bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Multilevel modeling of geographic variation in general practice consultations
Authors: Astell‐Burt Thomas , Navakatikyan Michael A. , Arnolda Leonard F. , Feng Xiaoqi 
Published: March 2021

AbstractObjectiveTo test relatively simple and complex models for examining model fit, higher‐level variation in, and correlates of, GP consultations, where known nonhierarchical data structures are present.SettingNew South Wales (NSW), Australia.DesignAssociation between socioeconomic circumstances and geographic remoteness with GP consultation frequencies per participant was assessed using single‐level, hierarchical, and multiple membership cross‐classified (MMCC) models. Models were adjusted for age, gender, and a range of socioeconomic and demographic confounds.Data Collection/Extraction MethodsA total of 261,930 participants in the Sax Institute's 45 and Up Study were linked to all GP consultation records (Medicare Benefits Schedule; Department of Human Services) within 12 months of baseline (2006‐2009).Principal FindingsDeviance information criterion values indicated the MMCC negative binomial regression was the best fitting model, relative to an MMCC Poisson equivalent and simpler hierarchical and single‐level models. Between‐area variances were relatively consistent across models, even when between GP variation was estimated. Lower rates of GP consultation outside of major cities were only observed once between‐GP variation was assessed simultaneously with between‐area variation in the MMCC models.ConclusionsApplication of the MMCC model is necessary for estimation of variances and effect sizes in sources of big data on primary care in which complex nonhierarchical clustering by geographical area and GP is present.
Fitting marginalized two‐part models to semicontinuous survey data arising from complex samples
Authors: Smith Valerie A. , West Brady T. , Zhang Shiyu 
Published: March 2021

AbstractObjectiveTo accurately model semicontinuous data from complex surveys, we extend marginalized two‐part models to a design‐based inferential framework and provide guidance on incorporating complex sample designs.Data Sources2014 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS).Study DesignWe describe the use of pseudo‐Maximum Likelihood Estimation and Jackknife Repeated Replication for estimating model parameters and sampling variance, respectively. We illustrate our approach using MEPS, modeling total healthcare expenditures in 2014 as a function of respondents’ age and family income. We provide SAS and R code for implementing the extension, assessing model‐fit indices, and evaluating the need to incorporate complex sampling features.Data Extraction MethodsData obtained from www.meps.ahrq.gov.Principle FindingsA 100 percentage‐point increase in family income as a percent of the federal poverty level was associated with a 5%‐6% increase in healthcare spending. People over 65 had an increase of 4‐5 times compared to those younger. Accounting for complex sampling in the models led to different parameter estimates and wider confidence intervals than the unweighted models. Ignoring complex sampling could lead to inaccurate finite population inference.ConclusionResearchers should account for complex sampling features when analyzing semicontinuous data from surveys.
Five‐year oncological outcomes for rectal cancer treated by upfront laparoscopic total mesorectal excision
Authors: Ng Ka‐ying , Poon Michael Chi‐Ming 
Published: March 2021

AbstractAimThe study aimed to evaluate the long‐term recurrence rates and survival following upfront laparoscopic total mesorectal excision (TME) for rectal adenocarcinoma.Patient and MethodsThis was a retrospective cohort of 94 patients with rectal adenocarcinoma undergoing upfront radical resection in New Territories West Cluster between 2010 and 2015. Tumours with safe circumferential resection margin (>1 mm) on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) staging were selected for upfront surgery. Demographic data, tumour characteristics, operative details, and histopathological and postoperative outcomes were collected from patients' records. The primary outcome was local recurrence. Secondary outcomes were distant recurrence and overall (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS).ResultsA total of 224 patients were diagnosed with rectal adenocarcinoma, of which 94 received upfront surgery after a multidisciplinary team discussion by surgeons and oncologists. The median follow‐up period after surgery was 60 months (range 4.7‐60.9 months), with four patients lost to follow‐up. Six patients (6.3%) developed local recurrence (two with isolated local recurrence and four with local and distant recurrence). Twelve patients (12.8%) experienced distant recurrence. The 5‐year OS and DFS rates were 84.3% and 76.2%, respectively. Possible prognostic factors for local recurrence (including distal tumour level ≤ 5 cm, clinical nodal stage, clinical threatened margin, pathological stage, harvested lymph nodes <12, distal margin <1 cm, positive extramural venous invasion, and circumferential resection margin) were evaluated by multivariable logistic regression, and were shown to be insignificant.ConclusionUpfront laparoscopic TME for MRI‐selected rectal cancer patients can achieve favourable oncological outcomes in our centre. Routine neoadjuvant treatment for all T3 or nodal positive disease is not necessary.
Double ligation is useful to prevent recurrence for paediatric inguinal hernia in the laparoscopic percutaneous extraperitoneal closure procedure
Authors: Ohba Go , Takahashi Ryo , Okada Naoki , Minato Masashi , Nakayama Masato , Yamamoto Hiroshi 
Published: March 2021

