bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Supporting policy to improve delayed diagnosis of cancer in Nigeria
Authors: Apenteng Patricia , Omigbodun Akinyinka , mni Ibrahim Yakasai , Fayehun Olufunke , Owoaje Eme , Adebayo Kudus , Umar Usman Aliyu , Warshu Iman , Sartori Jo , Lilford Richard 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
The majority of people with cancer present in late stage (Stage III or IV) in Sub Saharan Africa, resulting in poor outcomes. In Nigeria, over three-quarters of common curable cancers present late, compared to 35% in high-income countries. Early detection, and referral to surgical and treatment centres for first line treatment could potentially improve outcomes.
Aim: To investigate delays to cancer care in Nigeria
Work packages:
1. Elicit patients’ accounts from first noticing a bodily change to the point of resolution where patients receive treatment, or are informed the cancer is not treatable (n=480)
2. Engage with policy makers to share evidence and inform the development of interventions to improve detection and treatment of cancer
Our research will focus on four types of cancer:
· breast
· colorectum
· head and neck
· cervix
We will explore the patient journey according to the three stages to diagnosis outlined in the WHO guide to early cancer diagnosis, focusing on the duration and causes of delay from first symptom to treatment.
The Patient Path to a diagnosis of Atrial Fibrillation: a qualitative study in primary care
Authors: Apenteng Patricia , Nanton Veronica , Lobban Trudie , Lilford Richard 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Note: This abstract text was updated at the request of authors on 30 August, 2023. The previous abstract version was posted in error.
Background
Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is a common heart rhythm disorder. AF leads to a five-fold increase in the risk of stroke and double the risk of death. These risks can be reduced by anticoagulation therapy. However, AF can be difficult to detect because it is often intermittent and not always symptomatic, and where symptoms are present, they can be non-specific. Currently at least one-third of people with AF remain undiagnosed; this equates to an estimated 500,000 people in the UK.
Aim
The study aims to explore the patient path to a diagnosis of AF and develop recommendations to improve the detection of AF
Methods
This is a qualitative study set in GP practices in the West Midlands. Approximately 30 semi-structured interviews will be conducted with patients with AF, within 6 months of diagnosis, to explore their journey to diagnosis. Up to 20 interviews will be conducted with GPs and practice nurses to explore their experiences of the presentations of AF.
A workshop will be held with relevant stakeholders, including patients, to interpret the data and identify key messages to improve recognition of AF. These will be used to develop educational resources for healthcare professionals and the public.
Evaluation
The interviews will be analysed using framework analysis. Andersen’s model of Total Patient Delay will be applied to understand the trajectory to a diagnosis of AF.
Conclusions
Recommendations to improve the detection of AF will be made, drawing on the identified patient pathways.
An investigation on the Monkeypox virus dynamics in human and rodent populations for a deterministic mathematical model
Authors: Leandry Leonce , Mureithi Eunice 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
A mathematical deterministic model for the dynamics of Monkeypox disease is developed. Monkeypox is a viral zoonotic disease that can be transmitted to humans, through contact with infected rodents. The model captures both the human and rodent populations and incorporates control strategies such as vaccines and quarantine for the human population. The model is analysed for the local and global stability of the equilibrium solutions. In addition, numerical simulations of the model equations and sensitivity analyses of the parameters are carried out. The solutions obtained show that an increase in vaccination and quarantine measures could reduce the number of reproductions and ultimately eradicate the virus.
A New Parallel Algorithm for Solving Largescale DEA Models and its Application in the evaluation of bankruptcy
Authors: Mu Ren , Hao Lining , Ma Xiuying 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
In order to meet the timeliness requirements of evaluation work, the research on the solution speed of large-scale Data envelopment analysis (DEA) problems has received attention for a long time. Although the Framework method has the fastest computing time in literature, it still has possibility to improve. This paper presents a new parallel computing algorithm work better than the Framework. In this algorithm, the computation speed of large-scale DEA models is improved by combining traditional DEA solving algorithm with one-dimensional parallel hyperline algorithm, and speed up the solution of multi-dimensional problems through dimensionality decomposition. This method does not need to set parameters to solve the problem like the Framework. The advantages of the new proposed algorithm are verified by the results from case studies with randomly generated datasets and real-life case. To ensure the comprehensiveness of the results, randomly generated datasets are under the assumption that obey the uniform distribution and the normal distribution respectively. Very large scale problems, exceeding fifty million decision making units (DMUs), were solved for the first time by our algorithm. The bankruptcy data of Polish companies is used to test the computing ability and availability of our algorithm in real-life case.
