bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AGRO-Cloud Model and Smart Algorithm to Increase Agriculture Production to Improve Agriculture Quality
Authors: Sharma* Avdesh Kumar , Rathore Abhishek Singh
Published: January 2025

Smart Agriculture is a revolutionary approach to farming that aims to increase crop yields, optimize resource usage, and reduce costs, through the use of technology the design and implementation of an AGRO-Cloud Model for crop yield prediction using hybrid deep learning. The proposed system aims to improve crop yield prediction accuracy and facilitate decision-making for farmers. The system utilizes a hybrid deep learning approach that associates the (CNNs) convolutional neural networks and (LSTM) long short-term memory networks to process multi-sensor data, including soil, moisture data, weather data, and data of crop growth. LSTMs are used to capture temporal dependencies in the input data, while CNNs are utilized to extract spatial features. The system is implemented on a cloud platform, allowing farmers to access the system from anywhere using a web-based interface. The system provides real-time crop yield prediction and alerts farmers to potential risks such as pests, disease, and adverse weather conditions. The system also provides data visualization tools that enable farmers to monitor the growth of their crops and make informed decisions about fertilization, crop management practices, and irrigation. Experimental results show that the proposed hybrid deep learning approach outperforms traditional machine learning methods for crop yield prediction, achieving a prediction accuracy of over 90%. The proposed model can increase agriculture production to improve the quality and profitability of farming operations and contribute to sustainable agriculture practices.
Enhancement of Maize (Zea mays var: GS-2) Plant Growth and Yield: Seed Treatment with Non-thermal Plasma using Different Gases
Authors: Viliya Kundan , Sharma Uttam , Thakur Manisha , Guruprasad Kadur Narayan , Sharma Jayshree , Rane Ramkrishna , Sanyasi Amulya , Ghosh Joydeep
Published: January 2025

Impact of pre-sowing treatment of maize (Zea mays Var: GS-2) seeds with non-thermal glow discharge plasma on the growth and yield of field grown plants has been investigated. Maize seeds were treated with non-thermal glow discharge plasma produced from five different gases Nitrogen (N2), Helium (He), Argon (Ar), Hydrogen (H2) and Oxygen (O2) before sowing the seeds in the field. Seeds were exposed to 30 W for 240 seconds to glow discharge plasma produced in a cylindrical stainless steel vacuum chamber utilizing an automatic matching network and a 13.56 MHz with the capacity up to 600W RF power source are used. Plasma treated seeds were grown in the field and growth measurements were made at 30, 60 and 90 days after sowing. Pre- sowing treatment with glow discharge plasma enhanced plant height, leaf length and plant fresh weight at all the stages of growth. O2 and N2 plasma treated seeds were more effective than He, H2 and Ar in enhancing the growth and biomass of the plants. The yield parameters are cob length 21% in O2 and 19% in N2, cob weight 36% in O2 and 34% in N2, and 100 seeds weight 39% in O2 and 36% in N2 plasma were significantly enhanced. It is concluded that O2 and N2 plasma Pre-sowing treatment can significantly enhance the biomass and yield of maize plants with O2 slightly higher. Analyzing the characterization with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and optical emission spectroscopy (OES) of maize seeds. SEM revealed considerable alterations for O2, N2, Ar, and He but no change for H2 plasma treatment. The findings demonstrate that the surface of the starch caryopsis has been altered, exposing an oxygen and nitrogen plasma that has resulted in huge channels and water holes. The OES identified the presence of OH, NO, O, and N2 radicals generated during oxygen and nitrogen plasma treatment, which is contributing to the best result.
Cleaning as care work: conceptual musings
Authors: von Bose Käthe , Simon Ali , Villa Paula-Irene
Published: January 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic has made many aspects of care work more visible. This article focuses on cleaning as a form of care work that has been systematically ignored and made invisible. We examine both the benefits and drawbacks of acknowledging cleaning as a specific form of care: while broadening the concept of care might risk diluting its analytical precision, incorporating cleaning into care work discussions brings attention to its significance. We argue that recognizing cleaning as care is vital because it uncovers its nurturing, life-sustaining and intimate qualities. Cleaning can, thus, be understood as a biopolitical dimension of contemporary societies.
Stochastic variation in foraging traits within inbred lines of Drosophila
Authors: Hamamichi Kaiya , Takahashi Yuma
Published: January 2025

Investigating the causes and consequences of niche partitioning in populations is a major goal in ecology and evolutionary biology. Previous studies have investigated genetic and environmentally induced variation in resource utility and their ecological implications. However, few studies have explored variability (non-genetic, stochastic variation) as a factor contributing to variation in resource utility. In this study, we studied the variability in foraging traits of Drosophila lutescens, a species of wild fruit fly. Using 70 iso-female lines from a single population, we observed two foraging traits, i.e., locomotive speed and resource preferences, in an “8”-shaped experimental arena containing different types of fruit juices. The mean locomotive speed and relative preference for orange juice over grape juice varied significantly among iso-female lines. Additionally, the degree of intraline variation (variability) was detected a fold-change of larger than 2-fold between the smallest line and the largest line. While the mean locomotive speed itself did not correlate with mean resource preferences, the variability of locomotive speed significantly correlated with that of resource preferences. These results suggest that the degree of variability within inbred lines for both locomotive activity and resource preference is potentially partly genetic and that a shared genetic basis may govern variability in these traits. The variability of a particular trait is considered to interact cooperatively with the variability of several other traits in creating phenotypic intraspecific variation within a population.
Effects of hydrogen on microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of TB8 titanium alloy
Authors: Chen Yequan , Wang Shiying , Meng Jiaxing , Mitsuzaki Naotoshi , Chen Zhidong
Published: January 2025

