bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calibration and XGBoost reweighting to reduce coverage and non-response biases in overlapping panel surveys: Application to the Healthcare and Social Survey
Authors: Castro Luis , Rueda María del Mar , Sánchez-Cantalejo Carmen , Ferri Ramón , Cabrera-León Andrés
Published: July 2023

Healthcare statistical services worldwide have used probability surveys to provide information on the social, economic and health impact of COVID-19, or its seroprevalence and evolution, or the characteristics of the infected population. The Healthcare and Social Survey (ESSA, Spanish acronym) arises from the need to provide data on the evolution of the COVID-19 impact which can be considered when making decisions, so as to prepare and deliver an effective Public Health response in the different populations concerned. This survey has an overlapping panel survey design with measurements throughout 2020 and 2021, and random samplings stratified by province and degree of urbanization.
Each ESSA measurement comprises two samples: a longitudinal sample taken from previous measurements and a new sample taken at each measurement. This design allows longitudinal estimates and more accurate cross-sectional estimates to be obtained thanks to the larger sample size. However, the problem of non-response is particularly aggravated in the case of panel surveys due to population fatigue with repeated surveys. The objective of this research article is to develop a new reweighting method for overlapping panel surveys affected by non-response.
Considering the design, timing and objectives of this survey, our reweighting methodological approach produces suitable estimators for both cross-sectional and longitudinal samples. The weights are the result of a two-step process: the original sampling design weights are corrected by modelling non-response with respect to the longitudinal sample obtained in a previous measurement using machine learning techniques, followed by calibration using the auxiliary information available at the population level. The proposed method is applied to the estimation of totals, proportions, ratios, and differences between measurements, and to gender gaps in the variable of self-perceived general health.
For addressing future health crises such as COVID-19, it is therefore necessary to reduce potential coverage and non-response biases in surveys by means of utilizing reweighting techniques as proposed in this study.
Acceptability and feasibility of Healthy Men Healthy Communities program: male-led men’s health promotion and gender-based violence prevention program for South Sudanese refugee men in Uganda
Authors: Lee HaEun , Ajak Daniel Kuir , Drummond Nora , Zielinski Ruth
Published: July 2023

Background Men living in refugee settings are often exposed to violence, poverty, and social instability. Living through these challenges impacts men’s physical and mental health and increases their risk of perpetrating sexual and gender-based violence. The Healthy Men Healthy Communities program was developed as a male-led, health promotion program to address men’s physical and mental health and the role men play in creating healthy relationships and families. The purpose of this pilot study is to assess the feasibility and acceptability of the program among South Sudanese men in Ugandan refugee settlements.Methods Three men from the settlements were trained to facilitate the Healthy Men Healthy Communities program. The program was implemented among six groups consisting of 12 men in each group. Pre/post survey data and qualitative data were collected among the facilitators and participants from one of the randomly selected groups.Results The program was found to be acceptable to the facilitators and the participants. Program content presented through the small groups setting facilitated open conversation on controversial topics such as birth spacing and healthy partner communication. Participants experienced increases in knowledge and confidence in practicing program content such as stress-reduction techniques and healthy communication strategies. Facilitators further suggested culturally appropriate ways to present physical activities as a stress reduction technique and the importance of spacing out births. Participants recommended additional topics such as fertility, reproductive health, and sexually transmitted infections be included in future programs.Conclusion The Healthy Men Healthy Communities program has potential to empower South Sudanese refugee men to promote their health as well as the health of their families. Expansion of the content to include topics suggested by participants and implementation of the program with more groups across a variety of settings are needed to further evaluate the effectiveness of Healthy Men Healthy Communities.
An electronics-free implant for continuous and wireless monitoring of internal tissue strains
Authors: Zang Jianfeng , Tian Ye , Yang Yueying , Tang Hanchuan , Wang Jiaxin , Cheng Yifan , Kang Tianyu , Li Na , Zhou Mengyuan , Chen Wei , Yu Yan , Liu Xinqi , Liu Xurui , Xu Liqun
Published: July 2023

Implantable devices for continuous and wireless monitoring of internal tissue strains have gained significant attention in personalized health monitoring. Conventional implantable electronic sensors are small, flexible, and can monitor strains or vibrations in situ. However, electronic sensors still face challenges in biomechanical matching, biodegradability, biocompatibility, and wireless monitoring. Here we present an electronics-free strain sensor based on meta-gels for continuous and wireless monitoring of internal tissue strains. The meta-gel is a two-dimensional phononic crystal hydrogel, composed of periodic air columns in soft hydrogels (~ 18 kPa). The deformation of the meta-gel shifts its ultrasonic band gap, which can be wirelessly detected by an ultrasonic probe outside the skin. The meta-gel sensor is verified to monitor tissue strains on the porcine tendon, wounded tissue, and heart in ex vivo demonstration. Implantations in live pigs further demonstrate the meta-gel’s capability in monitoring tendon stretching, respiratory rhythm, and cardiac rhythm. The meta-gel sensor works stably in the pig during 30 days’ implantation and is observed to undergo almost complete degradation in 12 weeks by ultrasonic imaging.
Association between nutritional status and tuberculosis treatment outcomes among children on tuberculosis treatment in the south-west Shoa, Oromia, Ethiopia 2022: Cohort Study
Authors: Besheda Legese , Mulu Ermiyas , Boka Abdissa , Tesfaye Jembere
Published: July 2023

