bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assessing Risk Factors for Short Birth Interval Hot Spots using Geographically Weighted Regression: Findings from a Nationally Representative Survey Data
Authors: Islam Mohammad Zahidul , Rahman Md. Mostafizur , Khan Md. Nuruzzaman , Islam M Mofizul 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background Short Birth Interval (SBI) is a public health problem in most low- and lower-middle-income countries. Understanding geographic variations in SBI, particularly SBI hot spots and associated factors, may help intervene with tailored programs. This study identified the geographical hot spots of SBI in Bangladesh and the factors associated with them. `Methods We analyzed women’s data extracted from the 2017/18 Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey and the healthcare facility data extracted from the 2017 Service Provision Assessment. Moran’s I was used to examine the spatial variation of SBI in Bangladesh whereas the Getis-Ord G*i (d) was used to determine the hot spots of SBI. The Geographical Weighted Regression (GWR) was used to explore the spatial variation of SBI on explanatory variables. The explanatory variables included in the GWR were selected using the exploratory regression and ordinary least square regression model. Results Data of 5941 women were included in the analyses. Around 26% of the total births in Bangladesh had occurred in short intervals. A majority of the SBI hot spots were found in the Sylhet division, and almost all SBI cold spots were in the Rajshahi and Khulna divisions. No engagement with formal income-generating activities, high maternal parity, and history of experiencing the death of a child were significantly associated with SBI in the Sylhet region. Women’s age of 34 years or less at the first birth was a protective factor of SBI in the Rajshahi and Khulna divisions. Conclusion The prevalence of SBI in Bangladesh is highly clustered in the Sylhet division. We recommend introducing tailored reproductive health care services in the hot spots instead of the existing uniform approach across the country.
The Sustainability of Reforesting Landscapes with Exotic Species: Case Study of Eucalypts in Central-South Ethiopia
Authors: Seware Belay Zerga , Dullo Bikila Warkineh , Fanta Demel Teketay , Abshare Muluneh Woldetsadik 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background

Rural landscapes, particularly those close to human settlements and main roads throughout the highlands of Ethiopia, appear greener than the outfields because of eucalypt plantations. The most common factors for eucalypt plantations are two: fuel and construction demands and to generate income.
Objective

This study tried to investigate the socioeconomic impacts of eucalypt plantations in Western Gurage Watersheds located in Central-south Ethiopia. The specific objectives are: to evaluate the socioeconomic importance of eucalypt plantations on the livelihood of farm households, and to assess perceptions on impacts of eucalypt plantation and copping strategies.
Methods

Systematic and purposive sampling method was employed by selecting households with eucalypt woodlots from the list of each Woreda’s Kebeles. Close- and open- ended questionnaires were distributed to every fifth households that possessed eucalypt plantations. Three hundred eighty three questionnaires were distributed and collected from households found in three Woredas (districts) namely Cheha, Enemorna Ener, and Eza located in the Watersheds. To supplement the information critical observations, discussions with focus groups and interviews with key informant were employed. The survey data were analyzed using both qualitative and quantitative techniques. To describe data acquired from critical observations, focus group discussions and key informant interviews; critical and logical qualitative data analysis technique were used. Descriptive and dispersive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, variance, standard deviation, p- value and correlation were employed using SPSS Version 20.
Results

The result showed that eucalypt plantation dominated fuel wood and construction consumption and substituted further encroachment to natural forests. From multiple responses given, households prefer planting eucalypts to indigenous trees because it is fast growing (100%), profitable (100%), needs lesser labor (100%), needs lower capital (100%), can be used for multipurpose (100%), and coppice itself fatly (93%). They rated income gained from eucalypt as 2nd next to enset.
Conclusions

Households may continue planting the species particularly for fuel wood and construction need since substituting it by other alternative seems not feasible and challenging. To sustain the livelihood and environment; appropriate management like site selection and substitutions by horticultural and cash crops using micro irrigation schemes for market needs are recommended. Conducting in-depth participatory research and specific policy ratification and promulgation on eucalypt plantations will sustain its utilization and curb the drawbacks.
