bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Towards Micro-vortices Generated by Liquid Water’s Structural Heterogeneity
Authors: Tozzi Arturo 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Turbulence is a widespread phenomenon detectable in physical and biological systems. Examining a theoretical model of liquid water flowing in a cylinder at different Raleigh numbers, we propose a novel approach to elucidate the first stages of turbulent flows. The weakly bonded molecular assemblies of liquid distilled water form a fluctuating branched polymer in which every micro-cluster displays different density. Against the common view of liquid water as an incompressible and continuous fluid, we consider it as a non-homogeneous, compressible medium characterised by density differences. We suggest that the occurrence of transient local aggregates in liquid water could produce the vortices and eddies that are the hallmarks of turbulence. As in a two-fluid model, lighter fluid interacts with heavier fluid as if one of the two were an obstacle. Micro-assemblies of such obstacles might justify the presence of micro-vortices and hence of turbulence. We quantify the local changes in velocity, diameter and density required to engender obstacles to the average flow. Then, we explain how these microstructures, equipped with different Raleigh numbers and characterized by high percolation index, could generate boundary layers that contribute to micro-vortices production. We explore the theoretical possibility that three-dimensional turbulence might originate from micro-vortices, contrary to the common view that three-dimensional turbulence is caused by energy cascades from larger to smaller vortices. We conclude that the genesis of turbulence cannot be assessed in terms of collective phenomena, rather is sustained, among many other factors, by the underrated microscopic inhomogeneities of fluids like liquid water.
Comparison of post-COVID-19 symptoms in patients infected with the SARS-CoV- 2 variants delta and omicron - results of the Cross-Sectoral Platform of the German National Pandemic Cohort Network (NAPKON-SUEP)
Authors: Hopff Sina M. , Appel Katharina S. , Miljukov Olga , Schneider Johannes , Addo Marylyn M. , Bals Robert , Bercker Sven , Blaschke Sabine , Bröhl Isabel , Büchner Nikolaus , Dashti Hiwa , Erber Johanna , Friedrichs Anette , Geisler Ramsia , Göpel Siri , Hagen Marina , Hanses Frank , Jensen Björn-Erik Ole , Keul Maria , Krawczyk Adalbert , Lorenz-Depiereux Bettina , Meybohm Patrick , Milovanovic Milena , Mitrov Lazar , Nürnberger Carolin , Obst Wilfried , Römmele Christoph , Schäfer Christian , Scheer Christian , Scherer Margarete , Schmidt Julia , Seibel Kristina , Sikdar Shimita , Tebbe Johannes Josef , Tepasse Phil-Robin , Thelen Philipp , Vehreschild Maria J.G.T. , Weismantel Christina , Vehreschild J. Janne 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Purpose
The influence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants on the post-COVID-19 condition (PCC) remains unanswered. Therefore, we examined the prevalence and predictors of PCC-related symptoms in patients infected with the SARS-CoV-2 variants delta or omicron.
Methods
We compared prevalences and risk factors of acute and PCC-related symptoms three months after primary infection (3MFU) between delta- and omicron-infected patients from the Cross-Sectoral Platform of the German National Pandemic Cohort Network. Health-related quality of life (HrQoL) was determined by the EQ-5D-5L index score and trend groups were calculated to describe changes of HrQoL between different time points.
Results
We considered 758 patients for our analysis (delta: n = 341; omicron: n = 417). Compared with omicron patients, delta patients had a similar prevalence of PCC at the 3MFU (p = 0.354), whereby fatigue occurred most frequently (n = 256, 34%). HrQoL was comparable between the groups with the lowest EQ-5D-5L index score (0.75, 95%-CI 0.73-0.78) at disease onset. While most patients (69%, n = 348) never showed a declined HrQoL, it deteriorated substantially in 37 patients (7%) from the acute phase to the 3MFU of which 27 were infected with omicron.
Conclusion
With quality-controlled data from a multicenter cohort, we showed that PCC is an equally common challenge for patients infected with the SARS-CoV-2 variants delta and omicron at least for the German population. Developing the EQ-5D-5L index score trend groups showed that over two thirds of patients did not experience any restrictions in their HrQoL due to or after the SARS-CoV-2 infection at the 3MFU.
The cohort is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov since February 24, 2021 (Identifier: NCT04768998).
CpG methylation changes associated with hyperglycemia in type 1 diabetes occur at angiogenic glomerular and retinal gene loci
Authors: Shao Xiaojian , Fur Sophie Le , Cheung Warren , Belot Marie-Pierre , Perge Kevin , Bouhours-Nouet Natacha , Bensignor Candace , Levaillant Lucie , Ge Bing , Kwan Tony , Lathrop Mark , Pastinen Tomi , Bougnères Pierre 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background:
