bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Women-specific reference ranges for serum TSH in Liguria: the impact of age and year of collection in a single-center cross-sectional study (*)
Authors: Giusti Massimo , Sidoti Marilena 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background. TSH is the first-line test of thyroid function, and the normal ranges provided by manufacturers are generally used in diagnoses. In the age of gender medicine, however, there is a need to refine normal TSH ranges.Aim. The aim of this study was to construct a normal TSH range in women living in our district. The data were collected in a secondary-level center located in Savona (Liguria, Italy).Methods. From 2003 to 2022, 6227 medical records from women undergoing their first endocrinological examination were anonymously evaluated. After the application of exclusion criteria, statistical analysis was anonymously performed on a sample of 2597 medical records.Results. The median 2.5th and 97.5th percentiles of TSH provided by manufacturers were 0.20 mIU/l and 5.92 mIU/l, respectively. In the study population, median (2.5th − 97.5th percentiles) TSH was 1.70 mIU/l (0.37–6.95 mIU/l). TSH and patient age did not vary significantly over the years (2003–2022). A slight negative correlation was found between TSH and age (P = 0.05). On stratifying the sample into three age-groups (18–44 years, N = 1200; 45–64 years N = 934; ≥65 years, N = 463), TSH was 1.75 mIU/l (0.49–5.94 mIU/l), 1.70 mIU/l (0.30–6.89 mIU/l) and 1.64 mIU/l (0.30–7.69 mIU/l), respectively. When TSH was evaluated according to the age-related range instead of the range reported by manufacturers, the number of women aged 18–44 years considered to have sub-clinical hyperthyroidism increased slightly (P = 0.02). In the ≥ 65-year age-group, the percentage of women considered to have sub-clinical hypothyroidism decreased significantly (P < 0.001) when the upper limit of normal TSH was set at the age-related value of the 97.5th percentile instead of the manufacturers' value.Conclusions. This is the first study in Liguria aimed at establishing new age-specific reference values for TSH in women. Based on a large number of data, this new age-related range could be more extensively employed in order to improve diagnoses and therapies. The main result of implementing age-related normal TSH levels between the 2.5th and 97.5th percentiles seems to be a slight increase in 18-44-year-old women with sub-clinical hyperthyroidism and a very significant reduction in the hasty diagnosis of sub-clinical hypothyroidism in ≥ 65-year-old women.
Exploring Serum Bile Acids as Potential Noninvasive Biomarkers for Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: basuni Ashraf Abbass , Khalil Ashraf , Sweed Dina , Elgazzar Mohamed Fathey 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background: Bile acids are vital regulators of liver metabolism, and their dysregulation is closely linked with the progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Profiling these bile acids may provide valuable diagnostic and prognostic markers for these conditions. This study aimed to evaluate bile acid profiles in NAFLD patients and assess their potential as biomarkers for diagnosing and predicting disease progression. Serum levels of 14 bile acids were measured in 25 normal healthy controls (NHC), 35patients with nonalcoholic steatosis (NAST), and 40 patients with NASH, categorized by the NAFLD Activity Score (NAS). Quantification was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS).
Results: Primary unconjugated bile acids, CA and CDCA, along with conjugated acids GCA, GCDCA, TCA, and TCDCA, were significantly elevated in both NAST and NASH compared to NHC (all p < 0.05). While levels increased progressively from NHC to NAST to NASH, no significant differences were observed between NAST and NASH except for GCA and TCA (P< 0.05). Similarly, secondary bile acids LCA, TLCA, GUDCA, and TUDCA were higher in NAST and NASH compared to NHC (all p < 0.05).
Logistic regression identified CA (odds ratio = 2.05, p = 0.02), CDCA (odds ratio = 1.58, p = 0.04), GCA (odds ratio = 1.92, p = 0.03) and DCA (odds ratio = 2.06, p = 0.04) as significant predictors of fibrosis. For active inflammation, GCA (odds ratio = 2.04, p = 0.04), and TCA (odds ratio = 1.94, p = 0.04) were significant predictors. In steatosis, CA, CDCA, GCA, DCA, TDCA, TLCA, and UDCA were notable predictors, with high odds ratios.
