bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Does introducing outpatient pooling scheme reduce socioeconomic inequality in healthcare utilization? Evidence from a longitudinal study in China, 2011–2020
Authors: Zhang Tao , Yu Meiteng , Liu Jing 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
In China, persistent health care inequalities coexist with universal health coverage due to limited financial protection for outpatient care. To address this issue, the Chinese Urban Employee Basic Medical Insurance implemented an outpatient pooling scheme, aiming to alleviate cost-sharing burdens for outpatients. This study assesses the impact of this policy on socioeconomic disparities in outpatient care utilization.
Methods
Data from five waves of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (2011–2020) were utilized. Outcome variables included the possibility of outpatient visits, visits to hospitals and primary care facilities, as well as outpatient expenditures and out-of-pocket (OOP) payments. Propensity score matching formed a matched sample, and the concentration index (CI) for outcomes was calculated for policy-implementing and non-implementing groups. Decomposition of the CI and its changes were performed to identify the outpatient pooling's contribution to inequalities in outpatient care.
Results
The CI value for the likelihood of outpatient visits decreased from 0.1142 in 2011 to 0.0972 in 2020, with outpatient pooling contributing positively (4.14%) to this reduction. However, inequalities across different facility types increased over time. The CI for visits to hospitals changed from 0.0069 to 0.0431, and the CI for visits to primary care facilities changed from 0.0064 to -0.1091. The implementation of the policy counteracted these growing inequalities. Despite persistent pro-rich inequalities in outpatient expenditures and OOP payments, their CI values exhibited a substantial decline, and outpatient pooling played a pivotal role in steering the trend towards improving equity.
Conclusion
The introduction of the outpatient pooling scheme significantly contributes to diminishing pro-rich inequalities in outpatient care. However, socioeconomic disparities in the utilization of primary care and advanced services continue to widen despite the counteractive effects of policy implementation. Future interventions should adopt a comprehensive approach, extending beyond mere insurance benefits coverage, to address and rectify these persisting inequalities.
Pre-treatment of composite industrial wastewater by Fenton and electro-Fenton oxidation processes
Authors: Omar Basma Mohamed , Ziadeh Mohamed , Ali Menna , El-Sonbati Mervat 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

The present study aims to characterize three industrial wastewater samples collected from petrochemical, food and beet sugar industries to determine the pollution potential and select the appropriate pre-treatment approach. According to the biodegradability profile of the multi-sourced mixed samples, the advanced oxidation process (AOPs) namely, Fenton (F) and Electro-Fenton (EF) were adopted as pre-treatment techniques and the operating parameters such as, time, type of electrodes, pH, voltage, iron and H2O2 concentrations were critically examined. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was conducted to compare the performance efficiency of F& EFAOPs for treating the composite samples. The results revealed that initial values of the composite samples were 7.11, 19.2, 32.6, 19.3, 937, 1512, 860, 3.9, 2110 and 2.34 for pH, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Electrical Conductivity (EC), Salinity, BOD, COD, Oil and grease (O&G), Total Phosphorous (TP), Total suspended Solids (TSS) and Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN), respectively. In addition, electro-Fenton process achieved removal efficiency for COD, O&G, BOD, TSS, and TKN, by 84.3%, 69%, 85%, 72% and 71.27% compared to Fenton which displayed 78.43%, 66%, 69%, 70.1%, and 61%, respectively. Consequently, there are statistically significant differences between the initial and final (pretreated) values of the composite wastewater for the addressed parameters and the EF process was significantly more effective than F. It was concluded that both Fenton and electro-Fenton processes are favorable, eco-friendly and cost-effective options for pretreating real complicated mixed multi-sourced industrial wastewater.
The Role of Education in Moderating the Impact of Development on Environmental Sustainability in OECD Countries
Authors: Sahu Muskan , Prusty Twinkle , Alahdal Waleed M. , Ariff Akmalia Mohamad , Almaqtari Faozi A. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

