bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Spatial-temporal Variation of Precipitation and Meteorological Drought in Shanxi Province, China
Authors: Wei Ting , Zhao Xuehua 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
In this study, the spatial and temporal characteristics of rainfall and the risk of meteorological drought based on precipitation data observed in 22 meteorological stations from 1961–2020 across Shanxi province in China were analyzed. Four precipitation indices and modified Mann-Kendall test were used to analyze the patterns and trends of precipitation. Furthermore, the risk analysis for drought duration and severity of meteorological drought were analyzed with entropy copula. Results showed that the precipitation distribution is irregular and precipitation in central northern parts of Shanxi is more concentrated than that in southern Shanxi. The annual and seasonal precipitation concentration showed no significant change in most stations, while the daily precipitation concentration decreased in a few areas. Results also disclose that the number of droughts ranged from 61 to 80 during 1961–2020 and Shanxi tends to dry. The most severe drought event lasts for 27 months and the largest severity is 29.7. The entropy copula is suitable for drought frequency analysis and return period calculation and results indicate that the middle and northern parts of Shanxi are at high risk of drought according to the entropy copula calculated joint return period.
Comparison of Diagnostic Accuracies of Frailty Assessment Tools for Frailty in Older People
Authors: Li Li , Chongyang Zhao , Cong Deng , Yuhui Zhang , Qin Wang , Deying Kang 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Frailty has become one of the most serious global public health challenges. Whether the assessments tools of frailty are useful needs to be elucidated.
Objectives
This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of measurement tools for frailty in older people.
Design
This study was registered on PROSPERO (registration number: CRD: 42023415074.) Medline, Web of Science, Embase, China Knowledge Resource Integrated Database (CNKI), Wanfang databases, and VIP databases were searched from their inception to March 31, 2022.
Measurements
Two reviewers independently assessed the quality of the included studies based on the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2(QUADAS-2) tool in Review manager 5.4.1 software. Besides, a summary receiver operating characteristics (SROC) curve was plotted and area under curve (AUC) was calculated to evaluate the accuracy of the frailty assessment tool.
Results
A total of 23 articles were included. The sample size ranges from 7060(range:45-1037).We used the Fried phenotype(FP) scale as a reference standard. The pooled sensitivity, specificity and AUC of FRAIL was 0.75 (95% Confidence Interval 0.56–0.88), 0.81 (95% CI: 0.71–0.88) and 0.88 (95% CI: 0.85–0.91), respectively; the pooled sensitivity, specificity and AUC of PRISMA-7 scale was 0.81 (95% CI: 0.71–0.88), 0.78 (95% CI: 0.69–0.85) and 0.86 (95% CI: 0.82–0.88), respectively; the pooled sensitivity, specificity and AUC of GFI was 0.72 (95% CI: 0.62–0.80), 0.74 (95% CI: 0.67–0.81) and AUC of 0.79 (95% CI: 0.76–0.83), respectively.
Conclusion
Our study suggests that, compared with the FP scale, the FRAIL and PRISMA-7 scales have a wide range of applications in the frail older population.
