bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Locally Defined Seasonal Rainfall Characteristics within the Horn of Africa Drylands from Rain Gauge Observations
Authors: Cocking Katherine , Singer Michael Bliss , MacLeod David , Cuthbert Mark O. , Rosolem Rafael , Muthusi Flavian , Paron Paolo , Kimutai Joyce , Omondi Phillip , Hassan Ahmed Mohamed , Teshome Asaminew , Michaelides Katerina 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Seasonal rainfall is critical to lives and livelihoods within the Horn of Africa drylands (HAD), but it is highly variable in space and time. The main HAD rainfall seasons are typically defined as March–May (MAM) and October–December (OND). However, these 3-month periods are only generalized definitions of seasonality across the HAD, and local experience of rainfall may depart from these substantially. Here, we use daily rain gauge data with a duration of at least 10 years from 69 stations across the drylands of Kenya, Somalia, and Ethiopia to locally delineate key rainfall seasons. By calculating local seasonal rainfall timings, totals, and extremes, we obtain more accurate estimates of the spatial variability in rainfall delivery across the HAD, as well as climatological patterns. Results show high spatial variability in season onset, cessation, and length across the region, indicating that a homogenous classification of rainfall seasons across the HAD (e.g., MAM and OND) is inadequate for representing local rainfall characteristics. Our results show that the “long rains” season is not significantly longer than the “short rains” season over the period of study. This could be related to the previously documented decline of the “long rains” seasonal totals over recent decades. Several rainfall metrics also vary spatially between seasons, and the rainfall on the most extreme days can accumulate to double the local mean seasonal total. The locally defined rainfall seasons better capture the bulk of the rainfall during the season, giving improved characterization of rainfall metrics, consistent with the aim of a better understanding of rainfall impacts on local communities.
Improved Orographic Gravity Wave Drag Parameterization Accounting for the Nonhydrostatic Effect in the Weather Research and Forecasting Model: Tests for Short-Range Forecast of Northeast China Cold Vortices
Authors: Li Mingshan , Xu Xin , Teixeira Miguel A. C. , Xue Ming , Xue Haile , Zhu Kefeng , Huang Hong 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
The parameterization of orographic gravity wave drag (OGWD) is essential for accurate numerical weather prediction in regions of complex terrain. Current OGWD schemes assume hydrostatic orographic gravity waves (OGWs) but the parameterized OGWs in fine-resolution models with narrow subgrid-scale orography can be significantly affected by the nonhydrostatic effects (NHE). In our recent work, the OGWD scheme in the Model for Prediction Across Scales (MPAS) was revised by accounting for the NHE on the surface wave momentum flux of upward-propagating OGWs. Herein, the revised OGWD scheme is implemented in the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model to evaluate its performance in short-range weather forecast. Two sets of 36-h WRF simulations are conducted for nine Northeast China cold vortices (NECVs) that occurred in the warm season of 2011 using the original and revised OGWD schemes. Results show that the WRF Model tends to underestimate the intensity of the NECVs, producing too high geopotential height. When accounting for the NHE in the OGWD scheme, the NECV intensity biases are significantly reduced. Analyses reveal that the NHE act to weaken the lower-tropospheric OGWD by decreasing the surface wave momentum flux, which strengthens the NECV in the lower troposphere. Consequently, the strengthened low-level cyclonic circulation increases the posttrough cold advection to the southwest of the NECV which in turn enhances the NECV in the mid–upper troposphere with reduced geopotential height. The NHE are found to increase as the model horizontal resolution increases, suggesting greater importance of NHE in the OGWD parameterization of high-resolution numerical models.
‘Oevaru’ 2023: Ocean currents and the journey of an inaugural mental health conference in the Maldives
Authors: Mansoor Shanooha , Mohamed Arif 
Published: October 2024