Background
Childhood Tuberculosis and malnutrition are prevalent and have consequences, particularly in low-income countries like Ethiopia and children are especially vulnerable. Studies have been conducted to understand as nutritional status of children is associated with treatment outcomes, which continuously cause disease severity and risk of mortality in the world including in Ethiopia.
Methods
A retrospective cohort study was conducted, from January 2017 to December 2021, among 258 children with TB treated in 16 health facilities, 172 well-nourished and 86 malnourished. Patient charts were selected using a systematic random sampling method. The data were entered by Epi-data version 4.2 while analysis was carried out using SPSS version 25. We compared TB treatment outcomes in children with malnourished versus children well-nourished at diagnosis. An odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was computed to determine the level of significant association. On multivariable analysis, those variables having a p-value of < 0.05 were considered statically significant predictors of the for-treatment outcomes of patients.
Results
The charts of 258 patients were reviewed which makes a 100% response rate. A total of 86 malnourished (<-2-Z score) patients and 172 normal or well-nourished patients (>=-2-Z score) were included in the final analysis of the study. The proportion of successful treatment outcomes among Children with malnourished and well-nourished was 93% and 99.4%, respectively. Age < 1 (AOR = 0.04, 95%CI: 0.002, 0.6), malnourished (AOR: 6.3, 95%CI: 1.8, 22.4), smear PTB+ (AOR: 0.5, 95%CI: 0.2, 0.9), HIV positive (AOR: 0.18, 95%CI: 0.1, 0.8), food support (AOR: 5, 95%CI: 1.5, 17), were factors significantly predictors of treatment outcomes.
Conclusion
This study suggests a low success rate in children malnourished. Age < 1, nutrition (severe acute malnourished), co-morbidity with the HIV smear PTB+, and male were predictors of lower successful treatment outcomes.
Clone-based sequencing and NGS of plant growth-promoting genes from metagenomic DNA of rice rhizosphere show marked diversity
Authors: Kumar Vivek , Kumar Ashok
Published: July 2023

Backgrounds and AimsAn attempt has been made to assess the distribution and diversity of important plant growth-promoting genes from the metagenomic DNA of rice rhizosphere soil.
Methods A novel multiplex polymerase chain reaction was developed for the amplification of three important genes namely nifH, pqqC and accd-DR simultaneously from the metagenomic DNA. Next generation sequencing was employed for the sequencing of above genes for the assessment of diversity.
Results Ninety six nifH clones from the metagenomic DNA of rice rhizosphere were selected which belonged to 15 groups on the basis of RFLP. Sequencing of the representative 15 clones showed higher level of similarity with the uncultured bacteria. Similarly, 12 clones of pqqC were selected, majority of the clones showed similarity with both uncultured and cultured bacteria. NGS of nifH showed fourteen types of genera with varying number of OTUs, the dominant genus identified as Halorhodospira (7.38%). pqqC and accd-DRshowed seven types of genera with varying number of OTUs. The highest abundance of Pseudomonas sp. (48.73%) was noted in pqqC and accd-DR showed the abundance of Acidovorax sp. (58.28%).
Conclusions Altogether, findings of this study suggest marked diversity in nifH, pqqC and accd-DRgenes in rice rhizosphere. It would be desirable to apply both clone-based sequencing and NGS for the analysis of total bacterial community and plant growth promoting genes from the metagenome of any habitat.
Indirect Additive Manufacturing of Hydrophobic Reentrant Surface Structures using Fused Deposition Modelling
Authors: Duran Myka Mae , Zhang Yang , Islam Aminul
Published: July 2023

Hydrophobicity is an important feature in medical applications. Reentrant structures are used to achieve this functionality on the surface to the greatest extent possible. This study provides a simple and cost-effective approach to producing these structures without the use of nanoparticles and fluorine-based coatings that can make this approach applicable to medical devices. This was done by indirect 3D printing using a low-cost commercially available Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) printer. The FDM printer is used to create a mold with a top layer of straight lines separated by a gap. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is cast into it negatively replicating the mold surface to make the reentrant structures. As a result, a functionalized surface with the reentrant wall structure having an edge angle of 121° ± 10° was created with anisotropic wetting reaching an optimal static contact angle of 160.3° ± 2.9° with the lowest rolling angle of 29.2° ± 4.2° for a 10 uL water droplet.
Video-Audio Neural Network Ensemble For Comprehensive Screening Of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Young Children
Authors: Natraj Shreyasvi , Kojovic Nada , Maillart Thomas , Schaer Marie
Published: July 2023

A timely diagnosis of autism is paramount to allow early therapeutic intervention in preschoolers. Deep Learning (DL) tools have been increasingly used to identify specific autistic symptoms, and offer promises for automated detection of autism at an early age. Here, we leverage a multi-modal approach by combining two neural networks trained on video and audio features of semi-standardized social interactions in a sample of 160 children aged 1 to 5 years old. Our ensemble model performs with an accuracy of 82.5% (F1 score: 0.816, Precision: 0.775, Recall: 0.861) for ASD screening. Additional combinations of our model were developed to achieve higher specificity (92.5%, i.e., few false negatives) or sensitivity (90%, i.e. few false positives). Finally, we found a relationship between the neural network modalities and specific audio versus video ASD characteristics, bringing evidence that our neural network implementation was effective in taking into account different features that are currently standardized under the gold standard ASD assessment.
Isatuximab–pomalidomide–dexamethasone vs. pomalidomide–dexamethasone in patients with relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma: final overall survival analysis
Authors: Richardson Paul , Perrot Aurore , Miguel Jesus San , Beksac Meral , Špička Ivan , Leleu Xavier , Schjesvold Fredrik , Moreau Philippe , Dimopoulos Meletios-Athanasios , Huang Shang-Yi , Minarik Jiri , Cavo Michele , Prince H Miles , Mace Sandrine , Zhang Rick , Dubin Franck , Morisse Mony , Anderson Kenneth
Published: July 2023

