bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Racial Disparities in Diabetes Care and Outcomes for Patients with Visual Impairment: A Descriptive Analysis of the TriNetX Research Network
Authors: Madlock-Brown Charisse , Lee Austen , Seltzer Jaime , Solomonides Anthony , Mathews Nisha , Phuong Jimmy , Weiskopf Nicole , Adams William G. , Lehmann Harold , Espinoza Juan 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background: This research delves into the confluence of racial disparities and health inequities among individuals with disabilities, with a focus on those contending with both diabetes and visual impairment.
Methods: Utilizing data from the TriNetX Research Network, which includes electronic medical records of roughly 115 million patients from 83 anonymous healthcare organizations, this study employs a directed acyclic graph (DAG) to pinpoint confounders and augment interpretation. We identified patients with visual impairments using ICD-10 codes, deliberately excluding diabetes-related ophthalmology complications. Our approach involved multiple race-stratified analyses, comparing co-morbidities like chronic pulmonary disease in visually impaired patients against their counterparts. We assessed healthcare access disparities by examining the frequency of annual visits, instances of two or more A1c measurements, and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) measurements. Additionally, we evaluated diabetes outcomes by comparing the risk ratio of uncontrolled diabetes (A1c > 9.0) and chronic kidney disease in patients with and without visual impairments.
Results: The incidence of diabetes was substantially higher (nearly double) in individuals with visual impairments across White, Asian, and African American populations. Higher rates of chronic kidney disease were observed in visually impaired individuals, with a risk ratio of 1.79 for African American, 2.27 for White, and non-significant for the Asian group. A statistically significant difference in the risk ratio for uncontrolled diabetes was found only in the White cohort (0.843). White individuals without visual impairments were more likely to receive two A1c tests, a trend not significant in other racial groups. African Americans with visual impairments had a higher rate of glomerular filtration rate testing. However, White individuals with visual impairments were less likely to undergo GFR testing, indicating a disparity in kidney health monitoring. This pattern of disparity was not observed in the Asian cohort.
Conclusions: This study uncovers pronounced disparities in diabetes incidence and management among individuals with visual impairments, particularly among White, Asian, and African American groups. Our DAG analysis illuminates the intricate interplay between SDoH, healthcare access, and frequency of crucial diabetes monitoring practices, highlighting visual impairment as both a medical and social issue.
Non-contrast CT attenuation value of renal papilla is a novel predictor of recurrence in kidney stone disease
Authors: Kohjimoto Yasuo , Yamashita Shimpei , Iwahashi Yuya , Deguchi Ryusuke , Wakamiya Takahito , Hara Isao 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
In calcium stone formers, most stones grow attached to Randall’s plaque, which can be identified by measuring the computed tomography (CT) attenuation value of renal papilla. We hypothesized that the CT attenuation value of renal papilla can predict the severity (recurrent or multiple stone former) and recurrence of the stone disease. We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 180 calcium oxalate stone formers who underwent non-contrast CT and 24-hour urine chemistry in our hospital between September 2012 and November 2021. Two observers independently measured the Hounsfield unit (HU) of the renal papilla and classified the patients into the low-HU and the high-HU value groups according to the median value (38.9 HU). The proportion of recurrent and multiple stone formers were similar between the low-HU group and the high-HU group (70.0% vs 65.6%, 71.1% vs 74.2%, respectively). There were also no significant differences in urinary volume, urinary excretions of each constituent, or AP(CaOx) index between the two groups. On the other hand, the recurrence rate in the high-HU value group (0.10 events/person/year) was significantly higher than that in the low-HU value group (0 events/person/year, p = 0.03). Multivariate analysis revealed that high-HU value was an independent predictor of stone recurrence (OR 1.90, 95% CI 1.00-3.64, p = 0.04) as well as medical prophylaxis. The results of this study suggest that HU value of renal papilla is a useful predictor of recurrence of stone disease.
