bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The diagnostic pathway of Parkinson’s disease: understanding patient perspectives in Australia
Authors: Dewson Grant , Lang Tali , McLean Iain , Shin Jenna , Jackson Victoria , Lawrenson Isobel , Zipper Belinda , Yeung Alex , Evans Andrew 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Despite the increasing prevalence of Parkinson’s disease (PD) in Australia, there is limited data about experiences of people with Parkinson’s (PwP) during the diagnostic process and post-diagnosis. This study surveyed experiences of PwP from initial symptoms, throughout diagnostic consultation, and support provided following diagnosis through a national web-based survey. In total, 385 participants accessed the questionnaire, with 335 full completions. Responses from participants living in capital and regional city centers showed patient satisfaction with clinical care during diagnostic consultation at approximately 40%. Satisfaction in clinical care was less in rural areas (26%). Moreover, the majority of participants (68%), irrespective of geographical location, felt they were not adequately involved in discussions about treatment and care planning. Overall, 77% of participants reported dissatisfaction with the level of support of their clinical care teams. Furthermore, respondents reported that clinician referral to allied-health providers were low, with only 22% of participants accessing physiotherapy and 17% referred to mental health services. From respondents who provided additional feedback how PwP could be better supported following diagnosis, the top two responses were greater access and engagement with Parkinson’s disease Clinical Nurse Specialists, and the development of PD-specific apps to increase access to educational resources and support. Findings from this study highlight the necessity for the development of Australian guidelines for PD clinical management, greater resourcing for PD clinicians including development of educational programs, and creation of an Australian-centric educational resources. Addressing these gaps may improve perceived quality of care and overall patient satisfaction for PwP in Australia.
Application of multifunctional pulse wave sphygmomanometer combined with constant temperature ice in patients with forearm hematoma after coronary intervention
Authors: Qiao Jimin , Shi Yihang , Li Kai , Zhu Xiaomin , Wang Zhimei 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Aim
This study aims to investigate the effects of combining a multifunctional pulse wave sphygmomanometer with constant temperature ice on patients with forearm hematoma following coronary intervention.
Methods
Patients who developed forearm hematoma after undergoing coronary intervention from March 2021 to March 2023 at our hospital were selected as the study cohort. Using a random number table, they were divided into two groups the control group and the research group. The control group received cuff compression treatment using a multifunctional pulse wave sphygmomanometer. The primary endpoint was the effective rate of one compression. Secondary endpoints included body surface temperature, pain, comfort, arm measurements, and swelling value.
Results
A total of 190 patients were included, with 95 in the control group and 95 in the research group. The research group showed a significantly higher effective rate of one compression compared to the control group (87.2% vs. 95.8%, p = 0.035). Additionally, the research group experienced significantly reduced pain (2.0 [2.0,3.0] vs. 1.0 [1.0,2.0], p < 0.001) and improved comfort levels. This approach also effectively reduced body surface temperature (32.91 ± 0.83℃ vs. 12.09 ± 1.09℃, p < 0.001), arm measurements (274.32 ± 9.56mm vs. 271.15 ± 8.82mm, p = 0.019), and swelling value (12.40 ± 1.95 vs. 11.07 ± 2.13, p < 0.001) after compression.
Conclusions
The combined use of a multifunctional pulse wave sphygmomanometer for cuff compression on forearm hematoma with simultaneous constant temperature ice application demonstrated more benefits. This approach effectively reduced pain, improved comfort levels, and enhanced compression-based hemostasis and reduction of swelling.
Chronic Recurrent Multifocal Osteomyelitis in Pediatric patients: A Case Series Study from China and Literature review
Authors: Hu Minhua , Zeng Wenxing , Zhang Jingtao , Yan Hongsong , Huang Feng , Xiong Hao , Fang Bin , Li Yue 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis (CRMO) is a rare auto-inflammatory disorder that often pose diagnostic challenges due to its atypical symptomatology. This retrospective study aimed to investigate the clinical features, laboratory tests, imaging features, and treatment strategies of CRMO in pediatric patients.
