bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Optimizing climate model selection in regional studies using an adaptive weather type based framework: a case study for extreme heat in Belgium
Authors: Serras Fien , Vandelanotte Kobe , Borgers Ruben , Schaeybroeck Bert Van , Termonia Piet , Demuzere Matthias , Lipzig Nicole P.M. van 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Selecting climate model projections is a common practice for regional and local studies. This process often relies on local rather than synoptic variables. Even when synoptic weather types are considered, these are not related to the variable or climate impact driver of interest. Therefore, most selection procedures may not sufficiently account for atmospheric dynamics and climate change impact uncertainties. This study outlines a selection methodology that addresses both these shortcomings. Our methodology first optimizes the Lamb Weather Type classification for the variable and region of interest. In the next step, the representation of the historical synoptic dynamics in Global Climate Models (GCMs) is evaluated and accordingly, underperforming models are excluded. In the last step, metrics are introduced that quantify the climate change signals related to the impact of interest. Using these metrics, a scoring method results in assessing the suitability of GCMs. To illustrate the applicability of the methodology, a case study of extreme heat in Belgium was carried out. The developed method offers a framework for selecting periods within climate model datasets while considering the changes in the large-scale circulation patterns and the changes in the climate signal, each step optimized for a specific climate impact driver. This framework provides a comprehensive method for selecting periods from large ensemble GCM simulations based on weather types, ensuring relevant climate projections for subsequent research which can be applied in model ensemble-based research for different climate variables and climate impact drivers.
Survival Status and Predictors of Mortality among Low-birth-weight Neonates Admitted to Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Suhul General Hospital, Northern Ethiopia: a Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Gebrekidan Abrahaley Brhane 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background: Low birth weight (LBW) is defined by the WHO as newborn weight less than 2500 grams. It accounts for 60–80% of all neonatal deaths, relatively higher in developing countries such as Ethiopia. Government, NGOs and private sectors have been working enormously, but the reduction of LBW neonatal mortality is still low. To provide appropriate care and reduce LBW neonatal mortality, identifying the survival time and predictors of mortality is necessary, particularly in Tigrai region.
Objective: to determine the survival status and predictors of mortality among LBW neonates admitted to Suhul General Hospital, Northern Ethiopia from January 2021 – September 2023.
Methods and materials: a retrospective cohort study was done for 329 LBW neonates admitted to Suhul General Hospital between January 2021 and September 2023. Variables were collected from medical registration books and patient charts using KoboCollect software. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 27 and Stata version 15 soft wares. Kaplan Meier survival curve was used to estimate the cumulative survival time, log rank test was used to compare the probability of hazard among groups/variables and bivariate and multivariate were used to identify predictors of mortality at (p-value<0.05). Finally, those variables with multivariate cox regression p value < 0.05 were considered as statistically significant.
Results: 71 (21.56%) of LBW neonates were died with incidence rate of 30.26 (95%CI: 23.98-38.19) per 1000 person-day The overall mortality at the end of 1st, 3rd and 7th day was 53.5%, 81.7% and 98.6%, respectively. Median survival time was 52 days. Not feeding at all (AHR: 6.58; 95% CI: 3.08-14.05), formula feeding (AHR: 3.18; 95% CI: 1.01-10.03), and weight at discharge <1500 grams (AHR: 9.09; 95% CI: 1.87-44.10) were statistically significant predictors of LBW neonatal mortality at (p-value < 0.05).
Conclusion and recommendations: This study showed that majority of the deaths were occurred during early hospitalization and the main predictors were weight at discharge <1500 grams, and not feeding (EBF) at all and formula feeding. Therefore, promotion and initiation of breastfeeding immediately (within one hour) after birth, intensive follow up to the admitted LBW neonates, particularly during the first 24 hours, availing necessary medical equipment such as CPAP, and improvement of the hospitals’ set-up to inaugurate breastfeeding corners are among the prioritized intervention measures to improve the survival status of LBW neonates.
Measuring spatial inequalities in maternal and child mortalities in Pakistan: evidence from geographically weighted regression
Authors: Muhammad Farzana Sher , Shahabudin Sharifah Muhairah , Binti Muzalwana 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
In developing countries, the death probability of a child and mother is more significant than in developed countries; these inequalities in health outcomes are unfair. The present study encompasses a spatial analysis of maternal and child mortalities in Pakistan. The study aims to estimate the District Mortality Index (DMI), measure the inequality ratio and slope, and ascertain the spatial impact of various factors on DMI scores across Pakistani districts.
Method
This study utilized the micro-level household datasets from multiple indicator cluster surveys (MICS) to construct the DMI and used the inequality ratio and slope to measure the disparity in DMI scores. This study further utilized the spatial autocorrelation tests to determine the magnitude and location of the spatial dependence of the clusters with high- and low-mortality rates. The Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) model was also applied to examine the spatial impact of socioeconomic, environmental, health, and housing attributes on DMI.
Results
The inequality ratio for DMI showed that the upper decile districts are 16 times more prone to mortalities than districts in the lower decile, and the districts of Baluchistan depicted extreme spatial heterogeneity in terms of DMI. The findings of the Local Indicator of Spatial Association (LISA) and Moran's test confirmed spatial homogeneity in all mortalities among the districts in Pakistan. The H-H clusters of maternal mortality and DMI were located in Baluchistan, and the H-H clusters of child mortality were seen in Punjab. The results of GWR showed that the wealth index quintile has a significant spatial impact on DMI; however, improved sanitation, handwashing practices, and antenatal care adversely influenced DMI scores.
Conclusion
The findings reveal a significant disparity in DMI and spatial relationships among all mortalities in the districts of Pakistan. Additionally, socioeconomic, environmental, health, and housing variables have an impact on DMI. Notably, spatial proximity among individuals who are at risk of death occurs in areas with elevated mortality rates. Policymakers may mitigate these mortalities by focusing on vulnerable zones and implementing measures such as raising public awareness, enhancing healthcare services, and improving access to clean drinking water and sanitation facilities.
Focused particle streams for electron emission studies from intense laser plasma interactions
Authors: Sugumar Ravishankar , Venugopal Haritha , Sen Sanket , Rajput Gaurav , M Krishnamurthy , Gopal Ram , Sharma Vandana 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

