bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Tracing the impact of CO2 on the electrochemical and charge–discharge behavior for Al–Mg alloy in KOH and LiOH electrolytes for battery applications
Authors: El-sayed Abdelrahman , Abdelsamie Mohamed , Elrouby Mahmoud 
Published: April 2024

AbstractFor the first time, it has been found that the electrochemical performance of the Al–Mg alloy as an anode in alkaline batteries has been markedly enhanced in the presence of CO2 and LiOH as an electrolyte. This work compares the electrochemical performance of an Al–Mg alloy used as an anode in Al-air batteries in KOH and LiOH solutions, both with and without CO2. Potentiodynamic polarization (Tafel), charging-discharging (galvanostatic) experiments, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) are used. X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD) and a scanning electron microscope (SEM) outfitted with an energetic-dispersive X-ray spectroscope (EDX) were utilized for the investigation of the products on the corroded surface of the electrode. Findings revealed that the examined electrode’s density of corrosion current (icorr.) density in pure LiOH is significantly lower than in pure KOH (1 M). Nevertheless, in the two CO2-containing solutions investigated, icorr. significantly decreased. The corrosion rate of the examined alloy in the two studied basic solutions with and without CO2 drops in the following order: KOH > LiOH > KOH + CO2 > LiOH + CO2. The obtained results from galvanostatic charge–discharge measurements showed excellent performance of the battery in both LiOH and KOH containing CO2. The electrochemical findings and the XRD, SEM, and EDX results illustrations are in good accordance.
Assessment of the practical impact of adjusting beta-lactam dosages based on therapeutic drug monitoring in critically ill adult patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials and observational studies
Authors: Gulyás Eszter , Horváth István László , Engh Marie Anne , Bunduc Stefania , Dembrovszky Fanni , Fehérvári Péter , Bánvölgyi András , Csupor Dezső , Hegyi Péter , Karvaly Gellért Balázs 
Published: April 2024

AbstractAn estimated 70% of critically ill patients receive antibiotics, most frequently beta-lactams. The pharmacokinetic properties of these substances in this patient population are poorly predictable. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is helpful in making personalized decisions in this field, but its overall impact as a clinical decision-supporting tool is debated. We aimed to evaluate the clinical implications of adjusting beta-lactam dosages based on TDM in the critically ill population by performing a systematic review and meta-analysis of available investigations. Randomized controlled trials and observational studies were retrieved by searching three major databases. The intervention group received TDM-guided beta-lactam treatment, that is, at least one dose reconsideration based on the result of the measurement of drug concentrations, while TDM-unadjusted dosing was employed in the comparison group. The outcomes were evaluated using forest plots with random-effects modeling and subgroup analysis. Eight eligible studies were identified, including 1044 patients in total. TDM-guided beta-lactam treatment was associated with improved clinical cure from infection [odds ratio (OR): 2.22 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.78–2.76)] and microbiological eradication [OR: 1.72 (CI: 1.05–2.80)], as well as a lower probability of treatment failure [OR: 0.47 (CI: 0.36–0.62)], but the heterogeneity of studies was remarkably high, especially in terms of mortality (70%). The risk of bias was moderate. While the TDM-guided administration of beta-lactams to critically ill patients has a favorable impact, standardized study designs and larger sample sizes are required for developing evidence-based protocols in this field.
Myosteatosis and aortic calcium score on abdominal CT as prognostic markers in non-dialysis chronic kidney disease patients
Authors: Kim Ahyun , Lee Chul-min , Kang Bo-Kyeong , Kim Mimi , Choi Jong Wook 
Published: April 2024

