bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Improving nutritional status of children using artificial intelligence-based mobile application postsurgery: randomised controlled trial
Authors: Zahid Maryam , Sughra Ume , Mumtaz Sehrish , Hassan Mawara 
Published: December 2023

BackgroundMalnutrition is a common problem in children postsurgery especially in low-middle-income countries. Health-based mobile apps play an important role for better nutritional status.MethodsThis is a two-arm randomised controlled trial, which was conducted at a tertiary care hospital, Rawalpindi. The study duration was 6 months from February 2021 to July 2021. The sample size with power of 80% and significance level of 5% was calculated to be 88. The intervention group was given a diet-related mobile app, and the usual care group was handed a pamphlet with diet instructions on discharge.FindingsThe mean weight of all participants was 15 (SD 5.7) kg at the time of discharge. However, at the end of the 8th week, the mean weight of the participants in the usual care group was 16.5 (SD 7.2) kg and that of the intervention group was 17.1 (SD 5) kg. The average calorie consumed by the usual care group was 972 (SD 252) kcal and 1000.75 (SD 210) kcal by the intervention group after 8 weeks of discharge. The average protein consumed by the usual care group was 34.3 (SD 12.5) g and 39 (SD 6.4) g by the intervention group after 8 weeks of discharge.InterpretationThis study showed strength for the future of scalable modern technology for self-nutrition monitoring. There was a slight increase in the weight and nutritional intake of both groups.Trial registration numberNCT04782635.
Prepandemic inequalities in the burden of disease in Scotland due to multiple deprivation: a retrospective study
Authors: Grant Ian , Chalmers Neil , Fletcher Eilidh , Lakha Fatim , McCartney Gerry , Stockton Diane , Wyper Grant M A 
Published: December 2023

BackgroundHealth inequalities in Scotland are well documented, including the contribution of different causes to inequalities in mortality. Our aim was to estimate inequalities within a burden of disease framework, accounting for both premature mortality and the effects of morbidity, to understand the contribution of specific diseases to health inequalities prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodsDisability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) for 70 individual causes of disease and injury were sourced from the Scottish Burden of Disease Study. Area-level deprivation was measured using the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation. Inequalities were measured by the range, Relative Index of Inequality, Slope Index of Inequality and attributable DALYs were estimated by using the least deprived decile as a reference.ResultsThe overall disease burden was double that in the most deprived areas (50 305 vs 20 955 DALYS per 100 000), largely driven by inequalities in premature mortality. The rate in the most deprived areas was around 48% higher than the mean population rate (Relative Index of Inequality=0.96), with 35% of DALYs attributed to differences in area-based deprivation. Many leading causes of disease burden in 2019—heart disease, drug use disorders, lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease—were also the leading drivers of absolute and relative inequalities in the disease burden.ConclusionOur study evidences the extent of the stark levels of absolute and relative inequality prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Given prepandemic stalling of mortality trend improvements and widening health inequalities, and the exacerbation of these caused by COVID-19, urgent policy attention is required to address this.
Racial and geographical disparities in oesophageal cancer incidence, mortality and county-level risk factors in the state of Mississippi between 2003 and 2019: a descriptive analysis
Authors: Walker Angel , Abnet Christian C , Shiels Meredith S , Lawrence Wayne R , Funchess Tanya , Rogers Deirdre B , Webb Hooper Monica , Chen Yingxi 
Published: December 2023

