bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Expanding the spectrum of canine Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (cDLBCL) genetic aberrations through whole genome sequencing (WGS) analysis
Authors: Fanelli Antonella , Mazzone Eugenio , Giannuzzi Diana , Marconato Laura , Aresu Luca 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is one of the most prevalent hematological malignancies in both humans and dogs, characterized in both species by significant clinical heterogeneity and limited prognostic predictability. With the introduction of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies in veterinary medicine over the past decade, researchers have begun to elucidate the molecular basis of canine DLBCL (cDLBCL); however, much of the clinical heterogeneity associated with this tumor remains unexplained. In this study, we performed whole genome sequencing on 10 cDLBCL cases, all treated with chemo-immunotherapy, which exhibited similar clinico-pathological features but markedly different outcomes. Cases were classified as "poor" or "good" responders based on whether their lymphoma-specific survival fell below or above the cohort's median. Protein-coding variants and copy number aberrations unique to poor or good responders revealed novel candidate genes not previously identified in cDLBCL studies, while splicing, untranslated regions, and intronic variants were detected in genes already known to be recurrently mutated. In conclusion, our investigation has broadened the spectrum of potentially pathogenic variants implicated in cDLBCL, though further studies with larger cohorts are necessary to validate these findings.
Coronary flow reserve measured by myocardial perfusion imaging in patients after PCI
Authors: Liu Jinjin , Zhang Jian , Lin Wenhua , Li Yuming 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Despite achieving complete revascularization, patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) may still experience adverse outcomes, potentially attributed to the presence of coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD). This phenomenon can be evaluated through the assessment of coronary flow reserve (CFR), which reflects the arteries on the epicardium and the microcirculation of the coronary system. A reduced CFR following complete revascularization indicates the presence of CMD. Our objective is to measure CFR values in patients who have undergone complete revascularization by percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) using myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) and analyze the prevalence of CMD and its correlation factors.
Methods
Clinical data and essential information from patients admitted to TEDA International Cardiovascular Hospital were collected between March 2020 and March 2022. MPI was utilized to assess CFR, while coronary angiography was performed during their hospitalization. CMD is diagnosed when there is less than 50% stenosis in the epicardial artery, accompanied by a regional CFR of under 2.0. A logistic regression model was established to analyze the correlation factors of CMD.
Results
According to the experiment's criteria for inclusion and exclusion, we ultimately included 323 patients. Among the enrolled patients, the incidence of CMD was 46.7% (151/323).Through binary logistic regression analysis, we found that the history of myocardial infarction (OR = 1.973 95% CI:1.106–3.521), hyperlipidemia (OR = 2.202 95% CI:1.323–3.666), and diabetes (OR = 1.765 95% CI:1.079–2.889) were significant correlates of CMD (P < 0.05).
Conclusions
CMD is a common occurrence in patients who have undergone PCI and achieved complete revascularization, especially in those with comorbidities such as myocardial infarction, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes. Post-PCI assessment of CFR is essential, and perioperative prevention strategies aimed at reducing the incidence of CMD are beneficial for improving patient outcomes.
From Isolation to Integration: The Mental Health Journey of International Students in Turkey
Authors: Nazir Thseen 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Objective
This study aimed to examine the mental health status, coping strategies, perceived social support and barriers in mental health help seeking behaviour among first-year international students enrolled in Turkish language learning programs in Turkey.
Participants:
The study included undergraduate, graduate, and Ph.D. international students studying at Turkish language institutions.
Methods
A mixed-methods approach was utilized. Quantitative data were collected through surveys administered during the winter and spring terms of 2024, comprising the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, the Brief COPE Inventory, and a demographic questionnaire. Qualitative data were gathered through one-on-one and group interviews with 60 participants.