Biosorption performance toward Co(II) and Cd(II) by irradiated Fusarium solani biomass
Authors: Mousa Abeer Mohamed , Abdel-Galil Ezzat , Zhran Mostafa 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
The goal of the current study was to identify suitable fungi from sewage contaminated sites and evaluate how well they biosorption and reduce Co(II) and Cd(II). The Fusarium solani fungus was chosen to complete this study because it provided the maximum biosorption yield for Co(II) and Cd(II) compared to the other isolated fungi. The biosorption behavior of Fusarium solani towards Co(II) and Cd(II) was investigated under different gamma radiation doses of 0, 1, 3, and 5 kGy. Fusarium solani biomass exposed to 5 kGy (FS-5) is characterized by SEM, FTIR, and TGA. The FT-IR spectrums of FS-5 revealed the presence of hydroxyl, amino acids, carboxylic, and carbon groups. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) clearly revealed the surface texture and shape of fungal biomass.It has been shown and extensively explored how biosorption experimental parameters including pH, initial adsorbate concentration, agitation period, and fungal biomass weight affect the process. The biosorption process is very fast, according to experimental results, and the equilibrium was attained in about 25 minutes. At pH 5.0, the highest biosorption was experienced. Pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order kinetic models were used to test kinetic data. The best fit was obtained with the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The biosorption followed Langmuir isothermal models with R2 > 0.991. Co(II) and Cd(II) biosorption rates were 4.44 and 21.0 mg/g respectively. The values of thermodynamic parameters (ΔGo, ΔHo, and ΔSo) were determined by Van’t Hoff plot which showed that the biosportion of Co(II) and Cd(II) was feasible, endothermic, and spontaneous. The breakthrough capacities for Co2+ and Cd2+ ions take the order: Cd2+ > Co2+, which is consistent with data, obtained using the batch method.
Experimental investigation of maximum impact force exerted by dry granular flows on a rigid barrier
Authors: Yuan Jinke , Wen Jiwei , Pei Zuan 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Rigid barriers are protective structures widely used in mountainous regions to resist the destructive impacts of dry granular flows originating from shallow landslides or collapses. The determination of the maximum impact force exerted by dry granular flows is crucial in designing rigid barriers. In this study, we conducted laboratory tests in which we examined the weight and particle shape of dry granular flows, as well as the drop height, incident angle, and thickness of the rigid barrier, to investigate the impact force on the rigid barrier. The results indicated that the strongest impact was concentrated at the centre of the rigid barrier, particularly in the lower centre area of the barrier. A new approach is proposed to estimate the maximum impact force on rigid barriers exerted by dry granular flows. In addition, a new impact equation for calculating the maximum impact force that explicitly considers the effects of rigid barrier structural properties on the impact dynamics based on the modulus, Poisson's ratio, and thickness and the particle shape effects based on different shape coefficients is proposed. Based on this new approach, agreement between the prediction results and the observation results was obtained.
Temperature crack suppression measures of mass concrete for tunnel
Authors: Xie Jiangsheng , Li Wen-qiang 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
In order to solve the problem of engineering structure safety caused by temperature crack of mass concrete in tunnel, the construction measures and monitoring data of mass concrete in Yangcheng Xihu tunnel are analyzed. First of all, six construction measures were put forward to suppress temperature cracks, including pouring in layers, controlling vibration quality, controlling the temperature of concrete entering mold, controlling mold removal time, concrete curing and controlling support removal time. Then, the High Performance Dual-Grating Temperature-Strain Sensor was used to monitor the temperature and strain of construction site structure intelligently. Based on the data analysis of the temperature and strain of the floor, side wall and top slab, it is pointed out that the temperature of the floor, side wall and top slab increases sharply first and then decreases slowly due to the release of a large amount of hydration heat during the hardening process of concrete. Due to the poor thermal conductivity of concrete, the hydration heat generated in the middle center of the floor, side wall and top slab can not be transferred to the surface of concrete in time, so the temperature is generally "high in the center and low on both sides". Due to the effect of thermal expansion and cold contraction of concrete, the strain variation trend of the floor, side wall and top slab is similar to that of temperature, showing a sharp increase at first, and then a slow decrease. Based on the mechanism of temperature crack, the variation law of temperature and strain during mass concrete pouring is analyzed, which provides reference for subsequent engineering construction.
Stress behaviors of distal femoral cartilage defect and repair
Authors: Lyu Linwei , Yang Chen , Dai Weichao , Wang Shilei , Zhang Chunqiu , Zielinska Teresa 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Objective: To find contact stress distributions of femoral condyle cartilage under defect and repaired status.