Chronic hyperglycemia is a major risk factor for glomerular or retinal microangiopathy and cardiovascular complications of type 1 diabetes (T1D). At the interface of genetics and environment, dynamic epigenetic changes associated with hyperglycemia may unravel some of the mechanisms contributing to these T1D complications.
Methods
Blood samples were collected from 112 young patients at T1D diagnosis and 3 years later in average. Whole genome-wide bisulfite sequencing using MethylC-Seq was used to measure blood DNA methylation changes of about 28 million CpGs at single base resolution over this time. Chronic hyperglycemia was estimated every 3–4 months by HbA1c measurement. Proportion tests determined the significant longitudinal methylation differences. Linear regressions with adjustment to age, sex, treatment duration, blood proportions and batch effects were employed to characterize the relationships between the dynamic changes of DNA methylation and average HbA1c levels.
Results
We identified that longitudinal DNA methylation changes at 815 CpGs (p-value < 1e-4) were associated with average HbA1c. Most of them (> 98%) were located outside of the promoter regions and were enriched in CpG island shores and multiple immune cell type specific accessible chromatin regions. Among the 36 more significant associated loci (p-value < 5e-6), 16 were harbouring genes or non-coding sequences involved in angiogenesis regulation, glomerular and retinal vascularization or development, or coronary disease.
Conclusion
Our findings support the identification of new genomic sites where CpG methylation associated with hyperglycemia may contribute to long-term complications of T1D, shedding light on potential mechanisms for further exploration.
Reinforcement Learning for Optimized Information Retrieval in LLaMA
Authors: Tu Chien-Hung , Hsu Hsien-Jung , Chen Shih-Wen 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
This study introduces a new approach to enhance information retrieval accuracy in Large Language Models (LLMs) by integrating a specially designed reinforcement learning algorithm into the LLaMA model. The research focuses on developing and implementing an algorithm that dynamically adapts the model's response strategies to user queries, based on a combination of dynamical systems theory and relativistic physics. Empirical results demonstrate that the Optimized LLaMA model exhibits significant improvements in accuracy, relevance, and coherence across various information retrieval tasks compared to the Baseline LLaMA. This advancement not only showcases the potential of reinforcement learning in the realm of natural language processing but also marks a considerable step forward in the development of AI systems capable of nuanced language understanding and decision-making. The study's findings have profound implications for the future of AI research, particularly in enhancing the practical applicability of LLMs in complex, real-world scenarios, and set a new benchmark for the integration of machine learning techniques in language models.
Women's empowerment and uptake of skilled delivery healthcare services in Bangladesh: Evidence from nationally representative survey
Authors: Alam Md Badsha , Khanam Shimlin Jahan , Kabir Md Awal , Chowdhury Atika Rahman , Hassen Md Tahir , Das Susmita , Khan Md Nuruzzaman 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
While the importance of women's empowerment in enhancing access to healthcare services is widely acknowledged, there is limited evidence on the link between women's empowerment and the utilization of skilled healthcare services during delivery. Drawing from data on 4543 women from the 2017/18 Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey, we explored this association. The outcome variable considered was the uptake of skilled delivery healthcare services, and the major explanatory variable was the composite index of women’s empowerment, along with indicators of women’s empowerment. A multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression model was used to explore the association of the outcome variable with the explanatory variable, adjusted for potential confounders. We found that the prevalence of skilled delivery healthcare services uptake was 52.8%. Maternal women lacking empowerment were 21% less likely to uptake skilled delivery healthcare services (aOR=0.79, 95% CI, 0.64-0.97) compared to those highly empowered. This association remained consistent across all three domains, with maternal women lacking empowerment reporting lower likelihoods of skilled delivery healthcare services uptake. The findings of this research affirm the positive impact of women's empowerment on skilled delivery healthcare services uptake. Recommendations include increasing women's empowerment and raising awareness and education about the importance of skilled delivery healthcare services.
Measuring technological innovation and trade vulnerability within the critical supply chains: a framework for analysis
