bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The subjective and objective quality of life score (SOQOLTM) for the quantification of general health status: a preliminary study with initial normative population values
Authors: Mobbs Ralph J. , Fonseka R. Dineth , Natarajan Pragadesh , Koinis Lianne , Maharaj Monish 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
Established health-related quality of life scores do not consider both subjective and objective indices of health. We propose the subjective and objective quality of life score (SOQOL) for the comprehensive assessment of health-related quality of life and aim to provide normative population data. The SOQOL is compatible with smartphone applications, allowing widespread use on a global scale.

Methods
Normative SOQOL population data was sourced from pre-existing datasets on the EQ-5D-5L, daily step count, and walking speed. Normative values were calculated using weighted grand means. We trialled the SOQOL in a group of five patients presenting to a spinal neurosurgery clinic.

Results
SOQOL scores decreased with age, and women had lower scores in every age group. In our case series, the spine patients with the biggest SOQOL deficit compared to age- and sex-matched population averages were found to be surgical while the rest were non-surgical.

Conclusions
The SOQOL shows promise as a simple and effective scoring tool that is compatible with smartphones, potentially useful for screening in primary and specialized care settings, and for assessment following healthcare interventions. This study, however, is preliminary, and the findings are primarily suggestive. They underline the necessity for future, more comprehensive studies to validate and expand upon these initial observations. The conclusion of both this abstract and the full paper will clearly state these limitations and the preliminary nature of the study.
Clinical significance of long non-coding RNA NORAD in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Zhao Xueru , Lin Weiyi , Zhou Wenhui 
Published: January 2024

AbstractBackgroundRheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that may cause joint deformities and seriously affect the normal life of the patients. In order to enable patients to receive timely attention and treatment, this study developed new diagnostic markers by exploring the expression and molecular mechanism of the long non-coding RNA NORAD (NORAD) in RA.MethodsParticipants including 77 RA patients and 52 healthy persons were enrolled, and the corresponding clinical data and serum samples were obtained. The NORAD and miR-204-5p expression were detected by real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The content of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α) were determined through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Luciferase activity reporter assay demonstrated the association between NORAD and miR-204-5p. In addition, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of NORAD, and Pearson’s correlation analysis was applied for the correlation analysis.ResultsNORAD was enriched in RA serum with high diagnostic value. Simultaneously, IL-6 and TNF-α levels were also upregulated (P < 0.001). The C-reactive protein (CRP), rheumatoid factor (RF), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody (Anti-CCP) levels in RA patients were generally elevated (P < 0.001). NORAD was positively correlated with the levels of clinical indicators and inflammatory factors (P < 0.0001). Mechanistically, NORAD may affect the progression of RA by targeting and negatively regulating miR-204-5p.ConclusionsThere is a correlation between NORAD and the processes of RA, and NORAD has the potential to predict and diagnose the occurrence of RA.
Piper agroforestry in the Indian Himalayas: indigenous peoples’ practices, policies and incentives
Authors: Reang Demsai , Hazarika Animekh , Sileshi Gudeta Weldesemayat , Nath Arun Jyoti , Paramesh Venkatesh , Singha W. Reshmi , Das Ashesh Kumar 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background
Indigenous populations across the world play a significant role in sustainable land management and conservation of biodiversity. However, indigenous agricultural practices are rarely studied in depth and remain poorly documented in many regions of the world. Documenting such practices and identifying policies and incentives that affect them can unlock their potential for better land management and biodiversity conservation.

Methods

We undertook household surveys and focus group discussions to document indigenous practices and the values of trees in Piper (
Piper betle
) agroforestry practiced by the ethnic Khasi (Pnar) community in the Indian Eastern Himalayas. We also undertook an in-depth vegetation sampling to quantify variations in phytosociology and tree diversity with stand age in Piper agroforestry and nearby native forests. In addition, we undertook strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis and a desk review to identify policies, market support structures and incentives affecting cultivation of Piper, a cash crop of global importance.

Results
Unlike in shifting cultivation, indigenous people do not fell trees in the Piper agroforestry; instead, they allow trees to regenerate naturally and also enrich by planting tree seedlings in the gaps. Depending on the stand age, 30–49 tree species were recorded in the Piper agroforestry compared to 39 in nearby natural forests. While tree density was higher in the natural forests, greater species richness, diversity and basal area was recorded in > 25 years old Piper agroforestry stands. However, landholders do not have legally transferable or heritable rights to the land or trees.

