bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between amino-acid metabolisms and cardiovascular disease in adults with type 2 diabetes: a population-based cross-sectional study in China and UK Association between amino-acid and CVDs
Authors: Su Jingyang , Xie Peng-Zhe , Wang Shu-Qi , Li Yang , Wang Jiao , Wang Wan-Ying , Zhang Wei , Xu Wei-Li , Zhang Qiang , Fang Zhong-Ze
Published: December 2023

Objective
We aimed to identify which amino acids are associated with CVDs in adults with type 2 diabetes and compare the results in two different populations.
Method
This study consisted of two study populations, 718 participants with type 2 diabetes aged 18 to 89 were from Dalian metabolomics research (DMR), and 11,002 participants with type 2 diabetes aged 40 to 70 years were from the UK biobank (UKB). Type 2 diabetes and CVDs were defined using self-reported medical history and medical records. Plasma amino-acid metabolites including alanine (Ala), glutamine (Gln), glycine (Gly), histidine (His), leucine (Leu), phenylalanine (Phe), tyrosine (Tyr), and valine (Val) were assessed through liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry or high-throughput nucleic magnetic resonance spectroscopy metabolomic analysis. Stepwise logistic regression was used in data analysis.
Results
Among DMR participants, 74 (10.31%) had CVDs, and 1607 (14.61%) in UKB. In multi-adjusted logistic regression, Ala was positively associated with CVDs both in DMR (β = 0.048, 95% CI: 0.022– 0.074) and UKB (β = 0.009, 95% CI: 0.000– 0.018) participants. Lower Tyr was associated with CVDs in DMR (β=-0.035, 95% CI: -0.061– -0.008), while lower Gly (β=-0.017, 95% CI: -0.026– -0.007) and Val (β= -0.031 95% CI: -0.026– -0.007), and higher Gln (β = 0.010, 95% CI: 0.002– 0.018) and Leu (β = 0.024, 95% CI: 0.007– 0.041) were associated with CVDs in UKB.
Conclusions
High Ala may be an indicator for CVDs in DMR and UKB participants with type 2 diabetes. Tyr, Gly, Val, or Leu is associated with CVDs in type 2 diabetes among DMR/UKB participants.
Adaptive Modulation in STBC AssistedMIMO-OFDM System using Preamble-BasedSNR Estimator
Authors: Manzoor Shahid , Othman Noor Shamsiah
Published: December 2023

This paper presents a preamble-based time domain SNR estimator for an adaptive modulation of STBC assisted MIMO-OFDM system employing \(M\)-PSK. The modified Constant Amplitude Zero Autocorrelation (CAZAC) preamble structure is exploited in the preamble-based time domain SNR estimator, which exhibits estimated SNR difference of about 0.09 dB compares to the actual SNR for SUI-5 channel. It is observed that the difference between the estimated SNR using the CAZAC-MIMO SNR estimator and the actual SNR is smaller compared to that of the estimated SNR using the benchmarking SNR estimator and its performance is further improved as the diversity order of the system increases. The proposed adaptive modulation of STBC assisted MIMO-OFDM system achieves BER and channel throughput improvement, benefited from the employment of the proposed SNR estimator. At BER\(=10^{-4}\), the proposed adaptive modulation system outperforms the corresponding non-adaptive system employing 8-PSK by about 2 dB. Meanwhile, the performance comparison between the proposed adaptive modulation system and the corresponding adaptive modulation of single-input single-output (SISO)-OFDM system demonstrated significant BER and channel throughput improvement, benefiting from spatial diversity of \(2 \times 2\) MIMO-OFDM system.
Simultaneous quantification of 39 pesticide and veterinary drug residues in aquaculture products using ultra performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry with modified QuEChERS
Authors: Li Shuo , Liu Yijun , Jiang Dan , Liu Mengyao , Ding Jian , Yang Liu , Xia Hu
Published: December 2023

A high throughput quantification multi-residues method for the simultaneous detection of 39 pesticides and veterinary drugs in aquaculture products were developed by using Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) with modified QuEChERS (quick、easy、cheap、effective、rugged、safe). In order to balance recovery and detection efficiency, several parameters were optimized, including extracting, clarification, and purification. Chromatographic conditions were optimized to given run time of ＜ 13 min. Six representative matrices (muscle tissues of yellow croaker, pomfret, shrimp, white shell, flower shell, razor clam) show applicability with all target analytes showed recoveries (60.3%~119.0%) and acceptable precision (4.3%~20.8%). Furthermore, detection limits (LODs) and limits of quantification (LOQs) in the range of 1.0 ~ 5.0 µg/kg and 3.0 ~ 10.0 µg/kg, respectively, that providing a practical safety quantification method for internal risk controlling by aquaculture.
The application of matching pursuit spectral blueing in post-stack seismic frequency enhancement
Authors: Jin xuebin , Li bingxi , Zhang zhenguo , Lei maosheng
Published: December 2023