The primary and pre-specified updated analyses of ICARIA-MM (NCT02990338) demonstrated improved progression-free survival and a benefit in overall survival (OS) was reported with the addition of isatuximab, an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody, to pomalidomide–dexamethasone (Pd) in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma. Here, we report the final OS analysis. This multicenter, randomized, open-label, phase 3 study included patients who had received and failed ≥2 previous lines of therapy, including lenalidomide and a proteasome inhibitor. Between January 10, 2017, and February 2, 2018, 307 patients were randomized (1:1) to isatuximab–pomalidomide–dexamethasone (Isa-Pd; n= 154) or Pd (n = 153), stratified based on age (<75 vs. ≥75 years) and number of previous lines of therapy (2–3 vs. >3). At data cutoff for the final OS analysis after 220 OS events (January 27, 2022), median follow-up duration was 52.4 months. Median OS (95% confidence interval) was 24.6 months (20.3–31.3 months) with Isa-Pd and 17.7 months (14.4–26.2 months) with Pd (hazard ratio = 0.78; 95% CI, 0.59–1.02; 1-sided P = 0.0319). This analysis showed a clinically meaningful, continued OS benefit with Isa-Pd, which is well tolerated after follow-up of approximately 52 months in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT02990338
Superior Oblique Muscle Palsy: Clinical Characteristics and Surgical Approach in 1057 Patients
Authors: Masoomian Babak , Akbari Mohamad Reza , Mohammed Marrwan Hisham , Sadeghi Motahhareh , Sadeghi Arash Mirmohammad , Fard Masoud Aghsaei , Khorrami-Nejad Masoud
Published: July 2023

Background
To evaluate the clinical findings of patients with SOP who underwent surgery.
Methods
This historical cohort study was performed on 1057 SOP patients managed with surgery in Farabi Hospital, Iran, from 2011 to 2022.
Results
Unilateral SOP was found in 990 (93.7%) patients with a mean age of 21.8 ± 14.8 years [715 (72.2%) congenital and 275 (27.8%) acquired (P < .001)]. Bilateral SOP was diagnosed in 67 (6.3%) patients with a mean age of 19.4 ± 15.6 years, in which 18 (27%) cases had masked type. The mean angle of vertical deviation in primary position at far in unilateral and bilateral cases was 15.6 ± 8.3 and 13.3 ± 9.1 △, respectively (P < .001). In unilateral cases, abnormal head posture (AHP) was detected in 847 (85.5%) patients and 12 (1.2%) had paradoxical AHP. Amblyopia was found in 89 (9.9%) unilateral and 7 (10.3%) bilateral cases. Solitary inferior oblique myectomy, was the most common surgery in both unilateral (n = 756, 77.1%) and bilateral (n = 35, 52.2%) patients. The second surgery was performed for 84 (8.6%) unilateral and 33 (49.3%) bilateral cases (P < .001). The prevalence of amblyopia and the mean angle of horizontal deviation were significantly higher in patients who needed more than one surgery (all P < .05).
Conclusion
Congenital SOP was more than twice as frequent as acquired SOP and about 90% of unilateral and 50% of bilateral cases were managed with one surgery. Amblyopia and significant horizontal deviation were the most important factors for reoperation.
Trial registration:
The Institutional Review Board approval was obtained from the Tehran University of Medical Sciences (IR.TUMS.FNM.REC.1400.012) and this study adhered to the tenets of the Declaration of Helsinki and HIPAA.
General somatic health and lifestyle habits in individuals with obsessive- compulsive disorder: An international survey
Authors: Holmberg Anna , Martinsson Lina , Lidin Matthias , Rück Christian , Mataix-Cols David , Cruz Lorena Fernández de la
Published: July 2023

Background
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) has been associated with a broad range of health-related issues. Unhealthy lifestyle habits such as physical inactivity, an unhealthy diet, smoking, and alcohol consumption are hypothesized to contribute to this association. However, the lifestyle habits of individuals with OCD have been scarcely investigated. In this international survey, we explored the physical health and lifestyle habits of adults with a self-reported diagnosis of OCD.
Methods
An online global survey available in seven languages was disseminated through interest organizations and social media between July 2021 and March 2022. The survey included questions relating to socio-demographic variables and clinical characteristics (including OCD symptom severity – as measured with the 12-item self-report scale Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory [OCI-12] – and psychotropic medication), physical health, and lifestyle habits. Frequencies and percentages, or means and standard deviations, as appropriate, were calculated. Subgroup analyses by OCD symptom severity, gender, and age group were performed.
Results
A total of 496 individuals with OCD completed the survey and were included in the analyses (mean age = 36.0 years, SD = 12.5, range 18–79; 78.8% women). Most participants were from Europe (n = 245, 49.4%) and North America (n = 187, 37.7%). OCD symptom severity scores were on the moderate range (OCI-12 mean score = 21.2, SD = 9.1). A majority (n = 354, 71.4%) reported having comorbid somatic health issues, mainly allergies, gastrointestinal conditions, and cardiometabolic conditions. Nearly half of the sample (n = 236, 47.6%) reported a body mass index ≥ 25, corresponding to at least overweight. A significant proportion of the participants reported low physical activity (n = 271, 55.0%), unhealthy dietary habits (n = 182, 36.7%), risk consumption of alcohol (n = 111, 22.3%), and non-restorative sleep (n = 268, 54.0%). Subgroup analyses showed overall similar results across groups, with some exceptions.
Conclusions
In this sample, individuals with OCD self-reported a range of health-related issues and a number of unhealthy lifestyle behaviors, most prominently a lack of physical activity. Interventions aimed at modifying unhealthy lifestyles to prevent or improve health conditions beyond the psychiatric symptoms should be considered.
The systemic challenge of phasing out fossil fuel finance
Authors: Rickman Jamie , Falkenberg Max , Kothari Sumit , Larosa Francesca , Grubb Michael , Ameli Nadia
Published: July 2023

