bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cave Pools in Carlsbad Caverns National Park Contain Diverse Bacteriophage Communities and Novel Viral Sequences
Authors: Ulbrich Joseph , Jobe Nathaniel E. , Jones Daniel S. , Kieft Thomas L. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract Viruses are the most abundant biological entities on Earth, and they play a critical role in the environment and biosphere where they regulate microbial populations and contribute to nutrient cycling. Environmental viruses have been the most studied in the ocean, but viral investigations have now spread to other environments. Here, viral communities were characterized in four cave pools in Carlsbad Caverns National Park to test the hypotheses that (i) viral abundance is ten-fold higher than prokaryotic cell abundance in cavern pools, (ii) cavern pools contain novel viral sequences, and (iii) viral communities in pools from developed portions of the cave are distinct from those of pools in undeveloped parts of the same cave. The relationship between viral and microbial abundance was determined through direct epifluorescence microscopy counts. Viral metagenomes were constructed to examine viral diversity among pools, identify novel viruses, and characterize auxiliary metabolic genes (AMGs). Bacterial communities were characterized by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. Epifluorescence microscopy showed that the ratio of viral-like particles (VLPs) to microorganisms was approximately 22:1 across all sites. Viral communities from pools with higher tourist traffic were more similar to each other than to those from less visited pools, although surprisingly, viruses did not follow the same pattern as bacterial communities, which reflected pool geochemistry. Bacterial hosts predicted from viral sequences using iPHoP showed overlap with both rare and abundant genera and families in the 16S rRNA gene dataset. Gene-sharing network analysis revealed high viral diversity compared to a reference viral database as well as to other aquatic environments. AMG presence showed variation in metabolic potential among the four pools. Overall, Carlsbad Cavern harbors novel viruses with substantial diversity among pools within the same system, indicating that caves are likely an important repository for unexplored viromes.
Risk factors and surgical outcomes in pediatric patients with congenital heart disease and ischemic colitis
Authors: Mokhaberi N. , Schneider E. P. , Aftzoglou M. , Hüners I. , Körner M. , Armbrust L. , Biermann D. , Kozlik-Feldmann R. , Hübler M. , Reinshagen K. , Tomuschat C. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Introduction
This study investigates risk factors and surgical outcomes in pediatric patients with congenital heart defects (CHD) who develop ischemic colitis (IC). Previous research indicates a higher IC risk in very low birth weight neonates with CHD.

Methods
A retrospective analysis compared an IC-CHD group to a CHD-only group. Key variables included gestational age, birth weight, multiple pregnancies, prematurity, APGAR scores, cardiac and surgical characteristics, Aristotle-Score, and mortality rates. Surgical outcomes such as bowel resection and stoma procedures were also evaluated.

Results
IC-CHD exhibited significantly lower gestational ages and birth weights, with higher rates of multiple pregnancies and prematurity. APGAR scores were notably lower. Cardiac and surgical data showed more frequent ECMO use and shorter cardiopulmonary bypass durations in the IC-CHD group. High rates of bowel resection highlighted severe gastrointestinal involvement. Mortality was significantly higher in IC-CHD with elevated Aristotle scores correlating with poorer outcomes.

