bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Bladder irrigation with tap water to reduce antibiotic use for urinary tract infections in catheter users
Authors: den Hoedt Stefan , van Veen Felice E.E. , Scheepe Jeroen R. , Blok Bertil F.M. 
Published: October 2024

ObjectiveTo evaluate the safety and effectiveness of bladder irrigation (BI) with tap water to reduce antibiotic use for the treatment of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in patients with recurrent UTI symptoms and to assess the treatment satisfaction of BI.Patients and MethodsThis prospective, observational study included patients with an indwelling catheter or performing clean intermittent catheterisation (CIC) who had recurrent UTI symptoms between July 2022 and March 2024. BI with tap water was used for the treatment of UTIs without systemic symptoms (e.g., fever, flank pain or delirium). Patients started daily irrigation at the onset of UTI symptoms and used a tapering schedule. The number of antibiotic treatments for UTIs, UTI incidence rate ratio (IRR), UTI‐related hospitalisations, treatment satisfaction and quality of life (QoL) were compared between a 3‐month period before and after BI with tap water.ResultsA total of 60 patients were included with a median (interquartile range) age of 64.5 (50.4–72.6) years, 66.7% were male, and 83.3% were performing CIC. Antibiotic use was decreased on average by 38.1% (IRR = 0.62; P = 0.016) and catheter‐associated UTIs by 37.9% (IRR = 0.62; P = 0.005). No increase was observed in the incidence of UTIs with systemic symptoms or UTI‐related hospitalisations. In addition, no differences were observed in the health‐related QoL. The majority of patients were positive about the subjective effectiveness (81%), ease of use (86%) and overall satisfaction (85%) of BI with tap water.ConclusionThese findings emphasise the potential of BI with tap water as a promising and patient‐friendly alternative for the treatment of UTIs in patients with urinary catheters. BI with tap water significantly reduces antibiotic use and UTI incidence in patients with recurrent UTIs and is a safe and patient‐friendly alternative that can be easily implemented in the management of UTIs.
Undetectable pre‐radical cystectomy circulating tumour DNA status predicts improved oncological outcomes
Authors: Ben‐David Reuben , Lidagoster Sarah , Geduldig Jack , Kolanukuduru Kaushik P. , Elkun Yuval , Tillu Neeraja , Mandel Asher , Almoflihi Mohammed , Kaufmann Basil , Attalla Kyrollis , Mehrazin Reza , Wiklund Peter , Sfakianos John P. 
Published: October 2024

ObjectiveTo assess recurrence‐free survival (RFS) in patients with undetectable tumour‐informed circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) before radical cystectomy (RC) and evaluate if those who converted from detectable to undetectable ctDNA status after RC have similar RFS outcomes as those with persistently undetectable ctDNA status.Patients and MethodsPatients who underwent RC had prospectively and longitudinally collected tumour‐informed ctDNA analyses during 2021–2023. ctDNA status was informed from the pre‐RC specimen. The minimal residual disease (MRD) window was defined as the initial 90 days after RC. RFS was evaluated using the Kaplan–Meier method. Cox regression analysis was performed to find predictors of disease recurrence.ResultsThe cohort included 135 patients with 647 ctDNA analyses. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) age was 71 (63–77) years. Over a median (IQR) follow‐up of 11 (7–18) months, 41 patients (30%) had a recurrence. Pre‐RC undetectable ctDNA status was found in 54 patients (40%). The RFS rates at 6, 12, and 21 months were 98%, 93%, and 82%, respectively. Of 77 patients with undetectable ctDNA status at the MRD window available for conversion dynamics analysis, 43 had persistently undetectable ctDNA status (both at pre‐RC and MRD window) and 31 converted from pre‐RC detectable to MRD undetectable status (conversion group). The persistently undetectable group had significantly better RFS than the conversion group (log‐rank, P < 0.001), with 12‐month RFS rates of 97% vs 51%, and 18‐month RFS rates of 88% vs 51%, respectively. On Cox multivariate analysis, only the conversion group status predicted disease recurrence.ConclusionsPatients with undetectable pre‐RC ctDNA status have a favourable prognosis and may be candidates for treatment de‐escalation. Those with persistently undetectable ctDNA had superior RFS compared to the conversion group. Pre‐RC ctDNA status should be incorporated into trials examining ctDNA use in clinical decision‐making.