Analysis of Balancing Solar &amp; Battery Power Control for a Microgrid System
Authors: Vrtis James , Polat Ediz 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
This paper discusses an evaluation of multiple simulations to balance the solar and battery output power in a microgrid system. The microgrid battery system is connected in parallel to a photovoltaic power system and hydrogen electrolyzer. The battery output is controlled by developing a signal response from a solar power reference. The solar power reference utilized balances battery power output during periods of solar irradiance. There are four simulations conducted in this study which evaluate the effectiveness of delivering continuous power over a 72-hour time frame to a hydrogen electrolysis and storage system. The simulations integrate four different control signals and two different control systems. There are advantages and disadvantages to utilizing an n-D lookup table and digital control signal for battery control, and are outlined from the results of the simulations.
Comparative Study of ML Algorithms for Garbage Classification
Authors: Buchade Siddhant J. , Bhoite Sachin 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
In today's world, the escalating waste crisis demands effective garbage classification strategies. As population growth and evolving needs contribute to unprecedented waste generation, repurposing items through recycling, reproduction, or reuse becomes imperative. Proper garbage classification is pivotal in realizing these goals. This paper presents a concise yet comprehensive comparative study of machine learning algorithms for garbage classification. The primary objectives include comparing the performance of MobileNetV2, InceptionV3, and ResNet in garbage classification and scrutinizing optimal algorithms employed by researchers. The dataset comprises six garbage classes: cardboard, metal, paper, plastic, glass, and trash. Through rigorous evaluation, insights into algorithmic performance are presented. MobileNetV2 stands out, achieving a remarkable 94.48% accuracy on the validation set with minimal loss. InceptionV3 and ResNet50 yield accuracies of 86.08% and 88.54%, respectively. This study not only contributes to garbage classification knowledge but also highlights the real-world potential of the top-performing algorithm. As we address waste management complexities, this research signifies a step toward implementing efficient and accurate garbage classification systems for a sustainable future.
Inflammation Patterns in Omicron Variant-Linked COVID-19: Assessing Biomarkers for Predicting Disease Severity
Authors: Amin Saman M. , Said Serwan Muhammad Amin , Rasul Hardy Hassan 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic necessitates the identification of effective biomarkers to gauge disease severity. C-reactive protein (CRP), D-Dimer, and White Blood Cell counts (WBCs) have emerged as potential indicators of COVID-19 severity and prognosis. This research, conducted at Qalla Hospital, enrolled 112 confirmed COVID-19 patients and 35 healthy controls, employing comprehensive clinical and laboratory evaluations that included CRP, D-Dimer, and WBC measurements. The diagnosis of COVID-19 adhered to established clinical criteria and was confirmed through SARS-CoV-2 testing, with stringent assessments to ensure precise participant classification.
The results unveiled significantly elevated CRP (p-value=0.0001), D-Dimer (p-value=0.0001), and WBCs in COVID-19 patients compared to healthy controls. Elevated CRP levels, indicative of inflammation, increased D-Dimer levels associated with coagulation abnormalities, and raised WBCs within the CRP level (0.943), indicative of an immune response, were prevalent in COVID-19 patients. Gender distribution was balanced, while comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus (25%), hypertension (34.8%), kidney disease (6.2%), and multiple concurrent diseases (34%) were prevalent in the COVID-19 cohort.
The discussion underscores the substantial differences in CRP, D-Dimer, and WBCs, emphasizing their potential as valuable biomarkers for diagnosing and monitoring COVID-19 severity. These biomarkers could serve as critical tools in evaluating disease progression, predicting complications, and guiding tailored therapeutic interventions. In conclusion, CRP, D-Dimer, and WBCs exhibited marked disparities between healthy individuals and COVID-19 patients, indicating their potential as diagnostic and prognostic indicators. Continued investigation into the utility of these biomarkers may refine risk stratification and treatment strategies, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes in COVID-19 management. A deeper understanding of the clinical implications of CRP, D-Dimer, and WBC levels could profoundly impact disease management and patient care strategies.
