bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Race/ethnicity-specific association between the American Heart Association's new Life's Essential 8 and stroke in US adults with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: evidence from NHANES 2005-2018
Authors: Xu Nuo , Lu Xiaowen , Luo Cheng , Chen Junchen 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
The Life's Essential 8 (LE8) is a recently introduced assessment of cardiovascular health (CVH) by the American Heart Association (AHA). Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is currently the most common chronic liver disease and is associated with an increased risk of stroke. We aimed to explore the association of LE8 with stroke in NAFLD using a national cross-sectional study.
Methods
Eligible participants with NAFLD aged 20–85 years in NHANES 2005–2018 were included. LE8 was assessed according to AHA criteria and categorized into metabolic and behavioral factors. US Fatty Liver Index (USFLI) ≥ 30 and exclusion of other chronic liver diseases suggested NAFLD. Stroke was diagnosed according to self-report on standardized questionnaires.
Results
After adjusting for all confounders, each point increase in LE8, LE8 metabolic factors, and LE8 behavioral factors was associated with a 4.4%, 1.8%, and 2.5% reduction in stroke prevalence in NAFLD, respectively. Both moderate and high CVH assessed by LE8 and LE8 behavioral factors were associated with reduced odds of stroke compared with low CVH. Stroke prevalence declined progressively with increasing number of ideal LE8 components, with the lowest odds of stroke at 3 + ideal LE8 components for both LE8 metabolic and behavioral factors. Restricted cubic spline suggested dose-response associations. Race/ethnicity was a significant effect modifier, and this association was present only among non-Hispanic white population and other Hispanic population. FLI as a diagnostic indicator of NAFLD yielded generally consistent results.
Conclusions
Higher LE8 score, especially LE8 behavioral factors, was associated with reduced prevalence of stroke in NAFLD, especially among non-Hispanic white population and other Hispanic population. The odds of stroke declined progressively with increased ideal LE8 component number. These findings underscore the preventive value of adherence to high CVH for stroke prevention in NAFLD.
Identification and Expression Profiling of the bZIP Gene Family Throughout the Genome in Phoebe bournei under Abiotic Stress
Authors: Bakari Almas , Guan Hengfeng , Liu Qinghua , He Chenyue , Li Jingshu , Tong Zaikang , Zhang Junhong , Wang Li , Yue Jingjing , Cao Shijiang 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The bZIPgene family plays a crucial role in supporting plant life as one of the most important transcription factors. Its involvement in various processes such as light signaling, seed maturation, flower development, and cell elongation has been established, but limited to perennial and agricultural crops. This study focused on the classification of 71 bZIP genes across 12 chromosomes based on their evolutionary relationships. Each group exhibited distinct gene structures and variations in the number of conserved motifs. The presence of multiple cis-acting elements suggested that the PbbZIP gene family played a vital role in hormonal and regulatory signaling, which were essential for plant growth, development, and resilience against abiotic stress. RNA and qPCR analysis revealed expression levels of PbbZIP32, PbbZIP14, PbbZIP26, PbbZIP67, and PbbZIP69 under salt, drought, and temperature stress conditions. This research contributed to a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms governing stress resistance, growth, and development processes mediated by the bZIP gene family. It also can serve as a foundation for future investigations on the bZIPgene family in forestry species.
Comparison of 19-gauge aspiration needles with 20-gauge forward-bevel needles for the diagnosis of autoimmune pancreatitis: a prospective randomized, controlled study
Authors: Shi Wen , Chang Xiaoyan , Zhang Shengyu , Jiang Qingwei , Guo Tao , Wang Qiang , Wu Dongsheng , Wu Xi , Wu Yanyan , Feng Yunlu , Yang Aiming 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
The diagnosis of autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) is multidisciplinary, with the histopathological diagnosis providing crucial information for distinguishing AIP from malignancies. Here we compared the diagnostic performance and sample adequacy of 19-gauge endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) needles with 20-gauge endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle biopsy (EUS-FNB) needles in patients with suspected AIP.
