bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Dynamic Evolution of Mung Bean Protein in Alkaline Solutions: Unravelling Vicilin Function Through Molecular Simulation
Authors: Taheri Afsaneh , Halim Fatin Natasha Binte Abdul , Du Juan 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTThis study explored the effects of pH‐shifting over 0, 10, 20, and 30 min on the physicochemical characteristics of mung bean protein (MBP) isolates, identified as MBP0, MBP10, MBP20, and MBP30. The conformational features of vicilin‐type (8S), the primary component of MBP, were studied using molecular dynamics simulations. Our findings revealed the time‐dependent nature of pH‐shifting on protein flexibility, which caused changes in surface charges of MBP from 0 to 30 min. An increase in particle size, solubility, and more uniform distribution among all pH‐shifted samples were observed due to swelling. Smoother and flakier structures in pH‐shifted proteins were detected by scanning electron microscope. Molecular simulations at pH 12.0 revealed enhanced stability of vicilin with greater fluctuation of hydrophilic residues and increased flexibility, which correlated to the experimental results, highlighting vicilin's pivotal role in the flexibility and solubility of MBP during pH changes.
Forecasting Transition of Personal Travel Behavior in a Sharing Economy: Evidence From Consumer Preferences of Travel Modes
Authors: Park Stephen Youngjun , Choi Hyunhong , Boztuğ Yasemin , Moon HyungBin 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTThe impacts of new mobility services on the market have led changes in consumer's travel behavior but also to various conflicts with the traditional transportation modes. Gaining social consensus, deriving policy and market strategies suitable for the different transportation modes is crucial. This study's objective is to make predictions about future transportation markets by examining consumers' preferences and choices regarding transportation mode. Specifically, this study employs the mixed multiple discrete‐continuous extreme value model to quantitatively identify consumers' attitudes towards various types of transportation modes. In addition to evaluating consumer preferences and usage choices of different transportation modes, the study examines the intricate relationship between transportation modes by using market simulations to forecast future transportation markets. The results show significant potential of shared mobility services in the transportation market and identify complementary effects between taxi and ride‐sharing services. It is expected that policy implications derived can contribute to sustainably developing the transportation sector.
Black Garlic Extract Modulates Endothelin Expression and Ovulatory Function in Monosodium Glutamate Treated Rats
Authors: Gezer Arzu , Yediel Aras Şükran , Ozkaraca Mustafa , Kilic Baygutalp Nurcan , Gundogdu Gülhande , Karadag Sari Ebru , Bedir Gürsel , Üstündağ Hilal 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTMonosodium glutamate (MSG), a widely used food additive, has been associated with various health concerns, including potential reproductive toxicity. This study investigated the protective effects of black garlic (BG) ethanol extract against MSG‐induced ovarian damage in rats. Thirty‐two female rats in estrus were randomly divided into four groups (n = 8 per group): control (saline), BG (250 mg/kg BW), MSG (4 mg/g BW), and BG+MSG (combined treatment). Treatments were administered daily for 14 days. Ovarian tissues were collected for histopathological, immunohistochemical (IHC), and biochemical analyses. Histopathological examination revealed a significant reduction in cystic follicles in the BG+MSG group compared to the MSG group (p < 0.0001). IHC analysis showed decreased immunoreactivity of endothelin‐1 and endothelin‐2 in the BG+MSG group compared to the MSG group (both p < 0.01). Biochemical assays demonstrated significantly increased follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and estradiol levels in the BG+MSG group compared to the MSG group (all p < 0.05), while progesterone levels were significantly lower in the MSG group compared to the BG+MSG group (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that BG ethanol extract may mitigate MSG‐induced ovarian dysfunction in rats by alleviating degenerative changes in follicles and modulating hormonal levels. This study provides insights into potential natural interventions for MSG‐related reproductive toxicity.
