bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Embedding multimodal rehabilitation within routine cancer care in Sheffield – The Active Together service evaluation protocol
Authors: Myers Anna , Humphreys Liam , Thelwell Michael , Pickering Katie , Frith Gabbi , Phillips Gail , Keen Carol , Copeland Robert 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
Approximately three million people in the UK are currently living with or beyond cancer. People undergoing treatment for cancer, particularly those lacking sufficient physiological reserve, are at risk of complications following treatment. Increasing evidence supports the role of rehabilitation (including prehabilitation) for enhancing psychological and physical wellbeing in cancer patients, reducing the negative impact of treatment side-effects and improving outcomes. Active Together is an evidence-based multi-modal rehabilitation service for patients with a cancer diagnosis, embedded within the cancer care pathway. It provides support to patients, helping them prepare for and recover from treatment. This paper presents the protocol for a pragmatic, real-world evaluation of the Active Together service. The primary aim is to determine the impact of the service on patient outcomes, patient-reported outcomes and clinical endpoints, as well as understand processes that influence its delivery and mechanisms that drive observed outcomes.
Methods
The Active Together service evaluation adopts a mixed-methods design, comprising an outcome and process evaluation. Combining both an outcome and process evaluation will ensure that data relating to service implementation is integrated into the analysis of outcome measures. The outcome evaluation will use a single group, longitudinal design to determine changes in outcomes of patients that attend the service, and comparative analysis of healthcare resource use against historical patient data. The process evaluation uses service performance indicators, semi-structured interviews and focus groups to explore mechanisms of action and understand contextual factors influencing delivery and outcomes. Integrating measures of psychological change mechanisms with outcome data might help to clarify complex causal pathways within the service.
Discussion
Evidence to support the role of multi-modal rehabilitation for patients at all stages of their cancer treatment is increasing. The translation of that evidence into practice is less advanced. Findings from this evaluation will contribute to our understanding of the real-world effectiveness of cancer rehabilitation (including prehabilitation) and strengthen the case for widespread uptake and adoption of rehabilitation for people with a cancer diagnosis.
Trial registration:
This service evaluation was registered with the Clinical Effectiveness Unit at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals (Reference number 11115).
RETRACTED: Summer temperature variability in the Hindu Kush region of northern Pakistan: Insights from tree rings of Pinus wallichiana A. B. Jacks since 1790 C.E.
Authors: Asad Fayaz , Adil Muhammad , Shaid Sabrina , Khan Nasrullah , Zhu Haifeng , Huang Ru 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Response of macrobenthic communities to a Spartina alterniflora management project on tidal flats in Hangzhou Bay, China
Authors: Ye Jingyi , Tang Yanbin , Liu Qinghe , Zhang Rongliang , Liao Yibo , Shou Lu , Zeng Jiangning 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Spartina alterniflora is one of the most invasive plants on Chinese tidal flats. To explore the responses of macrobenthic communities to the removal of S. alterniflora and the restoration of tidal flats, a survey of macrobenthic and sediment environmental factors was carried out in June 2022 in the mudflat recovery area (MRA) of tidal flats on the south bank of Hangzhou Bay, China. A proximate natural mudflat area (NMA), S. alterniflora area (SAA) and Scirpus mariqueter area (SMA) were selected for comparison with the MRA. A total of 48 macrobenthic species were identified, with 13, 28, 22 and 21species in the MRA, NMA, SAA and SMA, respectively. Cluster, multidimensional scaling (MDS) and SIMPER analysis suggested that the similarity between macrobenthic communities in the MRA and the NMA was high, whereas the similarity between macrobenthic communities in the MRA and SAA and the MRA and SMA was very low. The similarity between macrobenthic communities in the SAA and the SMA was high. ANOSIM analysis suggested that the differences between regions were greater than those within regions (R = 0.881). The sediment factors in the MRA were substantially different from those in the other three habitats, while the sediment factors in the SMA and the SAA were the most similar. Macrobenthos were mainly affected by the mean diameter of the sediment particles. After 1 year of natural recovery in the MRA, the macrobenthos approached the pre-project levels, but to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment project and prevent the recurrence of S. alterniflora, continuous monitoring should be carried out.
