bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Safety and efficacy of Empagliflozin in Pakistani Muslim Patients with Type 2 Diabetes (SAFE-PAK); A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Aamir Azizul Hasan , Raja Umar Yousuf , Qureshi Faisal Masood , Asghar Ali , Mahar Saeed Ahmed , Ahmed Ibrar , Ghaffar Tahir , Zafar Jamal , Hasan Mohammad Imtiaz , Riaz Amna , Raza Syed Abbas , Khosa Irshad Ahmed , Khan Jahanzeb , Baqar Jaffer Bin 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
Background: Sodium-Glucose-Co-Transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor (Empagliflozin) is an effective drug in controlling blood glucose through predominantly glycosuria. Glycosuria increases the risk of genitourinary infections in diabetes. This study was aimed to establish the safety and efficacy of Empagliflozin (Group-A) versus standard care (Group-B) in Pakistani Muslim individuals with type 2 diabetes.Methods: A multicenter, randomized clinical trial was conducted in five cities across Pakistan from July 2019 to August 2020. Patients of both genders aged 18-75 years, body mass index (BMI) ≤ 45 kg/m2, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) 7%-10% (53 mmol/mol to 86 mmol/mol) and treatment-naive to Empagliflozin were included. Treatment was given for 24 weeks, and allocation was done through randomization.Results: Out of 745 screened patients, 333 met the eligibility criteria, and a total of 244 (73.3%) patients were enrolled. Hypoglycemic events were significantly reported more in the standard care group, whereas positive urine culture, fungal infection, dehydration, and hypotension were insignificant between the two groups. The 6 months mean HbA1c reduction was significant in both groups; (Group-A: 0.91 ± 0.15; p<0.001 vs. Group-B2: 0.79 ± 0.14; p<0.001). Efficacy comparison at 6 months revealed a significant reduction in weight and systolic blood pressure (SBP) in Group A only (Group-A: 1.4 ± 0.4 kg; p<0.002 vs. Group-B: 0.01 ± 0.5 kg; p<1.00), (Group-A: 5.1 ± 1.7 mmHg; p<0.012 vs. Group-B: 2.3 ±1.7 mmHg; p<0.526).Conclusions: Empagliflozin was a safe drug compared to standard care in Pakistani Muslim patients with diabetes. It was as effective as standard care in the clinical setting but achieved glycemic control by reducing weight and SBP in type 2 diabetes patients. Trial Registration: This study was registered in the NIH US National Library of Medicine clinical trials registry at Clinicaltrials.gov with the registration number: NCT04665284 on 11/12/2020.
Americium, plutonium, cesium and cobalt uptake by earthworm Eisenia andrei in contaminated soil
Authors: Slimáková Jana , Galanda Dušan , Lacenová Adriana , Mihalík Ján 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
The suitability of earthworms (Eisenia andrei) for the vermiremediation of soils contaminated with radionuclides was tested after 241Am, 239Pu, 137Cs and 60Co uptake from the soil. The accumulation of radioactivity in earthworms was measured after 3, 7, 15, 30, 45, 60, 80, 100 days of establishment in the case of gamma radionuclides and after 1, 15, 79, 93, 100, 113 for alpha radionuclides. Radiochemical analysis of alpha radionuclides was performed by the extraction chromatography using commercial sorbents TEVA resin and DGA Resin. Gamma radionuclides were measured by gamma spectrometry on HPGe detector. Although the enhanced uptake 241Am, 239Pu, 137Cs and 60Co by earthworms was observed, low values of transfer factors have been achieved. However, radioecological characteristic of Am and Pu are rare, therefore, our investigation will fill some gaps in the knowledge. The calculation of transfer factors was provided for various periods of exposition. One of the findings is that Pu has a longer biological half-life than Am. Moreover, there is also confirmation that Co has a longer biological half-life than Cs. The dependence of the mentioned radionuclides on the time of contact with the contaminated medium was also observed
Comparing PM2.5, respirable dust, and total dust fractions using real-time and gravimetric samples in a human exposure chamber study
Authors: Moazami Therese Nitter , Svendsen Kristin v Hirsch , Buhagen Morten , Jørgensen Rikke Bramming 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
Using a human exposure chamber, we investigate the reliability of the DustTrak DXR monitor by comparing its results to those obtained from taking traditional gravimetric samples of two stone minerals commonly used in asphalt and lactose powder. We also discuss the possibility of using real-time monitors such as DustTrak for occupational exposure monitoring purposes. The results are based on 19 days of experiment, each day with measurements collected over 4 h. Compared to the gravimetric samples, the DustTrak overestimated the PM2.5 and respirable dust concentrations, while it underestimated the total dust concentration by a factor of nearly two. However, the ratios, being done for more than one material, between the DustTrak and the gravimetric sample readings varied daily and across the different exposure materials. Real-time