bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A comparison of machine learning methods for estimation of snow density using satellite images
Authors: Goodarzi Mohammad Reza , Sabaghzadeh Maryam , Barzkar Ali , Niazkar Majid , Saghafi Mostafa 
Published: June 2024

AbstractLow snow density causes snow to melt quickly, so there is no runoff during the warmer months of the year. Therefore, knowing the snow density can be useful in determining the amount of water. To predict snow density, this study used seven machine learning methods, including adaptive neural‐fuzzy inference system (ANFIS), M5P, multivariate adaptive regression spline (MARS), random forest (RF), support vector regression (SVR), gene expression programming (GEP) and eXtreme gradient boosting (XGBoost). Nine factors expected to affect snow density were considered. These factors were extracted using Google Earth Engine (GEE) from 1983 to 2022. The results showed that the surface temperature had the highest correlation (coefficient = −0.7), and the wind speed had the lowest correlation (coefficient = 0.3) among the considered factors on the snow density. Also, the best method was XGBoost (Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency [NSE] = 0.978, R = 0.957), and the worst method is SVR (NSE = 0.7, R = 0.9). Therefore, snow density can be estimated with good accuracy using a combination of machine learning methods and remote sensing.
Coalescence and total‐variation distance of semi‐infinite inverse‐gamma polymers
Authors: Rassoul‐Agha Firas , Seppäläinen Timo , Shen Xiao 
Published: June 2024

AbstractWe show that two semi‐infinite positive temperature polymers coalesce on the scale predicted by KPZ (Kardar–Parisi–Zhang) universality. The two polymer paths have the same asymptotic direction and evolve in the same environment, independently until coalescence. If they start at distance apart, their coalescence occurs on the scale . It follows that the total variation distance of two semi‐infinite polymer measures decays on this same scale. Our results are upper and lower bounds on probabilities and expectations that match, up to constant factors and occasional logarithmic corrections. Our proofs are done in the context of the solvable inverse‐gamma polymer model, but without appeal to integrable probability. With minor modifications, our proofs give also bounds on transversal fluctuations of the polymer path. As the free energy of a directed polymer is a discretization of a stochastically forced viscous Hamilton–Jacobi equation, our results suggest that the hyperbolicity phenomenon of such equations obeys the KPZ exponent.
Investigating the Use of B-Spline Signature Responses to Detect Internal Rail Defects
Authors: Gedney Brennan L. , Naseri Reza , Rizos Dimitris C. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
The aim of this work is to explore the implementation of a structural change detection method proposed by the authors to detect internal rail defects. The B-Spline Signature Response (BSR) is a signature time history response of a dynamic system which is independent of loading, is a characteristic of the system, and captures the condition of the system at the time of acquisition without the need for identifying structural properties. The BSR changes only when the system changes. This is the basis of a non-parametric data-driven change detection method, which utilizes cross-correlation to distinguish variance in two BSRs of the same system extracted at different points in time. System change is determined when the correlation of two BSRs drops below a threshold value that is dependent on the type and level of change being monitored. The methodology is first demonstrated in a deterministic manner through computer simulations with a numerical sensitivity study on an idealized dynamic system and through an experimental study on a steel plate supported by a braced frame. Next, the method is implemented in a numerical computer simulation to detect a transverse cut in the rail head of a 2-meter-long segment of rail. A parametric study determined the optimal excitation and response types and locations, and the method was conducted successfully with both high and low frequency sampling rates, demonstrating flexibility that will facilitate laboratory and field implementation.
Passenger Railcar Production in North America: Rationalization and Standardization
Authors: Trout Stuart F. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Standardization of rail passenger vehicles provides for substantially increased procurement efficiency for agencies and manufacturers. Within broad categories of rail passenger vehicle types, there is substantial commonality between structures, power, traction, suspensions, and passenger amenities. The commonality can exceed 95% on procurements for agencies across North America. If agencies adopt a continuous replacement and growth strategy for rolling stock procurements, manufacturers can optimize production at fewer locations with much higher productivity and quality. There are five basic types of rail passenger vehicles that include trollies at one end of the spectrum up to and including multi-level high speed train sets. Within each of the types, designs and production systems can be optimized. If the passenger rail sector can migrate to the continuous replacement theory and accept standardization, agencies and passengers can enjoy the benefits of more equipment for service at a lower capital and operational cost.
Experimental Investigation of Lateral Load Effects on Railway Tapered Roller Bearing Performance
Authors: Sanchez Trinidad Abel David , Tarawneh Constantine , Aguila Diego , Fuentes Arturo , Guiterrez Santanna , Pena Curtis , Reyna Daniel 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
In the quest to maintain the reliability and safety of railway systems, vibration signatures emerge as a crucial diagnostic tool for identifying and tracking the progression of railway bearing health. It is important to note that, in the case of spall deterioration, temperature variations may only become noticeable once spalling has spread extensively across the raceway. Hence, a comprehensive understanding of the effects of lateral loading under various train speeds at empty and full railcar loads is important. Surprisingly, limited research has been carried out or made publicly available on the effects of lateral loading on the performance of railroad tapered-roller bearings. Motivated by this, researchers at the University Transportation Center for Railway Safety (UTCRS) are conducting laboratory testing utilizing the available dynamic bearing test rig to explore the effects of lateral loading on bearing performance. The laboratory testing is performed on Association of American Railroads (AAR) class F and K bearings, which represent about 85% of the railroad bearings utilized in freight rail revenue service. Lateral loads are applied by a specially designed hydraulic cylinder setup that can deliver up to 44.5 kN (10 kips) of lateral force on the bearing while in operation. The laboratory testing is designed to mimic lateral forces that bearings will experience during events like hunting, buckled track, uneven track, and instances where trains are navigating curved sections of track. This study sheds light on critical factors influencing bearing performance in the rail industry, particularly the impact of lateral loading on bearing performance and operating temperature fluctuations. Its unique contribution lies in exploring the previously uninvestigated effects of lateral loads on bearing vibration (in addition to temperature). Ultimately, the aim is to enhance the long-term reliability and safety of rail systems by identifying and mitigating factors that compromise bearing performance. Based on the insights gained from this study, the team is refining vibration and load measurement sensors to gather even more precise data on lateral load effects in future experiments.
Developing prediction algorithms for late-life depression using wearable devices: a cohort study protocol
Authors: Lee Jin-kyung , Kim Min-Hyuk , Hwang Sangwon , Lee Kyoung-Joung , Park Ji Young , Shin Taeksoo , Lim Hyo-Sang , Urtnasan Erdenebayar , Chung Moo-Kwon , Lee Jinhee 
Published: June 2024

