bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Suture material in pancreticojejunal anastomosis: a systematic review
Authors: Chung Douglas , Bakmiwewa Supun , Suthananthan Arul , Idrees Marwan 
Published: January 2025

AbstractBackgroundPost‐operative pancreatic fistula is a common and morbid complication of pancreaticojejunal anastomosis. While gastrointestinal anastomosis is typically performed using absorbable sutures, this issue has prompted experimentation with non‐absorbable sutures. This study aims to assess the available literature to provide recommendations on suture choice in this anastomosis.MethodsTwo independent reviewers performed searches of EMBASE, MEDLINE, PubMed, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library of Systematic Review. References were screened for additional articles. Articles comparatively assessing suture choice in pancreaticojejunal anastomosis were included.ResultsOf 2237 records screened, nine articles were included in this review. Suture materials assessed include polydioxanone, polyglactin 910, polyglycolic acid, polypropylene, polyester, silk, nylon, plain and chromic catgut, and polybutester. Clinical studies suggested polyester reduced rates of fistula formation. Ex vivo findings favoured polydioxanone and polyglactin 910. 5–0 was found to be favourable to 6–0 in duct‐to‐mucosa anastomosis with monofilament absorbable sutures. Barbed sutures were suggested to reduce fistula formation. Limitations were identified in many of the included articles.ConclusionThere is limited research available on this topic, and it is not possible to strongly recommend any single suture as superior to others. Polyester is promising in clinical studies, and would benefit from further studies assessing validity. Polydioxanone and polyglactin 910 have rational indications for use. In particular, polydioxanone is suggested when poor healing is expected. Barbed sutures may reduce rates of fistula formation. More research is required to draw a strong conclusion.
Does Normothermic Machine Perfusion Still Provide an Advantage for Deceased Donor Kidney Transplantation? A Systematic Review and Preliminary Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Kauffman Hunter , Harter Sarah , Yamamoto Takayuki 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTBackgroundPatients with end‐stage renal disease often face prolonged waiting times for kidney transplants. Historically, the use of marginal kidneys was limited due to suboptimal preservation methods. Normothermic machine perfusion (NMP) preserves physiological activity during the preservation process, potentially improving graft function and viability, expanding the use of marginal kidneys. While preliminary results are promising, NMP has not yet undergone sufficient clinical trials to determine whether it offers advantages over more widely used techniques. The aim of this systematic review is to assess several outcomes between kidneys that underwent NMP compared to traditional preservation methods after kidney transplant.MethodsA systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Randomized controlled trials, case series, and studies comparing NMP with hypothermic machine perfusion (HMP) or static cold storage (SCS) were included. The primary outcome assessed was delayed graft function (DGF). Secondary outcomes included primary non‐function (PNF), acute rejection, and 1‐year graft survival.ResultsEight NMP studies met the inclusion criteria. Meta‐analysis showed significant differences in DGF between NMP and control (HMP or SCS) groups (OR: 0.47 [0.22, 0.99], p < 0.05). There were no significant differences between NMP and controls for PNF, acute rejection, or 1‐year graft survival.ConclusionsThese findings suggest that NMP yields similar adverse outcome rates compared to traditional methods. Notably, NMP could be associated with reduced rates of DGF. While NMP is a promising technique for renal allograft preservation, further randomized controlled trials are necessary to definitively establish its benefits over conventional preservation methods.
Incorporating an Elevated Perfusion Index in the Right Hand Enhanced Screening Sensitivity for Critical Aortic Arch Obstruction in Newborn Infants
Authors: Lannering Katarina , Östman‐Smith Ingegerd , Mellander Mats 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTAimNewborn infants with critical aortic arch obstruction are often undiagnosed at discharge, despite screening. This study investigated if adding the perfusion index improved early detection.MethodsWe retrospectively studied 38 newborn infants with critical aortic arch obstruction, who were routinely screened in 2014–2019 by 13 Swedish hospitals using pulse oximetry and the perfusion index. They were identified through surgery records and national mortality databases. The controls were 512 healthy newborn infants from one hospital. Optimal perfusion index cut‐offs were determined using frequency distribution analysis.ResultsThe groups had similar median gestational ages and birth weight. No infants with critical aortic arch obstruction were diagnosed just because of a positive perfusion index result. However, the right‐hand perfusion index was significantly higher in the cases than in controls (p < 0.001). A perfusion index of > 3%, or positive pulse oximetry or positive physical examination, yielded 76% sensitivity and 85% specificity, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.81 (range 0.73–0.89, p < 0.0001). Pulse oximetry and just neonatal physical examinations had a lower sensitivity (45%, p = 0.009).ConclusionA high perfusion index in the right hand enhanced critical aortic arch obstruction screening and repeated measurements should be explored to minimise false positives.
