bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Automated arrhythmia classification based on a pyramid dense connectivity layer and BiLSTM
Authors: Wan Xiangkui , Mei Xiaoyu , Chen Yunfan , Luo Jieqiang , Hao Luguo 
Published: December 2024

Background Deep neural networks (DNNs) have recently been significantly applied to automatic arrhythmia classification. However, their classification accuracy still has room for improvement. Objectives The aim of this study is to address the existing limitations in current models by developing a more effective approach for automatic arrhythmia classification. The specific objectives include enhancing the receptive field sizes to capture more detailed information across various temporal scales, and incorporating inter-channel correlations to improve the feature extraction process. Methods This study proposes a pyramidal dense connectivity layer and bidirectional long short-term memory network (PDC-BiLSTM) to effectively extract waveform features across various temporal scales, which can capture the intricate details and the broader global information in the signals through a wide range of sensory fields. The efficient channel attention (ECA) is additionally introduced to dynamically allocate weights to each feature channel, assisting the model inefficiently prioritizing essential characteristics during the training process. Results The experimental results on the MIT-BIH arrhythmia database showed that the overall classification accuracy of the proposed method under the intra-patient paradigm reached 99.82%, and the positive predictive value, sensitivity and F1 Score were 99.64%, 97.61% and 98.60% respectively; under the inter-patient paradigm, the overall accuracy was 96.30%. Conclusion Compared with the latest research results in this field, the proposed model is also better than the existing models in terms of accuracy, which has the potential value of being applied to devices that assist in diagnosing cardiovascular diseases.
Impact of dynamic health intervention models through online and offline on self-efficacy and quality of life among chronic disease patients
Authors: Zhang Qunfang , Yang Chao , Hu Xincai 
Published: December 2024

Background The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases in China has prompted a surge in demand for nursing services, yet conventional care models often fail to coordinate effectively between hospitals and homes, leading to significant care disconnection and reduced patient satisfaction. Dynamic health intervention models, delivered through mobile networks both online and offline, offer comprehensive and proactive care experiences for chronic disease patients. Objective This study explores the impact of dynamic health intervention models through online and offline mobile networks on the patients self-efficacy and quality of life undergoing chronic disease examinations. Methods Ninety chronic disease patients who underwent examinations at our hospital from July 2021 to August 2022 were selected. They were randomly divided into a control group (45 cases, receiving routine health care intervention) and a research group (45 cases, undergoing dynamic health intervention care through online and offline mobile networks). The intervention lasted for six months. nursing compliance to health interventions, and nursing satisfaction with health intervention were compared between two groups. Results After six months of health intervention, the research group showed higher scores in Exercise of Self-Care Agency Scale (ESCA), General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES), and Chinese version of the World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief Scale (WHOQOL-BREF) compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Nursing compliance during health intervention was higher in the research group than in the control group (97.78% vs. 77.78%), and the health intervention services in nursing satisfaction was also higher in the research group (100.00% vs. 86.67%) (P < 0.05). Conclusion To carry out the dynamic health intervention model of mobile network online and offline in patients with chronic diseases is beneficial to improve the self-care ability of patients, enhance their sense of self-efficacy and improve their quality of life, patients had higher nursing compliance and satisfaction.
Research progress and visual analysis of smart wearable devices for the elderly in the context of ageing 4.0
Authors: Shang Xianru , Liu Zijian , Hu Zhigang , Yang Tianxing , Gong Chen 
Published: December 2024

Problem Statement The world's population is ageing quickly, making managing older people's health more difficult. Although smart wearable devices (SWDs) have gained attention as possible instruments for enhancing health outcomes in this population, it is still uncertain how useful and long-lasting they will be. Objectives The purpose of this study is to methodically evaluate the advancement of academic research and development concerning SWDs for the aged, with an emphasis on the effects these diseases have on quality of life, illness prevention, and health management. Methodology 649 publications published in the Web of Science Core Collection between 2013 and 2023 underwent bibliometric analysis. VOSviewer and CiteSpace software were used to assess topic changes, publishing trends, and citation patterns. Co-citation analysis was used to pinpoint important literature and research focus clusters. Results The results show a notable rise in publications about SWDs for the aged, emphasising essential topics, including fall detection, technology adoption, and healthcare applications. According to the report, multidisciplinary research integration is expanding, and publications like IEEE SENSORS JOURNAL and SENSORS-BASEL are making significant contributions. Conclusion The research emphasises the crucial need to conduct long-term monitoring studies to verify the health advantages of SWDs for senior citizens. It highlights the necessity for user-centred design and urges future research to concentrate on improving wearable technology accuracy to maximise its usefulness in managing geriatric health.
A Comprehensive Analysis of Use of Small Laboratory Animals in Preclinical Research: A Five-Year Quantitative Descriptive Analysis
Authors: Gattani Ajay , Khurade Komal , Tripathi Raakhi , Seetharaman Rajmohan , Jalgaonkar Sharmila 
Published: December 2024