IntroductionDespite the high prevalence of major depressive disorder (MDD) among the elderly population, the rate of treatment is low due to stigmas and barriers to medical access. Wearable devices such as smartphones and smartwatches can help to screen MDD symptoms earlier in a natural setting while forgoing these concerns. However, previous research using wearable devices has mostly targeted the younger population. By collecting longitudinal data using wearable devices from the elderly population, this research aims to produce prediction algorithms for late-life depression and to develop strategies that strengthen medical access in community care systems.Methods and analysisThe current cohort study recruited a subsample of 685 elderly people from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study—Cardiovascular Disease Association Study, a national large cohort established in 2004. The current study has been conducted over a 3-year period to explore the development patterns of late-life depression. Participants have completed three annual face-to-face interviews (baseline, the first follow-up and the second follow-up) and 2 years of app-based surveys and passive sensing data collection. All the data collection will end at the second follow-up interview. The collected self-report, observational and passive sensing data will be primarily analysed by machine learning.Ethics and disseminationThis study protocol has been reviewed and approved by the Yonsei University Mirae Campus Institutional Review Board (1041849–2 02 111 SB-180-06) in South Korea. All participants provided written informed consent. The findings of this research will be disseminated by academic publications and conference presentations.
Prevalence of headaches in healthcare workers while using personal protective equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zarei Nafiseh , Negarandeh Reza , Eghbali Mohammad 
Published: June 2024

ObjectivesDuring the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare workers (HCWs) are at a serious risk of contracting this virus. Therefore, they should use personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect themselves. Long-term use of these devices has led to many side effects, including headaches. This study investigated the prevalence of headaches related to using PPE in HCWs during the COVID-19 pandemic.DesignSystematic review and meta-analysis.Data sourcesEmbase, PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases were searched from December 2019 to February 2023.Eligibility criteria for selecting studiesAll cross-sectional studies that investigated the prevalence of headache complications caused by PPE were included.Data extraction and synthesisTwo researchers reviewed the articles separately and independently. The Appraisal Tool for Cross-Sectional Studies was used to address study design quality and the risk of bias in cross-sectional studies. The heterogeneity of the studies was checked with the I2statistic, and due to the high heterogeneity, the random effects model was used for synthesis. Data were analysed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software V.3.3.70.ResultsOut of 3218 articles retrieved for all side effects, 40 were eligible for this meta-analysis. The prevalence of headaches related to the use of PPE in these 40 studies, with a sample size of 19 229 people, was 43.8% (95% CI 43.1% to 44.6%, I2=98.6%, p<0.001). Based on the meta-regression results, no significant relationship was observed between the prevalence of headaches and variables such as year of publication, study location, sample size and quality of studies.ConclusionHeadache is one of the common side effects of PPE, which can interfere with HCWs’ performance. It is suggested that manufacturers improve the quality of their equipment while healthcare managers should equip and train staff adequately to minimise side effects, ensuring health and enhanced service delivery.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42021264874.
Implications of interhospital patient transfers for emergency medical services transportation systems in the Netherlands: a retrospective study
Authors: van der Zee Durk-Jouke , Maruster Laura , Buijs Paul , Aerts-Veenstra Marjolein , Hatenboer Jaap , Buskens Erik 
Published: June 2024

