bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Left bundle branch area pacing versus endocardial resynchronization in patients with heart failure
Authors: Diaz Juan Carlos , Bastidas Oriana , Aristizabal Julian , Marin Jorge , Niño Cesar , Moreno Sebastian , Ruiz Luis Miguel , Caceres Manuel , Jaraba Elmer , Cabanillas Nestor , Duque Mauricio 
Published: November 2024

AbstractBackgroundLeft bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) and endocardial resynchronization (Endo‐CRT) are alternatives to biventricular pacing for cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT).ObjectiveTo compare the outcomes of LBBAP versus Endo‐CRT using conventional pacing leads.MethodsPatients with heart failure (HF) undergoing CRT with LBBAP or Endo‐CRT were included. The primary efficacy outcome was a composite of HF‐related hospitalization and all‐cause mortality. The primary safety outcome was any procedure‐related complication. Secondary outcomes included procedural characteristics, electrocardiographic, and echocardiographic parameters.ResultsA total of 223 patients (LBBAP n = 197, Endo‐CRT n = 26; mean age 69 ± 10.3 years, 32.3% female) were included. Patients in the LBBAP group had lower NYHA class, shorter preprocedural QRS durations (161 [142–183] vs. 180 [170–203] msec, p < .001), and a lower preprocedural spironolactone use (57.4% vs. 84.6%, p = .009) than patients in the Endo‐CRT group. Fluoroscopy time was significantly shorter in patients undergoing LBBAP (11.4 [7.2–20] vs. 23 [14.2–34.5] min; p < .001). There was no significant difference in the primary efficacy outcome between both groups (Cox proportional HR 1.21, 95% CI 0.635–2.31; p = .56). During follow‐up, patients undergoing LBBAP had a lower incidence of stroke than patients in the Endo‐CRT group (0% vs. 11.5%, p = .001). Postprocedural LVEF (35% [25–45] vs. 40% [20–55]; p = .307) and change in LVEF (7% [0–20] vs. 11% [2–18]; p = .384) were similar between the LBBAP and the Endo‐CRT groups, respectively.ConclusionLBBAP and Endo‐CRT using conventional leads are associated with similar mortality and HF‐related hospitalization, as well as improvements in LVEF. Endo‐CRT is associated with longer fluoroscopy times and a higher risk of stroke.
Age Differences in the Correlation Between the Cardiometabolic Index and Chronic Kidney Disease Risk in Adults With Hypertension
Authors: Tao Yu , Wang Tao , Zhou Wei , Zhu Lingjuan , Yu Chao , Bao Huihui , Li Juxiang , Cheng Xiaoshu 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTLiterature on the association between the cardiometabolic index (CMI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) risk is limited, especially in hypertensive populations. The objective of the present investigation was to assess the relationship between the CMI and CKD risk in a hypertensive population. The current cross‐sectional study included a total of 13 717 individuals with hypertension. The calculation of the CMI was based on the waist‐to‐height ratio and the triglyceride‐to‐high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio. The definition of CKD was based on an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of less than 60 mL/min/1.73 m2. The prevalence of CKD was found to be 4.24% in younger adults (aged < 65 years) and 14.93% in the elderly (aged ≥ 65 years). The results of the multivariate regression analysis indicated that in the elderly group, the CMI was positively associated with CKD risk (odd ratio [OR] 1.29; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.14, 1.46), while no significant relationship was observed in the younger group (OR 1.04, 95% CI: 0.85, 1.27). Furthermore, subgroup analyses did not identify any potential factors that could modify the relationship between the CMI and CKD risk (all p for interaction > 0.05). Among adults with hypertension, there was an independent and positive correlation between the CMI and CKD risk in the elderly, whereas such a correlation was not observed in younger adults.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: ChiCTR1800017274 [China Hypertension Registry Study]
Effect of Different Pretreatments on Drying Characteristics and Physicochemical Properties of Apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.)