We introduce a new utilization of an Aerodynamic Lens Stack (ALS) for concentrating aerosols in the production of high energy (>200 keV) electrons through their interaction with intense(> 1016 W/cm2), ultra-short (30 fs) laser pulses. The lens was designed and simulated in COMSOL with various parameters such as inlet dimensions and backing pressures. Subsequently, the particle jet was analyzed using particle streak velocimetry (PSV). Following the characterization process, the jet was exposed to the laser, and the emission of electrons was investigated and described. Our results demonstrate the effectiveness of the lens in producing and focussing aerosols originating from liquid sources, underscoring its potential as a precise microtarget for laser interactions.
Towards Intelligent Environments: Human Sensing through Point Cloud
Authors: Yamaguchi Hirozumi , Rizk Hamada , Amano Tatsuya , Hiromori Akihito , Ukyo Riki , Yamada Shota , Ohno Masakazu 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

''Society 5.0'' seeks to enhance well-being by integrating the Internet of Things to connect people, objects, and environments, which aims to gather and utilize data from the physical world in cyberspace fostering new values and knowledge sharing. It extends the concept of Cyber-Physical Systems by focusing on human-centric sensing and AI-driven analysis to capture and understand the nuances of human behaviors and their environments. To realize the concept, intelligent environments, focusing on creating sensor-enhanced spaces capable of recognizing and interpreting human behaviors and needs, are essential. To explore how we realize the intelligent environment, this paper highlights the current technologies and applications of human sensing and tracking that enables such intelligent environments.Specifically, it introduces the development and application of LiDAR-based human sensing and tracking technologies, including the Hitonavi and Hitonavi-µ systems, designed for multi-person tracking in extensive areas and for enabling person detection and activity recognition on edge devices, respectively. Moreover, the services and applications of the introduced methodologies to smart buildings, shopping malls, and elderly care have been explained to showcase their potential to enhance safety, convenience, and understanding of human behavior within intelligent environment. Throughout this paper, we present our vision for creating a reliable intelligent environment, which is fundamentally supported by sophisticated human sensing technologies.
Predictors of Valve Failure Following Surgical Atrioventricular Valve Replacement with a Melody Valve in Infants and Children
Authors: Gilg Samantha , Delaney Jeffrey , DO Christopher Curzon , Danford David , Ibrahimiye Ali , House Aswathy Vaikom , Hammel James 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Options for atrioventricular (AV) valve replacement in small pediatric patients are very limited. The Melody valve has shown reasonable short-term outcomes. This study was aimed at identifying predictors of valve failure following AV valve replacement with a Melody valve at a single center. 26 patients underwent 37 AV valve replacements with 31/37 (84%) of valves placed in the systemic AV valve position. Median age at procedure was 17 mos (IQR 4–33) and weight was 8.5 kg (IQR 6.25–12.85). Median balloon size for valve implant was 20 mm (IQR 18–22). Repeat intervention occurred in 21 cases (57%) with repeat surgery in all but one. Median freedom from re-intervention was 31 months; 19% were free from re-intervention at 60 months. Age < 12 mos, weight < 10 kg and BSA < 0.4 m2 were all significant risk factors for early valve failure (p = 0.003, P 0.017, P 0.025 respectively). Valve longevity was greatest with balloon inflation to diameter 1.20–1.35 times the patient’s expected annular diameter (Z0), relative to both smaller or larger balloons (p = 0.038). In patients less than 12 mos of age, patients with single ventricle physiology had an increased risk of early valve failure (p = 0.004).
Access to Library Information Resources by University Students during COVID-19 Pandemic in Africa: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Shikali Joyce , Muneja Paul Samwel , Ally Mohamed Kasim 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The study examined access to library information resources by university students during the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Specifically, the study sought to identify the measures adopted by academic libraries to ensure the smooth delivery of library information resources to patrons, particularly students, identify technological tools that were employed by libraries to facilitate access to library information resources. Not only that but also, the study investigated the challenges faced by students in accessing library information resources. A systematic literature review approach following PRISMA guidelines was employed to investigate the findings of the relevant literature on the subject. The keyword search strategy was employed to search for relevant literature from four scholarly databases Scopus, Emerald, Research4life and Google Scholar. The relevant 23 studies were included fulfilling the set inclusion criteria. The presentation of the findings was arranged in a tabular form to provide a summary of each article to facilitate easy