bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
impact of chemotherapy dose adjustment and delay in patients with leukemias and lymphomas who exercise
Authors: Szymański Bartłomiej , Piaszczyński Szymon , Płeska Kacper , Wojtania Joanna , Łepik Michał , Uszok Zofia , Rosiak Krzysztof , Reguła Kacper , Waloch Kamil , Czajka Andrzej
Published: June 2024

This review addresses the critical challenge of leukemia and lymphoma, delving into the epidemiology, treatment adherence, impact of physical activity, and the pressing need for more effective chemotherapy protocols. The purpose is to synthesize current knowledge, highlight existing gaps, and emphasize the importance of innovation in patient care strategies. Epidemiological data show variability in incidence rates and underscore the roles age, genetics, and lifestyle play in disease risk and progression. These insights are vital for effective prevention and timely intervention. The focus of the discussion revolves around the development of chemotherapy protocols. Tailoring these to the individual's genetic and cancer profile can lead to significant gains in efficacy and minimize unwanted side effects, crucially improving patient quality of life and compliance. Treatment adherence is fundamental to successful outcomes, requiring multifaceted support strategies. Education, side-effect management, and addressing care barriers are pivotal in ensuring patients fully benefit from therapy. Personalization in chemotherapy protocol development is a current focus, aiming to maximize efficacy while minimizing side effects to improve quality of life and survival. The conclusion advocates for an integrated approach combining research and clinical practice to cater to the biological intricacies of both the malignancy and the patient. Progress in these areas proclaims a future where personalized, effective, and compassionate cancer treatment is the norm, pushing us closer to the goal of transforming cancer into a manageable condition.
Systematic Review of Diagnostic Methods for Pelvic Venous Insufficiency
Authors: Dobrzańska Justyna , Smykiewicz Karolina , Dziedzic Mariola , Partyka Alicja , Chmielowiec Zuzanna , Wierzejska Natalia , Fugas Agnieszka , Michalczewska Aneta , Nowak Agnieszka , Pach Magdalena
Published: June 2024

Pelvic venous insufficiency (PVI) is a recognized contributor to chronic pelvic pain (CPP). Diagnosing PVI can be challenging due to its often subtle and non-specific presentation. While both men and women can be affected, PVI is more prevalent in women, potentially due to hormonal fluctuations and the physiological effects of pregnancy. Transabdominal ultrasound (US) remains the first-line non-invasive imaging modality for PVI evaluation. However, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance venography (MRV) play an increasingly important role in confirming the diagnosis, particularly in select patient populations where US findings are inconclusive. This article will delve into the various diagnostic techniques employed for PVI, analyzing their efficacy and limitations to guide optimal diagnostic approach.
“EXISTE MUITA COISA QUE NÃO TE DISSERAM NA ESCOLA”: LEGADO E (RE)EXISTÊNCIAS DO MOVIMENTO NEGRO NO BRASIL AO LONGO DO SÉCULO XX
Authors: Arruda Dyego de Oliveira , Grutes Natália Vieira
Published: June 2024

Este artigo objetiva discutir o protagonismo do Movimento Negro em acontecimentos históricos, transcorridos ao longo do século XX, que fizeram parte da formação social brasileira e que vêm contribuindo para o fortalecimento da identidade coletiva negra no país. Ao longo do manuscrito, salientamos o legado de lutas sociais e políticas da negritude brasileira, com foco para certos avanços históricos, tais como os que resultaram nas políticas de ações afirmativas voltadas à população negra. O referencial teórico baseou-se na vida política e militante de intelectuais tais como Abdias Nascimento e Nilma Bentes, destacando-se a participação desta última nos preparativos que resultaram na Conferência de Durban, na África do Sul, considerada um marco da luta antirracista. Sem pretender esgotar o tema, concluímos o artigo sublinhando os desafios atuais para a manutenção das políticas antirracistas no Brasil.
Lessons learnt from an aggressive tumour masquerading as a neuropathic heel ulcer: a case report
Authors: AlJarrah Qusai , Hammad Arafat M , Shehadeh Bana Eyad , AlQudah Mohammad , Abou-Foul Ahmad K
Published: June 2024

Cutaneous malignant melanoma (cMM) can develop at any site, but one-third of cases primarily affect the lower extremities, with ankle and foot lesions representing 3–15% of all cases. However, cMM may become a clinical conundrum when it presents as chronic ulceration that is clinically indiscernible from other lower extremity ulcers in patients with diabetes. We present the case of a 71-year-old female patient with a longstanding history of diabetes, hypertension, obesity, chronic kidney disease and heart failure who presented to our hospital with a fungating heel ulcer. The lesion was initially managed in another hospital as a neuropathic diabetic foot ulcer (DFU), treated by multiple local wound debridement. However, the ulcer progressed into a fungating heel lesion that interfered with the patient's mobility and quality of life. Consequently, the patient was referred to our specialist diabetic foot service for further management. Excisional biopsy of the lesion disclosed a cMM. Positron emission tomography/computed-tomography scanning revealed hypermetabolic ipsilateral inguinal lymphadenopathy, and a right cerebral metastasis for which palliative chemotherapy was initiated. Immunotherapy was considered, but the patient died before it was started. Atypical foot ulcers in patients with diabetes warrant a careful diagnostic approach, especially for recalcitrant cutaneous lesions not responding to standard therapies. Conscientious management, without undue delay in obtaining a histopathological diagnosis, might lead to early diagnosis of melanoma and potentially more favourable outcomes. This case highlights the importance of consideration of atypical foot lesions, in general practice in addition to referral centres, to try to identify alarming features and act accordingly.
Hydration response technology dressings for low to excessively exuding wounds: a systematic review
Authors: Lev-Tov Hadar Avihai , Hermak Sarah
Published: June 2024

Objective:

The aim of this systematic review was to identify and qualify the current available evidence of the wound exudate handling capabilities and the cost-effectiveness of hydration response technology (HRT). HRT combines physically modified cellulose fibres and gelling agents resulting in wound dressings that absorb and retain larger quantities of wound exudate.

