bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Spatial and temporal distribution characteristics and source apportionment of biogenic elements using APCS-MLR model in the main inlet tributary of Danjiangkou Reservoir
Authors: Wu Yihang , Zhang Qianzhu , Luo Yuan , Jin Ke , He Qian , Lu Yang 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Danjiangkou Reservoir has been widely concerned as the water source of the world’s longest cross basin water transfer project. Biogenic elements are the foundation of material circulation and key factors affecting water quality. However, there is no comprehensive study on the biogenic elements in tributaries of Danjiangkou Reservoir, hindering a detailed understanding of geochemical cycling characteristics of biogenic elements in this region. Guanshan River, one of the main tributaries that directly enter the Danjiangkou Reservoir, was token as the research object. Spatiotemporal distribution characteristics of basic water quality parameters and biogenic elements were studied. Water quality was comprehensively evaluated through water quality index (WQI). Absolute principal component score-multiple linear regression (APCS-MLR) model was adopted to explore the main sources of biogenic elements. Results showed that, in terms of season, the concentrations of TN, TP, and DOC were significantly higher in wet season than in dry season, while no significant differences were found for DIC and DSi. Spatially, the concentrations of DC, DIC, TN and TP in the middle and lower reaches were higher than that in the upstream. DOC concentration peaked in the middle reaches, while DSi showed higher concentrations in the upstream. WQI values indicated that the river water quality was between good and excellent, although the water quality in wet season was slightly worse than that in the dry season. PCA extracted five potential sources, which accounting for 84.12% of the total variance, including rock weathering, mixed source of sewage discharge and agricultural non-point source pollution, dissolved soil CO2, seasonal factor and agricultural non-point source pollution. These sources contributed 38.96%, 12.33%, 13.54%, 23.95% and 11.21% to river water quality parameters, respectively. Strengthening the monitoring of biogenic elements, controlling pollutant discharge and exploring the relationship between biogenic elements and other pollutants are important for the water environment management in this basin.
Diabe-Teach: A randomized controlled trial of a gamified approach to enhance medical undergraduates' knowledge and comprehension of diabetes mellitus
Authors: Shadan Mariam , Ismail Hiba , Naushad Fathima Hana Mohamed 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

The increasing prevalence of diabetes mellitus worldwide necessitates that medical undergraduates acquire a deep understanding of the disease to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective management. Traditional teaching methods, while foundational, often lack the interactive elements that enhance student engagement and knowledge retention. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a novel educational board game, "Diabe-teach," in enhancing knowledge retention among medical students compared with conventional self-study methods. A randomized controlled design involving 56 preclinical medical students at Dubai Medical College for Girls was used. The participants were randomly assigned to either the game-based learning group or the control group, with both groups receiving identical instructional materials on diabetes. Knowledge retention was assessed via pre- and post-test scores, whereas student engagement and perceptions were measured via a feedback survey. The results indicated that while both groups showed significant improvement in post-test scores (p < .001), the game-based group demonstrated a notably greater frequency of correct responses and a greater tendency to recognize knowledge gaps, as evidenced by the increased "I do not know" responses compared with incorrect guesses in the control group. Feedback from the game-based learning group highlighted enhanced confidence, improved communication skills, and a preference for the gamified approach over traditional methods. The findings suggest that the "Diabe-teach" board game is an effective tool for teaching complex medical concepts, fostering both knowledge retention and critical self-assessment among students. These results contribute to the growing body of literature on game-based learning, supporting its potential as a valuable adjunct to traditional medical education methods. Further research could explore the application of this approach across other medical disciplines.
Public sector pharmaceutical distribution system and its challenges: a case of a central EPSS and selected branches
Authors: Getahun Kidus Tesfaye , Bilal Arebu Issa , Cho Denny J. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
The purpose of pharmaceutical distribution is to ensure a consistent supply of quality-assured pharmaceuticals to service delivery points to avoid stock outs and/or overstocks. However, choosing a resource-efficient method is difficult because of the two competing interests of lowering distribution costs and improving service level. This study aimed to assess the public sector pharmaceutical distribution system and its challenges in central EPSS and selected branches.
