bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive analysis OF ZnO-Doped polystyrene nanocomposites: Structural, optical and defect analysis
Authors: Almara Rahimli , Huseynova Aybeniz , Musayeva Nahida 
Published: October 2024

In this study, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) were successfully integrated into polystyrene (PS) matrices through solution casting and hot-pressing, producing a series of PS/ZnO nanocomposites. The structural and morphological properties of these nanocomposites were characterized using FTIR, XRD, and SEM techniques. FTIR analysis revealed characteristic bands associated with C-H and C = C vibrations in PS, with increased IR absorption observed in the ZnO-doped samples, particularly at 418 cm⁻1, indicative of Zn-O valence vibrations. X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the hexagonal wurtzite structure of ZnO nanoparticles and showed a notable decrease in crystallite size from 3.88 nm to 1.58 nm, demonstrating the influence of ZnO concentration on the structural properties. SEM images illustrated that ZnO nanoparticles were uniformly dispersed within the polymer matrix, with the PS/5%ZnO nanocomposite exhibiting a smooth surface and well-integrated nanoparticles, suggesting effective dispersion and prevention of agglomeration. Optical properties were examined using UV-Visible and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, which revealed improved optical characteristics in the nanocomposite films. PL spectra showed wide emission bands in the violet and blue regions, indicating transitions from excitonic levels and/or zinc interstitials (Zni) to the conduction band, alongside contributions from defects such as zinc interstitials (Zni) and natural zinc vacancies (Znv).
Development of an Instrument for Evaluating Action Video Game Elements
Authors: Novak Elena , Soyturk Ilker 
Published: October 2024

Background Studies on the impact of videogame play on the brain and behavior demonstrates potential benefits of playing action video games (AVGs) for cognitive enhancements. However, it is becoming increasingly challenging to distinguish between AVGs and non-AVGs due to the emergence of new video game genres and platforms that incorporate action elements in historically non-action genres. Thus, more research is needed to understand AVG mechanics. Objective This study developed an Action Video Game Elements (AVGE) Likert-type scale for differentiating an AVG from a non-AVG and examined its performance in an AVG and a non-AVG. Method We employed standardized lab data collection procedures to administer the AVGE scale in undergraduate education majors after they played either an AVG ( n = 144) or a non-AVG ( n = 48). Results Exploratory factor analysis revealed a five-factor theoretically sensible structure: (1) focus, (2) pacing & goal setting, (3) challenge, (4) sensory stimulation, and (5) speed. Using an experimental research design, we examined the AVGE scale for its ability to distinguish an AVG from a non-AVG. Players who played the AVG rated the game significantly higher in all AVGE categories than their peers who played a non-AVG, thus providing empirical evidence regarding the scale’s discriminant validity of the game. Additionally, we explored the AVGE score differences in players with and without prior AVG experience in the AVG and non-AVG. Conclusion The AVGE scale has a promising internal consistency and discriminant validity. Future research can use it for examining AVG elements in various games as well as guiding the design and development of video games that aim to enhance cognition and better align these games with players’ demographics.
Dynamics of Spatiotemporal Variation of Groundwater Arsenic in Central Rift Vally of Ethiopia: A Serial Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Demissie Solomon , Mekonen Seblework , Awoke Tadesse , Mengistie Bezatu 
Published: October 2024

