bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
COMPARATIVE STUDY OF ELECTRICALLY AND INDUCTIVELY ACTUATED SHAPE MEMORY ALLOY NITI WIRE USING TENSILE TESTING
Authors: Sivasanghari Karunakaran  , Abdul Majid Dayang Laila Abang , Husam Yahya Imran  
Published: July 2024

Shape memory alloy (SMA) actuators have the capability to actuate high forces while being compact, making them a potential replacement for complex electromechanical systems especially in aerospace applications. Common heating technique of SMA actuator is electrical heating. However, the actuation capability of SMA is dependent on the heat transfer mechanism of SMA as it is very sensitive to temperature and stress, thus lead to the difficulty in controlling mechanism. Owing to the complex controllability of heating techniques, the induction heating technique for SMA wire was undertaken in this investigation and proposed to be promising technique for SMA. A comparison between electrical heating and induction heating were performed using tensile testing. The tensile loading was performed using Instron 3366 Universal Testing Machine (UTS) with a 5 kN load cell and strain rate of 0.04 mm/min. A series of experiment at three different activation temperatures of 60°C,70°C and 80°C were performed for both the electrical and induction heating technique. The electrical actuation was done through power supply, whereas the inductive actuation was done through a specially developed heat control chamber comprises electromagnetic coil. The stress-strain curve for loading path was developed for both techniques and were compared. The results showed that the loading profile for inductively actuated wire was similar to the loading pattern of SMA superelasticity performance compared to electrical actuated wire which was nonlinear and serrated. In conclusion, induction heating technique is seemed to be a promising method to actuate SMA precisely.
An update on pacemaking in the myometrium
Authors: Wray Susan , Taggart Michael J. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractTimely and efficient contractions of the smooth muscle of the uterus – the myometrium – are crucial to a successful pregnancy outcome. These episodic contractions are regulated by spontaneous action potentials changing cell and tissue electrical excitability. In this short review we will document and discuss current knowledge of these processes. Those seeking a conclusive account of myometrial pacemaking mechanisms, or indeed a definitive description of the anatomical site of uterine pacemaking, may be disappointed. Rather, after almost a century of investigation, and in spite of promising studies in the last decade or so, there remain many gaps in our knowledge. We review the progress that has been made using recent technologies including in vivo and ex vivo imaging and electrophysiology and computational modelling, taking evidence from studies of animal and human myometrium, with particular emphasis on what may occur in the latter. We have prioritized physiological studies that bring us closer to understanding function. From our analyses we suggest that in human myometrium there is no fixed pacemaking site, but rather mobile, initiation sites produce the connectivity for synchronizing electrical and contractile activity. We call for more studies and funding, as physiological understanding of pacemaking gives hope to being better able to treat clinical conditions such as preterm and dysfunctional labours.
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Radiodensities of Skeletal Muscle and Visceral Adipose Tissues Are Prognostic Factors in Clear-Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Bradshaw Patrick T. , Olsson Linnea T. , Sanchez Alejandro , Knezevic Andrea , Akin Oguz , Scott Jessica M. , Hakimi A. Ari , Russo Paul , Caan Bette J. , Mourtzakis Marina , Furberg Helena 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background:
Body composition may be related to survival in patients with clear-cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), but studies have not simultaneously considered adipose and muscle tissue quantity and radiodensity.

Methods:
We analyzed data from 1,022 patients with ccRCC who underwent nephrectomy between 2000 and 2020 at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Skeletal muscle, visceral adipose tissue, and subcutaneous adipose tissue indexes (cm2/m2) and radiodensities [Hounsfield units (HU)] were assessed from noncontrast presurgical CT scans; clinical and demographic characteristics were available from the time of surgery. HRs and confidence intervals were estimated for overall (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) through March 2023 in multivariable models that simultaneously accounted for all body composition measures.

Results:
The median age of the patients was 58 years, 69% were male, and 90% were White. There were 169 OS events over 8,392 person-years and 253 DFS events over 7,753 person-years of follow-up. In adjusted analyses, poor OS was associated with lower skeletal muscle radiodensity [−10 HU, HR (95% confidence interval), 1.37 (1.05–1.77)] and greater visceral adipose tissue radiodensity [+10 HU, 1.66 (1.06–2.59)], with similar findings for DFS. Poor survival was also associated with greater visceral adipose tissue index [+40 cm2/m2, OS: 1.32 (0.97, 1.79); DFS: 1.33 (1.04, 1.71)]. Associations with skeletal muscle radiodensity were limited to patients with stage 1/2 disease.

Conclusions:
Radiodensities of skeletal muscle and visceral adipose tissues may be novel presurgical prognostic factors for patients with ccRCC.

