bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Machine learning models predict the progression of long-term renal insufficiency in patients with renal cancer after radical nephrectomy
Authors: Yan Yongchao , Sun Qihang , Du Haotian , Guo Yize , Li Bin , Wang Xinning 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a common severe complication after radical nephrectomy in patients with renal cancer. The timely and accurate prediction of the long-term progression of renal function post-surgery is crucial for early intervention and ultimately improving patient survival rates. Objective: This study aimed to establish a machine learning model to predict the likelihood of long-term renal dysfunction progression after surgery by analyzing patients’ general information in depth. Methods: We retrospectively collected data of eligible patients from the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University. The primary outcome was upgrading of the Chronic Kidney Disease stage between pre- and 3-year post-surgery. We constructed seven different machine-learning models based on Logistic Regression (LR), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Random Forest (RF), Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), Light Gradient Boosting Machine (Lightgbm), Gaussian Naive Bayes (GaussianNB), and K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN). The performance of all predictive models was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), precision-recall curves, confusion matrices, and calibration curves. Results: Among 360 patients with renal cancer who underwent radical nephrectomy included in this study, 185 (51.3%) experienced an upgrade in Chronic Kidney Disease stage 3-year post-surgery. Eleven predictive variables were selected for further construction of the machine learning models. The logistic regression model provided the most accurate prediction, with the highest AUC (0.8154) and an accuracy of 0.787. Conclusion: The logistic regression model can more accurately predict long-term renal dysfunction progression after radical nephrectomy in patients with renal cancer.
The role of spatial planning in strengthening human settlement resilience to natural disasters in Chimanimani District, Zimbabwe
Authors: Zivhave Morgen , Chatiza Kudzai , Bvuma Tendai , Zimunya Willoughby , Musvoto Godfrey 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

The effectiveness of spatial planning in guiding human settlements has come under increasing scrutiny with the increasing occurrence and severity of climate-induced disasters. This study interrogates the role of spatial planning in promoting resilient settlements in rural service centres, often overlooked in favour of large cities and towns. Our study adopted mixed methods research and collected quantitative data using questionnaires from households and qualitative using detailed semi-structured interview guides from key informants from Chimanimani District and national government departments/agencies. Findings show that spatial planning responses to climate change impacts are negatively affected by institutional capacity gaps within the Chimanimani Rural District Council and the District Development Coordinator’s office to plan and implement resilience strategies. District institutions are stifled by direct planning and implementation of projects by the national government which bypasses, duplicates and denies district stakeholders the opportunity to learn and develop capacity. The rigid spatial planning standards, the flouting of planning guidelines, the parcelling of land by traditional leadership, and political interference contributed to poor district spatial planning for resilient human settlements. We recommend a framework for spatial planning for resilience that taps local and scientific knowledge to evolve strategies, through decentralised institutions, to enforce environmentally sensitive standards.
Investigating the Effect of Parameters in the Thermodynamic Analysis of the Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Cycle Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Ghaebi Hadi , Soleymani Elahe 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

In this article, the effect of parameters in the solid oxide fuel cell cycle has investigated using the response surface method. The thermodynamic modeling of this cycle has been done by EES software, which by considering three variables (current density, molar flow rate and fuel cell temperature) as input parameters, to examine the mutual effects of parameters on the objective functions (net output power and exergy efficiency) using the experimental design method. According to the results of thermodynamic analysis, the net power output and exergy efficiency of solid oxide fuel cell are 2424 kW, 52.29% and 50.43%, respectively. By transferring the tests based on the central composite design for the parameters obtained by the Design Expert software, the extracted results show the interaction effect of the input parameters. According to the results of the regression analysis, the values ​​of R2 in the responses of net output power and exergy efficiency are 96% and 87.79%, respectively, which shows the accuracy of the model. The parameters have a good interaction effect with each other and the optimal points for the input parameters of current density (i), input methane molar flow rate (nCH4) and solid oxide fuel cell temperature (TSOFC) has been calculated at the points of 2311.53 A/m2, 0.0068 kmol/s and 1200 K, as well as the responses of net output power and exergy efficiency at points 3555.18 kW and 0.68345%.
Effects of Heart Rate Variability Biofeedback on Enhancing Self-Efficacy, Quality of Life and Six-Minute Walking Test in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Yang Po-Chou , Lin I-Mei , Wu Da-Wei 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objective
Heart rate variability biofeedback (HRVB) is a psychological intervention applied to patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and improves their autonomic activation and pulmonary function. This study explored the effects of HRVB on self-efficacy, quality of life, depression, anxiety, and heart rate variability (HRV) indices under the Six-Minute Walking Test (6MWT) in patients with COPD.
