bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Analysis of spinal motion range, thoracic mobility, and abdominal muscle strength in patients operated on for renal cell carcinoma – a pilot, observational cross-sectional study at 3 to 5 years after the surgery
Authors: Głowacka-Mrotek Iwona , Jankowski Michał , Tarkowska Magdalena , Ratuszek-Sadowska Dorota , Leksowski Łukasz , Lewandowska Anna , Porzych Piotr , Jarzemski Piotr , Nowikiewicz Tomasz , Mackiewicz-Milewska Magdalena 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Purpose
With the prolongation of overall survival in patients with renal cell carcinoma, evaluation of the impact of the type of surgical procedure on patients’performance status is gaining particular importance. The purpose of this study was to analyze the balance and spinal motion range in patients having undergone total or partial renal resection.
Methods
This cross-sectional study was carried out ina group of patients having received surgical treatment for renal cell carcinoma at the Department of Urology of the Dr. Jan Biziel University Hospital No. 2 in Bydgoszcz 3 to 5 years prior to the inclusion. A total of 31 patients had undergone nephron-sparing surgery [NSS] while another 33 patients had undergone radical nephrectomy [RN]. The control group [CG] consisted of 24 age-range-matched patients. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the range of motion in the spinal joints, thoracic mobility, and abdominal muscle strength.
Results
Statistical analysis revealed highly significant differences between the study groups as regards the following parameters: total spine flexion (p = 0.0001), thoracic spine flexion (p < 0.0001), lumbar spine flexion (p < 0.0001), thoracic mobility (inhalation vs. exhalation) (p < 0.0001), rectus and oblique abdominal muscle strength (p < 0.0001). In all the aforementioned parameters, higher scores corresponded to better mobility. Higher scores and better range of motion in spinal joints were observed in the control group. No statistically significant differences between the groups (NSS, RN and CG) were observed in lumbar spine extension (backward inclination) (p > 0.05).
Conclusions
Surgical treatment within the kidneys is associated with reduction in the range of spinal motion, thoracic mobility, and abdominal muscle strength regardless of the type of surgery performed (nephron-sparing surgery vs. radical nephrectomy).
High Intra-tumoral and Sera Matrix Metalloproteinase 9 Levels Reduce Glioblastoma and Brain Metastases Patients' Survival
Authors: Kaisman-Elbaz Tehila , Haddad-Shlaifshtein Snir , Eskira Yael , Merkin Vladimir , Dumanis Guy , Turiel Sivan , Atar-Vardi Maya , Bari Romi , Alt Adi , Zamed Tali , Rotem-Dai Noa , Lavrenkov Konstantin , Kezerle Yarden , Dyomin Victor , Razon Ronit , Chakraborty Moumita , Asraf Hila , Hershfinkel Michal , Melamed Israel 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Purpose: Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) has been shown to induce glioblastoma invasion and brain metastases (BM) spread. However, its clinical significance for monitoring disease progression has yet to be established. This study evaluates intra-tumoral and sera MMP-9 levels and their correlation to glioblastoma and BM patients' overall survival (OS).
Methods: 69 tumor and pre-operative sera samples were obtained from the brain tumor bank of the neurosurgery department at Soroka University Medical Center from patients who underwent tumor resection between 2015 and 2021. Clinical and imaging data from 27 glioblastoma and 30 BM patients were analyzed, and their MMP-9 levels and activity were measured and compared with 12 meningioma patients and 23 healthy subjects. Survival analyses were performed to examine MMP-9 level, activity, and clinical parameters' correlation with patients' OS.
Results: Glioblastoma and BM patients demonstrated increased median intra-tumoral MMP-9 levels (8ng/ml and 4ng/ml, respectively, p<0.001), activity, and pre-operative sera levels (2.8ng/ml and 1.8ng/ml, respectively, p<0.001). MMP-9 was specifically detected within and between glioblastoma cells and tumor endothelia. High intra-tumoral and sera MMP-9 levels, but not its activity, were linked to decreased OS in glioblastoma and BM patients (15.8 versus 8.4 months, p=0.022). MMP-9 was readily measured in patient sera.
