bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Barriers to Surgical Intervention and Factors Influencing Motor Outcomes in Patients with Severe Peripheral Nerve Injury: A Province Wide Cohort Study
Authors: Beveridge Julie C. , Beveridge Allison , Morhart Michael J. , Olson Jaret L. , Tsuyuki Ross T. , Midha Rajiv , Chan Christine S.M. , Wang Bonnie , Chan K. Ming 
Published: November 2023

ABSTRACT:Introduction:Despite the importance of timing of nerve surgery after peripheral nerve injury, optimal timing of intervention has not been clearly delineated. The goal of this study is to explore factors that may have a significant impact on clinical outcomes of severe peripheral nerve injury that requires reconstruction with nerve transfer or graft.Materials and Methods:Adult patients who underwent peripheral nerve transfer or grafting in Alberta were reviewed. Clustered multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association of time to surgery, type of nerve repair, and patient characteristics on strength outcomes. Cox proportional hazard regression analysis model was used to examine factors correlated with increased time to surgery.Results:Of the 163 patients identified, the median time to surgery was 212 days. For every week of delay, the adjusted odds of achieving Medical Research Council strength grade ≥ 3 decreases by 3%. An increase in preinjury comorbidities was associated with longer overall time to surgery (aHR 0.84, 95% CI 0.74–0.95). Referrals made by surgeons were associated with a shorter time to surgery compared to general practitioners (aHR 1.87, 95% CI 1.14–3.06). In patients treated with nerve transfer, the adjusted odds of achieving antigravity strength was 388% compared to nerve grafting; while the adjusted odds decreased by 65% if the injury sustained had a pre-ganglionic injury component.Conclusion:Mitigating delays in surgical intervention is crucial to optimizing outcomes. The nature of initial nerve injury and surgical reconstructive techniques are additional important factors that impact postoperative outcomes.
Optimal retirement with disability pensions
Authors: Fehr Hans , Fröhlich Adrian 
Published: November 2023

AbstractThis paper develops a general equilibrium life-cycle model with endogenous retirement that focuses on the interplay between old-age pensions (OAP) and disability pensions (DP) in Germany. Germany has introduced a phased-in increase of the normal retirement age from age 65 to 67 (Reform 2007) and closed off other routes to early OAP retirement. This reform was followed by a phased-in expansion of future DP benefits (Reform 2018). Our simulation results indicate that the first reform will induce a shift toward DP retirement, while the Reform 2018 will even neutralize the financial and economic gains of the Reform 2007 if current DP eligibility and benefit rules remain unchanged. We therefore highlight the increased relevance of DP when reforming the retirement system and retirement incentives in an aging society. Securing the financial stability of public pensions requires activation and rehabilitation of sick elderly in the workforce and tight access to disability benefits.
Convective Couplings With Equatorial Rossby Waves and Equatorial Kelvin Waves: 3. Variations of Clouds and Their Radiative Effects
Authors: Nakamura Yuhi , Takayabu Yukari N. 
Published: November 2023

AbstractUtilizing spaceborne cloud radar and lidar (CloudSat/CALIPSO) observation products, we examine vertical distributions of clouds and quantify their radiative effects associated with equatorial Rossby and Kelvin waves. The most important result is that the radiative heating substantially increased the generation of the eddy available potential energy by 19% and 40%, in Rossby and Kelvin waves, respectively, adding to the convective latent heating. Composite analyses indicate a simultaneous development between deep‐convective anvil clouds and stratiform clouds of mesoscale convective systems in the Rossby waves, and a transition from low‐level clouds, anvil clouds to stratiform clouds in the Kelvin waves. These are consistent to precipitation characteristics provided by precipitation radar observation, and thus the apparent heat source can be estimated by combining convective heating and radiative heating.
Glacial‐Interglacial Circulation and Climatic Changes in the South Indian Ocean (Kerguelen Plateau Region) Recorded by Detrital and Biogenic Magnetic Minerals
Authors: Liu Yan , Kissel Catherine , Mazaud Alain , Pan Yongxin , Li Jinhua 
Published: November 2023