Conclusion
Gestational age, birth weight, and initial health status are critical in predicting IC risk and surgical outcomes in pediatric patients with CHD. The significantly higher mortality and complex surgical needs in the IC-CHD group underscore the necessity for vigilant monitoring and tailored interventions. Development of targeted therapeutic strategies adjustment for confounding factors in future studies is needed.
Safety of vaginal breech delivery following an unsuccessful external cephalic version: a comparative study
Authors: Aviv Danit , Weintraub Amir , Issakov Gal , Pasternak Yael , Griffin Rachel , Shochat Tzipora , Lopian Miriam , Yekel Yael , Perlman Sharon 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Objective
To determine whether patients undergoing a trial of labor with a breech presentation following a failed attempt of external cephalic version (ECV) are at increased risk of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Methods
This retrospective cohort study was conducted at a single university-affiliated medical center. The study group comprised women with singleton pregnancies at term, categorized into three groups: those who underwent a failed external cephalic version (ECV) and subsequently attempted a trial of breech delivery (Breech-failed-ECV group), those who attempted an assisted vaginal breech delivery without a prior ECV attempt (Breech-no-ECV group), and those with vertex presentation following a successful ECV (Vertex-ECV). The primary outcome measured was the mode of delivery. Secondary outcomes included adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Results
The study group consisted of 229 patients who attempted a vaginal delivery during the study period following a diagnosis of non-cephalic presentation at term. There were 42 women in the Breech failed-ECV group, 102 in the Breech-no-ECV group, and 85 in the Vertex-ECV group. Among patients undergoing a trial of labor with a breech presentation, there were no significant differences in successful vaginal delivery rates between those who had an attempted ECV and those who did not (80.39% vs. 80.95%, p > 0.05), nor in the rate of adverse maternal or neonatal outcomes between the groups. However, the Vertex-ECV were more likely to have a vaginal delivery (91.78 vs 80.56%, p = 0.03) and less likely to experience adverse neonatal outcomes, including meconium-stained amniotic fluid, non-reassuring fetal heart rate (NRFHR), compared to those who underwent labor with a breech presentation (p < 0.05).

Conclusions
A failed external cephalic version does not adversely affect maternal or neonatal outcomes in patients undergoing a trial of labor with a breech presentation and meet the criteria of our study.
Short- and long-term costs of sinus balloon sinuplasty and middle meatal antrostomy
Authors: Luukkanen Johanna , Harju Teemu , Rautiainen Markus , Kivekäs Ilkka 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Purpose
To evaluate and compare hospital related costs, postoperative costs, and the long-term costs of maxillary balloon sinuplasty (BSP) and middle meatal antrostomy (MMA) in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis.

Methods
Data were collected from patient registers on 88 patients treated with BSP and 240 patients treated with MMA between 2011 and 2017. Information was also gathered on the related costs of surgery, material, postoperative ward care, and any extra patient visits that took place within one year following the operation. The costs of sick leave were estimated based on the number of sick leave days.

Results
The total costs of BSP (mean 3382 €, 95% CI 3157–3607) within one year after the operation were lower than those of MMA (mean 4546 €, 95% CI 4297–4796) (p < 0.001). However, the hospital related 24 h perioperative costs were higher in BSP (mean 1853 €, 95% CI 1781–1925) than in MMA (mean 1581 €, 95% CI 1515–1647) (p < 0.001). The number of sick leave days after BSP (mean 4 days) was half that of MMA (8 days) (p < 0.001), leading to an increase in sick leave costs after MMA. The duration of the BSP operation was significantly shorter than that of MMA.

Conclusion
BSP of the maxillary sinus ostium appears to be less expensive than MMA when the total costs are calculated one year after the operation. This information should be considered in the preoperative visit.

Level of evidence
3.
Morphological studies of labyrinthine tissue in patients affected with Meniere’s disease and vestibular schwannoma following labyrinthectomy
Authors: Ajmera Ankit , John Nikeith , Morey Adrienne , Biggs Nigel , Flanagan Sean , Earls Peter , Brown Daniel , Mukherjee Payal 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
Meniere’s disease (MD) is a disabling disease of the inner ear, having a substantial effect on a patient’s quality of life. While various postulations regarding its aetiology exists, due to the difficulty with accessing inner ear tissue, there have been limited histological studies in patients with active MD.

Methods
Tissue was collected during labyrinthectomy from 8 patients with intractable MD who had failed medical therapy (22 samples), and 9 patients undergoing translabyrinthine resection of vestibular schwannoma (19 samples). 20 additional samples were obtained from 2 cadavers without a history of inner ear disease. Samples were assessed with routine histology and a panel of immunohistochemical markers to assess any differences between the groups.

