bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Physical inactivity, overweight and cardiovascular risk: COVID-Inconfidentes Study
Authors: de Moura Samara Silva , de Menezes-Júnior Luiz Antônio Alves , Batista Aline Priscila , Machado-Coelho George Luiz Lins , Carraro Júlia Cristina Cardoso , Meireles Adriana Lúcia 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) currently occupy first place in terms of global morbidity and mortality, and physical activity (PA) is an important modifiable strategy that acts directly on CVD and indirectly on weight loss and maintenance.
Objective
To investigate the association between physical inactivity and cardiovascular risk (CVR) mediated by excess weight in adults.
Methods
This is a population-based epidemiological household survey carried out in two Brazilian municipalities. Face-to-face interviews were conducted using a structured questionnaire in electronic format. Participants were classified as physically active or inactive according to World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. The mediating variable was the presence of overweight based on reported weight and height. CVR was estimated using the Framingham Risk Score (FRS), categorized as low risk (< 5%) or intermediate to high risk (≥ 5%). Data analysis consisted of descriptive analysis and univariate and multivariate logistic regression to examine the association between physical inactivity (FI) and CVR. Mediation analysis was performed using the Karlson-Holm-Breen method to verify the influence of overweight on the association.
Results
A total of 1,690 individuals were interviewed, 46.3% aged between 35 and 59 and 50.7% female. In the multivariate analysis (OR: 1.89; 95%CI; 1.10–3.24) FI was associated with intermediate to high cardiovascular risk, and 17.18% of this effect was mediated by overweight (OR:1.11; 95%CI; 1.02–1.25).
Conclusions
These findings suggest that FI increases the chances of cardiovascular risk, and part of this association can be explained by being overweight.
Relative fat mass, A better predictor of erectile dysfunction: insights from the NHANES 2001–2004
Authors: Yang BoWen , Wang HanYu , Tang Luyi , Feng JiuHuan , Hou ShuFang 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Obesity is a significant factor contributing to erectile dysfunction (ED). Early detection of ED generally results in improved treatment outcomes. Our study aims to elucidate the association between relative fat mass (RFM) and ED by analyzing data from the National Health and Nutrition Inspection Survey (NHANES) spanning 2001 to 2004.
Methods
We utilized data from NHANES 2001–2004, employing weighted, multivariable-adjusted logistic regression to assess the relationship between RFM and the risk of ED. Additional analyses included subgroup analysis, smooth curve fitting, and threshold effect analysis. Subsequently, the predictive utility of RFM, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference (WC) for ED was evaluated using the receiver operating characteristic curve and area under the curve (AUC) calculations.
Results
A total of 3,947 American male participants were included in this observational study within NHANES. Weighted multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that, after adjusting for potential confounding factors, RFM was positively associated with the risk of ED (OR = 1.03, 95%CI 1.01, p < 0.001). No significant saturation effects between RFM and ED were observed (all P > 0.05). Additionally, RFM demonstrated superior predictive capability for ED (AUC = 0.644) compared to BMI (AUC = 0.525) and WC (AUC = 0.612).
Conclusion
Our findings suggest that higher RFM levels are associated with an increased risk of ED, highlighting its potential utility as a predictive marker for this condition.
Global hypomethylation as an MRD biomarker in esophageal and esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma
Authors: Boldrin Elisa , Piano Maria Assunta , Volpato Alice , Alfieri Rita , Franco Monica , Morbin Tiziana , Masier Annalisa , Realdon Stefano , Mattara Genny , Magni Giovanna , Rosato Antonio , Pilati Pierluigi , Fantin Alberto , Curtarello Matteo 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Esophageal and esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma (EADC-EGJA) prognosis is poor, and Barrett’s esophagus has increased risk of developing tumor through the carcinogenesis process from metaplasia/low-grade dysplasia to high-grade dysplasia (HGD). Long interspersed nuclear element-1 (LINE-1) is considered a surrogate marker of global methylation, an epigenetic event contributing to progression. cfDNA of 90 patients with never dysplastic Barrett’s (NDBE), HGD/early EADC-EGJA or locally advanced/advanced EADC-EGJA have been analyzed for LINE-1 methylation, by Methylation-Sensitive Restriction Enzyme droplet digital PCR. Twenty-six patients have been longitudinally studied. Global hypomethylation increased during carcinogenesis, with significant difference between locally advanced/advanced EADC-EGJAs and NDBEs (P = 0.028). Longitudinal cases confirmed rareness and stability over time of hypomethylation in NDBEs. The majority of HGD/early EADC-EGJA and locally advanced/advanced EADC-EGJA showed methylation dynamic after resection according to clinical status, suggesting that global hypomethylation occurs just prior to cancer invasiveness and it is a promising biomarker to monitor molecular residual disease/recurrence.
