bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Postural stability at activation and deactivation of the cochlear implant in adolescents with late lateral implantations: a quasi-experiment
Authors: Zwierzchowska Anna , Gaweł Eliza , Krużyńska Agata , Słomka Kajetan J. , Juras Grzegorz 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
Cochlear implantation (CI) surgery has become a prevalent method of hearing rehabilitation, since it has been acknowledged that it impacts effectively on the vestibular system. However, there is still no consensus among clinicians on the most appropriate age and area (lateral/bilateral) of CI surgery in terms of postural control. The present study aimed to assess the postural control in late lateral CI adolescents with different visual (eyes opened(EO)/eyes closed(EC)) and auditory (CI activated/deactivated) conditions and to build a theoretical model of postural control based on sensual compensatory mechanisms that are predominant in late CI individuals. It was hypothesized that kinesthetic sensation and exteroceptors of the superficial sensation are critical for neuromuscular control after late CI.

Methods
A quasi-experimental study protocol was used in this study to assess the postural stability performance in the studied adolescents with different visual and auditory perceptions. 27 adolescent students with hearing loss participated in the study. A force plate (Accu Gait AMTI) with computer software (NetForce) was used in the study to assess the postural stability with four different conditions(EO)/EC), CI activated/deactivated).

Results
vCOP was found to have a significant growing tendency within the conditions of CI activated/deactivated.No statistically significant relationships were noted between the range of the displacement of feet pressure (Area) and both the visual and auditory conditions. Hearing loss etiology was statistically significantly related to the values of vCOP, within the conditions of EO, CI activated/deactivated (p < 0.01), what did not occure with the condition of EC (p > 0.05). Neuromuscular control with the condition of EC x CI deactivated was found to be based on the kinesthetic-tactual compensatory model.

Conclusions
Kinesthetic sensation and exteroceptors of the superficial sensation seem to be the predominant source of information to maintain postural control in late CI adolescents, regardless of the visual and auditory conditions. The etiology of hearing loss (congenital/acquired) can be a predictor of the values of the vCOP. In order to improve neuromuscular control in this population, it is recommended that the patients perform physical activity tasks, especially to develop core muscles, based on direct stimulation and rotational stability.
A rare case of trigeminal trophic syndrome with periorbital cellulitis and full-thickness upper eyelid defect in an undiagnosed patient with human immunodeficiency virus: a case report
Authors: Apanga Stephen , Alhassan Mohammed , Abdulai Bawa 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
Trigeminal trophic syndrome is a rare cranial and facial condition caused by damage to the central or peripheral branches of the trigeminal nerve. This syndrome consists of a triad of anesthesia, paresthesia, and crescent-shaped facial ulcer involving the ala nasi and sometimes extending to the upper lip. Although previous screening for human immunodeficiency virus in some patients with trigeminal trophic syndrome was negative, we present a unique case of trigeminal trophic syndrome who tested positive for human immunodeficiency virus with eye complications.

Case presentation
We present a rare case of trigeminal trophic syndrome in a 44-year-old Black African woman who tested positive for human immunodeficiency virus. She presented with a 6-week history of progressive, persistent, and painless left sided facial and scalp ulcerations that started as small skin erosion. Diagnosis of trigeminal trophic syndrome was made on clinical grounds based on the triad of anesthesia, paresthesia, and unilateral crescent-shaped ulcer in the trigeminal dermatome and her past medical history. The ulcer healed completely after counseling and pharmacological therapy, but she later developed left periorbital cellulitis and left upper eyelid full-thickness defect.

Conclusion
This is by far the first documented case of trigeminal trophic syndrome with a positive human immunodeficiency virus test. Testing for human immunodeficiency virus in patients with trigeminal trophic syndrome is necessary as this can help improve clinical management and treatment outcomes. Seeking the services of specialists remotely in resource constraint settings is beneficial for managing complications associated with trigeminal trophic syndrome.
Primary leiomyosarcoma of epididymis: a case report
Authors: Chen Hong-Jie , Han Yao-dong , Li Dong-hai , Li Wu , Zhang Jun 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
Leiomyosarcoma is a tumor that can develop in any organ that contains smooth muscles. Although leiomyosarcoma is common, its epididymal localization is quite rare.

Case presentation
A 79-year-old male Chinese Han patient presented with mild pain in the right groin and scrotum for 3 years concomitant with right scrotal swelling. Ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging of the scrotum showed a irregular and heterogeneous mass that was extratesticular. Right high orchiectomy was performed, and pathological examination of the resected specimen confirmed the diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma of the epididymis with surgical margins clear of tumor.

