bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Microstructural characterization of natural fractures and faults in the Opalinus Clay: insights from a deep drilling campaign across central northern Switzerland
Authors: Akker Ismay Vénice , Schneeberger Raphael , Herwegh Marco , Looser Nathan , Aschwanden Lukas , Mazurek Martin , Decker Kurt , Ebert Andreas , Guillong Marcel , Bernasconi Stefano M. , Schrank Christoph , Jones Michael W. M. , Langendam Andrew , Madritsch Herfried 
Published: June 2023

AbstractThe Middle-Jurassic Opalinus Clay is the foreseen host rock for radioactive waste disposal in central northern Switzerland. An extensive drilling campaign aiming to characterize the argillaceous formation resulted in a comprehensive drill core data set. The rheologically weak Opalinus Clay is only mildly deformed compared to the over- and underlying rock units but shows a variety of natural fractures. While these structures are hydraulically indistinguishable from macroscopically non-deformed Opalinus Clay today, their analysis allows for a better understanding of the deformation behaviour in the geological past. Here, we present an overview of the different fracture and fault types recorded in the Opalinus Clay and a detailed microstructural characterization of veins—natural dilational fractures healed by secondary calcite and celestite mineralizations. Macroscopic drill core analysis revealed five different natural fracture types that encompass tension gashes of various orientations with respect to bedding and small-scale faults with displacements typically not exceeding the drill core diameter. The occurrence of different fault types generally fits well with the local tectonic setting of the different drilling sites and with respect to the neighbouring regional fault zones. The microstructural investigations of the various vein types revealed their often polyphase character. Fibrous bedding-parallel veins of presumable early age were found to be overprinted by secondary slickenfibres. The polyphase nature of fibrous bedding parallel veins and slickenfibres is supported by differing elemental compositions, pointing towards repeated fracturing and mineralization events. Direct dating of vein calcites with U–Pb was unsuccessful. Nevertheless, age constraints can be inferred from structural orientations and fault slip kinematics. Accordingly, some of the veins already formed during sediment compaction in Mesozoic times, others possibly relate to Early Cenozoic foreland uplift. The youngest veins are most likely related to Late Cenozoic regional tectonic events, such as the Jura fold-and-thrust belt to the south and the Hegau-Lake Constance Graben to the northeast of the study area. During these latest tectonic events, previously formed veins acted as rheologically stiff discontinuities in the otherwise comparably weak Opalinus Clay along which deformation of the rock formation was re-localized.
Non-coding variants in VAMP2 and SNAP25 affect gene expression: potential implications in migraine susceptibility
Authors: Felício Daniela , Dias Andreia , Martins Sandra , Carvalho Estefânia , Lopes Alexandra M. , Pinto Nádia , Lemos Carolina , Santos Mariana , Alves-Ferreira Miguel 
Published: June 2023

AbstractMigraine is a common and complex neurological disease potentially caused by a polygenic interaction of multiple gene variants. Many genes associated with migraine are involved in pathways controlling the synaptic function and neurotransmitters release. However, the molecular mechanisms underpinning migraine need to be further explored.Recent studies raised the possibility that migraine may arise from the effect of regulatory non-coding variants. In this study, we explored the effect of candidate non-coding variants potentially associated with migraine and predicted to lie within regulatory elements: VAMP2_rs1150, SNAP25_rs2327264, and STX1A_rs6951030. The involvement of these genes, which are constituents of the SNARE complex involved in membrane fusion and neurotransmitter release, underscores their significance in migraine pathogenesis. Our reporter gene assays confirmed the impact of at least two of these non-coding variants. VAMP2 and SNAP25 risk alleles were associated with a decrease and increase in gene expression, respectively, while STX1A risk allele showed a tendency to reduce luciferase activity in neuronal-like cells. Therefore, the VAMP2_rs1150 and SNAP25_rs2327264 non-coding variants affect gene expression, which may have implications in migraine susceptibility. Based on previous in silico analysis, it is plausible that these variants influence the binding of regulators, such as transcription factors and micro-RNAs. Still, further studies exploring these mechanisms would be important to shed light on the association between SNAREs dysregulation and migraine susceptibility.
Navigated, percutaneous, three-step technique for lumbar and sacral screw placement: a novel, minimally invasive, and maximally safe strategy
Authors: La Rocca Giuseppe , Mazzucchi Edoardo , Pignotti Fabrizio , Nasto Luigi Aurelio , Galieri Gianluca , Rinaldi Pierluigi , De Santis Vincenzo , Pola Enrico , Sabatino Giovanni 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Background
Minimally invasive spine surgery is a field of active and intense research. Image-guided percutaneous pedicle screw (PPS) placement is a valid alternative to the standard free-hand technique, thanks to technological advancements that provide potential improvement in accuracy and safety. Herein, we describe the clinical results of a surgical technique exploiting integration of neuronavigation and intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) for minimally invasive PPS.