Authors: Eriksonas Linas 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
This article investigates the link between critical supply chains and technological innovation using Comtrade trade data (2020-2022) and patent data (from 2013). Focusing on critical materials and products as defined by the US Department of Trade, it examines how trade flows can effect patenting activities. The study explores the impact of export and import shares on innovation, measured by patent claims and assignees. Findings reveal that higher export shares boost innovation, while import shares correlate with diverse innovative activities. The article highlights the intertwined nature of trade and innovation in critical supply chains, underscoring its significance for economic and policy analysis.
Discrepancy Results of Treponemal Tests: Exploring the Associated Risk Factors Using Machine Learning Technology Based on 18 Years of Electronic Medical Records and National Claims Data
Authors: Wang Hsin-Yao , Hu Ru-Fang , Lin Ting-Wei , Lin Wan-Ying , Wang Yu-Chiang , Lu Jang-Jih , Tseng Yi-Ju 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
Syphilis is becoming more prevalent and is diagnosed primarily through serologic tests. Confirmatory treponemal tests (TTs), such as Treponema pallidum particle agglutination (TPPA) and fluorescent treponema antibody absorption (FTA-Abs), are typically used. Although only one TT is needed for syphilis diagnosis, multiple TTs are still common in the disease course. Discrepant TT results can cause confusion and delay treatment. We aimed to explore the clinical characteristics of patients with discrepant TT results and develop a machine learning based tool to evaluate the risk of TT discrepancies.
Methods
In the retrospective cohort study, we linked electronic health records from a medical centerand national claims records in Taiwan between January 2001 and September 2018. Medical histories and demographic characteristics were considered as variables of interest to identify risk factors and develop machine learning models to assess the risk of TT discrepancy. We also analyzed the association between syphilis treatments and discrepant TT results.
Results
Among 5,780 eligible patients tested for syphilis, 133 (2.30%) had discrepant TT results. Risk factors associated with discrepant TT results were HIV and AIDS (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.6, 95% CI 1.4-4.7), osteoarthritis (aOR = 3.3, 95% CI 1.3-7.1), and pregnancy (aOR = 5.0, 95% CI 1.8-11.6). Patients with a top 5% risk probability from the LighGBM model were 10 times more likely to have discrepant TT results. For cases with discrepant TT results, TPPA was more likely than FTA-Abs to turn negative after treatment (OR 9.18, 95% CI 2.05-41.07).
Conclusions
Identifying risk factors and developing a machine learning based decision support tool could significantly aid in interpreting serologic tests for syphilis and guide accurate diagnosis.
Assessment of current water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) practices in the third and ninth districts of N'Djamena, Chad
Authors: Mangueina Daniel , Awuah Esi , Fonteh Mathias Fru , Antwi-Agyei Prince , Nadji Emmanuel Tao 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Access to safe drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene in Chad's cities, especially N'Djamena, is a persistent and significant challenge. This study aimed to assess current practices in water, sanitation, and hygiene in N'Djamena's third and ninth districts. We surveyed 395 households, conducted water source identification, and analyzed seven water samples at the National Water Laboratory. Temperature, ammonium, total coliforms, and aerobic flora values exceeded World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Ammonium and temperature averaged 0.7 mg/L and 30.1–31.93 °C, respectively. Bacterial contamination (&gt;100 MPN/100 mL) exceeded the WHO's 0 MPN/100 mL guidelines, rendering the water unfit for consumption. Survey results indicate that 78.7% use hand pumps, 21.1% have tap water access, and 0.2% rely on rivers for water. Regarding toilets, 92.8% have traditional models, 2.9% have modern facilities, and 4.3% practice open defecation. 95% dispose of untreated wastewater into nature, with only 5% using septic tanks. For solid waste, 72% use illegal dumpsites, 18% rely on public services, and 10% burn waste. Finally, 95.5% of households wash their hands with clean water and soap after using the toilet. It is crucial to treat drinking water and implement proper hygiene and sanitation measures to safeguard the population's health in the studied area.
Development of a Mind Map-based Predictive Nursing Protocol and its Impact
on the Clarity of Images in Patients Undergoing High-concentration Contrast
Three-dimensional Computed Tomography Imaging of Liver Blood Vessels
Authors: Zhao Hai-Yan , Wang Yan , Li Xing , Zhou Ying , Jiao Zeng-Xin , Bao Jun-Xia , Yang Na , Zhang Li-Li 
Published: January 2024

