bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assessment of land use and land cover changes in Kenya’s Mt. Elgon forest ecosystem
Authors: Masayi Nelly Nambande , Omondi Paul , Tsingalia Mugatsia 
Published: May 2021

AbstractCurrent land‐use trends in Kenya's montane forest ecosystems show that land uses are changing fast due to natural and anthropogenic factors and these changes could have devastating effects on the environment. One such montane forest is the transboundary Mt. Elgon forest located in western Kenya. This study analysed trends in land use–land cover changes in Mt. Elgon forest ecosystem over the last 45 years. Landsat imageries downloaded from the United States Geological Survey archives were used to assess land use–land cover changes between 1973 and 2019 by applying supervised classification using Arc GIS 10.5. The IDRISI Selva 17.0 was used to calculate area under different land uses and generate change maps. The major Land Use–Land Cover (LULC) classified were mixed farming, natural forests, planted forests, bamboo forest, fallow land, tea plantation. The landsat images had an average overall classification accuracy of 87.12% and kappa coefficient (K) of 0.84. The kappa coefficient was rated as substantial and the classified images qualified for further analysis. Results established that there was an 18% decline in the natural forest cover between 1977 and 2019. There was a similar decline of 15.19% in bamboo forest cover. Plantation forests established in the 1990's also showed a 15.6% decline between 1999 and 2019. There was, however, a 29% increase in mixed farming, a 10% increase in fallow land and a 0.13% increase in tea plantations. These changes in land uses and land cover call for an urgent need to develop sustainable management plans to protect and conserve the Mt. Elgon forest ecosystem. Sustainable land management strategies to be used in the future may include education on the significance of the forest ecosystem, community participation in sustainable utilisation of forest eco‐services and the introduction of sustainable alternative sources of livelihoods, such as bee farming.
Effect of male age on pregnancy and neonatal outcomes in the first frozen‐thawed embryo transfer cycles of IVF/ICSI treatment
Authors: Kong Pengcheng , Liu Yanan , Zhu Qianqian , Yin Mingru , Teng Xiaoming 
Published: May 2021

ABSTRACTBackgroundThe effect of male age on pregnancy outcomes after assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment shown in the previous literature is controversial. In addition, the influence of male age on neonatal outcomes following ART treatment has less been investigated.ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of male age on reproductive and neonatal outcomes in couples following ART treatment.Materials and methodsA retrospective cohort study was performed in two centers for assisted reproduction from June 2010 to February 2019. A total of 5512 frozen‐thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycles were included according to the criteria. The primary outcome measures were pregnancy and neonatal outcomes. Patients were categorized into five groups according to male age (younger than 30, 31–35, 36–40, 41–45, and older than 45), and the group younger than 30 years old was treated as the reference group.ResultsThe logistic regression analysis showed that clinical pregnancy and live birth were all no statistic difference among the male age‐groups compared with the reference group (p values, 0.743, 0.979, 0.948, 0.28; p values, 0.823, 0.342, 0.817, 0.381, respectively). Furthermore, no significant differences were found in the preterm birth rate, child sex, neonatal malformation, birth weight, and gestational age (p > 0.05). The advanced male age was not associated with a higher risk of adverse neonatal outcomes.Discussion and ConclusionThis study showed that there were no effects of male age on pregnancy or neonatal outcomes in infertile couples following their first FET cycles when females were younger than 36 years old.
When to ask for an MRI of the scrotum
Authors: Tsili Athina C. , Argyropoulou Maria I. , Dolciami Miriam , Ercolani Giada , Catalano Carlo , Manganaro Lucia 
Published: May 2021

AbstractBackgroundMultiparametric MRI (mpMRI) of the scrotum has been established as a useful second‐line diagnostic tool for the investigation of scrotal diseases. Recently, recommendations on clinical indications for scrotal MRI were issued by the Scrotal and Penile Imaging Working Group of the European Society of Urogenital Radiology.ObjectiveTo update current research on when to ask for an MRI of the scrotum.MethodsPubMed database was searched for original articles and reviews published during 2010–2021.ResultsEighty‐three articles fulfilled the search criteria. Scrotal MRI is mainly recommended after inconclusive US findings or inconsistent with the clinical examination and should be asked in the following cases: differentiation between intratesticular and paratesticular lesions (in rare cases of uncertain US findings), characterization of paratesticular and intratesticular lesions (when US findings are indeterminate), discrimination between germ cell and sex cord‐stromal testicular tumors, local staging of testicular malignancies (in patients planned for testis‐sparing surgery), differentiation between seminomas and non‐seminomatous tumors (when immediate chemotherapy is planned and orchiectomy is delayed), assessment of acute scrotum and scrotal trauma (rarely needed, in cases of non‐diagnostic US findings) and detection and localization of undescended testes (in cases of inconlusive US findings). Although preliminary data show promising results in the evaluation of male infertility, no established role for mpMRI still exists.ConclusionMultiparametric MRI of the scrotum, by assessing morphologic and functional data represents a valuable problem‐solving tool, helping to improve our understanding on the nature of scrotal pathology and the process of spermatogenesis. The technique may improve patient care and reduce the number of unnecessary surgical procedures.
Impact of P‐wave indices in prediction of atrial fibrillation—Insight from loop recorder analysis
Authors: Kreimer Fabienne , Aweimer Assem , Pflaumbaum Andreas , Mügge Andreas , Gotzmann Michael 
Published: May 2021

