bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the Effect of Some Commonly Used Idealizations on the Nonlinear Seismic Response of Steel Buildings
Authors: Llanes-Tizoc Mario D. , Valenzuela-Beltrán Federico , Baca-Machado Victor E. , Felix Alfredo , Bojorquez Eden , Bojórquez Juan , Reyes-Salazar Alfredo 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

There have been significant advances concerning seismic analysis and design procedures for steel buildings. Emerging procedures as the performance-based seismic design and the resilient seismic design, are examples of such advances. However, there is a long road ahead before these new concepts can be widely accepted and implemented by structural engineers, government officials and owners. In addition, many simplifications are commonly adopted in seismic analysis, the effects of which on the seismic response, and consequently on the structural performance, are overlooked. Some of these issues are addressed in this paper. Toward this goal, the seismic responses of 3 models of moment-resisting steel frames subject to 20 strong motion records are estimated. Results indicate that the ductility reduction factors for SDOF systems can be up to 95% greater than those of MDOF systems. Bending moments on columns and interstory shears can be underestimated by up to about 30% and 15%, respectively, when using the lumped mass matrix formulation. Underestimates of up to 18% are observed for bending moments on beams if just one element is used to model the beams. Overestimates can be up to 210% for lateral damping forces when using the first two modes of lateral vibration to generate the Rayleigh damping matrix; underestimations of up to 40% are observed for axial loads and flexural moments, while those of lateral shears and drifts can be of up to 20%. The contribution of local rotations and vertical displacements modes to axial loads on columns can be up to 38%, while for bending moments, interstory shears and drifts it can be up to 18%. A damping ratio of 3% to express the yielding effect is very conservative; a value of 7% can be reasonably used. The above results clearly indicate that more accurate structural models (MASM) should be used. One of the justifications for not using more accurate structural models (MDOF systems, consistent mass matrix and the Superposition of the Modal Damping Matrices to derive the damping matrix) has been the high demand on computing time; using modern computers, however, this justification is no longer valid.
Intramuscular pulsed radiofrequency upregulate the BNDF-TrKB expression in the spinal cord and may be an alternative treatment for complicated pain
Authors: Liang Cheng-Loong , Yen Cheng-Yo , Wang Hao-Kuang , Tsai Yu-Duan , Wang Kuo-Wei , Chye Cien-Leong 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Objective
Two cases of complicated pain exist: posterior screw fixation and myofascial pain. Intramuscular pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) may be an alternative treatment for such patients.
Methods
In the first stage, two muscle groups and two nerve groups were subdivided into a high-temperature group with PRF at 58°C and a regular temperature with PRF at 42°C. In the second stage, two nerve injury groups were subdivided into nerve injury with PRF 42°C on the sciatic nerve and muscle. Blood and spinal cord samples were collected.
Results
In the first stage, immunohistochemical analysis showed that PRF upregulated brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the spinal cord in both groups. In the second stage, immunohistochemical analysis showed significant BDNF and tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) expression within the spinal cord after PRF in muscle and nerve after nerve injury. The blood biomarkers showed a significant increase in BDNF levels.
Conclusion
PRF in the muscle could upregulate BDNF- TrkB in the spinal cord, similar to PRF during nerve injury for pain relief. It may be applied in patients with complicated pain and could reveal the role of BDNF in pain modulation. The optimal temperature for PRF was 42°C.