Conclusion: The study highlights significant alterations in bile acid profiles associated with NAFLD progression. Specific bile acids, such as CA, GCA, TCA, and TCDCA are strong predictors of disease severity, indicating their potential as biomarkers for NAFLD treatment and prognosis.
Geochronology of Detrital Zircons from Ordovician–Devonian Sediments of the South Qinling Belt: Implications for the Closure of the Shangdan Ocean
Authors: Luo Fenhong , Gong Hujun , Liu Hang , Zhang Yaqin 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The Shangdan suture zone preserves important information regarding the Paleozoic collision between the North China Block and South China Block (SCB). Though the timing of this collision significantly affected the tectonic evolution of the Qinling Orogenic Belt, it remains controversial. Detailed U–Pb dating of detrital zircons from Ordovician to Devonian sediments in the South Qinling Belt (SQB) revealed age clusters of 430–450, 710–840, and 910–960 Ma for Devonian and Silurian detrital zircons samples (~ 440, 800, and 940 Ma peaks, respectively). Ordovician samples were mainly 710–850 Ma (peak at ~ 735 Ma) and lacked the 910–960 Ma age group. Comparing magmatic events with those from surrounding terranes and detrital zircon mixing provenance modeling revealed 430–450 and 910–960 Ma peaks for granitoids in the North Qinling Belt; the 710–840 Ma age population was related to the SCB and SQB. Devonian and Silurian samples indicated provenances from northern and southern sides of the Shangdan suture zone. Ordovician samples were from the southern side, suggesting significant provenance conversion in SQB strata from Ordovician to Silurian. Closure of the Shangdan Ocean probably occurred during the Ordovician to Silurian period, imparting a northern provenance to Silurian and Devonian strata.
Modeling the COVID-19 incorporating oil futures
Authors: Alghalith Moawia , Floros Christos , Daglis Theodoros , Gkillas Konstantinos 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated the production of mathematical models that were able to explain and thoroughly study various aspects and features of the pandemic. In this work, we provide a well-stated mathematical model to explain and simulate the evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic. To test our model’s performance and validity, we utilize actual surveillance data from the pandemic, capturing the results of this empirical investigation. According to the results, our model is valid, since all estimates are statistically significant, and the coefficient explains the evolution of the pandemic.
Taming collective activity to crystallize an oscillator gas
Authors: Morin Alexandre , Blay Marine Le , Saldi Joshua 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

In active matter, where constituents are intrinsically out-of-equilibrium, even the highest-symmetry phases come with surprises. When activity is coupled negatively to density, such as in assemblies of self-propelled units, phase separation can occur without attractive interaction, a well-studied phenomenon known as motility-induced phase separation. In stark contrast, the consequences of a positive coupling between density and activity on the collective behaviour of active matter remain uncharted. Here, we unveil the phenomenon of collective activity, which emerges from this positive coupling among non-motile active units. We demonstrate its genuine propensity for disorder and leverage its potential in guiding self-assembly. To do so, we experimentally study collectives of scalar active units undergoing self-sustained oscillations induced by contact-charge electrophoresis. We explain the spontaneous formation of an oscillator gas by collective activity resulting from super-elastic collisions. Unravelling the origin of binary collisions allows us to tame collective activity, giving us precise control on the structure of the oscillator gas and its eventual crystallization. Our work highlights and quantifies the importance of the coupling between activity and density in active phases. It is a launch pad for exploring lower-symmetry active systems with new eyes where activity may be coupled not only to density, but also to broken-symmetry variables.