Authors: Yilmaz Merve Silanur , Sakiyan Ozge , Isci Asli 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTIn this study, apricot samples were dried by using different drying methods (tray drying, microwave drying, and freeze drying). Moreover, different pretreatments (infrared, ultrasound, and treatment with dipping green tea extract) were also applied to the samples. The effect of process conditions on physical and chemical quality of dried apricot samples were investigated. It was aimed to come of age of these technologies as an alternative to conventional pretreatments. Among all drying techniques, the shortest processing time was achieved by microwave drying at 270 W. Midilli was found to be the best model that fits the moisture ratio values among 10 thin layer models. Freeze dried samples had the lowest water activity which ranged from 0.2260 to 0.4868 and rehydration capacity of dried samples were found to be between 2.40 and 3.09. Besides, it was found that the total phenolic content of dried apricots varied between 99.24 and 512.60 mg GAE/100 g dry matter. In addition, the maximum antioxidant activity values for microwave drying (270 W) were obtained in the green tea extract pretreated samples and calculated to be 1.85 ± 0.01 mg TE/g dry matter. NMR and SEM analysis were also applied to the samples. To sum up, it can be declared that microwave technology and green tea extract pretreatments were superior and had beneficial impacts on the end product's quality.
Autoencoder‐Based Eggshell Crack Detection Using Acoustic Signal
Authors: Yabanova İsmail , Balcı Zekeriya , Yumurtacı Mehmet , Ünler Tarık 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTBreaks or cracks in eggshells offer substantial food safety issues. Bacteria and viruses, in particular, are more likely to enter the egg through breaks and cracks, increasing the risk of food poisoning. Furthermore, deformations in the shell may compromise the integrity of the protective shell, exposing the egg to more external variables and causing it to lose freshness and decay faster. To reduce such hazards, this research created an innovative crack detection system based on an autoencoder (AE) that uses acoustic signals from eggshells. A system that creates an acoustic effect by hitting the eggshell without damaging it was designed, and these effects were recorded through a microphone. Acoustic signal data of size 1 × 1000 was fed into k nearest neighbor (kNN), decision tree (DT), and support vector machine (SVM) classifiers. AE was employed to reduce data size in order to accommodate the raw data's unique features. This AE model, which reduces data size, was used with many classifiers and was able to accurately distinguish between intact and cracked eggs. The built AE‐based classifier model completed the classification procedure with 100% accuracy, including microcracks that are invisible to the naked eye.
The persistence and expansion of sharecropping in a Javanese village
Authors: Wijaya Hanny , White Ben 
Published: November 2024

AbstractIn the Javanese village of Kaliloro, share tenancy in rice cultivation, which was widely predicted to disappear with the Green Revolution, has not declined but expanded since the early 1970s. In this article, building on previous debates on share tenancy, we show how sharecropping has survived and expanded in Kaliloro's generally commoditized agrarian economy. Many share tenancy relationships in Kaliloro link wealthier landowners and landless or near‐landless tenants. But many also occur between households of relatively equal status and between parents and their own children. For both landowners and share tenants, their reasons for reliance on sharecropping over hired labour are complex, going beyond simple comparisons of relative labour costs (to landowners) or labour earnings (to share tenants). The landless and near‐landless are well aware of the exploitative nature of share tenancy, but it remains an important component of their pluriactive livelihoods, even in times of rising farm wage rates, mainly to ensure a supply of rice for domestic consumption. For landowners who are too busy, or unable, to manage cultivation themselves, share tenancy remains the most convenient, effective, and risk‐free labour regime, and mechanism of surplus transfer from direct producer to landowner.
No effect of napping on episodic foresight and prospective memory in kindergarten children
Authors: Konrad Carolin , Voigt Babett 
Published: November 2024

SummaryPreschool children often have problems in remembering to carry out a planned behaviour. This study investigated the impact of napping on episodic foresight (planning for future events) and prospective memory (remembering to perform an action in the future) in 2–3‐year‐old children. In a quasi‐experimental design, we compared children who napped (nap condition, n = 20) after receiving information about an upcoming problem (episodic foresight task) and a delayed intention (prospective memory task) with those who stayed awake (wake condition, n = 43). We hypothesised that napping would improve performance in the episodic foresight and the prospective memory tasks. Contrary to the hypothesis, napping did not significantly affect children's episodic foresight or prospective memory performance, even after controlling for the group difference in age. Task performance was primarily explained by memory effects and age. Further research that incorporates stricter controls and evaluates pre‐nap memory strength is necessary fully to elucidate the complex interplay between napping, age, episodic foresight, and prospective memory performance in young children.