Generalized eXtended Finite Element Method for Deformable Cutting via Boolean Operations
Authors: Ton‐That Q. M. , Kry P. G. , Andrews S. 
Published: October 2024

AbstractTraditional mesh‐based methods for cutting deformable bodies rely on modifying the simulation mesh by deleting, duplicating, deforming or subdividing its elements. Unfortunately, such topological changes eventually lead to instability, reduced accuracy, or computational efficiency challenges. Hence, state of the art algorithms favor the extended finite element method (XFEM), which decouples the cut geometry from the simulation mesh, allowing for stable and accurate cuts at an additional computational cost that is local to the cut region. However, in the 3‐dimensional setting, current XFEM frameworks are limited by the cutting configurations that they support. In particular, intersecting cuts are either prohibited or require sophisticated special treatment. Our work presents a general XFEM formulation that is applicable to the 1‐, 2‐, and 3‐dimensional setting without sacrificing the desirable properties of the method. In particular, we propose a generalized enrichment which supports multiple intersecting cuts of various degrees of non‐linearity by leveraging recent advances in robust mesh‐Boolean technology. This novel strategy additionally enables analytic discontinuous integration schemes required to compute mass, force and elastic energy. We highlight the simplicity, expressivity and accuracy of our XFEM implementation across various scenarios in which intersecting cutting patterns are featured.
Strongly Coupled Simulation of Magnetic Rigid Bodies
Authors: Westhofen L. , Fernández‐Fernández J. A. , Jeske S. R. , Bender J. 
Published: October 2024

AbstractWe present a strongly coupled method for the robust simulation of linear magnetic rigid bodies. Our approach describes the magnetic effects as part of an incremental potential function. This potential is inserted into the reformulation of the equations of motion for rigid bodies as an optimization problem. For handling collision and friction, we lean on the Incremental Potential Contact (IPC) method. Furthermore, we provide a novel, hybrid explicit / implicit time integration scheme for the magnetic potential based on a distance criterion. This reduces the fill‐in of the energy Hessian in cases where the change in magnetic potential energy is small, leading to a simulation speedup without compromising the stability of the system. The resulting system yields a strongly coupled method for the robust simulation of magnetic effects. We showcase the robustness in theory by analyzing the behavior of the magnetic attraction against the contact resolution. Furthermore, we display stability in practice by simulating exceedingly strong and arbitrarily shaped magnets. The results are free of artifacts like bouncing for time step sizes larger than with the equivalent weakly coupled approach. Finally, we showcase the utility of our method in different scenarios with complex joints and numerous magnets.
Review of ecological valuation and equivalency analysis methods for assessing temperate nearshore submerged aquatic vegetation
Authors: Pausch Rachel E. , Hale Jessica R. , Kiffney Peter , Sanderson Beth , Azat Sara , Barnas Katie , Chesney W. Bryant , Cosentino‐Manning Natalie , Ehinger Stephanie , Lowry Dayv , Marx Steve 
Published: October 2024

AbstractNearshore seagrass, kelp, and other macroalgae beds (submerged aquatic vegetation [SAV]) are productive and important ecosystems. Mitigating anthropogenic impacts on these habitats requires tools to quantify their ecological value and the debits and credits of impact and mitigation. To summarize and clarify the state of SAV habitat quantification and available tools, we searched peer‐reviewed literature and other agency documents for methods that either assigned ecological value to or calculated equivalencies between impact and mitigation in SAV. Out of 47 tools, there were 11 equivalency methods, 7 of which included a valuation component. The remaining valuation methods were most commonly designed for seagrasses and rocky intertidal macroalgae rather than canopy‐forming kelps. Tools were often designed to address specific resource policies and associated habitat evaluation. Frequent categories of tools and methods included those associated with habitat equivalency analyses and those that scored habitats relative to reference or ideal conditions, including models designed for habitat suitability indices and the European Union's Water and Marine Framework Directives. Over 29 tool input metrics spanned 3 spatial scales of SAV: individual shoots or stipes, bed or site, and landscape or region. The most common metric used for both seagrasses and macroalgae was cover. Seagrass tools also often employed density measures, and some categories used measures of tissue content (e.g., carbon, nitrogen). Macroalgal tools for rocky intertidal habitats frequently included species richness or incorporated indicator species to assess habitat. We provide a flowchart for decision‐makers to identify representative tools that may apply to their specific management needs.
