bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Transforming Steps: A Glimpse into the Future of Gait Analysis with Deep Learning and Markerless Motion Capture
Authors: Kim Yoon-Chung , Choi Youn-Ho , Yoon Chi-Young , Choi Bongseok , Jin Kim Gyu , Hoon Ahn Jae 
Published: December 2024

Category: Basic Sciences/Biologics; Other Introduction/Purpose: Gait analysis is essential for diagnosing foot and ankle disorders. However, conventional gait analysis methods are costly and complex, especially when evaluating large populations or requiring swift diagnostics. Our study focuses on an innovative application of deep learning (DL) technique to simplify gait analysis. We propose a markerless motion capture system utilizing a single-camera setup, bypassing infrared markers and multi-camera. This novel method aims to be cost-effective and adaptable, enhancing diagnostic efficiency. It is designed to accurately capture gait patterns, offering a comprehensive view of patient-specific conditions when combined with other diagnostic tools such as weight-bearing radiographs and computed tomography. This study evaluates the reliability of the DL-assisted markerless motion capture technique for clinical gait analysis, potentially revolutionizing the evaluation of foot and ankle pathologies. Methods: From March 2023 to February 2024, 18 patients who underwent ankle arthrodesis or subtalar arthrodesis for degenerative arthritis were analyzed using the Remobody-S device (Remo Inc., South Korea) integrated with the HuMoR deep learning architecture. This equipment interprets 3D skeletal coordinates, joint range of motion (ROM), and gait metrics from 2D video input. We focused on the hip, knee, and ankle ROMs during the gait cycle. Patients walked 4 meters preoperatively and six months postoperatively, with their movements captured by an attached 2D camera. Differences in gait metrics and joint ROMs between the affected and unaffected sides were compared using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the visual analogue scale (VAS) and Lower extremity function score (LEFS). Results: Results indicated that the significant preoperative differences in joint ROMs became comparable postoperatively (Figure 1). The ICCs for hip, knee, and ankle ROMs approached 1 postoperatively, denoting reduced discrepancies between both sides (Table 1). The mean VAS improved from 6.67 ± 1.23 preoperatively to 3.67 ± 0.55 postoperatively (p = 0.003). The mean LEFS improved from 36.3 ± 12.9 preoperatively to 53.0 ± 17.4 postoperatively (p = 0.251). Conclusion: The DL-assisted markerless motion capture technique for gait analysis reliably depicted postoperative gait improvement, consistent with clinical outcomes. Its potential clinical application warrants further research.
Thyroid hormone receptor- and stage-dependent transcriptome changes affect the initial period of Xenopus tropicalis tail regeneration
Authors: Wang Shouhong , Fu Liezhen , Wang Bin , Cai Yanmei , Jiang Jianping , Shi Yun-Bo 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
Thyroid hormone (T3) has an inhibitory effect on tissue/organ regeneration. It is still elusive how T3 regulates this process. It is well established that the developmental effects of T3 are primarily mediated through transcriptional regulation by thyroid hormone receptors (TRs). Here we have taken advantage of mutant tadpoles lacking both TRα and TRβ (TRDKO), the only receptor genes in vertebrates, for RNA-seq analyses to investigate the transcriptome changes underlying the initiation of tail regeneration, i.e., wound healing and blastema formation, because this crucial initial step determines the extent of the functional regeneration in the later phase of tissue regrowth.

Results
We discovered that GO (gene ontology) terms related to inflammatory response, metabolic process, cell apoptosis, and epithelial cell migration were highly enriched among commonly regulated genes during wound healing at either stage 56 or 61 or with either wild type (WT) or TRDKO tadpoles, consistent with the morphological changes associated with wound healing occurring in both regenerative (WT stage 56, TRDKO stage 56, TRDKO stage 61) and nonregenerative (WT stage 61) animals. Interestingly, ECM-receptor interaction and cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, which are essential for blastema formation and regeneration, were significantly enriched among regulated genes in the 3 regenerative groups but not the non-regenerative group at the blastema formation period. In addition, the regulated genes specific to the nonregenerative group were highly enriched with genes involved in cellular senescence. Finally, T3 treatment at stage 56, while not inducing any measurable tail resorption, inhibited tail regeneration in the wild type but not TRDKO tadpoles.

