bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Correlation between brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity and microvascular complications in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Pei Yifei , Shu Yuan , Deng Bo , Liu Yuting 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Purpose/Aim: To investigate the relationship between brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) and microvascular complications in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
Materials and Methods:From 2019 to 2021, our hospital enrolled 322 patients with T2DM. Clinical information and biochemical indicators of patients were collected from the inpatient electronic medical record system and analyzed retrospectively. Fundus photography, nerve conduction testing, and sensory threshold measurement were all conducted on the subjects. We measured the pulse wave velocity on both sides of the arm and ankle, then averaged the results. The enrolled cases were divided into two groups based on the baPWV: Group 1 (＜the reference cutoff value, n=160) and Group 2 (≥the reference cutoff value, n=162). The association between risk factors and baPWV abnormalities was investigated using a logistic regression model.
Results:
Group 2 had higher Systolic Blood Pressure(SBP), Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP), duration of diabetes, Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG), Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) and Serum Uric Acid (SUA) than group 1 (all p<0.05). The prevalence of diabetic retinopathy, peripheral neuropathy and nephropathy in group 2 was higher compared to group 1 (p<0.05). The baPWV of the Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN) group and Diabetic Nephropathy (DN) group was noticeably higher than that of non-DPN group and non-DN group, respectively (both p<0.05). The baPWV increased with the aggravation of Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) (p<0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that DBP (OR 1.039, 95%CI 1.010-1.068 p=0.008), duration of diabetes (OR 1.059, 95%CI 1.017-1.103 p=0.006), FPG (OR 1.104, 95%CI 1.025-1.188 p=0.009) and BUN (OR 1.128, 95%CI 1.001-1.270 p=0.048) were all independently and positively associated with baPWV.
Conclusions:
The baPWV is strongly associated with microvascular complications of T2DM. The DBP, duration of diabetes, FPG, and BUN were all independent risk factors of baPWV.
A feasibility and pilot study of a “lifelong learning” intervention for people with dementia
Authors: Soerensen Ann Lykkegaard , Thoft Diana Schack , Ward Alison , Campbell Jackie 
Published: December 2022