AbstractAimAlthough laparoscopic percutaneous extraperitoneal closure (LPEC) is the standard procedure for paediatric inguinal hernia repair in our country, recurrence is an important problem. In this study, we examined the usefulness of double ligation in preventing recurrence in the LPEC procedure.MethodsWe retrospectively examined children with inguinal hernias who underwent the LPEC procedure. Cases from October 2012 to June 2016 who underwent surgery for inguinal hernias with single ligation were defined as Group A. Children operated on from July 2016 to April 2019, when double ligation was the standard procedure in our institution, were defined as Group B. We reviewed the operative time and postoperative complications including recurrence rate. Double ligation was performed by holding two threads on the LPEC needle and then binding them individually.ResultsGroup A consisted of 401 patients and Group B consisted of 360 patients. No significant differences were noted between the groups with respect to operative time, infection, metachronous contralateral hernia or testicular atrophy. The recurrence rate was significantly higher in Group A with recurrence occurring in seven cases compared to none in Group B.ConclusionsDouble ligation in the LPEC procedure is useful for preventing recurrence.
Quantitative evaluation of computed tomography findings in patients with bronchial asthma: prediction of therapeutic response
Authors: Nam Bo Da , Ko Sujin , Hwang Jung Hwa 
Published: March 2021

AbstractIntroductionTo compare pretreatment quantitative CT parameters between patients with well‐controlled and those with poorly controlled bronchial asthma after treatment.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed 785 patients with clinical diagnosis of bronchial asthma from January 2009 to April 2015. Of these, 43 patients underwent high‐resolution CT and pulmonary function tests at initial diagnosis. According to the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) 2015 guidelines, the patients were classified into two groups (well‐controlled (GINA1), n = 18; poorly controlled (GINA2 and GINA3), n = 25). Quantitative measurements for airways (total cross‐sectional area (TA), lumen area (LA), wall area (WA) and wall area percentage (WA%)), air trapping and emphysema were performed on initial pretreatment CT scans. We compared CT measurements for airways between well‐controlled and poorly controlled groups and also compared those between ever‐smokers and never‐smokers. The significant quantitative CT parameters were evaluated with multiple regression analysis.ResultsThe TA and the WA demonstrated significantly higher values in the poorly controlled than in the well‐controlled patient group (TA in RB1 and LB1, each P < 0.05; WA in RB1 and RB8, each P < 0.05). Quantitative parameters for air trapping and emphysema did not show significant differences between the two patient groups. On multiple regression analysis, the TA and the WA were statistically significant in comparison of two patient groups with an adjustment for age, sex, body mass index and smoking history (each P < 0.05). Significantly higher values of the WA and the WA% were revealed in the asthmatics with smoking history comparing to non‐smokers (P < 0.05).ConclusionMost of the quantitative CT measurements did not correlate significantly with clinical outcomes in patients with bronchial asthma. And, further research that supplements the limitations of this study is needed to support and validate the association between CT parameters and therapeutic response. This can be justified by the fact that a trend of higher values in airway measurements on initial pretreatment HRCT scan in the poorly controlled than in the well‐controlled patient group.
A standardisation framework for bio‐logging data to advance ecological research and conservation
Authors: Sequeira Ana M. M. , O'Toole Malcolm , Keates Theresa R. , McDonnell Laura H. , Braun Camrin D. , Hoenner Xavier , Jaine Fabrice R. A. , Jonsen Ian D. , Newman Peggy , Pye Jonathan , Bograd Steven J. , Hays Graeme C. , Hazen Elliott L. , Holland Melinda , Tsontos Vardis M. , Blight Clint , Cagnacci Francesca , Davidson Sarah C. , Dettki Holger , Duarte Carlos M. , Dunn Daniel C. , Eguíluz Victor M. , Fedak Michael , Gleiss Adrian C. , Hammerschlag Neil , Hindell Mark A. , Holland Kim , Janekovic Ivica , McKinzie Megan K. , Muelbert Mônica M. C. , Pattiaratchi Chari , Rutz Christian , Sims David W. , Simmons Samantha E. , Townsend Brendal , Whoriskey Frederick , Woodward Bill , Costa Daniel P. , Heupel Michelle R. , McMahon Clive R. , Harcourt Rob , Weise Michael 
Published: March 2021

