bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Influence of field strength on quantitative parameters and feature stability in the assessment of the ovaries using 1.5-T and 3-T MRI
Authors: Mokry Theresa , Pantke Judith , Kauczor Hans-Ulrich , Laun Frederik B , Schlemmer Heinz-Peter , Kuder Tristan A , Bickelhaupt Sebastian 
Published: February 2025

Background Little is known of the influence of scanner field strength on quantitative diffusivity variables, especially kurtosis in healthy ovaries. Purpose To evaluate the influence of scanner field strength on quantitative diffusion variables in pelvic MRI of the ovaries. Material and Methods This prospective, single-centre study consisted of repeated 1.5-T and 3-T examinations in 30 female volunteers (mean age=27.9 years, age range=20.3–45.2 years) from July 2017 to September 2019. Multi b-value DWI 0, 50, 100, 800, 1500, 2000 s/mm2 was acquired over three timepoints during the menstrual cycle. Ovaries were segmented at b = 1500 s/mm2. Median apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and advanced kurtosis parameters Dapp and Kapp were calculated. Statistical analysis was performed with the variations of diffusivity variables being compared between 1.5-T and 3-T MRI using a Mann–Whitney rank-sum test. Results Median ADC and Dapp (µm²/ms) did not statistically differ. Median ADC were 1.509 (range=1.371–1.610), 1.619 (range=1.463–1.747), and 1.511 (range=1.423–1.639) at 1.5 T; 1.542 (range=1.428–1.682), 1.658 (range=1.510–1.806), and 1.572 (range=1.455–1.709) at 3 T ( P = 0.14, 0.19, and 0.07), whereas median Dapp were 2.024 (range=1.913–2.152), 2.192 (range=2.010–2.327), and 2.045 (range=1.958–2.170) at 1.5 T; 2.013 (range=1.952–2.188), 2.179 (range=2.018–2.327), and 2.082 (range=1.959–2.194) at 3 T ( P = 0.77, 0.99, and 0.34) for timepoints 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Statistical comparison of Kapp revealed significant differences for all timepoints: 0.629 (range=0.595–0.652), 0.604 (range=0.574–0.651), and 0.622 (range=0.581–0.664) at 1.5 T; 0.601 (range=0.563–0.626), 0.567 (range=0.526–0.633), and 0.599 (range=0.541–0.650) at 3 T ( P < 0.001, 0.005, and 0.03). Conclusion Diffusivity mapping in the ovaries provides similar absolute median diffusion values, but statistically significant differences in absolute kurtosis values between 1.5 T and 3 T.
Gut microbial profiles of patients with optic neuritis or myasthenia gravis
Authors: Wu Tao , Jiang Hanqiu , Lin Chen , Peng Jingting , Kong Xiuyun , Yu Jie , Wang Jiawei , Cui Shilei 
Published: February 2025

Objective To characterize the gut microbial composition of patients with optic neuritis (ON) or myasthenia gravis (MG). Methods Stool samples were collected from 45 patients with ON, 13 patients with MG, and 20 healthy controls. Microbial genomic DNA was extracted, and the V3–V4 regions of bacterial 16S rRNA genes were amplified and sequenced. Bioinformatic analyses was performed to compare the alpha-diversity, beta-diversity, taxonomic assignments, and bacterial richness of the groups. Differences in the abundances of microbial taxa were identified using linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) and analysis of variance. Results Beta-diversity analysis showed distinct clustering of patient samples from the healthy controls. At the phylum and genus levels, Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and Proteobacteria predominated, but their proportions varied between groups. LEfSe analysis identified microbial taxa that were associated with each group. The patients showed lower abundances of certain intestinal probiotics, including Bifidobacterium, Bacteroides, and Roseburia, than the controls. No significant differences were found between the disease subgroups. The Carnobacteriaceae family was significantly less abundant in the ON than in the MG group. Conclusion We have identified significant alterations in the gut microbiota of patients with ON or MG, and importantly, a notable reduction in intestinal probiotics.
Pharmacological mechanisms of carvacrol against hepatocellular carcinoma by network pharmacology and molecular docking
Authors: Liu Lu , Yu Ping , Zhao Zhongwei , Yang Hongyuan , Yu Risheng 
Published: February 2025

