bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Preoperative ultrasound to identify prefrailty in patients undergoing total hip/knee replacement: A single-center, prospective, cohort study
Authors: Xue Heng , Kang Meng , Huang Jiuping , Wang Xiaoxiao , Lai Xuan , Ma Zhe , Xiang Qian , Tian Hua , Guo Xiangyang , Li Yang , Han Yongzheng 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Objective
To identify prefrailty in patients undergoing total hip or knee replacement using preoperative ultrasound measurements of muscle dimensions and stiffness, with the goal of detecting high-risk prefrailty patients.
Methods
In this prospective cohort study, patients who underwent total hip/knee replacement were enrolled. Preoperative dimensions and stiffness of the biceps brachii (BB) were assessed using grey scale ultrasound (US) and shear wave elastography (SWE). Patients were preoperatively assessed for prefrailty based on FRAIL scale.
Results
In this study, a total of 121 consecutive patients [median age 71 years, (IQR 68–73 years), 94 women] were included. Sixty-five patients (53.7%) had prefrailty. The proportion of females is higher in the prefrail group compared to the non-frail group (86.2% vs. 67.9%, P = 0.023). The hemoglobin value in prefrail group was lower than that in non-frail group (130.2 ± 13.9 g/L vs. 136.2 ± 12.6 g/L, P = 0.031). US measurements revealed significant differences in BB thickness and area between prefrail and non-prefrail groups on both dominant and non-dominant sides. These differences were observed in both absolute values and relative values (normalized by BMI) (all p < 0.05). BB perimeter showed a significant difference between groups on the dominant side only (all p < 0.05). The AUC of BB thickness on dominant side (after normalization by dividing by BMI) was 0.664 (0.565–0.762), which was the largest among all US variables.
Conclusion
Preoperative US measurements of BB dimensions demonstrated its predictive value for prefrailty in patients undergoing total hip or knee replacement surgery. However, SWE was found to be insufficient in distinguishing between prefrail and non-frail patients.
Delayed Completion of Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccination among Children 0 – 4 years in Rural Uganda: A Socio-Demographic Inquiry
Authors: Malemo Herbert , Tamale Andrew , Kakwangire Paul , Igwe Matthew C. , Mwine Dickens R. , Asiimwe Isa , Mbina Solomon A. , Abalinda Mary G. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

In spite of the commendable global Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) coverage in the last two decades, full completion is still below target; and in Uganda, the 3 + 0 PCV regimen has been reported to have a steady decline in the completion rate. However, reasons for the delayed completion are unknown. Study aimed at assessing the influence of socio-demographic factors on delayed PCV completion among young children. A cross-sectional study design among 362 child/caretakers pairs in Bugongi Town Council was employed and using stratified sampling – Allocation Proportional to Size, data was collected using pretested questionnaires; entered and analysed using STATA v14 and significant statistical association was considered at P ≤ 0.05. Of the 362 children, majority (53.87%) were boys. Child mean age was 25.1 ± 14.3 months. 87.57% caretakers were females and majorities of them were aged 20–29yrs (47.8%), peasant farmers (79.8%), married (90.6%), attained primary education (63.5%) and earned average monthly income of UGX 10,000 – UGX 50,000 (41.4%). Of the 362 children, 92 (25.41%) had delayed to receive their PCV-3 doses. Only boy child [cOR = 1.65, (95%CI: 1.03–2.66); P = 0.039) and caretaker’s age 30–39 [cOR = 2.12 (95%CI: 1.06–4.24); P = 0.033) showed statistical significance at bivariate analysis. The multivariate model found parent’s age 20–29 years [aOR = 2.39 (1.14–5.01); P = 0.021] and 30–39 years [aOR = 2.51 (1.16–5.45); P = 0.020] as positively associated factors whereas being married [aOR = 0.20 (0.04–0.96); P = 0.044] was the only negatively associated factors to delayed completion of PCV vaccination among young children. Among children who complete the last dose of PCV vaccination, a considerable proportion are actually receiving it late resulting into eventual failure to curb the intended bacterial respiratory tract infections. Thus, concerted efforts in terms of sensitization is un-doubtfully desired especially among caretakers aged 20–39 years as well as those who are not married.
