bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impact of myopenia and myosteatosis on postoperative outcome and recurrence in Crohn’s disease
Authors: Pozios Ioannis , Kaufmann David , Boubaris Katharina , Seeliger Hendrik , Weixler Benjamin , Stroux Andrea , Kamphues Carsten , Margonis Georgios Antonios , Kreis Martin E. , Beyer Katharina , Seifarth Claudia , Lauscher Johannes C. 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Purpose
Myopenia and myosteatosis have been proposed to be prognostic factors of surgical outcomes for various diseases, but their exact role in Crohn’s disease (CD) is unknown. The aim of this study is to evaluate their impact on anastomotic leakage, CD recurrence, and postoperative complications after ileocecal resection in patients with CD.

Methods
A retrospective analysis of CD patients undergoing ileocecal resection at our tertiary referral center was performed. To assess myopenia, skeletal muscle index (skeletal muscle area normalized for body height) was measured using an established image analysis method at third lumbar vertebra level on MRI cross-sectional images. Muscle signal intensity was measured to assess myosteatosis index.

Results
A total of 347 patients were retrospectively analyzed. An adequate abdominal MRI scan within 12 months prior to surgery was available for 223 patients with median follow-up time of 48.8 months (IQR: 20.0–82.9). Anastomotic leakage rate was not associated with myopenia (SMI: p = 0.363) or myosteatosis index (p = 0.821). Patients with Crohn’s recurrence had a significantly lower SMI (p = 0.047) in univariable analysis, but SMI was not an independent factor for recurrent anastomotic stenosis in multivariable analysis (OR 0.951, 95% CI 0.840–1.078; p = 0.434). Postoperative complications were not associated with myopenia or myosteatosis.

Conclusion
Based on the largest cohort of its kind with a long follow-up time, we could provide some data that MRI parameters for myopenia and myosteatosis may not be reliable predictors of postoperative outcome or recurrence in patients with Crohn’s disease undergoing ileocecal resection.
Routh reducibility and controllability of unstable mechanical systems
Authors: Vizi Mate B. , Horvath Daniel M. , Stepan Gabor 
Published: February 2022

AbstractRouth reduction presents the minimum number of differential equations that uniquely describe the state of nonlinear mechanical systems where the state variables can be separated into essential ones and cyclic ones. This work extends Routh reducibility for a relevant set of controlled mechanical systems. A chain of theorems is presented for identifying the conditions when reduced order rank conditions can be applied for determining the Kalman controllability of Routh reducible mechanical systems where actuation takes place along the cyclic coordinates only, while some of the essential coordinates and their derivatives are observed. Four mechanical examples represent the advantages of using reduced rank conditions to check and/or to exclude linear controllability in such systems.
Might expert knowledge improve econometric real estate mass appraisal?
Authors: Doszyń Mariusz 
Published: February 2022

AbstractThe article examines whether expert knowledge improves the estimation results of real estate mass appraisal models. Six econometric models were compared: OLS, mixed, the Bayesian model, the Inequality Restricted Least Squares (IRLS) model, ridge and LASSO regression (with regularization). In three of the models (mixed, Bayesian, and IRLS) prior knowledge was applied. In mixed and Bayesian models priors took the form of intervals for model parameters. In IRLS, restrictions in the form of inequalities were applied. In the empirical example mass appraisal models were applied in the valuation of undeveloped land for residential purposes. Models with prior knowledge turned out to be the best with regard to the consistency of estimates with theory. Also, prediction accuracy was better for models with prior knowledge. In the case of low quality data expert knowledge might significantly improve estimation results of real estate mass appraisal econometric models.
Linking biochemical and individual-level effects of chlorpyrifos, triphenyl phosphate, and bisphenol A on sea urchin (Paracentrotus lividus) larvae
Authors: Bellas Juan , Rial Diego , Valdés Juliana , Vidal-Liñán Leticia , Bertucci Juan I. , Muniategui Soledad , León Víctor M. , Campillo Juan A. 
Published: February 2022