Background Preclinical studies have demonstrated that carvacrol possesses various biological and pharmacological properties, including anti-hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) effects. However, the molecular basis of its therapeutic action on HCC remains unclear. Objective The aim of this study was to investigate and further validate the multi-target therapeutic mechanism of carvacrol against HCC. Methods The chemical structure of carvacrol was obtained from the PubChem database, and its potential targets were identified using SwissTargetPrediction, HERB, and BATMAN-TCM. HCC-specific genes were screened from the TCGA-LIHC cohort. The therapeutic targets of carvacrol against HCC were determined through the intersection of these datasets. Subsequently, a multivariate Cox regression prognostic model was established. Molecular docking was performed to analyze the interactions between carvacrol and its therapeutic targets. Additionally, molecular dynamics simulations were conducted to validate the molecular docking results using Discovery Studio 2019 software. Results A total of 223 carvacrol targets and 882 HCC-specific genes were identified. Fifteen therapeutic targets of carvacrol against HCC were obtained, including CA2, AR, ALB, AURKA, ALPL, EPHX2, BCHE, IL1RN, AGRN, CRP, DMGDH, APOA1, SOX9, HPX, and CHKA. The prognostic model accurately and independently predicted survival outcomes. AGRN and AURKA were significantly associated with HCC overall survival. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations demonstrated that carvacrol exhibited strong potential for stable binding to the therapeutic targets AGRN and AURKA. Conclusion Our findings elucidate the multi-target mechanism of action of carvacrol against HCC, providing a foundation for future research on its application in HCC management.
Empowering impaired learners: Technological advancements in higher education
Authors: Sharma Shruti , Dureja Simran , Saini Dhavni , Jose Ryan , Pant Riddhima , Singh Ashutosh 
Published: February 2025

Background Sensory impairments, such as visual impairment, deafblindness, deaf or hard of hearing (DHH), muteness, and Sensory Processing Disorder, present significant challenges for students in higher education. These challenges include difficulties in accessing information, participating in discussions, and adapting to academic environments. Objective This review aims to explore advancements in assistive technology that support sensory-impaired individuals in higher education and identify existing gaps in accessibility, usability, and educator preparedness, aligning with (UNSDG) (United Nations Sustainable Development Goals) 4’s goal of inclusive lifelong education by 2030. Methods We conducted a systematic literature review of 68 studies focussing on technological solutions such as assistive devices, adaptive learning platforms, and communication tools designed to enhance accessibility and inclusion in academic settings. Results While various assistive technologies have improved access, disparities in resource availability across institutions persist. Many educators lack adequate training to effectively integrate these technologies, and infrastructure limitations further hinder their use. Conclusions The findings underscore the need for further research to address accessibility gaps and improve educator training. By enhancing the adoption of assistive technologies, higher education institutions can create more inclusive learning environments, ensuring equal opportunities for all students, regardless of sensory impairments.
Robot-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery Can Be Safely Performed in Patients With Obesity from the Early Stages of Implementation
Authors: Tao Hiroyuki , Waki Shohei , Yoshikawa Mao , Kubo Yujiro , Mizutani Hisao 
Published: February 2025

Objective: This study aimed to compare the perioperative outcomes of robot-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (RATS) and conventional video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) for lung cancer in patients with obesity. Methods: Anatomical pulmonary lobectomy or segmentectomy performed at a single institution from April 2018 to September 2023 in patients with obesity (body mass index ≥25 kg/m2) were statistically compared in terms of perioperative clinical factors including operative time, blood loss, chest tube duration, pain score, intraoperative events, and early postoperative complications between RATS and VATS. Results: In all, 89 patients were evaluated; 43 underwent RATS and 46 underwent VATS. All RATS procedures were performed using the da Vinci Xi system. Patient characteristics were comparable between the 2 groups. The operative time, blood loss, number of dissected lymph nodes, intraoperative events, and conversion rate to open thoracotomy were similar between the 2 groups. The frequencies of postoperative complications and chest tube placement duration between the groups were also similar. The median pain scores were slightly higher in the RATS group on postoperative day 1 but were equivalent between the 2 groups on postoperative day 7. The RATS group had a shorter postoperative hospital stay than the VATS group ( P < 0.01). Conclusions: A surgical team proficient in conventional VATS can safely introduce RATS in patients with obesity and lung cancer with equivalent perioperative outcomes.
Extremely preterm infant with double aortic arch presenting with severe tracheal obstruction and devastating esophageal hemorrhage
Authors: Kanamori Ryosuke , Nomura Tomoaki , Hirose Akira , Ito Hiroki , Yamoto Masaya , Mitsushita Norie , Nakano Reiji 
Published: February 2025