Methods: 6 mini-pigs were selected to divide into intact group, defect group and repair group. 4 pigs in defect group were performed 4 types of cartilage defect, including circle, triangle, square and trapezoid. Defect samples were repaired with two kinds of artificial cartilages. Contact stress distributions of joint contact surfaces were measured and analyzed using thin-film pressure sensor under standard standing loads.
Results: The maximum stress in the stress concentration area caused by cartilage defect were enhanced by 3.4 or 4.6 times of normal stress, even 6.2 times. The soft artificial cartilage fixation caused abnormal stress distribution at the defect area. Hard artificial cartilage was close to the level of natural cartilage. Stress concentration at the defect edge was almost eliminated, but the stress distribution in the whole contact area was still different from intact group. In addition, the peak stress point changed in the defect group and repaired group while compared with intact group.
Conclusions: Cartilage defect resulted in the variations of original intact contact stress distribution. Artificial cartilage repairing could relieve stress concentration but not recover to healthy status yet. Our findings could provide evidences for better rehabilitation of articular cartilage injury.
AKAP8L as a Novel Prognostic Biomarker Correlated with Immune Infiltrates in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Zhang Nie , Liu Hong , Yang Jiankang , Zhong Fei 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD), the most common histologic type of gastric cancer (GC), has unclear molecular mechanisms. A-kinase anchoring protein 8 (AKAP8L) is significantly linked to various tumor processes, including immune invasion and metabolism. However, the role of AKAP8L in STAD development remains enigmatic. This study illuminates AKAP8L’s molecular mechanism, metabolic implications in STAD progression, and potential as a prognostic biomarker.
Methods
Employing diverse databases (TCGA, TIMER, GEPIA, Human Protein Atlas, GSEA), we examined the AKAP8L-STAD correlation. Comparative AKAP8L mRNA/protein analysis was conducted in STAD vs. normal tissues. Immunohistochemistry assays validated the findings in stomach samples from STAD patients. The connection of AKAP8L to clinical attributes is revealed. The prognostic potential was assessed via Kaplan‒Meier analysis and Cox regression. AKAP8L’s link to STAD immune cell infiltration was explored through TIMER. STRING was used to construct the AKAP8L-binding protein network. The R package clusterProfiler enriches AKAP8L’s functions. Immune infiltration’s relationship with AKAP8L in STAD was analyzed via the single-sample GSEA (ssGSEA) method from the R package GSVA and the TIMER database. The diagnostic potential of AKAP8L was assessed using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, quantified by the area under the curve (AUC) score.
Results
Pancancer analysis revealed upregulated AKAP8L expression in STAD tissues compared to normal tissues, with elevated expression correlated with poor prognosis. The ROC curve indicated that the possible diagnostic biomarker AKAP8L (AUC = 0.821) might exist. Low survival, tumor stage, sample type, subgroup, tumor grade, and lymph node metastasis are all related to higher AKAP8L expression. AKAP8L was connected with tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), including immune supporting cells and immunosuppressive cells, and was substantially linked with several immunological marker sets in STAD. Further enrichment analysis showed that the carcinogenicity of AKAP8L may be related to "phosphoinositide metabolism", which provides a novel idea for treating STAD.
Conclusion
In STAD development, upregulated AKAP8L emerges as a key factor associated with immune cell infiltration levels and cellular metabolism. AKAP8L may hold promise as a biomarker, prognostically signifying a more unfavorable outcome for individuals afflicted by STAD.
Barriers and facilitators in developing patient versions of clinical practice guidelines - qualitative interviews on experiences of international guideline producers
Authors: Meyer Nora , Hauprich Julia , Breuing Jessica , Hellbrecht Irma , Wahlen Sarah , Könsgen Nadja , Bühn Stefanie , Becker Monika , Blödt Susanne , Carl Günther , Follmann Markus , Frenz Stefanie , Langer Thomas , Nothacker Monika , Schaefer Corinna , Pieper Dawid 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Several guideline organizations produce patient versions of clinical practice guidelines (PVGs) which translate recommendations into simple language. A former study of our working group revealed that few guideline organizations publish their methods used to develop PVGs. Clear definitions of PVGs do not prevail and their purposes often remain unclear. We aimed to explore experts’ perspectives on developing, disseminating and implementing PVGs to discuss and incorporate these experiences when consenting on methodological guidance and further improving PVGs.
