bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
PCCA: Point Cloud Clusters Attention
Authors: Dmitrii Perfilev , Zhang Xijun , Fei Tan 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

In this research, a K-means clustering algorithm and attention mechanism is used to improve object classification by preprocessing 3D point clouds. Robotics and autonomous driving depend heavily on point clouds obtained by LiDAR. Big data quantities and noise present challenges for traditional approaches. Post-clustering, the data is processed by an improved PointNet + + neural network with embedded attention mechanisms for object classification. PointNet + + effectively classifies objects in complicated scenarios by utilizing a hierarchical structure and attention methods to concentrate on the most pertinent portions of the input. Tests carried out on the KITTI dataset show that pre-clustering improves classification accuracy while cutting down on processing time. As evidence of the effectiveness of the suggested strategy, the findings show a notable improvement in performance measures. This approach holds potential for creating more reliable and effective perception systems for self-driving cars and other applications involving 3D data analysis. The combination of PointNet + + and K-means clustering offers improvements in speed and accuracy while reducing computing costs, addressing important issues in managing large-scale 3D point cloud data. This study highlights the potential of cluster analysis as a preprocessing step to optimize neural network-based systems, paving the way for more reliable and faster processing of 3D point cloud data in real-world scenarios.
Development of a 18F-FDG PET/CT-based Radiomics Model for Predicting Axillary Lymph Node Metastasis in Breast Cancer
Authors: Yu Zhen , Dong Ke , Huang Qifeng 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Axillary lymph node metastasis (ALNM) status is an important factor for the determination of the therapeutic strategies and breast cancer prognosis. In our study, we investigate whether radiomics features from 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose(18F-FDG) positron emission tomography /computed tomography (PET/CT), combined with clinical or pathological characteristics, provide a higher predictive value of ALNM.
Methods
A retrospective analysis was performed on 78 female patients who underwent preoperative 18F-FDG PET/CT scans at Jinhua Central Hospital from August 2015 to July 2024, with a mean age of 53.60 ± 12.49 years (range: 35–84 years). The cases were randomly divided into a training cohort (46 cases) and a testing cohort (32 cases) in a 6:4 ratio. All patients' PET/CT and clinical pathological features were analyzed, and radiomics features were extracted from the PET/CT images. Subsequently, we developed radiomics, clinical, and combined radiomics-clinical models. We also assessed the performance of these three models in predicting ALNM. The Python stats models package (version 0.13.2) was used for statistical analysis.
Results
For the three features radiomics model and combined model in the training cohort, the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.922 and 0.931, which were both higher than that of the traditional clinical feature model (AUC = 0.917). The AUC values for the three models in the testing cohort were 0.802, 0.821, and 0.778. For predicting ALNM across all cohorts, the radiomics model and the combined model showed clinical benefit in the decision curve analysis (DCA).
Conclusion
The PET/CT-based radiomics model demonstrated strong efficacy in predicting ALNM for breast cancer and has clinical application value.
Enhancing Efficiency in MCQ Evaluation: Integrating Voice-to-Text and Excel Automation in Medical Education
Authors: . sankalp , Sharma Hanjabam Barun , Nidhi Thakur 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background: Multiple-choice questions (MCQs) are widely used in medical education due to their efficiency in assessing a broad range of knowledge. However, traditional grading of MCQs can be labor-intensive and prone to human error, especially in large volumes. With increasing class sizes, there is a growing need for more efficient and accurate grading systems.
Objective: This study evaluates the effectiveness of integrating voice-to-text technology (VTT) and Excel automation to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of MCQ grading in medical education.
Methods: A total of 3,000 simulated MCQ responses, representative of a typical medical education setting, were evaluated using both manual and automated methods. VTT technology was used to transcribe responses, which were then organized in tables using ChatGPT and scored in Excel using automation techniques. Two evaluators assessed the papers, and time taken, error rates, evaluator fatigue, and satisfaction were compared between methods.