Geometric Study and Clinical Case Series for Mandible Reconstruction With a Single‐Piece Scapular Free Flap
Authors: Tran Khanh Linh , Chen Alex , Yang David , Kwon Jamie Jae Young , Sabiq Farahna , Fels Sidney , Hodgson Antony , Durham James Scott , Prisman Eitan 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTBackgroundVirtual surgical planning (VSP) with simple cutting templates could help surgeons preoperatively plan scapula reconstructions in the vertical and horizontal orientations.MethodsVirtually, eight defects were created in ten healthy mandibles and reconstructed with the subject‐specific scapula vertically and horizontally. In the clinical series, 15 single‐piece scapula mandible reconstructions planned with in‐house VSP and guided with simple templates were compared with 15 freehand reconstructions.ResultsVirtually, the vertical placement outperformed the horizontal placement in dice score (DSC) and Hausdorff‐95 for all but one defect. Clinically, the VSP cohort had shorter operative time (386.6 ± 111.6 min vs. 268.9 ± 50.6 min, p = 0.002), fewer tracheostomies (73% vs. 15%, p = 0.002), lower length of hospital stay (16.6 ± 13.5 days vs. 12.2 ± 8.1 days, p = 0.319), and higher complete/partial union to a non‐significant degree (78% vs. 100%, p = 0.471).ConclusionA single‐piece scapula free flap is a versatile option for mandibular reconstruction. VSP has time and cost savings potential and quality of life impact that should be further investigated.
Fourteen‐Year Fluvial Sediment Record Shows Non‐Conservativeness of Organic Tracers: Recommendations for Sediment Fingerprinting
Authors: Riddle Brenden , Fox Jimmy , Ford Bill , Husic Admin , Pollock Erik 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTWhile tracing the sources of fluvial sediment using carbon and nitrogen stable isotopic ratios (δ13C and δ15N) has progressed significantly over the last two decades, the conservativeness of these tracers remains questionable. Recent work indicates that δ13C and δ15N alterations in streambed deposition zones likely represent the largest source of uncertainty impacting usefulness of the isotopic ratios as tracers. Here we report a 14‐year dataset of δ13C and δ15N of fluvial sediment from a streambed‐dominated basin in Kentucky, USA, and employ empirical model decomposition (EMD) to identify dominant temporal trends that may impact conservativeness. Results from EMD show significant seasonality of δ13C and δ15N for sediment as well as underlying multi‐year variation. The seasonal and multi‐year variance account for 72% and 50% of the total data variation for δ13C and δ15N, respectively. The prominent seasonality for δ13C and δ15N show a mean intra‐annual change of 0.6‰ and 1.1‰, respectively, and the seasonal change is attributed to algal accrual and organic matter turnover in the streambed sediment deposits. Mixing model simulations show that the mean streambed isotopic ratios should be separated from other sediment sources by 3.0‰ and 3.6‰ for δ13C and δ15N, respectively, to achieve 90% accuracy in source apportionment when the isotopic ratios are used independently; and the mean streambed value of both isotopic ratios should be separated from other sediment sources by 3.0‰ when δ13C and δ15N are used in combination. Our results lead to the recommendation that isotope ratios of sources be separated by at least 3‰ when the streambed is expected to be a prominent sediment source, which far exceeds the prior recommendation of 1‰ mean separation of sources.
Spatiotemporal Variability of Soil Water δ18O and δ2H Reveals Hydrological Processes in Two Floodplain Soils
Authors: Ceming‐Barbato Amanda , Keim Richard F. 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTSoil water budgets in floodplains are distinct from uplands because there are more potential sources of water yet remain poorly understood and poorly represented in the empirical literature. Stable isotopes of hydrogen (2H) and oxygen (18O) in water are useful as tracers of water movement and have improved conceptual understanding of soil hydrological processes. We sampled two adjacent microsites at a ridge‐swale sequence in a forested floodplain Louisiana, USA to determine temporal and spatial soil water isotopic variability in soils of similar climate and ecosystem but contrasting textures and hydrological processes. Repeated soil borings indicated that soil water isotopic variability was greater than any source water sampled (range of δ18O (‰): −11.9 to −0.9, range of δ2H (‰): −44 to 0; n = 783) including throughfall (range of δ18O (‰): −7.6 to +4.7, range of δ2H (‰): −40 to +11; n = 162), groundwater (range of δ18O (‰): −6.2 to 0, range of δ2H (‰): −31 to −7; n = 39), ponded water within the swale (range of δ18O (‰): −6.3 to +0.2, range of δ2H (‰): −33 to −4; n = 16), and free water from boreholes (range of δ18O (‰): −21 to +5, range of δ2H (‰): −4.5 to +5.8; n = 64). Soil water isotopic variability among samples of the same depth and date was not related to soil texture, organic content, or water content, but was instead likely related to seasonal wet up. Soil water isotopic mixing models indicated soil water recharge regimes varied by microsite: Swale soils were dominated by replacement of event water and ridge soils were dominated by conservative mixing at the profile scale. The isotopic composition of bound water was less variable spatially within structured clay soil than it was in coarser textured soil (average difference in s2 0.241 for δ18O and 2.6 for δ2H) apparently because the microtopography of the site allowed for greater inundation and more persistent source waters among swale soils.