Conclusions
Our study suggests that TR-mediated, T3-induced gene regulation changed the permissive environment during the initial period of regeneration and affected the subsequent patterning/outgrowth period of the regeneration process. Specifically, T3 signaling via TRs inhibits the expression of ECM-related genes while promoting the expression of inflammation-related genes during the blastema formation period. Interestingly, our findings indicate that amputation-induced changes in DNA replication-related pathways can occur during this nonregenerative period. Further studies, particularly on the regenerative microenvironment that may depend on ECM-receptor interaction and cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, should provide important insights on the regulation of regenerative capacity during vertebrate development.
‘It’s a secret in my life’: frontstage and backstage experiences of women undergoing induced abortions in a rural community of Pakistan
Authors: Slamat Rubeena , Bracke Piet , Ceuterick Melissa 
Published: December 2024

AbstractAbortion is taboo in Pakistani society, and it is stigmatised throughout the country, regardless of legal permission. Despite the burdens imposed by social norms of pronatalism and motherhood, women do exercise agency to have abortions. This study explores the experiences of women who have had induced abortions and maintained their social status within the community. Goffman’s dramaturgical theory (frontstage and backstage behaviours) is applied in order to document these experiences. Data were collected through 38 in-depth interviews and six focus group discussions. The results are presented according to a grounded theory approach. The results of this study indicate that women exercise agency and stage abortions as miscarriages, which are culturally more acceptable. They do this with the help of support systems comprising family members and friends. They are able to maintain their social status by navigating between what Goffman refers to as the frontstage and backstage regions of their lives. In this study, these regions are not defined by physical boundaries, but by the presence of participants and audience. Women must therefore take care to behave appropriately, especially in the frontstage region. Even when women do opt for abortion, the experience is likely to result in the psychological burden of a lifelong memory.
Tumor microenvironment and immunotherapy for triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Guo Zijie , Zhu Ziyu , Lin Xixi , Wang Shenkangle , Wen Yihong , Wang Linbo , Zhi Lili , Zhou Jichun 
Published: December 2024

AbstractTriple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subtype of breast cancer known for its high aggressiveness and poor prognosis. Conventional treatment of TNBC is challenging due to its heterogeneity and lack of clear targets. Recent advancements in immunotherapy have shown promise in treating TNBC, with immune checkpoint therapy playing a significant role in comprehensive treatment plans. The tumor microenvironment (TME), comprising immune cells, stromal cells, and various cytokines, plays a crucial role in TNBC progression and response to immunotherapy. The high presence of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and immune checkpoint proteins in TNBC indicates the potential of immunotherapeutic strategies. However, the complexity of the TME, while offering therapeutic targets, requires further exploration of its multiple roles in immunotherapy. In this review, we discuss the interaction mechanism between TME and TNBC immunotherapy based on the characteristics and composition of TME, and elaborate on and analyze the effect of TME on immunotherapy, the potential of TME as an immune target, and the ability of TME as a biomarker. Understanding these dynamics will offer new insights for enhancing therapeutic approaches and investigating stratification and prognostic markers for TNBC patients.
Evaluation of machine learning algorithms in tunnel boring machine applications: a case study in Mashhad metro line 3
Authors: Abbasi Morteza , Namadchi Amir Hossein , Abbasi Mehdi , Abbasi Mohsen 
Published: December 2024