Environmental Sustainability in Bangladesh trough renewable energy, foreign direct investment, and trade openness: Evidence from Load Capacity Factor and Inverted Load Capacity factor with Fourier Functions
Authors: Qamruzzaman Md 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This study investigates the effect of renewable energy consumption (REC), trade openness (TO), and foreign direct investment on environmental sustainability in Bangladesh during 1990–2022. For this purpose, it uses innovative input parameters, Load Capacity Factor (LCF) and Inverted LCF as performance indicators. The study adopts Fourier ARDL and the Fourier NARDL method to investigate the symmetric and asymmetric effects of REC, TO, and FDI on environmental sustainability in Bangladesh, which is a distinctive feature compared with other studies. This procedure can represent complex non-linear relationships between these two variables by invoking Fourier functions, elucidating a more complete picture of economic growth and environmental impact dynamics. Specifically, the results reveal that both REC and TO positively associate with environmental sustainability via lower CO2 emissions and ecological footprints. At the same time, FDI has an intricate relationship feature that exhibits non-linear impacts. The study findings provide a fresh look at the existing EKC hypothesis regarding environmental quality deterioration and the adoption of cleaner technology that is associated with economic growth through LCF. Results highlight the necessity of ad-hoc, effective, and sustainable energy policies, investment in renewables and green energies, as well as regarding trade practices. The results provide some policy insights on improving energy efficiency and achieving sustainable development. Policymakers need to embrace green technologies and pursue politics to enhance economic prospects while maintaining balance with the environment. The implications of the study are significant to consider for Bangladesh to reach its SDGs and achieve sustainability.
A New Controllable Multi-Wing Chaotic System: Applications in High- Security Color Image Encryption
Authors: Ding Pengfei , Geng Penghui , Hu WeiWei 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Due to its rich dynamic behaviors and diversity, the multi-wing chaotic system has garnered widespread research interest, and its emergence and applications are currently under intensive investigation. In this paper, based on the Sprott-A system, a four-dimensional controllable multi-wing chaotic system is proposed by incorporating a cosine function. The system can generate a controllable number of wings by adjusting its parameters, thus realizing the precise control of chaotic behavior. Through numerical simulation, the high randomness and complexity of the system are verified. On account of the superiority of the system, a new color image encryption method is designed based on this new system. The method uses chaotic sequences to implement DNA-level image scrambling operation, and discrete wavelet transform (DWT) to decompose the scrambled image, then scramble these decomposed components. The scrambled matrices are reconstructed with inverse discrete wavelet transform (IDWT), and diffused to produce the ciphertext image. Ultimately, the results of simulations and security evaluations indicate the high-security level of the suggested image encryption technique.
Towards Algorithmic Framing Analysis: Expanding the Scope by Using LLMs
Authors: Kuang Xianwen , Liu Jun , Zhang Haiyang , Schweighofer Simon 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Framing analysis, an extensively used, multi-disciplinary social science research method, requires substantial manpower and time to code and uncover human-level understanding of story contexts. However, recent advances in deep learning have led to a qualitative jump in algorithm-assisted methods, with large language models (LLMs) like BERT and GPT going beyond surface characteristics to infer the semantic properties of a text. In this study, we explore the application of the LLM BERT-NLI, which leverages bidirectional context and rich embeddings to assist scholars in identifying contextual information in media texts for quantitative framing analysis. More specifically, we investigate the capability of LLMs to identify generic media frames by comparing the results from a zero-shot analysis using BERT-NLI to those from human analysis. We find that the reliability of detecting generic frames varies significantly across different datasets, indicating that even a large LLM like BERT-NLI, trained on millions of texts from diverse sources, cannot be uniformly trusted across different contexts. Nonetheless, LLMs might be employed productively in specific contexts after careful consideration of their agreement with human-generated ratings.