Abstract

Background:
Developing evidence for the use of psychosocial interventions for people with dementia is a priority for research. This pilot study aimed to provide estimates of variability for a set of outcome measures considered for a larger controlled study of the effect of attending a lifelong learning intervention for people with dementia, compared to receiving treatment as usual. In the study it was also explored how datacollectors and researchers evaluated the use of the outcome measures in a sample of people with mild to moderate dementia.
Methods:
Initially, a participant consultation, with participants and their teachers at a dementia school, was carried out to identify important research outcomes which were Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE), Quality of Life Alzheimer’s Disease (QoL-AD), General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSE), Rosenberg Self-esteem scale, Friendship Scale). The following study was divided into two steps. In step 1 participants included were people with dementia attending a dementia school (intervention group) or usual services (control group). The participants were tested at baseline and at 6-month follow-up. Data were collected between November 2018 and July 2019. In step 2 feasibility and acceptability issues in step 1 with the recruitment of participants, data collection process and outcome measures were evaluated and analysed qualitatively.
Results:
Fifty-five people with dementia were included in the analysis of follow-up. Step 1 provided estimates of changes from baseline to follow-up and ancillary standard deviations were provided for all outcome measures. Step 2 provided reflections about feasibility and acceptability of the intervention itself, the data collection, and the outcome measures. This including views on how people with dementia experience participating in the test situation.
Conclusions:
This study provided estimates of change and variability in the outcome measures. Additionally, issues regarding data collection were identified and should be addressed in future studies. It was demonstrated how people with dementia can participate in research which is meaningful to them.
Trial registration:
Registration with a database of clinical studies was according to national legislation, not required, as the study was evaluating existing activities and thus no clinical intervention.
Screening behaviors for diabetic foot and their influencing factors among general practitioners: a cross-sectional study in Changsha, China
Authors: Zhao Nan , Xu Jingcan , Zhou Qiuhong , Hu Juanyi , Luo Wenjing , Li Xinyi , Ye Ying , Han Huiwu , Dai Weiwei , Chen Qirong 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Background
Diabetic foot is a serious complication of diabetes with a high disability and mortality rate, which can be prevented by early screening. General practitioners play an essential role in diabetic foot screening, yet the screening behaviors of general practitioners have rarely been studied in primary care settings. This study aimed to investigate foot risk screening behaviors and analyze their influencing factors among general practitioners.
Methods
Using the convenience sampling method, a cross-sectional study was conducted among 844 general practitioners from 78 community health centers in Changsha, China. A self-designed and validated questionnaire was used to assess the general practitioner’s cognition, attitude, and behaviors on performing diabetic foot screening. Multivariate linear regression was conducted to investigate the influencing factors of screening behaviors.
Results
The average score of diabetic foot screening behaviors among the general practitioners was 61.53 ± 14.69, and 271 (32.1%) always or frequently performed foot screening for diabetic patients. Higher training frequency (β = 3.197, p < 0.001), higher screening cognition (β = 2.947, p < 0.001), and more positive screening attitude (β = 4.564, p < 0.001) were associated with more diabetic foot screening behaviors, while limited time and energy (β=-5.184, p < 0.001) and lack of screening tools (β=-6.226, p < 0.001) were associated with fewer diabetic foot screening behaviors.
Conclusion
The score of screening behaviors for the diabetic foot of general practitioners in Changsha was at a medium level. General practitioners’ diabetic foot screening behaviors may be improved through strengthening training on relevant guidelines and evidence-based screening techniques, improving cognition and attitude towards foot screening among general practitioners, provision of more general practitioners or nurse practitioners, and user-friendly screening tools.
Spread and Seasonality of COVID-19 Pandemic Confirmed Cases in sub-Saharan Africa: Experience from Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Senegal, and Uganda
Authors: Adebowale Ayo S. , Afolabi Rotimi F. , Bello Segun , Salawu Mobolaji M. , Bamgboye Eniola A. , Adeoye Ikeola , Dairo Magbagbeola D. , Fawole Olufunmilayo I. , Kivumbi Betty , Wanyana Irene , Seck Ibrahima , Diallo Issakha , Leye Mamadou M. M. , Bassoum Oumar , Fall Mane , Ndejjo Rawlance , Kabwama Steven N. , Mapatano Mala Ali , Bosonkie Marc , Egbende Landry , Namale Alice , Kizito Susan , Wanyenze Rhoda K. 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the world negatively with huge health and socioeconomic consequences. This study estimated the seasonality, trajectory, and projection of COVID-19 cases to understand the dynamics of the disease spread and inform response interventions.
Method: Descriptive analysis of daily confirmed COVID-19 cases from January 2020 to 12th March 2022 was conducted in four purposefully selected sub-Saharan African countries (Nigeria, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Senegal, and Uganda). We extrapolated the COVID-19 data from (2020 to 2022) to 2023 using trigonometric time series model. A decomposition time series method was used to examine the seasonality in the data.
Results: Nigeria had the highest rate of spread (β) of COVID-19 (β=381.2) while DRC had the least rate (β=119.4). DRC, Uganda, and Senegal had a similar pattern of COVID-19 spread from the onset through December, 2020. The average doubling time in COVID-19 case-count was highest in Uganda (148 days) and least in Nigeria (83 days). A seasonal variation was found in the COVID-19 data for all the four countries but the timing of the cases showed some variations across countries. More cases are expected in the 1st (January-March) and 3rd (July-September) quarters of the year in Nigeria and Senegal, and in the 2nd (April-June) and 3rd (October-December) quarters in DRC and Uganda.
Conclusion: Our findings show a seasonality which may warrant a consideration for COVID-19 periodic interventions in the peak seasons in the preparedness and response strategies.
Exercise therapy, education and cognitive behavioral therapy, alone or in combination with total knee arthroplasty in patients with knee osteoarthritis: A randomized feasibility study
Authors: Rognsvag Turid , Bergvad Ingvild Buset , Furnes Ove Nord , Indrekvam Kari , Lerdal Anners , Lindberg Maren Falch , Skou Søren Thorgaard , Stubberud Jan , Badawy Mona 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
1.1.1 Background