Contribution of Millet Cultivation in Tribal Women's Farming Systems to Enhanced Nutritional Food Availability at the Household Level: A Case Study from Hazaribagh, India
Authors: Rathour Sachin , Megha Kumari , Badal Prakash Singh 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Millets, a varied assortment of small-grained cereal grasses, hold a central position in ensuring nutritional stability by furnishing a steady and well-rounded food reservoir. They have become vital agents in ensuring nutritional stability, especially in areas where access to varied food options is constrained. Eleusine coracana L., commonly known as finger millet, assumes a significant staple crop status among tribal farming communities in developing nations like India. This study delves into the awareness levels of nutritional aspects related to millets among tribal women. The study employed an unplanned approach, in Hazaribagh district of Jharkhand, India, utilizing random sampling methods to ensure representation from marginal, small, and medium farmer. Descriptive analytical tools were employed to analyze data collected through personal interviews using a carefully designed questionnaire. Findings indicate notable awareness (72%) of millets' potential to enhance metabolism and widespread recognition (93%) of their superior nutrient content compared to rice and wheat. However, knowledge gaps exist, particularly regarding antioxidant properties (1%) and the lower glycaemic index for managing blood sugar levels (0%). The study emphasizes the necessity for targeted educational initiatives to augment tribal women's awareness, fostering informed dietary choices and positively impacting overall well-being, thereby contributing to nutritional security.
Low to moderate dose 137 Cs (γ) radiation enhances M2 type macrophages function at short term associated with reduced inflammation at long term exposure in ApoE (-/-) mice
Authors: Rey N. , Ebrahimian T. , Gloaguen C . , Kereselidze D. , Elie C. , Brizais C. , Bachelot F. , Riazi G. , Monceau V. , Demarquay C . , Zineddine I. Garali , Klokov D . , Lehoux S. , Ebrahimian T.G. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Effects of low doses of ionizing radiation on atherosclerosis are still a source of many uncertainties, and in particular whether these effects generate anti or pro-inflammatory responses. Furthermore, the delay of occurrence of such effects upon irradiation are unknown. Atheroprone ApoE(−/−)mice were exposed to single doses of 0, 0.05, 0.5 and 1 Gy of137Cs (γ) at 10.35 mGy.min− 1dose rate. Short term (24 hours) effects on bone marrow-derived macrophage polarization and long term (100 days) consequences on atherosclerotic plaques were investigated. We found a significant dose-dependent increase of Chil3 and Retnla anti-inflammatory markers gene expression in M0 and M2 type macrophages upon 24 hours exposure and no effects on M1 types. These effects were associated with a dose-dependent increase of IL-10 and a reduction of IL-1beta secretions in M0 and M2 and an increase of IL-6 in M1 type macrophages. Circulating pro-inflammatory Ly6CHighmonocytes were reduced at 24 hours and anti-inflammatory Ly6Clowmonocytes were notably increased in the spleen 100 days upon irradiation. Long term exposures to any doses did not affect atherosclerotic plaque size determined by OilredO. However, a tendency in plaque stability, determined by collagen and alpha-smooth muscle actin increase was observed, associated with a significant reduction of plaque macrophage content at 1Gy. Taking together these findings show an increase of anti-inflammatory behavior of M2 macrophages with low to moderate doses of ionizing radiation at short term after irradiation, at long term these changes could influence atheromatous plaques after irradiation with decreased macrophages contents. These results suggest that the mechanisms that lead to on atheroprotective response after low and moderate doses of ionizing radiation would involve early effects on circulating monocytes and the macrophages polarization towards an anti-inflammatory profile.
Assessing the Visual Afferent Pathway with the Multifocal Visual Evoked Potentials in the Radiologically Isolated Syndrome
Authors: Roldán María Isabel , Caballé Nuria , Sainz Carolina , Perez-Rico María Consuelo , Ayuso Lucía , Blanco Román 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background: The early identification of individuals with radiologically isolated syndrome (RIS) who are at an elevated risk of progressing to multiple sclerosis (MS) is essential for making informed treatment decisions.
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the predictive potential of multifocal Visual Evoked Potentials (mfVEP) measures in individuals with RIS with respect to their conversion to MS.
Methods: A prospective observational cohort study was conducted, involving 21 individuals with RIS recruited from a MS center. Baseline assessments, including mfVEP, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and clinical examinations, were performed, and participants were longitudinally followed for up to 24 months. The primary outcome measures were the conversion to MS.