Methods
A total of 53 patients with COPD were assigned to either an HRVB group (n = 26) or a control group (n = 27), both received standard medical care. The HRVB group also participated in one hour weekly for six weeks. All participants completed assessments using the COPD Self-Efficacy Scale, St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire, Beck Depression Inventory-II, and Beck Anxiety Inventory pre-test and post-test. The 6MWT was administered to measure HRV during baseline, walking, and recovery stages.
Results
Significant improvements in self-efficacy and quality of life for the HRVB group, with a significant increase in post-test compared to pre-test and the control group. Additionally, the HRVB group exhibited a significant decrease in HRV reactivity and increased HRV recovery at the post-test compared to the pre-test.
Conclusion
These findings indicated that HRVB effectively enhances self-efficacy and quality of life in patients with COPD while improving autonomic function. Therefore, HRVB could be a valuable component of pulmonary rehabilitation for patients with COPD.
Determining and Comparing the Level of Motivation for Exercise According to the Sociodemographic Characteristics of University Students
Authors: Ahsan Mohammad , Ali Mohammed Feroz , Alam Mumtaz 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Motivation levels for exercise vary widely among individuals and are influenced by various factors. This study aimed to compare exercise motivation levels and explore influencing factors among university students.
Methods
A cross-sectional research design targeted university students aged 18 to 32. Participants (n = 148) were selected via cluster random sampling. A self-administered questionnaire assessed motivating factors for exercise. Statistical analyses included ANOVA and Pearson correlation coefficient to assess differences among demographic variables (year of study, age, gender, marital status, location, and family size) and relationships between motivational aspects.
Results
The average exercise motivation level among all students was 166.94 ± 32.20. Fifth-year students exhibited the highest motivation (178.33 ± 30.37). No significant gender differences were found (p = 0.149). However, age (p = 0.024), location (p = 0.015), marital status (p = 0.050), and family size (p = 0.030) significantly influenced exercise motivation.
Conclusion
University students demonstrate inherent motivation for physical activity, with significant variations observed across demographic factors. These findings underscore the importance of tailored interventions to promote exercise and enhance student well-being. Further research, including longitudinal studies, is warranted to comprehensively understand exercise motivation dynamics in this population.
Implementation of a Hybrid Virtual/In-Person Sexual Health Clinic in a High-Volume Cancer Centre
Authors: Matthew Andrew , Incze Taylor , Stragapede Elisa , Guirguis Steven , Neil-Sztramko Sarah , Elterman Dean 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Sexual dysfunction is prevalent among cancer survivors, significantly impacting patient and partner quality of life. Despite this, sexual health clinics (SHCs) remain rare in cancer centres across Canada. An innovative clinic was developed at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in Toronto, Canada to address this significant gap in survivorship care. This study examines factors affecting the provision of sexual healthcare and the implementation of a sexual health clinic within a large urban centre.
Methods
The Quality Implementation Framework was used to explicate patient and provider experience and identify barriers and facilitators to integrating sexual healthcare into routine cancer care workflows. Healthcare providers and patients representing selected cancer types (prostate, cervical, ovarian, testicular, bladder, kidney, and head and neck cancer) participated in semi-structured interviews. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using the Framework qualitative analysis protocol.
Results
The analysis identified three organizing domains and ten themes that describe the unique aspects of the sexual healthcare experience and critical factors for sexual health implementation. Both patients and providers described a lack of sexual health support in the oncology setting and emphasized the need for comprehensive and personalized care. Limitations of current care provision included mutual silence between patients and providers due to discomfort in discussing sexual issues, insufficient provider confidence in delivering optimal sexual healthcare, and constraints related to space and time. Key Factors for implementing a sexual health clinic in oncology emphasized the importance of having a dedicated clinic, flexibility in service delivery, proactive patient engagement, and ongoing staff education.
Conclusions
Findings highlight significant challenges in addressing sexual health in an oncology setting, underscoring the need for specialized sexual health clinics that are integrated with, but distinct from, routine oncology care. This study further emphasizes the need for incorporating sexual healthcare in survivorship programs as well as the necessity of conducting thorough implementation research, involving multiple stakeholders, prior to launching new programs.