Factors and practices associated with deteriorating scalp conditions amongst headscarf-wearers: A national-level cross-sectional study
Authors: Fazal Zoha Zahid , Zaidi Syeda Maria Ahmad , Ali Danish , Malick Ayesha Ali , Ibrahim Romesa , Sethi Aisha , Masood Sadia 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
There is scarce literature that highlights the association of scalp dermatoses and consistent head cover practiced in various religions and cultures.
Methods
A national-level cross-sectional study was conducted via online survey dissemination to hijab-observing female university students of Pakistan. Participant characteristics, activities and hijab-related practices were compared with subjective deterioration of scalp health (SDSH) after starting hijab through a cross-sectional survey. The Kruskal-Wallis test for continuous variables and Pearson χ2 test for categorical variables were used. Multivariable logistic regression was employed to investigate the possible associations. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results
Our results showed that scalp health subjectively deteriorated in 302 (59.3%) of the 509 hijab-observing women. Multivariable logistic regression revealed that being employed (odds ratio [OR], 2.03 [95% CI, 1.08-3.82]; P = 0.027), making tight hairstyles at least once a week (OR, 2.27 [95% CI, 1.40-3.70]; P = 0.001) and using hijab daily (OR, 1.97 [95% CI, 1.12-3.44]; P = 0.018) were associated with an increased likelihood of SDSH. While performing scalp care for at least once daily (OR, 0.48 [95% CI, 0.31 -0.76]; P = 0.002) and washing hijab after single or two-time use (OR, 0.40 [95% CI, 0.27-0.59]; P = 0.000) were associated with a lower likelihood of SDSH.
Conclusion
Our results will help in formulating pioneering guidelines on scalp care tailored for Muslim women who observe hijab and perhaps also other faiths and cultures in which the head is ritually covered.
A Structural Equation Modeling Approach to Evaluating Innovation Dynamics' Effect on SME Performance in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Almansoori Sara Ismail , Araci Zehra Canan , Dweiri Fikri 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

It is essential to comprehend the function of innovative capabilities in the SME-driven landscape. Despite the significance of SMEs, it is unclear how innovation capabilities affect their success, which is why this study was conducted as part of an investigation. The goal of this study is to investigate the intricate interactions that exist between innovation capacities and the performance of SMEs in the United Arab Emirates. Data from 255 SME industry experts in the UAE were evaluated using SEM-Amos, and the results showed that organizational innovation, employee engagement, culture, and innovation capability all had a major impact on performance. According to the report, innovative considerations have a major impact on SME success in the United Arab Emirates, providing valuable strategic insights. These results serve as a guidance for company executives and politicians in creating an atmosphere that supports the nation's continued SME growth and economic prosperity.
Investigating Urban Heat Island Effects and Mitigation Strategies in Ahmedabad, India
Authors: Singh Durgesh , Rajput Pradeep Kumar 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

An urban heat island is an urban area that is significantly warmer due to anthropogenic activity and unplanned development of city that is surrounded rural area. The temperature difference usually is high at night than the day temperature. The urban heat island is particularly noticeable during the summer and winter months. The main cause of the urban heat island effect is the form the disturb of natural setting and modification of land surface area. As the per the United nation report worldwide rapid growth of urbanization and globalization brought more than 54% of world’s population in urban areas which is only around 33% 50 years back and it expected to increases up 66% by the end of 2050. In this paper to investigate the relationship between land surface temperature and biophysical parameter in the selected area, satellite data used for extraction of biophysical and LST parameters for the study of urban heat island and its effects. To investigate and understand the effects land surface temperature, form the period of 1990 2000 and 2019 satellite data are used to retrieve the land surface temperature (LST), Normalized vegetation index (NDVI), Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI), Normalized Difference Built-up Index (NDBI) and Normalized Difference Built-up and Bareness Index (NDBaL). The biophysical parameters of different time period are used to analysis the behavior change over the LST. Land cover indices were derived in order established the relationship between LST and the indices, in the result a higher level of LST was found to be associated with the lower NDVI in this research.
