bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Novel model prediction time-to-event analysis: data validation and estimation of 200 million cases in the global COVID-19 epidemic
Authors: Rezania Ali , Ghorbani Elaheh , Hassanian-Moghaddam Davood , Faeghi Farnaz , Hassanian-Moghaddam Hossein 
Published: January 2023

ObjectivesAssessment of recuperation and death times of a population inflicted by an epidemic has only been feasible through studying a sample of individuals via time-to-event analysis, which requires identified participants. Therefore, we aimed to introduce an original model to estimate the average recovery/death times of infected population of contagious diseases without the need to undertake survival analysis and just through the data of unidentified infected, recovered and dead cases.DesignCross-sectional study.SettingAn internet source that asserted from official sources of each government. The model includes two techniques—curve fitting and optimisation problems. First, in the curve fitting process, the data of the three classes are simultaneously fitted to functions with defined constraints to derive the average times. In the optimisation problems, data are directly fed to the technique to achieve the average times. Further, the model is applied to the available data of COVID-19 of 200 million people throughout the globe.ResultsThe average times obtained by the two techniques indicated conformity with one another showing p values of 0.69, 0.51, 0.48 and 0.13 with one, two, three and four surges in our timespan, respectively. Two types of irregularity are detectable in the data, significant difference between the infected population and the sum of the recovered and deceased population (discrepancy) and abrupt increase in the cumulative distributions (step). Two indices, discrepancy index (DI) and error of fit index (EI), are developed to quantify these irregularities and correlate them with the conformity of the time averages obtained by the two techniques. The correlations between DI and EI and the quantified conformity of the results were −0.74 and −0.93, respectively.ConclusionThe results of statistical analyses point out that the proposed model is suitable to estimate the average times between recovery and death.
Barriers to COVID-19 vaccine acceptance to improve messages for vaccine uptake in indigenous populations in the central highlands of Guatemala: a participatory qualitative study
Authors: Skinner Nadine Ann , Sanders Kelly , Lopez Emily , Sotz Mux Magda Silvia , Abascal Miguel Lucía , Vosburg Kathryn B , Johnston Jamie , Diamond-Smith Nadia , Kraemer Diaz Anne 
Published: January 2023

IntroductionAs of July 2022, a little over one-third of Guatemalans were fully vaccinated. While COVID-19 vaccination rates are not officially reported nationally by racial/ethnic groups, non-governmental organisations and reporters have observed that COVID-19 vaccination rates are especially low among high-risk Indigenous populations. We conducted one of the first studies on COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in Indigenous populations in the Central Highlands of Guatemala, which aimed to better understand the barriers to COVID-19 vaccine uptake and how to improve vaccine promotional campaigns.MethodsIn November 2021, we conducted eight focus group discussions (FGDs) with 42 Indigenous men and women and 16 in-depth interviews (IDIs) with community health workers, nurses and physicians in Chimaltenango and Sololá. Using a participatory design approach, our qualitative analysis used constant comparative methods to understand the inductive and deductive themes from the FGD and IDI transcripts.ResultsWe found three major overarching barriers to vaccination within the sampled population: (1) a lack of available easily understandable, linguistically appropriate and culturally sensitive COVID-19 vaccine information; (2) vaccine access and supply issues that prevented people from being vaccinated efficiently and quickly; and (3) widespread misinformation and disinformation that prey on people’s fears of the unknown and mistrust of the medical establishment and government.ConclusionWhen developing COVID-19 vaccine messages, content should be culturally relevant, appropriate for low-literacy populations and in the languages that people prefer to speak. Promotional materials should be in multiple modalities (print, radio and social media) and also have specific Maya cultural references (dress, food and concepts of disease) to ensure messaging connects with intended targets. This study supports the need for more robust research into best practices for communicating about COVID-19 vaccines to marginalised communities globally and suggests that policy makers should invest in targeted local solutions to increase vaccine uptake.
Early urine output monitoring in very preterm infants to predict in-hospital neonatal outcomes: a bicentric retrospective cohort study
Authors: De Mul Aurélie , Heneau Alice , Biran Valérie , Wilhelm-Bals Alexandra , Parvex Paloma , Poncet Antoine , Saint-Faust Marie , Baud Olivier 
Published: January 2023

