bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Global, regional and national burden of colorectal cancer and its risk factors, 1990-2021: a systematic analysis for the GBD 2021
Authors: Zeng Xuan , Chen Long , Liang Liang , Zhang XiaoYong , Liu Ning , Wang Jibo 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Importance:
Colorectal cancer (CRC) represents a significant portion of the global cancer burden, underscoring the need for a detailed epidemiological assessment. This analysis is essential for informing targeted public health interventions and guiding strategic resource allocation.
Objective
The present study aims to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the global, regional, and national burden of CRC and its associated risk factors from 1990 to 2021, utilizing data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 study.
Methods
A comprehensive analysis was conducted to assess the distribution of CRC across 204 countries and territories, focusing on the burden in relation to age, gender, and geographic location. The study also evaluated the impact of key risk factors on disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) across 21 GBD regions. A Bayesian age-period-cohort (BAPC) model was employed to project the future trajectory of CRC over the next three decades.
Findings:
The 2021 global incidence of CRC is projected to be approximately 2,194,143 cases (95% uncertainty interval [UI], 2,001,272 to 2,359,390), with a prevalence of 11,679,120 (95% UI, 10,774,527 to 12,538,400) and 24,401,100 DALYs (95% UI, 22,689,369 to 26,161,518) worldwide. Significant regional variations in the burden of CRC were observed, with Central Europe experiencing the highest impact. The burden of CRC increases with age, peaking among the elderly population aged 84 to 94 years. From 1990 to 2021, the age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR), age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR), and age-standardized disability-adjusted life years rate (ASDR) for CRC showed an upward trend, with a more pronounced burden observed in males compared to females. Future projections suggest a potential decrease in burden of CRC, with a more substantial reduction expected among females.
Conclusion
The study reveals regional disparities in the burden of CRC, with Central Europe being the most significantly affected region. Dietary risk factors were identified as primary contributing factor. These findings enhance our understanding of the global distribution and variation in CRC prevalence, providing valuable insights for cancer control planning.
Mediastinal A5: a novel artery variant of the pulmonary artery system: a case report
Authors: Li Gang , Gong Sheng , Wang Ning , Peng Yong , Yao Xiaojun 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Variations in the pulmonary artery require increased attention from thoracic surgeons prior to or during lobectomy to avoid serious intraoperative bleeding. Patients with intrathoracic adhesions typically experience more intraoperative bleeding and therefore require conversion to open thoracotomy. The inability to recognize variant pulmonary arteries in the context of adhesions may have a fatal impact on the patient, especially for patients with adhesions caused by pulmonary tuberculosis.
Case presentation
A 52-year-old man who presented with adhesions caused by pulmonary tuberculosis in the right upper lobe underwent video-assisted thoracic lobectomy in our department. The precise identification of a mediastinal A5 artery variant (an artery entering the lateral segment of the right middle lobe) originating from the proximal pulmonary artery trunk and then traveling between the branches of the superior pulmonary vein parallel to the right middle pulmonary artery trunk ensured a safe surgery. Right upper lobe lobectomy was performed following isolation of the mediastinal A5 variant without serious intraoperative bleeding.
Conclusion
Exact identification of mediastinal A5 variants can help surgeons safely perform right upper lobectomy.
Impact of Preoperative Frailty on Outcomes in Patients Subjected to Emergency Laparotomy: A Prospective Study
Authors: Isand Karl Gunnar , Aim Allan , Bahhir Artjom , Uuetoa Marit , Kolk Helgi , Saar Sten , Lepner Urmas , Talving Peep 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Emergency laparotomy (EL) is a high-risk procedure, especially in frail patients. This study investigates the prevalence of frailty in referral facilities, evaluates the impact of frailty on postoperative morbidity and mortality, and assesses the long-term effect of EL on patients’ functional status.
Methods
This prospective multicentre cohort study included patients aged 50 years and older who underwent EL. Frailty was assessed using the Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS). The primary outcome measure was the prevalence of frailty and its impact on the 180-day mortality rate after EL. Secondary outcomes were 30- and 90-day mortality, complications requiring invasive procedures, length of hospital stay (LOS), and changes in CFS and in living arrangement at six months post-operation.
