bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
An Empirical Model for Skillful Rogue Wave Forecasts
Authors: Cicon Leah , Gemmrich Johannes , Häfner Dion , Jochum Markus 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
One of the leading goals of rogue wave research is to develop a robust rogue wave warning system to mitigate the danger they pose. One such system has been developed by the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF), called the freak wave warning system (FWWS), based on nonlinear wave effects. The FWWS predicts maximum expected wave envelope height as a risk parameter for forecasts. Recently, a data-driven alternative has been proposed by Häfner et al., which was distilled from a neural network using wave buoy observations. However, it has yet to be evaluated by a spectral wave model for application to operational wave forecasting. The data-driven, learned model emphasizes bandwidth-controlled linear superposition as the predominant mechanism in crest-to-trough rogue wave generation, while nonlinear effects are a secondary term. The present work evaluates the performance of the empirical model using output from an ECMWF global wave hindcast. We find that the prediction models based on bandwidth effects have the highest log likelihood scores, with the empirical model outperforming all other tested models. In contrast, the expected maximum envelope wave height from the FWWS does not predict the occurrence of rogue waves. These results indicate that the empirical model with wave model input is a skillful predictor and should be considered for operational implementation to improve rogue wave forecasting.

Significance Statement
Rogue waves are unexpectedly large and unpredictable waves. Encounters with rogue waves can result in damage to marine vessels and offshore infrastructures. Research is devoted to developing systems to predict the risk of rogue wave events. A novel predictive model has been shown to perform well in predicting rogue wave occurrences based on wave buoy observations. This model is a symbolic expression distilled from an artificial neural network that incorporates known rogue wave dynamics and that can be evaluated alongside traditional risk estimates with minor adjustments to operational forecasting systems. This study evaluates the newly proposed empirical model in a forecasting setting. Our work demonstrates the efficacy of the empirical model for operational forecasting purposes.
Right-wing authoritarianism, social dominance, system justification, and conservative political ideology as predictors of mental health stigma: The Hungarian case
Authors: Szabó Zsolt Péter , Lönnqvist Jan-Erik , Lantos Nóra Anna , Valtonen Jussi 
Published: July 2024

Background: Insights from mental health stigma research indicate the importance of societal and political views on mental health perceptions. Most studies originate from typical Western neo-liberal settings and focus on generic mental health issues. Our research explores these associations in Hungary, an understudied post-communist context with significant stigma levels, examining a broad range of stigmas related to both general and three specific mental illnesses: schizophrenia, depression, and alcohol use disorder (AUD). Aims: The study aims to connect a wide array of political dispositions to stigma associated with both general and specific mental illnesses, exploring both attitudes and behavioral intentions. Methods: We surveyed 492 participants (147 males, 342 females) on their political dispositions, including Right-Wing Authoritarianism (RWA), Social Dominance Orientation (SDO), general and economic system justification, and conservative political ideology, and their attitudes toward general and specific mental illnesses. Regression analyses identified key political dispositions influencing stigma. Results: RWA was significantly linked to most stigma outcomes, while conservative political ideology showed a selective impact. Other predictors had minimal influence on stigma outcomes. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that perceptions of danger, threat, and unconventionality, as indicated by RWA, are crucial for mental health stigmatization in Hungary. Intervention programs should target these factors, particularly in similar contexts.
Quantification of First Metatarsal Joint Surface Interactions in Hallux Rigidus Using Distance and Coverage Mapping: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Jones Matthew Thomas , Braza Samuel , Mallavarapu Vineel , Behrens Andrew , Jasper Ryan , Stebral Hannah , Carvalho Kepler Alencar Mendes de , Barbachan Mansur Nacime Salomao , Dibbern Kevin , de Cesar Netto Cesar 
Published: July 2024

