bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Single-centre, single-blinded, randomised, parallel group, feasibility study protocol investigating if mandibular advancement device treatment for obstructive sleep apnoea can reduce nocturnal gastro-oesophageal reflux (MAD-Reflux trial)
Authors: O'Toole Saoirse , Moazzez Rebecca , Wojewodka Gabriella , Zeki Sebastian , Jafari Jafar , Hope Katherine , Brand Andrew , Hoare Zoe , Scott Suzanne , Doungsong Kodchawan , Ezeofor Victory , Edwards Rhiannon Tudor , Drakatos Panagis , Steier Joerg 
Published: August 2023

IntroductionJust under half of patients with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) also have gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD). These conditions appear to be inter-related and continual positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, the gold standard treatment for OSA to prevent airway collapse, has been shown to reduce GORD. As the impact of mandibular advancement devices, a second-line therapy for OSA, on GORD has yet to be investigated, a feasibility study is needed prior to a definitive trial.MethodsThis will be a single-centre, single-blinded, tertiary-care based, interdisciplinary, parallel randomised controlled study. Potential OSA participants presenting to the sleep department will be pre-screened for GORD using validated questionnaires, consented and invited to receive simultaneous home sleep and oesophageal pH monitoring. Those with confirmed OSA and GORD (n=44) will be randomly allocated to receive either CPAP (n=22) or MAD therapy (n=22). Following successful titration and 3 weeks customisation period, participants will repeat the simultaneous sleep and oesophageal pH monitoring while wearing the device. The number of patients screened for recruitment, drop-out rates, patient feedback of the study protocol, costs of interventions and clinical information to inform a definitive study design will be investigated.Ethics and disseminationHealth Research Authority approval has been obtained from the Nottingham 2 Research Ethics Committee, ref:22/EM/0157 and the trial has been registered on ISRCTN (https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN16013232). Definitive findings about the feasibility of doing 24 hour pH oesophageal monitoring while doing a home sleep study will be disseminated via clinical and research networks facilitating valuable insights into the simultaneous management of both conditions.Trial registration numberISRCTN Reg No: 16013232.
Rockfall motion using a Smart Rock sensor
Authors: Souza Bruma , Benoît Jean 
Published: August 2023

Rockfalls can often pose a significant risk to the public if protective designs do not properly account for block movement downslope and onto infrastructure facilities. Assessing these hazards is challenging, especially as current empirical and computational methods for predicting trajectories of falling blocks generally do not include the contribution associated with rotational behavior. Research undertaken at the University of New Hampshire, USA, over the last decade has led to the development of Smart Rock (SR) sensors inserted in natural rocks to evaluate these events from the perspective of the falling rock. The latest SRs consist of 3 D printed capsules 58.0 mm in length and 25.4 mm in diameter, equipped with a ±400 g and a ±16 g 3-axis accelerometer, a ± 4000 dps high-rate gyroscope, and an altimeter. Approximately 80 field experiments conducted in New Hampshire and Vermont provided SR data on rockfall at ten different sites. The Smart Rock data allowed more in-depth evaluations of accelerations, rotation rates, and modes of motion with precise time intervals, which cannot be easily captured in video recording systems or other instrumentation techniques. Such measurements are essential to improve our understanding and modeling of rockfall events for more economical and safer design of protective systems.
rpkiller: Threat Analysis of the BGP Resource Public Key Infrastructure
Authors: van Hove Koen , van der Ham-de Vos Jeroen , van Rijswijk-Deij Roland 
Published: August 2023

