bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Understanding the Empowerment of Family Caregivers of People with Dementia in China: A Qualitative Descriptive Study
Authors: Wu Junhong , Wu Xing , Yao Xinyu , Xu Guihua , Bai Yamei , Zhao Yayi 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
The World Health Organization highlighted that promoting the empowerment of caregivers of people with dementia is one of the priorities of dementia research. The empowerment of family caregivers for people with dementia in China has not been adequately explored. Moreover, the experience of other countries may not apply to China directly because of cultural factors.
Methods
This qualitative descriptive study was conducted among 27 purposively sampled people with dementia and their caregivers in a metropolitan city in China between October 2023 and January 2024. Semi-structured interviews were employed to understand the current status and needs of empowerment of family caregivers of people with dementia in China from different perspectives.
Results
Three categories of empowerment of family caregivers for people with dementia were identified: (a) attitudes towards dementia care (respectful, patient, and responsible), (b) knowledge and skills (understanding dementia, support in daily activities, managing challenging behavior, and related cognitive training), (c) support systems (family support, professional support, long-term care support, and community support).
Conclusion
In China, people with dementia preferred to be taken care of by their family members. The key to empowering family caregivers for people with dementia in China is to strengthen the construction of dementia-friendly communities to provide professional and timely services to family caregivers to improve their caregiving knowledge and skills and maintain positive caregiving attitudes.
The impact of socio-economic characteristics on Sudanese women’s use of complementary and alternative medicine for self-management of infertility
Authors: Babikir Suhad Abdelhamid Mohamed , Hamedelniel Elnazeer Ibrahim Mohammad , Elhassan Gamal Osman , Alfadl Abubakr Abdelraouf 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Although Sudanese women have rich experience in the use of complementary and alternative medicine for self-management of infertility, but still literature discussing this issue is scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to fill this gap by examining the association of socioeconomic characteristics of Sudanese women with, as well as their predictability of, use of complementary and alternative medicine for self-management of infertility.
Methods
This was a cross-sectional study involving 203 infertile women attending infertility clinics in Khartoum State, Sudan. The interviewers administered questionnaire comprised two parts: the first sought to collect data on self-management strategies of infertility, and the second sought to collect personal data of the respondents. Association between socioeconomic characteristics and use of self-management strategies for treatment of infertility were assessed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), while determinants of that usage were assessed using simple linear regression.
Results
Age of the majority of respondents clustered at the two middle groups (28–37 and 38–47). Few of the respondents had education less than primary (3.0%), while those with higher education representing almost half of the sample (49.8%). ANOVA showed that while only education level was independently associated with the factors that influence Sudanese women’s selection of infertility self-management strategies (p = 0.008 and p = 0.030), all socioeconomic characteristics were associated with the types of strategies Sudanese women use for self-management of their infertility. Simple linear regression results showed that all socioeconomic factors had predictive power (p < 0.05) when correlated with Sudanese women perceptions about strategies used for self-management of infertility.
Conclusions
Socioeconomic factors that potentially impact Sudanese women’s strategies used in self-management of infertility were identified. Results highlighted the association of Sudanese women’s strategies used in self-management of infertility with socioeconomic characteristics of the respondents. The study offered policymakers with information to re-examine the loose or relax rules governing the complementary and alternative medicine use in the societies of developing countries in general and Sudan in specific, as the culture of these societies seems to encourage the usage of self-management strategies.