Semaphorin 7A Induces Liver Inflammation and Promotes Parenteral Nutrition-Associated Cholestasis via ITGβ1/NF-κB Pathway
Authors: Shen Leilei , Sun Xiaodong , Zheng Ruixue , Tao Min , Chen Sheng 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Objective
To investigate the mechanistic role of semaphorin 7A (Sema7A) in neonatal parenteral nutrition-associated cholestasis (PNAC).
Methods
Blood samples were collected from neonates, and an established animal model was used to evaluate inflammatory markers and liver pathology in PNAC. We quantified the expression of Sema7A, integrin β1 (ITGβ1), P65, and phosphorylated P65 (p-P65) in neonatal and rat samples, and investigated the NF-κB pathway involvement by manipulating Sema7A and ITGβ1 expression in vitro. The effects of the Sema7A/ITGβ1/NF-κB pathway were validated through targeted interventions in animal models.
Results
Neonates and rats with PNAC showed increased TNF-α and IL-1β levels, alongside decreased IL-4 and IL-10 levels. Correspondingly, Sema7A, ITGβ1, and P65/p-P65 mRNA and protein expressions were elevated. In vitro, Sema7A overexpression activated the NF-κB pathway, reversible by ITGβ1 inhibition; conversely, Sema7A knockdown attenuated NF-κB activation, partially reversible by ITGβ1 overexpression. In vivo, Sema7A overexpression worsened liver injury and cholestasis through NF-κB pathway activation, while its inhibition ameliorated these effects.
Conclusions
Sema7A activates the NF-κB signaling pathway in an ITGβ1-dependent manner, exacerbating PN-induced liver injury and cholestasis. Targeting Sema7A may offer a therapeutic strategy for alleviating neonatal PNAC.
Combined Metal-like Ductility and High Hardness in N-rich HfN Thin Films by Point Defect Superstructuring
Authors: Ghafoor Naureen , Lorentzon Marcus , Sangiovanni Davide , Takata Naoki , Zhu Tianqi , Palisaitis Justinas , Hultman Lars , Birch Jens 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The strength of refractory ceramics is much limited by their brittleness. Counterintuitively, we observe simultaneous high hardness and metallic-like ductility in highly overstoichiometric single-crystal HfN1.22 and HfN1.33 films grown by ion-assisted reactive magnetron sputtering. Electron microscopy, diffraction methods, and ab-initio calculations reveal the existence of a novel type of superstructure ordering of both metal vacancies and nitrogen interstitials into sub-nanometer hyper-overstoichiometric and quasi-stoichiometric domains that self-organize into a checkerboard pattern superimposed onto the NaCl-structured lattice. A high intrinsic dislocation density enables an unparallelled ductility and strain hardening in room temperature uniaxial compression of HfN1.22 micropillars, by activation of {111}<011> slip. The films simultaneously exhibit a high hardness – tunable up to 28 GPa via control of stoichiometry – and a remarkable fracture resistance due to dislocation-mediated stress dissipation. The presented findings provide a route for synthesizing nitride superstructured films with unique hardness/toughness combinations.
Deep Learning-based Classification Model using SMOTE Resampling Technique to Identify Potent Inhibitors of Lethal Factor of Anthrax and Principal Component, Chemical Space Analysis
Authors: Kumari Madhulata , Shah Mohd Asif , Mallik Saurav , Ray Kanad 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Anthrax is a highly lethal disease caused by Bacillus anthracis. Lethal factor (LF) with protective antigen directly contributes to anthrax symptoms in humans. This research work identified a small molecule inhibitors of anthrax lethal factor. We developed a consolidated computational strategy that includes a deep learning-based SMOTE + artificial neural network (ANN) hybrid model, principal component analysis, t-SNE, activity cliff, constellation plot, scaffold, and fingerprinting to identify potential drug candidates against Anthrax. The best model showed 0.98 accuracy, 0.99 specificity, 0.99 sensitivity, 0.99 F1-score, 0.99 recall, 0.99 ROC, and 0.99 precision. The trained hybrid model screened out 134 FDA-approved drugs, 338 experimental drugs, 51 phytochemical compounds of the phytochemical database, and eight natural products from NCI divest IV as anthrax inhibitors. We found scaffold of ring system with substitution patterns such as 4-oxopyrrolo[3,2-c]quinolone enhanced the biological activity of Anthrax inhibitors. Fingerprints indicated greater than 80% and are linked to the ring system using the substitution pattern scaffold. These studies conclude that SMOTE + ANN model could be an efficient method for the virtual screening of large database and a new way to screen small molecules against Anthrax.