Methods
In the study, seven pediatric patients with CRMO treated at the Department of Pediatric Orthopedics, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, between January 2018 and February 2022, were retrospectively analyzed. The objective was to enhance understanding of CRMO by exploring clinical data in-depth.
Results
The study group comprised five males and two females, aged 3 to 13 years. They experienced symptoms for a median duration of 6 months before hospitalization, presenting with recurrent pain and various accompanying signs, including hypothermia (one case, 14.28%), swelling (three cases, 42.85%), localized skin warmth (three cases, 42.85%), and plantar pustules (one case, 14.28%). The femur (five cases,71.42%) and tibia (five cases, 71.42%) were frequently affected. Radiographic and CT scans showed osteosclerosis and osteolytic lesions, while MRI detected bone marrow edema. Histological examination of bone biopsies from four patients revealed fibrous tissue hyperplasia, lymphocytic, and neutrophilic infiltration, despite negative bacterial cultures. Laboratory tests generally showed normal or slightly elevated values. Symptomatic improvement was observed in six patients (85.72%) with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), while one patient (14.28%) resistant to NSAIDs responded well to tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors.
Conclusions
In summary, CRMO's clinical presentation lacks specificity, with unexplained bone pain being the most common symptom. Precise diagnosis and timely intervention depend on thorough MRI evaluation for lesion detection, enhancing CRMO diagnosis. This study offers valuable insights into CRMO's clinical manifestations, laboratory findings, imaging features, and treatment strategies in pediatric patients.
Applying microwave imaging in biomechanics: a feasibility study using tissue-mimicking phantoms
Authors: Radhakrishnan Vignesh , Serano Peter , Robinson Martin , Marchant Alex , Dale Taito J , Patil Samadhan , Pelah Adar 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Incorporating actual bone movement in kinematic pipelines has shown to reduce the influence of soft tissue artefacts (STA), a critical source of error, in clinical biomechanical analysis. Ultrasound imaging, a non-ionising and cost-effective imaging modality, has been extensively integrated in biomechanics to locate the underlying bone. However, limitations of needing a probe to be held at the location to be imaged and the need for coupling liquid, impedes their widespread applicability. In this study we explore the feasibility of applying another non-ionising and cost-effective imaging modality, microwave imaging, in biomechanics. By collecting data, from both simulated and experimental tissue-mimicking phantoms, under conditions aimed to emulate a wearable system, our results indicate that the underlying bone can be detected from the skin surface using microwave imaging. We believe our findings support the fidelity of microwave imaging as an alternative imaging modality to ultrasound imaging and underscore the need for further research in integrating microwave imaging in biomechanics.
Enhancing Coagulation Management after Cardiac Valve Replacement and Valvuloplasty: The Benefits of Home Monitoring
Authors: Ying ChenXi , Fu YuFei , Dai BoHao , Liu LingShan , Chen Xin 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
The research aims to analyze the impact of home monitoring on INR control and complications in patients undergoing valve replacement and valvuloplasty surgery. It is also the first to assess and predict associated risk factors by using a nomogram graph.
Methods
Conducted at the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, the retrospective study involved 505 patients initially, with 406 completing the follow-up. Data collection included patient characteristic, medical history, valve replacement details, and INR values.
Results
The study found that self-management of INR testing significantly improved the time in therapeutic range (TTR), reduced INR variance, and decreased complications. Predictive factor for postoperative coagulation control included gender, history of atrial fibrillation, Preoperative medication history, valve replacement type, and education level.
Conclusion
With home monitoring of INR, patients can take more control of their coagulation management and decrease the frequency of hospital visits. Treatment compliance and outcomes are enhanced when this method is combined with patient education level. The useof a nomogram helps identify patients with stable coagulation function for clinical trials and allows for early intervention in high-risk patients.