The Role of Infectious Diseases in infant Mortality Across African Regions
Authors: Boudia Ahmed Ould , Adusei-Mensah Frank 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

This study examines the role of infectious diseases in neonatal mortality across various African regions, with a particular focus on regional disparities in death causes. Using data from the Maternal and Child Epidemiology Estimation (MCEE) database, the analysis covers mortality rates from 2000 to 2021 across five African regions: Central, East, North, Southern, and West Africa. Prematurity, birth asphyxia, and acute lower respiratory infections were found to be the leading causes of neonatal death, with lower-income regions experiencing significantly higher mortality rates. The study highlights the effectiveness of interventions against diseases like measles and malaria, but points to the ongoing burden of preventable conditions such as sepsis and birth trauma. The findings emphasize the need for region-specific healthcare policies, particularly in low-income areas, to address gaps in maternal and neonatal care. Investments in healthcare infrastructure, infection control, and neonatal care practices are critical to reducing preventable deaths and improving neonatal outcomes across the continent.
Revealing drivers of green technology adoption through explainable AI
Authors: Witthaut Dirk , Kistinger Dorothea , Titz Maurizio , Böttcher Philipp , Schaub Michael , Venghaus Sandra 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Effective governance of energy system transformations away from fossil resources requires a quantitative understanding of the diffusion of green technologies and its key influencing factors. In this article, we propose a novel machine learning approach to diffusion research focusing on actual decisions and spatial aspects complementing research on intentions and temporal dynamics. We develop machine learning models that predict regional differences in the accumulated peak power of household-scale photovoltaic systems and the share of battery electric vehicles from a large set of demographic, geographic, political, and socio-economic features. Tools from explainable artificial intelligence enable a consistent identification of the key influencing factors and quantify their impact. Focusing on data from German municipal associations, we identify common themes and differences in the diffusion of green technologies.
Intrahepatic Splenosis Mimicking Hepatocellular Carcinoma in patient with elevated AFP
Authors: Xu Jianjun , Li Suzhen , Zou Tianhao , Wang Zhiying , Chen Sisi , Wang Weimin , Zhou Xing , Gao Yang , Wang Guoliang , Zheng Qichang , Zhang Chen , Hu Shaobo 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Intrahepatic splenosis is an extremely rare intrahepatic mass, which is easily misdiagnosed and mistreated. There are few reports in the literature that intrahepatic splenosis mimicking hepatocellular carcinoma in patient with elevated AFP.
Methods
The clinical data of seven patients with intrahepatic splenosis who were diagnosed and treated at the Union Hospital (Wuhan, China), and Wuhan Asia General Hospital (Wuhan, China), between March 2012 and September 2024 were analyzed retrospectively.
Results
The mean age of intrahepatic splenosis patients was 53.1 ± 11.1years (range 41–76 years). All patients had previously undergone splenectomy due to traumatic splenic rupture. Of the seven patients with intrahepatic splenosis, four cases were pure intrahepatic splenosis, and three cases included extrahepatic splenosis. Three case was accompanied by upper abdomen or jaundice, and all the other four cases were found in physical examination. Enhanced CT imaging or enhanced MRI showed liver splenic metastasis lesions with uneven enhancement in the form of fast in and fast out. One patient was misdiagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma due to elevated AFP, but biopsy revealed a rare intrahepatic splenosis, thus avoiding unnecessary resection. The size of the intrahepatic splenosis lessions ranged from 1.0 to 4.2 cm. None of the six patients who underwent surgical resection had splenosis recurrences, and the patients with intrahepatic splenosis confirmed by liver biopsy did not show lesion progression during the active examination period.