Difference in Drinking Times as a Function of Liquid Consistency in Adults With Oculopharyngeal Muscular Dystrophy: A Comparative Study Using Bostwick Consistometer and IDDSI Flow Test Methods
Authors: Villeneuve‐Rhéaume Annie , Gagnon Cynthia , Germain Isabelle , Côté Claudia 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTThe main objective was to document the differences between drinking times and oral perception between liquids in individuals with dysphagia. A second objective was to assess variations in consistency categorization across instruments. A third objective was to explore the relationship between drinking time and dysphagia severity. A sample of individuals with OPMD (n = 30; 40–75 years) was recruited. Participants drank 80 mL of water, followed by three blinded commercially pre‐thickened cranberry cocktails (CranA, CranB, CranC). Flow rates were measured with Bostwick consistometer, IDDSI Flow Test, and Discovery HR 20 rheometer. Patient‐reported outcome measures were used to assess dysphagia. Mean drinking times for participants with OPMD were as follows: 7.9 ± 4.4 s for water, 10.7 ± 4.8 s for CranA, 12.3 ± 5.7 s for CranB, and 15.2 ± 7.2 s for CranC. All four times were statistically different from each other. Participants reported noticeable differences in oral perception. The Bostwick flow rates were different for all three cocktails. Based on IDDSI Flow Test, CranA was categorized as IDDSI level‐2, while both CranB and CranC were categorized as IDDSI level‐3. Correlations ranging from 0.39 to 0.55 were found between drinking times and dysphagia severity. In conclusion, liquids within the same IDDSI category can have different Bostwick flow rates and oral perception. The hypothesis that participants with OPMD may find certain liquids more challenging to swallow, despite being in the same IDDSI category, deserves further exploration in future studies.
Psychophysical and Rheological Investigation of Toothpaste Tube Squeezability: A People‐Centric Approach
Authors: Teoman Baran , Vandeven Mark , Esposito Jonathan , Dogo‐Isonagie Cajetan , Potanin Andrei 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTIn this work, toothpaste tube squeezability was tested by three different methods: assessment by a human panel, a tactile glove, and several purely instrumental tests. The panelists characterized squeezability in terms of the acceptability of the product. The tactile glove was utilized to determine the maximum grip forces (GF) applied by the same panelists during their assessment. The instrumental tests consisted of emulative tests by a squeezing device and rheological tests. Along with commercial pastes, a series of samples were deliberately formulated and tested, and covered a wide range of squeezability rates of 0.07–2.31 cc/s. The study showed that it is possible to predict human sensory perception using either an emulative squeezing instrument or the rheological measurements of the pastes. The study also suggests that human perception of acceptable squeezability includes not only its low limit (pastes being hard to squeeze) but also its upper limit (pastes perceived as too runny) which may also be related to the inability of the paste to retain its shape on the brush. Based on this study consumer‐acceptable ranges of rheological and squeezability parameters were defined. These results are expected to be useful, especially for oral/personal care product developers.