Effects of Pile-Driving Induced Ground Vibrations and Stress Distribution to Close Settlements: A Case Study
Authors: Öngen Tuğçe , Yetkin Mustafa Emre , Kılınç Mehmet Emre 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

The pile method, applied in the foundational operations of construction to enhance soil bearing capacity, is utilized in locations where there is insufficient soil support. Its purpose is to reinforce the foundation and improve soil stability before constructing a structure. In this study, vibrations occurring during the application of Vibrex-type piles for foundation reinforcement in a construction project located in the Konak district of Izmir Province were measured at various distances from the measurement points. The study further explored the influence of pile application on soil stability, considering the geomechanical properties of the site's soil structure. The resulting analysis from the study's graph indicates that stress and vibration velocity remain at optimal levels, suggesting favorable working conditions.
Computing optimal drug dosing regarding efficacy and safety - the enhanced OptiDose method in NONMEM
Authors: Bachmann Freya , Koch Gilbert , Bauer Robert J. , Steffens Britta , Szinnai Gabor , Pfister Marc , Schropp Johannes 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Recently, an optimal dosing algorithm (OptiDose) was developed to compute the optimal drug doses for any pharmacometrics model for a given dosing scenario. In the present work, we enhance the OptiDose concept to compute optimal drug dosing with respect to both efficacy and safety targets. Usually, these are not of equal importance, but one is a top priority, that needs to be satisfied, whereas the other is a secondary target and should be achieved as good as possible without failing the top priority target. Mathematically, this leads to state-constrained optimal control problems. In this paper, we elaborate how to set up such problems and transform them into classical unconstrained optimal control problems which can be solved in NONMEM. Three different optimal dosing tasks illustrate the impact of the proposed enhanced OptiDose method.
How do pH and polyphenols affect the foaming properties of ovalbumin?
Authors: Wen Hedi , Zhang Deju , Ning Zhenzhen , Li Zihao , Zhang Yan , Liu Jingbo , Yu Ting , Zhang Ting 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
To broaden the application of ovalbumin (OVA) in food formulations, it is meaningful to improve its foaming characteristics. This study aimed to investigate the effect of benzoic acid-based (3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid, DA) and cinnamic acid-based polyphenols (trans-2-hydroxycinnamic acid, T2A) on the foaming properties of OVA at acidic (pH 3.0), neutral (pH 7.4) and alkaline (pH 9.0) pH conditions. Both the addition of polyphenols and acid treatment enhanced the foaming properties of OVA. Surface hydrophobicity, circular dichroism, free sulfhydryl groups, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy results indicated that after acidic workup, the presence of stronger hydrophobic interactions in OVA-polyphenol aggregates induced more disordered protein conformation and conversion or breakage of disulfide bonds. Particle size and zeta potential experiments indicated that acidic treatment neutralized protein surface charges, further inducing self-aggregation and swelling of OVA, ultimately enhancing foaming properties. Comparatively, T2A exhibited better foam-inducing capacity due to its stronger interaction with OVA, leading to the unfolding of the OVA structure and the exposure of more hydrophobic groups. The intrinsic and 3-D fluorescence spectra experiments also confirmed that OVA-T2A aggregates at pH 3.0 had greater altered non-covalent interaction forces and protein secondary and tertiary structures compared to other complexes. This study could provide a theoretical basis for designing protein formulations with excellent foaming properties.