Conclusions
In patients who have previously undergone splenectomy due to splenic trauma, it is important to consider the potential occurrence of intrahepatic splenosis upon the identification of intrahepatic lesions, and percutaneous liver biopsy is recommended. For individuals without clinical symptoms following a confirmed diagnosis of intrahepatic splenosis, no specific treatment is required.
Plasma Connective Tissue Growth Factor Levels in Pediatric Patients with Pulmonary Hypertension Secondary to Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Vahidshahi Kourosh , Fatahi Somaye , Ghazavi Mohammad , Norouzi Alireza , Khalilian Mohammad Reza , Alaei Fariba 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction Accurate measurement of pulmonary artery pressure traditionally involves catheterization, but due to its invasive nature, ongoing research is exploring biomarkers to assess pulmonary hypertension severity without resorting to procedures. This study aimed to investigate the association of plasma connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) levels with pulmonary hypertension secondary to congenital heart disease (PAH-CHD) in pediatrics. Methods This observational case-control study took placed at Shahid Modarres Educational Hospital in Tehran, Iran. The case group comprised 160 patients with congenital heart defects, evenly split between those with and without pulmonary hypertension. The control group included 80 healthy children matched for age and gender, and CTGF levels, SPO2, PASP, PADP, RVSP, RVDP, Qp/Qs, Rp were compared between the case and control groups. Results CTGF levels were significantly elevated in patients with congenital heart defects associated with pulmonary hypertension compared to both the control group (P-value = 0.024(and the congenital heart defect without pulmonary hypertension group (P-value = 0.002). In our study, a significant correlation and regression between CTGF levels and systolic pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP) (r = 0.286, P < 0.001 and β = 0.510, P = 0.008) was shown. However, no significant correlation or regression was observed between CTGF levels and diastolic PAP (r = 0.146, P = 0.066 and β=-0.096, P = 0.592), RVSP (r = 0.107, P = 0.179 and β=-0.013, P = 0.920), RVDP(r = 0.011, P = 0.894 and β = 0.035, P = 0.777), pulmonary flow to systemic flow (QP/QS) (r = 0.086, P = 0.278 and β = 0.055, P = 0.657), pulmonary resistance to systemic resistance (Rp/Rs) (r=-0.054, P = 0.495 and β = 0.013, P = 0.912) as well as IUCU stay (r = 0.146, P = 0.441 and β = 0.093, P = 0.461) and SPO2 (r = 0.048, P = 0.546 and β = 0.071, P = 0.587) Conclusion: This study underscores CTGF as a promising biomarker for assessing pulmonary hypertension in pediatric patients. Studies with prospective design are needed to further examine this association.
A Unique Bilateral Anatomical Variation of the Extensor Digitorum Longus and Fibularis Tertius Muscles
Authors: Olson Brendan , Wakeland William , Olson Jayden , Zoghi Sara , Hubbard John K. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Purpose
The extensor digitorum longus (EDL) and fibularis (peroneus) tertius (FT), muscles of the anterior compartment of the leg, synergistically work to dorsiflex and evert the foot. The EDL additionally extends the lateral four toes, while the FT normally lacks this ability. Anatomical variations of the variably present FT are common, but infrequently involve the EDL. The FT has been known to give off additional accessory tendons which may alter its role in ankle and foot movement. Documentation of unique anatomical variations of the FT and EDL can assist not only anatomists, but clinicians and surgeons as well.
Methods
During routine cadaveric dissection, a rare and unique bilateral presentation of the extensor digitorum longus and fibularis tertius was discovered.
Results
The extensor digitorum longus was found to be missing its lateral-most tendon that would normally insert on the 5th digit. A large, overriding FT split into three tendons, with the medial-most tendon inserting to the phalanges of the 5th digit, effectively replacing the missing EDL tendon. All findings were present bilaterally.