AbstractAccurately predicting the performance of Earth Pressure Balance Tunnel Boring Machines (EPB-TBMs) in soft ground conditions is crucial yet challenging due to the complex interaction of geological and operational factors. This study investigates Mashhad Metro Line 3, where a TBM was employed to excavate a 1831-m section through variable soil compositions, including significant cobble and boulder content, presenting unique challenges to performance prediction. To address these complexities, several machine learning models—Multiple Linear Regression (MLR), Decision Trees (DT), and Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) neural networks—were applied to predict TBM penetration rates and assess model efficacy. Beginning with a dataset of 438,960 rows, rigorous feature selection and data processing yielded a final dataset of 1833 rows. Among the models, MLR achieved an R2 score of 0.991, closely matching the more complex MLP model, which reached an R2 score of 0.988. In contrast, the Decision Tree model demonstrated a lower R2 score of 0.923, suggesting a tendency to overfit. While MLR provided an effective, straightforward approach, MLP proved valuable for capturing non-linear patterns that could improve predictive accuracy in more variable tunneling conditions. These findings underscore the practical applications of both simple and complex machine learning models in enhancing TBM performance prediction.
The hidden power of provincial and territorial immigration programs in shaping Canada’s immigration landscape
Authors: Xhardez Catherine , Tanguay Danoé 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThe Canadian immigration system is unique in that subnational governments play a significant role in selecting immigrants through Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), which empower nine provinces and two territories to actively select (“nominate”) economic immigrants. Collectively, PNPs have become the country’s largest economic immigration program, but they are also the least studied, leading to a lack of understanding, transparency, and accountability. Using a subnational comparative method, this study examines 78 active subnational immigration programs (policy outputs), investigating policy design, requirements, and distribution of nominations in 2021–2022. We assess whether PNPs contribute to broader changes in the Canadian immigration regime. First, our analysis reveals the prevalence of employment-based streams and prearranged work as a selection criterion. Second, we show nuanced policy outputs in the progression toward a two-step system, with provincial variation in requirements for prior Canadian experience. Third, while PNPs are open to low-skilled workers, programs tailored exclusively to this group remain relatively limited. This comparative analysis reveals significant inter-provincial variation, and highlights the importance of a “disaggregated” evaluation of the migration state at the subnational level.
Beyond reliability: assessing rater competence when using a behavioural marker system
Authors: Smith Samantha Eve , McColgan-Smith Scott , Stewart Fiona , Mardon Julie , Tallentire Victoria Ruth 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
Behavioural marker systems are used across several healthcare disciplines to assess behavioural (non-technical) skills, but rater training is variable, and inter-rater reliability is generally poor. Inter-rater reliability provides data about the tool, but not the competence of individual raters. This study aimed to test the inter-rater reliability of a new behavioural marker system (PhaBS — pharmacists’ behavioural skills) with clinically experienced faculty raters and near-peer raters. It also aimed to assess rater competence when using PhaBS after brief familiarisation, by assessing completeness, agreement with an expert rater, ability to rank performance, stringency or leniency, and avoidance of the halo effect.

Methods
Clinically experienced faculty raters and near-peer raters attended a 30-min PhaBS familiarisation session. This was immediately followed by a marking session in which they rated a trainee pharmacist’s behavioural skills in three scripted immersive acute care simulated scenarios, demonstrating good, mediocre, and poor performances respectively. Inter-rater reliability in each group was calculated using the two-way random, absolute agreement single-measures intra-class correlation co-efficient (ICC). Differences in individual rater competence in each domain were compared using Pearson’s chi-squared test.

Results
The ICC for experienced faculty raters was good at 0.60 (0.48–0.72) and for near-peer raters was poor at 0.38 (0.27–0.54). Of experienced faculty raters, 5/9 were competent in all domains versus 2/13 near-peer raters (difference not statistically significant). There was no statistically significant difference between the abilities of clinically experienced versus near-peer raters in agreement with an expert rater, ability to rank performance, stringency or leniency, or avoidance of the halo effect. The only statistically significant difference between groups was ability to compete the assessment (9/9 experienced faculty raters versus 6/13 near-peer raters, p = 0.0077).

Conclusions
Experienced faculty have acceptable inter-rater reliability when using PhaBS, consistent with other behaviour marker systems; however, not all raters are competent. Competence measures for other assessments can be helpfully applied to behavioural marker systems. When using behavioural marker systems for assessment, educators must start using such rater competence frameworks. This is important to ensure fair and accurate assessments for learners, to provide educators with information about rater training programmes, and to provide individual raters with meaningful feedback.
Implementing Wells' criteria to improve deep vein thrombosis screening in housebound patients
Authors: Abdulrahaman Claire , Bosun-Arije Stella Foluke 
Published: December 2024

