bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The interface between SARS-CoV-2 and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in a high HIV/TB burden district level hospital setting, Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Mnguni Ayanda Trevor , Schietekat Denzil , Ebrahim Nabilah , Sonday Nawhaal , Boliter Nicholas , Schrueder Neshaad , Gabriels Shiraaz , Cois Annibale , Tamuzi Jacques L. , Tembo Yamanya , Davies Mary-Ann , English Rene , Nyasulu Peter S.
Published: October 2023

Background

COVID-19 experiences on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) from district-level hospital settings during waves I and II are scarcely documented. The aim of this study is to investigate the NCDs associated with COVID-19 severity and mortality in a district-level hospital with a high HIV/TB burden.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational study that compared COVID-19 waves I and II at Khayelitsha District Hospital in Cape Town, South Africa. COVID-19 adult patients with a confirmed SARS-CoV-2 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or positive antigen test were included. In order to compare the inter wave period, clinical and laboratory parameters on hospital admission of noncommunicable diseases, the Student t-test or Mann-Whitney U for continuous data and the X2 test or Fishers’ Exact test for categorical data were used. The role of the NCD subpopulation on COVID-19 mortality was determined using latent class analysis (LCA).

Findings

Among 560 patients admitted with COVID-19, patients admitted during wave II were significantly older than those admitted during wave I. The most prevalent comorbidity patterns were hypertension (87%), diabetes mellitus (65%), HIV/AIDS (30%), obesity (19%), Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) (13%), Congestive Cardiac Failure (CCF) (8.8%), Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) (3%), cerebrovascular accidents (CVA)/stroke (3%), with similar prevalence in both waves except HIV status [(23% vs 34% waves II and I, respectively), p = 0.022], obesity [(52% vs 2.5%, waves II and I, respectively), p <0.001], previous stroke [(1% vs 4.1%, waves II and I, respectively), p = 0.046]. In terms of clinical and laboratory findings, our study found that wave I patients had higher haemoglobin and HIV viral loads. Wave II, on the other hand, had statistically significant higher chest radiography abnormalities, fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2), and uraemia. The adjusted odds ratio for death vs discharge between waves I and II was similar (0.94, 95%CI: 0.84–1.05). Wave I had a longer average survival time (8.0 vs 6.1 days) and a shorter average length of stay among patients discharged alive (9.2 vs 10.7 days). LCA revealed that the cardiovascular phenotype had the highest mortality, followed by diabetes and CKD phenotypes. Only Diabetes and hypertension phenotypes had the lowest mortality.

Conclusion

Even though clinical and laboratory characteristics differed significantly between the two waves, mortality remained constant. According to LCA, the cardiovascular, diabetes, and CKD phenotypes had the highest death probability.
Assessment of utilisation of government programmes and services by pregnant women in India
Authors: Mehta Balwant Singh , Alambusha Ruby , Misra Archa , Mehta Nidhi , Madan Aditi
Published: October 2023

Background

Since the implementation of various maternal health programs, Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) has significantly declined in India through improvements in maternal health services. However, inequality persists at the regional and socio-economic levels. In light of this, the present study aims to assess the existing regional disparities in utilising various government initiatives for safe motherhood in India.

Methods

National-level datasets such as National Family and Health Surveys (NFHS-3 (2005–06); NFHS-4 (2015–16) and NFHS-5(2019–21); Health Management Information System (HMIS), 2019–20; Sample Registrar System (SRS), 2001–2018) were used in the study. In addition, composite Index and inequality measures (Range, Ratio, and Gini) were calculated to examine inequality. At the same time, the Pearson correlation was used to investigate the correlation between various components of maternal health services and Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR).

Results

The composite index score (0.65) reflects that India is still far behind the targets of the utilisation of maternal health care services. Within the utilisation of services, the Gini coefficient reveals that the least inequality was recorded in skilled birth assistance deliveries (0.03) and institutional deliveries (0.04). In contrast, the highest inequality was recorded in receiving Iron and Folic Acid (IFA) Tablets for 100 days (0.19) and four Antenatal Care (ANC) visits (0.13) among selected states. Based on the composite score for maternal health utilisation, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Delhi were amongst the best performers, whereas Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Assam were amongst the worst performers.

Conclusion

This indicates that the government’s single-minded focus on enhancing institutional deliveries and skilled health-assisted deliveries has detracted from other essential interventions related to maternal health. Therefore, the states with the utilisation of maternal services need to initiate immediate action to increase the ANC and Post-natal Care (PNC utilisation with more attention towards better implementation of existing ANC programmes by the government.
Revisiting the factor structure of the Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire-2 (SF-MPQ-2): Evidence for a bifactor model in individuals with Chiari malformation
Authors: Tokar David M. , Kaut Kevin P. , Allen Philip A.
Published: October 2023

The Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire-2 (SF-MPQ-2; Dworkin et al., 2009) is intended to measure the multidimensional qualities of pain (i.e., continuous, intermittent, neuropathic, and affective) as well as total pain. Using structural equation modeling, we evaluated the fit of four competing measurement models of the SF-MPQ-2—an oblique 4-factor model, a 1-factor model, a higher-order model, and a bifactor model—in 552 adults diagnosed with Chiari malformation, a chronic health condition whose primary symptoms include head and neck pain. Results revealed the strongest support for the bifactor model, suggesting that SF-MPQ-2 item responses are due to both a general pain factor and a specific pain factor that is orthogonal to the general pain factor. Additional bifactor analyses of the SF-MPQ-2’s model-based reliability and dimensionality revealed that most of the SF-MPQ-2’s reliable variance is explained by a general pain factor, and that the instrument can be modeled unidimensionally and scored as a general pain measure. Results also indicated that the general and affective pain factors in the bifactor model uniquely predicted pain-related external criteria (e.g., depression, anxiety, and stress); however, the continuous, intermittent, and neuropathic factors did not.
Clinical spine care partnerships between high-income countries and low-and-middle-income countries: A scoping review
Authors: Lin Hannah , Halvorsen Kristin , Win Myat Thu , Yancey Michael , Rbil Nada , Chatterjee Abhinaba , Jivanelli Bridget , Khormaee Sariah
Published: October 2023

Background

Clinical collaboration between spine professionals in high-income countries (HICs) and low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs) may provide improvements in the accessibility, efficacy, and safety of global spine care. Currently, the scope and effectiveness of these collaborations remain unclear. In this review, we describe the literature on the current state of these partnerships to provide a framework for exploring future best practices.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library were queried for articles on spine-based clinical partnerships between HICs and LMICs published between 2000 and March 10, 2023. This search yielded 1528 total publications. After systematic screening, nineteen articles were included in the final review.

Results

All published partnerships involved direct clinical care and 13/19 included clinical training of local providers. Most of the published collaborations reviewed involved one of four major global outreach organizations with the majority of sites in Africa. Participants were primarily physicians and physicians-in-training. Only 5/19 studies reported needs assessments prior to starting their partnerships. Articles were split on evaluative focus, with some only evaluating clinical outcomes and some evaluating the nature of the partnership itself.

Conclusions

Published studies on spine-focused clinical partnerships between HICs and LMICs remain scarce. Those that are published often do not report needs assessments and formal metrics to evaluate the efficacy of such partnerships. Toward improving the quality of spine care globally, we recommend an increase in the quality and quantity of published studies involving clinical collaborations between HICs and LICs, with careful attention to reporting early needs assessments and evaluation strategies.
Mouse methylation profiles for leukocyte cell types, and estimation of leukocyte fractions in inflamed gastrointestinal DNA samples
Authors: Nishiyama Kazuhiro , Nishinakamura Hitomi , Takeshima Hideyuki , Yuyu Liu , Takeuchi Chihiro , Hattori Naoko , Takeda Haruna , Yamashita Satoshi , Wakabayashi Mika , Sato Kotomi , Obama Kazutaka , Ushijima Toshikazu
Published: October 2023

Precise analysis of tissue DNA and RNA samples is often hampered by contaminating non-target cells whose amounts are highly variable. DNA methylation profiles are specific to cell types, and can be utilized for assessment of the fraction of such contaminating non-target cells. Here, we aimed 1) to identify methylation profiles specific to multiple types of mouse leukocytes, and 2) to estimate the fraction of leukocytes infiltrating inflamed tissues using DNA samples. First, genome-wide DNA methylation analysis was conducted for three myeloid-lineage cells and four lymphoid-lineage cells isolated by fluorescence-activated cell sorting after magnetic-activated cell sorting from leukocytes in the spleen. Clustering analysis using CpG sites within enhancers separated the three myeloid-lineage cells and four lymphoid-lineage cells while that using promoter CpG islands (TSS200CGIs) did not. Among the 266,108 CpG sites analyzed, one CpG site was specifically hypermethylated (β value ≥ 0.7) in B cells, and four, seven, 183, and 34 CpG sites were specifically hypomethylated (β value < 0.2) in CD4+T cells, CD8+T cells, B cells, and NK cells, respectively. Importantly, cell type-specific hypomethylated CpG sites were located at genes involved in cell type-specific biological functions. Then, marker CpG sites to estimate the leukocyte fraction in a tissue with leukocyte infiltration were selected, and an estimation algorithm was established. The fractions of infiltrating leukocytes were estimated to be 1.6–12.4% in the stomach (n = 10) withHelicobacter pylori-induced inflammation and 1.5–4.3% in the colon with dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis (n = 4), and the fractions were highly correlated with those estimated histologically using Cd45-stained tissue sections [R = 0.811 (p= 0.004)]. These results showed that mouse methylation profiles at CpG sites within enhancers reflected leukocyte cell lineages, and the use of marker CpG sites successfully estimated the leukocyte fraction in inflamed gastric and colon tissues.
Common knowledge processing patterns in networks of different systems
Authors: Segev Aviv , Jung Sukhwan
Published: October 2023

Knowledge processing has patterns which can be found in biological neuron activity and artificial neural networks. The work explores whether an underlying structure exists for knowledge which crosses domains. The results show common data processing patterns in biological systems and human-made knowledge-based systems, present examples of human-generated knowledge processing systems, such as artificial neural networks and research topic knowledge networks, and explore change of system patterns over time. The work analyzes nature-based systems, which are animal connectomes, and observes neuron circuitry of knowledge processing based on complexity of the knowledge processing system. The variety of domains and similarity in processing mechanisms raise the question: if it is common in natural and artificial systems to see this pattern-based knowledge processing, how unique is knowledge processing in humans.
Willingness of advanced cancer patients to receive palliative care and its determinants: A cross-sectional study in Northern Tanzania
Authors: Mushi Grace Leonard , Serventi Furaha , Alloyce Julius Pius , Saria Vivian Frank , Xu Xianghua , Khan Khalid , Cheng Qinqin , Chen Yongyi
Published: October 2023

Background

The purpose of this study was to assess willingness of advanced cancer patients to receive palliative care and its determinants at Cancer Care Centre in Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre Northern Tanzania.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to assess willingness of advanced cancer patients to receive palliative care and its determinants at Cancer Care Centre in Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre Northern Tanzania.