BackgroundOesophageal cancer is one of the most aggressive cancers. The aim was to describe the disparities in oesophageal cancer incidence and mortality, and county-level factors in the state of Mississippi from 2003 to 2019 by sex, race, and geolocation.MethodsThis study used data from the Mississippi Cancer Registry, linked to county-level data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, the American Community Survey, and the Institutes for Health Metrics and Evaluation. We estimated age-standardised incidence (crude ASR) and mortality rates (crude AMR), mortality–incidence rate ratio and average annual percent change (AAPC) in rates by sex, race, and geolocation, using the Joinpoint Software V.5.0. We further calculated relative risks for oesophageal cancer using age-adjusted quasi-Poisson regression for each county-level factor including smoking, obesity, college degree completion, unemployment rate and median household income ranking within the state.ResultsBetween 2003 and 2019, a total of 2737 oesophageal cancer cases and 2259 oesophageal cancer deaths occurred in Mississippi. Black men had the greatest reduction in oesophageal cancer incidence and mortality despite high rates (crude ASR2019=10.5, crude AMR2019=7.3 per 100 000; AAPCincidence=−3.7%, p<0.001 and AAPCmortality=−4.9%, p<0.001). The reduction was largely driven by decreases in the non-Delta region (AAPCincidence=−4.2%, p<0.001), while incidence rate remained high among Black men in the Delta region (crude ASR2019=15.4 per 100 000, AAPCincidence=−1.8%, p=0.3). The rates among White men were relatively stable (crude ASR2019=8.5, crude AMR2019=7.6 per 100 000; AAPCincidence=0.18%, p=0.7, AAPCmortality=−0.4%, p=0.6). County-level smoking prevalence (in quartile, p=0.02) was significantly associated with oesophageal cancer incidence.DiscussionThis study highlights the importance of targeted interventions to address the persistent high incidence rate of oesophageal cancer among Black men in the Delta region.
How can early COVID-19 vaccine campaigns in the US-affiliated Pacific Islands inform future vaccine efforts: a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Kern-Allely Stephanie , Cash McGinley Haley , Tippins Ashley , Apaisam Carter , Basilius Merlyn , Leon Guerrero Michele , Masunu Yolanda , Pangelinan Heather , Pedro Daisy , Brostrom Richard , Judicpa Peter , Hancock W Thane 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionThe US-affiliated Pacific Islands (USAPI) are six geographically isolated and culturally distinct Pacific Island jurisdictions with special relationships with the USA; the USAPI were included in the US COVID-19 vaccination effort. This study documents the approaches and lessons learnt from the rollout of COVID-19 vaccination in the USAPI, including four COVID-19-free jurisdictions.MethodsQuantitative data regarding vaccination administration were obtained from each jurisdiction’s immunisation information systems during 13 December 2020 and 11 March 2021. USAPI and US county-level vaccination administration rates by age group from the CDC were compared. Qualitative data regarding key components of the vaccination efforts were collected by survey from each USAPI lead immunisation manager.ResultsA total of 90 870 individuals aged ≥16 years in the USAPI received at least one dose of vaccine during 17 December 2020 to 11 March 2021 (28.2% of the eligible population). Most jurisdictions observed rapid vaccine uptake after introducing COVID-19 vaccines and fully vaccinated >20% of their eligible populations in 3 months or less. During the study period, the USAPI region achieved higher coverage than the rest of the US once all USAPI had begun vaccination. All jurisdictions identified pre-campaign community messaging outreach as key to success and misinformation and rumours as the most common challenge. The lessons reported by USAPI immunisation managers included the need for quality risk communication and sustained involvement of interdisciplinary partners.ConclusionTailoring vaccine administration and communication strategies to each jurisdiction while maintaining system agility was critical for success, particularly considering the logistical challenges presented by the geographic remoteness of the USAPI. Maintenance of the jurisdictions’ planning preparedness efforts, newly installed infrastructure and local partnerships can strengthen the resilience of the jurisdictions for a range of challenges beyond the COVID-19 response. Future immunisation strategies should build from the successful vaccination plans showcased here.
Temporal and spatial distribution of musculoskeletal disorders from 1990 to 2019: a systematic analysis of the global burden of disease
Authors: Bouziri Hanifa , Roquelaure Yves , Descatha Alexis , Dab William , Jean Kevin 
Published: December 2023