AbstractThe Southern Ocean (SO) plays a fundamental role in global climate due to the presence of the intense eastward‐flowing Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC), one of the most important ocean current systems. The configuration of the frontal systems of the ACC is controlled by the orbital‐ and millennial‐scale variations of the Southern Hemisphere westerly winds (SHWW) and the SO upwelling. However, the reconstruction of paleoclimate and paleocurrent in the SO remains controversial possibly because of the complex interpretation of paleo‐proxies and the regional variations. Here, we present results from rock magnetic measurements and electron microscopic analyses on marine core MD11‐3353 over the past 150 Kyr, which is located in the Polar Front Zone, west of the Kerguelen Plateau. Our data sets indicate that magnetic mineral assemblages in the core are dominated by detrital magnetic minerals mixed with biogenic magnetic minerals (i.e., magnetofossils formed by magnetotactic bacteria) during the interglacial periods. Changes in the detrital magnetic mineral content indicate a strong modulation of the ACC intensity and the SHWW stress at the orbital scale over the last climatic cycle with an enhanced activity during the glacial periods. The increase in magnetofossils content during the interglacial periods indicates an enhanced nutrient supply from the SO upwelling resulting from the southward migration of the Antarctic Polar Front. Our results suggest that the variations of concentration and assemblage of magnetic minerals can be used as faithful proxies for reconstructing ocean circulation and upwelling changes in the South Indian Ocean over the past 150 Kyr.
Efficacy and quality of life for FOLFOX/bevacizumab +/− irinotecan in first-line metastatic colorectal cancer—final results of the AIO CHARTA trial
Authors: Schmoll Hans-Joachim , Mann Julia , Meinert Fabian , Garlipp Benjamin , Borchert Kersten , Vogel Arndt , Goekkurt Eray , Kaiser Ulrich , Hoeffkes Heinz-Gert , Rüssel Jörn , Kanzler Stephan , Edelmann Thomas , Forstbauer Helmut , Göhler Thomas , Hannig Carla , Hildebrandt Bert , Roll Carsten , Bokemeyer Carsten , Steighardt Jörg , Cygon Franziska , Ibach Stefan , Stein Alexander , Tintelnot Joseph 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
FOLFOXIRI plus bevacizumab has demonstrated benefits for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients. However, challenges arise in its clinical implementation due to expected side effects and a lack of stratification criteria.

Methods
The AIO “CHARTA” trial randomised mCRC patients into clinical Group 1 (potentially resectable), 2 (unresectable/risk of rapid progression), or 3 (asymptomatic). They received FOLFOX/bevacizumab +/− irinotecan. The primary endpoint was the 9-month progression-free survival rate (PFSR@9). Secondary endpoints included efficacy in stratified groups, QoL, PFS, OS, ORR, secondary resection rate, and toxicity.

Results
The addition of irinotecan to FOLFOX/bevacizumab increased PFSR@9 from 56 to 67%, meeting the primary endpoint. The objective response rate was 61% vs. 69% (P = 0.21) and median PFS was 10.3 vs. 12 months (HR 0.83; P = 0.17). The PFS was (11.4 vs. 12.9 months; HR 0.83; P = 0.46) in potentially resectable patients, with a secondary resection rate of 37% vs. 51%. Moreover, Group 3 (asymptomatic) patients had a PFS of 11.1 vs. 16.1 months (HR 0.6; P = 0.14). The addition of irinotecan did not diminish QoL.

Conclusion
The CHARTA trial, along with other studies, confirms the efficacy and tolerability of FOLFOXIRI/bevacizumab as a first-line treatment for mCRC. Importantly, clinical stratification may lead to its implementation.

Trial registration
The trial was registered as NCT01321957.
Comparison of non-invasive diagnostic modalities for ocular surface squamous neoplasia at a tertiary hospital, South Africa
Authors: Hӧllhumer Roland , Michelow Pamela , Williams Susan 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Aims
The aim of the study is to assess non-invasive diagnostic modalities for ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN) when compared to histology.

Methods
A prospective case–control study was conducted of patients presenting with conjunctival masses at a tertiary eye hospital in Johannesburg, South Africa. Patients completed an interview and had three non-invasive diagnostic tests: optical coherence tomography, impression cytology and methylene blue stain. A biopsy with histology was performed as the gold standard to confirm the diagnosis.

