bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the Dynamics of Land Use and Land Cover Changes in Relation to the Land Surface Temperature of Hyderabad City
Authors: Kumar Pardeep , Verma Pratyush , Yadav Bhawna , Mukherjee Saumitra 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Land Surface Temperature (LST) is a crucial parameter for assessing the thermal comfort of urban residents. This study investigates the impact of land use/land cover changes on the variations in land surface temperature from 1989 to 2019 at 10-year intervals in Hyderabad city, Telangana. The mono window and split window algorithms were employed to derive LST, while the contribution index was utilized to analyze changes in the contribution of land use/land cover (LULC) to LST. The built-up area has witnessed a notable increase from 35.81–56.49%, accompanied by corresponding decreases in barren land (42.73–33.42%), vegetation (19.39–8.20%), and water bodies (2.07% to 8.20). The study further indicates that barren land significantly contributes to LST, with a decreasing trend observed from 1989 to 2019. The mitigating effects of water bodies (-0.14 to -0.1) and vegetation (-0.42 to -0.06) on LST have diminished over the same period. Additionally, a decline in Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) for vegetation and Normalized Difference water Index (NDWI) for water bodies reflects increased stress and pollution in their respective LULC areas. Furthermore, the decrease in the Normalized Difference Barren Land Index (NDBaI) and Normalized Difference Built-up Index (NDBI) depicts urban expansion and the transformation of primary barren land to cultivation. This research enhances our understanding of how shifting landscapes influence a material's surface energy budget. Analyzing the interplay between land cover and incoming radiation throughout the day provides insights into the effects of climate change.
Effectiveness of a virtual reality-based restorative environment on psychiatric disorders for intensive care patients: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Luo Juan , Xu Nan , Chen Fang , Zhang Fang , Li Sijing , Dong Junlan , Jiang Zhixia 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Patients suffering from psychiatric disorders can manifest as symptoms of anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after intensive care unit (ICU) stay has received considerable attention worldwide. The combination of restorative environments and virtual reality (VR) might be a very effective tool to briefly escape the ICU for early intervention. Based on the Stress Recovery Theory (SRT) and Attention Recovery Theory (ART), this study protocol aims to evaluate the effect of “virtual reality-based restorative environment” provided by nurses.
Methods
This is an assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial. A total of 72 critically ill awake ICU patients will be enrolled and participants will be randomized per patient in a 1:1 ratio to either the intervention or control group. Patients in the control group will be treated as usual. Participants allocated to the intervention group will receive a 360-degree immersive VR restorative environment played in a head-mounted display with noise-cancelling headphones. The primary outcome measures will include the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Impact of Event Scale Revised (IES-R), and the Short Form-36 (SF-36). Secondary outcomes are Simulator Sickness Questionnaire (SSQ) and Patient Satisfaction Level. Data will be collected at 5-time points: baseline (T0), ICU discharge (T1), 1 month (T2), 3 months (T3) and 6 months (T4) after ICU discharge.
Discussion
Psychiatric disorders are common in the ICU setting, but validated prevention and treatment strategies are lacking. The results of this study will provide insight into whether a restorative virtual reality environment is a modality that can be used in the ICU to improve psychological well-being and quality of life and to evaluate patient satisfaction.
Trial registration
This study was registered in Chinese Clinical Trial Registry on March 1,2023; registration number: ChiCTR2300068874.
Implementing Virtual Indirect Data-Driven Learning and Virtual Traditional Deductive Approach to Teach Cohesive Devices: The Case of Persian High School Students Learning English as a Foreign Language
Authors: Moradi Bita , Pasquarella Adrian 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Purpose. This study evaluated the effect of indirect Data-Driven Learning (DDL) and Traditional Deductive Approach (TDA) on the knowledge of cohesive devices in a virtual classroom.
Design/Methodology/Approach. Thirty-one English as a foreign language learners (EFL) (mean age = 16.25) were randomly assigned to DDL or TDA conditions. The DDL (treatment) group (N = 16) was required to study materials derived from authentic corpora, prepared by their instructor. The TDA (control) group (N = 15) was taught using a formulaic and mechanical structure. Participants took a pre-test, immediate post-test, and delayed post-test of cohesive devices. The DDL participants also completed a semi-structured interview.
