bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Orthopaedic Surgery in the Jehovah’s Witness Patient
Authors: Stone Benjamin K. , Callanan Tucker C. , Perez-Albela Alejandro , Basques Bryce A. 
Published: January 2025

➢ Jehovah’s Witnesses refuse allogeneic blood products based on religious beliefs that create clinical, ethical, and legal challenges in orthopaedic surgery, requiring detailed perioperative planning and specific graft selection.➢ Detailed perioperative planning is particularly important for procedures with high intraoperative blood loss.➢ Graft selection must align with Jehovah’s Witnesses patients’ religious beliefs, with options including autografts, allografts, and synthetic materials; this requires shared decision-making between the patient and surgeon.➢ A multidisciplinary approach, integrating medical, ethical, and religious considerations, ensures optimal care, with innovative techniques and open dialogue being key to successful outcomes.
Trial Forge Guidance 5: ethical considerations in randomised Studies Within A Trial (SWATs)
Authors: Bruhn Hanne , Treweek Shaun , Weijer Charles , Briel Matthias , Clarke Mike , Crowley Rachel , Gillies Katie , Green Heidi , Murphy Ellen , Parker Adwoa , Hayes Geneviève Shiely , Hart Peter , Shiely Frances 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Randomised trials often struggle with recruitment, retention, and delays, impacting both finances and patient care. To improve trial processes, trialists can do Studies Within A Trial (SWATs) that compare trial process alternatives. Although SWATs are recognized by funders, there are differences in how they are implemented, such as different consent requirements in the UK and Ireland. This complicates SWAT conduct, raises ethical considerations, and highlights the need for standardised, ethical approaches to SWATs. The purpose of the current study was to devise guidance to address this.
Methods
We used existing systematic reviews, searched PubMed and the SWAT register, and contacted SWAT teams known to the authors to identify relevant randomised SWATs. We extracted information on any challenges in the SWAT approval process, as well as challenges implementing the SWAT. We held three consensus building forums, all including representatives from nine key stakeholder groups representing a broad range of roles in trials. We presented participants with two SWATs to start conversation on perceived ethical issues. Consensus building forums were recorded, transcribed, and analysed using NVivo, focusing on ethical principles, challenges, and solutions.
Results
We developed guidance on ethical considerations applicable to randomised SWATs. The guidelines cover all stages of a SWAT, from development and SWAT team selection to communication of results.
Conclusions
Studies Within a Trial are generally perceived to be low risk and low burden to participants. However, there are still variation in ethical standards applied to these studies by researchers, sponsors and ethics committees. In addition, SWATs are uniquely distinct from trials, presenting specific for their ethical conduct. These guidelines will be helpful to anyone planning or reviewing SWATs in understanding these differences and their ethical implications and provide a practical guide for the ethical conduct of SWATs.
Opportunities for optimising care transitions of adults with multiple long-term conditions: a qualitative interview study
Authors: Arakelyan Stella , Anand Atul , Mercer Stewart W , Lone Nazir , Lyall Marcus J , Jacko Julie A , Guthrie Bruce 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
The number of adults with multiple long-term conditions (MLTC) who experience frequent care transitions is rising. Improving care transitions for adults MLTC is important because transitions between and within care settings commonly lead to preventable adverse events. We explored multidisciplinary professional perspectives and experiences of managing care transitions for patients with MLTC to identify opportunities for improvement.
Methods
Qualitative interviews with 30 health and social care professionals in four Scottish integrated Health and Social Care Partnerships. Data were collected between May 2023 and March 2024. Thematic analysis was used, guided by the Sustainable Integrated Chronic Care Models for Multimorbidity: Delivery, Financing, and Performance (SELFIE) framework.
Results
Care transitions were described as lacking person-centredness and consistency. Variability in decisions on cross-boundary acute care pathways was largely attributed to human factors (e.g., ease of arranging referrals, a lack of trust or awareness of Hospital at Home service) by hospital specialist staff, but to clinical complexity and home environment limitations (physical and social) by community staff. Ineffective interprofessional relationships and poor communication across services were common experiences, significantly driven by a lack of integration between IT systems affecting timely access to information and by services having different priorities and pressures. Workforce shortages, knowledge gaps in managing MLTC, and long-standing capacity issues in social care were identified as important barriers to effectively managing transitions.