Implementation of a pharmacist‐driven continuous glucose monitoring program within an American Indian/Alaska Native community
Authors: Udby DeAnne L. , Smith Dena K. , Cushman Nicholas , Vue Mary , Reyes‐Gastelum David , Klapperich Austin , Ohman Tori , Hromika Alyssa J. , Mackler Emily R. 
Published: January 2025

AbstractIntroductionAmbulatory care pharmacists can help overcome systemic barriers in diabetes management for American Indians and Alaska Natives (AI/AN) by facilitating the adoption and management of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology. Despite the proven clinical benefits of CGM, its use in AI/AN populations remains limited and underexplored. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of a pharmacist‐driven CGM program on glycemic control in AI/AN patients with diabetes and to characterize the implementation of the intervention in clinical practice.MethodsThis is a retrospective, single‐center, observational study using data from a pharmacist‐driven CGM program at a rural, Indian Health Service, ambulatory health center in the midwestern United States serving AI/AN individuals. The study included a pilot phase with a matched‐cohort design and a subsequent post‐pilot implementation. Participants in the intervention group received comprehensive CGM education and management from clinical pharmacists, with follow‐up visits for 6 months. The primary outcome was the change in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels, analyzed using multilevel linear regression models.ResultsIn the pilot phase, 79% of the intervention group achieved a 1% reduction in HbA1c at 6 months, with an average reduction of 2%. The control group showed no significant change (p = 0.032 for CGM vs. control arms). Post‐pilot implementation maintained these improvements, with a mean HbA1c reduction of 1.5% in a larger patient cohort (p < 0.001 for pre‐ vs. post‐CGM implementation). Patient confidence in managing diabetes and satisfaction with care also increased.ConclusionImplementing a pharmacist‐driven CGM program in AI/AN communities can address health care disparities and improve diabetes outcomes. This model holds promise for broader application in managing chronic diseases in underserved populations, highlighting the critical role of pharmacists in interdisciplinary health care teams. Further research should focus on long‐term outcomes and economic impacts to support the widespread adoption of this approach.
Model Averaging and Double Machine Learning
Authors: Ahrens Achim , Hansen Christian B. , Schaffer Mark E. , Wiemann Thomas 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTThis paper discusses pairing double/debiased machine learning (DDML) with stacking, a model averaging method for combining multiple candidate learners, to estimate structural parameters. In addition to conventional stacking, we consider two stacking variants available for DDML: Short‐stacking exploits the cross‐fitting step of DDML to substantially reduce the computational burden, and pooled stacking enforces common stacking weights over cross‐fitting folds. Using calibrated simulation studies and two applications estimating gender gaps in citations and wages, we show that DDML with stacking is more robust to partially unknown functional forms than common alternative approaches based on single pre‐selected learners. We provide Stata and R software implementing our proposals.
