bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Stretching Exercise on Levels of Blood Glucose: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
Authors: Thomas Ewan , Ficarra Salvatore , Nakamura Masatoshi , Drid Patrik , Trivic Tatjana , Bianco Antonino 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Physical activity plays an important role in the management of blood glucose levels. However, compelling evidence exists only for aerobic and resistance training. In this review, we aimed to identify the potential effects of stretching exercises on blood glucose levels.

Methods
A systematic literature search was performed using the following databases: Scopus, NLM PubMed, and Web of Science. Studies regarding the effects of stretching exercise in humans on blood glucose or any related variable were included. Further inclusion criteria were: (1) original articles (published from database inception to October 2022), (2) applying stretching as a unique exercise modality, (3) having either longitudinal or acute interventions, (4) including healthy and pathological populations, and (5) having within each study a pre- and post-intervention measure. Quality assessment of the studies was conducted using the Downs and Black checklist.

Results
A total of 13 articles were included. The quality assessment revealed an overall moderate quality of the included records. Ten articles included patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D), whereas the remaining three included at-risk populations. A total of 731 people with a mean age of 56.7 ± 6.1 years old were analysed. Fasting blood glucose, 2 h post-oral glucose uptake, post-stretching intervention blood glucose levels, and HbA1c were identified as variables related to blood glucose within the studies. After the stretching interventions, a significant reduction was observed in either blood glucose (ES = − 0.79; p = 0.0174) or HbA1c (ES = − 1.11; p =  < 0.0001). Meta-analytic results highlighted greater effects in T2D patients (ES = − 1.15; p = 0.02) and for studies applying stretching as an exercise intervention (ES = − 1.27; p = 0.006) rather than considering stretching as a control exercise modality.

Conclusion
The results of this systematic review highlight the potential of stretching exercises to reduce blood glucose levels. In particular, if stretching is applied as a specific form of exercise intervention in patients with T2D greater effects are observed. However, further studies with more solid research designs are required, therefore, caution is needed before prescribing stretching as an exercise intervention for glycaemic management.
FDI-growth and trade-growth relationships during crises: evidence from Bangladesh
Authors: Sarker Bibhuti 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThis study examines foreign direct investment (FDI)-growth and trade-growth relationships in Bangladesh during three major crises: the economic crisis of 2007–2008, the commodity crisis of 2016, and the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020. The augmented autoregressive distributed lag (AARDL) bounds testing approach and Bayer and Hanck cointegration are employed on time-series data spanning the period 1974–2020. The results suggest that exports have positive effects on economic growth, while imports have insignificant effects in both the short run and long run. Total trade (the sum of exports and imports) has a positive but weakly significant effect on economic growth only in the long run, whereas FDI exhibits a positive effect in both the short run and long run. Although the crises are not found to affect economic growth directly or through trade (i.e., no dampening effect on trade-led growth), they are found to distort FDI-led growth in both the short run and long run. As robustness tests for long-run elasticities, the fully modified ordinary least squares (FMOLS) and dynamic ordinary least squares (DOLS) cointegration techniques are implemented, yielding results similar to those obtained with the AARDL.
Engaging critically: exploring the varying roles of lived experience advisors in an implementation science study on management of opioid prescribing
Authors: Nicholas Angl Emily , Laur Celia , Strange Michael , Sklar Barbara , Tadrous Mina , Ivers Noah 
Published: February 2024

AbstractInvolvement of individuals with lived experience, also called “patient partners”, is a key element within implementation science, the study of how to put evidence into practice. While conducting a 4-year implementation study focused on improving physician management of opioid prescribing, our research team worked closely with Lived Experience Advisors (LEAs). LEAs were involved throughout the study, including developing patient-facing recruitment material, informing the analysis of results, and as a regular reminder of the real-world impact of this work. However, through regular critical reflection, we acknowledged that we were still uncertain how to articulate the impact of LEA involvement. As a team, we continually discussed why and how people with lived experience were involved in this study. We probed ill-defined concepts such as “patient perspective”, which was particularly complex for a study focused on changing physician behaviour with indirect impact on patients. This critical reflection strengthened trust and rapport between team members (characteristics deemed essential to meaningful patient involvement), while underscoring the value of including concerted time to explore the muddier aspects of engagement. In short, patient engagement did not proceed as smoothly as planned. We advocate that “best practices” in the engagement of people with lived experience include regularly setting aside time outside of practical study tasks to interrogate complex aspects of patient engagement, including reflecting on how and why individuals with lived experience are involved.
Assessing emotional intelligence domains and levels in substance use disorders
Authors: Maghawry Hanan Faried , Darwish Alaa M. , Mohammed Naglaa Abd ElMegeed , Abd El-hameed Nadia Abd El-ghany , Ahmed Gellan K. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Many individuals with substance use disorders face challenges in their social interactions and often have strained relationships with peers. Challenges related to problem-solving, stress management, and impulsivity often contribute to their substance use disorders. Emotional intelligence plays a pivotal role in assisting individuals with substance use disorders in coping with stress, enhancing peer connections, resolving problems, and preventing relapse. Consequently, our study aimed to assess emotional intelligence in individuals with substance use disorders and explore the factors influencing it. A cross-sectional study compared 50 individuals with substance use disorders and 50 healthy individuals. We assessed various factors, including clinical data, sociodemographic variables, family socioeconomic status, Addiction Severity Index (ASI) scores, and Emotional Intelligence (EI) scale scores.