Difficult airway simulation-based training for anaesthesiologists: efficacy and skills retention within six months
Authors: Bielka Kateryna , Kuchyn Iurii , Fomina Hanna , Khomenko Olena , Kyselova Iryna , Frank Michael 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background. The aim of this study was to evaluate how anaesthesiologists manage a "cannot intubate, can ventilate" (CI) and "cannot intubate, cannot ventilate" (CICV) scenarios, and how following simulation training will improve their guidelines adherence, skills and decision-making straight after training and 6 months later. Methods. A prospective controlled study was conducted from July to December 2022. Anaesthesiologists who applied for the continuous medical education course “Difficult Airway Management” were involved in the study. Each volunteer participated in two simulation scenarios (CI, CICV) with structural debriefing after each scenario. After the first simulation round, volunteers were trained in difficult airway management according to DAS guidelines, using the same equipment as during the simulation. The participants repeated the simulation scenarios the day after the training and six months later. The primary and secondary endpoints were compared between three rounds: initial simulation (Group 1), immediately after training (Group 2), and six months after training (Group 3). Results. A total of 24 anaesthesiologists consented to participate in the study and completed the initial survey form. During the first session, 83.3% of participants had at least one major deviation from the DAS protocol. During the first CICV scenario, 79% of participants made at least one deviation from the DAS protocol. The second time after simulation training, significantly better results were achieved: the number of anaesthesiologists, who attempted more than 3 laryngoscopies decreased (OR = 7 [1.8–26.8], p = 0.006 right after training and OR = 3.9 [1.06–14.4], p = 0.035 6 month later); the number, who skipped the supralaryngeal device attempt, call for help and failure to initiate surgical airway also decreased. Simulation training also significantly decreases the time to call for help, cricotomy initiation time, and mean desaturation time and increases the odds ratio of successful cricotomy placement (OR 0.02 [0.003–0.14], p < 0.0001 right after training and OR = OR 0.02 [0.003–0.16] 6 months after training). Conclusions. Anaesthesiologists usually display major deviations from DAS guidelines while managing CI and CICV scenarios. Simulation training improves their guideline adherence, skills, and decision-making immediately after training and 6 months later. Study registration: NCT05913492, clinicaltrials.gov, 12/6/2023
Fungicides can inhibit mycelial growth but not protect against Ceratocystis fimbriata infection via pruning wounds on kiwifruit vines
Authors: Cassol Sabrina Angela , Santos Samuel A. , Franceschini Marston H. D. , Alexandre Flavia S. , Macedo Davi M. , Pal Chandan , Ponte Emerson M. Del , Alfenas Acelino C. , Alfenas Rafael Ferreira 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Ceratocystis wilt, caused by Ceratocystis fimbriata, is the primary disease affecting kiwifruit (Actinidia spp.) and a major constraint for its cultivation and expansion in Brazil. Additionally, it poses a potential threat to other major kiwifruit-producing countries, such as China, New Zealand and Italy, where the disease has not reported on kiwifruit yet. In kiwifruit vines, the infection generally initiates through the roots, but pruning wounds can also serve as an entry point for the pathogen. Currently, there is a dearth of proven effective strategies for controlling this disease, and there is no information on the effectiveness of fungicides for preventing the disease. In the present study, we evaluated the efficacy of four fungicides: metalaxyl + mancozeb, boscalide + cresoxim-methyl, pyraclostrobin, and copper hydroxide, against C. fimbriata isolates. We found that metalaxyl + mancozeb and pyraclostrobin were the most effective in inhibiting mycelial growth in vitro. However, when evaluated as wound pruning protectors in two kiwifruit cultivars, these fungicides were not effective. The results found in the in vitro assays can serve as guides for the development of chemical control of Ceratocystis wilt in kiwifruit. Furthermore, as none of the fungicides tested here were effective in protecting pruning wounds against C. fimbriata infection in kiwifruit vines, it is interesting that other active ingredients or application methods are evaluated in further studies.