Results: Over a clinical follow-up period of 24 months, five individuals (5/21) with RIS progressed to MS. MfVEP amplitude responses (interocular and monocular probability analysis) demonstrated abnormal cluster visual field defects in 47.6% of RIS eyes at baseline, whereas multifocal VEP latency analysis showed significant delays in 38.4%. A reduction in interocular amplitude [OR= 0.036, (95% CI, 0.003 - 0.503); P= 0.014], monocular amplitude [OR= 0.083, (95% CI, 0.007 - 0.982); P= 0.048], and a prolonged interocular latency [OR= 0.095, (95% CI, 0.009 - 0.972); P= 0.047] were associated with a higher relative risk of clinical conversion at the two-year follow-up.
Conclusion: Multifocal VEP may serve as a novel and independent risk factor for predicting the conversion to MS in individuals with Radiologically Isolated Syndrome.
A Novel Alm Based Security Framework for Block Chain in Healthcare Platform
Authors: Anjelin D. Praveena , Kumar S. Ganesh 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Blockchain technology may be a recent advancement and offers a ground-breaking technique for keeping the knowledge for an extended time and completing transactions like knowledge management, knowledge handling, performing arts functions, associated establishing trust in an open atmosphere. Most of them are considering block chain as a technology innovation significantly for cryptography and cyber security with systems like bitcoin, IoT, sensible Grids and etc., albeit this technology proofs its name and has received ton and ton of growing interests in multiple dimensions, the safety and security of the block chains are still in analysis whereas deploying block chain in versatile domains and environments. This work elaborates a comprehensive summary of the safety and privacy of block chain from knowledge management perspective. attention platform is employed for implementation and testing. Around 20,000 records are being taken and valid mistreatment the projected algorithmic program. Initially, a block chain is created using distributed information, which tracks an ever-changing list of trading records by organising them into a hierarchic chain of block. Because attention knowledge necessitates greater security, a peer-to-peer overlay network is used to create and maintain the block chain, which is secured through the intelligent and suburbanized use of cryptography with crowd computing. ALM algorithmic program projected has been increased with applicable knowledge possession by providing 2 issue authentications with an accuracy of 95%.The projected system may be a decentralized system and thence guaranteeing higher knowledge transparency and auditability. Security and privacy properties are being ensured by providing fine grained access management on the highest of the ALM encoding. Hence, Security and privacy problems with current scenario are addressed well with a high-level access management rulesets.
Advancing Medical Laboratory Practice in Pakistan: Insights from a Focus Group Study on Technologists' Training Needs
Authors: Khan Fatima Muhammad Asad , Majid Hafsa , Rehman Javeria , Zeeshan Mohammad , Moiz Bushra , Jafri Lena , Khan Aysha Habib 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background:
The realm of medical laboratory technology (MLT) training and education has been severely neglected in Pakistan. The primary challenges currently confronting the workforce in MLT include a lack of opportunities for career advancement, the absence of standardized curricula and assessments, and limited access to continuing education and training. Inthis study, we aimedto evaluate the 1-year medical technologist training (MTT) program at Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) and conduct a targeted needs assessment.
Methods:
As part of a qualitative study, three focus group discussions (FGDs) were held at the Section of Clinical Chemistry, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, AKUH. In the absence of a validated reference tool, a team of pathologists and educationists developed questionnaires as interview guides. FGDs were transcribed verbatim and coded using thematic analysis.
Results:
A total of 29 participants were engaged; theseincluded current MLT trainees (n=10), alumni (n=10), and teaching/learning coordinators andsectional supervisors (n=9). Five main themes emerged from the analysis of FGDs: (1) Recognition of key features of the MTT programme, (2) Evaluating curriculum design, (3) Teaching and learning strategies, (4) Addressing the need to improve assessment methods, and (5) Navigating the transition from a trainee to a competent technologist.
Conclusion:
Our investigation demonstrated its potential as a valuable needs assessment study, highlighting key strengths, drawbacks, and challenges of the existing MTT program at AKUH. Importantly, these findings can inform further research efforts to design competency-based MLT education and training programs in Pakistan.