A rapid phase-out of bank lending to the fossil fuel sector is critical if Paris climate targets are to remain within reach. Here we use a systems lens to explore syndicated fossil fuel debt markets - a critical source of capital flows to fossil fuel companies - and find that they are resilient to uncoordinated and unregulated phase-out scenarios. In a setting where capital can be substituted between banks, phase-out is inefficient unless capital requirements rules limit banks’ exposure to the sector. With capital requirements rules in place a tipping point is observed from inefficient to efficient phase-out as banks sequentially exit the sector. This tipping point depends critically on the stringency of capital requirements rules, and it is reached sooner in a targeted phase-out scenario where big banks lead the phase-out. If sufficiently tightened, capital requirements rules can amplify the impact of individual banks’ phase-out and accelerate the decline of fossil fuel debt flows.
Decreased renal function among children born to women with obstructed labour in Eastern Uganda: a cohort study
Authors: Mukunya David , Oguttu Faith , Nambozo Brendah , Nantale Ritah , Makoko Tonny Brian , Napyo Agnes , Tumuhamye Josephine , Wani Solomon , Auma Prossy , Atim Ketty , Okello Dedan , Wamulugwa Joan , Ssegawa Lawrence , Wandabwa Julius , Kiguli Sarah , Chebet Martin , Musaba Milton W , Nahurira Doreck
Published: July 2023

Background
Over two million children and adolescents suffer from chronic kidney disease globally. Early childhood insults such as birth asphyxia could be risk factors for development of chronic kidney disease in infancy. Our study aimed to assess renal function among children aged two to four years, born to women with obstructed labour.
Methods
We followed up 144 children aged two to four years, born to women with obstructed labor at Mbale regional referral hospital in Eastern Uganda. We used estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) by the Schwartz formula to calculate eGFR (0.413*height)/ serum creatinine as a measure of renal function. eGFR less than 90 ml/min/1.73m2 was classified as decreased renal function.
Results
The mean age of the children was 2.8 years, standard deviation (SD) of 0.4 years. Majority of the children were male (96/144: 66.7%). The mean umbilical lactate level at birth among the study participants was 8.9 mmol/L with a standard deviation (SD) of 5.0. eGFR values ranged from 55 to 163ml/min/1.72m2, mean 85.8 ± SD 15.9. One third (31.3%) 45/144 had normal eGFR (> 90 ml/Min/1.72m2), two thirds (67.4%) 97/144 had a mild decrease of eGFR (60–89 ml/Min/1.72m2), and only 2/144 (1.4%) had a moderate decrease of eGFR. Overall incidence of reduced eGFR was 68.8% (99/144).
Conclusion
We observed a high incidence of impaired renal function among children born to women with obstructed labour. We recommend routine follow up of children born to women with obstructed labour and add our voices to those calling for improved intra-partum and peripartum care.
Successful Bladder-Sparing Partial Cystectomy for Muscle Invasive Domal Urothelial Carcinoma with Sarcomatoid Differentiation: A Case Report
Authors: Sultan Mark I , Abdelaziz Ahmad , Martinez Juan R , Hammad Muhammed A , Nourbakhsh Mahra , Youssef Ramy F
Published: July 2023

