bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Estimating trauma prevalence from incomplete human skeletal remains
Authors: Beier Judith , Santon Matteo , Rathmann Hannes 
Published: November 2024

AbstractTraumatic lesions on human skeletal remains are widely used for reconstructing past accidents or violent encounters and for comparing trauma prevalence across samples over time and space. However, uncertainties in trauma prevalence estimates increase proportionally with decreasing skeletal completeness, as once-present trauma might have gone missing. To account for this bias, samples are typically restricted to skeletal remains meeting a predefined minimum completeness threshold. However, the effect of this common practice on resulting estimates remains unexplored. Here, we test the performance of the conventional frequency approach, which considers only specimens with ≥ 75% completeness, against a recent alternative based on generalized linear models (GLMs), integrating specimen completeness as a covariate. Using a simulation framework grounded on empirical forensic, clinical, and archaeological data, we evaluated how closely frequency- and GLM-based estimates conform to the known trauma prevalence of once-complete cranial samples after introducing increasing levels of missing values. We show that GLM-based estimates were consistently more precise than frequencies across all levels of incompleteness and regardless of sample size. Unlike GLMs, frequencies increasingly produced incorrect relative patterns between samples and occasionally failed to produce estimates as incompleteness increased, particularly in smaller samples. Consequently, we generally recommend using GLMs and their extensions over frequencies, although neither approach is fully reliable when applied to largely incomplete samples.
Comparison of different imaging devices and navigation systems for cervical pedicle screw placement: an experimental study on screw accuracy, screw placement time and radiation dose
Authors: Mandelka Eric , Wolf Justine , Medrow Antonia , Gruetzner Paul A. , Vetter Sven Y. , Gierse Jula 
Published: November 2024

AbstractCervical pedicle screws (CPS) provide biomechanically superior fixation compared to other techniques but are technically more demanding. Navigated CPS placement has been increasingly reported as a safe and accurate technique, yet there are few studies comparing different combinations of imaging and navigation systems under comparable conditions. With this study, we aimed to compare different imaging and navigation systems for CPS placement in terms of accuracy, screw placement time and applied radiation dose. For this experimental study, navigated CPS placement was performed at levels C2 to C7 in 24 identical radiopaque artificial spine models by two surgeons with different levels of experience using three different combinations of intraoperative 3D imaging devices and navigation systems. Accuracy, time and radiation dose were compared between the groups. In total, 288 screws were placed. Accuracy was > 98% in all groups with no significant differences between groups or between surgeons (P = 0.30 and P = 0.31, respectively), but the inexperienced surgeon required significantly more time (P < 0.001). Radiation dose was significantly higher with iCT compared to CBCT (P < 0.0001). Under experimental conditions, accuracy rates of > 98% were achieved for navigated CPS placement regardless of the imaging modality or navigation system used. Radiation doses were significantly lower for CBCT compared to iCT guidance.
The role of dogs is associated with owner management practices and characteristics, but not with perceived canine behaviour problems
Authors: Gillet Laura , Simon Barbara , Kubinyi Eniko 
Published: November 2024