The calculation of the spectral blue operator in the traditional spectral blue scaling method has singularity, and when applied to poststack seismic, it can be observed that the scaling effect is not good by observing seismic profiles and seismic spectra. To this end, a frequency spreading technique based on matching pursuit(MP) and spectral bluening is proposed. Through time-frequency analysis processing, it is shown that the seismic signal extracted by matching tracking method has good stability and higher resolution. The specific process of the method in this paper firstly uses the matching tracking method to accurately divide the post-stack seismic data into multiple frequency-division seismic bodies; Then, in the process of calculating the spectral blue ization operators for each frequency band, the weighting idea is used to calculate the weights of the optimized spectral blue ization operators for each frequency band based on the differences in energy in different frequency bands; Finally, the optimized spectral blue operator is convolved with seismic reflection coefficients to obtain high-resolution seismic data. The actual test results of poststack seismic data have proven that the frequency raising method proposed in this paper is superior to the traditional spectral blue ization algorithm, greatly improving the high-frequency component information of poststack seismic data. After frequency extension, there are more seismic events and higher resolution. Finally, the practicability and rationality of the seismic data after frequency extraction are verified by a series of operations such as attribute extraction, well seismic calibration and inversion.
Multi-component cocktail designing to develop a cost effective second generation bioconversion technology
Authors: Agrawal Dhruv , Raheja Yashika , Basotra Neha , Tsang Adrian , Pal Sidhartha , Chadha Bhupinder Singh
Published: December 2023

In this study, the recombinant fungal auxiliary and accessory enzymes derived from thermophilic/thermotolerant fungi and heterologously expressed in methylotrophic yeast Pichia pastoris X33 were evaluated to modulate the hydrolytic efficiency of most advanced cellulase preparation (i.e. Cellic CTec3). The saccharification of diluted acid pre-treated unwashed rice straw slurry obtained from PRAJ and IOCL Industries was carried out using combinations of recombinant proteins & Cellic CTec3, in which the recombinant proteins of Scytalidium thermophilum CM-4T, PMO9D_SCYTH (LPMO), XYL43B_SCYTH (β-xylosidase) and FAED_SCYTH (feruloyl esterase) were found to enhance the saccharification at maximum level when they were supplemented to the Cellic CTec3 (~2.3 mg protein/g substrate) preparation. Employing simplex-lattice mixture design an optimized cocktail of PMO9D_SCYTH, XYL43B_SCYTH & FAED_SCYTH and Cellic CTec3 was designed for saccharification. It was found that the mixture containing [PMO9D_SCYTH: 33.4%; XYL43B_SCYTH: 33.4%; & FAED_SCYTH: 33.4%] optimally hydrolyzed unwashed acid steam pretreated rice straw slurry obtained from PRAJ Industry, showed 70.39% saccharification efficiency (glucan+xylan), while mixture containing [PMO9D_SCYTH: 16.70%; XYL43B_SCYTH: 16.70%; & FAED_SCYTH: 66.70%] was found optimum for the hydrolysis of unwashed rice straw slurry obtained from IOCL Industry showing 84.46% saccharification efficiency (glucan+xylan).
Xylazine Co-occurrence with Illicit Fentanyl is a Growing Threat in the Deep South: A Retrospective Study of Decedent Data
Authors: Bradford William , Figgatt Mary , Scott Karen , Marshall Stacy , Eaton Ellen , Dye Daniel
Published: December 2023

Background. Xylazine is a dangerous veterinary sedative found mainly in illicit fentanyl in the Northeast and Midwest. Its role in the Deep South overdose crisis is not well-characterized.
Methods. We conducted a retrospective review of autopsy data in Jefferson County, Alabama to identify trends in xylazine prevalence among people who fatally overdosed from June 2019 through June 2023.
Results. 165 decedents met inclusion criteria. While the first identified xylazine-associated overdose was in June 2019, xylazine has become consistently prevalent since January 2021. All cases of xylazine-associated fatal overdoses were accompanied by fentanyl, and most (75.4%) involved poly-drug stimulant use. The average age was 42.2, and most decedents were white (58.8%) and male (68.5%). Overall, 18.2% of people were unhoused at the time of death.
Discussion. Xylazine is prevalent in the Deep South. Efforts to promote harm reduction, publicly viewable drug supply trends, and legalization of drug checking and syringe service programs should be prioritized.
Monoclonal antibodies targeting cytotoxic α-synuclein oligomers: molecular properties and diagnostic potential
Authors: Otzen Daniel , Nielsen Janni , Lauritsen Johanne , Pedersen Jannik , Nowak Jan , Bendtsen Malthe , Kleijwegt Giulia , Schneider Matthias , Krainer Georg , Knowles Tuomas , Goksøyr Louise , Khalifé Paul , Kaalund Sanne , Aznar Susana , Kjærgaard Magnus , Nielsen Morten , Sander Frederik , Romero-Ramos Marina
Published: December 2023