Method:

A systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE (via PubMed and PubMed Central) according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). The search was conducted using an unlimited search period. Studies or reviews that evaluated effect on wound exudate and cost-effectiveness, as well as the impact on wound healing were considered. Records focusing on wound management using HRT devices were included.

Results:

The literature search identified four studies and one comparative analysis, ranging from low to moderate quality, that compared HRT dressings to other interventions (carboxymethyl cellulose dressing, other superabsorbent dressings, negative pressure wound therapy).

Conclusion:

The analysed data supported the beneficial use of dressings with HRT for exuding wounds which was characterised by fewer dressing changes, improved periwound skin conditions and reduced costs.
Effects of Drainage System Design on Nutrient Leaching and Crop Yield
Authors: Wesström Ingrid , Joel Abraham
Published: June 2024

Highlights

Tested drainage system designs had no clear effect on the total amount of drainage discharge.

Tested drainage system designs had a clear effect on nutrient loads in drainage discharge.

Corrugated plastic pipe drainage systems had higher N loads and lower P loads than tile drainage systems.

Corrugated plastic pipe drainage systems gave higher yields than tile drainage systems and can be a profitable on-farm investment.

Abstract. A clear strategy for adapting agricultural drainage to future climate change is important for environmental and economic reasons. In a study aimed at developing recommendations for the subsurface drainage design in clay soils, we evaluated the impact of replacing an old drainage system (1920) with new systems (2018) on nutrient leaching and crop yield. Our field experiment included 12 individually drained plots divided into four treatments: (A) old system with clay tiles at 10 m spacing, without an envelope; (B) new system with plastic pipes at 10 m spacing, gravel envelope; (C) new system with plastic pipes at 5 m spacing, gravel envelope; and (D) new system with plastic pipes at 10 m spacing, gravel envelope and lime incorporated in trench backfill. We conducted flow measurement and flow-proportional, logger-controlled water sampling of the drainage discharge from each plot at a measuring station. Preliminary results (first two years) show a clear effect of the new drainage systems on phosphorus and nitrogen loads in drainage discharge. The lowest total load of phosphorus and highest total load of nitrogen in all treatments were observed in treatment D (with 10 m drain spacing and lime incorporated in trench backfill). The highest total phosphorus load and lowest total nitrogen load in all treatments were observed for the old tile drainage system with 10 m drain spacing (treatment A). The environmental impact of new drainage systems on clay soils may thus be a trade-off between decreased phosphorus loads and increased nitrogen loads with more intensive drainage. Crop data from two experimental years indicated that investing in new drainage systems can be profitable for farmers, as crop yield was 3%-20% higher with new drainage systems compared with old tile drainage. More experimental years are needed to determine the long-term effects of the different drainage system designs. Keywords: Drain envelope, Drain spacing, Nitrogen load, Phosphorus load, Subsurface drainage.
Automated System for Continuous Green Shoot Thinning in Vineyards
Authors: Kshetri Safal , Bhattarai Uddhav , Paudel Achyut , Sapkota Ranjan , Zhang Qin , Karkee Manoj
Published: June 2024

Highlights

An automated green shoot thinning system was developed by integrating machine vision and mechanical systems.

Mask R-CNN used for segmenting cordons at different shoot growth stages.

Point cloud registration used to accurately stitch cordon trajectories for continuous thinning operation.

Field and lab tests demonstrated the integrated system can efficiently automate green shoot thinning operation.

Abstract. Mechanized green shoot thinning in vineyards has helped reduce labor and associated costs. However, high variability in the thinning efficiency has been observed with the current machines in non-selective thinning due to challenges faced by the operators to precisely position thinning end-effectors along the cordon trajectories. In this study, an automated green shoot thinning system is proposed for cordon-trained grapevines to enhance the precision and efficiency of mechanical thinning operation. The automated system consisted of (1) a machine vision system for estimating cordon trajectories and (2) a mechanical system to position thinning rollers along the estimated trajectories during the real-time thinning operation. The vision pipeline used a Mask R-CNN model to determine cordon profiles at different shoot growth stages and a depth image to estimate the 3D cordon trajectory. In addition, point-cloud registration estimated transformation matrices for accurately stitching adjacent cordon trajectories and generating a long map of trajectory for the thinning rollers to follow. An image processing-based calibration method was used to obtain transformation parameters that transformed the estimated trajectories from the camera coordinate space to the thinning-roller coordinate space required for trajectory following. Lab tests, conducted using simulated cordons, showed the integrated system can precisely position the thinning rollers with root mean square errors (RMSE) of 2.0 cm and 1.7 cm for vertical and lateral positions, respectively. To quantify the thinning performance of the integrated system in the field, shoot thinning efficiency (the percentage of target shoots impacted) was determined. From the field evaluation, shoot thinning efficiency of 76% and 85% were achieved for two rows of grapevines, with an overall shoot thinning efficiency of 80%. The favorable test results demonstrated that the proposed integrated system is capable of effectively automating green shoot thinning operations, which has the potential to improve shoot thinning performance in vineyards. Keywords: Automated green shoot thinning, Cordon trajectory estimation, Mask R-CNN, Vineyard canopy management.
Development and Evaluation of a Single-Pass, Dual-Rotor Intensive Forage Processing Device
Authors: Studer Danton L. , Shinners Kevin J. , Timm Aaron J. , Digman Matthew Francis
Published: June 2024