AbstractBackgroundSeveral P‐wave indices are associated with the development of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, previous studies have been limited in their ability to reliably diagnose episodes of AF. Implantable loop recorders allow long‐term, continuous, and therefore more reliable detection of AF.HypothesisThe aim of this study is to identify and evaluate ECG parameters for predicting AF by analyzing patients with loop recorders.MethodsThis study included 366 patients (mean age 62 ± 16 years, mean LVEF 61 ± 6%, 175 women) without AF who underwent loop recorder implantation between 2010–2020. Patients were followed up on a 3 monthly outpatient interval.ResultsDuring a follow‐up of 627 ± 409 days, 75 patients (20%) reached the primary study end point (first detection of AF). Independent predictors of AF were as follows: age ≥68 years (hazard risk [HR], 2.66; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.668–4.235; p < .001), P‐wave amplitude in II <0.1 mV (HR, 2.11; 95% CI, 1.298–3.441; p = .003), P‐wave terminal force in V1 ≤ −4000 µV × ms (HR, 5.3; 95% CI, 3.249–8.636; p < .001, and advanced interatrial block (HR, 5.01; 95% CI, 2.638–9.528; p < .001). Our risk stratification model based on these independent predictors separated patients into 4 groups with high (70%), intermediate high (41%), intermediate low (18%), and low (4%) rates of AF.ConclusionsOur study indicated that P‐wave indices are suitable for predicting AF episodes. Furthermore, it is possible to stratify patients into risk groups for AF using simple ECG parameters, which is particularly important for patients with cryptogenic stroke.
A few statistical principles for data science
Authors: Cressie Noel 
Published: May 2021

SummaryIn any other circumstance, it might make sense to define the extent of the terrain (Data Science) first, and then locate and describe the landmarks (Principles). But this data revolution we are experiencing defies a cadastral survey. Areas are continually being annexed into Data Science. For example, biometrics was traditionally statistics for agriculture in all its forms but now, in Data Science, it means the study of characteristics that can be used to identify an individual. Examples of non‐intrusive measurements include height, weight, fingerprints, retina scan, voice, photograph/video (facial landmarks and facial expressions) and gait. A multivariate analysis of such data would be a complex project for a statistician, but a software engineer might appear to have no trouble with it at all. In any applied‐statistics project, the statistician worries about uncertainty and quantifies it by modelling data as realisations generated from a probability space. Another approach to uncertainty quantification is to find similar data sets, and then use the variability of results between these data sets to capture the uncertainty. Both approaches allow ‘error bars’ to be put on estimates obtained from the original data set, although the interpretations are different. A third approach, that concentrates on giving a single answer and gives up on uncertainty quantification, could be considered as Data Engineering, although it has staked a claim in the Data Science terrain. This article presents a few (actually nine) statistical principles for data scientists that have helped me, and continue to help me, when I work on complex interdisciplinary projects.
Development of angle closure and associated risk factors: The Handan eye study
Authors: Zhang Ye , Zhang Qing , Thomas Ravi , Li Si Zhen , Wang Ning Li 
Published: May 2021

AbstractPurposeTo investigate the development of angle closure from baseline open angle and associated risk factors in a rural Chinese population through a longitudinal study over a 5‐year period.MethodsSubjects aged ≥30 years and older with bilateral open angles at baseline of the Handan Eye Study who participated in the follow‐up and had undergone both baseline and follow‐up gonioscopic examinations were included. Subjects with any form of angle closure, glaucoma, incisional ocular surgery or other conditions that could influence the results were excluded. The development of angle closure was defined as the presence of primary angle closure suspect (PACS) or primary angle closure (PAC)/primary angle closure glaucoma (PACG) during the follow‐up in normal subjects with baseline bilateral open angles. Logistic regression was performed to identify the baseline risk factors for the development of angle closure.ResultsA total of 457 subjects with bilateral open angles at baseline aged 53.0 (45.5, 58.0) years were enrolled. 94.7% of the included cases developed PACS, 5.3% developed PAC and no one developed PACG after 5 years. In logistic regression, significant risk factors for the development of angle closure were shallower central anterior chamber depth (ACD) (p = 0.002) and narrower mean angle width (p < 0.001).ConclusionsThis study reports the development from baseline open angle to angle closure after a 5‐year follow‐up. We confirm that the mean angle width and central ACD were independent predictive risk factors for the development of any form of angle closure.
Thrombosis is not a marker of bridging vein rupture in infants with alleged abusive head trauma
Authors: Zahl Sverre Morten , Mack Julie A. , Rossant Cyrille , Squier Waney , Wester Knut 
Published: May 2021