The influence of varying hydrogen content on the microstructure, mechanical properties, and fracture behavior of the metastable β titanium alloy TB8 after hydrogen charging has been investigated in this study. Several characterization methods, including optical microscopy (OM), x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), were employed to comprehensively analyze the alloy. The results show that with the addition of hydrogen, hydrogen mainly accumulated at grain boundaries in the form of hydrides. The β phase diffraction peak shifted to a lower angle, which can be attribute to hydrogen-induced lattice distortion. As the hydrogen content increases, γ-TiH hydrides and ε-TiH2 hydrides were observed. Ultimate tensile strength of the alloy firstly increased from 982 MPa to 1636 MPa, and then decreased to 1432 MPa. Uniform elongation decreased from 33% to 19%. Fracture mode transitioned from ductile to brittle with increasing hydrogen. In summary, we hope the outcome of this work could provide important insights toward the hydrogen charging influences the microstructure, mechanical properties, and fracture behavior of the TB8 titanium alloy.
Prevalence of keratoconus and keratoconus suspect, and their characteristics on corneal tomography in a population-based study
Authors: Namba Hiroyuki , Maeda Naoyuki , Utsunomiya Hiroshi , Kaneko Yutaka , Ishizawa Kenichi , Ueno Yoshiyuki , Nishitsuka Koichi
Published: January 2025

Keratoconus (KC) is a progressive corneal disorder resulting in severe visual impairment. We aimed to determine the prevalence and corneal tomographic characteristics of KC and keratoconus suspect (KCS) in a population-based study, and to construct discrimination models with or without corneal tomography. A total of 1,544 eyes (822 participants aged ≥35 years) were evaluated using data from the Yamagata Study (2015–2017). Systemic and ophthalmological examinations including corneal tomography with swept-source anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) were conducted to determine the prevalence and corneal tomographic characteristics of KC and KCS. In addition, data on 766 eyes were used to construct discrimination models with or without corneal tomography. In results, KC was diagnosed in six (0.85%) participants, and KCS was diagnosed in 27 (1.46%) participants. The values including corneal power, keratometric cylinder, corneal central and thinnest thickness, corneal asymmetry, higher-order irregularity, and their inter-eye differences were associated with KC and KCS. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves for the three multivariate discrimination models (without corneal tomography, with corneal tomography, and without corneal tomography + inter-eye difference models) for participants with KC or KCS were 0.848, 1.000, and 0.930, respectively. When corneal tomography is unavailable, inter-eye differences in corneal parameters may be useful screening tools for KC and KCS.
Optimization of surface roughness for titanium alloy based on multi-strategy fusion snake algorithm
Authors: Li Nanqi , Shang ZuEn , Zhao Yang , Wang Hui , Min Qiyuan
Published: January 2025

Titanium alloy is known for its low thermal conductivity, small elastic modulus, and propensity for work hardening, posing challenges in predicting surface quality post high-speed milling. Since surface quality significantly influences wear resistance, fatigue strength, and corrosion resistance of parts, optimizing milling parameters becomes crucial for enhancing service performance. This paper proposes a milling parameter optimization method utilizing the snake algorithm with multi-strategy fusion to improve surface quality. The optimization objective is surface roughness. Initially, a prediction model for titanium alloy milling surface roughness is established using the response surface method to ensure continuous prediction. Subsequently, the snake algorithm with multi-strategy fusion is introduced. Population initialization employs an orthogonal matrix strategy, enhancing population diversity and distribution. A dynamic adaptive mechanism replaces the original static mechanism for optimizing food quantity and temperature, accelerating convergence. Joint reverse strategy aids in selecting and generating individuals with higher fitness, fortifying the algorithm against local optima. Experimental results across five benchmarks employing various optimization algorithms demonstrate the superiority of the MSSO algorithm in convergence speed and accuracy. Finally, the multi-strategy snake algorithm optimizes the objective equation, with milling parameter experiments revealing a 55.7 percent increase in surface roughness of Ti64 compared to pre-optimization levels. This highlights the effectiveness of the proposed method in enhancing surface quality.
Affective polarization in a word: Open-ended and self-coded evaluations of partisan affect
Authors: Kiesel Spencer , Amlani Sharif
Published: January 2025