Abstract

Bio‐logging data obtained by tagging animals are key to addressing global conservation challenges. However, the many thousands of existing bio‐logging datasets are not easily discoverable, universally comparable, nor readily accessible through existing repositories and across platforms, slowing down ecological research and effective management. A set of universal standards is needed to ensure discoverability, interoperability and effective translation of bio‐logging data into research and management recommendations.

We propose a standardisation framework adhering to existing data principles (FAIR: Findable, Accessible, Interoperable and Reusable; and TRUST: Transparency, Responsibility, User focus, Sustainability and Technology) and involving the use of simple templates to create a data flow from manufacturers and researchers to compliant repositories, where automated procedures should be in place to prepare data availability into four standardised levels: (a) decoded raw data, (b) curated data, (c) interpolated data and (d) gridded data. Our framework allows for integration of simple tabular arrays (e.g. csv files) and creation of sharable and interoperable network Common Data Form (netCDF) files containing all the needed information for accuracy‐of‐use, rightful attribution (ensuring data providers keep ownership through the entire process) and data preservation security.

We show the standardisation benefits for all stakeholders involved, and illustrate the application of our framework by focusing on marine animals and by providing examples of the workflow across all data levels, including filled templates and code to process data between levels, as well as templates to prepare netCDF files ready for sharing.

Adoption of our framework will facilitate collection of Essential Ocean Variables (EOVs) in support of the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) and inter‐governmental assessments (e.g. the World Ocean Assessment), and will provide a starting point for broader efforts to establish interoperable bio‐logging data formats across all fields in animal ecology.
Complex interactions between commercial and noncommercial drivers of illegal trade for a threatened felid
Authors: Arias M. , Hinsley A. , Nogales‐Ascarrunz P. , Carvajal‐Bacarreza P. J. , Negroes N. , Glikman J. A. , Milner‐Gulland E.J. 
Published: March 2021

AbstractIllegal trade and human‐wildlife conflict are two key drivers of biodiversity loss and are recognized as leading threats to large carnivores. Although human‐wildlife conflict involving jaguars (Panthera onca) has received significant attention in the past, less is known about traditional use or commercial trade in jaguar body parts, including their potential links with retaliatory killing. Understanding the drivers of jaguar killing, trade and consumption is necessary to develop appropriate jaguar conservation strategies, particularly as demand for jaguar products appears to be rising due to Chinese demand. We interviewed 1107 rural households in north‐western Bolivia, an area with an active history of human–jaguar conflict, which has also been at the epicentre of recent jaguar trade cases. We collected information on participants' experiences with jaguars, their jaguar killing, trading and consuming behaviours and potential drivers of these behaviours. We found that the relationships between local people and jaguars are complex and are driven largely by traditional practices, opportunism, human–jaguar conflict and market incentives from foreign and domestic demand, in the absence of law awareness and enforcement. Addressing jaguar trade and building human–jaguar coexistence will require a multifaceted approach that considers the multiple drivers of jaguar killing, trade and consumption, from foreign and local demand to human–jaguar conflict.
Evaluation of functional muscle anatomy scalability in the canine hind limb
Authors: Dries Billy P. R. , Jonkers Ilse , Van Den Broeck Wim , Vanwanseele Benedicte , DeRycke Lieve , Dingemanse Walter , Vander Sloten Jos , Van Bree Henri , Gielen Ingrid 
Published: March 2021

