bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Alcohol consumption and its correlation with medical conditions: a UK Biobank study
Authors: Mayer Craig S. , Fontelo Paul 
Published: May 2024

BackgroundAlcohol consumption has been associated with the occurrence of many health conditions. We analyzed UK Biobank data to explore associations of various conditions to type and amount of alcohol consumed. UK Biobank is a large biomedical database providing information from UK participants, including lifestyle questionnaires and diagnosis data.MethodsUsing UK Biobank, we examined the relationship between weekly alcohol consumption, alcohol type and the incidence of eight select conditions. We calculated counts of individuals consuming each type diagnosed with these conditions. To assess the effect of alcohol consumption on each condition’s prevalence, we used log-logistic regression models to generate dose–response models for each alcohol type.ResultsThe alcohol consumed included: red wine (228,439 participants), white wine (188811), beer (182648), spirits (129418), and fortified wine (34598). We observed increased condition prevalence with increasing amounts of alcohol. This was especially seen for chronic obstructive lung disease, cirrhosis of liver, hypertension, gastritis, and type 2 diabetes. Beer consumers showed higher prevalence for most conditions while fortified wine had the largest increases in incidence rates. Only white wine showed decreased incidence for acute myocardial infarction. In general, the prevalence of many conditions was higher among alcohol consumers, particularly for hypertension, 33.8%, compared to 28.6% for non-drinkers.ConclusionAlthough many conditions were already prevalent among non-drinkers, participants consuming increasing amounts of alcohol had increased incidence rates for many of the studied conditions. This was especially true for consumers of beer and fortified wine, but also true to a lesser extent for consumers of spirits, red and white wine.
Evaluating the influence of a 3-min online video on the community knowledge of stroke in four Arab countries
Authors: Iskandar Katia , Rahme Deema , Salameh Pascale , Haddad Chadia , Sacre Hala , Bahlol Mohamed , Darwish Rula M. , El Khatib Sarah , Safwan Jihan , Sakr Fouad , Rahhal Mohamad , Hosseini Hassan , Cherfane Michelle 
Published: May 2024

IntroductionStudies from developed and developing countries showed that the knowledge levels of stroke need improvement. Educational campaigns varied and were of limited influence predominantly because of their short duration and the need for financial support. The study aims to test the impact of a 3-min online video on the knowledge of stroke and factors influencing the knowledge score in four Arab countries.MethodsA cross-sectional web-based pre-post study was conducted in Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, and the United Arab Emirates. The data were collected using the snowball technique. Participants were adults aged 18 years and above. The questionnaire sequence was conducting a pretest, followed by the educational video explaining stroke occurrence, types, risks, warning signs, preventive measures, and treatment, and finally, a posttest to evaluate the differences in knowledge from baseline. Statistical analysis included paired t-tests comparing pre-post-education stroke knowledge scores, while repeated measures ANOVA, adjusting for covariates, assessed mean changes.ResultsThe total number of participants was 2,721, mainly younger than 55 years. The majority had a university degree and were not healthcare professionals. A significant improvement was noted in the total knowledge score in all countries from a mean average (Mpretest = 21.11; Mposttest = 23.70) with p &lt; 0.001. Identification of the stroke risks (Mpretest = 7.40; Mposttest = 8.75) and warning signs (Mpretest = 4.19; Mposttest = 4.94), understanding the preventive measures (Mpretest = 5.27; Mposttest = 5.39) and the importance of acting fast (Mpretest = 0.82; Mposttest = 0.85) improved from baseline with (p &lt; 0.001) for all score components.ConclusionThe educational tool successfully enhanced public understanding of stroke risks, the identification of stroke signs, and the critical need for emergency action. The advantages of this video include its short length, free online access, use of evidence-based content in lay language, and reflective images. The ultimate goal remains the long-term improvement of sustainability by mandating full-scale trials.
Cannabis use and its association with psychopathological symptoms in a Swiss adult population: a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Mosandl Christoph Felix , Baltes-Flückiger Lavinia , Kronschnabel Jens , Meyer Maximilian , Guessoum Adrian , Herrmann Oliver , Vogel Marc , Walter Marc , Pichler Eva-Maria 
Published: May 2024

