bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Circulation of Anaplasma phagocytophilum among invasive and native carnivore species living in sympatry in Poland
Authors: Lesiczka Paulina Maria , Myśliwy Izabella , Buńkowska-Gawlik Katarzyna , Modrý David , Hrazdilová Kristýna , Hildebrand Joanna , Perec-Matysiak Agnieszka 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Anaplasma phagocytophilum is characterized by a worldwide distribution and distinguished from other Anaplasmataceae by the broadest range of mammalian hosts and high genetic diversity. The role carnivores play in the life cycle of A. phagocytophilum in Europe is uncertain. Currently, only the red fox is considered a suitable reservoir host. In this study, we focused on native and invasive medium-sized carnivore species that live in sympatry and represent the most abundant species of wild carnivores in Poland.

Methods
A total of 275 individual spleen samples from six carnivore species (Vulpes vulpes, Meles meles, Procyon lotor, Nyctereutes procyonoides and Martes spp.) were screened combining nested PCR and sequencing for A. phagocytophilum targeting a partial groEL gene with subsequent phylogenetic analysis inferred by the maximum likelihood method.

Results
The DNA of A. phagocytophilum was detected in 16 of 275 individuals (5.8%). Eight unique genetic variants of A. phagocytophilum were obtained. All detected haplotypes clustered in the clade representing European ecotype I. Three variants belonged to the subclade with European human cases together with strains from dogs, foxes, cats, and wild boars.

Conclusions
While carnivores might have a restricted role in the dissemination of A. phagocytophilum due to their relatively low to moderate infection rates, they hold significance as hosts for ticks. Consequently, they could contribute to the transmission of tick-borne infections to humans indirectly, primarily through tick infection. This underscores the potential risk of urbanization for the A. phagocytophilum life cycle, further emphasizing the need for comprehensive understanding of its ecological dynamics﻿.

Graphical Abstract
Utility of a penile compression device for the quality of life in male patients with urinary incontinence after prostatectomy (the MORE study): a randomized prospective study
Authors: Gotoh Daisuke , Torimoto Kazumasa , Onishi Kenta , Morizawa Yosuke , Hori Shunta , Nakai Yasushi , Miyake Makito , Fujimoto Kiyohide 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Objectives
To verify the effects of penile clamping on the degree of stress urinary incontinence and quality of life in post-radical prostatectomy patients.

Results
Thirty-seven patients suffering from stress urinary incontinence after undergoing radical prostatectomy were enrolled. A total of 19 and 18 patients were analyzed in the non-clamp and clamp groups, respectively. The mean ages of the patients in non-clamp and clamp groups were 68.3 ± 7.1 years and 71.2 ± 4.8 years, respectively; the mean time after radical prostatectomy was 28.9 ± 44.0 months and 26.2 ± 39.0 months, respectively. The penile clamp used was the CLAMPMED® (URINE CONTROL CLAMP) size M (MURANAKA MEDICAL INSTRUMENTS Co., Ltd.). Specific urinary care pads (Sawayaka Pad for Men, Small Quantity®, Unicharm Corporation), were provided; the average daily usage was monitored for four weeks. The quality of life was evaluated using the King’s Health Questionnaire. The average daily use of urinary care pads was significantly reduced in the clamp group than in the non-clamp group (-0.83 ± 1.51 vs. -0.16 ± 0.69, P = 0.0071). King’s Health Questionnaire scores did not change significantly in either group. Wearing the CLAMPMED® reduced the amount of urinary incontinence but did not improve the quality of life.