Causal relationship between sex hormone-binding globulin, 25-hydroxyvitamin D and polycystic ovary syndrome: a two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Ou Yan , Li Yan , Zhang Xi , Liu Xiao , Wen Xiaomin , Liang Yong , Wang Qi 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Many studies have reported that sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) are important factors affecting polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), but their interrelationship remains controversial. Our study employed bidirectional Mendelian randomization analysis to elucidate the causal relationships between SHBG, 25(OH)D, and PCOS. The genetic loci closely related to SHBG, 25(OH) D and PCOS were extracted from large-sample GWAS data as instrumental variables. Five algorithms, namely, MR‒Egger regression, weighted median, inverse variance weighting (IVW), simple mode and weighted mode, were used for bidirectional Mendelian randomization analysis. In addition, the Cochran Q test was used to evaluate heterogeneity, the MR‒Egger intercept plot and the funnel plot were used to test horizontal pleiotropy, and sensitivity analysis was performed with the leave-one-out method to evaluate whether there was a correlation between SHBG, 25(OH)D and PCOS. We found that a decrease in SHBG and 25(OH) D levels is a genetic susceptibility factor for PCOS, whereas PCOS does not lead to a change in SHBG and 25(OH) D levels. In addition, a positive causal relationship was found between SHBG and 25(OH) D, with a decrease in SHBG leading to a corresponding decrease in 25(OH) D, whereas the change in SHBG was independent of 25(OH) D.
Effects of Corporate Transparency on Tax Avoidance: Evidence from Country-by-Country Reporting
Authors: Tuinsma Tijmen , De Witte Kristof , Janský Petr , Palanský Miroslav , Titl Vitezslav 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Since 2016, multinationals with a revenue over EUR 750 million have to submit country-by-country reports to tax authorities to deter tax avoidance. Using a regression discontinuity design, we provide evidence for an increase in affected multinationals’ effective tax rates. However, the most aggressive multinationals with known tax haven presence were only moderately affected. The effect is mainly driven by medium-aggressive firms, which achieved low effective tax rates without tax haven affiliates to shift profits to. The policy was thus effective in combating some tax avoidance but profit shifting to tax havens remains an issue, explaining the push for further policy measures including the global minimum corporate tax rate.
JEL codes: F23, H25, H26
Evaluating Sustainable Calcium Sources for Poultry Nutrition: A Comparative Study of Figuil Limestone, Shellfish and Quail Eggshell
Authors: Djanabou Moussa , Djitie Francois K. , Njimou Jacques Romain , Lemougna Patrick N. , Kepdieu Jean M. , Radu-Rusu Razvan M. , Njintang Nicolas Y. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Calcium plays a crucial role in poultry nutrition, significantly impacting skeletal development and eggshell quality. This study investigates the synergistic and physicochemical properties of Figuil limestone, Douala shellfish, and Ngaoundere quail eggshells as potential dietary calcium sources, with a strong emphasis on animal welfare in poultry production. Utilizing advanced analytical techniques including X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX), we conducted a comprehensive assessment of these materials. Our results indicate that Figuil limestone and quail eggshells are predominantly composed of calcite calcium, while shellfish primarily contain aragonite calcium. The calcium oxide (CaO) content was determined to be 50% in Figuil limestone, 42% in shellfish, and 26% in quail eggshells, with varying concentrations of magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), silicon (Si), and iron (Fe). Substituting shellfish meal with limestone powder notably influenced broiler feed consumption at six weeks of age, positively affecting live weight and average weekly weight gain. Remarkably, treatment T4 (100% limestone) demonstrated particularly promising outcomes. This research underscores the importance of animal welfare by adhering to EU standards for the protection of animals in research. Our findings advocate for Figuil limestone powder as a sustainable and ethically sourced alternative to shellfish meal in broiler diets, capable of complete replacement up to 100%. This study highlights Figuil limestone's potential as a viable calcium source in animal feed formulations, offering environmentally friendly options for poultry nutrition while promoting animal welfare and delivering economic benefits to both developed and developing regions.