Results
The study enrolled 251 patients with a median age of 73 years. Frailty was prevalent, with 57.8% of patients classified as frail (CFS 5–9). In Cox regression analysis, the hazard ratios of 180-day mortality with 95% confidence intervals were 2.4 (0.8–7.1) for CFS 4, 7.5 (2.8–20.0) for CFS 5, 14.4 (5.5–37.8) for CFS 6–8, and 28.7 (9.7–84.6) for CFS 9, compared to non-frail patients. Increasing frailty was also associated with higher 30 and 90- day mortality, increased risk of complications, and prolonged LOS. Additionally, at six months post-EL, patients experienced a further decline in functional status compared to their preoperative state.
Conclusion
The 180-day mortality after EL is significantly higher for patients on higher levels of frailty. Likewise, the preoperative frailty has a significant negative impact on postoperative outcomes both short- and long-term.
Design of a Slotted Patch Antenna for RF Energy Harvesting in the WiFi 6E band
Authors: Ahmed Md. Firoz , Alam Arshadul , Islam Md. Ashraful , Paul Pronab Kumar , Bashir Samiul , Uddin A. N.M. Shihab , Kabir M. Hasnat , Islam Md. Rashedul , Islam Md. Bipul 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

The increasing demand for wireless communication underscores the necessity for effective RF energy harvesting solutions, particularly within the burgeoning WiFi 6E spectrum (5.925–7.125 GHz). This paper details the design and evaluation of a compact slotted patch antenna with partial grounding specifically optimized for RF energy harvesting in this frequency range. The objective is to create a high-performance antenna with a wide bandwidth, making it ideal for integration into energy-harvesting devices. The antenna features a slotted patch configuration combined with a partial grounding approach and is constructed on an FR4 substrate measuring 9.18 × 9.18 × 1.6 mm³. This substrate has a dielectric constant of 4.3, a thickness of 1.6 mm, and a tangent loss of 0.025. A 50-Ohm microstrip line is used for feeding the antenna. Simulations performed using CST Microwave Studio reveal remarkable performance characteristics, including a reflection coefficient (S11) of -34.02739 dB, a Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR) of 1.040519, and a bandwidth of 2.22396 GHz, extending from 4.948941 GHz to 7.172901 GHz. Additionally, the antenna demonstrates a gain of 0.276 dBi, a directivity of 2.98 dBi, and an efficiency of-2.702 dB (53.68%). These findings indicate that the antenna is well-suited for energy-harvesting applications within the WiFi 6E band. Its compact dimensions, high efficiency, and broad bandwidth position it as a promising option for a variety of applications, including wireless sensor networks, wearable devices, and Internet of Things (IoT) systems, all of which depend significantly on energy harvesting for self-sustained operation.
Prevalence and associated factors of workplace violence among Chinese nurses in tertiary hospitals: a national cross-sectional study
Authors: Yuan Jianghao , Yang Jiaxin , Liu Yiting , Ning Meng , Yu Qiang , Li Xuting , Chen Zengyu , Huang Chongmei , Zhang Dan , Ren Zhenhui , Bin Chunhui , Li Yamin , Tian Yusheng 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: Workplace violence (WPV) is a major issue for nurses worldwide, causing both physical and mental harm, and impairing their ability to work effectively. Several researches reported on the prevalence of WPV among nurses in China, ranging from 56.4–71%. However, little information is available about the correlates of different types of WPV among nurses across different departments in tertiary hospitals in China.Methods: A self-designed WeChat-based questionnaire was utilized, incorporating demographic and occupational factors. WPV was measured using the Chinese version Workplace Violence Scale. Two questions regarding career choices were employed to assess career satisfaction. Descriptive analyses, chi-square tests, and bivariate logistic regression analysis were conducted.Results: 122,237 participants were included in the analysis. 26.6% of them experienced at least one form of WPV in the past year. Male sex, shift work, postgraduate education, senior professional title, department, and working more than 50 hours per week were factors associated with WPV. Nurses encountered high levels of WPV were less likely to be satisfied with their nursing career.Conclusions: WPV is a special concern for Chinese nurses. Interventions to reduce WPV should be conducted by health authorities to create a zero-violence working environment for nurses, and to increase their career satisfaction.