Factors Influencing Breast Self-Exam Practice and Awareness among Females in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alzakari Meshal , Alabdulkarim Alanoud , Alsuhaibani Renad , Alzkari Faisal , Alkanhal Abdulrahman , Alghanmi Amjad , Salahuddin Amra , Huda Arwa , Moiz Muhammad Umer Abdul , Khan Salahuddin 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Breast cancer is the most common global malignancy [1]. In 2022, about 2.3 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer globally highlighting the critical need for early detection strategies [2,3]. Breast self-exam is a simple and costless method of detection [4]. Despite its potential limitations in reducing mortality, women familiar with their breast tissue often find breast changes first [4]. This study is designed to investigate factors influencing the practice and awareness of breast self-exams among females in Saudi Arabia.
Methods
This prospective cross-sectional study is conducted in Saudi Arabia targeting females aged 18 to 65 in Saudi Arabia. Participants completed a structured questionnaire assessing their awareness and practices related to BSE and breast cancer. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences was used for analysis.
Results
The majority of participants were single (71.3%), held a Bachelor’s degree (59.4%), and currently students (65.5%). A personal history of breast cancer was reported by 1.3% of women, while 12.9% had a family history and 16.1% had friends diagnosed with the disease. Awareness of breast cancer risk factors and symptoms varied, with 13.5% recognizing that women in their fifties face the highest risk, and 38.1% knowing the common symptoms. Although 79% had heard of breast self-examination (BSE), only 42.6% knew how to perform it. Regular clinical breast examinations were deemed necessary by 69.1%. Only 32.6% knew that BSE was not a substitute for mammograms. Overall, 21.3% had good awareness of breast cancer and BSE, with social media being the primary source of information (49.1%).
Conclusion
Awareness and practice of breast cancer screening are suboptimal among Saudi women. Higher awareness was associated with older age, higher education, marriage, employment, and personal/familial history of breast cancer. Efforts to improve awareness and screening should target younger, less educated, single, and unemployed women, emphasizing regular screening and early detection.
Categories: Oncology
A rare phenomenon involving ventricular separation: a case report
Authors: Jin Huayong , Wen Yudan 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Ventricular separation is a multipart, extensive disease of the heart that hinders the electrical conduction of the cardiac system ventricular muscle, causing a bidirectional conduction block therein. The occurrence of ventricular separation suggests that the myocardium is in a state of severe ischemia and prognosis is generally poor. Herein, we present one rescue case in which the extremely rare phenomenon of ventricular separation developed and was documented in real-time, the case ultimately resulted in patient death.
Prevalence and outcomes of Hartmann’s reversal following Hartmann’s procedure in a regional center, a retrospective cohort study.
Authors: Fleischl William , Clifford Kari , Wright Deborah 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Hartmann’s procedure (sigmoid resection with end colostomy) is a commonly performed emergency procedure for diseases of the sigmoid colon.
Aim
To determine the proportion of patients undergoing Hartmann’s reversal (restoration of GI continuity) following Hartmann’s procedure, the clinical and demographic factors associated with reversal, and the reasons for non-reversal.
Method
This is a single center, retrospective audit of patients undergoing Hartmann’s procedure between June 2011 and May 2020. Age, sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists classification (ASA), indication for Hartmann’s, surgical approach, specialty of responsible surgeon (General or Colorectal), 30-day reoperation, requirement for radiologically-guided drain, and reason for non-reversal were recorded. The association between these factors and reversal was determined with Fischer’s exact test and logistic regression. Cumulative reversal proportions were calculated with the Kaplan-Meier method.
Results
Data was obtained for 114/117 patients, of whom 31% (35/114) underwent Hartmann’s reversal. The median (IQR) time to reversal was 372 (188-500) days). Patients with restoration of GI continuity were younger (median 67 versus 73 years, P<0.001) with fewer co-morbidities, (ASA £2 34% versus 9% P=0.002). The estimated cumulative 24-month reversal incidence was 37%.
Patients who had a Hartmann’s procedure performed for diverticulitis had an increased odds of being reversed (OR 4.1 (95% CI 1.6, 10.5) P=0.001); Hartmann’s for malignancy was associated with decreased odds of reversal (OR 0.37 (95% CI 0.12, 1) P=0.035).