BackgroundAs the most commonly used illicit substance, cannabis is gaining global acceptance through increasing legalization efforts. This shift intensifies the need for research to guide policymakers and healthcare providers in harm reduction and treatment strategies. Nonetheless, the relationship between psychopathological symptoms and cannabis use remains inadequately understood.MethodsA sample of regular cannabis consumers completed self-reported assessments for depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9), anxiety (General Anxiety Disorder-7), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD; Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale V1.1), and psychosis (Early Recognition Inventory based on IRAOS) as well as previous black-market cannabis use patterns. Cannabis Use Disorder Identification Test Revised (CUDIT-R) was used to identify cannabis use disorder (CUD). To understand psychopathological symptom load related to cannabis consumption as well as cannabis use motives, multiple regression models were performed to identify psychopathological variables predicting cannabis use frequency and quantity. Linear regression and correlation analyses were conducted, adjusting for relevant covariates (age, gender, education, alcohol, other substance use).ResultsThree-hundred-sixty regular cannabis users interested in a study on regulated cannabis access in Basel, Switzerland were examined. In bivariate analysis, cannabis use frequency correlated with depressive (r(358) = 0.16, p = 0.003) and anxiety symptom load (r(358) = 0.11, p = 0.034). Cannabis quantity correlated with depressive (r(358) = 0.15, p = 0.005), ADHD (r(358) = 0.14, p = 0.008), and psychosis symptom load (r(358) = 0.16, p = 0.002). However, in the adjusted regression models only depressive and ADHD symptom loads were significantly associated with cannabis use frequency (p = 0.006 and p = 0.034, respectively) and quantity (p = 0.037 and p = 0.019, respectively). No significant correlations between cannabis consumption and anxiety or psychosis remained after adjustment.ConclusionADHD and depressive symptoms correlate with increased cannabis use in a cohort of regular users, suggesting potential self-medication in nonclinical populations. With the rising availability of cannabis worldwide, these results highlight the necessity for longitudinal studies to disentangle the complex dynamics between cannabis consumption and mental health symptoms.
Eco-friendly revenues for healthcare: assessing the relationship between green taxation, public health expenditures, and life expectancy in China
Authors: Zhang Di 
Published: May 2024

IntroductionThe synergy of green taxation, public health expenditures, and life expectancy emerges as a compelling narrative in the intricate symphony of environmental responsibility and public well-being. Therefore, this study examine the impact of green taxation on life expectancy and the moderating role of public health expenditure on the said nexus, particularly in the context of China, an emerging economy.MethodsStatistical data is collected from the National Bureau of Statistics of China to empirically examine the proposed relationships. The dataset contains provincial data across years.ResultsUsing fixed-effect and system GMM regression models alongwith control variables, the results found a positive and statistically significant influence of green taxation on life expectancy. Moreover, public health expenditures have a positive and statistically significant partial moderating impact on the direct relationship.DiscussionThese findings suggest that the higher cost of pollution encourages individuals and businesses to shift to less environmentally harmful alternatives, subsequently improving public health. Moreover, government investment in the health sector increases the availability and accessibility of health facilities; thus, the positive impact of green taxation on public health gets more pronounced. The findings significantly contribute to the fields of environmental and health economics and provide a new avenue of research for the academic community and policymakers.
Low-dose-rate induces more severe cognitive impairment than high-dose-rate in rats exposed to chronic low-dose γ-radiation
Authors: Ma Tianbao , Li Kexian , Sang Wenjuan , Liu Xingyu , Luo Qun , Peng Ye , Wang Mingxing , Luo Xiu , Fang Jingjing , Wang Haijun , Wang Tao , Zuo Changjing 
Published: May 2024

BackgroundOwing to the long penetration depth of gamma (γ)-rays, individuals working in ionizing radiation environments are chronically exposed to low-dose γ-radiation, resulting in cognitive changes. Dose rate significantly affects radiation-induced biological effects; however, its role in chronic low-dose γ-irradiation-induced cognitive impairment remains unclear. We aimed to investigate whether chronic low-dose γ-irradiation at low-dose-rate (LDR) could induce cognitive impairment and to compare the cognitive alteration caused by chronic low-dose γ-irradiation at LDR and high-dose-rate (HDR).MethodsThe rats were exposed to γ-irradiation at a LDR of 6 mGy/h and a HDR of 20 mGy/h for 30 days (5 h/day). Functional imaging was performed to assess the brain inflammation and blood–brain barrier (BBB) destruction of rats. Histological and immunofluorescence analyses were used to reveal the neuron damage and the activation of microglia and astrocytes in the hippocampus. RNA sequencing was conducted to investigate changes in gene expression in hippocampus.ResultsThe rats in the LDR group exhibited more persistent cognitive impairment than those in the HDR group. Furthermore, irradiated rats showed brain inflammation and a compromised BBB. Histologically, the number of hippocampal neurons were comparable in the LDR group but were markedly decreased in the HDR. Additionally, activated M1-like microglia and A1-like astrocytes were observed in the hippocampus of rats in the LDR group; however, only M1-like microglia were activated in the HDR group. Mechanistically, the PI3K–Akt signaling pathway contributed to the different cognitive function change between the LDR group and HDR group.ConclusionCompared with chronic low-dose γ-irradiation at HDR, LDR induced more severe cognitive impairment which might involve PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.
Effects of dietary supplementation with alkaline mineral complex on in vitro ruminal fermentation and bacterial composition
Authors: Liu Siyuan , Xie Biao , Ji Hongjin , Li Shengli 
Published: May 2024