ObjectivesThis study aimed to globally assess the prevalence and distribution of primary-origin musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) from 1990 to 2019 to better understand their temporal trends.MethodsUsing data from the 2019 Global Burden of Diseases, prevalence rates of six primary-origin MSDs were analysed across subregions, age groups and genders. Raw and age-standardised prevalence were mapped for over 204 countries. Cochran-Armitage trend tests evaluated temporal prevalence trends. The correlation between MSDs prevalence, national income levels and medical density was explored.ResultsIn 2019, global MSDs prevalence varied significantly among countries. Hip osteoarthritis had a prevalence of 0.56% (95% CI: 0.43% to 0.70%), while low back pain was 8.62% (95% CI: 7.62% to 9.74%). Most MSDs exhibited an increasing prevalence with age, except for neck pain, which stabilised or decreased after age 45–50. Women generally had higher prevalence rates across all age groups. High-income countries consistently showed higher prevalence rates compared with middle and low-income countries. Over time, most subregions experienced a significant increase in MSD prevalence. However, after adjusting for age, the temporal trends for back and neck pain became non-significant, except for hip osteoarthritis, where half of the subregions remained significant. Multiple linear regressions revealed positive correlation between MSD prevalence and both national income level and medical density.ConclusionThe global burden of MSDs is increasing due to population ageing, but other factors should be considered. Longitudinal studies with a wider range of MSDs and additional risk factors are needed for improved prevention strategies.
Impact of serum haemoglobin-to-creatinine ratio after transcatheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: Ikuta Akihiro , Oka Satoki , Matsushita Shunsuke , Hirao Shingo , Kadota Kazushige , Komiya Tatsuhiko , Fuku Yasushi 
Published: December 2023

ObjectiveThe association between a combined anaemia and renal failure index and 1-year prognosis of patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is unexplored. We aimed to investigate a simple risk score in patients undergoing TAVI.MethodsA total of 469 consecutive patients undergoing TAVI between 2015 and 2021 were enrolled. After excluding patients undergoing dialysis, the remaining 458 patients were classified according to three tertiles of the serum haemoglobin-to-creatinine (Hgb/Cr) ratio 1 day before TAVI. The primary clinical outcome measure was all-cause mortality and heart failure hospitalisation 1 year after TAVI.ResultsIn the first, second and third tertiles, the 1-year cumulative incidence of all-cause mortality was 16.9% versus 7.2% versus 2.0%, respectively (p<0.01), and that of heart failure hospitalisation was 10.7% versus 3.4% versus 0.7%, respectively (p<0.01). The indexes of the area under the curve of the Hgb/Cr ratio for all-cause mortality and heart failure hospitalisation 1 year after TAVI were both 0.73. Cut-off values were 10.1 for all-cause mortality 1 year after TAVI (OR, 4.78; 95% CI 2.43 to 9.74; p<0.01) and 10.4 for heart failure hospitalisation 1 year after TAVI (OR, 5.3; 95% CI 2.21 to 14.1; p<0.01). In the multivariate analysis, the Hgb/Cr ratio was an independent predictor of all-cause mortality and heart failure hospitalisation 1 year after TAVI.ConclusionsHgb/Cr ratio calculation 1 day before TAVI may help predict midterm all-cause mortality and heart failure hospitalisation in patients with severe aortic valve stenosis undergoing TAVI.Trial registration number4143 (The Institutional Review Board of Kurashiki Central Hospital)
Modelling the impact of vaccination and sexual behaviour adaptations on mpox cases in the USA during the 2022 outbreak
Authors: Clay Patrick A , Asher Jason M , Carnes Neal , Copen Casey E , Delaney Kevin P , Payne Daniel C , Pollock Emily D , Mermin Jonathan , Nakazawa Yoshinori , Still William , Mangla Anil T , Spicknall Ian H 
Published: December 2023

BackgroundThe 2022 mpox outbreak has infected over 30 000 people in the USA, with cases declining since mid-August. Infections were commonly associated with sexual contact between men. Interventions to mitigate the outbreak included vaccination and a reduction in sexual partnerships. Understanding the contributions of these interventions to decreasing cases can inform future public health efforts.MethodsWe fit a dynamic network transmission model to mpox cases reported by Washington DC through 10 January 2023. This model incorporated both vaccine administration data and reported reductions in sexual partner acquisition by gay, bisexual or other men who have sex with men (MSM). The model output consisted of daily cases over time with or without vaccination and/or behavioural adaptation.ResultsWe found that initial declines in cases were likely caused by behavioural adaptations. One year into the outbreak, vaccination and behavioural adaptation together prevented an estimated 84% (IQR 67% to 91%) of cases. Vaccination alone averted 79% (IQR 64% to 88%) of cases and behavioural adaptation alone averted 25% (IQR 10% to 42%) of cases. We further found that in the absence of vaccination, behavioural adaptation would have reduced the number of cases, but would have prolonged the outbreak.ConclusionsWe found that initial declines in cases were likely caused by behavioural adaptation, but vaccination averted more cases overall and was key to hastening outbreak conclusion. Overall, this indicates that outreach to encourage individuals to protect themselves from infection was vital in the early stages of the mpox outbreak, but that combination with a robust vaccination programme hastened outbreak conclusion.
Sexually transmitted infections diagnosed in individuals presenting for forensic and medical care following sexual assault
Authors: Parekh Vanita R , Martin Sarah J , Tyson Alexandra , Brkic Anna , McMinn Janine , Beaumont Cassandra , Bowden Francis J 
Published: December 2023