Results
One hundred and eighty-two conjunctival masses of 175 patients were evaluated. There were 135 lesions identified as OSSN on biopsy and 47 lesions were benign on histology. Optical coherence tomography had a sensitivity and specificity of 87.2% (95% CI: 80.0–92.5) and 75.6% (95% CI: 60.5–87.1), respectively, when an epithelial thickness cutoff of 140 um was used. Shadowing was found in 46% of cases due to leukoplakia or increased thickness of the mass. Cytology had a sensitivity of 72.4% (95% CI: 62.5–81.0) and a specificity of 74.3% (95% CI: 56.7–87.5). Twenty-seven per cent of cytology specimens were excluded from analysis due to inadequate cellularity. Methylene blue had a high sensitivity of 91.9% (95% CI: 85.9–95.9), but low specificity of 55.3% (95% CI: 40.1–69.8).

Conclusion
Optical coherence tomography had a high sensitivity and specificity as a non-invasive test and liquid-based cytology performed well but had a lower sensitivity and specificity than with optical coherence tomography. Methylene blue performed well as a screening test, with a high sensitivity but low specificity.
Prevalence of chromosomal alterations in first-trimester spontaneous pregnancy loss
Authors: Essers Rick , Lebedev Igor N. , Kurg Ants , Fonova Elizaveta A. , Stevens Servi J. C. , Koeck Rebekka M. , von Rango Ulrike , Brandts Lloyd , Deligiannis Spyridon Panagiotis , Nikitina Tatyana V. , Sazhenova Elena A. , Tolmacheva Ekaterina N. , Kashevarova Anna A. , Fedotov Dmitry A. , Demeneva Viktoria V. , Zhigalina Daria I. , Drozdov Gleb V. , Al-Nasiry Salwan , Macville Merryn V. E. , van den Wijngaard Arthur , Dreesen Jos , Paulussen Aimee , Hoischen Alexander , Brunner Han G. , Salumets Andres , Zamani Esteki Masoud 
Published: November 2023

AbstractPregnancy loss is often caused by chromosomal abnormalities of the conceptus. The prevalence of these abnormalities and the allocation of (ab)normal cells in embryonic and placental lineages during intrauterine development remain elusive. In this study, we analyzed 1,745 spontaneous pregnancy losses and found that roughly half (50.4%) of the products of conception (POCs) were karyotypically abnormal, with maternal and paternal age independently contributing to the increased genomic aberration rate. We applied genome haplarithmisis to a subset of 94 pregnancy losses with normal parental and POC karyotypes. Genotyping of parental DNA as well as POC extra-embryonic mesoderm and chorionic villi DNA, representing embryonic and trophoblastic tissues, enabled characterization of the genomic landscape of both lineages. Of these pregnancy losses, 35.1% had chromosomal aberrations not previously detected by karyotyping, increasing the rate of aberrations of pregnancy losses to 67.8% by extrapolation. In contrast to viable pregnancies where mosaic chromosomal abnormalities are often restricted to chorionic villi, such as confined placental mosaicism, we found a higher degree of mosaic chromosomal imbalances in extra-embryonic mesoderm rather than chorionic villi. Our results stress the importance of scrutinizing the full allelic architecture of genomic abnormalities in pregnancy loss to improve clinical management and basic research of this devastating condition.
Uncovering developmental time and tempo using deep learning
Authors: Toulany Nikan , Morales-Navarrete Hernán , Čapek Daniel , Grathwohl Jannis , Ünalan Murat , Müller Patrick 
Published: November 2023

AbstractDuring animal development, embryos undergo complex morphological changes over time. Differences in developmental tempo between species are emerging as principal drivers of evolutionary novelty, but accurate description of these processes is very challenging. To address this challenge, we present here an automated and unbiased deep learning approach to analyze the similarity between embryos of different timepoints. Calculation of similarities across stages resulted in complex phenotypic fingerprints, which carry characteristic information about developmental time and tempo. Using this approach, we were able to accurately stage embryos, quantitatively determine temperature-dependent developmental tempo, detect naturally occurring and induced changes in the developmental progression of individual embryos, and derive staging atlases for several species de novo in an unsupervised manner. Our approach allows us to quantify developmental time and tempo objectively and provides a standardized way to analyze early embryogenesis.
Functional adaptation after femoral intertrochanteric valgus osteotomy in Legg–Calvé–Perthes disease
Authors: Wagner Ferdinand , Weiß Barbara , Holzapfel Boris Michael , Ziegler Christian Max , Heimkes Bernhard 
Published: November 2023