Consultations about randomised controlled trials are shorter and less in-depth for socio-economically disadvantaged patients compared to socioeconomically advantaged patients: qualitative analysis across three trials
Authors: Popa Mariana , Young Bridget , Rousseau Nikki , Cherry Mary G. , Jenkins Isobel , Cloke Jane , Pettitt Andrew , Jenkinson Michael D. , Ahmed Saiqa , Pemberton Allan R. , Sherratt Frances 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Background
Patients from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds are underserved in randomised controlled trials, yet they experience a much greater burden of disease compared with patients from socioeconomically advantaged areas. It is crucial to make trials more inclusive to ensure that treatments and interventions are safe and effective in real-world contexts. Improving how information about trials is verbally communicated is an unexplored strategy to make trials more inclusive. This study compared patterns in verbal communication about trials between recruiters and patients from different socioeconomic areas.
Methods
Secondary qualitative analysis of 55 trial consultation transcripts from 41 patients, sampled from three qualitative studies embedded in their respective multi-site, cancer-related randomised controlled trials. Patients living in the most and least socio-economically disadvantaged areas, defined using English Indices of Multiple Deprivation decile scores, were purposively sampled. Analysis was largely thematic and drew on the constant comparison method.
Results
Recruiters communicated clinical uncertainty in a similar way for patients living in different socioeconomic areas. Consultations with disadvantaged patients were, on average, half the duration of those with advantaged patients, and tended to involve recruiters providing less in-depth explanations of trial concepts, used phrasing that softened trial arm risks, and described trial processes (e.g. randomisation) using informal or metaphorical phrasing. Disadvantaged and advantaged patients differed in the concerns they expressed; disadvantaged patients voiced fewer concerns and asked fewer questions but were also less likely to be invited to do so by recruiters.
Conclusion
Interactions about trials unfolded in different ways between patients living in different socioeconomic areas, likely due to both patient- and recruiter-related factors. We present considerations for recruiters when discussing trials with patients from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds, aimed at enhancing trial communication. Future research should examine disadvantaged patients’ and recruiters’ experiences of verbal trial communication to inform guidance that addresses the needs and preferences of underserved groups.
Dry eye complaints among teenagers in Kosovo: prevalence and underlying causes
Authors: Mazreku Feim , Berbatovci-Ukimeraj Mimoza , Mazreku Ilir 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Purpose
The incidence of dry eye disorder has increased concurrently with new technological development, the rapid increase in the use of smart devices, and the popularization of social media, video platforms, and internet browsing. This research aimed to investigate the connections between screen time, dry eye symptoms, and other factors.
Methods
We surveyed a total of 776 participants in three different high schools in Prizren (Kosovo), including 441 (56.89%) female and 335 (43.11%) male participants. The average age of the participants, ranging from 15 to 19, was 16.28 (1.01). Participants were asked about their history of eye disease, diopter level, daily use of technological devices, the length of time they spent on these devices, the impact of these devices on their eye health, their prior knowledge about eye problems, the source of this information, their reasons for using technological devices, and whether they exhibit any of the six prevalent DED symptoms. In addition, a Schirmer test was administered to both eyes.
Results
Almost half of the adolescents reported at least one of the DED symptoms (F = 51.8% and M = 40.7%), and only a small group (F = 26.0% and M = 16.4%) sought medical attention for their symptoms. Schirmer test scores of female participants (Schirmer OD = 13.90 ± 9.13 and OS = 13.93 ± 9.10) were significantly lower (p < 0.05) compared to those of male participants (Schirmer OD = 15.61 ± 9.13, OS = 15.60 ± 9.10) for both eyes.
Conclusion
Amongst the general population, adolescents are the group most exposed to technological development and its possible risks. Screen time exposure is relatively high among adolescents, correlating with the high percentage of reported DED symptoms.
