bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Association between exercise self-efficacy and health-related quality of life among dialysis patients: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhang Fan , Liao Jing , Zhang Weihong , Wang Hui , Huang Liuyan , Zhang Huachun 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background

Given the importance of exercise self-efficacy in the process of quality of life change, this study aimed to describe the relationship between exercise self-efficacy and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in dialysis patients.
Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in Shanghai, China. Structured questionnaires applied to the patients collected basic information about gender, age, marital status, education, and income for socio-demographic and body mass index, causes for end-stage renal disease, dialysis modality, and dialysis vintage for the disease-related factors. Physical activity was assessed by a self-administered questionnaire. Exercise self-efficacy was measured through the Exercise Self-Efficacy Scale (ESES). Health-related quality of life was evaluated by the Kidney Disease Quality of Life Instrument-Short Form version 1.3 (KDQOL-SF™ v1.3). Data were analyzed using a univariate generalized linear model, Spearman correlation, and hierarchical multiple regression.
Results

A positive association was observed between exercise self-efficacy and HRQOL (r = 0.310, P < 0.001). Physical activity as predictor variables explained 9.8% of the variance in overall HRQOL (P < 0.001). Exercise self-efficacy explained an additional 7.1% of the HRQOL variance. In total, 24.6% of the variation in the HRQOL is explained by the socio-demographic variables, disease-related factors, physical activity, and exercise self-efficacy.
Conclusion