Conclusion
Epididymal leiomyosarcoma is rare and difficult to diagnose preoperatively. The final diagnosis of epididymal leiomyosarcoma requires histologic examination. Resection must be extensive and complete. The effect of chemotherapy and radiation on the epididymal leiomyosarcoma remains unclear. Recurrence is common, so follow-up is necessary.
Cardiac sympathetic activity and lethal arrhythmic events: insight into bell-shaped relationship between 123I-meta-iodobenzylguanidine activity and event rates
Authors: Nakajima Kenichi , Nakata Tomoaki , Doi Takahiro , Verschure Derk O. , Frantellizzi Viviana , De Feo Maria Silvia , Tada Hayato , Verberne Hein J. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
123I-meta-iodobenzylguanidine (mIBG) has been applied to patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). However, the relationship between 123I-mIBG activity and lethal arrhythmic events (ArE) is not well defined. This study aimed to determine this relationship in Japanese and European cohorts.

Results
We calculated heart-to-mediastinum (H/M) count ratios and washout rates (WRs) of 827 patients using planar 123I-mIBG imaging. We defined ArEs as sudden cardiac death, arrhythmic death, and potentially lethal events such as sustained ventricular tachycardia, cardiac arrest with resuscitation, and appropriate implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) discharge, either from a single ICD or as part of a cardiac resynchronization therapy device (CRTD). We analyzed the incidence of ArE with respect to H/M ratios, WRs and New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional classes among Japanese (J; n = 581) and European (E; n = 246) cohorts. We also simulated ArE rates versus H/M ratios under specific conditions using a machine-learning model incorporating 13 clinical variables. Consecutive patients with CHF were selected in group J, whereas group E comprised candidates for cardiac electronic devices. Groups J and E mostly comprised patients with NYHA functional classes I/II (95%) and II/III (91%), respectively, and 21% and 72% were respectively implanted with ICD/CRTD devices. The ArE rate increased with lower H/M ratios in group J, but the relationship was bell-shaped, with a high ArE rate within the intermediate H/M range, in group E. This bell-shaped curve was also evident in patients with NYHA classes II/III in the combined J and E groups, particularly in those with a high (> 15%) mIBG WR and with ischemic, but not in those with non-ischemic etiologies. Machine learning-based prediction of ArE risk aligned with these findings, indicating a bell-shaped curve in NYHA class II/III but not in class I.

Conclusions
The relationship between cardiac 123I-mIBG activity and lethal arrhythmic events is influenced by the background of patients. The bell-shaped relationship in NYHA classes II/III, high WR, and ischemic etiology likely aids in identifying patients at high risk for ArEs.
Clostridium butyricum regulates intestinal barrier function via trek1 to improve behavioral abnormalities in mice with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Liu Simeng , Xi Huayuan , Xue Xia , Sun Xiangdong , Huang Huang , Fu Dongjun , Mi Yang , He Yongzheng , Yang Pingchang , Tang Youcai , Zheng Pengyuan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that has been found to be associated with dysregulation of gastrointestinal functions and gut microbial homeostasis (the so-called “gut-brain axis”). ASD is often accompanied by poor performances in social interaction and repetitive behaviors. Studies on the gut-brain axis provide novel insights and candidate targets for ASD therapeutics and diagnosis. Based on the ASD mice model, this work aims to reveal the mechanisms behind the interaction of intestinal barrier function and probiotics in ASD mouse models.

Results
We found an altered intestinal barrier in both BTBR T+ Itpr3tf/J (BTBR) and valproic acid (VPA) mice, including increased intestinal permeability, decreased expression of intestinal tight junction proteins (claudin1, claudin3, and occludin), and increased levels of IL-6, TNF-α, and IFN-γ. Based on intestinal microbial alternation, C. butyricum can drive reduced expression of histone deacetylases 1 (HDAC1) and enhanced intestinal barrier function, significantly promoting behavioral abnormalities of ASD in BTBR mice. In parallel, we confirmed that C. butyricum was involved in the regulation of intestinal function by the Trek1 channel, indicating that it is a target of C. butyricum/butyric acid to improve intestinal barrier function in ASD mice.

Conclusions
Our finding provides solid evidence for the gut microbiota involved in ASD through the brain-gut axis. In addition, the probiotics C. butyricum hold promise to improve gut health and ameliorate behavioral abnormalities associated with ASD.
The Israeli Trauma system during wartime - policy and management
Authors: Nitzan Dorit , Mendlovic Joseph , Ash Nachman 
Published: July 2024