AbstractThe effects of three relevant organic pollutants: chlorpyrifos (CPF), a widely used insecticide, triphenyl phosphate (TPHP), employed as flame retardant and as plastic additive, and bisphenol A (BPA), used primarily as plastic additive, on sea urchin (Paracentrotus lividus) larvae, were investigated. Experiments consisted of exposing sea urchin fertilized eggs throughout their development to the 4-arm pluteus larval stage. The antioxidant enzymes glutathione reductase (GR) and catalase (CAT), the phase II detoxification enzyme glutathione S-transferase (GST), and the neurotransmitter catabolism enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) were assessed in combination with responses at the individual level (larval growth). CPF was the most toxic compound with 10 and 50% effective concentrations (EC10 and EC50) values of 60 and 279 μg/l (0.17 and 0.80 μM), followed by TPHP with EC10 and EC50 values of 224 and 1213 μg/l (0.68 and 3.7 μM), and by BPA with EC10 and EC50 values of 885 and 1549 μg/l (3.9 and 6.8 μM). The toxicity of the three compounds was attributed to oxidative stress, to the modulation of the AChE response, and/or to the reduction of the detoxification efficacy. Increasing trends in CAT activity were observed for BPA and, to a lower extent, for CPF. GR activity showed a bell-shaped response in larvae exposed to CPF, whereas BPA caused an increasing trend in GR. GST also displayed a bell-shaped response to CPF exposure and a decreasing trend was observed for TPHP. An inhibition pattern in AChE activity was observed at increasing BPA concentrations. A potential role of the GST in the metabolism of CPF was proposed, but not for TPHP or BPA, and a significant increase of AChE activity associated with oxidative stress was observed in TPHP-exposed larvae. Among the biochemical responses, the GR activity was found to be a reliable biomarker of exposure for sea urchin early-life stages, providing a first sign of damage. These results show that the integration of responses at the biochemical level with fitness-related responses (e.g., growth) may help to improve knowledge about the impact of toxic substances on marine ecosystems.
Hydration and synergistic features of nanosilica-blended high alkaline white cement pastes composites
Authors: Abdelzaher M. A. , Shehata Nabila 
Published: February 2022

AbstractNanosilica (NS) behavior on hydration and synergistic characteristics of highly alkaline (HA) white cement pastes composites containing 5–25 mass % of NS (as substitution) was studied. The hydration kinetics behavior from 1 to 100 days was examined for all the blends e.g.: whiteness reflection (Ry), setting, compressive mechanical strength (CS), bulk density (BD), combined water content (Wn), total porosity (TP), and free lime (FL) have all been checked. The substitution of 5 wt.% NS has improved the compression mechanical strength and physico-chemical features of HA-white cement pastes composite, especially the compressive mechanical strength, free lime content and bulk density. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) techniques have been implemented to investigate the microstructure and features of NS pastes composites. NS (5%) improved the synergistic and hydration properties of the evaluated composite materials. NS has a substantial impact on the performance of HA-white cement composite pastes, reducing whiteness reflection (Ry), total porosity and setting times while enhancing mechanical strength, bulk density and gel-to-space ratio. SEM showed a thicker fiber microstructure and more calcium silicate hydrate products lead to a sharp decrease in porosity of all NS composites so it enhances the mechanical and physical properties, as well as the original morphology of calcium mono-carboaluminate hydrate. Highly recommended NS cement composite containing 95 percent + 5 percent NS has better performance and synergy than ordinary white cement. It showed a compact, high-density microstructure consisting of a large proportion of the microcrystalline fibrous group leading to reduced porosity of the blend.
Adrenal hypofunction associated with ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) supplementation: a case report
Authors: Fry Christopher H. , Fluck David , Han Thang S. 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Objective
The use of herbal medicinal supplements has gained huge popularity world-wide, but scientific evidence of their effectiveness and safety remains scarce. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is one such product, claimed to alleviate pain and anxiety by lowering circulating cortisol levels. Withanolides, which are the principal bioactive compounds of ashwagandha, are naturally occurring steroids and may suppress adrenal function. Here, we describe the effect of ashwagandha on adrenal function of a 41-year-old woman with a low body mass index and who suffered chronic pain and lethargy.

