bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Spatial temporal analysis of the mangrove forest using the google earth engine cloud computing platform for Pichavaram, South East Coast of India
Authors: Rajendiren Nagarajan , Ram Sree , Vaithalingam Selvam , Shanmugam Punitha , Ramasamy Ramasubramanian , Suresh Madha 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Coastal mangrove wetlands are constantly under pressure from increasing populations, rising sea levels, and other climate change impacts. Globally, mangrove cover has decreased by about 5,245 sq. km since 1996. However, quantifying mangroves is challenging due to the difficult terrain, and it can be time-consuming and costly. Fortunately, recent advances in remote sensing technology and machine learning algorithms enable managers to quickly and accurately quantify mangroves.The objective of this study is to use the Google Earth Engine (GEE) cloud computing facility and five decades of Landsat images to quantify mangroves. This study utilized the extensive Landsat archive images available through cloud computing facilities. The random forest classifier was used to classify satellite images for better accuracy. The study reveals that mangroves in Pichavaram Reserve Forest have increased by 104% from 1977 to 2021. It demonstrates that the massive dataset was processed quickly, efficiently, and cost-effectively on the GEE cloud platform without the need for sophisticated software or hardware
Prevalence and incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus in patients with adrenal incidentalomas: A study of 709 cases
Authors: BROX-TORRECILLA NOEMI , Cano Ana M. García , Herrero Pablo Valderrábano , Tobar Alejandra Quintero , Morreale Héctor Francisco Escobar , Araujo-Castro Marta 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Aim To evaluate the prevalence and incidence of type 2 diabetes in patients with nonfunctioning adrenal incidentalomas (NFAI) or adrenal incidentalomas (AI) with autonomous cortisol secretion (ACS).Methods In this single-center retrospective study, all patients with adrenal incidentalomas ≥ 1cm and ACS or NFAI studied between 2013–2020 were included. ACS was defined by a post-dexamethasone suppression test (DST) serum cortisol concentration ≥ 1.8µg/dl, in the absence of signs of hypercortisolism, and NFAI was defined as a DST < 1.8µg/dl without biochemical evidence of hypersecretion of other hormones.Results Inclusion criteria were met by 231 patients with ACS and 478 with NFAI. At diagnosis, type 2 diabetes was present in 24.3% of patients. No differences were found in the prevalence of diabetes (27.7% vs. 22.6%, P = 0.137) between patients with ACS and NFAI. However, fasting plasma glucose values and glycated haemoglobin levels were significantly higher in patients with ACS than with NFAI (112 ± 35.6 vs 105 ± 29mg/dl, P = 0.004; and 6.5 ± 1.4 vs. 6.1 ± 0.9%, P = 0.005, respectively). Furthermore, patients with type 2 diabetes had higher urinary free cortisol (P = 0.039) and late-night salivary cortisol levels (P = 0.010) than those without type 2 diabetes. After a median follow-up of 28 months, no differences were found in the incidence of diabetes between the groups (HR 1.17, 95% 0.52–2.64).Conclusion Type 2 diabetes was present in one fourth of our cohort. We found no differences in its prevalence or incidence between the groups. However, glycemic control might be worse among diabetic patients with ACS. Higher concentrations of urinary and salivary cortisol were found in patients with than without type 2 diabetes.
Use of light-weight foaming polylactic acid as a lung-equivalent material in 3D printed phantoms
Authors: Crowe Scott B , Maxwell Sarah K , Brar Harsimran , Yu Liting , Kairn Tanya 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
The 3D printing of lung-equivalent phantoms using conventional polylactic acid (PLA) filaments requires the use of low in-fill printing densities, which can produce substantial density heterogeneities from the air gaps within the resulting prints. Light-weight foaming PLA filaments produce microscopic air bubbles when heated to 3D printing temperatures. In this study, the expansion of foaming PLA filament was characterised for two 3D printers with different nozzle diameters, in order to optimise the printing flow rates required to achieve a low density print when printed at 100% in-fill printing density, without noticeable internal air gaps. Effective densities as low as 0.28 g cm− 3 where shown to be achievable with only microscopic air gaps. Light-weight foaming PLA filaments are a cost-effective method for achieving homogeneous lung-equivalency in 3D printed phantoms for use in radiotherapy imaging and dosimetry, featuring smaller air gaps than required to achieve low densities with conventional PLA filaments.