A Study on Machine Learning Models’ Capability as an Alternative for CFD in Modeling Heat Transfer
Authors: Godasiaei Seyed Hamed 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

This research assesses the viability of utilizing machine learning models as alternatives to computational fluid dynamics for heat transfer modeling. Driven by a heightened interest in evaluating the benefits of machine learning for precise predictions in forced convection heat transfer, the study investigates the potential of artificial neural networks, super-gradient boosting, and random forests as alternatives to traditional methods. Employing artificial intelligence algorithms and implemented through Python software, the methodology conducts a meticulous analysis of a dataset comprising 210 data points. The dataset includes critical heat transfer parameters such as nanoparticle characteristics, size, Reynolds number, Nusselt number, and volume fraction. The selected machine learning algorithms are systematically applied to predict forced convection heat transfer outcomes, and their accuracy is rigorously assessed through comparisons using machine learning R-Squared, Mean Absolute Error, and Root Mean Squared Error values. The results demonstrate promising predictive capabilities, with super-gradient boosting, random forest, and artificial neural network models achieving accuracies of 91%, 90%, and 86%, respectively. The corresponding mean squared error values of 1.07, 1.65, and 16.1 underscore the high accuracy and predictive prowess of these machine learning models in simulating forced convection heat transfer processes.
Whole-Body Physiologically-Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling of GalNAc conjugated siRNAs
Authors: Salim Emilie Kirstine Langeskov , Sjögren Erik , Kristensen Kim 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Introduction
N-Acetyl-galactosamine small interfering RNAs (GalNAc-siRNA) is an emerging class of drugs due to their durable knockdown of disease related proteins. Conjugation onto GalNAc allows for target specific uptake into hepatocytes via the Asia Glycoprotein Receptor (ASGPR). With a transient plasma exposure combined with a rapid liver uptake and prolonged half-life in the liver, GalNAc-siRNA exhibits distinct disposition characteristics. Therefore, we aimed to develop a generic GalNAc-siRNAs Whole-Body Physiological-Based Pharmacokinetic-Pharmacodynamic (WB-PBPK-PD) model for the means of describing the pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic (PK-PD) relationship and overall tissue distribution.
Methods
For model development a reference data set was compiled from published studies on GalNAc-siRNAs with different stabilization chemistry and different target proteins in mice. The WB-PBPK model structure leveraged the PK-Sim default implementation for large molecules, e.g., including the two-pore-formalism, included in the open-source platform Open System Pharmacology Suite. Specification of intracellular dynamics and efficacy was further implemented to describe mRNA and downstream protein expression of target protein.
Results
Overall, the generic implementation described the observed data within a 2-fold difference across all studies adopting a mix of global and compound specific parameters. The analysis identified significant compound variabilities, e.g., endosomal stability, with direct consequences for the pharmacological effect. Additionally, the model identified knowledge gaps in mechanistic understanding related to extravasation and overall tissue distribution.
Conclusion
The presented study provides a generic WB-PBPK-PD model for the investigation of GalNAc-siRNAs implemented in an open-source platform.
A Novel ViT-BILSTM Model for Physical Activity Intensity classification in Adults using Gravity-based Acceleration
Authors: Wang Lin , Luo Zizhang , Zhang Tianle 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Aim
The aim of this study is to apply a novel hybrid framework incorporating a Vision Transformer (ViT) and bidirectional long short-term memory (Bi-LSTM) model for classifying physical activity intensity (PAI) in adults using gravity-based acceleration. Additionally, it further investigates how PAI and temporal window (TW) impacts the model’ s accuracy.
Method
This research used the Capture-24 dataset, consisting of raw accelerometer data from 151 participants aged 18 to 91. Gravity-based acceleration was utilised to generate images encoding various PAIs. These images were subsequently analysed using the ViT-BiLSTM model, with results presented in confusion matrices and compared with baseline models. The model's robustness was evaluated through temporal stability testing and examination of accuracy and loss curves.
Result
The ViT-BiLSTM model excelled in PAI classification task, achieving an overall accuracy of 98.5% ±1.48% across five TWs-98.7% for 1s, 98.1% for 5s, 98.2% for 10s, 99% for 15s, and 98.65% for 30s of TW. The model consistently exhibited superior accuracy in predicting sedentary (98.9%±1%) compared to light physical activity (98.2%±2%) and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (98.2%± 3%). ANOVA showed no significant accuracy variation across PAIs (F = 2.18, p = 0.13) and TW (F = 0.52, p = 0.72). Accuracy and loss curves show the model consistently improves its performance across epochs, demonstrating its excellent robustness.