Methods
Patients with suspected AIP were enrolled between October 2018 and August 2020 into a single-center, prospective, randomized controlled study conducted at a tertiary medical center in Beijing. Participants were randomly assigned to undergo tissue specimen collection using either a 19-gauge EUS-FNA needle or a 20-gauge EUS-FNB needle. The primary endpoint was the sensitivity of the two needle types for diagnosing AIP, with secondary endpoints including diagnostic sufficiency of tissue obtained, technical success rate, adverse event rate, and contribution of histologic findings to the AIP diagnosis according to International Consensus Diagnostic Criteria.
Results
Forty-five patients were enrolled. There was no significant difference in diagnostic efficacy between the 19-gauge FNA needle and the 20-gauge forward-beveled FNB needle for AIP. Both needle types showed similar sensitivity and overall accuracy in diagnosing benign disease, including AIP. The median tissue length was comparable between the two groups, and there was no significant difference in adverse events.
Conclusions
There is no difference in diagnostic efficacy or core tissue acquisition between 19-gauge FNA and 20-gauge forward-beveled FNB needles for patients with AIP. The 19-gauge FNA needle may serve as an alternative in centers where FNB needles are not available.
Trial Registration
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03753815
The Effect of Heart Rate Variability Biofeedback on Recovery After Aerobic Exercise
Authors: YILMAZ Esin , AKTOP Abdurrahman , ABDİOĞLU Aylin , MELEKOĞLU Tuba , NALBANT Mert 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Recovery is a critical factor in athletic performance, and accelerating this process is essential to enable athletes to perform more effectively in both training load and competitive performance. After exercise, immediate recovery is potentially helpful for investigating autonomic activity levels, as they are definable with heart rate variability (HRV). The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of ten sessions of HRV-Biofeedback (HRV-BF) training on recovery process parameters after the aerobic performance. In this study, twenty-four soccer players aged 18–24 volunteered to participate. The athletes who met the research criteria were divided into an experimental group (n = 12) and a control group (n = 12). Each participant’s height, weight, BMI, body fat percentage, and aerobic capacity were measured before and after the 10-session intervention. The experimental group participated in a 10-session HRV-BF training and soccer training program, while the control group only participated in a 10-session soccer training program. Aerobic capacity tests were then applied again to experimental and control group participants. The effect of biofeedback on the three HRV parameters during the 5-minute acute recovery period after the test was investigated. The results showed that regularly applied HRV-BF training can significantly shorten the HRV recovery parameter after exercise. Specifically, the athletes who performed HRV-BF training demonstrated faster cardiovascular recovery after aerobic exercise. This suggests that implementing HRV-BF training for athletes can significantly accelerate their recovery processes during and after competitions. Given recent technological advancements, it is promising to consider adding HRV-BF training to stress management interventions, particularly in relation to physiological stress indicators.
Non-surgical treatment of integrated Chinese herbal medicine and Western medicine to cure rhegmatogenous retinal detachment: a case report
Authors: Li Feifei , Ding Yanhong , Zhang Xin , Tang Jinfei 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Surgery is the main treatment option for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). However, the choice of the appropriate surgical method and the risk of surgical complications are key challenges. Based on the traditional Chinese medicine theory of "invigorating spleen, invigorating qi and promoting water", we report a patient who treated by a combination of Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) and Western medicine quickly resolved RRD and improved vision while avoiding the need for invasive surgery.
Methods: A 27-year-old Chinese man with a history of trauma to his right eye was diagnosed with RRD on 3rd Jan 2022. He underwent retinal laser photocoagulation and received oral Chinese medicine for retinal attachment and absorption of sub-retinal fluid (SRF).
Results：A marked decline in SRF along with nearly complete resolution of RRD was observed within a few days after initial therapy.