sensors have the potential to excel at identifying exposure sources, evaluating the measured control efficiency, visualizing variations in exposure to motivate workers, and contributing to the identification of measures to be implemented to reduce exposure. For total dust, a correction factor of at least two should be used to bring its readings up to those for the corresponding gravimetric samples. Also, if the DustTrak is used in the initial profiling of occupational exposure, the exposure could be considered acceptable if the readings are well below the occupational exposure limit (OELs) after correction. If the DustTrak readings, after correction, is close to, or above, the accepted exposure concentrations, more thorough approaches would be required to validate the exposure.
Exploring the role of coal consumption, solar and wind power generation on ecological footprint: Evidence from India using Fourier ADL cointegration test
Authors: Karlilar Selin , Emir Firat 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
In this study, we aimed to assess whether the intensive investments done for renewable energy sources work for reducing environmental deterioration level in India to reach its sustainable development goals and raise environmental quality. To this end, using data from 1995 to 2018, a novel methodology, the Fourier ADL cointegration test, and Bounds test were employed to empirically analyze the long-term steady-state relationship between ecological footprint and renewable and nonrenewable energy sources. Our empirical findings demonstrate the long-run steady-state associations between coal consumption, solar power generation, wind power generation, and ecological footprint in India. Moreover, the magnitude of the long-term effects of these resources were estimated by employing FMOLS method and the results indicated that solar and wind power generation have a statistically significant positive effect on environmental sustainability. In other words, increasing the share of wind and solar power generation in the energy mix led to mitigating the environmental deterioration in India. The findings also revealed an adverse effect of coal consumption on environmental sustainability in India. These results suggest that the share of solar and wind power generation in the energy mix should be increased in order to mitigate the energy-import dependency and environmental pollution in India.Jel codes: P18; P48; Q28; Q42
What incentives encourage local communities to collect and upload mosquito sound data by using smartphones? A case study in Tanzania
Authors: Dam Rinita , Mponzi Winifrida , Msaky Dickson , Mwandyala Tumpe , Kaindoa Emmanuel W. , Sinka Marianne E. , Kiskin Ivan , Herreros-Moya Eva , Messina Janey , Shah Syed Ghulam Sarwar , Roberts Stephen , Willis Kathy J. 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
Background: To detect and identify mosquitoes using their characteristic whining sound, we have developed a smartphone application that records the acoustic signature of these sounds, along with the time and location. This data is then sent remotely to a server where algorithms identify the species according to their distinctive acoustic signature. Whilst this system works well, a key question that remains is what mechanisms will lead to effective uptake and use of this mosquito survey tool? We addressed this question by working with local communities in rural Tanzania and providing three alternative incentives: money only, Short Message Service (SMS) reminders and money, and SMS reminders only. We also had a control group with no incentive. Methods: A multi-site, quantitative empirical study was conducted in four villages in Tanzania from April 2021 to August 2021. Consenting participants were recruited and placed into one of the three intervention arms: monetary incentives only; SMS reminders with monetary incentives; and SMS reminders only. There was also a control group (no intervention). To test effectiveness of the mechanisms, the number of audio uploads to the server of the four trial groups on their specific dates were compared. Qualitative focus group discussions and feedback surveys were also conducted to explore participants’ perspectives on their participation in the study and to capture their experiences of using the HumBug sensor.Results: Qualitative data analysis revealed that for many participants (37 out of 81), the main motivation expressed was to learn more about the types of mosquitoes present in their houses. Results from the empirical study supported this finding and revealed that the provision of monetary incentives and/or sending SMS reminders did not appear to encourage greater number of audio uploads when compared to the control. Conclusion: Knowledge on the presence of harmful mosquitoes was the strongest motive for local communities to collect and upload mosquito sound data via the HumBug sensor in rural Tanzania. This finding suggests that most efforts should be made to improve flow of real-time information back to the communities on types and risks associated with mosquitoes present in their houses.
