and breeding grounds in tropical areas. During the last decade, several individuals have had up to a 3-month stop-over period around specific fjord-areas in Northern Norway to feed on Norwegian spring-spawning (NSS-) herring (Culpea harengus L.). Their behavioral patterns during this period are not well understood, including why some whales seemingly leave the fjords and then later return within the same season.

Methods
To investigate whale behavior during this seasonal stopover, we classified humpback whale tracks into five distinct movement modes; ranging, encamped, nomadic, roundtrip and semi-roundtrip. A behavioral change point analysis (BCPA) was used to select homogeneous segments based on persistence velocity. Then, net squared displacement (NSD) over time was modeled to differentiate movement modes. This study also manually identified longer roundtrips away from the fjords that lasted several days and examined movement modes within these.

Results
Inside the fjord systems, encamped mode was most prevalent in December–January, suggesting the whales were mainly foraging on overwintering NSS-herring in this area. During the same winter seasons, half of the whales left the fjords and then returned. We hypothesize that these trips serve as ‘searching trips’ during which the whales seek better feeding opportunities outside the fjords. If better foraging conditions are not found, they return to the fjords to continue their feeding. The overall most common mode was ranging (54%), particularly seen during the start of their southwards migration and in areas outside the fjord systems, indicating that the whales mainly moved over larger distances in the offshore habitat.

Conclusions
This study serves as a baseline for future studies investigating both the searching trip theory and humpback whale behavior in general, and confirms that this method could be useful to analyze local scale movement patterns of satellite tagged whales.
Survey self-report of rheumatoid arthritis and treatments versus specialist clinician confirmation
Authors: Jugnundan Shamil , Schmajuk Gabriela , Trupin Laura , Blanc Paul D. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Objective
To assess agreement between patient survey report and physician recorded arthritic conditions and medication use in order to validate population-based epidemiologic approaches to auto-immune arthritic conditions.

Methods
Rheumatologists in the U.S. Appalachian region recruited men 50 years or older with a confirmed rheumatoid arthritis (RA) diagnosis. For each participating patient, the treating specialist completed a brief chart abstraction that included rheumatic diagnosis and corresponding treatment. Patients participated in a telephone interview using the same questionnaire as applied in a larger random digit dial survey that queried arthritis diagnosis and treatment. We assessed patient-clinician agreement with the Prevalence Adjusted and Biased Adjusted Kappa (PABAK) statistic.

Results
We included 36 patient-clinician dyads in this analysis. All clinicians and patients concurred in the RA diagnosis (PABAK = 1). For concomitant systemic lupus and scleroderma, we observed generally concordant responses (PABAK 0.89 and 1, respectively). For medication use, for hydroxychloroquine or sulfasalazine was associated with the lowest PABAK (0.39), intermediate values for methotrexate and for the “other conventional synthetic DMARDs” category (0.67), and with the highest agreement PABAK value for the “biologic DMARD or JAK 2 inhibitor” category (0.89).

Conclusion
Survey-based self-report of RA offers a useful approach in epidemiological investigation. This is particularly relevant to population-based approaches to autoimmune arthritis related to occupational and environmental factors.
Impact of resilience policies on cape town's water-food nexus: A system dynamics approach
Authors: Hofmann Viola S. , Egieya Jafaru M. , Parker Yumna , Gorgens Johann , Goosen Neill J. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Background
Climate change is increasingly affecting the supply of resources such as water and food. From 2015 to 2018, Cape Town endured its most severe drought on record. Yet, resource management often occurs in isolation, which contrasts with the holistic perspective provided by the nexus concept that recognizes the interdependence of resource sectors. This study employs system dynamics modeling, to examine the City of Cape Town’s (CoCT) water-food trade-offs and interactions using qualitative and quantitative approaches. It assesses various policies proposed by the CoCT, to improve system resilience and to boost future water supplies, examining their efficacy and potential drawbacks. These policies are tested against future scenarios including population growth and climate change predictions of different severities.

Results
The simulation results show an increase in food demand, which is mainly linked to population growth and a significant decrease in water availability. Without intervention, the CoCT is expected to experience serious water shortages within the 40-year simulation period.