Background: High Grade (HG) Urothelial Carcinoma (UC) with variant histology has historically been managed conservatively and continues to create a conundrum for clinical urologists. The presented case details a solitary lesion of Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer (MIBC) with sarcomatoid variant (SV) histology treated by partial cystectomy and adjuvant chemotherapy without evidence of HG recurrence in 8 years of surveillance.
Case Presentation: A 71-year-old male with a 15-pack year smoking history presented to clinic after outside transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT). Imaging by CT abdomen and pelvis was negative for pelvic lymphadenopathy or abnormalities in either collecting system. A 2 cm broad based papillary tumor at the bladder dome was identified. Complete staging TURBT noted a final pathology of invasive HG UC with areas of spindle cell differentiation consistent with sarcomatous changes and no evidence of lymphovascular invasion. The patient was inclined toward bladder preserving options.
Partial cystectomy with a 2 cm safety margin and bilateral pelvic lymphadenectomy was performed. Final pathology revealed HG UC urothelial carcinoma with sarcomatoid differentiation and invasion into the deep muscularis propria, consistent with pathologic T2bN0 disease, a negative margin, and no lymphovascular invasion. The patient subsequently pursued four doses of adjuvant doxorubicin chemotherapy though his treatment was complicated by hand-foot syndrome. The patient continued screening with cystoscopy, urine cytology, and CT. At 21 months post operatively, the patient developed a small (<1cm) papillary lesion near but uninvolved with the left ureteral orifice. Blue light cystoscopy and TURBT revealed noninvasive low grade Ta urothelial carcinoma. To date, the patient has no evidence of high-grade urothelial carcinoma recurrence; 8 years after partial cystectomy. Patient maintains good bladder function and voiding every 3-4 hours with a bladder capacity around 350 ml.
Conclusion: Surgical extirpation with partial cystectomy followed by adjuvant chemotherapy may represent a durable solution for muscle invasive (pT2) UC with SV histology if tumor size and location are amenable for partial cystectomy. Due to the sparse nature of sarcomatous features within urothelial carcinoma, large multicenter studies are required to further understand the clinical significance and optimal management options for this variant histology in the management of bladder cancer.
Association Between Statin Use on Delirium and 30-day Mortality in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Xia Jiangling , Wang Leilei , Hu Chunhuan , Zhang Yuzhu
Published: July 2023

Background: Delirium occurs frequently in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD) in the intensive care unit(ICU).Effective prevention and treatment strategies for delirium remain limited. We aimed to assess delirium and 30-day mortality in patients with COPD who were statin and non-statin users.
Methods: In this retrospective study,patients with COPD were identified from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care database(MIMIC-IV).The primary exposure variable was the use of statins 3 days after entering the ICU and the primary outcome measure was the presence of delirium. The secondary outcome measure was 30-day mortality. Since the cohort study was retrospective, we used an inverse probability weighting derived from the propensity score matching to balance different variables.
Results: Among a cohort of 2738 patients, 1493 (55%) were statin users. Before propensity score matching, the prevalence of delirium was 16% and the 30-day mortality was 18% in patients with COPD. Statin use was significantly negatively correlated with delirium, with an odds ratio of 0.69 (95% CI,0.56~0.84, P < 0.001) in the inverse probability weighted cohort and 30-day mortality of 0.7 (95% CI,0.58~0.85, P < 0.001).
Conclusions: Statins administered in the ICU can significantly reduce the incidence of delirium and 30-day mortality in patients with COPD.
Effect of a Structured Pharmacist-led Intervention on Adherence Rates for Chronic Disease Management and Associated Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (Hedis) Star Ratings in a Large Urban Medical Center
Authors: Erfan Jovan , Patel Riya , Huggins Charnicia , McManus Erika , Suarez Monica , Ferris David C
Published: July 2023

Background: Suboptimal adherence to chronic disease management medications (CDMM) is associated with increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs.
Objective: To evaluate the impact of pharmacist-led interventions on adherence to CDMM using proportion of days covered (PDC) ≥80% as a surrogate for medication adherence.
Methods: Subjects were identified via monthly reports of patients in the health system with ≥ 2 annual prescription fills of non-insulin diabetes medications, renin-angiotensin-system inhibitors (RASi), and/or statins. Monthly lists were sent to community pharmacies to indicate patients experiencing barriers to adherence including need for: 1) medication refill, 2) switch from 30- to 90-day supply, and/or 3) follow up outreach from hospital staff. Clinical pharmacists followed up accordingly. The primary outcome was an increase in patients with PDC ≥ 80%. Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) Star Ratings for 2020 vs. 2021 were also compared.
Results: From January 1 to December 31, 2021, a total of 990 patients on non-insulin diabetes medications, 1,755 RASi, and 2,412 statins were identified as filling ≥ 2 prescriptions for each medication class of interest respectively. The primary study ethnicity was Hispanic (70%), and race was non-white (98.7%). The intervention resulted in an increase in PDC from 2020 to 2021 of 84% to 85% for non-insulin diabetes medications, 81% to 86% for RASi, and 80% to 85% for statins. This corresponded with an improvement in HEDIS Star Rating from 2 to 3 for all categories.
Conclusion: Structured pharmacist intervention resulted in improved PDC and Star Ratings on CDMM in Medicare patients.
Non-Exchange Bias in Binary Nanoparticle Systems
Authors: Maltoni Pierfrancesco , López-Martín Raúl , Sánchez Elena , Normile Peter , Vasilakaki Marianna , Lee Su , Burgos Benito , Castillo Eloy López del , Peddis Davide , Binns Chris , Trohidou Kalliopi , Mathieu Roland , Nogues Josep , De Toro Jose
Published: July 2023

Exchange bias has been extensively studied both in exchange-coupled thin films and nanoparticle systems. However, the role of non-exchange mechanisms in the overall hysteresis loop bias are far from being understood. Here, dense soft-hard binary nanoparticle systems are used as a novel tool to unravel the effect of dipolar interactions on the hysteresis loop shift, as well as a new strategy to enhance the bias of any magnet exhibiting an asymmetric magnetization reversal. Mixtures of equally sized, 6.8 nm, soft g-Fe2O3 nanoparticles (no bias – symmetric reversal) and hard cobalt doped g-Fe2O3 nanoparticles (large exchange bias – asymmetric reversal) reveal that the loop shift of the mixture can be significantly enhanced depending on the fraction of soft particles. Simple calculations indicate how this effect can be further enhanced by optimizing the parameters of the constituents (coercivity and loop asymmetry). In addition, the existence of a dipolar induced loop shift (“dipolar bias”) is demonstrated both experimentally and theoretically, where, for example, a bias can be induced in the initially unbiased g-Fe2O3 nanoparticles due to the dipolar interaction with the exchange biased cobalt doped g-Fe2O3 nanoparticles. These results pave the way for novel approaches to tune the loop shift in magnetic systems beyond interface exchange coupling.
Modeling the Learning Impacts of Educational Disruptions in the Short and Long Run
Authors: Monroy-Gómez-Franco Luis
Published: July 2023