Impact:
The findings underscore the importance of evaluating the full range of body composition features simultaneously in multivariable models.
Host cell wall composition and localized microenvironment implicated in resistance to basal stem degradation by lettuce drop (Sclerotinia minor)
Authors: Simko Ivan , Mamo Bullo Erena , Foster Clifton E. , Adhikari Neil D. , Subbarao Krishna V. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
Sclerotinia spp. are generalist fungal pathogens, infecting over 700 plant hosts worldwide, including major crops. While host resistance is the most sustainable and cost-effective method for disease management, complete resistance to Sclerotinia diseases is rare. We recently identified soft basal stem as a potential susceptibility factor to Sclerotinia minor infection in lettuce (Lactuca sativa) under greenhouse conditions.

Results
Analysis of stem and root cell wall composition in five L. sativa and one L. serriola accessions with varying growth habits and S. minor resistance levels revealed strong association between hemicellulose constituents, lignin polymers, disease phenotypes, and basal stem mechanical strength. Accessions resistant to basal stem degradation consistently exhibited higher levels of syringyl, guaiacyl, and xylose, but lower levels of fucose in stems. These findings suggest that stem cell wall polymers recalcitrant to breakdown by lignocellulolytic enzymes may contribute to stem strength-mediated resistance against S. minor.

Conclusions
The lignin content, particularly guaiacyl and syringyl, along with xylose could potentially serve as biomarkers for identifying more resistant lettuce accessions and breeding lines. Basal stem degradation by S. minor was influenced by localized microenvironment conditions around the stem base of the plants.
Opioid free analgesia after return home in ambulatory colonic surgery patients: a single-center observational study
Authors: Gosgnach Marilyn , Chasserant Philippe , Raux Mathieu 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
Because of the adverse effects of morphine and its derivatives, non-opioid analgesia procedures are proposed after outpatient surgery. Without opioids, the ability to provide quality analgesia after the patient returns home may be questioned. We examined whether an opioid-free strategy could ensure satisfactory analgesia after ambulatory laparoscopic colectomy.

Methods
We performed a retrospective observational single-center study (of prospective collected database) including all patients eligible for scheduled outpatient colectomy. Postoperative analgesia was provided by paracetamol and nefopam. Postoperative follow-up included pain at mobilization (assessed by a numerical rating scale, NRS), hemodynamic variables, temperature, resumption of transit and biological markers of postoperative inflammation. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients with moderate to severe pain (NRS > 4) the day after surgery.

Results
Data from 144 patients were analyzed. The majority were men aged 59 ± 12 years with a mean BMI of 27 [25-30] kg/m2. ASA scores were 1 for 14%, 2 for 59% and 3 for 27% of patients. Forty-seven patients (33%) underwent surgery for cancer, 94 for sigmoiditis (65%) and 3 (2%) for another colonic pathology. Postoperative pain was affected by time since surgery (Q3 = 52.4,p < 0.001) and decreased significantly from day to day. The incidence of moderate to severe pain at mobilization (NRS > 4) on the first day after surgery was (0.19; 95% CI, 0.13–0.27).

Conclusion
Non-opioid analgesia after ambulatory laparoscopic colectomy seems efficient to ensure adequate analgesia. This therapeutic strategy makes it possible to avoid the adverse effects of opioids.

Trial registration
The study was retrospectively registered and approved by the relevant institutional review board (CERAR) reference IRB 00010254–2018 – 188). All patients gave written informed consent for analysis of their data. The anonymous database was declared to the French Data Protection Authority (CNIL) (reference 221 2976 v0 of April 12, 2019).
Development and validation of a prediction nomogram for sleep disorders in hospitalized patients with acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Huang Jing , Li Miao , Zeng Xiu-Wen , Qu Guang-Su , Lin Lu , Xin Xu-Min 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Sleep disorders are becoming more prevalent in hospitalized patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). We aimed to investigate the risk factors for sleep disorders in hospitalized patients with AMI, then develop and validate a prediction nomogram for the risk of sleep disorders.

Methods
Clinical data were collected from patients with AMI hospitalized in our hospital from January 2020 to June 2023. All patients were divided into the training group and the validation group with a ratio of 7:3 in sequential order. The LASSO regression analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to screen potential risk factors for sleep disorders. The concordance index (C-index), calibration curves, and decision curve analysis (DCA) were plotted.

Results
A total of 256 hospitalized patients with AMI were enrolled. Patients were divided into the training group (180) and the validation group (76) according to a scale of 7:3. Of the 256 patients, 90 patients (35.16%) suffered from sleep disorders, and 33 patients (12.89%) needed hypnotics. The variables screened by LASSO regression included age, smoking, NYHA class, anxiety status at admission, depression status at admission, and strangeness of environment. A nomogram model was established by incorporating the risk factors selected. The C-index, calibration curve, and DCA showed good predictive performance.