Deforestation Impacts on Amazon-Andes Hydroclimatic Connectivity
Authors: Sierra Juan P. , Junquas C. , Espinoza J. C. , Segura H. , Condom T. , Andrade M. , Molina-Carpio J. , Ticona L. , Mardoñez V. , Blacutt L. , Polcher J. , Rabatel A. , Sicart J.E. 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Amazonian deforestation has accelerated during the last decade, threatening an ecosystem where almost one third of the regional rainfall is transpired by the local rainforest. Due to the precipitation recycling, the southwestern Amazon, including the Amazon-Andes transition region, is particularly sensitive to forest loss. This study evaluates the impacts of Amazonian deforestation in the hydro-climatic connectivity between the Amazon and the eastern tropical Andes during the austral summer (December-January-February) in terms of hydrological and energetic balances. Using 10-year high-resolution simulations (2001–2011) with the Weather Research and Forecasting Model, we analyze control and deforestation scenario simulations. Regionally, deforestation leads to a reduction in the surface net radiation, evaporation, moisture convergence and precipitation (~ 20%) over the entire Amazon basin. In addition, during this season, deforestation increases the atmospheric subsidence over the southern Amazon and weakens the regional Hadley cell. Atmospheric stability increases over the western Amazon and the tropical Andes inhibiting convection in these areas. Consequently, major deforestation impacts are observed over the hydro-climate of the Amazon-Andes transition region. At local scale, nighttime precipitation decreases in Bolivian valleys (~ 20–30%) due to a strong reduction in the humidity transport from the Amazon plains toward Andes linked to the South American low-level jet. Over these valleys, a weakening of the daytime upslope winds is caused by local deforestation, which reduces the turbulent fluxes at lowlands. These alterations in rainfall and atmospheric circulation could impact the rich Andean ecosystems and its tropical glaciers.
Impact of Cancer and Cardiovascular Disease on In-Hospital Outcomes of COVID-19 Patients: Results From the American Heart Association COVID-19 Cardiovascular Disease Registry
Authors: Tehrani David , Wang Xiaoyan , Rafique Asim M. , Hayek Salim S , Herrmann Joerg , Neilan Tomas G. , Desai Pooja , Morgans Alicia , Lopez-Mattei Juan , Parikh Rushi V. , Yang Eric H. 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: While pre-existing cardiovascular disease (CVD) appears to be associated with poor outcomes in patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), data on patients with CVD and concomitant cancer is limited. Evaluate the effect of underlying CVD and CVD risk factors with cancer history on in-hospital mortality in those with COVID-19.Methods: Data from symptomatic adults hospitalized with COVID-19 at 86 hospitals in the US enrolled in the American Heart Association’s COVID-19 CVD Registry was analyzed. The primary exposure was cancer history. The primary outcome was in-hospital death. Multivariable logistic regression models were adjusted for demographics, CVD risk factors, and CVD. Interaction between history of cancer with concomitant CVD and CVD risk factors were tested.Results: Among 8222 patients, 892 (10.8%) had a history of cancer and 1501 (18.3%) died. Cancer history had significant interaction with CVD risk factors of age, body mass index (BMI), and smoking history, but not underlying CVD itself. History of cancer was significantly associated with increased in-hospital death (among average age and BMI patients, adjusted odds ratio [aOR]=3.60, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.07-6.24; p<0.0001 in those with a smoking history and aOR=1.33, 95%CI: 1.01 - 1.76; p=0.04 in non-smokers). Among the cancer subgroup, prior use of chemotherapy within 2 weeks of admission was associated with in-hospital death (aOR=1.72, 95%CI: 1.05-2.80; p=0.03). Underlying CVD demonstrated a numerical but statistically nonsignificant trend toward increased mortality (aOR=1.18, 95% CI: 0.99 - 1.41; p=0.07).Conclusion: Among hospitalized COVID-19 patients, cancer history was a predictor of in-hospital mortality. Notably, among cancer patients, recent use of chemotherapy, but not underlying CVD itself, was associated with worse survival. These findings have important implications in cancer therapy considerations and vaccine distribution in cancer patients with and without underlying CVD and CVD risk factors.