Results
No MD samples demonstrated significant inflammatory infiltrate, evidence of denervation of the sensory epithelium, fibrosis, or thickening of blood vessel wall stroma. Novel findings included confirmation that no lymphatic channels of usual type were present and that the subepithelial stromal cells are strongly positive for S100, suggesting possible perineurial origin. There were no consistent differences in expression of Claudin or Aquaporin between the MD and VS patient samples.

Conclusion
This is one of the largest comparative histological study utilising operative samples from inner ear of living donors with active intractable MD and control patients with VS. There were no significant morphological differences between the two groups, suggesting that the aetiology lies elsewhere within the vestibular system. Examination of endolymphatic sac tissue is therefore a priority for future work.
Occupational adjustments and work ability of young adult cancer survivors: results from the AYA-Leipzig study
Authors: Brock Hannah , Schröter Katharina , Friedrich Michael , Sender Annekathrin , Richter Diana , Mehnert-Theuerkauf Anja , Geue Kristina , Leuteritz Katja 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Adolescent and young adult cancer survivors (AYA-CS) face a long working life after treatment, yet factors related to a successful return to work remain largely unexplored. We therefore aimed to investigate the use of occupational adjustments and their impact on work ability upon return to work.

Methods
As part of the AYA-LE study, we surveyed AYA-CS (aged 18–39 at diagnosis) who returned to work and assessed work ability (Work Ability Index) as well as use and benefit of occupational adjustments. We analyzed predictors of use and benefit of occupational adjustments on average 4 years post-diagnosis using multivariate linear and logistic regression.

Results
Out of 438 AYA-CS, 389 (88.8%) returned to work after cancer diagnosis and were included in analyses. Mean work ability was M = 36.2 (SD = 6.9), 11.4% reported poor, 34.7% moderate, 41.4% good and 12.5% excellent work ability. Following treatment, 82.3% used occupational adjustments, most frequently: flexible working hours, gradual reintegration and reduced working hours. The probability of a reduction in working hours was found to be higher among older AYA-CS (≥ 30), female gender and with a fatigue index ≥ 11 (R2 = 0.073). A fatigue index < 11, elevated levels of pain and the presence of metastases/recurrence were associated with a lower benefit of reduced working hours (R2 = 0.183). Younger age (< 30) and stem cell transplant were associated with a lower benefit of support from colleagues (R2 = 0.077).

Conclusion
Our results highlight the need for targeted occupational counselling throughout the treatment and even beyond the return-to-work process, considering individual and social factors.
Hormonal regulation and crosstalk during early endosperm and seed coat development
Authors: Pankaj R. , Lima R. B. , Figueiredo D. D. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Key message
This review covers the latest developments on the regulation of early seed development by phytohormones.

Abstract
The development of seeds in flowering plants starts with the fertilization of the maternal gametes by two paternal sperm cells. This leads to the formation of two products, embryo and endosperm, which are surrounded by a tissue of maternal sporophytic origin, called the seed coat. The development of each of these structures is under tight genetic control. Moreover, several phytohormones have been shown to modulate the development of all three seed compartments and have been implicated in the communication between them. This is particularly relevant, as embryo, endosperm, and seed coat have to coordinate their development for successful seed formation. Here, we review the latest advances on the hormonal regulation of early seed development in the model plant species Arabidopsis thaliana, with a focus on the endosperm and the seed coat. Moreover, we highlight how phytohormones serve as mechanisms of non-cell autonomous communication between these two compartments and how they are determinant in shaping seed formation.
Cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the Thai version of the core outcome measures index for the back (COMI‐back) in patients with low back pain
Authors: Santipas Borriwat , Luksanapruksa Panya , Ruangchainikom Monchai , Korwutthikulrangsri Ekkapoj , Poolpol Sarunya , Wilartratsami Sirichai 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Purpose
To translate and culturally adapt the Core Outcome Measures Index for the back (COMI-back) into Thai and to evaluate its psychometric properties in Thai-speaking patients with low back pain (LBP).