A topological approach for analyzing the protein structure
Authors: Mamouni My Ismail , LAMINE Zakaria , MANSOURI Mohammed Wadia 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Persistent homology is a new tool from algebraic topology, showing until nowadays a lot of success when it comes to application in biology since this latest use metrics only for measuring similarities, Embedding the geometric details and focusing on the global shape is the key point making the success of persistent homology as an efficient topological data analysis tool. In this work we will be confirming the latest assumption (topology embeds geometry) by analyzing the structure of COILED SERINE which is a protein estimated to constitute 3-5 percent of the encoded residues in most genomes, and giving a substitute of the optimal characteristic distance that can be used in the flexibility-rigidity index, a classic method used to simulate molecule movements and flexible behavior, when it comes to atomic rigidity functions. We will also analyze interesting patterns in the binding site of the beta sheet generated from the pdb file 2JOX. We will be detecting and giving a simple description of different patterns generated by using javaplex generating barcodes and persistent diagrams as a summary statistics.
[AMS classification]55N31, 62R40, 62R07
Risk factors associated with sleep-disordered breathing in professional truck drivers whose collisions were attributed to microsleep-related behaviors while driving
Authors: Sawatari Hiroyuki , Kumagai Hajime , Kawaguchi Kengo , Kiyohara Yuka , Konishi Noriyuki , Arita Aki , Hayashi Mitsuo , Shiomi Toshiaki 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
This retrospective study assessed the association between overnight pulse oximetry parameters, including subjective daytime sleepiness on the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and dashcam footages of confirmed truck collisions attributed to microsleep-related behaviors at the wheel (TC-MRBs) among professional truck drivers. The study included 108 matched professional truck drivers with and without TC-MRBs (TC-MRBs: N = 54; non-TC-MRBs: N = 54). ESS and overnight pulse oximetry parameters were considered associated factors. In the TC-MRBs group, microsleep-related behaviors were confirmed by dashcam video footage in all collisions. The mean age and body mass index of participants were 41.9 ± 11.3 years and 23.0 ± 3.7 kg/m2, respectively (males: 100.0%, night-time drivers: 30.6%). Night-time driving, 4% oxygen desaturation index (ODI), and nadir oxygen saturation (SpO2) were associated with TC-MRBs (odds ratio (OR) [95% confidence interval (CI)]: 25.63 [5.88–111.77], p < 0.0001; OR [95%CI]: 1.25 [1.01–1.56], p = 0.045; OR [95%CI]: 1.15 [1.00–1.31], p = 0.04, respectively). The area under the curve of TC-MRBs for 4%ODI and nadir SpO2 were 0.50 and 0.57, respectively (4%ODI: sensitivity = 0.30, specificity = 0.85; nadir SpO2: sensitivity = 0.36, specificity = 0.85). The mean SpO2, 3%ODI, or ESS were not associated with TC-MRBs. In contrast, although the sensitivity of TC-MRBs using 4%ODI or nadir SpO2 was poor, 4%ODI and nadir SpO2 were associated with TC-MRBs.
Capabilities of using UAVs and terrestrial photogrammetry to determine short-term soil losses in forest road cut slopes in semi-arid mountainous areas
Authors: Turk Yilmaz , Ozcelik Vuralhan , Akdumam Emirhan 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
The soil losses that are caused should be examined by monitoring the forest roads in the periods after they are built. In traditional soil loss determination studies that require intensive labour, due to difficulties in parcel setup, leaks from the connection points of the system, overflow of the material in the storage units and regular follow-up of the precipitation, etc., the system has its disadvantages. In this study, studies were carried out to evaluate the possibilities of using UAV and terrestrial photogrammetric methods, which are remote sensing techniques, and to determine the soil losses in forest road cut slopes in semi-arid mountainous areas. In addition, the advantages and disadvantages of the methods are discussed. A 100-meter section of the secondary forest road was chosen as the study area. Data acquisition was carried out by UAV and terrestrial photogrammetric methods in the period of May 2020-November 2020. In the results of the study, the volumetric deformation per unit area results, a -0.0060 m3m− 2 erosion amount and a 0.0046 m3m− 2 accumulation amount were determined by UAV. In addition, in the photogrammetric method, a -0.0050 m3m− 2 erosion amount and a 0.0031 m3m− 2 accumulation amount were found. When both methods were compared temporally, the processes took approximately 2 times longer in the terrestrial photogrammetry method. In addition, while the ground sampling distance of DEMs and orthophotos produced with the UAV was 2 cm, it was obtained as 1 cm in the terrestrial photogrammetry method, and terrestrial receptions were found to be 2 times higher resolution. According to the results obtained, the terrestrial photogrammetric method gives results that are more accurate in such studies.