Materials and Methods
An intraoperative-computed tomography (CT)-based neuronavigation system was combined with IONM in a three-step technique for PPS. Clinical and radiological data were collected to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the procedure. The accuracy of PPS placement was classified according to the Gertzbein–Robbins scale.

Results
A total of 230 screws were placed in 49 patients. Only two screws were misplaced (0.8%); nevertheless, no clinical sign of radiculopathy was experienced by these patients. The majority of the screws (221, 96.1%) were classified as grade A according to Gertzbein–Robbins scale, seven screws were classified as grade B, one screw was classified as grade D, and one last screw was classified as grade E.

Conclusions
The proposed three-step, navigated, percutaneous procedure offers a safe and accurate alternative to traditional techniques for lumbar and sacral pedicle screw placement.
Level of Evidence Level 3.
Trial registration Not applicable.
Acute acrylamide poisoning with severe symptoms in a short time: a case report
Authors: Yamamoto Rie , Yasuoka Takayuki , Matsushima Junya , Tsubouchi Youhei , Kanazashi Hideaki , Sakurai Keiji , Hanazawa Tomoki , Kamijo Yoshito , Akieda Kazuki 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Background
Acrylamide poisoning is often reported as chronic poisoning presenting with peripheral neuropathy or carcinogenic action due to long-term exposure to low concentrations. However, there have been few reports of acute poisoning due to oral ingestion of acrylamide, where the symptoms appear a few hours after ingestion. Here, we report a case of acute acrylamide poisoning where a high concentration was ingested in a short time, resulting in a fatal outcome due to the rapid course of events.

Case presentation
The patient was an adolescent female who ingested 150 ml (148 g) of acrylamide with suicidal intent. A disorder of consciousness was observed when the emergency medical team arrived 36 min later. An hour later, tracheal intubation and intravenous access were performed at a hospital, and 2 h after that, she was transported to our hospital. After she arrived at the hospital, circulatory dynamics could not be maintained despite vasopressor and colloid osmotic infusion, and hemodialysis could not be introduced. Subsequently, cardiopulmonary arrest occurred, and the patient passed away 7 h after ingestion.
In the present case, severe symptoms appeared shortly after acrylamide ingestion, unlike other reported cases. In previous report summarizing animal studies, there was a relationship among the symptoms of acute poisoning, the dose, and onset time. The data from this case were compared to those from previous reports, and we were able to predict the early appearance of severe symptoms based on this comparison.

Conclusion
The severity of acute acrylamide poisoning by oral ingestion was primarily dependent on the amount and rate of ingestion.
Multi-locus phylogeny of the catfish genus Ictalurus Rafinesque, 1820 (Actinopterygii, Siluriformes) and its systematic and evolutionary implications
Authors: Pérez-Rodríguez Rodolfo , Domínguez-Domínguez Omar , Pedraza-Lara Carlos , Rosas-Valdez Rogelio , Pérez-Ponce de León Gerardo , García-Andrade Ana Berenice , Doadrio Ignacio 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Background
Ictalurus is one of the most representative groups of North American freshwater fishes. Although this group has a well-studied fossil record and has been the subject of several morphological and molecular phylogenetic studies, incomplete taxonomic sampling and insufficient taxonomic studies have produced a rather complex classification, along with intricate patterns of evolutionary history in the genus that are considered unresolved and remain under debate.