Results
Among the 381 participants from 48 countries, 45.93% reported optimal mental health, 45.14% exhibited moderate mental health, and 8.92% experienced low mental health. High levels of perceived social support from family and friends were significant predictors of mental well-being. Thematic analysis of the qualitative data identified three main themes: barriers to mental health help-seeking, perceived social support from sources beyond family and friends, and coping strategies used by students. Institutional and cultural barriers, including limited access to counseling and cultural stigma, were highlighted as critical challenges impacting mental health.
Conclusions
The findings reveal that while perceived social support significantly enhances mental well-being, institutional and cultural barriers severely hinder help-seeking behaviors among international students. These results underscore the urgent need for culturally competent counseling services and more accessible mental health resources in universities to support the unique needs of this student population.
The perceptions and experiences of shelter managers in working with the homelessness during the covid-19 era
Authors: Muleya Emmison , Lelaka Matshidiso Constance 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Homelessness in South Africa remains a multifaceted issue influenced by a range of social, economic, and political factors. However, the COVID-10 pandemic disrupted and affected the lives of all persons across the globe more so vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, persons with disabilities and the homeless amongst others. The homeless persons are amongst the vulnerable persons who should be cared during the pandemic. Homeless services through temporary shelter had to be prioritised during the pandemic. The homeless shelters are beneficial to provide accommodation for people who have nowhere to sleep.
Method
This was a qualitative study and managers were purposively sampled, data was collected face-to-face using a semi-structured interview guide and analysed thematically.
Results
Findings revealed 3 superarch themes: causes of homelessness, current support structures, and benefits of shelters.
Conclusions
Understanding the causes of and responses to the pandemic is vital to informing the activities undertaken by homelessness services during the pandemic and will help prepare for future disasters and pandemics. Furthermore, addressing homelessness requires a comprehensive approach that addresses its root causes while providing immediate support and services to those in need. Collaborative efforts involving government agencies, non-profit organizations, community stakeholders, and individuals with lived experience are essential to develop sustainable solutions and create inclusive communities where everyone has access to safe and stable shelter and housing.
Optimization of Matching Networks with Transfer Learning in Few-Shot Pneumonia Detection
Authors: Doreen Atukunda , Mwangi Waweru , Muriithi Petronilla 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Pneumonia remains the leading cause of death among children under five years of age, with approximately 1.6 million deaths annually. Early detection is the key to reducing child mortality. However, most of the traditional diagnostic methods depend on the availability of trained personnel and medical resources, which are particularly limited in low-resource settings. While machine learning has provided a promising technology for early detection of pneumonia, its uses often suffer from the problem of a scarcity of labeled data needed to train robust models. In this study, we propose an optimized model for one-shot pneumonia detection that incorporates transfer learning with the matching networks. The proposed model utilizes a pre-trained MobileNetV3 model for feature extraction to produce high-quality embeddings that Matching Networks can use to classify pneumonia instances using a minimal number of labeled examples. The experimental results revealed that the proposed model outperformed state-of-the-art traditional machine learning algorithms such as random forest and support vector machines with a high accuracy of 93.21%, precision of 93.34%, recall of 93.20%, and F1 score of 93.19%. The proposed model showed relatively competitive performance compared to CNNs by attaining AUCs of 1 for COVID cases, 0.98 for normal cases, and 0.98 for pneumonia. These results indicate that the proposed model effectively balances classification performance with data efficiency and, as such, can be effectively deployed in resource-constrained environments.
Optimizing Pedestrian Comfort in Arid Cities: A Shade-Oriented Pathfinding Approach in Dubai
Authors: Wen Jianxiu , Abuhani Diaa Addeen , Mazzarello Martina , Duarte Fabio , Norford Leslie , Ratti Carlo 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

In recent decades, the population boom in Middle Eastern cities has led to increased motorization and consequent carbon emissions. Cities have been expanding their public transportation systems and promoting walking and biking. However, the scorching temperatures make the active-mobility choice challenging. This study investigates the alignment of the shortest and shadiest paths within 500 and 1000-meter walksheds of metro stations in Dubai, where commuters often walk to their destinations. We developed an optimal shading path method that assigns dynamic rewards to buildings, trees, and indoor shade, which better reflects real-world conditions than existing models that only give shade a constant reward. The results reveal that, on average, the shadiest path is 1.3% longer than the shortest path, with an 8.9% increase in building shade and an 8.8% decrease in sun exposure compared to the shortest path. The findings provide valuable information to planning agencies about where to prioritize shade provision, ultimately enhancing pedestrian comfort and promoting active mobility in warmer cities.