Objective::
n/aTo explore the development of a mind map-based predictive nursing protocol and assess its impact on the quality of images in patients undergoing
high-concentration contrast three-dimensional computed tomography (CT) imaging of liver blood vessels.

Methods::
A total of 600 patients who were admitted to Beijing You an Hospital were chosen for this prospective study and underwent high-concentration
contrast three-dimensional CT imaging of liver blood vessels between April 2021 and December 2021. The patients were divided into two groups
using the digital table method, with 300 cases. The control group received conventional nursing intervention, while the research group was
provided with a mind map-based predictive nursing protocol. We recorded the image quality of three-dimensional CT imaging of liver blood
vessels, satisfaction scores regarding nurse examination guidance, and the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) and Self-Rating Depression Scale
(SDS) in both groups.

Results::
The research group achieved a perfect rate of 100.00% for the high-quality three-dimensional CT imaging of liver blood vessels, which was
noticeably higher compared to the rate of the control group of 98.67%. Patients in the research group expressed higher satisfaction levels regarding
the guidance provided by nurses, including their attitude, timeliness, accuracy, and overall satisfaction, compared to the control group. Initially, the
two groups had no notable differences in the SAS and SDS scores. However, after the intervention, both groups experienced a significant decrease
in SAS and SDS scores, with the research group showing an even more substantial decline.

Conclusion::
Through the creation of a mind map-based predictive nursing protocol and its implementation on patients undergoing high-concentration contrast
three-dimensional CT imaging of liver blood vessels, it is possible to significantly enhance the quality of CT scans, alleviate feelings of anxiety
and depression, increase patient satisfaction with examination guidance by nurses, and effectively decrease the occurrences of contrast agent
leakage and allergic reactions to iodine.
Primary Pulmonary Malignant Meningioma: A Case Report and Literature
Review Focusing on Imaging Findings
Authors: Zhu Ping , Zhu Yanyan , Chen Feng 
Published: January 2024

Case Presentation::
A 47-year-old woman was admitted to the hospital after a lung mass was found during a physical examination one month earlier. The imaging
findings for this patient showed a large mass in the lower lobe of the left lung with bronchial invasion. A contrast-enhanced MRI of the brain was
normal. Bronchoscopy shows a mass at the opening of the left lower basal branch, with mucosal infiltration, protrusion, and stenosis of the
opening. The patient underwent radical left lung cancer surgery, and the pathology specimens stained with hematoxylin–eosin demonstrated tumor
cells with the focal invasion of the bronchial cartilage. Immunohistochemical staining was positive for epithelial membrane antigen(EMA),
somatostatin receptor 2 (SSTR2), progesterone receptor (PR), Ki-67 (5%–10%), CD34, and D2-40 and weakly positive for p53.The pathologic
diagnosis was primary pulmonary meningioma (PPM). The tumor marker CA-125 had significantly increased in the 2 months after surgery.

