bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the Efficacy and Safety of Halo-Femoral Traction and Halo-Gravity Traction Techniques in Severe Kyphoscoliosis With Spinal Cord Risk Classification (SCRC) Type 3 Over the Apex
Authors: Lo Yuan-Shun , Lin Erh-Ti Ernest , Yeh Chen-Wei , Chen Michael Jian-Wen , Chiang Cheng-Hung , Tsai Chun-Hao , Fong Yi-Chin , Chang Pao-Lung , Chen Yen-Jen , Chen Hsien-Te , Qiu Yong 
Published: January 2025

Study design Retrospective cohort study. Objective To analyze the efficacy and safety of Halo-femoral traction (HFT) following spinal release, and preoperative Halo-gravity traction (HGT) in patients with severe spinal kyphoscoliosis and spinal cord risk classification (SCRC) type 3 at the apex. Methods A total of 73 patients (24 males, 49 females, mean age 22.4 ± 6.4 years) and 56 patients (15 males, 41 females, mean age 22.9 ± 10.4 years) were included in the HFT and HGT group, respectively. Radiographic parameters were measured at the initial assessment, post-traction, post-final surgery, and during each follow-up. Neurologic function was assessed using the Frankel score system. IONM alerts and all complications were documented. Quality-of-life was evaluated using the SF-36 questionnaire. Results In the HFT vs HGT group, the total correction rates were 39.9 ± 7.2% v.s. 41.3 ± 6.8% for the major Cobb and 36.6 ± 9.3% v.s. 44.4 ± 9.2% for global kyphosis (GK) after final surgery, respectively. The traction contributions were 57.6 ± 11.1% v.s. 52.3 ± 9.3% for major Cobb and 70.1 ± 10.5% v.s. 63.9 ± 11.1% for global kyphosis (GK), respectively. More than half of the total correction can be achieved gradually and safely through preoperative traction with patients in an awake state. No deterioration in neurological function was found post-final surgery. During the last follow-up, SF-36 questionnaire scores improved significantly in both groups ( P < .05). Conclusions Significant outcomes can be expected in patients with severe kyphoscoliosis, even with spinal cord risk classification (SCRC) type 3 at the apex undergoing HFT and HGT.
Clinical Outcomes of a New Foot-Worn Non-Invasive Biomechanical Intervention Compared to Traditional Physical Therapy in Patients With Chronic Low Back Pain. A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Veeramachaneni Ratnakar , Gitkind Andrew , Yerra Sandeep , Hagan Michael , Hasanoglu Asude N. , Akile Natnael , Kareff Hannah , Ho Derek , Bartels Matthew N. 
Published: January 2025

