bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Determining sensitivity and specificity of risk scores for QTc interval prolongation in hemato-oncology patients prescribed systemic antifungal therapy: a retrospective cross-sectional study
Authors: Steinbrech Julian , Klein Till , Kirschke Stephanie , Mannell Hanna , Clauß Sebastian , Bertsche Thilo , Strobach Dorothea 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
QTc interval prolongation can result in potentially lethal arrhythmias. One risk factor is QTc-prolonging drugs, including some antifungals often used in hemato-oncology patients. Screening tools for patients at risk have not yet been investigated in this patient population.

Aim
Our aim was to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of five QTc risk scores in hemato-oncology patients receiving systemic antifungal therapy.

Method
Data were retrieved from an internal study database including adult hemato-oncology patients prescribed systemic antifungal therapy. Data on QTc-prolonging medication, risk factors for QTc prolongation, and electrocardiograms (ECG) were collected retrospectively for a period of 12 months. The QTc risk scores according to Tisdale, Vandael, Berger, Bindraban, and Aboujaoude as well as their sensitivity and specificity were calculated.

Results
During the evaluated period, 77 patients were prescribed systemic antifungals resulting in 187 therapy episodes. Regarding therapy episodes, median age was 56 years (IQR 44–68), 41% (77) were female, and a median of 3 QTc-prolonging drugs were prescribed (range 0–6). ECGs were available for 45 (24%) of the therapy episodes 3–11 days after initiation of the antifungal therapy, 22 of which showed QTc prolongation. Regarding these 45 therapy episodes, sensitivity and specificity of the risk scores were calculated as follows: Tisdale 86%/22%, Vandael 91%/35%, Berger 32%/83%, Bindraban 50%/78%, Aboujaoude 14%/87%.

Conclusion
The QTc risk scores according to Tisdale and Vandael showed sufficient sensitivity for risk stratification in the studied patient population. In contrast, risk scores according to Berger, Bindraban, and Aboujaoude cannot be considered suitable due to poor sensitivity.
“Intrasellar tumor-to-tumor metastasis: A single center experience with a systematic review”
Authors: Mansur Guilherme , Alsavaf Mohammad Bilal , Pasquini Ludovica , Abouammo Moataz D. , Biswas Chandrima , Kumar Pavnesh , Raval Raju R. , Kobalka Peter , Carrau Ricardo L. , Prevedello Daniel M. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Purpose
This study investigates the rare occurrence of tumor-to-tumor metastasis in Pituitary Neuroendocrine Tumors (PitNETs), also known as pituitary adenomas, aiming to enhance understanding of its diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. We report two cases from our institution of tumor-to-tumor metastasis involving PitNETs, followed by a systematic literature review.

Methods
We conducted a comprehensive literature review using PubMed and Google Scholar databases. This review provides insights into patient demographics, clinical presentations, primary tumor origin, management approaches and outcomes.

Results
We identified 38 documented cases of tumor-to-tumor metastasis involving the pituitary gland in the literature. This revealed a diverse range of primary tumor origins, with lung, breast, and renal carcinomas being the most prevalent. Clinical presentations varied, with visual disturbances emerging as the most frequently reported symptom. Surgical interventions predominantly resulted in subtotal resection. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis demonstrated that endoscopic endonasal approaches (EEA) are associated with longer median survival times compared to other surgical methods.