SNRPB2 facilitates esophageal squamous cell carcinoma oncogenesis and progression via E2F4 stabilization
Authors: Xu Feng , Zhu Chen-cheng , Lu Chen , Ning Guang-yao , Zhang Ren-quan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Esophageal cancer (ESCA) has poor prognosis. Small nuclear ribonucleoprotein polypeptide B2 (SNRPB2) involves in pre-mRNA splicing a component of the spliceosome. However, the potential role of SNRPB2 in tumors remains poorly understood. This study aimed to determine the clinical relevance and prognostic value of SNRPB2 in patients with ESCA.
Methods
SNRPB2 mRNA expression levels and genetic alterations were analyzed using GEPIA2 and cBioPortal. The SNRPB2 protein were detected by immunohistochemical staining using paraffin-embedded tissue specimens of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Cell experiments were performed to verify the role of SNRPB2 in ESCC cells. TIMER, GO, and GSEA analyses were performed to investigate potential biological functions of SNRPB2. Cycloheximide (CHX) chase was used to test protein stability.
Results
SNRPB2 mRNA was highly expressed in ESCA and associated with tumor progression and clinical prognosis. SNRPB2 protein was highly expressed in ESCC and significantly correlated with vessel carcinoma embolus, lymph node metastasis, clinical stage, and tumor grade. in vitro and in vivo experiments showed that the knockdown of SNRPB2 significantly suppressed proliferation, migration, and invasion. GSEA showed that SNRPB2 inhibits the Rb/E2F pathway. SNRPB2 positively correlates with E2F4 by increasing E2F4 protein stability. E2F4 overexpression dramatically eliminated the effects of SNRPB2 knockdown on ESCC tumor progression.
Conclusion
SNRPB2 promotes the proliferation, migration, and invasion of ESCC cells by increasing E2F4 protein stability. SNRPB2 has a prognostic role and immunoregulatory potential in ESCA, and is an important factor for prediction, evaluation, and individualized treatment.
Independent risk factors associated with Uric Acid Stone disease: A retrospective study
Authors: Huang Jinxing , Aizezi Xierzhati , Ge Xue , Wang Zheng , Ma Yuan , Li Jifu , Keremu Abuduweili 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objective
To find out the independent risk factors for uric acid stone formation through a retrospective single-center clinical analysis, to provide a scientific basis for the prevention and treatment strategies.
Methods
We reviewed 772 patients with urinary tract stones in our institution, divided into the uric acid stone and non-uric acid stone groups. We collected basic patient information and the results of blood and urine tests. We used descriptive statistics, t-tests, and chi-square tests for intergroup comparisons, and performed univariate analysis to screen significant variables, and multivariate Logistic regression to determine the independent risk factors for uric acid stone formation.
Results
Univariate analysis showed that males and patients with a history of hypertension were more likely to develop uric acid stones (P < 0.05). There were significant statistical differences in blood sodium, potassium, anion gap, creatinine, urea, uric acid, TG, LDL, VLDL, urinary calcium, uric acid, and pH between the groups (P < 0.05). Multivariate Logistic regression identified a history of hypertension (OR = 2.921, P < 0.01), abnormal blood uric acid (OR = 14.762, P < 0.01), low blood sodium levels (OR = 0.873, P = 0.014), low urinary pH (OR = 0.398, P = 0.001), and high urinary uric acid levels (OR = 1.00, P < 0.01) as independent risk factors for uric acid stone formation.
Conclusion
A history of hypertension, abnormal blood uric acid levels, low blood sodium levels, low urinary pH, and high urinary uric acid levels are independent risk factors for uric acid stone formation, providing diagnostic evidence for clinical practice and guidance for preventing and treating uric acid stones.