The Resource Public Key Infrastucture (RPKI) has been created to solve security shortcomings of the Border Gateway Protocol (BGP). This creates an infrastructure where resource holders (autonomous systems) can make attestations about their resources (IP-subnets). RPKI Certificate Authorities make these attestations available at Publication Points. Relying Party software retrieves and processes the RPKI-related data from all publication points, validates the data and makes it available to routers so they can make secure routing decisions. We contribute to this work by doing a threat analysis for Relying Party software, where an attacker controls a Certificate Authority and Publication Point. We implement a prototype testbed to analyse how current Relying Party software implementations react to scenarios originating from that threat model.
Our results show that all current Relying Party software was susceptible to at least one of the identified threats. In addition to this, we also identified threats stemming from choices made in the protocol itself. Taken together, these threats potentially allowed an attacker to fully disrupt all RPKI Relying Party software on a global scale. We elaborate on our process, and we discuss the types of responses we received from other parties. We performed a Coordinated Vulnerability Disclosure to the implementers.
Fractionation of Simulated Digestive Products of Bird’s Nest In Vitro: Skin Whitening Activity of Fractions
Authors: Yi Haili , Piao Meizi , Chen Qianru , He Zhiwei , Chen Tiejun 
Published: August 2023

Edible bird’s nest (EBN) has been proven to exhibit whitening activity. In spite of this, the relationship between the digestive products of EBN and the whitening activity is still unclear. Hence, the B16-F10 cell model was used in this study to study the whitening activity of simulated EBN digestion products in vitro. The simulated digestive juices showed significant inhibition of tyrosinase (TYR) (

P

< 0.05), and the release rate of free sialic acid was 21.87% in EBN digestive juices. After simulated gastrointestinal digestion, the relative contents of <1 kDa components, 1–3 kDa components, and >3 kDa components were 42.63%, 15.05%, and 42.32%, respectively. EBN digestive products were further fractionated, and the fraction of <1 kDa (EPP-1) exhibited the highest tyrosinase inhibitory activity with 83.12% and its peptides content was 92.44%. The EPP-1 significantly inhibited tyrosinase activity and decreased melanin content (

P

> 0.05) by regulating the cAMP/MITF/TRP-1/TRP-2 tyrosinase signaling pathways in the B16-F10 cell experiment. Based on these findings, our data suggest that the digestive products of EBN may potentially be fit for developing a new generation of natural whitening health products.
Long-term Cancer Survival Trends by Updated Summary Stage
Authors: Forjaz Gonçalo , Ries Lynn , Devasia Theresa P. , Flynn Gretchen , Ruhl Jennifer , Mariotto Angela B. 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Background:
Stage is the most important prognostic factor for understanding cancer survival trends. Summary stage (SS) classifies cancer based on the extent of spread: In situ, Localized, Regional, or Distant. Continual updating of staging systems poses challenges to stage comparisons over time. We use a consistent summary stage classification and present survival trends for 25 cancer sites using the joinpoint survival (JPSurv) model.

Methods:
We developed a modified summary stage variable, Long-Term Site-Specific Summary Stage, based on as consistent a definition as possible and applied it to a maximum number of diagnosis years, 1975–2019. We estimated trends by stage by applying JPSurv to relative survival data for 25 cancer sites in SEER-8, 1975–2018, followed through December 31, 2019. To help interpret survival trends, we report incidence and mortality trends using the joinpoint model.

Results:
Five-year relative survival improved for nearly all sites and stages. Large improvements were observed for localized pancreatic cancer [4.25 percentage points annually, 2007–2012 (95% confidence interval, 3.40–5.10)], distant skin melanoma [2.15 percentage points annually, 2008–2018 (1.73–2.57)], and localized esophagus cancer [1.18 percentage points annually, 1975–2018 (1.11–1.26)].

Conclusions:
This is the first analysis of survival trends by summary stage for multiple cancer sites. The largest survival increases were seen for cancers with a traditionally poor prognosis and no organized screening, which likely reflects clinical management advances.

Impact:
Our study will be particularly useful for understanding the population-level impact of new treatments and identifying emerging trends in health disparities research.
Long-Term Incidence of Ischemic Stroke After Transient Ischemic Attack: A Nationwide Study From 2014 to 2020
Authors: Vinding Naja Emborg , Butt Jawad H. , Lauridsen Marie Dam , Kristensen Søren Lund , Johnsen Søren Paaske , Krøll Johanna , Graversen Peter L. , Kruuse Christina , Torp-Pedersen Christian , Køber Lars , Fosbøl Emil L. 
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND:
The short-term incidence of ischemic stroke after a transient ischemic attack (TIA) is high. However, data on the long-term incidence are not well known but are needed to guide preventive strategies.