ObjectiveTo evaluate whether urine output (UO), rarely assessed in the literature, is associated with relevant neonatal outcomes in very preterm infants, and which UO threshold may be the most clinically relevant.DesignRetrospective cohort study.SettingTwo Level IV neonatal intensive care units.PatientsVery preterm infants born between 240/7and 296/7weeks of gestation documented with eight UO measurements per day between postnatal day 1 and day 7.Main outcome measuresComposite outcome defined as death before discharge, or moderate to severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia, or severe brain lesions. The association between this outcome and UO was studied using several UO thresholds.ResultsAmong 532 infants studied, UO <1.0 mL/kg/hour for at least 24 consecutive hours was measured in 55/532 (10%) infants and the primary outcome was recorded in 25 patients. The association between a UO threshold <1.0 mL/kg/hour and the primary outcome was found marginally significant (crude OR 1.80, 95% CI 1.02 to 3.16, p=0.04). The primary outcome was recorded in 112/242 (46%) patients with a UO <2.0 mL/kg/hour and only 64/290 (22%) patients with a UO ≥2.0 mL/kg/hour (p<0.001). This UO threshold was found significantly associated with the primary outcome (crude OR 3.1, 95% CI 2.1 to 4.7, p<0.001), an association confirmed using a multivariate logistic regression model including baseline covariates (adjusted OR 3.7, 95% CI 2.2 to 6.4, p<0.001).ConclusionA UO <2 mL/kg/hour over 24 hours between postnatal day 1 and day 7 strongly predicts neonatal mortality or severe morbidities in very preterm infants.
The value of extended short-term medical training placements in smaller rural and remote locations on future work location: a cohort study
Authors: McGrail Matthew R , Nasir Bushra F , Chater Alan Bruce , Sangelaji Bahram , Kondalsamy-Chennakesavan Srinivas 
Published: January 2023

ObjectivesTo investigate the effects of extended short-term medical training placements in small rural and remote communities on postgraduate work location.Design and settingCohort study of medical graduates of The University of Queensland, Australia.ParticipantsGraduating medical students from 2012 to 2021 who undertook a minimum of 6 weeks training in a small rural or remote location. Some participants additionally undertook either or both an extended short-term (12-week) placement in a small rural or remote location and a long-term (1 or 2 years) placement in a large regional centre.Primary outcome measureWork location was collected from the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency in 2022, classified as either rural, regional or metropolitan and measured in association with rural placement type(s).ResultsFrom 2806 eligible graduates, those participating in extended small rural placements (n=106, 3.8%) were associated with practising rurally or regionally postgraduation (42.5% vs 19.9%; OR: 2.2, 95% CI: 1.1 to 4.6), for both those of rural origin (50% vs 30%; OR: 4.9, 95% CI: 2.6 to 9.2) or metropolitan origin (36% vs 17%; OR: 2.8, 95% CI: 1.7 to 4.8). Those undertaking both an extended small rural placement and 2 years regional training were most likely to be practising in a rural or regional location (61% vs 16%; OR: 8.6, 95% CI: 4.5 to 16.3). Extended small rural placements were associated with practising in smaller rural or remote locations in later years (15% vs 6%, OR: 2.7, 95% CI: 1.3 to 5.3).ConclusionThis work location outcome evidence supports investment in rural medical training that is both located in smaller rural and remote settings and enables extended exposure with rural generalists. The evaluated 12-week programme positively related to rural workforce outcomes when applied alone. Outcomes greatly strengthened when the 12-week programme was combined with a 2-year regional centre training programme, compared with either alone. These effects were independent of rural origin.
Quality and process improvement of the multidisciplinary Heart Team meeting using Lean Six Sigma
Authors: Hoefsmit Paulien C , Schretlen Stijn , Does Ronald J M M , Verouden Niels J , Zandbergen H Reinier 
Published: January 2023