Trial registration
The Japan Registry of Clinical Trials (jRCT1052230083). Registered 2 August, 2023.
An edge server deployment method based on optimal benefit and genetic algorithm
Authors: Ye Hongfan , Cao Buqing , Liu Jianxun , Li Pei , Tang Bing , Peng Zhenlian 
Published: October 2023

AbstractWith the speedy advancement and accelerated popularization of 5G networks, the provision and request of services through mobile smart terminals have become a hot topic in the development of mobile service computing. In this scenario, an efficient and reasonable edge server deployment solution can effectively reduce the deployment cost and communication latency of mobile smart terminals, while significantly improving investment efficiency and resource utilization. Focusing on the issue of edge server placement in mobile service computing environment, this paper proposes an edge server deployment method based on optimal benefit quantity and genetic algorithm. This method is firstly, based on a channel selection strategy for optimal communication impact benefits, it calculates the quantity of edge servers which can achieve optimal benefit. Then, the issue of edge server deployment is converted to a dual-objective optimization problem under three constraints to find the best locations to deploy edge servers, according to balancing the workload of edge servers and minimizing the communication delay among clients and edge servers. Finally, the genetic algorithm is utilized to iteratively optimize for finding the optimal resolution of edge server deployment. A series of experiments are performed on the Mobile Communication Base Station Data Set of Shanghai Telecom, and the experimental results verify that beneath the limit of the optimal benefit quantity of edge servers, the proposed method outperforms MIP, K-means, ESPHA, Top-K, and Random in terms of effectively reducing communication delays and balancing workloads.
Quantitative 177Lu SPECT/CT imaging for personalized dosimetry using a ring-shaped CZT-based camera
Authors: Danieli Rachele , Stella Martina , Leube Julian , Tran-Gia Johannes , Marin Clementine , Uribe Carlos F. , Vanderlinden Bruno , Reynaert Nick , Flamen Patrick , Levillain Hugo 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Dosimetry after radiopharmaceutical therapy with 177Lu (177Lu-RPT) relies on quantitative SPECT/CT imaging, for which suitable reconstruction protocols are required. In this study, we characterized for the first time the quantitative performance of a ring-shaped CZT-based camera using two different reconstruction algorithms: an ordered subset expectation maximization (OSEM) and a block sequential regularized expectation maximization (BSREM) combined with noise reduction regularization. This study lays the foundations for the definition of a reconstruction protocol enabling accurate dosimetry for patients treated with 177Lu-RPT.

Methods
A series of 177Lu-filled phantoms were acquired on a StarGuide™ (GE HealthCare), with energy and scatter windows centred at 208 (± 6%) keV and 185 (± 5%) keV, respectively. Images were reconstructed with the manufacturer implementations of OSEM (GE-OSEM) and BSREM (Q.Clear) algorithms, and various combinations of iterations and subsets. Additionally, the manufacturer-recommended Q.Clear-based reconstruction protocol was evaluated. Quantification accuracy, measured as the difference between the SPECT-based and the radionuclide calibrator-based activity, and noise were evaluated in a large cylinder. Recovery coefficients (RCs) and spatial resolution were assessed in a NEMA IEC phantom with sphere inserts. The reconstruction protocols considered suitable for clinical applications were tested on a cohort of patients treated with [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-I&T.

Results
The accuracy of the activity from the cylinder, although affected by septal penetration, was < 10% for all reconstructions. Both algorithms featured improved spatial resolution and higher RCs with increasing updates at the cost of noise build-up, but Q.Clear outperformed GE-OSEM in reducing noise accumulation. When the reconstruction parameters were carefully selected, similar values for noise (~0.15), spatial resolution (~1 cm) and RCs were found, irrespective of the reconstruction algorithm. Analogue results were found in patients.

Conclusions
Accurate activity quantification is possible when imaging 177Lu with StarGuide™. However, the impact of septal penetration requires further investigations. GE-OSEM is a valid alternative to the recommended Q.Clear reconstruction algorithm, featuring comparable performances assessed on phantoms and patients.
Restoring vertebral height in the treatment of multilevel vertebral compression fractures with vertebroplasty
Authors: Encarnacion-Santos Daniel , Nurmukhametov Renat , Bozkurt Ismail , Dosanov Medet , Volovish Alexander , Chaurasia Bipin 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Osteoporosis (OP) is the fourth leading cause of disability in the elderly. The challenges presented by OP fractures are complex. Vertebral body fractures (VCF) are frequently encountered in osteoporotic patients. Due to the predominant age group of osteoporotic VCF along with co-morbidities, restoring the vertebral body height and the correction of kyphosis via minimally invasive methods are preferred. Vertebroplasty continues to be the most commonly employed method in this selection. The purpose of this study is to provide evidence for the combined employment of vertebroplasty with other minimally invasive techniques in the treatment of osteoporotic VCF. A retrospective analysis of patients treated for multilevel thoracolumbar osteoporotic VCF was performed. The patients were treated with percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP), transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion supplemented by vertebroplasty (TLIF-VP) and minimally invasive transpedicular screw fixation supplemented by vertebroplasty (TP-VP). They were followed up for at least a year and VAS and ODI scores along with the degree of kyphotic correction and restoration of vertebral body height have been evaluated.