Results
Based on four loci and the most comprehensive taxonomic sampling analyzed to date, including currently recognized species, previously synonymized species, undescribed taxa, and poorly studied populations, this study produced a resolved phylogenetic framework that provided plausible species delimitation and an evolutionary time framework for the genus Ictalurus.

Conclusions
Our phylogenetic hypothesis revealed that Ictalurus comprises at least 13 evolutionary units, partially corroborating the current classification and identifying populations that emerge as putative undescribed taxa. The divergence times of the species indicate that the diversification of Ictalurus dates to the early Oligocene, confirming its status as one of the oldest genera within the family Ictaluridae.
Sequence level genome-wide associations for bull production and fertility traits in tropically adapted bulls
Authors: Tan Wei Liang Andre , Neto Laercio Ribeiro Porto , Reverter Antonio , McGowan Michael , Fortes Marina Rufino Salinas 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Background
The genetics of male fertility is complex and not fully understood. Male subfertility can adversely affect the economics of livestock production. For example, inadvertently mating bulls with poor fertility can result in reduced annual liveweight production and suboptimal husbandry management. Fertility traits, such as scrotal circumference and semen quality are commonly used to select bulls before mating and can be targeted in genomic studies. In this study, we conducted genome-wide association analyses using sequence-level data targeting seven bull production and fertility traits measured in a multi-breed population of 6,422 tropically adapted bulls. The beef bull production and fertility traits included body weight (Weight), body condition score (CS), scrotal circumference (SC), sheath score (Sheath), percentage of normal spermatozoa (PNS), percentage of spermatozoa with mid-piece abnormalities (MP) and percentage of spermatozoa with proximal droplets (PD).

Results
After quality control, 13,398,171 polymorphisms were tested for their associations with each trait in a mixed-model approach, fitting a multi-breed genomic relationship matrix. A Bonferroni genome-wide significance threshold of 5 × 10− 8 was imposed. This effort led to identifying genetic variants and candidate genes underpinning bull fertility and production traits. Genetic variants in Bos taurus autosome (BTA) 5 were associated with SC, Sheath, PNS, PD and MP. Whereas chromosome X was significant for SC, PNS, and PD. The traits we studied are highly polygenic and had significant results across the genome (BTA 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 8, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, 23, 28, and 29). We also highlighted potential high-impact variants and candidate genes associated with Scrotal Circumference (SC) and Sheath Score (Sheath), which warrants further investigation in future studies.

Conclusion
The work presented here is a step closer to identifying molecular mechanisms that underpin bull fertility and production. Our work also emphasises the importance of including the X chromosome in genomic analyses. Future research aims to investigate potential causative variants and genes in downstream analyses.
Sex differences in cardiac rehabilitation barriers among non-enrollees in the context of lower gender equality: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Firoozabadi Mahdieh Ghanbari , Mirzaei Masoud , Grace Sherry L , Vafaeinasab Mohammadreza , Dehghani-Tafti Maryam , Sadeghi Abbas , Asadi Zohre , Basirinezhad Mohammad Hasan 
Published: June 2023