Objectives This paper describes an important mental health initiative in Maldives – the inaugural national mental health research conference. Conclusions Amid socio-cultural challenges in the background of climate change, amplified by COVID-19, mental health issues in Maldives surged. National Centre for Mental Health (NCMH), acknowledging data gaps, has prioritized evidence-based care since 2019 with a vision of building a research culture. Oevaru 2023, Maldives’ inaugural mental health research conference, was convened by NCMH and held on October 15-16, 2023, addressing holistic care, prevention, innovation, and investment in mental health as sub-themes. Pre-conference sessions provided skill-building, followed by workshops on specialized topics. Oevaru featured keynotes, expert talks, panel discussions, and poster presentations, including a hybrid session with the Creating Futures Conference. It culminated in a white paper, emphasizing research-driven strategies for a resilient mental health system in Maldives.
Impact of Cachexia on Chemotherapy Efficacy and Survival in Pancreatic Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Khalil Muhammad Ashraf , Jafri Syed Ahsan Ali , Zahra Naqvi Midhat E. , Jauhar Iman , Kumar Vijay , Ali Syed Muhammad Sinaan , Khalil Sara , Raheem Abdul , kumar Ritesh , Haseeb Abdul , Shafique Muhammad Ashir 
Published: October 2024

Background and Objective Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a significant cause of cancer-related mortality, with limited curative options and high rates of cachexia, a debilitating syndrome associated with poor prognosis. While previous research has linked sarcopenia to poor outcomes in PC, the correlation between cachexia and treatment outcomes remains underexplored. This meta-analysis aims to investigate the association between cachexia and overall survival and time to treatment failure in advanced PC patients undergoing first-line chemotherapy. Method A systematic search of electronic databases was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies compared cachexic and non-cachexic PC patients, reporting outcomes of observed survival or time to treatment failure. Data extraction and analysis were performed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis Version 3.3, employing random-effects models and sensitivity analyses to assess heterogeneity and bias. Results Seven observational studies involving 2834 PC patients were included. The incidence of cachexia was 45% (95% CI: 0.27-0.65), with a higher prevalence in East Asian populations. Cachexic patients experienced significantly earlier treatment failure (SDM: −2.22, 95% CI: −2.6 to −1.7, P = 0.0001) and higher mortality risk (HR: 2.02, 95% CI: 1.17-3.48, P = 0.011) compared to non-cachexic patients. Overall survival was lower in cachexic patients (SDM: −2.34, 95% CI: −3.7 to −0.90, P = 0.001), with considerable heterogeneity across studies. Meta-regression analysis revealed significant differences between countries but insignificant correlations with age. Conclusion Cachexia is associated with reduced overall survival, early chemotherapy failure, and elevated mortality in advanced PC patients undergoing first-line chemotherapy. Recognition and management of cachexia are crucial for optimizing treatment outcomes and improving patient survival. Future research should focus on prospective studies to better understand the impact of cachexia on treatment response and develop tailored interventions to mitigate its adverse effects.
Exploring the perceptions of New Zealand Chinese dementia carers on the adapted world health organization iSupport manual: A qualitative study
Authors: Li Fei , Parsons John , Xiao Lily Dongxia , Cheung Gary 
Published: October 2024