AbstractWe aimed to examine the relationship between abdominal computed tomography (CT)-based body composition data and both renal function decline and all-cause mortality in patients with non-dialysis chronic kidney disease (CKD). This retrospective study comprised non-dialysis CKD patients who underwent consecutive unenhanced abdominal CT between January 2010 and December 2011. CT-based body composition was measured using semiautomated method that included visceral fat, subcutaneous fat, skeletal muscle area and density, and abdominal aortic calcium score (AAS). Sarcopenia and myosteatosis were defined by decreased skeletal muscle index (SMI) and decreased skeletal muscle density, respectively, each with specific cutoffs. Risk factors for CKD progression and survival were identified using logistic regression and Cox proportional hazard regression models. Survival between groups based on myosteatosis and AAS was compared using the Kaplan–Meier curve. 149 patients (median age: 70 years) were included; 79 (53.0%) patients had sarcopenia and 112 (75.2%) had myosteatosis. The median AAS was 560.9 (interquartile range: 55.7–1478.3)/m2. The prognostic factors for CKD progression were myosteatosis [odds ratio (OR) = 4.31, p = 0.013] and high AAS (OR = 1.03, p = 0.001). Skeletal muscle density [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.93, p = 0.004] or myosteatosis (HR = 4.87, p = 0.032) and high AAS (HR = 1.02, p = 0.001) were independent factors for poor survival outcomes. The presence of myosteatosis and the high burden of aortic calcium were significant factors for CKD progression and survival in patients with non-dialysis CKD.
Effect of resistance training plus enriched probiotic supplement on sestrin2, oxidative stress, and mitophagy markers in elderly male Wistar rats
Authors: Mohabbat Majid , Arazi Hamid 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThis study aimed to determine the effects of resistance training combined with a probiotic supplement enriched with vitamin D and leucine on sestrin2, oxidative stress, antioxidant defense, and mitophagy markers in aged Wistar rats. Thirty-five male rats were randomly assigned to two age groups (old with 18–24 months of age and young with 8–12 weeks of age) and then divided into five groups, including (1) old control (OC: n = 5 + 2 for reserve in all groups), (2) young control (YC: n = 5), (3) old resistance training (OR: n = 5), (4) old resistance training plus supplement (ORS: n = 5), and old supplement group (OS: n = 5). Training groups performed ladder climbing resistance training 3 times per week for 8 weeks. Training intensity was inserted progressively, with values equal to 65, 75, and 85, determining rats' maximal carrying load capacity. Each animal made 5 to 8 climbs in each training session, and the time of each climb was between 12 and 15 s, although the time was not the subject of the evaluation, and the climbing pattern was different in the animals. Old resistance plus supplement and old supplement groups received 1 ml of supplement 5 times per week by oral gavage in addition to standard feeding, 1 to 2 h post training sessions. Forty-eight hours after the end of the training program, 3 ml of blood samples were taken, and all rats were then sacrificed to achieve muscle samples. After 8 weeks of training, total antioxidant capacity and superoxide dismutase activity levels increased in both interventions. A synergistic effect of supplement with resistance training was observed for total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase, and PTEN-induced kinase 1. Sestrin 2 decreased in intervention groups. These results suggest that resistance training plus supplement can boost antioxidant defense and mitophagy while potentially decreasing muscle strength loss.
Prevalence of impaired renal function among childless men as compared to fathers: a population-based study
Authors: Kitlinski Michael , Giwercman Aleksander , Christensson Anders , Nilsson Peter M. , Elenkov Angel 
Published: April 2024

AbstractMale reproductive impairment has been linked with an increased risk of numerous non-communicable diseases. Yet, epidemiological data on renal disease among subfertile men is scarce. Therefore, by using male childlessness as a proxy for male infertility, we aimed to investigate its association with renal function. Data was sourced from a population-based cohort including 22,444 men. After exclusion of men aged < 45 years (n = 10,842), the remaining men were divided into two groups: these being childless (n = 5494) and fathers (n = 6108). Logistic regression was applied to explore the association between male childlessness and renal impairment. Childless men as compared to fathers, were more likely to have an estimated-glomerular filtration rate < 60 ml/min/1.73m2 (OR 1.36, 95 CI 1.08–1.70; p = 0.008). After adjustment for age, marital status, smoking habits, diabetes, hypertension and other components of metabolic syndrome, childless men were also more likely to have dipstick proteinuria (OR 1.85, 95 CI 1.16–2.95; p = 0.01). With the growing panorama of disease associated with male reproductive impairment, men with fertility issues may constitute a target population with potential benefit from closer follow-up of their renal function.
Calculation method and evaluation of surrounding rock pressure of vertical shaft
Authors: Tian Zhongxi , Sun Yuanwu , Zhao Qingshuang , Zhang Boliang , Liu Wanrong , Zhang Xutao 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThe surrounding rock pressure of vertical shafts is one of the basic parameters of shaft lining design. Investigating its calculation methods and applicable scopes has great engineering significance. The paper classifies and compares the calculation methods, discusses the application scopes of various calculation methods, and proposes that the axisymmetric layered method is highly consistent with the field monitoring data for the calculation of surrounding rock pressure of vertical shafts in bedrock sections on the basis of practical engineering examples. On the basis of Terzaghi theory, the calculation formula of surrounding rock pressure of vertical shaft in inclined rock strata with single group joints is derived. The formula can reflect the influence of rock strata dip angle and joints.
An Exploratory Study of Bimodal Electro-Aural Stimulation Through the Ear Canals for Tinnitus
Authors: Tyler Richard S. , Varghese Leonard , Furman Adam C. , Snell Kimberly , Ji Helena , Rabinowitz William M. 
Published: April 2024