Conclusions
We identified multiple system-level barriers to providing personalised and coordinated care transitions. Joint planning and co-development of locally appropriate improvement interventions using systems approaches and techniques are needed for better patient-centred care pathways and outcomes.
Epidemiology and Control of Hepatitis C Virus (Hcv) Infection in Brunei Darussalam: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Koh Kai Shing , Wong Justin , Chaw Liling 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
We describe the epidemiology of hepatitis C virus (HCV) cases in Brunei Darussalam, and evaluated factors associated with HCV treatment initiation, completion, achieving sustained virologic response (SVR), baseline HCV-related complications, and HCV-related deaths.
Methods
A retrospective cohort study was conducted from January 2013 to December 2022 using data derived from EVYDENCE and the HCV registry to identify all diagnosed HCV cases in Brunei. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the associated factors.
Results
While incidence rates remained stable over a decade at below 20.0 per 100,000 population, we observed rising prevalence rates from 10.1 to 48.7 per 100,00 population in 2014 and 2022, respectively. Among 801 anti-HCV positive cases identified, 57% (n = 457) had detectable HCV RNA, 16.5% (n = 132) were HCV RNA negative, while 26.5% (n = 212) were not tested for HCV RNA. Treatment was initiated in 52.3% (n = 239) of HCV RNA positive cases, with higher odds among those aged 30–54 years [30–39 years (adjusted OR (aOR) = 2.41 (95% CI 1.17, 5.07)), 40–44 years (aOR = 2.55 (95% CI 1.19, 5.58)), 50–54 years (aOR = 2.76 (95% CI 1.25, 6.24))] and locals (aOR = 2.42 (95% CI 1.16, 5.36)). Cases diagnosed in 2020–2022 had lower odds of starting (aOR = 0.29 (95% CI 0.16, 0.51)) and completing (aOR = 0.16 (95% CI 0.05, 0.56)) treatment. Among 239 cases who initiated treatment, 69.5% (n = 166) completed treatment. 64.5% (n = 107) of these achieved SVR, with higher odds in cases diagnosed in 2018–2022 (aOR = 2.60 (95% CI 1.08, 6.90). 7.4% (n = 59) had HCV-related complications at baseline, with higher odds in those aged ≥ 50 (aOR = 3.32 (95% CI 1.93, 5.79). Among 129 deaths, 36.4% (n = 47) were HCV-related, of which 44.7% (n = 21) had HCV-related complications at baseline.
Conclusions
We observed rising HCV prevalence in Brunei, likely due to the decline in treatment initiation and completion. This reveals gaps in our HCV management and calls for actions to strengthen public health and clinical care strategies. Nearly half of the HCV deaths had baseline HCV-complications, highlighting the need for early screening and follow-up. Future studies should determine at-risk populations and explore barriers to HCV testing and care, to adequately address these issues and provide effective solutions.
Silicon nanocolumn-based disposable and flexible ultrasound patches
Authors: Lee Byung Chul , Kang Dong-Hyun , Cho Seonghun , Kim Hae Youn , Shim Shinyong , Kim Dong Hun , Jeong Baren , Lee Yoon Seong , Park Eun-Ah , Lee Whal , Kim Hyungmin , Khuri-Yakub Butrus , Im Maesoon , Jeong Jae-Woong 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Traditional wearable ultrasound devices pose challenges concerning the rigidity and environmental impact of lead-based piezoelectric materials. This study proposes a novel silicon nanocolumn capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducer (snCMUT) array for real-time wearable ultrasound imaging in disposable patches. Using a lead-free design, snCMUT incorporates silicon nanocolumns to address existing issues and achieves high transmission efficiency (220 kPa/V), flexibility, and low power consumption. The unique structure of snCMUT enhances displacement efficiency, enabling high-resolution imaging while maintaining a thin, flexible form factor (~ 900 µm). Phantom imaging demonstrates its superior performance, with high axial and lateral resolutions (0.52 and 0.55 mm) and depth penetration (~ 70 mm) at low voltage (8.9 VPP). Upon successful application to monitor both sides of the human carotid arteries, snCMUT offers clear ultrasound images and continuous blood pressure waveform monitoring. This proposed innovation presents significant potential for continuous medical imaging and cardiovascular health assessment, addressing environmental concerns and reducing manufacturing costs (<$20).