Findings. The results revealed that although both groups enhanced the knowledge of cohesive devices, indirect DDL yielded more learning gains at post-test. However, the DDL group showed equal learning retention compared to the TDA group at follow-up. Finally, an interview with the indirect DDL participants demonstrated that most of them held positive attitudes toward applying indirect DDL to virtual classrooms.
Originality/Value. The study concludes with DDL educational implications and the importance of implementing DDL for young EFL students with intermediate English proficiency using virtual tools. We provide some limitations of the current study and offer suggestions for future research on DDL.
Health Status of Female Carpet Weavers in Home-based workshops; Mashgin-Shahr Villages
Authors: Nazari Jalil 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background: Carpet weavers are susceptible to various health problems due to their workplace and working conditions. The present study was conducted to assess the morbidity profile of female carpet weavers.
Methodology: This present descriptive, analytical, cross-sectional study was conducted in rural carpet weaving workshops in the city of Mashgin-Shahr, Iran. The study population consisted of female workers with a minimum of one-year work experience in carpet weaving workshops. A questionnaire comprising personal details, a body map questionnaire, and the disease history section of the NIOSH questionnaire was used to collect the required data. The obtained data were entered into SPSS-24 software and analyzed statistically using t-test, ANOVA, and the Chi-square test. A p-value of 0.05 was considered the level of significance.
Results: The mean age of carpet weavers was 31.7±7.9 years, and their average working experience was 12.8±7.9 years. They worked in sitting posture for an average of 7.6 hours per day. 55% of weavers had a history of a specific disease, and 83.3% of them did not take any medication. Musculoskeletal problems were the most common issues among 201 (83.5%) study participants. Other common diseases included hand skin problems (35.8%), Joint pain (24.6%), vision problems (17.1%), headache (16.2%), anemia (10%), and emotional problems (6.7%).
Conclusion: The present study found that 55% of carpet weavers had a history of a specific disease. Understanding these disorders is crucial for developing strategies to improve the health these weavers. The findings can also guide public health practitioners and educators in identifying at risk individuals and designing targeted health strategies.
Innovative digital health solutions: Use and acceptance among patients and professionals, and the influence of the regulatory framework - a survey-based distinction.
Authors: Pfoerringer Dominik , Hinterwimmer Florian , Vogt Ferdinand , Edenharter Günther , Braun Karl , von Eisenhart-Rothe Rüdiger , DGOU AG Digitalisierung der DGOU , Biberthaler Peter , Seidl Fritz 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background:Digital solutions are gaining increasing importance and present a challenge regarding the introduction and acceptance into professional medical environments. The latter aspect is largely caused by regulatory and legislative burdens hindering the adoption of new technologies. Although significant advances have been made regarding availability, safety, and ease of use of data generated by a multitude of devices and wearables, data security and data protection are delaying factors. The underlying analysis focuses on the use, acceptance of digital solutions and their respective differences between healthcare professionals and patients.Objective:This study examines the current use and acceptance of digital solutions among healthcare professionals and patients within the regulatory framework in Germany. In addition, it derives an outlook to future developments and expectations in the setting of highly regulated technologies able to penetrate the health market.Methods:An anonymous online survey of 23 multiple-choice and 3 open-text questions was conducted among medical professionals and patients between April and September 2023. In this study, quantitative analysis was performed using Python, with Pandas for data processing and Matplotlib for visualization. Chi-square tests were used to analyze binary categorical data, while Mann-Whitney U tests were used to evaluate ordinal data. Additionally, a qualitative analysis was conducted to summarize the results of the open-ended questions.Results:During 178 days, the survey garnered 2,058 clicks, resulting in 1,389 participants (67.5% response rate). A total of 1,002 participants completed the entire questionnaire, while 387 (27.9%) did not finish. Incomplete responses were excluded from the comprehensive analysis. The sample comprised 271 physicians (27%) and 731 patients (73%). The study found significant agreement between both groups in adopting and foreseeing the use of digital health tools and telemedicine. Both groups recognized the future importance of digital health without substantial differences.Conclusions:Overall, attitudes towards digital health and telemedicine were consistent, reflecting a uniform acceptance and expectation of these technologies among healthcare professionals and patients. The consensus on telemedicine's future role over the next five years indicates a unified vision for digital health paradigms.
