bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Intramedullary Screw Fixation, Plating, and K-Wires for Metacarpal Fracture Fixation: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: DelPrete Cristina R. , Chao John , Varghese Bobby B. , Greenberg Patricia , Iyer Hari , Shah Ajul 
Published: February 2024

Background: Metacarpal fractures are common injuries with multiple options for fixation. Our purpose was to compare outcomes in metacarpal fractures treated with intramedullary screw fixation (IMF), Kirschner wires (K-wires), or plating. Methods: A systematic literature review using the MEDLINE database was performed for studies investigating metacarpal fractures treated with IMF, plating, or K-wires. We identified 34 studies (9 IMF, 8 plating, 17 K-wires). A meta-analysis using both mixed and fixed effects models was performed. Outcome measures included mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scores, total active motion (TAM), grip strength, time to radiographic healing, and rates of infection and reoperation. Results: Patients with IMF had significantly lower DASH scores (0.6 [95% confidence interval [CI], 0.2-1.0]) compared with K-wires (7.4 [4.8-9.9]) and plating (9.8 [5.3-14.3]). Intramedullary screw fixation also had significantly lower rates of reoperation (4%, [2%-7%]), compared with K-wires (11% [7%-16%]) and plating (11% [0.07-0.17]). Grip strength was significantly higher in IMF (104.4% [97.0-111.8]) compared with K-wires (88.5%, [88.3-88.7]) and plating (90.3%, [85.4-95.2]). Mean odds ratio time was similar between IMF (21.0 minutes [10.4-31.6]) and K-wires (20.8 minutes [14.0-27.6]), but both were shorter compared with plating (52.6 minutes [33.1-72.1]). There were no statistically significant differences in time to radiographic healing, TAM, or rates of reoperation or infection. Conclusions: This meta-analysis compared the outcomes of metacarpal fixation with IMF, K-wires, or plating. Intramedullary screw fixation provided statistically significant lower DASH scores, higher grip strength, and lower rates of reoperation, suggesting that it is a comparable method of fixation to K-wires and plating for metacarpal fractures.
Determining barriers to submitting antimicrobial-resistant isolates among hospitals in Texas Public Health Region 8
Authors: Moorhead Bailie , Shrestha Niva , Newman-Caro Alvin Boyd , Vangeli Sydney L. , Lussier Victoria N. , Grijalva Mark I. , Giro Margaret E. , Jackson Danielle Natividad , Mack Tianna M. , Herrle Zackary L. , Hill Marcheta , Rodriguez Gretchen , Singer Rachael , Williams Cynthia , Nwanguma Adaugo , Merengwa Enyinnaya N. , Pittman Rachel , Sanchez Rebecca L. 
Published: February 2024

Background The Antimicrobial Resistance Laboratory Network (AR Lab Network) was developed by the CDC to detect emerging antimicrobial-resistant (AR) threats and prevent outbreaks. However, low submission rates of AR isolates limit the potential of the AR Lab Network to address antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Aim The aim of this study was to investigate barriers to submission of AR isolates in acute care hospitals (ACHs) and critical access hospitals (CAHs) within Texas Public Health Region 8 (PHR8) counties. Methods A survey was designed and emailed to laboratory professionals to identify barriers to AR isolate submission. Responses were analyzed using 2-sided Fisher’s exact tests to identify associations between responses and respondent characteristics. Results Of the 33 hospitals within PHR8 invited to participate in the survey, responses were received from 21, a response rate of 63.6%. Lack of awareness of the AR Lab Network was the most frequently cited barrier to submission (65.4% of respondents). Other reported barriers to submission included lack of laboratory staff time (57.7%), lack of training with the submission process (34.6%), lack of personnel certified to ship infectious substances (23.1%), and lack of laboratory/shipping supplies (23.1%). Discussion Regardless of the respondent’s role, time in that role, or type of hospital in which they worked, the most common barrier to isolate submission was lack of awareness of the AR Lab Network. In the future, we will address the identified barriers by implementing educational outreach programs about AMR and the AR Lab Network for hospitals and other healthcare facilities within PHR8.
Serial Ultrasonography for the Assessment of Healing of Lower Extremity Bone Stress Injury and Correlation With Return to Sport/Exercise
Authors: Toresdahl Brett G. , Conway Justin , Miller Theodore T. , Goolsby Marci A. , Geannette Christian S. , Quijano Brianna , Callahan Lisa R. 
Published: February 2024