Results
Individuals with substance use disorders had significantly lower mean scores in total EI and its subscales compared to the healthy control group. Additionally, a higher percentage of individuals with substance use disorders exhibited low EI levels, while healthy individuals demonstrated better EI. Furthermore, there was a substantial association between higher ASI scores in individuals with substance use disorders and lower EI scores.

Conclusions
Lower EI scores are associated with an increased risk of substance use disorders. Also, can contribute to difficulties in impulse control, and challenges in managing relationships and stress. These findings underscore EI crucial role in preventing and treating substance use disorders.
Challenges facing level I evidence in treatment of low-grade gliomas and subsequent uncertainties
Authors: Fawzy Peter , Karpin Tiffany 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
The current era of molecular characterisation has contributed greatly to our understanding and management of low-grade gliomas (LGGs); however, this has also contributed to a paucity in level 1 evidence.

Review
Diagnostic breakthroughs in LGGs are moving quicker than our experimental capacity can react. The design, analysis, and clinical application of first-level evidence are struggling to compete with the considerable variability in the natural course of LGGs and the rapidly evolving utility of molecular characterisation of tumours. This poses several uncertainties to researchers, clinicians, and more importantly, patients.

Conclusion
Individualised case-by-case decisions based on best available evidence, albeit lacking level 1 evidence, must be made by considering the tumour behaviour, clinical course, and specific patient needs and goals.
Assessing and improving radiation safety in cardiac catheterization: a study from Cairo University Hospital
Authors: Ghallab Muhammad , Abdelhamid Magdy , Nassar Mahmoud , Mostafa Karim S. , Salama Dina H. , Elnaggar Wael , Alramlawy Shaban , Alagha Zakaria , Abdelmoteleb Salma , Hashad Assem 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Catheter laboratories are high-radiation exposure environments, especially during X-ray procedures like percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty and electrophysiological studies. Radiation exposure poses risks of stochastic (e.g., cancer) and deterministic (e.g., skin changes) effects. This study assessed radiation safety and health practices in a cardiac catheterization unit to optimize radiation safety. A cross-sectional study in Cairo University Hospital (March–September 2019) evaluated 700 patients and healthcare workers. Real-time radiation measurements, educational lectures, and radiation protection measures were implemented in three phases. Data on radiation exposure, procedures, and compliance were collected and analyzed.

Results
The total procedure time and fluoroscopy time per cardiologist did not significantly differ between phases, but there was a statistically significant reduction in the mean total cumulative radiation doses between Phase I and Phase III for cardiologists (P = 0.013). Among nurses and technicians, there was no significant difference in radiation doses between the two phases. Significant correlations were found between operators' radiation doses, procedure time, and fluoroscopy time. Patients' radiation doses decreased significantly from Phase I to Phase III, with correlations between dose, procedure time, and gender. Compliance with radiation protection measures was suboptimal.

