bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Artificial Chordae Implantation vs Posterior Leaflet Preservation: A Comparison of Midterm Results After Mitral Valve Replacement
Authors: Salihi Salih , Özalp Bilhan , Toptan Fatih , Kara Ibrahim 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background:
Various techniques have been proposed for the preservation of the subvalvular apparatus (SVA) in mitral valve replacement. This study aimed to compare the midterm results of posterior leaflet preservation with the results of selective preservation of the SVA involving artificial chordae implantation in terms of left ventricular performance in patients undergoing mitral valve replacement.

Methods:
In total, 127 patients were included in this study. Patients were allocated to 1 of 2 groups according to the techniques used to preserve the SVA. Patients in group 1 underwent posterior leaflet preservation: The anterior leaflet was completely resected, and the posterior leaflet was preserved. In group 2, which comprised patients with severe leaflet extension and subvalvular fusion, the mitral valve was excised completely and substituted with artificial chordae. All relevant preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative data were recorded.

Results:
Mean (SD) ages in groups 1 and 2 were 63.1 (9.65) and 57.1 (12.3) years, respectively (P = .003). Mean (SD) follow-up time was 59.97 (23.63) months (range, 6-99 months). Left ventricular end-diastolic diameter decreased significantly after artificial chordae implantation (P < .001), while the decrease after posterior leaflet preservation was not statistically significant (P = .20). In both groups, there were statistically significant reductions (P < .001) in left ventricular end-systolic diameter and left atrium diameter in the postoperative period compared with respective preoperative levels. During follow-up, left ventricular ejection fraction was found to have increased beyond the preoperative levels in both groups, but the differences were not statistically significant (P > .05).

Conclusion:
Results of echocardiographic observations regarding the preservation of the SVA via artificial chordae implantation for mitral valve disease in this sample were satisfactory. Findings suggest that artificial chordae implantation should be considered when posterior leaflet preservation is not suitable.
Linearity assessment: deviation from linearity and residual of linear regression approaches
Authors: Lim Chun Yee , Lee Xavier , Tran Mai Thi Chi , Markus Corey , Loh Tze Ping , Ho Chung Shun , Theodorsson Elvar , Greaves Ronda F. , Cooke Brian R. , Zakaria Rosita 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
In this computer simulation study, we examine four different statistical approaches of linearity assessment, including two variants of deviation from linearity (individual (IDL) and averaged (AD)), along with detection capabilities of residuals of linear regression (individual and averaged). From the results of the simulation, the following broad suggestions are provided to laboratory practitioners when performing linearity assessment. A high imprecision can challenge linearity investigations by producing a high false positive rate or low power of detection. Therefore, the imprecision of the measurement procedure should be considered when interpreting linearity assessment results. In the presence of high imprecision, the results of linearity assessment should be interpreted with caution. Different linearity assessment approaches examined in this study performed well under different analytical scenarios. For optimal outcomes, a considered and tailored study design should be implemented. With the exception of specific scenarios, both ADL and IDL methods were suboptimal for the assessment of linearity compared. When imprecision is low (3 %), averaged residual of linear regression with triplicate measurements and a non-linearity acceptance limit of 5 % produces <5 % false positive rates and a high power for detection of non-linearity of >70 % across different types and degrees of non-linearity. Detection of departures from linearity are difficult to identify in practice and enhanced methods of detection need development.
Major ascidian species with negative impacts on bivalve aquaculture: Current knowledge and future research aims
Authors: Alvanou Maria V. , Feidantsis Konstantinos , Papadopoulos Dimitrios K. , Lattos Athanasios , Theodorou John A. , Michaelidis Basile , Giantsis Ioannis A. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Biofouling constitutes one of the main obstacles in the sector of shellfish farming. Under this perspective, it is of highly importance to critically combine the updated information regarding the invasive potential of ascidian species, together with the factors contributing toward these events. The biological features of each species in relation to the gathering of the main non-indigenous species in the Mediterranean basin represent the first step toward mitigation of negative effects of the phenomenon. Further, there are limited studies investigating the physiological changes of bivalves caused by biofouling while leading to an increase in stress biomarkers. In the present review, the major ascidian species negatively affecting bivalve culture in the Mediterranean Sea are presented, alongside monitoring of ascidians from four Greek mussel farming locations as typical mussel culture cases. Among the main ascidian species, Styela plicata, Clavelina oblonga, Ciona robusta, Aplidium sp., Didemnum sp., Botryllus schlosseri, and Didemnum drachi are included, with the last three being the most harmful for this aquaculture sector. Based on the existing literature and research conducted so far, future research directions are proposed, in an effort to effectively control or efficiently manage ascidian biofouling organisms. Overall, perspectives toward the way we manage the biofouling phenomenon, such as the use of ascidian’s by-products in feedstuffs, chemical and pharmaceutical industry, or their incorporation in bivalve co-culture and integrated multi-trophic aquaculture systems represent promising alternative approaches.
Does placental VEGF-A protein expression predict early neurological outcome of neonates from FGR complicated pregnancies?
Authors: Grah Maja , Poljak Ljiljana , Starčević Mirta , Stanojević Milan , Vukojević Katarina , Saraga-Babić Mirna , Salihagić Aida Kadić 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objectives
Fetal hypoxia due to placental dysfunction is the hallmark of fetal growth restriction (FGR). Preferential perfusion of the brain (brain-sparing effect), as a part of physiological placental cardiovascular compensatory mechanisms to hypoxia, in FGR was reported. Therefore, the correlation between vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) protein expression in the FGR placentas and newborns’ early neurological outcome was examined.

