bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
NEW QUANTITATIVE DESCRIPTORS (SHAPE AND MACROBORING) OF BIOGENIC NODULES: EXAMPLES FROM THE LESSER ANTILLES AND NEW ZEALAND
Authors: CARON VINCENT , DESCHAMPS BRICE , ROBERT-DUARTE ALEXANDRE , BAILLEUL JULIEN 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Encrusting (Ei), Macroboring (Mi), and Dissymmetry (Di) indices are proposed as quantitative descriptors of biogenic nodules. (Ei) measures the amount of encrustation, (Mi) the contribution of boring traces affecting the internal structure of nodules, and (Di) the regularity of the biogenic accretion around the nucleus. The latter has been used to construct a classification scheme of possible shapes for encrustations. Raw data to calculate the indices were obtained from numerical treatments of digitized photographs of nodule cross-sections. The morphometric (Di) and taphonomic (Ei and Mi) indices have been calculated for carbonate nodules from subtidal temperate and tropical settings in New Zealand (Flat Point Beach) and in the Caribbean (St. Bartholomew Island), respectively. Results for nucleated rhodoliths collected from shallow high-energy settings in these two climatic settings show that their morphometric and taphonomic characters are not species-specific (Lithoporella/Mastophora rhodoliths from St. Barth, and Lithothamnion-Sporolithon rhodoliths from New Zealand), but depend instead on hydrodynamic conditions and on the original shape of nuclei. Acervulinid macroids sampled in deeper waters (28 m) off St. Barth are nucleus-free and have a Macroboring index (Mi) significantly higher than that of rhodoliths from shallower environments, due to discontinuous influence of waves and currents, and low sedimentation rates.
The quantitative descriptors proposed here might: (1) complement the characterization of biogenic nodules in specific depositional environments; (2) aid in hydrodynamic and paleoenvironmental reconstructions of biogenic nodule-bearing deposits; and (3) constitute valuable tools in future comparative studies.
Deep history of cultural and linguistic evolution among Central African hunter-gatherers
Authors: Padilla-Iglesias Cecilia , Blanco-Portillo Javier , Pricop Bogdan , Ioannidis Alexander , Bickel Balthasar , Manica Andrea , Vinicius Lucio , Migliano Andrea 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Human evolutionary history in Central Africa reflects a deep history of population connectivity. However, Central African hunter-gatherers (CAHGs) currently speak languages acquired from their neighbouring farmers. Hence it remains unclear which aspects of CAHG cultural diversity results from long-term evolution preceding agriculture, and which reflect borrowing from farmers. Based on musical instruments, foraging tools, specialised vocabulary, and genome-wide data from 10 CAHG populations, we revealed evidence of large-scale cultural interconnectivity among CAHGs before and after the Bantu expansion. We also show that the distribution of hunter-gatherer musical instruments correlates with the oldest genomic segments in our sample predating farming. Music-related words are widely shared between Western and Eastern groups and likely precede the borrowing of Bantu languages. By contrast, subsistence tools are less frequently exchanged and may result from adaptation to local ecologies. We conclude that CAHG material culture and specialised lexicon reflect a long evolutionary history in Central Africa.
Socio-sexual environment manipulates sperm allocation strategies in ladybird beetle, Cheilomenes sexmaculata (Fabricius)
Authors: Yadav Priya , Mishra Geetanjali , Omkar Omkar 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Males are predicted to adjust their ejaculate expenditure according to the socio-sexual environment they perceive. Empirical evidence suggests that males are able to assess sperm competition risk and mating opportunities, leading to differential sperm investment. Therefore, it was hypothesized that males will transfer more sperm in presence of rivals while decrease sperm number in presence of additional mates. Here, effect of number of matings on sperm transfer was also assessed. Experimental setup was created that allowed males to perceive conspecific rivals or additional mates through olfaction both prior to and during mating. Supporting sperm competition theory and sperm economy model, our results demonstrated that male increases sperm number in presence of rivals while decreases in presence of additional mates. Moreover, number of matings also affected sperm transfer. Copulation duration and sperm transfer were found to be insignificantly correlated. Our findings also suggest that the length of exposure and number of rivals are critical determinants of male plastic response to potential sperm competition level.
