bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effect of pre-exercise oral hyperhydration on endurance exercise performance, heart rate, and thermoregulation: a meta-analytical review
Authors: McCubbin Alan J. , Irwin Christopher 
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to determine the effect of pre-exercise hyperhydration on endurance performance (primary outcome), heart rate, thermoregulation, and perceptual responses (secondary outcomes). Six academic databases were searched to February 2023. Only studies reporting differences in hydration between intervention and placebo/control were included. Meta-analysis determined overall effect size (Hedges’ g), and meta-regression the influence of independent moderators (ambient temperature, hyperhydration agent, exercise mode, extent of hyperhydration). Overall, 10 publications generating 19 effect estimates for primary outcomes, and 11 publications reporting 48 effect estimates for secondary outcomes, were included. A small-to-moderate improvement in time-to-exhaustion (TTE) (Hedges’ g = 0.31, 95% CI: 0.13–0.50, p = 0.001) and time trial (TT) ( g = 0.25, 95% CI: 0.002–0.51, p = 0.049) but not total work (TW) tasks ( p = 0.120) was found following hyperhydration. No moderating effects were observed. No effect of hyperhydration was found for heart rate following steady state (SS) exercise ( p = 0.069) or the performance task ( p = 0.072), nor for body temperature post-SS ( p = 0.132) or post-performance task ( p = 0.349), but meta-regression of sodium versus glycerol showed lower body temperature post-performance task with sodium ( g = 0.80, t (5) = 2.65, p = 0.046). No effects were found for perceived exertion or thermal comfort. Study heterogeneity was low, lacking representation of elite and female athletes, and weight-bearing (i.e., running) exercise modalities. These results suggest pre-exercise hyperhydration provides a small-to-moderate benefit to endurance performance in TTE and TT, but not TW performance tasks. While no moderating effects were observed, lack of heterogeneity makes it difficult to generalise these findings.
Asymmetric Learning for Graph Neural Network based Link Prediction
Authors: Yao Kai-Lang , Li Wu-Jun 
Published: January 2024

Link prediction is a fundamental problem in many graph-based applications, such as protein-protein interaction prediction. Recently, graph neural network (GNN) has been widely used for link prediction. However, existing GNN-based link prediction (GNN-LP) methods suffer from scalability problem during training for large-scale graphs, which has received little attention from researchers. In this paper, we first analyze the computation complexity of existing GNN-LP methods, revealing that one reason for the scalability problem stems from their symmetric learning strategy in applying the same class of GNN models to learn representation for both head nodes and tail nodes. We then propose a novel method, called
a
sym
m
etric
l
earning (AML), for GNN-LP. More specifically, AML applies a GNN model to learn head node representation while applying a multi-layer perceptron (MLP) model to learn tail node representation. To the best of our knowledge, AML is the first GNN-LP method to adopt an asymmetric learning strategy for node representation learning. Furthermore, we design a novel model architecture and apply a row-wise mini-batch sampling strategy to ensure promising model accuracy and training efficiency for AML. Experiments on three real large-scale datasets show that AML is 1.7×∼7.3× faster in training than baselines with a symmetric learning strategy while having almost no accuracy loss.
Temporal Trends in Substance Use and Cardiovascular Disease–Related Mortality in the United States
Authors: Minhas Abdul Mannan Khan , Kewcharoen Jakrin , Hall Michael E. , Warraich Haider J. , Greene Stephen J. , Shapiro Michael D. , Michos Erin D. , Sauer Andrew J. , Abramov Dmitry 
Published: January 2024

Background
There are limited data on substance use (SU) and cardiovascular disease (CVD)–related mortality trends in the United States. We aimed to evaluate SU+CVD–related deaths in the United States using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Wide‐Ranging, Online Data for Epidemiologic Research database.