Evaluation of an adapted semi-automated DNA extraction for human salivary shotgun metagenomics
Authors: Meslier Victoria , Menozzi Elisa , David Aymeric , Morabito Christian , Pozo Sara Lucas Del , Famechon Alexandre , North Janet , Quinquis Benoit , Koletsi Sofia , Macnaughtan Jane , Mezabrovschi Roxana , Ehrlich S. Dusko , Schapira Anthony HV. , Almeida Mathieu 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
The importance of oral microbiota has been recently highlighted in human health, such as in Parkinson disease, notably using shotgun metagenomics. One key aspect for efficient shotgun metagenomic analysis relies on optimal microbial sampling and DNA extraction, generally implementing commercial solutions developed to improve sample collection and preservation and provide high DNA quality and quantity for downstream analysis. Because metagenomic studies are today performed on a large number of samples, the next evolution to increase study throughput is with DNA extraction automation. In this study, we proposed a semi-automated DNA extraction protocol for human salivary samples collected with a commercial kit, and compared the outcomes with the DNA extraction recommended by the manufacturer. While similar DNA yields were observed between the protocols, our semi-automated DNA protocol significantly generated higher DNA fragment sizes. Moreover, we showed that the oral microbiome composition was equivalent between DNA extraction methods, even at the species level. This study demonstrates that our semi-automated protocol is suitable for shotgun metagenomic analysis, while allowing for a better sample treatment logistic with reduced technical variability and without compromising the structure of the oral microbiome.
Regularizing fuel-optimal, multi-impulse trajectories
Authors: Oshima Kenta 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
The regularization theory has successfully enabled the removal of gravitational singularities associated with celestial bodies. This paper merges regularizing techniques into a multi-impulse trajectory design framework that requires delicate computations specifically in a fuel minimization problem. Regularized variables based on the Levi-Civita or Kustaanheimo-Stiefel transformation express instantaneous velocity changes in a gradient-based direct optimization method. The formulation removes the notorious singularities associated with null thrust impulses from derivatives of an objective function in the fuel minimization problem. The favorite singularity-free property enables accurate reductions of unnecessary impulses and generations of necessary impulses for local optimal solutions in an automatic manner. Examples of fuel-optimal, multi-impulse trajectories are presented including novel transfer solutions between a near rectilinear halo orbit and a distant retrograde orbit.
Molecular Dynamics Study of Vacancy Effect on Mechanical Properties of Polyurethane-Graphene Nanocomposite
Authors: Pebdani Mohammadreza Heidari , Sabetvand Roozbeh , Pishkar Iman 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
A molecular dynamics (MD) approach is used to describe the mechanical properties of polyurethane matrix using defective graphene nanosheets. In MD simulations of polyurethane matrix and graphene nanosheets, we applied DREIDING and Tersoff force fields, respectively. The temperature and total energy variations in the equilibrium phase show their physical stability. Numerically, the total energy of the pure and reinforced polymeric matrix converged to -491.10 kcal/mol and − 524.83 kcal/mol, respectively. These calculations show the atomic stability of the structure improves in presence of defective nanoparticles. Also, the mechanical properties of modelled samples were investigated by measuring stress-strain curves, Young's modulus, ultimate tensile strength, and atomic energy between polymeric matrix and modeled nanosheets. Numerically, by inserting defective nanosheets into polyurethane chains, Young’s modulus and their ultimate tensile strength increase to 22.00 MPa and 71.39 MPa, respectively. By combining graphene nanosheets with vacancy defects to the additive nanoparticles, we conclude that designed nanocomposites can exhibit promising (improved) mechanical properties.
Beyond the Bedside: Protocol for a scoping review exploring the experiences of non-practicing healthcare professionals within health professions education
Authors: Church Helen R , Brown Megan E L , Govender Lynelle , Clark Deborah 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background: The number of healthcare professionals leaving clinical practice and transitioning to alternative careers in health professions education is increasing. Among these non-practicing healthcare professionals, concerns have been reported regarding tensions in relation to identity, role, and credibility in their new field. There are suggestions that this is a particularly pressing issue for minoritised professionals who make this transition. Support is critical to attract and retain diverse talent within health professions education teaching and research. The purpose of this scoping review is to explore the career experiences of non-practicing healthcare professionals who work in health professions education internationally.
Methods: Arksey and O’Malley’s framework has been utilised to guide the design of this scoping review process and will be used throughout the course of the review. A comprehensive search of seven electronic databases and limited search of Google Scholar will be conducted, as well as a hand search of eligible article reference lists. Two reviewers will independently screen all articles based on inclusion criteria, with conflicts resolved by a third reviewer. Data from included articles will be charted, collated, and analysed thematically. Meta-data will be summarised quantitatively.