Effect of (Azolla Pinnata) Meal Supplementation on Growth Performance, Carcass Traits, and Gut Histomorphology in Commercial Broilers
Authors: Khan Faheem Ullah , R Rafiullah , Lionel KINKPE , Hassan Sohaib Ul , Ahmed Hafiz Qadeer , Shuaib Muhammad , Assogba Cedric M. 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
This study explored Azolla pinnata meal as a sustainable alternative in broiler diets, using 300-day-old broilers. The four treatment groups (A, B, C, D) received 0g/kg, 1g/kg, 2g/kg, and 3g/kg of Azolla meal, respectively. Nutrient digestibility and nutritional analysis ensured a balanced diet. Results showed significant growth improvement, with the 3g/kg Azolla group achieving the most favorable feed conversion ratio (FCR) at 1.66, aligning with sustainability goals. A notable finding was the progressive increase in FCR over five weeks with week three displaying the highest FCR. Moreover, the observation of increasing FCR throughout the five-week experimental period, higher Azolla supplementation correlated with increased ileal villus height, indicating improved nutrient absorption. Consistent crypt depth emphasized Azolla’s specific impact on villus height. One of the distinctive aspects of this study lies in its emphasis on histopathological analysis, a facet that sets it apart from existing research in the domain. These results provide insights into Azolla pinnata meal’s sustainable use in broiler nutrition, promoting growth, feed efficiency, and gut health. In conclusion, 3g/kg Azolla supplementation positively impacted broiler performance, emphasizing its potential in sustainable poultry production.
Impact of Non-Emergency Surgical Timing on Postoperative Recovery Quality in Mild or Asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 Infected Patients: A Grouped Cohort Study
Authors: Wang Qiubo , Wang Yulong , Wang Yuefeng , Chen Hua , Chen Wei , Chen Yongquan 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Objective
to explore the relationship between the timing of non-emergency surgery in mild or asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) infected individuals and the quality of postoperative recovery from the time of confirmed infection to the day of surgery.
Methods
A total of 300 cases of mild or asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infected patients undergoing elective general anesthesia surgery at Yijishan Hospital between January 9, 2023, and February 17, 2023, were collected. Based on the time from confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection to the day of surgery, patients were divided into four groups: ≤2 weeks (Group A), 2–4 weeks (Group B), 4–6 weeks (Group C), and 6–8 weeks (Group D). The primary outcome measures included the QoR-15 scale scores at 3 days, 3 months, and 6 months postoperatively. Secondary outcome measures included postoperative mortality, ICU admission, pulmonary complications, postoperative length of hospital stay, extubation time, and time to leave the PACU.
Results
Concerning the primary outcome measures, the QoR-15 scores at 3 days postoperatively in Group A were significantly lower compared to the other three groups (P < 0.05), while there were no statistically significant differences among the other three groups (P > 0.05). The QoR-15 scores at 3 and 6 months postoperatively showed no statistically significant differences among the four groups (P > 0.05). In terms of secondary outcome measures, Group A had a significantly prolonged hospital stay compared to the other three groups (P < 0.05), while other outcome measures showed no statistically significant differences (P > 0.05).
Conclusion
The timing of surgery in mild or asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infected patients does not affect long-term recovery quality but does impact short-term recovery quality, especially for elective general anaesthesia surgeries within 2 weeks of confirmed infection. Therefore, it is recommended to wait for a surgical timing of at least greater than 2 weeks to improve short-term recovery quality and enhance patient prognosis.
Biodistribution and dosimetry of 177Lu-DOTA-IBA for therapy of bone metastases
Authors: Li Hongmei , Pei Wenjie , Yang Xiqun , Qu Gengcuo , Hua Qingchu , Liu Lin , Wang Yudi , Xu Tingting , Chen Yue 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background
We designed and synthesized a novel bisphosphonate radiopharmaceutical (68Ga- or 177Lu-labeled DOTA-ibandronate [68Ga/177Lu-DOTA-IBA]) for the targeted diagnosis and treatment of bone metastases. In this study, the biodistribution and internal dosimetry of a single therapeutic dose of 177Lu-DOTA-IBA were evaluated using a series of single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) images and blood samples. Five patients with multiple bone metastases were included in this prospective study. After receiving 1110 MBq 177Lu-DOTA-IBA, patients underwent whole-body SPECT/CT imaging and venous blood sampling over 7 days. Dosimetric evaluation was performed for the main organs and tumor lesions. Safety was assessed using blood biomarkers.