Effects of expansion of protected areas and habitat transformation on spatiotemporal variation in human–wildlife conflict
Authors: Li Yumei , Zhang Chao , Gao Huayao , Lu Ming , Nie Yonggang 
Published: October 2024

AbstractLand‐use changes and the expansion of protected areas (PAs) have fostered increased interactions between humans and wildlife, resulting in an escalation of human–wildlife conflict (HWC) globally. However, HWC spatiotemporal pattern variation and its associations with PAs and land‐use change remain poorly understood. To address this knowledge gap, we mapped and analyzed HWCs from 1990 to 2022 across China. We comprehensively mapped the spatiotemporal dynamics of HWCs in ArcGIS with data sets stratified by county, year, and species; assessed the impact of PAs through propensity score matching; and analyzed the effects of habitat transformation with linear mixed models. As PA increased from 0 to 20,000 km2, the likelihood of HWCs initially increased (50%) before declining (20%). Conversely, as the distance from a PA grew, the likelihood of HWC gradually decreased (0 beyond 65 km). There was a temporal lag between the establishment of a PA and the occurrence of HWC. Habitat loss catalyzed HWCs, whereas decreased levels of habitat fragmentation sometimes initially caused a temporary increase in HWCs. In general, the distribution of PAs greatly affected HWC occurrence, and habitat loss and fragmentation were critical drivers of HWCs, both of which exhibited time‐lagged effects. HWC has become more challenging to address as conservation initiatives have led to significant recovery of the habitats and populations of wild animals. Further measures to address the HWCs are needed to ensure the preservation of animal welfare while fostering the mutually beneficial coexistence of humans and animal species. Finally, our study provides an important starting point for informing future HWC research and conservation planning on a global scale.
Unveiling the Enigmatic Role of SLC35F3 in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Ye Yiwang , Long Feihu , Yue Wei , Wei Zichun , Yang Jianyi , Xie Yuancai 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundThe role of solute carrier family 35 member F3 (SLC35F3) in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remains unclear. To address this gap, we conducted a study employing bioinformatics analysis and experimental validation.MethodsThis study aimed to examine the expression patterns of SLC35F3 in various cancer types, particularly focusing on LUAD, by analyzing data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database to evaluate its clinical relevance. The research also explored potential regulatory mechanisms of SLC35F3, including its interactions with immune infiltration, tumor mutational burden (TMB), and drug sensitivity in LUAD. The investigation included analyzing SLC35F3 expression in single‐cell sequencing of LUAD cells, examining genetic variations of SLC35F3 in LUAD, and assessing SLC35F3 expression in cell lines using quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR).ResultsThe aberrant expression of SLC35F3 was observed in both pan‐cancer and LUAD. In LUAD patients, a statistically significant increase in SLC35F3 expression was correlated with gender (p < 0.001) and was associated with poorer overall survival (OS) (p = 0.020). The expression of SLC35F3 was identified as an independent prognostic determinant in patients with LUAD (p = 0.032). SLC35F3 exhibited associations with various pathways, including cell cycle and more. SLC35F3 expression demonstrated correlations with immune infiltration, TMB, and some drugs in LUAD. Results indicated significant upregulation of SLC35F3 in both LUAD tissues and cell lines.ConclusionsSLC35F3 may serve as a prognostic biomarker and immunotherapeutic target for patients with LUAD.Clinical Trial RegistrationNot applicable.