Deconcentration to improve regulation in low- and middle-income country health systems: Findings from research on regulation for doctors, nurses and midwives in Kenya and Uganda
Authors: McGivern Gerry , Wafula Francis , Seruwagi Gloria , Kiefer Tina , Musiega Anita , Nakidde Catherine , Ogira Dosila , Gill Mike , English Mike 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Background: Regulating health professionals in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) is a key challenge. While holding potential to improve professional practice and patient care, regulation is often weakly implemented and enforced across LMIC health systems, allowing poor practices to continue. Therefore, there is need to understand how regulation can be improved across resource constrained LMIC health systems.
Methods: We conducted mixed-methods research on health professional regulation in Uganda and Kenya (2019-2021), using qualitative interviews with national regulatory stakeholders, sub-national regulatory actors, ‘frontline’ doctors and nurses/midwives, and a bi-national survey.
Results: Due to resource constraints, Kenyan and Ugandan regulators were generally perceived to be ‘remote’ and ‘out of touch’ with ‘frontline’ professionals. Weak regulation was blamed for failing to address widespread malpractice and inadequate standards of health professional training. However, doctors and nurses/midwives were positive about online licencing and regulation where they had relationships with accessible regulators.
Conclusion: We propose an ambidextrous approach to regulatory improvement in resource constrained LMIC health systems; simultaneously deconcentrating regulatory monitoring and support to local level, to address frontline problems, while funding this using efficiency savings from developing and streamlining online regulatory administration.
Encouraging visual outcomes in children with idiopathic and JIA associated uveitis: a population-based study
Authors: Siiskonen Mira , Hirn Iida , Pesala Roosa , Ohtonen Pasi , Hautala Nina 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Background: Pediatric uveitis is typically asymptomatic and may become chronic affecting ocular structures and vision. We evaluated clinical features and visual outcomes in children with either idiopathic uveitis (IU) or juvenile idiopathic arthritis associated uveitis (JIA-U). The effect of medication on uveitis activity is also analyzed.
Methods:A retrospective, population-based cohort study of children with uveitis in 2008-2017. The data included parameters for age, gender, age at diagnosis, laterality, chronicity, anatomical distribution, etiology, systemic association, uveitis activity, medication, and visual outcomes.
Results: A total of 119 patients aged <16 years with uveitis were included. Uveitis was IU in 23% and associated with JIA in 77% of cases. 37% of the patients in IU group and 65% in the JIA-U were girls (p=0.014). The mean age at first uveitis was 10.0 (SD 3.4) years in IU and 5.5 (SD 3.3) years in JIA-U (p<0.001). Anterior location of uveitis was noted in 74% in IU and 99% in JIA-U (p<0.001). Mostly, uveitis was chronic (59% in IU and 75% in JIA-U) and bilateral (56% in IU and 64% in JIA-U).
Topical corticosteroids were used by 89% and 100%, systemic corticosteroids by 30% and 27%, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) by 33% and 85% (p<0.001) of the patients in IU and JIA-U, respectively. Biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) were more common in JIA-U (55% vs. 15% in IU, respectively, p<0.001).
Most of the patients had long-term bilateral and worse eye Snellen visual actuity >0.8 (84% and 70%, respectively). Only 5 patients (4%) had visual impairment in one, but none in both eyes. Uveitis activity by SUN classification was 0+ in 59% and 58%, 0.5+ in 37% and 28%, and 1+ in 4% and 14% in the IU and JIA-U, respectively (p=0.014). 92% of the patients treated with DMARDs and bDMARDs and with 1+ uveitis activity was in the JIA-U group.
Conclusions: Children with uveitis have good visual acuity and a low rate for visual impairment. In addition, modern treatment with DMARDs and biologic therapy seems to save vision.
