bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impaired lung function and lung cancer risk in 461 183 healthy individuals: a cohort study
Authors: Kyaw Thu Win , Tsai Min-Kuang , Wen Chi Pang , Shu Chin-Chung , Su Ta-Chen , Wu Xifeng , Gao Wayne 
Published: May 2024

BackgroundIt has been known that smoking and various lung diseases including lung cancer can cause lung function impairment. However, the impact of different types of lung function impairments, such as preserved ratio impaired spirometry (PRISm) and airflow obstruction (AO), on the incidence and mortality of lung cancer in both general and never-smoker populations remains unclear. We wished to examine the effect of lung function impairments on lung cancer risks.MethodsThis was a retrospective cohort study (1 January 1994 to 31 December 2017) of individuals from a health surveillance programme in Taiwan who underwent baseline spirometry tests at the entry point. PRISm was defined as an FEV1/FVC (forced expiratory volume in 1 s/forced vital capacity) ratio >0.7 and FEV1<0.8, while AO was defined as an FEV1/FVC ratio <0.7. Cox proportional hazards models and cubic spline curves were used to examine the associations between lung function impairments and lung cancer risks.ResultsThe study included 461,183 individuals, of whom 14.3% had PRISm and 7.9% had AO. A total of 4038 cases of lung cancer and 3314 lung cancer-related deaths were identified during the 23 years of follow-up. Individuals with PRISm and AO exhibited a higher risk of lung cancer incidence and mortality compared with those with normal lung function. The adjusted HRs and 95% CIs were 1.14 (1.03 to 1.26) and 1.23 (1.10 to 1.37) in the overall cohort, and 1.08 (0.93 to 1.24), and 1.23 (1.05 to 1.45) in the never-smoker cohort. The risks of both developing and dying of lung cancer increased with the severity levels of lung function impairments and lower FEV1values.ConclusionImpaired lung function is associated with increased risks of developing lung cancer and subsequent mortality. The study highlights the importance of considering lung function in lung cancer screening for better candidate selection.
Association between COVID-19 severity and tobacco smoking status: a retrospective cohort study using propensity score matching weights analysis
Authors: Alshammari Musaad A , Alamer Ahmad , Al Lehaibi Lina , Alghamdi Mashael , Alotaibi Haneen , Alomar Mukhtar , Alasmari Fawaz , Alqahtani Faleh , Alhossan Abdualziz , Alshammari Tahani K 
Published: May 2024

IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic continues to be a global threat to public health, with over 766 million confirmed cases and more than 6 million reported deaths. Patients with a smoking history are at a greater risk of severe respiratory complications and death due to COVID-19. This study investigated the association between smoking history and adverse clinical outcomes among COVID-19 patients admitted to a designated medical centre in Saudi Arabia.MethodsA retrospective observational cohort study was conducted using patient chart review data from a large tertiary medical centre in the eastern region of the country. Patients admitted between January and December 2020 were screened. The inclusion criteria were ≥18 years of age and confirmed COVID-19 infection via reverse-transcription-PCR. The exclusion criteria were unconfirmed COVID-19 infection, non-COVID-19 admissions, unconfirmed smoking status, vaccinated individuals, essential chart information missing or refusal to consent. Statistical analyses comprised crude estimates, matching weights (as the main analysis) and directed acyclic graphs (DAGs) causal pathway analysis using an ordinal regression model.ResultsThe sample comprised 447 patients (never-smoker=321; ever-smoker=126). The median age (IQR) was 50 years (39–58), and 73.4% of the sample were males. A matching weights procedure was employed to ensure covariate balance. The analysis revealed that the odds of developing severe COVID-19 were higher in the ever-smoker group with an OR of 1.44 (95% CI 0.90 to 2.32, p=0.130). This was primarily due to an increase in non-invasive oxygen therapy with an OR of 1.05 (95% CI 0.99 to 1.10, p=0.101). The findings were consistent across the different analytical methods employed, including crude estimates and DAGs causal pathway analysis.ConclusionOur findings suggest that smoking may increase the risk of adverse COVID-19 outcomes. However, the study was limited by its retrospective design and small sample size. Further research is therefore needed to confirm the findings.
Effect of 20 mph speed limits on traffic injuries in Edinburgh, UK: a natural experiment and modelling study
Authors: Kokka Kyriaki (Kelly) , Nightingale Glenna , Williams Andrew James , Abbas Ali , Popov Valentin , Sharp Stephen , Hunter Ruth F , Jepson Ruth , Woodcock James 
Published: May 2024