Objective:
The aim of this study was to explore the potential for bimodal auditory and noninvasive electrical stimulation at the ears to alleviate tonal, somatic tinnitus that was investigated in a small preliminary trial (11 participants).

Design:
Auditory stimulation took the form of short “notched noise” bursts customized to each participant's tinnitus percept. Simultaneous pulsed electrical stimulation, intended to facilitate neuroplasticity, was delivered via hydrogel electrodes placed in opposite ears.

Results:
After a 6-week intervention period, average Tinnitus Functional Index (TFI) and Tinnitus Primary Function Questionnaire (TPFQ) scores were consistent with clinically meaningful improvements in the study population. Magnitudes and effect sizes of improvements in TFI and TPFQ are comparable to those reported in other recent bimodal therapy studies using different auditory and electrical stimulation parameters.

Conclusions:
Our results should be considered preliminary given the small sample size, lack of crossover data, and small subject pool. When considered alongside other recent bimodal therapy results, we do believe that there are therapeutic benefits of bimodal stimulation for tinnitus sufferers that have the potential to help some with tinnitus, with a variety of stimulation parameters and electrode placements.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.25444546
Discussing Patient Emotions in Audiology: Provider Experiences With the Implementation Process of Hearing Loss Psychological Inflexibility Screenings
Authors: Grigsby Sydnee , Muñoz Karen , San Miguel Guadalupe G. , Twohig Michael P. 
Published: April 2024

Purpose:
This study aimed to investigate barriers and facilitators experienced by clinical educators and graduate students when talking with patients about difficult emotions and thoughts related to their hearing.

Method:
A longitudinal observational design was used and an Implementation Research Logic Model guided the process. Five clinical educators and five graduate students participated in the study. Participants completed pre- and postmeasures and attended individual debriefing sessions during the 8-month study period.

Results:
Four themes emerged from the debriefing sessions: (a) learning process, (b) confidence, (c) barriers, and (d) supervision. Participants described that the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire–Managing Child Hearing Loss and Acceptance and Action Questionnaire–Adult Hearing Loss served as a reminder to ask about patients' internal barriers and increased awareness of their discomfort in talking about patient emotions. Participants also described barriers and struggles related to supporting students in gaining counseling skills.

Conclusions:
Screening for internal challenges helped clinicians remember to talk with patients about their difficult thoughts and emotions. Clinician hesitancy to engage in conversations with patients about their emotions can interfere with opportunities for patients to share their struggles and with training student in these skills.
Developmental Effects in the “Vocale Rapide dans le Bruit” Speech-in-Noise Identification Test: Reference Performances of Normal-Hearing Children and Adolescents
Authors: Fontan Lionel , Desreumaux Jeanne 
Published: April 2024

Purpose:
The main objective of this study was to assess the existence of developmental effects on the performance of the Vocale Rapide dans le Bruit (VRB) speech-in-noise (SIN) identification test that was recently developed for the French language and to collect reference scores for children and adolescents.

Method:

Seventy-two native French speakers, aged 10–20 years, participated in the study. Each participant listened and repeated four lists of eight sentences, each containing three key words to be scored. The sentences were presented in free field at different signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) using a four-talker babble noise. The SNR yielding 50% of correct repetitions of key words (SNR
50
) was recorded for each list.