BackgroundPeople who report sexual assault express concerns regarding contracting sexually transmitted infection (STI); however, published literature regarding the risk of STI transmission in this context is sparse.MethodWe audited STI and blood-borne virus (BBV) testing at a forensic and medical sexual assault care service in the Australian Capital Territory between 2004 and 2022. Eligibility for testing among 1928 presentations was defined based on risk (eg, reported penetration). Testing at presentation included chlamydia and gonorrhoea 1850, syphilis and BBV 1472, and after 2–6 weeks, 890 out of 1928 (46.2%) and after 3 months 881 out of 1928 (45.7%), respectively.ResultsAt presentation, 100 out of 1928 (5.2%) individuals were diagnosed with chlamydia, of those, 95 out of 1799 (5.3%) were female, and 5 out of 121 (4.1%) were male. Gonorrhoea was diagnosed in 7 out of 1920 (0.4%), 5 out of 95 female and 2 out of 5 male. Hepatitis B, which was all pre-existing, was diagnosed in 5 out of 1799 (0.3%). Overall, chlamydia prophylaxis was given to 203 out of 1928 (10.5%) and HIV post-exposure prophylaxis to 141 out of 1928 (7.3%).At 2–6 weeks of follow-up, 10 out of 890 (1.1%) individuals were diagnosed with chlamydia, with no gonorrhoea diagnosed. There were no cases of syphilis, hepatitis B or HIV diagnosed at 3-month serology testing in 881 individuals. Chlamydia detection at follow-up was more common in the group aged 15–29 years. Of those provided with chlamydia prophylaxis, 203 out of 1928, only 16 out of 203 (7.9%) were diagnosed with chlamydia.ConclusionsThe offer of STI testing is almost universally accepted by individuals presenting for post-sexual assault care. There were no identifiable factors to justify the routine use of chlamydia prophylaxis. STI testing provided an opportunity for screening and should remain part of the clinical care of people who report sexual assault.
Neutrophil responses to RSV infection show differences between infant and adult neutrophils
Authors: Robinson Elisabeth , Sawhney Shyam , Cortina-Borja Mario , David Anna L , Smith Claire M , Smyth Rosalind L 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionRespiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes a severe respiratory condition, bronchiolitis, in infants but not in adults. Bronchiolitis is characterised by neutrophilic infiltration in the airways, but whether neutrophils enhance recovery from infection or contribute to its pathology remains unknown.MethodsWe used a novel in-vitro model to compare term umbilical cord blood (infant) (n=17 donors) and adult neutrophils (n=15 donors) during migration across RSV-infected differentiated human nasal airway epithelial cells (AECs) in a basolateral to apical direction.ResultsGreater numbers of infant neutrophils (mean (95% CI)) (336 684 (242 352 to 431 015)) migrated across RSV-infected AECs to the apical compartment (equivalent to the airway lumen) compared with adult neutrophils (56 586 (24 954 to 88 218)) (p<0.0001). Having reached the apical compartment of infected AECs, much greater numbers of infant neutrophils (140 787 (103 117 to 178 456)) became apoptotic compared with adult (5853 (444 to 11 261)) (p=0.002). Infant neutrophils displayed much greater expression of CD11b, CD64, neutrophil elastase (NE) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) than adult neutrophils at baseline and at all points of migration. However, as adult neutrophils migrated, expression of CD11b, CD64, NE and MPO became greater than at baseline.DiscussionThe high proportion of infant neutrophils migrating across RSV-infected AECs correlates with the neutrophilic infiltrate seen in infants with severe RSV bronchiolitis, with large numbers undergoing apoptosis, which may represent a protective mechanism during infection. Compared with adult neutrophils, infant neutrophils already have high expression of surface markers before contact with AECs or migration, with less capacity to increase further in response to RSV infection or migration.
Constraining Snyder and GUP models with low-mass stars
Authors: Pachoł Anna , Wojnar Aneta 
Published: December 2023