Phenotypic and epigenetic heterogeneity in FGFR2‐fused glial and glioneuronal tumours
Authors: Métais Alice , Dangouloff‐Ros Volodia , Garcia Jeremy , Vannod‐Michel Quentin , Csanyi Marie , Tauziède‐Espariat Arnault , Appay Romain , Maurage Claude‐Alain , Uro‐Coste Emmanuelle , Meyronet David , Rigau Valérie , Rousseau Audrey , Chotard Guillaume , Hamelin Jocelyne , Pierron Gaelle , Colin Carole , Ollivier Morgan , Roques Margaux , Provost Corentin , Cottier Jean‐Philippe , Pallud Johan , Chrétien Fabrice , Guida Lelio , Blauwblomme Thomas , Boddaert Nathalie , Varlet Pascale , Edjlali Myriam , Figarella‐Branger Dominique ,   contributors of the Biopathology RENOCLIP‐LOC network,   of the Neuroradiological RENOCLIP‐LOC network
Published: November 2024

AbstractAimsFGFR‐fused central nervous system (CNS) tumours are rare and are usually within the glioneuronal and neuronal tumours or the paediatric‐type diffuse low‐grade glioma spectrum. Among this spectrum, FGFR2 fusion has been documented in tumours classified by DNA‐methylation profiling as polymorphous low‐grade neuroepithelial tumours of the young (PLNTY), a recently described tumour type. However, FGFR2 fusions have also been reported in glioneuronal tumours, highlighting the overlapping diagnostic criteria and challenges.MethodsWe investigated the FGFR2 fusion landscape in a French national series of tumours sent to the RENOCLIP‐LOC network. We comprehensively analysed histology, radiology and molecular data including DNA‐methylation profiling for 16 FGFR2‐fused glioneuronal tumours.ResultsMost tumours were located in the temporal or parietal lobe with a median age at diagnosis of 7 years [1–44]. Epilepsy was the most frequent symptom. Five patients had tumour progression or recurrence with a median progression‐free survival of 22.6 months. Histological phenotypes corresponding to PLNTY, GG, MVNT or unclassified tumours were recorded. Epigenetic profiling could not properly distinguish epigenetic clusters related to the GG and PLNTY methylation classes among FGFR2‐fused glioneuronal tumours. However, a neuroradiological review identified strikingly distinct neuroradiological patterns.ConclusionWhile delineating tumour types among the FGFR2‐fused glioneuronal tumour spectrum, by histopathology or DNA‐methylation profiling, remains challenging, neuroimaging data revealed two distinct patterns that could correlate to PLNTY and ganglioglioma. However, more series including extensive histo‐radio‐molecular data are needed to confirm this hypothesis.
Urban placemaking and the commercial property investor/developer
Authors: Murphy Laurence 
Published: November 2024

AbstractReal estate investment companies direct substantial capital flows into built environments and are significant urban place‐makers. Geographers have long been interested in the ‘urbanisation of capital’ but more recently attention has been directed towards the activities of specific property actors. Employing a firm‐level analysis, this paper presents a case study of Kiwi Property, a large‐scale property company with an investment portfolio exceeding $3 billion. The study charts its corporate and financial dynamics and examines examples of its speculative real estate developments. Employing a firm‐level analysis offers insights into complex and contingent investment processes shaping urban placemaking.
Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis and Sleep Quality Factors: A Comprehensive Analysis
Authors: Bazmi Sina , Mohammadi Zahra , Tabrizi Reza , Kazemi Maryam 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundDue to the unclear etiology of recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS), a painful and distressing condition with a high prevalence, the researchers have hypothesized a connection between sleep quality and RAS.MethodsThe cross‐sectional study enrolled 10,138 Fasa Cohort Study participants aged 35–70 years. Various sleep quality factors were calculated and categorized based on the Pittsburgh Sleep Questionnaire.ResultsAmong 9030 subjects finally included with RAS prevalence of 20.2%, adjusted logistic regression showed significant odds ratios (ORs) in subjects who sleep < 5 h (OR = 1.44, 95%CI 1.25, 1.66), have sleep latencies of more than 60 min (OR = 1.37, 95%CI 1.11, 1.69), have sleep efficiencies of 65%–75% (OR = 1.55, 95%CI 1.21, 1.98), or regularly go to bed after 11 p.m. (OR = 1.23, 95%CI 1.11, 1.37). Subgroup analyses indicated no significant associations between RAS and various sleep factors in individuals who worked night shifts, and stronger associations were observed in men than women.ConclusionThe study found a significant positive association between RAS and sleep quality factors such as shorter duration, lower efficiency, longer latency, later bedtime, and regular sleeping pill use. Establishing early and sufficient sleep and addressing sleep onset disturbances by adhering to sleep hygiene principles should be prioritized in individuals with RAS.