AbstractLegg–Calvé–Perthes disease (LCPD) requires individualized treatment in order to regain a functional hip joint. In severe cases, in which a congruent joint cannot be achieved, other options are necessary in order to improve functionality and prevent early osteoarthritis. Therefore, we analysed the clinical and radiologic outcome of 28 patients after valgus osteotomy of the proximal femur (VOF). We examined the range of hip motion, functionality and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) via modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) and Kidscreen-10. Radiographic analysis contained quantitative and qualitative measurements of hip morphology. In particular, we correlated the results with the change of the pelvic-femoral angle (PFA). PFA was defined as the angle between the anatomical diaphyseal line of the femur and a vertical line through the pelvis. The mean follow-up was 5.5 years. Patients showed high mHHS and good HRQoL postoperatively. An increase in ROM with an improvement of 30.5° abduction and 10.3° internal rotation was evident. PFA correlated with adduction contracture and improved significantly after surgery. In consideration of careful patient selection, VOF showed a positive effect on ROM, pain, HRQoL, radiographic congruence and outcome. We identified the age at surgery and an increasing adduction contracture—objectified by a decreased PFA—as a prognostic factor.
Complicate dynamical properties of a discrete slow-fast predator-prey model with ratio-dependent functional response
Authors: Li Xianyi , Dong Jiange 
Published: November 2023

AbstractUsing a semidiscretization method, we derive in this paper a discrete slow-fast predator-prey system with ratio-dependent functional response. First of all, a detailed study for the local stability of fixed points of the system is obtained by invoking an important lemma. In addition, by utilizing the center manifold theorem and the bifurcation theory some sufficient conditions are obtained for the transcritical bifurcation and Neimark-Sacker bifurcation of this system to occur. Finally, with the use of Matlab software, numerical simulations are carried out to illustrate the corresponding theoretical results and reveal some new dynamics of the system. Our results clearly demonstrate that the system is very sensitive to its fast time scale parameter variable.
Socioeconomic and behavioral determinants of non-compliance with physician referrals following community screening for diabetes, hypertension and hyperlipidemia: a mixed-methods study
Authors: Yoon Sungwon , Goh Hendra , Phang Jie Kie , Kwan Yu Heng , Low Lian Leng 
Published: November 2023

AbstractEarly detection of undiagnosed diabetes, hypertension or hyperlipidemia through screening could reduce healthcare costs resulting from disease complications. To date, despite ample research on the factors linked to the uptake of community health screening programs, little attention has been directed at delayed or incomplete follow-up after positive outcomes are identified in community screening tests. This study aimed to investigate the socioeconomic and behavioral factors that influence non-compliance with recommendations for primary care physician referrals, following community-based screening for diabetes, hypertension and hyperlipidemia. A parallel mixed-methods study was conducted. For quantitative data, we performed multivariable analysis on community-based chronic disease screening data. The qualitative component involved semi-structured interviews with individuals with both non-compliance and compliance with referral recommendations. Thematic data analysis was undertaken using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). The quantitative analysis showed that older age (OR = 0.92, 95%CI [0.89–0.96]), non-Chinese ethnicity (OR = 0.24; 95% CI [0.08–0.44]) and residing in 5-room public/ private housing (OR = 0.40; 95% CI [0.14–0.74]) were associated with lower odds of non-compliance with referral recommendations. Thematic analysis identified multiple behavioral-level determinants acting as enablers or barriers within 7 TDF domains: awareness of health risks after receiving screening results, self-management orientation and behavioral control, fear of formal diagnosis and concerns about healthcare cost, optimistic belief driven by the lack of symptoms, interpersonal relationship and social obligations, aversion to medication, communication at the result collection and sense of uncertainty regarding self-scheduling of appointment. Findings provide valuable implications for the development of interventions aimed at improving adherence to referral recommendation. Future endeavors should include culturally sensitive outreach, evidence-based information dissemination, family-centered education, positive public health messaging, brief counseling during result collection and an opt-out appointment system to enhance follow-up care.
Design and optimization of a transparent and flexible MIMO antenna for compact IoT and 5G applications
Authors: Abbasi Muhammad Nawaz , Aziz Abdul , AlJaloud Khaled , Chishti Abdul Rehman , Alqahtani Ali H. , Abbasi Durria , Tahir Farooq A. , Khan Zia Ullah , Hussain Rifaqat 
Published: November 2023