ObjectivesInterhospital patient transfers have become routine. Known drivers are access to specialty care and non-clinical reasons, such as limited capacity. While emergency medical services (EMS) providers act as main patient transfer operators, the impact of interhospital transfers on EMS service demand and fleet management remains understudied. This study aims to identify patterns in regional interhospital patient transfer volumes and their spatial distribution, and to discuss their potential implications for EMS service demand and fleet management.DesignA retrospective study was performed analysing EMS transport data from the province of Drenthe in the Netherlands between 2013 and 2019 and public hospital listings. Yearly volume changes in urgent and planned interhospital transfers were quantified. Further network analysis, including geomapping, was used to study how transfer volumes and their spatial distribution relate to hospital specialisation, and servicing multihospital systems. Organisational data were considered for relating transfer patterns to fleet changes.SettingEMS in the province of Drenthe, the Netherlands, 492 167 inhabitants.ParticipantsAnalyses are based on routinely collected patient data from EMS records, entailing all 248 114 transports (137 168 patients) of the Drenthe EMS provider (2013–2019). From these interhospital transports were selected (24 311 transports).ResultsInterhospital transfers represented a considerable (9.8%) and increasing share of transports (from 8.6% in 2013 to 11.3% in 2019). Most transfers were related to multihospital systems (47.3%, 11 509 transports), resulting in a considerable growth of planned EMS transports (from 2093 in 2013 to 3511 in 2019). Geomapping suggests increasing transfer distances and diminishing resource efficiencies due to lacking follow-up rides. Organisational data clarify how EMS fleets were adjusted by expanding resources and reorganising fleet operation.ConclusionsEmerging interhospital network transfers play an important role in EMS service demand. Increased interhospital transport volumes and geographical spread require a redesign of current EMS fleets and management along regional lines.
Strategies to address recruitment to a randomised trial of surgical and non-surgical treatment for cancer: results from a complex recruitment intervention within the Mesothelioma and Radical Surgery 2 (MARS 2) study
Authors: Mills Nicola , Farrar Nicola , Warnes Barbara , Ashton Kate E , Harris Rosie , Rogers Chris A , Lim Eric , Elliott Daisy 
Published: June 2024

ObjectivesRecruiting to randomised trials is often challenging particularly when the intervention arms are markedly different. The Mesothelioma and Radical Surgery 2 randomised controlled trial (RCT) compared standard chemotherapy with or without (extended) pleurectomy decortication surgery for malignant pleural mesothelioma. Anticipating recruitment difficulties, a QuinteT Recruitment Intervention was embedded in the main trial phase to unearth and address barriers. The trial achieved recruitment to target with a 4-month COVID-19 pandemic-related extension. This paper presents the key recruitment challenges, and the strategies delivered to optimise recruitment and informed consent.DesignA multifaceted, flexible, mixed-method approach to investigate recruitment obstacles drawing on data from staff/patient interviews, audio recorded study recruitment consultations and screening logs. Key findings were translated into strategies targeting identified issues. Data collection, analysis, feedback and strategy implementation continued cyclically throughout the recruitment period.SettingSecondary thoracic cancer care.ResultsRespiratory physicians, oncologists, surgeons and nursing specialists supported the trial, but recruitment challenges were evident. The study had to fit within a framework of a thoracic cancer service considered overstretched where patients encountered multiple healthcare professionals and treatment views, all of which challenged recruitment. Clinician treatment biases, shaped in part by the wider clinical and research context alongside experience, adversely impacted several aspects of the recruitment process by restricting referrals for study consideration, impacting eligibility decisions, affecting the neutrality in which the study and treatment was presented and shaping patient treatment expectations and preferences. Individual and group recruiter feedback and training raised awareness of key equipoise issues, offered support and shared good practice to safeguard informed consent and optimise recruitment.ConclusionsWith bespoke support to overcome identified issues, recruitment to a challenging RCT of surgery versus no surgery in a thoracic cancer setting with a complex recruitment pathway and multiple health professional involvement is possible.Trial registration numberISRCTNISRCTN44351742, Clinical Trials.govNCT02040272.
Preoperative walking exercise to improve prognosis in patients with supratentorial brain tumours after craniotomy: protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Qu Chunrun , Cao Zeng , Zhou Jun , He Shihan , Liu Fangkun , Liu Zhixiong 
Published: June 2024

