bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunoassay Urine Drug Testing among Patients Receiving Opioids at a Safety Net Palliative Medicine Clinic
Authors: Halphen John M , Arthur Joseph , Pacheco Soraira , Nguyen Linh M , Samy Nikitha N , Wilson Nathaniel R , Sattler Gregory , Wing Shane E , Paulino Rex A , Feng Christine , Shah Pulin , Olayiwola Simbiat , Cannell Michael B , Addimulam Supriyanka , Patel Riddhi , Hui David
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND: Few studies have examined the use of immunoassay urine drug testing of cancer patients in palliative care clinics.
OBJECTIVES: We examined the frequency of immunoassay urine drug test (UDT) abnormalities and the factors associated with aberrancy at a safety-net hospital palliative medicine clinic.
METHODS: A retrospective review of the electronic medical records of consecutive eligible patients seen at the outpatient palliative medicine clinic in a resource-limited safety net hospital system was conducted between September 1, 2015 and December 31, 2020. We collected longitudinal data on patient demographics, UDT findings, and potential predictors of aberrant results.
RESULTS: Of the 913 patients in the study, 500 (55%) underwent UDT testing, with 455 (50%) having the testing within the first three visits. Among those tested within the first three visits, 125 (27%) had aberrant UDT results; 44 (35%) of these 125 patients were positive for cocaine. In a multivariable regression model analysis of predictors for aberrant UDT within the first 3 visits, non-Hispanic White race (odds ratio [OR]=2.13; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.03-4.38; p=0.04), history of illicit drug use (OR=3.57; CI: 1.78-7.13; p< 0.001), and history of marijuana use (OR=7.05; CI: 3.85-12.91; p< 0.001) were independent predictors of an aberrant UDT finding.
CONCLUSION: Despite limitations of immunoassay UDT, it was able to detect aberrant drug taking behaviors in a significant number of patients seen at a safety net hospital palliative care clinic, including cocaine use. These findings support universal UDT monitoring and utility of immunoassay-based UDT in resource limited settings.
Phenotypic plasticity index as a strategy for selecting water stress-adapted coffee genotypes
Authors: Dos Santos Cyntia Stephania , De Freitas Ana Flavia , Silva Glauber Henrique Barbosa , Pennacchi João Paulo , Figueiredo de Carvalho Milene Alves , Santos Meline Oliveira , Junqueira de Morais Tatiana Silveira , De Rezende Abrahão Juliana Costa , Pereira Antonio Alves , Carvalho Gladyston Rodrigues , Botelho Cesar Elias , Silva Vania Aparecida
Published: September 2023

Plants exhibit the capacity for adaptation through their metabolic processes to various changes in environmental conditions. Investigating these adaptations in current and future climatic scenarios is of great importance for ensuring productive agricultural crops. This adaptative potential is commonly employed as an indicator of genotypes with higher potential in breeding programs. However, the complexity and interaction of plant metabolic parameters pose a challenge to selection strategies. In this context, the aim of this study was to explore phenotypic plasticity within the germplasm of Hybrid Timor coffee. Additionally, we assessed the utility of the Phenotypic Plasticity Index (MVPi) as a promising tool to predict genotype performance across diverse climatic conditions. To achieve this, we evaluated the performance of seven accessions from the Hybrid Timor germplasm in comparison to the Rubi and IPR 100 cultivars, known for their susceptibility and resistance to drought, respectively. The experiment was conducted at greenhouse conditions, with two treatments: a control scenario, maintaining soil moisture near its maximum water-holding capacity, and a water deficit scenario involving irrigation cessation followed by rehydration. Data encompassing physiological, biochemical, and growth aspects were collected during three distinct stages: pre-application of water deficit, its imposition, and subsequent rehydration. Furthermore, field evaluations of the productivity of the same genotypes were carried out over two consecutive seasons. Based on physiological and biochemical assessments, the MVPi was computed, employing Euclidean distance between principal component multivariate analysis scores. Subsequently, this index was correlated with growth and productivity data through linear regressions. Our findings reveal that the more plastic genotypes, capable of significantly altering physiological and biochemical parameters in response to environmental stimuli, exhibited reduced biomass loss in both aerial and root parts, consequently positively influencing their productivity. Enhanced plasticity was particularly prominent in accessions from the MG Germplasm Collection: MG 311 - Hybrid Timor UFV 428-02, MG 270 - Hybrid Timor UFV 377-21, and MG 279 - Hybrid Timor UFV 376-31, alongside the Rubi MG 1192 cultivar. The MVPi emerged as a valuable instrument to assess genotype adaptability and predict their performance under varying climatic scenarios.
Organotypic 3D Cell-Architecture Impacts the Expression Pattern of miRNAs-mRNAs Network in Breast Cancer SKBR3 Cells
Authors: Gastélum-López María de los Ángeles , Aguilar-Medina Maribel , García Mata Cristina , López-Gutiérrez Jorge , Romero-Quintana Geovanni , Bermúdez Mercedes v , Avendaño-Felix Mariana , López-Camarillo César , Pérez-Plascencia Carlos , Beltran Adriana S , Ramos-Payán Rosalío
Published: September 2023