Conclusion
Of patients who underwent Hartmann’s procedure, the majority retained a permanent stoma. Older patients, those with high ASA, and those who underwent index procedures for malignancy had lower rates of reversal.
Extensive Q-Factor Tuning for Leaky Modes with Minimal Frequency Variation in Asymmetric Slab Grating Structures
Authors: Bark Hyeon Sang , Kim Seong-Han , Ji Young Bin , Kwon Jae Gwang , Kang Chul , Baek In Hyung , Lee Kitae , Oh Seung Jae , Jeon Tae-In , Kee Chul-Sik 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

We investigated an asymmetric slab grating structure to achieve significant tuning of the quality (Q) factor for a leaky mode while minimizing frequency variation. This structure comprises two identical gratings placed on the top and bottom of a slab waveguide, with one grating laterally shifted to introduce asymmetry. Simulations demonstrate that lateral shifting of one grating induces extensive changes in the Q-factor with minimal frequency variation, particularly near the band-flip filling fraction because the band-flip filling fraction remains unaffected by the shifting. The independence of the band-flip filling fraction from lateral shifting is attributed to the superposition property of Bragg scattering processes in the asymmetric grating structure. Experimental verification in the terahertz range confirms significant control over the Q-factor of the leaky mode of the structure. The proposed asymmetric slab grating structure offers possibilities for mechanically controllable optical devices, which are applicable to tunable filters and sensors. This study advances our understanding and application of leaky modes in asymmetric grating structures, revealing a previously unexplored aspect of asymmetric optical lattice.
An analysis of illegal trade of non-marine turtles in West Bengal, India: Study based on a seven-year confiscation scenario
Authors: Mandal Prasun , Mallick Priyanka Halder , Bhattacharya Tanmay 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The global trade in non-marine turtles (NMTs) poses a serious threat to biodiversity. Its portrayal in the news media and other secondary sources provides a perspective on understanding what drives it, its effects and public involvement, helping in the identification of illegal trade lines. We used 133 confiscation reports from West Bengal, occurring between January 2017 and December 2023, as a case study on the confiscation scenario from various online news sources and from Forest Department reports. We identified seizure of 33,317 NMTs, belonging to nine species, six of which are threatened and one near-threatened. Lissemys punctata was the most commonly traded species accounting for 94% of the identified seized individuals and Geochelone elegans comprised 5% of the traded individuals. NMTs were seized from 15 districts of West Bengal, with North 24 Parganas found to be a hotspot accounting for 57% of confiscations. The supply chain of soft-shell turtles extended beyond West Bengal to Uttar Pradesh (50%) and Odisha (25%), whereas star tortoises were exclusively smuggled from Tamil Nadu. Additionally, we found 349 kg of body parts were seized. All confiscated materials were meant either for domestic consumption or for illegal international trade through Bangladesh. Significantly more confiscations were recorded during the winter (H = -11.429, p < 0.001) and throughout COVID-19 pandemics illegal trading remained high, with an increase in the involvement of women. West Bengal become a significant hub for the illegal trade of NMTs, with North 24 Parganas district as its epicentre which needs more conservation attention.
