bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Real-time three-dimensional transthoracic echocardiographic segmental volume analysis: a quantitative and objective tool for assessing regional left ventricle wall motion in patients with ischemic heart disease
Authors: Kwak Jin-Hwan , Choi Kang-Un , Park Jong-Il , Nam Jong-Ho , Lee Chan-Hee , Kim Ung , Park Jong-Seon , Son Jang-Won 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
Evaluation of regional left ventricle function using two-dimensional echocardiography (2DE) in patients with ischemic heart disease has limitations due to its low objectivity and qualitative nature. In addition, 2DE is limited because multiple acoustic windows are used to obtain the image, whereas three-dimensional echocardiography (3DE) uses a single window. This study aims to demonstrate the clinical utility of 3DE segmental volume analysis for evaluating regional wall motion abnormality (RWMA).

Methods
This retrospective study included 33 patients with ischemic heart disease and single-vessel territory RWMA confirmed on coronary angiography. RWMA was visually assessed using 2DE, generating 17-segment bull's-eye polar maps, and 3DE. In the 3DE study, two independent observers analyzed segmental volumes and segmental volume ejection fractions (SVEFs) using QLAB 3D quantification software. The optimal SVEF cutoff value differentiating normal from abnormal was determined using receiver operating curve analysis. The accuracy of 3DE in predicting culprit coronary arteries was compared with that of 2DE using Cohen κ coefficients, which also were used for interobserver and intraobserver variability assessments.

Results
Mean 3DE SVEFs were significantly lower in segments showing RWMA on 2DE. The optimal SVEF cutoff value was 44%, with sensitivity of 75.0% and specificity of 73.9% (area under the curve, 0.801; 95% CI, 0.763–0.838; P < 0.001). The reliability of 3DE-derived bull's-eye predictions of culprit coronary arteries was 81.8% (κ = 0.672; 95% CI, 0.555–0.789; P < 0.001). Interobserver and intraobserver variabilities were 97.0% (κ = 0.947; 95% CI, 0.894–1.00; P < 0.001) and 93.9% (κ = 0.897; 95% CI, 0.827–0.967; P < 0.001), respectively.

Conclusions
The 3DE segmental volume analysis effectively quantified regional left ventricle function and aligned well with 2DE and coronary angiography findings in predicting culprit coronary arteries. Thus, 3DE segmental volume analysis can serve as a quantitative and objective tool for RWMA assessment in patients with ischemic heart disease.
Associations Between Social Determinants of Health and Opioid-Use Disorder Among Chronic Pain Patients From a Multi-Institutional Dataset
Authors: Do Veena M. , Simpson Sierra , Fisch Kathleen M. , Gabriel Rodney A. 
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:
This study examined the association between opioid-use disorder (OUD)-related diagnoses (eg, opioid dependence) and social determinants of health (SDoH) among patients with chronic pain.

METHODS:
A cross-sectional study was performed using the All of Us dataset (including >70,000 patients) to measure associations between SDoH and OUD using population- and individual-level surveys. Mixed-effects multivariable regression models (random effect being zip code) were conducted for each of the key SDoH domains. The odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were reported.

RESULTS:
There were 71,727 participants identified to have chronic pain, of which 7272 (10.1%) had OUD. Using data from all participants with population-level survey data available (n = 71,684), the Area Deprivation Index was associated with increased odds of OUD (OR, 5.70, 95% CI, 2.34–13.83, P < .001). Being unemployed (OR, 1.91, 95% CI, 1.59–2.31, P < .001) was associated with OUD. Chronic pain patients with a college degree or greater had lower odds of having OUD (OR, 0.48, 95% CI, 0.39–0.59, P < .001). Responses to questions related to delayed medical care (OR, 1.42, 95% CI, 1.20–1.69, P < .001) and inability to afford medical care (OR, 1.37, 95% CI, 1.16–1.63, P < .001) were associated with an increased odds of OUD. Chronic pain patients who were never married or without a partner (OR, 1.49, 95% CI, 1.28–1.73, P < .001) had higher odds of OUD.