Conclusion::
Malignant PPM is rarer, and a clear pathological definition to distinguish between benign and malignant PPM is lacking. Potential cases should be
comprehensively evaluated based on imaging, laboratory, and pathology results. A long-term regular follow-up will be required to rule out
metastasis or recurrence of PPM.
Estimating the Epidemic Size of Superspreading Coronavirus Outbreaks in Real Time: Quantitative Study
Authors: Lau Kitty Y , Kang Jian , Park Minah , Leung Gabriel , Wu Joseph T , Leung Kathy 
Published: January 2024

Background
Novel coronaviruses have emerged and caused major epidemics and pandemics in the past 2 decades, including SARS-CoV-1, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2, which led to the current COVID-19 pandemic. These coronaviruses are marked by their potential to produce disproportionally large transmission clusters from superspreading events (SSEs). As prompt action is crucial to contain and mitigate SSEs, real-time epidemic size estimation could characterize the transmission heterogeneity and inform timely implementation of control measures.

Objective
This study aimed to estimate the epidemic size of SSEs to inform effective surveillance and rapid mitigation responses.

Methods
We developed a statistical framework based on back-calculation to estimate the epidemic size of ongoing coronavirus SSEs. We first validated the framework in simulated scenarios with the epidemiological characteristics of SARS, MERS, and COVID-19 SSEs. As case studies, we retrospectively applied the framework to the Amoy Gardens SARS outbreak in Hong Kong in 2003, a series of nosocomial MERS outbreaks in South Korea in 2015, and 2 COVID-19 outbreaks originating from restaurants in Hong Kong in 2020.

Results
The accuracy and precision of the estimation of epidemic size of SSEs improved with longer observation time; larger SSE size; and more accurate prior information about the epidemiological characteristics, such as the distribution of the incubation period and the distribution of the onset-to-confirmation delay. By retrospectively applying the framework, we found that the 95% credible interval of the estimates contained the true epidemic size after 37% of cases were reported in the Amoy Garden SARS SSE in Hong Kong, 41% to 62% of cases were observed in the 3 nosocomial MERS SSEs in South Korea, and 76% to 86% of cases were confirmed in the 2 COVID-19 SSEs in Hong Kong.

Conclusions
Our framework can be readily integrated into coronavirus surveillance systems to enhance situation awareness of ongoing SSEs.
The Impact of Optimal Glycemic Control on Tuberculosis Treatment Outcomes in Patients With Diabetes Mellitus: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhao Li , Gao Feng , Zheng Chunlan , Sun Xuezhi 
Published: January 2024

Background
Diabetes mellitus (DM) increases the risk of developing tuberculosis (TB), and optimal glycemic control has been shown to reduce the risk of complications and improve the TB treatment outcomes in patients with DM.

Objective
This study aims to investigate the role of glycemic control in improving TB treatment outcomes among patients with DM.

Methods
MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the impact of oral glycemic control in patients with TB who have DM. Outcomes of interest were radiological findings, treatment success, sputum positivity, and mortality. Evaluations were reported as risk ratios (RRs) with 95% CIs using weighted random-effects models.

Results
The analysis included 6919 patients from 7 observational studies. Our meta-analysis showed significant differences between patients with optimal glycemic control and those with poor glycemic control with regard to improved treatment outcomes (RR 1.13, 95% CI 1.02-1.25; P=.02; I²=65%), reduced sputum positivity (RR 0.23, 95% CI 0.09-0.61; P=.003; I²=66%), and fewer cavitary lesions (RR 0.59, 95% CI 0.51-0.68; P<.001; I²=0%) in radiological findings. There was no significant difference between the 2 groups in terms of mortality (RR 0.57, 95% CI 0.22-1.49; P=.25; I²=0%), multilobar involvement (RR 0.57, 95% CI 0.22-1.49; P=.25; I²=0%) on radiologic examination, and upper lobe (RR 0.94, 95% CI 0.76-1.17; P=.58; I²=0%) and lower lobe (RR 1.05, 95% CI 0.48-2.30; P=.91; I²=75%) involvement on radiologic examination.

Conclusions
We concluded that optimal glycemic control is crucial for reducing susceptibility, minimizing complications, and improving treatment outcomes in patients with TB with DM. Emphasizing effective health management and health care strategies are essential in achieving this control. Integrating comprehensive care among patients with TB with DM will enhance patient outcomes and alleviate the burden of disease in this population.

Trial Registration
PROSPERO CRD42023427362; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=427362