Conclusions
The findings indicate that the CoCT’s strategies will effectively secure adequate water for its expanding population. However, a major concern was found to be the proposed intensification of aquifer exploitation. The model predicts that such an approach could lead to overabstraction of some aquifers, compromising their sustainability.
Proximity predicament: a rare case of hydatid cyst in the porta hepatis region
Authors: Raheem Abdul , Arsal Syed Ali , Ali Syed Muhammad Sinaan , Areeba Syeda , Ahmed Suhaib , Kumar Ashish 
Published: October 2024

AbstractHydatid cysts near the porta hepatis present notable medical challenges due to their intricate positioning and potential influence on crucial structures within the liver and its vicinity. While relatively rare, their presence can lead to intricate medical scenarios because of their proximity to vital liver and bile duct structures, but their occurrence can present complex medical situations due to their proximity to critical structures in the liver and bile ducts. We present an unusual case of a 33-year-old male with no known comorbidities presented to the outpatient department of general surgery with pain, insidious in onset and gradually progressive, in the right hypochondrial region for the past 3 months, along with mild fever, reduced appetite, and weight loss of 3 kg. Managing hepatic cysts, especially when near the porta hepatis, poses significant diagnostic challenges. Imaging scans revealed multiple hypodense lesions suggestive of hepatic cysts, with the largest one measuring 5 cm × 8 cm in segment VI. Native post-contrast lesions were also observed in the right lower lobe. Although hepatic duct dilation was not observed, the presence of a cyst near the porta hepatis an atypical site for hydatid cyst, complicated potential PAIR procedures (puncture, aspirate, injection, re-aspirate), raising concerns about the risk of damaging vital structures like the hepatic artery or major bile duct. A multidisciplinary approach engaged interventional radiology to evaluate PAIRS feasibility. PAIRS was performed successfully, except for the cyst near the porta hepatis to avoid complications. Despite this, the patient continued to experience abdominal discomfort post-operation, although liver function tests improved in the postop period. This case underscores the uncommon occurrence of hydatid cysts near the porta hepatis and highlights the need for additional research to comprehend its prevalence and causes. Further investigation is crucial to enhance our understanding of the epidemiology and optimal management strategies involving PAIRS in such challenging cases.
Correlation between parental willingness to pay, health-related quality of life, and satisfaction with physiotherapy services in Nigeria: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Fatoye Francis , Mbada Chidozie Emmanuel , Adebayo Mutiat Adewumi , Gebrye Tadesse , Fatoye Clara Toyin , Ademoyegun Adekola Babatunde , Oyewole Olufemi Oyeleye , Ogundele Abiola Oladele , Okonji Adaobi Margaret 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Background
Being a parent of a child with a disability requiring many clinic visits is burdensome. Therefore, understanding the willingness-to-pay (WTP) for physiotherapy for children with disability is important to facilitating access to care and for policy-making. This study aimed to investigate patterns and correlates of parental WTP for physiotherapy.

Methods
A total of 65 parents of children with disability receiving physiotherapy as outpatients were recruited from selected tertiary hospitals in Nigeria. A WTP questionnaire, SF-12 health survey, and Physiotherapy Satisfaction Questionnaire were used to assess the WTP, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and satisfaction with physiotherapy respectively. Descriptive statistics of mean, standard deviation, frequency, and percentages were used to summarize the data. Chi-square and regression analysis were also used to test the association and determinants of WTP from each of the socio-demographic factors, satisfaction with physiotherapy, and health-related quality of life, respectively.

Results
A majority (49.2%) of the respondents were in the 21–35 years age category. There was 30.8% “no WTP” for physiotherapy among parents of children with disability. A significant association was observed between socio-economic status and WTP for all treatment modalities (p < 0.05). The majority of the respondents had above-average levels of physical and mental health domain of SF-12. No significant association was observed between WTP and each satisfaction with physiotherapy and HRQoL (p > 0.05).