Highlights

A dual-rotor forage processor was developed to process wilted alfalfa and whole-plant corn.

Alfalfa and whole-plant corn were processed, achieving a 60% or greater processing level index in a single processing operation.

Rotor tip speed, rotor differential speed, and crop dry matter content significantly impacted processor performance.

Abstract.
Previous researchers utilized a single-rotor, screenless hammermill to improve forage utilization by dairy cows. They also established a surrogate measurement of animal response based on a relationship between processing level index (PLI) and in-situ digestibility. After a PLI of 60% was achieved, further processing resulted in diminished returns. However, to achieve a PLI of 60%, it required two to three processing passes through the single-rotor processor. In this research, a novel two-rotor processor was developed to achieve a PLI of 60% in a single pass through the machine. The final design featured two rotors with free-swinging blunt hammers. Material was transferred tangentially from the first to the second rotor. The first rotor was operated at tip speeds ranging from 66 to 110 m·s-1, and the second rotor tip speed could be adjusted to 1.10, 1.35, or 1.65 times greater than the first. Performance was evaluated by PLI, geometric mean particle size (GMPS), and gross specific energy (GSE). The processing of whole-plant corn at 51% w.b. moisture content and 50 mm length of cut resulted in PLI values of between 60% and 69% with a reduction in GMPS to 6 mm and a GSE requirement of 4.04 to 6.71 kWh Mg-1. Processing wilted alfalfa chopped at 35 mm length of cut and 67% w.b. moisture content increased PLI from 23% (chopped only) to 72% and reduced GMPS from 24 to 8 mm. The dual-rotor processor could process whole-plant corn and wilted alfalfa forages to the desired PLI of greater than 60% in a single pass. Keywords: Alfalfa, Conditioner, Corn, Fiber digestibility, Lucerne, Macerator, Maize, Medicago Sativa, Rumen.
Perspective: Expanding Transdisciplinary Collaborative Research to Graduate Education
Authors: Deviney Alison V. , Classen John J. , Martin-Ryals Ana , Cortus Erin L. , Bird Kate , Brewer Catherine E. , Kaleita Amy L. , Miller Dan N. , Rodríguez Luis Felipe , Stone Mark , Vance Cherish C.
Published: June 2024

Highlights

Shared perspectives from a panel discussion at the 2023 ASABE Annual International Meeting.

There is a need for creativity and guidance to assess transdisciplinary collaborative work in graduate programs.

There is a need to sustain transdisciplinary collaborative graduate programs long-term.

Shifting the culture around transdisciplinary collaborative graduate education would support increasing programmatic support and assessment methods.

Abstract. To prepare graduate students to address today’s complex agri-food systems challenges in research, government, and industry, there is a need for a workforce already trained in collaborative transdisciplinary research skills such as systems thinking, teamwork, and communication across disciplines. This perspective addresses this need through three major themes—assessment, support, and culture—identified from a panel discussion of academic and industry perspectives at the 2023 ASABE Annual International Meeting. Graduate student assessment (Theme 1) may include a diverse portfolio beyond the individual thesis demonstrating collaborative transdisciplinary competencies. Short-term grant-funded programs exist, but there needs to be longer-term programmatic support (Theme 2). Shifting the culture in graduate education towards regular incorporation of transdisciplinary aspects within student training (Theme 3) is a potential scaffold to increase programmatic support (Theme 2) and, ultimately, the adoption of more comprehensive assessment methods (Theme 1). Keywords: Graduate Education, Programmatic Support, Student Assessment, Transdisciplinary Collaboration.
Student Government as Public Office: Experiences of Former College Student Government Officers in Elected Public Office
Authors: Goodman Michael A.
Published: June 2024

Abstract: While biographical sketches of many publicly elected leaders in the US exist, little is known about the connection between serving in college student government and running for or serving in elected public office after college. This phenomenological study explored the experiences of 19 former college student government officers in elected, post-college public office. Notably, former college student government officers felt like they were in public office all along and that student government was a microcosm of post-college public life. College campaigns and elections were preparatory experiences, and college student government was a "training ground" for later elected office and representational leadership.
Spectroscopy of substrate thermal vibrational modes using an optomechanical sensor
Authors: Scheuer K. G. , Romero F. B. , DeCorby R. G.
Published: June 2024