One in five patients experience chronic pain one year after total knee arthroplasty (TKA), highlighting the need for new treatment strategies to improve outcomes. The complexity of interventions for osteoarthritis (OA) and TKA patients requires a thorough development and evaluation process. This feasibility trial aimed to optimize content and delivery of a complex intervention tailored to OA and TKA patients and assess feasibility of initiating a full-scale multicenter randomized controlled trial (RCT).

1.1.2 Methods

Patients scheduled for TKA were included between August 2019 and June 2020, and block-randomized into one of three groups: a) 12-week exercise therapy and education (ExE) and 10-module internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT), b) TKA followed by ExE and iCBT and c) TKA and standard postoperative care. Outcomes were i) recruitment and retention rate, ii) compliance to the intervention and follow-up, iii) crossover and iv) adverse events, reported by descriptive statistics.

1.1.3 Results

Fifteen patients were included in the study. Only one out of 146 patients screened for eligibility was included during the first four months. During the next three months, 117 patients were not included since they lived too far from the hospital. To increase the recruitment rate, we did three amendments to the inclusion criteria; 1) screening questions were included in the baseline questionnaire, 2) patients across the country could be included in the study and 3) physiotherapists without specific certification were included, receiving thorough information and support. No patients withdrew from the study or crossed over to surgery during the first year. Nine out of 10 patients completed the ExE program and six out of 10 completed the iCBT program. Fourteen out of 15 patients completed the one-year follow-up. One minor adverse event was registered.

1.1.4 Conclusions

Except for recruitment and compliance to iCBT, feasibility was demonstrated. The initial recruitment process was challenging, and necessary changes were made to increase the recruitment rate. The findings informed how a definitive RCT should be undertaken to test the effectiveness of the complex intervention.
Trial registration:
The MultiKnee RCT, including the feasibility study, is pre-registered at ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03771430 11/12/2018 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/results?term=NCT03771430
Identifying areas of high drought risk in southwest Western Australia
Authors: Bourne Amanda , Bruce John , Veljanoski Igor , Koh Li-Ann , Parker Kaylene , Mastrantonis Stanley , Guthrie Meredith M. 
Published: December 2022