Background: Double aortic arch is the most constrictive type of vascular ring, completely encircling the trachea and esophagus, and can cause severe respiratory failure, dysphagia, or devastating esophageal hemorrhage. Although surgical repair is usually recommended shortly after diagnosis, surgery in extremely preterm infants presents significant challenges. The optimal timing of surgery and the management of complications that arise while awaiting surgery are not well understood. Case presentation: We report the case of an Asian female infant weighing 509 g at 24 + 5 weeks of gestation with a double aortic arch. Initially managed conservatively to allow for growth, the patient developed progressive tracheal granulation and recurrent, life-threatening esophageal hemorrhage. Gastrostomy and division of the vascular ring were successfully performed on days 65 and 66 (postmenstrual age 33 weeks; weight 1126 g), and tracheal granulation was managed conservatively. Despite mild respiratory symptoms persisting, the patient survived until discharge without any recurrence of esophageal bleeding. Conclusion: The management of double aortic arch in extremely preterm infants is particularly challenging. In this case, surgical repair was successfully performed at a weight of 1126 g without lethal postoperative complications. Early gastrostomy before the surgical repair of the double aortic arch may be advantageous in preventing devastating esophageal hemorrhage, especially in patients with severe tracheal narrowing indicative of a tight vascular ring and significant esophageal compression.
Head, Hands, Knees and Ankles, Knees and Ankles: Injury Profiles of Women and Girls Playing Community Australian Football
Authors: Cowan Sallie M. , Patterson Brooke E. , King Matthew G. , Girdwood Mick A. , Mosler Andrea B. , Donaldson Alex , Culvenor Adam G. , Bruder Andrea M. , Haberfield Melissa J. , Makdissi Michael , Barton Christian J. , Roughead Eliza , Lampard Sarah , Chilman Karina , Bonello Christian , Birch Elizabeth , Frost Joshua , McGhee Deirdre E. , Crossley Kay M. 
Published: February 2025

Background: Women’s participation in all football codes (including Australian Football [AF]) is increasing rapidly. To guide injury prevention strategies, the authors aimed to describe the current and lifetime prevalence of significant musculoskeletal injuries and concussions for women and girls playing community AF. Hypothesis: Women will have high rates of injury associated with playing AF. Study Design: Cross-sectional survey. Level of Evidence: Level 3. Methods: Participants were Victorian community AF players from 165 participating teams (<16 years, <18 years, senior women’s). Demographics, injury prevalence, and health outcomes are reported descriptively. To explore relationships between sociodemographic factors and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury history, the authors fitted univariate logistic regression models. Independent variables were age, body mass index, number of career AF games, sport experience, location (metropolitan/regional), and socio-economic index. Results: A total of 2435 players (95% of players enrolled in the trial), aged 24 ± 7 years completed the survey. One-quarter (n = 619, 25%) reported a current injury, and half (n = 1238, 51%) reported a previous significant injury. The most common injury sites were knee (n = 160 26% current, n = 403 33% previous), ankle (n = 130 21% current, n = 427 35% previous), and hand/fingers (n = 100 16% current, n = 317 26% previous). Self-reported previous ACL injury (n = 139, 6%) and concussion (n = 1335, 55%) were also prevalent. Increasing age (odds ratio [OR], 1.07; 95% CI, 1.05-1.09) and more career games (OR, 2.22; 95% CI, 1.24-3.97) were associated with ACL injury history. Conclusion: Women and girls playing community AF reported high rates of significant injury. Injury prevention programs should target the most prevalent injury sites: head (concussion), ankle, knee, and hand/fingers. Clinical Relevance: These findings highlight high injury rates for women playing AF and will be invaluable in shaping injury prevention strategies.
Habitual Caffeine Consumption and Training Status Affect the Ergogenicity of Acute Caffeine Intake on Exercise Performance
Authors: Khodadadi Davar , Azimi Farhad , Eghbal Moghanlou Abdorreza , Gursoy Recep , Demirli Abdullah , Jalali Parham , Behdari Reza , Seyedheydari Maryam 
Published: February 2025