Methods
This study was conducted in the Central EPSS and four regional branches from December 2021 to February 2022. A concurrent parallel mixed methods design was employed. A total of 102 respondents participated in the quantitative part and were analyzed in SPSS 23 via descriptive statistics. Seventeen key informants participated in the qualitative study. Qualitative data were analyzed manually through thematic analysis using inductive approach.
Results
Warehouse management was well performed in relative to inventory management and delivery practice. The qualitative study identified insufficient stock, off-schedule delivery, providing near expiry product, and vehicle constraints as major challenges.
Conclusions
This study revealed that improving warehousing, inventory management, and delivery practice and addressing major challenges could result in effective pharmaceutical distribution.
Diagnostic accuracy of screening tests for diabetic peripheral neuropathy among outpatient attendees of follow up care for diabetes in Central India
Authors: Selvaraj Kalaiselvi , Deshmukh Pradeep R , Phatak Mrunal , Patil Ashlesh Laxman , Charlette Lena , Khot Rajeshree , Khan Mubashshera Firdous , Thanigachalam Srinivasan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background and objectives:
Of the several screening tests used in screening for Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN), each one has its demerits which act a threat to reliability. There is no single optimal method for the early diagnosis of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN). This study was conducted to compare the diagnostic accuracy of monofilament, biothesiometer and symptom-based scoring in detecting DPN, to determine the optimal cut-off for biothesiometer score compared to Nerve conduction studies (NCS) as gold standard and to compare the time taken to screen with monofilament and biothesiometer.
Methodology: The cross-sectional comparative diagnostic accuracy study was conducted in the Medicine OPD of a tertiary care institute in Central India. Among the patients with DM, those who were advised NCS between March - October 2023 were included in the study. All patients had undergone clinical Michigan neuropathy scoring, biothesiometer and monofilament and NCS.
Results and discussion: A total of 78 limbs among 39 patients with diabetes were assessed for DPN. The sensitivity of clinical Michigan neuropathy scoring, monofilament and biothesiometer (10 cut-off) were 15.6% (5.3 to 32.8), 35.5% (23.7 to 48.7) and 71% (58.1 to 81.8) respectively. A biothesiometer score of 10 was identified as optimal with area under the curve: 0.7132 (0.56 to 0.87), and the time taken to administer the biothesiometer was about 2.5 times more compared to the monofilament assessment.
Conclusions: Biothesiometry has higher sensitivity compared to other screening methods such as monofilament and clinical symptom score. The biothesiometer cut off at 10 had higher sensitivity compared to the existing standards of 15mV. The need for lower cut-off for biothesiometry has to be established with reference to nerve conduction study standards in larger studies.
Research on the prediction of the number of scholarships won by college students based on the RF-LightGBM model
Authors: Xie Xin , Niu Yanmin , Ma Yan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

With the increasing number of university graduates every year, college students are facing serious employment challenges. Good academic performance and a higher number of scholarships are conducive to enhancing students' competitiveness, however, they lack the ability to plan their academic life reasonably. In order to guide them to plan their study life reasonably and efficiently to promote better employment, this study proposes the RF-LightGBM model for predicting the number of scholarships awarded to students and analysing the important factors affecting the number of academic scholarships awarded. The experimental results show that the accuracy of the model reaches 83.1%, which is higher than other models, and can predict the number of scholarships awarded more accurately. The key features affecting the number of scholarships awarded are the grades of professional courses, and the scores assigned to the behavioural performance in school, so it is suggested that students should pay attention to the study of professional courses, and take an active part in professional competitions, volunteer activities, etc., so as to improve the comprehensive quality of the individual. This study provides a feasible reference for students on how to better obtain academic scholarships, which will help them plan their study life and enhance their competitiveness so that they can better cope with the challenges of employment.