We used an optomechanical sensor to record the vibrational spectrum of its own fused silica substrate. The coupling of the substrate modes was greatly enhanced by covering the sensor with an appropriately sized ethylene glycol droplet, and in that case even thermally populated modes could be clearly detected. We observed a rich spectrum of high-quality flexural modes for frequencies less than ∼ 10 MHz, in good agreement with analytical theory and finite element simulations. We also observed signatures of acoustic waves resonantly confined by the droplet, over the entire ∼ 0–40 MHz range of the experiment. This work could inform efforts to increase the quality factor of mechanical resonators, and the use of substrate phonon modes as information channels.
Cumulative route improvements spontaneously emerge in artificial navigators even in the absence of sophisticated communication or thought
Authors: Dalmaijer Edwin S.
Published: June 2024

Homing pigeons (Columba livia) navigate by solar and magnetic compass, and fly home in idiosyncratic but stable routes when repeatedly released from the same location. However, when experienced pigeons fly alongside naive counterparts, their path is altered. Over several generations of turnover (pairs in which the most experienced individual is replaced with a naive one), pigeons show cumulative improvements in efficiency. Here, I show that such cumulative route improvements can occur in a much simpler system by using agent-based simulation. Artificial agents are in silico entities that navigate with a minimal cognitive architecture of goal-direction (they know roughly where the goal is), social proximity (they seek proximity to others and align headings), route memory (they recall landmarks with increasing precision), and continuity (they avoid erratic turns). Agents’ behaviour qualitatively matched that of pigeons, and quantitatively fitted to pigeon data. My results indicate that naive agents benefitted from being paired with experienced agents by following their previously established route. Importantly, experienced agents also benefitted from being paired with naive agents due to regression to the goal: naive agents were more likely to err towards the goal from the perspective of experienced agents’ memorised paths. This subtly biased pairs in the goal direction, resulting in intergenerational improvements of route efficiency. No cumulative improvements were evident in control studies in which agents’ goal-direction, social proximity, or memory were lesioned. These 3 factors are thus necessary and sufficient for cumulative route improvements to emerge, even in the absence of sophisticated communication or thought.
Predictors of neonatal mortality in the Eastern Regional Hospital in Ghana: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Apanga Diana Awintima , Kumbeni Maxwell Tii , Salifu Abdulai Mohammed , Mireku-Gyimah Nana , Apanga Paschal Awingura
Published: June 2024

Neonatal mortality accounts for nearly half of under-5 mortality in Ghana. The aim of this study was to identify the predictors of neonatal mortality in the Eastern Regional Hospital, Ghana. This was a retrospective cohort study conducted using secondary data from electronic medical records from the Eastern Regional Hospital between 1st January 2022 and 31st December 2022. The Kaplan-Meier estimator and adjusted Cox regression model were used to estimate survival probability and to assess the predictors of neonatal mortality. Data on 1684 neonates were analyzed and we found that 11.82% deaths occurred with a neonatal mortality rate (NMR) of 13.98 (95% CI: 12.05, 15.91) per 1000 person-days. Most neonatal deaths occurred within the first 24hrs of life (9.9%). The predictors of neonatal mortality were found to be low birthweight [Adjusted hazard rate (aHR): 1.63, 95% CI: 1.04, 2.54], hypothermia (aHR: 1.82, 95% CI: 1.16, 2.85), hyperthermia (aHR: 1.85, 95% CI: 1.01, 3.39), birth asphyxia (aHR: 3.69, 95% CI: 1.68, 8.11), and multiparty (aHR: 1.66, 95% CI: 1.02, 2.70). However, neonates aged 8–28 days (aHR: 0.41, 95% CI: 0.21, 0.81), born in the Eastern Regional Hospital (aHR: 0.39, 95% CI: 0.28, 0.55), walk-in neonates (aHR: 0.54, 95% CI: 0.32, 0.90), and neonates whose mothers had 8 or more antenatal contacts (aHR: 0.54, 95% CI: 0.32, 0.92) had lower neonatal mortality. There was high NMR in the Eastern Regional Hospital in Ghana. Averting complications such as low birthweight, hypothermia, hyperthermia, birth asphyxia, including the provision of obstetric and early neonatal care within the first 24 hours of life is critical to reducing neonatal mortality. Adherence to the World Health Organization’s recommendation of 8 or more antenatal contacts among pregnant women is also essential in reducing neonatal mortality.
Persistent spatial clustering and predictors of pediatric La Crosse virus neuroinvasive disease risk in eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina, 2003–2020
Authors: Day Corey A. , Odoi Agricola O. , Moncayo Abelardo , Doyle Michael S. , Williams Carl J. , Byrd Brian D. , Trout Fryxell Rebecca T.
Published: June 2024

The combined region of eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina has a persistently high risk of pediatric La Crosse virus neuroinvasive disease (LACV-ND). To guide public health intervention in this region, the objectives of this retrospective ecological study were to investigate the geographic clustering and predictors of pediatric LACV-ND risk at the ZIP code tabulation area (ZCTA) level. Data on pediatric cases of LACV-ND reported between 2003 and 2020 were obtained from Tennessee Department of Health and North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. Purely spatial and space-time scan statistics were used to identify ZCTA-level clusters of confirmed and probable pediatric LACV-ND cases from 2003–2020, and a combination of global and local (i.e., geographically weighted) negative binomial regression models were used to investigate potential predictors of disease risk from 2015–2020. The cluster investigation revealed spatially persistent high-risk and low-risk clusters of LACV-ND, with most cases consistently reported from a few high-risk clusters throughout the entire study period. Temperature and precipitation had positive but antagonistic associations with disease risk from 2015–2020, but the strength of those relationships varied substantially across the study area. Because LACV-ND risk clustering in this region is focally persistent, retroactive case surveillance can be used to guide the implementation of targeted public health intervention to reduce the disease burden in high-risk areas. Additional research on the role of climate in LACV transmission is warranted to support the development of predictive transmission models to guide proactive public health interventions.
Clinical characteristics, visual acuity outcomes, and factors associated with loss of vision among patients with active ocular toxoplasmosis: A retrospective study in a Thai tertiary center
Authors: Sittivarakul Wantanee , Treerutpun Wanitcha , Tungsattayathitthan Usanee
Published: June 2024