Comprehensive Versus Standard Care in Post-Severe Acute Kidney Injury Survivors, A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Thanapongsatorn Peerapat , Chaikomon Kamolthip , Lumlertgul Nuttha , Yimsangyad Khanitha , Leewongworasingh Akarathep , Kulvichit Win , Sirivongrangson Phatadon , Peerapornratana Sadudee , Chaijamorn Weerachai , Avihingsanon Yingyos , Srisa Nattachai 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: Currently, there is a lack of evidence to guide the optimal care for post-acute kidney injury (AKI) survivors. Therefore, post-discharge care by a multidisciplinary care team (MDCT) may improve these outcomes. This study aimed to demonstrate the outcomes of implementing comprehensive care by a MDCT in post-severe AKI survivors.Methods: This study was a randomized controlled trial conducted between August 2018 to January 2021. Patients who survived severe AKI stage 2-3 were enrolled and randomized to be followed up with either comprehensive or standard care for 12 months. The comprehensive post-AKI care integrated a MDCT (nephrologists, nurses, nutritionists, and pharmacists). The primary outcome was the feasibility outcomes, comprised of the rates of loss to follow up, specialist consultation, 3-d dietary record, drug reconciliation, and drug alert rates at 12 months. Secondary outcomes included major adverse kidney events, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and amount of albuminuria at 12 months. Results: Ninety-eight AKI stage 3 survivors were enrolled, and randomized into comprehensive care and standard care groups (49 patients in each group). Compared to the standard care group, the comprehensive care group had significantly better in feasibility outcomes; higher rates of specialist consultation, 3-d dietary record, drug reconciliation, and drug alerts (p < 0.001). The mean eGFR at 12 months were comparable between the two groups (66.74 vs. 61.12 mL/min/1.73 m2, p = 0.54). The urine albumin: creatinine ratio (UACR) was significantly lower in the comprehensive care group (36.83 vs. 177.70 mg/g, p = 0.036), while the blood pressure control was also better in the comprehensive care group (87.9% vs. 57.5%, p = 0.006). There was no difference in the other renal outcomes between the two groups.Conclusions: Comprehensive care by a MDCT is feasible and could be implemented for post-severe AKI survivors. These resulted in a better reduction in the UACR and better blood pressure control. Trial registration: clinicaltrial.gov: NCT04012008 (First registered July 9, 2019)
Evaluating COVID-19 Vaccination Website using DISCERN and QUality Evaluation Scoring (QUEST) Tools
Authors: Prabhune Akash Gajanan , Mallavaram Aishwarya , Bhat Sachin , Pandey Samridhi , Shagufta Ayesha Mehar , Reddy Ashitha , H Vinay Sri 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: The objective of this paper was to evaluate the COVID-19 vaccine registration website across UN-recognized member states for their portal quality, reliability, Ease Use and help to the general population in informed decision making.Methods: 12 UN member states (Countries) were selected based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria mentioned in the methodology section of this paper. PPS technique was used for sampling and selection of 12 countries from 193 UN member states. Post selection of UN member states the study used 2 step evaluation techniques, Step 1 The DISCERN checklist consists of 16 questions in three sections and is aimed to assess the reliability of information and quality of information; Step 2 The QUEST tool consists of 6 items with a subitem, Authorship, Attribution, Conflict of Interest, Complementarity, Currency, Tone. The authors developed a standard set of instructions for evaluating Vaccination Portals to bring uniformity in understanding and context setting.Results: DISCERN tool overall reliability score on the Likert scale of 0 to 5 was 4 (SD ± 1.28). On Quality of information regarding treatment choices, the average score was 3.4 (SD ± 