Learning About Their Condition: The Gradual Path of Young People With Childhood‐Onset Motor Disabilities
Authors: Martin Charlotte , Akre Christina , Newman Christopher J. 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTAimYoung people with childhood‐onset motor disabilities face unique challenges in understanding and managing their condition. This study explored how they learnt about their condition.MethodA descriptive qualitative study was conducted in 2023–2024 at a Swiss paediatric neurorehabilitation unit. Ten participants aged 15–24 years were recruited through purposive sampling, representing diverse conditions and socio‐educational backgrounds. Inductive thematic analysis was conducted on interview transcripts.ResultsFour themes emerged. First, learning paths revealed that participants gradually acquired knowledge about their condition. Early explanations often involved parents and visual aids, with moments of awareness and evolving information needs shaping their learning over time. Second, building blocks of understanding showed that knowledge was constructed through interactions with physicians, therapists, parents, peers and the Internet. Third, interacting with healthcare professionals highlighted the importance of trust and continuity in relationships with healthcare professionals to support learning. Last, improving the learning process suggested strategies such as dedicated consultations for recapping information during adolescence and increasing disability awareness in schools.ConclusionYoung people with motor disabilities require information and support tailored to their individual learning needs. Adapting these resources could enhance their understanding of their condition, supporting the development of their autonomy and self‐advocacy within healthcare.
Analytical Solutions for Steady‐State Oxygen Transport in Soil With Microbial and Plant Root Sinks
Authors: Cook Freeman J. 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTA complete model using analytical solutions for one‐dimensional oxygen transport from the atmosphere into soil with microbial and root sinks that builds on work over 30 years is developed. This new model uses concepts from a previously published model for one distributed sink and two sinks with a distributed (microbial) and line (root) sink. It removes the problem, in previous publications, of matching the flux at the joining point between the two sink solution where the root sink ceases and the single sink at a finite depth. Analytical solutions are developed for integer values of p = Zr/Zm, where Zm is the scaling depth for microbial respiration and Zr is the scaling depth for root length density. The solutions allow two critical diffusivity (D) values to be defined (Dc) and (Dc2). When Dc2 ≤ D < Dc, a procedure is presented to calculate the depth, z1, where C′ = 0 and this is the depth where root uptake of oxygen ceases and is shown to be related to D/Dc. When D < Dc2, a procedure is presented to estimate the depth, Z0, at which the oxygen concentration = 0 and is shown to be related to D/Dc2. These results have useful applications in determining soil aeration, soil biogeochemical reactions, soil surface flux of oxygen and carbon dioxide, and the effect of climate change on these processes through the temperature dependence of the solution. These results suggest the oxygen diffusion rate (ODR) is likely to be the best estimator of soil aeration but there will not be a universal value for all plants. The surface flux density of oxygen into the soil for both the microbial sink (Sm) and total sink (f0) are presented and the ratio is shown to be related to ( is the diffusivity in air). The possible range in Sm/f0 is shown to be compatible with measured values from the literature. The solutions have many applications in environmental science.