This study explores the interconnections among industrialization, urbanization, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), and CO2 emissions (CO2e) across 31 OECD countries. In addition, it analyzes how education moderates these relationships. This study employs CO2e as the explained variable, while industrialization, urbanization, and FDI serve as explanatory variables, with education as a moderator. This research utilized Hierarchical regression analysis was used to examine how education moderates the associations among industrialization, urbanization, FDI, and CO2e. Additionally, to validate the reliability of our results, we utilized the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM). The results of this study imply that CO2e levels increase with the level of industrialization and urbanization. The pursuit of education also contributed to the increase in CO2e. Moreover, education and industrialization have detrimental effects on CO2e. This study contributes uniquely to the literature by investigating the moderating influence of education on the relationships between independent variables and CO2e.
Knapsack-Sharing Model for Hybrid Hosting of Enterprise Resource Planning Software on IaaS Clouds
Authors: LAALAOUI Yacine , MHALLA Hedi 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Cloud Computing and Enterprise Resource Planning constitute hot research and application topics thanks to their direct impact on the success or failure of contemporary organizations. The competitive value of an organization relies on how much it adopts Cloud Computing and Enterprise Resource Planning solutions.
This paper describes a knapsack-sharing model for the hybrid hosting of Enterprise Resource Planning software in a cloud environment. Kanpasack-sharing is a combinatorial optimization approach that uses Integer Linear Programming models. On the one hand, the proposed approach allows the Cloud Service Provider to estimate the cost of hosting such complex software by solving a knapsack-sharing problem instance. On the other hand, it helps the organization's management in the fair distribution of the budget among departments and business areas since budget constraints are often present. In addition, the proposed approach helps the organization's management decide what processes to move to the cloud platform and what other processes remain on in-house servers. Moreover, we describe a new improvement of an exact algorithm to solve the knapsack-sharing problem instances with a large number of classes. The experimental work reveals a substantial improvement in running time compared to the most recent algorithm in the literature.
Potential predictors of necrotizing enterocolitis in extremely low-birth-weight infants: Analyses of coagulation and fibrinolysis markers at birth at a single institution during the past decade
Authors: Yano Keisuke , Sugita Koshiro , Harumatsu Toshio , Matsukubo Makoto , Kawano Takafumi , Muto Mitsuru , Torikai Motofumi , Ibara Satoshi , Tokuhisa Takuya , Ieiri Satoshi 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Purpose
We analyzed coagulation and fibrinolysis markers at birth to identify predictors of the onset of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in extremely low-birth-weight infants (ELBWIs).
Methods
We reviewed the medical records of ELBWIs born at our institution between 2013 and 2022. Patient background and blood test results at birth were compared between the NEC and control groups.
Results
Two hundred forty-six ELBWIs were enrolled in this study (control group, n = 226; NEC group, n = 20). The background characteristics were significantly difference between the two groups. The following coagulation and fibrinolysis markers at birth were compared between the control and NEC groups: prothrombin time (%), 62.2 ± 19.4 vs. 54.2 ± 24.4, p = 0.169; prothrombin ratio, 1.65 ± 0.55 vs. 1.39 ± 0.27, p = 0.052; activated partial thromboplastin time (min), 78.5 ± 31.1 vs. 95.6 ± 40.6, p = 0.083; fibrinogen (mg/dL), 160.7 ± 124.2 vs. 107.3 ± 67.1, p = 0.004; antithrombin III (%), 29.1 ± 7.8 vs. 28.4 ± 9.9, p = 0.083; D-dimer (µg/mL), 3.2 ± 2.5 vs. 11.7 ± 13.9, p = 0.013; soluble fibrin (µg/mL), 30.0 ± 26.9 vs. 35.7 ± 25.4, p = 0.372; thrombin antithrombin III complex (ng/mL), 9.0 ± 7.9 vs. 20.5 ± 28.1, p = 0.082; plasmin-α2 plasmin inhibitor complex (µg/mL), 1.04 ± 0.67 vs. 1.88 ± 3.0, p = 0.254; plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (ng/mL), 23.0 ± 14.3 vs. 42.5 ± 59.5, p = 0.160; and factor XIII (%), 25.7 ± 8.2 vs. 24.7 ± 9.7; p = 0.667.
Conclusions
Low fibrinogen and high D-dimer levels at birth are potential predictors of the onset of NEC in ELBWIs.
In-vitro Expansion and Transduction of Primary Natural Killer Cells Using Feeder Cells Co-expressing Co-stimulatory Receptors and Membrane-bound IL-21
Authors: TRAN Thi Bao Tram , BUI Thi Van  Anh , TRAN Thi Minh Thu , NGUYEN Minh Nguyen , VERHOEYEN Els , TRAN Thi Phuong Diem , NGUYEN Duc Minh Quan , NGO Thai Minh Quan , NGUYEN Thanh Binh , TRAN Nhat Thang , NGUYEN Hoai Nghia , TRAN Le Son 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Natural Killer (NK) cells are an important population of the immune system and NK cell based therapy shown great potential in the treatment of cancers. However, to apply NK cells clinically, producing a large number of cells with high cytotoxicity remains a challenge. Current strategies focus on employing different irradiated feeder cells to stimulate NK expansion, maturation, and cytotoxicity. Current strategies focus on employing different irradiated feeder cells to stimulate NK expansion, maturation, and cytotoxicity. While co-stimulatory signals play critical roles in promoting NK cell proliferation and activating their functions, the exploitation of these signals for expanding NK cells has not been fully explored. Therefore, we generated different feeder cells expressing the co-stimulatory molecule CD80 with 4-1BBL or membrane-bound IL-21 to identify the optimal engineered feeder cells for expanding NK cells from umbilical cord blood. We then evaluated the transduction efficacy of a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) construct into expanded NK cells using various lentiviral vectors. Our results showed that CD80 in combination with membrane-bound IL-21 provides optimal expansion of NK cells from cord blood. These expanded NK cells display strong cytotoxicity to the target cells upon transduction with baboon endogenous virus (BaEV) envelope glycoprotein pseudotyped vector expressing a specific CAR..
Interpreting Pretext Tasks for Active Learning: A Reinforcement Learning Approach
Authors: Kim Dongjoo , Lee Minsik 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