Advantages in orthopedic implant infection diagnostics by additional analysis of explants
Authors: Suda Arnold J , Miethke Thomas , Landua Nadine , Obertacke Udo 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Implant-associated infections are the most challenging complication in orthopedics and trauma surgery as they often lead to long courses of illness and are a financial burden for the healthcare system. There is a need for fast, simple, and cheap identification of pathogens but the ideal detection method was not found yet. The work aims to test whether the detection of pathogens culturing the removed implant is more successful than from simultaneously taken tissue samples or punction fluid.
Methods
Implants were removed due to infection, irritation, or loosening. Tissue samples and joint fluids were processed for bacterial growth in sterile conditions. Samples were incubated and checked for growth. Bacterial identification and antibiotic sensitivity testing were performed. Data were anonymized, and statistical analysis was done using Excel and SAS, employing tests like Shapiro-Wilk, Mann-Whitney-U, and Kruskal-Wallis. Ethical approval was obtained for this study.
Results
Between February 2018 and April 2019, a total of 163 patients (175 cases) underwent orthopedic implant removal for various reasons. 30 cases were not usable or analyzable due to missing or damaged reference material, so 145 cases could be evaluated due to study protocol.
The range of detected bacteria was as expected and included low-virulent bacteria such as Micrococcus luteusand Corynebacteria. Pathogen detection by culture of the the explant´s was more sensitive (84.83%) than pathogen detection from tissue samples and punction fluid (64.14%, p<0.0001). Comorbidities did not play any role in the quality of detection but prior antibiotic treatment did influence the results of tissue diagnostics.
Conclusion
This study showed with a higher frequency of bacterial detection of orthopedic explant´s surface compared to tissue samples or punction fluid. This may reduce the number of samples and cost but enhances the quality of orthopedic implant-related infection diagnostics.
Vessel wall imaging of vertebrobasilar artery configurations: associations with posterior circulation infarction and high-risk plaques in atherosclerosis
Authors: Xiong Jingtong , Liu Yue , Mei Lingjun , Zhang Chen , Xia Jiying , Chen Honghai , Qu Xiaofeng , Wu Jianlin 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The geometric configuration of the vertebrobasilar artery (VBA) can influence hemodynamic changes in the posterior circulation. This study aims to analyze the correlation of vascular morphology with posterior circulation infarction (PCI) and high-risk plaques on vessel wall imaging (VWI). A total of 249 atherosclerotic inpatients with 530 plaque segments located in the basilar artery (BA) and vertebral artery (VA) were retrospectively enrolled, comprising 98 PCI and 151 non-PCI patients. The configurations of VBA were classified on VWI and 3-dimensional time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography (3D TOF-MRA), with a further quantitative evaluation conducted on VWI. VWI achieved higher diagnostic accuracy in detecting tuning fork, walking, and lambda VBA configurations, and revealed increased sensitivity in diagnosing VA hypoplasia (VAH), compared to TOF-MRA. Higher proportions of PCI and high-risk plaques were observed in the lambda and walking configurations than the tuning fork. No statistical difference in VAH was observed between the PCI and non-PCI groups (P = .972). Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that the mean diameter of bi-VAs [odds ratio (OR) = 1.709 (1.115–2.618), P = .014] and grade of BA lateral position [OR = 1.461 (1.071–1.993), P = .017] were independent risk factors associated with PCI. High-risk plaque segments featured larger diameter, remodeling index, plaque volume, BA-midline, and vessel length compared with those with low-risk plaques (all P < .05). VWI offers the dual advantages of observing vascular morphology and evaluating high-risk plaques, which aids in the timely identification of individuals with PCI risks.
