bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Inflammatory markers and the risk of idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhou Tingfeng , Chen Mengjiao , Yuan Ziyi , Xia Zhigang , Zhang Shurou , Zhang Ziheng , Chen Huanqi , Lin Renyu 
Published: February 2023

BackgroundObservational studies suggest that inflammatory markers may increase the risk of idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSHL). However, the causal relationship between the two has not been established. We sought to assess the possible causal effect between several genetically predicted inflammatory markers and ISSHL by Mendelian random (MR) analysis.MethodsWe extracted single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with C-reactive protein (CRP), Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and fibrinogen from abstract data from the European Individual Large genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Genetic data for ISSHL were obtained from the FinnGen study (n = 196,592). Effect estimates were assessed using inverse variance weighting (IVW) as the primary method. Sensitivity analyses were performed using weighted median, MR-Egger, and MR-PRESSO to evaluate heterogeneity and pleiotropy.ResultsIn the random-effects IVW approach, there was a significant causal relationship between genetic susceptibility to CRP levels and ISSHL (OR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.02–1.49, P = 0.03). In contrast, genetic TNF-α and fibrinogen were not risked factors for ISSHL (OR = 1.14, 95% CI = 0.88–1.49, P = 0.30; OR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.07–7.96, P = 0.30; OR = 1.05, 95% CI = 0.88–1.25, P = 0.59). All the above results were consistent after validation by different Mendelian randomization methods and sensitivity analyses.ConclusionThis Mendelian randomization study provides causal evidence that CRP is a risk factor for ISSHL, while TNF-α and fibrinogen do not increase the risk for ISSHL Introduction.
Decompression via unilateral biportal endoscopy for severe degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis: A comparative study with decompression via open discectomy
Authors: Tan Bing , Yang Qi-Yuan , Fan Bin , Xiong Chuang 
Published: February 2023

BackgroundPrevious studies have shown that the Unilateral Biportal Endoscopy is an effective and safety surgery for sufficient decompression of degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis. However, data are lacking in terms of its benefits when compared with conventional open lumbar discectomy (OLD), especially in patients with severe degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis (DLSS).AimTo compare the clini cal outcomes of two types decompressive surgery: unilateral biportal endoscopy-unilateral laminectomy bilateral decompression (UBE-ULBD) and conventional open lumbar discectomy (OLD) in severe degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis (DLSS).MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed patients who underwent UBE-ULBD (n = 50, operated at 50 levels; UBE-ULBD group) and conventional open lumbar discectomy (n = 59, operated at 47 levels; OLD group) between February 2019 and July 2021. All patients were diagnosed with severe stenosis based on the Schizas classification (Grade C or D) on MRI. We compared radiographic and clinical outcome scores [including the visual analog scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and Zurich Claudication Questionnaire (ZCQ)] between the 2 groups at 1 year of follow-up. The radiographic evaluation included the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the thecal sac and paraspinal muscles on MRI. Fasting blood was drawn before and 1 and 7 days after the operation to detect creatine kinase (CK). Surgical data perioperative complications were also investigated.ResultsThe baseline demographic data of the 2 groups were comparable, including VAS, ODI and ZCQ scores, the cross-sectional area of the thecal sac and paraspinal muscles and creatine kinase levels. The dural sac CSA significantly increased post -operatively in both groups, which confirmed they benefited from comparable decompressive effects. The operative duration in the OLD group was less than the UBE-ULBD group (43.9 ± 5.6 min vs. 74.2 ± 9.3 min, p &lt; 0.05). The OLD group was associated with more estimated blood loss than the UBE-ULBD group (111.2 ± 25.0 ml vs. 41.5 ± 22.2 ml, P &lt; 0.05). The length of hospital stay (HS) was significantly longer in the OLD group than in the UBE-ULBD group (6.8 ± 1.6 vs. 4.0 ± 1.4 days, P &lt; 0.05). The VAS, ODI, and ZCQ scores improved in both groups after the operation. Serum creatine kinase values in the UBE-ULBD group were significantly lower than in the OLD group at 1 day after surgery (108. 1 ± 11.9 vs. 347.0 ± 19.5 U/L, P &lt; 0.05). The degree of paraspinal muscle atrophy in the UBE-ULBD group was significantly lower than in the OLD group at 1 year (4.50 ± 0.60 vs. 11.42 ± 0.87, P &lt; 0.05).ConclusionsUBE-ULBD and conventional OLD demonstrate comparable short-term clinical outcomes in treating severe DLSS. However, UBE-ULBD surgery was associated with a shorter hospital stay, less EBL and paravertebral muscle injury than OLD surgery.
Comparison of the retroperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy versus transperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy for large (≥6cm) pheochromocytomas: A single-centre retrospective study
Authors: Lei Kunyang , Wang Xu , Yang Zhongsheng , Liu Yifu , Sun Ting , Xie Wenjie , Ma Ming 
Published: February 2023