Conclusions: This study suggests that intra-tumoral and sera MMP-9 can assist in identifying glioblastoma and BM recurrence/progression and that high intra-tumoral and/or sera MMP-9 levels at diagnosis correlate with significantly shorter patient OS. Importantly, sera MMP-9 could be longitudinally and non-invasively monitored in those patients and, once rising, may indicate tumor progression.
Cranial Morphology and Taxonomic Distinctions Among South Asian Treeshrews: Who is the larger treeshrew?
Authors: Kamalakannan Manokaran , Thakur Mukesh , Marimuthu Nithyanandam , Pramanik Subhojit , Banerjee Dhriti 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

South Asian treeshrews include the Madras Treeshrew, Anathana ellioti (Waterhouse, 1850), the Northern Treeshrew Tupaia belangeri (Wagner, 1841), and the Nicobar Treeshrew Tupaia nicobarica (Zelebor, 1869), each occupying distinct and non-overlapping geographical areas in South Asia. In this study, we investigated the morphological relationships among these species using museum specimens collected over a wide spatial and temporal range of India and Myanmar. We analysed 20 cranial measurements and four external traits to evaluate inter- and intraspecific morphological differentiation, employing distance-based morphometric approaches validated by multivariate analyses. Our findings revealed considerable heterogeneity in cranial morphology with three species exhibiting clear differentiation, despite slight overlaps in morphometric space. Additionally, our research established that T. nicobarica is the largest of the three South Asian treeshrews and ranks as the second largest treeshrew globally following T. tana- a previously unrecognized distinction. Furthermore, our results support the non-recognition of the five traditionally allopatric subspecies of T. belangeri and the two subspecies of A. ellioti. The additional diagnostic characteristics identified in this study enhance the understanding of morphological distinctions among the South Asian treeshrews and contribute to broader taxonomic knowledge of treeshrew diversity.
Identifying Critical Period of Type 2 Diabetes with Leading Molecules Based on Dynamic Network Biomarkers
Authors: Hao Rui , Jin Qiqi , Zhao Jingyi , Zhou Lijuan , Ma Kaile , Chen Luonan , Li Min 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to utilize the Dynamic Network Biomarkers (DNB) approach to identify the tipping point or critical period as well as the leading biomarkers before the transition process from prediabetes to type 2 diabetes (T2D).
Research design and methods: A dynamic timeline of T2D progression was constructed, ranging from the normal state (A) through prediabetes (B-E) to T2D (F). The DNB method was employed to identify the criticalstate/period and its associated biomarkers using proteomics data. A one-year follow-up was conducted to validate such a critical period and the most effective warning biomarkers.
Results: Stage D (HbA1c [6.0%, 6.2%]) was identified as a tipping point in prediabetes, with complement activation emerging as the major enriched pathological process at this stage. A total of 44 DNB biomarkers were identified, among which GNB1 demonstrated predictive value for the transition from prediabetes to T2D in patients. GNB1 expression was significantly reduced in patients who reverted to normal glycemic levels (P < 0.05).
Conclusion: This study identifies Stage D (HbA1c [6.0%, 6.2%]) as a critical period or tipping point preceding the transition to T2D. It further highlights the leading DNB molecules, including the GNB1, which serves as a predictive biomarker for the transition from prediabetes to T2D and may also be considered a potential therapeutic target. These findings provide a foundation for early intervention strategies in diabetes prevention.
A Rare Cause of Life-threatening Hematuria: Uretero-arterial Fistula; Hard to Identify, Fatal to Miss
Authors: Sarıkaya Ege Alper , Şen Volkan , Gülcü Aytaç , Bozkurt Ozan , Demir Ömer , Esen Ahmet Adil 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Uretero-arterial fistula is a disease that is considered very rare but can cause life-threatening hematuria. However, with the increase in clinical recognition, the increase in the number of cases in recent years is remarkable.