Methods

This was an institution-based cross-sectional study and the target population was all advanced cancer patients attending care at Cancer care Centre in Northern Tanzania. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using Stata for windows 15. A descriptive analysis was conducted to summarize the data using mean standard deviation, while categorical data was summarized using frequency and percentages. Both bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine the predictors associated with willingness to receive palliative care.

Results

The results showed that more than half of the respondents had willingness to accept palliative care. The degree of willingness PC among advanced cancer patients was high 60.6% (95%CI: 55.8–65.3). The predictors which remained significant associated with willingness to receive palliative care in multivariate analysis were the knowledgeable of palliative care [AOR: 2.86; 95%CI: 1.69–4.85] and high perceived benefits of palliative care [AOR: 3.58; 95%CI: 2.12–6.04].

Conclusion

Willingness to accept palliative care services was more than half of the patients just 60.6% among patients with advanced cancer from the study site. Advanced age of a patient, occupations, better knowledge, and perceived benefits for palliative care was the significant predictor for patients’ willingness to accept palliative care.
Magnitude, relationship and determinants of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and depression among University of Gondar undergraduate students, Northwest Ethiopia, 2022: Non-recursive structural equation modeling
Authors: Tilahun Werkneh Melkie , Wolde Haileab Fekadu , Gebreegziabher Zenebe Abebe , Abebaw Wondwosen Abey , Simegn Mulat Belay , Tadesse Asefa Adimasu
Published: October 2023

Background

Up to 80% of adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may have a concomitant psychiatric disorder. ADHD and depression, combined with the demands of University life, can pose serious challenges for students. However, there are limited studies conducted on this topic in our country. Therefore, the current study assessed the magnitude, relationship, and determinants of ADHD and depressive symptoms among students at the University of Gondar.

Method

An institution-based cross-sectional study was employed among 1514 undergraduate students at the University of Gondar from June 1–20, 2022. A stratified, simple random sampling technique was applied. Structural equation modeling was employed. The degree of relationship was interpreted based on the adjusted regression coefficient with 95% confidence interval (CI) and p-value (<0.05).

Result

In our study, 37.6% [CI: 35.2–40.1%] and 20.01% [CI: 18.1–22.1%] of the participants had depressive and ADHD symptoms, respectively. Chronic illness [β = 0.19, CI; 0.09, 0.30], alcohol use [β = 0.10, CI; 0.03, 0.17], social support [β = -0.23, CI; -0.29, -0.17], problematic internet use (PIU) [β = 0.23, CI; 0.18, 0.27], and insomnia [β = 0.24, CI; 0.17, 0.30] had a direct relationship with depressive symptoms. Mother education level [β = -0.09, CI; -0.13, -0.06], birth order [β = -0.09, CI; -0.11, -0.07], chat chewing [β = 0.18, CI; 0.06, 0.30], and depressive symptoms [β = 0.73, CI; 0.62, 0.86] had a direct relationship with ADHD. Chronic illness [β = 0.14, CI; 0.06, 0.22], PIU [β = 0.16, CI; 0.13, 0.21], social support [β = -0.16, CI; -0.22, -0.12], and insomnia [β = 0.17, CI; 0.13, 0.23] had an indirect effect on ADHD.

Conclusion and recommendation

The prevalence of ADHD and depressive symptoms was high. Chronic disease, alcohol use, social support, PIU, and insomnia had a direct effect on depressive symptoms and an indirect effect on ADHD. Mother education, birth order, chat chewing, and depressive symptoms had a direct effect on ADHD. Our study provided useful clues for clinical treatment and school-based interventions that aim to improve college students’ mental well-being. It is better to design school-based intervention and prevention programs to achieve timely diagnosis and treatment of these disorders among university students.
Postpartum haemorrhage occurring in UK midwifery units: A national population-based case-control study to investigate incidence, risk factors and outcomes
Authors: Elkington Madeline , Kurinczuk Jennifer J. , Pasupathy Dharmintra , Plachcinski Rachel , Rogers Jane , Williams Catherine , Rowe Rachel ,   on behalf of the UKMidSS Steering Group
Published: October 2023

Objectives

To estimate the incidence of, and investigate risk factors for, postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) requiring transfer to obstetric care following birth in midwifery units (MU) in the UK; to describe outcomes for women who experience PPH requiring transfer to obstetric care.

Methods

We conducted a national population-based case-control study in all MUs in the UK using the UK Midwifery Study System (UKMidSS). Between September 2019 and February 2020, 1501 women with PPH requiring transfer to obstetric care following birth in an MU, and 1475 control women were identified. We used multivariable logistic regression, generating adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to investigate risk factors for PPH requiring transfer to obstetric care.