AbstractOn October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorists attacked people in their homes, fields, and at a music festival in Israeli communities near the border with Gaza. More than 1,145 men, women, and children were killed, about 1,800 wounded were evacuated to hospitals in the country, and 253 infants, children, women, elderly, and men were abducted. This mass casualty incident (MCI) was the start of a war that is still ongoing. The Israeli medical system, which faced an overwhelming first 24 h, continues to take care of casualties, including those who are injured by missiles that target Israeli residential areas.Israel has a well-established trauma system, and as a result of the experience gained in this war, the system merited review. This was the topic of a meeting of leaders of the Israeli healthcare system, and it forms the basis of this report. The meeting and report provide a platform for presenting the trauma system management during the war, highlighting the strengths of the system as well as its challenges and lessons learned. The participants also brainstormed and discussed possibilities for future improvements.
Clinical value of serum neuron-specific enolase in sepsis-associated encephalopathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhi Meiling , Huang Jian , Jin Xuli 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Objective
This study aimed to investigate the serum levels of neuron-specific enolase (NSE) in sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE) and perform a meta-analysis to assess the diagnostic and prognostic potential of serum NSE in SAE patients.

Methods
We searched English and Chinese databases for studies related to SAE that reported serum NSE levels until November 2023. We extracted information from these studies including the first author and year of publication, the number of samples, the gender and age of patients, the collection time of blood samples in patients, the assay method of serum NSE, the study methods, and the levels of serum NSE with units of ng/mL. The quality assessment of diagnostic accuracy studies 2 (QUADAS-2) tool was used to evaluate the study quality. A meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager version 5.3, employing either a random effects model or a fixed effects model.

Results
A total of 17 studies were included in the final meta-analysis, including 682 SAE patients and 946 NE patients. The meta-analysis demonstrated significantly higher serum NSE levels in SAE patients compared to NE patients (Z = 5.97, P < 0.001, MD = 7.79, 95%CI 5.23–10.34), irrespective of the method used for serum NSE detection (Z = 6.15, P < 0.001, mean difference [MD] = 7.75, 95%CI 5.28–10.22) and the study methods (Z = 5.97, P < 0.001, MD = 7.79, 95%CI 5.23–10.34). Furthermore, sepsis patients with a favorable outcome showed significantly lower levels of serum NSE compared to those with an unfavorable outcome (death or adverse neurological outcomes) (Z = 5.44, P < 0.001, MD = − 5.34, 95%CI − 7.26–3.42).

Conclusion
The Serum level of NSE in SAE patients was significantly higher than that in septic patients without encephalopathy. The higher the serum NSE level in SAE patients, the higher their mortality rate and incidence of adverse neurological outcomes.
Do Agricultural stakeholder panels enhance post-harvest loss reduction? Evidence from Malawi
Authors: Amadu Festus O. , McNamara Paul E. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractPost-harvest loss significantly affects food security in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and elsewhere across developing countries. Weak institutional factors like ineffective agricultural extension services in rural communities can exacerbate such problems among smallholder farmers in SSA and other developing countries. Therefore, international development policies have prioritized strengthening rural extension systems to enhance access to effective extension services and thereby enhance food security outcomes like ineffective agriculturalpost-harvest loss reduction among rural households. As such, the US-Agency for International Development supported theStrengthening Agricultural and Nutrition Extensionprogram in Malawi from 2015 to 2021 to improve access to rural extension services by promoting Agricultural Stakeholder Panels (ASPs)—platforms designed to enhance farmer interaction with local extension agents in rural communities and thereby enhance improved access to quality extension services in rural areas. The ASP approach can reduce post-harvest losses for major crops, such as maize. However, rigorous analyses of the effects of ASPs on post-harvest loss reduction remain limited. To address this knowledge gap, we apply recursive bivariate probit regression to primary survey data from 2134 households in Malawi to estimate the effects of the ASP approach on post-harvest loss reduction in 2018. The results show that ASPs reduced post-harvest losses among households by 53%, and a crucial outcome that can improve household food security. The result demonstrates that policies that strengthen rural extension systems can contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals on hunger and food security in rural Malawi and similar contexts.
Rosin reinforcement and protection of the unearthed outer coffin from the tomb of Marquis Yi of Zeng in Hubei, China
Authors: Chen Hua , Chen Shaohui , Wu Changxiong , Chen Zhuofeng , Mai Bingjie , Cao Jing 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The tomb of Marquis Yi of Zeng was unearthed in 1978 at Leiguudun in Suizhou City, Hubei Province, China. This is the largest wooden coffin in rock pit and vertical cave in the Warring States period in China. The large wooden coffin components provide reliable material data for the study of the feudal burial system in the pre-Qin period and have high value. In this paper, the wooden coffin excavated from the tomb of Marquis Yi of Zeng was studied. By understanding the composition of wood, studying the weight gain rate, shrinkage rate, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and compression resistance, the wood reinforced by rosin and epoxy resin was compared, and the reinforcement effect and principle of the two reinforcement methods were discussed. The study found that the wood properties of rosin reinforced group were better than those of epoxy reinforced group in the aspects of compressive strength, weight gain rate and volume shrinkage rate, and the mechanical properties of wood were significantly improved. In addition, methanol or ethanol can be used to dissolve the rosin shellac in this strengthening process, which can achieve reversible strengthening treatment. The results provide valuable examples and research ideas for the selection of different conservation techniques of large wooden cultural relics unearthed in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River during the Warring States Period.
Environmental analysis and comparison of the conventional and fractal glass textured surface photovoltaic panels
Authors: Shoaei Mersad , Aslani Alireza , Zahedi Rahim 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThere are two major forms of solar energy that are typically utilized: photovoltaic and concentrated applications. The application of fractal glass texture to photovoltaic solar panels is a cutting-edge technique in the field of solar panels that generate electricity from exposure to light. When it comes to studying the environmental implications of a product during its development and commercialization, the life cycle assessment (LCA) approach is an excellent technique that can be utilized. The purpose of this study is to offer a thorough understanding of the product’s effects on the environment by taking into consideration a wide range of criteria, including environmental, economic, and other evaluations. Through the utilization of the life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology and the SimaPro software, this paper presents a comparative analysis of conventional solar panels and fractal glass texture panels. During the course of this research, 18 midpoint indicators and three endpoint indices were investigated. In addition, a sensitivity analysis has been carried out on the fractal property of the panel in order to evaluate the impact that it has on environmental impacts and damages. For the purpose of this study, three distinct levels of fractal coating were applied to the panel surface: one percent, three percent, and five percent. As a result of the data, it was determined that the “Photovoltaic cell single-Si wafer” and the “Transport, freight, sea, transoceanic tanker” had the most significant impact on the midpoint and endpoint indices for both panels, respectively. Furthermore, there is a direct association between the rise in fractal coating on panels and the reduction in environmental repercussions, approximately. This correlation exists because of several factors.
18F-FDG whole-body PET/CT for the evaluation of suspected native valve infective endocarditis
Authors: Chen Shihan , Ben-Ezra Noah , Probst Stephan , Abikhzer Gad 
Published: July 2024