Longitudinal Assessment of Medical Students' Perceptions of Social Isolation and Wellbeing: A 5-Year Analysis of FRAME Surveys (2017-2022)
Authors: Lee Minha , Doyle Zelda , McFarlane Tracy , Bailie Jodie , Simmons Peter , Dewi Sari , Osuagwu Uchechukwu Levi 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background
The geographical remoteness of rural clinical school (RCS) placements presents unique challenges to medical students, detrimentally impacting their well-being and potentially leading to social isolation. Understanding these challenges is essential for medical institutions to implement effective support mechanisms.
Objective
This study investigated the perceptions of rural medical students regarding well-being and social isolation during a five-year period (2017 to 2022) during their RCS placements.
Methods
Data from approximately 600 medical students (mostly females n = 2025, 57.7%) collected annually across 17 Australian universities, through self-administered FRAME (Federation of Rural Australian Medical Educators) surveys were extracted. Sociodemographic variables, their feelings of academic isolation and support, and the effect of COVID during their RCS were assessed. The main outcomes were social isolation and well-being which were derived from students’ responses to the statement, ‘I felt socially isolated during my RCS placement’, and ‘Overall, my RCS placement impacted positively on my well-being’, respectively. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and binomial logistic regressions to identify factors associated with their perception of social isolation and well-being during RCS placement.
Results
Over half of Australian rural medical students reported experiencing social isolation, with one-fifth expressing that rural placement had no positive impact on their wellbeing. Although the majority perceived a positive impact, this proportion decreased by 11.0% from 2017 to 2019, before rising again in subsequent years. Factors contributing to social isolation and negative impacts on well-being included academic isolation, non-rural background, preference to practice in a capital or major urban city upon entry to the RCS, and lack of academic, financial, or general support from the RCS. Positive influences were associated with active self-care role modeling and informal information regarding rural career options Notably, the years affected by the COVID-19 pandemic did not significantly alter perceived social isolation and well-being.
Conclusions
Addressing the challenges faced by medical students in rural placements is imperative to foster positive well-being and combat social isolation. These findings underscore the importance of tailored support mechanisms and educational programs to enhance resilience among future healthcare professionals. Moreover, improving the experiences of medical students in RCS placements may contribute to increased retention of doctors in rural and remote areas, thereby alleviating the nationwide shortage in these regions.
Development and validation of peritumoral vascular and intratumoral radiomics to predict pathologic complete responses to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Xie Tianwen , Gong Jing , Zhao Qiufeng , Wu Chengyue , Wu Siyu , Peng Weijun , Gu Yajia 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
To develop and validate a peritumoral vascular and intratumoral radiomics model to improve pretreatment predictions for pathologic complete responses (pCRs) to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NAC) in patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).
Methods
A total of 282 TNBC patients (93 in the primary cohort, 113 in the validation cohort, and 76 in The Cancer Imaging Archive [TCIA] cohort) were retrospectively included. The peritumoral vasculature on the maximum intensity projection (MIP) from pretreatment DCE-MRI was segmented by a Hessian matrix-based filter and then edited by a radiologist. Radiomics features were extracted from the tumor and peritumoral vasculature of the MIP images. The LASSO method was used for feature selection, and the k-nearest neighbor (k-NN) classifier was trained and validated to build a predictive model. The diagnostic performance was assessed using the ROC analysis.
Results
One hundred of the 282 patient (35.5%) with TNBC achieved pCRs after NAC. In predicting pCRs, the combined peritumoral vascular and intratumoral model (fusion model) yields a maximum AUC of 0.82 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.75, 0.88) in the primary cohort, a maximum AUC of 0.67 (95% CI: 0.57, 0.76) in the internal validation cohort, and a maximum AUC of 0.65 (95% CI: 0.52, 0.78) in TCIA cohort. The fusion model showed improved performance over the intratumoral model and the peritumoral vascular model, but not significantly (p > 0.05).
Conclusion
This study suggested that combined peritumoral vascular and intratumoral radiomics model could provide a non-invasive tool to enable prediction of pCR in TNBC patients treated with NAC.