Conclusions
Compliance with radiation safety standards in the cardiac catheterization unit at the Cairo University Hospital needs improvement. The study highlights the importance of adhering to radiation safety principles and optimizing protective measures to reduce radiation exposure for both patients and healthcare personnel. Despite low compliance, significant reductions in radiation doses were achieved with increased awareness and adherence to specific protection measures. Future efforts should focus on enhancing radiation safety protocols and organ-specific radiation impact assessments.
Effect of construction demolition waste as fine aggregate and NaOH molarity on strength and fracture parameters of slag based geopolymer mortars
Authors: Rohit Poleboyana , Gunneswara Rao T. D. , Chandrasekhar M. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractTo achieve sustainable development, it is imperative that we find ways to manage sand resources wisely. One approach to mitigate the impact of sand extraction is the recycling of construction demolition waste (CDW) and its reuse in construction activities. This research paper primarily delves into the investigation of the strength and fracture properties of slag-based geopolymer mortar (SGPM) while varying the molarities of sodium hydroxide and altering the proportions of recycled fine aggregate (RFA) sourced from CDW. Two distinct binder-to-fine aggregate mix ratios, namely 1:1 and 1:3, were taken into consideration. The study employed sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and sodium silicate solutions as alkali-activators. Various NaOH concentrations of 2 M, 4 M, 6 M, 8 M, and 10 M were utilized, and RFA was employed to replace natural fine aggregate at levels of 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40%. The workability of SGPM was assessed in terms of flowability, while the compressive and flexural strengths were measured following a 28-day curing period. Moreover, fracture parameters, including load–deflection behavior, peak load, deflection at peak load, and fracture energy, were investigated through a three-point bending (TPB) test conducted on notched beams. The test results revealed that the flowability, expressed as a percentage of flow, decreased as the molarity of NaOH and the percentage of RFA increased. Conversely, the compressive and flexural strength values exhibited an upward trend as the NaOH concentration increased from 2 to 10 M. A substantial improvement in both compressive and flexural strengths was observed at a 10 M NaOH solution, with increases of 20.73% and 10.63% in the 1:1 mix ratio and 18.94% and 10.46% in the 1:3 mix ratio. However, these values decreased with an increase in the percentage of RFA, ranging from 10 to 40%. Notably, specimens containing 8 M and 10 M NaOH concentrations demonstrated a more brittle behavior compared to specimens with other NaOH concentrations. Moreover, a decline in fracture energies was evident as the molarity of NaOH and the percentage of RFA increased. These findings highlight effect of NaOH concentration, RFA content on mechanical and fracture properties of SGPM, providing valuable insights for sustainable construction materials.
Psychological features of emotional disorders in military personnel after mine-explosion injury during their medical-psychological rehabilitation
Authors: Chumaieva Yuliia , Pahmurny Victor , Fedorenko Vitaliy 
Published: February 2024

Research in the field of psychology of emotional disorders in military personnel with mine-explosion injuries intersects various disciplines such as psychology, medicine, military science, sociology, rehabilitation, etc. Unfortunately, there is currently no unified system, technology, and methodology for comprehensive medical-psychological rehabilitation of combatants, as preference is given to individual types – social, psychological, medical, physical, pedagogical, and the rehabilitation measures themselves have a fragmented nature. Therefore, the question arises about the justification of the effectiveness and measures of medical-psychological rehabilitation for military personnel who have participated in combat operations. The study involved 99 individuals – male military personnel aged 18 to 61 years, undergoing treatment and recovery in a medical institution.
For the statistical analysis of the research results, factor, cluster analysis, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were conducted.
Based on the research results, three clusters were identified, differing in the average level of intelligence and characteristic diagnoses. It was found that individuals with higher intelligence more often experience adaptation disorders (33%), those with average intelligence – PTSD (27%), and those with low intelligence – organic emotional disorders (66%).
The strongest correlation between verbal intelligence and the following personality profile scales was found: schizoid (-0.445, p≤0.01), psychasthenia (-0.436, p≤0.01), paranoia (-0.379, p≤0.01), depression (-0.371, p≤0.01), hysteria (-0.350, p≤0.01), psychopathy (-0.322, p≤0.01), hypomania (-0.251*), and hypochondria (-0.200, p≤0.05).
The research results allow for the development of specific recommendations regarding psychological support and medical-psychological rehabilitation for military personnel who have experienced Mine-Explosion Trauma (MET). The obtained data can be utilized to enhance psychological training programs for military personnel in the event of possible traumatic situations, helping them better cope with emotional difficulties.
Socioeconomic inequalities in utilizing maternal health care in five South Asian countries: A decomposition analysis
Authors: Rahman Md. Ashfikur , Islam Md. Amirul , Tohan Mortuja Mahamud , Muhibullah S. M. , Rahman Md. Sazedur , Howlader Md. Hasan 
Published: February 2024

Background
High maternal mortality rates still today remain a significant public health concern in South Asian countries. The majority of maternal deaths occur during pregnancy, and these deaths may typically be avoided by ensuring that women have access to reliable maternity care such as antenatal care (ANC) and facility delivery. The objectives of this research were to assess socioeconomic disparities in the utilization of health care services by mothers and to determine the factors influencing this utilization among women aged 15 to 49 in five South Asian countries.

Methods
For this study, nationally representative data from the Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) were analyzed. This research included a total of 262,531 women between the ages of 15 and 49. To determine the likely causes of maternal health care utilization, simple bivariate statistics and binary logistic regression were applied, and decomposition analysis and the concentration curve were used to quantify disparity (Lorenz curve).

Results
ANC and institutional delivery were both prevalent in 59.27% and 86.52% of cases, respectively. Among the five nations, Maldives has the greatest ANC (96.83%) and institutional delivery (99.39%), while Bangladesh has the lowest ANC (47.01%) and institutional delivery (49.81%). Women’s and husbands’ education, household wealth status, BMI, and urban residents are the most important factors influencing maternal health service utilization, whereas higher education level, affluent wealth quintiles, and place of residence are the major contributors to socioeconomic inequalities in access to maternal health care that favor the wealthy.