Discussion: This scoping review aims to explore the role and experiences of non-practicing healthcare professionals working within health professions education. The review will follow established scoping review guidelines and will include studies from various regions and languages, provided an English translation is available. The study remit will be broad, including both quantitative and qualitative studies, as well as reviews and opinion papers. Limitations may include the exclusion of non-English articles and potential difficulty of identifying papers which discuss the experiences of non-practicing clinicians. However, the review will provide insight into the current knowledge on what it is like to be a non-practicing clinician working within health professions education and identify gaps for both future research, and future support for those making this career transition.

Literature review registration

Open Science Framework Registration https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/485Z3
Emotional gradients of characters in digital games and their impressions on users: The case of "THE IDOLM@STER SHINY COLORS"
Authors: Matsui Tetsuya 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
In this paper, I have conducted an analysis that contributes to the design of
digital game characters that have a more positive effect on the player. My focus in this
paper is on the concept of ”emotional gradient,” which quantifies a character’s emotional
transition in a game. From prior research, I hypothesize that there is an association between
the emotional gradient and the character’s ”experience”. I tested this hypothesis using actual
digital game characters that have been distributed. I calculated the emotional gradient of
each character by text mining. At the same time, I measured the ”experience” of each
character through a web survey of game players. I then examined the correlation between
the value of the emotional gradient and ”experience”. The results showed a significant
correlation between the emotional gradient of JOY and SADNESS and ”experience”. The
results are useful for the design theory of digital game characters.
Integrating mental health into primary care: Implementation outcomes and clinical impact of the Health Action for Psychiatric Problems In Nigeria including Epilepsy and SubstanceS (HAPPINESS) intervention
Authors: Iheanacho Theddeus , Chu Casey , Aguocha Chinyere , Nwefoh Emeka , Dike Charles 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
Access to mental health care in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria remains suboptimal. Integrating mental health care into primary care using a stepped-care, task-sharing approaches improves access. Research evidence on best model to scale up these approaches are needed. The Health Action for Psychiatric Problems In Nigeria including Epilepsy and SubstanceS (HAPPINESS) intervention is a multi-component, community-based, mobile technology-supported intervention developed to integrate mental health into primary health care centers in Nigeria using the World Health Organization's Mental Health Gap Action Programme-Intervention Guide (mhGAP-IG). This study evaluates the implementation outcomes and patient-level clinical impact of the HAPPINESS intervention.
Methods
Using a quasi-experimental design (single cohort with pre- and post- measures) and the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test, Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal Wallis tests we assessed changes in psychiatric symptoms among patients treated for mental, neurological and substance use disorders through the HAPPINESS intervention using their scores on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale at baseline and 6 months post-intervention. The implementation outcomes (feasibility, adoption, and fidelity) were assessed using Proctor’s implementation outcome framework.
Results
The HAPPINESS intervention implementation demonstrated high feasibility with robust site recruitment and 100% training completion rate. The adoption rate was high with 84% of the sites actively implementing the HAPPINESS intervention at 12 months. Fidelity to the intervention protocol (screening, assessment, treatment, follow up, referrals and consultation) was 81%. Patients’ retention rate in care at 6 months was 91% and at 12 months was 86%. The Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test showed a statistically significant reduction in PHQ-9 scores from baseline (Md = 9.5) to 6 months (Md = 3.0) post-intervention (z = 80.5, p < 0.001), with a large effect size (r = 0.8) and statistically significant reduction in BPRS scores from baseline (Md = 36.0) to 6 month (Md = 17.0) post-intervention (z = 128.5, p < 0.001), with a large effect size (r = 0.9).
Conclusion
This study adds to the growing evidence of the feasibility, effectiveness, role of mobile technology and potential for mhGAP-IG-based efforts to scale up mental health services through primary health care to increase access to evidence-based interventions in Nigeria.
Recovery period of long-term waterlogging exacerbates damage to photochemical phase of photosynthesis in bush beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.).
Authors: Velasco Nixon Florez , Ligarreto Gustavo Adolfo , Diaz Hermann Restrepo , Fonseca Liz Patricia Moreno 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Beans are considered one of the basic products of the farmer economy and food security. In some regions of the tropics, the presence of climatic phenomena involves the increase in the frequency and intensity of rainfall and causes different waterlogging periods. The objective of this work was to determine the effect of waterlogging duration and recovery on the growth and photosynthesis of bean plants. The experiment was carried out in the greenhouses, using a completely randomized design with four replicates per treatment. Bush bean plants that were subjected when they had 3-4 true leaves, to two periods of waterlogging, short-term (STW) and long-term (LTW), 7 and 14 days, respectively and 7 days of recovery period in both treatments, and one control in drainage condition. The STW caused a significant decrease in photosynthesis (Pn) (82%), stomatal conductance (gs) (83%) and an increase in the content of malondialdehyde (MDA) and electrolyte leakage (EL) compared to control plants. In STW-RP, Pn, WUE, Ci/gs ratio and photochemical quenching (qP) increased. Otherwise, the LWT reduced Pn (94%) and gs (93%) compared to control plants. At the LTW-RP there was a reduction in the maximum photochemical efficiency of PSII (Fv/Fm), the content of chlorophyll and carotenoids and an increase in non-photochemical quenching (NPQ). Proline increase in LTW-RP was not enough to avoid damage to the PSII. The STW caused moderate stress on the photosynthesis of bean plants although plants can recover their photosynthetic activity in a low proportion. The LTW increases the damage of the photosynthetic apparatus, and its effect is exacerbated in the subsequent LTW-RP.