The literature finds that partisanship drives negative emotional evaluations of out-partisans. Yet, scholars base these insights on measures–like thermometers, candidate evaluations, and social-distance measures–that discount the sentiment attached to individuals’ negative attitudes. We introduce a unique measure of affect capturing the motivation underpinning partisans’ attitudes. Our measure asks respondents for one-word to describe voters in their party and the opposing party. Then respondents code the sentiment behind their word choice themselves. Together, our measure produces qualitative and quantitative measures of respondents’ affect. We find that our self-coded open-ended measure has strong face validity and correlates strongly with existing affect measures. This measure advances our understating of partisan affect by allowing scholars a window into respondents’ state of mind. Scholars can easily apply our measure’s procedure beyond partisanship to other groups of interest.
Running trends in Switzerland from 1999 to 2019: An exploratory observational study
Authors: Witthöft Anja , Marcin Thimo , Thuany Mabliny , Scheer Volker , Nikolaidis Pantelis T. , Wilhelm Matthias , Weiss Katja , Rosemann Thomas , Knechtle Beat
Published: January 2025

Background

Several single race events (5 km, 10 km, half-marathon, marathon, ultra-marathon) in different countries and different years have been analyzed in multiple studies, representing the rising interest in endurance-based activity and thus physical health. With focus on participation numbers, performance or sex difference, many single study results were obtained. The running trends in a whole country covering a longer period of time and several race distances are missing so far.

Objectives

The aim of this study is therefore to examine 5 km, 10 km, half-marathon, marathon and ultra-marathon races by age, sex, participation numbers and performance during two decades (1999–2019) for one country (Switzerland).

Methods

In this exploratory observational study, we analyzed 1,172,836 finishers (370,517 women and 802,319 men) competing between 1999 and 2019 in 5 different race distances in Switzerland. We used publicly available data about the athletes and examined total finishing numbers, sex, age and performances (measured in m/s) via descriptive analyses and linear mixed models. Do-not-finishers were excluded.

Results

The most frequented race was the half-marathon (33.1% of finishers), the less frequented was the ultra-marathon distance (8.5% of finishers). In most recent years, only the number of finishers in ultra-marathon, especially in trail runs increased. In total, there were more male finishers (68.4%) than female finishers (31.6%) and only in 5 km races, more women finished than men (55.3%). Men were faster than women and both sexes were running slower in all race distances across years. Athletes in 10 km races had the best performance within the five analyzed race distances. Median age increased with longer race distance and decreased in ultra-marathon in recent years.

Conclusion

In summary, finishing numbers especially in ultra-marathons increased with a focus on trail runs, female and male athletes had a declining performance across years in all race distances and men ran faster than women. Median age increased with longer race distance leading to more aged endurance-trained athletes. A downtrend in median age is found only in ultra-marathon in recent years. The results are important for athletes, race directors and coaches with regard to training schedules and the trend towards long distance races as well as for the medical attendance especially of older athletes, being more and more interested in endurance running.
The impact mechanism of geopolitical risks on ESG performance: The moderating effects of investor attention and government subsidies
Authors: Cheng Pengfei , Wang Mengzhen , Li Kanyong , Choi Baekryul , Chen Wenliang
Published: January 2025

The impact of geopolitical risks (GPR) on enterprises is significant, yet the existing literature lacks a comprehensive understanding of how GPR affects environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance. This study addresses this gap by analysing data from Chinese enterprises over the period 2009 to 2021. It empirically examines the impact of GPR on ESG performance and explores the underlying mechanisms. Specifically, the analysis considers the roles of investor attention and government subsidies as moderating factors. The results indicate that GPR inhibits corporate ESG performance. State-owned enterprises are found to mitigate these adverse effects, while privately-owned enterprises tend to exacerbate them. Mechanism tests reveal that GPR negatively impacts ESG performance by increasing financing constraints and reducing financial performance. Furthermore, increased investor attention and government subsidies can alleviate the negative effects of GPR on ESG performance. These findings offer valuable insights for organisations, governments, and stakeholders, enabling them to better respond to GPR and achieve sustainable development.
A co-produced mixed methods protocol: Exploring perceptions of oral health care and quality of life in people with mental health conditions
Authors: Zechner Michelle R. , Jia Yuane , Hill Naja , Kasper Ann , York Jill , Singhal Vaishali , Rothpletz-Puglia Pamela
Published: January 2025

This planned mixed methods protocol is designed to explore oral health care for individuals living with serious mental health conditions (SMHC). It was co-produced by academics, people with lived experience of mental health conditions, and oral and mental health clinicians. The study seeks to explore oral health quality of life predictors and oral health care experiences of people diagnosed with serious mental health conditions (e.g. schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression and general anxiety disorder) about their oral health care experiences. The research research will generate recommendations for creating positive oral healthcare experiences for people living with SMHC. Research co-production with people diagnosed with mental health conditions is a recommended strategy to improve the utility and relevance of health research, as well as empower a disenfranchised population.
Universal parent-focused child sexual abuse prevention: A quasi-experimental protocol
Authors: Abourjaily Ella , Guastaferro Kate , McElwee Kassidy , Connell Christian M.
Published: January 2025

Background

Child sexual abuse (CSA) is a significant public health concern, and there is a lack of universal, evidence-based primary prevention interventions that extend beyond a focus solely on children. Parents remain a consistently underutilized target for primary prevention efforts aimed at mitigating CSA despite their unique relationship and close proximity to their children. CSA risk is not confined to any specific demographic, and its effects on affected children are well-documented, significantly impacting numerous dimensions of their wellbeing. Thus, there is a clear and urgent need to address this gap in prevention strategies.