analysis and synthesis of results. The findings of this study revealed that the majority of the reviewed studies indicate that, during the COVID-19 pandemic many academic libraries in Africa adopted different approaches to facilitate access to library information resources by university students including expanding access to electronic resources off- campus, virtual reference services, circulation and lending services. To support access to different library services and information resources academic libraries in Africa used various digital technological tools like social media, library websites, email and video conferencing. Moreover, the study revealed that limited access to internet services and ICT devices, inadequate electronic library collection and inadequate digital and information literacy were the major challenges faced by many university students in accessing library resources during the pandemic. This study recommends investment in ICT infrastructures and expanding electronic resource collections which are vital resources in the digital era.
Ectopic Breast Cancer in the Axilla after Bilateral Breast Cancer Surgery
Authors: Ishige Hiroyuki 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Ectopic breast cancer (EBC) is a rare disease, and cases of its occurrence in the axilla following surgery for bilateral breast cancer have not been previously reported.
Case Presentation:
We report the case of a 69-year-old woman who developed EBC cancer in the left axilla as a third metachronous primary cancer after bilateral breast cancer.
Conclusion
When a mass is observed in the axilla after breast cancer surgery, it is crucial to consider not only the possibility of lymph node metastasis but also the differential diagnosis of axillary EBC for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. If the mass is located just beneath the skin and on the outer side of the axilla, suspicion of EBC is warranted. As they do with pectoral breast cancer, the ultrasound findings of EBC vary according to the tissue structure.
Directing cancer cell fate with wireless barium titanate@PEDOT nanoparticles to control bioelectricity
Authors: Jones Catarina Franco , Carvalho Marta S. , Jain Akhil , Ferreira Frederico Castelo , Esteves Teresa , Sanjuan-Alberte Paola 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Cancer cells exhibit unique bioelectrical properties, yet therapeutic strategies exploiting these are still lacking. Herein, we merge a nanobioelectronic system comprising of a barium titanate nanoparticle core and a poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) shell (BTO@PEDOT NPs) with cancer cells to modulate bioelectricity. We hypothesize that the BTO@PEDOT NPs act as a nanoantenna, transducing a mechanical input provided by external ultrasound (US) stimulation into an electrical output, capable of interfering with the bioelectronic circuitry of the human breast cancer cell lines, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231. Upon US stimulation the viability of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 treated with 200 µg mL-1 BTO@PEDOT NPs reduced significantly to 31% and 24%, respectively, while healthy human mammary fibroblasts were unaffected by the treatment (94% viability). The treatment increased ROS levels and intracellular Ca2+ concentrations, thus promoting apoptosis. These findings underscore the potential of nanobioelectronic systems as an emerging and promising strategy for cancer intervention with no impact on healthy cells.
A cloud-based infrastructure to deploy supervisory forecast models for predictive coagulant dosing control
Authors: Nair Abhilash , Yavorska Viktoria , Hykkerud Aleksander , Ratnaweera Harsha 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Advanced optimal dosing control based on multiple online sensor data is operational in several treatment facilities in Norway. The benefits of the dosing control system in maintaining stable phosphate/solids removal and saving coagulant usage are documented in the literature. The dosing algorithm is currently implemented in a programmable logic controller (PLC) connected to the treatment plant's Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition System (SCADA) system. The PLC receives online sensor data from the plant's SCADA, calculates the optimal dosing values, and transmits optimal dosage values back to the SCADA system. The dosing algorithm is frequently updated to keep in sync with the process and equipment upgrades of the treatment plant and advances in control algorithm schemes. The upgrades include new regulatory feedback loops structural changes to the dose equation, and the addition of conditional setpoints. Each maintenance and upgrade routine entails operational downtime where the dosing algorithm is set to a sub-optimal flow-proportional dose. This paper presents a non-intrusive Internet of Things (IoT) infrastructure to implement a predictive/forecast component to an existing dosing control algorithm. The benefits of the new cloud-based system in improving nutrient removal, increasing operational flexibility, and reducing maintenance downtime are presented in this work.
Comparison of Self-Tracking Health Practices, eHealth Literacy, and Subjective Well-Being Between College Students With and Without Disabilities: Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Choi Soyoung 
Published: April 2024