Background Across countries, most dementia carers report a lack of adequate information about dementia and local services. To address this issue, the World Health Organization developed the iSupport programme to provide information and support to dementia carers. The iSupport online programme was found to be feasible and acceptable by dementia carers. However, the potential of using the iSupport manual (iSupport) specifically for Chinese dementia carers in New Zealand remains unknown. Objective This study aimed to (1) identify refinements to adapt iSupport by eliciting the perspectives of Chinese dementia carers; and (2) explore the educational needs of Chinese dementia carers, which can inform the development of support programmes tailored to their specific requirements. Design This was a qualitative descriptive study using semistructured interviews. The data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results Twelve Chinese dementia carers were interviewed (mean age 58.0 years, 100% female, and mean caring experience of 2.2 years). Emerging themes were identified within three domains: (1) usefulness, (2) complexities of using iSupport, and (3) suggestions for improvement. Conclusions The findings suggest that Chinese dementia carers generally found iSupport to be valuable, providing valuable insights into how to tailor and enhance support for this population. However, further research is required to empirically validate the effectiveness of the adapted iSupport for Chinese dementia carers in New Zealand. These findings have implications for the development of future interventions that can more effectively address the specific needs of Chinese dementia carers.
What are the communication guidelines for people with dementia and their carers on the internet and are they evidence based? A systematic review
Authors: Harris Charlotte , Webber Rebeccah , Livingston Gill , Beeke Suzanne 
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Communication difficulties of people with dementia can negatively impact well-being of them and their carers. There are evidence-based and clinically recommended strategies that can be used to support people with dementia which they are more likely to access on websites than via academic literature. We aimed to search the internet for communication advice for people with dementia and their carers, describe the strategies and compare these to the evidence-base. Methods: After a systematic search of websites offering communication advice to people with dementia and their carers, we described the strategies there, used reflexive thematic analysis to identify the rationale for recommended strategies and compared the strategies to the evidence base. We included websites aimed at people with dementia and their carers published by dementia-related health and social care, or third sector organisations. We compared strategies to those in published systematic reviews and practice guidance from UK health and social care agencies. Results: Our review identified 39 eligible websites, containing 164 individual strategies. These were grouped into 26 strategy types, with nine latent themes developed. These were supporting communication strengths, valuing the interaction, prioritising needs, providing emotional safety, working together, adapting communication for the situation, developing carer communication skills, knowing the individual and focusing on broader meaning. Conclusion: Our review highlights the need for flexible approaches to supporting communication for people with dementia which consider the individual’s needs and preferences, the context of the interaction, and the priority in that moment. We identify the inherent challenges for carers in trying to interpret advice for their own needs.
Evaluating the impact of the Health Access for Refugees Project on people who are refugees or seeking asylum in Northern England
Authors: Balaam M-C , Haith-Cooper M , Mathew D 
Published: October 2024

Aims: Evidence demonstrates that people who are seeking asylum and refugees face individual, institutional and system-level barriers when accessing health services. Health Access for Refugees’ Project (HARP) is a UK initiative increasing access to health care within this community through a series of interventions. This study explored the impact of HARP on health service access, experiences and outcomes for clients, and how volunteers and staff addressed institutional and system-level barriers. Methods: In summer 2020, we conducted qualitative telephone interviews with four HARP clients, eight clients who became volunteers, seven further volunteers and three staff members. Results: The educational aspect of the interventions supported clients navigating the complex UK health care system while promoting independence in accessing health care. Advocacy by volunteers and staff was important in challenging barriers at individual and institutional levels. Staff challenged the asylum system, by improving information around entitlement to health care and addressing barriers to registering with a General Practitioner (GP). Conclusions: Interventions such as those provided by HARP can address different levels of barriers to support people accessing health care provision. This can be achieved through training health professionals and working with peers to support access to care and to develop self-advocacy. However, stable long-term funding is essential to ensure the sustainability of these initiative.
Diagnosis of fetal arrhythmia in echocardiography imaging using deep learning with cyclic loss
Authors: Liu Xiangyu , Zhang Yingying , Zhu Haogang , Yang Xu , Cheng Jian , Jin Jishuo , Jia Bosen , He Yihua , Zhang Hongjia 
Published: October 2024