Digital Monitoring of Tai Chi Balance Training in Older Adults Using Wearable Sensors and Machine Learning
Authors: Corniani Giulia , Sapienza Stefano , Vergara-Diaz Gloria , Valerio Andrea , Vaziri Ashkan , Bonato Paolo , Wayne Peter 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Tai Chi, an Asian martial art, is renowned for its health benefits, particularly in promoting healthy aging among older adults, improving balance, and reducing fall risk. However, methodological challenges hinder the objective measurement of adherence to and proficiency in performing a training protocol, critical for health outcomes. This study introduces a framework using wearable sensors and machine learning to monitor Tai Chi training adherence and proficiency. Data were collected from 32 participants with inertial measurement units (IMUs) while performing six Tai Chi movements evaluated and scored for adherence and proficiency by experts.
Our framework comprises a model for identifying the specific Tai Chi movement being performed and a model to assess performance proficiency, both employing Random Forest algorithms and features from IMU signals. The movement identification model achieved high accuracy (micro F1: 90.05%). Proficiency assessment models also achieved high accuracy (mean micro F1: 78.64%).
This study shows the feasibility of using IMUs and machine learning for detailed Tai Chi movement analysis, offering a scalable method for monitoring practice. This approach has the potential to objectively enhance the evaluation of Tai Chi training protocol adherence, learnability, progression in proficiency, and safety in Tai Chi programs, and thus inform training program parameters that are key to achieving optimal clinical outcomes.
Research title: Coping Skills and its Associated Factors Among Breast Cancer Women in Iraq: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alsdfan Rasha Mohammed , Kadir Azidah Abdul , Noor Norhayati Mohd , Al-jubour Mohammed Baqer Abbas 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Coping skills play a vital role in managing the physical and psychological effects of breast cancer. Despite improvements in early detection and treatment, breast cancer survivors continue to face long-term challenges after diagnosis. This study aims to evaluate the coping skills employed by breast cancer women in Iraq and to identify the sociodemographic, clinical, and psychological factors associated with these coping behaviours. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 244 breast cancer women in the Medical City Teaching Oncology Hospital, Baghdad, Iraq, from August 2023 to October 2023. Coping skills and psychological factors were assessed using the BRIEF COPE-28 and Hospital Anxiety Depression scale, respectively. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were also taken. The associations between the coping skills and associated factors were evaluated using multiple linear regression analysis. Results: The mean (SD) coping skills for active coping, passive coping, and seeking support were 5.96 (1.31), 4.00 (1.10), and 7.58 (0.84), respectively. Multiple linear regression revealed hormonal therapy, anxiety, and depression were significant factors influencing active coping. The passive coping associated factors were the type of surgery and anxiety. The seeking support was notably affected by the stage of disease, duration since surgery, and anxiety. Conclusion: This study highlights the association factors influencing the coping skills among breast cancer women in Iraq, and the need for targeted psychological and clinical interventions to improve coping skills.
An EfficientNet-global attention mechanism model based on road pavement type identification for vehicles
Authors: Ni Zhe-Yuan , Wang Jun-Cheng 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

This study presents an enhanced road pavement-type identification method for vehicles to address the challenge posed by the complex texture characteristics of various road surfaces. First, a comprehensive dataset, including seven pavement types, i.e., dry and wet asphalt, immersed asphalt, dry and wet concrete, and icy and snowy roads, was constructed based on the existing open-source road surface classification dataset and road testing experiments. Second, an EfficientNet-GAM model was developed, and a global attention mechanism (GAM) was incorporated to streamline the model’s complexity while preserving the global feature representation. Then, label smoothing was applied to the cross-entropy loss function, and a cosine learning rate decay strategy was employed to accelerate model convergence to improve the model’s learning of similar pavement information. Finally, the experimental results demonstrate the model’s effectiveness in identifying various pavement types with high accuracy (98.11%) and computational efficiency.
Impact of Tele-Nursing on Maternal Self-Efficacy and Anxiety in Post-Discharge Epilepsy Care: an interventional study
Authors: Seif Marzieh , Khodahakhshi Mohammad reza , Roozbahani Reyhaneh , Dehghani Maryam , Hakimi Hamideh , Ranjbar Hadi , Fayyazi Afshin 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders and one of the chronic childhood diseases that affects many children every year. Therefore, the present study was conducted with the aim of determining the effect of tele-nursing after discharge on the self-efficacy and anxiety of mothers with children with epilepsy.