AbstractOwned dogs are often regarded as family members, best friends, or even as substitutes for children. These new roles and their effects on human well-being have received scientific attention, but little is known about how attributing such social functions to dogs might influence the caring behaviour of the owner, which in turn can impact canine welfare. Our online survey of Hungarian dog owners (N = 790) aimed to describe what owners appreciate the most and the least in their dogs and to investigate the relationship between the social and non-social functions of the dog, the characteristics of the owner and the dog, the management practices of the owner, as well as the dog’s behaviour, including behaviour problems. We found that most owners appreciated petting and physical contact with their dog (97.6%), followed by ‘unconditional love’ (93.7%), the dog’s beauty (88.4%), and walking with the dog (86.5%). The most frequently mentioned problems were socialisation issues (20.4%) and lack of time (15.9%). Regarding canine behaviour, jumping up (33.2%), chasing animals (28.5%), territoriality (26.7%), and overexcitement (20.9%) were common problems. Almost a quarter of owners rated their dogs as totally obedient and 30.6% as totally safe off-leash. We identified three profiles of dog owners based on the roles they attribute to their dogs. Dogs with both companionship and practical functions (31.1%) were perceived as more obedient and provided higher safety benefits to their owners than others. Dogs regarded as ‘companion animals’ (19.4%) spent less time with their owners and had older owners than others. Lastly, owners labelled as ‘dog parents’ (49.5%) were more likely to keep their dog indoors only than others. Importantly, the roles attributed to dogs were not associated with owner-reported canine behaviour problems. We concluded that while the functions humans attribute to dogs are multiple and appear to have direct implications for the dogs’ daily lives, these variations in management practices do not necessarily seem to compromise their welfare.
Experimental and theoretical investigation of cationic-based fluorescent-tagged polyacrylate copolymers for improving oil recovery
Authors: Abd-Elaal Ali A. , Tawfik Salah M. , Abd-Elhamid Ahmed , Salem Khalaf G. , El-hoshoudy A. N. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe growing need for energy and the depletion of oil wells necessitate advanced Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) techniques, particularly water and polymer flooding, which play a crucial role in augmenting hydrocarbon recovery rates. However, water flooding in high-permeability layers often leads to water breakthroughs, reduced sweep efficiency, and the formation of preferential channels, posing significant challenges to oil recovery and reservoir management. Conformance control treatments, including the use of polymer microspheres, offer a promising solution by sealing high-permeability zones and enhancing sweep efficiency. This study focuses on the application of fluorescent polymer microspheres based on polyacrylamide, which is extensively employed in the oil sector as an oil displacement agent. Fluorescent polymers called Poly 400, Poly 200, and Poly 600, incorporating cationic methacrylamide monomers, were synthesized through copolymerization to create amphiphilic polymers with enhanced stability and functionality. These fluorescent polymers were evaluated through flooding tests using a quarter-five-spot model of transparent quartz glass under UV light, allowing for instantaneous measurement and observation of fluorescence intensity. At reservoir conditions, the oil displacement experiments confirm that the incremental oil after water flooding by Poly 400, Poly 200, and Poly 600, is 13.1%, 9.1%, and 6.1% of OOIP respectively. The findings showed that fluorescent polymer microspheres could efficiently target high-permeability layers, adapt to varying pore throat sizes, and improve the plugging rate of high-permeability channels, thereby optimizing oil recovery. A subsequent simulation study using the CMG simulator provided further insights into the efficacy of these fluorescent polymers as EOR agents, revealing their potential to enhance sweep efficiency and enhance oil recovery. Simulation results showed that oil saturation decreased from 68% (initial) to 13.5%, 16.1%, and 18.3% after Poly 400, Poly 200, and Poly 600 flooding respectively. This work highlights the potential of fluorescent polymer microspheres as a valuable tool for EOR applications, offering significant advancements in reservoir management and oil recovery optimization.
Coordinated distributed model predictive control for multi energy carrier systems
Authors: El-Afifi Magda I. , Eladl Abdelfattah A. , El-Saadawi Magdi M. , Sedhom Bishoy E. , Osman Samaa F. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractIntroducing Energy hubs (EHs) is a beneficial strategy for incorporating quickly expanding renewable energies. However, the stochastic nature of renewable energy sources (RESs) and fluctuating energy demand have produced a number of difficulties, including unstable voltage/frequency, challenging energy management, and difficult network interaction. Additionally, the changing in response time of electrical and heat demands will make control challenging. This paper proposes a distributed control system for use with dynamic EHs. The RESs and loads present in the multi-carrier system cause the dynamics considering here. In order to optimise system performance, this research suggests a distributed model predictive control strategy that considers expected behaviour and operational restrictions. The strategy’s potential is demonstrated via simulations in which the proposed scheme is applied to a benchmark system.
High detail resolution cellulose structures through electroprinting
Authors: Rezaei Farnaz , Carlsson Daniel O. , Dahlstrom Jimmy Hedin , Lindh Jonas , Johansson Stefan 
Published: November 2024