Overall, only 16.9% of the change in HRQOL was explained by physical activity and exercise self-efficacy. Future research is still needed to explore further the factors influencing the quality of life in dialysis patients. However, this finding suggests the need to consider the importance of HRQOL and physical activity as well as exercise self-efficacy when developing intervention programs.
Glioblastoma Multiforme In The Pineal Region: Systematic Review Of The Survival Outcomes
Authors: Choque-Velasquez Joham , Baluszek Szymon , Muhammad Sajjad , Hernesniemi Juha 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Purpose: Glioblastoma multiforme of the pineal region harbors high mortality in the first year of treatment. This study aims to deepen the study of pineal GBM patients for finding independent predictors of mortality, focusing on the therapeutic modalities and genetic features.Methods: We present a systematic review of the long-term outcomes of the disease with a focus on the therapeutic modalities and genetic features.Results: The median overall survival of the disease is 12 months. Biopsy (HR:4.2, p=0.002, and a median survival of 19 months) and radiochemotherapy (HR:4.1, p<0.001, and a median survival of 18 months) represent independent predictors of pineal glioblastoma survival. H3K27M mutant patients had a median survival of 23 months versus the ten-months median survival of the H3K27 wild type. However, no statistical difference exists due to the limited number of cases. The disease's local progression and recurrence seem higher in patients undergoing surgical removal than biopsy procedures (p=0.021).Conclusions: Biopsy and radiochemotherapy represent independent predictors of pineal GBM survival. Surgical resection different from biopsy seems to increase the risks of local progression and recurrence. However, further studies should focus on the impact of the genetic profile on long-term outcomes.
Trustworthy performance evaluations: The Performance Outcome Scoring Template (POS-T) for transparent assessments in real-world programs
Authors: Raysmith Benjamin P. , Timpka Toomas , Jacobsson Jenny , Drew Michael K. , Dahlström Örjan 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
In applied program settings, such as in natural environment control and education, performance evaluation is usually conducted by evaluators considering both self-comparison and comparison with peers. We have developed the Performance Outcome Scoring Template (POS-T) for assessments with high face-validity in these settings. POS-T puts achievements of individuals or groups in context, i.e. the resulting performance outcome score (POS) reflects a meaningful measure of performance magnitude with regards to internal and external comparisons. Development of a POS is performed in four steps supported by a statistical framework. Software is supplied for creation of scoring applications in different performance evaluation settings. We demonstrate the POS-T by evaluation of CO2 emissions reduction amongst 36 OECD member countries.
A comparative analysis of lung function and spirometry parameters in genotype-controlled natives living at low and high altitude
Authors: Ortiz-Prado Esteban , Encalada Sebastián , Mosquera Johanna , Simbaña-Rivera Katherine , Gomez-Barreno Lenin , Duta Diego , Ochoa Israel , Izquierdo-Condoy Juan S. , Vasconez Eduardo , Burgos German , Calvopiña Manuel , Viscor Gines 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
BackgroundThe reference values for lung function are associated to anatomical and lung morphology parameters, but anthropometry it is not the only influencing factor: altitude and genetics are two important agents affecting respiratory physiology. Altitude and its influence on respiratory function has been studied independently of genetics, considering early and long-term acclimatization.ObjectiveThe objective of this study is to evaluate lung function through a spirometry study in autochthonous Kichwas permanently living at low and high-altitude.MethodologyA cross-sectional study of spirometry differences between genetically matched lowland Kichwas from Limoncocha (230 m) at Amazonian basin and high-altitude Kichwas from Oyacachi (3,180 m) in Andean highlands. Chi-square method was used to analyze association or independence of categorical variables, while Student’s t test was applied to comparison of means within quantitative variables. ANOVA, or in the case that the variables didn’t meet the criteria of normality, Kruskal Wallis test were used to compare more than two groups.ResultsPeople from Oyacachi (high altitude) showed a higher predicted values than those from Limonocha (low altitude). The FVC and the FEV1 were significantly greater among highlanders than lowlanders (p value < 0.001). The FEV1/FVC was significantly higher among lowlanders than highlanders for men and women. A restrictive pattern was found in 12.9% of the participants.ConclusionResidents of Oyacachi had greater lung capacity than their peers from Limoncocha, a finding physiologically plausible according to published literature. When analyzing the spirometric patterns obtained in these populations, it was evident that no person had an obstructive pattern, while on the other hand, the restrictive pattern appeared in Limoncocha and Oyacachi populations in 12.9% although it is clear that there is a predominance of this in the individuals belonging to Limoncocha.
Phosphorescent Organometallic Knots of Gold(I)-Bis(acetylide) Strands Directed by Copper(I) π-Coordination
Authors: Chen Zhong-Ning , Huang Ya-Zi , Wang Jin-Yun , Jiao Zhu , Xie Pei 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Through elaborate ligand design to create knotted structures with specific topologies is a major challenge for chemists. In this work, the self-assembly between U-shape 3,6-di-tert-butyl-1,8-diethynyl-9H-carbazole (H2L) and Au+ through gold(I)-bis(acetylide) linkages under π-bonded Cu+ template gives rise to complex 1 with two interlocked metallostrands as well as complexes 3 (n = 3) and 4 (n = 4) with [(AuL)n]n- metallostrands showing trefoil knot topology. Upon incorporating two [Au(dppb)Au]2+ (dppb = Ph2P(CH2)4PPh2) moieties through bis(Au-acetylide) coordination bonds, the interlocked structure (1) is fully closed to form a figure-eight knotted structure in complex 2. The folding and threading of metallocyclic strings are directed by Cu+, which are π-ligated to two or three acetylides to generate double-folding or triple-folding cross points. Complexes 1-4 show intense phosphorescence in both solutions and solid states at ambient temperature, originating from admixture of metal centered 3[d®p/s], 3IL (intraligand), and 3[p (L) ® s/p (Au/Cu)] 3LMCT triplet states.
Skin autofluorescence profile in Tunisian hemodialysis patients with and without heart failure
Authors: Aloui Sabra , Ajimi Khawla , Hamouda Mouna , Letaief Ahmed , Hawala Fouazi , Salem Mariem Ben , Salah Manel Ben , Skhiri Habib , KERKENI Mohsen 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the main reason for morbidity and mortality of patients in hemodialyis. Skin autofluorescence (SAF), a noninvasive measurement method, reflects tissue accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) that has been implicated in CVD as a strong marker. The aim of this study was to evaluate SAF profile in hemodialysis patients and to assess the association between SAF and heart failure.
Methods

In a cross-sectional study, we included 60 hemodialysis (HD) patients who were subdivided in two groups: a HD group without heart failure (n = 42) and a HD group with heart failure (n = 18). Skin AGEs accumulation was measured by AGE Reader device and clinical data was obtained.
Results