Results
177Lu-DOTA-IBA showed fast uptake, high retention in bone lesions, and rapid clearance from the bloodstream in all patients. In this cohort, the average absorbed doses in the bone tumor lesions, kidneys, liver, spleen, red marrow, bladder, and osteogenic cells were 5.740, 0.114, 0.095, 0.121, 0.095, and 0.333 Gy/GBq, respectively. Although no patient reached the predetermined dose thresholds, the red marrow will be the dose-limiting organ. There were no adverse reactions recorded after administration of 1110 MBq 177Lu-DOTA-IBA.
Conclusion
Dosimetric results show that the absorbed doses for critical organs and total body are within the safety limit and with high bone retention. It is a promising radiopharmaceutical alternative for the targeted treatment of bone metastases, controlling its progression, and improving the survival and quality of life of patients with advanced bone metastasis.
Auditory rhythm facilitates perception and action in children at risk for Developmental Coordination Disorder
Authors: Carrillo Chantal , Chang Andrew , Armstrong Hannah , Cairney John , McAuley J. Devin , Trainor Laurel J. 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder featuring deficits in motor coordination and motor timing among children. Deficits in rhythmic tracking, including perceptually tracking and synchronizing action with auditory rhythms, have been studied in a wide range of motor disorders, providing a foundation for developing rehabilitation programs incorporating auditory rhythms. However, it is unclear whether DCD also features this deficit. We recruited 7- to 10-year-old children at risk for DCD (rDCD) and typically developing (TD) children. In a speech recognition task with no overt motor component, modulating the speech rhythm interfered more with the performance of rDCD children than TD children. A set of auditory-motor tapping tasks further showed that, although children at risk for DCD performed worse than TD children in general, the presence of an auditory rhythmic cue (isochronous metronome or music) facilitated the temporal consistency of tapping. Finally, accuracy in the recognition of rhythmically modulated speech and tapping consistency correlated with performance on the standardized motor assessment. Together, the results show auditory rhythmic regularity benefits auditory perception and auditory-motor coordination in children at risk for DCD. Clinically, it provides a foundation for developing evidence-based interventions involving auditory-motor rhythmic coordination for children with DCD.
A nomogram prediction of periodontitis in Chinese pregnant women with different sociodemographic and oral behavior characteristics: A community-based study
Authors: Shi Qiao , Cai Yu , Wang Xiaoxuan , Liu Guojing , Luan Qingxian 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Objectives
The periodontal health of pregnant women is an important health concern as periodontitis can compromise the pregnancy outcomes. This study aimed to assess periodontitis and its associated factors in pregnant women to identify its risk indicators and develop a nomogram prediction model for the risk of periodontitis in pregnancy.
Materials and methods
A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in 438 pregnant women at 10–36 gestational weeks in Langfang, China. The periodontal status was examined, and the demographic, socioeconomic, and oral health behavioral data were collected. Potential influencing factors were analyzed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. A nomogram prediction model was developed and its validation and discriminatory abilities were analyzed.
Results
The incidence of periodontitis in pregnant mowen was 59.8%. The variables associated with periodontitis in pregnant women were gestational age, non-first pregnancy, daily tooth brushing frequency before pregnancy ≤ 1, and annual frequency of periodontal treatment < 1, including no periodontal treatment. A nomogram prediction model for periodontitis in pregnant women was developed using these four factors. The AUC of the training and testing cohorts were 0.855 and 0.831, demonstrated a good prediction accuracy of the nomogram model. The calibration curve and decision curve analysis demonstrated good performance and high net benefit of nomogram.
Conclusion
The gestational age, non-first pregnancy, lower frequency of daily tooth brushing before pregnancy, and lower frequency of periodontal treatment may be risk factors for periodontitis in pregnant Chinese women. An easy-to-use nomogram with acceptable accuracy enables periodontitis risk prediction in pregnant Chinese women.