IntroductionThere is limited research evaluating 20 mph speed limit interventions, and long-term assessments are seldom conducted either globally or within the UK. This study evaluated the impact of the phased 20 mph speed limit implementation on road traffic collisions and casualties in the City of Edinburgh, UK over approximately 3 years post implementation.MethodsWe used four sets of complementary analyses for collision and casualty rates. First, we compared rates for road segments changing to 20 mph against those at 30 mph. Second, we compared rates for the seven implementation zones in the city against paired control zones. Third, we investigated citywide casualty rate trends using generalised additive model. Finally, we used simulation modelling to predict casualty rate changes based on changes in observed speeds.ResultsWe found a 10% (95% CI −19% to 0%) greater reduction in casualties (8% for collisions) for streets that changed to 20 mph compared with those staying at 30 mph. However, the reduction was similar, 8% (95% CI −22% to 5%) for casualties (10% collisions), in streets that were already at 20 mph. In the implementation zones, we found a 20% (95% CI −22% to −8%) citywide reduction in casualties (22% for collisions) compared with control zones; this compared with a predicted 10% (95% CI −18% to −2%) reduction in injuries based on the changes in speed and traffic volume. Citywide casualties dropped 17% (95% CI 13% to 22%) 3 years post implementation, accounting for trend.ConclusionOur results indicate that the introduction of 20 mph limits resulted in a reduction in collisions and casualties 3 years post implementation. However, the effect exceeded expectations from changes in speed alone, possibly due to a wider network effect.
A class of static spherically symmetric solutions in f(T)-gravity
Authors: Calzá Marco , Sebastiani Lorenzo 
Published: May 2024

AbstractWe study a class of static spherically symmetric vacuum solutions in modified teleparallel gravity solving the field equations for a specific model Ansatz, requiring the torsion scalar T to be constant. We discuss the models falling in this class. After some general considerations, we provide and investigate local solutions in the form of black holes and traversable wormholes as well as configurations that can match the anomalous rotation curves of galaxies.
The Velvet Revolution's Best Supporting Actors: Shirley Temple Black and U.S. Embassy Prague, 19891
Authors: Kenealy Andrew 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
This article discusses the contours of U.S. diplomacy in Czechoslovakia before and during the Velvet Revolution of 1989, showing how the U.S. embassy in Prague, in collaboration with the U.S. National Security Council (NSC) and State Department, crafted U.S. policy. Drawing on recently available primary materials (including declassified U.S. telegrams, Czechoslovak archival documents, unpublished memoirs, and original interviews), this article highlights the role of the U.S. embassy during the period from August to November 1989, including how key officials, above all Ambassador Shirley Temple Black, analyzed political developments, assisted Czechoslovak dissidents, and pursued extensive engagement with the Communist government. The article provides the first scholarly, granular account of U.S. diplomacy in Czechoslovakia during the November 1989 upheavals and contributes to the historiography on U.S. foreign policy and the end of the Cold War.
“Caring For Their Pet More Than Themselves”: Attitudes toward Homeless People with a Companion Animal
Authors: Maujean Annick , Downes Marie , Sofija Ernesta , Byrnes Joshua , Downes Martin 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Homelessness is a significant social problem internationally and some people who are homeless rely on their companion animal for comfort and support. It is unknown what attitudes Australian communities have regarding people who are homeless and have a companion animal. This study aims to explore public attitudes and knowledge about the issues homeless people with a companion animal are likely to experience in their daily lives. 125 non-homeless individuals completed an online survey. Qualitative analysis conducted on participants responses to the survey indicate that in general the Australian population is supportive and sympathetic to the plight of homeless people with companion animals. In addition, participants displayed good levels of awareness of the key issues and benefits associated with having a companion animal when homeless. Favorable opinions can influence policy development to support the plight of homeless people with companion animals to find a place to call home.
Reproducibility and reliability of pancreatic pharmacokinetic parameters derived from dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Zhao Weiwei , Liu Chenxi , Huan Yi , Bi Yuyu , Zhu Yuanqiang , Zhang Weiqi , Wang Shuai , Yang Yong , Quan Zhiyong 
Published: May 2024