Stochastic Modeling and Analysis of Energy Efficiency in Tethered High Altitude Platforms Based Smart Macro Base Station
Authors: Priya Sebasthi , R. Sudhesh , Kalita Priyanka , S. Dharmaraja 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

The high-altitude platform station (HAPs) emerges as a pivotal component within the burgeoning landscape of non-terrestrial networks, functioning as a super macro base station (SMBS) with a distinctive positioning in the stratosphere. On the basis of the requirement, HAPs can be positioned in lower level in the atmosphere. HAPs are restricted by the battery life of their onboard power source, whereas tethered HAPs (tHAPs) are powered by a continuous power source through the tether line, granting them virtually unlimited flight time. Using tHAPs as a SMBS, the metropolitan cities will be benefited as a constant network to collect data from internet of things (IoT) devices and top provide reliable uplink connections for them in a seamless, efficient, and cost-effective manner. The proposed stochastic model is designed to handle the energy consumption challenges for the tHAPs-SMBS while ensuring high-quality service. This study presents a stochas-tic modeling and transient analysis approach to evaluate the energy efficiency of tHAPs which functions as SMBS. The analysis yields a transient and steady-state solutions, the energy-saving factor and throughput of the system. The numerical results displays the impact of various parameters on energy consumption of the system.
Foraging in proximity to humans can shape social centrality in wild dolphins
Authors: Bankhead Kyra , McHugh Katherine , Wells Randall S , Cantor Mauricio 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Some marine animals can form social groups to detect and exploit patchy ocean resources efficiently, which can be beneficial during periods of low prey availability. However, human-provided food sources in coastal areas can reduce the necessity for cooperative hunting, potentially weakening social bonds among marine animals adapted to human-disturbed environments. In Sarasota Bay, Florida, some members of the long-term resident bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) community engage in human-centric foraging, especially following environmental changes, such as intense harmful algal blooms that deplete natural prey. Here, we model how varying levels of human interaction with dolphins’ foraging behaviors influence their social network structure and evaluate correlations among behavior changes and harmful algal blooms. Using Bayesian inference and network analysis on a 18-yr comprehensive dataset of the Sarasota dolphin community, we compared the network positions of dolphins that engaged in human-centric tactics to those observed using only natural foraging tactics. We found that the type of human-centric behavior had different effects on sociality. More direct, risky interactions with humans caused individuals to become less connected with other dolphins, while human-centric foraging away from humans increased sociality. These findings have implications for understanding the long-term impact of human interactions on the social cohesion of wildlife communities.
The magnitude and cross reactivity of SARS-CoV-2 specific antibody responses in Sri Lankan children and association with the nutritional status
Authors: Jeewandara Chandima , Karunananda Maneshka Vindesh , Fernando Suranga , Danasekara Saubhagya , Jayakody Gamini , Arulkumaran S , Samaraweera N. Y. , Kumarawansha Sarathchandra , Sivaganesh Subramaniyam , Amarasinghe P. Geethika , Jayasinghe Chintha , Wijesekara Dilini , Marasinghe Manonath Bandara , Mambulage Udari , Wijayatilaka Helanka , Seneviratne Kasun , Bandara A.D.P. , Gallage C.P. , Colambage N.R. , Udayasiri A.A. Thilak , Lokumarambage Tharaka , Upasena Y , Weerasooriya W.P.K.P , group seroprevalence study , Tan Tiong Kit , Townsend Alain , Ogg Graham S , Malavige Gathsaurie Neelika 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
In order to determine if undernutrition affects the presence, breadth and magnitude of antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 and variants, we studied SARS-CoV-2 specific antibody responses in a large island wide serosurvey in children in Sri Lanka.