Study Design Randomized Controlled Trial. Objective Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a major public health concern that will continue to grow with the expected aging of the population. The purpose of this study was to examine the clinical effect of a personalized, home-based biomechanical intervention compared to traditional physical therapy in patients with CLBP. Methods This was a randomized controlled trial. One-hundred and sixty-two patients were randomized in a 2:1 ratio to a home-based biomechanical intervention (HBBI, AposHealth) or traditional physical therapy (TPT), respectively. Patients were assessed at baseline and after 12 weeks and 52 weeks. The primary outcome measure was pain at 52 weeks, using a standard Numeric Rating Scale (NRS). Secondary outcomes included pain and function metrics, quality of life and objective spatio-temporal gait test. A Linear Mixed Model assessed changes over time across all study visits. Results A significant reduction in NRS was found after 52 weeks with a superiority effect of the HBBI arm compared to TPT (F = 13.82, P < 0.001). Patients in the HBBI arm demonstrated a marginal mean reduction of 3.5 points, from 6.2 to 2.7 (a 56% reduction), while patients in the TPT arm reported a mean decrease of 1.8 points from 6.9 to 5.1 (a 26% reduction). Conclusions A new foot-worn, home-based, biomechanical intervention for patients with chronic non-specific back pain was found to be clinically effective. Given the lack of non-surgical, non-pharmacological interventions for this populations, this treatment might serve as an adjunct to the current standard of care.
Developing Research-Oriented Health Professionals: Understanding Students’ Perceptions and Needs for Extracurricular Research Opportunities
Authors: Xu Peihao , Pfeiffer Shona , Boland Fiona , Stevens Niall T. 
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND Undergraduate training in research principles is often mandated by healthcare profession regulators in Ireland to prepare graduates for higher specialist training. Students can be offered the opportunity to participate in extracurricular research activities, in addition to those embedded in the curricula. This cross-sectional study aims to explore student attitudes towards research and to understand their motivations for engaging in research-related activities and any barriers that might prevent them from doing so. METHODS Students participating in the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland Research Summer School (RSS) 2023 completed a questionnaire at the start of the program to assess research experience as well as attitudes and motivations towards research. RESULTS Of the 120 participants in the summer research school, only 50 participated in the questionnaire. Of these 50, 42 were medical students. Twenty-nine students were undertaking a supervised research project, while 21 were enrolled in a 4-week taught research skills program. Five students had completed a previous undergraduate or postgraduate degree, and 29 had previously participated in research-related activities. The reasons for participating in the RSS program were to gain experience and skills, followed by having an interest in biomedical research. Twenty-nine students said their motivation was to participate in a more exploratory learning process beyond the syllabus. Thirty students felt the main factor preventing them from gaining research experience was the lack of research opportunities available to them. CONCLUSION Undergraduate health professions students recognize the importance of engaging in research-related activities. Gaining research experiences to enhance knowledge and build professional relations is important, but the lack of opportunities is perceived to be a barrier preventing engagement. Given the value undergraduate students place on research experiences, institutions specializing in health professions education should create customized programs to eliminate obstacles and offer undergraduate opportunities that encourage the development of research-focused healthcare professionals.
Timing of vitrectomy for treatment of endophthalmitis after intravitreal anti-VEGF injection: a systematic literature review of case reports and series
Authors: Hu Daniel J. , Ghauri Sophia , Krzystolik Magdalena G. 
Published: January 2025

Objective: To perform a systematic literature review analyzing visual outcomes of immediate, early, and delayed vitrectomy in the treatment of acute endophthalmitis after intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) injections. Methods: We conducted a literature search using the Ovid Medline, Embase.com, and Web of Science databases, and relevant articles were selected from original English papers published from 2005 to 2021. Inclusion criteria were studies reporting cases of acute post-anti-VEGF endophthalmitis, defined as occurring within 6 weeks of injection treatment. Exclusion criteria were pediatric cases and cases explicitly reported to be caused by injections of contaminated drugs. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tool for case reports and case series. The study dataset for descriptive and statistical analysis comprised patient-level data extracted from included studies. The timing of vitrectomy compared were defined as (1) immediate vitrectomy as occurring within 24 h of endophthalmitis diagnosis; (2) early vitrectomy as occurring between 24 and 48 h of endophthalmitis diagnosis; (3) late vitrectomy as occurring after 48 h of endophthalmitis diagnosis. Primary outcome was final visual acuity following treatment with vitrectomy. Results: Twenty-five articles were published that met our inclusion and exclusion criteria for a total of 86 cases. Thirty-seven were immediate vitrectomy, 25 were early, and 24 were late vitrectomy treatment groups, respectively. We observed differences in final visual outcomes and in improvement from diagnosis to final visual acuity, with patients receiving immediate and late vitrectomy to have better final visual outcomes than those patients receiving early vitrectomy ( p < 0.005). Conclusion: Our results show that there may be an association between time to vitrectomy and visual outcomes. Immediate and late vitrectomy treatment groups had better visual outcomes than the early group. Our results were limited by the reliance on case reports and series and the paucity of data available specifying the timing of vitrectomy. Additional research is necessary to elucidate the effects of treatment timing in patients with endophthalmitis following anti-VEGF injection.
A 52-week, open-label, observational study evaluating tolerability, efficacy and physicians satisfaction of rivastigmine oral solution in Alzheimer's disease in Taiwan
Authors: Lee Chuo-Yu , Wang Wen-Fu , Hsu Jung-Lung , Yang Yuan-Han , Jhang Kai-Ming 
Published: January 2025