Background

Ocular toxoplasmosis (OT) is the most common cause of infectious uveitis worldwide, including Thailand. This study describes the clinical presentation, visual acuity (VA) outcomes, and factors associated with VA loss in patients with active OT following antiparasitic treatment.

Methodology/Principal findings

A retrospective chart review of patients with active OT treated with antiparasitic drugs between 2010 and 2020 was performed. Outcome measures included clinical characteristics, interval VA, and predictive factors associated with loss of VA ≤ 20/50 at 6 months post-treatment. Ninety-two patients (95 eyes) were enrolled. The median follow-up time was 10.9 months (IQR 4.9–31.8 months). The median age at presentation was 35.9 years, 51% were male, and 92.4% had unilateral OT. Eleven patients (12%) were immunocompromised (HIV infection, eight patients; receiving immunosuppressive agents, three patients). Patients mainly presented with primary retinitis without previous scar (62%), posterior pole lesion (56%), and lesion size of ≤ 2–disc area (75%). Immunocompromised patients showed a significantly larger size of retinitis than immunocompetent patients. Oral trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole monotherapy was the primary short-term antiparasitic drug prescribed (85%). At the final visit, 21% of all affected eyes suffered VA ≤ 20/200. The cumulative incidence of recurrent OT at three years was 33.9% (95% CI, 19.7%–54.2%). Immunocompromised patients [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 4.9, p = 0.041], macular lesion (aOR 5.4, p = 0.032), and initial VA ≤ 20/200 (aOR 9.1, p = 0.014) were predictive of having VA ≤ 20/50 at 6 months post-treatment.

Conclusions

Ocular toxoplasmosis mainly presents as unilateral primary retinitis within the posterior pole. Severe VA loss was observed in one-fifth of eyes following treatment with lesion resolution. Immunocompromised patients, eyes with macular lesions, and poor initial VA were associated with poor VA outcomes.
Excess burden of respiratory and abdominal conditions following COVID-19 infections during the ancestral and Delta variant periods in the United States: An EHR-based cohort study from the RECOVER program
Authors: Varma Jay K. , Zang Chengxi , Carton Thomas W. , Block Jason P. , Khullar Dhruv J. , Zhang Yongkang , Weiner Mark G. , Rothman Russell L. , Schenck Edward J. , Xu Zhenxing , Lyman Kristin , Bian Jiang , Xu Jie , Shenkman Elizabeth A. , Maughan Christine , Castro-Baucom Leah , O’Brien Lisa , Wang Fei , Kaushal Rainu ,   on behalf of the RECOVER Consortium
Published: June 2024

Importance

The frequency and characteristics of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) may vary by SARS-CoV-2 variant.

Objective

To characterize PASC-related conditions among individuals likely infected by the ancestral strain in 2020 and individuals likely infected by the Delta variant in 2021.

Design

Retrospective cohort study of electronic medical record data for approximately 27 million patients from March 1, 2020-November 30, 2021.

Setting

Healthcare facilities in New York and Florida.

Participants

Patients who were at least 20 years old and had diagnosis codes that included at least one SARS-CoV-2 viral test during the study period.

Exposure

Laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 infection, classified by the most common variant prevalent in those regions at the time.

Main outcome(s) and measure(s)

Relative risk (estimated by adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]) and absolute risk difference (estimated by adjusted excess burden) of new conditions, defined as new documentation of symptoms or diagnoses, in persons between 31–180 days after a positive COVID-19 test compared to persons without a COVID-19 test or diagnosis during the 31–180 days after the last negative test.

Results

We analyzed data from 560,752 patients. The median age was 57 years; 60.3% were female, 20.0% non-Hispanic Black, and 19.6% Hispanic. During the study period, 57,616 patients had a positive SARS-CoV-2 test; 503,136 did not. For infections during the ancestral strain period, pulmonary fibrosis, edema (excess fluid), and inflammation had the largest aHR, comparing those with a positive test to those without a COVID-19 test or diagnosis (aHR 2.32 [95% CI 2.09 2.57]), and dyspnea (shortness of breath) carried the largest excess burden (47.6 more cases per 1,000 persons). For infections during the Delta period, pulmonary embolism had the largest aHR comparing those with a positive test to a negative test (aHR 2.18 [95% CI 1.57, 3.01]), and abdominal pain carried the largest excess burden (85.3 more cases per 1,000 persons).