Background: Arsenic is a well-known, highly poisonous metalloid that affects human health and ecosystems and is widely distributed in the environment. Nevertheless, data on the spatiotemporal distribution of arsenic in groundwater sources in Ethiopia are scarce. Objective: The principal aim of this study was to assess the extent of arsenic in groundwater sources and analyze the spatiotemporal variations in the central rift valley of Ethiopia. Methods: The study employed a serial cross-sectional study design and census sampling methods. The concentrations of arsenic in the groundwater samples were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) at the Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority laboratory. Descriptive statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS version 29 software. Additionally, ArcGIS software was utilized to map the spatiotemporal distribution of arsenic. Furthermore, Minitab statistical software version 21.4 was employed to assess the correlation between spatiotemporal variations of arsenic concentrations in groundwater sources. Results: The mean values of arsenic in the groundwater samples were 11.2 µg/L during the dry season and 10.7 µg/L during the rainy season. The study results showed that 18 wells (42.2%) and 22 wells (48.8%) had higher arsenic concentrations (>10 µg/L) during the dry and rainy seasons, respectively. Thus, arsenic levels in 42.2% and 48.8% of the samples exceeded the maximum threshold limit set by WHO, USEPA, and Ethiopian standards (10 µg/L), respectively, during the dry and rainy seasons. Furthermore, our analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between arsenic in groundwater and well depth ( r = .75, P < .001), indicating a strong association between higher arsenic concentrations and deeper wells. Similarly, we observed a substantial positive correlation between arsenic concentration in groundwater and season ( r = .9, P < .001), suggesting notable variations in arsenic levels between dry and rainy seasons. Conclusions: The majority of the groundwater sources in the studied area are unfit for human consumption because they contain high amounts of arsenic, which poses a significant risk to human health. Moreover, the arsenic concentration varied spatially and temporally. Therefore, special attention is needed to reduce arsenic exposure and associated health risks.
The Danish National Health Survey 2023: study design and participant characteristics
Authors: H. Jezek Andrea , Ekholm Ola , Davidsen Michael , Petersen Christina B. , Rosendahl Heidi , MØller Sofie R. , EghØj Martin , Thygesen Lau C. , Christensen Anne I. 
Published: October 2024

Aim: To describe the design of the Danish National Health Survey (DNHS) 2023, participants’ demographic characteristics and differences in demographic and selected health-related characteristics between respondents invited by web-mode and paper-mode. Methods: A sample of 25,000 residents in Denmark aged 16 years or above was invited to participate in the DNHS 2023 using a mixed-mode approach (web/paper mode). Web-mode invited were additionally invited to participate in an accelerometer study. The self-administered questionnaire included 83 questions about health, health behaviour and morbidity. Descriptive statistics were used to describe characteristics associated with response and invitation mode. Results: The response proportion was 40.8%. Non-response was more frequent among men, individuals of the youngest age groups, individuals with non-Western backgrounds, unmarried and individuals from densely populated areas. The response proportion was higher among web-mode invited (42.0%) than paper-mode invited (22.6%). Paper-mode invited respondents were more often women, aged 80 years or older, and widowed compared with web-mode invited respondents. Conclusions: The DNHS 2023 is a national health survey including adult residents in Denmark. Non-response was more pronounced among some subgroups; however, calibrated weights were calculated to minimise non-response bias. The survey is essential for public health surveillance and can be used in health planning and policy development. Furthermore, the data from the survey can be used for research on the population’s health and health behaviour. For future waves of the DNHS, it should be considered whether resources should be used to invite people unsubscribed from digital-post due to the low response proportion.
Structural and acoustic behavior of a timber slab with wooden tuned mass dampers
Authors: Müller Theresa , Krtschil Anna , Mahler Michael , Knippers Jan , Leistner Philip 
Published: October 2024

The increasing use of timber in multi-story construction has highlighted challenges related to the vibration behavior of timber floor slabs, affecting both structural and acoustic performance. Floor vibrations between 0 and 20 Hz and structure-borne sound especially between 50 and 100 Hz are impairing the user comfort and serviceability. This paper investigates a mono-material approach using wooden tuned mass dampers (TMDs) to reduce these vibrations in timber slabs, particularly in buildings with long spans. Eigenmodes in relevant frequency ranges are first identified, followed by the separate design and interdisciplinary integration of TMDs for structural and acoustic performance. The study integrates acoustic and structural design requirements through an interdisciplinary process, employing both experimental and numerical models. Results demonstrate that wooden TMDs can address both disciplines and reduce deflection in timber slabs and improve structure-borne and low-frequency sound transmission.
Herbal Medicines for the Improvement of Immune Function in Patients With Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Cho Youngmin , Yoo Hwa-Seung , Kim Soo-Dam , Ko Mimi , Joo Han-eum , Jang Soobin , Jeong Mi-Kyung 
Published: October 2024