Methods
Adrenal function was assessed by the short Synacthen test (SST) during and after treatment with ashwagandha supplementation.

Results
Whilst taking daily ashwagandha supplement (21.4 mg of Withanolides), for ten weeks, a SST showed a minimal response to 250 μg of an intramuscular injection of Synacthen (tetracosactide): cortisol levels at T0min = 287 nmol/l, T30min = 289 nmol/l, and T60min = 328 nmol/l; from a morning baseline cortisol level of 480 nmol/l prior to taking the supplement. Ashwagandha was discontinued for two weeks, and a repeat SST was performed showing a completely normal adrenal response: cortisol level at T0min = 275 nmol/l, T30min = 623 nmol/l and T60min = 674 nmol/l.

Conclusion
Ten weeks of ashwagandha supplementation was associated with adrenal hypofunction, which was reversible after a two-week break. Individuals taking ashwagandha should be aware of this potentially detrimental effect. Future studies are suggested to assess whether long-term treatment with ashwagandha could lead to permanent suppression of adrenal function, and to elucidate the effects of ashwagandha compounds on adrenal steroidogenic pathway and hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis.
Sodium and Health: Old Myths and a Controversy Based on Denial
Authors: Cappuccio Francesco P. , Campbell Norm R. C. , He Feng J. , Jacobson Michael F. , MacGregor Graham A. , Antman Elliott , Appel Lawrence J. , Arcand JoAnne , Blanco-Metzler Adriana , Cook Nancy R. , Guichon Juliet R. , L’Abbè Mary R. , Lackland Daniel T. , Lang Tim , McLean Rachael M. , Miglinas Marius , Mitchell Ian , Sacks Frank M. , Sever Peter S. , Stampfer Meir , Strazzullo Pasquale , Sunman Wayne , Webster Jacqui , Whelton Paul K. , Willett Walter 
Published: February 2022

Abstract

Purpose of Review

The scientific consensus on which global health organizations base public health policies is that high sodium intake increases blood pressure (BP) in a linear fashion contributing to cardiovascular disease (CVD). A moderate reduction in sodium intake to 2000 mg per day helps ensure that BP remains at a healthy level to reduce the burden of CVD.

Recent Findings

Yet, since as long ago as 1988, and more recently in eight articles published in the European Heart Journal in 2020 and 2021, some researchers have propagated a myth that reducing sodium does not consistently reduce CVD but rather that lower sodium might increase the risk of CVD. These claims are not well-founded and support some food and beverage industry’s vested interests in the use of excessive amounts of salt to preserve food, enhance taste, and increase thirst. Nevertheless, some researchers, often with funding from the food industry, continue to publish such claims without addressing the numerous objections. This article analyzes the eight articles as a case study, summarizes misleading claims, their objections, and it offers possible reasons for such claims.

Summary

Our study calls upon journal editors to ensure that unfounded claims about sodium intake be rigorously challenged by independent reviewers before publication; to avoid editorial writers who have been co-authors with the subject paper’s authors; to require statements of conflict of interest; and to ensure that their pages are used only by those who seek to advance knowledge by engaging in the scientific method and its collegial pursuit. The public interest in the prevention and treatment of disease requires no less.
Optimization on dual-channel supply chain model with pricing decision and trapezoidal fuzzy demand under a controllable lead time
Authors: Karthick B. , Uthayakumar R. 
Published: February 2022