Results

The incidence of PPH requiring transfer to obstetric care following birth in an MU was 3.7% (95% CI 3.6%-3.9%). Factors independently associated with PPH requiring transfer to obstetric care were smoking during pregnancy (aOR = 0.73; 95% CI 0.56–0.94), nulliparity (aOR = 1.96; 95% CI 1.66–2.30), previous PPH (aOR = 2.67; 95% CI 1.67–4.25), complications in a previous pregnancy other than PPH (aOR = 2.40; 95% CI 1.25–4.60), gestational age ≥41 weeks (aOR = 1.36; 95% CI 1.10–1.69), instrumental birth (aOR = 2.69; 95% CI 1.53–4.72), third stage of labour ≥60 minutes (aOR = 5.56; 95% CI 3.93–7.88), perineal trauma (aOR = 4.67; 95% CI 3.16–6.90), and birthweight 3500-3999g (aOR = 1.71; 95% CI 1.42–2.07) or ≥4000g (aOR = 2.31; 95% CI 1.78–3.00). One in ten (10.6%) cases received a blood transfusion and one in five (21.0%) were admitted to higher level care.

Conclusions

The risk factors identified in this study align with those identified in previous research and with current guidelines for women planning birth in an MU in the UK. Maternal outcomes after PPH were broadly reassuring and indicative of appropriate management. NHS organisations should ensure that robust guidelines are in place to support management of PPH in MUs.
Identifying patients with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis who may benefit from shorter durations of treatment
Authors: Winters Nicholas , Schnitzer Mireille E. , Campbell Jonathon R. , Ripley Susannah , Winston Carla , Savic Rada , Ahmad Nafees , Bisson Gregory , Dheda Keertan , Esmail Ali , Gegia Medea , Monedero Ignacio , Dalcolmo Margareth Pretti , Rodrigues Denise , Singla Rupak , Yim Jae-Joon , Menzies Dick
Published: October 2023

Objective

Studying treatment duration for rifampicin-resistant and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR/RR-TB) using observational data is methodologically challenging. We aim to present a hypothesis generating approach to identify factors associated with shorter duration of treatment.

Study design and setting

We conducted an individual patient data meta-analysis among MDR/RR-TB patients restricted to only those with successful treatment outcomes. Using multivariable linear regression, we estimated associations and their 95% confidence intervals (CI) between the outcome of individual deviation in treatment duration (in months) from the mean duration of their treatment site and patient characteristics, drug resistance, and treatments used.

Results

Overall, 6702 patients with successful treatment outcomes from 84 treatment sites were included. We found that factors commonly associated with poor treatment outcomes were also associated with longer treatment durations, relative to the site mean duration. Use of bedaquiline was associated with a 0.51 (95% CI: 0.15, 0.87) month decrease in duration of treatment, which was consistent across subgroups, while MDR/RR-TB with fluoroquinolone resistance was associated with 0.78 (95% CI: 0.36, 1.21) months increase.

Conclusion

We describe a method to assess associations between clinical factors and treatment duration in observational studies of MDR/RR-TB patients, that may help identify patients who can benefit from shorter treatment.
Preferences for public engagement in decision-making regarding four COVID-19 non-pharmaceutical interventions in the Netherlands: A survey study
Authors: Kemper Sophie , Bongers Marloes , Kupper Frank , De Vries Marion , Timen Aura
Published: October 2023

Background

Worldwide, non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) were implemented during the COVID-19 crisis, which heavily impacted the daily lives of citizens. This study considers public perspectives on whether and how public engagement (PE) can contribute to future decision-making about NPIs.

Methods

An online survey was conducted among a representative sample of the public in the Netherlands from 27 October to 9 November 2021. Perceptions and preferences about PE in decision-making on NPIs to control COVID-19 were collected. Preferences regarding four NPIs were studied: Nightly curfew (NC); Digital Covid Certificate (DCC); Closure of elementary schools and daycares (CED); and physical distancing (1.5M). Engagement was surveyed based on the five participation modes of the IAP2 Spectrum of Public Participation, namely inform, consult, advice, collaborate and empower.

Results

Of the 4981 respondents, 25% expressed a desire to engage in decision-making, as they thought engagement could improve their understanding and the quality of NPIs, as well as increase their trust in the government. Especially for the NPIs DCC and NC, respondents found it valuable to engage and provide their perspective on trade-offs in values (e.g. opening up society versus division in society by vaccination status). Respondents agreed that the main responsibility in decision-making should stay with experts and policy-makers. 50% of respondents did not want to engage, as they felt no need to engage or considered themselves insufficiently knowledgeable. Inform was deemed the most preferred mode of engagement, and empower the least preferred mode of engagement.

Conclusion

We reveal large variations in public preferences regarding engagement in NPI decision-making. With 25% of respondents expressing an explicit desire to engage, and considering the benefit of PE in other areas of (public) health, opportunities for PE in NPI decision-making might have been overlooked during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our results provide guidance into when and how to execute PE in future outbreaks.
Orally administered Chinese herbal therapy to assist post-surgical recovery for chronic rhinosinusitis—A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Cui Jing , Lin Wenmin , May Brian H. , Luo Qiulan , Worsnop Christopher , Zhang Anthony Lin , Guo Xinfeng , Lu Chuanjian , Li Yunying , Xue Charlie C.
Published: October 2023

