bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Clinical value of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and prognostic nutritional index on prediction of occurrence and development of diabetic foot-induced sepsis
Authors: Sun Bing , Chen Yimin , Man Yulin , Fu Yu , Lin Jianchang , Chen Zhaohong 
Published: October 2023

BackgroundDiabetic foot-induced sepsis is a serious complication associated with increased disability and mortality in hospitalized patients. Early prediction of admission and detection effectively improve treatment options and prevent further deterioration. This study aims to evaluate the clinical value of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and prognostic nutritional index (PNI) to predict the risk of sepsis in patients with diabetic foot ulcers (DFU).MethodsRetrospective analysis was performed on 216 patients who were admitted to the Fujian Medical University Union Hospital between January 2015 and December 2022. Patients with DFU were divided into the non-sepsis (n = 166) and the DFU-induced sepsis (n = 50) groups. The independent factors of DFU-induced sepsis were determined by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was performed to compare the area under the curves (AUC) of PNI and NLR.ResultsMultivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the PNI, NLR, international normalized ratio (INR), thrombin time (PT), and C-reactive protein (CRP) were independent prognostic factors for DFU-induced sepsis. After adjusting for potential confounders, the adjusted odds ratios of NLR for DFU-induced sepsis were 1.121 (1.072–1.172), 1.132 (1.077–1.189), and 1.080 (1.022–1.142), while those of PNI were 0.912 (0.873–0.953), 0.902 (0.856–0.950), and 1.004 (1.001–1.006). Moreover, the AUC of NLR was significantly greater than that of CRP (0.790, 95% CI: 0.689–0.891, p &lt; 0.001 vs. 0.780, 95% CI: 0.686–0.873, p &lt; 0.001).ConclusionNLR and PNI have been regarded as readily and independently predictive markers in patients with DFU-induced sepsis. NLR is critical for the early detection and effective treatment of DFU-induced sepsis and is superior to CRP.
Age group differences in psychological distress and leisure-time exercise/socioeconomic status during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional analysis during 2020 to 2021 of a cohort study in Japan
Authors: Saito Yoshinobu , Nakamura Sho , Watanabe Kaname , Ikegami Hiromi , Shinmura Naoko , Sato Shinya , Miyagi Yohei , Narimatsu Hiroto 
Published: October 2023

ObjectiveThis study aimed to determine the association between psychological distress and leisure-time exercise/socioeconomic status by age group, using data from a cohort study in Japan during the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted among participants in the ME-BYO cohort, aged 20–85 years, living or working in Kanagawa, Japan. A questionnaire was disseminated to 1,573 participants (51.7% men) between December 2020 and March 2021. The questionnaire items included psychological distress (using the 6-item Kessler Psychological Distress Scale [K6]), leisure-time exercise, and socioeconomic status. Multivariate analyses were conducted using logistic regression analysis for each age group.ResultsWe found that 47.4% of 20–39-year-olds, 40.6% of 40–64-year-olds, and 28.3% of 65–85-year-olds experienced psychological distress (K6: ≥5 points). For those aged 20–39 years, leisure-time exercise (odds ratio [OR] (95% confidence interval) = 0.45 (0.28–0.73)) and higher annual household income [0.53 (0.32–0.90)] were associated with less psychological distress. For those aged 40–64 years, older age was associated with less psychological distress, while full-time work [1.98 (1.05–9.71)] was associated with more psychological distress. In the 65–85-year age group, higher education and higher annual income tended to be associated with less psychological distress. For those over 40 years of age, living with other(s) was associated with reduced psychological distress.ConclusionIn the general population of Japan, not engaging in leisure-time exercise and low income affect psychological distress among young adults. Further detailed studies are needed to consider overall physical activity, job type, and work style.
Safety, health, and environmental risk assessment of the aromatic outlet of Imam Khomeini Petrochemical Company using LOPA and fuzzy-LOPA and pollutants and control actions using the Bow-tie method
Authors: Sarafraz Pariya , Varshosaz Katayoon , Orak Neda , Jaafarzadeh Nematollah , Aghajari Ebrahim 
Published: October 2023