Methods
We conducted 17 semi-structured telephone interviews with international experts working with PVGs from September 2021 through January 2022. We conducted the interviews in English or German, they were recorded and transcribed verbatim. We utilized Mayring’s qualitative content analysis with MAXQDA software to analyze the data.
Results
A total of 19 participants from 16 different organizations and 8 different countries participated. Most were female (16/19) and their experience in working with PVGs ranged from 1 to 20 years. All follow methodological standards when developing PVGs, but the extent of these standards and their public accessibility differs. Aims and target groups of PVGs vary between organizations. Facilitators for developing PVGs are working with a multidisciplinary team, financial resources, consultation processes and a high-quality underlying CPG. Facilitators for disseminating and implementing PVGs are using various strategies. Barriers, on the other hand, are the lack of these factors. All participants mentioned patient involvement as a key aspect in PVG development.
Conclusion
The steps in the PVG development process are largely similar across the countries. Focus is placed on the involvement of patients in the development process, although the extent of participation varies. The experts collectively attribute great importance to PVGs overall, but in order to constantly adapt to medical progress and changing conditions, the focus in the future must be more on formats like living guidelines. Although there are different views on the mandatory development of PVGs, there is a consistent call for more transparency regarding the methodology used for PVGs.
New vs. old - A randomised cross over study on the effectiveness of digital and analog learning methods for learning anatomical structures in physiotherapy education
Authors: Pagels Larissa , Eschke Robert-Christopher , Luedtke Kerstin 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
According to the German Physiotherapy Education and Qualification Regulations, teaching of anatomical structures is one of the fundamental subjects of physiotherapy education. Besides exhibits and models, anatomy atlases are usually used as teaching and learning tools. These are available in both analog form as printed books or in digital form as a mobile application. Furthermore, the use of digital teaching and learning tools is steadily increasing within the education of health professionals.
Aim
To assess the efficacy of a digital educational tool in contrast to an analog anatomical atlas in acquiring knowledge about anatomical structures.
Material and method:
Data collection took place in the context of an anatomy tutorial for students of the bachelor's degree program in physiotherapy. In a cross-over design, the students completed two learning assignments, each with different learning materials provided, either with an anatomy app on a tablet or with an anatomy atlas as a book. The tests to assess knowledge immediately after the task, consisted of questions about the anatomical structures of the knee as well as the shoulder. In addition, the students' satisfaction with the learning materials provided, their assessment of the learning success and their affinity to digital learning materials were surveyed with a questionnaire using a 5-point Likert scale and a free-text field. The data was analysed descriptively and the group differences were calculated using t-tests.
Results
Thirty students participated. The group comparison showed a significantly better outcome for the group that prepared with the analog anatomy atlas for the questions on the knee than the comparison group that used the anatomy app (t(28) = 2.6; p = 0.007). For the questions concerning the shoulder, there was no significant difference between the digital and analog groups (t(28) = 1.14; p = 0.26). The questionnaire showed that satisfaction with the analog anatomy atlas was significantly higher than with the anatomy app. 93.34% rated at least "somewhat satisfied" in the question about the analog learning tool. In contrast, 72.67% of students partially or fully agreed that they "enjoy learning with digital learning tools”.
Discussion
Learning anatomical structures with digital learning tools does not offer a clear advantage over learning with analog learning tools. The results of the questionnaire also show greater satisfaction with the analog anatomy atlas than with the anatomy app. Whereas most students stated that they also learn anatomical structures themselves with digital learning tools. Satisfaction with the learning tool seems to play a central role in their effectiveness. In addition, sufficient time must be provided for users to familiarize themselves with the user interface as well as the digital applications in order to use them effectively.