AbstractThis paper considers a dual-channel supply chain with one vendor and multiple buyers in which (1) one channel is an offline channel where standard products are produced and shipped to the buyers and (2) the second channel is an online channel with the flow of customized products between the vendor and the online buyers/consumers. The first channel follows a vendor managed inventory with consignment stock (VMI-CS) agreement between the vendor and buyers. The supply lead time between the vendor and the buyer is considered controllable, at a cost. Two models are analyzed: (1) in the first model, the standard and customized product’s demand rate is assumed to be price and lead time-sensitive, and (2) in the second model, the demands are uncertain or ambiguous and are treated as a trapezoidal fuzzy number. It is reasonably complex to obtain analytical solutions. Hence, two algorithms are proposed to obtain the numerical solution with the objective of maximizing total profit. Numerical examples, sensitivity analysis, and managerial insights are given to test the model. Finally, conclusions and directions for future research are provided.
An integrated quality-function-deployment and stochastic-dominance-based decision-making approach for prioritizing product concept alternatives
Authors: Wang Zeng-Qiang , Chen Zhen-Song , Garg Harish , Pu Yun , Chin Kwai-Sang 
Published: February 2022

AbstractFor continuous growth and sustaining the competitiveness of a company, product developers spend most of their time making crucial decisions to address a great variety of unpredictable and uncontrollable information. Several mathematical approaches have already been adopted to aid the developers in selecting the best product concept for meeting customers’ requirements and exceeding their expectations. However, those methods do not cope with fully revealed developers’ preferences and do not take into account the random distribution of the target values of engineering characteristics (ECs). In this paper, the application of a quality function deployment (QFD)-based model and a stochastic dominance-based method is presented for product concept development. The first phase in the approach is to construct a product planning house of quality (PPHoQ), which is the core and the engine of the entire QFD model. This model depicts the relationship between the customers’ requirements (CRs) and the ECs for a product. The proposed approach addresses both the relationships between CRs and ECs, in addition to the correlations among the ECs. In this study, developers are invited to express their preferences using different types of linguistic terms dependent on their diverse backgrounds and understanding levels of the product. Based on the outcomes of the PPHoQ process, a variety of alternative concepts can be created. The alternatives are then prioritized and ranked in the second phase. The proposed approach facilitates the random distribution with stochastic variables rather than fuzzy methods to obtain more realistic product concept alternatives. Several examples and comparative results further illustrate that unbalanced linguistic terms and stochastic dominance efficiently endow the product concept selection model with uncertain information and the random distribution in a realistic style.
Stable vector bundles on the families of curves
Authors: Bogomolov Fedor A. , Lukzen Elena 
Published: February 2022

AbstractWe offer a new approach to proving the Chen–Donaldson–Sun theorem which we demonstrate with a series of examples. We discuss the existence of a construction of a special metric on stable vector bundles over the surfaces formed by a family of curves and its relation to the one-dimensional cycles in the moduli space of stable bundles on curves.
Who’s striking, and who’s not? Avoiding and acknowledging bias in youth climate activism research
Authors: Feldman Hannah R. 
Published: February 2022

AbstractThe School Strike 4 Climate is a timely opportunity for education and research sectors to support youth stories in climate change policy, and foster impactful relationships between researchers, teachers and students. But much research in this space has inherent selection biases where youth representation in research is limited by place (such as attendance at a protest), snowball sampling (often within already engaged groups) or through education channels (such as private or independent schools), ultimately leading to unrepresentative response samples. This comment explores the challenges and opportunities for equitable inclusion of teenage voices in environmental research, including some practical approaches (such as inclusion of public schools) to ensure more diverse samples are represented. Implications for how the existing body of research should be viewed is discussed, highlighting an existing lack of representation of students that do not overtly engage with climate activism or School Strikes.
Not Worth the Wait: Why the Long-Awaited Regulations Under the AHRA Don’t Address Egg Donor Concerns
Authors: Hammond Kathleen 
Published: February 2022

