bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Social Media for Scientific Research: the Impact of Publicization on citations in Diagnostic Imaging and Radiation Oncology Publications
Authors: Barrero Alessandro Forcina , Converso Giuseppe , Giorgio Sofia Di , Grondelli Maria Chiara , Maizza Bendetta , Tarchi Sofia Maria , Artesani Alessia , Kirienko Margarita , Sollini Martina , Chiti Arturo 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Purpose: The impact on citation of scientific papers’ dissemination through social media has not been established yet. We aimed at providing a picture of the attention that this field is currently receiving through the most popular social media; and at evaluating the correlation of metrics and scientific citations.
Methods: We selected original papers published between 2015 and 2019 in six reference journals in the field of diagnostic imaging and radiation oncology. For social media attention quantification, we considered the Altmetric Attention Score (AAS) and its indicators, provided by Altmetric. Citation number was retrieved from Scopus. Descriptive analysis was used to extrapolate basic information required for the subsequent regression analysis to foretell the number of citations. We tested three models for determining the relationship between AAS and citations. A p-value below 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: We analyzed 4778 papers. AAS failed to predict citation number when considered alone. Time since publication was found to have the largest effect on the number of citations. Facebook was identified as the most influential platform, but it is surpassed by Twitter when summed Twitter accounts and Twitter posts.
Conclusion: AAS and its indicators cannot be considered unique predictors for the number of citations.
The prevalence of pathogenic variants in the BMPR2 gene in patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension in the Russian population: sequencing data and meta-analysis
Authors: Okhrimenko Galina , Borovikova Irina , Dankovtseva Elena , Zamyatin Vladimir , Nikulin Dmitry , Zobova Ekaterina , Lyzhenkova Anna , Danilova Anna , Osipova Natalia , Minushkina Larisa , Zateyshchikov Dmitry , Poptsova Maria 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH) is a rare and severe form of pulmonary hypertension. Genetic predisposition, especially rare variants in the BMPR2 gene, plays a significant role in IPAH development, influencing disease onset and progression. More than 600 unique variants of this gene have been reported in the literature as being associated with IPAH. No systematic studies have been conducted to estimate the frequency of pathogenic variants in BMPR2 in the Russian population. It is recommended to reevaluate IPAH variants every three years in order to incorporate newly available data from the literature. Thus, to compare the prevalence of the discovered pathogenic variants in IPAH patients in the Russian population we need to re-evaluate pathogenicity of the published BMPR2 variants and then to perform meta-analysis based on the reassessed data.
Methods
Whole-genome sequencing was done for a cohort of 74 adult IPAH patients in Russia. Variant identification in BMPR2 gene was done with the standard bioinformatic pipeline. Literature analysis was done by a curated search for BMPR2 variants in PAH patients in public databases. A meta-analysis of the frequency of pathogenic variants was conducted in accordance with the MOOSE (Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology) guidelines. Reassessment of pathogenicity was performed with InterVar software that incorporate ACMG criteria.
Results
Analysis of the BMPR2 gene from 74 adult IPAH patients in Russia revealed that 6 out of 74 patients (8.11%) carried pathogenic or likely pathogenetic variants. The reassessment of 665 variants found by us in the literature revealed that only 70% of PAH variants in BMPR2 are now classified as pathogenic or likely pathogenic. Meta-analysis based on the reevaluated pathogenic variants showed that even though the frequency of 8.11% of pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants in our cohort is lower than the overall average of 17,75% from the meta-analysis, the difference is not statistically significant (p = 0.052). We also report de novo found deletion in the 6th exon of the BMPR2 gene.
Conclusion
For the first time we present the results of the sequencing study of IPAH patients in the Russian population. Despite the substantial heterogeneity observed in the data, the prevalence of pathogenic mutations in BMPR2 gene in IPAH patients in the Russian population does not significantly differ from the average from the meta-analysis. It is essential to periodically revise the pathogenicity of the published variants since only 70% of PAH variants in BMPR2 were classified as pathogenic or likely pathogenic.