Results: The automated method significantly reduced evaluation time to 45.9 minutes (0.76 man-hours) compared to 194.82 minutes (3.25 man-hours) for manual evaluation, with a similarly high accuracy rate of 99.96% for both methods. Evaluator fatigue was lower, and satisfaction was higher with the automated method.
Conclusion: The integration of VTT technology and Excel automation significantly improves the efficiency of MCQ grading while maintaining high accuracy. This approach offers a scalable, cost-effective solution for medical education settings, particularly in resource-limited environments. Future research could expand this method to other types of assessments and explore additional automation tools to further enhance educational evaluation processes.
Combined effects of future climate and land use change on mosquitoes: The distribution of Culex pipiens under One Health scenarios in the Netherlands
Authors: Krol Louie , Dellar Martha , Ibáñez-Justicia Adolfo , Schrier Gerard van der , Schrama Maarten , Geerling Gertjan W. , Bodegom Peter M. van 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background: The world is experiencing rapid anthropogenic-driven changes in climate, biodiversity, and pollution. While most insect species are declining due to these changes, disease-transmitting mosquitoes, might thrive. However, the quantitative impacts of these changes on mosquito populations are not well understood. Our study aims to evaluate the individual and combined effects of climate and land use/cover related factors on the potential future spatiotemporal distribution of Culex pipiens in the Netherlands for four One Health change scenarios
Methods: We developed a random forest species distribution model, trained and cross-validated by Cx. pipiens trapping data as the response variable and climate and land use/cover related factors as explanatory variables. We used this model to estimate the spatiotemporal distribution of Cx. pipiens for previously established One Health scenarios and disentangled and evaluated the effects of climate and land use/cover changes.
Results: Our results reveal that climatic factors are the main predictor underlying the temporal distribution of Cx. pipiens, while land use/cover factors shape their spatial distribution. Under One Health scenarios with greater levels of climate change, our results indicate a lengthening of the period that Cx. pipiens occurs and sustained high abundances during the summer months. Furthermore, our results suggest that land use/cover might mitigate the effects of climate change.
Conclusions: Our study underscores the complex interplay of climate and land use/cover changes on the spatiotemporal distributions of Cx. pipiens, emphasizing the need to simultaneously consider climate and land use/cover impacts when adapting to Cx. pipiens related risks. Especially, the negative impact of increasing tree cover on mosquito abundance linked with targeted larval control might be an interesting avenue to explore.
Rapid growth of a benign left atrial myxoma
Authors: Yates Martin , Lee Michelle , Wong Kit , Sheikh Amir 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Rapid growth of a left atrial myxoma was demonstrated in a patient who showed no echocardiographic evidence of the tumour when she was admitted for an atrial fibrillation catheter ablation. Eighteen months later, she presented with temporary visual disturbance, and transthoracic echocardiography showed a 35 x 25 x 20 mm left atrial myxoma. This was excised en-bloc and the histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of benign myxoma.
Speech-language pathology students’ experiences of viewing clinicians learning a new skill: A thematic analysis
Authors: Tulloch Kris , Nickbakht Mansoureh , Scarinci Nerina 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Gaining competency in a clinical practice such as speech-language pathology requires more than studying anatomy or learning about disorders: Students are often required to gain skills intersecting their self-perceptions, levels of confidence, trust in practice educators, and willingness to be vulnerable while learning. Yet, limited research has investigated students’ perceptions of error recovery processes in practice education, and demonstrations often focus on best-practice behaviours which may contribute to students’ perceptions or interpretations of deficits in their own skill.
Aims
This study aims to explore information, processes and behaviours speech-language pathology students attended to when observing clinicians learning a new skill.
Methods & Procedures:
This qualitative study used in-person and online workshops in which students discussed concepts, watched videos and reflected on video content. Fifteen speech-language pathology students aged 17–50 (m = 21, SD = 8.17) participated from a university in Australia. Workshop discussions were thematically analysed.