BackgroundToday, with the development of the industry, the occurrence of accidents caused by the release and explosion of chemical and toxic substances in industrial units has increased, and these accidents sometimes cause irreparable damage to human life and the environment. According to a study by the American Petroleum Institute, of the recent major accidents in the last 30 years, 44% are related to machinery failure and 12% are caused by unknown factors and lack of information. Therefore, equipment risk control is aimed at preventing large and dangerous accident. The present study, the performance of LOPA and fuzzy-LOPA methods was compared toward the risk assessment of Imam Khomeini Petrochemical Company under certainty and uncertainty of data. This comparison was done in order to a conceptual method with high certainty to assess high-level hazards leading to health and safety risks and environmental pollution.MethodsFirst, the health, safety hazards and environmental aspects were identified via the HAZOP method. Then, a risk assessment was performed using the LOPA method. The fuzzification, severity, and likelihood of each risk were considered as an input variable and risk probability as an output variable. Finally, was the methods used in our analysis were compared and the Bow-tie software was used to draw a Bow-tie diagram to control and reduce the risks.ResultsAs a result, a total of 50 safety and health hazards and 37 environmental aspects were identified in the aromatic outlet of the studied company using the HAZOP method. The most critical risks identified were operational activities in feed and product tanks; flammable materials pumping; blocking the flare path; and releasing H2S gas. The results showed that the production of air pollutants in the power supply unit, disposal of waste from reactor tanks, disposal of waste from condensate tanks, and fire and explosion of the reactor are high-level environmental risks.ConclusionIn the conditions of uncertainty or the absence of information related to the probability and severity of the risk scenario, among the mentioned methods. The result showed that errors in the risk assessment were reduced to an acceptable extent by using Fuzzy LOPA method.
Development of a community-informed communication toolkit to prevent spread of viral illness in schools, including SARS-COV-2
Authors: Summers August , Calderon Gabriela V. , Klein Lauren M. , Wang June , Dinh Janny , Suliman Tina , Hager Erin R. , Edwards Lorece , Collins Megan E. , Johnson Sara B. 
Published: October 2023

IntroductionSchools were uniquely impacted during the COVID-19 (SARS-COV-2) pandemic. We sought to elucidate how parents/guardians of elementary and middle school students in Maryland navigated the return to in-person school following remote instruction. We also sought to understand how they perceived communication about school-based COVID-19 mitigation strategies and their preferences for the content and format of public health communication about COVID-19 mitigation in schools.MethodsWe engaged a community advisory board comprised of key partners and implemented a survey and focus groups.ResultsResults indicated that parents/guardians wanted clearer communication about COVID-19 mitigation policies in schools and were experiencing fatigue and confusion. These insights informed the development of a tailorable communication toolkit. The toolkit was designed to (1) inform parents/guardians about the importance and effectiveness of mitigation strategies for preventing viral spread to keep children in school, (2) promote a sense of community and support, and (3) help school communication teams effectively communicate information about mitigation strategies being implemented.DiscussionWe describe a process for leveraging schools as a trusted messenger, engaging school communities in the development of communication messages, and utilizing a tailorable communication toolkit in the context of shifting public health guidance and local needs. The toolkit development and dissemination process offers a model for targeting public health messaging to parents/guardians in school settings.
Time for change: compliance with RCS green theatre checklist—facilitators and barriers on the journey to net zero
Authors: Westwood Elizabeth , Walshaw Josephine , Boag Katie , Chua WeiYing , Dimashki Safaa , Khalid Hammaad , Lathan Ross , Wellington Jack , Lockwood Sonia , Yiasemidou Marina 
Published: October 2023