This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to: assess the effectiveness and safety of orally administered Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs) as adjuncts to the post-surgical management of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS); inform clinicians of the current evidence; identify the best available evidence; and suggest directions for further research. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were identified from searches of nine databases plus clinical trial registries. Participants were adults and/or children diagnosed with sinusitis or rhinosinusitis, with or without nasal polyps, who had received surgery. Interventions were CHMs used orally following surgery for CRS as additions to conventional post-surgical management. Controls received conventional post-surgical management without CHMs. Studies reported results for Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT), visual analogue scales (VAS), Lund-Mackay computed tomography score (LM), Lund-Kennedy endoscopic score (LK), mucociliary transport time (MTT), mucociliary transport rate (MTR), mucociliary clearance (MC) or quality of life (QoL). Twenty-one RCTs were included. All used oral CHMs following functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS). The pooled results showed no significant difference between groups for SNOT-20 at the end of treatment (EoT) but there was a significant difference at follow up (FU) in favour of additional CHMs. The VAS for total nasal symptoms (VAS-TNS) showed greater improvements in the CHM groups at EoT and FU. Only FU data were reported for LM which showed greater improvement in the CHM groups. LK showed greater improvements at EoT and FU. The measures of mucociliary transport (MTT, MTR, and MC) each showed significantly greater improvement at EoT in the group that received additional CHMs. No study reported QoL. Adverse events were not serious, but reporting was incomplete. The meta-analyses suggested the addition of oral CHMs to conventional management following FESS may improve recovery. However, most studies were not blinded, and substantial heterogeneity was evident in some meta-analyses. Blinded studies are required to further investigate the roles of oral CHMs in post-surgical recovery.

Systematic review registration number:The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42019119586).
Occupational characteristics and risk factors associated with endometriosis among Korean female workers
Authors: Lee Seunghyun , Lee Seung-Yeon , Lee Wanhyung
Published: October 2023

Endometriosis is a chronic and debilitating condition that affects daily working life. Characterization of the factors associated with endometriosis in the working population can facilitate the development of prevention and intervention strategies for those at risk of endometriosis. This population-based retrospective study was conducted using the 2007–2015 National Health Insurance Service–Female Employees database. Overall, 151,386 female workers aged 15–64 years were included in the study. Participants with endometriosis were identified using the diagnosis codes in the claims data. Multivariable Cox regression analyses were used to evaluate the effect of sociodemographic, lifestyle, health, and occupational factors on endometriosis risk. Of the 151,386 participants, 4,457 were diagnosed with endometriosis. The risk of endometriosis was significantly higher in 41–60 years group (HR = 1.47 (95% CI, 1.06–2.04)) and in those with body mass index (BMI) < 18.5 kg/m2 (HR = 1.16 (95% CI, 1.05–1.27)) than 15–20 years group and those with normal BMI, respectively. According to the international standard industrial classification, occupational groups with financial and insurance activities, public administration and defence, compulsory social security, and manufacturing were at a higher risk of endometriosis. Although there was no significant association between the risk of endometriosis and type of work, the cumulative prevalence of endometriosis from 2007 to 2015 continued to rise in office workers, manual workers, and both types of workers together. The risk of endometriosis was closely linked to the occupational characteristics of female workers. This study provides a foundation for developing occupational safety and health guidelines for female workers.
Crack control optimization of basement concrete structures using the Mask-RCNN and temperature effect analysis
Authors: Wu Shouyan , Fu Feng
Published: October 2023

In order to enhance the mitigation of crack occurrence and propagation within basement concrete structures, this research endeavors to propose an optimization methodology grounded in the Mask Region-based Convolutional Neural Network (Mask-RCNN) and an analysis of temperature effects. Initially, the Mask-RCNN algorithm is employed to perform image segmentation of the basement concrete structure, facilitating the precise identification of crack locations and shapes within the structure. Subsequently, the finite element analysis method is harnessed to simulate the structural stress and deformation in response to temperature variations. An optimization algorithm is introduced to adjust geometric parameters and material properties using insights from the temperature effect analysis. This algorithm aims to minimize stress concentration and deformation within the structure, thus diminishing the incidence and proliferation of cracks. In order to assess the efficacy of the optimization approach, an authentic basement concrete structure is selected for scrutiny, and the structure is monitored in real-time through the installation of strain gauges and monitoring equipment. These instruments track structural stress and deformation under diverse temperature conditions, and the evolution of cracks is meticulously documented. The outcomes demonstrate that by adjusting the structural geometric parameters and material properties, the crack density experiences a notable reduction of 60.22%. Moreover, the average crack length and width witness reductions of 40.24% and 35.43%, respectively, thereby corroborating the efficacy of the optimization method. Furthermore, an assessment of stress concentration and deformation within the structure is conducted. Through the optimization process, the maximum stress concentration in the structure diminishes by 25.22%, while the maximum deformation is curtailed by 30.32%. These results signify a substantial enhancement in structural stability. It is evident that the optimization algorithm exhibits robustness and stability in the context of crack control, consistently delivering favorable outcomes across diverse parameter configurations.
Ultrasonographic cervical length screening at 20–24 weeks of gestation in twin pregnancies for prediction of spontaneous preterm birth: A 10-year Taiwanese cohort
Authors: Olisova Ksenia , Sao Chih-Hsuan , Lussier Eric C. , Sung Chan-Yu , Wang Peng-Hui , Yeh Chang-Ching , Chang Tung-Yao
Published: October 2023

Background

Shortened cervical length is one of the primary predictors for spontaneous preterm deliveries in twin pregnancies. However, there is lack of consensus regarding cut-off values. Recent evidence highlights that established cut-offs for cervical length screening might not always apply across different populations. This study aims to present the distribution of cervical length in Taiwanese twin pregnancies and to assess its predictive value for spontaneous preterm birth during mid-trimester screening.