Optical Wigner crystal lattices enabled by Kekulé metasurfaces
Authors: Liu Yanpeng , Liu Jinguo , Luo Yufan , Zhao Airong , Lyu Pin , Liu Ying , Sun Wenhui , Wang Xiaofan , Du Chaoling , Jiang Mingming , Kan Caixia , Cao Shuiyan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Wigner crystal (WC) localizes the electrons into a close-packed regular lattice and remains one of the most fragile quantum states since its first prediction in 1934 1. The evidences of electronic Wigner crystals were observed in liquid helium 2,3, carbon nanotube 4, extremely clean GaAs/AlGaAs quantum wells 5–7, two-dimensional electron gases 8, 9 and various moiré superlattice 10–12. However, there is limited demonstration of such concepts for photons (i.e., polaritons). Here we develop, theoretically and experimentally, an optical analogue of Wigner crystal in a new category of metasurface named as Kekulé metasurface. This plasmonic nanostructure crystalizes surface plasmonic polaritons into assorted Wigner crystal lattice at two-dimensional limit, visualized by noninvasive leakage radiation microscopy. The spatial distribution and relative intensity of Wigner crystal lattice site are tailored and melted by superposing an extra wing-shaped nanoslit set. Configurable on-chip light-emitter array and high-security imaging encryption/decryption using optical Wigner crystal lattices are further demonstrated. This work reports a versatile Kekulé metasurface platform and optical Wigner crystal lattices with multiple degrees of freedoms, featuring rich physic phenomena and potential photonic elements for applications into existing technologies.
Combined machine learning models, docking analysis, molecular dynamics and experimental validation for the rapid design of novel FLT3 inhibitors against AML
Authors: Zhao Yihuan , Huang Qiang , Liu Qiang , Shi Zhonghua , Tang Fushan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a malignant clonal disorder driven by the excessive proliferation of immature myeloid cells in the bone marrow and blood, often linked to Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) mutations, which occur in about one-third of AML patients. While FLT3 inhibitors such as Midostaurin, Quizartinib, and Gilteritinib have demonstrated clinical efficacy, their therapeutic potential is often limited by drug resistance and adverse reactions. Therefore, the development of novel FLT3 inhibitors is critical for improving AML treatment outcomes. In this study, we employed a multi-faceted computer-aided drug design (CADD) approach, integrating machine learning (ML), molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations, to accelerate the discovery of new FLT3 inhibitors. A machine learning-based FLT3 classification model achieved an accuracy of 0.958, while an MV4-11 cell activity prediction model demonstrated strong predictive performance with an R2 of 0.846, MAE of 0.368, and RMSE of 0.492. Virtual screening of 7,280 compounds from the ChemDiv database led to the identification of 68 potential FLT3 inhibitors, with molecular dynamics simulations confirming their stable binding to the FLT3 protein. Experimental validation of four selected compounds showed promising activity in MV4-11 cellular assays, demonstrating the reliability of this integrated CADD approach. These results underscore the potential of a CADD-driven approach, enhanced by ML, to rapidly design new FLT3 inhibitors for AML treatment.
Patient’s perceived quality of care in South Africa’s public health sector: gratitude for access or ideal care experience
Authors: Mokhele Idah , Cele Refiloe , Nattey Cornelius , Jinga Nelly , Musakwa Nozipho , Kgowedi Sharon , Miot Jacqui , Onoya Dorina 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
South Africa strives to close the quality divide between public and private healthcare services. However, it is unclear whether patients’ demands for access to care matches their desire for quality service. Therefore, we sought to determine if patients’ satisfaction with quality of care received in the public healthcare matches their overall care experience.
Methods
We conducted a mixed-methods cross-sectional survey from February to August 2021, enrolling 40 adult (>18 years) patients/clinics in waiting areas across a proportional sample (10%) of 45 public clinics in the Gauteng province (N=1800). Study participants completed a semi-structured questionnaire. High quality of care was defined as achieving a score>3.5 on a ten-item scale (Cronbach’s alpha= 0.67) measuring agreement with statements about care experiences, including staff communication, attitudes, and clinic amenities. Open-ended questions were analysed thematically and coded as complaints (yes/no).
Results
Overall, 1788/1800 (99.3%) completed the survey, and 70.2% (95% Confidence Interval (CI): 63.6-76.0) of participants reported high quality of service, equivalent between HIV/TB (73.5, 95%CI: 66.0, 79.9) and non-HIV/TB care seekers (67.8%, 95%CI: 61.0, 73.9). Still, 31.7% of participants reporting high service quality had complaints. Overall, 69.6% (62.3%, 76.0) of participants deeming services low-moderate quality reported complaints. Participants’ complaints included long waiting times, clinic appointment system inefficiencies, staff shortages, and poor staff time management. Additionally, participants reported disrespectful treatment from clinic staff and very poor communication. It appears that the improved access to care compensated for sub-standard experiences, as illustrated by statements like:
“I like attending here at this facility as it's closer to my home. Overall experience is good except for long waiting hours and numbering system which is not followed.”
“We all know the health care workers are always under pressure as they work with different kinds of people every day, but they need to be very much respectful to some of us who are seeking help politely”.
Conclusions
Patients’ perception of quality of care is partly driven by gratitude for the widespread access to free care. Still, quality measures must give equal weight to non-clinical experiences of care, such as waiting time and communication, which are essential determinants of improved care-seeking behaviours, particularly among patients in lifelong chronic care.