Trends in low global warming potential inhaler prescribing: A UK-wide cohort comparison from 2018-2024
Authors: Barry Simon M , Davies Gareth R , Forton Julian , Williams Sarah , Thomas Richard , Paxton Paul , Moore Grace , Davies Chris 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

We performed a retrospective cohort analysis comparing trends in low global warming potential (GWP) inhaler prescribing in primary care in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland between 2018 and 2024 using national prescribing data. There was little change in England, a reduction from 36.6–31.0% in Scotland, a reduction from 36.7–33.2% in Northern Ireland, and an increase from 30.8–41.1% in Wales. Only in Wales was there a simultaneous reduction in high GWP inhalers and an increase in low GWP inhalers. Over the time period of the study there has been a saving of 20,303 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent in Wales
Treating self-harm behaviors in prisons: Effectiveness and implementation of the STEPPS program
Authors: Lorente-Català Rosa , Jaén Irene , Busca-Huertas Xavier , Framis Berta , García-Palacios Azucena 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Improving mental health within correctional facilities, specifically to address self-harm behaviors, is a crucial endeavor. However, significant challenges arise when implementing evidence-based programs within this complex setting. Despite these hurdles, the Systems Training for Emotional Predictability and Problem Solving (STEPPS) program has garnered recognition, notably in the United States, for its efficacy in tackling such issues. This study aimed to examine inmate profiles in prisons located in Catalonia, Spain, and to investigate the STEPPS program's effectiveness and implementation process.
Method
Forty-one inmates participated in the study and completed measures covering self-harm behaviors, emotion regulation, impulsivity, mental health symptoms, and satisfaction with the intervention. Twenty-four professionals who implemented the STEPPS program completed satisfaction, normalization process, burnout, acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility measures.
Results
The results suggest that the STEPPS program significantly reduced symptoms of emotional dysregulation, motor impulsivity, and compulsive symptomatology among inmates. The intervention was well-received by professionals, and perceived as appropriate and feasible. The perception of feasibility decreased after implementation, likely due to contextual factors such as inmate and organization characteristics. Additionally, professionals remained committed to the implementation, dedicating time and effort to the process and engaging in thorough evaluations, without increasing their levels of burnout.
Conclusions
These findings deepen the understanding of self-harm behaviors in prisons and demonstrate the effectiveness of the program. However, improvements in the STEPPS program are still necessary to enhance its implementation in this setting.
Trial Registration
NCT06297460 (ClinicalTrials.gov, retrospectively registered, 2022/01/01).
Deferasirox improved iron homeostasis and hematopoiesis in ovariectomized rats with iron accumulation
Authors: Honari Niloofar , Sayadi Mahtab , Sajjadi Seyed Mehdi , Solhjoo Somayeh , Sarab Gholamreza Anani 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Menopause is a natural biological aging process characterized by the loss of ovarian follicular function and decrease estrogen levels. These hormonal fluctuations are associated with increased iron levels, which ultimately lead to iron accumulation. This study aims to investigate the effects of Deferasirox on iron homeostasis and hematopoiesis in ovariectomized rats with iron accumulation. Sixty-four female Wistar rats were divided into eight groups and underwent ovariectomy surgery to simulate menopause. Iron accumulation was induced through the injection of ammonium ferric citrate. Deferasirox was administered at doses of 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg. Hematological parameters, iron profile, antioxidant markers, oxidative stress indicators, histopathological evaluation of uterine, bone, bone marrow, liver, and spleen tissues, flow cytometric analysis of hematopoietic CD markers, and relative expression of Hamp, Pu.1, Gata1, and Gdf11 genes were analyzed. Deferasirox treatment improved histopathological changes in the uterine tissue of ovariectomized rats with iron accumulation, increased the number of white blood cells, and reduced serum iron levels, TIBC, ferritin, and transferrin saturation percentage. It also increased serum antioxidant capacity and reduced oxidative stress markers. Deferasirox had a positive effect on femur bone, hematopoietic cell count, volume of hematopoietic and adipose tissues in bone marrow, extramedullary hematopoiesis in the liver and spleen, and influenced the relative expression of Hamp, Pu.1, Gata1, and Gdf11 genes related to hematopoiesis and iron metabolism. In conclusion, Deferasirox effectively manages iron homeostasis and hematopoiesis in ovariectomized rats with iron accumulation and suppresses oxidative stress.