Understanding and Streamlining Dose Finding: From Dose Simulation to Dose Estimation
Authors: Bräm Dominic , Bachmann Freya , Schropp Johannes , Gotta Verena , Steffens Britta , van den Anker John , Pfister Marc , Koch Gilbert 
Published: January 2025

AbstractUnderstanding drug dosing to fulfill safety and efficacy requirements in a patient population is an essential part of dose finding in clinical practice and drug development. The majority of current dose finding methods are simulation‐based, which can be time consuming and resource intensive. Model‐based simulations also do not guarantee that the dose, that will optimally fulfill the safety and efficacy endpoints, will be found. In this work, an advanced dose estimation approach based on the OptiDose concept is utilized to understand therapeutic doses in a patient population and to streamline dose finding. To demonstrate the potential of this concept, two illustrative case studies are presented, each representing specific challenges for dose finding, including different safety and efficacy requirements, complex dose–response relationships, and changes of dynamics in special populations. For both applications, the distributions of therapeutic doses in the population were estimated, such that therapeutic population doses can be determined for any proportion of patients to fulfill the safety and efficacy endpoints. In addition, the therapeutic population dose with which 50% and 95% of the population will fulfill the safety and efficacy requirements was estimated. Dose estimation for both drug applications was implemented in Monolix. The presented OptiDose approach has the potential to identify the “optimal” dose for any pharmacometric and clinical pharmacology scenario, allowing to guide clinical practice and facilitate dose selection in drug development, particularly in special populations such as pediatric or cancer patients. As such, we suggest moving from current “dose simulation” approaches toward a more efficient “dose estimation” paradigm.
Effect of a Ketogenic Diet on Metabolic Dysfunction‐Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) Progression: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Chirapongsathorn Sakkarin , Rintaravitoon Wiwit , Tangjaturonrasme Bhagawat , Chotsriluecha Samitti , Pumsutas Yanisa , Kanchanapradith Achariya , Treeprasertsuk Sombat 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTBackgroundDespite the popularity of a ketogenic diet, no randomized, controlled trials have evaluated its efficacy on metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) progression.MethodsWe conducted an 8‐week, open‐label, randomized controlled trial involving 24 patients with MASLD who were randomly assigned to either the home delivery ketogenic diet or a nutrition education program on adherence to the DASH diet. The primary outcome was a reduction in hepatic steatosis as measured by transient elastography.ResultsThere were no significant differences between groups in liver stiffness and steatosis measurement after interventions. Subjects on a ketogenic diet had lost more weight than subjects in the control group at 8 weeks (mean change [95% CI], −6.16 [−7.22, −5.10] vs. −2.14 [−4.49, 0.21] kg; p = 0.001). The decrease in waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, fat mass, and visceral fat area was significantly greater among subjects on a ketogenic diet than among those in the control group. Laboratory parameters, including AST, triglyceride, and HDL were also significantly decreased among subjects on a ketogenic diet than among those in the control group.ConclusionsA ketogenic diet produced a significantly greater weight loss (absolute difference, approximately 4%) than did the general lifestyle advice intervention for the first 8 weeks. A ketogenic diet was associated with a greater improvement in some risk factors for coronary heart disease and MASLD. However, a ketogenic diet did not reduce steatosis nor worsen MASLD progression. Longer and larger studies are required to determine the long‐term safety and efficacy of the ketogenic diet.Trial Registration: TCTR20220426005
Modification of a hemostatic powder spray device for delivery through an incompatible endoscope
Authors: Winkie Colin A. , Grisham John M. , Mezoff Ethan A. , Erdman Steven H. , Flahive Colleen B. 
Published: January 2025

AbstractHemostatic powder sprays are a valuable adjunct therapy in the management of gastrointestinal bleeds. Currently, available hemostatic powder spray delivery systems are designed for endoscopes with 2.8 mm operational channels. This limits their use in endoscopes with smaller operational channels designed for patients with atypical anatomy and small children. We report a case in which delivery of hemostatic spray was accomplished through a 2.2 mm working channel by way of after‐market modification to the delivery system.