AbstractDrought is an extremely serious natural hazard in Australia, associated with financial hardship and damage to soils and vegetation. With droughts expected to become more frequent and more severe as climate change progresses, it is increasingly important to identify drought risk and assess community-level drought resilience at the appropriate spatial, temporal and administrative scale for decision-making. Here, we have used spatial multi-criteria analysis to identify regional priority areas for the implementation of drought resilience interventions or investment in southwest Western Australia (WA). This region is home to the WA grains industry, the largest agricultural contributor to the economy and one of the regions most impacted by climate change in Australia to date, experiencing consistent reduction in rainfall and recurrent drought over the last several decades. We modelled drought exposure, sensitivity and adaptive capacity for the region, incorporating spatially explicit climate, environmental, social and economic data, and produced a suite of priority areas maps, ground-truthed through a participatory mapping process. The maps highlight the northern and eastern wheatbelt as areas at high risk from drought, and have the potential to serve as a powerful tool for local-level drought resilience decision-making. Most of the data we used are publicly available, and the vulnerability framework applied allows for wide replication within and beyond southwest WA.
What Works to Improve Maternal and Infant Health Outcomes among Hispanic Women in the United States: A Systematic Literature Review 2010-2021
Authors: Marian Marian , Jain Sonia 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Background
Inequities in Maternal and Infant Health (MIH) in Hispanics in the United States are highly prevalent. To our knowledge, few studies, have systematically reviewed what works to improve MIH in this population. The aims of this study were to find robust evidence of what works or innovative interventions to improve MIH among Hispanics in this country.
Methods
A systematic literature review was completed using specific key terms through Google Scholar and PubMed. Peer-reviewed studies of innovative MIH interventions among the Hispanic population and specific outcomes from 2010 and 2021 were included.
Results
A total of 18 articles met the criteria. Most interventions were related to improving breastfeeding practices, quality or delivery of health services, use of technology or health communications, and health financing models. What worked was: 1) the inclusion of Spanish-speaking program facilitators; 2) culturally infused programs that incorporated Hispanic cultural values and families; and 3) the use of technology and health communication to reach and improve behaviors of Hispanic mothers, including in rural areas. Several interventions improved maternal self-efficacy, knowledge, and practices. Though promising evidence, studies were limited by a small sample size, duration, and capturing diversity.
Conclusion
There is growing evidence of MIH interventions implementing culturally responsive and innovative interventions specific to improving breastfeeding practices and MIH outcomes for Hispanic mothers. Though more rigorous evaluations are needed with longer duration, larger sample sizes, and representation of subgroups as well as expanded measures of sociocultural, family, and partner involvement as well as changing demographics.
Debridement, decompression, and interbody fusion using biportal spine endoscopy in patients with lumbar spinal tuberculosis: 1 year follow-up
Authors: Yu Yang , Xie Yizhou , Zhou Qun , Wang Yongtao , Feng Chengzhi , Fan Xiaohong 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Objectives
The study is aimed to evaluate clinical outcomes of debridement, decompression and interbody fusion by using biportal spine endoscopy for treating treat patients diagnosed with lumbar spinal tuberculosis (LST).
Methods
Forty patients with LST who underwent debridement, decompression, and interbody fusion using biportal spine endoscopy between January 2020 to March 2022 were included in the study. The operation time, blood loss, complication rate, fusion rate, visual analogue scale (VAS) score, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), and kyphotic Cobb’s angle were measured to explore the effects on patients with LST.
Results
The patients were followed up for 12–16 months, and the mean follow-up period was 14.6 months. The mean operation time was 223.4 ± 94.4 min (range, 140–410 min), with a mean blood loss of 235.0 ± 190.5 cc (range, 120–700 cc). The VAS (1.57 ± 0.65) and ODI (8.29 ± 3.05) scores at the last phase of follow-up were significantly lesser than the preoperative scores (5.86 ± 0.86 and 74.29 ± 6.26, respectively). Additionally, the mean JOA score increased from 10.29 ± 2.58 (preoperatively) to 24.93 ± 1.86 (postoperatively). Meanwhile, the mean preoperative ESR and CRP (74.36 ± 8.18 and 71.28 ± 8.58, respectively) decreased to average values. The preoperative kyphotic Cobb’s angle of 21.40 ± 2.22° decreased to 9.86 ± 0.76° postoperatively. However, the kyphotic correction remained unchanged at the last phase of the follow-up. Furthermore, the fusion rate was 100%. The complication rate was 7.5% (three case of cerebrospinal fluid leakage).
Conclusion
Debridement, decompression, and interbody fusion using biportal spine endoscopy might be ideal for treating patients with LST.
A 7DOF redundant robotic arm inverse kinematic solution algorithm based on Bald Eagle swarm intelligent optimization algorithm
Authors: Zhao Guojun , Sun Ying , Jiang Du , Liu Xin , Tao Bo , Jiang Guozhang , Kong Jianyi , Yun Juntong , Liu Ying , Li Gongfa 
Published: December 2022