Background: Lower extremity bone stress injuries (BSIs) are common among athletes who participate in high-impact activities. Conventional imaging is limited in assessing healing of BSIs. Hypothesis: Serial ultrasonography (US) can identify changes in appearance of lower extremity BSIs over time that can be correlated with symptoms and return to exercise/sport. Study Design: Cohort observational study. Level of Evidence: Level 3. Methods: Adults 18 to 50 years old with a recent exercise-associated BSI of distal tibia/fibula or metatarsals diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were enrolled. US was performed every 2 weeks for 12 weeks. The sonographic appearance (soft tissue edema, periosteal reaction, hyperemia on power Doppler, callus) was correlated with the numerical rating scale (NRS) for pain and ability to return to sport/exercise. Results: A total of 30 patients were enrolled (mean age, 35.3 ± 7.7 years; 21 [70.0%] female). The tibia was most frequently affected (n = 15, 50.0%), followed by metatarsals (n = 14, 46.7%) and fibula (n = 1, 3.3%). At week 4, 25 of 30 (83.3%) had at least 1 US finding associated with the BSI. The degree of hyperemia was correlated with NRS at weeks 4 and 6 (Spearman correlations [ρ] 0.45 [0.09, 0.69] and 0.42 [0.07, 0.67], respectively), as well as return to sport/exercise at week 6 (ρ -0.45 [-0.68, -0.09]). US soft tissue edema was also correlated with NRS at week 6 (ρ 0.38 [0.02, 0.65]). Conclusion: Serial US of lower extremity BSIs can provide objective measures of healing. US findings were correlated with clinical outcomes at multiple timepoints. Clinical Relevance: US may have advantages over conventional imaging for monitoring healing of lower extremity BSIs. Further research is needed to better understand the prognostic value of these sonographic indicators of BSI healing and role in assessing readiness for return to sport/exercise.
Prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii IgM and IgG positive cats in Los Angeles County, California
Authors: Honarchian Roubina , Yen Tracy , Ganz Eva , Kang Gie 
Published: February 2024

Objectives The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii IgM and IgG positive cats in Los Angeles County, California. T gondii antibodies are common in sera from cats in most reported studies around the world. Although the majority of infected cats never develop clinical disease, development of acute infection and recrudescence of latent infection secondary to immunosuppression has been reported. Knowledge of the serologic status of T gondii may be important when considering immunosuppressive treatments. Methods T gondii IgM and IgG antibody titers were measured in 225 cats. Sera from owned cats tested at a multispecialty veterinary hospital were included both retrospectively and prospectively (n = 125). Sera from feral cats tested through a collaborating humane society were included prospectively (n = 100). Results Of the 13 (5.8%) cats with IgM titers, 10 were positive at the minimal cut-off titer (1:64), one cat was clinically ill and none were currently positive for IgG antibodies, suggesting false-positive results for nine cats, giving an adjusted IgM prevalence rate of 1.8% (95% CI 0.7–4.5). A total of five (2.2%) cats were positive for IgG antibodies and no cat was positive for both antibodies. Conclusions and relevance Most studies of T gondii antibodies in cat sera from California have shown higher prevalence rates, suggesting the cats in this municipality have a low risk of exposure. The study emphasizes that serological test results do not necessarily correlate to the presence of clinical illness.
Experiences of physiotherapists considering virtual reality for shoulder rehabilitation: A focus group study
Authors: Dejaco Beate , Brady Niamh , Tankink Anne , Lewis Jeremy , van Goor Harry , Staal J Bart , Stolwijk Niki 
Published: February 2024