Background: Screening of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is an NHS priority for improving community health service. Effective DVT screening and documentation improve patient outcomes, prevent prolonged hospitalisation and lead to fewer expenses. The lack of evidence of DVT screening in the community requires action. This Quality Improvement Project focuses on improving DVT screening and documentation for housebound patients in the community. Aim: To improve screening and documentation of DVT in four months by introducing several interventions in collaboration with one care community. Methods: The authors used a fishbone analysis and driver diagram to form three ‘Plan, Do, Study and Act’ cycles. The authors also developed a Wells' template, delivered a training session, had a team meeting with community nurses, audited their screening records and collected their feedback. Findings: There was a 74% increase in staff using the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines and 100% documentation of DVT assessment, of which 82% used the Wells' score template. Conclusions: DVT screening and documentation in community services can be optimised and sustained with training and monitoring.
Loss of Mfn1 but not Mfn2 enhances adipogenesis
Authors: Mann Jake P. , Tábara Luis Carlos , Patel Satish , Pushpa Pushpa , Alvarez-Guaita Anna , Dong Liang , Haider Afreen , Lim Koini , Tandon Panna , Scurria Fabio , Minchin James E. N. , O’Rahilly S. Stephen , Fazakerley Daniel J. , Prudent Julien , Semple Robert K. , Savage David B. 
Published: December 2024

Objective
A biallelic missense mutation in mitofusin 2 (MFN2) causes multiple symmetric lipomatosis and partial lipodystrophy, implicating disruption of mitochondrial fusion or interaction with other organelles in adipocyte differentiation, growth and/or survival. In this study, we aimed to document the impact of loss of mitofusin 1 (Mfn1) or 2 (Mfn2) on adipogenesis in cultured cells.

Methods
We characterised adipocyte differentiation of wildtype (WT), Mfn1-/- and Mfn2-/- mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) and 3T3-L1 preadipocytes in which Mfn1 or 2 levels were reduced using siRNA.

Results
Mfn1-/- MEFs displayed striking fragmentation of the mitochondrial network, with surprisingly enhanced propensity to differentiate into adipocytes, as assessed by lipid accumulation, expression of adipocyte markers (Plin1, Fabp4, Glut4, Adipoq), and insulin-stimulated glucose uptake. RNA sequencing revealed a corresponding pro-adipogenic transcriptional profile including Pparg upregulation. Mfn2-/- MEFs also had a disrupted mitochondrial morphology, but in contrast to Mfn1-/- MEFs they showed reduced expression of adipocyte markers. Mfn1 and Mfn2 siRNA mediated knockdown studies in 3T3-L1 adipocytes generally replicated these findings.

Conclusions
Loss of Mfn1 but not Mfn2 in cultured pre-adipocyte models is pro-adipogenic. This suggests distinct, non-redundant roles for the two mitofusin orthologues in adipocyte differentiation.
Prevalence of lumbar disc herniation and its associated factors: A cross-sectional study in Gansu
Authors: Chen Zhiwei , Zhao Jirong , Wang Li , Shao Hong , Cao Liangjia , He Xueyun , Yang Zhenghan , Ma Junfei , Chen Qianwen , Jiang Peng , Zhang Licun , Hu Jihong 
Published: December 2024

Background and objective
The prevalence rate of LDH and its influencing factors in Gansu is unclear. This study aims to analyze the prevalence of LDH and influencing factors in Gansu.

Methods
A stratified multi-stage random sampling method was used to obtain representative samples of residents more than 18 years old from <1500m, 1500-3500m, and >3500m altitude sites in Gansu, China, in June 2022 to August 2022. A unified questionnaire was used for the investigation.