AbstractBackgroundDespite the benefits of cardiac rehabilitation (CR), it remains under-utilized, particularly by women. This study compared CR barriers between non-enrolling men and women in Iran, which has among the lowest gender equality globally.MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, CR barriers were assessed via phone interview in phase II non-attenders from March 2017 to February 2018 with the Persian version of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Barriers Scale (CRBS-P). T-tests were used to compare scores, with each of 18 barriers scored out of 5, between men and women.Results357 (33.9%) of the sample of 1053 were women, and they were older, less educated and less often employed than men. Total mean CRBS scores were significantly greater in women (2.37 ± 0.37) than men (2.29 ± 0.35; effect size[ES] = 0.08, confidence interval[CI]: 0.03–0.13; p < 0.001). The top CR barriers among women were cost (3.35; ES = 0.40, CI:0.23–0.56; P < 0.001), transportation problems (3.24; ES = 0.41, CI:0.25–0.58; P < 0.001), distance (3.21; ES = 0.31, CI:0.15–0.48; P < 0.001), comorbidities (2.97; ES = 0.49, CI:0.34–0.64; P < 0.001), low energy (2.41; ES = 0.29, CI:0.18–0.41; P < 0.001), finding exercise as tiring or painful (2.22; ES = 0.11, CI:0.02–0.21; P = 0.018), and older age (2.27; ES = 0.18, CI:0.07–0.28; P = 0.001). Men rated “already exercise at home or in community” (2.69; ES = 0.23, CI:0.1–0.36; P = 0.001), time constraints (2.18; ES = 0.15, CI:0.07–0.23; P < 0.001) and work responsibilities (2.24; ES = 0.16, CI:0.07–0.25; P = 0.001) as greater CR barriers than women.ConclusionWomen had greater barriers to CR participation than men. CR programs should be modified to address women’s needs. Home-based CR tailored to women’s exercise needs and preferences should be considered.
General health and working conditions of Flemish primary care professionals
Authors: Buffel Veerle , Sirimsi Muhammed Mustafa , De Vriendt Patricia , Van de Velde Dominique , Lahousse Lies 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Background
The Quintuple aim explicitly includes ‘health and wellbeing of the care team’ as requirement for the care of patients. Therefore, we examined working conditions, work engagement and health status of professionals active in primary care in Belgium (Flanders), and how these are interrelated.

Methods
Data of the cross-sectional ‘Health professionals survey of the Flemish Primary care academy’ of 2020 were examined. We performed logistic regression analyses to study the relationship between working conditions and self-reported dichotomized health of primary care professionals (sample size = 1033).

Results
The majority of respondents (90%) reported having a good to very good general health and has a strong work engagement. Quality of employment was high, in particular regarding job security and supportive relations with colleagues, while less in terms of proper rewards and job career opportunities. Working as self-employee (vs. as salaried employee), and in a multidisciplinary group practice (vs. other organizational settings) were positively related to health. Work engagement and all dimensions of employment quality were related to general health, but work family balance, proper rewards, and perceived employability were independently positively related to self-reported health.

Conclusion
Nine out of 10 Flemish primary care professionals working in diverse conditions, employment arrangements and organizational settings report good health. Work family balance, proper rewards, and perceived employability were important for primary care professionals’ health, and could provide opportunities to further strengthen the job quality and health of primary care professionals.
An adjusted Asia-Pacific colorectal screening score system to predict advanced colorectal neoplasia in asymptomatic Chinese patients
Authors: Zhang Chenchen , Zhang Liting , Zhang Weihao , Guan Bingxin , Li Shuai 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Purpose
The Asia-Pacific Colorectal Screening (APCS) score and its derivatives have been used to predict advanced colorectal neoplasia (ACN). However, it remains unknown whether they apply to the current Chinese population in general clinical practice. Therefore, we aimed to update the APCS score system by applying data from two independent asymptomatic populations to predict the risk of ACN in China.

Methods
We developed an adjusted APCS (A-APCS) score by using the data of asymptomatic Chinese patients undergoing colonoscopies from January 2014 to December 2018. Furthermore, we validated this system in another cohort of 812 patients who underwent screening colonoscopy between January and December 2021. The discriminative calibration ability of the A-APCS and APCS scores was comparatively evaluated.

Results
Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were applied to assess the risk factors for ACN, and an adjusted scoring system of 0 to 6.5 points was schemed according to the results. Utilizing the developed score, 20.2%, 41.2%, and 38.6% of patients in the validation cohort were classified as average, moderate, and high risk, respectively. The corresponding ACN incidence rates were 1.2%, 6.0%, and 11.1%, respectively. In addition, the A-APCS score (c-statistics: 0.68 for the derivation and 0.80 for the validation cohort) showed better discriminative power than using predictors of APCS alone.

