bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sex-specific outcome after minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass for single-vessel disease: A propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Ma Hao , Pei Fengbo , Han Zengqiang , Lian Bo , Liu Gang , Shi Yi , Zhao Zhou 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objective
To evaluate the influence of gender on surgical outcome in patients with single-vessel disease undergoing minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass (MIDCAB).
Methods
This retrospective, non-randomized study analyzed 471 patients who underwent MIDCAB between February 2012 and January 2021 through left lateral thoracic small incision in the Department of Cardiac Surgery of our hospital were selected. Data were collected on demographics, clinical characteristics, operative and postoperative outcomes, and follow-up mortality and morbidity. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to match patients between the groups.
Results
Before matching, female patients were older, had higher incidence of DM (40.2% Vs 27.3%, p = 0.013), higher LVEF (66.7 ± 8.0 Vs 63.6 ± 10.1, p<0.001) and smaller LVEDD (4.7 ± 0.5 Vs 5.1 ± 0.6, p = 0.001). After matching, the differences in baseline characteristics between both groups were eliminated. PS matching selected 103 matched pairs for final comparison. No significant differences were observed between both groups in terms of in-hospital mortality, the incidence of MACCE, incidence of perioperative MI, incidence of stroke, reoperation for bleeding. Female patients had longer length of stay compared to male patients (18.9 ± 14.3 Vs 15.5 ± 5.9, p = 0.027).
Conclusion
Female sex is not connected with higher risk of mortality or other major events in MIDCAB. Wound healing complications remain the leading attribute associated with female sex.
A geostatistical method applied to the spatial distribution of Rock Mass Rating values in a mineralization zone
Authors: Kiyoumarsi Mohammad Reza , Hassani Hossein , Ramazi Hamid Reza 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

A precise understanding of the spatial distribution of rock mass properties is essential for the safe and economical design of rock structures. This paper adapts geostatistical methodologies, traditionally employed for estimating block ore grades and tonnage, to forecast rock properties crucial for structural modeling. The Rock Mass Rating (RMR) classification system, extensively utilized for evaluating rock mass quality, serves as a framework to inform excavation techniques and ensure slope stability in open-pit mining and rock support systems for tunnel construction.
The study introduces a geostatistical simulation method to create three-dimensional (3D) models of rock mass quality distribution based on RMR. Geotechnical data from 37 drillholes, encompassing a total of 11,278 meters, were collected from the Miduk open pit mine in Iran. Two block models for RMR were constructed using the turning bands simulation method (TBM) with 100 realizations. The research utilized both direct and indirect approaches. In the direct method, the RMR value was considered a singular variable for simulation, whereas the indirect method involved simulating individual RMR parameters and subsequently summing them to derive the final RMR for each block.
Cross-validation indicated strong consistency between the two approaches, reinforced by the 3D model of the faults and the contribution of joints, which were derived from scan-line mapping data collected from 24,160 surface stations. Although both methods yielded similar results, the block model developed via the indirect approach proved to be more comprehensive regarding geomechanical parameters and has thus been established as the final model.
Prostatic Artery Embolization in Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: Outcome and Efficacy in Medium Sized Compared to Large Prostates
Authors: Elghitany Noha , Hetta Osama , Hussein Ahmed , Allam Allam 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background:
Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive procedure commonly performed to treat lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia. International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) is a validated patient questionnaire quantifying LUTS, Quality of Life (QOL) and postvoiding residual volume (PVR) were used for patient selection for PAE. Prostate volume is an easily estimated objective parameter across multiple imaging modalities specially with ultrasound. We are comparing the result of embolization by comparing it in large (over 80 mL) and medium sized prostates (from 51 to 80 mL) volume. We looked at a sample of 88 cases performed at a large teaching hospital between January 2022 to August 2024 with 6 months follow up.
Embospheres between 300/500 microns were injected into the prostatic arteries bilaterally (if technically feasible). Ultrasound were used to measure to estimate prostatic volume. N = 42 had an estimated volume (range 51-80 mL) and N=46 had an estimate volume> 80 mL. IPSS, QOL, PVR and PV were assessed before and at 1-, 3- and 6-months post-procedure were collected. The aim of this study is to compare efficacy and outcome of PAE in medium sized prostate in comparison to the large prostates.