Aggregation of α-synuclein (α-syn) is critical to the development of synucleinopathies such as Parkinson’s Disease (PD), yet we do not have any effective therapy against these diseases. α-syn accumulates as insoluble amyloid in intracellular Lewy Bodies (LBs) but also forms soluble αSOs (αSOs) which are thought to be even more cytotoxic than fibrils. We lack tools to detect and block the unwanted activities of these αSOs. To address this, we have raised monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against different forms of αSOs, ranging from unmodified αSOs to species stabilized by lipid peroxidation products and polyphenols, αSOs formed by C-terminally truncated α-syn, and multivalent display of α-syn on capsid virus-like particles (cVLPs). Here we report on the general biophysical and immunohistochemical properties of 30 anti-αSO mAbs obtained in this fashion. Our analysis includes direct measurement of in-solution affinity to monomeric α-syn and αSOs using Flow-Induced Dispersion Analysis, which avoids immobilization artifacts associated with ELISA. While the mAbs generally show a preference for αSOs, they also bind fibrils, but to variable extents. Overall, we observe great diversity in the mAbs’ relative affinities for monomers and αSOs, varied requirements for the C-terminal extension of α-syn, and only a modest effect on α-syn fibrillation. Several mAbs show several orders of magnitude preference for αSOs over monomers in in-solution studies, in contrast to the commercial antibody MJF14 which only bound 10-fold more strongly to αSOs than monomeric α-syn. Gratifyingly, seven mAbs almost completely block αSO permeabilization of membrane vesicles. 16 mAbs were analyzed for binding to brain sections from rats overexpressing human α-syn in the nigro-striatal pathway, and the five most promising were further investigated for their ability to recognize α-syn aggregates in human brain tissue. All five mAbs identified α-syn-related pathologies like LBs and Lewy Neurites, as well as Glial Cytoplasmic Inclusions in postmortem brains from people diagnosed for PD, dementia with LBs and multiple system atrophy, although to different extents. We have identified three mAbs as particularly useful for pathological evaluation of postmortem brain human tissue, including the early stages of PD. Although there was no straightforward connection between the individual mAbs’ biophysical and immunohistochemical properties, it is encouraging that a large collection of mAbs able to recognize different aggregated α-syn species in vitro also hold diagnostic potential.
Non-communicable diseases comorbidity among HIV Patients on Antiretroviral Therapy in Sidama Region, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Jember Dawit , Belayneh Fanuel , Abuka Teshome , Mengesha Selamawit , Tsegaw Desalegn
Published: December 2023

Background: Improved HIV treatments have made the disease manageable, yet longer lifespans raise non-communicable disease (NCD) comorbidity. Limited data exists on the magnitude of NCD comorbidity and its factors. This study aimed to study NCD comorbidity among people living with HIV on antiretroviral therapy (ART) at Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (HUCSH).
Methods: A facility-based cross-sectional study at HUCSH's ART clinic in Sidama Region, Ethiopia, collected data from 474 HIV-positive adults aged 18 years and above from January 1 to March 31, 2019. The study subjects were selected using systematic random sampling. The NCD comorbidity was assessed using blood glucose and pressure measurements. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire based on the WHO STEP questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 27. Logistic regression was employed to determine factors associated with NCD comorbidity among HIV-positive adults.
Results: The magnitude of NCD comorbidity among HIV clients receiving ART was 26.3% (95% CI: 22.3% - 30.6%). Higher odds of NCD comorbidity were observed in individuals aged 36–50 years (AOR: 3.77; 95% CI: 1.95, 7.30) and above 50 years (AOR: 5.14; 95% CI: 2.29, 11.53). Overweight (AOR: 3.00; 95% CI: 1.77, 5.09), obesity (AOR: 4.21; 95% CI: 2.05, 8.65), and alcohol use (AOR: 3.62; 95% CI: 1.42, 9.25) showed increased odds of NCD comorbidity.
Conclusion: The study found high NCD comorbidity in HIV patients on ART, linked to age, weight, alcohol use, and central obesity. Integrating NCD screenings into HIV care and targeted interventions for weight and alcohol control can reduce the NCD burden.
Utilizing Machine Learning to Predict Neurological Injury in Venovenous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Patients: An Extracorporeal Life Support Organization Registry Analysis
Authors: Kalra Andrew , Bachina Preetham , Shou Benjamin L. , Hwang Jaeho , Barshay Meylakh , Kulkarni Shreyas , Sears Isaac , Eickhoff Carsten , Bermudez Christian A. , Brodie Daniel , Ventetuolo Corey E. , Whitman Glenn J. R. , Abbasi Adeel , Cho Sung-Min
Published: December 2023

Background: Venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO) is associated with acute brain injury (ABI), including central nervous system (CNS) ischemia (defined as ischemic stroke or hypoxic-ischemic brain injury) and intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). There is limited data on prediction models for ABI and neurological outcomes in VV-ECMO.
Research Question: Can machine learning (ML) accurately predict ABI and identify modifiable factors of ABI in VV-ECMO?
Study Design and Methods: We analyzed adult (≥18 years) VV-ECMO patients in the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization Registry (2009-2021) from 676 centers. ABI was defined as CNS ischemia, ICH, brain death, and seizures. Overall, 65 total variables were extracted including clinical characteristics and pre-ECMO and on-ECMO variables. Random Forest, CatBoost, LightGBM, and XGBoost ML algorithms (10-fold leave-one-out cross-validation) were used to predict ABI. Feature Importance Scores were used to pinpoint variables most important for predicting ABI.
Results: Of 37,473 VV-ECMO patients (median age=48.1 years, 63% male), 2,644 (7.1%) experienced ABI: 610 (2%) and 1,591 (4%) experienced CNS ischemia and ICH, respectively. The median ECMO duration was 10 days (interquartile range=5-20 days). The area under the receiver-operating characteristics curves to predict ABI, CNS ischemia, and ICH were 0.67, 0.63, and 0.70, respectively. The accuracy, positive predictive, and negative predictive values for ABI were 79%, 15%, and 95%, respectively. ML identified pre-ECMO cardiac arrest as the most important risk factor for ABI while ECMO duration and bridge to transplantation as an indication for ECMO were associated with lower risk of ABI.
Interpretation: This is the first study to use machine learning to predict ABI in a large cohort of VV-ECMO patients. Performance was sub-optimal due to the low reported prevalence of ABI with lack of standardization of neuromonitoring/imaging protocols and data granularity in the ELSO Registry. Standardized neurological monitoring and imaging protocols may improve machine learning performance to predict ABI.
Dynamic Kinematic Primitives Track Planning for Fabrics Palletizing
Authors: zhu Lihong , Zhao LiangCheng , Tan Jiamin , Zhang Dong , Cui Can
Published: December 2023