Conclusion
Tumor-to-tumor metastasis to PitNETs must be considered in differential diagnoses of sellar masses. Prompt and accurate diagnosis, coupled with a multidisciplinary treatment strategy, is essential. Our study contributes to the scarce literature on such metastases, providing a foundation for further understanding of this complex pathological entity.
Measuring the Diurnal Variation of Root Conductance in Olive Trees Using Microtensiometers and Sap Flow Sensors
Authors: Villalobos Francisco J. , Testi Luca , García-Tejera Omar , López-Bernal Álvaro , Tejado Inés , Vinagre Blas M. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background and aims
Understanding the variation of root hydraulic conductance (Lp) is critical for the simulation of the soil–plant-atmosphere continuum (SPAC), but its monitoring remains challenging. In this study, we introduce a new non-destructive method for characterizing Lp dynamics in woody species through the combination of simultaneous determinations of sap flow and xylem water potential. Recent studies indicate that modern microtensiometers provide robust estimates of xylem water potential, but it is unknown whether they allow tracking rapid changes in water potential without significant time lags, which may have implications for the proposed methodology.

Methods
The impulse response of microtensiometers was measured in the lab, developing a procedure for correcting sensor data by deconvolution. Then, microtensiometers and compensation heat pulse sensors were used to evaluate the variations in Lp in two well-watered olive trees during the summer of 2022 in Cordoba, Spain.

Results
Correcting microtensiometer outputs was critical to analyze our field data as strong stomatal oscillations occurred, with microtensiometers damping xylem water potential variations. By contrast, our results suggest that correction procedures may not be required for many practical applications like irrigation scheduling. The daytime values of Lp were close to those obtained in previous studies, while nighttime values were extremely low. Therefore, a proportionality between Lp and sap flow rate was observed, which agrees with previous studies, although it does not prove a causal relationship.

Conclusions
The methods proposed here could be applied to studying the temporal dynamics of root hydraulic conductance in other tree species.
The influence of plant traits on soil microbial communities varies between arid and mesic grasslands
Authors: Egidi Eleonora , Bristol Dylan , Hassan Kamrul , Tissue David , Wright Ian J. , Nielsen Uffe N. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background and aims
Both soil properties and plant traits shape the diversity, composition and functions of plant-associated soil microbial communities. However, the relative influence of these factors is poorly understood, as are interactive effects between factors and the degree to which their influence varies among climate zones.

Methods
To address this gap, we compared the diversity and composition of soil microbial communities associated with co-occurring C3 and C4 grasses from arid and mesic environments, and plant traits influencing them.

Results
Climate emerged as the main determinant of plant traits and microbial community properties. Within each climatic region, above- and below-ground traits and soil properties differentially affected microbial community composition, and their relative influence varied among communities. In both mesic and arid environments aboveground traits related to quantity and quality of leaf litter (e.g., specific leaf area, leaf C content) and nutrient availability were the most influential variables for community composition. However, in arid regions, belowground traits (i.e., root tissue density and specific root area) significantly contributed to structure the eukaryotic community, supporting the role of roots as important driver of eukaryotic differentiation in constrained environments. Further, the presence of C4 plants in the arid region resulted in higher relative abundance of ciliate protists and higher recruitment of potentially beneficial microbial community members from green algae mediated by drought adaptation traits (e.g. decreased abundance of fine roots).

Conclusions
Overall, our study revealed a differential response of microbial communities to environmental conditions, suggesting that soil microbial community composition is influenced by trade-offs between host adaptive traits across distinct climatic regions.
Promoting 21st Century Health and Wellness Skills in Elementary School Children: a Group Randomized Trial
Authors: Tolan Patrick H. , Harris Alexis R. , Burchinal Margaret , Jennings Patricia A. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractIn a group randomized trial of 45 elementary schools, a whole-child health and wellness curriculum introduced as a regular part of the educational programming was compared to education as usual over 2 years with a 2-year follow-up. The curriculum focused on integrating multiple SEL skills—mindfulness, compassion, and physical awareness—with the intent to advantage developmental patterns for these skills, academic engagement, personal well-being, and student behavior. The program design and trial implementation were launched with end-use delivery and long-term sustainability as integral considerations. Effects were shown for several SEL skills and behavioral indicators previously robustly correlated to long-term outcomes. Effects were demonstrated more broadly in schools serving high-poverty communities, suggesting the impact was stronger where the need was greater. Results are interpreted regarding supporting school-based SEL, the potential of applying group randomized trials with end-use conditions of implementation, and the value of fitting innovation efforts to school system operations, mandates, and priorities for promoting sustainability.
Validation of the EQ-5D-Y-5L parent-proxy version among children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Ohinmaa Arto , Wen Jiabi , Currie Gillian R. , Benseler Susanne M , Swart Joost F , Vastert Sebastiaan J , Yeung Rae S M , Marshall Deborah A. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Objectives
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common type of arthritis among children. It can cause joint pain and permanent physical damage, which affects mobility and daily activities. The EQ-5D-Y-3L self-report version has been validated in JIA, but the validity of EQ-5D-Y-5L remains unknown. We examined the psychometric properties of the EQ-5D-Y-5L parent-proxy version among children with JIA.