Abstract18F-FDG-PET/CT is indicated in the workup of patients with suspected infective endocarditis to detect intra-cardiac and disseminated infections, as well as its source. We present the case of a 66-year-old female patient known for recurrent diabetic foot infection, with equivocal TTE results and persistent MRSA bacteremia despite medical management. PET/CT revealed evidence of left foot osteomyelitis. Whole body PET/CT diagnosed native mitral valve infective endocarditis (IE) and right lower lobe segmental pulmonary artery uptake, consistent with septic pulmonary embolism (PE).
Traditional Italian flatbreads: cultural diversity, processing technology and future perspectives
Authors: Mefleh Marina , Vurro Francesca , Summo Carmine , Pasqualone Antonella 
Published: July 2024

AbstractFlatbreads are particularly prevalent in the Mediterranean region, including Italy, where each community has its unique traditional recipe, preparation method, and baking system. This traditional narrative review provides an overview of the Italian flatbreads that have achieved national or international quality recognitions. The aims of this study are, firstly, to scientifically evaluate these flatbreads and establishing a catalog that includes both technical and cultural information, which are currently missing in the international scientific literature and, secondly, to conduct a comparative analysis of the technical and cultural diversity of traditional Italian flatbreads, outlining areas for future research development. The examined flatbreads were found to be characterized by considerable diversity, reflecting the Italian region’s diverse culinary heritage. The formulation is generally simple and includes flour, water, possibly yeast, and salt. Additional ingredients are region dependent, reflecting local availability, and include fats of animal origin, or ham, mostly found in flatbreads from Northern Italy, while olive oil or EVOO is common in flatbreads of Tuscany, Liguria, and Sardinia. The types of flour also differ regionally: Besides soft wheat flour, durum wheat semolina is used in southern Italy and Sardinia, chestnut flour in Tuscany, rye flour in Alto Adige, chickpea flour in Liguria, and corn flour in central Italy. Historically, high-extraction flour and sourdough were largely used but have been replaced by refined flour and commercial baker’s yeast over time. Flash baking (short time, high temperature) is generally adopted, and some flatbreads, typical of Sardinia, are baked twice, resulting in complete dryness and long shelf-life. In contrast, quickly prepared unleavened bread is a staple in the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, Lunigiana, and the Po Valley. Overall, these results suggest encouraging the revival of the ancient baking tradition of using high-extraction flours and sourdough fermentation, which today are almost lost. Reintroducing these methods could increase the fiber, mineral and, vitamin content and ensure a rich sensory profile. Further research could focus on improving the nutritional quality, particularly, through salt reduction, acrylamide levels mitigation, and protein content increase. The lack of historical information highlights the need to perform historical research to gain a deeper understanding of origins, evolution and characteristics of Italian flatbreads.
Graphical Abstract