Results:

A strong relationship between age and SNR
50
was found, better performance occurring with increasing age (average drop in SNR
50
per year: 0.34 dB). Large differences (Cohen's
d
≥ 1.2) were observed between the SNR
50
achieved by 10- to 13-year-old participants and those of adults. For participants aged 14–15 years, the difference fell just above the 5% level of significance. No effects of hearing thresholds or level of education were observed.

Conclusions:
The study confirms the existence of developmental effects on SIN identification performance as measured using the VRB test and provides reference data for taking into account these effects during clinical practice. Explanations as to why age effects perdure during adolescence are discussed.
A Protocol for the Review of Examples of Transformational Change in the Energy and Public Health Sectors to Inform Climate Mitigation and Adaptation Interventions
Authors: Aitmambet Zharas , Dickman Joseph , Frölich Markus , Pasha Atika , Prowse Martin , Puri Jyotsna , Sharma Neha , Weiss Arne R. 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThis article describes the approach for an evidence review that combines two different evidence gap maps into one learning exercise on transformational change. The review assesses the evidence in two sectors where there has been demonstrable progress in terms of scale, depth and permanence of change: in energy and in behavioural change in public health. The review uses causal evidence to assess how lessons about transformational change in these two sectors may inform climate change mitigation and adaptation investments in low- and middle-income countries. The evidence gap maps will inform the scope of systematic reviews and meta-analyses.
Possessive construction in the Kurdish language
Authors: Dehghan Masoud , Davari Hossein , Badakhshan Ebrahim 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The present study investigates Possessive Constructions and domains of possession in Kalhori Kurdish (KK) from a
Cognitive Linguistics perspective to reveal the arrangement of constituents and relationships between the head (possessee) and
dependent (possessor). This qualitative descriptive-analytical study collected data by interviewing KK speakers in Iran. The
results indicate that KK speakers employ both the B-construction (­hin-e­) and Be-construction
(ha) at the clause level to denote predicative possession characterized by [−whole-part, −kinship]
relationships and [+alienable] ownership. Additionally, KK speakers were found to utilize the H-construction (/dire/) at the
clause level associated with [+whole-part, +kinship] relationships and [±alienable] ownership. KK speakers also employ possession
splits in nominal/attributive possession by attaching the possessor, marked by the [+human] feature, to the possessee, marked by
the [±human] feature, as an affix.
Expert consensus statements and summary of proceedings from the International Safety and Quality of Parenteral Nutrition Summit
Authors: Ayers Phil , Berger Mette M , Berlana David , Cogle Sarah V , De Cloet Joeri , Gray Brenda , Klek Stanislaw , Kumpf Vanessa J , Monczka Jessica , Ybarra Joe , Zeraschi Sarah , Wischmeyer Paul E 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Purpose
The International Safety and Quality of Parenteral Nutrition (PN) Summit consisted of presentations, discussions, and formulation of consensus statements. The purpose here is to briefly summarize the summit and to present the consensus statements.

Summary
There was a high degree of consensus, with all statements approved by all authors/summit experts. These consensus statements should be regarded not as formal guidelines but rather as best-practice guidance intended to complement national and international nutrition society evidence-based guidelines and position statements. This article also summarizes key discussion topics from the summit, encompassing up-to-date knowledge and practical guidance concerning PN safety and quality in various countries and clinical settings, focusing on adult patients. Clear geographical differences exist between practices in Europe and the United States, and different approaches to improve the safety, quality, and cost-effectiveness of PN vary, particularly with regard to the delivery systems used. Discussion between experts allowed for an exchange of practical experience in optimizing PN use processes, opportunities for standardization, use of electronic systems, potential improvements in PN formulations, better management during PN component shortages, and practical guidance to address patients’ needs, particularly during long-term/home PN.

Conclusion
The consensus statements are the collective opinion of the panel members and form best-practice guidance. The authors intend that this guidance may help to improve the safety and quality of PN in a variety of settings by bridging the gap between published guideline recommendations and common practical issues.
Testing region selection and prognostic analysis of MLH1 promoter methylation in colorectal cancer in China
Authors: Tan Xiaoli , Fang Yongzhen , Fan Xinjuan , Deng Weihao , Huang Jinglin , Cai Yacheng , Zou Jiaxin , Chen Zhiting , Lin Hanjie , Xu Liang , Wang Guannan , Zhan Huanmiao , Huang Shuhui , Fu Xinhui 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
MLH1 promoter methylation analysis is recommended in screening for Lynch syndrome (LS) in patients with MLH1-deficient colorectal cancer (CRC). The study aims to identify specific methylation regions in the MLH1 promoter and to evaluate the clinicopathologic characteristics of and prognosis for patients with MLH1 methylation.