Materials and methods

This retrospective analysis of cervical length screening in Taiwan evaluated 469 twin pregnancies between 20–24 weeks of gestation. Outcome data were obtained directly from the medical records of the delivery hospital. The study explored the predictive value of cervical length screening for spontaneous preterm birth and the characteristics of cervical length distribution in Taiwanese twin pregnancies.

Results

The average gestational age at screening was 22.7 weeks. Cervical length values displayed a non-normal distribution (p-value <0.001). The median, 5th and 95th centiles were 37.5 mm 25.1 mm, and 47.9 mm, respectively. Various cut-off values were assessed using different methods, yielding positive [negative] likelihood ratios for spontaneous preterm births between 32–37 weeks of gestational age (GA) (1.3–30.1 and [0.51–0.92]) and for very preterm births between 28–32 weeks GA (5.6–51.1 and [0.45–0.64]).

Conclusions

The findings from our analysis of Taiwanese twin pregnancies uphold the moderate predictive potential of cervical length screening, consistent with prior investigations. The presented likelihood ratios for predicting preterm birth at different gestational ages equip clinicians with valuable tools to enhance their diagnostic rationale and resource utilization. By fine-tuning screening parameters according to the spontaneous preterm birth prevalence and clinical priorities of the particular population, healthcare providers can enhance patient care. Our data implies that a cervical length below 20 mm might provide an optimal balance between minimizing false negatives and managing false positives when predicting spontaneous preterm birth.
The influence of the brand image of green agriculture products on China’s consumption intention——The mediating role of perceived value
Authors: Yang Hui , Zhang Pengpeng , Liu Haijiao
Published: October 2023

Green agriculture can minimize the negative impact of agriculture on the environment. As countries around the world strongly advocate green production and green life style, not only is consumers’ awareness about green consumption rising, but the demand for green agricultural products at home and abroad is gradually increasing as well. Brand image has been a crucial factor for consumers to make their final purchasing decisions, thus playing a critical role in influencing the purchasing decisions of consumers. Based on the theory of the brand image, this paper undergoes a comprehensive theoretical and positive analysis and explores the influence mechanism of brand image of green agricultural products on consumers’ purchasing intention. A hypothetical model with perceived value as mediators is constructed by us to examine the influence of brand image of green agricultural products on consumers’ purchasing intention. A quantitative study was conducted for a random sample of 341 consumers who purchased green agricultural products in China according to a questionnaire-based survey using a cluster random sampling technique. The study showed that the overall image of agribusiness, the image of agricultural products, the social image of agribusiness, and the image of consumers are all positively related to consumption intention. The overall image of agribusiness, the image of agricultural products, the social image of agribusiness, and the image of consumers have a positive influence on perceived value. Moreover, perceived value plays a part in the mediating role in the influence of the overall image of agribusiness, the image of agricultural products, the social image of agribusiness, and the image of consumers on consumption intention. These findings shed lights on enterprises in establishing a scientific and effective brand strategy and building an excellent brand image. The research conclusion can provide new insight into how to enhance the consumption willingness for green agricultural products and promote sustainable development.
Monumento al Centenario de Donostia-San Sebastián (1913-1924)
Authors: Arregui Barandiaran Ana
Published: October 2023

El artículo narra el proceso constructivo del conocido como Monumento al Centenario de Donostia-San Sebastián. Se analizan los distintos proyectos presentados al concurso público y el proceso constructivo del ganador. Erigido con gran rapidez, fue muy criticado desde el comienzo y ello provocó su despiece en 1924. Las piezas resultantes se repartieron por distintas zonas y espacios de la capital guipuzcoana.
Eraikin pasiboen karakterizazio termikoa: landare-fatxada modular baten kasu-azterketa
Authors: Azkorra Larrinaga Zaloa , Martín-Escudero Koldobika , Romero-Antón Naiara
Published: October 2023

Sistema berdeak sendotzen ari dira hirietako eskari termikoa murrizteko eta, aldi berean, hiriko bizitzaren kalitatea hobetzeko. Sistema berdeei lotutako onurak hainbat dira: biodibertsitatea handitzea, ekaitz-uren kontrola, energia aurreztea, tenperatura erregulatzea eta zarata arintzea. Landaredun sistema bertikalek errendimendu energetikoari egiten dioten ekarpenari buruzko ezagutza lortzeko, landaredun fatxada bati proba metodologikoak egin zaizkio Paslink zelda batean. Helburua landare-fatxada modular baten berokuntza- eta hozte-eskaria ezaugarritzea da. Emaitza nagusia isolamenduaren hobekuntza izan da. Erreferentziako fatxada 0.75 W/(m2 °C) baliotik abiatzen zen, eta 1.22 W/(m2 °C)-ko transmisio termikoko balioetara igaro zen landare-fatxadari esker; horrek esan nahi du isolamendu-ahalmena % 30 handitu zela. Fatxada berdeek energia aurrezteko potentzialtasun handia dutela ondoriozta daiteke.
Disruptore endokrinoek eragiten al dute endometriosian? Berrikuspen sistematikoa
Authors: Lopez Ainara , Barroeta Ziortza , Lopez de Calle Sara , Jimeno-Romero Alba , González García Bárbara Paola , García-Santisteban Iraia , Irizar Loibide Amaia
Published: October 2023

