bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impact of Self-shielding Minihalos on the Lyα Forest at High Redshift
Authors: Park Hyunbae , Lukić Zarija , Sexton Jean , Alvarez Marcelo A. , Shapiro Paul R. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Dense gas in minihalos with masses of 106−108
M
⊙ can shield themselves from reionization for ∼100 Myr after being exposed to the UV background. These self-shielded systems, often unresolved in cosmological simulations, can introduce strong absorption in quasar spectra. This paper is the first systematic study on the impact of these systems on the Lyα forest. We first derive the H i column density profile of photoevaporating minihalos by conducting 1D radiation–hydrodynamics simulations. We utilize these results to estimate the Lyα opacity from minihalos in a large-scale simulation that cannot resolve self-shielding. When the ionization rate of the background radiation is 0.03 × 10−12 s−1, as expected near the end of reionization at z ∼ 5.5, we find that the incidence rate of damped Lyα absorbers increases by a factor of ∼2−4 compared to at z = 4.5. The Lyα flux is, on average, suppressed by ∼3% of its mean due to minihalos. The absorption features enhance the 1D power spectrum up to ∼5% at k ∼ 0.1 h Mpc−1 (or 10−3 km−1 s), which is comparable to the enhancement caused by inhomogeneous reionization. The flux is particularly suppressed in the vicinity of large halos along the line-of-sight direction at separations of up to 10 h
−1 Mpc at r
⊥ ≲ 2 h
−1 Mpc. However, these effects become much smaller for higher ionizing rates (≳0.3 × 10−12 s−1) expected in the post-reionization Universe. Our findings highlight the need to consider minihalo absorption when interpreting the Lyα forest at z ≳ 5.5. Moreover, the sensitivity of these quantities to the ionizing background intensity can be exploited to constrain the intensity itself.
Multi-mode replenishment strategies for periodic-review in 2-echelon systems under seasonal demand
Authors: Sakulsom Noppadon , Tharmmaphornphilas Wipawee 
Published: June 2024

Purpose: This paper investigates the impact of special replenishing modes within a 2-echelon inventory system under seasonal demand. Within this system, a periodic-review base-stock policy is employed. Two special replenishing modes are considered: emergency and transshipment in addition to a regular mode. The regular mode serves as the primary replenishment method, while emergency and transshipment modes, characterized by shorter lead times and higher costs, are reserved to prevent stockouts. It specifically examines the differences in outcomes between static and dynamic ordering policies for these special modes.Design/methodology/approach: Methodologies to determine static and dynamic policies of two special replenishments: emergency and transshipment are proposed. Both emergency and transshipment replenishments are based on. A simulation method was used to evaluate the proposed policies.Findings: Special modes can be used to maintain service level while utilizing a lower safety stock, thereby reducing overall holding cost. The 60% higher frequency of emergency orders under static policies compared to dynamic policies leads to a lower number of transshipment orders. For short cycles with high per-period demand variability, the gap between static and dynamic policies shrinks, making static policies a viable, less-complex alternative. Levels of demand fluctuations between periods impact a policy choice. While dynamic policies may not provide a distinct advantage over static policies in low-fluctuation scenarios, they can yield cost savings in high-fluctuation environments, albeit with increased effort.Practical implications: The result from this paper can be adopted to a 2-echelon inventory system with multiple replenishing modes under seasonal demand. It can help inventory managers choose the appropriate policy for their situation.Originality/value: This paper provides managerial insights regarding the circumstances in which static policy or dynamic policy should be applied and explores the relationship between regular and special replenishing modes in various circumstances.
Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Evaluation of Retinal and Choroidal Microvascular Morphological Changes Following Strabismus Surgery
Authors: Gül Cengiz , Erşan Hatice Bilge Araz , Karapapak Murat , Güven Dilek 
Published: June 2024

Purpose
To evaluate the structural and microvascular changes in the retina and choroid after strabismus surgery.