The novel p.A30G SNCA pathogenic variant in Greek patients with familial and sporadic Parkinson's disease
Authors: Alefanti Ioanna , Koros Christos , Tsami Viktoria , Simitsi Athina Maria , Kartanou Chrisoula , Papagiannakis Nikolaos , Bozi Maria , Antonelou Roubina , Maniati Matina , Hauser Ann‐Kathrin , Varvaressos Stefanos , Bonakis Anastasios , Lourentzos Konstantinos , Makrythanasis Periklis , Papageorgiou Sokratis G. , Proukakis Christos , Potagas Constantinos , Gasser Thomas , Koutsis Georgios , Karadima Georgia , Stefanis Leonidas 
Published: January 2025

AbstractBackgroundThe p.A53T variant in the SNCA gene was considered, until recently, to be the only SNCA variant causing familial Parkinson's disease (PD) in the Greek population. We identified a novel heterozygous p.A30G (c.89 C>G) SNCA pathogenic variant in five affected individuals of three Greek families, leading to autosomal dominant PD. This study aims to further explore the presence and phenotypic expression of this variant in the Greek PD population.MethodsRestriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLPs) was used for genotyping of 664 Greek PD cases. Detailed clinical information was obtained for the carriers and p.A30G‐positive samples underwent haplotype analysis.ResultsWe identified 10 additional p.A30G‐positive PD patients (1.5%), of whom 4 were sporadic cases (0.9%). They manifested typical Parkinsonian motor dysfunction, with a mean age of onset of 51.7 years (range: 33–62) and a broad spectrum of non‐motor symptoms. The absence of affected first degree relatives in four out of ten index cases, and the presence of a phenocopy in an additional family, suggest that the p.A30G variant manifests reduced penetrance. The common haplotype among the p.A30G carriers confirmed a founder effect. Furthermore, two asymptomatic carriers were identified, with possible premotor manifestations.ConclusionsThese findings underscore that the p.A30G SNCA pathogenic variant represents an important, albeit rare, cause of genetic PD in the Greek population. This is the first time in which a genetic synucleinopathy, with a variant in the SNCA gene, is clearly linked to an appreciable frequency of sporadic PD in a particular population.
Exploring the use of AI avatars by marriage and family therapists practitioners as a therapeutic intervention
Authors: Colvin Alex D. , Benjamin Crystal 
Published: January 2025

AbstractObjectiveThis article provides an overview of artificial intelligence (AI) avatar technology and its potential use as a therapeutic intervention by licensed marriage and family therapists (MFTs) within the family system context.BackgroundWith the growth of marriage and family therapy, it is essential to equip future practitioners with tools for effective service delivery. As virtual environments evolve, MFTs must be prepared to engage clients of all ages interested in these technologies.MethodThe authors present a conceptual paper on AI avatar technology, exploring its applications in therapy and examining the diffusion of innovation theory to assess its adoption.ResultsAI avatars offer many benefits, including increasing accessibility and affordability; enhanced communication in virtual settings; augmenting treatment possibilities for individuals and families; and a safe, anonymous environment that encourages client expression. This technology also helps alleviate therapist burnout.ConclusionAlthough AI should not replace human interactions, it can enhance the delivery of MFT practices, helping the profession stay relevant in this digital age and improving therapy accessibility.ImplicationsIntegrating this technology can create new training opportunities for practitioners. Professional associations should develop guidelines to optimize the use of AI in therapeutic practice as the digital revolution advances.
Potential U.S. Production of Liquid Hydrocarbons From Biomass With Addition of Massive External Heat and Hydrogen Inputs
Authors: Charlton T. W. , Forsberg C. W. , Dale B. E. 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTWe estimate the U.S. potential to convert biomass into liquid hydrocarbons for fuel and chemical feedstocks, assuming massive low‐carbon external heat and hydrogen inputs. The biomass is first a carbon feedstock and only secondarily an energy source. This analysis is done for three estimates of available biomass derived from the 2023 U.S. Department of Energy/U.S. Department of Agriculture “Billion‐Ton Report” and two augmented cases with maximum annual production of 1326, 4791, 5799, 7432, and 8745 million barrels of diesel fuel equivalent per year for the five cases. Constraints, such as assuring long‐term soil sustainability by recycling nutrients and some carbon back to soils, result in production being 70%–80% of these numbers. The U.S. currently consumes about 6900 million barrels of diesel fuel equivalent per year. Long‐term estimates for U.S. hydrocarbon consumption are between 50% and 75% of current consumption. External hydrogen additions for the conversion processes in the five cases are, respectively 25, 91, 111, 142, and 167 million tons of hydrogen per year. The system is strongly carbon negative because of carbon and nutrient recycling to soils to improve soil productivity.