In the garment industry's fabrics palletizing process, this study confronts significant challenges: increasing diversity of fabric types and changes in palletizing trajectories due to frequent fabric changes. To address these challenges, we introduce a method based on dynamic kinematic primitives for optimizing robot fabric placement trajectory planning. We first establish the basic system equations for the dynamic motion primitives. Considering the necessity of suppressing acceleration variation at the beginning of trajectory, we introduce progressive activation coefficient factor. This factor makes the initial motion smoother and effectively solves the problem of sudden changes in acceleration at the initial position. Additionally, we introduce a new parameter, the rectangular length of the outer contour of the fabric cutting denoted as ' L' into the system equations. This parameter enables autonomous learning and adaptation within the robot, allowing it to manifest distinct motion characteristics tailored to the specific fabric type. The robot can autonomously generate a variety of motion trajectories while retaining core motion characteristics. The validity of our method is verified by varying length L and performing a drag-and-drop demonstration of the robot, deriving the robot's autonomous placement and spreading trajectories. Palletizing experiments were conducted on different types of fabrics. The outcomes confirm the enhanced performance of the dynamic motion primitive method, as it consistently generates fabrics palletizing trajectories harmonized with demonstrated trajectories across varied the fabric types. This study demonstrates the role of dynamic motion primitives in optimizing fabric palletizing to improve productivity in the apparel industry.
Taxing Digital Platforms: A Race to the Top?
Authors: Innocenti Federico , Bucciol Alessandro
Published: December 2023

The digital advertising tax is an increasingly used policy measure, but its consequences must still be better understood. We develop a theoretical model inspired by a recently introduced digital advertising tax in Maryland. While the tax may increase state-level tax revenues, we highlight an unexplored drawback of this policy. The unilateral ability of a country to tax advertising revenues generated in its territories leads to inefficiently high equilibrium tax rates. Our findings emphasize the need for a global initiative on digital platform taxation rather than leaving the decision to individual countries.
JEL classification: F23, H21, M37
Bond-graph Representation of Ideal Constraints Via the Principle of Virtual Power
Authors: Phillips James R. , Amirouche Farid
Published: December 2023

In this paper we develop bond-graph representations for ideal mechanical constraints, both embedded andadjoined, by stating and applying the principle of virtual power, at the particle level, to both types of constraints.The resulting system-level bond graph provides a bond-graphic derivation of Kane's equations for a general nonlinearnonholonomic system. Four examples are then shown to illustrate the application of the method to specific systems. Inthe final example we show how to apply the method to an existing bond graph having causal conflicts that force inertialelements into differential causality. The power and simplicity of the method, when applied in this fashion, recommendit for incorporation into standard procedures for sequential causality assignment of bond graphs.
Development of Neighborhood Trajectories employing Historic Redlining and the Area Deprivation Index
Authors: Carlos Heather , Weiss Julie E. , Carter Benjamin , Akré Ellesse-Roselee L. , Diaz Adrian , Loehrer Andrew P.
Published: December 2023

The role of historic residential redlining on health disparities is intertwined with policy changes made before and after the 1930s that influence current neighborhood characteristics and shape ongoing structural racism in the United States. We developed Neighborhood Trajectories which combine historic redlining data and the current neighborhood socioeconomic characteristics as a novel approach to studying structural racism. Home Owners Loan Corporation (HOLC) neighborhoods for the entire U.S. were used to map the HOLC grades to the 2020 U.S. Census block group polygons based on the percentage of HOLC areas in each block group. Each block group was also assigned an Area Deprivation Index (ADI) from the Neighborhood Atlas®. To evaluate changes in neighborhoods from historic HOLC grades to present degree of deprivation, we aggregated block groups into “Neighborhood Trajectories” using historic HOLC grades and current ADI. The Neighborhood Trajectories are “Advantage Stable”; “Advantage Reduced”; “Disadvantage Reduced”; and “Disadvantage Stable.” Neighborhood Trajectories were established for 13.3% (32,152) of the block groups in the U.S., encompassing 38,005,799 people. Overall, the Disadvantage-Reduced trajectory had the largest population (16,307,217 people). However, the largest percentage of Non-Hispanic/Latino Black residents (34%) fell in the Advantage-Reduced trajectory, while the largest percentage of Non-Hispanic/Latino White residents (60%) fell in the Advantage-Stable trajectory. The development of the Neighborhood Trajectories affords a more nuanced mechanism to investigate dynamic processes from historic policy, socioeconomic development, and ongoing marginalization. This adaptable methodology may enable investigation of ongoing sociopolitical processes including gentrification of neighborhoods (Disadvantage-Reduced trajectory) and “White flight” (Advantage Reduced trajectory).
Polar metabolomics using trichloroacetic acid extraction and porous graphitic carbon stationary phase.
Authors: Day Francesca , O'Sullivan Justin , Ramzan Farha , Pook Chris
Published: December 2023