Abstract

Solving the robot inverse kinematic solution is the key to the subsequent path planning and trajectory tracking control of the robot, which is of great research significance. The inverse kinematic solution of the redundant robotic arm is a great challenge because the parsing solution cannot be obtained by the conventional inverse kinematic solution method. The swarm intelligent optimization algorithm is widely used in the inverse kinematic solution problem of redundant robotic arms by converting the inverse kinematic solution problem of the robotic arm into the minimum value optimization problem of the fitness function, avoiding the tedious process of the traditional inverse kinematic solution. This paper innovatively applies the bald eagle swarm intelligent optimization algorithm (BES algorithm) to the inverse motion solution problem of a 7DOF redundant robotic arm for the first time. The BES algorithm simulates the process of prey hunting by bald eagles in nature and consists of three main phases: selection phase, search phase, and dive phase. In these three phases, the algorithm updates the joint angles to be sought by using different optimization strategies, and obtains high accuracy position values by bringing the obtained joint angles into the positive kinematic expression of the robot arm. The article takes the YuMi 14000 ABB 7DOF industrial robotic arm and the S-R-S humanoid 7DOF robotic arm as the research objects, and the BES algorithm is experimentally compared with the traditional swarm intelligence optimization algorithms DE algorithm, FA algorithm, FOA algorithm, GA algorithm and PSO algorithm in terms of position solving accuracy. The experimental results show that the BES algorithm has higher position solution accuracy and solution stability compared with other algorithms.
Alteration in follow-up echocardiographic indices in patients with COVID-19: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Kahe Zohre , Pasebani Yeganeh , Rafati Ali , Salimi Nastaran , Rezaei Yousef , Rahnamun Zahra , Mousavi Nasrin , Haghighattalab Arezoo Vadadi , Sharifi Farshid , Samiei Niloufar 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Background
Cardiac problems are frequent (20 to 25%) with COVID-19 and are associated with cardiac complications and in-hospital mortality. Existing research on the echocardiographic examination of COVID-19 focuses mostly on hospitalized patients with severe symptoms and in the acute phase of the disease, leaving out of the spotlight non-hospitalized individuals with mild symptoms. In this study, we wanted to determine the long-term influence of both severe and non-severe COVID-19 on echocardiographic changes.
Methods
This prospective cohort study was conducted during Iran's third COVID-19 wave in November 2020 among healthcare workers with a history of COVID-19 but otherwise healthy. Initially, a total of 100 patients underwent the primary echocardiographic examination 6 to 8 weeks following COVID-19 onset, and 6 months after the COVID-19 diagnosis, 64 subjects underwent the secondary echocardiographic evaluations. Based on clinical or radiological evidence, individuals were categorized into two groups of non-severe and severe COVID-19.
Results
Of 64 participants, 42 (65.6%) were women. The patients ' mean age was 40.4±8.1 years. In the non-severe COVID-19 group, among left ventricular (LV) echocardiographic indices, stroke volume index and ejection fraction increased significantly (24.7±4.1 cc/m2 vs. 29.7±7.0 cc/m2, p-value<0.001 and 61.9% [59.8-64.5] vs. 63.8% [58.2-68.9], p-value=0.029, respectively). Among right ventricular indices, free-wall global longitudinal strain decreased significantly in the secondary echocardiogram: (-32.3±4.6% vs. -28.8±5.8%, p-value=0.002). In the severe COVID-19 group, from LV echocardiographic indices, global longitudinal strain increased significantly over the follow-up period (-20% [-21.4- -19] vs. -23.9% [-25.3--21.9], p-value=0.004) and from RV indices, the fractional area change showed a significant decrease (47.2% [42.3-52.2] vs. 36.4% [31.1-45], p-value=0.002).
Conclusion
Although some patterns of significant change were seen among echocardiographic indices, COVID-19, regardless of severity, did not lead to cardiac impairment in an otherwise healthy population. The current results may not present the outcomes of older adults or with a history of cardiac problems against COVID-19.