Global and regional burden of ischemic stroke disease from 1990 to 2021: an age-period-cohort analysis
Authors: Zhu Weimin , He Xiaxia , HuangMD Daochao , Jiang Yiqing , Hong Weijun , Ke Shaofa , Wang En , Wang Feng , Wang Xianwei , Shan Renfei , Liu Suzhi , Xu Yinghe , Jiang Yongpo 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Ischemic stroke is a significant global public health issue that impacts health burdens across various regions. This study analyzed data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021 to assess the incidence, mortality, and Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) associated with IS worldwide and across different Socio-Demographic Index (SDI) regions. Using Joinpoint regression and Age-Period-Cohort (APC) models, we examined trends in disease burden and made projections for 2022 to 2035. As of 2021, approximately 7,804,449 (95% UI, 6,719,760–8,943,692) individuals were affected by ischemic stroke, resulting in 3,591,499 (95% UI, 3,213,281–3,888,327) deaths and 70,357,912 (95% UI, 64,329,576 − 76,007,063) DALYs. These numbers represent increases of 88.0%, 55.0%, and 52.4% since 1990. Despite these increases, age-standardized incidence, mortality, and DALYs rates are declining, with annual percentage change rates (AAPC) of -0.578%, -0.927%, and − 14.372%, consistent across all SDI regions. The global rates of IS are influenced by age, period, and cohort, showing increased rates with age but declining over time, particularly in high SDI regions. Major risk factors include hypertension, environmental pollution, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Projections indicate that by 2035, incidence, mortality, and DALYs will rise among those aged 45 and above, while decreasing for those under 35. This highlights the urgent need for preventive and therapeutic strategies targeting ischemic stroke, particularly for individuals over 45, while addressing the impact of major risk factors in high-burden regions.
Evaluating percent correct shade identification: A practical approach to intraoral scanner and shade device performance
Authors: Hein Sascha , Nold Julian , Masannek Matthias , Westland Stephen , Spies Benedikt C. , Wrbas Karl Thomas 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objectives The study aimed to assess the percent correct shade identification of four intraoral scanners (IOS) and a spectrophotometer, focusing on how reliably each device selects the correct tooth shade compared to a visual observer’s selection. The research question addresses how much clinicians can trust the device-selected shade without visual verification. Materials and Methods Sixteen participants with natural, unrestored teeth were included. The teeth evaluated were tooth 21 (left maxillary central incisor), tooth 23 (left maxillary canine), and tooth 26 (first left maxillary molar). Tooth color was measured using four IOS devices and the Vita Easyshade V in three regions: incisal, middle, and cervical. The nearest 3D Master shade selected by each device was compared to the visual observer’s selection. The percent exact match, acceptable match (> 1.2, ≤ 2.7 ∆Eab), and mismatch type A (< 2.7, ≤ 5.4 ∆Eab) were calculated. Statistical analysis was performed using a chi-square test with a 95% confidence level. Results The overall clinical pass rate was highest for Carestream (78.2%), followed by Easyshade (63.5%), Primescan (51.2%), Trios (39.5%), and Medit (31.3%). Carestream also recorded the highest rate of mismatch type A (47.7%). Significant differences between devices were observed for all categories (p < 0.05). Conclusions Carestream demonstrated the highest overall clinical pass rate, while Medit exhibited the lowest. The study highlights the variability between devices in shade matching performance. Clinical Relevance This study highlights the importance of considering device performance when relying on IOS or spectrophotometers for shade selection without visual assessment, as the reliability can vary significantly across devices.
Changes of Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Pneumonia Among Chinese Children, 2019-2023
Authors: Hong Ping , Wu YueMing , Gan Lu , Cai Bin , Gao Yu , Lei Lei , Jie Fei , Cao ShiYan , Zhou Lin 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objective
To describe the epidemiology and clinical characteristics of Mycoplasma Pneumoniae-associated hospitalizations among children in Shanghai, a south province of China before, during and post-COVID-19 Pandemic (2019-2023).
Methods
From January 2019 to December 2023, an observational cross-sectional study was conducted, and the trend, season distribution and age group of hospitalization children with mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia was investigated. The clinical data of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in 2019 and 2023 were compared to describe the changes in the two periods of Mycoplasma pneumoniae prevalence.
Results
1123 children hospitalized by mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia were rolled. The number of hospitalized children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia peaked in 2019（411cases） and 2023（548 cases）, during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2022), and the cases decreased significantly, especially in 2020 (37 cases). Children aged 3-7 years account for the majority of hospitalized children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia，208 cases (50.6%) in 2019,22 cases (59.5%) in 2020,56 cases (65.1%),18 cases (43.9%) in 2022. However, 267 children (48.7%) aged > 7 years old age in 2023. The mean time of duration of fever before admission and total duration of fever in 2023 were longer than those in 2019(4.91±2.48 days vs 3.91±2.60 days , P=0.000; 5.56±3.34 days vs 4.51±3.31 days, P=0.000，respectively).Cases of severe pneumonia and labor pneumonia in 2023, post the COVID-19 pandemic, were higher than those in 2019( 195(35.6%) vs60(14.6%),P=0.000; 288(52.6%)vs 113(27.5%),P=0.000，separately).
Conclusion
During COVID-19 epidemic, the number of hospitalizations for Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia decreased exceedingly. The seasonal prevalence of mycoplasma pneumoniae was not changed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The time of fever and the proportion of lobar and severe pneumonia in Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia were increased post the COVID-19 pandemic.