The Immutable Law of Digital Document Pixelation: A Study of Authentic and Forged Documents
Authors: Garzotto David 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This paper introduces the "Immutable Law of Digital Document Pixelation," which posits that in authentic digital documents, the signature should never exhibit higher pixelation than the surrounding text, as the signature is applied last in the creation process. The study examines 265 authentic notarized deed documents and 12 suspected forgeries. A control group of digitally manipulated documents was created to test the hypothesis. Results demonstrate that most authentic documents follow the Immutable Law, with signatures showing consistently lower pixelation levels compared to surrounding text. However, some forgeries showed lower pixelation for signatures due to manipulation through higher resolution, indicating forgers’ attempts to evade detection. Findings validate pixelation analysis as a tool for detecting digital forgeries and highlight the need for future AI-based methods.
Detecting Digital Forgeries Through HEX/RGB Color Discrepancy Analysis in Forensic Document Examination
Authors: Garzotto David 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

As digital documents and signatures become more prevalent, the field of forensic document examination must adapt to detect forgeries effectively. Traditional methods, such as ink analysis and stroke pattern recognition, are often unsuitable for digitally signed or scanned documents. This paper presents a novel method for detecting forgeries by analyzing HEX/RGB color discrepancies in digital documents. By using Euclidean distance to measure the variation between RGB values of different parts of a signature or document, this method quantifies color inconsistencies, providing a non-invasive, objective means of determining forgery. The results indicate that this approach has strong potential to complement or replace traditional forensic methods in the digital age.
Impact of Music Expression-Related Parameters on Pianists’ Kinematics and Muscle Activity: A Systematic Review
Authors: Mailly Robin , Turner Craig , Goubault Etienne , Maso Fabien Dal , Verdugo Felipe 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Bodily gestures are essential in piano performance. They allow sound production and, at the same time, facilitate the communication of the expressive content of music. From pianists’ perspective, music expression-related parameters include not only single performance parameters (timing, sound intensity, articulation, etc.), but also more complex parameters (named hereafter abstract parameters), such as music structure features (e.g., phrasing) and extra-musical ideas (e.g., emotions, narratives, etc.). This systematic review aimed to investigate the impact of both performance and abstract parameters related to music expression on kinematics and muscle activity of expert pianists. As complementary objectives, we documented ontological and methodological differences between the studies included, and we addressed how music expression-related parameters affect pianists’ exposure to risk factors of injuries. The search strategy consisted of using concepts and keywords in Medline, Embase, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science databases, and we followed the PRISMA guidelines. Fifteen studies were included. Ten studies focused on performance parameters, four studies focused on abstract parameters, and one study addressed both performance and abstract parameters. Performance and abstract music expression-related parameters impacted pianists’ kinematics and muscle activity in a variety of ways. The specific effects were dependent on the type of task and the gestural variable investigated by studies. Important differences in ontological (performance or abstract parameters studied, gestural variable investigated) and methodological choices (experimental task and instrument used, data acquisition and processing procedures) prevent the establishment of a thorough dialogue between music research studies and biomechanics and motor control studies. A set of performance parameters (playing loud, playing fast, staccato articulation, large handspan chords) were identified as potential risk factors of injuries. Further interdisciplinary research mixing methods from empirical music research and biomechanics would help enhance knowledge on the impact of music expression on pianists’ gestures for both performance and injury prevention purposes.
Planning decentralized wastewater treatment systems by comparing through TOPSIS
Authors: Thaqi Premton , Ahmedi Figene 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT

This study evaluates 10 case studies of decentralized wastewater treatment systems (DEWATS) and compares them based on their environmental and economic performance. The aim is to identify the best treatment system composed of specific treatment processes that can be used in the future for hospitals, universities/colleges, and small communities. The comparison was conducted using the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to the Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method of multiple criteria decision-making. According to the TOPSIS method, systems are ranked from 1 to 10 by normalizing and weighting the decision matrix criteria, measuring the alternative's distance from the ideal best to worst value, and then calculating the performance score of each system. The study found that the H4 system, which includes a septic tank, anaerobic baffled reactor, anaerobic filter, horizontal filter, and pond, achieved the highest performance score. Therefore, the processes of the H4 system are recommended as the best alternative for DEWATS. This study may therefore assist stakeholders on their decision to implement DEWATS in similar facilities.