Synthesis, characterization and activity evaluation of (Cu2O or Ag2O)-N-TiO2 photocatalysts for E. coli inhibition and trichloroethylene degradation
Authors: Pessanha Quézia Souza de Jesus , Merlo-Camuñas Laura , Orjuela Camila Fernanda Waltero , Domingos Marcelo , Sánchez Benigo , Canela Maria Cristina 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Heterogeneous photocatalysis has been increasingly scrutinized in order to remove air pollutants. TiO2 is the most widely employed semiconductor, although it absorbs radiation only within the UVA range, limiting visible light radiation use. Therefore, some strategies, such as doping and sensitization, have been adopted. This project aimed to develop TiO2-based photocatalysts using visible-UVA radiation as a future alternative for air decontamination. The synthesized photocatalysts were N-TiO2, Cu2O/N-TiO2 and Ag-N-TiO2, impregnated on a glass surface via the sol-gel dip-coating method. The materials were characterized through UV-Vis Diffuse Reflectance, Attenuated Total Reflection Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, X-ray Diffraction and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy. These techniques corroborate the formation of polytriazines as products of urea thermolysis and suggest a synergistic effect between sensitization and doping with N. All photocatalysts exhibited a new band gap with energy associated with visible light. The photocatalytic activity of the materials was verified against trichloroethylene in the gaseous phase and against the bacteria Escherichia coli. The photocatalytic efficiency of the materials was higher using UVA and visible light than pure TiO2, both for TCE and disinfection tests. The disinfection process was accelerated in the presence of photocatalysts containing copper and under visible light, and Ag-N-TiO2 was more efficient than when under UVA light.
The Clinical-Epidemiological Profile of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis in Africa: Data from the Paediatric Society of the African League Against Rheumatism (PAFLAR) Registry
Authors: MIGOWA ANGELA NYANGORE , Hamdi Wafa , Hashad Soad , Etayari Hala , Abushhaiwia Awatif , Ferjani Hanene , Nessib Dorra Ben , Kharrat Lobna , Fazaa Alia , Owino Lawrence , Faleye Ayodele , Owusu Sheila Agyeiwaa , Mosa Doaa Mosad , Eissa Mervat , Ismail Samah , Elsehrawy Gehad Gamal , Odhiambo Rachel , Orwa James , Zaid Mohammed Hassan Abu 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background
The spectrum of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) in Africa is still largely unknown. We thus set out to describe the clinical-epidemiological profile of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis across the various regions in Africa.
Methods
We carried out a retrospective observational cohort study where collaborators were trained on use of the existing PAFLAR REDCAP database to enter data for the JIA patients currently under their care capturing their epidemiological data, clinical features, laboratory investigations, diagnosis and therapy at initial diagnosis. Descriptive statistics including means, standard deviations, medians, interquartile ranges (IQR) for continuous variables and proportions for categorical variables were calculated as appropriate. Tests for difference between groups were performed between categorical variables using Pearson’s chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests. All analyses were performed using SPSS version 22 software.
Results
We enrolled 302 patients, 58.6% (177 of 302) of whom were female. The mediann age of disease onset was 7 years (range 3–11 years) and the median age at diagnosis was 8.5 years (range 5–12 years). The median duration delay in diagnosis was 6 months (range 1-20.8 months). The JIA sub types included Systemic JIA 18.9% (57), Oligoarticular JIA 19.2% (83), Polyarticular RF + ve 5% (15), Polyarticular RF-ve 17.9% (54), Enthesitis Related Arthritis (ERA) 18.2% (55), Psoriatic Arthritis 7% (21) and undifferentiated JIA 5.6% 917). As regards treatment the commonest therapies were NSAID therapy at 31.1%, synthetic DMARDs at 18.1%, synthetic DMARDs combined with NSAIDs at 17.5% and steroid therapy at 9.6%. Biological DMARDs accounted for 2.3% of therapies offered to our patients. The average JADAS score was 10.3 (range 4.8–18.2) and the average CHAQ score was 1.3 (range 0.7-2.0)
Conclusion
Our study highlights the vast spectrum of JIA in Africa while comparing the various therapies available to our patients. The PAFLAR JIA registry strives to ensure a comprehensive representation of the diverse healthcare landscapes within the continent. Further longitudinal observation studies are required to ascertain the long-term outcomes of our patients and ultimately help inform policy to create a more favorable health ecosystem to support the healthcare needs of JIA patients in Africa.