1.67). The QUEST tool on ease of use, concision, and comprehensiveness demonstrated an average score of 18.1 (SD ± 8.3) out of 28.The vaccine registration portal of the Czech Republic was found to be most informative and was able to provide a piece of scientifically valid information on safety, efficacy, long-term short effects, choice of vaccine with attributable authors details. India, Bangladesh, Nigeria, South Africa scored relatively low to missing critical information on the website. The United Arab Emirates, Republic of South Korea, Indonesia, Australia, and Argentina had minor elements missing.Conclusions: COVID-19 vaccination portals vary in the quality of information and many were found unable to provide critical information for decision making on getting vaccinated
Soil–building Interaction under Surface Horizontal Strain Induced by Underground Mining
Authors: Liu Xiaopeng , Xu Liangji 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Underground mining will cause the ground to deform, leading to the destruction of buildings. Horizontal strain is one of the most important causes of damage to strip foundation buildings. However, related research is insufficient, making the mechanism of building damage caused by horizontal strain unclear and resulting in several difficulties in performing coal mining under villages. In this study, interface slip and soil pressure caused by the horizontal strain of ground transfer between soil and buildings are investigated, and stress concentration in buildings driven by soil movement is considered the primary cause of building damage. The influences of the mechanical parameters of the soil and the geometric parameters of building on stress distribution inside a building are analyzed by establishing a stress distribution model of a building under different ground horizontal strain. Softening the foundation or designing deformation joints inside a building can reduce the influence of horizontal strain on the building. This research can provide an important reference for performing coal mining safely under villages and designing building protection against ground horizontal strain.
Assessment of the Cost of the Mediterranean Diet in a Low-Income Region: Adherence and Relationship with Available Incomes
Authors: Rubini Alessia , Prieto Cristina Vilaplana , Flor-Alemany Marta , Yeguas-Rosa Lorena , Hernández-González Miriam , García Francisco Javier Félix , Félix-Redondo Francisco Javier , Fernández-Bergés Daniel 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
BackgroundThe Mediterranean Diet (MD) is recognized as heart-healthy, but the economic cost associated with this type of diet has scarcely been studied.AimThe objective of the present study was to explore the cost and adherence of the low-income region population to the MD and its relationship with available incomes.MethodsA population-based study was carried out on 2,833 subjects between 25 and 79 years of age, 54% women, selected at random from the communities of Vegas Altas, La Siberia and La Serena in the province of Badajoz, Extremadura, Spain. The average cost of each product included in the MD and monthly expenditure were calculated. The expenditure was related to the degree of adherence to the MD (the Panagiotakos Index) and to the incomes of the participants.ResultsThe monthly median cost was 203.6 euros (IQR 154.04-265.37). Food-related expenditure was higher among the male population (p<0.001) of between 45 and 54 years of age (p<0.013) and living in urban areas (p<0.001). A positive correlation between food-related expenditure and the MD adherence was found. Expenditure represents 15% of total incomes, ranging from 11% for the group with a low MD adherence to 17% for the group with a high MD adherence.Conclusions The monthly cost of the MD was positively correlated with the degree of adherence to this dietary pattern, and is similar to that of other regions of Spain with higher per capita income, which entails a greater expenditure for equal adherence to the MD.