CONCLUSIONS:
The study revealed a significantly greater social disadvantage metric in chronic pain individuals with OUD.
The Impact of Physical Activity on Skin Health and Condition: Physiological Mechanisms and Dermatological Effects
Authors: Dolata Natalia , Balcer Bartosz , Liszka Paweł , Pakuła Mateusz , Weimann Maja , Kruczkowska Adrianna , Stosiek Aleksandra , Cebula Agnieszka , Bulzacki Emil , Urbański Wojciech 
Published: December 2024

Introduction and purpose:
The skin, the largest organ of the human body, plays a crucial role as a protective barrier. Its condition deteriorates with age and under the influence of external factors such as UV radiation, stress, or diet. This review examines the impact of physical activity on skin health, focusing on mechanisms that enhance its function and appearance.
Materials and Methods
A literature review was conducted using medical databases, including PubMed and Google Scholar. Articles were retrieved in English using keywords such as “physical activity,” “skin health,” “effects of exercise on skin,” “anti-aging effects of physical activity,” and “antioxidant properties of exercise” in various configurations.
Description of the state of knowledge:
Regular physical activity positively affects skin health by improving microcirculation, stimulating collagen synthesis, hydrating the stratum corneum, and reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Exercise also supports the skin barrier function and may alleviate the course of dermatological conditions such as psoriasis or atopic dermatitis. Additionally, physical activity improves sleep quality and mental well-being, which indirectly benefits skin health. The potential of facial exercises to enhance aesthetics is also noted, though their effectiveness requires further research. Despite numerous benefits, some forms of activity, such as swimming, may negatively affect the skin barrier due to exposure to irritating chemical substances.
Conclusion:
In summary, physical activity has a multidimensional impact on skin health, supporting its protective functions, appearance, and anti-aging properties. However, further research is needed to better understand the mechanisms and efficacy of specific types of exercise.
Esperienze di realismo e architettura nell’Africa Subsahariana. Insediamenti urbani, servizi per la salute, infrastrutture per la ricerca in Sudan, Etiopia, Tanzania (2005-23)
Authors: Del Monaco Anna Irene 
Published: December 2024

Il testo raccoglierà alcune esperienze progettuali elaborate per organizzazioni di ricerca e internazionali negli ultimi vent'anni in Sudan, Etiopia e Mozambico, elaborate per quartieri da riprogettare e per piccoli edifici destinati servizi pubblici che tengono conto di aspetti che riguardano la realtà climatica tropicale e più in generale gli aspetti di contesto dell'africa sub-sahariana. Il racconto si relazionerà con le preesistenze realizzate nelle rispettive realtà urbane durante il Novecento da architetti locali ed europei contribuendo a costruire una idea di architettura moderna più o meno consolidate. Alcuni disegni di progetto sono inediti
Diagnostic Journey for Tuberous Sclerosis Complex—Interviews From a Clinical Trial
Authors: Hyde Carly , Shurtz Logan , McDonald Nicole , Pizzano Maria , Nelson Charles A. , Thiele Elizabeth A. , Kasari Connie , Jeste Shafali 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a genetic condition characterized by both medical and neuropsychiatric diagnoses that emerge across the lifespan. As part of a clinical trial, caregivers of children with TSC were interviewed about their experiences navigating medical, school, and social services. Semistructured interviews (N = 20) with caregivers of children with TSC (27-60 months) were conducted upon exit from the study. The interviews covered topics related to experiences following diagnosis, interactions with providers, sources of information, and access to services and treatment. The main themes from the caregiver interviews included: (1) sources of information about TSC and treatment; (2) access to high-quality and expert medical care; (3) perception and diagnosis of TAND; (4) impact of epilepsy on daily life, intervention, and schooling; and (5) access to therapeutic services, compatible providers, and evaluations. Additionally, parents provided recommendations for other caregivers navigating their child’s early treatment following diagnosis. These results reflect the importance of current research priorities for TSC stakeholders, including implementation of existing clinical guidelines, improved access to TSC expertise, and coordinated and integrated health care.
Optimization of meropenem continuous infusion based on Monte Carlo simulation integrating with degradation study
Authors: Tien Nguyen Tran Nam , Binh Vu Ngan , Ha Pham Thi Thanh , Lan Dang Thi Ngoc , Cho Yong-Soon , Long Nguyen Phuoc , Shin Jae-Gook , Anh Nguyen Hoang , Quan Truong Anh , Tuan Do Ngoc , Tiep Nguyen Khac , Thach Pham The , Anh Nguyen Hoang , Hoa Vu Dinh 
Published: December 2024

Objective
Meropenem degradation poses a challenge to continuous infusion (CI) implementation. However, data about the impact of degradation on the probability of target attainment (PTA) of meropenem has been limited. This study evaluated the stability of meropenem brands and the consequence of in-bottle degradation on PTA in different environmental scenarios.