Accurately identifying and quantifying polar metabolites using untargeted metabolomics has proven challenging in comparison to mid to non-polar metabolites. Hydrophilic interaction chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry are predominantly used to target polar metabolites. However, the scope of these methods are limited and the extraction and post-analyses can be laborious. Using serum from 6 healthy individuals we demonstrate a simple one step MilliQ + 10% trichloroacetic acid (TCA) extraction combined with porous graphitic carbon liquid chromatography – mass spectrometry (LC-MS) that can reliably retain (Coefficient of variation [CV] <0.30) a range of polar metabolites with logp as low as -9.1 (Range:-9.1-5.6). The use of QreSSTM (Quantification, Retention, and System Suitability) internal standards determined this method consistently (CV<0.16), and effectively (70-130% recovery) recovers polar to mid-polar metabolites within biologically relevant concentration ranges. Quality control dilution series demonstrated ~80% of annotated metabolites can be accurately (Pearsons’s correlation coefficient >0.80) quantified within their concentration range. Repeatability of this method was demonstrated through clustering of repeated extractions from a single sample. This LC-MS method is better suited to covering the polar segment of the metabolome than current methods.
Development and Validation of Group Intervention Module for Women Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Sinu  , Chinnadurai
Published: December 2023

Background: Group work intervention is highly effective for survivors of IPV. There are fewer interventions available in addiction services and intimate partner violence in the Indian context. This study aims to develop and validate the group work module for women survivors of IPV. A standard group work module would help the group workers help the survivors reduce or prevent violence and improve their quality of life.
Methods: The group intervention manual was developed through psychosocial need assessments for intimate partner violence, subject experts' opinions, and expert validation through the content validation index and kappa value. The components of the group intervention manual were developed for women survivors of IPV who are staying with perpetrator inpatient services in the Centre for Addiction Medicine.
Results: The final components included sharing about the experience of intimate partner violence, understanding and impact of IPV, psychoeducation regarding alcohol dependence syndrome and treatment process, importing the social skills, safety plans, and self-care of the survivors and their children, crisis intervention, and resource mapping. The delivery of the group intervention module was refined based on pilot testing with ten participants.
Conclusion: The tailored group work intervention module was designed to be delivered by a research scholar. The group, each session of 40 min to 45 min in every day, consisted of 6 sessions; after the group intervention, feedback was collected from each session.
Mutations affect the quantification of SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater: observations, mechanisms, and recommendations
Authors: Endo Noriko , Nihei Yoshiaki , Fujita Tomonori , Yasojima Makoto , Daigo Fumi , Takemori Hiroaki , Nakamura Masafumi , Matsuda Ryo , Sovannrlaksmy Sorn , Ihara Masaru
Published: December 2023

Wastewater surveillance is an effective tool for monitoring community spread of covid-19 and other diseases. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) analysis for wastewater surveillance is more susceptible than binary PCR analysis for clinical surveillance to mutations in target genome regions. The SARS-CoV-2 concentrations in wastewater estimated by N1 and N2 qPCR assays started to diverge around July 2022 in data from different sampling sites, analytical methods, and analytical laboratories in Japan. On the basis of clinical genomic surveillance data and experimental data, we demonstrate that the divergence is due to two mutations in the N1 probe region, which can cause underestimation of viral concentrations. We further show that this inaccuracy can be alleviated if the qPCR data are analyzed with the second derivative method or the Cy0 method instead of the crossing point method.
Revisiting Genetics of Cleft Lip with or without Cleft Palate and Cleft Palate Only: A Narrative Review
Authors:   Kulliyyah of Dentistry, International Islamic University Malaysia, 25250 Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia, Zaaba Mohamad Irsyad Saiful , Mokhtar Khairani Idah ,   Department of Fundamental Dental and Medical Sciences, Kulliyyah of Dentistry, International Islamic University Malaysia,  25250 Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia, Rajion Zainul Ahmad ,   Department of Oral Maxillofacial Surgery, International Islamic University Malaysia, 25250 Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia
Published: December 2023

Cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CLP) and cleft palate only (CP) are the most common orofacial deformities observed in humans where almost 1 in 700 to 1 in 2,000 babies born each year are affected worldwide. This condition occurs when the specific and independently derived facial primordial fails to fuse together, hence forming the cleft of the lip and palate or the palate alone. These orofacial abnormalities can be divided into syndromic and non-syndromic where the deformities are either associated with other disorders or present on their own, respectively. It is important to understand every step in the lip and palate development during the embryonic stage to pinpoint the exact problem affecting the normal development of the human face. With current technologies, more genes are identified to be associated with and cause CLP and CP in humans. Therefore, this review aims to elaborate on the latest updates on the genetics of CLP and CP. Polymorphism in some of the genes has been associated with the incidence of these anomalies. Identification of these genes provides new knowledge on how these craniofacial abnormalities occur and hopefully will enable earlier treatment of these deformities to be implemented.
Financial and investment indicators for accelerating innovation development: Comparison of GII leaders and Ukraine
Authors: Dobrovolska Olena , Sonntag Ralph , Kachula Svitlana , Hubaryk Olha , Savanchuk Tetіana
Published: December 2023

