bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Risk adjustment for regional healthcare funding allocations with ensemble methods: an empirical study and interpretation
Authors: Holster Tuukka , Ji Shaoxiong , Marttinen Pekka 
Published: January 2024

AbstractWe experiment with recent ensemble machine learning methods in estimating healthcare costs, utilizing Finnish data containing rich individual-level information on healthcare costs, socioeconomic status and diagnostic data from multiple registries. Our data are a random 10% sample (553,675 observations) from the Finnish population in 2017. Using annual healthcare cost in 2017 as a response variable, we compare the performance of Random forest, Gradient Boosting Machine (GBM) and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) to linear regression. As machine learning methods are often seen as unsuitable in risk adjustment applications because of their relative opaqueness, we also introduce visualizations from the machine learning literature to help interpret the contribution of individual variables to the prediction. Our results show that ensemble machine learning methods can improve predictive performance, with all of them significantly outperforming linear regression, and that a certain level of interpretation can be provided for them. We also find individual-level socioeconomic variables to improve prediction accuracy and that their effect is larger for machine learning methods. However, we find that the predictions used for funding allocations are sensitive to model selection, highlighting the need for comprehensive robustness testing when estimating risk adjustment models used in applications.
A problem of gendered injustice? Objective and subjective poverty among older women and men across European welfare regimes
Authors: Härtull Camilla , Nygård Mikael 
Published: January 2024

AbstractUsing European Social Survey data, this article studies the prevalence of objective and subjective poverty among older women and men (60+ years) in 21 European countries. Objective poverty refers to whether one’s disposable income falls below the poverty line, whereas subjective poverty relates to the capacity to make ends meet. It analyzes gender differences in these two dimensions of poverty and the role of gender as an explanation to these phenomena while controlling for other individual-level variables as well as the role of welfare state regimes. The results show that older women are more exposed to objective poverty than men, and that female gender remains strongly and positively correlated with this kind of poverty even when controlling for other variables. They also show that other individual-level variables, such as partnership, paid work and education curbs objective poverty, while the type of welfare regime does not matter. As to subjective poverty, on the other hand, there is no significant association with female gender, nor with the type of welfare regime, while individual-level variables such as subjective health, partnership and paid work are negatively correlated with this dimension of poverty. Subjective poverty is somewhat more influenced by contextual factors than objective poverty although the type of welfare state regime is not significantly associated with subjective or objective poverty.
How loneliness increased among different age groups during COVID-19: a longitudinal analysis
Authors: Köster Fiona , Lipps Oliver 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe COVID-19 pandemic entailed restrictions that hampered face-to-face interactions and social gatherings. In this paper, we examine whether loneliness increased to different extents among age groups due to these restrictions, and if these differences were mediated by specific life course conditions. Based on longitudinal data from the Swiss Household Panel, our results show that loneliness increased disproportionately among younger individuals during the pandemic. This finding aligns with the social convoy model and the socioemotional selectivity theory, which postulate a decline of social network size over the life course. It also corresponds to findings indicating a decrease in contact frequency with increasing age. Individuals aged 30 years and above experienced a lower increase in loneliness when they lived in shared households; however, this protective effect was not observed for younger individuals. Living together with a partner, being male, and not anticipating health complications in case of a COVID-19 infection moderated the increases of loneliness, but they were independent of age.
Occupational solar exposure and basal cell carcinoma. A review of the epidemiologic literature with meta-analysis focusing on particular methodological aspects
Authors: Wendt Andrea , Möhner Matthias 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
Numerous epidemiologic studies and a few systematic reviews have investigated the association between occupational solar exposure and basal cell carcinoma (BCC). However, previous reviews have several deficits with regard to included and excluded studies/risk estimates and the assessment of risk of selection bias (RoSB). Our aim was to review epidemiologic studies with a focus on these deficits and to use meta-(regression) analyses to summarize risk estimates.

Methods
We systematically searched PubMed (including MEDLINE) and Embase for epidemiologic studies. Study evaluation considered four main aspects of risk of bias assessments, i.e. Selection of subjects (selection bias); Exposure variables; Outcome variables; Data analysis.

Results
Of 56 identified references, 32 were used for meta-(regression) analyses. The overall pooled risk estimate for BCC comparing high/present vs. low/absent occupational solar exposure was 1.20 (95% CI 1.02–1.43); among studies without major deficits regarding data analysis, it was 1.10 (95% CI 0.91–1.33). Studies with low and high RoSB had pooled risk estimates of 0.83 (95% CI 0.73–0.93) and 1.95 (95% CI 1.42–2.67), respectively. The definitions of exposure and outcome variables were not correlated with study risk estimates. Studies with low RoSB in populations with the same latitude or lower than Germany had a pooled risk estimate of 1.01 (95% CI 0.88–1.15).