Methods

This study will use a quasi-experimental design (target N = 412) to examine potential gains in CSA-related awareness and intentions to use protective behaviors among parents who participate in a universal parent-focused CSA prevention workshop, Smarter Parents. Safer Kids., compared to those who do not. Participants in both the control (n = 206) and experimental group (n = 206) will complete 3 survey assessments: Survey 0 (baseline), Survey 1 (1-month), and Survey 2 (3-month follow-up). The experimental group will participate in a Smarter Parents. Safer Kids. workshop between the Surveys 0 and 1. We will use data collected from the baseline to measure potential mediators of CSA-related awareness and intention to use protective and preventive behaviors. In adjacent efforts to enhance the curriculum’s reach with future dissemination and implementation, we will also explore the impact of recruitment materials and strategies on parental engagement.

Conclusion

Results of this study will advance efforts to implement parent-focused CSA prevention with a universal audience.
Long-term health consequences and costs of changes in alcohol consumption in England during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Card-Gowers Joshua , Boniface Sadie , Brown Jamie , Kock Loren , Martin Alexander , Retat Lise , Webber Laura
Published: January 2025

Background and aims

The COVID-19 pandemic led to changes in alcohol consumption in England. Evidence suggests that one-fifth to one-third of adults increased their alcohol consumption, while a similar proportion reported consuming less. Heavier drinkers increased their consumption the most and there was a 20% increase in alcohol-specific deaths in England in 2020 compared with 2019, a trend continuing through 2021 and 2022. This study aimed to quantify future health, healthcare, and economic impacts of changes in alcohol consumption observed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

This study used a validated microsimulation model of alcohol consumption and health outcomes. Inputted data were obtained from the Alcohol Toolkit Study, and demographic, health and cost data from published literature and publicly available datasets. Three scenarios were modelled: short, medium, and long-term, where 2020 drinking patterns continue until the end of 2022, 2024, and 2035, respectively. Disease incidence, mortality, and healthcare costs were modelled for nine alcohol-related health conditions. The model was run from 2020 to 2035 for the population of England and different occupational social grade groups.

Results

In all scenarios, the microsimulation projected significant increases in incident cases of disease, premature mortality, and healthcare costs, compared with the continuation of pre-COVID-19 trends. If COVID-19 drinking patterns continue to 2035, we projected 147,892 excess cases of diseases, 9,914 additional premature deaths, and £1.2 billion in excess healthcare costs in England. The projections show that the more disadvantaged (C2DE) occupational social grade groups will experience 36% more excess premature mortality than the least disadvantaged social group (ABC1) under the long-term scenario.

Conclusions

Alcohol harm is projected to worsen as an indirect result of the COVID-19 pandemic and inequalities are projected to widen. Early real-world data corroborate the findings of the modelling study. Increased rates of alcohol harm and healthcare costs are not inevitable but evidence-based policies and interventions are required to reverse the impacts of the pandemic on alcohol consumption in England.
Exploring mental health symptoms in elite athletes during the COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review and meta-analysis on sex differences
Authors: Kuo Liang-Tseng , Tsai Sung-Huang Laurent , Dave Udit , Marmor William A. , Olsen Reena , Jivanelli Bridget , Kew Michelle E. , Ling Daphne I.
Published: January 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected elite athletes, leading to increased mental health issues such as stress, anxiety, and depression. Sex differences in mental health may exist among athletes during the COVID-19 crisis. This study aimed to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine sex differences in mental health symptoms among elite athletes during the COVID-19 pandemic. We systematically searched the databases including Pubmed, EMBASE, and manually checked previous systematic reviews for relevant studies in March 2024. Authors were also contacted for sex-specific data. Studies were included if they compared mental health symptoms between male and female elite athletes during the COVID-19 pandemic. We used a random-effects model to summarize the rate ratio (RR) between female and male athletes across studies. Risk of bias in studies was assessed using a 9-item tool. We included 18 studies in this review. The results indicated that female athletes reported higher levels of anxiety (RR 1.24, 95% CI = 1.08 to 1.43) and depression (RR 1.36, 95% CI = 1.15 to 1.61) than male athletes during the pandemic. They also had a higher risk of stress or distress (RR 1.27, 95% CI = 0.99 to 1.63) than their male counterparts. No significant differences were found regarding alcohol use or misuse between female and male athletes (RR 1.01, 95% CI = 0.75 to 1.37). Limited evidence was available for eating disorders, gambling, substance use, and sleep problems. In conclusion, female and male athletes differed in mental health symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic. Female athletes were more likely to report anxiety, depression, and distress. Incorporating mental health resources may be particularly important for women’s sports, which have smaller financial margins and greater career uncertainty than men’s sports.
Deep learning-based skin lesion analysis using hybrid ResUNet++ and modified AlexNet-Random Forest for enhanced segmentation and classification
Authors: Mustafa Saleem , Jaffar Arfan , Rashid Muhammad , Akram Sheeraz , Bhatti Sohail Masood
Published: January 2025