This paper proposes a framework for analyzing the short and long-run effects of temporary educational disruptions on children’s learning progression. The framework explicitly models continuous parental investments, filling a gap in the literature on explicit models of learning progression and acquisition. The model also considers economic resources as part of the resources employed by parents to mitigate the effects of a temporary shock in instruction, expanding previous work by Neidhöffer, Lustig, and Tommasi (2021). With this model, I estimate the potential effects of the instructional disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in Mexico. The estimates suggest that the potential persistent loss in learning with respect to the counterfactual represents 47% of the learning acquired during a usual school year.
Principal causes of acute poisoning in an emergency service: Experience between 2014 and 2021 at a University Hospital in Southwestern Colombia
Authors: Hurtado David , Quintero Jaime A. , Rodríguez Yeraldin Alejandra , Pérez Daniel Esteban , Paz Roger Figueroa , Diez-Sepúlveda Julio
Published: July 2023

Background
Acute poisonings are a global public health problem, which implies costs and disease burden for society. In Colombia, there is a significant underreporting of data on acute poisoning and data gaps on the toxicological profile of the population. This study aims to identify the epidemiology of acute poisoning in a highly complex hospital in southwestern Colombia.
Methods
A descriptive study with retrospective data collection was performed. The variables were expressed through the measure of central tendency and dispersion. Categorical variables were described in proportions.
Results
A total of 406 patients were included. The median age was 31 years (IQR: 23–48), 56.2% were male, and only 19.2% had a history of mental illness. Suicidal intent represented 58.8% of the cases, and the most frequent route of exposure was the oral route (81.6%). The most prevalent groups of substances were pesticides (34.2%) and medicines (32%). The most common etiological agent was organophosphates (16.5%). Cholinergic toxidrome was the most common. The average stay in the ICU was 4.5 days (± 4.8), and the mortality was 4.2%.
Conclusions
The principal causes of acute poisoning were drugs and pesticides, with a predominant etiology of organophosphates and depressants of the central nervous system. There was a significant predominance of young male patients with suicidal intent, low mental disorders, elevated unemployment rate, and similar mortality reported in other studies. This study improves the knowledge about acute poisoning in southwestern Colombian to carry out multicenter analytics studies.
Effects of Lower Limb Muscle Isometric Strength on the 3000m Skating Speed and Energy Metabolism Characteristics of Chinese Elite Female Speed Skaters
Authors: ZOU Xiao-shuang , ZHANG Ke-ying , WANG Ya-xue , SHI Dong-lin , ZHANG Dong
Published: July 2023

The objective was to investigate the effect of lower limb muscle isometric strength on speed skating specialized characteristics in elite female speed skaters. Three China speed skaters were subjects (mean age 18.0 ± 1.4) with a mean best score (4'18.9). The isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) method was used to test peak force (PF), relative peak force (RPF), rate of force development (RFD), and impulse (IMP) of the lower limb muscles from 0-250ms in June 2021 at the national training base in Qinhuangdao, China. It was concluded that the force-time curves of the athletes' isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) exhibited varying elevated and decaying time distribution characteristics. Combined with the skating characteristics of athletes in 3000m Competition, it was found that peak force (PF) and relative peak force (RPF) are important factors affecting average skating speed, rate of change of speed, starting speed, maximum speed and speed endurance. Therefore, the IMTP test can be used as an effective method for preliminary assessment of specific strength and skating ability in the early training of speed skaters while providing effective data support for individualized lower limb strength training and specific technical training.
Three-Dimensionale Printed Individualized Guiding Templates for Surgical Correction of Severe hyperkyphosis: Outcomes of 7 Cases
Authors: Peng Yuan-hao , Zhu Hao-tian , Liu Kang , Wang Yu-ning , Luo Chang , Zeng Wei-jun , Ding Huan-wen , Yan Han
Published: July 2023

Objective: Introduction and Evaluation of the Effects of 3D Technology-Assisted Transforaminal Spinal Osteotomy on Spinal Orthopedic Rate, Nail Placement Accuracy, and Healing
Methods: This study conducted a retrospective review of the treatment outcomes of seven patients (four males and three females), aged 19-59 years, who underwent transforaminal osteotomy between December 2011 and March 2023. Digital Computer-Aided Design (CAD) technology was utilized for preoperative surgical planning and precise intraoperative guidance of the osteotomy procedure using a guide plate. Postoperative evaluation included the assessment of the kyphosis Cobb angle, spinal correction rate, nail placement accuracy, and the administration of the Oswestry Dysfunction Index questionnaire.
Results: Study included seven patients (4 males, 3 females) with an average age of 41.0 years.
Average follow-up period was 38.2 months (range: 9-54 months). All patients achieved satisfactory correction with an average correction rate of 95.11%. Surgical outcomes showed an average surgical time of 402.42 minutes, average blood loss of 984.83 milliliters, and average hospital stay of 12.21 days. Out of 70 implanted screws, 97.1% were classified as Grade A or B, indicating satisfactory screw position. Postoperative X-rays demonstrated significant correction of kyphotic deformity (average correction angle: 44.24°, average correction rate: 95.09%).
Conclusions: The use of 3D digital technology for preoperative planning, simulation of surgery, and personalized design of 3D printing guide plates in spinal osteotomy provides improved postoperative orthopedics, enhanced accuracy of nail placement, and improved quality of life for patients with severe kyphosis.
Proteomic profiles of uterine fluids from health and repeat breeder Holstein cows
Authors: Jiang Xingcan , Chang Xiyu , Huang Cong , Lian zhengjie , Wang Aihua , Chen Huatao , Lin Pengfei , Jin yaping
Published: July 2023