Crude Oil Spills Impact Bird Richness and Abundance Negatively in a Tropical Terrestrial Environment
Authors: Iniunam Iniunam Aniefiok , Kazeh Nanchin Winifred , Ivande Samuel Tertese , Tende Talatu , Chaskda Adams Adamanyiwa 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
The study aimed at understanding the temporal effects of crude oil spill on bird richness and abundance because of its relevance to species and biodiversity management and conservation. Using the single time design, we visited 57 points across 8 sites of varying crude oil disturbance history and 44 random adjacent points as control points. Our result showed that the impact of crude oil spills is highest at the initial stage. However, bird species richness and abundance increased over time and showed no significant difference with control points after 24 months. This information suggest that crude oil spills are detrimental to birds and humans. This research, to the best of our knowledge, is the first that focuses on the effects of crude oil spills on terrestrial bird species in a tropical environment. Thus, we suggest longer monitoring assessments with special attention to the various feeding guilds to ensure proper ecological monitoring that informs better management and restoration plans. We also recommend clean ups of contaminated areas after spill events to ensure quick recovery of bird populations.
Particulate Oxidative Potential Associated with Fireworks Activity during Diwali at a site in the Indo-Gangetic Plain
Authors: Goyal Isha , Verma Puneet Kumar , Kumari Kandikonda Maharaj , Lakhani Anita 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
The dithiothreitol (DTT) assay was used to investigate the oxidative potential (OP) of atmospheric fine particles (PM2.5) to form reactive oxygen species (ROS) during Diwali festival firework activity at a site in the Indo-Gangetic Plain, India. During the study period, the 12-hour mean PM2.5 was reported to be 263 ±151 µg m-3, which was 4.4 times higher than the NAAQS standards. Increased levels of gaseous pollutants (NOx, SO2, CO and O3), as well as metal concentrations such as Ba, Pb, Cu, Fe, Mg, K, Al, and Mn, were also observed during fireworks displays. The increased PM2.5-NOx slope for fireworks, which included traffic emissions, revealed that fireworks played a significant role. The highest value of OP of PM was detected in the next morning of Diwali, with a volume-based DTT value of 1.4 nmol min-1 m-3 and a mass-based DTT value of 11.8 pmol min-1 μg-1, implying higher PM-related DTT activity due to fireworks. A positive association was found between redox-active metals like Cr, Cu, Ni, and V and DTT activity which could be due to the ability of these metals to catalyse ROS generation in ambient air. Ba and Se concentrations in the particulate matter, which are key components of firecrackers, were likewise highly linked to DTT activity. During the daytime, ozone levels were strongly correlated (r2 = 0.9) with OPv activity; this may be due to photochemical processes which may lead to the formation of tropospheric O3. Elements C, O, Al, Si, S, K, and Ba were found to be the most prevalent in elemental mappings, which suggests that fireworks may have contributed to their abundance. A comparison of the daily OPv activity and hazard index (HI) suggests that the HI may be a poor metric for measuring the health impacts of PM exposure on human health.