Background There is limited data on the use of rivastigmine oral solution in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Objective To evaluate the tolerability, efficacy and physicians’ satisfaction of Rivast® (rivastigmine oral solution 2 mg/ml) in Taiwanese patients with mild to moderate AD over a 52-week period. Methods An open-label, non-comparative, observational study was conducted across four hospitals in Taiwan. 142 Patients with mild to moderate AD were enrolled. Adverse events and adherence rates were monitored throughout the 52-week study period, while cognitive (Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE)) and global functional outcomes (Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR)-Sum of Boxes) were recorded at baseline and at week 52. Factors associated with discontinuation, adverse events, and declines in cognitive and global function were determined. Results The study achieved a 92.3% adherence rate, with 19% experiencing adverse events. The optimal dose was 3.8 ml, reached within 8.3 weeks. 43.7% of the patients reached an optimal dose of 4 ml and 59.8% achieved optimal dose within 4 weeks. Age and clinically significant electrocardiogram (EKG) abnormalities were associated with a higher risk of discontinuation, while female patients exhibited a lower risk. Additionally, both a higher initial dose and a higher optimal dose were associated with a reduced risk of adverse effects. Abnormal EKG findings were significantly associated with cognitive decline. More time to optimal dose was significantly associated with worse global function. All physicians regarded the medication is ease of use and the administration schedule is simple. Conclusions This study provides valuable insights into the tolerability and efficacy of rivastigmine oral solution in Taiwanese patients with mild to moderate AD.
Amelioration of a von Willebrand disease type 2B phenotype in vivo upon treatment with allele-selective siRNAs
Authors: Linthorst Noa A. , Jongejan Yvonne K. , Dirven Richard J. , Laan Sebastiaan N. J. , Bierings Ruben , Casari Caterina , Cordfunke Robert A. , Dahlman James E. , Dolezal Natasja , Drijfhout Jan Wouter , Leebeek Frank W. G. , Ruhaak L. Renee , Schrader Echeverri Elisa , Voorberg Jan , van Vlijmen Bart J. M. , Denis Cécile V. , Eikenboom Jeroen C. J. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Treatment options for the bleeding disorder von Willebrand disease type 2B (VWD2B) are insufficient and fail to address the negative effects of circulating mutant von Willebrand factor (VWF). The dominant-negative nature of VWD2B makes functionally defective VWF an interesting therapeutic target. Previous in vitro studies have demonstrated the feasibility of allele-selective silencing of mutant VWF using small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) targeting common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the human VWF gene, an approach that can be applied irrespective of the disease-causing VWF mutation. This study aims to extend this concept to a heterozygous VWD2B mouse model (c.3946G&gt;A; p.Val1316Met) here using mouse strain-specific genetic differences as proxy for human SNPs. Homozygous VWD2B C57BL/6J (2B-B6) mice were crossed with homozygous wild-type 129S1/SvImJ (129S) mice to create heterozygous 2B-B6.129S F1 offspring. These 2B-B6.129S mice were intravenously injected with endothelial-specific lipid nanoparticles loaded with the allele-selective siVwf.B6 or control and 96 hours later, lung Vwf messenger RNA, plasma VWF levels, and phenotypic characteristics were evaluated. Treatment with siVwf.B6 reduced total VWF levels by 50%, with an expected selective reduction in mutant VWF protein. This coincided with normalization of multimeric structure, improved VWF collagen binding/VWF antigen ratio, and normalized bleeding times in two-thirds of heterozygous 2B-B6.129S mice. Being a novel approach in the field of hemostasis, we proved, for VWD, in mice, the concept of selectively inhibiting a mutant dominant-negative allele with siRNAs targeting a single nucleotide variation rather than the disease-causing mutation. For dominant-negative VWD, this offers potential for a customized therapeutic strategy.
Nasal CPAP increases alveolar number in a rhesus monkey model of moderate prematurity
Authors: McEvoy Cindy T. , MacDonald Kelvin D. , Shorey-Kendrick Lyndsey E. , Davies Michael H. , Lund Kelli C. , Lam Ryan , Dozier Brandy L. , Martin Lauren Drew , Corcoran Fiona , Schelonka Robert L. , Tepper Robert S. , Spindel Eliot R. 
Published: January 2025