Methods
This study included 50 women with FGR complicated pregnancies and 30 uneventful pregnancies. Fetal hemodynamic parameters, neonatal acid–base status after delivery, placental pathohistology and VEGF-A expression were followed. Early neonatal morphological brain evaluation by ultrasound and functional evaluation of neurological status by Amiel – Tison Neurological Assessment at Term (ATNAT) were performed.

Results
VEGF-A protein expression level was significantly higher in the FGR placentas than normal term placentas (Fisher–Freeman–Halton’s test, p≤0.001). No statistically significant correlation between placental VEGF-A expression and different prenatal and postnatal parameters was noticed. Whereas the alteration of an early neurological status assessed by ATNAT was found in 58 % of FGR newborns, morphological brain changes evaluated by UZV was noticed in 48 % of cases. No association between the level of placental VEGF-A expression and the early neurological deficits was found.

Conclusions
As far as we know this is the first study of a possible connection between VEGF-A protein expression in the FGR placentas and neonates’ early neurological outcomes. The lack of correlation between the FGR placental VEGF-A expression and neonates’ neurological outcome could indicate that optimal early neurodevelopment may take place due to compensatory mechanism not related to placental VEGF-A expression.
Modeling and mapping of traffic noise pollution by ArcGIS and TNM2.5 techniques
Authors: Ghorbani Akram , Fahimi Farid Gholamreza , Tavana Ahmad , Kiadaliri Masood 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The aim of this study was to map and model the noise pollution level (NPL) of a highway in Iran by using statistical techniques, geographic information system (GIS) Software, and the Traffic Noise Model version 2.5 (TNM2.5). The equivalent noise level in A weighting network (L
eq(A)) was measured in 28 stations in different seasons using the sound level meter of the TES-1358 model. The traffic noise data and indices L
eq (equivalent noise level), L
max and L
min (the maximum and minimum time-weighted noise levels), L