Conclusion: Our experience with this case suggests that CHM combined with retinal laser photocoagulation may serve as a therapeutic option for RRD, which may be suitable for small retinal detachment with small holes.
Trends of Surface Pressure, Temperature, and Total Precipitable Water
Authors: Liu quanhua (mark) , Grassotti Christopher , Zhou Yan , LEE Yong-Keun , Liu Shuyan , Yang Xun 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Two total precipitable water (TPW) monthly time series derived from hourly analyses and from 1:30 am and 1:30 pm (local time) analyses, respectively, from European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts Reanalysis model version 5 (ERA5) data are practically identical. The TPW is increasing as surface and lower tropospheric temperatures are warming. Surface pressure is rising as well because of increased mass from atmospheric carbon dioxide and TPW above the surface. The close similarity of trends using hourly and twice-daily analyses suggest that using well-calibrated observations from a single sun-synchronous polar orbiting satellite, such as Suomi-NPP Advanced Technology Microwave Sounder measurements, can be sufficient to characterize global trends in climate-sensitive surface temperatures and TPW.
Development and Validation of Narrative Competence Scale for Medical Students
Authors: Chu Shao-Yin , Wang Hung-Che , Kuo Bang-Yuan , Lin Meei-Ju , Chang Yu-Che , Lin Chi-Wei 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

In medical practice, narrative competence is pivotal in enabling physicians to better comprehend their patients' experiences, nurture empathy, and promote person-centered care. However, despite its significance, a standardized tool for evaluating this competence still needs to be developed. This study aimed to address this gap by developing the Narrative Competence Scale (NCS) for medical students. The initial version of the scale consisted of 57 items across four dimensions and eleven sub-dimensions, refined through three rounds of the Delphi method with eleven experts in medical education. The scale was then preliminarily tested with 200 fifth and sixth-year medical students in Taiwan. The Confirmatory Factor Analysis results indicated a fit for the four-factor model, with critical indices such as RMSEA = .055, SRMR = .045, and CFI = .970, among others, emphasizing the model's robust integrity. The scale demonstrated suitable convergent validity (AVE = .497-.698, CR = .798-.902) and discriminant validity, with the square roots of the AVE values surpassing inter-dimensional correlations. High internal consistency was reflected in Cronbach's alpha coefficients (0.797-0.972). In conclusion, the NCS has been established as a reliable and effective tool for assessing narrative competence in medical students, holding immense potential as both a research and educational instrument in narrative medicine for enhancing the application and comprehension of patient narratives in medical education.
Keywords: Medical student, Narrative competence, Narrative medicine, Scale development.
Application of linear impulse momentum theory to the hammering problem
Authors: Gahtani Osama Al 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

For many years, researchers have observed and studied the transient hydraulic problem in pipe flow. The influence of water mass on the valve body during fast closing was evaluated using the mass and momentum principle and shocked wave theory. These two physical principles were used to evaluate the pressure rise caused by closing the valve vastly for orifice flow. According to recent studies, the Joukowsky Equation is a well-known formula that approximates orifice tank systems but is up to three times overvalued for pressured systems with two tanks. This created confusion while using this formula for designing valves in pipe flow. This paper presents a formula for the prediction of the pressure rise resulting from fast valve closure based on the well-known impulse momentum principle, which states that the magnitude and duration of the applied force have an impact on the momentum change of a mass object. The impulse-momentum theory is applied here when the fluid mass in the pipe collides with the valve body as it closes rapidly. To demonstrate the concept, this paper provides examples and an experimental program for validation, which is also confirmed by recent experimental programs used in the literature.