Association between Maternal Lipid Profiles And Lipid Ratios in Early to Middle Pregnancy as well as their dynamic changes and gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Xu Xingyan , Luo Suping , Lin Jie , Zhou Jungu , Zheng Liuyan , Yang Le , Zhang Zhiyu , Dong Yuting , Xie Xiaoxu , Luo Jinying , Wu Siying , Ma Mei , Li Huangyuan , Lin Shaowei 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background.
Unfavourable lipid and glucose levels may play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). However, there is a lack of prospective studies on the relationship between lipid profiles,lipid ratios and GDM during pregnancy.
Aims
To prospectively investigate the relationship between lipid profile and lipid ratios in early and mid-pregnancy and their pattern of change from early to mid-pregnancy and the risk of GDM.
Methods
This nested case-control study was based on maternal and child healthcare hospitals from Fujian Province, China. We included pregnant women who delivered in the hospital from January 2021 to June 2023. Lipid profiles (TC, TG, ApoA1, ApoB, HDL-c, LDL-c) and fasting glucose were measured before 14 weeks of gestation and between 20 and 28 weeks of gestation, and lipid ratios (triglyceride glucose index, TG/HDL-c and TC/HDL-c) was constructed. Logistic regression was used to assess the relationship between lipid profile,lipid ratios and GDM.
Results
Of 1586 pregnant women, 741 were diagnosed with GDM. After adjusting for potential confounders, TG, ApoA1, ApoB, LDL-c, triglyceride glucose index, TG/HDL-c, and TC/HDL-c in early pregnancy were positively associated with the risk of GDM (odds ratios [95% CI] for extreme interquartile comparisons were 2.040 (1.468–2.843), 1.506 (1.091–2.082), 1.529 (1.110–2.107), 1.504 (1.086–2.086), 1.952 (1.398–2.731), 2.127 (1.526–2.971), and 2.370 (1.700-3.312), all trend P ≤ 0.05). HDL-c was negatively associated with the risk of GDM (0.639: 0.459–0.889, trend P all less than 0.05). Similarly, in mid-pregnancy, lower levels of HDL-c, higher levels of triglyceride glucose index, TG/HDL-c ratio, and TC/HDL-c ratio were associated with increased risk of GDM (all trends P ≤ 0.05). Stably high levels (both ≥ median for early and mid-pregnancy) of triglyceride glucose index, TG/HDL-c and TC/HDL-c were associated with increased risk of GDM (OR [95% CI]: 2.369 (1.438–3.940), 1.588 (1.077–2.341), 1.921 (1.309–2.829), respectively). The opposite was true for HDL-c, where stable high levels were negatively associated with GDM risk (OR [95% CI]: 0.599 (0.405–0.883)).
Conclusion
Increases in triglyceride glucose index, TG/HDL-c ratio, and TC/HDL-c ratio in early and mid-pregnancy, as well as their stable high levels from early to mid-pregnancy, are associated with a higher risk of GDM. In contrast, increased levels of HDL-c, both in early and mid-pregnancy, and their stable high levels from early to mid-pregnancy were associated with a lower risk of GDM. That highlighted their possible clinical relevance in identifying those at high risk of GDM.
Non-Specific Uptake of 18F-FAPI-04 in the Pancreas and Its Related Factors: a Post-hoc Analysis of an Ongoing Prospective Clinical Trial
Authors: Li Yan , Gao Jungang , Li Yang , Duan Xiaoyi , Shen Cong 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Purpose : This study aimed to analyze the characteristics of the non-specific uptake (NSU) of 18F-labeled fibroblast activation protein inhibitor (18F-FAPI) of the pancreas and investigate the related factors.