AbstractElectrospinning is a technique used to fabricate polymer fibers in micro- and nanoscales. Due to the large distance between the nozzle and collector, there is a limited positioning accuracy of electrospun fibers. To enhance the possibility of fabricating structures with micrometer placement, an electroprinting technique has been developed. By reducing the distance between the nozzle and the collector it is demonstrated that it is possible to get an improved control over fiber positioning which gives a possibility to fabricate designed 3D structures at the micron scale. In this study, cellulose acetate (CA) has been selected as a biomaterial to advance the 3D printing of membranes with possible use in separation applications. Various parameters, such as CA concentration and molecular weight, printing speed, printing pattern, applied voltage, etc. are evaluated with respect to printing control. Results indicate that by optimizing the printing parameters it is possible to print structures with inter- fiber distances down to 3 µm and fiber diameters at a sub-µm scale. This electroprinting development is promising for the fabrication of customized separation membranes. However, printing speed still remains a challenge.
Nutritional composition, bioactive compounds and antioxidant potentiality of some indigenous vegetables consumed in Bangladesh
Authors: Mila Khurshida Jahan , Hassan Jahidul , Hasan Md. Fakhrul , Alfagham Alanoud T. , Ali Liakat , Islam Md. Saiful , Zubayer Md. , Gomasta Joydeb , Ozaki Yukio , Siddiqui Manzer H. , Khalid Farhan , Mondal Md. Ferdous 
Published: November 2024

AbstractFood and nutrition security are essential for accomplishing sustainable development goals, and a growing population requires various food sources to address hunger and nutrition. Indigenous vegetables are nutritious, healthy, and adaptable to local conditions, making them a potential food and nutrition security resource. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the nutritional richness of indigenous vegetables by comparing the nutritional content of commonly grown indigenous vegetables like Chenopodium album (Bathua), Coccinia grandis (Telakucha), Amaranthus viridis (Shaknotey), Moringa oleifera (Shojne), Alternanthera philoxeroides (Malancha), and Xanthium strumarium (Ghagra) to BARI Lalshak-1 (Amaranthus tricolor). Shojne violet had the highest lightness (L*), directions (b*), and chroma (c*) of 43.50, 23.69, and 25.02, respectively and telakucha had the highest luminosity (h°) of 114.11. Shaknotey had more moisture (88.97 %) than bathua green (66.62 %) or ghagra (72.55 %). Ghagra had the most chlorophyll a (1.11 mg/g), b (0.65 mg/g), total chlorophyll (2.04 mg/g), ascorbic acid (22.0 mg/100 g), and flavonoids (50.1 mgQE/100 g). Bathua red had significant levels of anthocyanin, carotenoids, and strongest antioxidant activity (IC50 value): 42.9 µg/g, 0.24 mg/g, and 12.4 µg/mL, respectively. Shojne green and telakucha were found rich in phenolic content (136.0 mgGAE/100 g) and β-carotene (2.05 mg/100 g), respectively. Moreover, the studied indigenous vegetables were rich in minerals, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and iron, with a very high K content (49.4–79.4 mg/g). Correlation matrix and PCA showed that ghagra, shojne, and bathua species were nutritionally superior to others. Therefore, the current findings suggest that ghara, shojne and bathua can become a nutrient-rich indigenous vegetable and improve human nutrition.
Logistic organ dysfunction system as an early risk stratification tool after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Tuzi Sheri , Kranawetter Beate , Moerer Onnen , Rohde Veit , Mielke Dorothee , Malinova Vesna 
Published: November 2024

AbstractAneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) not only causes neurological deficits but also influences extracerebral organ functions. The Logistic Organ Dysfunction System (LODS) reliably captures organ dysfunctions and predicts mortality of critically ill patients. This study investigated LODS in the setting of aSAH as a surrogate marker for early brain injury (EBI). Patients with aSAH treated between 2012 and 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. LODS was calculated within 24 h upon admission applying functional parameters for each organ system. The EBI was evaluated based on 1-persistent loss of consciousness, 2-global cerebral edema, and 3-intracranial blood burden. The outcome was assessed with the modified Rankin scale (mRS) at 3-months after ictus (mRS > 2 = unfavorable outcome). A total of 324 patients with a mean age of 55.9 years were included. Severe EBI (EBI grade ≥ 3) was found in 38% (124/324) of patients. Higher LODS score correlated with severe EBI (p < 0.0001) and poor outcome (p < 0.0001). LODS with a cutoff of 7 allowed a reliable discrimination (AUC 78%, p < 0.0001) of patients with severe from those with mild EBI. The LODS-calculation as an early risk stratification and prognostic tool reliably reflected the severity of EBI after aSAH and correlated with outcome.
A genome-wide association study of the racing performance traits in Yili horses based on Blink and FarmCPU models
Authors: Wang Chuankun , Zeng Yaqi , Wang Jianwen , Wang Tongliang , Li Xueyan , Shen Zhehong , Meng Jun , Yao Xinkui 
Published: November 2024