Background: Acute caffeine ingestion can improve exercise performance. Interplay between caffeine habituation and training status on the performance-enhancing effect of caffeine is unknown. Hypothesis: Habitual caffeine consumption and training status affect the ergogenicity of pre-exercise caffeine intake on exercise performance. Study Design: Double-blind, placebo-controlled, counterbalanced experimental design. Level of Evidence: Level 3. Methods: Eighty physically inactive men were randomized into 1 of 4 groups: caffeine supplementation (CAF), caffeine supplementation + exercise training (CAFEXE), placebo (PLA), and placebo + exercise training (PLAEXE); high-intensity interval training and caffeine were administered for 9 and 8 weeks, respectively. Data were collected pre-test, mid-test, post-test, and delayed post-test, each including 2 experiment sessions (3 mg/kg caffeine or placebo), with an additional experiment session post-test (6 mg/kg caffeine). In each experiment session, 45-min after consuming a placebo or caffeine, a 3-km running test and a Wingate power test were performed. Results: Pre-exercise ingestion of 3 mg/kg caffeine improved 3-km running time and mean power output (MPO) in all groups at all stages ( P < 0.05); this effect was higher in trained than in untrained volunteers ( P < 0.05). Habitual caffeine consumption reduced the ergogenic effect of caffeine in both aerobic and anaerobic trials ( P < 0.05); 6 mg/kg caffeine enhanced this decrease only in CAFEXE ( P < 0.05). Short-term caffeine withdrawal augmented the reduced ergogenic effect of caffeine on 3-km running performance and MPO in CAF and CAFEXE ( P < 0.05). Conclusion: Habituation to caffeine and training status could partially influence the ergogenic effects of caffeine on exercise performance. Clinical Relevance: Regular caffeine consumption leads to some degree of tolerance and decreases its ergogenicity. A pre-exercise increase in caffeine dosage in trained people and short-term caffeine withdrawal in both trained and untrained people could compensate for the reduced caffeine ergogenicity in young men.
Impact of High-Intensity Interval Exercise With Elastic Bands Versus Continuous Moderate-Intensity Aerobic Exercise on Glycemic Control in People With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Martín-San Agustín Rodrigo , Cuerda Del Pino Alba , Laguna Sanz Alejandro José , Palanca Ana , Rossetti Paolo , Marco Romero Cynthia , Bondia Jorge , Ampudia-Blasco F. Javier 
Published: February 2025

Background: Engaging in physical exercise is recommended to enhance cardiovascular health and manage blood sugar levels in people with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Hypothesis: The impact of high-intensity interval exercise with elastic bands (EB-HIIE) versus continuous moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (CONT) on glycemic control is different in men with T1D. Study Design: Crossover study design. Level of Evidence: Level 3. Methods: Participants (39 men with T1D) underwent either an EB-HIIE or a CONT session in randomized order, with a separation of ≥72 hours to avoid carry-over effects. Changes in glucose values during exercise were measured simultaneously from venous blood (YSI) and interstitial fluid (Dexcom G6 glucose sensor). Subsequent 24-hour glucose was monitored using the glucose sensor. Results: Blood glucose was lower in CONT vs EB-HIIE ( P < .01). Post hoc analysis revealed clinically relevant differences during exercise (–35.1 mg/dl; P = .02), at its end (–49.5 mg/dl; P < .01), and at 10 and 20 minutes after completion (–51.2 mg/dl; P < .01 and −45.9 mg/dl; P < .01, respectively). Time-in-range 24 hours after exercise completion was significantly higher with EB-HIIE than with CONT (66.5% vs 59.3%), although both were significantly better than the previous 24 hours before exercise (50%). Conclusion: Results suggest that EB-HIIE is a safe training method for male adults with diabetes, resulting in euglycemia during and immediately after exercise and improving glucose outcomes in the subsequent 24 hours. Clinical Relevance: This study provides new evidence and practical information on how to implement safe physical activity in daily life of patients with diabetes. EB-HIIT exhibited lower hypoglycemia risk during exercise and better glycemic control in the subsequent 24 hours. In contrast, practicing CONT exercise is associated with higher risk of hypoglycemia. Healthcare providers should take this information into account when prescribing exercise.
Pharmacological management of chronic insomnia disorder in Singapore: Recommendations from an expert panel
Authors: Ho Roger , Lim Chau Sian , Tor Phern Chern , Ho Cyrus Su Hui , Pang Jason Wui Chi , Ng Beng Yeong 
Published: February 2025