Engine Back-Up System in Flight Test Campaigns: A New Approach to the Height-Velocity Diagram Demonstration
Authors: taheri setareh , delavet alain 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

The Height-Velocity (H/V) diagram is one of the key stages in the Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW) demonstration during the certification of a new helicopter or in the event of an increase in mass of an existing helicopter. The recent development of hybrid propulsion solutions allows for the implementation of an electric engine back-up system (EBS). In case of thermal engine failure, this electric power assistance could change the paradigm. Between July 2021 and May 2022, Airbus Helicopters carried out an extensive flight test campaign on the H130 Flightlab presented in this paper. The EBS installed in the Flightlab provides electrical assistance of about 100kW in case of engine failure. Preliminary studies had shown that it could allow a MTOW increase close to 200kg without an H/V diagram modification on the H130 helicopter type. To avoid flying above the certified MTOW on the Flightlab prototype, Airbus Helicopters used the H130 performance model to convert the 200kg target of mass increase to a H/V diagram area reduction, thus minimizing the applied stress constraint during that campaign. Moreover, battery autonomy and time of charge limited the training of the flight test crew and the gradual approach to these critical points. Airbus Helicopters adapted the thermal engine software to simulate the EBS assistance. The analysis of the flight test results has demonstrated the validity of the mass to the H/V diagram reduction equivalence, successfully mitigating the risk in approach during the flight test procedure. Thanks to this process, Airbus Helicopters is now actively taking into consideration an H130 MTOW extension with a hybrid propulsion system for an upcoming certification, the first of its kind in the helicopter industry.
Combined vaccination of personalized neoantigens and shared MICB α3 antigen enhances the antitumor response by eliciting ILC1s-mediated tumor pyroptosis
Authors: Liu Xiaolong , Cai Zhixiong , Ye Honghao , Chen Geng , Dong Xiuqing , Li Zhenli , Lin Fangzhou , Huang Tingfeng , Qiu Liman , Lin Gengping , Wu Ming , Yu Haijun , Tang Ruijing 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Immune escape is one of the primary obstacles in neoantigen immunotherapy because tumors can rapidly adapt by reducing MHC-I expression or antigen presentation. Here, we developed a novel immunotherapy strategy that combined vaccination of personalized neoantigens with the shared MICB α3 antigen, by using bacterial outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) as a versatile vector and adjuvant. This approach aims to simultaneously induce a neoantigen-specific cellular immune response and an anti-MICB α3 humoral immune response, enhancing the recognition and killing of tumor cells by immune cells. Our strategy significantly improves the infiltration of neoantigen-specific T cells and NK cells, while also reversing immunosuppression across various preclinical models. Mechanistically, it not only promotes T cell infiltration but also specifically drives the accumulation of non-exhausted type 1 innate lymphoid cells (ILC1s) within tumors. These ILC1s, characterized by high GZMA/GZMB expression, are the primary cell subset responsible for enhancing antitumor immune responses, which can induce Gasdermin D cleavage in tumor cells, initiating tumor pyroptosis for a cascade of the cancer-immunity cycle. Overall, this study demonstrated that combined neoantigens and shared MICB α3 antigen for tumor vaccination enhances immune efficacy by eliciting ILC1s-mediated tumor pyroptosis and support the rationale and clinical translation of cancer immunotherapy.
Expanding the footprint of the Storegga tsunami: New evidence from Arctic sediments
Authors: Devendra Dhanushka , Łącka Magdalena , Szymańska Natalia , Nethupul Hasitha , Pawłowska Joanna , Szymczak-Żyła Małgorzata , Krajewska Magdalena , Zajączkowski Marek 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Previous sedimentary and model-based investigations of the Storegga tsunami were primarily limited to the regions proximal to its origin. However, the catastrophic event may have had impacts extending to distances much greater than previously recognized, which remain elusive. Here, we investigated the Storegga slide-induced tsunami currents propagation to farther north and the potential disturbance created to the sediment by analyzing a well-dated sediment core section from the northwestern Barents Sea. A thick, reworked sediment layer, characterized by a coarser lower boundary and a fining upward grading trend, dated between 8077±128 and 8647±145 years BP, contained significantly older recycled foraminiferal tests and exhibited pronounced sedimentary changes with strong terrestrial signals. The findings imply that widespread high flow velocities of the tsunami waves might have reached as far north as 74°N, contributing to significant sediment reworking in the northwestern Barents Sea.