Results:
Both medium-sized and large prostate groups showed statistically significant reductions in prostate volume, IPSS, QoL, and PVR over time (P-value <0.001). However, while the percentage reduction in prostate volume was comparable between the two groups across all follow-up points (e.g., 56.42% vs. 60.71% at 6 months, p=0.055, NS), the large prostate group had significantly greater reductions in PVR at 1, 3, and 6 months (e.g., 77.46% vs. 63.22% at 6 months, p<0.001). Conversely, the medium-sized group demonstrated significantly greater improvements in IPSS at 1 and 3 months (e.g., 65.02% vs. 59.45% at 3 months, p=0.004), but these differences were not significant by 6 months. QoL improvements were similar between the groups throughout the study. No major complications were recorded.
Conclusion:
Our results suggest that prostate volume should not be used to exclude patients for PAE.
Development of a psoralen-conjugated nucleoside mimic for triplex-forming oligonucleotides: Evaluation of the triplex-forming and photo-crosslinking properties
Authors: Mikame Yu , Toyama Haruki , Dohno Chikara , Wada Takehiko , Yamayoshi Asako 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Psoralen-conjugated triplex-forming oligonucleotides (Ps-TFOs) have been employed for the photodynamic regulation of gene expression by the photo-crosslinking of psoralen with the target DNA. However, stable triplex formation requires a consecutive purine base sequence in one strand of the target DNA duplexes. The pyrimidine-base interruption in the consecutive purine base sequence drastically decreases the thermodynamic stability of the corresponding triplex, which hampers the TFO application. Here, we propose a design of the Ps-TFO for stable triplex formation with target DNA sequences containing pyrimidine-base interruptions under physiological conditions. This Ps-TFO, named 1’(one)-psoralen-conjugated triplex-forming oligonucleotide (OPTO), incorporates a synthesized nucleoside mimic 1’-psoralen-conjugated deoxyribose to increase the thermodynamic stability of the corresponding triplex by the intercalation of psoralen. The triplex-forming abilities of the OPTO were successfully demonstrated in combination with locked nucleic acid (LNA), indicating that the use of OPTO will expand the range of the target sequences of TFO for photodynamic gene regulation.
Wearable Technology in the Management of Complex Chronic Illness: Preliminary Survey Results on Self-Reported Outcomes
Authors: Sawyer Abbey , Preston Rory , Leeming Harry , Martin-Fuller Luke , Proal Amy , Putrino David 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Chronic illnesses like Long Covid and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome involve fluctuating symptoms, often worsened by exertion. Home monitoring technologies may support symptom tracking and self-management. A survey of 1,301 users of the Visible mobile application found that 77% experienced symptom improvements, 85% felt more in control, and 94% gained better understanding of their energy budget. Home-monitoring-based mobile applications may offer value in managing energy-limiting chronic conditions to achieve better self-management.
Background
Complex chronic illnesses like Long Covid (LC) and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) are marked by fluctuating symptoms, often exacerbated by physical, cognitive, or emotional exertion in a phenomenon known as post-exertional malaise (PEM). Home monitoring technologies offer potential benefits by enabling individuals to track symptoms and biometrics, aiding in disease self-management. However, the general effectiveness of such tools is still unknown.
Methods
A random sample of users of the Visible mobile application, aged 18 or older and with self-identified complex chronic illnesses such as LC or ME/CFS, were invited to complete an online survey regarding the impact of the app on their chronic disease self-management. Descriptive statistics related to the responses were analyzed and reported.
Results
The survey was distributed to 2,636 people, with 1,301 participants responding (49.3% response rate). The average age was 46 years, and 82% of respondents were female. Most participants reported having ME/CFS (42%), LC (31%), or both (18%). Of those with at least 30 days of data, 77% saw improvements in symptoms, 85% felt more in control of their illness, and 94% reported a better understanding of their energy budget.