Methods
A total of 580 CRC cases were included. The DNA mismatch repair (MMR) protein expression was assessed by using immunohistochemistry (IHC). The methylation status of the Regions A, B, C, D, and E in the MLH1 promoter was tested by using bisulfite sequencing PCR. The specificities of the five regions were calculated. Associations between MLH1 methylation and clinicopathologic characteristics were evaluated. Kaplan–Meier analyses for overall survival (OS) were carried out.

Results
In 580 CRC cases, the specificities of the methylation test in Regions D and E were both 97.8%. In the MLH1-deficient CRCs, the frequencies of MLH1 methylation and BRAFV600E mutation were 52.6% and 14.6%, respectively; BRAFV600E mutation occurred in 27.7% of patients with MLH1-methylated CRC. In the MMR-deficient patients, compared with MLH1 unmethylation, MLH1 methylation was more common in patients who were aged ≥50 years, female, had no family history of LS-related tumors, and had tumors located at the right colon. In the MMR-deficient patients, the MLH1-methylated cases had lower OS rates than the unmethylated cases with a family history of LS-related tumors (P = 0.047).

Conclusions
Regions D and E in the MLH1 promoter are recommended for determining the MLH1 methylation status in screening for LS in MLH1-deficient CRC. In MMR-deficient patients, the MLH1-methylated cases had a worse OS than the unmethylated cases with a family history of LS-related cancer.
The metropolitan parks of Quito as important carbon sinks
Authors: Rodríguez Laura Cifuentes , Cuesta Francisco 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Despite the importance of urban forests as important carbon sinks, studies in Ecuador have yet to assess their potential to store carbon. We assessed the carbon stored in the aboveground biomass (AGB) and annual rates of AGB accumulation in the Guangüiltagua Metropolitan Park (GMP) and the Southern Metropolitan Park (SMP). We installed 11 plots per park of 0.063 ha, where we surveyed all stems with a diameter at breast height (DBH) ≥2.5 cm. To estimate annual increments in AGB, we installed dendrometer bands on 10% of the total stems recorded in each plot (only in stems with ≥10 cm DBH). We measured the dendrometer band segment increase every 4 months from September 2019 to October 2020. Our results show that the GMP stores 171 ± 96 Mg C ha−1, significantly higher than the amount of carbon storage recorded in the SMP (100 ± 41 Mg C ha−1). In contrast, the GMP sequestered 3.30 ± 1.71 Mg C ha year−1, while the SMP sequestered an average of 4.45 ± 2.63 Mg C ha year−1. At the landscape scale, the SMP contains 0.072 Tg C (0.058–0.091, 95% CI), while the GMP contains a reservoir of 0.096 Tg C (0.067–0.13, 95% CI). Likewise, the AGB in the SMP 3,165 Mg C year−1 (2209–4297, 95% CI), while that in the GMP sequestered 1859 Mg year−1 (1361–2430, 95% CI). Our results show that the metropolitan parks of Quito are important carbon sinks and constitute essential elements in mitigating climate change in urban spaces.
Second-generation immigrants and native attitudes toward immigrants in Europe
Authors: Barrera-Rodríguez Oscar , Bensidoun Isabelle , Edo Anthony 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
This article investigates the role immigrants and their native-born children play in shaping native attitudes toward immigrants in the European Union. By exploiting the 2017 Special Eurobarometer on immigrant integration, we show that countries with a relatively high share of immigrants are more likely to believe that immigrants are a burden on the welfare system and worsen crime. In contrast, native opinions on the impact of immigration on culture and the labor market are unrelated to the presence of immigrants. We also find that the effects of second-generation immigrants on pro-immigrant attitudes toward security and fiscal concerns are positive (as opposed to first-generation immigrants). Finally, we find no impact of the immigrant share on the attitudes of natives supporting far-left or left political parties, while it is the most negative among respondents affiliated with far-right parties.