Conclusion
Due to the different associations between occupational solar exposure and BCC among studies with low and high RoSB, we reason that the current epidemiologic evidence base does not permit the conclusion that regular outdoor workers have an increased risk of BCC.
A 360° video as visual training support for independent movement acquisition—benefit evaluation with the TAM
Authors: Rosendahl Philipp , Müller Marcus , Wagner Ingo 
Published: January 2024

AbstractA 360° video combines the potential of conventional video technology with immersive–interactive design opportunities. The multi-perspective viewing option within a 360° video also enables possible applications as visual training support for motor learning. There are already first methodological–didactic approaches to movement learning; nevertheless, research on 360° video technology can largely be classified as exploratory. This article presents the use of 360° video as a visual training aid for the independent movement acquisition of various fascial movement exercises. In an intervention study, two randomized groups (N = 48) were used to evaluate the subjective benefit. Following the technology acceptance model, subjective benefit perception and rating of format were compared after two crossover interventions with 360° videos and/or conventional training videos. No significant differences were found for perceived usefulness (z = −1.014, p = 0.31, r = 0.105) or perceived ease of use (z = −1.278, p = 0.201, r = 0.132). The same applies for intensity of use (z = −0.247, p = 0.805, r = 0.025) and overall subjective rating (z = −1.745, p = 0.081, r = 0.18). Although no significant differences were found in the evaluation of benefits, the participants tended to use 360° videos as visual training support (M = 3.4, SD = 1.581) on a 7-point scale (1 = 360° videos). Although a generalized statement on 360° videos as visual training support is not possible due to low effect strengths, it can be stated that 360° videos are perceived at least as useful as visual training tools.
Body Composition Changes in Adolescents Who Underwent Bariatric Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Bezerra Andréa , Boppre Giorjines , Freitas Laura , Battista Francesca , Duregon Federica , Faggian Sara , Busetto Luca , Ermolao Andrea , Fonseca Hélder 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Purpose of Review
The purpose of this review and meta-analysis is to characterize the changes in body composition of children and adolescents who underwent bariatric surgery and identify possible negative effects of performing this procedure during pediatric ages.

Recent Findings
Bariatric surgery in children and adolescents is an emerging strategy to promote higher and faster body weight and fat mass losses. However, possible negative effects usually observed in surgical patients’ muscle-skeletal system raise a major concern perform this intervention during growth. Despite these possible issues, most experimental studies and reviews analyze bariatric surgery’s effectiveness only by assessing anthropometric outcomes such as body weight and BMI, disregarding the short- and long-term impact of bariatric surgery on all body composition outcomes.

Summary
Bariatric surgery is effective to reduce fat mass in adolescents, as well as body weight, waist circumference, and BMI. Significant reduction in lean mass and fat-free mass is also observed. Bone mass seems not to be impaired. All outcomes reduction were observed only in the first 12 months after surgery. Sensitivity analysis suggests possible sex and type of surgery-related differences, favoring a higher fat mass, body weight, and BMI losses in boys and in patients who underwent RYGB.
Association Between Periodontitis and COVID-19
Authors: Al-Hadeethi Tayeb , Charde Priti , Sunil Sruthi , Marouf Nadya , Tamimi Faleh 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Purpose of Review
Periodontitis has been linked to various systemic diseases and conditions. Given their shared comorbidities, extensive research has been carried out to explore the link between periodontitis and COVID-19.

Recent Findings
A growing body of evidence suggests that periodontitis could increase the risk of COVID-19 infection and its complications. It has been suggested that the association between the two diseases could be due to immunological, coagulation, genetic, and microbiological reasons. The effect of periodontitis on the immune system could increase the expression of receptors used by SARS-CoV2 to infect cells (transmembrane protease, serine 2 [TMPRSS2], and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 [ACE2]) and prime the immune system to an exacerbated immune reaction against the virus. Moreover, there is evidence indicating that periodontitis could also increase the risk of COVID-19 complications by altering the coagulation pathways, and periodontal pathogens were identified in the respiratory system of patients suffering from severe COVID-19. In addition, it was also found that patients suffering from both diseases share some genetic similarities, suggesting that both diseases could be linked through common genetic pathways.