Endometriosia (EM) emakumeen artean ezgaitasuna eta antzutasuna sor ditzakeen gaixotasun prebalentea den arren, oraindik ez da argitu zein diren bere fisiopatologian eragiten duten faktoreak. Azken urte hauetan argitaratutako ikerketek iradokitzen dute ingurumeneko disruptore endokrinoekiko (EDC) esposizioak EMan eragin dezakeela, eta, orain arteko ebidentzia identifikatzeko, lan honen helburua berrikuspen sistematiko bat gauzatzea da. Horretarako, PRISMA metodologia erabiliz, 2012-2022 bitartean EDCekiko esposizioa eta EMari buruz egindako ikerketen bilaketa bibliografiko bat egin zen PubMed, ScienceDirect eta Scopus datu-baseetan. Guztira, inklusio-irizpideak betetzen zituzten 26 artikulu identifikatu ziren. Ikerketa gehienetan, asoziazio positiboa gertatu zen gutxienez EDC baten eta EMaren artean. BPAren kasuan, zazpi artikuluetatik bostetan asoziazio positiboa gertatu zen, bentzofenonen kasuan hirutik bitan, eta PFAS (PFOS, PFOA , PFNA, PFDA, PFBS) kasu guztietan. Parabenoak eta pestizida organofosforatuak artikulu bakarrean aztertu ziren, asoziazio positiboa erakutsiz. Aldiz, ftalatoetan eta metaletan orokorrean emaitzak kontraesankorrak izan ziren. Pb-aren kasuan, posible da maila baxuetan soilik izatea arrisku-faktorea. Emaitzek argi erakusten dute oraindik ikerketa gutxi egin direla EMan EDCekiko esposizioak duen eragina aztertzen. Egin diren ikerketa batzuek eragina badela iradokitzen duten arren, alborapen-arazoak eta beren arteko desberdintasun metodologikoak direla eta, ebidentzia sendorik ez dagoela esan daiteke. Ikerketa gehiagoren beharra dago aztertu diren EDCekiko esposizioak EMan duen eragina aztertzeko eta mekanismoak argitzeko.
Cuando éramos emigrantes. La emigración española a Francia durante la Primera Guerra Mundial y la inmediata posguerra
Authors: Calvo Angel
Published: October 2023

Las migraciones internacionales han merecido atención especial desde las más diversas disciplinas. En las últimas décadas la investigación histórica se ha enriquecido con enfoques no eurocéntricos, aportaciones de la historia laboral y perspectivas de género. Sin embargo, quedan todavía espacios geográficos y momentos que no han recibido la atención apropiada. Este estudio pretende llenar algunas lagunas todavía existentes. Aborda un episodio de corta duración y enmarcado en circunstancias especiales: la emigración española a Francia durante la Primera Guerra Mundial y la inmediata posguerra. Lo hace desde el interior del movimiento, es decir, a partir de las vivencias de los emigrantes, recogidas en una fuente primaria excepcional.
Construir un falansterio: la aventura de Tempul (1841)
Authors: Pro Juan
Published: October 2023

Entre los pioneros del socialismo utópico fue relevante el grupo fourierista que se formó en Cádiz en torno a Joaquín Abreu. Este grupo planeó en 1841 construir un falansterio siguiendo las indicaciones de Charles Fourier, que habría sido el primero del mundo. Bajo la dirección de Manuel Sagrario de Beloy, eligieron como emplazamiento de esta comunidad modelo, que debía abrir una nueva era para la humanidad, un paraje cercano a Jerez de la Frontera, que reunía todas las condiciones previstas por Fourier. La evaluación de aquel proyecto, finalmente fallido, permite reflexionar sobre el “buen lugar” que proponía la utopía societaria.
Governing Labor Market Risks
Authors: Koster Ferry
Published: October 2023

Design. A vignette study was conducted to investigate hypotheses. In total 914 workers from the Netherlands responded to 4 different vignettes (n = 3656 vignettes).

Purpose. Based on compensation hypothesis, this study formulates several hypotheses about the relationship between work insecurity and preferences for protection. By combining a vignette study with a survey among workers it was possible to address the following questions: How do the preferences for protection relate to labor market insecurities and to what extent are the effect of experimental conditions on preferences for risk governance affected by experiences in the actual work situation?

Findings. The findings mainly support the hypotheses derived from the compensation and expand them by showing how insecurities in the workplace cross-over to the experimental setting.

Originality. While the compensation hypothesis is investigated in prior research, this is the first (semi-)experimental study allowing for arguing that the link between individual risks and preferences for protection are causal.
The Housing and Living Arrangement Situation of People with Disabilities in Hungary: Regime Characteristics and Individualized Risks
Authors: Csathó Ábel , Kozma Ágnes , Petri Gábor
Published: October 2023