IntroductionShoulder pain is common and associated with substantial morbidity. Different treatment strategies are being prescribed with equivocal results. Virtual reality (VR) is a novel technology and emerging research suggests that VR may be a promising alternative to current treatments. Prior to effectiveness research or any large-scale introduction, VR-applications require appropriate scrutiny including feasibility- and acceptability of clinicians and patients. Therefore, the aim of this study was to collect experiences of physiotherapists after using immersive VR.MethodsA qualitative interpretive design was used to explore physiotherapists’ experiences related to the use of VR for people with shoulder symptoms. 17 physiotherapists were asked to use VR at home for five days prior to a focus group interview. Data from the focus group interviews were analyzed using a six-phase process of thematic analysis.ResultsThree main themes were identified, each divided into subthemes. The main themes were: 1. VR as an extension of contemporary physiotherapy care: physiotherapists were positive about the potential of VR and its applicability in daily care. 2. Physiotherapist uncertainties of future care using VR: participants expressed concerns about their professional identity, particularly as patients engage in independent home exercises. 3. Physiotherapist's requirements for implementation of VR: participants shared their needs for evidence regarding the effectiveness and parameters such as frequency, dosage and intensity of the VR intervention.ConclusionPhysiotherapists were positive about VR as an intervention tool. However, they felt more knowledge is needed about parameters of VR. The findings of this study inform researchers and technology developers about optimal design of interventions and applications using VR.
Effects of a Phone-Based Support Program for Women With Breast Cancer Undergoing Chemotherapy: A Pilot Study
Authors: Chen Xi , Chaimongkol Nujjaree , Hengudomsub Pornpat 
Published: February 2024

Introduction The increasing number of women with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy may result in long-lasting, adverse physical side effects and reduced quality of life. Objective This study aimed to develop and assess the feasibility and preliminary effects of the Phone-Based Support Program for women with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy. The primary outcome was self-care self-efficacy; secondary outcomes were symptom distress and quality of life. Methods This pilot study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Jiangsu province, China, from February to March 2023. The Phone-Based Support Program was delivered to 20 participants through the smartphone application WeChat, consisting of learning, discussion, ask-the-expert, and personal stories components. Outcome measures were assessed at three time points: preintervention, postintervention, and follow-up. Results The Phone-Based Support Program was feasible and could improve self-care self-efficacy, decrease symptom distress, and promote quality of life. The program was well-accepted, and participants engaged actively in the online discussion and sought expert advice. Conclusions The Phone-Based Support Program showed feasibility and effectiveness in improving self-care self-efficacy, reducing symptom distress, and enhancing quality of life.
Thermal behaviour of filatovite – a rare aluminoarsenate mineral of the feldspar group
Authors: Gorelova Liudmila A. , Vereshchagin Oleg S. , Bocharov Vladimir N. , Potekhina (née Shchipalkina) Nadezhda V. , Zhitova Elena S. , Pekov Igor V. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThe high-temperature behaviour of a feldspar-group mineral, filatovite (with the simplified formula: K(Al,Zn)2(As,Si)2O8), in which the Al:As:Si ratio is close to 2:1:1), was studied by in situ high-temperature single-crystal X-ray diffraction and in situ high-temperature (hot stage) Raman spectroscopy up to 600°C. In the temperature range studied (25–600°С) filatovite does not undergo any phase transition, whereas at 800°C it decomposes to X-ray amorphous phase(s). The evolution of 12 main Raman bands was traced during heating, which indicates a gradual change in the crystal structure. The thermal expansion coefficients of filatovite demonstrate a sharply anisotropic character of thermal expansion: the maximal expansion is close to the a axis (α11 = 17.7(1) × 10–6 °C–1), whereas along the b and c axes the thermal expansion coefficients are close to zero. Such behaviour is typical for minerals with a similar crystal structure topology; it indicates the dominant role of structure geometry in the thermal behaviour of the mineral.
Effect of salinity stress and surfactant treatment with zinc and boron on morpho-physiological and biochemical indices of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)
Authors: Khan Atika , Bibi Safura , Javed Talha , Mahmood Athar , Mehmood Shahid , Javaid Muhammad Mansoor , Ali Baber , Yasin Muhammad , Abidin Zain Ul , Al-Sadoon Mohammad Khalid , Babar Babar Hussain , Iqbal Rashid , Malik Tabarak 
Published: February 2024