The Effects of Using AI Tools on Critical Thinking in English Literature Classes Among EFL Learners: An Intervention Study
Authors: Liu Wenxia , Wang Yunsong 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTArtificial intelligence (AI)‐driven learning has become an irreversible trend in foreign language education. Scholars are increasingly focusing on this field, yet few have examined its impact within English literature classes. To fill this gap, we designed an 8‐week intervention study with mixed methods and recruited 90 students, with 42 in the experimental group and 48 in the control group, matched for average age, English proficiency and gender ratio. Critical thinking levels were measured before and after the intervention using a standardised assessment tool. In the experimental group, students used AI tools (ChatGPT‐3.5, Bodoudou, SummarizBot, etc.) to generate and answer text‐related questions, and participate in interactive quizzes and AI‐assisted debates during classes, while the control group followed traditional methods without AI tools. The findings revealed a statistically significant improvement in the critical thinking skills of the experimental group compared to the control group, as measured by pre and postintervention assessments (p < 0.05). This suggests that AI tools can effectively enhance critical thinking abilities in English literature classes. This study not only contributes to the emerging discourse on AI in education but also offers practical implications for integrating AI technologies to support and enrich the learning experiences of EFL students in literature classes. The findings have the potential to guide educators and policymakers in designing AI‐driven educational strategies that are culturally responsive and pedagogically effective.
Equine coital exanthema: New approaches to minimise the negative impact on the equine industry
Authors: Vissani M. A. 
Published: October 2024

SummaryEquine coital exanthema (ECE), caused by Equid alphaherpesvirus 3 (EHV‐3), is a highly contagious, venereally transmitted mucocutaneous disease, characterised by the formation of papules, vesicles, pustules and ulcers on the external genital organs of mares and stallions. The infection is endemic worldwide, and the virus is transmitted mainly through direct contact during sexual intercourse and by contaminated instruments during reproductive manoeuvres in breeding facilities. The only known biological reservoir of EHV‐3 is the latently infected horse; it is well‐known that, as for other herpesviral infections, periods of reactivation from latency, with production and shedding of infectious virus, are the source of infection for other comingling susceptible animals. Episodes of reactivation and shedding, either with or without clinical manifestation, and together with variable levels of serum antibodies, have been observed. Although the disease is relatively benign and does not result in systemic illness, infertility or abortion, it does have a negative impact on the equine industry, as it forces to temporarily withdraw affected animals, consequently disrupting mating activities in breeding enterprises. Thus, outbreaks of ECE continue to be a major problem for the equine industry, mostly in those facilities with heavily scheduled breeding calendars during reproductive seasons. For affected stallions, such disruptions may translate into significant end‐of‐season decreases in the mare‐book size. Similarly, affected mares may miss breeding opportunities. In artificial insemination and embryo transfer centres, affected mares may be reluctant to be inspected, inseminated or transferred, with the consequent loss of opportunities to become pregnant. In both scenarios (natural mating or artificial insemination), delayed foaling dates or reduced pregnancy rates may occur in mares that miss breeding opportunities because of the disease. In the interest of reducing the negative impact of EHV‐3 infections on breeding centres, advances have been made during the last years as to diagnostic methodologies, treatment and prevention.
Challenges and complications of prolonged nasogastric intubation in equine patients
Authors: Byrne C. A. 
Published: October 2024

SummaryManaging equine patients that require prolonged periods of nasogastric intubation can be difficult and may require the use of repeated intubation or use of an in‐dwelling nasogastric tube. Both approaches present potential risks for complications from nasal, pharyngeal and oesophageal trauma. Diagnosis and treatment of cranial oesophageal lesions can be particularly challenging due to the anatomy of this region.