Deliverable Microparticles Coated With Nano-forest Like Structure To Improve Dispersion and Biofouling Resistance
Authors: Yang ChengDuan , Liang Baoming , Yang Cheng , Liu Ziqi , Li Xiangling , Xie Xi , Liu Fanmao , Wang Ji , Chen Hui-jiuan 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
Background
A variety of implantable microparticles have been developed to detect, diagnose and treat a wide range of diseases, but undesirable bio-fouling caused by biological substances including proteins, bacteria and cells adhesion, can easily lead to the risk of complications such as inflammation. Although most modification techniques have achieved biofouling resistance, the fragility of coatings in fluids and the particles agglomeration often caused by modification limit their applications. Here, we report deliverable microparticles coated with nano-forest like structure (NFMPs) that are exceptionally dispersed and resistant to biofouling.
Methods
The nano-forest-like microspheres were formed by the combined modification of tree-trunk like nanospikes and dendritic ‘liquid-like’ molecular brush coatings on the conventional microspheres surface. Its structure and surface characteristics were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), static contact angles (CAs), slide angles (SAs). Compared the dispersibility of nanospike-modified hydrophobic microspheres with conventional hydrophobic microspheres in water to determine nanospike-induced abnormal dispersion. Furthermore, the nano-forest-like microparticles were incubated with proteins, bacteria and cells to verify their anti-biofouling properties, and its anti-adhesion mechanisms were explored through activity tests and anti-biofouling performance tests of nanoforest structure-modified planar structures.
Results
The ‘liquid-like’ coating is reliably biocompatible and induces microparticles to exhibit long-term and robust resistance against proteins, bacterial and cells adhesion. While the microparticles were aggregated in water due to their increased hydrophobicity caused by the coating, the tree-trunk-like nanospikes induced specific dispersion of the microparticles.
Conclusion
Based on these results, our research introduces a unique modification technology for deliverable microparticles with exceptional dispersibility and anti-biofouling properties, which will facilitate the development of deliverable devices or materials to reduce inflammation or infection.
Radiomics-based machine learning model for predicting Overall and Progression-Free Survival in rare cancer: a case study for Primary CNS Lymphoma patients
Authors: Destito Michela , Marzullo Aldo , Leone Riccardo , Zaffino Paolo , Steffanoni Sara , Erbella Federico , Calimeri Francesco , Anzalone Nicoletta , De Momi Elena , Ferreri Andrés J.M. , Calimeri Teresa , Spadea Maria Francesca 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
In this study, we investigated whether radiomics features can improve outcome prediction in patients with Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma (PCNSL). 80 patients diagnosed with PCNSL were enrolled. Of these, 56 patients with complete Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) series (including T1-weighted, T2-weighted, 3D-T1 with gadolinium, and FLAIR) were selected for the stratification analysis. Following radiomic feature extraction and selection, different Machine Learning (ML) models were tested for Overall Survival (OS) and Progression-free Survival (PFS) prediction, and accuracy was computed in terms of F1-score and area under ROC curve (AUC). To assess the stability of the selected features, images from 23 patients scanned at three different time points were used to compute the Interclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) and evaluate the reproducibility of each feature for both original and normalized images. Features extracted from Z-score normalized images resulted significantly more stable (ICC=0.80) than those extracted from non-normalized images (ICC=0.58), p-value<10 −12. For the best classifier, F1-score resulted 0.83/0.77-0.86 (median/interquartile range), and 0.80/0.67-0.88, for OS and PFS respectively. On average, AUC showed that radiomics based prediction (AUC=0.86 for OS, AUC=0.84 for PFS) overcomes prediction based on current clinical prognostic factors (AUC=0.70 for OS, AUC=0.56 for PFS). These results indicate that radiomics features extracted from normalized MR images can improve prognosis stratification of PCNSL patients and pave the way for further study on its potential role to drive treatment choise.