Conclusion
There was a high rate of ‘no WTP’ for physiotherapy among parents of children with disability. Level of satisfaction with physiotherapy and health-related quality of life was not significantly associated with parental WTP for physiotherapy.
Relationship Between Radiation Oncology Department National Institutes of Health Funding and Institutional Community Inclusion/Investment
Authors: Awobayiku Oluwatomiwa O. , Sun Yilun , McClelland Shearwood 
Published: October 2024

PURPOSE
Disparities in health care access and funding allocation persist among racial minorities and low-income populations. Radiation oncology departments play a crucial role in cancer treatment, yet the extent to which these departments serve historically underrepresented communities following receipt of National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding remains unclear.

METHODS
Radiation oncology departments awarded NIH funding from 2019 to 2021 were studied using the 2023 Lown Institute Hospital Index rankings for community benefit and inclusivity to assess the relationship between measures of community benefit and inclusivity and NIH radiation oncology department research funding.

RESULTS

Twenty-two radiation oncology departments were analyzed in this study. A significant positive correlation was identified between the NIH research funding these departments received and their institutional rankings for overall community benefit (tau = 0.38;
P
< .034). Additionally, there was a trend toward significance for the relationship between NIH funding and institutional rankings for community investment spending (tau = 0.497;
P
< .053). No significant correlation was observed for other variables, including institutional rankings for charity care spending, Medicaid as a portion of patient revenue or services provided to patients from minoritized groups, low-income backgrounds, or those with lower levels of education.

CONCLUSION
Our findings indicate a significantly positive correlation between NIH funding received by radiation oncology departments and overall community benefit (measured by spending on financial assistance, community investment, and Medicaid). This suggests that departments receiving NIH funding may be incentivized to allocate resources toward initiatives aimed at improving community health outcomes extending beyond direct patient care.
Successful Retirement Planning for Endocrinologists
Authors: Becker Carolyn B , Friday Karen E , Rogol Alan D , Carroll William F , Santen Richard J 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
The Endocrine Society formally addressed the issue of retirement for its members for the first time in a Workshop held on June 4 at ENDO 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts. Preparation for the workshop included 4 steps: (1) completion of a survey; (2) advice from a retirement expert; (3) extensive literature review; and (4) multiple pre-workshop discussions among the presenters. The survey found that retired endocrinologists are involved in a wide variety of professional and nonprofessional activities. The retirement expert and the literature review outlined several concepts underlying a successful retirement and the questions and decisions needed during the planning process. The presenters described several illustrative examples of retirement activities. A “Piece of My Mind” essay in the Journal of the American Medical Association written by the moderator (C.B.) expressed ethical considerations made feasible by the independence of her retirement status. The first presenter (A.R.) noted that the time available during retirement allowed mentorship, teaching in foreign countries and other institutions, and participation on international committees. The second speaker (K.F.) commented that expertise gained during practice of Endocrinology can be used for expert legal, pharmaceutical, and financial opinions. She also noted that volunteering for professional or nonprofessional groups provides an avenue for “giving back” to others. The final presenter (R.S.) stated that retirement provides an opportunity to embark on new clinical endeavors, such as managing patients via telemedicine in rural underserved areas. In summary, retirement is an important phase of a career and can be highly rewarding and enjoyable.
A Randomized Clinical Trial Comparing 2 Levothyroxine Regimens During Ramadan Fasting in Thyroidectomized Patients
Authors: Alzahrani Ali S , Mukhtar Noha , Alhammad Zahrah , Alobaid Lulu , Hakami Abdulrhman Jaber , Alsagheir Osamah , Mohamed Gamal , Hameed Maha , Almahfouz Abdulraof 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Context
For Muslim patients on levothyroxine (L-T4) therapy, the best approach for L-T4 intake during Ramadan fasting remains unclear.

Objective
We compared 2 practical approaches for L-T4 intake during Ramadan.

Methods
We randomly assigned 69 patients (21 males, 48 females, median age 44 years) with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) who underwent thyroidectomy in the past and are on stable LT4 doses to 2 arms. Arm A (33 patients) ingested their pre-Ramadan L-T4 dose at the evening meal and ate immediately. Arm B (36 patients) increased their pre-Ramadan dose by 25 µg if their regular L-T4 dose was ≤150 µg/day or by 50 µg if their pre-Ramadan dose was &gt;150 µg/day and ate immediately.