Results
Sixty patients with 132 levels of VCF treated were evaluated. PVP was superior in terms of shortened operative period, decreased blood loss, earlier ambulation and not requiring general anesthesia. Both TLIF-VP and TP-VP required general anesthesia, with longer operative period and increased blood loss, however it provided greater kyphotic correction. Restoration of vertebral body height was the highest in the PVP and TP-VP group. All patients benefited clinically from the interventions in regard to VAS pain and ODI scores.

Conclusions
VP continues to be the choice for minimally invasive correction of osteoporotic VCF. VP can be employed with other techniques as seen in this study in selected patients with sufficient symptomology. TLIF implantation allowed for discectomy and sufficient root decompression while transpedicular screw fixation allowed for greater correction especially in the chronic fractures.
Effect of elevated HbA1c on outcomes in on-pump versus off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting
Authors: Cooke Brett , Williams Lamario , Delay T. Kurt , Xie Rongbing , Cornelius Katherine , Davies James E. , Vardas Panos N. 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Diabetic patients are at an increased risk of cardiovascular morbidities. We aimed to examine if elevated pre-operative glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels are associated with higher likelihood of experiencing adverse events in on-pump (ONCAB) versus off-pump (OPCAB) coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) procedures. We examined characteristics of patients undergoing CABG using our institutional STS Adult Cardiac Surgery Database (ACSD) from 2014 to 2020. Descriptive statistics and univariate analyses were used to compare postoperative outcomes between ONCAB and OPCAB based on preoperative HbA1c levels: (1) HbA1c ≤ 6.0%, (2) 6.0% < HbA1c ≤ 7.0%, (3) 7.0% < HbA1c ≤ 8.5%, (4) HbA1c > 8.5%. Multivariable models were built to assess risk factors associated with adverse events. Primary outcomes were operative mortality and stroke.

Results
For ONCAB, statistically significant associations were found between increasing HbA1c and new post-operative dialysis (p=0.01), rates of readmission (p=0.003) and greater lengths of stay (p=0.002). For OPCAB, statistically significant associations were found between increasing HbA1c and rates of operative mortality (p=0.04), post-operative renal failure (p=0.0001), new post-operative dialysis (p=0.0001), sternal wound infection (p=0.01), and greater lengths of stay (p=0.03). No significant relationship was noted between HbA1c and stroke, reoperation due to bleeding, or post-operative transfusion.

Conclusions
Increasing HbA1c positively correlated with numerous adverse patient outcomes in both ONCAB and OPCAB, and differences were noted in which outcomes were most impacted between the two techniques. Pre-operative medical optimization from a diabetes standpoint is paramount to improve CABG outcomes in both on-pump or off-pump techniques.
Relationship of functional movement screening with balance and flexibility in adult nonathletes—an observational study
Authors: Mahapatra Charuhasini , Alexander Joseph Oliver Raj 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
The functional movement screening (FMS), Flamingo balance, Y balance, and sit and reach tests are the screening tools for fundamental movement patterns, balance, and flexibility, respectively; the latter three tests are components of quantifying fitness levels. Functional movement screening is used to measure the quality of movement, and it is an injury risk predictor. There are several studies done to find the correlation between functional movement screening and fitness parameters in athletes but has not been studied much in non-athlete population. The aim of this study is to determine the correlation between functional movement screening with static and dynamic balance and flexibility in healthy adult nonathletes, and to find gender differences, if any.