Early Life Factors of Precocious Puberty: A Study of Korean Nationwide Data
Authors: Lee Myeongseob , Kim Junghyun , Kim Haedong , Shin Jaeyong , Suh Junghwan 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Precocious puberty is characterized by early sexual maturation in children before 8 years in girls and 9 years in boys. While puberty is initiated by the activation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis, precise mechanisms triggering the early activation of this axis in children with central precocious puberty (CPP) remain elusive. Here, we aimed to identify variables that may influence the risk of CPP.
Methods
This retrospective cohort study utilized data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service and National Health Screening Program for Infants and Children and included 43,952 children with CPP and 854,749 matched controls. Participants were followed up until 2020 for CPP development to determine their height, weight, and head circumference measurements, as well as evaluate their physiological, emotional, cognitive, and social development.
Results
The birth weights for boys and girls with CPP were 0.09 and 0.06 kg lower than those of controls, respectively. Breastfeeding rates for children with CPP were lower than those for controls. Children with low birth weights (boys: odds ratio [OR] = 1.71, P < 0.0001; girls: OR = 1.30, P < 0.0001) and those who were overweight (boys: OR = 1.33, p = 0.0006; girls: OR = 1.30, p < 0.0001) or obese (boys: OR = 1.60, P < 0.0001; girls: OR = 1.14, P < 0.0001) were more likely to develop CPP. Breastfeeding exerted a significant protective effect against CPP in girls (OR = 0.95, P = 0.0003).
Conclusions
Low birth weight and high body mass index were associated with CPP development.
97 Machine Learning Algorithms in the Prognosis of Cutaneous Melanoma: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Jin Tongtong , Yao Dongang , Xu Yan , Zhang Xiaopeng , Dong Xu , Bai Haiya 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Objectives: To establish a predictive model for prognosis of cutaneous melanoma using machine learning algorithms in large sample data
Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients diagnosed with cutaneous melanoma in the SEER database from 2010 to 2015 was performed using 12 different machine learning algorithms, for a total of 97 algorithm combinations, to screen for variables associated with cutaneous melanoma prognosis and to build predictive models.
Results: A total of 24,457 cases were collected in this study, and 8,441 cases were finally included. Among them, 5908 cases in the training set and 2533 cases in the test set. The results of the study show that StepCox[both] + RSF is the best model. The variable features screened by the best model were Sex, Age, Marital, T stage, N stage, Ulcer, Site, Histologic, Surgery, Chemotherapy, Bone metastasis, Liver metastasis and Lung metastasis.
Conclusion: We have developed a predictive model with good accuracy for cutaneous melanoma prognosis using a combination of 97 machine learning algorithms in a large sample database.
Development of an adjoint-based data assimilation method toward predicting SSE evolution: Two-step optimization of frictional parameters and initial strength on the fault
Authors: Ohtani Makiko , Kame Nobuki , Kano Masayuki 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Data assimilation (DA) has tried to incorporate GNSS data into physics-based fault slip models to estimate frictional properties and predict future slip evolution on faults. For unstable slip events such as ordinary fast-slip earthquakes and slow slip events (SSEs), accurately estimating the frictional strength, as well as the frictional parameters, is crucial for reliable slip prediction. However, the frictional strength has not been directly observed, and thus, previous DA studies have often assumed a steady-state strength value for the initial strength to estimate the frictional parameters, which limits the accuracy of long-term slip predictions. In the present study, we propose a new adjoint-based DA method that estimates an appropriate initial frictional strength along with the frictional parameters for assimilating long-term SSEs. The key idea is to impose an additional constraint on DA that assumes the current SSE will recur periodically, though the exact interval is unknown. This approach reflects the observed recurring nature of SSEs. This new method is validated through numerical experiments focusing on long-term Bungo Channel SSEs in southwest Japan. The results demonstrate that our proposed method provides reasonable estimates for both the initial strength and the frictional parameters, enabling accurate predictions of slip evolution and the timing of subsequent SSEs, along with determining the unknown recurrence interval. The method proves effective even with data windows shorter than the recurrence interval, overcoming the limitations of previous DA methods.