Unilateral Lumbo‐Pelvic Fixation for Denis Type I Unilateral Sacral Fracture: A Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Yang Jie , Böker Kai O. , Li Xishan , Zhou Xiang , Lehmann Wolfgang 
Published: January 2025

AbstractBackgroundUnilateral sacral fractures with posterior ring instability represent a prevalent type of posterior pelvic ring fracture. While lumbo‐pelvic fixation is recognized as a highly stable method, the sufficiency of unilateral lumbo‐pelvic fixation (ULF) for such fractures remains under debate.PurposeThis study aims to assess the biomechanical stability of ULF compared to traditional bilateral lumbo‐pelvic fixation (BLF) and triangular osteosynthesis (TO), incorporating clinical observations, and previous biomechanical data.MethodsWe developed a three‐dimensional spine‐pelvis model to simulate a unilateral sacral fracture with posterior ring instability. The model was used to compare the stability of ULF with BLF and TO, utilizing both newly generated data and ULF models reported in existing literature.ResultsOur findings indicate that BLF and TO provide greater stability than ULF, with BLF emerging as the most stable model. While ULF may be insufficient for immediate postoperative weight‐bearing, TO also demonstrated potential risks of instability during rotational and lateral bending movements toward the fracture side.ConclusionDespite its application in clinical settings, ULF may not adequately support early postoperative mobility. This study underscores the need for cautious application of ULF and suggests that enhancements such as additional fixation points may be necessary. The results also highlight the importance of tailored postoperative rehabilitation strategies for patients undergoing TO, especially in managing movements that could destabilize the fracture site.
Real‐world efficacy and safety of universal 8‐week glecaprevir/pibrentasvir in patients with chronic hepatitis C with early chronic kidney disease or pre‐end‐stage renal disease: Insights from a nationwide hepatisis C virus registry in Taiwan
Authors: Wang Szu‐Jen , Huang Chung‐Feng , Chang Te‐Sheng , Lo Ching‐Chu , Hung Chao‐Hung , Huang Chien‐Wei , Chong Lee‐Won , Cheng Pin‐Nan , Yeh Ming‐Lun , Peng Cheng‐Yuan , Cheng Chien‐Yu , Huang Jee‐Fu , Bair Ming‐Jong , Lin Chih‐Lang , Yang Chi‐Chieh , Kuo Hsing‐Tao , Hsieh Tsai‐Yuan , Lee Tzong‐Hsi , Lee Pei‐Lun , Wu Wen‐Chih , Lin Chih‐Lin , Su Wei‐Wen , Yang Sheng‐Shun , Wang Chia‐Chi , Hu Jui‐Ting , Mo Lein‐Ray , Chen Chun‐Ting , Huang Yi‐Hsiang , Chang Chun‐Chao , Huang Chia‐Sheng , Chen Guei‐Ying , Kao Chien‐Neng , Tai Chi‐Ming , Liu Chun‐Jen , Lee Mei‐Hsuan , Tsai Pei‐Chien , Dai Chia‐Yen , Kao Jia‐Horng , Lin Han‐Chieh , Chuang Wang‐Long , Tseng Kuo‐Chih , Chen Chi‐Yi , Wang Shu‐Chi , Yu Ming‐Lung 
Published: January 2025

AbstractAn 8‐week regimen of glecaprevir/pibrentasvir is recommended for treatment‐naïve patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC). In alignment with the Taiwanese government's objective to eliminate hepatitis C by 2025, this study aimed to provide real‐world evidence on the use of this regimen in treatment‐naïve patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) by using data from the Taiwan Association for the Study of the Liver HCV Registry (TACR). CKD was defined by an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 or higher with proteinuria persisting for over 3 months. Patients were categorized as having early CKD (eGFR ≥45 mL/min/1.73 m2) or pre‐end‐stage renal disease (pre‐ESRD) (eGFR <45 mL/min/1.73 m2). Among 1072 patients who received at least one dose of the regimen, 1054 had available data for assessing sustained virologic response at 12 weeks posttreatment (SVR12). The overall SVR12 rate was 99.6%, with rates of 99.7% for pre‐ESRD patients and 99.6% for early CKD patients. Subgroup analysis showed 100% efficacy for genotype 3 and dyslipidemia, 99.5% for diabetes, 99.4% for cardiovascular disease, 96.9% for a history of cerebral vascular accident, and 95.5% for patients with a history of drug injection or HIV co‐infection. Adverse events were reported in 16.8% of patients, with 0.8% experiencing serious events, and only two cases were treatment‐related. Renal function significantly improved, with overall eGFR increasing from 39.2 to 41.9 mL/min/1.73 m2. Early CKD patients showed an eGFR rise from 53.5 to 57.1, while pre‐ESRD patients improved from 27.1 to 29.2 at SVR12. The study concluded that the 8‐week regimen is highly effective, well‐tolerated, and associated with significant renal function improvement in treatment‐naïve CHC patients with both early CKD and pre‐ESRD.