AbstractIn contrast to other mammals, the large variation in dog sizes is not accompanied by any significant genetic re‐organization. In order to study the relationship between body mass, limb length and the functional anatomical muscle parameters of the canine hind limb, a large dataset comprising of muscle masses, optimal muscle fibre lengths and physiological cross‐sectional area's (PCSA) were acquired for twenty‐five muscles in ten dogs of sizes varying between 20 kg and 52 kg. The potential of body mass and limb length for reliably scaling individual muscle masses, optimal muscle fibre lengths and PCSA's were examined. For the majority of the muscles of the canine hind limb, neither body mass nor limb length were reliable scaling parameter for either muscle masses, PCSA's and optimal fibre length. These results indicate the need of a breed‐specific approach to musculoskeletal modelling in future canine musculoskeletal research.
Surgical technique is the main predictor of recurrence in the management of haemorrhoids
Authors: De Robles Marie Shella , Young Christopher J. 
Published: March 2021

AbstractBackgroundThe pursuit of better management for haemorrhoidal disease (HD) is far from over, and even with the latest surgical procedures, none of the treatment options is close to perfect. The aims of this study were to review our experience with patients treated for symptomatic HD, compare the different treatment strategies in terms of complication and recurrence rates and determine predictors of recurrence.MethodsA total of 1958 patients who underwent a procedure for HD performed by a single colorectal consultant surgeon between 2000 and 2015 were reviewed.ResultsThe treatment performed was rubber band ligation (RBL) in 73%, excisional haemorrhoidectomy (EH) in 16% and stapled haemorrhoidopexy (SH) in 11%. After a mean follow‐up of 42.1 months, 242 patients (12%) developed recurrence. Logistic regression analysis of multiple factors showed that treatment received was a significant predictor of recurrence. RBL had the lowest post‐operative complication rate but had the highest recurrence rate. EH had the lowest recurrence rate. SH had the highest complication rate but with similar recurrence rates to EH. Complications included pain, anal fissure, bleeding and urinary retention.ConclusionLow‐grade HD can initially be treated with RBL with good results. Although conventional EH remains a mainstay operation for recurrent and complicated HD, SH can also be considered in selected cases particularly when performed by a surgeon with adequate experience. Treatment should be tailored to the individual based on patient preference, suitability, degree of haemorrhoids and symptomatology.
Lebanese adolescents’ expectations about social inclusion of peers in intergroup contexts
Authors: Hitti Aline , Melki Jad , Sahakian Tina , Killen Melanie 
Published: March 2021

This study examined the role of group norms, group identity, age, contact, and stereotypes on youths’ decisions to include a peer in an intergroup context portraying Lebanese and American adolescents. Lebanese participants (N = 275), ages 12 and 16 years, were surveyed about expectations for inclusion of an out‐group target with similar interests or an in‐group target with different interests into their own Lebanese group or another American group. Findings indicated participants focused on shared interests, rather than national identity, when making inclusion decisions for either group and group norms mattered. Older participants expected American peers to be less inclusive towards an out‐group peer. Direct contact predicted inclusivity of out‐group American peers into one’s own Lebanese group, and indirect media‐based contact predicted expectations for inclusivity into an American out‐group. Findings have implications for interventions aimed at improving cross‐national friendships which, in turn, have the potential to reduce prejudicial attitudes.
Expert review on soft‐tissue plasmacytomas in multiple myeloma: definition, disease assessment and treatment considerations
Authors: Rosiñol Laura , Beksac Meral , Zamagni Elena , Van de Donk Niels W. C. J. , Anderson Kenneth C. , Badros Ashraf , Caers Jo , Cavo Michele , Dimopoulos Meletios‐Athanasios , Dispenzieri Angela , Einsele Hermann , Engelhardt Monika , Fernández de Larrea Carlos , Gahrton Gösta , Gay Francesca , Hájek Roman , Hungria Vania , Jurczyszyn Artur , Kröger Nicolaus , Kyle Robert A. , Leal da Costa Fernando , Leleu Xavier , Lentzsch Suzanne , Mateos Maria V. , Merlini Giampaolo , Mohty Mohamad , Moreau Philippe , Rasche Leo , Reece Donna , Sezer Orhan , Sonneveld Pieter , Usmani Saad Z. , Vanderkerken Karin , Vesole David H. , Waage Anders , Zweegman Sonja , Richardson Paul G. , Bladé Joan 
Published: March 2021