AbstractThe Assisted Human Reproduction Act seeks to protect egg donors’ health and well-being and prevent trade in their reproductive capabilities. In order to fulfill these objectives, the Act prohibits the buying and selling of ova, and only allows for egg donors to be reimbursed for their expenses. However, no regulations setting out what expenses can be reimbursed were promulgated. Sixteen years later, these long-awaited regulations finally came into force in June 2020. In this study, I rely on data from interviews with sixteen egg donors in order to assess how the new regulations might help or hinder concerns that egg donors have with how egg transactions are regulated in Canada. I argue that the new regulations might hinder, more than help with, addressing current concerns related to egg transactions in Canada. The most likely result is that they will not change the current state of affairs.
The Challenges of Nurse Redeployment and Opportunities for Leadership During COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Ballantyne Helen , Achour Nebil 
Published: February 2022

Abstract

Objective:
Literature has previously shown that healthcare staff redeployment has been widely implemented to build capacity, with little focus on nurses. This study aims to manage redeployment more effectively by capturing and scrutinizing nurses’ redeployment experiences.

Methods:
A cross-sectional short and structured interview was conducted. Data was analyzed using Braun and Clarkes 6 Step Thematic Analysis approach.

Results:
55 interviews were conducted predominantly from women (85%, N = 47), over the age of 45 years (45%, N = 25), who were in the role of Specialist Nurse or Staff Nurse (78%, N = 43). 5 critical themes emerged: willingness to work in redeployed role, poor communication, stress and anxiety, feelings of being unsupported and abandoned, and positive experiences despite challenging circumstances.

Conclusion:
Nurses in redeployed roles were susceptible to stress and anxiety and were seeking dedicated leadership as they worked during a pandemic with the additional challenge of unfamiliar workspaces and colleagues. Nurses play a major role in the resilience of healthcare service, which cannot be achieved without a comprehensive resilience strategy. Healthcare organisations are required to develop strategies, policies, and enforcement measures to ensure that their staff are well empowered and protected not just during potential redeployment but also in their daily operations.
Acquisition of carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacilli among intensive care unit (ICU) patients with no previous use of carbapenems: Indirect population impact of antimicrobial use
Authors: Oliveira Juliana da Silva , Sampaio Natalie Carlos Ferreira Melo , Leite Gabriela Silveira , Pereira Milena Aparecida Del Masso , Fortaleza Carlos Magno Castelo Branco 
Published: February 2022

AbstractObjective:To measure the impact of exposure to patients using carbapenem on the acquisition of carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacilli (CR-GNB) among patients not using carbapenems.Design:An ecological study and a cohort study.Setting:Two medical surgical intensive care units (ICUs) in inner Brazil.Participants:Patients admitted to 2 ICUs from 2013 through 2018 to whom carbapenem was not prescribed.Methods:In the ecologic study, the monthly use of carbapenems (days of therapy [DOT] per 1,000 patient days) was tested for linear correlation with the 2-month moving average of incidence CR-GNB among patients to whom carbapenem was not prescribed. In the cohort study, those patients were addressed individually for risk factors (demographics, invasive interventions, use of antimicrobials) for acquisition of CR-GNB, including time at risk and the “carbapenem pressure,” described as the aggregate DOT among other ICU patients during time at risk. The analysis was performed in univariate and multivariable Poisson regression models.Results:The linear regression model revealed an association of total carbapenem use and incidence of CR-GNB (coefficient, 0.04; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.02–0.06; P = .001). In the cohort model, the adjusted rate ratio (RR) for carbapenem DOT was 1.009 (95% CI, 1.001–1.018; P = .03). Other significant risk factors were mechanical ventilation and the previous use of ceftazidime (with or without avibactam).Conclusions:Every additional DOT of total carbapenem use increased the risk of CR-GNB acquisition by patients not using carbapenems by nearly 1%. We found evidence for a population (“herd effect”-like) impact of antimicrobial use in the ICUs.