A Study on Enhancing Mechanical Properties of Concrete with Steel Slag for Sustainable Construction
Authors: Kashyap Rishabh , Saxena Mukul , Gautam Arstu , Mishra Priyanshu , Yadav Shalu , Jaiswal Aman , Rajpoot Avi 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

In recent years, global warming and environmental damage have become pressing concerns. Industries are major contributors to climate change by emitting greenhouse gases (GHGs). Scientists and engineers confront challenges in addressing the depletion of natural resources and maximizing waste management. Research indicates that employing waste materials can help conserve natural resources, minimize pollution, and promote economic growth. In the current age, industrial waste is by far the most significant challenge. Although recycling waste with the help of recycling units is an essential practice, it also presents various economic hurdles. Several studies have been undertaken on the conservation of natural resources, the prevention of environmental contamination, and the economic benefits of using the waste materials. Using industrial waste materials in concrete reduces reliance on natural resources, addresses waste disposal issues, and promotes environmentally friendly practices. An industrial by-product of the steel manufacturing sector is steel slag. It is extremely difficult to break down and takes a very long time to do so. It has the potential to damage the environment and is challenging to decompose. If this product is added to concrete, it can impact both the mechanical and physical properties of the concrete, as well as its durability. Steel slag can be used to partially replace natural coarse aggregate aggregates in concrete in order to effectively solve the problem. In this study, steel slag was used in place of coarse aggregate in varying quantities (0, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50%). Use M30 grade concrete with a 0.45 water-to-cement ratio. In order to generate six mixes, steel slag was largely substituted for coarse aggregate. The mixes were then examined for mechanical values like compressive strength, workability, and durability features like water absorption, acid attack, and salt attack. The results were thoroughly analysed.
A geophysics-informed pro-poor approach to earthquake risk management
Authors: Agrawal Himanshu , Wang Chenbo , Cremen Gemma , McCloskey John 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Recent earthquake disasters have highlighted an urgent need for continuous advancements in approaches to reducing seismic risk. Decision-making on such strategies should consider subsurface geophysical information (e.g., seismic site response), given its direct link to seismic hazard. This is particularly important in regions where the poorest in society often reside in areas with softer soils that lead to higher ground-motion amplifications. In this context, we propose a framework to support decision-making on earthquake risk policies, which explicitly integrates information on the geophysics of an urban system as well as its physical and social environment. The framework is based on the Tomorrow’s Cities Decision Support Environment, which was designed to support urban planning with a focus on pro-poor disaster risk reduction in countries of the Global South. It is further underpinned by a cost-benefit analysis, which facilitates the assessment of potential policies in terms of both their ability to reduce earthquake risk as well as their value for (often limited) money. We illustrate the framework using a well-established virtual urban testbed based on Global South cities, which reveals that geophysics-informed policy making can successfully lead to pro-poor earthquake risk reduction.
Comparing Laboratory Toxicity of Selective Intraarterial Radionuclide Therapy for Primary and Metastatic Liver Tumors: Resin versus Glass Microspheres
Authors: Turan Başak Soydaş , Bozkurt M. Fani , Eldem Gonca , Peynircioglu Bora , Ugur Omer , Volkan-Salanci Bilge 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Objective: To compare the acute (within 30 days of treatment) laboratory toxicities of Yttrium-90 (Y-90)resin and glass microspheres.
Methods: Selective intra-arterial radionuclide therapies (SIRTs) with Y-90 resin and glass microspheres were retrospectively reviewed. Liver-hematological data were collected at baseline and at one week and one month follow-up. The percentage change of laboratory data and the albumin-bilirubin (ALBI) score were calculated.
Results: A total of 219 SIRTs (n: 110 resin, n: 109 glass) from 177 patients were included. There was no difference in age, liver pathologies, extrahepatic disease, baseline liver function tests, and total blood counts between the two microsphere groups. Administered activity was higher in treatments with Y-90 glass microspheres (p<0.001). An increase in serum liver enzymes was observed after treatment with both microspheres. The difference between the treatment groups was the higher percentage increase of AST and ALT at the first week following Y-90 glass treatment (p<0.001). But, this situation was not observed after one month. No difference in the percentage change of other laboratory parameters was found between two groups. The number of patients with an increase (resin n: 24 (24.7%) vs glass n: 26 (27.1%), p: 0.711) and decrease (resin n: 13 (13.4%) vs glass n: 8 (8.3%), p: 0.258) in the ALBI grade after SIRT were similar among groups.