Educational programme on knowledge, attitudes, and practice of oral care/hygiene provision by healthcare providers to older residents in long-term care institutions: A case-control study
Authors: WONG Florence Mei Fung , SHIE Henry WH , Kao Enoch , Tsoi Hoi Mei , Leung Wai keung 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Background
Much attention has been paid to advocate proper oral care/hygiene provision by healthcare providers in long-term care institutions (LTCIs). This study aimed to evaluate the effects of an oral health education (OHE) programme (intervention) on knowledge, attitudes, and practice (KAP) of healthcare providers in providing oral care/hygiene to older residents in LTCIs.
Methods
A case control study was conducted at two LTCIs, with one assigned as the intervention group and the other as the control group. A KAP survey was administered before and after the intervention, and oral status was assessed by standardized clinical photographs taken before and after oral hygiene provision on three older residents.
Results
A total of 40 healthcare providers (20 in intervention and 20 in control groups) participated, with the attitudes and overall KAP significantly improved in the intervention group after the OHE programme. Interestingly, the knowledge of those in the control LTCI was significantly declined at re-evaluation. Poor oral health was observed in the three older residents.
Conclusions
This study revealed that the OHE programme effectively improved attitudes of the healthcare providers and provided sustaining effect on attitude upon oral health and oral care. However, there were still inadequacies in oral hygiene provision by some healthcare providers, possibly due to unattended oral diseases and hygiene needs, as well as personal and environmental barriers that worth further investigation. Regular evaluation and enforcement of oral care/hygiene provision in LTCIs are necessary to maintain oral health and prevent dental and gum diseases in older residents. Immediate referral for dental treatment is recommended for older people with signs of dental/oral disease(s).
The effect of drug holidays on sexual dysfunction in men treated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) other than fluoxetine: An 8-week open-label randomized clinical trial
Authors: Alipour-Kivi Arman , Eissazade Negin , Shariat Seyed Vahid , Salehian Razieh , Soraya Shiva , Askari Sanaz , Shalbafan Mohammadreza 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Introduction: Mental disorders are a significant global burden, with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) being widely used for treatment. However, SSRIs are associated with various side effects, including sexual dysfunction. Common and persistent, these side effects often lead to poor adherence and treatment discontinuation. While several strategies have been employed to manage SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction, drug holidays have not been extensively studied for this purpose. Therefore, this clinical trial aims to assess the effect of drug holidays on sexual dysfunction in men treated with SSRIs, excluding fluoxetine.
Methods: This 8-week double-center, randomized, open-label, controlled trial was conducted in the outpatient clinics of Iran Psychiatric Hospital and Tehran Institute of Psychiatry, from January 2022 to March 2023. The study included married men between the ages of 18 and 50 years who had experienced sexual dysfunction during treatment with an SSRI. The Male Sexual Health Questionnaire (MSHQ) and the 28-Question General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28) were used as assessment tools. Participants were randomized into two groups: the drug holidays group and the control group. The drug holidays group was instructed not to take their medications on the weekends. The control group was asked to continue their regular medication regimen without any changes. Both groups were assessed at baseline, and weeks 4 and 8.
Results: Sixty-three patients were included and randomly assigned to drug holidays (N=32) or control (N=31) groups, and 50 patients (25 in each group) completed the trial. The participants’ mean (±SD) age was 37.22 (±12.181). Drug holidays significantly improved erection, ejaculation, satisfaction, and overall sexual health of the participants (P<0.001).. No significant change was observed in the drug holidays group’s mental health. No major side effects were recorded.
Conclusions: Based on the results of our study, drug holidays was significantly in favor of ‘erection’, ‘ejaculation’, ‘satisfaction’ and ‘total’ scores of the MSHQ, indicating improvement in sexual health of men, without significant worsening of mental health status. Further research is needed to reach a certain conclusion.
Trial registration: The trial was registered at the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials on 25/10/2021 (www.irct.ir; IRCT ID: IRCT20170123032145N6) before the trial.