Conclusion
This study demonstrates the ViT-BiLSTM model’s efficacy in classifying PAI using gravity-based acceleration, with performance remaining consistent across diverse TWs and intensities. However, PAI and TW could result in slight variations in the model’s performance. Future research should concern and investigate the impact of gravity-based acceleration on PAI thresholds, which may influence model's robustness and reliability.
Quantum Cryptanalysis on Feistel Variants in Related-Key Settings
Authors: Wang Xiaoyu , Chen Siwei , Xiang Zejun , Zhang Shasha , Zeng Xiangyong 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Simon’s algorithm is a well-known quantum algorithm that can achieve exponential acceleration. This paper studies the applications of Simon’s algorithm in analyzing the security of Feistel variants, several well-known cryptographic structures derived from the Feistel structure. Specifically, we study quantum related-key attacks on Feistel variants in the setting that adversaries can only control part of the key difference in quantum superposition. We delve into observing the quantum related-key attacks on the balanced Feistel structure given by Cid \textit{et al.} and slightly improve the existing method to design periodic functions, ultimately providing a new approach to building periodic functions in single-key settings. Based on these results, we propose a general technique to construct quantum related-key distinguishers exploiting the quantum single-key distinguishers construction technique. As applications of our proposed technique, we demonstrate how to construct new polynomial-time quantum related-key chosen-plaintext distinguishers on several Feistel variants: Feistel-KF, SM4-like, MARS-like, Type-1/2/3 generalized Feistel-KF structures.
Correlation between Patient Health Questionnaire-15 and maternal anxiety and delivery outcomes: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: YU Qianmei , Deng Na , Chen Lulu 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background：There are many factors that affect the outcome of pregnant women. And the psychological state of prenatal pregnant women is one of the common and serious influencing factors, which is important for the early detection and early intervention of pregnant women's nervousness and anxiety. At present, a large number of studies are exploring effective tools for early assessment of tension and anxiety in pregnant women. This study aims to explore the correlation between the Patient Health Questionnaire-15 score and maternal nervousness, anxiety, and birth outcomes.
Method: From March 2020 to March 2022, 2776 pregnant women completed PHQ-15 scores, who had prenatal check-up in the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University and were scheduled to give birth in the hospital and data from the surveyed pregnant women were analyzed.
Multiple linear regression analysis was used to determine the influencing factors of PHQ-15 score, and chi-square test and linear regression analysis investigated the correlation between PHQ-15 score and birth outcomes.
Outcome: The higher the score of those with greater family economic pressure, worse family relationship status, worse mother-in-law and daughter-in-law relationship, threatened miscarriage, impatient personality, impulsive personality, and strong personality (P<0.05). However, the higher the satisfaction level of the lover and the extrovert after pregnancy, the higher the score of the extrovert (P<0.05). There were statistically significant differences in pregnancy outcomes between the different PHQ-15 score groups (P<0.05): the number of people who had no somatization and those who had more somatization than those who had somatized spontaneous births was also statistically different (P<0.05). Besides,the higher the PHQ-15 score, the lower the neonatal weight (P<0.05).
Conclusion: The PHQ-15 questionnaire score has a strong correlation with pregnancy outcomes, and its influencing factors are the same as a series of important factors affecting pregnant women's nervous and anxious mood. Early detection and early intervention of pregnant women's nervousness and anxiety are effective ways to improve the outcome of childbirth. Therefore, the PHQ-15 questionnaire is expected to be an effective tool for early detection of maternal nervousness and anxiety, and provide an effective way to improve maternal labor outcomes.