Methods
The study included 44 eyes from 44 patients who underwent strabismus surgery between August 2020 and December 2021. Among these patients, 9 (20%) underwent horizontal one-muscle surgery, 27 (61%) underwent horizontal two-muscle surgery, and 8 (18%) underwent inferior oblique muscle anteriorization surgery. Optical coherence tomography angiography scans were conducted preoperatively and at 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months postoperatively.

Results

The outer retinal blood flow showed a significant increase at 1 day postoperatively in horizontal two-muscle and inferior oblique muscle anteriorization surgery, whereas no significant difference was observed between periods in horizontal one-muscle surgery (
P
= .007). Choriocapillaris blood flow exhibited a significant increase at 1 day and 1 month postoperatively compared to the preoperative period (
P
< .001). Whole image superficial capillary plexus vascular density was significantly lower at 1 day postoperatively than preoperatively and 1 and 3 months postoperatively (
P
< .001). Whole image deep capillary plexus vascular density was significantly lower at 1 day than at 1 month postoperatively (
P
= .002).

Conclusions
Following strabismus surgery, temporary changes in the hemodynamic microcirculation in the retina and choroid are observed. A transient decrease in retinal artery blood supply may be noticed, possibly attributed to the reduced anterior segment blood supply.

[
J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus
. 2024;61(6):397–403.]
A Cohort Study to Evaluate the Evolution of the Optic Nerve Head Parameters and Inner Retinal Thickness During Childhood
Authors: Gama Rita , da Costa Rute Sousa , Gaspar Sylvia , Santos Joana Chambel , da Costa Daniela Cândido 
Published: June 2024

Purpose
To compare children's stereometric optic disc parameters and inner retinal thickness measured by optical coherence tomography (OCT) in two different moments in life in the same children and to establish a correlation between the optic nerve head (ONH) area and the difference of these parameters in the two observations.

Methods
In this observational cohort, children were evaluated on two occasions: at 6.7 ± 1.6 and 13.2 ± 0.7 years of age. Cup volume, neuroretinal rim (NRR) area, average cup-to-disc ratio, peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL), and ganglion cell inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) were measured by the Cirrus HD-OCT (Carl Zeiss Meditec AG).

Results

A total of 175 children were included, 89 boys (50.9%) and 86 girls (49.1%). There was a significant decrease of the NRR area (
P
< .001) and increase of the cup volume (
P
< .001) on the second observation. The pRNFL thickness and GCIPL thickness also decreased (
P
< .001 and
P
= .002, respectively). There was a positive correlation between the ONH area and the difference of the cup volume (
P
= .047;
r
= 0.102) and a negative correlation with the difference of the NRR area (
P
< .001;
r
= 0.237).

Conclusions
During childhood, there is an increase of the cup volume, a decrease of the NRR area, and a decrease of inner retinal layer thickness (more significant in the superior and inferior quadrants) measured by OCT. This study demonstrates that in children with large discs the enlargement of the cup and decrease of the NRR is more evident. Considering these changes, the physiological enlargement of the cup in a child with a large disc can be misinterpreted as the development of a glaucomatous lesion.

[
J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus
. 2024;61(6):410–415.]
Determinants of malaria from environmental and poverty aspects in Indonesia: A spatiotemporal perspective, 2016-2020
Authors: Nursafingi Afi , Widayani Prima , Purwoko Sidiq , Bhermana Andy 
Published: June 2024

Objective:
To investigate the environmental and social aspects of poverty contributing to malaria incidence in Indonesia from 2016 to 2020.

Methods:
Random forest regression was used to analyse the independent variables contributing to malaria incidence. Environmental conditions were extracted from remotely sensed data, including vegetation, land temperature, soil moisture, precipitation, and elevation. In contrast, the social aspects of poverty were obtained from government statistical reports.