Background
College students with disabilities need to transition from pediatric-centered care to adult care. However, they may become overwhelmed by multiple responsibilities, such as academic activities, peer relationships, career preparation, job seeking, independent living, as well as managing their health and promoting healthy behaviors.

Objective
As the use of smartphones and wearable devices for collecting personal health data becomes popular, this study aimed to compare the characteristics of self-tracking health practices between college students with disabilities and their counterparts. In addition, this study examined the relationships between disability status, self-tracking health practices, eHealth literacy, and subjective well-being among college students.

Methods
The web-based questionnaire was designed using Qualtrics for the cross-sectional online survey. The survey data were collected from February 2023 to April 2023 and included responses from 702 participants.

Results
More than 80% (563/702, 80.2%) of the respondents participated voluntarily in self-tracking health practices. College students with disabilities (n=83) showed significantly lower levels of eHealth literacy and subjective well-being compared with college students without disabilities (n=619). The group with disabilities reported significantly lower satisfaction (t411=–5.97, P<.001) and perceived efficacy (t411=–4.85, P<.001) when using smartphone health apps and wearable devices. Finally, the study identified a significant correlation between subjective well-being in college students and disability status (β=3.81, P<.001), self-tracking health practices (β=2.22, P=.03), and eHealth literacy (β=24.29, P<.001).

Conclusions
Given the significant relationships among disability status, self-tracking health practices, eHealth literacy, and subjective well-being in college students, it is recommended to examine their ability to leverage digital technology for self-care. Offering learning opportunities to enhance eHealth literacy and self-tracking health strategies within campus environments could be a strategic approach to improve the quality of life and well-being of college students.
Digital Literacy Training for Low-Income Older Adults Through Undergraduate Community-Engaged Learning: Single-Group Pretest-Posttest Study
Authors: Miller Lisa M Soederberg , Callegari Rachel A , Abah Theresa , Fann Helen 
Published: April 2024

Background
Digital technology is a social determinant of health that affects older people’s ability to engage in health maintenance and disease prevention activities; connect with family and friends; and, more generally, age in place. Unfortunately, disparities in technology adoption and use exist among older adults compared with other age groups and are even greater among low-income older adults.

Objective
In this study, we described the development and implementation of a digital literacy training program designed with the dual goals of training low-income older adults in the community and teaching students about aging using a community-engaged learning (CEL) approach.

Methods
The training program was embedded within a 10-week CEL course that paired undergraduates (N=27) with low-income older adults (n=18) for 8 weeks of digital literacy training. Older adults and students met weekly at the local senior center for the training. Students also met in the classroom weekly to learn about aging and how to use design thinking to train their older adult trainees. Both older adults and students completed pre- and posttraining surveys.

Results
Older adults demonstrated increased digital literacy skills and confidence in the use of digital technology. Loneliness did not change from pre to postassessment measurements; however, older adults showed improvements in their attitudes toward their own aging and expressed enthusiasm for the training program. Although students’ fear of older adults did not change, their comfort in working with older adults increased. Importantly, older adults and students expressed positive feelings about the trainee-trainer relationship that they formed during the training program.

Conclusions
A CEL approach that brings together students and low-income older adults in the community has a strong potential to reduce the digital divide experienced by underserved older adults. Additional work is needed to explore the efficacy and scalability of this approach in terms of older adults’ digital literacy as well as other potential benefits to both older and younger adults.
Collaborative Development of an Electronic Portfolio to Support the Assessment and Development of Medical Undergraduates
Authors: dos Santos Luiz Ricardo Albano , de Oliveira Alan Maicon , dos Santos Luana Michelly Aparecida Costa , Aguilar Guilherme José , Costa Wilbert Dener Lemos , Donato Dantony de Castro Barros , Bollela Valdes Roberto 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
This study outlines the development of an electronic portfolio (e-portfolio) designed to capture and record the overall academic performance of medical undergraduate students throughout their educational journey. Additionally, it facilitates the capture of narratives on lived experiences and sharing of reflections, fostering collaboration between students and their mentors.