IntroductionThe Heart Team is a multidisciplinary meeting for shared decision-making in cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery. A quality improvement project to optimise the Heart Team was initiated after the merger of the cardiac centres of Amsterdam University Medical Centre.MethodsLean Six Sigma was applied with the purpose of improving efficiency and quality of care. Qualitative and quantitative analyses supported the multidisciplinary team during quality improvement sessions. Lean Six Sigma tools included process mapping, gemba walks, root cause analysis, line balancing, first time right, standardised work and poka-yoke.InterventionsSeven areas of improvement were introduced. Key elements were the improvement of the patient referral process, introduction of a structured agenda, task division and balanced planning of patients, better exchange of information, improved availability of diagnostics and supportive tools and information technology. Work agreements were introduced to support a positive work culture and mutual respect.ResultsLean Six Sigma designed an optimised Heart Team to improve efficiency by better resource utilisation, first time right decision-making, patient selection, complete and better access to information and elimination of waste. It leads to higher quality of decision-making by involving physicians in a more structured preparation, attendance of an imaging cardiologist, meeting duration within limits, installation of standard operating procedures, increased involvement of the referring cardiologists and a better engaged team.ConclusionsHeart Teams are essential to make evidence-based, patient-centred treatment plans for optimal patient outcomes. However, clinical practice and experience showed that it is challenging to have an efficient and effective discussion with complete patient information and to bring together healthcare professionals. The application of Lean Six Sigma resulted in an optimised Heart Team and created a best practice design for patient-centred, evidence-based decision-making. After implementation and process stability, a postintervention analysis could clarify long-term success and sustainability.
Promotion of physical activity-related health competence using digital workplace-based health promotion: protocol for a controlled before-and-after study
Authors: Oppermann Leonard , Dierks Marie-Luise 
Published: January 2023

Physical activity (PA) has a high potential to prevent chronic diseases. At the same time, many people in Germany do not achieve PA recommendations due to trends such as digitalisation and the COVID-19 pandemic and, as a result, working from home. There is a need for location-independent and time-independent interventions.Based on the model of physical activity-related health competence (PAHCO), a study design was developed for a digitally conducted, controlled, before-and-after-study targeting office workers. The intervention group receives video-based instructions with exercises that can be performed directly at the desk, complemented by anatomical explanations and advice on PA based on the PAHCO model. The control group only receives the exercises. The intervention period is 5 weeks. Follow-up is conducted after 3 months. The trial shall comprise 294 participants per group whose PA is recorded via questionnaire and online PA diary. Their PAHCO and health-related quality of life are also assessed.The present study aims to increase the health-enhancing PA of office workers independent of time and location. Trial registration number is DRKS00028053.
‘My people perish for lack of knowledge’: barriers and facilitators to integrated HIV and hypertension screening at the Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Wamuti Beatrice , Owuor Mercy , Magambo Christine , Ndegwa Margaret , Sambai Betsy , Temu Tecla M , Farquhar Carey , Bukusi David 
Published: January 2023

IntroductionHIV and cardiovascular disease (CVD) are the two main causes of death in Kenya with hypertension as CVD’s leading risk factor and HIV infection a risk factor for hypertension. We qualitatively evaluated the feasibility of integrated HIV and hypertension screening at Kenyatta National Hospital.MethodsWe conducted two focus group discussions (FGDs) in November 2020 (female FGD: n=7; male FGD: n=8) to elicit facilitators, barriers and viability of integrated diagnosis and management of both conditions at HIV testing service (HTS) facilities. Participants were selected using convenience sampling and were not pair matched. All participants had received HTS. All female clients had confirmed hypertension, while male relatives had been contacted for HIV and hypertension screening through a modified assisted partner services model—where a trained healthcare provider supports notification. Transcripts were coded independently, and the codebook was developed and revised through consensus discussion. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis.ResultsMain barriers to diagnosis and management included limited public awareness of hypertension risk factors and on improved treatment outcomes for those on lifelong HIV treatment, high cost of hypertension care despite free HIV care and healthcare system challenges especially medication stockouts. Strong support systems at family and healthcare levels facilitated care and treatment for both conditions. Participants recommended improved public awareness through individual-level communication and mass media campaigns, decentralised screening services for both HIV and hypertension, and either free or subsidised hypertension care services delivered alongside HIV treatment services. Most felt that an integrated HIV and hypertension service model was viable and would improve healthcare outcomes.ConclusionPatient-centred care models combining HIV and hypertension services hold promise for integrated service delivery.
Ultrasound assessment of degenerative muscle sarcopenia: the University of Barcelona ultrasound scoring system for sarcopenia
Authors: Möller Parera Ingrid , Miguel Maribel , Blasi Joan , Piccasso Riccardo , Hammer Hilde Berner , Ortiz-Sagrista Juan , Zaottini Federico , Martinoli Carlo , Terslev Lene 
Published: January 2023