Discussion and Conclusion
Home-monitoring based mobile applications may have utility in helping people with energy-limiting complex chronic illnesses to achieve better chronic disease self-management, and should be considered as a management strategy for people living with these conditions.
Impact of community capital on the well-being of panela-producer families in southwest Colombia
Authors: Moyano Edgar Martinez , Sandoval Brian Bermeo , Motta Dúber Mora , Ramirez Herminton Muñoz , Rojas Ivan Camilo Sánchez , Peña Oscar Raúl Rojas 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

The cultivation of sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) for panela production represents one of the most important livelihoods for rural households in Colombia, particularly in the southern region of Huila. To improve the productive development of this crop, it is essential to understand the subsistence strategies associated with panela production and its relationship with the well-being of Colombian households. For this purpose, we analyzed the impact of community capitals and Fundamental Human Needs on the well-being of rural households in southwestern Colombia. The study was conducted with 92 panela-producers families grouped in three typologies, i) diversifiers, ii) avant-garde and iii) traditionalists. We analyzed the correlations between community capitals and typologies. Diversifiers, representing most producers (59.8%), engage in multiple economic activities for income generation, such as coffee cultivation, avocado farming, livestock, sugarcane production, and pig farming, while, avant-garde typology (28.3%) is directly related to sugarcane cultivation, and Traditionalists (11.9%) who panela production is a secondary income source after coffee production. The conditions of sugarcane cultivation in rural households result in differential access to capital resources, households with more developed cultivation practices have achieved greater well-being, where success directly depends on the synergy between community capitals. This study highlights the need to strengthen the skills and knowledge of producers, supporting the social appropriation of knowledge and promoting the development of public policies aimed at greater investment in the agricultural sector, thus improving the well-being of rural families.
Physical, Mechanical, and Antimicrobial Characteristics of Ethyl cellulose/ Polycaprolactone Electrospun Nanofibers Incorporated to Gallic Acid and Natamycin for Cheese Packaging
Authors: Beikzadeh Samira , Ehsani Ali , Mortazavian Amir Mohammad , Sheikhi Zhian , Ghorbani Marjan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Electrospinning is a process for producing nanofibers that can be applied for active food packaging. In this study, polymers of ethyl cellulose (ECL) and polycaprolactone (PCL) in weight ratios of 70:30, 80:20, and 90:10% and natamycin (NAT) (1 and 2% w /w) and gallic acid (GAL) (10 and 30% w/w) were used. Nanofibers were produced after the electrospining process (voltage 16 kV, rate of 1 ml/hour, distance of 15 cm). Then, nanofibers were examined for morphological, FTIR, thermal, mechanical, antioxidant, water contact angle, and antifungal properties. The results showed that ECL90/PCL10, ECL80/PCL20, and ECL70/PCL30 had an average diameter of 1250.86 ± 18 nm, 1174 ± 21.4 nm, 754.73 ± 23 nm. ECL and PCL in a ratio of 70 to 30 were selected and combined with NAT and GAL. The average diameter of the produced nanofibers was between 779.32- 924.63 nm. Also, with the addition of NAT and GAL, the thermal stability, mechanical, and antifungal properties of ECL/PCL were increased. The addition of 2% NAT with 10% or 30% GAL completely prevented the growth of both molds. Cheese samples packed with nanofibers containing NAT and GAL in all treatments had a lower increase in mold and yeast during the period than the control sample. Also, the results of the sensory evaluation score did not show a significant difference between the packaged samples.