Methods and Results
The Multiple Cause‐of‐Death Public Use record death certificates were used to identify deaths related to both SU and CVD. Crude, age‐adjusted mortality rates, annual percent change, and average annual percent changes with a 95% CI were analyzed. Between 1999 and 2019, there were 636 572 SU+CVD‐related deaths (75.6% men, 70.6% non‐Hispanic White individuals, 65% related to alcohol). Age‐adjusted mortality rates per 100 000 population were pronounced in men (22.5 [95% CI, 22.6–22.6]), American Indian or Alaska Native individuals (37.7 [95% CI, 37.0–38.4]), nonmetropolitan/rural areas (15.2 [95% CI, 15.1–15.3]), and alcohol‐related death (9.09 [95% CI, 9.07 to 9.12]). The overall SU+CVD‐related age‐adjusted mortality rates increased from 9.9 (95% CI, 9.8–10.1) in 1999 to 21.4 (95% CI, 21.2–21.6) in 2019 with an average annual percent change of 4.0 (95% CI, 3.7–4.3). Increases in SU+CVD‐related average annual percent change were noted across all subgroups and were pronounced among women (4.8% [95% CI, 4.5–5.1]), American Indian or Alaska Native individuals, younger individuals, nonmetropolitan areas, and cannabis and psychostimulant users.