Background Animal models play a critical role in biomedical research, yet comprehensive data on the types and distribution of animals used in different research contexts are sparse. Objective This study aims to provide a detailed analysis of small laboratory animals used in preclinical research, highlighting the types of animal species used, study types, and disease systems targeted. Materials and Methods A total of 841 freely available full-text original research articles indexed in the PubMed database from January 2016 to January 2021 were analyzed. Variables recorded included a) type of animal species used for research, b) type of animal studies ( in vivo, in vitro, mixed, transgenic, xenograft, others), c) distribution of animals across different study types, d) system and disease-wise distribution of studies, and e) type of animal used and type of studies conducted for different systems/diseases Results Mice were used in 75.98% of studies, followed by rats at 22.12%. Most studies were in vivo (35.43%), followed by mixed studies combining both in vivo and in vitro methods (24.49%). The gastrointestinal and genitourinary systems (GIT/GU: 21.04%) and the central nervous system (CNS: 15.33%) were the most studied. GIT/GU research focused on diseases like nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, and various carcinomas. For CNS, studies predominantly addressed Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. In GIT/GU studies, mice were the most commonly used species (140/177), with in vivo (55/177), mixed (43/177), and xenograft (36/177) approaches. For CNS diseases, in vivo approaches (72/129) were prevalent, utilizing both mice (39/129) and rats (32/129). Conclusion The distribution of animal species in these studies validates that mice, followed by rats, are still very commonly used small animals for preclinical research. In disease areas like GIT/GU and CNS, there is a notable use of mixed and transgenic models, which offer a comprehensive understanding of disease mechanisms. The preference for mixed and transgenic mouse models in cancer research, particularly xenografts, underscores the shift towards more sophisticated and disease-relevant animal models.
Identifying the best window size, lead time and sensor combination for classification of injurious versus non-injurious patient transfer from bed to wheelchair
Authors: Lim Kitaek , Lee Seyoung , Choi Woochol Joseph 
Published: December 2024

Background Patient transfers are frequent occupational tasks of caregivers, often leading to lower back injuries. While early detection of injurious moments during patient transfers is helpful to lower the risk of such injuries, it remains a critical challenge. Objective We developed a classification model for injurious and non-injurious patient transfers using a support vector machine (SVM) with inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor data of caregivers. Methods Sixteen young adults simulated one-person patient transfers from bed to wheelchair. During trials, the kinematics and kinetics of transfer movements were recorded with a motion capture system, IMU sensor, and force plate. A simple kinematic model was used to determine compressive forces at L5/S1, which were then used to define injurious transfers. For classification, features were extracted from the IMU sensor data to be used in SVM with different window sizes and lead times. Since characteristics of the compressive forces have been documented in our companion paper, we focus on the classification model in this paper. Results Classification models were able to differentiate injurious versus non-injurious transfers with accuracy in the range from 84.9–100%. The performance depended on the window size, lead time, and the number and location of IMU sensors. The recommended combination for clinical use would be a window size of 0.2 s, lead time of 0.3 s, and two sensors at both thighs. Conclusions Our study presents high-performance risk detection models during patient transfers, informing the development of the application to help address musculoskeletal injuries in caregivers.
The use of extended reality in rehabilitation for patients with acquired brain injury: A scoping review
Authors: Bulle-Smid Loes , van den Heuvel Renée , Keuning Wouter , Hakvoort Gido , Daniëls Ramon , Verhoeven Fenne 
Published: December 2024

Background Extended reality is increasingly used for rehabilitation after acquired brain injury, offering benefits including improved recovery, reduced length of hospital stay, enhanced self-efficacy, and lower cost. Despite these advantages, XR is rarely implemented in daily rehabilitation practice. Objective Outline extended reality for acquired brain injury research, focusing on patient outcomes and experiences to inform scale-up and implementation. Methods The Arksey and O’Malley framework and PRISMA-ScR reporting guideline were followed. Studies from 2010 to May 2022 were screened from PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, CINAHL, and IEEE. Results Seventy-five studies met inclusion criteria: 63 on stroke patients, seven on traumatic brain injury, and five on multiple disorders. The extended reality applications focused on assessment to diagnose patient’s condition or therapy intervention, categorized into physical, cognitive, and multipurpose. Most studies used Virtual Reality. A wide range of implementation factors were identified, categorized into patient-related, professional-related, and technology and system-related factors. Conclusions Our scoping review offers a comprehensive and multidimensional analysis of research on XR applications for acquired brain injury rehabilitation. While it reports potential and promising outcomes of these applications, larger-scale studies are necessary to substantiate the effectiveness of XR and to better understand the factors influencing its implementation in daily practice.
Qualitative evaluation of My Life Today - A co-produced personal tool from the IDEAL programme to help people with dementia monitor valued aspects of their lives
Authors: Pentecost Claire , Hunt Anna , Litherland Rachael , Quinn Catherine , Charlwood Catherine , Morris Robin G , Clare Linda 
Published: December 2024