Results:
From 2016 to 2020, the contribution of each environmental and social aspect of poverty to malaria incidence fluctuated annually. Generally, the top three essential variables were people aged 15 years and above, experiencing poverty (variable importance/VI=32.0%), people experiencing poverty who work in the agricultural sector (VI=14.4%), and precipitation (VI=9.8%). It was followed by people experiencing poverty who are unemployed (VI=9.2%), land temperature (VI=5.2%), people experiencing poverty who have low education (VI=8.0%), soil moisture (VI=7.4%), elevation (VI=6.0%), and vegetation (VI=3.8%).

Conclusions:
Poverty and variables related to climate have become the crucial determinants of malaria in Indonesia. The government must strengthen malaria surveillance through climate change mitigation and adaptation programs and accelerate poverty alleviation programs to support malaria elimination.
Beta-lactam antibiotic resistance among Escherichia coli isolates from patients with urinary tract infections in Vietnam: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Nguyen Dat T 
Published: June 2024

Objective:
To investigate the evolving patterns of antimicrobial resistance against beta-lactam antibiotics in Escherichia coli isolates from urinary tract infection patients in Vietnam, covering the period from 2005 to 2022.

Methods:
29 Descriptive studies published between 2010 and 2022 in English and Vietnamese were included in the analysis. Data on resistance rates to beta-lactam antibiotics, including cephalosporins and carbapenems, were extracted and analyzed. Weighted pooled resistance rates were calculated using random-effects models. Annual trends in resistance were assessed using linear regression analysis.

Results:
Among the beta-lactam antibiotics studied, Escherichia coli exhibited varying levels of resistance, with cephalosporins showing higher resistance rates compared to carbapenems. Weighted pooled resistance rates were 66% for cefotaxime, 65% for ceftriaxone, 54% for ceftazidime, and 56% for cefepime. In contrast, carbapenems demonstrated lower resistance rates, with weighted pooled resistance rates ranging from 3% to 4% for meropenem, ertapenem, and imipenem. Resistance rates were also observed for amoxicillin/clavulanate (35%), ticarcillin/clavulanate (26%), and piperacillin/tazobactam (12%). Significant annual increases in resistance were noted for imipenem (0.56%, P<0.001).

Conclusions:
This study highlights the critical issue of antimicrobial resistance in urinary tract infections in Vietnam and emphasizes the importance of prudent antibiotic use and the regular monitoring of resistance patterns. These insights are useful for guiding healthcare professionals in optimizing treatment strategies and for policymakers in formulating evidence-based clinical guidelines to combat antibiotic resistance effectively.
Typhoid fever presenting as neuropsychiatric oddities: A case report
Authors: Badole Prashant , Singh Jivtesh , Wasnik Preetam N , Rokkam Rohini 
Published: June 2024

Rationale:

Salmonella is a common etiological agent behind the tropical fever syndrome in the Indian subcontinent. Its prevalence in India remains high due to a lack of proper sanitation services in large parts of the country. Its neuropsychiatric manifestations is rare and the understanding on their pathophysiology is still poor.

Patient concerns:
A 19-year-old male, presented with a 10-day history of altered mental status, high-grade fever and violent behaviour. 2 Days prior to admission, he developed decreased responsiveness and a muttering delirium with self-talking.

Diagnosis:
Coma vigil secondary to salmonellosis.

Interventions:
Intravenous ceftriaxone and dexamethasone.

Outcomes:
The resolution of the coma vigil and the associated Salmonella infection were observed; however, the patient developed residual mutism.

Lessons:
The atypical presentation of a globally obtunded state followed by mutism in typhoid coma in this case should be brought to the attention of clinicians worldwide. Additionally, the enduring speech limitations and potential psychiatric consequences may be linked to the prolonged duration of the infection.
Polio eradication surveillance in Sri Lanka, 2019-2023
Authors: Fernando M.A.Y. , Madarasinghe N. S. , Rangana C. , Weerasinghe N. , Weligamage D.C.U.D. , Abeynayake J.I. 
Published: June 2024

Objective:
To evaluate the polio laboratory surveillance carried out from January, 2019 to May, 2023 by the Polio Regional Reference Laboratory, Sri Lanka.