RationaleMost premature human infants are born in the moderate to late preterm (MLP) range, ≥30 to <37 weeks gestation and demonstrate increased incidence of wheeze and respiratory illness as they age. Animal models suggest that mechanical lung distention stimulates lung growth and alveolar development. To determine if nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) influences MLP infant lung development, we developed a rhesus monkey model of moderate prematurity, randomized to 9 days of nCPAP or sham nCPAP.MethodsTimed-pregnant fetuses were delivered by elective hysterotomy at gestational age (GA) 140±1 days (85% gestation, term=165 days; human equivalent of 32–34 weeks), or at GA-149±1 days (GA-control) as a relative gestational age reference. The day after delivery, the GA-140 animals were treated with nCPAP or sham for 9 days, 12 consecutive hours each day. Pulmonary function testing followed by necropsy for analysis of lung structure and gene expression was performed on the equivalent of GA-150 for all animals.ResultsThe nCPAP and sham groups were clinically similar but distinct from the gestational control group. Stereological analysis of lung structure showed significantly increased numbers of alveoli in the nCPAP group compared to the sham group. Other functional and anatomic changes were consistent with increased alveolarization. Gene expression between the nCPAP and sham groups remained highly similar and distinct from GA-control animals.ConclusionsWe show that nCPAP in MLP infants stimulates alveolarization with relatively few other changes. How this may benefit subsequent infant respiratory health requires further study.
Comparison of integrated versus parallel continuous renal replacement therapy combined with veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in patients with COVID-19 ARDS
Authors: Schönfelder Kristina , Helmenstein Felix , Herbstreit Frank , Reinold Johanna , Kribben Andreas , Jahn Michael , Friebus-Kardash Justa 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Introduction
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) in patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support, leading to requirement of continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) in 70% of ECMO patients. Parallel arrangement of CRRT and ECMO circuits is common in adult patients. However, CRRT may also be integrated directly into the ECMO circuit. This study compares the safety of both approaches.

Methods
This retrospective analysis included 105 patients treated with continuous veno-venous haemodiafiltration and veno-venous ECMO (Cardiohelp©) for COVID-19-induced ARDS between April 2020 and December 2021. Of these, 48 patients received a parallel connected CRRT running independently from ECMO (parallel approach), while in 57 patients, CRRT was integrated into the ECMO circuit (integrated approach) by connecting the CRRT access line to the post-oxygenator port and the CRRT return line to the pre-oxygenator position. Local protocol for risk assessment of this device combination mandated a maximum return line pressure below 250 mmHg in the CRRT system.

Results
At CRRT initiation, the integrated group had significantly higher median pressures in CRRT lines compared to the parallel approach group (access line 110 mmHg vs. -25 mmHg, return line 170 mmHg vs. 50 mmHg; p < 0.01). However, median transmembrane pressures were similar between both groups (20 mmHg vs. 20 mmHg, p = 0.16). In-hospital mortality (p = 0.99), catheter associated infections (p = 0.47), bacteraemia (p = 0.96), filter clotting (p = 0.58) and unplanned CRRT system changes (p = 0.45) within the first 72 h of CRRT were comparable between both groups. The integrated group exhibited higher rates of bleeding events (37% vs. 23%; p = 0.08). Thromboembolism occurred in four cases in the integrated group, while one pneumothorax was observed in the parallel group. No cases of air embolism, device associated haemolysis or blood leakage was documented.