AbstractRacing performance traits are the main indicators for evaluating the performance and value of sport horses. The aim of this study was to identify the key genes for racing performance traits in Yili horses by performing a genome-wide association study (GWAS). Breeding values for racing performance traits were calculated for Yili horses (n = 827) using an animal model. Genome-wide association analysis of racing performance traits in horses (n = 236) was carried out using the Blink, and FarmCPU models in GAPIT software, and genes within the significant regions were functionally annotated. The results of GWAS showed that a total of 24 significant SNP markers (P < 6.05 × 10− 9) and 22 suggestive SNP markers (P < 1.21 × 10− 7) were identified. Among them, the Blink associated 16 significant SNP loci and FarmCPU associated 12 significant SNP loci. A total of 127 candidate genes (50 significant) were annotated. Among these, CNTN6 (motor coordination), NIPA1 (neuronal development), and DCC (dopamine pathway maturation) may be the main candidate genes affecting speed traits. SHANK2 (neuronal synaptic regulation), ISCA1 (mitochondrial protein assembly), and KCNIP4 (neuronal excitability) may be the main candidate genes affecting ranking score traits. A common locus (ECA1: 22698579) was significantly associated with racing performance traits, and the function of the genes at this locus needs to be studied in depth. These findings will provide new insights into the detection and selection of genetic variants for racing performance and will help to accelerate the genetic improvement of Yili horses.
Tube current reduction and iterative image reconstruction for computed tomography myelography
Authors: Paprottka Karolin J. , Schultz Vivian , Kupfer Karina , Beer Meinrad , Zimmer Claus , Kirschke Jan S. , Baum Thomas , Sollmann Nico 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThis study aimed to systematically evaluate the impact of a low-dose (LD) protocol using tube current reduction on image quality, the confidence for intervention planning and guidance, and diagnostic yield for computed tomography (CT) myelography. We retrospectively analyzed 68 patients who underwent CT myelography, with 34 investigations performed with a standard-dose (SD) and 34 investigations performed with a LD protocol (using tube current reduction). The different scans were matched considering variables such as sex, age, presence of spinal instrumentation, and body diameter. All images were evaluated by two readers (R1 and R2) using Likert scales. Image noise was measured using attenuation values of paraspinal muscle tissue. Images were reconstructed with model-based iterative reconstruction (post-myelography diagnostic scans) or hybrid reconstruction (planning, periprocedural, and diagnostic scans). Image quality, overall artifacts, image contrast, and confidence for planning or intervention guidance were rated good to perfect for both SD and LD scans according to evaluations of both readers. Inter-reader agreement was good to very good for the images from intervention planning (κ ≥ 0.80) as well as for intervention guidance (κ ≥ 0.77), as well as for diagnostic scans (κ ≥ 0.85). Image noise was similar between SD and LD scans performed for planning of the interventional procedures (model-based iterative reconstruction: SD 45.37 ± 7.29 HU vs. LD 45.17 ± 9.12 HU; hybrid reconstruction: SD 46.05 ± 7.43 HU vs. LD 45.05 ± 8.69 HU; p > 0.05). The volume-weighted CT dose index (CTDIvol) and size-specific dose estimate (SSDE) were significantly lower for the planning scans as well as the periprocedural scans when using the LD protocol as compared to the SD protocol (p < 0.05). In conclusion, implementation of a LD protocol with tube current reduction for CT myelography is a feasible option to reduce radiation exposure, especially when combined with iterative image reconstruction. In our study, LD imaging did not have a relevant negative impact on image quality, confidence for intervention planning or guidance, or diagnostic certainty for CT myelography.
The effects of a digital health intervention on patient activation in chronic kidney disease
Authors: Lightfoot Courtney J. , Wilkinson Thomas J. , Sohansoha Gurneet K. , Gillies Clare L. , Vadaszy Noemi , Ford Ella C. , Davies Melanie J. , Yates Thomas , Smith Alice C. , Graham-Brown Matthew P. M. ,   On behalf of SMILE-K collaborators, McCafferty Kieran , Phillips Thomas , Winter-Goodwin Barbara , Sridharan Siva , Doulton Timothy , Adan Carlito , Bramham Kate , Ahmed Aimun , Nixon Andrew , Goldsmith Chris , Howse Matthew , Mitra Sandip , Abeygunasekara Sumith , Balasubramaniam Gowrie , Winnett Georgia , Ahmed Sohail , Donne Rosie , Brand Sarah , Lewis Robert , Sangala Nicholas , Dickinson Steve , Taal Maarten , Bingham Coralie , Curran Simon , Popoola Joyce , Stein Andrew , Veighey Kristin , Wallis Annika , Laboi Paul , Robins Vicky 
Published: November 2024