Background. Currently, most of the research in breast cancer has been carried out in conventional two-dimensional (2D) cell culture due to its practical benefits, however, the three-dimensional (3D) cell culture is becoming the model of choice in cancer research because it allows cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions, mimicking the native microenvironment of tumors in vivo. Methods. in this work, we evaluated the effect of 3D cell organization on the expression pattern of miRNAs (by Small-RNAseq) and mRNAs (by microarrays) in the breast cancer SKBR3 cell line and analyzed the biological processes and signaling pathways regulated by the differ-entially expressed protein-coding genes (DE-mRNAs) and miRNAs (DE-microRNAs) found in the organoids. Results. We obtained well-defined cell-aggregated organoids with a grape cluster-like morphology with a size up to 9.2×105 μm3. The transcriptomic assays showed that cell growth in organoids significantly affected (all p < 0.01) the gene expression patterns of both, miRNAs and mRNAs, finding 20 upregulated and 19 downregulated DE-microRNAs, as well as 49 upregulated and 123 downregulated DE-mRNAs. In silico analysis showed that a subset of 11 upregulated DE-microRNAs target 70 downregulated DE-mRNAs. These genes are involved in 150 gene on-tology (GO) biological processes such as regulation of cell morphogenesis, regulation of cell shape, regulation of canonical Wnt signaling pathway, morphogenesis of epithelium, regulation of cy-toskeleton organization, as well as in the MAPK and AGE-RAGE signaling KEGG-pathways. In-terestingly, hsa-mir-122-5p (Fold Change (FC)=15.4), hsa-mir-369-3p (FC=11.4), and hsa-mir-10b-5p (FC=20.1) regulated up to the 81 % of the 70 downregulated DE-mRNAs. Conclu-sion, the organotypic 3D cell-organization architecture of breast cancer SKBR3 cells impacts the expression pattern of miRNAs-mRNAs network mainly through overexpression of hsa-mir-122-5p, hsa-mir-369-3p, and hsa-mir-10b-5p. All these findings suggest that the interaction between cell-cell and cell-ECM as well as the change in the culture architecture impacts gene ex-pression, and therefore, support the pertinence of migrating breast cancer research from conven-tional cultures to 3D models.
Augmented Reality in Architectural Heritage Preservation: A Comprehensive Digitization Approach Validated in Salvador’s Pelourinho District – Brazil
Authors: Nogueira Idelfonso B. R. , Rebello Carine Menezes , Moreira Lorena Claudia de Souza
Published: September 2023

Amidst the rapid urbanization of cities worldwide, there is a pressing need for practical tools to manage and preserve the invaluable architectural heritage contained within them. This research introduces a systematic methodology for digitalizing and interpreting architectural heritage through augmented Reality (AR). The primary goal is to enhance the documentation, preservation, and accessibility of cultural assets, addressing both educational and touristic needs. Focusing on the historic district of Pelourinho in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, the study showcases how 3D digitalization combined with AR can provide users with an interactive experience with historical structures, bridging the temporal divide. By integrating the digital replicas of historic buildings into a real-time environment, users gain enriched insights into these structures’ history, architecture, and cultural significance. Though the preliminary results underscore the potential of this approach, comprehensive user testing remains an area for future exploration. This paper thus highlights the potential of AR in historical and cultural preservation, suggesting its broader implications for education, tourism, and heritage management.
Synergistic Effect of Dietary Acid Load Levels and Cigarette Smoking Status on the Risk of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in Middle-Aged Healthy Korean Men
Authors: Park Jihyun , Ha Mi Ri , Song Juhyun , Kim Oh Yoen
Published: September 2023

We investigated whether cigarette smoking and dietary acid load (DAL) are associated with the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in middle-aged healthy Korean men. Healthy men without diagnosed chronic disease (40-64 yrs) from the KNHANES-VI (2013–2015) included in the analysis (n=774) were subdivided by smoking status and DAL levels as estimated by the net endogenous acid production (NEAP) quartile. Current smokers tended to have a higher risk of COPD than non-smokers before and after the adjustment. When divided by the DAL quartile, the Q4 tended to have a higher risk of COPD than the Q1. Additionally, current smokers with lower (Q2), modest (Q3), and highest NEAP scores (Q4) showed more than 4-fold higher risks of COPD than the non-smokers with the lowest NEAP scores (Q1). Ex–smokers with higher NEAP scores (Q3 and Q4) showed more than 4-fold higher risks of COPD than the Q1. Interestingly, the risk of COPD was also more than 6-fold higher in non-smokers with the highest NEAP scores compared to the Q1. NEAP scores and smoking status synergistically increased the risk of COPD in middle-aged healthy Korean men. It suggests that DAL levels are an important factor for the prevention and management of COPD.
Defining Natural Habitat Types as Nature-Based Solutions in Urban Planning
Authors: Dremel Manca , Goličnik Marušić Barbara , Zelnik Igor
Published: September 2023