METHODS:
Patients with first-time TIA (index date) in the Danish Stroke Registry (January 2014–December 2020) were included and matched 1:4 with individuals from the background population and 1:1 with patients with a first-time ischemic stroke on the basis of age, sex, and calendar year. The incidences of ischemic stroke and mortality from index date were estimated by Aalen-Johansen and Kaplan-Meier estimators, respectively, and compared between groups using multivariable Cox regression.

RESULTS:

We included 21 500 patients with TIA, 86 000 patients from the background population, and 21 500 patients with ischemic stroke (median age, 70.8 years [25th–75th percentile, 60.8–78.7]; 53.1% males). Patients with TIA had more comorbidities than the background population, yet less than the control stroke population. The 5-year incidence of ischemic stroke after TIA (6.1% [95% CI, 5.7–6.5]) was higher than the background population (1.5% [95% CI, 1.4–1.6],
P
<0.01; hazard ratio, 5.14 [95% CI, 4.65–5.69]) but lower than the control stroke population (8.9% [95% CI, 8.4–9.4],
P
<0.01; hazard ratio, 0.58 [95% CI, 0.53–0.64]). The 5-year mortality for patients with TIA (18.6% [95% CI, 17.9–19.3]) was higher than the background population (14.8% [95% CI, 14.5–15.1],
P
<0.01; hazard ratio, 1.26 [95% CI, 1.20–1.32]) but lower than the control stroke population (30.1% [95% CI, 29.3–30.9],
P
<0.01; hazard ratio, 0.41 [95% CI, 0.39–0.44]).

CONCLUSIONS:
Patients with first-time TIA had an ischemic stroke incidence of 6.1% during the 5-year follow-up period. After adjustment for relevant comorbidities, this incidence was approximately 5-fold higher than what was found for controls in the background population and 40% lower than for patients with recurrent ischemic stroke.
Opening the World Court to the International Community: an Empirical Analysis of Non-party Participation in the International Court of Justice
Authors: Almeida Paula Wojcikiewicz , Romay Giulia Tavares 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Over the last decades, the participation of State and non-State actors (NSAs) in the process of international law-making has become one of the basic features of international law. As multifunctional actors, the role of international courts and tribunals (ICTs) encompasses the protection and development of the international community. Together with ICTs’ role in the promotion, recognition and application of community interest norms, the growing participation of State and NSAs in international dispute settlement mechanisms also plays an increasingly important role in ensuring and facilitating compliance and enforcement of community interest norms. Whereas the non-party participation of State and NSAs has only very exceptionally been recognized, their influence in international dispute settlement cannot be ignored. By applying empirical research methodology for mapping the practice of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) concerning the participation of State and NSAs under the ICJ Statute and Rules of Court, this paper addresses the existing mechanisms of non-party participation in both contentious cases and advisory proceedings. There is no doubt that ICJ procedural law remains outdated and disconnected from the contemporary developments characterizing the international community nowadays. Broadening the possibilities for participation by State and NSAs would imply the recognition of the plurilateral nature of international disputes. In this context, the paper also discusses the challenges and possible alternatives for expanding participation via teleological interpretation of the ICJ Statute and potential amendments to the Rules of Court and Practice Directions.
Lunar cycle-mediated behaviours in animals, including humans
Authors: Mandal Fatik Baran 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
The lunar cycle influences the behaviours of life forms across multiple phyla, including humans. Tides are perhaps the most observable effect of the moon. The moon exerts a surprising impact on animals through reflected fluctuations in light levels. Early works on the lunar effect were primarily observations. The interpretation of natural light by animals to adjust their physiology and behaviour has been enigmatic for a long time. In Platynereis, rOpsin1 senses the moonrise. A molecule called L-cryptochrome (L-Cry) can distinguish between moon phases and sun and moonlight. L-Cry distinguishes the proper valence of moonlight and thus entrains the circalunar clock to regulate reproduction. The lunar effects influence animals through hormones such as melatonin, GnRH, and some steroids. Interestingly, several genes have been revealed to constitute the genetic basis of lunar effects. The present communication provides a succinct account of lunar-mediated effects on animals, including our species.
Stronger Tropical Cyclone–Induced Ocean Cooling in Near-Coastal Regions Compared to the Open Ocean
Authors: Dac Da Nguyen , Foltz Gregory R. , Balaguru Karthik , Fernald Eleda 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Tropical cyclones (TC) often induce strong mixing in the upper ocean that generates a trail of cooler sea surface temperature (Twake) in their wakes. The Twake can affect TC intensity, so its prediction is important, especially in coastal regions where TCs can make landfall. Coastal Twakes are often more complex than those in the open ocean due to the influences of coastline geometry, highly variable water depth, continental runoff, and shelf processes. Using observational data since 2002, here we show a significantly stronger global mean Twake in coastal regions compared to offshore regions. Temperature stratification is the main driver of stronger coastal Twakes in the North Atlantic and east Pacific. In the northwest Pacific and north Indian Ocean, the differences between coastal and offshore Twakes are smaller due to compensation between TC forcings and ocean stratification. The north Indian Ocean is unique in the Northern Hemisphere because salinity stratification plays a major role on the spatial distribution of Twake. In the South Pacific Ocean, TC intensity and translation speed are crucial for explaining coastal–offshore Twake differences, while ocean stratification and mixed layer depth are more important for the coastal–offshore Twake differences in the south Indian Ocean. These findings suggest that coastal–offshore differences in ocean stratification need to be properly represented in models in order to capture changes in TC-induced ocean cooling as storms approach landfall.