Multiple freezing–melting pathways of high-density ice at room temperature
Authors: Lee Geun Woo , Lee Yun-Hee , Kim Jin Kyun , Kim Yong-Jae , Kim Minju , Cho Yong Chan , Husband Rachel , Strohm Cornelius , Ehrenreich-Petersen Emma , Laurus Torsten , Graafsma Heinz , Bauer Robert , Lehmkühler Felix , Appel Karen , Konôpková Zuzana , Tang Minxue , Dwivedi Anand , Sztuk-Dambietz Jolanta , Randolph Lisa , Buakor Khachiwan , Humphries Oliver , Baehtz Carsten , Eklund Tobias , Mohrbach Lisa Katharina , Mondal Anshuman , Marquardt Hauke , O’Bannon Earl , Amann-Winkel Katrin , Yoo Choong-Shik , Zastrau Ulf , Liermann Hanns-Peter , Nada Hiroki 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Various metastable ice phases and their complicated transition pathways have been found by pressurization at low temperatures, where slow kinetics and high metastability can be easily achieved. In contrast, such diversity is less expected at room or elevated temperatures. Here, using a dynamic diamond anvil cell and X-ray free electron laser techniques, we demonstrate that supercompressed water transforms into ice VI through multiple freezing–melting pathways at room temperature, hidden within the pressure region of ice VI. The multiple transition pathways occur via a new metastable ice and a metastable ice VII in the supercompressed water. We found that the structural evolution of supercompressed water from high density to very high density underlies the multiple transition pathways. These findings provide new insights to find more metastable ice phases and their transition pathways at room or elevated temperatures on icy planets.
Gaps in breast cancer interception efforts at a tertiary cancer center: who are we serving?
Authors: Yadav Rina , Johnson Bailey , Phipps Savannah , Konstantinopoulos Kali , Lokender Manjari , Ambro Jane , Althouse Sandra , Hayes Lisa , Balling Tarah 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Purpose High-risk breast cancer screening programs (HRSPs) provide personalized interventions that can decrease one’s risk of breast cancer (BC). However, HRSPs introduce inequitable access and utilization by disadvantaged groups. Here, we retrospectively reviewed patients referred to HRSPs to discern race and socioeconomic status differences between those who attended the program versus those who did not. Methods A retrospective analysis was performed on two cohorts presenting for mammography at Indiana academic health centers: 1) patients identified as at increased risk of BC and referred to a HRSP via lay navigators and 2) newly diagnosed BC patients. Individuals attending the HRSP were compared to high-risk patients who declined/did not respond to HRSP invitation, and to newly diagnosed BC individuals. Age, race, insurance status, and neighborhood socioeconomic status were compared between cohorts using Chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests. Results Between 6/2020 and 6/2022, 601 women met criteria for contact by HRSP navigators. Patients accepting appointments were predominately White and privately insured. Black patients more frequently decline appointments compared to White (40.1% v. 29.1%, p = 0.008), and represented a higher proportion of those not attending HRSPs compared to those who did (19.8% v. 10.8%, p = 0.004). Patients diagnosed with BC were more commonly Black (19.4% v. 10.8%, p = 0.003), not privately insured (75.6% v. 84.2%, p = 0.012), and had lower median household incomes (69,611 v.72,656, p = 0.04). Conclusions Significant racial disparities exist amongst patients seen at a tertiary care center’s HRSP. As BC screening/prevention becomes more personalized, efforts should be focused on equitable delivery to minimize inequitable BC outcomes.
Increasing boreal fires reduce future global warming and sea ice loss
Authors: Blanchard-Wrigglesworth Edward , DeRepentigny Patricia , Frierson Dargan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Biomass burning can affect climate via the emission of aerosols and their subsequent impact on radiation, cloud microphysics, and surface and atmospheric albedo. Boreal biomass burning emissions have strongly increased during the last decade and are expected to continue increasing as the climate warms. Climate models simulate aerosol processes, yet historical and future Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP) simulations have no active fire component, and biomass burning emissions are prescribed as external forcings. Here we show that CMIP6 used future boreal emission scenarios with unrealistic near-zero trends that have a large impact on climate trends. By running sensitivity experiments with ramped up boreal emissions based on observed trends, we find that increasing boreal emissions reduce global warming by 12% and Arctic warming by 38%, reducing the loss of sea ice. Tropical precipitation shifts southward as a result of the hemispheric difference in boreal aerosol forcing and subsequent temperature response. These changes stem from the impact of aerosols on clouds, increasing cloud droplet number concentration, cloud optical depth, and low cloud cover, reducing surface shortwave flux over northern latitudes. Our results highlight the importance of realistic boreal emissions in climate model simulations and the need for improved understanding of boreal emission trends and aerosol-climate interactions.