Skin cancer is considered globally as the most fatal disease. Most likely all the patients who received wrong diagnosis and low-quality treatment die early. Though if it is detected in the early stages the patient has fairly good chance and the aforementioned diseases can be cured. Consequently, diagnostic identification and management of the patient at this level becomes a rather enormous task. This paper offers a cutting-edge hybrid deep learning approach of better segmentation and classification of skin lesions. The proposed method incorporates three key stages: preprocessing, segmentation of lesions, and classification of lesions. By the stage of preprocessing, a morphology-based technique takes out hair so as to enhance the segmentation precision to use the cleansed images for subsequent analysis. Segmentation cuts off the lesion from the surrounding skin, giving the classification phase a dedicated area of interest and the ability to clear the background noise that may affect classification rates. The isolation enables the model to better analyze anatomical lesion features in order to achieve accurate benign and malignant classifications. Using ResUNet++, the cutting-edge deep learning architecture, we achieved accurate lesion segmentation. Next, we will modify and use an AlexNet-Random Forest (AlexNet-RF) based classifier for robust lesion classification. The proposed hybrid deep learning model is intensively validated on the Ham10000 data set which is one of the most popular datasets for skin lesions analysis. The obtained results show that the utilized approach, compared to the previous ones, is more effective, giving better segmentation and classification results. This method takes advantage of ResUNet++ strong classification skill and modified AlexNet-Random Forest robustness for more accurate segmentation. There is a high probability that ResUNet++, which is highly proficient at medical image segmentation, can produce better segmentation of lesions than the simpler models. The composition of AlexNet’s extraction of features with Random Forest ability to reduce overfitting possibly may be more precise in the classification when compared to using only one model.
Volatility, correlation and risk spillover effect between freight rates in BCI and BPI markets: Evidence from static and dynamic GARCH-Copula and dynamic CoVaR models
Authors: ZOU Yuye , XU Jing , CHEN Yanhui
Published: January 2025

The dry bulk shipping market plays a crucial role in global trade. To examine the volatility, correlation, and risk spillover between freight rates in the BCI and BPI markets, this paper employs the GARCH-Copula-CoVaR model. We analyze the dynamic behavior of the secondary market freight index for dry bulk cargo, highlighting its performance in a complex financial environment and offering empirical support for the shipping industry and financial markets. The findings reveal that: (1) There are significant differences in correlation across various routes, with the correlation between BCI and BPI routes fluctuating over time. Among all route combinations, C5 and P3A_03 exhibit the highest positive correlation. (2) A one-way risk spillover exists between P1A_03 an C5, while two-way positive risk spillover is observed between other routes. This suggests that when a risk materializes on a specific route, other routes are also exposed to potential risks, with varying intensities of spillover. (3) The distance and geographical location of routes may be key factors influencing the differing intensities of risk spillover. This highlights the need to consider the geographical characteristics of routes in understanding risk transmission. This paper aims to provide risk management strategies based on these empirical findings, assisting shipping companies and investors in developing more effective responses to market volatility.
Analysis of entropy on the European markets of energy and energy commodities prices
Authors: Papla Daniel , Siedlecki Rafał
Published: January 2025

The paper analyzes the problem of entropy in the moments of transition from a normal economic situation (2015–2019) to the Pandemic period (2020–2021) and the period of Russia’s attack on Ukraine (2022–2023). The research in the article is based on the analysis of electricity, oil, coal, and gas prices in 27 countries of the European Union and Norway. The daily data cover the period from January 1, 2015, to March 30, 2023, and were analyzed using two-dimensional sets of electricity and commodity prices. The work uses the time dependent James-Stein estimator of the Shannon informational entropy.
A comparison of disseminated intravascular coagulation scoring systems and their performance to predict mortality in sepsis patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kiya Girum Tesfaye , Abebe Gemeda , Mekonnen Zeleke , Tadasa Edosa , Milkias Gedion , Asefa Elsah Tegene
Published: January 2025

Background

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a common complication in sepsis patients which exacerbates patient outcomes. The prevalence and outcomes of DIC in sepsis is wide-ranging and highly depends on the severity of the disease and diagnostic approaches utilized. Varied diagnostic criteria of DIC have been developed and their performance in diagnosis and prognosis is not consistent. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the score positivity rate and performance of different DIC scoring systems in predicting mortality in sepsis patients.

Methods

Four databases, including Medline (through PubMed), Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science were searched for studies that determined DIC in sepsis patients using the three scoring systems namely: the International Society on Thrombosis and Hemostasis DIC (ISTH-DIC) criteria, the Japanese association for acute medicine DIC (JAAM-DIC) criteria, and the sepsis-induced coagulopathy (SIC) criteria. A random-effect meta-analysis was performed with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Subgroup analysis was conducted in view of geographic region and sepsis stages. the protocol was submitted to the Prospective Register for Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) with an identifier (CRD42023409614).