Metatarsal Osteotomy for the Treatment of Chronic Metatarsalgia: A Clinical, Radiological and Pedobarographic Analysis
Authors: Felsberg Maria , Schilde Sebastian , Kroeber Isabella , Arbab Dariusch , Panian Matti , Delank Karl-Stefan , Gutteck Natalia 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Metatarsalgia is a widespread symptom complex with demanding treatment. The Weil osteotomy and the distal minimally invasive metatarsal osteotomy (DMMO) are both considered appropriate surgical treatment modalities and have been shown to result in comparable outcomes in previous studies.
Materials and Methods
In this retrospective study, 77 patients with chronic metatarsalgia were included. 41 patients (44 feet) received DMMO and 36 patients (40 feet) received Weil osteotomy. They followed clinical, radiological, and pedobarographic examination in a comparative study.
Results
Compared to DMMO, Weil osteotomy seems to result in a higher rate of wound healing disorders and wound infections. The appearance of floating toes tended to be higher in the Weil-group without reaching a statistically significant level. Improvement in postoperative AOFAS score was comparable in both groups.Pedobarographically, the DMMO group showed a particularly decrease of metatarsal peak pressure and a favorable shifting in the pressure-time integral.
Conclusion
DMMO and Weil osteotomy equally improved AOFAS and FFI Scores. The pedobarographic results indicated a significantly better postoperative pressure redistribution after DMMO compared to Weil osteotomy. DMMO was advantageous regarding the rate of wound healing impairments making it an attractive procedure in patients with risk profile.
Exosomes derived from endothelial progenitor cells enhance osteogenesis of mesenchymal stem cells by activating the MAPK dependent pathway
Authors: Liang Yanming , Xiao Jiajun , Yu Jiayu , Sun Ting , Liu Ming , he xiaoning 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Recent studies have shown that endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) could enhance osteogenesis of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) through multiple paracrine signals. However, the role of EPCs-derived exosomes (EPCs-exos) in osteogenesis has been rarely reported, and little is known regarding their underlying mechanisms. This study attempted to investigate the underlying mechanism by which EPCs-exos promotes osteogenesis of MSCs. EPCs-exos was isolated by supercentrifugation and characterized by western blot, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and nano particle analysis (NTA). Internalization of EPCs-exos was observed via a laser confocal microscope. The effects of EPCs-exos on the regulation of MSCs biological properties were investigated in vivo and in vitro. The expression of osteogenesis markers and calcium nodule formation was quantified by qRT-PCR, western blotting, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining and Alizarin Red staining. Rat critical-sized calvarial bone defects model was used to assess the efficacy of EPCs-exos on bone regeneration. Real-time PCR array and western blotting were performed to explore possible signaling pathways involved in osteogenesis. Results showed that EPCs-exos could be internalized by MSCs, which exhibited greater ALP activity and increased calcium mineral deposition and improved osteogenic markers expression. EPCs-exos combined with MSCs could improve bone regeneration in vivo. These data suggest that EPCs-exos influence the biological function and promote MSCs osteogenic differentiation in vivo and in vitro. Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway was involved in this process. Activation of the p38MAPK pathway may be the key to enhancing MSCs osteogenic differentiation.
Do viral-associated pathways underlie the immune activation during the acute phase of severe major depression?
Authors: Maes Michael , Zhang Yingqian , Plaimas Kitiporn , Suratanee Apichat , Li Jing , Almulla Abbas F. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Major depressive disorder (MDD) and its most severe phenotype, major dysmood disorder (MDMD), are distinguished by the activation of the immune-inflammatory response system, T cell activation, and a relative T regulatory cell suppression. Nevertheless, these immune data were not used to characterize the features of the immune protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of MDMD.
Objectives
To identify the network's nodes and bottlenecks as well as the biological processes that are overrepresented in the PPI network, we conducted PPI network, annotation, and enrichment analyses.
Results
The PPI network analysis has identified the following backbone genes: tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF), interleukin (IL)6, CXCL12, CXCL10, CCL5, cluster of differentiation (CD)4, CD8A, human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-DR, and FOXP3. A “cellular and defense response”, an “immune response system response”, and “a viral process that involves viral protein interaction with cytokines and cytokine receptors” were all highly associated with the network. The chemokine network and TNF and nuclear factor-κB (NFKB) pathways are additional biological pathways that are enriched in the PPI network. Molecular complex detection extracted one component from the data, including viral protein interaction with cytokine and cytokine receptors and “regulated by RELA” (an NFKB subunit).
Conclusions
Viral processes may underlie the activation of T cells and the cytokine and chemokine networks that are associated with MDMD. Future research on the pathogenesis of MDMD and MDD should examine whether and which viral infections are associated with the onset of these conditions, or whether viral reactivation is associated with the recurrence of illness.