Health Service Utilization across Public, Private, and Humanitarian Sectors in the Conflict-Affected Region of Northern Syria: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Olabi Amina , Almohammed Maher , Loffreda Giulia , Hellowell Mark , Witter Sophie , Bou-Orm Ibrahim R. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: Health service delivery in Northern Syria, amidst ongoing conflict, has shifted toward an NGO-led primary health care (PHC) model. The private sector also plays a significant role in providing health services. This study assesses patterns of private sector health services utilization and perceptions among community members, varying by socio-demographic characteristics, to inform future health system strengthening strategies.
Methods: A household survey was conducted among the adult population of Northern Syria (Northeast and Northwest Syria), analysing socio-demographic characteristics, health service utilization, service availability and acceptability, and trust in the private healthcare system. Descriptive and bivariate analyses examined associations between healthcare sources and respondent characteristics.
Findings: The survey included 1,919 participants. Overall, 33% used private clinics as their main healthcare source, while 32% sought care from NGO-run PHC centres. Accessibility varied, with Northwest Syria (NWS) respondents reporting closer proximity to PHC centres compared to Northeast Syria (NES). Private general practitioners (GPs) were commonly accessible within a 10–30-minute drive, though perceptions of affordability differed between NWS and NES respondents. Socio-demographic factors and specific health needs influenced service utilization. Internally displaced persons (IDPs) and low-income individuals more frequently used NGO-led services, while higher education and income levels correlated with increased private service use among host communities. Healthcare-seeking behaviour varied by health needs: infectious diseases prompted visits to NGO-run PHC centres, private clinics were preferred for antenatal and gynaecological care, and public hospitals were used for injuries, orthopaedic, and surgical consultations. Provider selection reasons included transportation and care costs for NGO PHC centres and public hospitals, while private clinics were chosen for their perceived appropriateness and specialist proximity. Trust in the private sector positively correlated with higher usage rates.
Conclusions: The study reveals distinct healthcare sub-systems for different population groups and provides essential data for understanding healthcare-seeking patterns in Northern Syria. It aims to assist health system stakeholders in comprehending the current service delivery status from community perspectives and guide equitable health system strengthening efforts in the region.
Enhancing Cd²⁺ Removal from Aqueous Solution: ZnCl₂-Modified Citrus Peel Carbon Optimization via Box-Behnken Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Meshram Pawan D. , Madankar Chandu S. , Chatterjee Aniruddha , Khedkar Rohit S. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

This study explores the efficiency of removing Cd²⁺ ions from aqueous solutions using citrus peel carbon (CPC) activated with ZnCl₂. The CPC was characterized through proximate analysis, elemental composition, surface textural characteristics, FT-IR, and FE-SEM. Using a Box-Behnken Design matrix of response surface methodology (RSM), we analysed the effects of process variables such as pH (2–8), CPC dose (0.1-5.0 g∙L⁻¹), initial Cd²⁺ concentration (25–100 mg∙L⁻¹), and temperature (313–323 K). A second-order polynomial regression model was developed to maximize Cd²⁺ removal efficiency. The high regression coefficient (R² = 0.9845) indicates a strong correlation between the response and the factors. Analysis of variance confirmed the statistical significance of the model. Optimal conditions (pH = 8, CPC dose = 2.81 g∙L⁻¹, Cd²⁺ concentration = 100 mg∙L⁻¹, temperature = 303 K) led to a maximum Cd²⁺ removal of 80.27%. Desorption studies showed that HCl was most effective for Cd²⁺ recovery from CPC. By reducing the desorbing acid volume to a quarter, Cd²⁺ re-concentration nearly tripled. Reusability tests indicated an 11% reduction in adsorption capacity, demonstrating CPC's potential for heavy metal removal.
Epidemiological Analysis of Paediatric Trauma in Intensive Care: A 10-Year Retrospective Study from 2009 to 2018
Authors: Bao Yiyao , Ye Jing , Hu Lei , Guan Lijun , Gao Caina , Tan Linhua 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Paediatric trauma is a pivotal factor contributing to paediatric mortality, with traffic injuries and falls being commonly reported as leading causes of significant injuries among children. Comprehensive investigations from multiple perspectives, including geographical considerations, are crucial to develop more effective strategies for preventing such injuries and thereby reducing the burden of paediatric trauma.