AimThis study aimed to (1) determine the intraobserver and interobserver reliability of ultrasonographic measurement of muscle thickness (MT) and cross-sectional area (CSA) of the rectus femoris and biceps brachii, correlating these values with manual measurements on dissected cadavers and (2) develop the first semiquantitative musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS) scoring system of muscle morphology in sarcopenia and assess its intraobserver and interobserver reliability. In addition, the MSUS morphology score was compared with the corresponding histological images to verify concurrent validity.MethodsTen cryopreserved limbs of 10 cadavers aged 68–91 years were evaluated. The MSUS scoring system was based on the severity of muscle degeneration on a 3-point qualitative scale: grade 1 (normal), grade 2 (moderate changes) and grade 3 (severe changes). Reliability was assessed with intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for the MT and CSA and with Cohen’s kappa coefficients (κ) for the MSUS scoring system. Concurrent validity was analysed with ICC.ResultsThe results showed excellent intraobserver and interobserver reliability for both the MSUS evaluation of MT and CSA (ICC ≥0.93). The MSUS scoring system showed excellent intraobserver reliability (κ=1.0) and very good interobserver reliability (κ=0.85). There was also a high intra- and inter-observer reliability for the histological scorings (ĸ ≥0.85 and mean ĸ=0.70, respectively), as well as high reliability between the histology and MSUS scoring systems (ICC=0.92). All results were statistically significant (p≤0.001).ConclusionMSUS measures of MT and CSA and the novel MSUS scoring system for degenerative muscle changes in sarcopenia was found to be reliable and strongly associated with histological findings.
Holographic model for light quarks in anisotropic hot dense QGP with external magnetic field
Authors: Aref’eva Irina Ya. , Ermakov Alexey , Rannu Kristina , Slepov Pavel 
Published: January 2023

AbstractWe present a five-dimensional twice anisotropic holographic model supported by Einstein-dilaton-three-Maxwell action describing light quarks. The first of the Maxwell fields provides finite chemical potential. The second Maxwell field serves for anisotropy, characterizing spatial anisotropy of the QGP produced in heavy-ion collisions (HIC). The third Maxwell field is related to a magnetic field that appears in HIC. The dependence of the 5-dim black hole solution and confinement/deconfinement phase diagram on this magnetic field is considered. The effect of the inverse magnetic catalyses for light quarks phase diagram is obtained. Positions of critical end points are found. We also study the behavior of the conductivity for light quarks in both isotropic and anisotropic cases and show that behaviour of the conductivity near critical points essentially depend on quark masses, meanwhile at high temperature they are similar.
Finite-distance gravitational deflection of massive particles by a rotating black hole in loop quantum gravity
Authors: Huang Yang , Cao Zhoujian 
Published: January 2023