Results

Twenty-one studies, published between 2009 and 2024, comprising 9319 sepsis patients were included. The pooled proportion of cases diagnosed as positive using ISTH-DIC criteria, JAAM-DIC criteria, and SIC were 28% (95% CI: 24–34%), 55% (95% CI:42–70%), and 57% (95% CI: 52–78%), respectively. The pooled mortality rates were 44% (95% CI:33–53%), 37% (95% CI: 29–46%), and 35% (95% CI: 29–41%), respectively. The pooled sensitivity and specificity of ISTH-DIC to predict mortality were 0.43 (95% CI: 0.34–0.52), and 0.81 (95% CI: 0.74–0.87), respectively, while for JAAM-DIC it was 0.73 (95% CI: 0.57–0.85) and 0.46 (95% CI: 0.28–0.65), respectively. Pooled sensitivity and specificity for SIC were 0.71 (95% CI: 0.57–0.82) and 0.49 (95% CI: 0.31–0.66), respectively.

Conclusion

The SIC and JAAM-DIC scores exhibited higher sensitivity to identify patients with coagulopathy and predict patient outcomes, and thus are valuable to identify patients for possible treatment at an early stage. The ISTH-DIC score perhaps identified patients at later stages and demonstrated better specificity to predict disease outcomes. Thus, early identification of patients using the SIC and JAAM-DIC scores and later confirmation using the ISTH-DIC score would be beneficial approach for improved management of patients with sepsis.
Impacts of host phylogeny, diet, and geography on the gut microbiome of rodents
Authors: Neha Sufia Akter , Hanson John D. , Wilkinson Jeremy E. , Bradley Robert D. , Phillips Caleb D.
Published: January 2025

Mammalian gut microbial communities are thought to play a variety of important roles in health and fitness, including digestion, metabolism, nutrition, immune response, behavior, and pathogen protection. Gut microbiota diversity among hosts is strongly shaped by diet as well as phylogenetic relationships among hosts. Although various host factors may influence microbial community structure, the relative contribution may vary depending on several variables, such as taxonomic scales of the species studied, dietary patterns, geographic location, and gut physiology. The present study focused on 12 species of rodents representing 3 rodent families and 3 dietary guilds (herbivores, granivores, and omnivores) to evaluate the influence of host phylogeny, dietary guild and geography on microbial diversity and community composition. Colon samples were examined from rodents that were collected from 7 different localities in Texas and Oklahoma which were characterized using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing targeting the V1-V3 variable regions. The microbiota of colon samples was largely dominated by the family Porphyromonadaceae (Parabacteriodes, Coprobacter) and herbivorous hosts harbored richer gut microbial communities than granivores and omnivores. Differential abundance analysis showed significant trends in the abundance of several bacterial families when comparing herbivores and granivores to omnivores, however, there were no significant differences observed between herbivores and granivores. The gut microbiotas displayed patterns consistent with phylosymbiosis as host phylogeny explained more variation in gut microbiotas (34%) than host dietary guilds (10%), and geography (3%). Overall, results indicate that among this rodent assemblage, evolutionary relatedness is the major determinant of microbiome compositional variation, but diet and to a lesser extent geographic provenance are also influential.
Racism, homophobia, and the sexual health of young Black men who have sex with men in the United States: A systematic review
Authors: Janek Sarah E. , Matos Lisvel A. , Hatoum Sandy , Mulawa Marta I. , Ledbetter Leila , Relf Michael V.
Published: January 2025

Black gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (BMSM) experience the highest rates of HIV acquisition annually out of any population in the United States, and young BMSM (YBMSM) are heavily impacted by this inequity as they enter adulthood. Despite a high annual HIV incidence, extant literature has found BMSM to engage in fewer sexual risk behaviors than White and Hispanic/Latino men who have sex with men, resulting in a gap between risk behaviors and the inequity of HIV infection. Structural factors, such as racism and homophobia, are thus being examined in order to understand this disconnect between behavior and HIV incidence. The purpose of this systematic review was to examine the discrimination experiences of YBMSM due to racism and homophobia in the United States and to evaluate the effect of these experiences on their sexual health. Four databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL Complete, APA PsycINFO, and Sociology Source Ultimate) were searched to examine the available qualitative, quantitative, and mixed method studies relevant to the research question. Out of 17 included studies, the majority were qualitative in design and were conducted in urban settings. Racism and homophobia affected YBMSM’s sense of belonging, sexual identity, and sexual partnership choices. Often, masculinity would interact with these two constructs to impact how YBMSM engaged in sexual behavior, such as condomless sex, as well as their likelihood to seek sexual health care. Future research is needed to fully understand the relationships between discrimination and sexual health to develop effective structurally responsive interventions that will help decrease the inequities experienced by YBMSM.
Outcome comparison of rotational ankle fractures: Supination external rotation versus pronation external rotation
Authors: Lee Min-Su , Lee Gun-Woo , Choi Ji-Hoon , Lee Keun-Bae
Published: January 2025

Background

Ankle fractures are among the most common types of fractures in the orthopaedic field, and the Lauge-Hansen classification is commonly used to categorize rotational ankle fractures. This study evaluated and compared the clinical and radiological outcomes of surgically treated supination external rotation (SER) and pronation external rotation (PER) injuries of grades III or IV.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed and enrolled 104 patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation for SER or PER injuries classified as Grades III or IV between January 2016 and December 2021, all performed at a single center. Of these, 72 belonged to the SER group and 32 to the PER group. The average postoperative follow-up durations were 31.3 months (range, 24 to 74) for the SER group and 32.1 months (range, 24 to 71) for the PER group. Clinical and radiological outcomes were assessed 24 months after surgery and compared between the two groups. Details of concomitant surgical procedures performed and postoperative complications were also evaluated.