AbstractAimThrombosis of bridging veins has been suggested to be a marker of bridging vein rupture, and thus AHT, in infants with subdural haematoma.MethodsThis is a non‐systematic review based on Pubmed search, secondary reference tracking and authors’ own article collections.ResultsRadiological studies asserting that imaging signs of cortical vein thrombosis were indicative of traumatic bridging vein rupture were unreliable as they lacked pathological verification of either thrombosis or rupture, and paid little regard to medical conditions other than trauma. Autopsy attempts at confirmation of ruptured bridging veins as the origin of SDH were fraught with difficulty. Moreover, microscopic anatomy demonstrated alternative non‐traumatic sources of a clot in or around bridging veins. Objective pathological observations did not support the hypothesis that a radiological finding of bridging vein thrombosis was the result of traumatic rupture by AHT. No biomechanical models have produced reliable and reproducible data to demonstrate that shaking alone can be a cause of bridging vein rupture.ConclusionThere is no conclusive evidence supporting the hypothesis that diagnostic imaging showing thrombosed bridging veins in infants correlates with bridging vein rupture. Hence, there is no literature support for the use of thrombosis as a marker for AHT.
Daily bidirectional associations between adolescent negative peer interactions and sleep in rural China: The moderating effect of parental migration
Authors: Zhang Youchuan , Wang Yijie 
Published: May 2021

AbstractLeft‐behind adolescents’ biobehavioral adjustment, such as sleep, is poorly understood by research. Using daily data over one week from 90 middle school students (Mage = 13.69) in rural China, this study investigated daily bidirectional associations between negative peer interactions and sleep disturbances, and how these associations varied by parental migration. On days when adolescents reported higher levels of negative peer interactions, they also reported greater daytime dysfunction the following day. Conversely, when adolescents had more nighttime disturbances the previous night, they also reported higher levels of negative peer interactions. The effects of other sleep disturbance indicators (poor sleep quality the previous night and daytime dysfunction on the same day) on negative peer interactions were significant for adolescents with at least one parent migrating and for those with both parents migrating. Findings highlight the importance of considering dynamic interrelations between interpersonal and biobehavioral factors for the healthy development of left‐behind adolescents.
Population pharmacokinetics of free flucloxacillin in patients treated with oral flucloxacillin plus probenecid
Authors: Drennan Philip G. , Green Jared K. , Gardiner Sharon J. , Metcalf Sarah C. L. , Kirkpatrick Carl M. J. , Everts Richard J. , Zhang Mei , Chambers Stephen T. 
Published: May 2021

AimsOral flucloxacillin may be coadministered with probenecid to reduce flucloxacillin clearance and increase attainment of pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) targets. The aims of this study were to develop a population PK model of free flucloxacillin when administered orally with probenecid, and to identify optimal dosing regimens for this combination.MethodsWe performed a prospective observational study of adults (45 participants) treated with oral flucloxacillin 1000 mg and probenecid 500 mg 8‐hourly for proven or probable staphylococcal infections. Steady‐state mid‐dose‐interval flucloxacillin measurements (45 concentrations) were combined with existing data from a crossover study of healthy participants receiving flucloxacillin with and without probenecid (11 participants, 363 concentrations). We developed a population pharmacokinetic model of free flucloxacillin concentrations within Monolix, and used Monte Carlo simulation to explore optimal dosing regimens to attain PK/PD targets proposed in the literature (free drug time above minimum inhibitory concentration).ResultsFlucloxacillin disposition was best described by a 1‐compartment model with a lag time and first‐order absorption. Free flucloxacillin clearance depended on probenecid, allometrically‐scaled fat free mass (FFM) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Predicted PK/PD target attainment was suboptimal with standard dosing regimens with flucloxacillin alone, but substantially improved in the presence of probenecid.ConclusionThe simulation results reported can be used to identify dose regimens that optimise flucloxacillin exposure according to eGFR and FFM. Patients with higher FFM and eGFR may require the addition of probenecid and 6‐hourly dosing to achieve PK/PD targets. The regimen was well‐tolerated, suggesting a potential for further evaluation in controlled clinical trials to establish efficacy.
A randomised evaluation of low‐dose cytosine arabinoside (ara‐C) plus tosedostat versus low‐dose ara‐C in older patients with acute myeloid leukaemia: results of the LI‐1 trial
Authors: Dennis Mike , Burnett Alan , Hills Robert , Thomas Ian , Ariti Cono , Severinsen Marianne T. , Hemmaway Claire , Greaves Paul , Clark Richard E. , Copland Mhairi , Russell Nigel ,   the National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI) acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) Working Group
Published: May 2021