The study focuses on solving urban challenges such as temperature reduction, urban stormwater management, noise reduction, air quality improvement, and CO2 concentrations reduction, and suggests terrestrial and freshwater habitat types (HTs) found in Europe, as innovative forms of nature-based solutions (NBS) for them. Establishment of native HTs in different urban environments to solve urban challenges would enhance biodiversity at different levels and integrate this aspect in urban planning. This contribution builds on the recognition that surfaces of vegetated terrain are the most versatile NBS in addressing the broadest range of environmental problems in urban areas and that the processes running within these green spaces offer the key to socio-ecological improvements of such areas. Employing narrative literature review, qualitative content analysis, and interdisciplinary expert discussion this paper defines why and how native HTs of unchanged nature can be implemented as NBS in the urban environment, indicate potential HTs for specific urban challenges and presents an approach to the inclusion of HTs as NBS into spatial planning documents at national, regional, and local levels. The proposed planning approach attributes added value to HT, and by linking the concepts of NBS and HT integrates them into urban planning.
EXAMPLES OF COMPLEX TEACHING OF DISCIPLINES – INNOVATIVE RESTAURANT TECHNOLOGIES, COMMODITY SCIENCE AND PURCHASING MANAGEMENT
Authors: Bukhkalo Svetlana , Yakymenkо- Tereshchenko Nataliia
Published: September 2023

The materials of the article consider the possibilities for determining the educational goals of university students for the purpose of developing the discipline Innovative restaurant technologies, Commodity science and procurement management for the development of complex projects. When writing the article, the experience of teaching the disciplines General Food Production Technologies, Food Chemistry and Modern Food Technologies at the National Technical University "Kharkiv Polytechnic Institute" at the Department of Integrated Technologies, Processes and Devices in 2002–2023 was used. Complex systems for determining the components of the discipline determined competence and quality material, and the issues under consideration are overlooked through the prism of one's own creative perception, which makes the material especially valuable. Developments are carried out using modern highly effective science-based technologies of food production, for example, from types of classification-identification analysis, general concepts and requirements to types of methodology for determining quality indicators of the quality level and their evaluation through the selection of calculation algorithms at various stages of production and use of the obtained goods.
INNOVATIVE APPROACHES TO TEACHING AT HIGHER EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS IN EXAMPLES AND TASKS
Authors: Bukhkalo Svetlana , Ageicheva Anna , Belyanskiy Oleksandr , Moskalenko Maryna , Derkunska Zhanna , Iglin Sergii
Published: September 2023

The importance of teaching students at higher educational institutions by innovating study methods is investigated.  Main innovative approaches were investigated. The usage of cases and projects in classes are studied. It is discussed that classic case promotes the development of independent decision-making skills, the second purpose of working with the case in the classroom is a communicative practice. It is described possible projects in the article. Innovative approaches for the formation of critical thinking skills is described in the article. It was determined that the systematic usage of the innovative approaches at higher educational institutions makes gave possibillity to effectively soft skills formation.
EXAMPLES OF COMPLEX TEACHING OF DISCIPLINES – INNOVATIVE RESTAURANT TECHNOLOGIES, COMMODITY SCIENCE AND PURCHASING MANAGEMENT
Authors: Bukhkalo Svetlana
Published: September 2023

In the materials of the article, the possibilities for the development of disciplines Innovative restaurant technologies for the development of components of complex projects are considered. When writing the article, the experience of teaching the disciplines General Food Production Technologies, Food Chemistry and Modern Nutrition Technologies at the National Technical University "Kharkiv Polytechnic Institute" at the Department of Integrated Technologies, Processes and Apparatus 2002–2023 was used. The issues under consideration are passed through the prism of their own creative perception, which makes the material especially valuable. The developments were carried out using modern highly efficient science-based food production technologies, for example, from varieties of classification-identification analysis, general concepts and requirements for varieties of methodology for determining quality level indicators and their evaluation through the choice of calculation algorithms at different stages of production and use of the products obtained.
Measurement system analysis of a static method for taximeter verification
Authors: Sotirov Branko , Masheva Miryana , Gueorguiev Tzvetelin
Published: September 2023

The purpose of the paper is to present a method for taximeter verification. Taximeters, as special measurement instruments, are subject to metrological control in order to protect the rights of taxi customers. The methodology applied for the theoretical study of the proposed method is derived from Measurement System Analysis, Root Cause Analysis, and similar taximeter verification methods applied in other European countries. The presented method is innovative for Bulgaria and about to be introduced for the need of metrological control.
Silver Extraction from Printed Circuit Boards using a Hybrid Supercritical Water and Carbon Dioxide Extraction process; Experimental Design and Optimization of the Process
Authors: Haghighi Hamed Fallah , Khorshidi Jamshid , Zarei Taleb , Bakhshan Younes
Published: September 2023