Results

All clinical outcome variables, including the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score, Visual Analog Scale for pain, and ankle range of motion, were comparable between the two groups. Similarly, no statistically significant differences were observed in the development of post-traumatic arthritis or in the frequency of syndesmotic widening 24 months postoperatively. However, the time required for fibular union was significantly longer in the PER group, taking 5.6 ± 2.2 months compared to 3.4 ± 1.3 months in the SER group on average (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that both types of rotational ankle fractures can achieve equivalent clinical and radiological outcomes with surgical treatment. Given the prolonged time to fibular union in the PER group, careful monitoring during postoperative follow-up is required.
Climate-denying rumor propagation in a coupled socio-climate model: Impact on average global temperature
Authors: Satheesh Kumar Athira , Bauch Chris T. , Anand Madhur
Published: January 2025

Individual attitudes vastly affect the transformations we are experiencing and are vital in mitigating or intensifying climate change. A socio-climate model by coupling a model of rumor dynamics in heterogeneous networks to a simple Earth System model is developed, in order to analyze how rumors about climate change impact individuals’ opinions when they may choose to either believe or reject the rumors they come across over time. Our model assumes that when individuals experience an increase in the global temperature, they tend to not believe the rumors they come across. The rumor rejectors limit their CO2 emissions to reduce global temperature. Our numerical analysis indicates that, over time, the temperature anomaly becomes less affected by the variations in rumor propagation parameters, and having larger groups (having more members) is more efficient in reducing temperature (by efficiently propagating rumors) than having numerous small groups. It is observed that decreasing the number of individual connections does not reduce the size of the rejector population when there are large numbers of messages sent through groups. Mitigation strategies considered by the rejectors are highly influential. The absence of mitigative behavior in rejectors can cause an increase in the global average temperature by 0.5°C. Our model indicates that rumor propagation in groups has the upper hand in controlling temperature change, compared to individual climate-denying propagation.
The dengue disquisition: A low-cost public housing conundrum in Klang Valley, Malaysia
Authors: AbuBakar Nabila , Behnke Jerzy M. , Sahimin Norhidayu , Kang Xiaoye , Mohd Shahar Siti Nursyahirah , Lim Yvonne Ai Lian , Mohd Zain Siti Nursheena
Published: January 2025

Dengue remains the most rapidly advancing vector-borne disease in the world, and while the disease burden is predominantly in low-to-middle-income countries, the association with poverty remains in question. Consequently, a study was undertaken to evaluate the prevalence of anti-dengue antibodies among individuals residing in the People’s Housing Program (PPR), a government-sponsored low-cost housing initiative targeting low-income earners. This type of public housing often faces challenges, including substandard housing facilities. Therefore this study took into consideration several social determinants of health, including the economic, environmental, and social conditions that contribute towards dengue transmission. The research was conducted over a period of 18 months across 14 PPRs in Klang Valley, Malaysia. Overall seroprevalence of anti-dengue immunoglobulin G (IgG) was 78.2% (CL: 72.5–83.1) among the 436 residents who participated in the study, while seroprevalence of anti-dengue IgM was 0.9% (CL: 0.2–3.2). Log-linear statistical models with the presence/absence of anti-dengue IgG and individual factors showed significant associations of anti-dengue IgG with age, income, location, and waste bin conditions, but ethnicity was just at the wrong side of the cut-off for significance. However, a multifactorial model, in which all relevant factors were taken into account, showed that location and ethnicity were the key risk factors. For anti-dengue IgM, the only significant association was with the presence of stagnant water bodies around the compounds. Findings from this study highlight an acute need for improvements in the environmental and societal health of those residing in PPRs in locations that are particularly at risk, and continuous community empowerment to ensure that the preventive measures taken to eradicate dengue are locally sustainable.
Attributes and factors associated with long covid in patients hospitalized for acute COVID-19: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Minassie Bethlehem Berhanu , Degu Wondwossen Amogne , Etissa Eyob Kebede , Asfeha Natnael Fitsum , Alemayehu Salem Taye , Huluka Dawit Kebede
Published: January 2025

Background

It is now recognized that many patients have persistent symptoms after recovery from acute COVID-19 infection, an infection caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. This constellation of symptoms known as ‘Long COVID’ may manifest with a wide range of physical and cognitive/psychological symptoms. Few data are available on the prevalence, attributes, and factors associated with Long COVID in Africa.

Method

This was a retrospective review of patients’ electronic medical records from Hallelujah General Hospital (one of the first private hospitals to treat COVID-19 patients). The hospital’s database was searched for patients hospitalized for acute COVID-19 infection from March 2020 to December 2022. Two hundred and forty-seven participants who underwent follow-up beginning four weeks after symptom onset were assessed for Long COVID. Admission and follow-up data were collected using Kobo Toolbox and exported into SPSS 27 for analysis. The relationship between the independent and dependent variables was explored through binary logistic regression.