n
(noise pressure level exceeded for n percent of the time), NPL, and TNI (traffic noise index) were measured and calculated to determine the daily sound level. They were then statistically analyzed by SPSS and Sigma Plot Software. Finally, the GIS software and TNM2.5 techniques were used to map and predict the traffic NPL in the region and the distribution of noise levels. The highest noise level was measured at about 80 and 79.61 dB in Kouhsangi and Abadgaran stations, respectively. The lowest level was measured at around 58 dB in the Hafez Square station. In addition, the results show that the highest and lowest L
eq were almost in the same range (81–85 dB). It appears that the TNM2.5 model can reasonably predict traffic noise levels as well as the dispersion and nature of noise pollution on the highway.
Perceptions of Stakeholders on the Financial and Economic Crisis in Lebanon: An In-depth Analysis
Authors: Uwaydah Leila , Kassir Ali 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
This study examines Lebanon’s enduring financial and economic crisis, exacerbated by economic challenges, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Port of Beirut explosion. With over 80 % currency devaluation due to sovereign debt default, the crisis has intensified poverty and unemployment, compounded by political turmoil. Using survey data from 178 stakeholders, experts, and academics, this research explores the intricate drivers of Lebanon’s crisis and offers insights for policymakers. Employing quantitative methods, it uncovers the intertwined role of financial mismanagement, government failures, mounting public debt, financial engineering techniques, and political instability in driving the crisis. Recommendations emphasize prudent financial practices, sound governance, and policy interventions. This study sheds light on Lebanon’s complex financial and economic challenges with data-backed perspectives from diverse stakeholders, providing valuable insights for management practitioners and scholars navigating crises in tumultuous environments. It aims to contribute to the management discourse, equipping stakeholders with actionable strategies for addressing and preventing similar crises. It also explores the interplay between stakeholder perspectives and the determinants of the financial crisis in Lebanon. It delves into the interconnected nature of the crisis and demonstrates how stakeholders from various sectors and backgrounds mirror the factors identified in the literature.
Non-Linear Impact of Income Inequality on Mental Health: Evidence from Low and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Mishra Ankita , Hailemariam Abebe , Srivastava Preety , Maheshwari Greeni 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
In this study, we examine the relationship between income inequality and mental health using a sample of low and middle-income countries over the period 1990–2019. Using a dynamic panel threshold model that allows for endogeneity in both the regressors and threshold variable, we find a non-linear relationship between income inequality and the prevalence of mental health disorders. Specifically, income inequality is associated with reduced prevalence of mental health disorders at low levels of income inequality but after it surpasses a threshold Gini coefficient (estimated between 39 and 49), it has an adverse effect on mental health. The impact is more pronounced in low income and lower middle-income countries. We also find evidence of heterogenous effects by age and gender. Our findings indicate the importance of modelling non-linearity in the income inequality-health relationship and highlight the importance of keeping income inequality within reasonable bounds.
Associations of strength indices and cycling economy in young adults
Authors: Feuerbacher Joshua F. , Schumann Moritz 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objectives
Cycling economy is associated with muscle strength in athletes. However, the relationship between strength capacity (i.e. maximal and explosive strength) and cycling economy in previously untrained but healthy individuals remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the associations between cycling economy and strength performance in a population of recreationally active but untrained healthy individuals.

Methods
A total of 155 recreationally active individuals (95 males and 60 females) were included. Strength capacity was assessed through an incremental one-repetition maximum test, from which the one-repetition maximum, mean propulsive velocity, and mean propulsive power were derived as strength indices. Cycling economy was assessed using a step protocol on a cycle ergometer and gross oxygen cost and caloric unit cost were determined at submaximal intensities.

Results
Marginal R2 ranged between 0.013 and 0.062 for the gross oxygen cost and between 0.022 and 0.103 for the gross caloric unit cost, respectively. Greater cycling economy is related to higher strength levels. However, the relationship is relatively weak, explaining only 1.3–6.2 % of the variance in gross oxygen cost and 2.2–10.3 % of the variance in gross caloric unit cost.