Assessment of the Impacts of Metal Recycling on Ground Water Quality in Ikirun, Osun State, Nigeria
Authors: Caleb Taiye David , Fakpor Akpofure Miller 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

The study assessed groundwater around a metal recycling plant in Ikirun, Osun State, Nigeria to determine its environmental impact as it relates to water quality. This was necessitated by the potential threat of metal contamination and associated health implications arising from various recycling activities being carried out in the area. Data from a total of twelve (12) water samples were collected from all available boreholes and wells found within and outside the metal recycling industrial area. The physico-chemical characteristics such as pH, Total Dissolved Solid (TDS) and Electrical Conductivity (EC) were analyzed using a multifunctional digital pH meter while heavy metal content for Zinc (Zn), Lead (Pb), Copper (Cu), Chromium (Cr), and Cadmium (Cd) were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. The results indicated a mean pH, TDS and EC values of 5.90084, 122.6108mg/l and 204.6108mg/l respectively within and outside the facility which were below the range of WHO/NSDWQ permissible limit for groundwater. All heavy metals analyzed were below detection except for Zinc (Zn) with mean value of 0.0148mg/l in both sample areas and were below the range of permissible limits. The pH value below the permissible limit range signified that the water is acidic and may pose serious health risks to people who drink the water. The Iron and Steel Recycling Industry might have contributed to the acidic levels of this parameter in addition to the natural content of the soil. Therefore, the activities of metal recycling industries can potentially contaminate groundwater within its vicinity if proper mitigation measures are not put in place.
Emotional Abuse among Indian Adolescents: Effects on Self-Concept, Resilience, and the Role of Cultural and Societal Pressures
Authors: Waseem¹ Afreen , Firdous² Naila , Alam⁴ Shah 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Emotional abuse, though often overlooked as a form of maltreatment, can have devastating effects on the psychological well-being of adolescents. In the Indian cultural context, where traditional norms and parental authority are highly emphasized, emotional abuse is a prevalent yet under-recognized issue. This study explores the intricate relationship between emotional abuse, self-concept, and resilience in Indian adolescents, shedding light on how cultural factors exacerbate the impact of such abuse.
Objective
The primary aim of this study is to examine the effects of emotional abuse on the self-concept and resilience of Indian adolescents aged 13 to 17. Specifically, the study seeks to understand how different forms of emotional abuse—such as rejection, terrorizing, ignoring, isolation, and corruption—cause degradation based on skin colour, academic performance, and gender roles, and how these factors affect the psychological development of adolescents in India.
Method
This qualitative study employed in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 20 adolescents from the schools of Aligarh Muslim University who have experienced emotional abuse. The interviews were conducted in a private setting, allowing participants to share their experiences candidly. The data were analysed using thematic analysis, with the assistance of NVivo software. Results: Thematic analysis revealed several key themes: the degradation of adolescents based on skin colour, the impact of academic performance pressures, constant comparisons with peers, and the terrorization of girls for defying traditional gender roles. These forms of emotional abuse were found to significantly distort the self-concept of the affected adolescents, leading to feelings of worthlessness, self-doubt, and a diminished sense of self-worth. Additionally, the study found that emotional abuse severely undermines resilience, making it difficult for adolescents to cope with life’s challenges.
Conclusion
The findings of this study underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions aimed at addressing emotional abuse within the Indian cultural context. Raising awareness among parents, educators, and local government about the subtle yet profound effects of emotional abuse is crucial and call for future research to further explore these dynamics within diverse cultural contexts.
Optimizing 3D Voxel Image Synthesis throughHybrid Loss Functions in Conditional GANs
Authors: Mudaliyar R Udendhran , Chindage Varun , Iyer Manasvini Puja 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) have emerged as a powerful tool for 3D voxel image synthesis, particularly through conditional GANs (cGANs). This paper presents a comparative analysis of various loss functions used in training cGANs for 3D voxel image construction, with a focus on hybridizing these loss functions to enhance training stability and improve image quality. By combining adversarial and non-adversarial loss functions, such as Binary Cross-Entropy (BCE), Mean Squared Error (MSE), and L1 loss, we aim to leverage their individual strengths. Empirical evaluation on standard 3D voxel image datasets using performance metrics like Average Absolute Difference (AAD) and Average Voxel Images Occupancy Agreement Ratio (AVAR) reveals that hybrid loss functions produce more precise and structurally coherent 3D voxel images compared to individual loss functions. Our findings demonstrate that fine-tuning the combination and weights of these loss functions can significantly enhance the performance of cGANs for 3D voxel image generation, paving the way for potential applications in medical imaging, virtual reality, and autonomous systemsGitHub link for the implementation of this paper can be found \href{https://github.com/Va-un/Optimizing-3D-Voxel-Image-Synthesis-through-Hybrid-Loss-Functions-in-Conditional-GANs}{here.}