bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Analysis of functional outcomes and complications of tibial bone defects treated with Ilizarov bone transport technique
Authors: Feng Dongwei , wang jidong , Jiao Baoliang , zhang yaxin , Jia Heping , Ma Chuang 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Trifocal bone transport (TF) rather than bifocal bone transport (BF) can shorten the treatment time when treating of large bone defect in tibia. However, few studies have reported efficacy and complications among different bone transport.
Aim
To evaluate the effectiveness and complications of bone transport technique for the treatment of large bone defect in tibia.
Methods
The retrospective study including 48 patients who underwent bone transport for the treatment of large bone defect in tibia from May 2015 to September 2019. A total of 30 were treated by bifocal bone transport (BF group) and 18 by trifocal bone transport (TF group). Patient demographic data, intraoperative outcomes, postoperative variables, complications and clinical outcomes of the two groups were recorded and compared at a minimum follow-up of 24 months. Postoperative complications were also evaluated according to Paley classification. Based on the Association for the Study and Application of Methods of Ilizarov (ASAMI) standard, the bone and functional results were evaluated at the last clinical follow-up.
Results
All patients with an average follow-up of 23 months. All patients achieved complete union in the docking site and consolidation in the regenerate bone. Compared to the BF group, the TF group had a longer bone defect length(9.08 ± 1.74 > 6.33 ± 3.15, P < 0.01) but a shorter external fixation index (42.22 ± 2.41 < 65.82 ± 6.98, P < 0.001). The mean number of complications per patient was 1.6 and 1.7 for BF and TF patients (P > 0.05). At the postoperative follow-up, there were no significant differences between the 2 groups in the bone and functional results (P > 0.05).
Conclusion
For tibial bone defects, both bifocal and trifocal bone transport can achieve good clinical results. Compared to the bifocal bone transport, The trifocal bone transport can significantly shorten the external fixation index without increasing the incidence of associated complications.
Preparation of pH-sensitive carboxymethyl cellulose/bovine serum protein complex particles and investigation of their drug carrying capacity
Authors: Zheng Kaiqiang , Quan Ziang , Wang Xiaohui , Zhou ShiHao , Wang Kuo , Cui Meng 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In this work, structurally stable and high-performance drug deliver composite particles were prepared successfully through a portable and simple electrostatic self-assembly method with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and bovine serum protein (BSA). When regulating the pH value of the system lower than the isoelectric point of BSA, it exhibited positivity and was assembled with CMC through electrostatic attraction. The prepared composite particles were characterized, and different factors impacting on the composite materials were investigated. Amoxicillin and theophylline were selected as the experimental drugs to test the drug sustained-release performance of the composite particles. Results indicated that the composite particles possessed uniform shape, with an average particle size of 255 nm before heating and a PDI of 0.16 before heating. After heating, the particle size increased to 296 nm with PDI of 0.219. The encapsulation rate of amoxicillin and theophylline were found to be 44.1% and 58.9%, and the sustained-release curve demonstrated excellent drug loading efficiency and sustained release ability. This study demonstrates the potential application of CMC, a biocompatible natural high molecular weight material, in the delivery of small molecule drugs. It also demonstrates the development potential of composite systems composed of proteins such as BSA and polysaccharides.
Association between the composite dietary antioxidant index and constipation: evidence from NHANES 2005-2010
Authors: Wei Shouxin , Yu Sijia , Lan Yunsheng , Jia Yingdong 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Dietary antioxidants have been found to improve various diseases, including digestive, cardiovascular, and urinary disorders. However, the relationship between the composite dietary antioxidant index (CDAI) and constipation remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the potential link between CDAI and constipation among adults in the United States.
Methods
This study utilized data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) collected between 2005 and 2010. Dietary data from the respondents were obtained through two 24-hour dietary recall interviews. Multiple statistical methods, including multivariable logistic regression, subgroup analysis, and smooth curve fitting analysis, were used to explore the association between CDAI and chronic constipation.