Orgânico ou Organicwashing? Influência do Selo Certificador Oficial Orgânico no Comportamento do Consumidor
Authors: Andreoli Tais Pasquotto , Kano Melissa Miyuki , Silva Patrícia Cardoso 
Published: January 2024

O trabalho teve como objetivo verificar e comparar a influência da exposição do selo certificador verde oficial orgânico no comportamento do consumidor em relação a esses produtos e à prática de adoção de selos verdes. Para tanto, foi elaborado um referencial teórico sobre a alimentação orgânica e o mercado orgânico, especificando-se na rotulagem ambiental, com os selos certificadores verdes, atrelada à perspectiva de capacidade de influência no comportamento do consumidor, inclusive frente ao contexto de crescente prática de greenwashing (ou, neste caso, mais especificamente, organicwashing). Adotou-se uma abordagem hipotético-dedutiva, realizada por meio de dois experimentos online, em etapas subsequentes: uma fase preliminar exploratória (n=20) com monitoramento ocular (eyetracker), seguido da fase explicativa (n=91) com coleta de dados e análise quantitativa. Em ambos os casos, foram comparados dois diferentes selos verdes expostos em um mesmo produto alimentício: o selo oficial orgânico versus um selo fictício (denominado natural), caracterizando o greenwashing/organicwashing. Com isso, foi possível visualizar a influência dos selos certificadores verdes no comportamento do consumidor, atestando a credibilidade do selo oficial orgânico, tendo em vista sua capacidade de agregação de valor. Apesar disso, também se evidenciou aqui os pontos limitantes do mercado orgânico, como a falta de informação e desconhecimento por parte do consumidor, assim como a apreciação negativa quanto ao preço elevado dos produtos.
Benefit–cost analysis of a low-impact development design
Authors: Hidayah Entin , Widiarti Wiwik Yunarni , Wiyono Retno Utami Agung , Dermawan Very , Fadhilah Dea , Tahir Wardah 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
The urban development increase in the built-up areas leads to more impervious areas with the consequence of larger runoff. Undeniably, this excess water has many benefits. Low-impact development (LID) is one of the innovations to conserve wasted runoff water. The two LID scenarios (water storage – WS; infiltration – I) under different rainfall depths (20, 25, 30, 35 mm) are assessed using Storm Water Management Model (SWMM) and analyzed based on their benefit–cost. This study aims to evaluate the hydrological performance and the benefit–cost ratio to identify the optimal LID design. The benefit calculation is not only projected by runoff reduction aspects, but also the other opportunities aspects. Based on the hydrological performance, scenario I shows a higher runoff reduction performance than scenario WS. Based on the benefits aspects studied, scenario I provides greater benefits with more cost than the WS scenario. Rainfall depth influenced the life cycle cost with 20-mm WS scenario experiencing faster payback period than other scenarios.
Home-Based Cognitive Intervention for Healthy Older Adults Through Asking Robots Questions: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Tokunaga Seiki , Sekiguchi Takuya , Watanabe Miura Kumi , Sugimoto Hikaru , S Abe Masato , Tamura Kazuhiro , Kishimoto Taishiro , Kudo Takashi , Otake-Matsuura Mihoko 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background
Asking questions is common in conversations, and while asking questions, we need to listen carefully to what others say and consider the perspective our questions adopt. However, difficulties persist in verifying the effect of asking questions on older adults’ cognitive function due to the lack of a standardized system for conducting experiments at participants’ homes.

Objective
This study examined the intervention effect of cognitive training moderated by robots on healthy older adults. A focus on the feasibility of the intervention at participants’ homes was also maintained. Feasibility was evaluated by considering both the dropout rate during the intervention and the number of questions posed to each participant during the experiment.

Methods
We conducted a randomized controlled trial with 81 adults older than 65 years. Participants were recruited through postal invitations and then randomized into 2 groups. The intervention group (n=40) received sessions where participants listened to photo-integrated stories and posed questions to the robots. The control group (n=41) received sessions where participants listened to photo-integrated stories and only thanked the robots for confirming participation. The participants participated in 12 dialogue sessions for 2-3 weeks. Scores of global cognitive functioning tests, recall tests, and verbal fluency tasks measured before and after the intervention were compared between the 2 groups.