HD patients showed a SAF value at 2.90 (2.40–3.60). HD patients with diabetes mellitus have an increased SAF levels compared to HD patients without diabetes [3.20 (2.90–3.95) vs. 2.70 (2.30–3.30) AU, P = 0.021; respectively]. Furthermore, HD patients with heart failure showed a significant increased SAF levels compared to HD patients without heart failure [3.65 (2.90–4.12) vs. 2.60 (2.30–3.20) AU, P < 0.001; respectively]. SAF was associated with age, gender, and duration of dialysis. The ROC analysis indicated that SAF at 3.05 AU was optimal cut-off point for presence of heart failure (P < 0.001).
Conclusion

SAF might be a rapid and helpful tool in clinical practice as a potential marker for evaluating and screening heart failure in HD patients non-invasively and might be used as predictor for clinicians.
Prediction of nerve block success using ultrasonographic parameters: A preliminary animal study
Authors: Chiba Emiko , Hamamoto Kohei , Kanai Eiichi , Oyama-Manabe Noriko , Omoto Kiyoka 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of ultrasonographic parameters as an indicator for predicting regional nerve block success. Ultrasound-guided sciatic nerve block was performed in seven dogs using either 2% mepivacaine (nerve-block group) or saline (sham-block group). The cross-sectional area (CSA), nerve blood flow (NBF), and shear wave velocity (SWV) of the sciatic nerve (SWVN), SWV of the biceps femoris muscle (SWVM), and their ratio (SWVNMR) were measured at 0, 30, 60, and 90 min after the nerve block as well as the change rate of each parameter from the baseline. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to determine the diagnostic value of each parameter in the prediction of nerve block success. No significant changes were observed in the CSA or NBF in association with the nerve block. The SWVN and SWVNMR in the nerve-block group were significantly higher than those in the sham-block group at 90 min and at 30, 60, and 90 min, respectively (p < 0.05). The change rates of SWVN and SWVNMR in the nerve-block group were significantly higher than those in the sham-block group at all time points (p < 0.05). The ROC curve analysis showed that SWVN had a moderate diagnostic accuracy (area under the curve [AUC], 0.779), whereas SWVNMR and change rates of SWVN and SWVNMR had a high diagnostic accuracy (AUC, 0.947, 0.998, and 1.000, respectively). Ultrasonographic evaluation of the SWVN and SWVNMR could be used as indicators for predicting nerve block success.
Analysis of retinal sensitivity between acute and recurrent central serous chorioretinopathy assessed by microperimetry
Authors: Li Hai-dong , Chen Lifeng , Wu Meng’ai , Zheng Bin 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Purpose

To evaluate retinal sensitivity of macular region between acute and recurrent central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) using microperimetry.

Methods

A retrospective observational study. Twenty-five eyes of 25 subjects who were diagnosed as either acute or recurrent CSC without any previous treatment were included in this study. All subjects underwent complete ophthalmological examinations including the central retinal thickness (CRT) using spectral domain OCT and the retinal sensitivity assessments of macular region by microperimeter MP-3. The mean global macular sensitivity (GMS) from 64 loci in the 20° central macular area and local macular sensitivity (LMS) from test locations in affected region of SRD were analysed.

Results

Twelve eyes of 12 subjects with acute CSC (Group A) and 13 eyes of 13 subjects with recurrent CSC (Group R) were enrolled. The clinical parameters, including age, duration, mean LogMAR best-corrected visual acuity and CRT, were not statistically significant (p>0.05) between Group A and Group R. There were significant differences in GMS and LMS between the two groups. Compared with group A (24.9±1.6dB), the mean GMS of group R was significantly (p<0.05) lower (23.0±2.0dB). In addition, the mean LMS of group R (19.9±2.3dB) was also significantly lower (p<0.05) compared with group A (21.8±2.1dB).