Conclusions
We identified six clinical characteristics as predictors of sleep disorders in hospitalized patients with AMI. It helps nurses make appropriate decisions in clinical practice.
A novel learner driver first aid eLearning program: a mixed-method pre-post pilot test and evaluation
Authors: Miller Olivia , Newnam Sharon 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
Approximately 1.35 million people worldwide are killed in road accidents every year. Mandatory first aid training for learner drivers has been introduced in some European countries but no such requirements are in effect in Australia. The current study aimed to pilot and evaluate a first aid eLearning program for Australian learner drivers undertaking their mandated supervised driving hours.

Methods
A total of 103 participants (M age = 20.57; 52.4% female, 96% completion rate) responded to an online survey immediately before and two weeks after completing the Learner Driver First Aid program. Participants completed measures of first aid self-efficacy, first aid knowledge, and attitudes towards first aid, and provided qualitative feedback on the program. Paired samples t-tests and Mann-Whitney U tests assessed improvements in first aid self-efficacy, knowledge, and attitudes, and qualitative feedback were analysed thematically.

Results
Participants showed significant pre-post program improvements in first aid self-efficacy (p < .001) and first aid knowledge (p < .001); however, there were no significant changes in attitudes towards first aid (p = .028). Self-efficacy and knowledge improvements were significantly greater for those without prior first aid training (p < .001). Participants rated the usability of the online program favourably and most (93.2%) were satisfied or extremely satisfied with the program. Qualitative feedback suggested participants found the program to be accessible and interactive but noted concerns about the transfer of skills to the real-world context.

Conclusions
The findings provide support for the efficacy of online first aid training for Australian learner drivers. However, further improvements to the eLearning program based on participant feedback should be considered. This study recommends the Learner Driver First Aid program be refined and rolled out to the Australian public.
Influence of the examination position and distension medium on the rectal sensory test in patients with functional constipation
Authors: Xiao Chang-Fang , Li Yi-Fan , Sun Yang-Yang , Meng Ling-Yun , Wu Jing-Wen , Wang Min , Cao Yong-Qing , Wang Chen , Yao Yi-Bo 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Purpose
To evaluate the impact of two different parameters (body position and distension medium) on the rectal sensory test in patients with functional constipation and provide data support for the development of standardized operating procedures in clinical practice.

Methods
Based on a single-center process of the rectal sensory test, 39 patients with functional constipation were recruited for rectal sensory test under different body positions and distension mediums.

Results
Among the items of the Constipation Scoring System, the score of frequency of bowel movements showed a negative correlation with the first constant sensation volume (r = -0.323, P = 0.045). Conversely, the score of painful evacuation effort showed a positive correlation with the desire to defecate volume (r = 0.343, P = 0.033). There was a statistically significant difference in the first constant sensation volume (when the distension medium was gas) measured in different body positions (left lateral position, sitting position, squatting position), and the data measured in the squatting position were significantly higher than those in left lateral position (P < 0.05). In terms of research on distension medium, it was found that the first constant sensation volume measured in the squatting position (when the distension medium was water) was significantly lower than that of gas (P < 0.05).

Conclusion
For patients with functional constipation, there are differences in the results of rectal sensory tests between body positions and distension mediums. When conducting multicenter studies, it is necessary to unify the standard operating procedure (SOP) for operational details to ensure consistency and reliability of the test results.
Investigating miR-6880-5p in extracellular vesicle from plasma as a prognostic biomarker in endocrine therapy-treated castration-resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Lee Jimin , Hong Jinhwa , Kim Ju Won , Lim Soonyoung , Choi Seung-Cheol , Gim Jeong-An , Kang Sung Gu , Noh Tae Il , Park Kyong Hwa 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
Advancements in the diagnosis, treatment, and surveillance of castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) have progressed considerably, but a new biomarker that combines existing clinical and pathological data could be useful for a more precise diagnosis and prognosis. Some investigations have found that extracellular vesicle (EV)-derived miRNAs play crucial roles in various types of malignant tumors. The objective of this study was to explore EV miRNA and identify its biologic function as a biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of CRPC.

Methods
Plasma samples were collected from five healthy donors (Control, CT) and 17 CRPC patients, categorizing into two groups based on their endocrine treatment response: partial response (PR; n = 10) and progressive disease (PD; n = 7). Candidate extracellular vesicle (EV) miRNAs were identified using miRNA microarray and RT-qPCR. The biological functions of the selected miRNAs were evaluated using the MTT assay, wound healing assay, trans-well assay, and RNA sequencing in CRPC cells after transient miRNA expression.