Background: Lung cancer has the highest mortality rate of all cancers worldwide. Conserving the immune system and reducing the adverse events associated with cancer treatment have become increasingly important. Our study aimed to investigate the immunological effects of herbal medicine (HM) alone, independent of conventional cancer therapies, in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Methods: We searched 8 databases for articles published until March 2023. Bias risk was assessed using RevMan 5.4. Meta-analyses of CD4+ and CD8+ levels reported in the included RCTs were also performed. Results: A total of 610 patients from 5 RCTs were included in the analysis. Immune markers in the peripheral blood of patients treated with HM alone were compared with those in the control group. As a result of meta-analyses, CD4+ (three studies; mean difference(MD) = 5.21, 95 confidence interval (CI) [3.26, 7.27], I2 = 61%, n = 428) and CD4+/CD8+ (two studies; MD = 0.22, 95% CI [0.18, 0.26], I2 = 0%, n = 278) significantly increased in the treatment group, while CD8+ levels (three studies; MD = −3.04, 95% CI [−5.80, −0.29], I2 = 74%, n = 428) decreased in HM groups compared to comparison groups. In a single trial, IL-1, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-a levels and the number of Tregs in the treatment group significantly decreased, while Th17 levels and the Th17/Treg ratios increased. Conclusion: This study provides a comprehensive and systematic review of the immunological effects of HM in patients with NSCLC. Future studies should explore how the immunological effects of HM correlate with clinical outcomes, such as tumor response and survival rates. PROSPERO registration: CRD42023459
Sedentary Lifestyles and a Hypercaloric Diets During Middle Age, are Binomial Conducive to Fatal Progression, That is Counteracted by the Hormetic Treatment of Exercise, Metformin, and Tert-Butyl Hydroquinone: An Analysis of Female Middle-Aged Rat Liver Mitochondria
Authors: López-Cervantes Stefanie Paola , Toledo-Pérez Rafael , De Lira-Sánchez Jaime Abraham , García-Cruz Giovanni , Esparza-Perusquía Mercedes , Luna-López Armando , Pardo Juan Pablo , Flores-Herrera Oscar , Konigsberg Mina 
Published: October 2024

The world’s population continuous to shift towards older, less active and more sedentary lifestyles especially during middle age. In addition consumption of high-caloric diets, increases the risk of metabolic and cardiovascular afflictions. Developing clinical strategies to mitigate those health complications represent a difficult challenge. Our group has previously shown that combining metformin (MTF) and tert-butyl hydroquinone (tBHQ) treatments, in addition to exercise, partially prevents liver damage associated with obesity. Hence, we evaluated the role of exercise in combination with MTF and tBHQ (triple-treatment) to counteract mitochondrial damage in the liver from obese middle-aged female rats. Animals were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) starting at 21 days till 15 months of age. The treated groups performed a Fartlek-type exercise 5 days/week for 30 min/session. MTF and tBHQ were administered at a dose of 250 mg/kg/day, and 10 mg/kg/day, respectively, for 7 days/month from 10 to 15 months of age. Triple-treatment therapeutic approach promoted animal survival, and increased AMPK and PGC1α expression. Treatments increased mitochondrial ATP synthesis and OXPHOS complexes activities, recovered membrane potential, and decreased ROS production. In summary, exercise in combination with intermittent tBHQ and MTF treatments proved to be an excellent intervention to prevent mitochondrial damage caused by HFD.
Analysis of selective neurocritical care admission costs following elective endovascular treatment of unruptured intracranial aneurysms
Authors: Roth Steven G. , Ahn Seoiyoung , Liles Campbell , Velagapudi Lohit , Mummareddy Nishit , Ko Yeji , Hilvert Austin M. , Froehler Michael T. , Fusco Matthew R. , Chitale Rohan V. 
Published: October 2024