Background Dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) with an extended Tofts linear (ETL) model for tissue and tumor evaluation has been established, but its effectiveness in evaluating the pancreas remains uncertain. Purpose To understand the pharmacokinetics of normal pancreas and serve as a reference for future studies of pancreatic diseases. Material and Methods Pancreatic pharmacokinetic parameters of 54 volunteers were calculated using DCE-MRI with the ETL model. First, intra- and inter-observer reliability was assessed through the use of the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) and coefficient of variation (CoV). Second, a subgroup analysis of the pancreatic DCE-MRI pharmacokinetic parameters was carried out by dividing the 54 individuals into three groups based on the pancreatic region, three groups based on age, and two groups based on sex. Results There was excellent agreement and low variability of intra- and inter-observer to pancreatic DCE-MRI pharmacokinetic parameters. The intra- and inter-observer ICCs of Ktrans, kep, ve, and vp were 0.971, 0.952, 0.959, 0.944 and 0.947, 0.911, 0.978, 0.917, respectively. The intra- and inter-observer CoVs of Ktrans, kep, ve, vp were 9.98%, 5.99%, 6.47%, 4.76% and 10.15%, 5.22%, 6.28%, 5.40%, respectively. Only the pancreatic ve of the older group was higher than that of the young and middle-aged groups ( P = 0.042, 0.001), and the vp of the pancreatic head was higher than that of the pancreatic body and tail ( P = 0.014, 0.043). Conclusion The application of DCE-MRI with an ETL model provides a reliable, robust, and reproducible means of non-invasively quantifying pancreatic pharmacokinetic parameters.
Food Environment in Burkina Faso: Review of Public Policies and Government Actions Using the Food-EPI Tool
Authors: Tapsoba Viviane Aurelie , Compaore Ella W. R. , Zeba Augustin Nawidimbasba , Some Jerome Winbetourefa , Ky Inoussa , Manga Julien Soliba , Diouf Adama , Moubarac Jean-Claude , Vandevijvere Stefanie , Dicko Mamoudou H. 
Published: May 2024

Background: Governments have a central role to play in creating a food environment that will enable people to have and maintain healthy eating practices. Objectives: This study analyzes public policies and government actions related to creating healthy food environments in Burkina Faso. Methods: The Healthy Food Environment Policy Index tool used for this study has 2 components, 13 domains, and 56 indicators of good practice adapted to the Burkina Faso context. Official policy documents collected from data sources such as government and nongovernment websites, and through interviews with government and nongovernment resource persons, provided evidence of considerations of food environment in public policy documents in Burkina Faso. Results: Policies documents show a lack of revision of old texts and administrative processes for new policies and government practices are very slow. Added to this is the absence of a regulatory document for some implemented actions. The analysis of the documents collected in relation to the indicators of Food-EPI tool shows that there is no evidence of consideration of food environments for the indicators concerning the regulation of nutrition and health claims, labeling, taxes on healthy and unhealthy foods, support systems for training for private structures on healthy diets, implementation of food guidelines, and food trade and investment. Conclusion: This study permits a review of public policies that take into account food environments through the various indicators and constitutes a starting point from which improvements can be made by the government. Plain language title Overview of Nutrition Policies, Taking Into Account All the Dimensions That Can Influence People’s Food Choices Across Government, the Food Industry and Society
Fabrication of animal shell and sugarcane bagasse particulate hybrid reinforced epoxy composites for structural applications
Authors: Oladele Isiaka O , Taiwo Annuoluwapo S , Bello Lateef J , Balogun Samuel O , Senzeni Sipho Lephuthing , Adelani Samson O 
Published: May 2024