The purpose of the paper is to determine the causal relationship between financial and investment indicators and the level of innovation development in GII leading countries and Ukraine. For a sample of 10 leaders in GII-2022 and Ukraine for 2011–2020, a correlation analysis was conducted based on the following indicators: the value of GII, foreign direct investment (net inflows), domestic credit to the private sector, ease of getting credit, protecting minority investors, and real interest rate. A positive relationship (with moderate/high strength) between innovation development and foreign direct investment has been proven in 7 out of 11 countries with a time lag of 0-2 years; domestic credit to the private sector – in 6 countries (lag of 0-3 years); and protecting minority investors – in 9 countries (lag of 0-2 years). For other indicators, the relationship is negative. Through VAR-modelling and Granger test, it is proven that the change in the value of foreign direct investment causes the change in the value of GII in 6 countries (bidirectional causality exists only in Ukraine); domestic credit to the private sector – in 6 countries, protecting minority investors and real interest rate – in 2 countries, and ease of getting credit – only in Switzerland. The results show that foreign direct investment and domestic credit to the private sector are the reasons for increasing the level of innovation development and have potentially the highest influence. In Ukraine, compared to GII leaders, only the factor of foreign direct investment is identified as a cause of innovation development.
What does data literacy means for you (as an educator)nowadays?
Authors: Raffaghelli Juliana Elisa , Ferrarelli Mariana , Kühn Caroline
Published: December 2023

Despite progress in data literacy frameworks associated with a critical discussion of datafication, educators are still perplexed when it comes to working with these issues in their everyday teaching practice. In part, this is due to the complexity of the data infrastructures that permeate educational practice itself. In this context, it seems particularly appropriate to understand the discursive phenomena, the construction of professional practise and therefore the educators’ positionings around the issues of datafication in general, and the development of critical data literacy, namely, “postdigital positinings”.

This paper proposes a collaborative autoethnographic analysis of the professional experiences of the three authors, as educators.

As women with complex migrant identities, with roots in the Global South and at the same time, bearers of European métisages, our pathways meet at the crossover of an international project in which we develop materials and design educational activities. Our history lies on an intersectional basis that allows us to express rich positionalities, full of examples and resources that can be resounding notes for the construction of agentic educational practices in this field of post-digital forces.
AMERİKA BİRLEŞİK DEVLETLERİ'NDE YAŞLILIKTA UZUN SÜRELİ BAKIM: SOSYAL ADALET, SOSYAL REFAH VE HİZMET MODELLERİ
Authors: SWEARİNGER Hazal
Published: December 2023

Uzayan yaşam süreleri ve kronik hastalıklarla geçen sürelerin artması neticesinde yaşlılık süresince deneyimlenen fiziksel ve zihinsel engellilik yaygınlaşmıştır. Bu engelleri yaşayan yaşlı bireylere kişisel bakım hizmetleri sunan uzun süreli bakım modelleri kritik bir öneme ulaşmıştır. Sosyal adaleti sağlamayı hedefleyen sosyal politikalar, yaşlılıkta engellilik yaşayan ve bakıma muhtaç bireylerin bu ihtiyaçlarına uzun süreli bakım hizmetleri aracılığı ile hak temelli bir çerçevede yaklaşmalıdır. Bu çalışma Amerika Birleşik Devletleri (ABD) bağlamında sosyal refah modelleri ve uzun süreli bakım modelleri arasındaki ilişkiyi kurmayı hedeflemiştir. Bu amaçla, Amerikan sosyal refah sisteminin piyasa merkezli liberal refah modeline sahip olmasının uzun süreli bakım sistemini nasıl şekillendirdiğini, uzun süreli bakım modelleri, finansmanı ve hizmet sunumuna değinerek tarihsel bir çerçevede tartışmıştır. Bu tartışma, Amerikan uzun süreli bakım sisteminin piyasa merkezli gelir-testi modeline sahip olduğu ve hak temelli ve sosyal adaleti sağlamayı hedefleyen bir yaklaşım takip etmediği sonucuna ulaşmıştır. Bunun neticesinde uzun süreli bakıma erişimde ve erişilen hizmetin kalitesinde büyük eşitsizliklerle karşılaşılmaktadır. ABD, bu bakımın sunulmasında sosyal adaleti sağlamak için uzun süreli bakım hizmetlerinin organizasyonu, finansmanı ve sunumunda yapısal reformlar yaparak bu alanda yaşanan eşitsizliklere müdahale etmeli, aynı zamanda da gelişen teknolojiyi bakım modellerine daha iyi entegre etmek için uzun süreli bakım modellerini geliştirilmeli ve düzenlenmelidir.
A holistic assessment of groundwater quality for drinking and irrigation purposes
Authors: Raheja Hemant , Goel Arun , Pal Mahesh
Published: December 2023

This study discusses about suitability of groundwater for drinking and irrigation use in Rohtak district of Haryana (India). The entropy water quality index (EWQI), sodium absorption ratio (SAR), permeability index (PI), Sodium percentage (Na%), Kelly ratio (KR), magnesium adsorption ratio (MAR), US salinity, and Gibbs diagram were analyzed. The spatial maps suggest that groundwater quality in central part extending towards southwestern part of area can be categorized as poor. The major ions were reported in the following order: Mg2+ > Ca2+ > Na+ > K+, and Cl− > SO42− > NO3− > HCO3− > F− > CO32− respectively. Moreover, results revealed that most of groundwater exceeded desirable limits for drinking water. The EWQI assessment indicates that 23.4% and 38.4% of groundwater samples have extremely poor quality in pre-monsoon and post-monsoon, respectively. Further other indices shows that various indices exceed their standard limit, and mostly samples are unsuitable for irrigation. The Gibbs diagram and other bivariate plots demonstrate that various ions in groundwater can be attributed to silicate and carbonate weathering, which occur through water -rock interactions and ion exchange phenomena. In addition, the US Salinity diagram verifies that most groundwater samples exhibit significant salinity hazards, particularly concerning high sodium levels.
Analysis of Differences Between Levelling Networks in the County of Hajdú-Bihar
Authors: Varga Zsolt , Kézi Csaba , Czédli Herta
Published: December 2023