Conclusion
It is concluded that the Piper agroforestry provides a pathway for averting land degradation due to shifting cultivation, biodiversity conservation and improving livelihoods of the indigenous community. Although existing policies are supportive, Piper agroforestry is not currently benefiting from incentives and market support structures. We recommend implementation of policies, market support structures, incentives and payment for ecosystem services so that indigenous communities can benefit from the global ecosystem services they provide.
A review of FACTS device implementation in power systems using optimization techniques
Authors: Chethan Muddu , Kuppan Ravi 
Published: January 2024

AbstractIn electrical power systems, FACTS devices effectively control power flow and change bus voltages, leading to lower system losses and excellent system stability. The article discusses the research from the last decade that evaluated various methods for placing FACTS devices using the meta-heuristic approach to address the positioning of FACTS devices to maintain proper bus voltages and control line flow and improve the overall system efficiency. The need for more efficient electricity systems management has given rise to innovative technologies in power generation and transmission. The combined cycle power station is a good example of a new development in power generation and flexible AC transmission systems, generally known as FACTS, are controllers that improve transmission systems. Worldwide transmission systems are undergoing continuous changes and restructuring. They are becoming more heavily loaded and are being operated in ways not originally envisioned. Transmission systems must be flexible to react to more diverse generation and load patterns. In addition, the economical utilization of transmission system assets is of vital importance to enable utilities in industrialized countries to remain competitive and to survive. In developing countries, the optimized use of transmission systems investments is also important to support industry, create employment and utilize efficiently scarce economic resources. FACTS controller is a technology that responds to these needs. It significantly alters the way transmission systems are developed and controlled together with improvements in asset utilization, system flexibility and system performance. Several models and techniques suggest that devices can be placed in a particular location with different parameter settings. Finally, the optimization problem improved system performance by decreasing power loss, improving the voltage profile and power angle at each bus, raising the L-index, and minimizing generating costs. FACTS devices can increase the transmission line’s capacity for transferring power by increasing the voltage at its terminals at both ends and reducing line reactance. The FACTS controller must be installed in the distribution and transmission lines to maximize the power flow. Various techniques are used for the best placement of FACTS controllers, including analytical methods, arithmetic programming approaches, meta-heuristic optimization approaches, and hybrid approaches—this paper analyses numerous analytical and meta-heuristic optimization techniques to place FACTS controllers in the most advantageous locations. The fundamental problems in intelligent power systems, such as improving stability, power quality, and managing congestion, are discussed in this study, along with several applications of FACTS devices. The cutting-edge power systems of today provide users with constant, high-quality power through smart grids and smart meters.
A novel transparent cabin used in the classroom during the coronavirus pandemic: a CFD analysis
Authors: ElShimi Mennatullah , Morcos Samy M. , Mostafa Galal M. , Khalil Essam E. , El-Hariry Gamal A. , ElDegwy Ahmed 
Published: January 2024

AbstractA coronavirus family is a diverse group of many viruses. Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) spreads when an infected person breathes out droplets and very small particles that contain the virus. These droplets and particles can be breathed in by other people or land on their eyes, noses, or mouths. In this paper, the airflow distribution and the movement of coronavirus particles during normal breathing and sneezing in classrooms have been studied using a CFD model developed in ANSYS® 2022R2. The objective is to find ways to control the spread of the virus that enable us to practice academic activity and deal normally with the pandemic and the spread of the disease. Experiments were done with more than one turbulence model to know which was closest to the experiments as well as to determine the best number of meshes in the classroom. The effect of turbulent dispersion on particles is resolved using a discrete random walk model for the discrete phase and the RANS model for the continuous phase in a coupled Eulerian–Lagrangian method. Furthermore, that is done in two scenarios: the first is to find the best ventilation configuration by investigating the following parameters: the effect of air change per hour, the height of the air inlets and outlets, and the infected student's position. The second is to control the spread of the coronavirus in the classroom in the event of sneezing from an infected student by placing cabins and an air filter with optimal design installed at the top around each student. It was found that optimal ventilation is achieved when fresh air enters from the side walls of the classroom at a distance of 1 m from the floor and the air exits from the ceiling in the form of two rows, and the rate change of air per hour (ACH) is 4, which leads to energy savings. In addition, a novel transparent cabin is designed for the student to sit in while in the classroom, consisting of a high-efficiency particulate air filter (HEPA) that collects any contamination and recirculates it from the top of the cabin back into the classroom with different fan speeds. Through this study, this cabin with a filter was successfully able to prevent any sneeze particles inside from reaching the rest of the students in the classroom.
Estimating demand for potential disease-modifying therapies for Alzheimer's disease in the UK
Authors: Laurell Axel A. S. , Venkataraman Ashwin V. , Schmidt Tatjana , Montagnese Marcella , Mueller Christoph , Stewart Robert , Lewis Jonathan , Mundell Clare , Isaacs Jeremy D. , Krishnan Mani S. , Barber Robert , Rittman Timothy , Underwood Benjamin R. 
Published: January 2024