IntroductionCardiopulmonary complications and cognitive impairment following craniotomy have a significantly impact on the general health of individuals with brain tumours. Observational research indicates that engaging in walking is linked to better prognosis in patient after surgery. This trial aims to explore whether walking exercise prior to craniotomy in brain tumour patients can reduce the incidence of cardiopulmonary complications and preserve patients’ cognitive function.Methods and analysisIn this randomised controlled trial, 160 participants with supratentorial brain tumours aged 18–65 years, with a preoperative waiting time of more than 3–4 weeks and without conditions that would interfere with the trial such as cognitive impairment, will be randomly assigned in a ratio of 1:1 to either receive traditional treatment or additional combined with a period of 3–4 weeks of walking exercise of 10 000–15 000 steps per day. Wearable pedometer devices will be used to record step counts. The researchers will evaluate participants at enrolment, baseline, 14 days preoperatively, 3 days prior to surgery and 1 week after surgery or discharge (select which occurs first). The primary outcomes include the incidence of postoperative cardiopulmonary complications and changes in cognitive function (gauged by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment test). Secondary outcomes include the average length of hospital stay, postoperative pain, participant contentment, healthcare-associated costs and incidence of other postoperative surgery-related complications. We anticipate that short-term preoperative walking exercises will reduce the incidence of surgery-related complications in the short term after craniotomy, protect patients’ cognitive function, aid patients’ postoperative recovery and reduce the financial cost of treatment.Ethics and disseminationThe study protocol has been approved by Ethics Committee of Xiangya Hospital of Central South University (approval number: 202305117). The findings of the research will be shared via publications that have been reviewed by experts in the field and through presentations at conferences.Trial registration numberNCT05930288.
Protocol for Improving Care by FAster risk-STratification through use of high sensitivity point-of-care troponin in patients presenting with possible acute coronary syndrome in the EmeRgency department (ICare-FASTER): a stepped-wedge cluster randomised quality improvement initiative
Authors: Pickering John W , Devlin Gerard , Body Richard , Aldous Sally , Jaffe Allan S , Apple Fred S , Mills Nicholas , Troughton Richard W , Kavsak Peter , Peacock W Frank , Cullen Louise , Lord Sarah J , Müller Christian , Joyce Laura , Frampton Chris , Lacey Cameron James , Richards Arthur M , Pitama Suzanne , Than Martin 
Published: June 2024

IntroductionClinical assessment in emergency departments (EDs) for possible acute myocardial infarction (AMI) requires at least one cardiac troponin (cTn) blood test. The turn-around time from blood draw to posting results in the clinical portal for central laboratory analysers is ~1–2 hours. New generation, high-sensitivity, point-of-care cardiac troponin I (POC-cTnI) assays use whole blood on a bedside (or near bedside) analyser that provides a rapid (8 min) result. This may expedite clinical decision-making and reduce length of stay. Our purpose is to determine if utilisation of a POC-cTnI testing reduces ED length of stay. We also aim to establish an optimised implementation process for the amended clinical pathway.Methods and analysisThis quality improvement initiative has a pragmatic multihospital stepped-wedge cross-sectional cluster randomised design. Consecutive patients presenting to the ED with symptoms suggestive of possible AMI and having a cTn test will be included. Clusters (comprising one or two hospitals each) will change from their usual-care pathway to an amended pathway using POC-cTnI—the ‘intervention’. The dates of change will be randomised. Changes occur at 1 month intervals, with a minimum 2 month ‘run-in’ period. The intervention pathway will use a POC-cTnI measurement as an alternate to the laboratory-based cTn measurement. Clinical decision-making steps and logic will otherwise remain unchanged. The POC-cTnI is the Siemens (Erlangen Germany) Atellica VTLi high-sensitivity cTnI assay. The primary outcome is ED length of stay. The safety outcome is cardiac death or AMI within 30 days for patients discharged directly from the ED.Ethics and disseminationEthics approval has been granted by the New Zealand Southern Health and Disability Ethics Committee, reference 21/STH/9. Results will be published in a peer-reviewed journal. Lay and academic presentations will be made. Māori-specific results will be disseminated to Māori stakeholders.Trial registration numberACTRN12619001189112.