Electronic waste (E-waste) and its accumulation in recent years is turned in to a global issue and the management and technologies for recycling of this waste are aggressively growing. The main aim of this study is to increase the extraction efficiency of silver metal using supercritical carbon dioxide from computer printed circuit boards (PCBs) waste. Supercritical water pretreatment was used to more reachability of the silver within the PCBs structure and using ethanol co-solvent and organic ligands of Cyanex 302 ligand, Kelex and EDTA helped the efficiency enhancement of the process. The response surface method (RSM) and thermodynamic modeling was used in order to experimental design and optimization of the process. The optimized conditions for supercritical water pretreatment was determined to be 275 bar pressure, 431 ℃ temperature and 30 min residence time and for supercritical carbon dioxide extraction step it was calculated to be at the temperature of 50 ℃, dynamic residence time of 90.00 min and pressure of 300.00 bar with the response of 72.07% of efficiency for silver extraction. According to results of this study, it would be available to design and manufacture of a larger scale extraction unit to reach valuable amounts of precious silver metal from e-waste.
Photovoice: An innovative pedagogical tool for efficient delivery of Attitude, Ethics, and Communication (AETCOM) Module of Competency-Based Medical Curriculum in India
Authors: Bhat Deepa , Srikanta Vidya Chikkaharalli , Doddaiah Sunilkumar , Kunjappagounder Pushpalatha , Swamy Meenakshi , K Shwetha
Published: September 2023

Background Photovoice, participatory action research, combines photography, critical dialogue, and experiential knowledge that participants reflect on and communicate their concerns to ignite behavioral change. The Attitude, Ethics, and Communication Module of the Competency-Based Indian Curriculum - “Cadaver as the first teacher” was imparted through photovoice among first-year medical graduates. The study aimed to determine photovoice as an active learning strategy in anatomy, obtain student perceptions of this method and assess its efficacy in imparting desired competencies in the affective domain. Methods The competition among the students was organized using photovoice as a tool to explore the students’ reflections on cadavers. The details regarding the photovoice method, process, intent, assessment criteria, rules, and schedule were announced. The students had to capture photographs at convenience and collect pictures from the internet or any media that correlated with the AETCOM module theme "Cadaver as the first teacher." Students were asked to reflect upon: what you felt when you first saw the cadaver concerning body donation, feeling of other persons (empathy), connecting with the real-life hospital setting, and the cadaver as your first teacher. A competition for the display of creativity was announced. We employed focus group discussion. The deductive approach of data coding was adopted. Rereading and revising the codes and thematic analysis were performed. Results A focus group discussion revealed that the graduates considered photovoice a beneficial learning strategy due to student engagement. The students accepted photovoice as a metacognitive approach. It triggered an appreciative inquiry on the module's significance. The conscious practice of respecting the cadaver at the dissection hall was the perceived benefit of this strategy. Additionally, the presentation skills and real-life context could help translate them into clinical settings. Incorporating active learning strategies supplementing dissection hall teaching helps develop empathy and professionalism with peer support in the competency-based anatomy curriculum. Conclusion Photovoice provides a unique medium for reflection on components such as empathy, respect, altruism, compassion, teamwork, and self-regulation. Appropriate delivery of humanistic education through a suitable method can have a lifelong impact on medical students.
Association of optimal gestational weight gain with pregnancy outcomes in twin pregnancies in China: a multicenter retrospective study
Authors: Xiao Yue , Sun Guoqiang , Zou Xiaoxuan , Deng Yuzhi , Liang Fei , Ma Qiuping , Cheng Yao , Ding Yaling , Liu Haiyan , Cao Yingying , Yang Haishan , Zhong Yi , Hu Meina , Yin Jieyun , Yang Ying
Published: September 2023

Background: There is no well-established gestational weight gain (GWG) guideline for twin pregnancies in China.
Methods: A multicenter retrospective study containing 1247 twin pregnancies was conducted in both North and South China. Optimal GWG was defined as the interquartile range (IQR) of GWG across pre-pregnancy body mass index stratum among low-risk women. A primary outcome is defined as any occurrence of preterm delivery, small for gestational age, large for gestational age and hypertensive disorders during pregnancy.
Results: On the basis of 203 low-risk participants, we found that the optimal total GWG were 16-21.80 kg, 15.35-21.50 kg, 12.10-20.25 kg, and 5.50-18.50 kg for underweight, normal weight, overweight and obese subgroups, respectively; corresponding GWG rates were 0.43-0.61 kg/week, 0.42-0.59 kg/week, 0.34-0.55 kg/week, and 0.15-0.51 kg/week. Our proposed GWG ranges are lower than the provisional Institute of Medicine (IOM) twin recommendation but higher than the Chinese Nutrition Society (CNS) singleton recommendation. In addition, 46.11% of participants gain appropriate weight according to our suggestion, in contrast to 43.48% and 23.82% for the IOM twin guideline and the CNS singleton recommendation, respectively. Furthermore, the magnitude of association between the composite outcome with insufficient GWG defined by our suggestion was the strongest [adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval) =1.74 (1.21-2.49)] among recommendations. Noteworthy, the IQRs produced by our study seems to be superior to the IOM twin guideline in southern Chinese but not in northern Chinese.
Conclusion: Our study emphasizes the necessity of establishing official GWG guideline for Chinese twin pregnancies, and regional-specific guidelines may need to be considered.
Prevalence of Premenstrual Syndrome among the females of Azad Kashmir and Pakistan and its explicating factors
Authors: din Ghayyas ud , Zahid Khadija , Aijaz Dania , Tariq Zahra , Qadeer Muhammad Imran , Alam Naila , Hisham Kinza , Naveed Tahir , Khan Ahmed Raza , Haleema Sadia , Noor Aimen , Arif Mehwish , Irfan Muhammad , ALI Zain
Published: September 2023