Conclusions: An increase in liver enzymes was observed in the early period after SIRT with both microspheres. No significant difference in liver and hematological data was detected during early follow-up between the two groups, except that the percentage increase of AST and ALT were higher at the first week in the Y-90 glass group.
Clinical Effectiveness of Guided Breathing Exercises in Reducing Anxiety, Stress, and Depression in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Sheikh Sarah , Rostami Asma , Shahbazi Azam , Nezhad Fahime Abdollahi , Khazai Omonabi , Arbabisarjou Azizollah 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in the prevalence of anxiety, stress and depression among affected people. This study was conducted with the aim of investigating the clinical effectiveness of guided breathing exercises in reducing anxiety, stress and depression in patients with COVID-19. A quasi-experimental study design was used, involving a sample of COVID-19 patients who underwent guided breathing exercises as a complementary therapy. The Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) questionnaire was administered before and after the intervention to evaluate changes in anxiety, stress, and depression levels. The results of this study demonstrated that clinically guided breathing exercises had a significant effect on reducing anxiety and stress in COVID-19 patients. The intervention significantly reduced anxiety and stress scores (p < 0.001). However, there was no significant reduction in depression scores among patients who participated in guided breathing exercises (p = 0.946). Guided breathing exercises are an effective complementary technique in reducing the level of anxiety and stress in COVID-19 patients. However, more research is needed to investigate alternative or complementary interventions for coping with depression in this population. Nevertheless, guided breathing exercises may provide a worthy non-pharmacological approach to managing psychological distress in COVID-19 patients.
Robust STBC scheme for IRS-assisted SWIPT systems
Authors: Xu Jianfeng , Shang Pingping 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Herein, we propose a block-wise design scheme that involves combining a space--time block code (STBC) with an intelligent reflecting surface (IRS)-assisted synchronous wireless information and power transfer (STBC-BIRS-SWIPT) scheme. The proposed scheme increases the spectral efficiency and diversity of wireless communication systems while allowing synchronous energy and information transmission. By leveraging generalized spatial modulation, additional bits of information can be transmitted via the IRS. In particular, the IRS is divided into distinct blocks, each with unique group selection patterns that exhibit a specific mapping relation with information bits. The IRS has components that reflect source signals to information decoding and energy harvesting receivers. We established a lower bound for the mean symbol error rate (SER) and calculated the bit error rate using maximum-likelihood detection. The simulation results demonstrate the superior performance of the STBC-BIRS-SWIPT scheme over traditional power-splitting schemes and confirm the closeness of the SER lower bound to the exact SER.
Real-time visual SLAM based on semantic information and geometric information in dynamic environment
Authors: Zhang Huiqing , Sun Hongli , Fan Qingwu 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Simultaneous Localization and Mapping is the core technology for mobile robots to autonomously explore and perceive the environment. However, dynamic objects in the scene significantly impact the accuracy and robustness of the visual SLAM system, limiting its applicability in real-world scenarios. To address this problem, this paper proposes a real-time RGB-D visual SLAM algorithm designed for indoor dynamic scenes. In this paper, a parallel lightweight object detection thread is designed to detect potential moving objects and generate 2D semantic information based on the YOLOv7-tiny network. Then, a new dynamic feature removal strategy is proposed in the tracking thread, which tightly integrates semantic information, geometric constraints, and feature point depth-based RANSAC to effectively reduce the impact of dynamic feature. To evaluate the effectiveness of the algorithms discussed in this paper, we conducted comparative experiments using other state-of-the-art algorithms on the TUM RGB-D dataset and Bonn RGB-D dataset, as well as in real-world dynamic scenes. The results demonstrate that the algorithm maintains excellent accuracy and robustness in dynamic environments, while also exhibiting impressive real-time performance.