The height determination of control and detail points is essential during the process of planning and manufacturing in the practice of civil engineering. Planning maps are drawn for the former, while the intended plan is set out on the ground during manufacturing, and after the manufacturing the completed installation is mapped. Using the same reference system in all three steps, both horizontally and vertically, is recommended even though in some cases it is unavoidable to change from one reference level to another. Regardless of the fact that both refer to the mean sea level of the Baltic Sea, this can create difficulties, since the difference between the EOMA and Bendefy networks used in Hungary shows varying values depending on the geographical location. The aim of the analysis is to determine a constant difference regarding the analysed settlements based on the common points of the networks.
Determining of the degree of geographical marginality of settlements in Međimurje using GIS and exploratory factor analysis
Authors:   State Geodetic Administration, Regional Cadastral Office Čakovec, Čakovec, Croatia, Horvat Zlatko , Toskić Aleksandar ,   University of Zagreb, Faculty of Science, Department of Geography, Zagreb, Croatia
Published: December 2023

The research topic is geographical marginality, and the main aim of the research is to develop a methodology for identifying, analyzing and determining marginal areas of Međimurje on the spatial level of settlement. Exploratory factor analysis was used in the research via GIS methods. The 30 selected variables were used for exploratory factor analysis. The suitability of the variables was tested using the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin test and Bartlett’s test. Free, open source R, JASP and QGIS software were used. In the analysis, six factors were identified, by which the characteristic types of settlements in Međimurje were identified: 1) Spatial concentration and economic dynamics; 2) Demographic dynamics and population aging; 3) Education and economic diversification; 4) Availability of central functions; 5) Traditional extensive agricultural production; and 6) Stationary work contingent focused on primary activities. Based on the factor scores, a Međimurje index of marginalization of settlements (MIMaNa) was calculated. Based on this index, the degree of geographical marginality of settlements in Međimurje was determined.
Motives, Factors, and Finality of Return Migration from Germany to Croatia
Authors:   University of Zagreb, Faculty of Croatian Studies, Zagreb, Croatia, Balija Monika
Published: December 2023

The research aims to determine the motives, finality of return, and the importance of geographical proximity of the country of origin and destination for return migration of Croatian citizens who immigrated to Germany after Croatia's accession to the EU. The main motives for the return of the respondents are the fulfilment of a goal abroad, connection to Croatia, and dissatisfaction with German society. The respondents are connected to Croatia by family, friends, and love for their homeland, but not by economic conditions, which were pointed out as a possible push factor for reemigration from Croatia in the future. In the case of going abroad again, some respondents might consider Austria, in addition to Germany, due to its geographical proximity to Croatia. The experiences of the respondents showed that more effective population policies are needed, especially related to housing and labour policies, and a better standard of living, which were mentioned as strong push factors for emigration from Croatia.
Tailored Prompting to Improve Adherence to Image-Based Dietary Assessment: Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Lee Lachlan , Hall Rosemary , Stanley James , Krebs Jeremy
Published: December 2023

Background

Accurately assessing an individual’s diet is vital in the management of personal nutrition and in the study of the effect of diet on health. Despite its importance, the tools available for dietary assessment remain either too imprecise, expensive, or burdensome for clinical or research use. Image-based methods offer a potential new tool to improve the reliability and accessibility of dietary assessment. Though promising, image-based methods are sensitive to adherence, as images cannot be captured from meals that have already been consumed. Adherence to image-based methods may be improved with appropriately timed prompting via text message.

Objective

This study aimed to quantitatively examine the effect of prompt timing on adherence to an image-based dietary record and qualitatively explore the participant experience of dietary assessment in order to inform the design of a novel image-based dietary assessment tool.

Methods

This study used a randomized crossover design to examine the intraindividual effect of 3 prompt settings on the number of images captured in an image-based dietary record. The prompt settings were control, where no prompts were sent; standard, where prompts were sent at 7:15 AM, 11:15 AM, and 5:15 PM for every participant; and tailored, where prompt timing was tailored to habitual meal times for each participant. Participants completed a text-based dietary record at baseline to determine the timing of tailored prompts. Participants were randomized to 1 of 6 study sequences, each with a unique order of the 3 prompt settings, with each 3-day image-based dietary record separated by a washout period of at least 7 days. The qualitative component comprised semistructured interviews and questionnaires exploring the experience of dietary assessment.

Results

A total of 37 people were recruited, and 30 participants (11 male, 19 female; mean age 30, SD 10.8 years), completed all image-based dietary records. The image rate increased by 0.83 images per day in the standard setting compared to control (P=.23) and increased by 1.78 images per day in the tailored setting compared to control (P≤.001). We found that 13/21 (62%) of participants preferred to use the image-based dietary record versus the text-based dietary record but reported method-specific challenges with each method, particularly the inability to record via an image after a meal had been consumed.