Factors Associated With Colorectal Cancer Screening Behaviors Among Urban Populations in China: A Mixed‐Methods Study Using the Health Belief Model
Authors: Shi Bingzi , Zhang Jing , Zhang Yasi , Sun Yujing , Cui Wenming 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTObjectiveAdherence to guideline‐recommended colorectal cancer screening (CRCS) among average‐risk urban populations in China remains significantly suboptimal. This mixed‐methods study aimed to investigate screening behaviors and associated factors among average‐risk urban populations through a multi‐center approach.MethodologyFrom February to July 2024, 550 participants were recruited via stratified random sampling in Harbin, China. They completed questionnaires related to health beliefs and knowledge. Additionally, semi‐structured interviews were conducted to explore CRCS behaviors, with data analyzed using directed content analysis based on the Health Belief Model (HBM).ResultsFive hundred twenty two participants (95.0%) completed the survey. Identified factors influencing screening behavior among average‐risk urban populations included perceived severity of colorectal cancer (CRC), benefits of colon cancer surveillance, barriers to surveillance, and knowledge. Twenty‐six individuals were engaged in qualitative interviews. Twenty‐four themes were identified and categorized by frequency. Both quantitative and qualitative data suggest that CRCS behavior among urban average‐risk populations is suboptimal, and the identified factors can be mapped onto the HBM.ConclusionsThis mixed‐methods study demonstrates that key factors influencing screening behavior among urban average‐risk populations align with the HBM. These identified factors should be meticulously considered in future systematic interventions to enhance screening behaviors.
Partisan political staff at the local level: A self‐assessment of the policymaking role of the chief of cabinet
Authors: De Wulf Nicolai , Voets Joris 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThis study explores the policymaking role of the chief of cabinet, as head of the partisan political staff and a central actor within politico‐administrative relations. We focus on the local government level, where the role of political staff is understudied. While the added value of partisan political staff can be diverse and comprise advisory and non‐advisory activities, we do assume an active policymaking role for the chiefs of cabinet within the local policy advisory system. The research question is: “How do chiefs of cabinet conceive their own policymaking role at the local government level?” Adopting an actor‐centered approach, this research studies 20 chiefs of cabinet in cities in the Belgian region Flanders, where the amount of political staff has risen sharply. Q methodology is used for self‐assessment of the policymaking role (Van Exel & De Graaf, 2005), with statements based on Maley's three arenas (Maley, 2015). The results show that multiple types of chief of cabinet exist, revealing variation within one single institutional system. The resulting taxonomy consists of three types of chiefs of cabinet, each with a different role and impact on both policymaking and the civil service: “The Whip,” “The Negotiator,” and “The Streamliner.”
Unravelling T‐cell dynamics and immune responses in initial and recurrent uveitis
Authors: Wang Zhiruo , Yang Yuanyuan , Chen Guochun , Chen Gong , Luo Jing , Li Yunping , Shi Jingming , Chen Huihui 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThis study aimed to identify novel serological targets and investigate immune responses in patients with non‐infectious uveitis, focusing on differences between initial onset and recurrent episodes. Differential gene expression analysis, immunocyte typing and T‐cell receptor (TCR) gene analysis were conducted on RNA‐sequenced peripheral blood samples from healthy individuals (n = 6) and non‐infectious uveitis patients (n = 12), divided into 6 patients each at initial onset and recurrent stages. Peripheral blood T‐cell types were analysed using flow cytometry. Bioinformatics methods included tools for RNA sequencing data processing, CIBERSORT for immune cell type prediction and specialized software for TCR repertoire analysis. Findings indicated that individuals with recurrent uveitis demonstrated a stronger adaptive immune response and a more pronounced immune imbalance compared to those with initial onset. Memory T cells were predominant in recurrent episodes, suggesting their potential role as biomarkers for disease progression. Significant differences in TCR diversity and V(D)J gene usage were observed between the various uveitis groups and healthy controls. Importantly, 38 uveitis‐specific TCR sequences showed substantial expansion in the uveitis patients compared to controls. An elevated expansion of these specific TCR sequences was associated with an increased risk of uveitis development. The study highlights the critical role of adaptive immune responses and specific immune cell types in the pathogenesis of recurrent uveitis. Identification of the uveitis‐specific TCR repertoire set could provide deeper insights into the disease and facilitate the development of targeted therapies for uveitis patients.