AbstractMicronutrient application has a crucial role in mitigating salinity stress in crop plants. This study was carried out to investigate the effect of zinc (Zn) and boron (B) as foliar applications on fenugreek growth and physiology under salt stress (0 and 120 mM). After 35 days of salt treatments, three levels of zinc (0, 50, and 100 ppm) and two levels of boron (0 and 2 ppm) were applied as a foliar application. Salinity significantly reduced root length (72.7%) and shoot length (33.9%), plant height (36%), leaf area (37%), root fresh weight (48%) and shoot fresh weight (75%), root dry weight (80%) and shoot dry weight (67%), photosynthetic pigments (78%), number of branches (50%), and seeds per pod (56%). Fenugreek’s growth and physiology were improved by foliar spray of zinc and boron, which increased the length of the shoot (6%) and root length (2%), fresh root weight (18%), and dry root weight (8%), and chlorophyll a (1%), chlorophyll b (25%), total soluble protein content (3%), shoot calcium (9%) and potassium (5%) contents by significantly decreasing sodium ion (11%) content. Moreover, 100 ppm of Zn and 2 ppm of B enhanced the growth and physiology of fenugreek by reducing the effect of salt stress. Overall, boron and zinc foliar spray is suggested for improvement in fenugreek growth under salinity stress.
CircRNA identification and feature interpretability analysis
Authors: Niu Mengting , Wang Chunyu , Chen Yaojia , Zou Quan , Qi Ren , Xu Lei 
Published: February 2024

AbstractBackgroundCircular RNAs (circRNAs) can regulate microRNA activity and are related to various diseases, such as cancer. Functional research on circRNAs is the focus of scientific research. Accurate identification of circRNAs is important for gaining insight into their functions. Although several circRNA prediction models have been developed, their prediction accuracy is still unsatisfactory. Therefore, providing a more accurate computational framework to predict circRNAs and analyse their looping characteristics is crucial for systematic annotation.ResultsWe developed a novel framework, CircDC, for classifying circRNAs from other lncRNAs. CircDC uses four different feature encoding schemes and adopts a multilayer convolutional neural network and bidirectional long short-term memory network to learn high-order feature representation and make circRNA predictions. The results demonstrate that the proposed CircDC model is more accurate than existing models. In addition, an interpretable analysis of the features affecting the model is performed, and the computational framework is applied to the extended application of circRNA identification.ConclusionsCircDC is suitable for the prediction of circRNA. The identification of circRNA helps to understand and delve into the related biological processes and functions. Feature importance analysis increases model interpretability and uncovers significant biological properties. The relevant code and data in this article can be accessed for free athttps://github.com/nmt315320/CircDC.git.
Gene flow and an anomaly zone complicate phylogenomic inference in a rapidly radiated avian family (Prunellidae)
Authors: Jiang Zhiyong , Zang Wenqing , Ericson Per G. P. , Song Gang , Wu Shaoyuan , Feng Shaohong , Drovetski Sergei V. , Liu Gang , Zhang Dezhi , Saitoh Takema , Alström Per , Edwards Scott V. , Lei Fumin , Qu Yanhua 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Resolving the phylogeny of rapidly radiating lineages presents a challenge when building the Tree of Life. An Old World avian family Prunellidae (Accentors) comprises twelve species that rapidly diversified at the Pliocene–Pleistocene boundary.

Results
Here we investigate the phylogenetic relationships of all species of Prunellidae using a chromosome-level de novo assembly of Prunella strophiata and 36 high-coverage resequenced genomes. We use homologous alignments of thousands of exonic and intronic loci to build the coalescent and concatenated phylogenies and recover four different species trees. Topology tests show a large degree of gene tree-species tree discordance but only 40–54% of intronic gene trees and 36–75% of exonic genic trees can be explained by incomplete lineage sorting and gene tree estimation errors. Estimated branch lengths for three successive internal branches in the inferred species trees suggest the existence of an empirical anomaly zone. The most common topology recovered for species in this anomaly zone was not similar to any coalescent or concatenated inference phylogenies, suggesting presence of anomalous gene trees. However, this interpretation is complicated by the presence of gene flow because extensive introgression was detected among these species. When exploring tree topology distributions, introgression, and regional variation in recombination rate, we find that many autosomal regions contain signatures of introgression and thus may mislead phylogenetic inference. Conversely, the phylogenetic signal is concentrated to regions with low-recombination rate, such as the Z chromosome, which are also more resistant to interspecific introgression.