AbstractA rotating black hole in loop quantum gravity was constructed by Brahma, Chen, and Yeom based on a nonrotating counterpart using the revised Newman–Janis algorithm recently. For such spacetime, we investigate the weak gravitational deflection of massive particles to explore observational effects of the quantum correction. The purpose of this article is twofold. First, for Gibbons–Werner (GW) method, a geometric approach computing the deflection angle of particles in curved spacetimes, we refine its calculation and obtain a simplified formula. Second, by using GW method and our new formula, we work out the finite-distance weak deflection angle of massive particles for the rotating black hole in loop quantum gravity obtained by Brahma et al. An analysis to our result reveals the repulsive effect of the quantum correction to particles. What’s more, an observational constraint on the quantum parameter is obtained in solar system.
Compressed air energy storage (CAES): current status, geomechanical aspects and future opportunities
Authors: Kim Seunghee , Dusseault Maurice , Babarinde Oladipupo , Wickens John 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
A compressed air energy storage (CAES) facility provides value by supporting the reliability of the energy grid through its ability to repeatedly store and dispatch energy on demand. Two main advantages of CAES are its ability to provide grid-scale energy storage and its utilization of compressed air, which yields a low environmental burden, being neither toxic nor flammable. The focus of this review paper is to deliver a general overview of current CAES technology (diabatic, adiabatic and isothermal CAES), storage requirements, site selection and design constraints. We discuss underground storage options suitable for CAES, including submerged bladders, underground mines, salt caverns, porous aquifers, depleted reservoirs, cased wellbores and surface pressure vessels. A geomechanical perspective is provided regarding the pressure limits for these options. The impacts of cyclic injection and withdrawal of compressed air, and the importance of caprock assessments with porous rock CAES, are also discussed. In addition, we provide an overview of the large-scale CAES facilities that are currently active or under development and a cost comparison of the diabatic, adiabatic and isothermal CAES options. Lastly, we outline major challenges and future opportunities for CAES and the top priorities for research, industry and stakeholders.
Experiential Challenges of and Opportunities for Applying Immersive Technologies with Storytelling
Authors: Kukshinov Eugene 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
This paper discusses boundaries of immersive technologies applied for storytelling by exploring the experiential differences between sensory/technological and mental/narrative immersions as distinct cognitive states. While storytelling, as a reproduction of narratives, can be immersive in itself, the way immersive technologies are afforded by users can be better described in terms of the sense of presence. Understanding differences between immersions is necessary because sensory and mental immersions can contradict each other as they rely on different sides of cognition to gain experiences. Their differentiation can help to better incorporate storytelling with immersive technologies or virtual simulations, as well as to study its effects (e.g., in terms of empathy) and factors that contribute to it.
IMPROVER: The New Probabilistic Postprocessing System at the Met Office
Authors: Roberts Nigel , Ayliffe Benjamin , Evans Gavin , Moseley Stephen , Rust Fiona , Sandford Caroline , Trzeciak Tomasz , Abernethy Paul , Beard Laurence , Crosswaite Neil , Fitzpatrick Ben , Flowerdew Jonathan , Gale Tom , Holly Leigh , Hopkinson Aaron , Hurst Katharine , Jackson Simon , Jones Caroline , Mylne Ken , Sampson Christopher , Sharpe Michael , Wright Bruce , Backhouse Simon , Baker Mark , Brierley Daniel , Booton Anna , Bysouth Clare , Coulson Robert , Coultas Sean , Crocker Ric , Harbord Roger , Howard Kathryn , Hughes Teresa , Mittermaier Marion , Petch Jon , Pillinger Tim , Smart Victoria , Smith Eleanor , Worsfold Mark 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
The Met Office in the United Kingdom has developed a completely new probabilistic postprocessing system called IMPROVER to operate on outputs from its operational numerical weather prediction (NWP) forecasts and precipitation nowcasts. The aim is to improve weather forecast information to the public and other stakeholders while better exploiting the current and future generations of underpinning kilometer-scale NWP ensembles. We wish to provide seamless forecasts from nowcasting to medium range, provide consistency between gridded and site-specific forecasts, and be able to verify every stage of the processing. The software is written in a modern modular framework that is easy to maintain, develop, and share. IMPROVER allows forecast information to be provided with greater spatial and temporal detail and a faster update frequency than previous postprocessing. Independent probabilistic processing chains are constructed for each meteorological variable consisting of a series of processing stages that operate on predefined grids and blend outputs from several NWP inputs to give a frequently updated, probabilistic forecast solution. Probabilistic information is produced as standard, with the option of extracting a most likely or yes–no outcome if required. Verification can be performed at all stages, although it is only currently switched on for the most significant stages when run in real time. IMPROVER has been producing real-time output since March 2021 and became operational in spring 2022.