BackgroundClimate change is an era-defining health concern, with healthcare related emissions paradoxically compounding negative impacts. The NHS produces 5% of the UK's carbon footprint, with operating theatres a recognised carbon hotspot. NHS England aims to become Net Zero by 2045. Consequently, UK Royal Colleges of Surgery have published guidance to foster an evidence-based sustainable transformation in surgical practice.MethodsA single-centre quality improvement project was undertaken, aiming to provide an overview of sustainable practice locally. The Intercollegiate “Green Theatre Checklist” was taken as an audit standard, focusing on “preparing for surgery” and “intraoperative equipment” subsections. Any general surgical procedure was eligible for inclusion. Usage of reusable textiles, non-sterile gloves, catheters, antibiotics, alcohol vs. water-based scrub techniques, skin sterilisation choices, and skin closure materials were recorded. Baseline data collection occurred over a 3 week period, followed by dissemination of results locally via clinical governance meetings and poster displays. A re-audit of practice was conducted using the same methodology and duration.ResultsDatasets 1 (n = 23) and 2 (n = 23) included open (n = 22), laparoscopic (n = 24), elective (n = 22) and non-elective (n = 24) cases. Good practice was demonstrated in reusable textiles (trolley covers 96%, 78%, drapes 100%, 92%) however procurement issues reduced otherwise good reusable gown use in Dataset 2 in (90%, 46%). No unnecessary catheter use was identified, and loose skin preparations were used unanimously. Uptake of alcohol-based scrubbing techniques was low (15%, 17%) and unnecessary non-sterile glove use was observed in &gt;30% of procedures. All laparoscopic ports and scissors were single use. Carbon footprints were 128.27 kgCO2e and 117.71 kgCO2e in datasets 1 and 2 respectively.ConclusionThis project evidences good practice alongside future local focus areas for improved sustainability. Adoption of hybrid laparoscopic instruments, avoiding unnecessary equipment opening, and standardising reusable materials could reduce carbon and environmental impact considerably. Successful implementation requires considered procurement practices, improved awareness and education, clear leadership, and a sustained cultural shift within the healthcare community. Collaboration among professional institutions and access to supporting evidence is crucial in driving engagement and empowering clinicians to make locally relevant changes a reality.
Efficacy and safety of thoracoscopic-guided multiple paravertebral block for video-assisted thoracoscopic lobectomy surgery: a randomized blinded controlled study
Authors: Li Zhixiong , Lin Qingshui , Lin Liangqing , Wu Qinghua , Ke Pinhui , Chen Huan , Lin Chunlan , Yu Yaohua 
Published: October 2023

BackgroundParavertebral block (PVB) has been increasingly popular for postoperative analgesia. However, few studies estimated the efficacy and safety of multiple PVB using thoracoscope-assisted technique for intraoperative analgesia and postoperative pain management for video-assisted thoracoscopic lobectomy (VATS LOBECTOMY).MethodsA total of 120 patients scheduled to undergo VATS LOBECTOMY were randomly assigned into two groups: a placebo group and a PVB group in a ratio of 1:2. Thoracoscopic-guided multi-point PVB was carried out with 0.5% ropivacaine (PVB group) or 0.9% NaCl (placebo group) at the beginning and the end of surgery. The primary endpoint was consumption of intraoperative opioid.ResultsConsumption rate of intraoperative opioids was significantly lower in the PVB group (878.14 ± 98.37 vs. 1,432.20 ± 383.53 for remifentanil; 123.83 ± 17.98 vs. 266.42 ± 41.97 for fentanyl). Postoperatively, significantly longer duration of using patient-controlled intravenous analgesia for the first time, reduced times of analgesic pump pressing, and less rescue analgetic consumption were observed in the PVB group. Visual analog scale scores at rest and during exercising were significantly lower in the PVB group at all time points within the first 48 h after surgery. The PVB group was also associated with significantly higher total QoR-40 scores and lower incidence of analgesia-related adverse events.ConclusionsThoracoscopic-guided multiple PVB was a simple and effective technique in controlling pain both intra- and postoperatively for VATS LOBECTOMY. It was also associated with the absence of detrimental effects attributed to opioid overuse and benefits of the early resumption of activity and physical function recovery. Therefore, this regional anesthesia technique should be advocated as part of a multimodal analgesia protocol for VATS LOBECTOMY.
La gamificación como una herramienta necesaria en el aprendizaje de los estudiantes
Authors: Infante Plaza Angel André 
Published: October 2023

La educación ha cambiado, por ende, el uso de la tecnología está siendo importante en todo proceso educativo; en donde los profesores deben propiciar actividades interactivas que vayan de la mano para mejorar y potenciar sus clases; en donde la gamificación juega un papel muy importante. La presente investigación tuvo como objetivo conocer qué opinan los estudiantes de la materia de Marketing de Servicios, correspondientes al aula MKT 370_01 del bimestre online 2 C3 del Instituto Tecnológico Argos de la ciudad de Guayaquil respecto al uso de la gamificación dentro de sus clases y a su vez para conocer sus razones respecto al por qué sus profesores deben utilizarla en clases. Se desarrolló una encuesta con preguntas abiertas y cerradas en el mes de mayo del año 2023 a los estudiantes mencionados. Los resultados de la investigación mostraron que para el 98% de los estudiantes encuestados, es importante aplicar la gamificación en sus clases, debido a que mejora el desarrollo del aprendizaje. A su vez las respuestas se orientaron a que consideraban oportuno que todos sus maestros apliquen la gamificación, ya que esta brinda una experiencia diferente en las clases, basada en actividades de juegos donde ellos pueden aprender al momento de participar en las actividades. Por otro lado, la gamificación les brindó las herramientas necesarias para una mejor recordación y refuerzo de lo aprendido durante las sesiones.
Implementasi tapis Kalman pada tongkat adaptif untuk deteksi objek disabilitas netra berbasis LiDAR
Authors: Supriyadi Tata , Solihin Ridwan , Utomo T. B. , Baisrum Baisrum , Yahya Sofian , Setiadi Budi 
Published: October 2023