Conclusions and relevance

We documented a substantial relative risk of pulmonary embolism and a large absolute risk difference of abdomen-related symptoms after SARS-CoV-2 infection during the Delta variant period. As new SARS-CoV-2 variants emerge, researchers and clinicians should monitor patients for changing symptoms and conditions that develop after infection.
Long-term clinical outcomes of bariatric surgery in adults with severe obesity: A population-based retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wiebe Natasha , Tonelli Marcello
Published: June 2024

Background

Bariatric surgery leads to sustained weight loss in a majority of recipients, and also reduces fasting insulin levels and markers of inflammation. We described the long-term associations between bariatric surgery and clinical outcomes including 30 morbidities.

Methods

We did a retrospective population-based cohort study of 304,157 adults with severe obesity, living in Alberta, Canada; 6,212 of whom had bariatric surgery. We modelled adjusted time to mortality, hospitalization, surgery and the adjusted incidence/prevalence of 30 new or ongoing morbidities after 5 years of follow-up.

Results

Over a median follow-up of 4.4 years (range 1 day-22.0 years), bariatric surgery was associated with increased risk of hospitalization (HR 1.46, 95% CI 1.41,1.51) and additional surgery (HR 1.42, 95% CI 1.32,1.52) but with a decreased risk of mortality (HR 0.76, 95% CI 0.64,0.91). After 5 years (median of 9.9 years), bariatric surgery was associated with a lower risk of severe chronic kidney disease (HR 0.45, 95% CI 0.27,0.75), coronary disease (HR 0.49, 95% CI 0.33,0.72), diabetes (HR 0.51, 95% CI 0.47,0.56), inflammatory bowel disease (HR 0.55, 95% CI 0.37,0.83), hypertension (HR 0.70, 95% CI 0.66,0.75), chronic pulmonary disease (HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.66,0.86), asthma (HR 0.79, 95% 0.65,0.96), cancer (HR 0.79, 95% CI 0.65,0.96), and chronic heart failure (HR 0.79, 95% CI 0.64,0.96). In contrast, after 5 years, bariatric surgery was associated with an increased risk of peptic ulcer (HR 1.99, 95% CI 1.32,3.01), alcohol misuse (HR 1.55, 95% CI 1.25,1.94), frailty (HR 1.28, 95% 1.11,1.46), severe constipation (HR 1.26, 95% CI 1.07,1.49), sleep disturbance (HR 1.21, 95% CI 1.08,1.35), depression (HR 1.18, 95% CI 1.10,1.27), and chronic pain (HR 1.12, 95% CI 1.04,1.20).

Interpretation

Bariatric surgery was associated with lower risks of death and certain morbidities. However, bariatric surgery was also associated with increased risk of hospitalization and additional surgery, as well as certain other morbidities. Since values and preferences for these various benefits and harms may differ between individuals, this suggests that comprehensive counselling should be offered to patients considering bariatric surgery.
Capital structure and financial performance of China’s energy industry: What can we infer from COVID-19?
Authors: Samour Ahmed , AlGhazali Abdullah , Gadoiu Mihaela , Banuta Mariana
Published: June 2024

The study aims to uncover the impact of COVID-19 and capital structure on the financial performance of 1787 renewable and nonrenewable energy firms in China from 2010 to 2022. Using the fixed effect approach, our study found that financial leverage negatively affected the return on assets and equity ratios for both renewable and nonrenewable energy. On the other hand, the study shows that COVID-19 adversely affected the financial performances of non-renewable energy firms. Conversely, COVID-19 positively affected the financial performances of renewable energy firms. The conclusions drawn by the present study are helpful for the policymakers in making corresponding financial decisions. The study suggests that policymakers must adopt profitable capital structure strategies for firms and shareholders in this context. Finally, policymakers must design more policies to overcome the adverse influence of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis and avoid any future unforeseeable pandemics.
Understanding the determinants of vaccine hesitancy in the United States: A comparison of social surveys and social media
Authors: Sasse Kuleen , Mahabir Ron , Gkountouna Olga , Crooks Andrew , Croitoru Arie
Published: June 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic prompted governments worldwide to implement a range of containment measures, including mass gathering restrictions, social distancing, and school closures. Despite these efforts, vaccines continue to be the safest and most effective means of combating such viruses. Yet, vaccine hesitancy persists, posing a significant public health concern, particularly with the emergence of new COVID-19 variants. To effectively address this issue, timely data is crucial for understanding the various factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy. While previous research has largely relied on traditional surveys for this information, recent sources of data, such as social media, have gained attention. However, the potential of social media data as a reliable proxy for information on population hesitancy, especially when compared with survey data, remains underexplored. This paper aims to bridge this gap. Our approach uses social, demographic, and economic data to predict vaccine hesitancy levels in the ten most populous US metropolitan areas. We employ machine learning algorithms to compare a set of baseline models that contain only these variables with models that incorporate survey data and social media data separately. Our results show that XGBoost algorithm consistently outperforms Random Forest and Linear Regression, with marginal differences between Random Forest and XGBoost. This was especially the case with models that incorporate survey or social media data, thus highlighting the promise of the latter data as a complementary information source. Results also reveal variations in influential variables across the five hesitancy classes, such as age, ethnicity, occupation, and political inclination. Further, the application of models to different MSAs yields mixed results, emphasizing the uniqueness of communities and the need for complementary data approaches. In summary, this study underscores social media data’s potential for understanding vaccine hesitancy, emphasizes the importance of tailoring interventions to specific communities, and suggests the value of combining different data sources.
Analysis of rural broadband adoption dynamics: A theory-driven agent-based model
Authors: Agarwal Ankit , Canfield Casey
Published: June 2024