Case Presentation:
We present the case and management of life-threatening hematuria due to uretero-arterial fistula in a patient with the classic triad as well as recent literature regarding uretero-arterial fistula.
Conclusion
Uretero-arterial fistula is a rare and mortal disease in which diagnosis can be easily missed as the tests routinely used in the differential diagnosis of hematuria are not diagnostic for uretero-arterial fistula. History of pelvic malignancy, radiotherapy and ureteral stent in a patient with unexplained hematuria along with bright-red coloured ureteral bleeding should guide clinicians to search for uretero-arterial fistula.
APBench: Benchmarking Large Language Model Performance in Fundamental Astrodynamics Problems for Space Engineering
Authors: Wu Di , Zhang Raymond , Zucchelli Enrico M. , Chen Yongchao , Linares Richard 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Large language models (LLMs) have had a remarkable influence on our understanding of natural language abilities and are extended to serve as foundational models for the world. The problem-solving abilities of those foundational models have been a direction of improvement for many different STEM fields, including mathematics and physics, and has been witnessing significant breakthroughs. We have been working on a multitude of ways to advance space engineering, and one promising direction is the application of LLMs and foundational models. To understand the full potential of LLMs in astrodynamics, we have developed the first Astrodynamics Problems Benchmark (APBench) to evaluate the capabilities of LLMs in this field. We crafted for the first time a collection of questions and answers that range a wide variety of subfields in astrodynamics, astronautics, and space engineering. On top of this first dataset built for space engineering, we evaluate the performance of foundational models, both open source models and closed ones, to validate their current capabilities in space engineering, and paving the road for further advancements towards a definition of intelligence for space.
A rare case of Primary Small Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Renal Pelvis: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Pan WeiZhou , Hu PengNan , Mi Hua 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) constitute a rare and highly aggressive category of malignant tumors that arise from cells within human tissues and exhibit diverse neural and endocrine functionalities. These tumors predominantly occur in the gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, lungs, and various other organs. However, primary small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (SCNEC) of the urinary tract is relatively uncommon in clinical settings.Case Presentation: We present a case of primary small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (SCNEC) of the ureter. The patient was admitted for the management of hematuria and abdominal pain, with a significant past medical history of multiple kidney stone surgeries. Following a comprehensive medical evaluation and a diagnostic ureteral biopsy, the patient was definitively diagnosed with SCNEC. The patient subsequently underwent surgical intervention and was administered a comprehensive treatment regimen consisting of chemotherapy augmented with tislelizumab. Regrettably, the patient died from disease progression one month postfollow-up.Conclusions Small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (SCNEC) of the urinary system represents an exceptionally rare and aggressive malignant tumor, but its precise etiology and pathogenesis remain elusive. On the basis of the current body of research, we hypothesize that the emergence of these tumors may be linked to repeated cellular injury and regenerative processes. Through meticulous analysis of the presented case, we emphasis that, in clinical practice, suspected SCNEC patients should promptly undergo pathological biopsy to confirm the diagnosis, thereby ensuring timely and accurate patient management. For patients with sufficient physiological reserve to undergo surgery, we advocate for an aggressive surgical approach aimed at curative resection or debulking, in conjunction with a multidisciplinary treatment regimen encompassing chemotherapy and immunotherapy, with the aim of prolonging patient survival.