Clinical relevance:
This nomogram model can assist clinicians in evaluating the risk of periodontitis in pregnancy, thereby offering more tailored oral health education to women of reproductive age.
How does Mentoring Occupational Therapists Improve Intervention Fidelity in a randomised controlled trial? A Realist Evaluation
Authors: Perez Blanca De Dios , Merchan Josan , Powers Katie , Craven Kristelle , Holmes Jain , Phillips Julie , Tyerman Ruth , Radford Kate 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background: Integrating complex interventions within healthcare settings can be challenging. Mentoring can be embedded within a randomised controlled trial (RCT) to upskill and support those delivering the intervention. This study aimed to understand, from a realist perspective, how mentoring worked to support implementation fidelity for occupational therapists (OTs) delivering a vocational rehabilitation (VR) intervention within the context of an RCT.
Methods: A realist evaluation using secondary data (emails, mentoring record forms, interviews) collected as part of an RCT. Three researchers coded the data following a qualitative approach, focused on refining or refuting an initial programme theory by exploring the interactions between context, mechanisms, and outcomes. The research team met to further refine the programme theories.
Results: Data from 584 emails, 184 mentoring record forms, and 25 interviews were analysed following a realist approach. We developed a programme theory consisting of two contexts (trial set-up, ongoing mentoring), nine mechanisms (collective understanding, monitoring, timely support, positive reinforcement, reflective practice, support data completeness, facilitation strategy, shared learning experience, management of research and clinical duties), and three outcomes (improved confidence, improved fidelity, reduced contamination).
Conclusions: Offering mentoring support to OTs delivering a VR intervention as part of an RCT improves intervention fidelity and reduces the risk of contamination. It improves OTs’ understanding of the differences between their clinical and research roles and increases their confidence and competence in trial paperwork completion and identification of potential contamination issues.
Relationship between asymmetry of lumbar facet joints and direction of lumbar disc herniation in patients aged 12-21 years
Authors: Xiao Kai , Xu Jianyun , Wu Jinming , Liu Yuan , Zhong Yingjun 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background: Lumbar facet joint (FJ) asymmetry is thought to be associated with lumbar disc herniation (LDH), but the relationship between the two is unclear. In addition, the effect of vertebral FJs on LDH in adolescent patients has not been elucidated. The purpose of this study was to measure and compare the angle of lumbar FJs with computed tomography (CT) and to study the relationship between vertebral FJ asymmetry with LDH as well as herniated disc location in adolescent patients (12-21 years old).
Methods: This study retrospectively analysed clinical data from the Department of Orthopaedics at The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University. 149 patients with single- or two-segment LDH composed the case group and 108 adolescent patients with acute abdomen composed the control group aged 12 to 21 years diagnosed from December 2016 to December 2022. The facet joint angle (FJA) of the study subjects at the L3~4, L4~5, and L5~S1 levels was measured lumbar or abdominal CT and recorded. Facet tropism (FT) was defined as a bilateral FJA difference >7°.
Results: Among 149 patients with LDH, 57, 77, and 85 patients had FT at the L3-4, L4-5, and L5-S1 segments, while among the 108 patients without LDH (N-LDH), 25, 29, and 27 patients had FT at the L3-4, L4-5, and L5-S1 segments, respectively. The probability of FT was significantly higher in the experimental group than in the control group (P < 0.05). In the LDH group, FT was present in 31 of 51 protrusions in the L4-5 segment and 56 of 97 protrusions in the L5-S1 segment; while in the N-LDH group, 29 and 27 patients had FT at the L4-5 and L5-S1 segments, respectively. The probability of FT in the experimental group was significantly higher than that in the control group (P< 0.05). In the LDH group, among the 51 cases of L4-5 LDH, there were 18 cases of the central type, 33 cases of the paracentral type, 9 cases of the central type with FT, and 22 cases of the paracentral type with FT. Among the 97 cases of L5-S1 LDH, there were 39 cases of the central type, 58 cases of the paracentral type, 11 cases of the central type with FT, and 45 cases of the paracentral type with FT. By cardinal empirical comparison, vertebral subtotal joint asymmetry was correlated with the location of LDH in the L5-S1 segment (P < 0.05).