Towards Inclusive Healthcare: Evaluating knowledge, confidence and awareness of LGBTQ+ health among Internal Medicine Trainees in London
Authors: Crowe Andrew , Hogan Patrick , Morrison Christoper , Meads Catherine , Bailey Daniel 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background
Patients from the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer plus (LGBTQ+) community face various health inequalities and report poor healthcare experiences. Little is known about how knowledgeable and confident UK doctors are around LGBTQ+ health, and previous research demonstrates that UK medical schools rarely deliver teaching on this area. This research evaluated the level of knowledge, awareness and confidence of LGBTQ+ health among Internal Medical Trainees (IMTs) in London.
Methods
London IMTs were invited to complete an online questionnaire evaluating knowledge, awareness and confidence in LGBTQ+ health. Stratified analysis of results by demographics was performed.
Results
Three hundred and fifteen surveys were analysed from 796 eligible trainees (40%). Confidence in caring for LGBTQ+ patients was variable. Confidence in discussing gender identity was lower than for sexual orientation. Knowledge of health issues affecting LGBTQ+ patients varied. Most participants had never received training on LGBTQ+ health at undergraduate (n=201, 64%) or postgraduate level (n=252, 80%), but the majority of participants felt that training would be useful (n=233, 74%). Stratified analysis revealed that IMTs who received previous LGBTQ+ teaching at undergraduate or postgraduate level were considerably more confident discussing sexual orientation with patients, compared to those who received no previous teaching.
Conclusions
There is a clear need for education on LGBTQ+ health, given the varied levels of knowledge and confidence identified. A significant majority of IMTs in London have never received teaching on LGBTQ+ health, although there exists a strong desire for this. LGBTQ+ health topics should be integrated into undergraduate and postgraduate training and examinations for IMTs. This would support IMTs in delivering high quality and inclusive care for all patients, particularly those of sexual orientation and gender identity minorities. There are relatively few published studies exploring competency in LGBTQ+ health among doctors, and this is the first among UK Internal Medicine Trainees.
Examining the Intersection of Inflammatory Bowel Disease and COVID-19: Insights from a National Inpatient Database Study
Authors: Dhillon Rubaid Azhar , Haider Maryam Bilal , Chaudhary Ahmed Jamal , Abbas Zahra 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background: This study aimed to investigate the clinical indicators and outcomes of COVID-19-positive patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), focusing on age, sex, socioeconomic status, and geographic location. The objective of this study was to fill the knowledge gap regarding determinants influencing outcomes in individuals with and without IBD who contracted COVID-19, thus impacting healthcare provision.Methods: This study utilized the nationwide inpatient sample (NIS) database for the period from January to December 2020. Patients were categorized into those with COVID-19 alone (controls) and those with both COVID-19 and IBD (cases). Demographic, clinical, and hospital-related variables were analyzed using statistical methods, including t tests and chi-square tests. Logistic and multivariate regression analyses were performed to assess factors affecting mortality.Results: Among COVID-19 patients with IBD, a sex disparity was observed, with more females in the IBD group than in the non-IBD group. The mean age was similar in both groups. Hospitalizations were concentrated in the age group of 65–84 years. Ethnically, Caucasians dominated both cohorts, and Medicare was the primary payer for a greater proportion of hospitalizations in the IBD group. Hospitalizations were prevalent in urban teaching hospitals, primarily in the southern and mid-western regions of the US. There were no significant differences in mortality rates, and clinical symptoms were comparable between the two groups. Factors associated with mortality included sex, age, and specific existing health conditions.Conclusion: Contrary to the initial hypothesis, the presence of IBD among COVID-19 patients did not significantly impact mortality rates. However, certain clinical indicators and outcomes are influenced by individual factors such as age, sex, and underlying health conditions. This study emphasizes the need for careful monitoring of COVID-19 patients with IBD, particularly those with additional risk factors. Further research is necessary to fully understand the biochemical interactions and implications of IBD in the context of COVID-19. This comprehensive study contributes valuable insights to healthcare authorities, aiding in patient management and outcome optimization.