Results
There was no significant intervention effect on the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status-Japanese scores, recall tests, and verbal fluency tasks. Additionally, our study successfully concluded with no participant dropouts at follow-up, confirming the feasibility of our approach.

Conclusions
There was no statistically significant evidence indicating intervention benefits for cognitive functioning. Although the feasibility of home-based interventions was demonstrated, we identified areas for improvement in the future, such as setting up more efficient session themes. Further research is required to identify the effectiveness of an improved cognitive intervention involving the act of asking questions.
Philological study programs in the digital age: A comprehensive analysis of Moodle integration and utilization
Authors: Horváthová Božena 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Learning Management System (LMS) Moodle (Modular Object-Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment) is used by educators and institutions around the world and is an effective solution for creating and delivering engaging online courses. Moodle has also gained popularity in universities across Slovakia which have adopted it as their preferred Learning Management System for managing and providing e-learning content. The use of Moodle courses in university education in Slovakia has several benefits, including increased access to education for students, improved engagement and interaction between students and instructors, and greater flexibility for students in terms of when and where they can complete coursework. The paper aims to investigate the integration of this learning/content management system in the area of philology (linguistics/applied linguistics, translation, culture, literature, didactics) by analysing Moodle courses offered by the Department of English Language and Literature at Trnava University’s Faculty of Education. The study analyses existing Moodle courses from multiple perspectives to identify digital service advancements in philological study programs, including teacher and non-teacher training programs. The study examines various features of Moodle courses, including the number of courses offered, the subjects covered, course structure, learning materials employed, methods of assessment and feedback, communication and collaboration tools utilised, and integration of online and multimedia resources. The paper presents the essential findings and provides insights into the current situation. Identifying gaps in the existing state and suggesting areas for further research, aims to advance understanding in the field.
Pengaruh modal kerja dan akses pendanaan terhadap kinerja UMKM di Kecamatan Prambanan Kabupaten Klaten
Authors: Putri Aicintya Christy Susila , Setyawan Ignatius Roni 
Published: January 2024

This research uses a survey method to determine how the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) working on financial management practices, which consists of working capital and access to funding on the performance of MSMEs and how the practices influence the work of MSMEs in Prambanan District, Klaten Regency. The working capital and the access to funding are independent variables, while the MSME performance is the dependent variable. This research involved micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) located in Prambanan District, Klaten Regency. Sampling used a non-probability sampling method with purposive sampling. To test validity, the Convergent Validity and Discriminant Validity values ​​are used, while to test reliability, the Composite Reliability and Cronbach’s Alpha values ​​are used. This research uses Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) and SmartPLS 4.0. The results of this research show that the variables of working capital and access to funding have a positive and significant effect on performance (MSMEs) in Prambanan District, Klaten Regency.
Penelitian ini menggunakan metode survei untuk mengetahui bagaimana UMKM melakukan praktik manajemen keuangan yang terdiri dari modal kerja dan akses pendanaan dan bagaimana praktik tersebut memengaruhi kinerja UMKM di Kecamatan Prambanan, Kabupaten Klaten. Modal kerja dan akses pendanaan merupakan variabel independen, sedangkan kinerja UMKM merupakan variabel dependennya. Penelitian ini melibatkan pelaku usaha mikro, kecil, dan menengah (UMKM) yang berlokasi di Kecamatan Prambanan, Kabupaten Klaten. Pengambilan sampel menggunakan metode non-probability sampling dengan purposive sampling. Untuk menguji validitas, digunakan nilai Convergent Validity dan Discriminant Validity, sedangkan untuk menguji reliabilitas, digunakan nilai Composite Reliability dan Cronbach’s Alpha. Penelitian ini menggunakan Structural Equation Modelling (SEM), dan SmartPLS 4.0. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa variabel modal kerja dan akses pendanaan berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap kinerja UMKM di Kecamatan Prambanan, Kabupaten Klaten.