Methods:
This retrospective study analyzed all stool samples received under the acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) and immunodeficient vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV) surveillance at Polio Regional Reference Laboratory, Sri Lanka from January, 2019 to May, 2023. The results of the testing methodologies were extracted from the laboratory data system, i.e., poliovirus virus isolation, intra-typic differentiation/VDPV real time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (ITD/VDPV rRTPCR) and sequencing, along with the data on timing of reporting results, stool adequacy and socio-demographics. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results:
A total of 2141 stool samples from 1 644 cases were received for AFP surveillance from Sri Lanka (93.61%), Maldives (1.52%), and immunodeficient VDPV (4.86%) surveillance. Both polioviruses (19/1 644, 1.15%) and non-polio enteroviruses (73/1 644, 4.44%) were isolated, while Sabin-like 3 virus was detected in majority (12/19, 63.15%) among the poliovirus isolated. Wild polioviruses or circulating VDPVs were not detected among the cases. During all years of the study, the non-polio AFP detection rate was >1/100 000 in children aged less than 15 years, whereas stool adequacy rate was >80%. All results were reported within 14 days of receipt, ensuring timely reporting as per global guidelines.

Conclusions:
The Polio Regional Reference Laboratory, Sri Lanka plays a vital role in maintaining the polio-free status in the country through its robust laboratory surveillance, while adhering to the surveillance indicators. Non-detection of wild polioviruses and circulating VDPV during the study period reinforces the polio-free status in the country.
Sculpting – A Modern Menace
Authors: Ojha Umesh C. , Kumar Sunil , Pal Ramesh S. , Gothi Dipti , Garg Pranzal , Yasaswini Ganjam , Patro Mahismita , Kumar Rahul , Malhotra Nipun 
Published: June 2024

Background:
Sculpting is a common occupation in India. However, there have been no studies from India on sculpting-related silicosis.

Aims:
The aims of this study were to evaluate- 1. awareness of disease related to sculpting. 2. Clinical, radiological, and physiological parameters in “sculpting workers” suffering from silicosis.

Settings and Design:
This was a retrospective evaluation of data collected during compensation visits for silicosis in workers of the sculpting industries.

Methods and Material:
The data were collected between January 2021 to April 2023. A total of 114 patients were evaluated. All patients underwent clinical evaluation including awareness about the disease, chest radiography, high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scan of the chest, and spirometry.

Results:
The majority of patients (109) (95%) did not use any personal protective equipment while at work and did not have any awareness regarding preventive measures. On chest radiography, small opacities (rounded or irregular) and large opacities were seen in 84 (73.7%) and 26 (22.8%) patients, respectively. The size of large opacities was significantly proportionate with duration of job (P = 0.019). HRCT chest was more sensitive compared to chest radiographs. 94 (82.4%) patients were having abnormal spirometric findings.

Conclusions:
The benefits of prevention of silica dust exposure and patient education considerably outweigh the benefits of early detection and treatment of silicosis, as there was an increase in the size of lesions with increasing duration of exposure. There should be a national health program on silicosis to protect worker’s health.
The Relationship Between Polychlorinated and Polybrominated Biphenyls and Glycated Hemoglobin among Electronics Workers
Authors: Aly Hebatalla M. , Ibraheem Reham B. , Mahmoud Reem M. , Ismail Ahmed , Hussein Sarah M. 
Published: June 2024

Background:
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are persistent organic pollutants classified as endocrine disruptors related to prediabetes and diabetes. Polybrominated biphenyls are similar in structure to PCBs and are used as flame retardants. Due to the increased worldwide prevalence of diabetes, there is increased interest in understanding the role of environmental and occupational pollutants in its development. The study aims to assess the relation between PCBs and PBBs in the serum of electronic workers and glycated hemoglobin level as an early indicator of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes mellitus among occupationally exposed workers.

Methods:
Blood samples were collected from 152 workers to assess PCBs (by GCMS), random blood sugar (RBS), and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). Participants were classified into two groups according to the presence or absence of PCBs in their serum and were compared for RBS and HbA1c levels.