As the amount of labeled data increases, the performance of deep neural networks tends to improve. However, annotating a large volume of data can be expensive. Active learning addresses this challenge by selectively annotating unlabeled data. There have been recent attempts to incorporate self-supervised learning into active learning, but there are issues in utilizing the results of self-supervised learning, i.e., it is uncertain how these should be interpreted in the context of active learning. To address this issue, we propose a multi-armed bandit approach to handle the information provided by self-supervised learning in active learning. Furthermore, we devise a data sampling process so that reinforcement learning can be effectively performed. We evaluate the proposed method on various image classification benchmarks, including CIFAR-10, CIFAR-100, Caltech-101, SVHN, and ImageNet, where the proposed method significantly improves previous approaches.
Double Cross-Linking Strategy for High-Performance, Thermally Stable Aerogels: A Breakthrough in Extreme Environment Applications
Authors: Ren Si-Jia , Liu Zhijie , Long Xin , Liao Jia-Xuan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

High-performance insulating aerogels are optimal thermal protection materials for extreme environments such as aerospace. However, the large-scale application of traditional inorganic aerogels is constrained by their brittleness, hygroscopicity, and complex process conditions. Furthermore, the temperature resistance of organic aerogels is limited, despite their high mechanical strength and low-cost advantages. In this study, a composite aerogel material with a double cross-linking structure and strong interactions was successfully prepared by acid-catalysed ring-opening and supercritical drying processes using methyltrimethoxysilane as the silicon source, combined with phenylaminoated polybenzoxazine monomers and carboxylated cellulose nanofibers as the reinforcement materials, and introducing fumed hydrophobic silica. The material displays excellent mechanical properties, with a compressive strength of up to 34 MPa, and is capable of withstanding more than 500 ml of water without significant deformation. Furthermore, the aerogel exhibits a low density (0.175–0.232 g/cm³), good hydrophobicity (contact angle of 142°), and excellent thermal stability. This study presents a novel approach to the development of thermal protection materials that combine high strength and excellent thermal insulation properties.
Conversion, Prediction, and Application of Strength Parameters for Grouted Reconstructed Rock Mass
Authors: Zhang Ermeng , Liu Lang , Xu Yanchun , Wu Qiang , Fei Yu , Lin Yabin , zhang bo 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Ultrasonic detection has emerged as a rapid method for acquiring rock mass sound velocity and converting it into an elastic modulus parameter, a pivotal technique for investigating the in-situ mechanical properties of rock masses. Despite its significance, accurately deducing rock mass strength from elastic modulus remains a formidable challenge and a pressing issue in the realm of protorock parameter research. This study introduces an innovative artificial intelligence-driven methodology for transforming elastic modulus and strength parameters specific to coal measures through rigorous data analysis and experimental validation. By integrating two illustrative engineering cases, we explore the complexities of water inrush and floor heave issues encountered in tunnels traversing fault zones. The novel strength parameter calculation approach is benchmarked against previous studies, highlighting its superior advantages in terms of effectiveness and applicability. In essence, this research offers a comprehensive framework and practical workflow for translating in-situ acoustic parameter-derived elastic modulus into rock mass strength, serving as a valuable resource for future endeavors in mine water control research.
Estimating lung cancer risk from e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products based on biomarkers of exposure and of potential harm (b) Results
Authors: Lee Peter N. , Coombs Katharine J. , Fry John S. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background: Epidemiological data on the lung cancer relative risk (RR) from using e-cigarettes or heated tobacco products (HTPs) is scarce. Our first paper described methodology to estimate this using data on biomarkers of exposure (BOE) and potential harm (BOPH). This used RR estimates for cigarette smokers and users of other tobacco products (e.g. cigars) and data on biomarker levels for smokers, other product users and non-users. It was then applied, to illustrate the methodology, to evidence from three studies reporting BOE data for smokers and users of e-cigarettes and/or HTPs.
Aim: To estimate the lung cancer RR for e-cigarette and HTP use from studies providing relevant biomarker data for smokers and users of e-cigarettes and/or HTPs.
Methods: Searches were carried out for terms where relevant biomarker data were identified previously, and papers identified providing data for smoking and for either e-cigarettes or HTPs. Our main RR estimates for e-cigarettes and HTPs were derived from results for biomarkers showing significant (p<0.01) fit to the regression model used, and no significant (p<0.01) misfit to the non-user RR of 1.0. Sensitivity analyses were carried out, as previously described.
Results: Our estimated RR for e-cigarettes, based on 10 different biomarkers, is 1.83 (95% CI 1.53-2.19), represents 6.5% of the excess risk (ER = RR−1) for cigarette smokers. The RR generally varied little in sensitivity analyses, but increased markedly where the restriction to significant model fit was removed, the results combined then including some very large and implausible RRs.
Our estimated HTP RR of 1.44 (95% CI 0.41-5.08) represents 3.4% of the ER for smokers. This RR estimate is as given previously, no additional biomarker studies being found satisfying the requirements for inclusion in the combined estimates. As noted previously, sensitivity analyses little affected this estimate.
Conclusions: Our methodology has limitations, but is useful for estimating disease risk where epidemiological data is absent. Applying it to biomarkers with satisfactory model-fit suggests the lung cancer risk from e-cigarettes is much less than from cigarettes. Limited data indicates the risk from HTPs is also low. Future research using additional biomarker data can extend these findings.
Evaluación de las necesidades formativas del tutor de la UNED y de la UOC
Authors: Rodríguez Fernández Noemí 
Published: July 2024