A Structured Telephone Interview for collecting Geriatric health domains in Older People with HIV during COVID era
Authors: Ferrara Micol , Milic Jovana , Belli Michela , Venuta Maria , Micai Luca , Arsuffi Stefania , Minisci Davide , Fumarola Benedetta , Bonora Stefano , Focà Emanuele , Guaraldi Giovanni , Calcagno Andrea 
Published: April 2023

Abstract

Background
Elderly people living with HIV show a significant prevalence of multimorbidity, polypharmacy and frailty that increase the risk of disability. Telehealth has been suggested as a new tool to monitor people living with HIV in the COVID era, but its effectiveness in elderly is unknown. The aim of this study was two-fold: to explore feasibility of a telephone interview and its capability to collect relevant geriatric outcomes.
Methods
Assessed health domains included comorbidities, falls, urinary incontinence, antiretroviral drugs exposure and comedications (polypharmacy), and the following patient reported outcomes: quality of life, intrinsic capacity, and resilience.
Results
214 (70.6%) answered and completed the interview. During confinement period, 57 (26.7%) of people switched antiretroviral therapy : 119 (55.4%) to dual therapy regimens and 95 (44.6%) to triple regimens. Prevalence of geriatric syndromes were falls in 31 cases (14.7%), urinary incontinence in 48 cases (22.7%) and polypharmacy 122 cases (57.2%). Mean Health-related Quality of Life score was mildly impaired (0,88%) with good concordance of Helath-related Quality of Life self-perception in a visual analogue scale (8/10) (r=+0.348; p <0.01). Intrinsic capacity depicted impaired functional ability in multiple domains (0.737 ) and Resilience (CD-RISC) was suboptimal (0.6).
Conclusions
A structured telephone call was feasible in elderly people living with HIV and allowed to collect clinically meaningful geriatric health domains when face-to-face visits are not needed or discouraged.
Hybrid parameters for fluid identification using an improved quantum neural network in a tight reservoir
Authors: Luo Dejiang , Liang Yuan , Yang Yuanjun , Wang Xingyue 
Published: April 2023

Abstract

This paper proposes a fluid classifier for a tight reservoir using a quantum neural network (QNN). It is difficult to identify the fluid in tight reservoirs, and the manual interpretation of logging data, which is an important means to identify the fluid properties, has the disadvantages of a low recognition rate and non-intelligence, and an intelligent algorithm can better identify the fluid. For tight reservoirs, the logging response characteristics of different fluid properties and the sensitivity and relevance of well log parameter and rock physics parameters to fluid identification are analyzed, and different sets of input parameters for fluid identification are constructed. On the basis of quantum neural networks, a new method for combining sample quantum state descriptions, sensitivity analysis of input parameters, and wavelet activation functions for optimization is proposed. The results of identifying the dry layer, gas layer, and gas-water co-layer in the tight reservoir in the Sichuan Basin of China show that different input parameters and activation functions affect recognition performance. The proposed quantum neural network based on hybrid parameters and a wavelet activation function has higher fluid identification accuracy than the original quantum neural network model, indicating that this method is effective and warrants promotion and application.
Emergency Cervical Cerclage for Women with Cervical Dilatation after Laparoscopic Abdominal Cerclage: A case series report
Authors: Deng Songqing , Liang Yanchun , Wei Yajing , Wang Zi-lian , Shang Jianhong , Yao Shuzhong 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Background: The aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility and safety of emergency cervical cerclage (ECC) for women with cervical dilatation after laparoscopic abdominal cerclage (LAC) in second trimester.
Methods：Between October 2016 and May 2020 nine women underwent ECC. All women had showed cervical dilation with and without exposed unruptured fetal membranes after LAC in the second trimester. Patients’ characteristics were obtained from hospital’s medical record and we evaluated the prolongation of pregnancy, surgical data, and perinatal outcome.
Results: ECC was performed at 15+2 to 25+0 weeks of gestations. The median interval from cerclage to delivery was 5.81 weeks. Six patients got live birth, and the media gestation age for delivery was 26.71 weeks (18+3–31+5). Rate of preterm birth at < 28 weeks of gestation was 5/9 (55.56%). Chorioamnionitis and premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) were the major complications after ECC, which were detected in seven and six women, respectively.