Methods
In this experimental study, 90 mothers of children with epilepsy were selected by available sampling method and then randomly divided into two control and intervention groups. Demographic information questionnaire, Spielberger anxiety questionnaire and caregiver self-efficacy questionnaire were used to collect data. The intervention group was trained by telephone in the form of 10 telephone calls at regular intervals during two months. Data collected was analyzed using SPSS version 16.
Results
The results showed that the two control and intervention groups were similar in terms of mother's age, gender, mother's occupation, and parents' education. In addition, the anxiety scores of the two groups were similar before the intervention, and after the intervention the two groups had a statistically significant difference (P < 0.001). In terms of the self-efficacy score, the two groups had a statistically significant difference after the intervention (P < 0.001).
Conclusion
Tele-nursing after discharge caused a significant decrease in anxiety and increased self-efficacy of mothers in taking care of their children, therefore, it is recommended to use a comprehensive program in the form of tele-nursing according to parents' educational needs and wishes.
Multifunctional Cellulose-Based Adsorbent from Waste Wood Wool for Heavy Metal Removal and Bacterial Disinfection: Insights into Adsorption Behavior, and DFT Calculations
Authors: Bhardwaj Manisha , Jaiswal Shivangi , Misra Namita , Kumari Nirmala , Shukla Shruti , Dwivedi Jaya , Sharma Swapnil 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

The present study demonstrates the isolation of pure cellulose (CU) from Cedrus deodara (C. deodara) wood wool. Further, CU and modified mercaptobenzothiazole-functionalized CU (CU-MBT) were evaluated for adsorptive removal of Hg(II), Pb(II), Cd(II) ions and bacterial strains from water. Advanced characterizations through TGA, HR-TEM, FE-SEM, FTIR, XRD, EDX and XPS were performed to analyze the adsorbents. The adsorption kinetics of CU and CU-MBT followed the pseudo-second-order model with high regression coefficients (0.99) for Pb(II), Cd(II), and Hg(II). At pH 6 and pH 7, the thiol-functionalized CU-MBT displayed better adsorption capacities i.e. 185.18 mg/g, 178.57 mg/g, and 140.84 mg/g for Pb(II), Cd(II), and Hg(II) respectively. Several oxygen and sulphur-containing groups present at high densities in the CU-MBT are attributed to impressive adsorption properties towards Hg(II), Pb(II), Cd(II). Further, DFT calculations validated the stability and reactivity of CU and CU-MBT by utilizing their structural characteristics. Later, in the antibacterial analysis, the developed adsorbents revealed good antibacterial properties. In conclusion, CU-MBT has considerable calibre to act as an effective adsorbent in removing Pb(II), Cd(II), and Hg(II) as well as bacterial species from water, demonstrating its potential in water treatment.
Determination Of Stress Distribution in The Temporomandibular Joint Treated By Discectomy With And Without Disc Replacement Using Buccal Fat Pad By Finite Element Method
Authors: Pera Eren , Kıymet Ümit 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Purpose
The aim of this study is to assess how discectomy affects stress distribution and peak values of the mandibular condyle and glenoid fossa and how the introduction of an interpositional free fat graft reduces stress in the above structures.
Materials and Methods
Stress analysis was conducted using 3D finite element models of a healthy joint, after disc removal and with interpositional material.
Results
The peak stress values of the condyle in the health joint model were approximately 8.19 Mpa in the condyle and 9.84 MPa in the glenoid fossa. After disc removal Von Misses stress were 158.5 MPa in the mandibular condyle and 109.7 MPa in the glenoid fossa. The model with free fat graft as a disk substitution showed a significant reduction in the Von Misses stresses; approximately 50–80% in the fossa and condyle, respectively.
Conclusions
Within the limitations of the present study, we concluded that the use of fat tissue as grafting material to replace the articular disc after discectomy can prevent excessive stress concentration and reduce peak values of the mandibular condyle and glenoid fossa.