Summary
In this review, we discuss the above-mentioned associations and make the case for the prevention and treatment of periodontitis to avoid SARS-CoV-2 infection and complications.
Investigation of the effects of ultra-high pressure and temperature on the rheological properties of a novel high-density clear completion fluids using magnesium bromide for applications in HPHT reservoirs
Authors: Singh Ramanand , Sharma R. , Rao G. Ranga 
Published: January 2024

AbstractHigh pressure and high temperature (HPHT) reservoirs have challenging environments for a successful completion program. Generally, low to mid-density range brine-based completion fluids (CF) are commonly used in petroleum reservoirs. Nowadays, the oil and gas drilling industry is moving toward clear high-density completion fluids at HPHT reservoir conditions. Completion fluid is used to complete an oil and gas well. It is positioned in the well to ease final operations before the start of production. These operations involve tasks like installing screens, production liners, packers, downhole valves, or performing perforations in the producing zones. We have experimentally investigated the completion fluid for stability, solid free, low viscosity, and low precipitation to ensure that it has all the desired properties. We have formulated a high-density specific gravity (1.61) completion fluid using Magnesium bromide (MgBr2) in an aqueous medium. The results show that the alkaline pH value of 7.18 and solid free fluid system provide a suitable completion fluid to keep corrosion rates acceptably low. The high density of the completion fluid is an essential parameter for pressure maintenance during well control events. Our experimental results are obtained for different ranges of temperature and pressure (i.e. temperature 25–300 °C, pressure up to 30,000 psi) using a new generation ultra HPHT rheometer. This study investigates the effect of ultra-high temperature and pressure on their rheological properties. Rheological results show that the completion fluid has a low value of apparent viscosity (1.89–6.66 mPa s), which is essential for designing completion fluid at HPHT conditions. These works are helpful in maximizing the completion fluid program for HPHT well for providing an early and timely production.
Elaboration and application of the nested multi-coupling model test system for an artificial dam seepage simulation under combined action of dynamic and static loads
Authors: Kong Xiang-song , Huang Jun-wei , Shan Ren-liang , Yang Wei , Fang Jie 
Published: January 2024

AbstractOutdated coal mining technologies involve considerable mine water resource waste. For coal mines located in water-starved western regions of China, this jeopardizes the sustainable coal mining development, local eco-environment, and agricultural production. Coal mine underground reservoirs furnish conservation and cyclic utilization of water resources in the coal mining process. The weakest links of underground reservoirs are artificial dams that are prone to frequent occurrence of water seepage and instability failures. Aiming to explore the deformation rules of artificial dams under fluid–solid coupling action, this study developed a nested multi-coupling test system comprising a model shelf, a mine pressure simulation device, a water pressure simulation device, and a monitoring system, The maximum size of the model shelf is 1400 mm * 1300 mm * 200 mm. The mine pressure simulation device was composed of static-load and vibration-load oil cylinders of various sizes. A servo motor mainly controlled the water pressure device; with a water pressure sensor and high-precision flowmeter, water pressure could be accurately adjusted. By taking the underground reservoir in the Wulanmulun Coal Mine as an example, the deformation failure characteristics of the MB-1 dam under fluid–solid coupling conditions were simulated to validate the reasonability and feasibility of the developed system. The obtained experimental results indicated that the artificial dam damage was induced by increased mine pressure, leading to shear compression failure. The artificial dam underwent plastic deformation at a water pressure of 11.43 kPa, accompanied with the generation of microfractures, which rapid propagation under vibration loading violated the dam’s stability.
Collaborative design practices in pre-service teacher education for technological pedagogical content knowledge (TPACK): Group composition matters
Authors: Backfisch Iris , Franke Ulrike , Ohla Kerstin , Scholtz Nina , Lachner Andreas 
Published: January 2024