Conclusion
Maternal health care services must be utilized properly in order to promote optimal health and prevent maternal mortality. Several socioeconomic and sociodemographic variables of the individual population, as well as policy issues, all have an impact on maternal mortality. This research recommends for concerted action to enhance how successfully women use maternity care services.
Cardiac interventions in Wales: A comparison of benefits between NHS Wales specialties
Authors: Davies Gareth , Akbari Ashley , Bailey Rowena , Evans Lloyd , Smith Kendal , Goodfellow Jonathan , Thomas Michael , Lutchman Singh Kerryn 
Published: February 2024

Objectives
The study aimed to assess if specialised healthcare service interventions in Wales benefit the population equitably in work commissioned by the Welsh Health Specialised Services Committee (WHSSC).

Approach
The study utilised anonymised individual-level, population-scale, routinely collected electronic health record (EHR) data held in the Secure Anonymised Information Linkage (SAIL) Databank to identify patients resident in Wales receiving specialist cardiac interventions. Measurement was undertaken of associated patient outcomes 2-years before and after the intervention (minus a 6-month clearance period on either side) by measuring events in primary care, hospital attendance, outpatient and emergency department. The analysis controlled for comorbidity (Charlson) and deprivation (Welsh Index of Multiple Deprivation), stratified by admission type (elective or emergency) and membership of top 5% post-intervention costs. Costs were estimated by multiplying events by mean person cost estimates.

Results
We identified 5,999 percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) and 1,640 coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) between 2014-06-01 to 2020-02-29. The ratio of emergency to elective interventions was 2.85 for PCI and 1.04 for CABG. In multivariate analysis significant associations were identified for comorbidity (OR = 1.52, CI = (1.01–2.27)), deprivation (OR = 1.34, CI = (1.03–1.76)) and rurality (OR = 0.81, CI = (0.70–0.95)) for PCI interventions, and comorbidity (OR = 1.47, CI = (1.10–1.98)) for CABG. Higher costs post-intervention were associated with increased comorbidity for PCI and CABG in the top 5% cost groups, but for PCI this was not seen outside the top 5%. For PCI, moderate cost increase was associated with increased deprivation, but the picture was more mixed following CABG interventions. For both interventions, lower costs post intervention were seen in rural locations.

Conclusion
We identified and compared health outcomes for selected specialist cardiac interventions amongst patients resident in Wales, with these methods and analyses, providing a template for comparing other cardiac interventions.
Acute kidney injury and its predictors among HIV-positive patients in Africa: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Azagew Abere Woretaw , Abate Hailemichael Kindie , Ferede Yohannes Mulu , Mekonnen Chilot Kassa 
Published: February 2024

Background
cute kidney injury(AKI) is a rapid loss of the kidney’s excretory function, resulting in an accumulation of end products of nitrogen metabolism. The causes of AKI in HIV-positive patients are not well investigated, but it may be associated with antiretroviral drug side effects and HIV itself. Even though there were studies that reported the prevalence of AKI among HIV-positive patients in Africa, their findings were inconsistent across the studies.

Methods
We searched on PubMed, Embas, Ebsco, OVID, Cochrane Library, and other supplementary search engines, including Google and Google Scholar. Articles published upto July 2023 were included in this review study. The quality of the study was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for cross-sectional, case-control, and cohort studies. The data were extracted using a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and exported to Stata version 14 for analysis. A random effect meta-analysis model was used to estimate the pooled prevalence of AKI among HIV-positive patients. Heterogeneity was evaluated using Cochrane Q statistics and I squared (I2). Furthermore, the graphic asymmetric test of the funnel plot and/or Egger’s tests were computed to detect publication bias. Sensitivity analysis was computed to see the effect of a single study on the summary effects. To treat the publication bias, a trim and fill analysis was carried out. The protocol of this review has been registered in an international database, the Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO),with reference number CRD42023446078.

Results
A total of twenty-four original articles comprising 7913HIV-positive patients were included in the study. The pooled prevalence of AKI among HI-positive patients was found to be 23.35% (95% CI: 18.14–28.56%, I2 = 97.7%, p-value <0.001). Low hemoglobin (Hgb <8mg/dl) was found to be the determinant factor for AKI among HIV-positive patients (AOR = 2.4; 95% CI:1.69–3.4, I2 = 0.0%, p-value = 0.40). In meta-regression analysis, sample size was the possible source of variation among the included studies (AOR = 3.11, 95%CI: 2.399–3.83).

Conclusions
The pooled prevalence of AKI among HIV-positive patients was high. HIV-positive patients with low hemoglobin levels are at risk of developing AKI. Hence, regular monitoring of kidney function tests is needed to prevent or delay the risk of AKI among HIV-positive patients. Healthcare workers should provide an integrated healthcare service to HIV-positive patients on the prevention, treatment, and reduction of the progression of AKI to advanced stages and complications.