Methods
Using the WHO UNITY protocol, we recruited 5207 children, aged 10 to 20 years, and assessed anthropometric measures, seropositive rates, ACE2 blocking antibodies and antibodies to omicron variants, in vaccinated and unvaccinated children.
Results
3111/3119 (99.7%) vaccinated and 2008/2088 (96.2%) of unvaccinated children were seropositive for SARS-CoV-2, although the detection of ACE2 blocking antibodies were significantly higher in vaccinated children (2984/3111, 95.9%) compared to unvaccinated (1346/2008, 67.0%). 1057 (22.1%) had a BMI < 3rd centile for age, and therefore were classified as underweight. Unvaccinated children, with < 3rd BMI centile had significantly lower ACE2 blocking antibodies than other groups. There were no differences in the antibody titres to XBB.1.5 or BA.2.75 based on the BMI category.
Conclusions
The high seropositivity rates, with high antibody titres to SARS-CoV-2 variants in unvaccinated children indicates possible multiple infections with SARS-CoV-2. The implications of lower antibody levels in underweight children should be further investigated.
Synthesis and Properties of Vinyl Silane Grafted Styrene Butadiene Rubber through Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization in Latex
Authors: yin changjie , Wang Boyu , Li Huimin , Yin Dezhong , Zhang Qiuyu 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

A new well controllable vinyl silane grafted styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) was firstly prepared by tom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) in the latex stage. The brominated SBR (SBR-Br) was prepared by the reaction between the SBR and N-bromosuccinimide(NBS), then silane grafted SBR with well-controlled branch chain was created by the ATRP of silane initiated by SBR-Br in the presence of CuBr/dNbpy. The best grafting condition was obtained, that is the reaction temperature and time were 70°C and 12 h, the mass ratio of monomer: CuBr:dNbpy was 3 : 0.02 : 0.01. The SBR-Br and grafted SBR were characterized by ATR-FTIR and 1H-NMR spectra technique. The reaction kinetics study proved that the process of grafting reaction had active/controllable characteristics. Compared with the native SBR, the AFM results showed that the grafted SBR showed significant phase separation, the TEM images clearly showed that the emulsion particles have a uniform core-shell structure, the tensile strength of vinyltrimethylsilane grafted SBR (SBR-g-VTS) and γ-methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane grafted SBR SBR-g-MPS were increased by 2.66 and 2.23 times, respectively.
Study on the site selection evaluation system for township health centers in rural areas under the background of China's New Healthcare Reform
Authors: Liu Lulu , Zou Jiecheng , Xiang Haiqing , Zhou Peng , Zhong Jiawei , Liang Jia , Wang Lan , Sun Ying 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

This study, set against the context of China's New Healthcare Reform, focuses the site selection issue for Township Health Centers in rural areas with limited resources, using Liannan Yao Autonomous County as a case study. It innovatively integrates multidisciplinary approaches from geography, urban planning, management, and sociology to develop a comprehensive and practically applicable site selection evaluation system. The research combines literature review, expert interviews, Analytic Hierarchy Process and Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation to establish evaluation indicators and their weights across multiple dimensions, including spatial geographic conditions, cost factors, social factors, demand factors, internal operating environment, and contingency factors. A case study of the Daping township health center in Liannan Yao Autonomous County validates the accuracy and reliability of the evaluation model. This study not only addresses the limitations of single-discipline approaches in site selection research but also highlights the importance of considering residents' micro-level needs, policy environment dynamics, and the overall capacity for delivering comprehensive health services. The research aims to draw more attention to rural healthcare issues, providing scientific evidence and practical references for the planning of healthcare facilities in other economically underdeveloped regions, thus optimizing medical resource allocation and improving healthcare service levels for township residents.