Method
A total of 65 healthy nonathletes in the age group 18 to 27 years were included in the study based on the selection criteria. The functional movement screening, Y-balance test, Flamingo balance test, and sit and reach test were done for all participants.

Results
Pearson’s correlation was used to analyze the collected data. The results indicated a poor correlation between FMS and fitness parameters. These are FMS and Y-balance test left and right side (r = 0.216, 0.144, p = 0.084, 0.251), FMS with Flamingo balance test left and right side (r = 0.071, 0.197 p = 0.575, 0.115), and FMS with sit and reach test (r = 0.006, p = 0.961).

Conclusion
The results showed that functional movement screening and balance (Flamingo and Y balance) and sit and reach cannot be used interchangeably as they do not have any strong correlation. The results of the study also indicate that using only one of the tools cannot predict injury risk in healthy individuals. They have to be used in conjunction with each other.
Knowledge, attitude, and perception of Nigerian-based physiotherapists on the utilization of musculoskeletal ultrasound imaging in the clinical management of musculoskeletal conditions
Authors: Ojukwu Chidiebele Petronilla , Anekwu Emelie Moris , Ude-Bassey Zimuzor , Onuchukwu Chioma Linda , Ede Stephen Sunday , Chukwu Sylvester Caesar , Okemuo Adaora Justina , Eze Joseph C. , Okafor Chinelo Jennifer 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Musculoskeletal ultrasound imaging (MSUI) is an efficient monitoring and re-evaluation tool used for the management of musculoskeletal conditions in several clinical domains. Its utilization among physiotherapists, particularly in African countries, is yet to be explored.

Objective
This study investigated the knowledge, attitude, and perception of physiotherapists on the utilization of MSUI in the clinical management of musculoskeletal conditions.

Methods
One hundred and ninety-two consenting Nigerian-based physiotherapists practicing in public and private health institutions participated in this cross-sectional survey. They responded to a three-sectioned structured questionnaire, investigating socio-demographic and occupational characteristics, knowledge, attitude, and utilization of MSUI for the management of musculoskeletal conditions. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and Pearson’s chi-square test at a significant level of 0.05.

Results
The majority (79.2%) of the respondents had positive knowledge of MSUI and its benefits as a clinical modality for managing MSCs. However, only 4.2% had utilized MSUI in clinical practice. Non-utilization of MSUI was commonly attributed to a lack of access to MSUI (60.3%) and its unavailability in most diagnostic centers (42.9%). Almost all (99.0%) of them agreed to the necessity for increased availability of MSUI to physiotherapists for enhancement of physiotherapy interventions in the management of MSCs.

Conclusion
Knowledge of MSUI among Nigerian-based physiotherapists is adequate, but its utilization as a clinical tool is poor. Improved availability of MSUI to physiotherapists is necessary as well as specialty training on the utilization and interpretation of MSUI.
The athlete’s heart: insights from echocardiography
Authors: Flanagan Harry , Cooper Robert , George Keith P. , Augustine Daniel X. , Malhotra Aneil , Paton Maria F. , Robinson Shaun , Oxborough David 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThe manifestations of the athlete’s heart can create diagnostic challenges during an echocardiographic assessment. The classifications of the morphological and functional changes induced by sport participation are often beyond ‘normal limits’ making it imperative to identify any overlap between pathology and normal physiology. The phenotype of the athlete’s heart is not exclusive to one chamber or function. Therefore, in this narrative review, we consider the effects of sporting discipline and training volume on the holistic athlete’s heart, as well as demographic factors including ethnicity, body size, sex, and age.
Effect of Neck-Deep Immersion in Cool or Thermoneutral Water on Blood Glucose Levels in Individuals With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Abramoff Kristina J , De Souza Lauren L , Maloney Shane K , Davis Elizabeth A , Jones Timothy W , Fournier Paul A 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Context
It is unclear whether immersion in cool water, typical of many beaches, increases the concentration of blood glucose in individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM).

Objective
To test the hypothesis in individuals with T1DM that immersion neck-deep in cool water (COOL) causes an increase in blood glucose concentration, but not exposure to thermoneutral water (THERMO) or thermoneutral air.