Our study explores the housing situation of people with disabilities based on life course interviews. Although the focus is mainly on present housing issues and challenges, this is set in a longitudinal perspective highlighting the legacies from the socialist period onwards. The study distinguishes three social policy regimes: the state-socialist, the liberal and the illiberal ones, which, on the one hand had different ideas about disability, while on the other hand, applied different housing policies. Results suggest that the housing of people with disabilities depends on a number of aspects which cannot be controlled by our interviewees. Based on the interviews, we identified three key areas which play an especially important role in shaping the housing opportunities of people with disabilities. These are the resources and motivations of the family of origin; the geographic location of the residence; and institution managers, care-workers, roommates around them.
KARAKTER MULTILATERAL COMPETENT AUTHORITY AGREEMENT ON AUTOMATIC EXCHANGE OF FINANCIAL ACCOUNT INFORMATION DAN IMPLIKASINYA PASCA PROGRAM TAX AMNESTY DI INDONESIA
Authors: Hasim Mega Puspawati , Priyono F.X. Joko , Sa'adah Nabitatus
Published: October 2023

Krisis keuangan global pada tahun 2008 membuat G20 menggunakan rekomendasi Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development  (OECD) sebagai landasan mengakhiri kerugian akibat praktik penghindaran pajak dengan Automatic Exchange of Information yang tertuang dalam bentuk Multilateral Competent Authority Agreement on Automatic Exchange of Financial Account Information. Adanya syarat teknis sebelum penerapan Automatic Exchange of Information membuat Pemerintah Indonesia memberlakukan suatu program yaitu Tax Amnesty atau pengampunan pajak. Hal ini akan menimbulkan berbagai permasalahan hukum, antara lain kekuatan hukum yang mengikat dan implikasinya terhadap Tax Amnesty. Skripsi ini membahas mengenai karakter Multilateral Competent Authority Agreement on Automatic Exchange of Financial Account Information dan  implikasi Multilateral Competent Authority Agreement on Automatic Exchange of Financial Account Information pasca Tax Amnesty di Indonesia. Metode penelitian ini bersumber pada bahan hukum primer, sekunder, dan tersier. Selanjutnya, penulis dalam melakukan analisis bahan hukum menggunakan pendekatan undang-undang, pendekatan historis, dan pendekatan konseptual. Multilateral Competent Authority Agreement on Automatic Exchange of Financial Account Information tergolong sebagai Hard Law atau mempunyai kekuatan hukum yang mengikat berdasarkan konsep Lwglisai. Lalu,  implikasi Multilateral Competent Authority Agreement on Automatic Exchange of Financial Account Information pasca Tax Amnesty sebagai pengawalan untuk menjaga keberlanjutan efektivitas kebijakan Tax Amnesty.
TINJAUAN TERHADAP KEBIJAKAN PEMERINTAH DAERAH KABUPATEN PEKALONGAN TERKAIT IZIN PENDIRIAN MINIMARKET
Authors: Priambodo Primas Raras , Juliani Henny , Sa’adah Nabitatus
Published: October 2023

Pengaturan mengenai perizinan minimarket di Kabupaten Pekalongan diatur dalam Peraturan Daerah Kabupaten Pekalongan Nomor 1 Tahun 2014. Adanya pengaturan ini dimaksudkan untuk memastikan bahwa pihak pengelola minimarket telah memenuhi persyaratan yang diperlukan sebelum membuka usaha minimarket di Kabupaten Pekalongan. Persyaratan yang ditetapkan antara lain adalah memiliki izin usaha toko modern, melakukan kemitraan dengan Usaha Kecil Menengah (UKM), serta jarak minimarket dengan pasar tradisional tidak boleh kurang dari 1000 meter, namun ternyata masih ada minimarket yang belum memenuhi persyaratan-persyaratan yang telah ditentukan. Tercatat pada tahun 2017 ada tujuh minimarket di Kabupaten Pekalongan yang ditutup karena tidak memenuhi ketentuan yang berlaku. Pemerintah Daerah Kabupaten Pekalongan telah melakukan beberapa tindakan untuk menindak minimarket yang bermasalah tersebut. Langkah-langkah yang telah ditempuh antara lain dengan melakukan sanksi administratif berupa peringatan tertulis, pembekuan izin usaha, serta pencabutan izin usaha bagi minimarket yang tidak memnuhi ketentuan yang berlaku.
ANALISIS YURIDIS TERHADAP ASAS NASIONALITAS DALAM HUKUM TANAH (Studi Kasus Putusan Mahkamah Konstitusi Nomor 69/PUU-XIII/2015)
Authors: Haq Wasith Abdul , Adhim Nur , Wisnaeni Fifiana
Published: October 2023

Asas Nasionalitas merupakan salah satu asas yang terdapat dalam Hukum Tanah Nasional yang menyatakan bahwa seluruh bumi, air, dan ruang angkasa termasuk kekayaan alam yang terkandung di wilayah negara Indonesia hanya warga negara Indonesia yang dapat mempunyai hubungan sepenuhnya. Asas ini berlaku bagi seluruh warga negara Indonesia tak terkecuali bagi seorang warga negara Indonesia yang melakukan perkawinan campuran dengan warga negara asing. Asas Nasionalitas mempunyai fungsi menjaga kedaulatan wilayah Negara Kesatuan Republik Indonesia. Bagi seorang warga negara Indonesia pelaku pernikahan campuran Asas Nasionalitas mempunyai fungsi strategis yaitu sebagai pelindung hak kebendaan warga negara Indonesia dalam konteks Hukum Tanah Nasional. Mahkamah Konstitusi telah memperjelas fungsi Asas Nasionalitas dengan menyatakan menolak petitum permohonan Pemohon judicial review perkara nomor 69/PUU-XIII/2015 yang berkaitan dengan pasal Asas Nasionalitas dalam Hukum Tanah.