Use of the Supportive and Palliative Care Indicators Tool (Spict™) for End-of-life Discussions: a Scoping Review
Authors: Mahura Melanie , Karle Brigitte , Dick-Smith Felicity , Sayers Louise , Elliott Rosalind 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
In order to mitigate the distress associated with life limiting conditions it is essential for all health professionals not just palliative care specialists to identify people with deteriorating health and unmet palliative care needs and to plan care. The SPICT™ tool was designed to assist with this.
Aim
The aim was to examine the impact of the SPICT™ on advance care planning conversations and the extent of its use in advance care planning for adults with chronic life-limiting illness.
Methods
In this scoping review records published between 2010 and 2022 reporting the use of the SPICT™, were included unless the study aim was to evaluate the tool for prognostication purposes. Databases searched were EBSCO Medline, PubMed, EBSCO CINAHL, APA Psych Info, ProQuest One Theses and Dissertations Global.
Results
From the search results 23 records were reviewed, including one systematic review, two theses and 20 primary research studies. Much of the research was derived from primary care settings. There was evidence that the SPICT™ assists conversations about advance care planning specifically discussion and documentation of advance care directives, resuscitation plans and preferred place of death. The SPICT™ is available in at least eight languages (many versions have been validated) and used in many countries.
Conclusions
Use of the SPICT™ appears to assist advance care planning. It has yet to be widely used in acute care settings and has had limited use in countries beyond Europe. There is a need for further research to validate the tool in different languages.
Adopting molecular-tagging velocimetry for high-resolution measurements of oscillating grid turbulence
Authors: Ramesh Bhaarath , Klewicki Joseph C. , Philip Jimmy 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Single-component molecular tagging velocimetry (1c-MTV) experiments are conducted in an oscillating grid turbulence facility to systematically clarify the trade-offs between maximizing measurement dynamic range and minimizing measurement uncertainty. The primary aim is to obtain reliable turbulence data with the maximum possible vector resolution (Δx1). Four optical magnifications (M0 =0.11, 0.22, 0.45, 1.11) with four interframe time delay (Δt) values, for each optical magnification case, ranging from 3 ms to 10 ms, are investigated. The grid oscillates with a frequency (f ) of 3.2 Hz and 4.1 Hz, and a single fixed stroke length (S) of 55 mm. The measurement quality is quantified using three important turbulence descriptors—the second-order transverse velocity correlation function (〈g(r)〉), the second-order transverse velocity structure function (〈[Δgu]2〉), and the turbulence energy dissipation rate (〈ε〉). Other descriptors such as the longitudinal integral length scale (l ) and the lon gitudinal Taylor microscale (λ) are also used to compare with reference values reported in literature. The degree of agreement with the refer ence values from literature, and insensitivity of the descriptor estimates to different MTV design parameters are used to determine the most robust means of obtaining high-resolution turbulence data from 1c-MTV. The experimental design parameters are contextualized using the Kol mogorov length (η), time (τη) and velocity (uη) scales that are based on the most reliable 〈ε〉estimates from the current experiments. The pixeldisplacement corresponding to uη (Δx2η ) describes the interdependencies between M0 and Δt. The data set with M0=0.45 (η=18Δx1 for f =3.2 Hz, and η=13Δx1 for f =4.1 Hz) represents the most reliable and the highest resolution case. This conclusion was deduced by taking the per formance of all the turbulence descriptors into account. As far as the interframe time delay is concerned, Δt ≥ 4 ms (Δx2η ≥ 0.5 pixels) works well for all M0. To the authors’ knowledge, the present study documents the first instance of a series of 1c-MTV experiments conducted for a sys tematic clarification of the nature of balancing the available dynamic range and the measurement uncertainty. Additionally, since the study involves turbulent flow with negligible mean-flow, it serves as an adequate representation of 1c-MTV performance in a three-dimensional flow.