Gamma knife radiosurgery for benign tumor-related trigeminal neuralgia
Authors: Nguyen Binh Thanh , Huynh Chuong Thanh , Nguyen Tu Minh , Nguyen Vu Tuong , Karras Constantine L. , Tran Huy Minh 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: Gamma knife stereotactic radiosurgery (GKRS) is recognized as an effective and safe alternative treatment for skull base tumors and trigeminal neuralgia. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of targeting both tumor and trigeminal nerve in a single procedure for patients with benign tumor-related trigeminal neuralgia
Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 44 patients with benign tumor-related trigeminal neuralgia who underwent GKRS targeting both tumor and trigeminal nerve in a single procedure between December 2016 and December 2022. The facial pain before and after GKRS was assessed using the Barrow Neurological Institute (BNI) pain intensity scale.
Results: Following GKRS, 38 patients (86.4%) experienced significant pain improvement, with a median latency period of 2 months (range: 0.3-12 months). Sixteen patients (36.4%) experienced a relapse at a median time of 6 months (range: 1-30 months) post-GKRS. After a median follow-up time of 31.9 months (12.1-77.3 months), 22 patients (50.0%) continued to experience durable pain relief. Fourteen patients (31.8%) developed GKRS-related complications, most of which fully resolved, except in 3 patients (6.8%) who experienced permanent facial hypoesthesia. Tumor control rate was 86.2%.
Conclusions
GKRS targeting both the tumor and trigeminal nerve in a single session demonstrated favorable outcomes in terms of pain relief and tumor control in patients with benign tumor-related trigeminal neuralgia
Preliminary investigation into xenomonitoring as a tool for monitoring and evaluation of schistosomiasis community-wide mass drug administration campaign: prospects and limitations
Authors: Ashong Yvonne , Boateng Enoch Mensah , Aboagye Frank Twum , Boampong Freda Kwarteng , Armoo Samuel , Debrah Linda Batsa , Debrah Alex Yaw , Ayi Irene , Chanova Marta , Webster Bonnie Lee , Osei-Atweneboana Mike Yaw 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Schistosomiasis continues to afflict over 200 million people, exerting health and economic losses to endemic countries, the majority of which are in sub-Saharan Africa. Despite decades of preventive chemotherapy, the disease persists and is widespread in Ghana. The current strategy of monitoring and evaluating mass drug administration is laborious, expensive, and bureaucratic. In this study, we leverage a communitywide mass drug administration project in schistosomiasis endemic communities to investigate the potential of xenomonitoring for evaluating mass drug administration campaigns in Ghana. Freshwater snails were collected at six different timepoints from human-water contact points of three schistosomiasis endemic communities along the Weija Lake in Ghana. Snails were identified by shell morphology and subsequently stimulated to shed cercariae. Shed cercariae were identified morphologically and molecularly by PCR and gel electrophoresis verification of amplicons to confirm Schistosoma species infection. The prevalence of Schistosoma infection in snail hosts was determined for each snail collection timepoint. The chi-square test of independence and logistic regression analysis were used to determine statistical significance at p < 0.05 and a confidence interval of 95% using SPSS. A total of 2201 snails consisting of 74.7% Bulinus spp. and 25.3% Biomphalaria spp. were collected across all timepoints. The prevalence of human-specific Schistosoma spp (Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma haematobium) in snails declined significantly to 0.6% two months post-first MDA and 0.4% 6 months post-second mass drug administration compared to baseline prevalence of 2.8%. The logistic regression showed substantially lower odds of snails getting infected at 2 months post-first MDA and 6 months post-second MDA. This study presents preliminary insight into the potential of snail xenomonitoring as a tool for monitoring and evaluating communitywide praziquantel MDA in schistosomiasis endemic communities. However, several methodological lapses need fixing and validation with parallel evaluation from human clinical samples.