Background
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a prevalent health concern with multifaceted physical and emotional symptoms occurring during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. PMS significantly affects women's well-being, impacting daily life and occupational productivity.
Objective
The main objective was to determine the prevalence of PMS and awareness levels among females in Azad Kashmir and Pakistan, focusing on physical and physiological factors associated with the condition.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey was conducted, gathering 1086 responses from menstruating women. An adapted PMS scale was employed, and data analysis was performed using SPSS version 21. Correlation, chi-square, T-test, ANCOVA, and regression analyses were utilized.
Results
The study revealed that 12.9% and 38.7% of females were unaware of menstruation and PMS, respectively. PMS was prevalent among 27.1% of participants, while only 16.8% reported consulting a doctor during emergencies. Significant relationships were observed between PMS and diverse anthropometric and physiological factors, encompassing weight, parity, blood group, marital status, monthly income, routine activities, mental affect, communication regarding PMS, medical consultation, as well as symptoms of pain and autonomic reactions.
Conclusion
The study elucidates a significant lack of awareness regarding menstruation and PMS among women in Azad Kashmir and Pakistan. Urgent implementation of targeted awareness campaigns is warranted to educate women about PMS and enhance their health literacy and well-being.
An outbreak of scabies in a fishing community in Hoima District, Uganda, February−June, 2022
Authors: Akunzirwe Rebecca , Agaba Brian , Kizito Saudah Namubiru , Bulage Lilian , Kwesiga Benon , Migisha Richard , Majwala Robert Kaos , Kawungezi Peter Chris , Zalwango Jane Frances , Kadobera Daniel , Ario Alex Riolexus
Published: September 2023

Background: Scabies, an infectious parasitic disease, is endemic in most resource-poor tropical areas, including Uganda. On May 21, 2022, the Ugandan Ministry of Health was notified of >1,000 cases of scabies in Hoima District. We investigated to assess the scope of the outbreak, identify associated factors, and recommend interventions.
Methods: We defined a suspected scabies case as the onset of an itchy pimple-like skin rash or crusting from January 2021 to July 2022 in a resident of Hoima District. We reviewed medical records, performed active community case-finding, and computed attack rates by age, sex, and village per 1,000 population. Using logistic regression, we compared exposures among 101 case persons and 99 unmatched controls living in Rwentale Landing Site in Hoima during June 2022.
Results: We line listed 2,236 suspected cases in Hoima District. Children aged 5–14 years were more affected (AR=64/1,000) than persons aged ≥15 years (AR=8/1,000) (p<0.001). Males (AR=27/1,000) were more affected than females (AR=15/1,000) (p<0.001). Of the 54 affected villages, Rwentale Village had the highest attack rate (AR=233/1,000 population). Rwentale Village includes a fishing area known as Rwentale Landing Site where 1,119 (50%) cases in Hoima District were identified. At this landing site, cases began in April 2022 shortly after the end of the peak fishing and trading season. Being aged 5–14 years (AOR=4.9, 95%CI: 2.0–12), being male (AOR=2.4, 95%CI 1.1–5.1), living with another case (AOR=3.1, 95%CI: 1.5–6.2), and sharing three or more personal care items (towel, beddings, clothes, or sponges) (AOR=2.2, 95%CI: 1.1–4.6) were associated with scabies.
Conclusion: This scabies outbreak was likely initiated by person-to-person interactions during peak fishing and trading months at a landing site and propagated by close household interactions. Community sensitization on scabies, especially before fishing and trading seasons is recommended for prevention and early control of scabies in the region. Additionally, establishing a surveillance system for scabies, in high-risk areas such as fishing communities may facilitate timely detection and control of future outbreaks.
The management of pain and anxiety using virtual reality during the care of elderly hospitalized patients: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Corbel Camille , Cerf Flora Le , Capriz Françoise , Vaillant-Ciszewicz Anne-Julie , Breaud Jean , Guérin Olivier , Corveleyn Xavier
Published: September 2023