Opportunities and challenges to delivering a trial for depressive symptoms in primary care during the COVID- 19 pandemic: Insights from the Alpha-Stim-D randomised controlled trial
Authors: Patel Shireen , Patel Priya , Boutry Clement , Guo Boliang , Butler Deborah , Higton Fred , McNaughton Rebecca , Briley Paul M , Griffiths Christopher , Nixon Neil , Prasad Vibhore , Sayal Kapil , Smart David , Zafar Azhar , Kai Joe , Morriss Richard 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: Randomised Controlled Trials (RCTs) are widely regarded as the most powerful research design for evidence-based practice. However, recruiting to RCTs can be challenging resulting in heightened costs and delays in research completion and implementation. Enabling successful recruitment is crucial in mental health research. Despite the increase in the use of remote recruitment strategies and digital health interventions there is limited evidence on methods to improve recruitment to remotely delivered mental health trials. The paper outlines practical examples and recommendations on how to successfully recruit participants to remotely delivered mental health trials.
Methods: The Alpha Stim-D Trial was a multi-centre double-blind randomised controlled trial, for people aged 16 years upwards, addressing depressive symptoms in primary care. Despite a six-month delay in beginning recruitment due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the trial met the recruitment target within the timeframe and achieved high retention rates. Several strategies were implemented to improve recruitment, some of these were adapted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This included adapting the original in-person recruitment strategies. Subsequently, systematic recruitment using postal invitations from criteria-specific search of the sites’ electronic health records was added to opportunistic recruitment to increase referrals in response to sub-target recruitment whilst also reducing the burden on referring sites. Throughout the recruitment process, the research team collaborated with key stakeholders such as primary care clinicians and the project’s Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPI/E) representatives who gave advice on recruitment strategies. Furthermore, the study researchers played a key role in communicating with participants and building rapport from study introduction to data collection.
Conclusions: Our findings suggest that trial processes can influence recruitment, therefore consideration and a regular review of the recruitment figures and strategies is important. Recruitment of participants can be maximised by utilising remote approaches, which reduce the burden and amount of time required by referring sites and allow the research team to reach more participants whilst providing participants and researchers with more flexibility. Effectively communicating and working collaboratively with key stakeholders throughout the trial process, as well as building rapport with participants may also improve recruitment rates.
γ - Competitveness. An Approach to Multi-Objective Optimization with High Computation Costs in Lipschitz Functions
Authors: Latypov Ilgam , Dorn Yuriy 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

In practical engineering and optimization, solving multi-objective optimization (MOO) problems typically involves scalarization methods that convert a multiobjective problem into a single-objective one. While effective, these methods often incur significant computational costs due to iterative calculations and are further complicated by the need for hyperparameter tuning.
In this paper, we introduce an extension of the concept of competitive solutions and propose the Scalarization With Competitiveness Method (SWCM) for multicriteria problems. This method is highly interpretable and eliminates the need for hyperparameter tuning. Additionally, we offer a solution for cases where the objective functions are Lipschitz continuous and can only be computed once, termed Competitiveness Approximation on Lipschitz Functions (CAoLF). This approach is particularly useful when computational resources are limited or recomputation is not feasible.