Method
Seven meropenem generic brands prepared at concentrations of 1 g/48mL and 2 g/48mL in saline were examined at 25, 30, and 37°C over 8 h. A linear mixed-effects model was used to estimate degradation rate constant and potential covariates. In-bottle stability data was subsequently integrated as input for a deterministic and stochastic simulation using a published population pharmacokinetic model of critical illness. The impact of the degradation on target attainment at 98%fT>MIC was assessed.

Results
Time, temperature, and infusion concentration were factors affecting the stability of the meropenem solution for all products. The differences in the degradation of seven generics were subtle, so their simulated plasma concentrations were equal. Meropenem CI with 8 h renewal infusion achieved a higher PTA than the extended 3 h infusion, even at the highest degradation condition. The impact of meropenem degradation on PTA was minimal vis-à-vis the meropenem dose, patient’s renal function, and microbial susceptibility. Meropenem degradation reduced PTA by an observable magnitude in patients with augmented renal clearance and difficult-to-treat pathogens. Dose escalation up to 1.5–2g every 8 h could restore this reduction to the target 90% PTA.

Conclusion
Meropenem CI with 8 h of renewal infusion, considering stability even in tropical areas, was feasible to maximize the efficacy to difficult-to-treat pathogens.
Znaczenie i interpretacja terminu bjA
Authors: Napierała Mateusz 
Published: December 2024

The aim of the article is to highlight the ambiguity of the word bjA and the difficulties in its interpretation, as well as to indicate the correct way of translating this term and to determine the meaning it had for the Egyptians. It will be possible to present this issue through the analysis of preserved texts, especially religious ones, which highlight the multitude of contexts in which it was used. Equally important for the topic will be the presentation of previous interpretation proposals of the word bjA and an indication of their adequacy in the light of the presented state of research. The key point for this article is the presence of different forms of this term written using different characters. Analysis of the way they are combined allows us to trace changes in the methods of recording bjA that influence its use and its importance. Also important in the interpretation of the term bjA is the analysis of the use of metals, especially copper and iron, in ancient Egypt. The development of their metallurgy is an important issue influencing the development of terminology relating to metallurgy of metals. The analysis of the above points will allow us to draw appropriate conclusions and answer the question: how should we translate the term bjA?
Sigma Metrics misconceptions and limitations
Authors: Duan Xincen , Theodorsson Elvar , Guo Wei , Badrick Tony 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objectives
This paper further explores the Sigma Metric (SM) and its application in clinical chemistry. It discusses the SM, assay stability, and control failure relationship.

Content
: SM is not a valid measure of assay stability or the likelihood of failure. When an out-of-control event occurs for an assay with a higher SM value, the same QC rule will have greater power to detect error than assays with a lower SM value. Thus, it is easier to prevent errors from happening for higher SM assays. This rationale encourages using more frequent QC events and more QC samples for a QC scheme of a low SM assay or simply more QC cost for low SM assays. A laboratory can have a high-precision instrument that frequently fails and a low-precision instrument that hardly ever fails. Parvin’s patient risk model presumes the bracketed continuous mode (BCM) testing workflow. If overlooked when designing QC schemes, this leads to the common misconception of the SM that one can save the cost of QC since assays with high SM require less frequent QC to ensure patient risk. There is no evidence that an assay’s precision is correlated with its failure rate. Schmidt et al., in a series of papers, showed that an assay with a higher Pf or shift in probability will have a higher expected number of unacceptable results. Incorporating Pf into the QC design process presents significant challenges despite the proactive quality control (PQC) methodology.