Conclusions

Tailored prompting improves adherence to image-based dietary assessment. Future image-based dietary assessment tools should use tailored prompting and offer both image-based and written input options to improve record completeness.
Using ChatGPT for Clinical Practice and Medical Education: Cross-Sectional Survey of Medical Students’ and Physicians’ Perceptions (Preprint)
Authors: Tangadulrat Pasin , Sono Supinya , Tangtrakulwanich Boonsin
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

ChatGPT is a well-known large language model–based chatbot. It could be used in the medical field in many aspects. However, some physicians are still unfamiliar with ChatGPT and are concerned about its benefits and risks.

OBJECTIVE

We aim to evaluate the perception of physicians and medical students toward using ChatGPT in the medical field.

METHODS

A web-based questionnaire was sent to medical students, interns, residents, and attending staff with questions regarding their perception toward using ChatGPT in clinical practice and medical education. Participants were also asked to rate their perception of ChatGPT’s generated response about knee osteoarthritis.

RESULTS

Participants included 124 medical students, 46 interns, 37 residents, and 32 attending staff. After reading ChatGPT’s response, 132 of the 239 (55.2%) participants had a positive rating about using ChatGPT for clinical practice. The proportion of positive answers was significantly lower in graduated physicians (48/115, 42%) compared with medical students (84/124, 68%; P<.001). Participants listed a lack of a patient-specific treatment plan, updated evidence, and a language barrier as ChatGPT’s pitfalls. Regarding using ChatGPT for medical education, the proportion of positive responses was also significantly lower in graduate physicians (71/115, 62%) compared to medical students (103/124, 83.1%; P<.001). Participants were concerned that ChatGPT’s response was too superficial, might lack scientific evidence, and might need expert verification.

CONCLUSIONS

Medical students generally had a positive perception of using ChatGPT for guiding treatment and medical education, whereas graduated doctors were more cautious in this regard. Nonetheless, both medical students and graduated doctors positively perceived using ChatGPT for creating patient educational materials.
Long-Term Adoption of Televisits in Nursing Homes During the COVID-19 Crisis and Following Up Into the Postpandemic Setting: Mixed Methods Study (Preprint)
Authors: Martin Tobias , Veldeman Sarah , Großmann Heidrun , Fuchs-Frohnhofen Paul , Czaplik Michael , Follmann Andreas
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

There is growing evidence that telemedicine can improve the access to and quality of health care for nursing home residents. However, it is still unclear how to best manage and guide the implementation process to ensure long-term adoption, especially in the context of a decline in telemedicine use after the COVID-19 crisis.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to identify and address major challenges for the implementation of televisits among residents in a nursing home, their caring nurses, and their treating general practitioners (GPs). It also evaluated the impact of televisits on the nurses’ workload and their nursing practice.

METHODS

A telemedical system with integrated medical devices was introduced in 2 nursing homes and their cooperating GP offices in rural Germany. The implementation process was closely monitored from the initial decision to introduce telemedicine in November 2019 to its long-term routine use until March 2023. Regular evaluation was based on a mixed methods approach combining rigorous qualitative approaches with quantitative measurements.

RESULTS

In the first phase during the COVID-19 pandemic, both nursing homes achieved short-term adoption. In the postpandemic phase, an action-oriented approach made it possible to identify barriers and take control actions for long-term adoption. The implementation of asynchronous visits, strong leadership, and sustained training of the nurses were critical elements in achieving long-term implementation in 1 nursing home. The implementation led to enhanced clinical skills, higher professional recognition, and less psychological distress among the nursing staff. Televisits resulted in a modest increase in time demands for the nursing staff compared to organizing in-person home visits with the GPs.

CONCLUSIONS

Focusing on health care workflow and change management aspects depending on the individual setting is of utmost importance to achieve successful long-term implementation of telemedicine.
Evaluation of a Remote Patient Monitoring Program During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Retrospective Case Study With a Mixed Methods Explanatory Sequential Design (Preprint)
Authors: Gunn Rose , Watkins Shelby L , Boston Dave , Rosales A Gabriela , Massimino Stefan , Navale Suparna , Fitzpatrick Stephanie L , Dickerson John , Gold Rachel , Lee George , McMullen Carmit K
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

Community health center (CHC) patients experience a disproportionately high prevalence of chronic conditions and barriers to accessing technologies that might support the management of these conditions. One such technology includes tools used for remote patient monitoring (RPM), the use of which surged during the COVID-19 pandemic.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess how a CHC implemented an RPM program during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

This retrospective case study used a mixed methods explanatory sequential design to evaluate a CHC’s implementation of a suite of RPM tools during the COVID-19 pandemic. Analyses used electronic health record–extracted health outcomes data and semistructured interviews with the CHC’s staff and patients participating in the RPM program.

RESULTS

The CHC enrolled 147 patients in a hypertension RPM program. After 6 months of RPM use, mean systolic blood pressure (BP) was 13.4 mm Hg lower and mean diastolic BP 6.4 mm Hg lower, corresponding with an increase in hypertension control (BP<140/90 mm Hg) from 33.3% of patients to 81.5%. Considerable effort was dedicated to standing up the program, reinforced by organizational prioritization of chronic disease management, and by a clinician who championed program implementation. Noted barriers to implementation of the RPM program were limited initial training, lack of sustained support, and complexities related to the RPM device technology.

CONCLUSIONS

While RPM technology holds promise for addressing chronic disease management, successful RPM program requires substantial investment in implementation support and technical assistance.