Serum desmosine levels are associated with the size of ruptured cerebral aneurysms in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Csecsei Peter , Bogdan Agnes , Molnar Tihamer , Zavori Laszlo , Schwarcz Attila , Lenzser Gabor 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is a disease associated with high mortality, caused by the rupture of a cerebral aneurysm. Decision-support scoring systems used for managing unruptured aneurysms (UIAs) include only radiological parameters related to the size and configuration of the aneurysm, without incorporating blood-based markers. Our aim is to identify a serum marker that shows a correlation with aneurysm size in patients with ruptured aneurysms. Methods Arterial blood samples were collected from patients who experienced aSAH within 24 hours of the ictus, and serum desmosine levels were determined using ELISA. The morphological parameters of the aneurysms were assessed during 3D DSA. A favorable outcome was defined as a 3-month mRS score of 0–3. Results The study included 135 aSAH patients and 25 controls. (i) The desmosine level in serum collected within 24 hours after aneurysm rupture in patients with aSAH was significantly higher compared to the serum level in the control group (aSAH: 0.737 ng/mL [IQR: 0.401–1.214], vs. control: 0.365 ng/mL [IQR: 0.251–0.531], p < 0.001), (ii) examining the size of ruptured aneurysms, patients with aneurysms larger than 7 mm had significantly higher serum desmosine levels than those with aneurysms smaller than 7 mm, (iii) in the group with aneurysms smaller than 7 mm, serum desmosine levels correlated with the aneurysm neck width and the size ratio. Conclusion Serum desmosine shows a strong correlation with the size of ruptured aneurysms in aSAH patients.
Labor in the Age of Automation: Revisiting the 30-Year Debate on the 'End of Work' Prophecy.
Authors: Aliende Iñaki , Franco Luis 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

This systematic review revisits the 30-year debate on Jeremy Rifkin's 'end of work' prophecy, which predicted that technological progress would reduce human labor demand, causing unemployment and social crises. We examine key contributions in the economic literature since 1995, focusing on arguments and evidence for and against Rifkin's thesis as well as proposed policies and indicators for monitoring economic transitions. The review reveals nuanced views on the response to technological level and automation on employment demand, with some studies suggesting that new tasks can foster employment levels, whereas others emphasise the need for public policies to balance the job landscape. Education and reskilling policies are the most recurrent proposals to support workers in adapting to evolving labor market supply. The study proposes a group of indicators for monitoring economic transformations driven by technological advancements, including employment trends by sector, wage growth, job quality, income distribution, and pace of technology adoption. In addition, this study advocates broader national and regional analyses and updates to theoretical frameworks explaining labor market dynamics. Future research should expand the scope of the analysis and develop robust monitoring systems to assess the multifaceted effects of automation on the economy and society.
Comparison of different machine learning methods for predicting heart disease
Authors: Temirbayeva Aiym 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Purpose: The study aims to accurately predict the presence of heart disease using machine learning models. The research evaluates and compares the performance of five algorithms—Logistic Regression, Support Vector Machine (SVM), Decision Tree, Random Forest, and Gradient Boosting—on a dataset containing clinical features of patients. The primary research question is to identify which algorithm demonstrates the best predictive performance for heart disease diagnosis.
Methods: The study used a dataset of 270 patients with 13 clinical features. The data was preprocessed, and target variables were converted into binary values for classification. The dataset was split into training and test sets in a 70-30 ratio. Five machine learning models were trained and evaluated using metrics such as accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, and ROC-AUC. Confusion matrices were analyzed to gain additional insights into model performance.
Results: Logistic Regression and Random Forest achieved the best performance among the models, with accuracies of 86.4% and 80.2%, respectively. Logistic Regression demonstrated an ROC-AUC score of 0.844, while Random Forest scored 0.88. The confusion matrices highlighted the predictive strengths and limitations of each model.
Conclusion: Logistic Regression and Random Forest were identified as the most reliable models for predicting heart disease in this dataset. Future work will explore hyperparameter tuning and ensemble methods to further enhance model performance, providing valuable insights for early diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
Making Meaning of Domestic Violence Through the Lens of Women Survivors in Kano State, Nigeria.
Authors: Tijjani Tashi Fa'iza , Ladan Muhammad Awwal , Abubakar Ahmad Rufa'i 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Globally, one in three women and girls have experienced violence against them, which is a fundamental violation of their human rights. The occurrence of domestic violence is prevalent in Nigerian setting, with northern Nigeria negatively contributing to the high numbers. This study explored the factors that contribute to the experience of domestic violence among women victims in Kano State, Nigeria.
Methods
The study utilized a qualitative research design with phenomenological approach involving in-depth interviews with eight (8) participants.