Adapting a Preparatory Skills‐Building Programme for Carers of People With Cancer Through Co‐Design: The iCanSupport Project
Authors: Easpaig Bróna Nic Giolla , Newman Bronwyn , Johnson Judith , Sansom‐Daly Ursula M. , Jones Lucy , Hofstätter Lukas , Robertson Eden G. , Harrison Reema 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTIntroductionHealth services rely upon carers to provide care for loved ones with cancer, yet many carers often feel ill‐prepared for this role. Despite a multitude of programmes to support carer mental health, programmes that help carers feel better equipped to support a person with cancer are lacking. This study aimed to address this need by adapting an evidence‐based intervention to be suitable for carers of people with cancer.MethodsThis study used an exploratory, qualitative design consisting of experienced‐based co‐design and an in‐depth stakeholder engagement strategy. An existing evidence‐based programme to promote resilience in the context of providing care was adapted for relevance to carers for people with cancer via two co‐design workshops with carers and healthcare professionals (n = 8). The resulting prototype programme was refined based on stakeholder consultations with staff and consumer members of cancer and carer support organisations across Australia (n = 16). Transcripts of the workshops, meetings and written feedback from carers were thematically analysed.ResultsMajor programme developments were guided by three themes that emerged from the co‐design workshops: ‘creating value for carers’, ‘multiple contributors to carer distress’ and ‘the need for flexible implementation’. Analysis of the stakeholder consultation data showed that the themes of ‘diversity in carer journeys’ and ‘creating impact for carers’ were key to further tailoring the programme for applicability to practice. An adapted programme called ‘iCanSupport’ resulted from the process, with key adaptations being more relevant case study scenarios for carers and greater flexibility in accessing and engaging with the intervention to accommodate a range of carer circumstances.ConclusionProgrammes to build skills for becoming a carer for someone with cancer are absent, yet they are desired by carers. Using co‐design provided a user‐centric approach to adapt an existing evidence‐based programme. Programme evaluation is required to determine the effectiveness of the co‐designed approach in improving carer preparedness among a range of cohorts.Patient or Public ContributionCarers and consumers with lived experience and others involved in supporting consumers made valuable contributions to co‐designing and refining the programme in addition to providing ongoing guidance in the unfolding analysis and reporting of this research.
HIV Pre‐Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Users' Experiences of PrEP Access, Sexual Behaviour, and Well‐Being During the COVID‐19 Pandemic: A Welsh Qualitative Study
Authors: Khammas Zahraa , Gillespie David , Williams Adam Dale Newman , Nicholls Jane , Wood Fiona 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundHIV Pre‐Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) has been available in Wales since 2017. The coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) pandemic impacted UK sexual health services, leading to a reduction in service provision. There is a lack of research on the experiences of PrEP users during this time.ObjectiveWe aimed to explore the experiences of PrEP users in Wales following the introduction of COVID‐19 pandemic measures.MethodsWe conducted a secondary data analysis of two prior interview studies (DO‐PrEP and UPrEP). Data collection was undertaken between May 2020 and February 2021 using remote interviewing. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted. Participants were ≥18 years of age, residents of Wales, current or previous PrEP users, and men who have sex with men (MSM). Reflexive thematic analysis was conducted.ResultsA total of 32 interviews were included in the analysis. Themes include the following: (1) PrEP use during COVID‐19, (2) sexual behaviour and relationship changes following COVID‐19 restrictions, (3) NHS service provision during the COVID‐19 pandemic, and (4) wider contextual effects of the pandemic. Participants reported a change in PrEP use (pausing or switching to event‐based PrEP). Participants reported reduced access to clinics and appointments. Support for changing to event‐based PrEP was varied. Social isolation resulted in varied responses to lockdown rules, especially in later lockdowns.ConclusionThis study provides patient perspectives on the challenges the COVID‐19 pandemic posed to PrEP use and access. It offers insights into the broader support needs around PrEP use when an individual's circumstances change. Flexible models of PrEP provision, which can be adapted to the patient's needs, will be essential as PrEP delivery extends into the wider community.Patient and Public ContributionBoth the DO‐PrEP and UPrEP studies received input from various stakeholders in the design of the topic guides for the study; these included public lay members, PrEP users, PrEP providers, and individuals involved with HIV advocacy and policy.