Methods
The translation process followed a standardized forward–backward method with two independent translators, followed by synthesis and back-translation. An expert committee reviewed the translations for cultural and conceptual equivalence. Pre-testing was done with Thai patients to refine the questionnaire. The validation study included 131 patients with LBP, who completed the Thai COMI-Back along with other validated questionnaires like the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and EQ-5D-5L. Reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). Construct validity was determined by correlating COMI scores with those of reference scales.

Results
The Thai COMI-Back exhibited strong reliability, with Cronbach’s alpha values from 0.89 to 0.93 and ICC values over 0.80 for all domains. Construct validity was supported by significant correlations with reference scales, with Spearman's rho values ranging from 0.47 to 0.84. Floor and ceiling effects were acceptable for most items, with notable exceptions for symptom-specific well-being and work disability.

Conclusion
The Thai COMI-Back shows strong psychometric properties, making it suitable for clinical and research use in Thailand.
Hazard rates of recurrence for gastric cancer after curative resection: implications for postoperative surveillance
Authors: Kanematsu Kyohei , Nakayama Yuta , Tanabe Mie , Morita Junya , Nagasawa Shinsuke , Yamada Takanobu , Ogata Takashi , Oshima Takashi 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Identifying the most effective postoperative surveillance interval in patients with gastric cancer (GC) remains challenging. To elucidate a logical and effective surveillance schedule, we analyzed GC recurrence risk trends after gastrectomy using the hazard function.

Methods
We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 2503 patients who underwent curative GC resection between 2000 and 2018. We examined recurrence risk over time and the influence of clinicopathological variables on it.

Results
Overall, GC recurred in 291 patients (11.6%) over a median of 64.6 months. Recurrence risk was highest at approximately 11-months postoperatively (hazard rate [HR]: 0.0045), decreasing to half the peak at approximately 39-months postoperatively. Patients with Stage I GC maintained a low risk. In Stage II patients, the risk peaked at 16-months postoperatively (HR: 0.006) and gradually declined thereafter. Stage III patients had the highest risk at 11 months postoperatively (HR: 0.019), plateauing at 40 months.

Conclusions
We demonstrated significant cancer stage-dependent differences in postsurgical GC recurrence risk by using the hazard function. Reductions in surveillance intensity might be acceptable according to the individual risk of recurrence.
Experimental investigation of pulp dewatering by high vacuum suction boxes
Authors: Mafela Mahlohonono , Louw Tobias , Görgens Johann , Saunders Garreth , de Gois Michael Garces , Kotze Johannes P. , Van der Westhuizen Wian , Tyhoda Luvuyo 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Reducing energy consumption by industrial processes has become imperative because of rising energy costs and efforts toward decarbonisation. The continuous manufacturing of paper is energy intensive due in part to the water removal process required to convert pulp slurries to valuable paper products. This necessitates the development of energy conservation techniques, while simultaneously ensuring the quality of the product. A pilot-scale test unit was developed to quantify the effects of dwell time, vacuum pressure, and refining energy on the achievable pulp concentration or dryness level of three pulp types utilised in paper machines. Pulp dry matter was investigated as a means of gauging vacuum consumption and hence energy utilisation in paper machines, which could potentially reduce utility consumption of the overall drying process. A novel approach to simulate the pulsating high vacuum zone in the forming section of a paper machine was implemented, allowing the development of statistical correlations to explore vacuum dewatering conditions that may lead to energy efficiency. Bleached hardwood, mechanical/groundwood and recycled pulp were characterised to determine the effects of refining energy on fibre morphology and their drainage behaviour in pulp slurries. A dryness level of 21.8% at − 55 kPa gauge was achieved for bleached hardwood, whereas lower values of 19.8 and 18.3% were observed for recycled and mechanical pulps, respectively. This behaviour was attributed to the differences in drainability and morphology of the pulps due to their respective unique properties, further exaggerated by refining.
Explaining Mortgage Defaults Using SHAP and LASSO
Authors: Ozturkkal Belma , Wahlstrøm Ranik Raaen 
Published: December 2024