Results
The findings highlighted three themes emerging; financial independence and stability, navigating complex social structures and expectations in relationship, challenging stereotypes about education and violence. The study’s participants acknowledged the role of power dynamic in marital violence, despite reporting financial independence. All themes suggest strong link to cultural normalization. When men’s responsibilities as providers and women’s duties as homemakers are questioned, traditional gender roles often escalate into violence. The majority of participants believed that their partner’s educational attainment had no influence on aggressive conduct.
Conclusion
The study finds that domestic violence against women in Kano State, Nigeria, is linked to cultural norms supporting traditional gender roles. Effective solutions require culturally tailored interventions for survivors.
Decentralisation and Empowerment
Authors: Vathanan G. Mathi , Dasgupta Shubhagato 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Decentralisation and Empowerment: The Odisha Model for Urban Development discusses the key approaches and factors that underlie the highly successful urban development initiatives implemented in Odisha, India for close to a decade. The application of the governance principles of decentralisation and empowerment across sub-sectors, including drinking water supply, environmental sanitation, municipal waste management, slum land rights, and upgrading infrastructure, has led to the development of the Odisha Model. This book details the conceptualisation, design, learning and implementation processes behind the rapid and significant achievement of various urban initiatives rolled out in the State, many of which have been awarded multiple national and global accolades.
The book explains the reasoning behind the various innovative approaches designed and adopted while planning, implementing and monitoring these initiatives. It provides an insider's perspective on the thought processes that informed the development of these public programmes which focus on the wellbeing of citizens. The academic and research community, including students, will benefit greatly from the insights provided in the book, which will be a source of inspiration and valuable guide for governments, city administrations, and urban practitioners.
“Odisha's development journey holds remarkable learnings for cities embarking on a path towards inclusive urbanisation around the world.”
Anacláudia Rossbach, Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat)
“I strongly recommend this book to policymakers, water utility managers, academics and students, to learn how and why Odisha became a success story.”
Dr Asit K. Biswas, Academician and Distinguished Visiting Professor, University of Glasgow, UK; Chief Executive, Third World Centre for Water Management, Mexico; Stockholm Water Prize Laureate, 2006
“Odisha's urban transformation is perhaps one of the most inspiring stories of change seen in India in recent times… This book documents this comprehensive process of change, authored by two key agents of this urban transformation.”
Dr Amita Bhide, Professor, Centre for Urban Policy and Governance, School of Habitat Studies, Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, India
“This book is highly recommended for city leaders, specialists, and students alike—and is a must-read for anyone interested in urban issues.”
Barjor Mehta, President, CEPT University, Ahmedabad, India
ISBN: 9781789064919 (paperback)
ISBN: 9781789064926 (eBook)
ISBN: 9781789064933 (ePub)
Economic instruments of water resource management on the example of enterprises of KAZ minerals under non-stationarity of climate
Authors: Makhmudova Lyazzat , Sambetbayev Dauren , Kozykeyeva Aliya , Niyetaliyeva Aida , Torekhanova Nurgul 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

Water resource management challenges are shaped by territorial and natural conditions, and each country's specific context and international commitments. Growing water scarcity poses a significant issue at both national and regional levels. Integrated water resource management in the Yertis (Irtysh) river basin is particularly crucial due to its transboundary nature, involving China, Kazakhstan, and Russia. This study assesses water resource pressure in the Yertis basin using the ‘water stress’ indicator from water management plans of the three states. The Yertis River basin in Kazakhstan is highly industrialized, making it a focal point for analyzing water consumption by industrial enterprises, including KAZ Minerals Group. The research compares water use levels by KAZ Minerals Group before and after modernization of water systems from 2015 to 2020. The study highlights the successful implementation of economic instruments, such as water extraction taxes and modernization of water systems, which have led to reduced water abstraction and improved water recycling. These measures have contributed to mitigating water stress and ensuring a reliable water supply amid increasing demand and climate change impacts. The findings emphasize the importance of transboundary cooperation and the integration of economic, administrative, and technological tools to enhance water resource sustainability.