Demand for broadband internet has far outpaced its availability. In addition, the “new normal” imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic has further disadvantaged unserved and underserved areas. To address this challenge, federal and state agencies are funding internet service providers (ISPs) to deploy broadband infrastructure in these areas. To support goals to provide broadband service to as many people as possible as quickly as possible, policymakers and ISPs may benefit from better tools to predict take rates and formulate effective strategies to increase the adoption of high-speed internet. However, there is typically insufficient data available to understand consumer attitudes. We propose using an agent-based model grounded in the Theory of Planned Behavior, a behavioral theory that explains the consumer’s decision-making process. The model simulates residential broadband adoption by capturing the effect of market competition, broadband service attributes, and consumer characteristics. We demonstrate the effectiveness of this type of tool via a use case in Missouri to show how simulation results can inform predictions of broadband adoption. In the model, broadband take rates increase as the presence of existing internet users in the area increases and price decreases. With further development, this type of simulation can guide decision-making for infrastructure and digital literacy investment based on demand as well as support the design of market subsidies that aim to reduce the digital divide.
Pericardial effusion in patients with chronic kidney disease: A two-center study
Authors: Eslami Vahid , Mousavi SeyedehFatemeh , Irilouzadian Rana , Baghsheikhi Hediyeh , Fesharaki Mehrdad Jafari , Samavat Shiva
Published: June 2024

Background and aims

Pericardial effusion (PE) is a prevalent form of pericardial involvement in chronic kidney disease (CKD). This study aims to investigate the clinical and laboratory features associated with PE severity in patients with CKD.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, we examined the medical records of patients admitted to tertiary hospitals with International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision (ICD-10) codes associated with CKD and PE. We included 112 CKD patients in stage 4 and 5 non-dialysis (ND) with PE for assessing the clinical and laboratory features of severity.

Results

Patients were divided into two categories based on the severity of PE. Seventy-two patients had mild and 40 had moderate and severe PE. Univariate analysis of demographic and laboratory features on the date of admission demonstrated that chest pain, dyspnea, serum albumin, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) are associated with the severity of PE. The univariate analysis on the date of echocardiography showed significantly higher white blood cell count (WBC), neutrophil count (percentage and absolute count), and NLR, along with significantly lower lymphocyte percentage and serum albumin among patients with moderate and severe PE. In the multivariable analysis of laboratory features, on admission hypoalbuminemia (p-value = 0.014, OR = 4.03, CI: 1.32–12.25) and NLR greater than 5.5 (p-value = 0.015, OR = 4.22, CI: 1.32–13.50) were significantly associated with moderate and severe PE. In a parallel matter, at the time of echocardiography hypoalbuminemia (p-value = 0.004, OR = 5.38, CI: 1.74–16.65) and neutrophilia (p-value = 0.005, OR = 7.94, CI: 1.89–33.44) were significantly associated with moderate and severe PE.

Conclusion

Despite advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of CKD, PE is still a concerning issue in these patients. This study revealed that hypoalbuminemia, neutrophilia, and NLR greater than 5.5 could be predictive factors of moderate and severe PE in CKD patients with PE. Further prospective study with larger sample size is needed to confirm these results.
Two-part predictive modeling for COVID-19 cases and deaths in the U.S.
Authors: Le Teresa-Thuong , Liao Xiyue
Published: June 2024

COVID-19 prediction has been essential in the aid of prevention and control of the disease. The motivation of this case study is to develop predictive models for COVID-19 cases and deaths based on a cross-sectional data set with a total of 28,955 observations and 18 variables, which is compiled from 5 data sources from Kaggle. A two-part modeling framework, in which the first part is a logistic classifier and the second part includes machine learning or statistical smoothing methods, is introduced to model the highly skewed distribution of COVID-19 cases and deaths. We also aim to understand what factors are most relevant to COVID-19’s occurrence and fatality. Evaluation criteria such as root mean squared error (RMSE) and mean absolute error (MAE) are used. We find that the two-part XGBoost model perform best with predicting the entire distribution of COVID-19 cases and deaths. The most important factors relevant to either COVID-19 cases or deaths include population and the rate of primary care physicians.
Are soluble E-selectin, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1 potential predictors for the development of diabetic retinopathy in young adults, 15–34 years of age? A Swedish prospective cohort study
Authors: Ekelund Charlotte , Dereke Jonatan , Nilsson Charlotta , Landin-Olsson Mona
Published: June 2024