Spatiotemporal patterns of surface ozone exposure inequality in China
Authors: Li Bin , Ni Jinmian , Liu Jianhua , Zhao Yue , Liu Lijun , Jin Jiming , He Chao 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
The escalating concentration of surface ozone (O3) across China is increasingly highlighting potential threats to public health, ecological balance, and economic sustainability. Using a 1km x 1km dataset of O3 concentrations, this research employs subpopulation demographic data combined with a population-weighted quality model. Its aim is to evaluate quantitatively the differences in O3 exposure among various subpopulations within China, both at a provincial and urban cluster level. Additionally, an exposure disparity indicator was devised to establish unambiguous exposure risks among significant urban agglomerations at varying O3 concentration levels. The findings reveal that as of 2018, the population-weighted average concentration of O3 for all subgroups has experienced a significant uptick, surpassing the average O3 concentration (118µg/m3). Notably, the middle-aged demographic exhibited the highest O3 exposure level at 135.7µg/m3, which is significantly elevated compared to other age brackets. Concurrently, there exists a prominent positive correlation between educational attainment and O3 exposure levels, with the medium-income bracket showing the greatest susceptibility to O3 exposure risks. From an industrial vantage point, the secondary sector demographic is the most adversely impacted by O3 exposure. Geographically, urban populations experience slightly more elevated O3 levels than their rural counterparts, and the subpopulations in the North China, East China, and Central China regions manifest significantly higher O3 exposure levels compared to other areas. These findings not only underscore the intricate interplay between public health and environmental justice but further accentuate the indispensability of granular subgroup strategies in environmental health risk assessments. Moreover, this research furnishes invaluable scientific groundwork for crafting targeted public health interventions and sustainable air quality management policies.
Innovative Training Camp Approach for Seamless Transition from Preclinical Education to Clinical Practice among Respiratory Therapy Students in Taiwan
Authors: Yang Shih Hsing , Tseng Hui Yun , Jung Fang 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background: This study explored the implementation and effectiveness of a preinternship training camp in facilitating a seamless transition from preclinical education to clinical practice among respiratory therapy students in Taiwan. The training camp was designed to enhance students’ knowledge, skills, and confidence in real-world clinical scenarios.
Methods: A cohort of respiratory therapy students participated in the preinternship training camp, which incorporated activities such as instructional workshops, case discussions, simulated patient encounters, and self-directed learning. Quantitative data, including satisfaction ratings and preintervention and postintervention assessment scores, were collected to evaluate the effectiveness of the training camp. Moreover, qualitative feedback was collected from the students and teachers and analyzed to gain deeper insights into the impacts of the training camp.
Results: The results revealed that the participants had high levels of satisfaction with the preinternship training camp, highlighting its positive influence on their preparedness for and attitude toward clinical practice. Our quantitative analysis of the preintervention and postintervention assessment scores demonstrated a slight improvement in the participants’ knowledge and understanding after the training camp. Qualitative feedback from the participants emphasized the benefits of the training camp in enhancing their technical proficiency, patient communication skills, and confidence in handling clinical cases. The participants also reported increased self-assurance and precision in their approach to patient care. Furthermore, the teachers highlighted the effectiveness of the training camp in terms of instructional guidance and curriculum planning; nevertheless, they acknowledged the importance of refining the preparation of technical equipment and creating more realistic patient interaction scenarios.
Conclusion: The innovative strategies employed in the preinternship training camp were effective in facilitating a smooth transition from preclinical education to clinical practice among respiratory therapy students in Taiwan. The quantitative and qualitative data demonstrate the positive impact of the training camp on the students’ knowledge, skills, confidence, and overall preparedness. These findings provide valuable insights for educators and institutions seeking to enhance the educational experience and transition process for respiratory therapy students.