Background: Weightbearing cone-beam computed tomography (WBCT) has proven useful for analysis of structural changes of the foot and ankle when compared to conventional radiographs. WBCT allows for extraction of distance and coverage mapping metrics, which may provide novel insight into hallux rigidus (HR). This study retrospectively assessed HR joint space using distance and coverage mapping in a case-control study. Methods: WBCT images of the foot and ankle for 20 symptomatic HR and 20 control patients were obtained. Three-dimensional models were created and analyzed using a custom semiautomatic measurement algorithm. Distance and coverage mapping metrics for the first metatarsophalangeal and metatarsosesamoid joints were extracted from the models and compared between cohorts. Relationships between these metrics and visual analog scale (VAS) scores, a patient-reported outcome of pain, were assessed in HR patients. Results: Overall first metatarsophalangeal joint space narrowing was noted in HR patients when compared to controls by an average of 11.8% ( P = .02). However, no significant changes in the overall coverage of the joint were noted. Decreased joint space width and increased surface-to-surface coverage were only and particularly observed at the plantar medial quadrant of the first metatarsal head in HR patients relative to controls. VAS score was significantly but weakly correlated with dorsolateral quadrant coverage ( R2 = 0.26, P = .03). Conclusion: Distance and coverage mapping serve as a complementary option to current techniques of quantifying HR changes. These metrics can expand the scope of future work investigating joint articulation changes in HR.
Home Visiting and Child Welfare Involvement: A Matched Comparison Group Study
Authors: Doe Hilary A. , Osborne Cynthia , Huffman Jennifer , Craig Sean M. , Shero Mason 
Published: July 2024

The present study is one of the largest quasi-experimental studies to date on the effects of home visiting on documented child maltreatment during a child’s first two years of life. In this matched comparison group study, we compare 8796 families that participated in a home visiting program (HV families) to 8796 similar non-participating families (non-HV families) selected from birth records using Coarsened Exact Matching. Using sequential logistic regression, we identify that HV families have significantly higher odds of experiencing a child maltreatment investigation by their child’s second birthday compared to non-HV families; however, among those that were investigated, HV families have significantly lower odds of having their first investigation substantiated for maltreatment. Overall, HV families do not differ significantly from non-HV families in the odds of experiencing a substantiated investigation over 2 years. We share implications for considering surveillance bias, and we highlight the importance of including both substantiated and unsubstantiated investigations when studying the effects of home visiting on documented child maltreatment.
Disability patterns in multiple sclerosis: A meta-analysis on RAW and PIRA in the real-world context
Authors: Prosperini Luca , Ruggieri Serena , Haggiag Shalom , Tortorella Carla , Gasperini Claudio 
Published: July 2024

Objective: To summarize the current evidence on relapse-associated worsening (RAW) and progression independent of relapse activity (PIRA) through a quantitative synthesis of real-world studies. Methods: Scientific databases were searched to identify suitable articles. Random-effects meta-analyses, subgroup analyses and meta-regression models were ran to provide pooled estimates of RAW and PIRA events and to identify their potential moderators (PROSPERO registration: CRD42024503895). Results: Eighteen articles met the eligibility criteria, with a pooled sample size of 52,667 patients (93% relapsing–remitting, 6% clinically isolated syndrome and 1% progressive) followed for 2.4 to 12.1 years, yielding to 415,825 patient-years. Pooled event rates for RAW and PIRA were 1.6 (95 confidence interval (CI) = 1.1–2.1) and 3.1 (95% CI = 2.3–3.9) per 100 patient-years, respectively. Less RAW events were found in cohorts including patients with progressive course (β = −0.069, p = 0.006) and under high-efficacy disease-modifying treatments (DMTs) (β = −0.031, p = 0.007), while PIRA events were directly related to older age (β = 0.397, p = 0.027). In addition, we found significant differences in PIRA event rates according to the criteria adopted to define confirmed disability accrual ( p < 0.05). Discussion: PIRA accounts for most events causing disability accumulation in the real-world setting, even at the earlier disease stages, whereas RAW represents a less frequent phenomenon, likely due to effective treatments. The detection and statistical analysis of PIRA outcomes pose challenges, raising the risk of erroneous inference. When interpreting our findings, caution is needed given the wide heterogeneity of included studies.
An Expert Delphi Consensus on Risk Factors for Adverse Events After Endovascular Aortic Aneurysm Repair: Tier 1 Study From the International RIsk Stratification in EVAR (IRIS-EVAR) Working Group
Authors: Talbot Adam B. , Schermerhorn Marc L. , Forbes Thomas L. , Golledge Jonathan , Verhagen Hence J. M. , Torella Francesco , Antoniou George A. 
Published: July 2024