Exploring genetic variants of lncRNA associated with splicing regulation and their impact on ovarian cancer development
Authors: Zou Lingxiao , Zhang Meng , He Shan , Zhuang Minhui , Wang Yulan , Song Xiaofeng , Zhao Jian 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Ovarian cancer (OC) is a highly lethal gynecologic malignancy that lacks reliable early biomarkers. Numerous long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been found to play critical regulatory roles in OC, yet the underlying mechanisms of most of them remain unclear. Recently, lncRNAs have emerged as key regulators of gene splicing, while splicing dysregulation is widespread in cancer and plays critical roles. In addition, genetic variants of splicing regulators have been shown to contribute to disease etiology. Thus, we comprehensively analyzed 202 OC samples and characterized 21,129 lncRNA splicing quantitative trait loci (sQTLs) involving both event-level and transcript-level. LncRNA sQTLs differ significantly from lncRNA eQTLs, and genes regulated by lncRNA sQTLs are involved in cancer hallmark pathways and associated with immune cell infiltration and drug sensitivity. In addition, these lncRNA sQTLs are significantly enriched in histone markers, transcription factor (TF) binding sites, and RNA-binding protein (RBP) binding sites, including several critical splicing factors (SF) in OC. Based on SF binding and partial correlation analysis, a potential lncRNA-SF-mRNA regulatory network was constructed. Finally, by integrating GWAS data, we elucidated that a specific lncRNA sQTL (rs1549334) generates different isoforms by regulating the splicing of the HOXD3 gene and thus impacting OC risk. Our study provides new insights into the mechanisms of splicing regulation in OC involving lncRNA sQTL and reveals potential biomarkers for early detection and clinical treatment of OC.
Open Flames and Hidden Embers: Exploring Pandemic Shocks' Impact on Non- Suicidal Self-Injury -Is Social Support the Extinguisher?
Authors: XUEYAN YANG , Qiang Ziwei , Luo Haoran , Yuan Mandi 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

In this study, we examine how external and internal post-pandemic shocks are associated with non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) risks and the role of perceived social support (PSS) in moderating these effects. Using data from a nationwide online survey of 1,901 respondents in China collected between January and March 2023, we applied Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to explore these relationships. Our results show that external shocks directly increase NSSI risk, while internal shocks primarily influence NSSI through psychological distress. PSS effectively buffers the impact of external shocks on NSSI and moderates the influence of psychological distress on NSSI in the pathway from internal shocks. These findings suggest targeted mental health interventions may be needed to address different post-pandemic stressors.
Hypertension and cognitive dysfunction among older persons in rural northern Uganda: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Oyugi Joel , Izudi Jonathan , Bajunirwe Francis 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Hypertension is common among older adults and may impact their cognitive function. Available data on this association is mostly from resource rich settings and has been understudied in resource limited settings especially rural areas where majority of older persons live. We examined the association between hypertension and cognitive dysfunction in older persons in Kole, a rural district in Uganda and examined whether sex is an effect modifier.
Methods
We conducted a community-based cross-sectional study among older persons aged ≥ 60 years in rural northern Uganda sampled through a multi-stage process. The primary exposure was hypertension measured by systolic (≥ 140 mmHg) or diastolic blood pressure (≥ 90 mmHg), or being on anti-hypertensives. The outcome was cognitive dysfunction measured by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, with scores < 26. Analysis used the modified Poisson regression with robust standard errors at a 5% significance level.