IntroductionDairy industry growth faces challenges in China due to inadequate forage, leading to high-concentrate diets and potential rumen issues. Buffering agents, like sodium bicarbonate, play a crucial role in stabilizing rumen pH. Alkaline Mineral Complex (AMC), a liquid additive with a pH of 14, shows promise in supporting dairy cow health and mitigating heat stress through ionization.MethodsThis experiment was aimed to study the effect of adding AMC to total mixed ration (TMR) on in vitro ruminal fermentation and bacterial composition. AMCat 1, 2, 4, and 8 mL/kg was added to the substrate (0.5 g TMR). Nutrient digestibility was measured after 48 h fermentation, and fermentation parameters and microbial composition were measured after 48 h fermentation.Results and discussionThe results of the experiment indicated that: The different concentrations of AMC showed a significant impact on time taken for gas production to reach 1/2 of the total gas production (HT) parameters (p &lt; 0.05). Linear pH increase occurs at 6 and 24 h with rising AMC concentration (p &lt; 0.05), showing a quadratic trend at 12 h (p &lt; 0.05). The optimal buffering effect on rumen acid-base balance was observed at a 2 mL/kg concentration of AMC. Microbial diversity analysis indicated that there was no significant change in α-diversity with different AMC concentrations (p &gt; 0.05). The microbial level demonstrated no significant difference in species diversity of rumen fluid bacteria among the various AMC concentration treatment groups compared to the control group, further supporting that the advantage of adding AMC in stabilizing the rumen environment without altering the structure of the rumen microbiota. Besides, the addition of AMC significantly increased the concentrations of acetate, propionate, total fatty acids (TVFA), and NH3-N, suggesting that AMC contributed to enhancing the energy and nitrogen utilization efficiency in ruminants. Based on the above detection indicators, we recommend that the most favorable concentration is 2 mL/kg.
Case report: Echocardiographic and computed tomographic features of congenital bronchoesophageal artery hypertrophy and fistula in a dog
Authors: Ji Yewon , Kang Jinsu , Heo Suyoung , Lee Kichang , Yoon Hakyoung 
Published: May 2024

IntroductionStudies on aberrant bronchoesophageal arteries are limited. Herein, we report a case of a multi-origin systemic-to-pulmonary shunt with suspected bronchoesophageal artery hypertrophy and fistula in a dog.Case reportA 4-year-old castrated male beagle weighing 11 kg underwent routine medical screening. Physical examination revealed a right-sided continuous murmur of grades 1–2. Thoracic radiography revealed a mild cardiomegaly. Echocardiography revealed a continuous turbulent shunt flow distal to the right pulmonary artery (RPA) branch from the right parasternal short axis pulmonary artery view. Computed tomography demonstrated systemic-to-pulmonary shunts originating from the descending aorta at the level of T7–8, the right 5th and 6th dorsal intercostal arteries, and the right brachiocephalic trunk, which formed anomalous networks around the trachea and esophagus that anastomosed into a large tortuous vessel at the level of T6–7 and entered the RPA. Surgical ligation of multiple shunting vessels was performed. Postoperative echocardiography and computed tomography showed decreased left ventricular volume overload and markedly decreased size of the varices. Additionally, most of the shunting vessels were without residual shunt flow.ConclusionThe present study provides information regarding imaging features and the successful surgical management of multiple systemic-to-pulmonary shunts originating from the descending aorta, right brachiocephalic trunk, and intercostal arteries and terminating at the RPA. Multimodal imaging features after surgical ligation have also been described.
Do cows with stereotypic tongue-rolling behaviour cope better with their environment?
Authors: Li Chenyang , Chen Xiaoyang , Fang Tingting , Gu Xianhong 
Published: May 2024