Background and objectives: Self-management of chronic conditions can help individuals take control of their health, both improving well-being and reducing the burden on health and social care resources. This study explored the potential of our co-produced self-management tool, My Life Today (MLT), to help people with dementia identify, plan and monitor aspects of their lives that are important to them and that help to maintain or improve well-being. Research design and methods: We asked people with dementia to try using MLT. We conducted semi-structured interviews after one month and further interviews one month later. We also interviewed people who had supported the person with dementia to use MLT (‘supporters’). We adopted a realist approach to thematic analysis to explore what works, for whom, under what circumstances. Results: Sixteen people with dementia and four supporters took part. All but one had mild to moderate cognitive impairment, and one had severe cognitive impairment. People with dementia used MLT according to their perceptions of its usefulness, their capabilities, and whether they had support. Using MLT helped most to think more positively about their activities and achievements and feel reassured by identifying the activities they were doing. Supporters and some people with dementia also derived benefits from planning and problem-solving to include more pleasurable activities. Discussion and implications: People with dementia and supporters found MLT a helpful tool. Mechanisms of engagement with MLT resonate with theories of behaviour change concerning the evaluation of capabilities and feelings of confidence in the ability to complete MLT and plan activities. Offering simple self-management tools such as MLT could form part of a post-diagnostic support package for people with dementia. Providing flexibility in when tools are offered and how they are used can allow for differences in attitudes and capabilities and increase the likelihood of engagement.
Antimicrobial and Hepatoprotective Properties of Pods of Acacia nilotica (L.) Willd. ex Delile: In Vivo and In Silico Approaches
Authors: Idrees Mehak , Javaid Sana , Nadeem Sumaira , Khurshid Faria , Parveen Abida , Malik Abdul , Ali Khan Azmat , Akhtar Suhail , Fatima Sabiha 
Published: December 2024

Background Acacia nilotica is a multipurpose plant known for its remedial properties but the antimicrobial and hepatoprotective activity of its pods remained unexplored. Objective This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial and hepatoprotective activity of n-hexane (ANPH) and methanol (ANPM) extracts of pods to scientifically validate their medicinal claims. Methods After the pharmacognostic evaluation of pods, in vitro tests were carried out to estimate phenolic and flavonoid content and antimicrobial potential. In vivo experiments involved testing of both extracts (250 and 500 mg/kg) paracetamol (PCM)-induced hepatotoxicity model in rats. The molecular docking studies explored insights into the potential binding capabilities of the ligands with the specific target proteins. Results ANPH and ANPM were enriched with phenols and flavonoids and showed antimicrobial effects. In the hepatoprotective test, the rats chronically treated with extracts had a dose-dependent hepatoprotection as markers of liver functionality were notably reduced ( P < 0.05). The in silico studies revealed strong binding interactions of ergost-5-en-3-ol and oxiranyl methyl ester 9-octadecenoic acid with target proteins for antibacterial activity and hepatoprotective activity, respectively. Conclusion The antimicrobial and hepatoprotective potential of pods might be due to their phenols and flavonoids. The Pyrogallol, Ergost-5-en-3-and 9-octadecenoic acid might be bringing these remedial benefits through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Exploring the handedness-breast cancer nexus: a comprehensive analysis via systematic review, meta-analysis, and Mendelian randomization
Authors: Oh Chi Young , Kim Eugene , Kim Kihun , Oh Hyeoncheol , Yoon Jung-Pil , Goh Tae Sik , Son Eunjeong , Ko Dai Sik , Kim Yun Hak 
Published: December 2024

Background: Given the widespread prevalence of breast cancer as a global malignancy, there is a compelling need to delve into its risk determinants. Objective: This study aims to investigate the potential relationship between indicators of left-handedness and breast cancer, employing systematic review, meta-analysis, and Mendelian randomization methods. Design: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: The systematic review and meta-analysis, encompassing case-control and cohort designs, conducted a database search on June 17, 2022, utilizing Medline and Embase. For Mendelian randomization analysis, the exposure variable, left-handedness, was sourced from the UK Biobank. Data for breast cancer outcomes were obtained from two cohorts: the Breast Cancer Association Consortium and the Finnish Biobank (Finngen). Results: Eight studies were included in the meta-analysis to investigate the correlation between left-handedness and breast cancer in females. The analysis of cohort studies revealed a hazard ratio (HR) of 1.21 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01–1.45), whereas case-control studies showed an odds ratio of 0.81 (95% CI: 0.52–1.26). Subgroup analysis indicated an elevated HR in premenopausal left-handed women. However, Mendelian randomization did not confirm a significant association. Conclusion: Our findings suggest a potential correlation between left-handedness and breast cancer, particularly in premenopausal women. However, due to limited studies and unclear supporting theories, definitive conclusions are premature.
Causal associations of immunophenotypes with metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease and mediating pathways: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Xie Kexin , Chen Ming , An Hongjin , Gao Jinhang , Tang Chengwei , Huang Zhiyin 
Published: December 2024