Results
A total of 10,904 participants were included in the study, of whom 1,184 were identified as having chronic constipation. After adjusting for potential confounders, multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that higher CDAI was significantly associated with a lower risk of constipation (OR = 0.958 [0.929, 0.987]). Compared to the lowest quartile, the highest quartile of CDAI was associated with a significantly reduced prevalence of constipation (OR = 0.704 [0.535, 0.927]). Subgroup analysis indicated that differences in gender, alcohol intake, and smoking status might influence the association between CDAI and constipation. Smooth curve analysis revealed an "n" shaped relationship between CDAI and constipation among non-alcohol consumers, with a turning point at a CDAI value of 1.08.
Conclusion
An elevated CDAI is negatively correlated with the incidence of chronic constipation, suggesting that increasing dietary antioxidant intake may reduce constipation prevalence. These findings underscore the importance of dietary antioxidants in maintaining gut health and provide comprehensive guidance for clinical and public health practices.
Relevance Of The uMap Collaborative Platform As A Support For Choropleth Mapping: An Atlas Applied To All-Cause Excess Mortality Alerts By Traffic Light - 1st French Containment In 2020
Authors: QUESNEL-BARBET Anne , PAGES Thierry , SOULA Julien , MAIGNANT Gilles , HANSSKE Arnaud 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In the wake of the health crisis, for the year 2020 we have created a France-wide geomatic project to produce several atlases of mortality for all pathologies, with very fine grids at commune and arrondissement levels (Marseille, Lyon, and Paris).
The aim is to bring to the collaborative map-sharing platform uMap environment, original visualization and knowledge, and decision-making aids, complementary to existing information and relevant to both the general public and healthcare professionals.
Method: We followed a two-step geomatic action plan (with and without webmapping) to create, from each of our four variables, an atlas of the 1st French containment period. Interpretation of the atlas is facilitated by the graphical display of colored choropleth maps with legend and statistical tooltip, and by rapid transmission to the user of an "Excess Mortality alert". In two different webmapping environments tested in advance, our
results only display uMap and its TrafficLight atlas, that instantly transmits the Excess Mortality alert by means of semantic interplay of colors. Comparison between regions is facilitated by the display of administrative contours and by a layer and legend management tool. Today, uMap delivers the expected results without having to worry about its remote server managed by OpenStreetMap, and its interoperability allows atlases to be exported and printed.
Outlook: Having taken a step back from geomatic technologies, uMap shows great potential for its implementation dedicated to healthcare on a local server. Further development, to create and associate legends with choropleth maps, could increase uMap’s functionality and interest.
Conclusions: We have innovated, demonstrated and reinforced the value of the collaborative and interoperable uMap mapping platform for visual rendering by instantiating our thematic atlases with choropleth maps and their legends. The TrafficLight atlas is highly relevant for the instant message it communicates by commune, and in this way, we have provided additional information easy to interpretable for all audiences. Finally, uMap offers many advantages in terms of licensing, design, and use of the atlases. This encourages us to continue improving it with the help of its contributors, and to explore it further, with an optimized geomatic action plan.
Spatiotemporal computations in the insect celestial compass
Authors: Gkanias Evripidis , Webb Barbara 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

To obtain a geocentric directional reference from a celestial compass requires compensation for the sun’s movement during the day, which also depends on the time of year and the observer’s latitude. We examine how insects could solve this problem, assuming they have clock neurons that represent time as a sinusoidal oscillation, and taking into account the known neuroanatomy of their celestial compass pathway. We show how this circuit could exploit trigonometric identities to perform the required spatiotemporal calculations. Our basic model assumes a constant change in sun azimuth (the 'hour angle'), which is recentred on solar noon for changing day lengths. In a more complete model, the time of year is represented by an oscillation with an annual period, and the latitude is estimated from the inclination of the geomagnetic field. We evaluate these models in simulated migration and foraging behaviours and discuss their potential for practical applications in robotics.