Purpose: Tier 1 of the International RIsk Stratification in EndoVascular Aneurysm Repair (IRIS-EVAR) project aimed to identify important risk factors for adverse events following endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). Materials and Methods: Initially, the steering committee proposed a number of risk factors for adverse events following EVAR. A Delphi consensus was performed as expert panelists were presented with risk factors and provided the opportunity to propose additional risk factors during the process. Experts in EVAR completed an online survey via 3 structured rounds. The first round opened in July 2022, and the third round closed in December 2022. Panelists rated risk factors using a 4-point Likert scale. Consensus was defined as >70% of participants agreeing/strongly agreeing or disagreeing/strongly disagreeing with a statement in each round. Results: Thirty-five panelists from 12 countries completed the 3 rounds of surveys. Of a total of 64 individual risk factors assessed by the panelists, 37 (58%) had consensus that they were important for adverse events following EVAR. Risk factors were stratified in 4 domains: 14 (38%) were related to preoperative anatomy, 3 (8%) related to the aortic device selection, 8 (22%) related to the procedure performance, and 12 (32%) related to postoperative surveillance. Factors with the highest consensus in each domain were as follows: proximal aortic neck length <15 mm (98% consensus), anatomy non-compliant with instructions for use (94% consensus), length of achieved proximal aortic neck post implantation <10 mm (98% consensus), and non-satisfactory seal at landing or overlapping zones/sac expansion/kink or stenosis (100% consensus each), respectively. Conclusions: Clinically important risk factors for adverse events after EVAR were identified via expert consensus. These factors will be used to develop an expert consensus-informed risk stratification and surveillance strategies. Clinical impact This is the first study to apply an in-depth Delphi methodology to achieve an expert consensus on risk factors for adverse events after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). Important risk factors were stratified in 4 domains: preoperative anatomy (14 factors), aortic device (3 factors), EVAR procedure (8 factors), and postoperative surveillance (12 factors). This study will potentially influence future clinical practice by providing evidence informed by experts regarding predictors of adverse events following EVAR that can be taken into account during decision making and developing post-EVAR surveillance strategies. These findings will inform a risk stratification tool for everyday use by vascular surgeons.
Vascular Aging Entails Arterial Dilatation in Addition to Increased Arterial Stiffness
Authors: Schaafsma A. , Molanus L. , van Rooijen G. J. 
Published: July 2024

Introduction: The increase in arterial blood pressure occurring with aging is considered an important risk factor for end-organ damage in, among others, the brain. How exactly this risk emerges is largely unknown. Methods: We investigated the effect of aging on middle cerebral flow velocity (MCAFV) and noninvasive arterial blood pressure (NIBP) in 105 healthy volunteers aged 18 to 82 years. Both pulsatile signals were analyzed determining the first (Sys1) and second systolic peak (Sys2) and the diastolic flow velocity 560 ms after stroke onset (D560). Results: For NIBP, a linear increase was found with aging for Sys2 and D560 (0.72 and 0.14 mm Hg/year, respectively) but not for Sys1. For MCAFV, a linear decrease was found with aging for all variables, being more rapid for Sys1 than for Sys2 or D560 (−0.94, −0.41, and −0.54 cm/s/year, respectively). Both signals change from Sys1 dominant in young adults to increasingly Sys2 dominant in the elderly. Discussion: That MCAFV decreases with aging, whereas NIBP increases can best be explained by assuming arterial dilatation. Apart from the generally accepted increase in arterial stiffness, arterial dilatation may be an important additional factor in vascular aging: the loss of elastin allows arteries to dilate until restricted by arterial collagen. Conclusion: Normal values collected in this study support protocols for non-invasive monitoring that require a correction for age.
No immediate change in systemic cytokines following an eccentric muscle training session in people with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Alt Yasmin , Wochatz Monique , Schraplau Anne , Engel Tilman , Sharon Hadar , Gurevich Michael , Menascu Shay , Mayer Frank , Kalron Alon 
Published: July 2024