Methods
We used data from the Understanding Childhood Arthritis Network Canadian-Dutch collaboration study cohort, including patients with new-onset JIA, and those starting or stopping biologics. Clinical data and the parent-proxy version of the childhood health assessment questionnaire (CHAQ) and EQ-5D-Y-5L were collected. We evaluated the ceiling and floor effect; convergent and divergent validity using Spearman’s rank correlation; known-group validity using one-way ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) and effect size; and informativity using Shannon’s evenness index.

Results
467 patient visits representing 407 patients were analyzed. The EQ-5D-Y-5L had no ceiling/floor effect. The EQ-5D-Y-5L showed good convergent (e.g., EQ-5D-Y-5L pain/discomfort dimension vs. CHAQ pain index (Spearman’s r = 0.74, 95% confidence interval (C.I.): 0.69–0.79)), divergent (e.g., EQ-5D-Y-5L pain/discomfort dimension vs. CHAQ eating dimension (Spearman’s r = 0.19, 95% C.I.: 0.09–0.29)) and known-group validity (e.g., mean EQ-5D-Y-5L level summary score for patients with inactive versus active disease status, 6.34 vs. 10.52 (p < 0.001, effect size = 1.20 (95% C.I.: 0.95–1.45)). Shannon’s evenness index ranged from 0.52 to 0.88, suggesting most dimensions had relatively even distributions.

Conclusions
In this patient sample, EQ-5D-Y-5L parent-proxy version exhibited construct validity and informativity, suggesting the EQ-5D-Y-5L can be used to measure the quality of life of children with JIA.
Response processes for patients providing quantitative self-report data: a qualitative study
Authors: Grindheim Øyvind , McAleavey Andrew , Iversen Valentina , Moltu Christian , Tømmervik Kristin , Govasmark Hege , Brattland Heidi 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Objective
To identify factors that influence response processes for patients providing quantitative self-report data. Secondly, due to the lack of integrative and explanatory models in this area, to develop a model of patients’ response processes that can guide what to look for when considering validity evidence and interpreting scores on individual items.

Methods
Participants (n = 13) were recruited from a specialized substance use disorder treatment clinic and interviewed while responding to items from a clinical feedback system implemented for routine outcome monitoring in that setting. The interview approach was based on cognitive interviewing. Data collection and analysis were inspired by a grounded theory approach.

Results
We identified several variables that influenced the participants’ response processes. The variables were organized into five categories: context-related variables; item-related variables; response base variables; reasoning strategies; and response selection strategies. We also found that the participants’ responses for many items were affected by different aspects of the response process in ways that are relevant to interpretation but not necessarily discernible from the numerical scores alone, and we developed response categories to capture this.