Methods
This study involved a retrospective analysis of clinical data from paediatric patients admitted to our hospital's intensive care unit (ICU) due to trauma over a 10-year period. Comprehensive analyses were conducted to elucidate trends, demographics, injury patterns, and risk factors associated with these admissions.
Results
This retrospective study included 951 paediatric patients (mean age: 4.79 ± 3.24 years; mean weight: 18.45 ± 9.02 kg; median time to ICU admission post-injury: 10.86 ± 14.95 hours). Of these patients, 422 (44.4%) underwent emergency surgery and 466 (49%) required mechanical ventilation support, with a mean duration of 70.19 ± 146.62 hours. The mean duration of ICU stay was 6.24 ± 8.01 days and overall mean hospital stay was 16.08 ± 15.56 days. The predominant cause of unintentional injury was traffic accidents (47.9%), followed by falls (42.5%) and burns/scalds (5.3%). Most incidents involved children aged 0–6 years (70.7%), with males comprising 60.0% of cases. Injury incidents predominantly occurred between 12 PM and 6 PM (44.5%) and on non-workdays (37.6%). The most common sites of injury were roadsides (49.0%) and rural areas (64.35%). Single-site injuries (58.78%) were more prevalent than multiple-site injuries (41.22%), and head injuries were the most common among single-site injuries (81.57%). At ICU admission, the mean injury severity score was 18.49 ± 8.86. Following active intervention, 871 patients (91.59%) showed improvement, whereas 80 (8.41%) succumbed to their injuries.
Conclusion
Traffic injuries remain the primary cause of paediatric trauma, underscoring the ongoing importance of appropriate use of child restraint systems and protective gear as fundamental preventive measures. The elevated incidence of injuries among children under 6 years old and those residing in rural areas highlights the need for targeted preventive strategies, necessitating tailored interventions and public policy formulations that specifically address these high-risk populations.
PathCrisp: An Innovative Molecular Diagnostic Tool for Early Detection of NDM-Resistant Infections
Authors: Arora Reety , Patil Shrigouri , Siji Annes , Mallur Dhrithi , Gheewalla Nazneen , Karve Shraddha , Kavathekar Maithili , Tarai Bansidhar , Naik Mandar , S. Kruthika B. , Hegde Vandana , Rangineni Jayaprada , Gupta Vaijayanti , Chandru Vijay , Bulagonda Eswarappa Pradeep 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Objective: The rapid and early detection of infections and antibiotic resistance markers is a critical challenge in healthcare. Currently, most commercial diagnostic tools for analyzing antimicrobial resistance patterns of pathogens require elaborate culture-based testing. Our study aims to develop a rapid, accurate molecular detection system that can be used directly from culture, thereby introducing molecular testing in conjunction with culture tests to reduce turnaround time (TAT) and guide therapy.
Methods: PathCrisp assay, a combination of Loop-mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) and CRISPR-based detection, maintained at a single temperature, was designed and tested on clinical isolates. The specificity and sensitivity of the assay was analyzed, post which the assay was compared with the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) method to detect the New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase (NDM) gene in carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) clinical samples.
Results: Our PathCrispassay demonstrated the ability to detect as few as 700 copies of the NDM gene from clinical isolates. Our assay demonstrated 100% concordance with the PCR-Sanger sequencing method, more commonly used. Additionally, the lack of the need for a kit-based DNA purification step, rather a crude extraction via heating, enables the direct use of culture samples.
Conclusions: The PathCrisp assay is precise, specific and rapid, providing results in approximately 2 hours, and operates at a constant temperature, reducing the need for complex equipment handling. In the near future, we hope that this assay can be further optimized and designed as a point-of-care test kit, facilitating its use in various healthcare settings and aiding clinicians in the choice of antibiotics for therapy.