Can hearing screening criteria at general health checkups be an indirect indicator of frailty and cognitive deficit in the older population? – with prevalence estimates based on updated World Health Organization hearing loss classification
Authors: Uchida Yasue , Sugiura Saiko , Shimono Mariko , Suzuki Hirokazu , Ando Fujiko , Shimokata Hiroshi , Tange Chikako , Nishita Yukiko , Otsuka Rei 
Published: January 2025

AimThis study aimed to reestimate the prevalence of hearing loss based on the updated World Health Organization hearing loss classification and investigate whether existing hearing screening criteria could efficiently screen for frailty or cognitive deficit.MethodsData collected from community dwellers aged 40–91 years included 2325 samples. Health checkup hearing screening used were as follows: (A) 30 dB both at 1 and 4 kHz and (B) 30 dB at 1 kHz and 40 dB at 4 kHz were used. For participants aged ≥60 years, frailty according to the modified Cardiovascular Health Study criteria and cognitive deficit defined by a Mini‐Mental State Examination score <28 were assessed. Logistic regression was performed to obtain odds ratios for frailty and cognitive deficit.ResultsThe rates of hearing loss using the updated World Health Organization classification in men were 8.6, 24.1, 54.2, 79.0 and 96.0% in their 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s and 3.7, 12.7, 36.4, 72.1 and 90.4% in women, respectively. Failing hearing screening using criterion A was associated with an increased risk of frailty, a sex‐adjusted odds ratio of 4.136 (95% confidence interval, 2.182–7.838) and an increased risk of cognitive deficit: 1.753 (95% confidence interval, 1.346–2.283). After adjusting for age and sex, the effects on frailty and cognitive deficit were no longer significant. The results were similar when criterion B was used.ConclusionBecause of the high prevalence of hearing loss and the ability to utilize existing devices and methodologies, hearing screening for the elderly should be reviewed. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2025; ••: ••–••.
Association of chronic low back pain and knee pain with subjective fatigue incidence among community‐dwelling older adults: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Matsuda Soichiro , Doi Takehiko , Katayama Osamu , Makino Keitaro , Sakimoto Fumio , Shimada Hiroyuki 
Published: January 2025

AimFatigue is a common health problem in older adults. Chronic pain is associated with fatigue. However, the longitudinal association between chronic pain and the incidence of subjective fatigue among community‐dwelling older adults remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the association between chronic pain and subjective fatigue using prospective data.MethodsThe study included 2060 community‐dwelling older adults (age 70.5 ± 6.4 years; male: n = 944) without subjective fatigue at baseline. Chronic pain and other data were assessed at baseline. Subjective fatigue incidence was investigated at the follow‐up examination 2.5 years from baseline.ResultsIn total, 389 (18.9%) reported chronic low back pain, 322 (15.6%) reported chronic knee pain at baseline, and 342 (16.6%) reported subjective fatigue at follow‐up examination. A logistic regression analysis showed that the odds ratio for the incidence of subjective fatigue in participants with chronic low back pain had a higher odds ratio for the incidence of subjective fatigue compared to participants without chronic low back pain (odds ratio = 1.71, 95% confidence interval = 1.29–2.26). Chronic knee pain had a higher odds ratio for the incidence of subjective fatigue compared to participants without chronic knee pain (odds ratio = 1.63, 95% confidence interval = 1.21–2.20).ConclusionsThese results suggest that chronic low back pain and knee pain increase the risk of subjective fatigue incidence. These findings emphasize the contribution of chronic pain to fatigue among older adults. Therefore, intervention studies are required to prevent subjective fatigue in participants with chronic pain. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2025; ••: ••–••.