Through computational experiments on the minimum-cost concurrent flow problem, we demonstrate the efficiency and scalability of the proposed method, underscoring its potential for addressing computational challenges in MOO across various applications.
Cov-trans: An Efficient Algorithm for Discontinuous Transcript Assembly in Coronaviruses
Authors: Guo Xiaoyu , Wu Zhenming , Zhang Shu , Zhao Jin 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background:
Discontinuous transcription allows coronaviruses to efficiently replicate and transmit within host cells, enhancing their adaptability and survival. Assembling viral transcripts is crucial for virology research and the development of antiviral strategies. However, traditional transcript assembly methods primarily designed for variable alternative splicing events in eukaryotes are not suitable for the viral transcript assembly problem. The current algorithms designed for assembling viral transcripts often struggle with low accuracy in determining the transcript boundaries. There is an urgent need to develop a highly accurate viral transcript assembly algorithm.
Results:
In this work, we propose Cov-trans, a reference-based transcript assembler specifically tailored for the discontinuous transcription of coronaviruses. Cov-trans first identifies canonical transcripts based on discontinuous transcription mechanisms, start and stop codons, as well as reads alignment information. Subsequently, it formulates the assembly of non-canonical transcripts as a path extraction problem, and introduces a mixed integer linear programming to recover these non-canonical transcripts.
Conclusion:
Experimental results show that Cov-trans outperforms other assemblers in both accuracy and recall, with a notable strength in accurately identifying the boundaries of transcripts. Cov-trans is freely available at https://github.com/computer-Bioinfo/Cov-trans.
Material Hardship, Forced Displacement, and Negative Health Outcomes Among Unhoused People Who Use Drugs in Los Angeles, California and Denver, Colorado: A Latent Class Analysis
Authors: Goldshear Jesse Lloyd , Ganesh Siddhi S. , Borquez Annick , Gelberg Lillian , Corsi Karen F. , Bluthenthal Ricky N. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: Homelessness is a growing concern in the United States, especially among people who use drugs (PWUD). The degree of material hardship among this population may be linked to worse health outcomes. PWUD experiencing homelessness in urban areas are increasingly subjected to policies and social treatment, such as forced displacement, which may worsen material hardship. It is critical to describe hardship among PWUD and examine if it is linked to health outcomes.
Methods: Data were collected as part of a prospective cohort study of PWUD in Los Angeles, California and Denver, Colorado (n = 476). Analysis sample size was smaller (N = 395) after selecting for people experiencing homelessness and for whom data were complete. Five indicators assessing hardship (difficulty finding food, clothing, restrooms, places to wash/shower, and shelter) in the past three months were obtained from participants at baseline and were used in latent class analysis (LCA). We chose a base latent class model after examination of global fit statistics. We then built three auxiliary models using the three-step Bolck–Croon–Hagenaars (BCH) method to test the relationship of latent class membership to several hypothesized social and health variables in this same three month time period.
Results: Fit statistics, minimum classification probabilities, and ease of interpretation indicated a three-class solution for level of material difficulty. We termed these classes “High Difficulty” (n = 82), “Mixed Difficulty” (n = 215), and “Low Difficulty” (n = 98). Average classification probabilities indicated good class separability. “High Difficulty” participants had high probabilities of usually having difficulty accessing all five resources. “Mixed Difficulty” participants indicated a range of difficulty accessing all resources, with restrooms and bathing facilities being the most difficult. “Low Difficulty” participants were defined by high probabilities of never having access difficulty. In auxiliary analyses, there were significant (p < 0.05) differences in experiences of displacement, opioid withdrawal symptoms, nonfatal overdose, and violent victimization between classes.
Conclusions: This LCA indicates that among PWUD experiencing homelessness there exist distinct differences in resource access and material hardship, and that these differences are linked with political, social, substance use, and other health outcomes. We add to the literature on the relationship between poverty and health among PWUD. Policies which increase difficulty accessing necessary material resources may negatively impact health in this population.