Background: The medical environment can generate stressful and anxiety-provoking situations for patients, particularly during painful care procedures for the older population. These stressful environments have deleterious effects on the quality of care and can even put the patient at risk and set the care team up for failure. The search for a solution is therefore imperative. The development of new technologies such as virtual reality (VR) seems to be an answer to this problem. The objective of this study is to compare the effects of virtual reality on pain and anxiety when caring for elderly hospitalized people, with the effects of usual care. More precisely, different individual factors (age, cognitive level, individual preferences, etc.) and different virtual reality universes (personalized or non-personalized) will be studied to understand the role of these factors in reducing pain and anxiety during care procedures. The aim of this study is to improve the quality of life of patients and caregivers in their work environment.
Method: This mono-centered, randomized, controlled study will be conducted on 120 participants recruited from the geriatric departments of the Cimiez Hospital, Nice, France. Participants will be randomized into three groups: control group, personalized VR group and non-personalized VR group. Each participant will be followed during a painful care session, and pain and anxiety assessments will be performed before, during and immediately after the care session. Physiological assessments with an oximeter will also be performed to collect heart rate and respiratory rate measurements. Statistical analyses will allow us to compare the effects of the VR conditions with the control condition and we will also analyze the effects of a personalized VR environment versus a non-personalized environment.
Discussion: This research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a personalized and non-personalized virtual reality intervention in relieving pain and anxiety among older hospitalized individuals and compare it with standard care. Finally, the experiences of healthcare professionals involved will also be considered to assess the impact of these interventions on working conditions and patient support.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05759026. Registered on March 8, 2023.
Development of machine learning models for predicting acute respiratory distress syndrome：evidence from the MIMIC-III and MIMIC-IV
Authors: Yang MingKun , Hu WeiHang , Yan Jing
Published: September 2023

Background
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a prevalent condition in the ICU with a mortality rate of 27% to 45%. Despite the Berlin definition being the current diagnostic standard, it has significant limitations. This study aims to establish and validate a novel machine learning-based prediction model for ARDS in ICU patients.
Methods
The data of suspected ARDS patients was extracted from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC)-III and MIMIC-IV databases. Ten-fold cross-validation was employed, utilizing machine learning algorithms such as K-nearest neighbor (KNN), support vector machine (SVM), Decision Tree Classifier (DTC), random forest (RF), extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), light gradient boosting (LightGB), and categorical boosting (CatBoost) and logistic regression (LR) for model construction. Finally, the performance of these models was evaluated based on metrics including area under the ROC curve, calibration curve, and clinical decision curve.
Results
A total of 2,852 patients who met the exclusion criteria were included in the final study, of which 2078 patients developed ARDS.We established scoring models, such as LR, KNN, SVM, DTC, RF, XGBoost, LightGB, and CatBoost. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) values for each model were as follows: LR - 0.664, KNN - 0.692, SVM - 0.567, DTC - 0.709, RF - 0.732, XGBoost - 0.793, LightGB - 0.793, and CatBoost - 0.817. Notably, CatBoost exhibited superior predictive performance in discrimination, calibration, and clinical applicability compared to all other models.
Conclusions
The application of machine learning models has showcased their robustness in predicting ARDS. Notably, the CatBoost algorithm emerges as the most promising in terms of predictive performance.
The Impact of Digital Healthcare and Teledentistry on Dentistry in the 21st Century: A Survey of Hungarian Dentists
Authors: Németh Orsolya , Uhrin Eszter , Girasek Edmond , Boros Julianna , Győrffy Zsuzsa
Published: September 2023

Background The era of digitalization has arrived at the field of dentistry. Teledentistry (TD), dealing with digital solutions in dentistry, is already used in practice; however, not every possibility is considered. In addition to digital workflows, patient communication, AI and online forums are available. Additionally, during the pandemic, remote patient monitoring and patient communication had to be solved with TD tools, thus causing a rapid spread of new tools. Methods A newly developed online survey was in a self-filling form. The Hungarian Medical Chamber contacted the respondents in a newsletter or e-mail. The Evasys survey system was used. The weighting procedure was executed by gender, age group, and type of settlement. A digital dental index variable was created and built with a linear regression model as a dependent variable. Explanatory variables are advantages, disadvantages, what would be necessary, experienced need from the patients and age. Results A total of 171 dentists completed the survey. The most well-known digital technologies are online conferences (96.5%), E-prescriptions (94.6%) and digital impressions (86.0%). Unawareness is the highest in the field of artificial intelligence in dentistry (50.5%), store-forward solutions (43.5%) and real-time solutions (41.8%). The digital dental index is 14.24 (standard deviation (SD) = 5.5) with a high power of the model. Conclusion Hungarian dentists are not aware of all the possibilities of TD. In addition to digital workflows, store-forward and real-time solutions can be beneficial to substitute face-to-face visits. TD can be used effectively to monitor changes in the oral cavity and to develop dental confidence and proper oral care habits. Our survey suggests that it is necessary and inevitable to integrate TD into both graduate and postgraduate education, which may form the basis of basic health care in the next decade.
Ten-year outcomes of intravitreal injection of ranibizumab for the treatment of myopic choroidal neovascularization: a retrospective study
Authors: Shih Lu-Yang , Kung Ya-Hsin , Wu Tsung-Tien
Published: September 2023