BackgroundPhase three trials of the monoclonal antibodies lecanemab and donanemab, which target brain amyloid, have reported statistically significant differences in clinical end-points in early Alzheimer's disease. These drugs are already in use in some countries and are going through the regulatory approval process for use in the UK. Concerns have been raised about the ability of healthcare systems, including those in the UK, to deliver these treatments, considering the resources required for their administration and monitoring.AimsTo estimate the scale of real-world demand for monoclonal antibodies for Alzheimer's disease in the UK.MethodWe used anonymised patient record databases from two National Health Service trusts for the year 2019 to collect clinical, demographic, cognitive and neuroimaging data for these cohorts. Eligibility for treatment was assessed using the inclusion criteria from the clinical trials of donanemab and lecanemab, with consideration given to diagnosis, cognitive performance, cerebrovascular disease and willingness to receive treatment.ResultsWe examined the records of 82 386 people referred to services covering around 2.2 million people. After applying the trial criteria, we estimate that a maximum of 906 people per year would start treatment with monoclonal antibodies in the two services, equating to 30 200 people if extrapolated nationally.ConclusionsMonoclonal antibody treatments for Alzheimer's disease are likely to present a significant challenge for healthcare services to deliver in terms of the neuroimaging and treatment delivery. The data provided here allows health services to understand the potential demand and plan accordingly.
St. Cordula und die Kölner Johanniter. Zu Rolle und Funktion weiblicher Heiliger und ihrer Reliquien
Authors: Krämer Thomas 
Published: January 2024

St. Cordula and the Cologne Johanniter. On the role and function of female saints and their relics