AbstractMy Kidneys & Me (MK&M), a digital health intervention delivering specialist health and lifestyle education for people with CKD, was developed and its effects tested (SMILE-K trial, ISRCTN18314195, 18/12/2020). 420 adult patients with CKD stages 3–4 were recruited and randomised 2:1 to intervention (MK&M) (n = 280) or control (n = 140) groups. Outcomes, including Patient Activation Measure (PAM-13), were collected at baseline and 20 weeks. Complete case (CC) and per-protocol (PP) analyses were conducted. 210 (75%) participants used MK&M more than once. PAM-13 increased at 20 weeks compared to control (CC: +3.1 (95%CI: −0.2 to 6.4), P = 0.065; PP: +3.6 (95%CI: 0.2 to 7.0), P = 0.041). In those with low activation at baseline, significant between-group differences were observed (CC: +6.6 (95%CI: 1.3 to 11.9), P = 0.016; PP: +9.2 (95%CI: 4.0 to 14.6), P < 0.001) favouring MK&M group. MK&M improved patient activation in those who used the resource compared to standard care, although the overall effect was non-significant. The greatest benefits were seen in those with low activation.
Integrated multi-omics identifies pathways governing interspecies interaction between A. fumigatus and K. pneumoniae
Authors: Bitencourt Tamires , Nogueira Filomena , Jenull Sabrina , Phan-Canh Trinh , Tscherner Michael , Kuchler Karl , Lion Thomas 
Published: November 2024

AbstractPolymicrobial co- and superinfections involving bacterial and fungal pathogens pose serious challenges for diagnosis and therapy, and are associated with elevated morbidity and mortality. However, the metabolic dynamics of bacterial–fungal interactions (BFI) and the resulting impact on disease outcome remain largely unknown. The fungus Aspergillus fumigatus and the bacterium Klebsiella pneumoniae are clinically important pathogens sharing common niches in the human body, especially in the lower respiratory tract. We have exploited an integrated multi-omics approach to unravel the complex and multifaceted processes implicated in the interspecies communication involving these pathogens in mixed biofilms. In this setting, A. fumigatus responds to the bacterial challenge by rewiring its metabolism, attenuating the translational machineries, and by connecting secondary with primary metabolism, while K. pneumoniae maintains its central metabolism and translation activity. The flexibility in the metabolism of A. fumigatus and the ability to quickly adapt to the changing microenvironment mediated by the bacteria highlight new possibilities for studying the impact of cross-communication between competing interaction partners. The data underscore the complexity governing the dynamics underlying BFI, such as pronounced metabolic changes mounted in A. fumigatus interacting with K. pneumoniae. Our findings identify candidate biomarkers potentially exploitable for improved clinical management of BFI.
Neural reward system reflects individual value comparison strategy in cost-benefit decisions
Authors: Le Houcq Corbi Zarah , Soutschek Alexander 
Published: November 2024

AbstractA core assumption in decision neuroscience is that individuals decide between options by comparing option-specific subjective reward values. Psychological accounts challenge this view and suggest that decisions are better explained by comparisons between choice attributes than by comparisons between option-specific values, casting doubts on the interpretation of activation in the neural reward system as subjective value signals. Here, we provide neuroimaging and pharmacological evidence that value-related neural activity follows the value comparison strategy employed by an individual on the psychological level. Neural model comparisons reveal that activation in the striatum, rather than generally reflecting attribute-wise or option-wise value comparisons, reflects the value comparison strategy that provides the best explanation for an individual’s choice behavior. Strikingly, manipulating activation in the dopaminergic reward system reveals that dopamine antagonism counteracts the engagement in an individual’s dominant value comparison strategy. Together, our findings provide evidence for the biological plausibility of psychological accounts of decision making and emphasize the importance of neural model comparisons to prevent misinterpretations of brain activation.