Conclusions
There was a prominent increase in SU+CVD‐related mortality in the United States between 1999 and 2019. Women, non‐Hispanic American Indian or Alaska Native individuals, younger individuals, nonmetropolitan area residents, and users of cannabis and psychostimulants had pronounced increases in SU+CVD mortality.
A database of the healthy human spinal cord morphometry in the PAM50 template space
Authors: Valošek Jan , Bédard Sandrine , Keřkovský Miloš , Rohan Tomáš , Cohen-Adad Julien 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Measures of spinal cord morphometry computed from magnetic resonance images serve as relevant prognostic biomarkers for a range of spinal cord pathologies, including traumatic and non-traumatic spinal cord injury and neurodegenerative diseases. However, interpreting these imaging biomarkers is difficult due to considerable intra- and inter-subject variability. Yet, there is no clear consensus on a normalization method that would help reduce this variability and more insights into the distribution of these morphometrics are needed. In this study, we computed a database of normative values for six commonly used measures of spinal cord morphometry: cross-sectional area, anteroposterior diameter, transverse diameter, compression ratio, eccentricity, and solidity. Normative values were computed from a large open-access dataset of healthy adult volunteers (N = 203) and were brought to the common space of the PAM50 spinal cord template using a newly proposed normalization method based on linear interpolation. Compared to traditional image-based registration, the proposed normalization approach does not involve image transformations and, therefore, does not introduce distortions of spinal cord anatomy. This is a crucial consideration in preserving the integrity of the spinal cord anatomy in conditions such as spinal cord injury. This new morphometric database allows researchers to normalize based on sex and age, thereby minimizing inter-subject variability associated with demographic and biological factors. The proposed methodology is open-source and accessible through the Spinal Cord Toolbox (SCT) v6.0 and higher.
Learning to Judge Religious Conflicts
Authors: Gabelt Frederike 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
In times of increasing polarisation and fragmentation in societies, the ability to form a judgement gain in importance. Judgement competence is, therefore, one of the key competencies that students at German schools should develop. In RE, however, teachers often avoid addressing religious conflicts that disrupt social cohesion. This is due to the circumstance, that it is widely undefined in RE didactics, what is to be learned and tested in terms of judgement competence. Moreover, there is limited knowledge on how to empirically measure such competence.
This paper addresses this demand by proposing a model of judgement competence for RE. In the model, competence is conceptualised so that it reveals the mental process of judging religious conflicts. Furthermore, the model depicts external factors, e.g., knowledge and attitudes, that influencing judgement. By showing the complex judging process and its influencing factors, the model allows to explore pedagogical implications for fostering students’ judgements.
Diagnostic Competencies of Religious Education Teachers – Requirements and Challenges
Authors: Sieveke Annalena 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Assessing and supporting are, in addition to teaching, educating and innovating, core competencies of teaching professionals. Particularly in the field of didactics of mathematics and educational sciences an increased interest in the conceptualization of diagnostic competencies of teachers has emerged in recent years. In contrast, research on diagnostic competencies of RE teachers is still limited to few conceptual approaches (Reis, 2018, 194) and requires further investigation.
This contribution sharpens domain-specific challenges of diagnostic competencies of RE teachers based on the concept of formative Assessment. In view of current research findings of educational sciences challenges of assessment in RE such as the epistemological structure of religious knowledge in assessment tasks and questions to elicit student thinking and RE teachers’ professional reflection in formative assessment processes are discussed.
Effect of exercise on different factors affecting the immune system
Authors: Kaushik H. 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Exercise has been shown to improve immune competence. The immune system functions to distinguish between ‘self’ and ‘non-self’ and is composed of innate and adaptive immune cells. Exercise, especially regular moderate-intensity exercise, has positive effects on the immune system, including enhanced vaccination responses, reduced inflammation, improved neutrophil activity, and longer leukocyte telomeres. Sedentary lifestyles contribute to an increased risk of diseases, while regular exercise is beneficial for immune function and overall health. The effects of exercise on the immune system depend on factors such as exercise intensity, duration, and type. Exercise-induced immune responses vary in different populations, including young and elderly individuals, with variations in the magnitude and extent of the effects. Exercise has been associated with reduced immunosenescence and improved vaccine-induced immunity. Factors such as age, sex, genetics, microbial diversity, and environmental influences also impact immune function. Understanding the complex relationship between exercise, external factors, and immune responses is important for developing tailored interventions and improving health outcomes. More research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and implications of exercise on the immune system. The objective of the study was to assess the impact of exercise on variations of the immune system caused by various factors, providing further insights into the complex relationship between exercise and immunity.
Gut production of GABA by a probiotic formula: an in vitro study
Authors: Casertano M. , Fryganas C. , Valentino V. , Troise A.D. , Vitaglione P. , Fogliano V. , Ercolini D. 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of a probiotic formula on the production of neuroactive compounds in different parts of the colon in batch culture and in vitro gut simulator experiments. Thirteen lactic acid bacterial strains, belonging to the species Levilactobacillus brevis, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Lacticaseibacillus paracasei, Ligilactobacillus salivarius, Streptococcus thermophilus, were characterised for their in vitro ability to produce neurotransmitters. L. brevis P30021 and L. plantarum P30025 were selected based on their capability to produce γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and acetylcholine in vitro. A probiotic formulation with potential psychobiotic activity was prepared and tested in a batch culture of human microbiota monitoring the formation of GABA and acetylcholine. Samples of the three colonic tracts were taken from the Simulator of the Human Intestinal Microbiota (SHIME®) evaluating the production of GABA and other neurotransmitters by LC-MS. Short chain fatty acids (SCFA) by GC and microbiota composition by 16S rRNA gene sequencing were also determined. Probiotic supplementation led to the formation of GABA and acetylcholine with a decrease in glutamate concentrations in the in vitro batch fermentation. Production of GABA after the treatment with probiotics was confirmed in the SHIME® short-term experiment. No differences in short-chain fatty acids were observed up to 72 h of fermentation. Different microbiota composition was found in the three different parts of the colon, with a higher abundance of Veillonellaceae in the ascending colon vessels. The probiotic-exposed microbiota showed higher levels of Bacteroides, a gut microbe associated with anti-inflammatory activities and a potential GABA producer. Results demonstrate the impact of the tested probiotic formula on gut microbiota structure and GABA production. In conclusion, the probiotic treatment changed the microbiota composition and increased neuroactive metabolites production, indicating promising potential as psychobiotics, even if further clinical evidence is needed to confirm the effectiveness of these probiotics in improving mental health.
Clinical Outcomes of Early Versus Late Enteral Nutrition Support in Critically Ill Trauma Patients With Isolated Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Breeding Tessa , Nasef Hazem , Patel Heli , Awan Muhammad Usman , Chin Brian , Cruz Francis , Zito Tracy , Smith Chadwick P. , Elkbuli Adel 
Published: January 2024