AbstractThis work presents an optically transparent and flexible MIMO antenna that features two square patch elements placed in close proximity, aiming to meet the demands of compactness, flexibility, optical transparency, and visual appeal for IoT applications and future 5G wireless communication. The design includes a simple offset fed configuration to achieve the required isolation and impedance matching. It simplifies the process of creating closely spaced transparent MIMO antenna configurations. By optimizing and analyzing this structure, the antenna achieves better isolation and diversity gain performance, even when the patch elements are positioned very close to each other. To achieve optical transparency and flexibility, the antenna uses thin polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material as a substrate, which is a thermoplastic polymer resin from the polyester family. The wired metal mesh parameters for conducting parts of the MIMO antenna and offset position of the feed are carefully optimized to achieve required optical transparency, isolation, impedance matching and radiation performance without any complex decoupling or impedance matching network.
Captopril supported on magnetic graphene nitride, a sustainable and green catalyst for one-pot multicomponent synthesis of 2-amino-4H-chromene and 1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyrimidine
Authors: Rezaei Fatemeh , Alinezhad Heshmatollah , Maleki Behrooz 
Published: November 2023

AbstractCaptopril (CAP) is a safe, cost-effective, and environmentally organic compound that can be used as an effective organo-catalyst. Functional groups of captopril make it capable to attach to solid support and acting as promoters in organic transformations. In this work, captopril was attached to the surface of magnetic graphene nitride by employing a linker agent. The synthesized composite efficiently catalyzed two multicomponent reactions including the synthesis of 1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyrimidine and 2-amino-4H-chromene derivatives. A large library of functional targeted products was synthesized in mild reaction conditions. More importantly, this catalyst was stable and magnetically recycled and reused for at least five runs without losing catalytic activity.
Social buffering of oxidative stress and cortisol in an endemic cyprinid fish
Authors: Schumann Sophia , Mozzi Gloria , Piva Elisabetta , Devigili Alessandro , Negrato Elena , Marion Andrea , Bertotto Daniela , Santovito Gianfranco 
Published: November 2023

AbstractFish exhibit complex social behaviours that can influence their stress levels and well-being. However, little is known about the link between social interactions and stress in wild fish, especially in running water environments. While many studies have explored the stress axis in fish, most have focused on specific social contexts, leaving gaps in understanding stress responses to social changes. Our study investigated collective behaviour and stress in wild Italian riffle dace (Telestes muticellus) in a controlled experimental setup simulating a natural river system. Results reveal that group-living fish have lower cortisol and oxidative stress levels in muscle tissue compared to solitary counterparts, suggesting a calming effect of conspecific presence. Additionally, we observed upregulated expression of antioxidant enzymes in group-living fish, indicating potential benefits to antioxidant defence systems. These insights shed light on the dynamic relationship between group behaviour and stress in wild fish within running water habitats and emphasise the use of multidisciplinary approaches.
Influence of parent vessel feature on the risk of internal carotid artery aneurysm rupture via computational method
Authors: Fattahi Mehdi , Abdollahi Seyyed Amirreza , Alibak Ali Hosin , Hosseini Saleh , Dang Phuyen 
Published: November 2023

AbstractIn this study, the role of sac section area and parent vessel diameter on the hemodynamic feature of the blood flow in selected internal carotid artery (ICA) aneurysms is comprehensively investigated. The changes of wall shear stress, pressure, and oscillatory shear index (OSI) of blood stream on the vessel for various aneurysms with coiling treatment. To attain hemodynamic factors, computational technique is used for the modeling of non-Newtonian transient blood flow inside the three different ICA aneurysms. Three different saccular models with various Parent vessel mean Diameter is investigated in this study. The achieved outcomes show that increasing the diameter of the parent vessel directly decreases the OSI value on the sac surface. In addition, the mean wall shear stress decreases with the increase of the parent vessel diameter.