Conclusion

Eyes with recurrent CSC often show worse retinal function in focal affected macular areas than acute disease. Macular microperimetry analysis may deepen our understanding of CSC natural history and influence decision-making in clinical practice.
Impact of establishing a respiratory high dependency unit for SCAP patients on the therapeutic effect, prognosis, and expenditure: a retrospective case-control study
Authors: Qin Yalan , Tong Jin 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Objective: To explore the effects of establishing high dependency unit (HDU) on the prognosis, outcome, and expenditure of patients with severe community acquired pneumonia (SCAP).Method: Data pertaining to 108 SCAP patients were retrieved from the respiratory intensive care unit (RICU) of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China. Of these, 87 qualified the study-selection criteria and were divided into HDU group (treated in HDU after discharge from RICU prior to transfer to normal unit) (n=40) and normal group (not treated in the HDU) (n=47). General condition of patients, APACHE II and SOFA scores, duration of mechanical ventilation, hospital infection, intensive care unit syndrome, length of stay, and expenditure were compared between the two groups.Outcome: There was no significant between-group difference with respect to noninvasive ventilation time, oxygenation index, or APACHE II and SOFA scores at admission or discharge from RICU (P>0.05). Fourteen patients in the HDU group received invasive ventilation; the mean invasive ventilation time (176±160 h) was not significantly different from that in the normal group (206±179 h). The period of sequential noninvasive ventilation in the HDU group (135±82 h) was significantly shorter than that in the normal group (274±182 h, P<0.05). HDU group had shorter length of stay in hospital and RICU, and incurred lesser expenditure than patients in the normal group (P<0.05).Conclusion: Patients in HDU group had almost the same therapeutic effect with shorter length of stay in hospital and RICU, and lesser expenditure.
Women Entrepreneurs and The usage of social Media for Business Sustainability In the time of Covid-19
Authors: Rah Ninik Sri , Masduki Masduki , Rahayu Nur Ellyanawati Esti 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
This study explores the efforts of Indonesian women entrepreneurs to sustain their businesses during the COVID-19 crisis of 2020–2021. Focusing on female-owned businesses in Yogyakarta, this research places particular emphasis on how social media contributes to their survival. Using a quantitative approach to analyze data collected from 130 respondents, the researchers found that the pandemic has severely affected women entrepreneurs—especially those operating SMEs. Most significantly, women have experienced reduced income due to decreased sales, disrupted supply chains, and difficulty paying credit instalments. Although women entrepreneurs are particularly vulnerable to economic shocks, most lack access to assistance from government and private programmes. This study also sheds light on social media's Important role in saving women's businesses. Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram have become the main instruments through which women market their businesses and reach new audiences. Aggressive promotions, accompanied by attractive offers such as discounts and additional services, have helped women entrepreneurs reduce their losses. Overall, we conclude that women entrepreneurs found innovative ways to survive their businesses during a time of crisis.
Functional Characterization of KCNMA1 mutation associated with dyskinesia, seizure, developmental delay, and cerebellar atrophy
Authors: Yucesan Emrah , Goncu Beyza , Ozgul Cemil , Kebapci Arda , Aslanger Ayca Dilruba , Akyuz Enes , Yesil Gozde 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
KCNMA1 located on chromosome 10q22.3, encodes the pore-forming α subunit of the “Big K+” (BK) large conductance calcium and voltage-activated K + channel. BK channels are widely distributed across tissues, including both excitable and non excitable cells. Numerous evidence suggests the functional BK channel alterations produced by different KCNMA1 alleles may associate with different symptoms, such as paroxysmal non kinesigenic dyskinesia with gain of function and ataxia with loss of function. Functional classifications revealed two major patterns, gain of function and loss of function effects on channel properties in different cell lines. In the literature, two mutations have been shown to confer gain of function properties to BK channels: D434G and N995S. On the other hand 10 mutations have been classified as loss of function (S351Y,G354S, G356R, G375R, C413Y/N449fs, I663V, P805L, and D984N) or putative loss of function (premature truncation mutations: Y676Lfs*7 and Arg458Ter). In this study, we report the functional characterization of a variant which was previously reported the whole exome sequencing revealed bi-allelic nonsense variation (NM_001161352.1 (ENST00000286628.8):c.1372C > T; Arg458*) of the cytoplasmic domain of calcium-activated potassium channel subunit alpha-1 protein. To detect functional consequences of the variation immunostaining and electrophysiological studies were conducted. In this study, we conducted patch-clamp recordings on WT and R458X mutant cells. We found the gain of function effect for the mutation. This is the first functional study observing an increased current in the KCNMA1 gene resulting from a truncating mutation