SummaryIn this review, two types of soft‐tissue involvement in multiple myeloma are defined: (i) extramedullary (EMD) with haematogenous spread involving only soft tissues and (ii) paraskeletal (PS) with tumour masses arising from skeletal lesions. The incidence of EMD and PS plasmacytomas at diagnosis ranges from 1·7% to 4·5% and 7% to 34·4% respectively. EMD disease is often associated with high‐risk cytogenetics, resistance to therapy and worse prognosis than in PS involvement. In patients with PS involvement a proteasome inhibitor‐based regimen may be the best option followed by autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) in transplant eligible patients. In patients with EMD disease who are not eligible for ASCT, a proteasome inhibitor‐based regimen such as lenalidomide‐bortezomib‐dexamethasone (RVD) may be the best option, while for those eligible for high‐dose therapy a myeloma/lymphoma‐like regimen such as bortezomib, thalidomide and dexamethasone (VTD)‐RVD/cisplatin, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide and etoposide (PACE) followed by SCT should be considered. In both EMD and PS disease at relapse many strategies have been tried, but this remains a high‐unmet need population.
Developing theory‐based asthma self‐management interventions for South Asians and African Americans: A systematic review
Authors: Ahmed Salina , Pinnock Hilary , Steed Elizabeth 
Published: March 2021

PurposeIntervention development guidelines suggest that behavioural interventions benefit from being theory‐based. Minority populations typically benefit less from asthma self‐management interventions, and the extent to which appropriate theory has been used for culturally tailored interventions has not been addressed. We aimed to determine theory use and theoretical domains targeted in asthma self‐management interventions for South Asian and Black populations.MethodsWe systematically searched electronic databases, research registers, manually searched relevant journals and reference lists of reviews for randomised controlled trials of asthma self‐management for South Asian and Black populations, and extracted data using the Theory Coding Scheme to inform if/how theory was used and explore its associations with asthma outcomes, and the Theoretical Domains Framework was used to identify targeted theoretical domains and its relationship to effectiveness of asthma outcomes.Results20 papers (19 trials) were identified; theory was not extensively used in interventions. It was unclear whether theory use or theoretical domains targeted in interventions improved asthma outcomes. South Asian interventions included ‘behavioural regulation’, while ‘reinforcement’ was mostly used in African American interventions. ‘Knowledge’ was central for all populations, though there were differences related to ‘environmental context and resources’ e.g., language adaptations for South Asians; asthma resources provided for African Americans. Author descriptions of interventions targeting providers were limited.ConclusionsThere was little evidence of theory‐based approaches used in cultural interventions for asthma self‐management. Demystifying theoretical concepts (and cultural interpretations of constructs) may provide clarity for ‘non‐experts’, enabling mainstream use of theory‐driven approaches in intervention development.
Average time to sell a property and credit conditions: Evidence from the Italian housing market survey
Authors: Cesaroni Tatiana 
Published: March 2021

AbstractThis study examines the influence of housing credit conditions on the time on market (TOM) for residential properties in Italy, using a unique dataset from the Bank of Italy survey on the Italian housing market. The analysis was carried out on a sample of roughly 1000 real estate agents over the period 2011–2015 using panel data techniques. The results support the view that an increase in housing market liquidity, measured by the loan‐to‐value ratio, reduces the average TOM of a property, thus improving the matching process between buyers and sellers. The results are found to be robust to specifications including the traditional determinants of TOM, used as controls (i.e., price revisions, potential buyers, mandates to sell, the role of brokers, and so on). The results also show that a higher price reduction, possibly associated with an initial mispricing by the seller when setting the initial listing price, seems to be associated with a higher TOM for residential properties.