Background: Increasing evidence suggests that immunophenotypes play a crucial role in Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), but the specific immunophenotypes contributing to its pathogenesis remain unclear. Objectives: This study aimed to elucidate the causal associations between immunophenotypes and MAFLD and identify the underlying mediation pathways involved. Design: Mendelian randomization (MR) study. Methods: This study is a quasi-causal inference analysis using univariable and multivariable MR (UVMR and MVMR). Five MAFLD genome-wide association studies (GWASs) and the largest immunophenotype GWAS were analyzed to assess their causal associations. Two-step MR identified potential mediators and quantified their mediation proportions. Comprehensive MR methods, multiple sensitivity analyses, meta-analyses, and false discovery rate (FDR) further enhanced the robustness of our findings. Results: Pooled inverse-variance weighted (IVW) estimates in UVMR identified 47 immunophenotypes having a suggestive causal association with MAFLD. After adjusting for FDR, three lymphocyte phenotypes remained significant: CD20 on IgD−CD24− B cells (OR: 1.035, pfdr: 0.006), terminally differentiated CD8+ T cells %T cells (OR: 1.052, pfdr: 0.006), and CD4 on CD39+ secreting CD4+ regulatory T cells (OR: 1.036, pfdr: 0.046). Meta-analysis of IVW MVMR estimates with confounders adjustment confirmed that CD20 on IgD−CD24− B cells and terminally differentiated CD8+ T cells %T cells had significant direct causal associations on MAFLD ( pfdr < 0.05). Additionally, two-step MR analysis identified the waist-to-hip ratio as a mediator, accounting for 42.64% of the causal association between CD20 on IgD−CD24− B cells and MAFLD. Conclusion: The causal associations of three lymphocyte phenotypes with increased MAFLD risk were identified in this study. CD20 on IgD−CD24− B cells may both directly and indirectly elevate MAFLD risk, while terminally differentiated CD8+ T cells have a direct causal relationship with MAFLD. These findings suggest new possibilities for targeted therapies and underscore the potential for personalized immunotherapy in managing MAFLD.
Cyclosporin A as an adjunct may enhance the therapeutic effect of interferon alpha-2a in patients with refractory Behcet’s uveitis: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Yang Peizeng , Deng Yang , Zhang Yinan , Zhu YunYun , Huang Ziqian , Dai Lingyu , Wu Qiuying , Su Guannan , Cao Qingfeng , Lai Yujie 
Published: December 2024

Background: The application of biologic agents has benefited patients with Behcet’s uveitis (BU) who do not respond to conventional treatment regimens. However, there is currently no consensus on the optimal treatment regimen of interferon alpha-2a (IFN-α2a) for refractory BU. Objectives: To evaluate treatment outcomes and safety of IFN-α2a in a large series of refractory BU patients and to explore whether nonbiologic immunomodulatory agents (cyclosporin A) other than corticosteroids should be concomitantly used. Design: We conducted a retrospective cohort study, which included 153 BU patients who received IFN-α2a treatment between December 2012 and September 2023 with a minimum duration of 6 months. Methods: Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), the frequency of uveitis relapse, corticosteroid-sparing effect, and side effects were evaluated. Results: Of the 153 patients enrolled, 87 patients were treated with IFN-α2a plus corticosteroids (IC), and 66 patients were treated with IFN-α2a plus corticosteroids and cyclosporin A (ICC). Both IFN-α2a treatment regimens significantly improved BCVA as early as 2 months following treatment, and the improvement was maintained over at least a 2-year follow-up. At the final visit, 86.8% and 73.1% of the affected eyes in the ICC and IC groups achieved improved or stable vision, respectively. The ICC regimen was more effective at improving vision ( p = 0.01). Overall, the frequency of uveitis relapse and the dose of oral prednisolone were significantly reduced in both groups after treatment (all p < 0.0001). However, there were no statistically significant differences in these parameters between the two groups. None of the included patients experienced serious side effects that led to the discontinuation of IFN-α2a therapy. Conclusion: IFN-α2a treatment is a promising option for patients with refractory BU. Our results showed that cyclosporin A as an adjunct could enhance the therapeutic effect of IFN-α2a.