Akurasi perhitungan pembacaan jarak terhadap objek ditentukan oleh faktor pantulan dari bidang, sudut kemiringan, bahan, dan jenis sensornya. Pada penelitian ini, dibuat tongkat adaptif pendeteksi objek untuk disabilitas netra berbasis sensor LiDAR. Tapis Kalman digunakan untuk meminimalisir kesalahan hasil pembacaan sensor LiDAR pada saat menentukan perhitungan jarak. Data hasil pembacaan sensor dilakukan proses perbaikan menggunakan tapis Kalman sebelum dikeluarkan menjadi nilai jarak. Tahapan tapis Kalman terdiri dari proses prediksi dan koreksi. Pada proses prediksi, data mentah pembacaan jarak dihitung varian kesalahannya dengan mengatur matriks Q. Selanjutnya dilakukan perbaikan dengan menentukan penguatan Kalman. Hasil perbaikan dapat dilakukan dengan mengatur nilai R. Hasil pengujian pada jarak 50 cm sampai 400 cm, penggunaan Kalman menghasilkan rata-rata selisih sekitar 0,7% lebih baik dibandingkan dengan tanpa tapis Kalman.
ChatGPT Needs SPADE (Sustainability, PrivAcy, Digital divide, and Ethics) Evaluation: A Review
Authors: Khowaja Sunder Ali , Khuwaja Parus , Dev Kapal , Wang Weizheng 
Published: October 2023

<p>ChatGPT is another large language model (LLM) inline but due to its performance and ability to converse effectively, it has gained a huge popularity amongst research as well as industrial community. Recently, many studies have been published to show the effectiveness, efficiency, integration, and sentiments of chatGPT and other LLMs. In contrast, this study focuses on the important aspects that are mostly overlooked, i.e. sustainability, privacy, digital divide, and ethics and suggests that not only chatGPT but every subsequent entry in the category of conversational bots should undergo Sustainability, PrivAcy, Digital divide, and Ethics (SPADE) evaluation. This paper discusses in detail about the issues and concerns raised over chatGPT in line with aforementioned characteristics. We support our hypothesis by some preliminary data collection and visualizations along with hypothesized facts. We also suggest mitigations and recommendations for each of the concerns. Furthermore, we also suggest some policies and recommendations for AI policy act, if designed by the governments. </p>
Steady-state Modeling of Small Modular Reactors for Multi-timescale Power System Operations with Temporally Coupled Sub-models
Authors: Rahman Jubeyer , Zhang Jie 
Published: October 2023

<p>Small modular reactors (SMRs) offer a promising avenue for revolutionizing the traditional role of nuclear plants, transforming them from serving as baseload to flexible con- tributors in both power generation and ancillary services. This paper develops a steady-state model for SMRs, with a focus on incorporating constraints related to ‘xenon poisoning’. These constraints are essential to prevent issues during nuclear plant ramp-up following a ramp-down event. These ‘xenon poisoning’ constraints have been integrated into a multi-timescale power system operation framework, which also encompasses the formu- lation of inter-temporal coupling constraints. A comprehensive investigation is undertaken to evaluate the impact of integrating SMRs into a power grid with a high penetration of renewable en- ergy, specifically the NREL-118 bus system. A capacity expansion planning analysis is first conducted over multiple years to identify the optimal locations and sizes for deploying SMRs across the network. Additionally, we’ve developed various reserve rules that adapt to the ramping status of the SMRs and include different ‘hold-time’ for ‘xenon poisoning’ mitigation. Results obtained from a day-long simulation illustrate that the implementation of minimal ‘xenon poisoning’ hold-time, coupled with a steady- state guided reserve provision rule, yields the highest revenue – approximately 4.14% more than the base case. </p>
Bridging the Gap: Blockchain’s Transformative Impact on SAP Systems in the Field
Authors: Bodemer Oliver 
Published: October 2023