Concurrent Operation of Round Beam and Flat Beam in a Low- Emittance Storage Ring
Authors: Lee J. , Ahn S. , Ko J. , Oh B. , Jang G. , Yoon Y. D. , Shin S. , Kim J-H. , Chung M. 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
In 4th-generation storage rings, whether to operate the beam as round or flat is a critical question. A round beam has equal horizontal and vertical emittances, and is an efficient solution to reduce strong intra-beam scattering effects and lengthen the Touschek lifetimes, but a flat beam produces a brighter photon beam than a round beam. To provide both beams concurrently rather than bifurcating the beam time, this paper presents cutting-edge hardware that supports concurrent operation of round beam and flat beam.
What drives attitude towards remote palliative care among tumor patients amid the COVID-19 Pandemic ? A survey
Authors: Li Ming , Liu Weichen , Lian Siqin , Hou Xijie , Chen Guolian , Ling Ying 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
Background: To understand the status of cancer patients’ awareness and demand for remote palliative care service and to provide a reference for promoting the formulation of remote palliative care policy.Methods: A small across-section design involved a sample of 148 cancer adults in the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, who were conducted by self-designed questionnaire via the Questionnaire Star. The questionnaire contained basic information (14 items) and the attitude towards the remote palliative care (6 items).Results: The rate of patients who supported to take remote palliative care was 41.2%. It related with age, education level, occupation, family income, insurance type, self-care ability, smartphone and communication app using, and the using time(p＜0.05). Most of them hoped to get remote palliative care 24 hours. Almost half of the patients would like to be charged by items and they hoped the price of remote palliative care be cheap. Most of the patients didn’t really care about the working years and title of the care provider, but half of them more believed Grade 3, Class A hospital. The top three demand of remote palliative care were pain reducing, nutrition counseling, and nursing instruction.Conclusion: Remote palliative care has a good application prospect for cancer patients, but there are still some challenges, which need further exploration and development, including appropriate infrastructure, reasonable price and sufficient personnel to provide remote palliative care services.
A New Measure of Posterior Morphology in Sagittal Craniosynostosis: The Occipital Bullet Index
Authors: Bins Griffin P , Cull Deborah , Layton Ryan G , Kogan Samuel , Zhou Larry , Dunson Blake T , David Lisa R , Runyan Christopher M 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
Background: Sagittal craniosynostosis (SC) is associated with scaphocephaly, an elongated narrow head shape. Assessment of regional severity in the scaphocephalic head is limited by the use of serial CT imaging or complex computer programing. Three-dimensional measurements of cranial surface morphology provide a radiation-free alternative for assessing cranial shape. This study describes the creation of an Occipital Bulleting Index (OBI), a novel tool using surface morphology to assess the regional severity in patients with SC. Methods: Surface imaging from CT scans or 3D photographs of 360 individuals with sagittal craniosynostosis and 221 normocephalic individuals were compared to identify differences in morphology. Cartesian grids were created on each individual’s surface mesh using equidistant axial and sagittal planes. Area under the curve (AUC) analyses were performed to identify trends in regional morphology and create measures capturing population differences.Results: The largest differences were located in the medial regions posteriorly. Using these population trends, a measure was created maximizing AUC. The Occipital Bullet index has an AUC of 0.72 with a sensitivity of 74% and a specificity of 61%. When the Frontal Bossing Index is applied in tandem, the two have a sensitivity of 94.7% and a specificity of 93.1%. Correlation between the two scores in individuals with SC was found to be negligible with an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.018. Severity was found to be independent of age under 24 months, sex, and imaging modality.Conclusions: This index creates a tool for differentiating control head shapes from those with sagittal craniosynostosis, and has the potential to allow for objective evaluation of the regional severity, outcomes of different surgical techniques, and tracking shape changes in individuals over time, without the need for radiation.