Introduction No consensus exists on the necessity of neurocritical care unit (NCU)-level care following unruptured intracranial aneurysm (UIA) treatment. We aim to identify patients requiring NCU-level care post-treatment and determine potential cost savings utilizing a selective NCU admission protocol. Methods A retrospective analysis of all UIA patients who underwent endovascular treatment at a single center from 2017–2022 was conducted. Data on demographics, preprocedural variables, radiographic features, procedural techniques, intra/postoperative events, and length of stay (LOS) were collected. Multivariable analysis was performed to identify patients requiring NCU-level care post-treatment. Cost analysis using hospital cost data (not charges/reimbursement) was performed using simulated step-down and floor protocols for patients without NCU indications following a hypothetical six-hour post-anesthesia care unit observation period. Results Of 209 patients, 179 were discharged within 24 h and 30 had prolonged LOS. In our analysis, intra- and postoperative events independently predicted prolonged LOS. In our subanalysis, 47 patients demonstrated NCU needs: 24 with intraoperative indications, 18 with postoperative indications, and five with both. Of the 23 with postoperative indications, 20 were identified within six hours, while three were identified within six to 24 h. The median variable cost per patient for the current NCU protocol was $31,505 (IQR, $26,331-$37,053) vs. stepdown protocol $29,514 (IQR, $24,746-$35,011;p = 0.061) vs. floor protocol $26,768 (IQR, $22,214-$34,107;p < 0.001). Total variable costs were $6,211,497 for the current NCU protocol vs. $5,921,912 for the step-down protocol (4.89% savings) and $5,509,052 for the floor protocol (12.75% savings). Conclusion Most patients requiring NCU-level care following UIA treatment were identified within a six-hour postoperative window. Thus, selective NCU admission for this cohort following a six-hour observation period may be a logical avenue for cost reduction. Our analysis demonstrated 5% and 13% savings for uncomplicated patients using step-down and floor admission protocols, respectively.
Vascular-endothelial adaptations following low and high volumes of high-intensity interval training in patients after myocardial infarction
Authors: Aispuru-Lanche Rodrigo , Jayo-Montoya Jon Ander , Maldonado-Martín Sara 
Published: October 2024

Background: Determinants of coronary artery disease, such as endothelial dysfunction and oxidative stress, could be attenuated by high-intensity aerobic interval exercise training (HIIT). However, the volume of this type of training is not well established. Objective: To assess the impact of two volumes of HIIT, low (LV-HIIT, <10 min at high intensity) and high (HV-HIIT, >10 min at high intensity), on vascular-endothelial function in individuals after an acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Materials and methods: Clinical trial in 80 AMI patients (58.4 ± 8.3 years, 82.5% men) with three study groups: LV-HIIT ( n = 28) and HV-HIIT ( n = 28) with two sessions per week for 16 weeks and control group (CG, n = 24) with unsupervised physical activity recommendations. Endothelial function (brachial flow-mediated dilation, FMD), atherosclerosis (carotid intima-media thickness ultrasound, cIMT), and levels of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) as a marker of oxidative stress were determined before and after the intervention period. Results: After the intervention, in the exercise groups, there was an increase in FMD (LV-HIIT, ↑58.8%; HV-HIIT, ↑94.1%; p < 0.001) concurrently with a decrease in cIMT (LV-HIIT, ↓3.0%; HV-HIIT, ↓3.2%; p = 0.019) and LDLox (LV-HIIT, ↓5.2%; HV-HIIT, ↓8.9%; p < 0.001), with no significant changes in the CG. Furthermore, a significant inverse correlation was observed between ox-LDL and endothelial function related to the volume of HIIT training performed (LV-HIIT: r = −0.376, p = 0.031; HV-HIIT: r = −0.490, p < 0.004), with no significance in the CG ( r = 0.021, p = 0.924). Conclusion: In post-AMI patients, HIIT may lead to a volume-dependent enhancement in endothelial function, attributed to a decrease in oxidative stress, with added beneficial effects in reducing vascular wall thickness. An LV-HIIT program, with less than 10 min at high intensity per session, has proven enough efficiency to initiate favorable vascular-endothelial adaptations, potentially reducing cardiovascular risk among patients with coronary artery disease. Trial registration: INTERFARCT, ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02876952.
Clinical and ethical challenges in decision-making for patients with disorders of consciousness and locked-in syndrome from Chinese neurologists’ perspectives
Authors: Li Meiqi , Yan Yifan , Kuehlmeyer Katja , Huang Wangshan , Laureys Steven , Di Haibo 
Published: October 2024