<p>In the contemporary digital landscape, the integration of blockchain technology with SAP systems has emerged as a pivotal advancement for businesses across various sectors. This research delves into the transformative potential of blockchain when synergized with SAP, a leading enterprise resource planning (ERP) system. The inherent strengths of blockchain, such as unparalleled transparency, robust security, and decentralized control, offer a myriad of opportunities to enhance SAP modules, revolutionizing traditional business processes and driving both efficiency and innovation. </p>
<p>Central to this study is the exploration of real-world applications, particularly through case studies of three companies, referred to as "Company A," "Company B," and "Company C." These placeholders have been intentionally used to maintain the confidentiality and anonymity of the companies involved, ensuring that proprietary strategies, sensitive data, and competitive advantages are not inadvertently disclosed. Such a measure is crucial in academic and industry research to uphold the integrity of the study while safeguarding the interests of the participating entities. </p>
<p>"Company A" represents a firm in the electricity sector that has harnessed blockchain’s capabilities to enhance supply chain transparency and traceability. "Company B," from the insurance industry, has streamlined its financial operations, leveraging blockchain to reduce inefficiencies and bolster trust among stakeholders. Lastly, "Company C" from the automotive sector has transformed its asset management and tracking processes, utilizing blockchain to provide real-time, immutable records, significantly reducing discrepancies. </p>
<p>However, the journey of integrating blockchain with SAP presents challenges, including technical complexities, organizational resistance, and scalability concerns. Yet, the case studies underscore the tangible benefits that can be reaped, offering valuable lessons for businesses contemplating a similar technological convergence. </p>
<p>In an era where digital transformation is paramount, the fusion of blockchain and SAP emerges as a promising avenue for achieving operational excellence. This research provides an in-depth guide, highlighting the intricacies, potential pitfalls, and immense rewards of this integration, with a special emphasis on real-world implementations and their impact. </p>
Dar Curarrehue
Authors: Barbaruk Magdalena 
Published: October 2023

„Jedyną możliwą więzią z Ameryką, właściwą formą amerykańskiej miłości, jest wdzięczność” mówił Godofredo Iommi w wykładzie Eneida-Amereida (1981) w którym słowo la gratitud pojawia się kilkanaście razy, wydaje się kategorią kluczową. W poemacie Amereida (1967) wdzięczność jest warunkiem wolności. Uczynienie z wdzięczności filozoficznego fundamentu dekolonizacji Ameryki zdumiewa, prowokuje, jest trudne do zrozumienia. Tekst nie jest jednak poświęcony wyłącznie interpretacji kanonicznych tekstów Szkoły z Valparaíso. Autorkę interesowało bowiem to, jak wdzięczność objawia się w praktykach poetyckiego zamieszkiwania Ameryki tj. w realizowanych od 1984 roku wyprawach w głąb kontynentu tzw. travesía. Artykuł powstał na podstawie obserwacji sporządzonych na przełomie listopada i grudnia podczas travesía w Curarrehue (Araukania, Chile) oraz doświadczeń z travesía w Cochrane (Patagonia, Chile, 2013) amerykańskiej doktorantki Doris M. Reiny Bravo. Autorka zauważa, że w obu przypadkach uzyskanie statusu obserwatora travesía łączyło się ze szczególnym poczuciem wdzięczności i lęku, co związane jest z fenomenem daru ale też transakcji. Barbaruk podjęła się próby opisu związanego z obserwacją travesía (badań terenowych) afektu: tego z którym jechała do Curarrehue i z którym wróciła. Nadrzędną ramą jej relacji z travesía stało się pytanie o wdzięczność jako narzędzie badawcze, o jej wpływ na sytuację badawczą i język naukowy. Autorka sugeruje, że wdzięczność może być traktowana jako cnota epistemiczna.
Groza i wyobraźnia w teatrze
Authors: Wiśniewski Tomasz 
Published: October 2023

W artykule podjęty jest temat powiązania grozy i wyobraźni w wybranych współczesnych przedstawieniach teatralnych. Mając na uwadze szeroki potencjał omawianego zjawiska, autor skupia się na detalu scenicznym i werbalnym, odnosząc się przy tym do twórczości Mariny Carr, teatrów Complicité oraz Ex Machina, a także niespodziewanie aktualnej – również w kontekście wojny w Ukrainie – brazylijskiej inscenizacji Czekając na Godota w Teatrze Oficina Uzyna Uzona z São Paolo w reżyserii Zé Celso.