Conclusions
The A-APCS score may be simple and useful in clinical applications for predicting ACN risk in China.
Associations of social interactions during the COVID-19 pandemic with cognitive function among the South Korean older adults
Authors: Yun Il , Park Yu Shin , Park Eun-Cheol , Jung Hee-Won , Shin Jaeyong 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Background
We aimed to demonstrate the associations between social interactions within social distancing norms during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and cognitive function among South Korean older adults.

Methods
Data from the 2017 and 2020 Survey of Living Conditions and Welfare Needs of Korean Older Persons were used. There were 18,813 participants (7,539 males; 11,274 females). T-test and multiple logistic regression analyses verified whether the mean difference in older adults’ cognitive function before and during the COVID-19 pandemic was statistically significant. We also examined the associations between social interactions and cognitive function. The key results were presented as odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results
All participants were more likely to experience cognitive impairment during the COVID-19 pandemic than before (males: OR 1.56, 95% CI 1.3–1.78; females: OR 1.26, 95% CI: 1.14–1.40). Cognitive impairment increased linearly with the decreased frequency of face-to-face contact with non-cohabiting children. Possible cognitive impairment was greater for females who had not visited senior welfare centers for the past year (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.21–1.69).

Conclusion
Korean older adults’ cognitive function declined during the COVID-19 pandemic and was associated with reduced social interactions because of social distancing measures. Alternative interventions should be promoted for safely restoring social networks, considering the adverse effects of long-term social distancing on older adults’ mental health and cognitive function.
Study protocol for an online lifestyle modification education course for people living with multiple sclerosis: the multiple sclerosis online course (MSOC)
Authors: Reece Jeanette C , Yu Maggie , Bevens William , Simpson-Yap Steve , Jelinek George , Jelinek Pia , Davenport Rebekah , Nag Nupur , Gray Kathleen , Neate Sandra 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Background
People living with multiple sclerosis (plwMS) seek access to information on evidence-based lifestyle-related risk factors associated with multiple sclerosis (MS). As the internet has made delivery of lifestyle information increasingly accessible and cost-effective, we designed the Multiple Sclerosis Online Course (MSOC) to deliver a multimodal lifestyle modification program for plwMS. Two MS online courses were developed: the intervention course based on lifestyle recommendations of the Overcoming Multiple Sclerosis (OMS) program and the standard-care course representing standard lifestyle recommendations from other MS websites. We examined for feasibility in a pilot randomised controlled trial (RCT), where satisfactory completion and accessibility were achieved across both study arms. From this success, a protocol for a larger RCT was developed to examine the effectiveness of MSOC in improving health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and other health outcomes in plwMS.

Methods/design
This single-blinded RCT will recruit n = 1,054 plwMS. Participants in the intervention arm will receive access to a MSOC with seven modules providing evidence-based information on the OMS program. Participants in the control group will receive access to a MSOC of identical format, with seven modules providing general MS-related information and lifestyle recommendations sourced from popular MS websites, e.g. MS societies. Participants will complete questionnaires at baseline and at 6, 12, and 30 months after course completion. The primary endpoint is HRQoL, as measured by MSQOL-54 (both physical and mental health domains) at 12 months following course completion. Secondary outcomes are changes to depression, anxiety, fatigue, disability, and self-efficacy as measured by Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Patient-Determined Disease Steps and University of Washington Self-Efficacy Scale, respectively, assessed at each timepoint. Further assessments will include quantitative post-course evaluation, adoption and maintenance of behaviour change from follow-up survey data, and qualitative analysis of participants’ outcomes and reasons for course completion or non-completion.

Discussion
This RCT aims to determine whether an online intervention course delivering evidence-based lifestyle modification recommendations based on the Overcoming Multiple Sclerosis program to plwMS is more effective at improving HRQoL, and other health outcomes post-intervention, compared with an online standard-care course.

Trial registration
This trial was registered prospectively with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, www.anzctr.org.au, identifier ACTRN12621001605886.

Date of registration
25 November 2021.