Introduction This study aims to compare the impact of early initiation of enteral feeding initiation on clinical outcomes in critically ill adult trauma patients with isolated traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Methods A retrospective cohort analysis of the American College of Surgeons Trauma Quality Program Participant Use File 2017-2021 dataset of critically ill adult trauma patients with moderate to severe blunt isolated TBI. Outcomes included ICU length of stay (ICU-LOS), ventilation-free days (VFD), and complication rates. Timing cohorts were defined as very early (<6 hours), early (6-24 hours), intermediate (24-48 hours), and late (>48 hours). Results 9210 patients were included in the analysis, of which 952 were in the very early enteral feeding initiation group, 652 in the early, 695 in intermediate, and 6938 in the late group. Earlier feeding was associated with significantly shorter ICU-LOS (very early: 7.82 days; early: 11.28; intermediate 12.25; late 17.55; P < .001) and more VFDs (very early: 21.72 days; early: 18.81; intermediate 18.81; late 14.51; P < .001). Patients with late EF had a significantly higher risk of VAP than very early (OR .21, CI 0.12-.38, P < .001) or early EF (OR .33, CI 0.17-.65, P = .001), and higher risk of ARDS than the intermediate group (OR .23, CI 0.05-.925, P = .039). Conclusion Early enteral feeding in critically ill adult trauma patients with moderate to severe isolated TBI resulted in significantly fewer days in the ICU, more ventilation-free days, and lower odds of VAP and ARDS the sooner enteral feeding was initiated, with the most optimized outcomes within 6 hours.
Dynamic Molecular Markers of Otosclerosis in the Human Cochlea
Authors: Hodge Sarah , Lopez Ivan A , Cronkite Alex , House John , Matsui Hirooki , Ishiyama Gail , Ishiyama Akira 
Published: January 2024

Objective: To investigate the role and distribution of various molecular markers using immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence to further elucidate and understand the pathogenesis of otosclerosis. Methods: Archival celloidin formalin-fixed 20-micron thick histologic sections from 7 patients diagnosed with otosclerosis were studied and compared to controls. Sections in the mid-modiolar region were immunoreacted with rabbit polyclonal antibodies against nidogen-1, β2-laminin, collagen-IX, BSP, and monoclonal antibodies against TGF β-1 and ubiquitin. Digital images were acquired using a high-resolution light and laser confocal microscope. Results: Nidogen-1, BSP, and collagen-IX were expressed in the otospongiotic regions, and to lesser extent, in the otosclerotic regions, the latter previously believed to be inactive. β2-laminin and ubiquitin were uniformly expressed in both otospongiotic and otosclerotic regions. There was a basal level of expression of all of these markers in the normal hearing and sensorineural hearing loss specimens utilized as control. TGF β -1, however, though present in the otosclerosis bones, was absent in the normal hearing and sensorineural hearing loss controls. Conclusions: Our results propose that the activity and function of TGF-1 may play a key role in the development and pathogenesis of otosclerosis. Further studies utilizing a higher number of temporal bone specimens will be helpful for future analysis and to help decipher its role as a potential target in therapeutic interventions.
Detecting thyrotropin receptor mRNA from peripheral blood of patients with differentiated thyroid cancer rules out non-aggressive cases
Authors: Janković Miljuš Jelena R , Prosenc Zmrzljak Uršula , Košir Rok , Jovanović Milan , Đorić Ilona Đ , Rončević Jelena V , Išić Denčić Tijana M , Šelemetjev Sonja A 
Published: January 2024