Conclusion: FJ asymmetry was significantly associated with LDH in the L4-5 and L5-S1 segments in adolescents, and FJ asymmetry was associated with the location of LDH in the L5-S1 segment in adolescents.
A coordination-connected flexible-rigid hybrid nanoparticles coating for the interfacial enhancement of carbon fiber/polyetheretherketone composites
Authors: Jiang Naiyu , Li Yingze , Zhou Nan , Zhang Hongyan , Zou Xiaohu , Zhang Dongxing 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
To date, carbon fiber (CF) reinforced polymer composites have found widespread application due to exceptional properties, including high specific strength and modulus, thermal stability, chemical durability. However, the interface serves as the bridge for load transfer between fiber and resin, the interfacial property directly affects the holistic performance of the composites. Therefore, considering the inertness of CF and polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and the modulus gap between them, we propose a flexible-rigid sizing agent for enhancing the interfacial adhesion and mechanical properties of CF/PEEK composites. The sizing layers are constructed by the hybrid nanoparticles of rare-earth coordination bonded flexible aramid nanofiber (ANF) and rigid nano-TiO2, and the transition layer of polyetherimide (PEI). The treatment with the flexible-rigid sizing agent significantly improves the active functional group content, surface roughness, and wettability of the CF. Meanwhile, as-prepared CF/PEEK composites show a remarkable enhancement both in mechanical and interfacial strength, which could be attributed to the synergistic effects of flexible-rigid structures, ultimately improve the external stress transfer and suppression of crack propagation. Herein, this work offers a robust and promising approach for the fabrication of high-performance CF/PEEK composites.
Factors affecting upper arm exercise self-efficacy in cancer patients with PICC: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Xiang Xuan , Whang You Fang , Zhang Yue Qi , Pan Meng 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Aims and Objectives: This study investigated the level of upper arm exercise self-efficacy in cancer patients with PICC and explored factors that may influence upper arm exercise self-efficacy.
Background: Exercise self-efficacy predicts exercise behavior and is related to individual exercise adherence. Upper Arm exercise is safe and effective in preventing Catheter-related complications while maintaining the ability to perform activities of daily living in cancer patients with PICC. However, there is a lack of research on upper-arm exercise self-efficacy and the factors influencing the exercise self-efficacy of cancer patients with PICC.
Setting:Cross-sectional survey using a correlational design.
Methods:The study included cancer patients with PICC who attended three tertiary hospitals in Guangzhou City from June to September 2023. Data were collected using a general information questionnaire, the Upper Arm Exercise Self-Efficacy Scale for Cancer Patients with PICC , the Cancer Patients PICC Self-Management Competency Scale, the Perceived Social Support Scale, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and multiple linear regression analyses were used to evaluate the factors associated with the level of upper arm exercise self-efficacy.
Results: The mean upper arm exercise self-efficacy score for cancer patients with PICC was 82.33±15.80, and the overall score was 71.16%, which is in the middle range. The main factors affecting upper arm exercise self-efficacy in cancer patients with PICC included depression (β= -0.447, p<0.001), exercise before illness (β= 0.158, p<0.001), PICC self-management competency(β= 0.169, p<0.001), perceived social support (β= 0.169, p<0.001), per capita monthly household income (β= 0.081, p = 0.002), PICC catheter retention time (β= -0.053, p=0.042), primary caregiver (β = -0.050, p = 0.024).
Conclusions: The level of upper arm exercise self-efficacy in cancer patients with PICC needs to be further improved. Clinical healthcare professionals can consider the factors affecting the self-efficacy of upper arm exercise in cancer patients with PICC , formulate a targeted exercise intervention programme, and carry out follow-up visits in a planned manner to guide, supervise, and strengthen the level of self-efficacy of upper arm exercise, and ultimately to achieve the goal of health promotion.
Relevance to clinical practice: This study proposes that upper arm exercise self-efficacy behaviors should be promoted in cancer patients with PICC. In response to the identified influencing factors, further upper arm exercise promotion programs are recommended to improve their exercise compliance.