AbstractCollaborative design practices, in which pre-service teachers construct lesson plans in small groups, is regarded as beneficial to attain professional development. However, it is largely unclear which factors determine the effectiveness of collaborative design within technology-related teacher education. Against this background, we investigated to which extent the group composition regarding motivational (self-efficacy, utility-value) and knowledge-based heterogeneity affected the quality of designed lesson plans and outcome of professional development interventions. Furthermore, we investigated whether the quality of the lesson plans was related to pre-service teachers’ professional development such as acquisition of technological-pedagogical-content knowledge (TPACK). The data was collected within a larger research project which investigated the effectiveness of a TPACK-intervention within 5 subject pedagogies to foster pre-service teachers’ learning. Lesson plans of N = 68 pre-service teachers nested within k = 23 natural occurring groups were analyzed regarding their instructional quality and technology exploitation. Additionally, we measured pre-service teachers’ technology-related professional knowledge, and their technology-related motivation in a pre-post-test-design. The analyses revealed that motivational group heterogeneity positively affected the quality of the collaboration product (i.e., lesson plans). The quality of the lesson plans was not related to the acquisition of technology-related professional knowledge, but negatively related to pre-service teachers’ self-efficacy and utility-value. Similarly, the heterogeneity regarding prior knowledge was negatively correlated to TPACK knowledge gain. These findings highlight that heterogenous group composition during collaborative design practices in pre-service teacher education may be a double-edged sword to attain professional development.
An Empirical Analysis of a Set of Hybrid Heuristics for the Solution of the Resource Leveling Problem
Authors: Aristotelous Marinos , Nearchou Andreas C. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractConsideration is given to the heuristic solution of the resource leveling problem (RLP) in project scheduling with limited resources. The objective is to minimize the changes in the level of resource usage from period to period over the planning horizon of the project while keeping the project duration fixed. First, we present two novel greedy schedule algorithms for the RLP solution. The performance of the proposed algorithms is investigated as low-level hybrids in the context of three famous population-based heuristics, namely differential evolution (DE), genetic algorithm (GA), and particle swarm optimization (PSO). Then, we additionally present two new high-level hybridization schemes (HS), referred to herein as parallel and serial HS, respectively, which combine DE, GA, and PSO in a single hybrid solution algorithm. Detailed experimentation over known complex datasets measures the efficiency of the new hybrids. Statistical analysis employed rank the hybrids according to their solution efficiency. Moreover, comparisons between the developed best hybrid and commercial project management software show a substantial higher performance for the former over real-world construction projects.
Design and Implementation of Remote Piano Teaching Based on Attention-Induced Multi-Head Convolutional Neural Network Optimized with Hunter–Prey Optimization
Authors: Song Li 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe continuous progress of multimedia technology in music educational institutions has led to the recognition of its importance in our country and society. The traditional approach to piano teaching has its limitations, which can be overcome by adopting alternative approaches to the instrument, using advances in science and technology. For pianist, expressing emotions and thoughts through music is crucial, and teachers can now use multimedia tools to exemplify their musical skills to students effectively. This manuscript proposes the Remote Piano Teaching Based on Attention-Induced Multi-Head Convolutional Neural Network Optimized with Hunter–Prey Optimization to improve the piano-teaching quality. At first, input data is taken from Piano Triad Wavset dataset. Afterward, the data are fed to preprocessing stage. The preprocessing stage involve data cleaning or scrubbing that is the process of identifying errors, inconsistencies, and incorrectness in a dataset with the help of adaptive distorted Gaussian matched filter. Then, the preprocessed output is fed to Attention-Induced Multi-Head Convolutional Neural Network (AIMCNN) for effectively predict the piano-teaching quality. The hunter–prey optimization (HPO) algorithm is proposed to optimize the parameters of Attention-Induced Multi-Head Convolutional Neural Network. The performance of the proposed technique is evaluated under performance metrics like accuracy, computational time, learning skill analysis, learning activity analysis, learning behavior analysis; student performance ratio and teaching evaluation analysis are evaluated. The proposed RPT-AIMCNN-HPO attains better prediction accuracy 12.566%, 12.075% and 15.993%, higher learning skill 15.86%, 15.26% and 16.25% compared with existing methods.
Clinicians who primarily practice in nursing homes and outcomes among residents with urinary tract infection or pneumonia
Authors: Riester Melissa R. , Douglas Cody M. , Silva Joe B.B. , Datta Rupak , Zullo Andrew R. 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Objective:
Assess the association between clinicians who primarily practice in nursing homes (NHs) and 14-day resident outcomes following initial antibiotic dispensing for pneumonia or urinary tract infection (UTI).

Design:
Retrospective cohort.

Setting:
U.S. NHs.

Participants:
NH residents aged ≥65 years who were prescribed antibiotics for pneumonia or UTI between 1 January 2016 and 30 November 2018.

Methods:
Medicare fee-for-service claims were linked to Minimum Data Set data. Clinicians who primarily practiced in NHs prescribed ≥90% of Part D dispensings to NH residents. Outcomes included death, all-cause and infection-specific hospitalization, and subsequent antibiotic dispensing. Adjusted risk ratios were estimated using inverse-probability-of-treatment-weighted (IPTW) modified Poisson regression models adjusting for 53 covariates.

Results:
The study population included 28,826 resident-years who were prescribed antibiotics for pneumonia and 106,354 resident-years who were prescribed antibiotics for UTI. Among the pneumonia group, clinicians who primarily practiced in NHs were associated with a greater risk of death (RR 1.3; 95%CLs 1.0, 1.6), lower risks of all-cause (RR 0.9; 95%CLs 0.8, 0.9) and infection-specific hospitalization (RR 0.8; 95%CLs 0.7, 0.9), and similar risk of subsequent antibiotic dispensing (RR 1.0; 95%CLs 1.0, 1.1) after IPTW. No meaningful associations were observed between clinicians who primarily practiced in NHs and outcomes among the UTI group.

Conclusions:
Clinicians who primarily practiced in NHs were associated with a lower risk of hospitalization but greater risk of mortality for NH residents with pneumonia. Further examination is needed to better understand drivers of differences in infection-related outcomes based on clinicians’ training and primary practice setting.