Background
This study aimed to evaluate the 10-year outcomes and efficacy of intravitreal injection (IVI) of ranibizumab for treatment of myopic choroidal neovascularization (CNV).
Methods
This retrospective study included 12 consecutive eyes with myopic CNV treated with ranibizumab with a minimum 10-year follow-up. The primary outcome was the mean change in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). The secondary outcomes were Snellen line visual acuity distribution, number of IVIs, and changes in areas of chorioretinal patchy atrophy.
Results
The mean number of IVIs was 4.92 ± 5.93 (range, 1–23). The mean BCVA at baseline was 0.49 ± 0.54 logMAR; it improved to 0.29 ± 0.38 (P = 0.017), 0.40 ± 0.39 (P = 0.186), 0.32 ± 0.41 (P = 0.087), 0.40 ± 0.36 (P = 0.344), 0.45 ± 0.51 (P = 0.817) logMAR at 1, 3, 5, 7, and 10 years, respectively. At baseline and 10 years, 83.33% and 8.3% eyes had a BCVA of 6/60 or worse, while 58.33% and 50% eyes had a BCVA of 6/12 or better, respectively. The 3-month loading protocol was significantly associated with a Snellen visual acuity gain of > 3 lines at 5 years (P = 0.035); however, the association was lost at 10 years (P = 0.371). Patchy atrophy increased in five eyes (41.67%) after 10 years.
Conclusion
IVIs of ranibizumab are safe and effective for CNV secondary to pathological myopia.
Determinants of Inadequate Calories Intake among Hospitalized Patients at Muhimbili National Hospital. A Cross-sectional Study in Dar es Salaam - Tanzania
Authors: Ndyai Justina Edward , Ambikile Joel Seme
Published: September 2023

Background: Inadequate calories intake during hospitalization is strongly related to poor patient outcomes including the risk for malnutrition, infections, longer hospital stay, morbidity and mortality. In low-income settings, factors associated with inadequate calories intake among hospitalized patients are not sufficiently studied. The purpose of this study was to assess the determinants of inadequate calories intake among hospitalized patients at a tertiary referral hospital in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted among hospitalized patients at Muhimbili National Hospital between 4th April and 28th May, 2022. A random sampling method and an interviewer-administered questionnaire were employed to recruit respondents and to collect data, respectively. Statistical analysis was performed with the help of Stata 15.0. and factors associated with inadequate calories intake were determined using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses.
Results: A total of 229 hospitalized patients were included in the analysis. The mean (SD) age was 45.0 (16.3), and the majority 156 (68.1%) were from the medical ward. The median duration of hospitalization was 5 (IQR = 4-7) days, and the proportion of respondents with inadequate calories intake was 15%. Factors significantly associated with inadequate calories intakes were older patients (aged 55 years and above) (AOR: 3.936; 95% CI: 1.614, 9.598; p <0.003), male patients (AOR: 6.835; 95% CI: 2.733, 17.098; p <0.001), and residing in rural areas (far from the hospital) (AOR: 3.350; 95% CI: 1.401, 8.011; p = 0.007).
Conclusions: A considerable proportion of respondents had inadequate calories intake. Nutritional assessment and support are needed to address inadequate calories intake among hospitalized patients, with considerations of patients who are older, male, and those whose residence is far away from the hospital.
Competitive trend and the development of advantageous goods in terms of value added among ASEAN economies: a multi-regional input–output analysis
Authors: Nguyen Chung Van
Published: September 2023

This study aims to investigate the competitive trend and the development of advantageous goods in terms of value-added among ASEAN economies in the context of the production shift is taking place strongly globally, especially in the Asia-Pacific region. To achieve this purpose we use the inter-regional IO analysis method to analyze the value-added by sectors level of ASEAN economies. The results show that there is a big disturbance in the ranking of added value for the garment and textile industries. Accordingly, the largest value-added of this industry is Indonesia; the next two positions is Thailand and Vietnam in 2015. However, during 2015–2020, Vietnamese added-value has grown significantly from the 3rd position to the 1st position within 5 years. In terms of high-tech industries, they can be divided into 3 groups based on the growth rate of value added: The first group includes Cambodia and Vietnam, although having a smaller economic scale, the growth of value-added is increase significantly; the second group includes Malaysia, Thailand and Philippines, which are countries with average industry-level value-added; the third group is Indonesia and the rest. The research results also show the trend of competition in terms of value added among ASEAN countries.
JEL Classification: A13, D57, F43
Transcriptome analysis provides insights into the skeletal malformation induced by dietary phospholipids deficiency in largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) larvae
Authors: Fang Zishuo , Gong Ye , Wang Shilin , Han Zhihao , Huang Xuxiong , Chen Naisong , Li Songlin
Published: September 2023