Differentiation between mpox infection and MVA immunization by a novel machine learning-supported serological multiplex assay
Authors: Stern Daniel , Surtees Rebecca , Treindl Fridolin , Akhmedova Shakhnaz , Beslic Denis , Bayram Fatimanur , Sesver Akin , Thi My Linh Nguyen , Rinner Thomas , Grossegesse Marica , Skiba Martin , Michel Janine , Körber Nils , Jansen Klaus , Koppe Uwe , Ulrich Marcus , Friedrich Nicole , Mankertz Annette , Ladewig Katharina , Mages Hans Werner , Dorner Brigitte , Nitsche Andreas 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

With case numbers exceeding 97,000 worldwide, the 2022 global mpox outbreak underscored the potential for zoonotic diseases with limited human-to-human transmission to trigger a widespread health crisis. Primarily men who have sex with men (MSM) were affected. Monitoring mpox-specific seroprevalences through epidemiological studies is essential, but challenging due to the cross-reactive antibody immune response which is induced by several orthopoxviruses including modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA)-based vaccines, which were used to help bring the outbreak under control. Here we show how machine learning (ML)-guided analysis of a serological multiplex assay that targets 15 immunogenic poxvirus proteins derived from monkeypox virus, vaccinia, and cowpox virus, can confidently discern between sera from patients post-mpox infection, post-MVA immunization, and pre-immunization or infection. Mean F1 scores representing the geometric means between precision and recall were calculated as metrics for the performance of six different ML models. The models were trained and tested on panels containing both sera taken in the early phase of seroconversion as well as sera taken six months after the peak of the mpox outbreak from individuals in an at-risk MSM population in Berlin. Scores ranged between 0.60 ± 0.05 and 0.81 ± 0.02 with Gradient Boosting Classifier (GBC) being the best performing algorithm. In order to ensure high confidence in our results, which is imperative in epidemiological studies, we excluded ambiguous results by using the robustly performing linear discriminant analysis’ (mean F1 scores 0.80 ± 0.02) classification confidence as a threshold. Hereby, sera with uncertain serostatus were segregated, leading to confident predictions with F1 scores above 0.90, at the cost of more inconclusive results for samples below the threshold. Beyond providing a valuable tool for monitoring mpox-specific antibodies, our work demonstrates how the combination of machine learning and multiplexing enables precise differentiation — and a deepened understanding — of complex antibody responses to closely related viruses.
Evaluation of Splanchnic Blood Flow Using Doppler Ultrasound Before and After Constipation Treatment in Patients with Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction
Authors: Gulcin Neslihan , Bozbeyoglu Sabriye Gulcin , Canmemis Arzu 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the correlation between blood flow dynamics using conventional and Doppler ultrasound (US), and to assess the rectosigmoid ratio ultrasonographically in children with suspected bladder and bowel dysfunction (BBD).
Methods: This prospective study was conducted between January 2023 and January 2024 involving 62 children aged 5–18 years. Ultrasound were used to measure peak systolic velocity (PSV), pulsatility index (PI), resistive index (RI) of arteries, and the rectosigmoid ratio (R/S). Behavioral therapy and osmotic laxative treatment were administered for 3 months, followed by reassessment.
Results: Before treatment, the study group had a mean rectal diameter of 18 ± 15.5 mm, which increased to 23.5 ± 14.25 mm post-treatment (p = 0.008). The mean sigmoid colon diameter was 18.5 ± 10 mm before treatment and 18 ± 5 mm after treatment (p = 0.004). The rectosigmoid ratio (R/S) increased from 0.97 ± 0.76 to 1.27 ± 0.65 post-treatment (p = 0.036). No significant differences were found in the aortic, CA, and SMA flow velocities, PI, and RI between the groups or pre- and post-treatment within the study group. However, patients with an R/S index ≥1 had lower celiac PSV values compared to those with an R/S index <1 (p = 0.009).
Conclusion: Doppler ultrasound evaluation of intestinal blood flow did not show significant clinical benefits, it may offer insights for future research. Noninvasive measurement of the rectosigmoid index is useful in diagnosing and planning treatment for constipation, especially in cases with diffuse motility problems rather than fecal impaction.
Comparison of local recurrence outcomes between breast conservation therapy versus mastectomy for treatment of breast cancer among young woman: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ma Xiaowen , Sun Yiming , Guo Qi , Zhang Feng 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: Recent clinical trials comparing local recurrence rates in young breast cancer(BC) patients after breast-conserving therapy (BCT) vs. mastectomy are scarce. This meta-analysis aims to determine the optimal surgical approach for this group by assessing local recurrence (LR) rates between BCT and mastectomy.