Results

One hundred seventy-eight (72.1%) participants had at least one persisting symptom 4 weeks post-symptom onset, at a median follow-up time of 35 (IQR 32–40) days. The most frequently reported symptoms were fatigue (41.7%), shortness of breath (31.2%), cough (27.1%), and sleep disturbances (15%). Duration of symptoms more than 7 days before admission [aOR = 1.97; CI95% = 1.04 to 3.75; P = 0.038] and length of stay more than 10 days in the hospital [aOR = 2.62; CI95% = 1.20 to 5.72; P = 0.016] were found to be significantly associated with Long COVID.

Conclusion

There is a high prevalence of Long COVID among patients hospitalized for acute COVID-19. Those who had a longer duration of symptoms before admission and a longer stay in the hospital appear to have a higher risk.
Infection prevention and control and water, sanitation, and hygiene status of healthcare facilities in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan region during the COVID-19 pandemic in Uganda
Authors: Mugambe Richard K. , Wanyenze Rhoda K. , Ssekamatte Tonny , Isunju John Bosco , Nalugya Aisha , Wafula Solomon T. , Musoke David , Mukasa Hajra Comfort , Balen Julie , Yakubu Habib , Moe Christine L.
Published: January 2025

Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) and Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) are critical in preventing the spread of healthcare Associated Infections, including COVID-19. However, there was limited evidence on the status of IPC/WASH in healthcare facilities (HCFs) in Uganda amidst the COVID-19 pandemic which complicated IPC/WASH planning for the COVID-19 response. This study assessed IPC/WASH status for HCFs in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area (GKMA), during the COVID-19 pandemic, so as to inform programming and policy. A mixed methods cross-sectional study was conducted in 75 HCFs following the first wave of COVID-19 in Uganda. The mWater tool was used to collect quantitative data which were then analyzed into STATA version 16. A key informants’ guide was used to collect qualitative data, which was analyzed thematically and themes and quotes used to support the quantitative findings. Overall, 86.7% (65/75) of HCFs had an IPC committee and 72.3% (47/65) of these were functional. Besides, 90.7% (68/75) of the HCFs had an IPC focal person, and 49.3% (37/75) had a clear annual IPC activity plan. Unfortunately, only 32.3% (21/65) of the functional IPC committees received budgetary support for their activities. In terms of WASH infrastructure, 96.0% (72/75), 10.7% (8/75), 60.0% (45/75), and 22.7% (17/75) had access to a basic water service, a basic sanitation service, a basic hand hygiene service and a basic environmental cleaning respectively. Our study reveals that while most HCFs have IPC committees and focal persons, functional support remains limited, with half having a clear annual plan and less than a third receiving budgetary support. Nearly all HCFs have basic water services, but there are significant gaps in sanitation and environmental cleanliness domains. These findings highlight the urgent need for improved support and investment in IPC/WASH supplies and infrastructure to enhance infection control and public health outcomes in Uganda.
PERAN KORBAN (VICTIM PRECIPITATION) DALAM TINDAK PIDANA PENGANIAYAAN YANG MENYEBABKAN LUKA BERAT (STUDI PUTUSAN PN KABANJAHE NOMOR 96/Pid.B/2020/PN Kbj)
Authors: Septianti Anjelina Henryarni , Sularto R.B. , Astuti A.M. Endah Sri
Published: January 2025

Korban merupakan pihak yang mengalami penderitaan yang disebabkan oleh suatu tindak pidana. Maka korban berhak mendapatkan perlindungan hukum, namun dalam situasi tertentu karena sikap dan perilakunya korban dapat memicu pelaku untuk melakukan kejahatan. Korban dalam hal ini dikategorikan sebagai victim precipitation. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengkaji mengenai kebijakan perlindungan hukum terhadap korban serta menganalisis victim precipitation sebagai pertimbangan hakim dalam penjatuhan putusan Pengadilan Negeri Kabanjahe Nomor 96/Pid.B/2020/PN Kbj. Metode pendekatan dalam penulisan ini adalah penelitian doktrinal. Dan Metode analisis data yang digunakan adalah kualitatif kemudian disajikan secara deskriptif. Hasil dalam penelitian ini menunjukan bahwa kebijakan perlindugan hukum terhadap korban dalam peraturan perundang-undangan, seperti dalam KUHP dan KUHAP masih berorientasi terhadap pemberian perlindungan hukum terhadap tersangka. Berlakukannya undang-undang perlindungan saksi dan korban ditujukan untuk memberikan rasa aman terhadap saksi dan/atau korban dalam memberikan keterangan pada setiap proses peradilan pidana. Dalam putusan Pengadilan Negeri Kabanjahe Nomor 96/Pid.B/2020/PN Kbj, aspek victim precipitation menjadi pertimbangan hakim dalam menjatuhkan pidana terhadap terdakwa, peran korban sebagai pihak yang memicu terjadinya tindak pidana dalam perkara ini dipertimbangkan untuk mengurangi masa pidana bagi pelaku.