Results
At the beginning of Ramadan (baseline), the median thyrotropin (TSH) level and the numbers of patients in euthyroidism, subclinical hyperthyroidism (Shyper), or subclinical hypothyroidism (Shypo) were comparable between the 2 arms (P = .69 and P = .65, respectively). At the end of Ramadan, in arm A there were 17 (51.5%), 3 (9.1%), and 13 (39.4%) patients in euthyroidism, Shyper, and Shypo compared with 17 (47.2%), 14 (38.9%), and 5 (13.9%) patients, respectively, in arm B (P = .005). The mean ± SD TSH levels in arms A and B at the end of Ramadan were 5.6 ± 6.0 mU/L and 1.67 ± 2.6 mU/L, respectively (P = .0001).

Conclusion
No overt thyroid dysfunction developed but there were more cases of Shypo in arm A and Shyper in arm B. Arm B achieved desirable levels of TSH (normal or slightly suppressed) in 86% of cases and might be a preferable approach, especially for patients who need TSH suppression (eg, DTC).
A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Effectiveness of Different Fibrinogen Preparations in Restoring Clot Firmness
Authors: Baryshnikova Ekaterina , Aloisio Tommaso , Di Dedda Umberto , Anguissola Martina , Barbaria Alessandro , Caravella Giuseppe , Ranucci Marco 
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND:
Different preparations of fibrinogen concentrate are currently available. Two in vitro studies demonstrated the superiority of FibCLOT (LFB) in increasing clot firmness with respect to RiaSTAP (CSL Behring). The present trial involved a clinical model to test the hypothesis of superiority, with the increase in clot firmness as the primary end point.

METHODS:
Forty cardiac surgery patients were randomly allocated to receive a dose of 30 mg/kg FibCLOT or RiaSTAP after protamine administration in the presence of microvascular bleeding and a FIBTEM maximum clot firmness (MCF) <10 mm. Viscoelastic parameters were measured before and after fibrinogen supplementation: FIBTEM MCF, EXTEM MCF, and EXTEM clotting time (CT).

RESULTS:
The mean increase in FIBTEM MCF was 4 ± 1.2 mm (mean and standard deviation) in the FibCLOT group and 4 ± 1.6 mm in the RiaSTAP group (P = 1.000); the mean decrease in CT was 11. 2 ± 12.2 (mean and standard deviation) seconds in the FibCLOT group and 14. 8 ± 13 seconds in the RiaSTAP group (P = .372). In both groups, fibrinogen supplementation induced a significant (P = .001) increase in the FIBTEM MCF and EXTEM CT. The proportions of patients who did not experience an increase of 4 mm in the RiaSTAP group and the FibCLOT group were not statistically significantly higher (35% vs 20%, respectively, relative risk 2.15, 95% confidence interval 0.52–9.00, P = .288).

CONCLUSIONS:
In contrast to previous in vitro studies, we found that the effect of FibCLOT on MCF and CT was not significantly greater than that of RiaSTAP in cardiac surgery patients. Further studies in other clinical settings are warranted.
Becoming “Fellow-Servants”: Slavery, Theft, and Improper Fellowship in the Nineteenth-Century South
Authors: Batra Ajay Kumar 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
This article examines the role of theft as a catalyst of communal cohesion and a practice of citizenship in the everyday lives of enslaved African Americans. Historical scholars of Atlantic slavery largely have portrayed theft as a strategic adaptation that enslaved subjects made in order to survive the material deprivation and other brutal constraints of enslavement. In dialogue with this scholarship, this article proposes a different view of theft as a method not simply of surviving on unfavorable terms but of redefining the art of living. In particular, it suggests that collective practices of theft opened space for the enslaved to forge reciprocal social and economic relationships that diverged radically from normative customs related to subsistence, creating a state of affairs in which their survival would depend upon their ability not to endure racialized exploitation as human property, but, rather, to tend to each other’s basic needs as associates, neighbors, and friends. Through analysis of an empirical case grounded in nineteenth-century Louisiana, this article ultimately develops the concept of improper fellowship to describe the bonds of communal reciprocity that theft could encompass, bonds that prefigured alternatives to dominant, liberal ideals of freedom and models of citizenship founded in the sanctity of property.