AbstractWe investigate the application of an equation of state that incorporates corrections derived from the Snyder model (and the Generalized Uncertainty Principle) to describe the behaviour of matter in a low-mass star. Remarkably, the resulting equations exhibit striking similarities to those arising from modified Einstein gravity theories. By modeling matter with realistic considerations, we are able to more effectively constrain the theory parameters, surpassing the limitations of existing astrophysical bounds. The bound we obtain is $$\beta _0 \le 4.5 \times 10^{47}$$

β
0

≤
4.5
×

10
47

. We underline the significance of realistic matter modeling in order to enhance our understanding of effects arising in quantum gravity phenomenology and implications of quantum gravitational corrections in astrophysical systems.
Merleau-Ponty’s Phenomenology of Sedimentations
Authors: Geniusas Saulius 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The paper explores the meaning of the phenomenological concept of sedimentation in the framework of Merleau-Ponty’s phenomenology. The analysis I offer suggests that Merleau-Ponty initiates a transition from the constitutional problematic of sedimentations that we come across in Husserl’s phenomenology to the analysis of existential sedimentations. Merleau-Ponty accomplishes this transformation by binding the Husserlian conception of sedimentations with the Heideggerian conception of facticity. The distinction Merleau-Ponty draws between originary sedimentations and secondary sedimentations is especially important, for it allows one to claim that Merleau-Ponty recognizes all experiences as sedimented. Against the background of this realization, I offer a reevaluation of Merleau-Ponty’s cryptic remarks in the Phenomenology of Perception regarding the “original past,” also described as “a past that has never been a present.” I argue that these are metaphors for originary sedimentations. In place of a conclusion, I suggest that especially when the concept of sedimentation is universalized, we come to recognize its inherently paradoxical nature. In the final analysis, besides being a genetic concept, sedimentation is also a limit problem and a limit phenomenon.
Implications of Gunter Figal’s Hermeneutical Philosophy for Phenomenological Qualitative Psychological Research
Authors: Sherman Glen L. 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
This paper considers what Günter Figal’s perspective on objectivity and more generally, his hermeneutic phenomenology, may contribute to the traditions of phenomenological psychological research, as well as non-phenomenological approaches to qualitative research. Across qualitative research approaches and methods developed outside of phenomenology over the past 30–40 years, there has been a trend away from notions of consciousness and subjectivity, as well as objectivity. Günter Figal’s hermeneutical phenomenology retrieves these key ideas and recasts them with greater clarity and precision. These ideas, in conjunction with an understanding of the philosophical position of critical realism, suggest renewed possibilities and significant places for both objectivity and subjectivity within both phenomenological and non-phenomenological psychological qualitative research.
Food Is an African Feminist Issue
Authors: Salo Elaine 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
This essay argues that food—particularly the labor of preparing and producing food—should be seen as central to South African feminism, and to African feminisms more broadly. Salo explains how women provide the majority of the labor to produce food on the African continent, yet often are exposed to hunger because they do not own the means to food production. Moreover, as agribusiness encroaches on foodways and food production lands in Africa, this sector attempts to incorporate women in ways that continue to render them gendered subordinates in an unequal economic and political system. Centering food provides an important means for African feminists to continue recognizing the imbrication of gendered oppression with colonialism and neocolonialism, and to challenge these hierarchies while pursuing sustainability and social justice. Women’s agencies as food producers also offer alternatives to agribusiness and corporate food, including small-scale farming or gardening projects that intersect with political activism in urban and peri-urban areas. Salo discusses how such African women’s strategies align with concepts such as food sovereignty and ecofeminism, but also need to be recognized as occurring beyond the cultures of academic expertise often associated with such terms.