Combining same-target drugs exhibits additive efficacy with minimal toxicity
Authors: Cai Shao-Qing , Wang Yi , Xu Feng , Zhao Qian , Li Hong-Fu , Cai Weijing , Cui Jing-Rong , Liu Li-Jia , Zhang Yi-Fan , Wang Chao-Qun , Yang Xing-Xin , Yang Ping , Yang Zhi-Wei , Shang Ming-Ying , Liu Guang-Xue , Wang Xuan 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Drug toxicity is a major concern in medicine, and toxicity is an unresolved obstacle to the efficacy of chemotherapy drugs for cancer. Based on our ‘additive effect’ and ‘toxicity scattering effect’ hypothesis, we propose a unique drug-combination strategy to overcome drug toxicities: combining 8–10 drugs that act on the same target at ineffective doses (much lower than their usual doses) to dramatically reduce the toxicity of each drug without weakening the efficacy of the combination. Using this strategy, we developed an anticancer combination of 8 drugs (topoisomerase II inhibitors); each drug was included at 7.7%–19.5% of its minimum effective dose. This combination prolonged life by 92.8% in ascites tumour-bearing mice and inhibited tumour growth by 54.3% in solid tumour-bearing mice, without causing mortality or detectable liver, cardiac, or renal toxicity. At an average of 1/3 of the combination dose, each drug alone resulted in ineffective tumour inhibition (only 24.6%–34.5% reduction) but caused a 10%–50% mortality. As number of drugs in the combination increased from 1 to 4 to 8, the dose of each drug and the overall toxicity progressively decreased. Combinations of four or six topoisomerase II inhibitors at low concentrations inhibited the proliferation of cancer cell lines and the activity of topoisomerase II, revealing an evident additive effect on the same target. These results demonstrate the significant advantage of this strategy in reducing toxicity. Although this strategy violates drug use principles, it may be a breakthrough in reducing toxicity and improving cancer treatment. This strategy can also be applied to other diseases with high drug toxicity.
Assessment of metallic trace element contents of soils and plants of urban and suburban areas of Safi City (Morocco)
Authors: MANDRI Btissam , KHALIL Hicham EL , BOULARBAH Ali 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Our paper syntheses results obtained from studying the effect of typical contamination sources on soils and plants in selected urban and suburban areas in the Safi City. Using common methods, the physicochemical characterization and metallic trace elements (TEs) contents of plants and soils, collected from different urban areas, control area (CA), cement factory (SF), uncontrolled landfill (UL), treatment and transformation unit of phosphate (TP), were determined. Results show that the studied urban and suburban areas can be qualified as polluted by metallic trace elements and the most polluted one is TP area (CA < SF < UL < TP). Results underline the significant contribution of the atmospheric pollution on the contamination of soils and plants collected from TP, UL and surrounding areas with TEs. The most contaminated plants species by TEs are those sampled from TP area and they are Eucalyptus globulus, Nerium oleander, Ficus carica and Medicago sativa. Sinapis arvensis L. and Carpobrotus edulis plants come in the second level with remarkable contamination levels of TEs respectively. Industrial activities in urban areas constitute a potential source of contamination of soils and plants by metallic trace elements that may pose real health risk for human population in the city. We can considered this study as a primary work to develop a global process to assess the environmental contamination of plants and soils in the region of Safi city. It can help us to manage potential polluted sites in a sustainable development strategy.
Improving reproducibility of volumetric evaluation using computed tomography in pediatric patients with congenital heart disease
Authors: Cho Hyun-Hae , Lee So Mi , You Sun Kyoung 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background :The volumetric data obtained from the cardiac CT scan of congenital heart disease patients is important for defining patient’s status and making decision for proper management.
Objective :The objective of this study is to evaluate the intraobserver, interobserver, and interstudy reproducibility of left ventricular (LV) and right ventricular (RV) or functional single ventricle (FSV) volume. And compared those between manual and using semiautomated segmentation tool.
Method : Total of 127 patients (56 female, 71 male; mean age 82.1 months) underwent pediatric protocol cardiac CT from January 2020 to December 2022. The volumetric data including both end systolic, diastolic volume and calculated EF were derived from both conventional semiautomatic region growing algorithms (CM, TeraRecon, TeraRecon Inc., San Mateo, CA, USA) and deep learning-based annotation program (DLS, Medilabel, Ingradient Inc., Seoul, Republic of Korea) by three readers., who have different background knowledge or experience of radiology or image extraction before. The reproducibility was compared by using intra and interobserver agreements. And the usability was measured by using time for reconstruction and number of tests that were reconfigured before the reconfiguration time was reduced to less than 5 minutes.
Results :Inter and intraobserver agreements showed better agreements degrees in DLS than CM in all analyzers. The time used for reconstruction showed significantly shorter in DLS compared with CM. And significantly small numbers of tests before the reconfiguration is needed in DLS than CM.
Conclusion: Deep learning-based annotation program can be more accurate way for measurement of volumetric data for congenital heart disease patients with better reproducibility than conventional method.