Background Chronic insomnia disorder, a condition associated with frequent and persistent difficulty in initiating or maintaining sleep, is one of the most common reasons for patients consulting general practitioners and psychiatrists in Singapore. Objectives The landscape for managing chronic insomnia disorder is constantly changing but a clear, updated guidance for its management is lacking. Methods This guidance document provides guidance and recommendation for the diagnosis, assessment, and management of chronic insomnia disorder in Singapore based on a review of the current clinical practice guidelines and recent evidence including findings specific to Singapore. Results and Conclusion This document further summarises the properties and safety profiles of various pharmacological agents and provides guidance for their use across patient profiles. Lastly, this document provides recommendations from a panel of 5 clinicians with expertise in treating patients with sleep disorders.
SNAP and/or WIC Participation and Diet Quality in Mother-Child Dyads living in Greater Boston after Pandemic: A Mixed-Method Study
Authors: Vinitchagoon Thanit , Zhang Fang Fang , Fauth Rebecca C. , Hennessy Erin , Maafs Ana G. , Browning Emma M. , Economos Christina D. 
Published: February 2025

Introduction/Objectives: Since the COVID-19 pandemic, few studies have examined how participation in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and/or Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) impacts diet quality in families with young children. This study aims to explore the association between SNAP and/or WIC participation and diet quality in mother-child dyads in Greater Boston, MA. Methods: A mixed-method approach involving cross-sectional surveys and in-depth interviews were utilized. Participants included 69 mother-child dyads for quantitative and 18 mothers for qualitative data collection. Analysis of covariance using generalized linear models was employed to compare differences in Healthy Eating Index-2015 (HEI-2015) scores based on SNAP and/or WIC participation, and thematic analysis was used for coding themes. Results: Mothers who participated in SNAP and/or WIC were more from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. After adjusting for age, race/ethnicity, and education, no significant differences in diet quality were found for both mothers and their children. However, qualitative results showed that mothers prioritized their children’s nutrition, used benefits to buy fruits and vegetables, and experienced stress that impacted their own diet quality. Conclusions: Since the pandemic, SNAP and WIC appeared to support families experiencing socioeconomic disadvantage (e.g., lower income and educational attainment) to improve diet quality, particularly through increased access to fruits and vegetables. However, these programs have not fully eliminated persistent disparities in diet quality, which seems to continue even the pandemic’s immediate effects have subsided.
Changing Our Mental and Emotional Trajectory (COMET): The Feasibility and Acceptability of a Rural Community-Based Strategy to Prevent Mental and Emotional Health Problems
Authors: Zittleman Linda , Felzien Maret , Curcija Kristen , Bennett Christopher , Bennett Kaitlyn , Carrica Joseph , Sutter Christin , Sherrill Ashley , Westfall John M 
Published: February 2025

Introduction: People in rural regions frequently lack resources for mental health support. Changing Our Mental and Emotional Trajectory (COMET) is a universal, community-based program designed to address mental and emotional health issues early and prevent crises. COMET Community Training is a short, interactive training that teaches people how to initiate a supportive and potentially emotional conversation using the simple, 7-item COMET Conversational Gravity Assist. This article describes and reports on the feasibility and acceptability of COMET and its Community Training. Methods: COMET was developed using a participatory research approach by community members and health professionals living in a rural region and their research partners. COMET Community Trainings were conducted over a 22-month period. Surveys were administered to attendees before and after training to describe attendees’ characteristics, view on content, and impact on intention to use COMET components. Field notes were completed by trainers to document the date and number of attendees. Results: Over 700 people attended 60 Community Trainings. Questionnaires were completed by 644 trainees before and 580 after training. Of pre-survey respondents, 25% worked in education and 15% in farming/ranching. Post-survey respondents were 62% female, and 32% were between age 18 and 36. High levels of training satisfaction were reported. Average likelihood of using items in the COMET conversational guide increased significantly from pre to post training. On a scale of 1 to 10, nearly 80% of respondents rated their likelihood of using COMET in the next 3 months a 7 or higher. Conclusions: COMET Community Training is a feasible program that effectively reaches a range of community members and improves the likelihood that they will initiate conversations when concerned about someone else’s mental health. Results lay the groundwork for COMET as an intervention that promotes mental and emotional well-being to address inequality in mental health for people living in rural communities.