Conclusions
Collectively, our results suggest that phylogenomic inference should consider the underlying genomic architecture to maximize the consistency of phylogenomic signal.
Genomics insights into flowering and floral pattern formation: regional duplication and seasonal pattern of gene expression in Camellia
Authors: Hu Zhikang , Fan Zhengqi , Li Sijia , Wang Minyan , Huang Mingchuan , Ma Xianjin , Liu Weixin , Wang Yupeng , Yu Yifan , Li Yaxuan , Sun Yingkun , Li Xinlei , Li Jiyuan , Yin Hengfu 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
The formation and domestication of ornamental traits are influenced by various aspects, such as the recognition of esthetic values and cultural traditions. Camellia japonica is widely appreciated and domesticated around the world mainly due to its rich variations in ornamental traits. Ornamental camellias have a diverse range of resources, including different bud variations from Camellia spp. as well as inter- and intra- specific hybridization. Despite research on the formation of ornamental traits, a basic understanding of their genetics and genomics is still lacking.

Results
Here, we report the chromosomal-level reference genome of C. japonica through combining multiple DNA-sequencing technologies and obtain a high-density genetic linkage map of 4255 markers by sequencing 98 interspecific F1 hybrids between C. japonica and C. chekiangoleosa. We identify two whole-genome duplication events in C. japonica: one is a shared ancient γ event, and the other is revealed to be specific to genus Camellia. Based on the micro-collinearity analysis, we find large-scale segmental duplication of chromosome 8, resulting to two copies of the AGAMOUS loci, which may play a key role in the domestication of floral shapes. To explore the regulatory mechanisms of seasonal flowering, we have analyzed year-round gene expression patterns of C. japonica and C. azalea—a sister plant of continuous flowering that has been widely used for cross breeding. Through comparative analyses of gene co-expression networks and annual gene expression patterns, we show that annual expression rhythms of some important regulators of seasonal growth and development, including GIGANTEA and CONSTANS of the photoperiod pathway, have been disrupted in C. azalea. Furthermore, we reveal that the distinctive expression patterns of FLOWERING LOCUS T can be correlated with the seasonal activities of flowering and flushing. We demonstrate that the regulatory module involved in GIGANTEA, CONSTANS, and FLOWERING LOCUS T is central to achieve seasonality.

Conclusions
Through the genomic and comparative genomics characterizations of ornamental Camellia spp., we propose that duplication of chromosomal segments as well as the establishment of gene expression patterns has played a key role in the formation of ornamental traits (e.g., flower shape, flowering time). This work provides a valuable genomic platform for understanding the molecular basis of ornamental traits.
Myocardial bridging in obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: a risk factor for myocardial fibrosis
Authors: Song Changpeng , Wang Shengwei , Guo Xinli , Huang Manyun , Zheng Xinxin , Lu Jie , Ji Keshan , Zhao Shihua , Cui Jingang , Wang Shuiyun , Huang Xiaohong 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Myocardial bridging (MB) is common in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). There are sparse data on the impact of MB on myocardial fibrosis in HCM. This study was designed to evaluate the relationship between MB and myocardial fibrosis in patients with obstructive HCM.

Methods
In this cohort study, retrospective data were collected from a high-volume HCM center. Patients with obstructive HCM who underwent septal myectomy and preoperative cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) were screened from 2011 to 2018.

Results
Finally, 492 patients were included in this study, with an average age of 45.7 years. Of these patients, 76 patients had MB. MB occurred mostly in the left anterior descending artery (73/76). The global extent of late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) was correlated with the degree of systolic compression (r = 0.33, p = 0.003). Multivariable linear regression analysis revealed that the degree of systolic compression was an independent risk factor for LGE (β = 0.292, p = 0.007). The LGE fraction of basal and mid anteroseptal segments in patients with severe MB (compression ratio ≥ 80%) was significantly greater than that in patients with mild to moderate MB (compression ratio < 80%). During a median follow-up of 28 (IQR: 15–52) months, 15 patients died. Kaplan–Meier analysis did not identify differences in all-cause death (log-rank p = 0.63) or cardiovascular death (log-rank p = 0.72) between patients undergoing MB-related surgery and those without MB.

Conclusions
MB with severe systolic compression was significantly associated with a high extent of fibrosis in patients with obstructive HCM. Concomitant myotomy or coronary artery bypass grafting might provide excellent survival similar to that of patients without MB. Identification of patients with severe MB and providing comprehensive management might help improve the prognosis of patients with HCM.