En este artículo se presenta una evaluación de las necesidades formativas de los tutores a distancia atendiendo a las dos universidades a distancia más grandes asentadas en el territorio español, como son la UNED y la UOC. Se trata de una investigación educativa-descriptiva con una orientación cuantitativa y cualitativa en donde se recurre a la combinación del cuestionario, la entrevista semiestructurada y el análisis documental y normativo para la recogida de la información. A la hora de identificar las necesidades formativas de las dos muestras seleccionadas, partiremos de sus perfiles docentes y tareas específicas acordes con las funciones orientadoras, didactas y sociales, propias de la acción tutorial a distancia y/o virtual.
Development of a 12-Week Unsupervised Online Tai Chi Program for People With Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis: Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Zhu Shiyi Julia , Bennell Kim L , Hinman Rana S , Harrison Jenny , Kimp Alexander J , Nelligan Rachel K 
Published: July 2024

Background
Osteoarthritis is a leading contributor to global disability. While evidence supports the effectiveness of Tai Chi in improving symptoms for people with hip/knee osteoarthritis, access to in-person Tai Chi classes may be difficult for many people. An unsupervised online Tai Chi intervention for people with osteoarthritis can help overcome accessibility barriers. The Approach to Human-Centered, Evidence-Driven Adaptive Design (AHEAD) framework provides a practical guide for co-designing such an intervention.

Objective
This study aims to develop an unsupervised online Tai Chi program for people with hip/knee osteoarthritis.

Methods
An iterative process was conducted using the AHEAD framework. Initially, a panel of Tai Chi instructors and people with osteoarthritis was assembled. A literature review was conducted to inform the content of a survey (survey 1), which was completed by the panel and additional Australian Tai Chi instructors to identify Tai Chi movements for potential inclusion. Selection of Tai Chi movements was based on 3 criteria: those that were appropriate (for people with hip/knee osteoarthritis aged 45+ years), safe (to be performed at home unsupervised), and practical (to be delivered online using prerecorded videos). Movements that met these criteria were then ranked in a second survey (survey 2; using conjoint analysis methodology). Survey findings were discussed in a focus group, and the Tai Chi movements for program use were identified. A draft of the online Tai Chi program was developed, and a final survey (survey 3) was conducted with the panel to rate the appropriateness and safety of the proposed program. The final program was developed, and usability testing (think-aloud protocol) was conducted with people with knee osteoarthritis.

Results
The panel consisted of 10 Tai Chi instructors and 3 people with osteoarthritis. The literature review identified Yang Style 24 as a common and effective Tai Chi style used in hip/knee osteoarthritis studies. Surveys 1 (n=35) and 2 (n=27) produced a ranked list of 24 Tai Chi movements for potential inclusion. This list was refined and informed by a focus group, with 10 Tai Chi movements being selected for inclusion (known as the Yang Style 10 form). Survey 3 (n=13) found that 92% (n=12) of the panel members believed that the proposed draft Tai Chi program was appropriate and safe, resulting in its adoption. The final program was produced and hosted on a customized website, “My Joint Tai Chi,” which was further refined based on user feedback (n=5). “My Joint Tai Chi” is currently being evaluated in a randomized controlled trial.

Conclusions
This study demonstrates the use of the AHEAD framework to develop an unsupervised online Tai Chi intervention (“My Joint Tai Chi”) for people with hip/knee osteoarthritis. This intervention is now being tested for effectiveness and safety in a randomized controlled trial.