Significance Statement
Landfalling tropical cyclones (TCs) often cause considerable damage in coastal regions with dense human populations. Understanding TC–ocean interaction and how it differs between coastal and offshore regions can help predict TC intensity prior to landfall. Sea surface cooling after TC passage is an important proxy for TC–ocean interaction. A global evaluation of coastal TC-induced cooling has not been conducted. Using data covering two decades, we show significantly stronger TC-induced surface cooling in coastal regions compared to offshore regions at the global scale and in all basins except the northwest Pacific and north Indian Ocean. The difference is driven mainly by upper-ocean conditions in the North Atlantic, east Pacific, and south Indian Ocean, and by TC characteristics in the South Pacific.
Investing in the Future: A Premedical Surgical Elective for Undergraduate Students
Authors: Duffy Taylor L. , Ahmad Yaser , Lewis Gideon J. , Brazendale Keith 
Published: August 2023

Background Research has shown that providing surgical exposure and mentorship before clerkship can bolster interest and cultivate quality surgical residents. However, most studies have focused exclusively on programs for 1st and 2nd year medical students. The purpose of this study is to describe a novel undergraduate premedical surgical elective (PMSE) and the interests and perceptions of PMSE participants of the surgical field. Methods Undergraduate students applied for a semester long PMSE that included surgical shadowing, mentorship, a research component, attendance at seminars, and hands-on workshops. Post-PMSE completion, participants were invited to complete an online survey about their perceptions of pursuing a career in surgery and their specialties of interest. Results Thirty-six PMSE participants completed the survey (21 females and 15 males). More than half (57%) of female respondents expressed interest in a surgical career. Most respondents (78%) agreed or strongly agreed that they are confident in their ability to become a surgeon. A lower proportion of female respondents (33%) believed the atmosphere of the surgical field to be inclusive than males (53%). Males accumulated significantly more surgical shadowing hours than females ( P < .05). Discussion Findings from this study describe a novel PMSE at a large undergraduate institution. Survey data of PMSE participants revealed a high proportion of female respondents would like to pursue a career in surgery and reported confidence in achieving this. However, females perceived the field to be less inclusive than male respondents. Improving inclusivity may require increased focus and attention by PMSEs and surgical education programs.
Punch grafting for the treatment of ulcerated atrophie blanche
Authors: Orbea Sopeña Ana , Conde Montero Elena 
Published: August 2023