Conclusion
To our knowledge, despite previous literature of unilateral presentations like this case, a bilateral EDL and FT variation as seen here has never been reported in humans. The use of accessory fibularis muscles in tendon graft procedures, especially the FT, makes awareness of leg anatomical variations critical for surgeons operating in the area. The present case is discussed alongside other documented anatomical variations, highlighting potential clinical implications for tendon grafting and preoperative imaging.
Recycled cement production, with zero emissions
Authors: Berlinguette Curtis , Ji Tengxiao , Ren Shaoxuan , Yang Yumeng , Jiang Gaopeng , Crescenzo Giuseppe , Scott Sabrina , Kim Yongwook , Williams Aubry , Rumscheidt Jordan , Stolar Monika 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

We report here the electrochemical production of clinker clinker precursor, containing calcium derived from the electrolytic decomposition of waste cement. Our “cement recycler” contains a cement electrolyzer, coupled to a cement digestion vessel, and a Ca(OH)2 isolation vessel. The cement electrolyzer creates acid and base equivalents and converts waste cement into calcium hydroxide and silica. The electrolyzer is demonstrated at current densities up to 300 mA cm–2 to produce yields of >80% for Ca(OH)2. We experimentally verified a 99.8% reduction in CO2 emissions when using fresh waste cement, and an 80% reduction when using aged cement (enriched with absorbed CO2) from a demolition site. Our cement recycler bypasses the need for virgin limestone and could cut global CO2 emissions by nearly 1 Gt annually, while also helping divert substantial waste cement from landfills.
Assessing the Long-Term Persistence of SARS-CoV-2 in Guinea: Insights from Post- Epidemic Sentinel Syndromic Surveillance Data
Authors: KADIO Kadio Jean Jacques Olivier , GNIMADI Thibaut Armel  Chérif , GUICHET Emilande , HOUNMENOU Gbêmemali Castro , SOUMAH Abdoul Karim , DIALLO Haby , CAMARA Amadou , CAMARA Saidouba Chérif , SANDOUNO Marie Rose , BANGOURA Salifou Talassone , DIABY Maladho , RICHARD Vincent , POUBLAN Julien , SIDIBE Sidikiba , DELAMOU Alexandre , CAMARA Alioune , KEITA Alpha Kabinet , DELAPORTE Eric , TOURE Abdoulaye , Team AFROSCREEN 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: In December 2019, the world experienced one of the significant health crises of the 21st century with the emergence and rapid spread of the potentially fatal 2019 coronavirus (COVID-19). In this context, sentinel surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 variants was conducted in Conakry. Here we report the first data on reproduction numbers and risk factors during the Omicron post-epidemic period in Guinea.
Methods: A sentinel syndromic and genomic surveillance study was conducted on suspected patients from October 2022 to July 2024 at healthcare facilities in Conakry. Individual data and nasopharyngeal swabs were collected and sent to the Centre de Recherche et de Formation en Infectiologie de Guinée (CERFIG) laboratory for screening and sequencing by next-generation sequencing (NGS). The basic reproduction number (R0) and the effective reproduction number (Rt) were estimated using EpiEstim to assess the transmission potential of the Omicron variant and its sub-variants. Generalized linear models based on the binomial distribution were employed to analyze factors associated with SARS-CoV-2 positivity, following the identification of primary risk factors using Bayesian model averaging and the Near-Miss data balance algorithm.
Results: Data from 1174 patients with suspected cases with a median age of 31 years (IQR: 20-51), were analyzed. The overall COVID-19 positivity rate was 11.8%. The global basic reproduction number (R0) was 1.98 [95% CI: 1.02-3.25] and the effective reproduction number (Rt) was 2.08 [95% CI: 0.35-5.81]. Data from 1,174 suspected cases were analyzed, with a median age of 31 years (IQR: 20-51). Factors independently associated with positive SARS-CoV-2 infection included agueusia (AOR= 2.29; 95% CI [1.19-4.52]), cough (AOR= 7.10; 95% CI [2.51-25.5]), and contact with a suspected or confirmed case (AOR= 5.88; 95% CI [2.45-15.7]).