Conclusions
Despite higher pressures in CRRT lines, the integrated approach provided comparable safety to the parallel approach. In case of hygienically challenging settings (such as the COVID-19 pandemic), the minimization of extracorporeal accesses and the streamlining of alarm management are decisive factors in providing intensive care medicine. Therefore, the integrated configuration of CRRT into the ECMO circuit can be advantageous in daily intensive care medicine.
Rabies knowledge and prevention practices in Gombe state, Nigeria: a community-based comparative cross-sectional study of rabies hotspot and non-hotspot areas
Authors: Eugene Eugene Chidi , Odunze Pius , Nuhu Bile , Olugbade Olukemi Titilope , Dauda Mishel , Egwuenu Abiodun , Samuel Olugbemisola W. , Okagbue Hilary I. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Rabies remains a significant public health concern in Nigeria, particularly in rural areas with limited awareness and resources. Gombe State is recognized as a rabies hotspot, facing challenges in controlling the spread of the disease. This study aimed to assess and compare the knowledge and prevention practices related to rabies among community members in hotspot and non-hotspot areas of Gombe State.

Methods
A community-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted in Gombe State. Multistage sampling technique was used to select 816 eligible respondents from selected households with pet dogs or cats (408 each from hotspot and non-hotspot areas). A semi-structured, pre-tested digital interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographics, rabies knowledge, and prevention practices. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26. The univariate and bivariate analysis compared rabies knowledge and prevention practices at p value < 0.05. Logistic regression identified predictors of good practice.

Results
Respondents from hotspot areas demonstrated better overall knowledge of rabies compared to those from non-hotspot areas. However, a higher proportion of respondents from non-hotspot areas exhibited better rabies prevention practices, particularly in terms of vaccinating their dogs within the previous year. Factors such as older age (AOR: 0.47, 95% CI: 0.27– 0.84), farming occupation (AOR: 0.48, 95% CI: 0.27 – 0.84), and good overall rabies knowledge (AOR: 3.04, 95% CI: 1.37 – 6.73) were significant predictors of rabies prevention practices in the hotspot area.

Conclusion
Targeted educational interventions and tailored prevention strategies are needed to improve rabies awareness and practices, especially among specific demographic groups like older individuals and farmers. Enhancing overall knowledge of rabies and promoting consistent vaccination practices for pets are crucial steps towards reducing the incidence of rabies in both hotspot and non-hotspot areas.
Investigating papillary thyroid cancer risk factors among women living at the central region of Iran: a case–control study
Authors: Ghoshouni Hamed , Hosseini Saeed , Ghadiri-Anari Akram , Azizi Reyhaneh , Rahmanian Masoud , Hazar Narjes 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
The etiology of thyroid cancer especially in women in not well recognized in Yazd, at the center of Iran. The aim of present study was to investigate the risk factors of thyroid cancer among women living in this province.

Methods
The present study was carried out as a case–control study, comprising women diagnosed with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) as the case group, along with two distinct control groups sourced from different origins (i.e., relatives and non-relatives) between 2020 and 2022. Data pertaining to several risk factors including demographic characteristics, reproductive variables, medical history related to thyroid and non-thyroid ailments, exposure to head and neck radiation, as well as familial cancer history, was collected from all participants. Binary logistic regression was utilized to discover risk and protective factors.

Results
In present study, 77 individuals participated in the case group, 76 in the relative control group and 72 in the non-relative control group. The history of OCP use and exposure to head and neck radiation were remained in the model as risk factors in all three case‒relative control (OR = 6.65, 95%CI: 2.53‒17.49; P-value < 0.001), case‒non-relative control (OR = 6.32, 95%CI: 2.14‒18.70; P-value = 0.001) and case‒total control comparisons (OR = 6.66, 95%CI: 2.84‒15.64; P-value < 0.001).

Conclusion
The OCP use as well as exposure to head and neck radiation were determined to be strong or relatively strong risk factors in both case‒relative control and case‒non-relative control comparisons. Consequently, it seems these two factors represent genuine risk factors for papillary thyroid cancer.