Conclusions
Greater cycling economy in recreationally active males and females is related to higher strength levels (i.e. one-repetition maximum, mean propulsive velocity, mean propulsive power).
Effect of pullulan active packaging, incorporated with silver nanoparticles, on cholesterol oxidation product concentrations in boiler meat during storage
Authors: Jamshed Khan Muhammad , Mookiah Saminathan , Subramaniam Yashini , Kumari Ramiah Suriya 
Published: July 2024

Cholesterol oxidation products (COPs) in meat are thrombogenic, mutagenic, atherogenic, carcinogenic, angiotoxic, and cytotoxic, leading to serious health issues. The formation of COPs in meat is induced by oxidative rancidity due to poor meat processing and packaging techniques. Pullulan active packaging, incorporated with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), is considered strong and biodegradable with characteristics, such as enhanced light, gas, and moisture barrier, that protect the oxidative rancidity of broiler meat. The current study was performed to determine the impact of pullulan active packaging (T1, T2, T3, and T4) on the formation of COPs in broiler meat during refrigerated storage (7 and 14 days). Pullulan active packaging significantly affected (P < 0.05) the concentrations of A-cholestane (0.63±0.10 ppm) and B-epoxy (0.59±0.33 ppm) COPs whereas A-cholestane (0.634±0.08 ppm) was affected significantly (P < 0.05) by the duration of refrigerated storage (0, 7, and 14 days). Broiler meat treated with pullulan active packaging presented a limited level of oxidative rancidity with minimum concentrations of COPs. The findings revealed that broiler meat treated with pullulan active packaging, incorporated with AgNPs, is safer than raw meat for shorter (7 days) and longer (14 days) storage periods at 4±1°C.
Depresión y su relación con la calidad de vida en un grupo de cuidadores de personas con demencia
Authors: Moreno Moreno Jhon Alexander , Arango Lasprilla Juan Carlos , Rogers Heather 
Published: July 2024

Los cuidadores de pacientes con demencia son susceptibles de presentar depresión y, por consiguiente, esto podría incrementar la posibilidad de que aparezcan problemas que pudiesen alterar su calidad de vida, tanto a nivel físico como emocional. El presente estudio busca determinar si existe una relación entre la presencia o ausencia de depresión, y la calidad de vida en un grupo de cuidadores de personas con demencia de la ciudad de Bogotá, Colombia. Se concluye que la depresión genera un deterioro en los indicadores de salud física y mental en personas expuestas al estrés crónico, como son los cuidadores de pacientes con demencia.
Estrés Académico
Authors: Berrio García Nathaly , Mazo Zea Rodrigo 
Published: July 2024

El estrés suele clasificarse, según su fuente, en las categorías de estrés académico y estrés laboral. El estrés académico se define como una reacción de activación fisiológica, emocional, cognitiva y conductual ante estímulos y eventos académicos. Ha sido investigado en relación con variables como género, edad, profesión, estrategias de afrontamiento, etc. El objetivo del artículo es revisar algunos modelos cognitivos del estrés, incluyendo el Modelo Cognoscitivo Sistémico del estrés académico, para establecer una discusión entre ellos.
Representaciones Sociales sobre Normalidad en un grupo de profesionales de la Salud Mental en la Ciudad de Medellín: Análisis Prototípico y Categorial
Authors: Pineda Rodríguez Carolina , Betancur Betancur Catalina 
Published: July 2024

Se exploran las representaciones sociales – RS - sobre “Normalidad” construidas por profesionales que trabajan en el campo de la salud mental – SM – en la ciudad de Medellín, Colombia. Participaron 117 profesionales de disciplinas relacionadas con el campo de la salud mental; a través de la técnica asociativa de evocación libre de palabras, se generaron los datos que luego se analizaron prototípica y categorialmente, lo primero con la ayuda del programa EVOC 2003, y lo segundo, bajo los principios metodológicos de la teoría fundada. El concepto de “normalidad” es producto de RS al estar conformado por el saber científico y el sentido común, lo cual puede tener implicaciones en la práctica de los profesionales de la salud mental.
sujeto en los juegos del poder: subjetivación y desubjetivación desde Foucault
Authors: Ramírez Zuluaga Luis Antonio 
Published: July 2024