This study investigated the effects of using egg and snail shells, along with sugarcane bagasse, on various properties of hybrid reinforced epoxy composites for structural applications. The particulate shells and sugarcane bagasse serve as reinforcements while the matrix consists of epoxy resin and hardener. The composites were produced using the hand lay-up technique, and the mechanical, wear and physical properties of the prepared samples were evaluated. The fractured surfaces of the samples were examined using a scanning electron microscope. The results revealed that the source of the shell had an impact on the properties of the composites as eggshell-sugarcane bagasse particulate reinforced epoxy composites exhibited improved strengths, while snail shell-sugarcane bagasse particulate reinforced epoxy composites showed improved moduli. Optimal values were obtained for flexural and tensile strengths at 15 and 18 wt%, respectively, while flexural and tensile moduli were optimal at 12 and 15 wt%, respectively. Eggshell-sugarcane bagasse particulate reinforced epoxy composites demonstrated an optimal impact strength value of 21.81 J/m2, while snail shell-sugarcane bagasse particulate reinforced epoxy composites showed optimal results in all other properties mostly at 20 wt%. Conclusively, the use of snail shell-sugarcane bagasse particles was found to be more effective than eggshell-sugarcane bagasse particles for enhancing the properties of epoxy-based composites for structural applications while particulate reinforcement content within the range of 12–20 wt% are responsible for optimum performances.
Life tables of annual life expectancy and risk factors for mortality in cats in the UK
Authors: Teng Kendy Tzu-yun , Brodbelt Dave C , Church David B , O’Neill Dan G 
Published: May 2024

Objectives The aims of the present study were to generate the first life tables for the UK companion cat population overall as well as broken down by sex and breed status, and to quantify associations between mortality and traits such as sex, neuter status, breed status and body weight in relation to mortality. Methods Life table construction and modelling included data on 7936 confirmed deaths in cats under primary veterinary care at clinics participating in the VetCompass Programme in 2019. The life tables were built for cats overall, female and male cats, and crossbred and purebred cats. Multivariable generalised linear regression models were generated to explore the risk factors for a shortened lifespan. Results Life expectancy at age 0 for UK companion cats overall was 11.74 years (95% confidence interval [CI] 11.61−11.87). The probability of death at each year interval increased with age from year interval 3–4, with the probability value not exceeding 0.05 before year 9. Female cats (12.51 years; 95% CI 12.32–12.69) had a 1.33-year longer life expectancy than male cats (11.18 years; 95% CI 11.01–11.38) at age 0. Among the 12 breeds (including crossbred) analysed, Burmese and Birman had the longest life expectancy at year 0, showing 14.42 years (95% CI 12.91–15.93) and 14.39 years (95% CI 12.87–15.91), respectively. Sphynx had the shortest life expectancy at year 0 among the analysed breeds at 6.68 years (95% CI 4.53–8.83). Being entire, purebred and with a non-ideal body weight were significantly linked to a decreased lifespan. Conclusions and relevance The life tables presented here for companion cats in the UK overall, by sex, and by crossbred and purebred cats can contribute to a better understanding of the life trajectory of cats, helping with evidence-based decision-making for cat owners and the veterinary profession. We have also provided an updated life expectancy at age 0 for various cat breeds for 2019 and showed evidence of the association between non-ideal weight and a decreased lifespan.
Autosomal recessive leber hereditary optic neuropathy in a choroideremia carrier. A case report
Authors: Roomets Eva , Mauring Laura 
Published: May 2024