Results
We studied 420 participants and found 288 (68.6%) had hypertension while 213 (50.7%) had some cognitive dysfunction. Hypertension was associated with cognitive dysfunction (adjusted prevalence risk [aPR] 1.26, 95% CI 1.01–1.57), with factors such as 4–5 people in the household (aPR 0.80, 95% CI 0.64–0.99), no smoking history (aPR 0.57, 95% CI 0.43–0.76), and dissatisfaction with one’s health (aPR 1.68, 95% CI 1.27–2.21) and satisfaction with ability to perform usual domestic duties (aPR 0.74, 95% CI 0.55–0.99) being associated. In a sex stratified analysis, men with hypertension were more likely to experience cognitive dysfunction (aPR 2.13, 95% CI 1.33–3.40), while women with hypertension were less likely (aPR 0.97, 95% CI 0.96–1.24) when compared to their normotensive counterparts.
Conclusion
Hypertension is associated with cognitive dysfunction in older individuals. Sex modifies the effect of hypertension on cognitive function. Our results strengthen the importance of regular blood pressure measurement and control in older individuals.
Exploring Socio-Demographic Determinants of Obesity in Jordanian Women of Reproductive Age: Insights from a Nationwide Survey
Authors: Abdelgalil Mahmoud Shaaban , El-Farargy Sara Hosny , Dowidar Mohamed Adel , Abd-ElGawad Mohamed 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Aim: We aimed to explore the predictors associated with obesity among adult ever-married Jordanian women aged 20–49 years based on the Jordanian Population and Family Health Survey (JPFHS).
Method: Our study analyzed data from the JPFHS conducted in 2017-18, which initially included 14,689 ever-married women. We performed both univariate and multivariable analyses to determine the socio-demographic predictors of obesity among these women.
Result: We included 4,226 Jordanian women in our study, of whom 2,170 were classified as obese and 2,056 had a normal body mass index (BMI). Multivariable analysis indicated that increasing age and living in Tafilh were significantly associated with higher odds of developing obesity (p < 0.05). Conversely, factors such as being in the wealthiest category, residing in Maan and Aqaba, and smoking every day were significantly linked to reduced odds of obesity (p < 0.05). Additionally, no significant associations were found between obesity development and variables such as the type of place of residence, educational level, frequency of reading newspapers or magazines, radio listening, television watching, or internet use in the past month (p > 0.05).
Conclusion: Appropriate and targeted interventions should be developed for Jordanian women to address obesity and its related health issues. Policymakers should adopt a multilevel approach that focuses on high-risk subgroups, including older women, and those living in Tafilh. Efforts should be made to raise awareness and provide preventative measures tailored to these groups to effectively reduce obesity and its associated complications.
An Efficient Cobalt-Catalyzed Approach for Synthesis of Benzoxazoles from 2-Aminophenol and Aldehydes
Authors: Pethe Atul S. , Kadu Vikas D. , Birajdar Sakshi M. , Patil Prajakta B. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The cobalt-catalysed approach has been developed for synthesis of benzoxazoles under aerobic conditions. The easily available substrates such as 2-aminophenols and aldehydes studied for synthesis of benzoxazole products afforded with good tolerance of functional groups. The synthesised products obtained in good yields under additive-free and ligand-free reaction conditions.
Short-Term Load Forecasting using Hybrid Approach Combining African Vulture Optimization Algorithm and Self-Adaptive Neural Networks
Authors: Ekedegwa Anthony I. G. , Ahigwuike Evans , Essien Ewang 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

In this paper, we present a hybrid approach that combines the African Vulture Optimization Algorithm (AVOA) with Self-Adaptive Neural Networks (SANNs) for short-term load forecasting. The AVOA, a metaheuristic inspired by the foraging behaviour of vultures, is utilised to optimise the parameters of a Self-Adaptive Neural Network, which adjusts its structure and learning parameters based on the problem at hand. Our experimental results, conducted on several benchmark datasets, demonstrate that the hybrid model significantly improves forecasting accuracy compared to conventional methods, offering a promising solution for more reliable and efficient load forecasting in power systems.