Background: Eccentric muscle contractions elicit distinct physiological responses, including modulation of the cytokine profile. Although relevant for rehabilitation, the effect of eccentric muscle training on the immune system has never been investigated in multiple sclerosis (MS). Objectives: Examine the immediate cytokine response of interleukin-4 (IL-4), IL-6, IL-10, IL-17a, interferon-gamma, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha after a moderate eccentric training session in individuals with MS. Additionally, further investigate the association between systemic cytokine levels at rest and clinical measures of mobility and lower limb functional strength. Design: Observational study. Methods: The first session included blood sampling for baseline cytokine measures. Subsequently, the participant completed a battery of clinical assessments related to mobility and lower limb strength, that is, the Timed-Up-and-Go Test, Five-Repetition-Sit-to-Stand-Test (5STS), Four-Square-Step-Test, and Two-Minute-Walk-Test. The second session included the eccentric exercise training session, followed by a second blood sampling to assess the acute cytokine response to the eccentric training bout. This session comprised 10 exercises concentrating on the strength of the trunk and lower extremities. Results: Twenty-seven people with MS (pwMS), with a mean age of 40.1 years, participated in the study. No difference was demonstrated in the cytokine concentration values between baseline and immediately after the eccentric training session. The 5STS explained 30.3% of the variance associated with interferon-gamma, 14.8% with IL-4, and 13.8% with IL-10. Conclusion: An eccentric training bout does not impact cytokine concentration in the blood and, consequently, does not boost a pro-inflammatory response, thus, it can be performed on pwMS in a rehabilitation setting.
The impact of elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor on cystic fibrosis health-related quality of life and decision-making about daily treatment regimens: a mixed methods exploratory study
Authors: Basile Melissa , Polo Jennifer , Henthorne Katherine , DeCelie-Germana Joan , Galvin Susan , Wang Janice 
Published: July 2024

Background: Elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor (ETI) has reduced many symptoms of cystic fibrosis (CF). Objectives: We sought to identify the impact of ETI on both symptoms and treatment decisions among adults with CF. Design: Participants were enrolled in a cross-sectional study. Surveys were sent via a RedCap link. Semistructured interviews were administered remotely via Microsoft Teams. Interviews were audio recorded and professionally transcribed. Methods: We assessed Cystic Fibrosis Questionnaire-Revised (CFQ-R) subscales for physical, respiratory, emotion, and treatment, and analyzed semistructured interviews covering CF treatment regimens and daily living. Quantitative and qualitative results were analyzed separately and via a mixed-methods convergence coding matrix. Results: Twenty-four adults with CF taking ETI were included. CFQ-R subscale scores (mean scores/standard deviation) were physical (82.1/22.8), respiratory (83.7/11.2), emotion (65.3/14.2), and treatment (57.5/20.1). Three themes about decision-making for non-ETI-treatments emerged: (1) How I’m feeling, (2) Not noticing a difference, and (3) Uncertainty about long-term impact of modifying treatment regimens, and we found participants weighed each of these factors in their treatment decisions. Key findings from mixed-methods analysis show that among individuals experiencing higher CFQ-R scores for physical and respiratory compared to emotion and treatment, there were statements indicating that while those participants were experiencing better physical health, many continued their burdensome treatment regimens. Conclusion: With little long-term data on the impact of reducing non-ETI treatments, participants weighed how they were feeling, treatment efficacy beliefs, and risk tolerance when making treatment decisions.
Lack of awareness and ethnic polarity is a major cause of metabolic associated fatty liver disease in high-risk diabetes population in South London
Authors: Ajaz Saima , Chamley Mark , Lok James , Soliman Riham , Khan Reece , Ahir Karan , Curtis Monique , Guerra-Veloz María Fernanda , Agarwal Kosh 
Published: July 2024