Summary
Unfortunately, TEa Six Sigma, as widely practiced in Clinical Chemistry, is not based on classical Six Sigma mathematical statistics. Classical Six Sigma would facilitate comparing results across activities where the principles of Six Sigma are employed.
Leveraging virtual reality to enhance laboratory safety and security inspection training
Authors: Ng Jun De Andrew , Swee Dao Wen Joel , Fung Fun Man , Wong Liting Clarissa , Peck Thian-Guan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Laboratory inspection is an essential component of a comprehensive laboratory safety and security programme. Periodic inspections play a three-pronged approach that minimises the risks, ensures that the laboratories comply with the local regulations, and raises safety and security awareness across the different faculties. However, the current training methodology for laboratory inspection is on the job and may be time-consuming and disruptive to the researchers. The Safety and Health (SH) trainers will need to borrow laboratory space to plant the hazards for every training. Herein, we employed WebVR software, namely Uptale, to design an immersive virtual reality (VR) laboratory inspection training module. With the use of immersive VR technology, SH trainees can have a realistic view of the laboratory, participate remotely, learn and refresh at their own time and pace. SH trainees were first tasked to conduct a VR laboratory inspection to identify and understand the different risks, such as chemical safety and security, present in the laboratory. The SH trainees would then have to complete a quiz and survey to validate the effectiveness of the VR training. With the VR laboratory inspection training module showing success of transiting from in-person on-the-job-training directly to VR, other safety training modules, such as chemical safety, may be transformed from PowerPoint slides to immersive VR.
Novel microwave-based green approach for the synthesis of dual-loaded cyclodextrin nanosponges: Characterization, pharmacodynamics, and pharmacokinetics evaluation
Authors: Vij Mohit , Dand Neha , Kumar Lalit , Choudhary Neeraj , Kumar Parveen , Wadhwa Pankaj , Wani Shahid Ud Din , Shakeel Faiyaz , Ali Mohammad 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Recently, microwave-based cyclodextrin nanosponges (CDNS) of domperidone (DOM) for their solubility and dissolution improvement have been studied. However, microwave-based CDNS for the dual-loading of cinnarizine (CIN) and DOM have not been documented. Therefore, this research concentrates explicitly on the concurrent loading of two drugs employing these nanocarriers, namely CIN and DOM, both categorized under Class II of the Biopharmaceutical Classification System. A green approach involving microwave synthesis was employed to fabricate these nanocarriers. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy confirmed the formation of CDNS, while scanning electron microscopy scans illustrated their porous nature. X-ray diffraction studies established the crystalline structure of the nanocarriers. Differential scanning calorimetry and FTIR analyses corroborated the drugs’ loading and subsequent amorphization. In vitro drug release studies demonstrated an enhanced solubility of the drugs, suggesting a potential improvement in their bioavailability. The in vivo pharmacokinetic investigation emphatically substantiated this hypothesis, revealing a 4.54- and 2.90-fold increase in the bioavailability of CIN and DOM, respectively. This enhancement was further supported by the results of the pharmacodynamic study utilizing the gastrointestinal distress/pica model, which indicated a significantly reduced consumption of kaolin. Conclusively, this study affirms the adaptability of microwave-based CDNS for the concurrent loading of multiple drugs, leading to improved solubility and bioavailability.
Underwater wireless optical communication system incorporating WMZCC and DPS codes under pure sea, clear ocean and coastal sea
Authors: Kaur Simarpreet , Wasson Vikas 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The ability of the optical code division multiplexing approach to allow secure information transfer has sparked a great deal of interest in underwater wireless optical communication (UWOC). A weight managed zero cross correlation (WMZCC) code based UWOC system is presented delivering 5 users × 10 Gbps capacity under different ocean/sea conditions such as pure sea, clear ocean and coastal sea. The WMZCC code has least user interferences, mapping free code construction, weight managed, controlled code length, and less complexity. The performance comparisons between WMZCC codes and diagonal permutation shift (DPS) are established by considering Q factor as evaluation parameter and results revealed that performance of WMZCC is better than DPS due to ZCC code. Q factor values under pure sea at 13 m for WMZCC codes and DPS codes are 13.24 and 9.86 respectively. For 7.2 m UWOC link distance, Q factor values obtained are 13.1 and 10.2 in case of WMZCC and DPS respectively under coastal sea. On contrary, DPS has variable cross correlation and therefore experience more multiple access interference (MAI). The presented system successfully offered >20 % performance improvement in Q factor as compared to DPS codes in UWOC.