IntroductionStereotypic behaviours, especially oral stereotypic behaviours, are frequently expressed in farm animals. Tongue-rolling is the most common oral stereotypic behaviour in dairy cows (Bos taurus). If animals frequently display stereotypic behaviours, this is an indication of poor welfare. It has been suggested that animals express stereotypic behaviours as a way of coping with stress. As a result, animals with stereotypic behaviours may have lower levels of stress hormones than animals without stereotypic behaviours.MethodsIn this study, 916 Holstein cows in the first lactation were subjected to scan sampling behavioural observations 200 times for 10 days. All cows were assigned to either a stereotypic behaviours group (SB) or a control group (CON). The SB group was further subdivided into a tongue-rolling group (TR) and an other-stereotypic behaviours group (OS). The TR group was also split into an only tongue-rolling group (OTR) and a mixed tongue-rolling and other stereotypic behaviours group (TROS). Some cows in the TR group belonged to an extreme tongue-rolling group (ETR). Hair and saliva samples were collected from 601 cows to test cortisol concentrations and dairy herd improvement (DHI) data were collected from a total of 762 cows.ResultsThere were no differences in hair or saliva cortisol concentrations between the groups (p&gt;0.05), and the frequencies of tongue-rolling were not associated with cortisol concentrations (p&gt;0.05). For DHI in cows, the milk protein percentage (p = 0.028), milk true protein percentage (p = 0.021) and milk crude protein percentage (p = 0.023) of cows in the ETR group were significantly lower than those in the CON group. For cows in ETR group, as the frequencies of tongue-rolling increased, the milk protein percentage (p = 0.034, r = 0.365), milk true protein percentage (p = 0.022, r = 0.393) and milk crude protein percentage (p = 0.035, r = 0.363) increased.DiscussionWe investigated the relationship between stereotypic behaviours and stress by using a non-invasive sampling method to minimise harm to the cows. We suggest that tongue-rolling may not be a way for cows to cope with stress, at least in terms of cortisol concentrations.
Mobility Infrastructures and Health: Scoping Review of studies in Europe
Authors: Michel Sarah , Banwell Nicola , Senn Nicolas 
Published: May 2024

ObjectivesMovement-friendly environments with infrastructure favouring active mobility are important for promoting physical activity. This scoping literature review aims at identifying the current evidence for links between mobility infrastructures and (a) behaviour regarding active mobility, (b) health outcomes and (c) co-benefits.MethodThis review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA scoping review guidelines using PubMed and EMBASE databases. Studies included in this review were conducted in Europe, and published between 2000 and March 2023.Results146 scientific articles and grey literature reports were identified. Connectivity of sidewalks, walkability, and accessibility of shops, services and work are associated with walking. Cycling is positively associated with cycle-paths, separation of cycling from traffic and proximity to greenspaces, and negatively associated with traffic danger. Increased active transportation has a protective effect on cardiovascular and respiratory health, obesity, fitness, and quality of life. Co-benefits result from the reduction of individual motorized transportation including reduced environmental pollution and projected healthcare expenditure.ConclusionMobility infrastructure combined with social and educational incentives are effective in promoting active travel and reducing future healthcare expenses. A shift to active transportation would increase both individual and community health and decrease greenhouse gas emissions.
A Wide-Band Low-Profile Antenna for a High-Integration Phased Array System
Authors: Liu Haipeng , Liu Juan , Huang Jin , Han Chunhui , Chen Bo , Liu Yuhe , Xiang Yujie 
Published: May 2024

In this paper, a wide-band, low-profile antenna is presented for a high-integration phased array system. The proposed antenna, implemented using a tightly coupled array, operates over roughly the X-K frequency band and is performant at 8 GHz–18.5 GHz. The antenna can scan to ±60 degrees in both the E- and H-planes. Compared to previous tightly coupled antennas with smaller element spacing, the antenna in this paper reaches 9.4 mm, which corresponds to 0.58 λ of high frequency, suitable for engineering application conditions in production. The antenna can be soldered to BGA T/R chips in this space. Additionally, to facilitate flexible assembly for large arrays, the antenna is manufactured modularly using four elements and its parasitic radiation is analyzed. Then, a method for repressing parasitic radiation is presented. Finally, the antenna is fabricated and measured in a microwave chamber, exhibiting an excellent pattern and scanning radiation. The measured performance agrees with the full-wave finite array simulations.
An Investigation into Learning Style of Higher Secondary School Students in Namakkal District
Authors: Mahendran T , Sankar V 
Published: May 2024

This evaluation shows the academic performance of high school students in Namakwa district. It attempts to determine the relationship between educational models and educational success, as well as various demographic factors such as gender, language of instruction, location of the school, type of management and school category. In this study, The Learning Style Inventory developed by Dr. Devashayam Selvakumar was used. In 2003, used five items to measure participants’ interest in learning. The study aims to show the importance of differences between the subjects of different groups of people through a theoretical analysis. The results show that the initial academic standards of high school students are average. More importantly, the analysis revealed gender differences in academic standards, with male students scoring higher than female students. Additionally, students from urban environments showed better academic scores compared to students from rural areas. Differences between school type and control were also clear; Female students in coeducational and public schools reported higher academic scores. This study encourages the expansion of education in different areas and at different ages and recommends the inclusion of different courses outside high school, such as teacher training. In order to better understand students’ learning patterns, itis recommended to repeat this study in different regions and expand the sample.