Repeat breeding is considered to be one of the economically important reproductive disorders in cattle, as it results in an increased number of inseminations and associated costs, and an increase in the number of days open. The physiological cause of the repeat breeding syndrome is complex and multifactorial. Uterine luminal fluid from the health and repeat breeder groups was analyzed in a holistic proteomic approach using LC-MS/MS analysis combined with a label-free quantification approach. In total, 882 proteins were identified, of which 154 differed significantly in abundance between the two groups. Evaluation of this dataset using bioinformatic tools revealed an assignment of higher abundant proteins in repeat breeder group to several pathway processes, such as carbon metabolism, purine metabolism and biosynthesis of amino acids. We used proteomic methods based on gel mass spectrometry to characterize the changes of proteomic characteristics associated with uterine diseases. These findings provide valuable information towards the identification of critical biomarker proteins for repeat breeding syndrome in cattle.
On the homogeneous ergodic bilinear averages with $1$-bounded multiplicative weights
Authors: Abdalaoui el houcein el
Published: July 2023

We establish a generalization of Bourgain double recurrence theorem and ergodic Bourgain-Sarnak's theorem by proving that for any aperiodic $1$-bounded multiplicative function $\boldsymbol{\nu}$, for any map $T$ acting on a probability space $(X,\A,\mu)$, for any integers $a,b$ , for any $f,g \in L^2(X)$, and for almost all $x \in X$, we have \[ \frac{1}{N} \sum_{n=1}^{N}\boldsymbol{\nu}(n) f(T^{a n}x)g(T^{bn}x) \tend{N}{+\infty} 0. \]We further present with proof the key ingredients of Bourgain's proof of his double recurrence theorem.
Relationship between hematologic inflammatory markers and glycemic control in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in a tertiary hospital in Lagos, Nigeria: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Amaeshi Lemchukwu Chukwunonye , Kalejaiye Olufunto Olufela , Olopade Oluwarotimi Bolaji
Published: July 2023

Background: Hematologic inflammatory biomarkers derived from a complete blood count (CBC) are elevated in Type 2 diabetes mellitus (Type 2 DM). In low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria, a CBC is an affordable and easily available test, even in hard-to-reach rural areas. Glycated hemoglobin (Hb A1c), a measure of glycemic control, has been found to correlate with hematologic inflammatory markers. In Nigeria, where the cost of health care is expensive, and patients largely pay out-of-pocket, a more affordable and accessible alternative to HbA1c in determining glycemic control would be a welcome development. Therefore, this study aimed to the relationship between Hb A1c and hematologic inflammatory biomarkers - neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and mean platelet volume (MPV) in predicting glycemic control.
Methods: This was a six-month cross-sectional study of 109 patients with Type 2 DM in a diabetic outpatient clinic in a large tertiary hospital in Lagos. The Hb A1c and CBC of the patients were measured. Neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio, PLR, and MPV were derived from the CBC values. We categorized the patients based on their glycemic control. Spearman correlation analysis was used to determine the relationship between Hb A1c and the inflammatory biomarkers.
Results: There was no significant difference in NLR, PLR, and MPV between optimal and sub-optimal controlled diabetic patients. Spearman’s correlation analysis showed no significant association between NLR, PLR MPV, and Hb A1c in the patients: [(NLR: r= 0.027, p= 0.680; PLR: r= - 0.091, p=0.356; MPV: r= - 0.032, p=0.744)] respectively.
Conclusion: The inflammatory markers studied had no significant relationship with HbA1c and might not be helpful in monitoring glycemic control in Type2 DM patients.
Machine Learning Insights into Multifaceted Social Impacts on Global Urban Slum Population
Authors: Shan Shan
Published: July 2023

The growth of the urban slum population proportion highlights the extent of urban inequality. This article uses machine learning to surpass the limitations of traditional static linear regression models. By handling large data volumes and uncovering multidimensional relationships, the study illuminates the complexities of urban slum population proportion. The study leverages multivariate features from the World Development Indicators (WDI) and the Urban Indicators Database from UN-Habitat, identifying 105 key features associated with urban inequality. The top 35 determinants are selected using agglomerative hierarchical clustering, with Principal Component Analysis applied for feature extraction, regarding four major dimensions of economic progress, social health and wellness, the urban milieu, and demographic attributes. Results show that Ridge Regression excels in effectively managing complex relationships among various socio-economic, environmental, and health variables in slum populations. The study aims to offer a deeper understanding of multidimensional social factors influencing global urban slum population expansion and urban inequality dynamics.
An Algorithm for Calculating the Shade Created by Greenhouse Integrated Photovoltaics
Authors: Petrakis Theodoros , Thomopoulos Vasileios , Kavga Angeliki , Argiriou Athanassios A.
Published: July 2023