Background: The diagnosis of and life-sustaining treatment (LST) for patients with disorders of consciousness (DoC) and locked-in syndrome (LIS) have been the subject of intense debate. Objective: We aim to investigate the application of diagnostic knowledge, opinions about the administration of LST, and ethical challenges related to DoC and LIS. Design: A cross-sectional study. Methods: A survey was conducted among Chinese neurologists. Questionnaires included three vignettes (unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (UWS); minimally conscious state (MCS), and LIS). They were randomly distributed among neurologists from August 2018 to December 2019. Results: A sample of 360 questionnaires was included (response rate: 78%). Overall, 63% of the participants chose the correct diagnostic category. The neurologists who received the MCS case chose the category more accurately than the neurologists with the UWS ( p < 0.001) and LIS case ( p = 0.002). Most neurologists preferred never to limit LST for their patients (47%, 63%, and 67% in UWS, MCS, and LIS groups, p = 0.052). A large group of neurologists believed UWS patients could feel pain (73%), with no difference from MCS and LIS patients ( p > 0.05). Deciding for patients in the absence of surrogates was rated extremely challenging. Conclusion: A large proportion of Chinese neurologists in our study didn’t apply the accurate diagnostic categories to the description of DoC and LIS patients. This calls for more education and training. Most Chinese neurologists were reluctant to limit LST for patients. This may indicate that there may be a need to emphasize the allocation of more resources toward long-term care in China.
Immune signatures of patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer for efficacy prediction after immunotherapy
Authors: Luo Yung-Hung , Shen Chia-I , Chiang Chi-Lu , Chen Yuh-Min 
Published: October 2024

Background: Programmed cell death protein 1 ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression alone may not be the optimal predictor of immunotherapy (IO) efficacy in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Evaluation of circulating immune signatures using mass cytometry is a promising technique for predicting IO response and prognosis. The utility of circulating immune signatures for efficacy prediction after IO in advanced NSCLC remains to be elucidated. Objectives: To assess the feasibility of circulating immune cells and cytokines in predicting tumor response to IO in advanced NSCLC. Design: A prospective observational study. Methods: To investigate dynamic changes in immune signatures, blood specimens were prospectively collected from patients with NSCLC at baseline and following chemotherapy (C/T) and/or IO. Mass cytometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were used to characterize immune signatures and cytokine patterns to identify correlations between immune profiles and treatment efficacy. Results: The study enrolled 45 patients. The proportion of circulating natural killer (NK) cells and CD8+ T cells significantly increased after IO alone treatment. Cell levels of PD-1+CD8+ T cells, PD-1+CD4+ T cells, TIM-3+CD8+ T cells, LAG-3+ NK cells, and LAG-3+CD8+ T cells significantly decreased in patients with treatment response to IO alone. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels significantly increased after IO alone treatment. Patients with high PD-1+CD8+ T cells before IO alone treatment had lower overall survival (OS) compared to those with low levels. Patients with high LAG-3+CD8+ T cells before chemotherapy plus immunotherapy treatment had lower OS compared to those with low levels. Conclusion: Responses to IO in NSCLC were correlated with declines in specific exhausted T cells, suggesting that IO may exert therapeutical efficacy by decreasing circulating exhausted T cells, which were associated with poorer survival, while also increasing TNF-α. These results highlight the prognostic value of monitoring changes in circulating exhausted T cells to predict IO response and survival outcomes in advanced lung cancer.