Background Early diagnosis of thyroid cancer is hampered by the inability of fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) to accurately classify ∼30% of cases while preoperative cancer staging detects lymph nodal involvement in only half of cases. Liquid biopsy may present an accurate, non-invasive alternative for preoperative thyroid nodule assessment. Thyrotropin receptor (TSHR) mRNA, a surrogate marker for circulating cancer cells (CTC), may be an option for early detection of malignancy from peripheral blood, but requires methodological improvements. We aimed to investigate if TSHR mRNA can be detected in low sample volumes by employing an ultrasensitive method – droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). Methods Less than 5 mL of blood was collected from 47 patients with thyroid nodules (25 benign and 22 malignant). RNA was isolated from the fraction of mononuclear cells where CTCs segregate. Samples were analysed for the presence of TSHR mRNA by ddPCR. Results Thyrotropin receptor mRNA was detectable in 4 mL sample volumes, with the test having good specificity (80%) but modest diagnostic accuracy (68.1%). Combining TSHR mRNA with ultrasound features and FNAB diagnosis, the test reaches high rule-out performances (sensitivity = 90% and NPV = 88.2%). Strikingly, TSHR mRNA correctly classified all samples with thyroid capsule invasion, lymph node metastasis and extrathyroidal extension. If aggressiveness is defined using these parameters, TSHR mRNA test reaches 100% sensitivity and 100% NPV for detecting high-risk cases. Conclusions Employing ddPCR for TSHR mRNA improves its measurement by enabling detection in sample volumes common for laboratory testing. The test displays high prognostic performance, showing potential in preoperative risk assessment.
Analysis of Variation in Foreign Inflows by Different Categories of Foreign Portfolio Investors
Authors: Gupta Akriti , Kumar Parul 
Published: January 2024

The liberalisation of Indian financial markets has smoothened the capital flows of international institutional investors, resulting in rising foreign investor participation in the domestic equity and debt markets. Since the reforms of the 1990s, India has become one of the favourite investment hubs of foreign institutional investors (FIIs) across the globe. The research aims to analyse the variation in contribution to foreign inflows by the three different categories of foreign portfolio investments (FPIs) and the determinants of inflows of the categories of FPIs. The study is based on the use of secondary data collected from the National Securities Depository Limited and the Securities Exchange Board of India. One-way ANOVA has been employed to examine the variation in inflows by different categories of FIIs. Autor regressive distributed lag model has been used to understand the factors determining the inflows of FPIs. The results of the study revealed that there exists variation in the inflows of investments among the different categories of FIIs. The variation in inflows by different categories into equity instruments was significant, while the inflows into debt instruments were not significant. Furthermore, the highest inflows were seen from the second category of FIIs. JEL Codes: C32, G2
Physician-made pericardium stent graft as a potential endovascular alternative for infectious aortic disease – an ex-vivo proof-of-concept study
Authors: Reutersberg Benedikt , Meuli Lorenz , Zimmermann Alexander , Busch Albert 
Published: January 2024

Purpose. The treatment of infectious aortic disease is still challenging with open surgical debridement and reconstruction using biological, preferably autologous material, being the treatment of choice. However, these procedures are associated with high morbidity and mortality. Endovascular therapy is often considered a bridging method only, since the biologically inactive fabric of the covered stent grafts usually cannot be treated sufficiently with anti-infective agents in the event of a (obligate) consecutive secondary graft infection. This study aims to prove the feasibility of a physician-made pericardium stent graft ex-vivo. Technique. A state-of-the-art TEVAR was modified by separating the fabric from the z-stents and suturing a hand-sewn bovine pericardium tube to the bare metal. Feasibility of preparation, re-sheathing, and delivery is demonstrated in an ex-vivo model. Conclusion. This first xenogeneic stent graft could be manufactured and deployed successfully. In the future this may provide a bridging alternative for high-risk patients with infected native aortic aneurysm or aortic fistulas, eventually followed by surgical or thoracoscopic/laparoscopic debridement. Further studies on simulators or animal models are needed to test the technique and investigate its long-term durability. Additionally, this study prompts reflection on whether materials currently used should be further developed to prevent graft infections.