The integration of photovoltaic modules into greenhouse roofs is a novel and intriguing method. Harnessing solar radiation is key to ensuring optimal crop growth, as photosynthesis relies on it. Furthermore, capturing solar radiation by employing photovoltaic systems allows energy production. Given its substantial significance in both energy generation and agriculture, this emphasizes the crucial function that solar radiation plays in these two industries. Greenhouses offer a unique opportunity to optimize both plant growth and energy generation, thereby increasing their overall worth. This approach is especially beneficial considering the growing need for land and the accompanying spatial and economic complexities. The installation of photovoltaics on the greenhouse roof has a significant impact on shading, which can be advantageous or disadvantageous, depending on the season, the crop, and the growth stage. As a result, estimating the shading in the greenhouse is imperative. In this paper, an algorithm for precisely measuring the shadowed surface area generated by solar panels within a greenhouse was developed and presented. This method also reliably determines the percentage of coverage on the whole greenhouse unit throughout the year using a time step of 10 minutes. For greenhouse operators wishing to optimize the potential of their solar panel installations, this streamlined solution provides clear and persuasive statistics.
Mapping ultra-processed foods (UPFs) in India: A formative research to adapt and inform a UPF consumption screening tool for India
Authors: Ghosh-Jerath Suparna , Singh Meenu , Kumar Gaurika , Bhambra Inderdeep Kaur , Kohli Sahiba , Khandpur Neha , Leite Fernanda H. M. , R K. Srinath
Published: July 2023

Background
Increased consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) which are usually high in salt, sugar, fats, preservatives and additives are associated with diet-related non-communicable diseases. In India, there are no standard criteria for identifying UPFs that are similar to Nova food classification (based on extent and purpose of industrial processing). Scientific literature in India classifies foods as unhealthy based on the presence of excessive amounts of specific nutrients which makes it difficult to distinguish UPFs from other commercially available processed foods. The purpose of this paper is to map UPFs in the Indian food market and assess their consumption by Indian population.
Methods
A literature review and online grocery market survey were conducted to map the types of UPFs in the Indian food market, their availability and consumption. In online grocery market survey, the ingredient list of the foods provided on their label were scrutinized for the presence of ultra-processed ingredients. All UPFs identified were free-listed, followed by saliency analysis to understand preferred UPFs by Indian consumers. Findings were then triangulated to develop Indian UPF sub-categories to inform a UPF screening tool.
Results
UPFs lack uniform definition in India; hence proxy names such as junk-foods, fast-foods, ready-to-eat foods, instant-foods, processed-foods, packaged-foods, high-fat-sugar-and-salt foods are used for denoting UPFs. Our data showed that the current literature from India does not clearly differentiate between processed culinary ingredients (Nova food group 2), processed foods (Nova food group 3) and UPFs (Nova food group 4). Saliency analysis showed sugar-sweetened beverages (e.g. sodas and cold-drinks) are the most preferred UPFs while frozen ready-to-cook/eat foods (e.g. chicken nuggets and frozen kebabs) are least preferred. Online grocery market survey also revealed that traditional recipes are transitioning into UPFs. Based on our data, a screening tool for UPF consumption consisting of twenty-four UPF sub-categories were listed and divided into three sections: drinks and beverages, ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook foods was developed.
Conclusion
India needs to adapt Nova food classification and systematically define Indian food categories based on level of processing, followed by an assessment of the extent of UPF consumption in India. Clear policy guidelines and regulations around UPF consumption should be devised to address the impact of UPF consumption on NCDs.
Attitudes of vaccination workers toward COVID-19 vaccination in patients with chronic liver disease
Authors: Tang Yong-Zhi , Huang Chun-Lian , Ling Xiao-Qing , Ye Xiao-Hong , Xu Guang-Ming , Ying Chen-Qian , Deng Jing-Shan , Tung Tao-Hsin , Zhu Jian-Sheng
Published: July 2023

Objectives
Vaccination workers play an important role in the acceptance of various vaccines in patients with chronic liver diseases. We mainly investigated the attitude of vaccination workers toward COVID-19 vaccination in patients with chronic liver disease.
Methods
An anonymous, population-based, cross-sectional online survey were completed by 721 out of 1008 (71.5%) vaccination workers from July 1st to July 14th, 2022, in patients with chronic liver disease in Taizhou, China. The data were uploaded to Wen-Juan-Xing, one of the largest online platforms for collecting survey data.
Results
We found that only 51.9% of vaccination workers recommended all chronic liver diseases vaccinations. 81% of vaccination workers fully recommended vaccination in patients with fatty liver and chronic hepatitis B, while 53.1% of them fully recommended in patients with cirrhosis and liver cancer. Logistic regression analysis showed that vaccination workers who had undergone systematic training were more likely to recommend that patients with four chronic liver diseases get vaccinated (OR: 1.59; 95% CI: 1.05–2.43, p = 0.030). Vaccination workers that believed it is safe to vaccinate against patients with four chronic liver diseases were likely to recommend (OR: 8.12; 95% CI: 1.84–35.88, p = 0.006).
Conclusion
Vaccination workers who hold a positive attitude towards recommending vaccination for patients with chronic liver disease needs to be improved. Strengthening the training of vaccination workers could improve vaccine immunization coverage.