Conclusion: ECC might be an alternative approach to prolong pregnancy for women with cervical dilatation after LAC in the absence of bleeding, infection, or uterine activity. Randomized controlled trial should be conducted to determine whether these potential benefits outweigh the perinatal morbidity of ECC in this population.
Evaluation of Core Coordination Strategies and Concept of Operations implemented during activation of Public Health Emergency Operations Center for COVID-19 Response in Pakistan
Authors: Tahir Majid Ali , Khan Mumtaz Ali , Ikram Aamer , Chaudhry Tamoor Hamid , Amir Afreenish , Tahir Muhammad , Haq Ijaz ul , Salam Arslan , Wali Sidra , Munir Wasay , Salman Muhammad , Zaki Shahbaz Ahmad 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Background: Public health emergency management systems encountered difficulties in developing countries, especially in Pakistan. The COVID-19 pandemic was extremely challenging for different agencies, departments, and institutions in Pakistan. Public health emergency management depends on a well-established public health emergency operations center that could generate a coordinated response to escalated incidents. We conducted an assessment of public health emergency response and coordination implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic management at a strategic level in Pakistan.
Methods: This was mix-method study including qualitative and quantitative data collection processes implemented in 2022-23. Primary data was collected by using a structured questionnaire, and secondary data was collected by desk review. The agencies engaged in pandemic response at the national level in Pakistan were included in the assessment.
Results: The overall score of the emergency response coordination system during COVID-19 was 49% for all agencies. We found that agencies faced challenges in leadership, legislation, and financing issues during the pandemic response (44%). None of the agencies had a fully developed framework for joint planning and response system for health emergencies. Roles and responsibilities attached to designated agencies in response were relatively clear (55%) for most of the agencies.
Conclusion: An effective public health emergency response is based on multi-departmental coordination, resource mobilization, and correct information. Pakistan must proactively address these and other relevant challenges for future pandemic response.
Quantifying heat exposure reduction from adaptation and mitigation in 21st century US cities
Authors: Georgescu Matei , Broadbent Ashley , Krayenhoff Eric 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
The continued increase in the duration, frequency, and intensity of heat waves is especially problematic in cities, where more than half of the world’s population lives. We combine decadal scale regional climate modeling simulations with projections of urban expansion, emissions of greenhouse gases and population migration to examine the extent to which adaptation and mitigation strategies, in isolation and in tandem, can reduce population heat exposure across end-of-century US cities. We show that some cities respond more favorably to adaptation while others respond more favorably to mitigation. Our results indicate that the reduction in the number of extreme heat hours due to adaptation and mitigation varies during the daytime portion of the diurnal cycle but is largely independent of the hour of the day during nighttime. We emphasize the importance of adaptation and mitigation strategies through examination of their synergistic interaction to inform development of climate resilient urban development pathways.
Administration of bicarbonates through percutaneous gastrostomy with continuous nocturnal infusion in a patient with Kearns-Sayre disease: a life changing therapeutical paradigm
Authors: Traunero Arianna , Baldo Francesco , Magnolato Andrea , Leo Grazia Di , Barbi Egidio , Bruno Irene 
Published: April 2023

Abstract

Background Mitochondrial diseases (MDs) are systemic disorders that can affect multiple organs. Renal manifestations, including renal tubular acidosis, are common because kidneys are particularly vulnerable to energy deprivation. Treatment of MDs is often complex and electrolyte replacement can be difficult especially in pediatric patients, because large and repeated amounts of oral supplements are needed but are not well tolerated.Case presentation We describe the case of a girl affected by Kearns-Sayre disease with severe renal tubular acidosis. The management of her metabolic acidosis was challenging because she showed persistent low levels of serum bicarbonates despite a progressive incrementation of oral bicarbonates. Furthermore, as a result to the ingestion of large amounts of alkali, the girl developed an aversion to oral supplementation. After positioning a percutaneous gastrostomy (PEG) and starting enteral administration of bicarbonates (with daily boluses and continuous nocturnal infusion), she finally obtained an adequate electrolyte control, with a significant increase in her quality of life.Conclusions In MDs, the combination of nocturnal continuous enteral administration of alkali plus diurnal boluses may represent a valid solution to correct metabolic acidosis. It can also result in an improved patients’ quality of life, particularly in pediatric settings, where compliance to oral therapy is often lacking due to the large and repeated amounts of unpalatable bicarbonates solutions required.