Justice for Thwarted Fathers? Problems for Retrospective Parental Rights Claims
Authors: Baron Teresa 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
This paper examines the legitimacy of retrospective parental rights-claims through the lens of so-called ‘thwarted father’ cases: men who are unaware of their progeny’s existence until the window for establishing legal parentage (and associated rights) has passed. In some famous cases of thwarted fathers, courts have found that an injustice has been done which must be rectified by awarding retrospective parental rights and custody to those men, even when their genetic child has already lived for some extended period with their adoptive parents. In this paper, I critically examine Norvin Richards’ liberty-based defence of the parental rights of these fathers. He argues that the decision to overturn an adoption in a thwarted father case is justified if we agree that a man’s contribution of sperm was indeed the first act of a parenthood project that he should have had the liberty right to continue. Although Richards’ account might allow us to say that a thwarted father has been wronged, justice cannot demand that the situation be rectified through specific performance (as in cases when property is stolen and justice requires that it be returned).
Does sex influence the impact of dietary vitD3 and UVB light on performance parameters and welfare indicators of broilers?
Authors: Ogbonna Amarachi Chijioke , Mabelebele Monnye , Asher Lucy , Chaudhry Abdul 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Investigations were carried out to determine whether sex could influence the impacts of dietary vitamin D3 in IU/kg at either 4,000 alone (HD) or at 1,000 combined with ultraviolet B (UVB) light (LDU) and UVB light only on broiler performance and welfare. Three-hundred 1-day (d)-old Ross 308 broiler chicks were wing-tagged and allocated to 6 treatment groups, each with 5 replicated pens containing 10 broilers per pen in a 3 (HD, LDU, UVB) × 2 (males and females) factorial design. Output lamps (24 W 12% UVB D3, 55 cm) were installed in the centre of the pen 50 cm above the centre of the pen to provide UVB light (intensity: 28.12 µW/cm2; wavelength: 280–315 nm) for the broilers in all the treatment groups but the lamps were filtered in the HD and LDU groups. The birds were monitored for growth performance and welfare, as indicated by their feather and gait scores. At 42 days of age, selected birds were individually weighed and dissected for determining meat yield, GIT and bone morphometrics and vitamin D status. The dietary vitD3 and sex interacted (P < 0.05) for carcass yield, whereas sex influenced all the parameters measured. The UVB and female birds had lower BW (P < 0.05), lighter meat yields (P < 0.05), better feathering and walking ability (P < 0.05) and inferior bone traits (P < 0.05) compared to their counterparts. Although none of the treatments improved growth alongside welfare indicators of broilers, the results suggest some beneficial effects of UVB light on welfare and the potential to support early life feeding and grow-out periods of commercial broilers when housed indoors.
Probleme und Chancen der Weitergabe traditioneller Kulturformen in den Bewerbungsdossiers auf der bundesdeutschen Liste des Immateriellen Kulturerbes
Authors: Seifert Manfred 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Der Autor untersucht die 128 Bewerbungsdossiers der bundesdeutschen Liste des Immateriellen Kulturerbes zum Stand vom 11. April 2023. Für seine Analyse wertet er die Ausführungen der Bewerber zu Dossierfrage 9 „bestehende und geplante Maßnahmen zur Erhaltung und kreativen Weitergabe des Immateriellen Kulturerbes“ sowie die Dossierfrage 8 „Risikofaktoren für die beschriebenen Kulturformen“ aus. Insgesamt zeigt die Analyse ein deutlich differenziertes Bild der Erwägungen, für deren Orientierungen grundsätzlich relevant ist, ob die Antragsteller große gesellschaftliche Verbände und Institutionen sind oder diesen ferne stehen. Zudem war relevant, ob die Bewerber die in Westeuropa übliche konservativ-stabilisierende Haltung zum Traditionserhalt vertreten oder sich dem dynamischen Verständnis des Immateriellen Kulturerbes geöffnet haben.