Largemouth bass is one of the most important freshwater aquaculture species in China. However, the mechanisms underlying the development of skeleton in the fish are unclear. High-throughput RNA-Seq was used to analyze the differences in the transcriptome of largemouth bass skeleton between high-phospholipids and low-phospholipids groups. Thirty individuals each from 3 high-phospholipids families and 3 low-phospholipids families were used to reduce inaccuracies. The results indicated that 255 up-regulated and 329 down-regulated genes were identified in the differentially expressed genes (DEGs). GO and KEGG enrichment analyses revealed the DEGs were involved in the MAPK signaling pathway, phosphatidylinositol signaling system, glycosphingolipid biosynthesis-lacto and neolacto series and fatty acid degradation. Twist2 and Daam1, genes related to osteoblast development, were up-regulated in high-phospholipids group. BGLAP, gene associated with the skeletal development and osteohormatology, was also up-regulated in high-phospholipids group. PCOLCE b, a gene related to the development of gristle, was up-regulated in high-phospholipids group. Higher expression of SCPP1 and SCPP7 in high-phospholipids group was associated with tooth and bone development. The trend changes in the above genes all indicated that the lack of phospholipids might affect the skeletal development through the above genes. In summary, these results provided valuable information about the reduction of deformity rates in largemouth bass and contributed to our understanding of the molecular mechanisms and regulative pathways regulating skeletal growth in teleosts.
Effects of Different Temperatures on the Development of Spodoptera exigua (Hübner) (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera)
Authors: DEMİRCİOĞLU MUSTAFA CİHAN
Published: September 2023

In this study, the effects of different temperature conditions on the development period and adult longevity of Spodoptera exigua were investigated. The results revealed statistically significant differences among the larval period, pupal period, pre-adult period, and adult period. A reverse relationship was observed between temperature and the development periods of larvae, pupae, and adults. The fastest development period was observed at 35°C, while the longest was recorded at 20°C. Furthermore, the number of eggs laid by S. exigua at different temperatures was also examined. Fecundity showed statistically significant differences under different temperature conditions. The highest number of eggs was observed at 35°C, while the lowest was recorded at 20°C. Different temperatures significantly affected the Pre-oviposition, Oviposition, and Post-oviposition periods. As a conclusion, the development period and reproductive rate of S. exigua are related to temperature. Higher temperatures were observed to shorten the development period and increase the reproductive rate of this insect. However, excessively high temperatures were found to hinder the completion of S. Exigua 's generation. These findings provide important information for the management and control of agricultural pests.
Parents knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding baby walkers, baby car seats, oral health, and child screen time in Saudi Arabia: A cross sectional study
Authors: Algethami Rawan Ghazi , Tamur Shadi , Alsofyani Rawan Mohammed , alfaifi Hanan Hussain , Qattan Faris Mohammed , alharthi Mazen Saud , Aljaid Maryam , Al-Malki Sultan , Khayat Abdullah , Alzahrani Ahmad , Khalifa Eman A. , Shams Anwar M.
Published: September 2023

Background: Awareness of age-appropriate milestones and developmental stages is crucial for parents to identify any potential delays or concerns early on and seek appropriate interventions. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of caregivers in Saudi Arabia regarding baby walkers, baby car seats, early dental visits, and screen time for young children.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among parents in Saudi Arabia using a structured questionnaire. A convenience and snowball sampling method was employed to recruit participants from various regions of the country. The questionnaire aimed to assess parents’ knowledge regarding the recommended use of baby walkers and baby car seats, their awareness of the importance of early dental visits, and their understanding of appropriate screen time guidelines. Additionally, the survey explored parents’ practices toward these recommendations. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data, and associations between variables were examined using the chi-squared test.
Results: The analysis revealed that the majority of the participants (81.3%) use a baby walker, while only 22.3% consider that they should never be used. Overall, 29.6% of the participants never used a car seat for their infants or children. In terms of early childhood dental visits, approximately 39.5% of the participants reported actually taking their child to the dentist within the recommended timeframe. Regarding screen time for children, 11.3% of the participants reported that their children spend >5 h daily in front of the screen.
Conclusions: Raising parents’ awareness about recent childcare recommendations and safe practices is crucial for promoting optimal child development, preventing health problems, facilitating evidence-based decision-making, reducing risks, enhancing parental confidence and empowerment, and nurturing positive parent-child relationships.
Assessment of the Seasonal Variations of Lakes Water Quality in Bangladesh
Authors: Meghla Nowara Tamanna , Urmy Sabina Yeasmin , Mahamud Md. Rubel
Published: September 2023

The study was conducted to assess the seasonal variations of water quality in Hatirjheel Lake and Dhanmondi Lake during the period from August, 2019 to January, 2020. The water samples were collected monthly during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons from five sampling stations of both lakes. Comparative analysis revealed that mean pH was near the standard level in both lakes where DO concentration was much lower in Hatirjheel Lake than Dhanmondi Lake which could be due to the direct dumping of nearby residential and commercial waste, and domestic sewages from the city drainage system as well. The BOD concentration in Hairjheel Lake water exceeded the standard in both seasons and there was no significant change over seasons. In contrast, the Dhanmondi Lake water showed relatively lower BOD concentrations in both seasons where mean concentration slightly exceeded the standard in some stations. The EC and TDS contents showed positive relations but exceeded the standard limit throughout seasons in both lakes. The nutrient contents (NO3−, NO2− and NH4+) of Hatirjheel Lake water highly exceeded the standard during the study that tends the lake water prone to eutrophication. The study revealed that the physicochemical parameters and nutrient status of Dhanmondi Lake water were within the standard limit except EC indicating a rich habitat for aquatic organisms and sounds for recreational activities than Hatirjheel Lake which should be monitored throughout the year to maintain the productivity of lake water systems.