Results
The total number of people surveyed was 4545, with a prevalence rate of 22.77% for LDH. LDH prevalence differed by latitude, city, age, sex, nationality, education, marital status, income, drinking habits, residence duration, physical activity, exercise intensity, health status (including hypertension, diabetes, CHD, chronic infection, and tumors) (all P <0.05). Logistic regression showed higher LDH risk at high (OR = 2.250) and middle latitudes (OR = 2.551), among males (OR = 0.808), ages 35-49 (OR = 1.530) and 50-64 (OR = 1.991), Tibetans (OR = 1.533) and Hui (OR = 0.557), alcohol consumers (OR = 0.696), those with moderate (OR = 0.742) and mild physical activity (OR = 0.840), cadres (OR = 0.46), workers (OR = 1.568), farmers/herdsmen (OR = 1.840), married individuals (OR = 2.239), residents for ≥36 months (OR = 0.618), annual income ≥50,000 yuan (OR = 1.246), central obesity (OR = 1.399), and those with tumors (OR = 3.953), hypertension (unknown, OR = 1.817), diabetes (yes, OR = 0.529, unknown, OR = 0.565), CHD (unknown, OR = 1.404), and osteoporosis (unknown, OR = 1.404).

Conclusion
The prevalence of LDH was high, varying significantly with latitude, gender, and nationality, indicating potential lifestyle and demographic influences in Gansu.
Behavioural and social drivers of human papillomavirus vaccination in eThekwini District of KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa
Authors: Bhengu P. , Ndwandwe D. , Cooper S. , Katoto P. D. M. C. , Wiysonge C. S. , Shey M. 
Published: December 2024

Background
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women in South Africa. Infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV) is the cause of cervical cancer, which can be prevented by HPV vaccination. However, there is wide variation in HPV vaccination coverage among the urban districts of South Africa; with the lowest coverage being 40% in eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal. There could be many factors which affect HPV vaccine uptake in eThekwini District. Thus, this research aims to investigate the behaviourial and social drivers of HPV vaccination in this district.

Methods
The study will consist of two phases. We will apply a convergent parallel mixed methods approach, including a quantitative survey (phase 1) and in-depth interviews (phase 2) among caregivers and frontline healthcare workers to determine the drivers of HPV vaccination uptake.

Discussion
The study will provide knowledge on the main barriers facing HPV vaccination and provide contextually-tailored solutions for how these barriers might be addressed. A policy brief will be formulated from this study aimed at government policymakers and other stakeholders who formulate or influence policy, respectively. In addition, we will disseminate the findings through peer-reviewed publications in scientific journals.
Sleep problems and chronic conditions in single parents in Ghana: Serial mediating roles of health-related quality of life and functional limitations
Authors: Owusu-Sarpong Obed Jones , Abass Kabila , Buor Daniel , Tutu Solomon Osei , Gyasi Razak M. 
Published: December 2024

Objectives
Data on the association between sleep problems and chronic conditions among single parents in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are limited, and no study has, to date, reported the serial mediation effects of functional limitations and poor health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in this association. This study examines the extent to which functional limitations and poor HRQoL serially explain the link between sleep problems and chronic conditions among single parents in Ghana.

Methods
Data on 627 single mothers and fathers were obtained through a multi-stage stratified sampling technique. Sleep duration, nocturnal sleep problems, and daytime sleep problems were used to assess sleep problems. The EQ-5D-3L questionnaire was used to measure HRQoL. Multivariable OLS models and bootstrapping serial mediation analyses were performed to evaluate the hypothesized associations.

Results
The mean age (SD) was 45.0 (14.66) years; 67.3% females. After full adjustment, sleep problems were significantly associated with increases in chronic conditions (β = .238, 95%CI = .100-.377), poor HRQoL (β = .604, 95%CI = .450-.757), and functional limitations (β = .234, 95%CI = .159-.307). Chronic conditions were positively influenced by poor HRQoL (β = .352, 95%CI = .284-.421) and functional limitations (β = .272, 95%CI = .112-.433). Sleep problems were indirectly related to chronic conditions via poor HRQoL (β = .213, BootSE = .039, 95%CI = .143-.295), functional limitations (β = .063, BootSE = .029, 95%CI = .013-.130) and functional limitations → HRQoL (β = .099, BootSE = .025, 95%CI = .054-.152), mediating 34.70%, 10.31% and 16.15% of the total effect, respectively.

Conclusions
Sleep problems and poor HRQoL were positively associated with chronic conditions. Functional limitations and poor HRQoL partially and serially explained this association. Efforts to address chronic conditions among single parents should consider interventions for sleep problems and physiological health outcomes, particularly in LMICs.