Este artículo desarrolla una reflexión teórica sobre las posibles funciones que puede tener el sujeto con respecto a las relaciones de poder y a la resistencia. Para ello se recurre inicialmente a la noción de subjetivación como referente de los modos en el que el ser humano se convierte en sujeto y eventualmente deviene un nodo de resistencia al poder. Posteriormente se aborda una singular forma de resistencia denominada desubjetivación, planteada por Foucault desde sus análisis del lenguaje literario contemporáneo; se trata de una tipología moderna de las “prácticas de sí” que implica no sólo una manera de rebasar la idea de sujeto originario y autosuficiente del conocimiento, sino también cierta perspectiva emancipadora del sujeto en tanto forma de experiencia límite que busca el desprendimiento y la transformación de sí.
PREREQUISITES FOR ADULT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN THE CONTEXT OF LIFELONG LEARNING
Authors: Hristoforova Viktorija , Pavītola Linda 
Published: July 2024

The development of the world of technology implies the continuous improvement of adult knowledge and the acquisition of new knowledge. Today's rapid development of artificial intelligence and technology is replacing several professions where a robotic process replaces the human factor. To be competitive in the labor market, an employee needs to continuously improve his or her existing knowledge or even learn a new profession, while for a company to be active and up-to-date in its sector, it is necessary not only to develop technologically but also to educate its employees. The aim of the study: to explore the possibilities for improving the professional development and lifelong learning model based on the existing learning model in the institution - X. The basis for the study the employees of the institution X, who are in a continuous learning process, both in the context of professional development and lifelong learning. Research methods: theoretical literature review and empirical research method-survey. The research data show that the training model at the institution X is developed on the principle of non-formal education and corresponds to the main ideas of lifelong learning; the problematic issues are related to the high volume of work, which results in the respondents’ inability to fully participate in new in-service training courses and the content being repeated; also, no survey is conducted among the employees of the institution X before the training content is developed. On the other hand, a higher percentage of respondents join additional training courses offered and are positive about the courses where participation is required. The survey data shows that staff members are familiar with the content of the mandatory training courses as well as with the additional training courses offered for both professional and personal development, where a higher percentage of respondents apply the knowledge acquired in their daily work.
THE ESTIMATION OF SPATIAL GENETIC DIVERSITY OF VENDACE (COREGONUS ALBULA L.) POPULATIONS IN BALTIC LAKELAND
Authors: Oreha Jelena , Morozova Aleksandra , Kostousov Vladimir , Škute Nataļja 
Published: July 2024

The vendace (Coregonus albula) is native widespread to lakes in northern Eurasia. In the Baltic Lakeland region, populations of local whitefish are the remnants of the Arctic freshwater faunal complex and often regarded as an example of a glacial relict and indicator species of the state of the lake ecosystem. Together with other whitefishes vendace belongs to economically valuable fish species.; The territory of the Baltic Lakeland region is located on the territory of three countries (Latvia, Lithuania and Belarus). The range of the vendace population is declining in waterbodies in Latvia and Belarus, the catch is insignificant and unstable, and this species is included in the list of specially protected fish species. However, in Lithuania this species is widespread and not protected.; The understanding fish population genetic diversity is very important for protection of rare communities and conservation of unique native populations. The estimation of the genetic structure of populations and determining the causes of genetic differentiation and the factors that promote variation between and within populations is fundamental for understanding adaptation and is, therefore, a primary goal of population and conservation genetics. Little is known about the genetic structure of vendace populations in waterbodies in Baltic Lakeland.; In this study eight microsatellite loci were used to investigate the genetic structure within and between populations in six vendace populations from Baltic Lakeland, namely Drivyaty, Rudakova, Strusto, Snudi, Naroch and Drūkšiai. Allelic variation was different in all investigated vendace populations; the observed and expected heterozygosity level was quite high. Bayesian-based STRUCTURE analysis suggested that there are two main genetic groups within our study area, separating Rudakova, Naroch and Strusto into one and others studied populations into the other cluster. These populations would be differentiated due to drift, reduced gene flow and possibly selection that promoting divergence. ; ;