Conclusion
The findings suggest that patients providing quantitative self-report data encounter conditions in the response process that challenge and influence their ability to convey meaning and accuracy. This results in responses that for many of the items reflect messages important for interpretation and follow-up, even if it does not appear from the numerical scores alone. The proposed model may be a useful tool when developing items, assessing validity, and interpreting responses.
Living with faecal incontinence: a qualitative investigation of patient experiences and preferred outcomes through semi-structured interviews
Authors: Assmann S. L. , Keszthelyi D. , Breukink S. O. , Kimman M. L. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Faecal incontinence (FI) is a prevalent and debilitating anorectal problem causing embarrassment, anxiety, and social isolation, diminishing quality of life. At present there is no optimal treatment option for FI. Consequently, treatments primarily focus on symptom reduction and improving quality of life. Understanding patient experiences and outcomes they seek from treatment is crucial for improving care. This study aims to explore how FI impacts patients’ lives and identify important treatment outcomes as part of the development of a Core Outcome Set (COS).

Methods
Patients with FI were recruited from outpatient clinics in the Netherlands. Semi-structured interviews were performed, audio recorded, transcribed per verbatim and coded. Thematic analysis was performed to identify (sub)themes and categories relevant to the patients.

Results
Twelve interviews were conducted before saturation was reached (75% female, 25% male, mean age 63, range 39–83 year). Four main themes emerged ‘Physical symptoms’, ‘Impact on daily life’, ‘Emotional impact’ and ‘Coping’. Patients expressed how FI severely limits daily activities and emotional wellbeing. Treatment priorities centred on resuming normal activities rather than solely on symptom reduction.