The role of sender credibility in migration information campaigns
Authors: Morgenstern Sandra 
Published: January 2025

AbstractThe actors who carry out migration information campaigns—and thus serve as ‘information senders’—vary greatly. Existing studies on the effectiveness of such campaigns typically focus on one case of an information campaign. It is difficult to compare these case studies because, in addition to the different implementing actors, they differ substantially in terms of the content conveyed and the ways they are carried out. As a result, evidence of the causal effect of the information senders is missing. I argue that who implements the campaign is not trivial, as each type of information sender may be associated with a different level of credibility, and psychological models of information processing suggest that a senders' credibility is key to the impact of information. To corroborate and complement existing research, I present findings from a longitudinal survey experiment in Nigeria among students who were presented with the same hypothetical information campaign while the information sender was varied: each an international and local NGO, government and social contact. The results show overall similar effect directions for the different information senders, namely an increase in awareness of the campaign topic of irregular migration and a reduction of (irregular) migration intentions among the participants. However, notable differences are observed in effect size and effect persistence per sender and opposing actors are most influential regarding general versus irregular migration. Descriptive mediation analyses support the relevance of credibility per sender and imply the existence of a topic‐dependent sender credibility effect.
Return‐to‐work in lung transplant recipients: an Australian perspective
Authors: Munsif Maitri , Donnan Matthew , Snell Gregory , Levin Kovi , Paraskeva Miranda 
Published: January 2025

AbstractBackgroundReturn‐to‐work (RTW) following lung transplant has been associated with increased quality of life, but little is known regarding the rates of and barriers to this in the Australian population.AimsWe aimed to describe, characterise and determine predictors of return to work and social participation in Australian lung transplant recipients. We also sought to explore the relationship between return to work and quality of life.MethodsWe conducted a cross‐sectional questionnaire‐based study at the Alfred Hospital, Melbourne between October 2018 and August 2019. The questionnaire evaluated demographics, transplant history, respiratory parameters, employment history and social integration prior to and after lung transplantation.ResultsA total of 172 lung transplant recipients were included for analysis. The population was mostly male (56.5%), median age 61 years (interquartile range (IQR) 49.8–67.0) and median time from transplant 4 years (IQR 2–7). A total of 19.2% of patients were working at time of transplant, with 35.5% working after transplant representing an increase in workforce engagement of 84.8% (P < 0.001). A total of 96% of those who returned to work reported an improvement in quality of life. Median time to RTW after transplant was 180 days (IQR 90–360). Multivariable analysis demonstrated an increased rate of RTW in younger recipients (odds ratio (OR) 0.94, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.89–0.99, adjusted P = 0.029), at greater length of time after transplant (OR 1.09, 95% CI 0.99–1.19, P = 0.084), among those working at the time of transplant (OR 9.55, 95% CI 2.70–33.75, P < 0.001) and with higher socioeconomic status (OR 1.02, 95% CI 1.01–1.04, P = 0.009). Recipients with cystic fibrosis were more likely to RTW (65.8%) than those with other underlying conditions.ConclusionsRTW should be encouraged in lung transplant recipients. Targeted supports and resources aimed at younger recipients may result in greater workforce engagement and overall outcomes after transplant.
Supply chain production and procurement strategies for the mixed contract with time flexibility and options
Authors: Xiong Xuexia , Shao Lusheng , Tang Liang 
Published: January 2025

AbstractThis paper investigates production and procurement strategies in dynamic demand forecasting. It revolves around a two‐tiered supply chain that consists of a manufacturer focusing on capacity investment and a retailer responsible for product sales. Within this framework, we propose a novel mixed contract featuring with time flexibility and options. The retailer has the flexibility to place regular and option orders based on demand forecast updates, with uncertain timing for updates. We analyze the capacity response strategy of the manufacturer and the ordering strategy of the retailer, emphasizing the decision on the optimal ordering time point. Our study derives a unique equilibrium solution for optimal production and procurement strategies, crafting the mixed contract parameters to ensure supply chain coordination. Comparisons with pure contract models highlight the consistent value of time flexibility within the mixed contract, while also identifying the pivotal role of options in enhancing supply chain performance within specific contract structures. Numerical experiments examine the sensitivity of the optimal ordering time and evaluate the impact of the contract parameters on the profits of the manufacturer and retailer.