Factors Affecting Capital Structure Decisions of Banks: A Systematic Review of Evidence from Commercial Banks of Ethiopia
Authors: Gofe Tesfaye Eresso , Asfaw Arega Seyoum 
Published: April 2023

Abstract

The present systematic literature review aims to analyze the literature on factors affecting capital structure decisions of commercial banks in Ethiopia to identify the existing gaps and the level of existing research in the field and to provide direction for future research. The review was conducted using 11 relevant and available scholarly studies that were published in any time period, mainly using open search engines and databases because of the shortage of studies for the specified review and lack of access to the known database. Different key words were used to identify the articles. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework was employed to analyze the research work on capital structure decisions. The inclusion and exclusion criteria were specified in the review protocol. The descriptive analysis was performed based on different parameters to arrive at conclusions. A citation analysis was also performed to recognize impactful authors and papers. The findings revealed that most of the variables of interest explored in the studies contradicted each other and the previous literature variables. The capital structure research studies were conducted by considering few variables, and most of the studies were not cited. The findings regarding the theories supported by factors affecting the capital structure decisions of commercial banks in Ethiopia were contradictory and not justified. The banking literature still doesn't cover the capital structure of banks very much. There is currently a lack of clarity regarding how banks determine their capital structure and what variables affect their corporate financing behaviour. Therefore, it is recommended that the concerned body conduct an in-depth study of the decisions banks make about their capital structure by identifying pertinent elements.
Infectious keratoconjunctivitis in semi-domesticated reindeer - a questionnaire-based study among reindeer herders in Norway and Sweden
Authors: Philippot Karin Wallin , Baron Jerome , Romano Javier Sánchez , Rautiainen Heidi , Frössling Jenny , Nymo Ingebjørg Helena , Persson Ylva , Omazic Anna , Tryland Morten 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Background The effects of climate change, loss of pastureland to other land usage and presence of large carnivores are the main reasons for the increase in supplementary feeding of semi-domesticated reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus) in Fennoscandia over the last decades. Feeding might expose reindeer to stress and increased animal-to-animal contact, leading to an increased risk of infectious disease transmission, like infectious keratoconjunctivitis (IKC). As it can develop rapidly and be very painful, IKC is described as an important animal welfare concern and a potential source of economic loss. The aim of this study was to investigate the current presence of IKC and potential associations between IKC and supplementary feeding through an online questionnaire survey, distributed among reindeer herders in Norway and Sweden in 2021.Results: Infectious keratoconjunctivitis was common, with 54 (71%) of the 76 herders that responded having observed clinical signs during the past 10 years. These signs were mainly observed as increased lacrimation, causing “wet cheeks”, but also as keratitis and conjunctivitis. Winter, followed by autumn, were the seasons in which IKC was observed most. The herders reported several measures, such as slaughter and isolation of affected reindeer, to counteract the spread of disease. The herding year 2019/2020 was associated with reports of outbreaks of IKC in herds as well as being the herding year where most herders (80%) had performed supplementary feeding. A significant association was found between IKC and feeding performed in an enclosure (odds ratio = 15.20), while feeding on free range areas had a non-significant, negative, relationship with the appearance of IKC outbreaks (odds ratio = 0.29). Finally, there was a trend in the data suggesting that IKC affected calves especially.Conclusions: Infectious keratoconjunctivitis is a common disease, mainly observed in winter and autumn. It has mild to moderately severe clinical signs. Our results imply that IKC is associated with stress and feeding situations and that calves might be more susceptible than adults, however, this needs to be confirmed with further studies, preferably on an individual animal level.