ObjectivesTo compare the efficacy and safety of retroperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy (RLA) and transperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy (TLA) in the treatment of large (≥6cm) adrenal pheochromocytomas.MethodsWe retrospectively collected the clinical data of 130 patients with large pheochromocytoma who underwent RLA or TLA in our hospital from 2012 to 2022. The perioperative parameters and follow-up outcomes of the two groups were compared, and univariate and multivariate analyses were used to evaluate the risk factors of hemodynamic instability (HI).ResultsA total of 57 patients underwent TLA and 73 underwent RLA. There was no difference in demographic characteristics such as age, sex and tumor size between the two groups. Compared with the TLA group, patients in the RLA group had shorter operation time (P&lt;0.001) and less estimated blood loss (EBL) (P&lt;0.001). The time to ambulation, time to oral food and time to removal of drainage of RLA group were earlier than those of TLA group. In addition, the hospital stay was shorter in the RLA group than in the TLA group. There were no differences in HI, complications, or blood pressure (BP) improvement between the two groups. The mean follow-up time was 61.4 and 65.5 months, respectively, during which no tumors recurred or metastasized. Multivariate analysis showed that elevated hormone levels and larger tumor size were independent risk factors for HI.ConclusionsBoth RLA and TLA are effective treatment methods for large pheochromocytomas, but the perioperative outcomes of RLA are better than that of TLA. Our study demonstrates the superiority of RLA for the treatment of large pheochromocytomas.
Vestibular cognition assessment system: Tablet-based computerized visuospatial abilities test battery
Authors: Huang Yan , Zhang Xuehao , Tang Jia , Xia Yuqi , Yang Xiaotong , Zhang Yanmei , Wei Chaogang , Ruan Ruiqi , Ying Hang , Liu Yuhe 
Published: February 2023

IntroductionThe vestibular system is anatomically connected to extensive regions of the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and amygdala. However, studies focusing on the impact of vestibular impairment on visuospatial cognition ability are limited. This study aimed to develop a mobile tablet-based vestibular cognitive assessment system (VCAS), enhance the dynamic and three-dimensional (3D) nature of the test conditions, and comprehensively evaluate the visuospatial cognitive ability of patients with vestibular dysfunction.Materials and methodsFirst, the VCAS assessment dimensions (spatial memory, spatial navigation, and mental rotation) and test content (weeding, maze, card rotation, and 3D driving tests) were determined based on expert interviews. Second, VCAS was developed based on Unity3D, using the C# language and ILruntime hot update framework development technology, combined with the A* algorithm, prime tree algorithm, and dynamic route rendering. Further, the online test was built using relevant game business logic. Finally, healthy controls (HC) and 78 patients with vertigo (VP) were recruited for the VCAS test. The validity of VCAS was verified using the test results of random controls.ResultsIn the weeding test, the HC group had a significantly longer span and faster velocity backward than did the VP group. In the 12 × 12 maze, statistically significant differences in step and time were observed between the two groups, with VP taking longer time and more steps. In the mental rotation task, no significant difference was observed between the two groups. Similarly, no significant difference was found in the performance of the two groups on maps 2, 3, and 4 in the 3D driving task.DiscussionThus, impaired visuospatial cognition in patients with vestibular dysfunction is primarily related to spatial memory and navigation. VCAS is a clinically applicable visuospatial cognitive ability test for VP.
Development and validation of a risk prediction model for early diabetic peripheral neuropathy based on a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Xixi , Chen Dong , Fu Hongmin , Liu Xinbang , Zhang Qiumei , Zhang Jingyun , Ding Min , Wen Juanjuan , Chang Bai 
Published: February 2023