Case report: A 79-year-old woman presented with a large painful ulcer on the lateral aspect of her left leg over a 6-month period and was diagnosed of ulcerated atrophie blanche. On an outpatient basis punch grafting was performed and 3 weeks after, complete epithelization was achieved. Discussion: Ulcerated atrophie blanche is a misdiagnosed disorder with painful lesions and, consequently, a high impact on quality of life. Atrophie blanche describes porcelain-white colored, red-dotted atrophic plaques on legs or feet. It may be due to multiple causes, usually associated with alterations in the microcirculation. All causes of atrophie blanche can be included in the term livedoid vasculopathy, a type of occlusive vasculopathy without vasculitis. Many patients with atrophie blanche and livedoid vasculopathy have also chronic venous insufficiency. Etiological treatment should be prescribed in order to avoid progression of the lesions. In case of chronic venous insufficiency, control of venous hypertension is essential. Without anti-edema measures, superficial, very painful, and resistant ulcers may appear. These ulcers can be considered a wound on scar tissue; therefore, it must be treated as a hard-to-heal wound. As we show in this case, punch grafting is an effective therapeutic alternative for wound closure and pain reduction of ulcerated atrophie blanche.
Oncologists’ Perspectives on Cancer Survivorship: What Role Should Primary Care Play?
Authors: Kurtzman Rachel T. , Barry Kacie , Howard Jenna , Hudson Shawna V. , Crabtree Benjamin F. 
Published: August 2023

Background: Despite calls for an enhanced role for primary care for individuals with a history of cancer, primary medical care’s role in adult survivorship care continues to be marginal. Methods: We conducted in-depth interviews with 8 medical oncologists with interest in cancer survivorship from 7 National Cancer Institute designated comprehensive cancer centers to understand perspectives on the role of primary care in cancer survivorship. Results: Two salient overarching thematic patterns emerged. (1) Oncologist’s perspectives diverge on if, how, and when primary care clinicians should be involved in survivorship, ranging from involvement of primary care throughout treatment to a standardized hand-off years post-therapy. (2) Oncologist’s lack understanding about primary care’s expertise and subsequent value in survivorship care. Conclusion: As oncology continues to be overwhelmed by rising numbers of aging cancer survivors with multi-morbidities, NCI-designated cancer centers should take a leadership role in integrating primary care engaged cancer survivorship.
Early experience with the Abre venous stent for central venous stenoses and occlusions in hemodialysis patients
Authors: Aronhime Shimon , Balan Shmuel , Timokhin Aleksey , Avital Yaniv , Cherniavsky Alexei 
Published: August 2023

Background: Hemodialysis patients are prone to stenoses and occlusions throughout the access circuit. Central venous stenoses or occlusions (CVO) can be particularly challenging. There are many different types of balloons and stents available for treatment, including a new generation of dedicated venous stents (VS). In this study, we report our experience and patency rates with the Abre VS in central venous lesions in hemodialysis patients. Methods: From April 2020 to May 2023, all procedures with Abre VSs placed for central venous lesions in hemodialysis patients were retrospectively analyzed from a prospectively collected database of 980 hemodialysis access interventions. Follow up outcomes were obtained from angiographic images on follow up angiography and included primary patency and primary assisted patency. Effective hemodialysis was considered a surrogate for access patency if no angiographic follow-up was available. Results: A total of 15 patients with CVO were treated with the Abre VS. Technical success was 100%. All patients were able to achieve adequate hemodialysis after VS placement. Stents were placed across the thoracic inlet in 73% of patients. Post procedure primary patency at the target lesion site was 85% at 6 months and 70% at 12 months. Primary assisted patency of the circuit was 93% at 6 and 12 months. No stent fractures were observed. Conclusion: Treatment of CVO remains extremely challenging, especially when the lesion is located at the thoracic inlet. In these patients, VSs provide acceptable primary patency rates and allow patients to continue to receive effective hemodialysis. However, routine follow-up and re-interventions will likely be necessary to maintain patency in the long term.