Background Fetal arrhythmias frequently co-occur with congenital heart disease in fetuses. The peaks observed in M-mode fetal echocardiograms serve as pivotal diagnostic markers for fetal arrhythmias. However, speckles, artifacts, and noise pose notable challenges for accurate image analysis. While current deep learning networks mainly overlook cardiac cyclic information, this study concentrated on the integration of such features, leveraging contextual constraints derived from cardiac cyclical features to improve diagnostic accuracy. Methods This study proposed a novel deep learning architecture for diagnosing fetal arrhythmias. The architecture presented a loss function tailored to the cardiac cyclical information and formulated a diagnostic algorithm for classifying fetal arrhythmias. The training and validation processes utilized a dataset comprising 4440 patches gathered from 890 participants. Results Incorporating cyclic loss significantly enhanced the performance of deep learning networks in predicting peak points for diagnosing fetal arrhythmia, resulting in improvements ranging from 7.11% to 14.81% in F1-score across different network combinations. Particularly noteworthy was the 18.2% improvement in the F1-score for the low-quality group. Additionally, the precision of diagnosing fetal arrhythmia across four categories exhibited improvement, with an average improvement rate of 20.6%. Conclusion This study introduced a cyclic loss mechanism based on the cardiac cycle information. Comparative evaluations were conducted using baseline methods and state-of-the-art deep learning architectures with the fetal echocardiogram dataset. These evaluations demonstrated the proposed framework’s superior accuracy in diagnosing fetal arrhythmias. It is also crucial to note that further external testing is essential to assess the model’s generalizability and clinical value.
Teachers’ use of augmented input and responsive strategies in schools for students with intellectual disability: A multiple case study of a communication partner intervention
Authors: Wallin Sofia , Thunberg Gunilla , Hemmingsson Helena , Wilder Jenny 
Published: October 2024

Background and aims Teachers serve as critical communication partners for students with intellectual disability (ID) who face communication difficulties. However, teachers may lack sufficient training in using communication partner strategies and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) in the classroom. This study aimed to explore teacher application of a communication partner intervention (AKKtiv ComPal) in schools for students with ID. Methods Video observations were conducted at four schools during a teacher-led group activity at pre- and postintervention, with follow-up 7 months later, focusing on communication partner strategies and AAC use applied as a universal approach in the classroom. Differences and similarities in intervention application and contextual factors that may influence teacher application were investigated using a multiple case study approach, in which the four teachers and their contexts served as the four examined cases. Results All cases increased the access to communication boards in the classroom and used more augmented input and responsive strategies following intervention. Follow-up measures revealed variability in augmented input and sustained or more use of responsive strategies. Despite increased strategy use, access to communication boards remained inconsistent, and augmented input was used with variability across observation minutes. Influencing factors to teacher application seemed to be classroom setups (such as having a table), previous AAC skills, student characteristics, and postintervention efforts such as repeating the intervention or participating in follow-up sessions. Conclusions This study demonstrates that classroom teachers for students with ID can use augmented input and responsive strategies as a universal design approach in the classroom following the AKKtiv ComPal intervention. However, teachers may utilize the strategies somewhat differently, partly influenced by their contextual factors. Implications The findings suggest that while teachers for students with ID can successfully use communication partner strategies in the classroom, their use of augmented input should be nurtured over time to ensure sustained use and possibly improve consistency. Additionally, adapting to the physical environment of the classroom is crucial to optimize the application of these strategies.
Radiomultiomics: quantitative CT clusters of severe asthma associated with multiomics
Authors: Zounemat Kermani Nazanin , Chung Kian Fan , Macis Giuseppe , Santini Giuseppe , Clemeno Franz A.A. , Versi Ali , Sun Kai , Abdel-Aziz Mahmoud I. , Andersson Lars I. , Auffray Charles , Badi Yusef , Bakke Per , Brightling Chris , Brinkman Paul , Caruso Massimo , Chanez Pascal , De Meulder Bertrand , Djukanovic Ratko , Fabbri Leonardo , Fowler Stephen J. , Horvath Ildiko , Howarth Peter , James Anna J. , Kolmert Johan , Kraft Monica , Li Chuan-Xing , Maitland-van der Zee Anke H. , Malerba Mario , Papi Alberto , Rabe Klaus , Sanak Marek , Shaw Dominick E. , Singh Dave , Sparreman Mikus Maria , van Den Berge Maarten , Wheelock Asa M. , Wheelock Craig E. , Yasinska Valentyna , Guo Yi-ke , Wagers Scott , Barnes Peter J. , Bush Andrew , Sterk Peter J. , Dahlen Sven-Erik , Adcock Ian M. , Siddiqui Salman , Montuschi Paolo 
Published: October 2024