Conclusion
The impact of FI extends far beyond uncontrolled loss of faeces, affecting psychological, emotional, and social wellbeing. Patients prioritise outcomes focussed on reclaiming normalcy and independence rather than focusing on physical symptoms alone. Integrating these patient-centered outcomes in future studies could enhance treatment satisfaction and patient-perceived treatment success. Furthermore, the outcomes identified in this study can be included in a Delphi survey alongside other relevant outcomes, paving the way for the development of a COS.
Recent Increases in Vegetarianism may be Limited to Women: A 15-Year Study of Young Adults at an American University
Authors: Nezlek John B. , Forestell Catherine A. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThe present study examined changes in the rates of vegetarianism among a sample of young American adults. Over 15 years, students at an American university (N = 12,704) described their dietary habits. Multilevel modeling analyses (participants nested within semesters) found that overall, the percentage of vegetarians increased over time, whereas the percentage of omnivores decreased over time; however, these changes occurred only for women. The dietary habits of men did not change over time. In a second study, in a sample of 363 adult vegetarians from the US, we found that women were more likely than men to become vegetarians due to concerns about the ethics of raising animals for food and eating them, suggesting that increased societal concern about animal rights may be responsible in part for the gender differences over time in vegetarianism. These results extend existing research on gender differences and suggest that if current trends continue, gender differences in vegetarianism may be more pronounced in the future.
Regulating Misinformation: Political Irrationality as a Feasibility Constraint
Authors: Chomanski Bartlomiej 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThis paper argues that the well-established fact of political irrationality imposes substantial constraints on how governments may combat the threat of political misinformation. Though attempts at regulating misinformation are becoming increasingly popular, both among policymakers and theorists, I intend to show that, for a wide range of anti-misinformation interventions (collectively termed “debunking” and “source labeling”), these attempts ought to be abandoned. My argument relies primarily on the fact that most people process politically-relevant information in biased and motivated ways. Since debunking or factual correction of politically relevant misinformation (as well as source labeling) themselves consist of providing politically-relevant information, they are also very likely to be processed in irrational ways. This makes it extremely difficult to effectively correct people’s political beliefs and political information processing. Since governments should not pursue policies likely to be futile, they should refrain from mandating such interventions. My conclusion is of relevance to considerable literature in digital ethics of misinformation. It shows that many celebrated works in the field ignore political irrationality and fail to consider its implications.
Out-of-Distribution Detection with Virtual Outlier Smoothing
Authors: Nie Jun , Luo Yadan , Ye Shanshan , Zhang Yonggang , Tian Xinmei , Fang Zhen 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Detecting out-of-distribution (OOD) inputs plays a crucial role in guaranteeing the reliability of deep neural networks (DNNs) when deployed in real-world scenarios. However, DNNs typically exhibit overconfidence in OOD samples, which is attributed to the similarity in patterns between OOD and in-distribution (ID) samples. To mitigate this overconfidence, advanced approaches suggest the incorporation of auxiliary OOD samples during model training, where the outliers are assigned with an equal likelihood of belonging to any category. However, identifying outliers that share patterns with ID samples poses a significant challenge. To address the challenge, we propose a novel method, Virtual Outlier Smoothing (VOSo), which constructs auxiliary outliers using ID samples, thereby eliminating the need to search for OOD samples. Specifically, VOSo creates these virtual outliers by perturbing the semantic regions of ID samples and infusing patterns from other ID samples. For instance, a virtual outlier might consist of a cat’s face with a dog’s nose, where the cat’s face serves as the semantic feature for model prediction. Meanwhile, VOSo adjusts the labels of virtual OOD samples based on the extent of semantic region perturbation, aligning with the notion that virtual outliers may contain ID patterns. Extensive experiments are conducted on diverse OOD detection benchmarks, demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed VOSo. Our code will be available at https://github.com/junz-debug/VOSo.
Benchmark of Techniques for the Characterization of the Mechanism of Phase Transformations in Steel of Near-Peritectic Composition
Authors: Kargul Tomasz , Moon Suk-Chun , Dippenaar Rian 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThis study addresses challenges in elucidating the mechanism of phase transformations occurring in steel of near-peritectic composition. The importance of using and integrating, complementary experimental techniques is emphasized. While thermal analysis tools such as Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA) are vital, they offer limited insight on events occurring during cooling. Employing standard thermal analysis (DSC) alongside high-temperature microscopy, incorporating simultaneous thermal analysis within a high-temperature microscope, and concentric solidification, two of steels of near-peritectic composition were investigated. Key findings include the correlation between heating rates and completion temperatures of phase transformation in the DSC heating experiments; absence of a peritectic transition inferred from DSC cooling curves supported by visual observation, and insights into restricted austenite phase nucleation attributed to diffusional constraint and limited nucleation sites. This investigation not only contributes to understanding phase transformation behaviour in peritectic steels, but more generally provides a framework for utilizing different techniques synergistically to address complexities in the interpretation of the mechanism of phase development.
Online Search Trends Related to Bariatric Surgery and Their Relationship with Utilization in Australia
Authors: Huynh Roy , Satchithanandha Vyshi , Park Jin-Soo , Seyfi Doruk , Joseph David 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Purpose
There is an abundance of online information related to bariatric surgery. Patients may prefer a specific type of bariatric surgery based on what they read online. The primary aim of this study was to determine online search trends in bariatric surgery over time in Australia and worldwide. The secondary aim was to establish a relationship between public online search activity and the types of bariatric surgery performed in Australia.

Materials and Method
The terms “adjustable gastric band,” “sleeve gastrectomy,” and “gastric bypass surgery” were submitted for search volume analysis in Australia and worldwide using the Google Trends “Topic” search function. This was compared alongside the numbers of gastric bandings, sleeve gastrectomies, and gastric bypass surgeries performed in Australia over time to determine if there was a relationship between the two.

Results
Search trends for “adjustable gastric band” and “sleeve gastrectomy” in Australia were similar to trends seen worldwide. However, search trends for “gastric bypass surgery” differ between Australia and the rest of the world. It took at least a year for online searches to reflect the higher number of sleeve gastrectomies performed relative to gastric bandings. There was a lag time of over four years before online searches reflected the higher number of gastric bypass surgery performed compared to gastric banding.

Conclusion
Search interests in Australia and worldwide were similar for gastric banding and sleeve gastrectomy but different for gastric bypass surgery. Online search activity did not have a significant association with the types of bariatric surgery being performed in Australia.

Graphical Abstract