The aim of this study was to determine plasma levels of three adhesion molecules that may contribute to the development of diabetic retinopathy; soluble endothelial selectin (sE-selectin), soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1), and soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1), in young adults, aged 15–34 years at diagnosis of diabetes, to find potential predictors for development of retinopathy, and to evaluate their relation to diabetes associated autoantibodies. Participants with type 1 (n = 169) and type 2 diabetes (n = 83) were selected from the complications trial of the Diabetes Incidence Study in Sweden and classified in two subgroups according to presence (n = 80) or absence (n = 172) of retinopathy as determined by retinal photography at follow-up 8–10 years after diagnosis of diabetes. Blood samples were collected at diagnosis in 1987–88. The levels of sE-selectin, sICAM-1, and sVCAM-1 were analysed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and islet cell antibodies by a prolonged two-colour immunofluorescent assay. Mean HbA1c (p<0.001) and clinical characteristics: mean body mass index (p = 0.019), systolic blood pressure (p = 0.002), diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.003), male gender (p = 0.026), and young age at diagnosis of diabetes (p = 0.015) remained associated with development of retinopathy in type 1 diabetes. However, in a multivariate analysis only HbA1c remained as a risk factor. sE-selectin was significantly higher in the group with type 2 diabetes and retinopathy, compared to the group with type 2 diabetes without retinopathy (p = 0.04). Regarding sE-selectin, sICAM-1, and sVCAM-1 in participants with type 1 diabetes, no differences were observed between the groups with or without retinopathy. This trial confirmed the role of HbA1c and clinical characteristics as predictors for development of retinopathy in type 1 diabetes. sE-selectin stands out as a potential predictor for development of retinopathy in type 2 diabetes, whereas a predictive role for sICAM-1 and sVCAM-1 could not be identified neither for type 1 nor type 2 diabetes.
Research on the influence of relocation adaptability on the employment stability of Chinese-style labor immigration: The case of labor migrant communities in Yinchuan City, Ningxia, China
Authors: Fan Jianrong , Du Wanyu , Fan Zhennan
Published: June 2024

Achieving full and stable employment is not only one of the goals of macro-control by governments but also a key issue that labor migrants must address. To understand the impact of relocation adaptation on the employment stability of Chinese-style labor migrants, members of the group visited the labor migrant settlement sites in Yinchuan City and used questionnaires to investigate the adaptation and employment status of farmers after relocation. The article attempts to analyze the impact of relocation adaptability, embodied by social adaptability, economic adaptability, and cultural adaptability, on the employment stability of Chinese-style labor migrants using structural equation modeling with the highly representative field research data from the labor migrant community in Yinchuan City as an example. The results of the study show that the social, economic, and cultural adaptability dimensions of relocation adaptability all have a significant positive effect on employment stability. Therefore, to promote the stable employment of Chinese-style labor migrants, it is necessary to enhance economic adaptability to stabilize employment and increase income, enhance social adaptability to proactively adapt and actively participate, and strengthen cultural adaptability to proactively seek change and actively adapt to better improve the employment situation of labor migrants in an orderly manner.
Heart rate and heart rate variability in horses undergoing hot and cold shoeing
Authors: Huangsaksri Onjira , Wonghanchao Thita , Sanigavatee Kanokpan , Poochipakorn Chanoknun , Chanda Metha
Published: June 2024

Heart rate variability (HRV) is a frequently used indicator of autonomic responses to various stimuli in horses. This study aimed to investigate HRV variables in horses undergoing cold (n = 25) or hot (n = 26) shoeing. Multiple HRV variables were measured and compared between horses undergoing cold and hot shoeing, including the time domain, frequency domain, and nonlinear variables pre-shoeing, during shoeing, and at 30-minute intervals for 120 minutes post-shoeing. The shoeing method interacted with time to change the HRV variables standard deviation of RR intervals (SDNN), root mean square of successive RR interval differences (RMSSD), very-low-frequency band, low-frequency band (LF), the LF to high-frequency band ratio, respiratory rate, total power, standard deviation perpendicular to the line of identity (SD1), and standard deviation along the line of identity (SD2). SDNN, RMSSD, and total power only increased 30 minutes after hot shoeing (all p < 0.05). Triangular interpolation of normal-to-normal intervals (TINN) and the HRV triangular index increased during and up to 120 minutes after hot shoeing (p < 0.05–0.001). TINN increased only during cold shoeing (p < 0.05). LF increased 30 and 60 minutes after hot shoeing (both p < 0.05). SD1 and SD2 also increased 30 minutes after hot shoeing (both p < 0.05). SDNN, TINN, HRV triangular index, LF, total power, and SD2 were higher in hot-shoed than cold-shoed horses throughout the 120 minutes post-shoeing. Differences in HRV were found, indicating increased sympathovagal activity in hot shoed horses compared to cold shoed horses.
Luxury industry insiders’ secret: Psychographics
Authors: Husein-zadeh Tofig
Published: June 2024

Scholars and practitioners say that over 90 per cent of 30,000 product launches fail each year due to incorrect segmentation. Moreover, as mainstream luxury brands become bigger and more global than ever, as they enter various product categories, communicate to wider audiences than before, they may begin to lose the ability to go beyond demographic segmentation and apply psychographic segmentation. Consequently, they lose the capability to personalize their communications and relations with different customer segments as opposed to treating them all as mere statistical units. The inability to distinguish between various segments of luxury clientele also derives from the weak segmentation and profiling skills of communication professionals, market researchers, economists, strategists, entrepreneurs, etc. However, a minority of luxury industry insiders are still aware how psychographic segmentation, profiling, targeting and positioning is the sine qua non for hyper-personalization. This article strictly focuses on non-digital authentic psychographics that has nothing to do with the so-called digital psychographics that may track and profile users, invade their privacy, collect big data, build manipulative algorithms and so forth. This article explains how actual, and not virtual, psychographics is the industry insiders’ secret key to not only competitive advantage and lasting profitability but also to true luxury.