Results:
Only two participants had detectable PCB derivate in their serum by GCMS, PCB 1 with methyl and benzole side chains. Regarding PBBs, 18 participants (12%) had detectable PBBs in their serum by GCMS. All participants had RBS and HbA1c levels within the normal range. No statistically significant difference was found between mean levels of RBS and HbA1c between participants with detected biphenyls and those without.

Conclusion:
The banning of PCB use in industry and modern automated techniques have prevented exposure to PCBs among electronics workers. However, exposure to PBBs continues in electronic industries, but it has no association with diabetes or prediabetes.
Frequency of Non-strabismic Binocular Vision Anomalies among Optometrists in a Tertiary Eye Care Center in Southern India
Authors: Bhowmick Amit , Kumar P Praveen , Ratra Dhanashree 
Published: June 2024

Purpose:
Lifestyle in the modern era has drastically changed across the globe, and the healthcare profession was no exception. The increased time spent in the virtual space for various purposes, including online classes and webinars, is hypothesized to increase the risk of vision-related disorders such as asthenopia, dry eyes, and visual fatigue. The purpose of this study was to evaluate fusional vergence and ocular accommodation among optometry professionals in a tertiary eye care center during the immediate post-coronavirus disease 2019 (post-COVID-19) lockdown period.

Methods:
Optometrists posted in the general out-patient department, specialty clinics, and the ocular diagnostics department were included in the study. A total of 65 optometrists were included in the study. All optometrists underwent a comprehensive binocular vision assessment. Convergence Insufficiency Symptom Survey questionnaires were administered to all optometrists at the beginning of the assessment.

Results:
Out of 65 optometrists, 48 (73.8%) were women. The mean (standard deviation) age of the participants was 24 (3) years. Eleven (16.9%) optometrists had normal binocular vision parameters, and the rest 54 (83.1%) had non-strabismic binocular vision anomalies. Reduced accommodative facility and convergence insufficiency were seen among 43 (66.2%) optometrists, whereas 30 (46.2%) had reduced accommodative facility alone. Twelve (18.5%) participants were symptomatic as per the convergence insufficiency symptom survey.

Conclusion:
This study highlights the fact that a large proportion of optometrists have undetected non-strabismic binocular vision anomalies in a tertiary eye care center. It is important for eye care professionals to undergo regular binocular vision assessments in association with ophthalmic examinations and relevant management. This will ensure that these dysfunctions do not impede work productivity and overall quality of life.
An Exploratory Study on Self-Reported Auditory Symptoms and Hearing Loss among Workers in a Small-Scale LPG Plant
Authors: Chand Arya , Manoharan Asha , Kumari L Rejitha 
Published: June 2024

Background:
Occupational noise is considered a factor contributing to acquired hearing loss (HL) in adults. Frequent noise exposure can cause cochlear damage, leading to sensorineural HL, tinnitus, vertigo, and other non auditory effects as well. Although it is well known that liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) plants in India have become a workplace source for occupational noise pollution exposure, there are not many studies that probe into the auditory effects of workplace noise in LPG plants.

Aim:
The study aims to document HL and self reported otological symptoms in employees with occupational noise exposure at a typical LPG plant in a suburban location in India. 53 employees who reported workplace noise exposure were assessed for HL and self reported auditory symptoms.

Method:
Self reported symptoms were collected using a custom made case history questionnaire, and auditory sensitivity was measured using air conduction audiometers.

Results:
Among the 53 participants, 27 tested positive for HL. A mild degree of HL was frequently observed, followed by a moderate and severe degree of HL. In the self reported otological complaints reported by 31 participants, HL and aural fullness were the most commonly reported auditory symptoms. Additionally, the use of ear protection devices and hearing conservation practices among the participants were poor.

Conclusion:
Hearing loss and self-reported auditory symptoms were present in the study group indicating the effect of occupational noise in the auditory system.