Methods
Eight overnight-fasted participants with T1DM were exposed for 60 minutes on separate days to 3 experimental conditions: cool water (COOL, 23 °C); thermoneutral water (THERMO, 33.5 °C); or thermoneutral air (24 °C). They then recovered for 60 minutes on land at 24 °C. At time intervals, we measured: blood glucose and plasma insulin concentration, rate of carbohydrate and fat oxidation, skin and core temperature, subcutaneous blood flow, and shivering via electromyography.

Results
There was no change in blood glucose concentration during the 3 experimental conditions (P &gt; .05). During recovery after COOL, blood glucose increased (P &lt; .05) but did not change in the other 2 conditions. The rate of carbohydrate oxidation during and early after COOL was higher than in the other 2 conditions (P &lt; .05), and COOL led to a decrease in subcutaneous blood flow and the concentration of plasma insulin (P &lt; .05).

Conclusion
Cool or thermoneutral neck-deep immersion in water does not cause a change in the concentration of blood glucose in people with T1DM, but on-land recovery from COOL causes an increase in blood glucose that may be due, at least in part, to the accompanying decrease in plasma insulin.
Nutritional Neuropathies
Authors: Kumar Neeraj 
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE
This article reviews the etiologies, presentations, and management of neuropathies related to nutritional deficiencies.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
Peripheral neuropathy can be the predominant or only manifestation of certain nutrient deficiencies. Cognitive difficulties or involvement of other parts of the central nervous system, such as the optic nerve and spinal cord, may accompany nutritional peripheral neuropathies. In most patients, the nutritional deficiency may have a single predominant cause, but in some cases, multiple causes may coexist. Obesity, for unclear reasons, can be associated with nutrient deficiencies. The rising rates of bariatric surgery and the incidence of nutrient deficiencies following bariatric surgery make this a particularly relevant topic for neurologists.

ESSENTIAL POINTS
Neuropathies caused by nutrient deficiencies are preventable with appropriate supplementation in high-risk situations. Early recognition and prompt treatment are essential to ensure an optimal outcome and minimize neurologic morbidity.
Infectious Neuropathies
Authors: Boegle Aimee K. , Narayanaswami Pushpa 
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT

Objective
This article discusses the clinical manifestations and management of infectious peripheral neuropathies.

Latest Developments
Several infectious etiologies of peripheral neuropathy are well-recognized and their treatments are firmly established. The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is associated with several central and peripheral nervous system manifestations, including peripheral neuropathies. Additionally, some COVID-19 vaccines have been associated with Guillain-Barré syndrome. These disorders are an active area of surveillance and research. Recent evidence-based guidelines have provided updated recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of Lyme disease.

Essential Points
Infectious agents of many types (primarily bacteria and viruses) can affect the peripheral nerves, resulting in various clinical syndromes such as mononeuropathy or mononeuropathy multiplex, distal symmetric polyneuropathy, radiculopathy, inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy, and motor neuronopathy. Knowledge of these infections and the spectrum of peripheral nervous system disorders associated with them is essential because many have curative treatments. Furthermore, understanding the neuropathic presentations of these disorders may assist in diagnosing the underlying infection.
Hereditary Neuropathies
Authors: Hayes Leslie H. , Sadjadi Reza 
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE
This article provides an overview of hereditary neuropathies, describes the different hereditary neuropathy subtypes and the clinical approach to differentiating between them, and summarizes their clinical management.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
Increasingly available clinical genetic testing has broadened the clinical spectrum of hereditary neuropathy subtypes and demonstrated a significant overlap of phenotypes associated with a single gene. New subtypes such as SORD-related neuropathy and CANVAS (cerebellar ataxia, neuropathy, vestibular areflexia syndrome) have emerged. The optimization of clinical management has improved gait and motor function in the adult and pediatric populations. Novel therapeutic approaches are entering clinical trials.

ESSENTIAL POINTS
Hereditary neuropathies constitute a spectrum of peripheral nerve disorders with variable degrees of motor and sensory symptoms, patterns of involvement, and clinical courses.