Drivers of Purchase Decisions for Cannabis Products Among Consumers in a Legalized Market: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Donnan Jennifer , Shogan Omar , Bishop Lisa , Najafizada Maisam 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: Cannabis was legalized in Canada for non-medical use in 2018. The goal of legalization was to improve health and safety by creating access to regulated products, with accurate product labels and warnings and no risk of contamination. However, more than two years post-legalization, a large proportion of purchases are still suspected to be through unlicensed retailers. This study sought to identify the factors that influenced the purchase decisions of cannabis consumers in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL). Methods: Semi-structured focus groups and interviews were conducted in NL with individuals who were >19 and had purchased cannabis within the last 12 months. All sessions were conducted virtually, audio-recorded, and transcribed. A thematic analysis was conducted, and two members of the research team coded the data using NVivo. A combination of deductive and inductive coding was carried out, themes from the literature were identified, and new themes from the transcripts were discovered. A final coding template of the data was agreed upon by the team through discussion and consensus. Results: A total of 23 individuals (30% female) participated, with 83% coming from urban areas. While all cannabis product types were discussed, the conversation naturally focused on dried leaf products. Participants discussed a variety of considerations when making purchase decisions categorized around five broad themes: 1) price, 2) quality, 3) packaging and warnings, 4) the source of the cannabis, and 5) social influences. The price difference between licensed and un-licensed sources was commonly discussed as a factor that influenced purchase decisions. Product quality characteristics (e.g. size, color, moisture content) and social influences were also considered in purchase decisions. Participants were generally indifferent to packaging and warning labels but expressed concern about the excessive packaging required for regulated products. Conclusion: This study explores the many attributes that influence purchase decisions for dried leaf cannabis. Understanding the drivers of purchase decisions can help inform policy reforms to make regulated cannabis products more appealing to consumers. Further research is needed to measure the effect of each attribute on cannabis purchase decisions.
Integrative review of soft skills the desirable traits and skills in nursing practise
Authors: Laari Luke , Anim-Boamah Oboshie , Boso Christian Makafui 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Aim: To explore the value of soft skills in nursing practice.Background: While hard skills refer to the technical ability and the factual knowledge needed to do a job, soft skills allow you to more effectively use your technical abilities and knowledge pleasingly. These two skills are complementary but soft skills are a prerequisite in every profession where human interaction and teamwork are needed to succeed. This integrative review examined the literature on soft skills within the nursing domain and made suggestions.Methods: An integrative literature review was carried using four electronic databases. These databases were Cumulative Index to Nursing & Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), PubMed, Medline on EBSCOhost and Google Scholar using keywords: soft skills, non-technical skills, nursing skills, nursing art and aesthetics. No dates were considered during the search of the literature. Full texts of relevant studies were retrieved after screening the titles and abstracts. Critical appraisal was undertaken, and the findings of the relevant studies were analysed using thematic analysis. Results: Seventeen studies were included, and the findings suggest an urgent need for softs skills in the nursing domain. Five themes: denotation of soft skills in nursing; benefits of soft skills in nursing; need for soft skills in nursing; inculcating soft skills into nursing practice; and links between hard and soft skills emerged. Also, the findings show that soft skills are the cognitive and social capabilities that complete the technical skills of the nurse in the health care industry.Conclusions: Soft skills have become the oxygen needed to resuscitate the seemingly dying nursing care quality. Regulatory bodies should see the call to incorporate soft skills into the nursing curriculum as an urgent resuscitative call that needs attention.
Drug Resistance and Epigenetic Modulatory Potential of Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate Against Staphylococcus Aureus
Authors: Zeferino Ana Sofia , Mira Ana Rita , Delgadinho Mariana , Brito Miguel , Ponte Tomás , Ribeiro Edna 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: Antimicrobial resistance of human pathogens such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), is described by the World Health Organization as a health global challenge and efforts must be made for the discovery of new effective and safe compounds. This work aims to evaluate Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) epigenetic and drug modulatory potential against S. aureus in vitro and in vivo. Methods: S. aureus strains were isolated from commensal flora of healthy volunteers. Antibiotic susceptibility and synergistic assay were assessed trough disk diffusion accordingly to EUCAST guidelines with and without co-exposure to EGCG at final concentrations of 250, 100, 50 and 25 µg/ml. Transcriptional expression of orfx, spdC and WalKR was performed trough qRT-PCR. A 90 days interventional study was performed with a daily consumption of 225 mg of EGCG. Results: Obtained data revealed a high prevalence of S. aureus colonization in health care workers and clearly demonstrate the antimicrobial and synergistic potential of EGCG as well as divergent resistant phenotypes associated with altered transcriptional expression of epigenetic and drug response modulators genes. Conclusions: Here we demonstrate the potential of EGCG for antimicrobial treatment and/or therapeutic adjuvant against antibiotic resistant microorganisms and report divergent patterns of epigenetic modulators expression associated with phenotypic resistance profiles.