Conclusion: SARS-Cov-2 is still circulating in Guinea, with high rates of positivity, and the global base and effective reproduction rates are unchanged in this post-epidemic period in our country. The associated factors and the circulation of variants with a diversity of circulating strains suggest the need to strengthen genomic and epidemiological surveillance, with the support of all those involved in the response to COVID-19, to ensure continuity of alerts and decision-making for public health.
Sideroflexin family genes were dysregulated and associated with tumor progression in prostate cancers
Authors: Huang Hua , Lian Huibo , Zhu Runzhi , Shao Haiyan , Li Benyi 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Sideroflexin (SFXN) family genes encode for a group of mitochondrial proteins involved in cellular processes such as iron homeostasis, amino acid metabolism, and energy production. Recent studies showed that they were aberrantly expressed in certain human cancers. However, there is a paucity of information about their expression in prostate cancer. In this study, we took a comprehensive approach to investigate their expression profiles in benign prostate tissue, prostate-derived cell lines, and prostate cancer tissues using multiple transcriptome datasets. Our results showed that SFXN1/3/4 genes were predominantly expressed in prostate tissue and cell lines. SFXN2/4 genes were significantly upregulated while the SFXN3 gene was significantly downregulated in malignant tissues compared to benign tissues. SFXN4 expression was determined as a diagnostic biomarker and prognostic factor for unfavorite survival outcomes. In advanced prostate cancers, SFXN2/4 gene expressions were positively correlated with the androgen receptor signaling score but negatively correlated with the neuroendocrinal feature score. Further analysis discovered that SFXN2/4 gene expressions were modulated by the androgen receptor signaling pathway but not involved in neuroendocrinal progression. In conclusion, SFXN2/4 expression is a novel biomarker in prostate cancer diagnosis and prognosis modulated by the androgen receptor signal pathway.
How Does Digital Transformation Affect Corporate Reputation - Evidence From Listed Companies in China
Authors: Chen Yuchen , Liao Lewei 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

In the wave of digital economy, digital transformation has become a key pathway for enhancing corporate competitiveness. This study selects data from A-share listed companies in Shanghai and Shenzhen between 2000 and 2022 as the initial sample to measure digital transformation. The results demonstrate a pronounced positive correlation between digital transformation and corporate reputation, which persists even after accounting for endogeneity and conducting variable substitutions. Through mediation effect analysis, digitalization profoundly impacts enterprises through internal and external effects. The internal effect focuses on improving the financial status of enterprises, stimulating innovation potential, and risk-taking levels; the external impact is reflected in improving information transparency and enhancing market competitiveness. Together, these effects contribute to an enterprise's improved reputation in the process of digital transformation. Through the heterogeneity analysis, it is found that the impact of digital transformation on corporate reputation varies according to the size characteristics of the enterprise, the nature of ownership, and the type of industry, as well as the time of the enterprise's listing. It is concluded that digitalization has a more significant impact on corporate reputation in enterprises with smaller sizes and shorter listing markets. The impact of digitization on reputation is less in firms with mixed ownership nature of equity and industry of manufacturing. This study provides evidence and insights to promote digital transformation for corporate reputation management in the context of digitization.
Analog In-Memory Computing Attention Mechanism for Fast and Energy-Efficient Large Language Models
Authors: Leroux Nathan , Manea Paul-Philipp , Sudarshan Chirag , Finkbeiner Jan , Siegel Sebastian , Strachan John Paul , Neftci Emre 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Transformer networks, driven by self-attention, are central to Large Language Models. In generative Transformers, self-attention uses cache memory to store token projections, avoiding recomputation at each time step. However, GPU-stored projections must be loaded into SRAM for each new generation step, causing latency and energy bottlenecks.

We present a custom self-attention in-memory computing architecture based on emerging charge-based memories called gain cells, which can be efficiently written to store new tokens during sequence generation and enable parallel analog dot-product computation required for self-attention. However, the analog gain cell circuits introduce non-idealities and constraints preventing the direct mapping of pre-trained models.
To circumvent this problem, we design an initialization algorithm achieving text processing performance comparable to GPT-2 without training from scratch. Our architecture respectively reduces attention latency and energy consumption by up to two and five orders of magnitude compared to GPUs, marking a significant step toward ultra-fast, low-power generative Transformers.