Results
Microarray analysis revealed a significant downregulation of EV-miR-6880-5p in the PD samples compared to both CT and PR samples (p < 0.01). The expression of EV-miR-6880-5p in CRPC patients was decreased compared with that CT group (p = 0.0336) using RT-qPCR. In the PR group, EV-miR-6880-5p was increased at follow-up compared with the baseline (p = 0.2803), while in the PD group, it decreased at follow-up compared with the baseline samples (p = 0.4356). Furthermore, overexpression of miR-6880-5p hampered cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, downregulated pathways associated with tumor progression, and simultaneously upregulated pathways associated with cell growth and apoptosis in CRPC cells.

Conclusions
EV-miR-6880-5p shows promise as a prognostic biomarker in patients with CRPC. Further, prospective validations are necessary to evaluate the potential of these candidate miRNAs.
A phase III, multicentre, randomised, investigator-masked, cross-over, comparative, non-inferiority trial evaluating the efficacy and tolerability of generic preservative-free Latanoprost (Polpharma S.A.) compared to Xalatan® (Pfizer) in patients with ocular hypertension or primary open-angle glaucoma
Authors: Czumbel Norbert , Acs Tamas , Bator Gyorgy , Halmosi Agnes , Egorov Evgeniy A. , Maltsev Dmitrii S. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), often associated with increased intraocular pressure (IOP), can lead to permanent damage of the optic nerve, concomitant visual field loss, and blindness. Latanoprost, a prostaglandin F2α analogue, reduces IOP and is used to treat glaucoma. In this clinical trial, we evaluated the efficacy of Latanoprost Polpharma, a generic preservative-free latanoprost 0.05 mg/ml eye drops solution, in lowering IOP when compared to the originator Xalatan® (latanoprost 0.005% ophthalmic solution, Pfizer).

Methods
This was a Phase III, multicentre, randomized, investigator-masked, cross-over, comparative, non-inferiority trial carried out in 5 sites in Hungary and Russia. The primary endpoint was to evaluate the non-inferiority of the test product when compared to the reference product with respect to the differences in the mean diurnal IOP on Day 1 (baseline) and Day 29. The secondary endpoints included efficacy, ocular tolerance, safety, and usability. We recruited adult patients (18–75 years) with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

Results
Forty-nine patients were randomised and received at least one dose of the test or reference product. A virtually identical reduction of the mean diurnal IOP of 7.04 ± 2.14 mmHg or 7.17 ± 2.11 mmHg was found after treatment with test or reference product, respectively (N = 44). In the intention to treat analysis, the reduction was 7.29 ± 2.53 mmHg (95% CI: 6.55–8.04) or 7.43 ± 2.78 mm Hg (95%CI: 6.61–8.24) after treatment with test or reference product, respectively (N = 47). There were no serious adverse events.

Conclusions
Latanoprost Polpharma was shown to be non-inferior to Xalatan®. Both investigational products were equally well tolerated and safe. The data show a trend in favour of the test product with regards to the severity of hyperaemia and to the velocity of remission of ocular discomfort. Latanoprost Polpharma, being preservative-free, also avoids the cytotoxicity of benzalkonium chloride, the side effects of which may affect patient compliance and lower the quality of life.

Trial registration
The study had the ethical and regulatory approval from the National Institute of Pharmacy and Nutrition (OGYEI, OGYEI/41,779- 11/2018) and the Ethics Committee for Clinical Pharmacology (KFEB) of Hungary and from the Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation (MOH of Russia) prior to the beginning of the study (642/25.12.2018) (clinical trial identification number: 848,300,144/0103/1 - POP03; IND number/EudraCT number: 2018-001727-39).
Trends in diabetic ketoacidosis in Victoria, Australia 2002–2016
Authors: Jones Hanna C. , Kiburg Katerina V. , Lee Melissa H. , O’Neal David N. , MacIsaac Richard J. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
International longitudinal studies have indicated an increasing incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). We aim to examine the incident trends, demographic differences, length of stay and mortality for DKA in adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) in Victoria, Australia from 2002 to 2016.

Methods
Age and sex adjusted incident trends, length of stay and mortality for DKA was retrospectively obtained using the Victorian Admitted Episode Dataset between 2002 and 2016. Data for adults with T1D and T2D was obtained from the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS). Joinpoint regression analysis was used to identify changes in linear trends that were described as average annual percentage change (AAPC).

Results
There were 23,628 DKA presentations in Victoria between 2002 and 2016. For T1D there was an increase in DKA presentations (AAPC + 6.8%) from 2003 to 2016 and for T2D there was a decline from 2003 to 2011 (APC − 3.5%), increase from 2011 to 2014 (APC + 38.5%), and a decrease from 2014 to 2016 (APC − 20.9%). Length of stay was longer for people with T2D than T1D (P < 0.001) and the mortality rate was 0.51% for the study period.

Conclusions
DKA rates increased for T2D from 2011 to 2014 which correlates with the introduction of sodium glucose-linked transport protein 2 inhibitors. However, the aetiology for the observed increase in T1D from 2002 to 2016 remains unknown.