Left Atrial diameter Index as a prognostic factor for STEMI: a case-control study
Authors: Zhang Ying , Han Xiaorong , Chen Zhongbo , Peng Mengling , Fu Yu , Yang Danxi , Zhou Shanshan 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background：The left atrium has a considerable role in cardiac function because of its unique anatomy and physiological function. We evaluated the role of the size of the left atrium in the prognosis of STEMI by quantifying the left atrium by introducing a left atrial diameter index(LAdI).Methods: This is a retrospective study conducted in a University Affiliated Hospital. Echocardiography is used to evaluate the size of left atrial diameter. It is indexed by body surface(BSA) area to evaluate the significance of LAdI on the prognosis of STEMI.This study was approved by the medical ethics committee of The First Hospital of Jilin University. All subjects in this trial gave written informed consent.Results: A total of 473 patients with a first STEMI within two years met the inclusion criteria to be included in this study. LA（OR=6.945；95%CI 1.398~34.499；P=0.018）and EF （OR=0.931；95%CI 0.904~0.960; P=0.000 ）were independent risk factors for MACEs.Conclusion:Patients with a first STEMI with a greater LAdI have a greater risk of MACEs than patients with a normal left atrium despite well-established PCI therapies.
Ectopic right coronary artery arising from the left sinus of Valsalva: a rare variant.
Authors: Badri Mohamed , Qassem Nora , Mohammed Awadalkareem M. A. , Eljack Moh.Mah.Fadel Allah , Ahmed Khabab Abbasher Hussien Mohamed , Elmahi Osman Kamal Osman , Omer Mohammed Eltahier Abdalla 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Ectopic origin of the right coronary artery from the left sinus of Valsalva is an extremely rare anomaly of coronary arterial morphology, often incidentally discovered and clinically silent. We, hereunder, experienced a case of ectopic origin of the right coronary artery from the left sinus of Valsalva.
The effects of splitters on the downstream scour hole of overflow spillways: application of support vector regression
Authors: Asadi Mohammad Ehsan , Naeeni Seyed Taghi Omid , Kerachian Reza 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
One of the most effective ways to reduce the water jet erosion power during dam overflow is to use splitters on the lower side of the spillway. The dimensions of scouring holes and their location in the dam basin should be accurately determined. Experimental models and data-driven techniques can be effectively used for estimating the dimensions of scouring holes. The focus of this paper is evaluating the effects of splitters on the downstream scour hole of overflow spillways and providing an optimized splitter configuration. The Support Vector Regression (SVR) method performance in predicting the scour hole dimensions and its location downstream of the dam has been examined using 116 experimental data. In order to evaluate the efficiency of the proposed model, we used different statistical measures. The results show that the presence of splitters decreases the slope of downstream scouring in all situations. It is also shown that the SVR method can accurately estimate the dimensions of the scour hole and its location.
Enhancing nitrate and phosphorus removal from stormwater in a fold-flow bioretention system with saturated zones
Authors: Yang Ran , Zheng-rong Fu , Man-ying Ma , Xian Liu 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
The traditional bioretention systems possess a remarkably low nitrogen and phosphorus removal effect. The removal rate fluctuates greatly, and even appears as negative removal of nitrogen and phosphorus. Four simulated bioretention experimental columns with different bilayer media, packing composition and structure were constructed. Based on the traditional fillers, the modified composite fillers with hydroxy-aluminum and modified vermiculite sludge particle (HAVSP) were added. The traditional filler (C1) and the modified composite filler (C2) were added respectively, moreover saturated zones were set up to enhance the effect of nitrogen and phosphorus removal. Removal of nutrients from experimental columns by simulated runoff efficiency was evaluated and compared. In addition, the effect of media depth on phosphorus retention and denitrifying enzyme activity in bioretention columns was also evaluated. The experimental column #2 filled with C2 had the optimum removal effect on TP (93.70%), however, the removal effect of TP by filling C1 experimental columns was insufficient (57.36%). Designed to remove nitrate (NO3−-N) and total nitrogen, the experimental column #4 showed the best performance (83.54% and 92.15%, respectively). In this study, we propose a fold-flow bioretention system by filling HAVSP in combination with saturated zones. The runoff water quality can be effectively improved, and a new bioretention cell configuration can be provided for efficient stormwater treatment.