Background: Metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) stands as the leading cause of chronic liver disease globally. Notably, individuals with metabolic risk factors, such as diabetes and obesity, exhibit a staggering prevalence of MAFLD, with estimates reaching up to 70%. However, despite its widespread occurrence, there’s a noticeable gap in understanding and awareness about MAFLD among these high-risk groups. Objectives: The main objective of this study was to assess the awareness and prevalence of MAFLD among diabetic patients who regularly receive secondary care focusing particularly on how multiethnic backgrounds and associated lifestyle preferences influence these health outcomes. Design: Cross-sectional study. Methods: Patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) who regularly attend Lambeth Diabetes Intermediate Care Team clinics were invited to undergo MAFLD screening using FibroScan. Those who agreed to participate were provided with structured questionnaires on diet, physical activity, and MAFLD knowledge by a hepatologist. For each participant, anthropometric data, medical history, liver stiffness measurement, and controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) were documented. Steatosis was identified with a CAP value of ⩾275 dB/m, and advanced fibrosis was flagged at values of ⩾8 kPa. Results: The FibroScan data was valid in 96.4% (215), 53.5% (115/215) had steatosis and 26.2% (58/215) had liver fibrosis in this multiethnic high-risk group. Awareness of MAFLD was notably low at 30.9%. Alarmingly, 69% of patients diagnosed with liver fibrosis were unfamiliar with the condition. Additionally, understanding of MAFLD showed variation among different ethnic groups with highest levels were demonstrated in the Caucasian/White population (46%). Majority (96%) of these subjects were receiving specific lifestyle advice from healthcare professionals due to metabolic conditions and comorbidities. However, most patients preferred diets that were rich in carbohydrates (65.8%) and only 43% subjects performed moderate exercise daily highlighting lack of understanding regarding MAFLD and lifestyle management. Conclusion: There’s a pressing need for increased awareness of MAFLD, especially in multiethnic high-risk groups. Additionally, the development of cost-effective strategies to stratify risk is essential to address this growing health concern.
Seroprevalence of hepatitis B, C, and its associated risk factors among clinically suspected patients attending poly and Maraki Health Centers, Gondar City, North West Ethiopia
Authors: Tesfaye Solomon , Alemu Adefework , Bizualem Endalkachew , Mehabie Daniel , Alelign Amir 
Published: July 2024

Background: Hepatitis B and C viruses are major global health problems with a high mortality rate, mostly due to serious liver diseases such as liver cirrhosis, liver failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of the hepatitis B and C viruses and associated risk factors among clinically suspected patients attending Poly and Maraki Health Centers in Gondar City. Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted to recruit 422 clinically suspected patients attending Poly and Maraki Health Centers between June and August 2020. The blood sample was tested for hepatitis B surface antigen and anti-Hepatitis C virus antibodies using commercially available rapid test kits. We used logistic regression and chi-square analysis to assess factors associated with Hepatitis B virus and Hepatitis C virus infections. Results: The overall prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen and anti-Hepatitis C virus antibodies was 29 (6.9%) and 5 (1.2%), respectively. The prevalence of Hepatitis B virus and Hepatitis C virus was found to be significantly higher at Maraki Health Center. Multiple sexual partners (adjusted odd ratio (AOR = 12.299; 95% CI = 2.515–60.142), history of delivery by traditional birth attendants (AOR = 6.284; 95% CI = 2.373–16.637), surgical history (AOR = 3.679; 95% CI = 1.009–13.417), previous hepatitis infections (AOR = 10.374; 95% CI = 1.128–95.444), and upper abdominal pain (AOR = 3.382; 95% CI = 1.215–9.414) were significantly associated with an increased risk of Hepatitis B virus infections. On the other hand, a history of blood transfusion (AOR = 43.132; 95% CI = 1.385–1343.176) and a history of kidney dialysis (AOR = 71.199; 95% CI = 2.074–2444.646) were significantly associated with Hepatitis C virus infection. Conclusions: According to the WHO endemicity classification, the prevalence of the hepatitis B virus was intermediate, while that of the hepatitis C virus was low. Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen the efforts to control and prevent Hepatitis B virus and Hepatitis C virus infections.