Incidental Findings of Muscle-Origin Calcifications in the Sternocleidomastoid Muscle on an Orthopantomogram: a Case Report
Authors: Valente Francesco , Riccardi Riccardo , Rosso Roberto Del , Valente Pierluigi , Sbrenna Andrea 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background:
This case report documents incidental findings of bilateral calcifications within the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle observed on a dental panoramic radiograph. The aim is to emphasize the importance of recognizing overlapping anatomical structures in panoramic radiography to prevent misdiagnosis.
Methods:
During a routine dental examination, a 59-year-old female was found to have multiple small calcifications bilaterally in the mandibular ramus region on an orthopantomogram. Further evaluation with ultrasound confirmed the presence of calcifications within the SCM muscle. A comprehensive differential diagnosis was performed, considering potential causes such as trauma, inflammation, metabolic disorders, and idiopathic conditions.
Results:
Ultrasound imaging identified multiple small calcified deposits within the SCM muscle bilaterally, with sizes ranging from 2 to 6 mm. The absence of systemic disorders or recent trauma supported a diagnosis of dystrophic calcifications.
Conclusions:
This case highlights the need to assess anatomical structures beyond the dental region in panoramic imaging. Ultrasound is recommended as an adjunct imaging modality to accurately determine the origin and location of muscle calcifications without additional radiation exposure. Recognizing these incidental findings on dental radiographs is essential for avoiding misinterpretation and unnecessary interventions.
Heavy Metal Contamination and Cancer Risk Assessment in Groundwater Near Dumpsites: Health Implications for Vulnerable Populations in Nigeria
Authors: Asemota Charming Osaro , Enuneku Alex , Tongo Isioma , Ezemonye Lawrence Ikechuchukwu 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Nigeria is experiencing a growing threat of groundwater pollution due to insufficient waste management practices. This study aimed to assess the levels of heavy metal contamination in groundwater near the Ikhueniro and Otofure dumpsites in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, and to evaluate the associated health risks. Water samples were collected from boreholes in residential areas surrounding both dumpsites during both the rainy and dry seasons, yielding 144 samples. These were analyzed for concentrations of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), and copper (Cu) using standard protocols. The results indicated that Fe, Cu, Zn, and Ni were the most prevalent metals, with Fe showing the highest concentrations at both sites. The hazard index (HI) and cancer risk (CR) calculations highlighted serious health risks, particularly for children and infants. Specifically, the cumulative cancer risk for Pb, Cr, and Ni exceeded internationally recognized safety limits, indicating a significant potential for long-term health impacts. The study concluded that the proximity to these dumpsites significantly deteriorates groundwater quality, emphasizing the need for stricter environmental controls and public health interventions.
Is the vitamin D deficiency a cause of intractable BPPV?
Authors: Temirbekov Dastan , Sari Elif 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
This study investigated the association between treatment resistance in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) and various risk factors, including vitamin D deficiency, age, gender, and comorbidities.
Methods
A retrospective review of medical records was conducted on 122 patients diagnosed with BPPV at a tertiary care hospital between January 2020 and January 2023. The diagnosis of BPPV was confirmed using clinical history and positional tests, while serum 25-OH vitamin D levels were measured using chemiluminescence immunoassay. Patients who required three or more canalith repositioning maneuvers were considered treatment-resistant. Logistic regression analysis was employed to assess the impact of demographic and clinical factors on BPPV treatment resistance, and recurrence rates were evaluated over a one-year follow-up period.
Results.
Logistic regression revealed that male gender, comorbidities, and betahistine use were significantly associated with BPPV resistance (p < 0.05), while no significant relationship was found between vitamin D levels and treatment resistance or recurrence (p > 0.05). Recurrence was observed in 22.1% of patients during the follow-up period, though this was not significantly related to vitamin D status.
Conclusions
While previous studies suggested a potential link between vitamin D deficiency and BPPV recurrence, this study found no significant association between vitamin D deficiency and intractability along with the recurrence of BPPV. Instead, male gender, comorbidities (notably hypertension), and betahistine use were identified as risk factors for requiring multiple maneuvers. The study raises questions about the role of vitamin D in BPPV pathophysiology and suggests that other clinical factors may have a greater influence on treatment outcomes.