BackgroundLung quantitative computed tomography (qCT) severe asthma clusters have been reported, but their replication and underlying disease mechanisms are unknown. We identified and replicated qCT clusters of severe asthma in two independent asthma cohorts and determined their association with molecular pathways, using radiomultiomics, integrating qCT, multiomics and machine learning/artificial intelligence.MethodsWe used consensus clustering on qCT measurements of airway and lung CT scans, performed in 105 severe asthmatic adults from the U-BIOPRED cohort. The same qCT measurements were used to replicate qCT clusters in a subsample of the ATLANTIS asthma cohort (n=97). We performed integrated enrichment analysis using blood, sputum, bronchial biopsies, bronchial brushings and nasal brushings transcriptomics and blood and sputum proteomics to characterise radiomultiomic-associated clusters (RACs).ResultsqCT clusters and clinical features in U-BIOPRED were replicated in the matched ATLANTIS cohort. In the U-BIOPRED cohort, RAC1 (n=30) was predominantly female with elevated body mass index, mild airflow limitation, decreased CT lung volume and increased lung density and upregulation of the complement pathway. RAC2 (n=34) subjects had airway wall thickness and a mild degree of airflow limitation, with upregulation of proliferative pathways including neurotrophic receptor tyrosine kinase 2/tyrosine kinase receptor B, and downregulation of semaphorin pathways. RAC3 (n=41) showed increased lung attenuation area and air trapping, severe airflow limitation, hyperinflation, and upregulation of cytokine signalling and signalling by interleukin pathways, and matrix metallopeptidase 1, 2 and 9.ConclusionsU-BIOPRED severe asthma qCT clusters were replicated in a matched independent asthmatic cohort and associated with specific molecular pathways. Radiomultiomics might represent a novel strategy to identify new molecular pathways in asthma pathobiology.
Enormous headward and gully erosion in a floodplain area reclaimed for open-cast lignite mining during the July 2021 flood in the Inde River valley (Western Germany)
Authors: Keßels Johannes , Wolf Stefanie , Römer Wolfgang , Dörwald Lukas , Schulte Philipp , Lehmkuhl Frank 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Background
The July flood 2021 at the mountain front of the Eifel-Ardennes Mountains and their foreland resulted in the flooding of the lignite mining area of Inden in Germany. The mining activities resulted in large-scale anthropogenic changes to the relief and fluvial system, leading to a landscape that is no longer adjusted to the recent process-response system. This paper concentrates on the Inde River, where lignite mining led to the relocation of a 5-km-long river section. The flood event resulted in the temporary avulsion of the Inde River into the former channel and, ultimately, in the flooding of the open-cast lignite mine Inden.

Results
The flooding of the open-cast lignite mine Inden led to headwall erosion and enormous sediment mobilisation, mobilising more than half a million cubic metres of sediment within a few hours, forming a 700-m-long deeply incised channel cut. Thereby, the underlying bedrock, near-subsurface man-made structures, and former river channels influence the erosional processes to different degrees. Surface erosion is likely to be the decisive process, and subsurface erosion is likely to play a secondary role. In both cases, former channels and mill ditches were likely impacting the course of erosional processes.

Conclusions
During high flood events open-cast mining sites in floodplains are endangered by enormous erosion and sediment transport within a short period of time (several hours). Understanding such complex erosion and depositional processes in open-cast mining areas could provide a blueprint for geomorphological processes and hazards in these anthropogenically shaped fluvial landscapes. Further, information on historic impact in the area is crucial to estimate potential risks.