BackgroundEarly identification and intervention of diabetic peripheral neuropathy is beneficial to improve clinical outcome.ObjectiveTo establish a risk prediction model for diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).MethodsThe derivation cohort was from a meta-analysis. Risk factors and the corresponding risk ratio (RR) were extracted. Only risk factors with statistical significance were included in the model and were scored by their weightings. An external cohort were used to validate this model. The outcome was the occurrence of DPN.ResultsA total of 95,604 patients with T2DM from 18 cohorts were included. Age, smoking, body mass index, duration of diabetes, hemoglobin A1c, low HDL-c, high triglyceride, hypertension, diabetic retinopathy, diabetic kidney disease, and cardiovascular disease were enrolled in the final model. The highest score was 52.0. The median follow-up of validation cohort was 4.29 years. The optimal cut-off point was 17.0, with a sensitivity of 0.846 and a specificity of 0.668, respectively. According to the total scores, patients from the validation cohort were divided into low-, moderate-, high- and very high-risk groups. The risk of developing DPN was significantly increased in moderate- (RR 3.3, 95% CI 1.5–7.2, P = 0.020), high- (RR 15.5, 95% CI 7.6–31.6, P &lt; 0.001), and very high-risk groups (RR 45.0, 95% CI 20.5–98.8, P &lt; 0.001) compared with the low-risk group.ConclusionA risk prediction model for DPN including 11 common clinical indicators were established. It is a simple and reliable tool for early prevention and intervention of DPN in patients with T2DM.
Contribution and effectiveness of ski and pole forces in selected roller skiing techniques on treadmill at moderate inclines
Authors: Zhao Shuang , Lindinger Stefan , Ohtonen Olli , Linnamo Vesa 
Published: February 2023

BackgroundMost of the studies about the effects of incline on cross-country skiing are related to the metabolic efficiency. The effective skiing biomechanics has also been indicated to be among the key factors that may promote good performance. The aims of this study were to provide biomechanical characteristics and investigate the relative contribution and effectiveness of ski and pole forces in overcoming the total external resistance with double poling (DP) and Gear 3 (G3) techniques at varying moderate uphill inclines.Methods10 male cross-country skiers participated in this study. Custom-made force measurement bindings, pole force sensors, and an 8-camera Vicon system were used to collect force data and ski and pole kinematics at 3°, 4° and 5° with 10 km/h skiing speed.ResultsThe cycle length (CL) decreased by 10% and 7% with DP and G3 technique from 3° to 5° (p &lt; 0.001,p &lt; 0.001). The cycle rate (CR) increased by 13% and 9% from 3° to 5° with DP and G3 technique respectively. From 3° to 5°, the peak pole force increased by 25% (p &lt; 0.001) and 32% (p &lt; 0.001) with DP and G3 technique. With DP technique, the average cycle propulsive force (ACPF) increased by 46% (p &lt; 0.001) from 3° to 5°and with G3 technique, the enhancement for ACPF was 50% (p &lt; 0.001). In G3 technique, around 85% was contributed by poles in each incline.ConclusionThe higher power output in overcoming the total resistance was required to ski at a greater incline. With DP technique, the upper body demands, and technical effectiveness were increasing with incline. With G3 technique, the role of external pole work for propulsion is crucial over different terrains while role of legs may stay more in supporting the body against gravity and repositioning body segments.
Comparison of sagittal spinal alignment on standing plain x-rays and supine MRI in degenerative lumbar disease
Authors: Fan Xiaolong , Xue Deting , Pan Zhijun , Wang Yulu 
Published: February 2023

BackgroundThe purpose of the present study is to examine the possible correlation between standing plain x-rays and supine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for evaluating spinal sagittal alignment in degenerative lumbar disease (DLD).MethodsThe characteristics and images of 64 patients with DLD were reviewed retrospectively. The thoracolumbar junction kyphosis (TJK), lumbar lordosis (LL) and sacral slope (SS) were measured on lateral plain x-rays and by MRI. Inter- and intra-observer reliability was tested using intra-class correlation coefficients.ResultsThe results suggested that TJK measurements obtained from MRI tended to underestimate the radiographic measures by 2°, whereas SS measurements obtained from MRI tended to overestimate the radiographic measures by 2°. The LL measurements obtained from MRI were approximately equal to the radiographic measures, and the x-ray and MRI measurements were linearly related.ConclusionsIn conclusion, supine MRI can be directly translated into sagittal alignment angle measurements obtained from standing x-rays with an acceptable degree of accuracy. This can avoid the impaired view caused by the overlapping ilium, while reducing the patient's exposure to radiation.
Field Evaluation of UF Filtration Pretreatment Impact on RO Membrane Scaling
Authors: Jarma Yakubu A. , Thompson John , Khan Bilal M. , Cohen Yoram 
Published: February 2023