The Hospitaller commandery in Cologne not only had an extraordinarily rich collection of relics, it was almost unique in having relics found on its own grounds. In 1278 and 1327, remains of several saints were collected, which were attributed to the entourage of St Ursula and the 11.000 virgins. These were not particularly high-ranking saints, but the Hospitallers knew how to cleverly use the findings to secure a prominent place for their house in the legend, which was very well known throughout Europe. With the relics, especially those of St Cordula, whose discovery was staged in a hagiographic text, the Hospitaller commandery also succeeded in placing itself in Cologneʼs very dense sacral landscape and establishing connections far beyond the city and the Rhineland. Especially in difficult situations, the finding of the relics offered members of the order and the social environment of the commandery’s self-assurance, as they confirmed the promise of salvation. Last but not least, pilgrims and donations brought economic benefits. This article demonstrates that a particularly high-ranking relic or saint was not necessarily needed to be successful. Falling back on those who fit into a narrative that offered different points of contact could be just as advantageous in securing support and gaining influence.
Benefit in physical function and quality of life to nonsurgical treatment of varicose veins: Pilot study
Authors: Kim Gwon-Min , Kim BoKun , Jang Minwoo , Park Jong-Hwan , Bae Miju , Lee Chung Won , Kim Jong Won , Huh Up 
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND
Studies on varicose veins have focused its effects on physical function; however, whether nonsurgical treatments alter muscle oxygenation or physical function remains unclear. Moreover, the differences in such functions between individuals with varicose veins and healthy individuals remain unclear.
AIM
To investigate changes in physical function and the quality of life (QOL) following nonsurgical treatment of patients with varicose veins and determine the changes in their muscle oxygenation during activity.
METHODS
We enrolled 37 participants (those with varicose veins, n = 17; healthy individuals, n = 20). We performed the following measurements pre- and post-nonsurgical treatment in the varicose vein patients and healthy individuals: Calf muscle oxygenation during the two-minute step test, open eyes one-leg stance, 30 s sit-to-stand test, visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, Pittsburgh sleep quality index, physical activity assessment, and QOL assessment.
RESULTS
Varicose veins patients and healthy individuals differ in most variables (physical function, sleep quality, and QOL). Varicose veins patients showed significant differences between pre- and post-nonsurgical treatment— results in the 30 sit-to-stand test [14.41 (2.45) to 16.35 (4.11), P = 0.018), two-minute step test [162.29 (25.98) to 170.65 (23.80), P = 0.037], VAS for pain [5.35 (1.90) to 3.88 (1.73), P = 0.004], and QOL [39.34 (19.98) to 26.69 (17.02), P = 0.005]; however, no significant difference was observed for muscle oxygenation.
CONCLUSION
Nonsurgical treatment improved lower extremity function and QOL in varicose veins patients, bringing their condition close to that of healthy individuals. Future studies should include patients with severe varicose veins requiring surgery to confirm our findings.
Emerging roles of microRNAs as diagnostics and potential therapeutic interest in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Shrivastav Dharmsheel , Singh Desh Deepak 
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a metabolic disease of impaired glucose utilization. Uncontrolled high sugar levels lead to advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which affects several metabolic pathways by its receptor of advanced glycation end products (RAGE) and causes diabetic complication. MiRNAs are small RNA molecules which regulate genes linked to diabetes and affect AGEs pathogenesis, and target tissues, influencing health and disease processes.
AIM
To explore miRNA roles in T2DM's metabolic pathways for potential therapeutic and diagnostic advancements in diabetes complications.
METHODS
We systematically searched the electronic database PubMed using keywords. We included free, full-length research articles that evaluate the role of miRNAs in T2DM and its complications, focusing on genetic and molecular disease mechanisms. After assessing the full-length papers of the shortlisted articles, we included 12 research articles.
RESULTS
Several types of miRNAs are linked in metabolic pathways which are affected by AGE/RAGE axis in T2DM and its complications. miR-96-5p, miR-7-5p, miR-132, has_circ_0071106, miR-143, miR-21, miR-145-5p, and more are associated with various aspects of T2DM, including disease risk, diagnostic markers, complications, and gene regulation.
CONCLUSION
Targeting the AGE/RAGE axis, with a focus on miRNA regulation, holds promise for managing T2DM and its complications. MiRNAs have therapeutic potential as they can influence the metabolic pathways affected by AGEs and RAGE, potentially reducing inflammation, oxidative stress, and vascular complications. Additionally, miRNAs may serve as early diagnostic biomarkers for T2DM. Further research in this area may lead to innovative therapeutic strategies for diabetes and its associated complications.
Removal of a guide-wire sliding into abdominal cavity via transgastric natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery: A case report
Authors: Chen Shi-Ju , Zhang Da-Ya , Lv Yan-Ting , Bai Fei-Hu 
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND
Guidewire slippage into the peritoneal cavity during clinical operations is extremely rare. Therefore, this paper aims to report a successful case of guidewire removal using transgastric natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES). The goal is to enhance physicians' understanding of the management plan for this unique scenario and provide a valuable reference for clinical practice.
CASE SUMMARY
A 64-year-old man presented with abdominal distension and was diagnosed with cirrhosis combined with massive ascites. To proceed with treatment, the patient underwent ultrasound-guided peritoneal puncture and underwent catheterization and drainage. Unfortunately, a 0.035-inch guidewire slipped into the abdominal cavity during the procedure. Following a comprehensive evaluation and consultation by a multidisciplinary team, the guidewire was successfully removed using NOTES.
CONCLUSION
This case highlights the potential consideration of transgastric NOTES removal when encountering a foreign body, such as a guidewire, within the abdominal cavity.
Optimizing broadband antireflection with Au micropatterns: a combined FDTD simulation and two-beam LIL approach
Authors: Saeed Sadaf , Zia Ali , Liu Ri , Liu Dongdong , Cao Liang , Wang Zuobin 
Published: January 2024

Broadband antireflection (AR) is highly significant in a wide range of optical applications, and using a gold (Au) micropattern presents a viable method for controlling the behavior of light propagation. This study investigates a novel, to the best of our knowledge, methodology to achieve broadband AR properties in Au micropatterns. It employed the three-dimensional finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method to simulate and optimize the design of micropatterns. In contrast, the fabrication of Au micropatterns was carried out using two-beam laser interference lithography (LIL). The fabricated Au micropatterns were characterized by a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and spectroscope to validate their antireflection and transmission properties and evaluate their performance at various wavelengths. The optimized Au micropatterns had a high transmittance rating of 96.2%. In addition, the device exhibits a broad-spectrum antireflective property, covering wavelengths ranging from 400 to 1100 nm. The simulation data and experimentally derived results show comparable patterns. These structures can potentially be employed in many optical devices, such as solar cells and photodetectors, whereby achieving optimal device performance reduced reflection and enhanced light absorption.