A Context-Enhanced Deep Learning Approach to Predict Baseball Pitch Location from Ball Tracking Release Metrics
Authors: Moore R. Connor , Gurchiek Reed D. , Avedesian Jason M. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Ball tracking systems are becoming ubiquitous in sport, creating an unprecedented opportunity for big data applications to optimize human health and performance. These applications are especially common in baseball, a sport known analyzing ball flight data to quantify performance. However, few studies adopt more advanced techniques such as deep learning to conduct these analyses. We aimed to fill this gap by developing a multi-output deep neural network (DNN) to predict final pitch location using ball tracking release metrics and contextual ball flight information (i.e., naïve projectile motion estimates) from over two million pitches thrown during National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I games. Predictions from the DNN were compared to predictions made by previously reported machine learning models, and permutation-based feature importance was used to investigate the most important features for predicting pitch location. Euclidean distance errors with the DNN were approximately 15 centimeters, outperforming linear regression models by 33% (6 centimeters). A post-hoc analysis revealed that a DNN trained without the projectile motion features performed 17% (2.8 centimeters) worse than the optimal model, suggesting the added context helped the model learn underlying physics principles that govern ball flight. Moreover, the most important ball tracking metrics for predicting pitch location were lateral release position and spin rate, which have been tied to performance and injury outcomes in elite pitchers. Thus, this model provides an enhanced framework to analyze pitcher performance, and future applications may use additional context to predict other performance metrics from ball tracking data, such as throwing arm biomechanics.
GPT-4 Feedback Increases Student Activation and Learning Outcomes in Higher Education
Authors: Geschwind Stephan , Lambsdorff Johann Graf , Voss Deborah , Hackl Veronika 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence, in particular the novel possibilities supplied by GPT-4, is increasingly being utilized in educational settings, yet its impact on student activation and learning outcomes remains controversial. We conduct a lab-in-the-field experiment in undergraduate tutorial classes in macroeconomics at the university level. Over the course of one semester, we asked students to answer eight open-ended questions. Depending on the treatment, students received lecturer feedback at the classroom level only (LF), additional individual feedback from their peers (PF), or from the AI (AIF). We find that AIF has a significant positive effect on student activation. Compared to LF, continuous participation in the tasks is significantly higher in AIF, and it induces the longest written answers across the eight tasks. In terms of learning outcomes, AIF stands out for producing the most significant improvement in content. For the style of answers, we find no effects. We attribute the larger effects of AIF compared to PF to the higher reliability and quality of feedback provision of the AI. Our findings demonstrate that AI, specifically GPT-4, can offer a scalable and consistent solution for providing individual feedback in educational settings.
Exploring the usefulness of collaborative reflective practice in fostering generative actions among breast cancer survivors: A reviewed literature
Authors: Lekeka Motlalepule 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Erikson’s theory provides a broad framework from which to view development throughout the entire lifespan. For instance, with specific reference to Erickson's theory’s in stage 7, namely, generative versus stagnation stage. It is a stage in which individuals are focused on creating or nurturing ideas and projects that may contribute to building a legacy. However, when one fails to become generative, one may emerge with a sense of inadequacy and become stagnant in that aspect of development. For example, those adults who are confronted with life-threatening diseases such as breast cancer may fall short in fulfilling the requirements of stage 7 of the Erikson model due to the illness. Breast cancer can pose a conflict on one’s development, and cause a disruption that may lead to stagnation. However, through engaging in collaborative reflective practice, breast cancer can become a catalyst for one to gain momentum to successfully transition into another stage of development. This review paper sought to explore the usefulness of collaborative reflective practice in fostering generative actions and increasing the quality of life among breast cancer survivors. The Prisma framework was utilized to select studies that suggest that the experience of breast cancer can foster generative behaviors and actions among cancer survivors. 20 Studies were analyzed using thematic analysis. Collaborative reflection can create newness as self-agency, increased productivity, and actualized goals for the survivors to lead meaningful lives. The collaborative reflective practice can develop a sense of trust in the survivors to gain control of their illness and develop an ability to act in an empowered manner.