Pretreatment of reverse osmosis (RO) feed water of high mineral scaling propensity was evaluated with respect to downstream RO membrane scaling, for two different feed pretreatment configurations. The pretreatment schemes included (i) media sand filtration, followed by a hydrocyclone (HC) and (ii) a hydrocyclone, microfilter, and a UF module, where both configurations included mesh screens for added protection. The first pretreatment configuration reduced the source water turbidity to ~0.5 NTU, while treatment that included UF feed yielded turbidity of <˜0.1 NTU; both pretreatment strategies provided feed water turbidity within the range recommended for RO desalination. Membrane scaling tests, with the pretreated water without antiscalant dosing, using a plate-and-frame RO unit and a membrane monitoring system, provided real-time membrane surface images that were quantified with respect to the progression of mineral scaling. RO desalting of source water pretreated with the first configuration revealed flux decline that was 75% greater and scale coverage (primarily gypsum) a factor of approximately eight higher relative to desalting of UF-treated source water. The results suggest that RO desalting of high mineral scaling propensity water can significantly benefit from added UF treatment to achieve feedwater turbidity to well below the typically recommended 0.5 NTU upper limit.
The Yamnaya Impact North of the Lower Danube: A Tale of Newcomers and Locals
Authors: Preda-Bălănică Bianca , Frînculeasa Alin , Heyd Volker 
Published: February 2023

This paper aims to provide an overview of the current understanding in Yamnaya burials from north of the Lower Danube, particularly focussing on their relationship with supposed local archaeological cultures/ societies. Departing from a decades-long research history and latest archaeological finds from Romania, it addresses key
research basics on the funerary archaeology of their kurgans and burials ; their material culture and chronology ; on steppe predecessors and Katakombnaya successors ; and links with neighbouring regions as well as the wider southeast European context. Taking into account some reflections from latest ancient DNA revelations, there can be no doubt a substantial migration has taken place around 3000 BC, with Yamnaya populations originating from the Caspian-Pontic steppe pushing westwards. However already the question if such accounts for the term of ’ Mass Migrations’ cannot be satisfactorily answered, as we are only about to begin to understand the demographics in this process. A further complication is trying to assess who is a newcomer and who is a local in an interaction scenario
that lasts for c. 500 years. Identities are not fixed, may indeed transform, as previous newcomers soon turn into locals, while others are just visitors. Nevertheless, this well-researched region of geographical transition from lowland eastern Europe to the hillier parts of temperate Europe provides an ideal starting point to address such questions, being currently also at the heart of the intense discussion about what is identity in the context of the emerging relationship of Archaeology and Genetics.
Electrolyte potentials and impedance measurement of polymer electrolyte membrane CO2 reduction electrolyzer
Authors: Murakami Takeharu , Morishita Kei , Koike Kazuki , Fujii Katsushi , Wada Satoshi 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
In electrochemical CO2 reduction reactors, polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) reactors, also known as zero-gap cells, have great potential for achieving significant CO2 reduction. Because these cells have a thin reactor core with a thickness of several hundred micrometers, it is difficult to determine their internal voltage distribution. To determine the anode voltage, ohmic loss in the membrane, and cathode voltage in the PEM reactors, we set three reference electrodes in the reactor and investigated the voltage values obtained from each reference electrode. We demonstrated that the reference electrode in contact with the anion exchange membrane extending to the outside of the cell provides the most reliable voltage. The voltage measured by this reference, combined with the resistance of the exchange membrane obtained through electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, provides a breakdown of the voltage inside the cell.
EFFECT OF SUPPLEMENTATION FENUGREEK OIL TO THE DIET ON THE PHYSIOLOGICAL, ANATOMICAL AND HISTOLOGICAL TRAITS OF BROILERS
Authors: Hasanain N. Ezzat  
Published: February 2023