Methods: We systematically searched four electronic databases (Medline, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science) for relevant studies comparing LR rates in BC patients ≤40 years old treated with BCT plus radiotherapy or mastectomy. Studies meeting the inclusion criteria were synthesized using a random-effects model, with a focus on LR rates. We conducted sensitivity analyses and meta-regression to assess publication bias and heterogeneity, ensuring a rigorous evaluation of the available evidence.
Results: Out of 485 screened citations, 11 studies encompassing 9215 patients were included, with 4190 undergoing BCT and 5025 undergoing mastectomy. The summary OR revealed a significantly higher risk of LR for BCT compared to mastectomy among young breast cancer patients (OR = 1.63; 95% CI: 1.25-2.13). Specifically, the BCT group exhibited a higher 5-year LR rate (OR = 1.86, 95% CI: 1.13-2.62) and a 5-10-year LR rate (OR = 1.50, 95% CI: 1.00-2.25) compared to the mastectomy group. This trend held true across tumor stages, with the BCT group showing increased LR risk for both T1-2 (OR = 1.88, 95% CI: 1.20-2.94) and T1-4 (OR = 1.46, 95% CI: 1.02-2.10) stages. Similarly, nodal status analysis indicated a higher LR risk for BCT in N0-1 (OR = 2.56, 95% CI: 1.90-3.44) and N0-3 (OR = 1.38, 95% CI: 0.99-1.93) stages. Notably, among very young women (age ≤ 35), the difference in LR rate between BCT and mastectomy was pronounced (OR = 2.04, 95% CI: 1.48-2.81). Overall, for breast cancer patients aged ≤ 40 years, the BCT group consistently demonstrated a higher risk of LR compared to the mastectomy group (OR = 1.53, 95% CI: 1.10-2.13).
Conclusion: Our meta-analysis revealed that among young breast cancer patients, BCT was associated with a significantly elevated risk of LR compared to mastectomy, particularly in those ≤35 years old. This heightened risk persisted across various tumor and nodal stages. For very young breast cancer patients, a comprehensive consideration of surgical options is warranted, with caution exercised in selecting BCT. While overall survival (OS) rates were comparable between the two groups in young women, further research is warranted to elucidate these findings and guide clinical decision-making. [1-3]
Exploring the Knowledge Levels of Bankers on Health Risks of Overweight and Obesity
Authors: Jonathan Justice Wiston Amstrong , Baba Stephen , Etornam Kezia Kwawudade , Abambila Solomon , Gyan Charity , Okonkwo Ifunanya Chinenye 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: Overweight and obesity are becoming serious public health menace in the world today. Weight gain is skyrocketing across the globe due to growing economy, fast food expansion and a shift towards more sedentary living. However, most people lack knowledge regarding risks associated with overweight and obesity.
Aim: The study aimed to explore the knowledge level of bankers in the Ho Municipality on the health risks associated with overweight and obesity.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study design with quantitative method was employed. The study spanned from September 7, 2018 to April 25, 2019. A self-administered questionnaire and convenience sampling technique were used to obtain data. Data were analysed using IBM SPSS Statistics 21 Developer and the results presented in statistical tables and graphs.
Results: Of 136 participants investigated, 67 (49.3%) were between 31 - 40 years. 2 participants (1.5%) were underweight, 49(36.0%) had normal weight, 43(31.6%) were overweight while 42 (30.9%) were obese. The study revealed that female bankers were prone to overweight (37.78%) while the males were prone to obesity (56.52%). Participants generally had low knowledge and awareness on health risks of overweight and obesity.
Conclusion: Most bankers in the Ho Municipality were overweight and obese due to insufficient knowledge and low awareness on the risks associated with overweight and obesity. Public education and awareness creation are urgently needed to stem the tide.
Physician preparedness for genetic counseling in a pediatric cancer center in Egypt
Authors: Gouda Nouran , Haddad Alaa El , Maher Eslam , Koeller Diane , Maga Tara , McQuaid Shelly 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Purpose: Considering the significant frequency of consanguinity in Egypt, a large portion of its childhood cancers may have an underlying hereditary component. The preparedness of physicians in the pediatric cancer setting to collaborate with genetic counselors is vital to provide the needed care.
Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey aiming to evaluate the level of genetic counselling knowledge and awareness among Egyptian physicians in a large pediatric cancer center, and the barriers they perceive to its implementation.
Results: A total of 150 physicians were invited, of which, 52 responded to the questionnaire. Most of the participants were oncologists (86.5%), and 9.6% were from other subspecialties such as surgery, pathology, and radiology. The majority had practical exposure to genetics in clinic with 75% (39/52) reporting involvement in a case with hereditary cancer syndrome. The average knowledge score (SD) was 42.1 (6.9) out of 60. Knowledge scores were greater in those who had educational exposure to genetics. Most of the participants (76%) incorrectly agreed that a purpose of genetic counseling is to advise people on whether to have children. A sizeable portion (21%) didn’t know the type of training or education that a genetic counselor acquires. Overall, attitudes towards genetic counseling were positive. The most perceived barrier (42%) was their referral to an MD geneticist or other physician specialist for genetics related indications.
Conclusions: Egyptian physicians working in pediatric cancer care have moderate familiarity with genetic risk assessment and recognize its value. However, there is a difficulty in discerning the specific tasks performed by genetic counselors and how they can be integrated in the clinical framework.
Prevalence of stimulants among students of the Syrian Private University and its relationship with academic achievement and psychological state
Authors: Eteish Hazem Ahmad , ALetesh Ahmad Nashmi 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: Non-medical use of neuropharmaceuticals generates significant discussions in medical and public health circles. The main motivation for this non-medical use of neuropharmaceuticals is to enhance cognitive function in healthy individuals beyond normal human capacity. Objective: The prevalence of stimulants among Syrian Private University students and its relationship with academic achievement and psychological status.
Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted at the Syrian Private University, during the period 12/1/2023 to 7/1/2024. The students' responses, numbering 386 male and female students, were studied through an electronically distributed questionnaire.
Results: The sample consisted of 386 students. With an average age of 22.40 years. The percentage of males was 51% compared to females 49%. The financial status was average at 40%. The students of the Faculty of Human Medicine constituted the largest number of students in the sample, reaching 45%. The most common reason for using these stimulants among the students who used them was staying up late and studying during exams and projects, which was 5% of the students. The fourth year was the highest year in terms of stimulant use among the students, with a rate of 4%. The students of the Faculty of Human Medicine were the students who had the highest anxiety score, which was 1.93 compared to the students of the other faculties.
Conclusion: The percentage of stimulant use among the students in our study was 8% of the total students. The most frequent motives for using stimulant drugs were reasons related to academic activities. The results of our study differed regarding the students' knowledge of stimulants and their side effects, as only 3% of the students in our study indicated their knowledge of these drugs and their side effects.
Magnetic collapse and low conductivity of Fe3N in the deep interiors of Earth-like planets
Authors: Zhuang Yukai , Liu Jin , Lv Chaojia , Xu Liangxu , Bi Wenli , Hu Qingyang , Zhang Dongzhou , Garbarino Gaston , Zhu Shengcai , Zhang Youjun 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
The high-pressure behavior of iron nitrides has garnered significant attention due to the possibility of deep nitrogen reservoirs within the Earth’s interior. Here, we investigate the magnetic, structural, electrical, and thermal properties of Fe3N up to 62 GPa and 2100 K, using multiple probes coupled with the diamond-anvil cell technique (including synchrotron X-ray diffraction, synchrotron Mössbauer spectroscopy, and electrical measurements). Fe3N undergoes a magnetic phase transformation from the ferromagnetic to paramagnetic state at ~17-20 GPa, 300 K. The equation of state was determined as, V0/Z = 42.8(1) Å3, and K0 = 151.8(1) GPa, with K′ fixed at 4. Additionally, Fe3N exhibits unexpectedly low electrical and thermal conductivity under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions. This result suggests that deep nitrogen cycling may contribute to the thermal evolution of the deep interiors of Earth and other terrestrial bodies.