Materials and Methods: Totally, 78 patients who underwent both 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) and 18F-FAPI PET/CT examinations were divided into normal (n=53) and NSU (n=25) groups. The differences in general information, medical history, laboratory indexes and uptake were compared. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to analyze the optimal cut-off values. The correlations between 18F-FAPI-SUVmax and blood cell analysis, liver function, tumor markers, and inflammatory indices were analyzed. Logistic regression model was used to estimate the independent factors.
Results: Both 18F-FAPI (4.48±0.98 vs. 2.01±0.53, t = 11.718, P<0.05) and 18F-FDG (2.23±0.42 vs. 2.02±0.44, t = 2.036, P = 0.045) showed significantly higher in NSU group. ROC analysis showed cutoff values of 3.25 and 2.05 for 18F-FAPI and 18F-FDG in identifying the NSU. Patients with a history of drinking, chronic liver diseases, and surgery of gastrectomy showed higher 18F-FAPI uptake (P < 0.05). Patients in the NSU group showed less platelet count, higher platelet volume, higher total bilirubin, and direct or indirect bilirubin (P < 0.05). Platelet count, platelet crit, large platelet ratio, total, AST, α-L-fucosidase, and direct or indirect bilirubin were correlated with 18F-FAPI-SUVmax (P < 0.05).
Conclusion: 18F-FAPI-PET/CT was better than 18F-FDG in predicting the pancreatic NSU, and NSU is related to a history of drinking, chronic liver diseases, and the surgery of gastrectomy, heteromorphic platelet, and impaired liver function.
Assessing Public Trust in Road Traffic Injuries Prevention Policies in Iran: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ezzati Ismail , Saadati Mohammad , Nagibi Deniz , Sardareh Mehran , Azami-Aghdash Saber 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction and Objective:
Road Traffic Injuries (RTIs) represent the predominant cause of morbidity and mortality globally. Thus, impactful interventions and trustworthy authorities are imperative to mitigate traffic accidents. The present study seeks to assess public trust in traffic accident diminution policies and measures within the country of Iran.
Method
This cross-sectional study utilized a questionnaire comprising 31 questions distributed across eight dimensions. The questionnaire's design was informed by a literature review and semi-structured interviews with experts specializing in traffic accidents. The target population consisted of Tabriz city residents, who were selected via convenience sampling. The collected data were then analyzed using SPSS-16 software, employing T-test, One Way ANOVA, and Pearson correlation coefficient to present the study's results.
Results
A total of 681 participants completed the questionnaire, yielding a commendable response rate of 88.6%. The majority of participants were male (60.8%), and 86.2% identified as drivers, with 61.8% having experienced driving accidents. The overall score for public trust in RTIs policies was calculated to be 46.9%. The individual scores for specific domains of trust in traffic safety were as follows: safer roads (43.1%), safe vehicle (43.3%), safety laws (48.8%), safe user (51.1%), safe technology (51.5%), road safety management (46.8%).
Conclusion
The study findings indicate relatively low levels of public trust in RTIs policies among the Iranian population. These results emphasize the need for targeted interventions to enhance public confidence in specific aspects of traffic safety. Policymakers can use these insights to implement effective measures, thus contributing to the RTIs and the promotion of road safety in the country.
Influence of Nonionic Surfactants on the Adsorption and Elution of Atrazine in Agriculturally Modified Soils of Hetao Irrigation District
Authors: Zhao Na , Yang Chengjian 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The Hetao Irrigation District, situated in Northwest of China, serves as a significant commercial grain base. Widespread use of atrazine, a herbicide in the region, has resulted in significant environmental issues, impacting the ecosystem equilibrium and sustainable agricultural development. The co-adsorption of the globally employed atrazine herbicide along with two nonionic surfactants, Tween-80 and Brij30, onto soils treated with HCl and H2O2 was investigated. The study revealed that the adsorption isothermal curves of surfactants on soil adhered to a two-stage adsorption model. Various types of adsorption isothermal curves, such as S-type or L-type, influenced the adsorption capacity of atrazine on the soil. Observations indicated that S-type or L-type isothermal curves of surfactants interconverted with alterations in soil polarity. Moreover, it has been uncovered that the adsorption properties of Tween 80 in the soil are intricately connected to its ability to elute atrazine within the same soil. This discovery provides theoretical support for a prudent reduction in herbicide usage in the Hetao irrigation District in the upcoming years.