This study was aimed to evaluate the effect of supplementing fenugreek seed oil to the diet on the physiological, anatomical and histological characteristics of broilers. A total of 200 chicks one day-old of (Ross308) were used in this study and divided into 4 treatments, 5 replicate for each treatment by 10 chicks in each replicate. The treatments were T1(control diet) = without additives (basal diet), T2 = basal diet + 0.25 ml fenugreek oil / kg, T3 = basal diet + 0.50 ml fenugreek oil / kg and T4 = basal diet + 0.75 ml fenugreek oil /kg. The results showed Fenugreek oil inclusion at levels 0.50 ml/kg exhibited significant decrease (P <0.05) in jejunum and ileum relative weight, villi height and increasing (P <0.05) heart relative weight for T3 compare with the other groups. T4 showed significant increased (P <0.05) in lactic acid bacteria count compare with control group (T1). Supplemented 0.25 ml/ kg of fenugreek oil resulted in increasing villi height, thickness and Epithelium thickness for duodenum as compared with control group. It was observed that adding 0.25 ml/kg and 0.50 ml/kg feed fenugreek oil to the broiler chicken diet could be optimum level to enhance the productivity and histological characteristics of broiler.
Photocatalytic Route for Reduction of Color and Chemical Oxygen Demand from Dye-Containing Wastewater
Authors: Dhodapakar Rita , Rao N.N. , Pande S. P. , Kaul S. N. 
Published: February 2023

The color and chemical oxygen demand arising from Acid Blue I, Rhodamine B and textile industry wastewater containing vinyl sulphone-based reactive dye are treated using TiO,/ UV technique. Color is found to be removed substantially during first one hour of irradiation of Acid Blue I and Rhodamine B systems. The rate of color removal from textile dyeing industry wastewater in an order of magnitude lower than that of Acid Blue I and Rhodamine B. Simultaneously, the overall COO removal efficiencies under aerated condition are found to be 60% for Acid Blue I/ TiO in 2 hours, 90 % for Rhodamine B/TiO, in 4-5 hours and 45 % for wastewater/ TiO, in 3' hours. The supplied air is found to enhance rate of color and COD removals. The results suggested that some stable intermediates are formed during phoooxidation of these dyes and the photocatalytic degradation of reactive dye containing wastewater is relatively slower.
Fractionation and Enrichment Patterns in White Mica from Li Pegmatites of the Wekusko Lake Pegmatite Field, Manitoba, Canada
Authors: Benn David , Martins Tania , Linnen Robert 
Published: February 2023

ABSTRACTThe Wekusko Lake pegmatite field in central Manitoba, Canada, is known for its multiple pegmatite dike occurrences, most remarkably its Li-rich pegmatites of economic importance. The Li-rich pegmatites from Wekusko Lake are the focus of this study and belong to the Green Bay group of the Wekusko Lake pegmatite field. These dikes were dated at ca. 1.78 Ga and were emplaced early during the D4 brittle–ductile deformational event. The results presented here describe in detail the pegmatite mineralogy, textures, and zonation of the Li-rich dikes of the Green Bay group, with emphasis on white mica chemistry. The aim of this study is to establish the nature and evolution of white micas from the Li-rich pegmatites of the Wekusko Lake pegmatite field in Manitoba. We aim to understand the differentiation mechanisms that allowed the high level of trace element enrichment observed in the white micas of the studied Li-rich pegmatites. Major and trace elements in white micas from a representative and well studied pegmatite dike were analyzed by electron microprobe and LA-ICP-MS. White mica compositions and textural evidence were used to define two different populations that seem to have been affected by magmatic processes (fractional crystallization) and a secondary episode of metasomatism. Fractional crystallization modeling of a granitic melt can explain some of the trace element enrichment, but extreme Cs enrichment cannot be explained via this mechanism. We interpret that many metasomatic white micas crystallized in boundary layers. Their compositions are controlled by the local melt composition, but aqueous fluids likely contributed to the development of the white mica textures. The substitution mechanisms at play depend on the type of trend and on the stage of evolution. Li enrichment without M2+ enrichment in metasomatic white mica grains is observed, and it is postulated that Fe3+ in white mica explains this behavior. The K/Rb ratio decreases in white micas with fractionation, whereas the concentrations of incompatible elements, such as Cs, Rb, Tl, Ta, and Li, increase. At Wekusko Lake, the Nb and Ta contents seem to be controlled in part by the presence of columbite group minerals and in part by crystallization in boundary layers.