AbstractWe utilize machine learning methods to model the credit risk of mortgages in a significant emerging market. For this purpose, we investigate a multitude of variables that explain the characteristics of the loans, the demographics of the borrowers, and macroeconomic factors. We employ SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) values in conjunction with five different tree-based machine learning methods, as well as the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) in conjunction with logistic regressions. Our findings, which are robust across two sampling schemes, reveal that while demographic variables are significant and important, loan-specific and macroeconomic variables are the most crucial in explaining mortgage defaults. As existing literature on mortgage default has primarily focused on advanced markets, we aim to bridge this gap by concentrating on emerging market data. We also share our code, which we hope will encourage others to utilize the methods we have applied.
Removal efficiencies and environmental risk assessment of selected pharmaceuticals and metabolites at a wastewater treatment plant in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
Authors: Inarmal Nikitha , Moodley Brenda 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
This research study critically evaluates the concentrations of selected pharmaceuticals found within wastewater and at various stages within a selected wastewater treatment plant. The study further investigates the effects of seasonal variation, between wet and dry months, on the removal of target analytes. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, ivermectin in wastewater has not been investigated in South Africa. The methodology used was extraction of the wastewater samples using solid phase extraction with Oasis HLB cartridges followed by analysis on a liquid chromatography-mass spectrometer. As expected, analyte concentrations were observed to decrease as wastewater went through the treatment process with the greatest reduction in concentrations observed between secondary effluent and maturation samples, which could be indicative of photodegradation of compounds. Influent concentrations of analytes ranged from 0.008184 to 1.243 mg L−1 while maturation river concentrations ranged from not detected to 0.9286 mg L−1. Removal efficiencies ranged from 7.70 to > 99.99% of analyte removed. Significant differences in removals were observed between the wet and dry seasons experienced within the province. Environmental risk assessment ratios ranged from 0.0863 to 10.5 × 108. Ratios for metformin and valsartan were well below 1, indicating that they would not be of environmental risk. While ratios for ivermectin were substantially high, ranging from 25.4 × 107 to 10.5 × 108 indicating that it is of severe environmental risk and is of significant concern. Generally, the analyte concentrations quantified within influent samples were higher than effluent samples which is indicative of the treatment process being able to partially remove some of the analytes. Risk assessment ratios suggest high risk of selected pharmaceuticals which are of environmental concern.
Tools to support learning to plan discussions that promote students’ mathematical reasoning
Authors: Ødegaard Reidun Persdatter , Arnesen Kristin Krogh , Langfeldt Marit Buset 
Published: December 2024

AbstractWe investigate pre-service teachers’ learning to plan discussions promoting students’ mathematical reasoning. Specifically, we analyse opportunities to learn to plan provided by three planning tools: a conceptual framework of the mathematical work of reasoning and proving, a set of talk moves, and a mathematical task with students’ work. In learning cycles, the pre-service teachers investigated, planned, enacted, and reflected on practice, using role-plays as an approximation to practice. The planning was organised in small groups, and these groups’ collaborative work was videotaped, transcribed, and analysed using thematic analysis. Our findings reveal three patterns of tool use: tools as a support for planning, planning as a context to make sense of the tools, and the use of talk moves to plan when the students’ work was insufficient as a support. From these patterns, we identify several opportunities to learn afforded by the tools. However, we also identify and discuss limitations in the design of the tools, particularly related to mathematical reasoning. Based on our findings, we discuss implications for teacher education.
Preparation of specific-purpose 57Co radiation sources for specialised Mössbauer techniques
Authors: Vondrášek René , Pechoušek Jiří , Procházka Vít 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThe presented work outlines the methodology employed in the preparation of two distinct Mössbauer radiation sources, characterised by their respective emission properties. Two matrices were selected for the electrodeposition and subsequent high-temperature diffusion of 57Co. The objective was to prepare a single-line and a six-line source, with emission spectra that overlap the absorption spectra of selected steel phases (namely, paramagnetic austenite and ferromagnetic ferrite/martensite). The rationale behind the aforementioned source preparation is to develop a bespoke apparatus based on the Mössbauer principle for the rapid determination of the aforementioned steel phases.