Background: Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is an inherited progressive optic neuropathy usually caused by mitochondrial DNA mutations. Recently, autosomal recessive (arLHON), which is caused by biallelic mutations in the DNAJC30 gene (usually c.152A > G), has been described. The onset of LHON before the age of 12 is uncommon and it is typically associated with a more variable clinical course and a more favorable visual prognosis than adult-onset LHON. Materials and Methods: Detailed clinical findings of a female child with vision loss due to arLHON together with choroideremia (CHM) carrier state are presented. Results: Genetic testing for the three most common mitochondrial LHON pathogenic variants was negative. On suspicion of arLHON, genetic testing was continued with the next-generation sequencing (NGS) of the nuclear DNA, identifying a homozygous pathogenic variant in DNAJC3°c.152A > G, p.(Tyr51Cys), but no alterations in the CHM gene. Idebenone treatment was started 4.5 months after the first evaluation. Clinical diagnosis of the CHM carrier state was confirmed by multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) assay, which revealed a heterozygous deletion of all exons of the CHM. Conclusions: In children with acute or subacute, simultaneous, or sequential vision loss that is unresponsive to immunomodulatory treatment, LHON should be considered as a possible diagnosis. Our case emphasizes the diagnostic advantage of sequencing DNAJC30 in parallel with the mitochondrial DNA, especially in Eastern European descent patients. Genomic rearrangement testing should be considered for patients with a CHM carrier phenotype who have negative results on sequencing tests.
Polyvinylpyrrolidone – KNNLST lead-free ceramic composites for dielectric applications
Authors: Mgbemere Henry E. , Semeykina Viktoriya 
Published: May 2024

Piezoelectric composites offer many advantages compared to piezoelectric ceramics or polymers because of their mechanical flexibility and relatively high stress-induced voltage. In this research, high-molecular weight polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and lead-free piezoelectric (K0.45Na0.51Li0.04) (Nb0.85Ta0.1Sb0.05)O3 (KNNLST) ceramics have been used to produce composites. The possible range of composites from 0 to 100 wt% has been explored. The ceramics were produced using conventional processing methods, while the composites were solution-cast after being mixed with a magnetic stirrer. The composites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and dielectric and piezoelectric characterization to determine their properties. The morphology of the composites indicates the homogeneous distribution of the ceramics in the polymer. The XRD patterns show that the dissolved amorphous PVP precipitates and the addition of KNNLST ceramics contributes substantially to the crystalline phase formation. The relative permittivity and loss tangent values increase with an increase in ceramic content. Acceptable polarization and strain hysteresis curves were obtained only for the KNNLST ceramics. The composites produced will be suitable for dielectric applications.
Disregarding multimappers leads to biases in the functional assessment of NGS data
Authors: Almeida da Paz Michelle , Warger Sarah , Taher Leila 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Standard ChIP-seq and RNA-seq processing pipelines typically disregard sequencing reads whose origin is ambiguous (“multimappers”). This usual practice has potentially important consequences for the functional interpretation of the data: genomic elements belonging to clusters composed of highly similar members are left unexplored.

Results
In particular, disregarding multimappers leads to the underrepresentation in epigenetic studies of recently active transposable elements, such as AluYa5, L1HS and SVAs. Furthermore, this common strategy also has implications for transcriptomic analysis: members of repetitive gene families, such the ones including major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I and II genes, are under-quantified.

Conclusion
Revealing inherent biases that permeate routine tasks such as functional enrichment analysis, our results underscore the urgency of broadly adopting multimapper-aware bioinformatic pipelines –currently restricted to specific contexts or communities– to ensure the reliability of genomic and transcriptomic studies.