SummaryOlder patients with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) account for nearly half of those with the disease. Because they are perceived to be unfit for, unwilling to receive, or unlikely to benefit from conventional chemotherapy they represent an important unmet need. Tosedostat is a selective oral aminopeptidase inhibitor, which in phase I/II trials showed acceptable toxicity and encouraging efficacy. We report the only randomised study of low‐dose cytosine arabinoside (LDAC) combined with tosedostat (LDAC‐T) versus LDAC in untreated older patients not suitable for intensive treatment. A total of 243 patients were randomised 1:1 as part of the ‘Pick‐a‐Winner’ LI‐1 trial. There was a statistically non‐significant increase in the complete remission (CR) rate with the addition of tosedostat, LDAC‐T 19% versus LDAC 12% [odds ratio (OR) 0·61, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0·30–1·23; P = 0·17]. For overall response (CR+CR with incomplete recovery of counts), there was little evidence of a benefit to the addition of tosedostat (25% vs. 18%; OR 0·68, 95% CI 0·37–1·27; P = 0·22). However, overall survival (OS) showed no difference (2‐year OS 16% vs. 12%, hazard ratio 0·97, 95% CI 0·73–1·28; P = 0·8). Exploratory analyses failed to identify any subgroup benefitting from tosedostat. Despite promising pre‐clinical, early non‐randomised clinical data with acceptable toxicity and an improvement in response, we did not find evidence that the addition of tosedostat to LDAC produced a survival benefit in this group of patients with AML.International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number: ISRCTN40571019
When cultures clash: Links between perceived cultural distance in values and attitudes towards migrants
Authors: Albada Katja , Hansen Nina , Otten Sabine 
Published: May 2021

Migration elicits mixed reactions from the host‐society. Negative responses towards migrants seem to emerge when migrants are perceived as culturally different. We investigated when and why perceived cultural distance (PCD) is associated with negative migrant attitudes by focussing on differences in cultural values. We expected that PCD in social values (focus on relationships and society) should be more strongly associated with attitudes towards migrants than personal values (individual needs and gains) and should be mediated by symbolic threat. In two quasi‐experimental studies (N = 200, N = 668) with Dutch participants (host‐society), we simultaneously tested effects of respondents’ perception of Dutch values, their perceptions of migrant values (of Moroccan, Syrian, Polish ethnic origin), and PCD between Dutch‐migrant value on attitudes. For all migrant groups, PCD in social values was associated with more negative attitudes, less tolerance, and less policy support regarding migrants; this was mediated by symbolic threat. These links were weaker for personal values.
Impact of the first surge of the COVID‐19 pandemic on a tertiary referral centre for kidney cancer
Authors: Kuusk Teele , Cullen David , Neves Joana Briosa , Campain Nicholas , Barod Ravi , Boleti Ekaterini , El‐Sheihk Soha , Grant Lee , Kelly John , Marchetti Marta , Mumtaz Faiz , Patki Prasad , Ramachandran Navin , Silva Pedro , Tran‐Dang My‐Anh , Walkden Miles , Tran Maxine G.B. , Powles Thomas , Bex Axel 
Published: May 2021

ObjectiveTo analyse the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on a centralized specialist kidney cancer care pathway.Materials and MethodsWe conducted a retrospective analysis of patient and pathway characteristics including prioritization strategies at the Specialist Centre for Kidney Cancer located at the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust (RFH) before and during the surge of COVID‐19.ResultsOn 18 March 2020 all elective surgery was halted at RFH to redeploy resources and staff for the COVID‐19 surge. Prioritizing of patients according to European Association of Urology guidance was introduced. Clinics and the specialist multidisciplinary team (SMDT) meetings were maintained with physical distancing, kidney surgery was moved to a COVID‐protected site, and infection prevention measurements were enforced. During the 7 weeks of lockdown (23 March to 10 May 2020), 234 cases were discussed at the SMDT meetings, 53% compared to the 446 cases discussed in the 7 weeks pre‐lockdown. The reduction in referrals was more pronounced for small and asymptomatic renal masses. Of 62 low‐priority cancer patients, 27 (43.5%) were deferred. Only one (4%) COVID‐19 infection occurred postoperatively, and the patient made a full recovery. No increase in clinical or pathological upstaging could be detected in patients who underwent deferred surgery compared to pre‐COVID practice.ConclusionThe first surge of the COVID‐19 pandemic severely impacted diagnosis, referral and treatment of kidney cancer at a tertiary referral centre. With a policy of prioritization and COVID‐protected pathways, capacity for time‐sensitive oncological interventions was maintained and no immediate clinical harm was observed.