Outcomes & Results:
Three major themes were generated, including (1) Clinicians gradually learned how to use a new tool properly; (2) Clinicians were person-centered as skills were applied flexibly as every client is different; and (3) Workplace culture plays a role in skill acquisition.
Conclusions & Implications:
The themes are indicative of the importance of valuing flexibility in administering therapy, acceptance of mistakes, and the key role person-centeredness plays in practicing new skills. Practice educators may wish to use these insights in guiding their students’ attentional focus when undertaking clinical observation and practice, while also considering psychological and emotional strategies aiding student development.
Role of thermo-acoustic analysis of specific acoustic impedance in detection and estimation of major sugar content in coconut water
Authors: Bindu R G , Sheeja V N , Cherian Tom , Cyriac Jincemon , kalarikkal Nandakumar 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Through the foundational formula of specific acoustic impedance, we have derived a temperature-dependent relationship, leveraging insights into the temperature coefficients of sound velocity and liquid density. This innovative approach has enabled us to effectively detect and estimate the primary sugar content within coconut water, showcasing remarkable agreement with experimental findings. Furthermore, to validate our results, we have cross-referenced them against established chemical methods, confirming their accuracy and reliability.
Drought Effects on Benthic Macroinvertebrate Community Resilience and Functional Diversity in Wetland Mesocosms
Authors: Kim Min Kyung , Yoon Tae Joong , Kim Dong 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

This study investigated the impacts of short-term (4 months) and long-term (8 months) drought on benthic macroinvertebrate (BMI) communities in wetland mesocosms, focusing on community composition, functional diversity, and resilience mechanisms. Using controlled experiments, we compared BMI communities in three treatments: control (C), short-term drought (S), and long-term drought (L). The results showed that drought duration significantly influenced on some community and functional diversity indices. While the C wetland maintained stable communities, S and L wetlands exhibited distinct recovery patterns post-drought. The S wetland demonstrated higher community similarity to pre-drought conditions compared to the L wetland, suggesting greater resilience to short-term disturbances. Functional diversity indices revealed complex responses, with drought altering feeding habits, living types, and voltinism traits. Long-term drought led to dominance by multivoltine species and reduced functional evenness. This study highlights the importance of drought duration in shaping BMI communities and emphasizes the need for long-term monitoring to understand wetland ecosystem recovery dynamics under climate change scenarios.
Enhanced Combinatorial Effect of Resveratrol in Conjunction with other Naturally Occurring Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Profft Stefan , Chanduri Vineet , Bech Elisabeth Sophie , Vang Ole 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Optimal diet is critical for a healthy life, and, for example, the Mediterranean diet has been associated with a wide range of benefits for overall health. Specific links have been made to anti-cancer effects of the Mediterranean diet through reducing oxidative and inflammatory processes and reducing cell proliferation. In the present study, we aimed to understand the effect of specific dietary compounds on colorectal cancer cell proliferation. As humans are seldom exposed to high concentrations of single bioactive compounds through the diet but rather, multiple compounds at low concentrations, we investigated the combined effect of bioactive compounds at low concentrations. While a combination of four structurally related stilbenoids (resveratrol, pterostilbene, piceatannol and oxyresveratrol) had antagonistic to additive effects on inhibition of cell proliferation, a combination of four structurally diverse compounds (resveratrol, curcumin, 3,3′-diindolylmethane and artemisinin) resulted in synergistic to additive effects. Taken together, these result show that a mixture of four dietary bioactive compounds have a significant inhibitory potential on cell proliferation, even at low concentrations, and support the notion of cancer risk reduction associated with the Mediterranean diet being due to a combination of chemopreventive compounds.
lncRNA NEAT1 affects granulosa cell apoptosis and steroid biosynthesis via the miR-204-5p/ESR1 axis in ovarian aging
Authors: Dong Li , Wu Haicui , Qi Fanghua , Chen Wen , Xu Yuan , Li Min , Wang Yuqi , Yan Rugen , Cai Pingping 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play an important role in ovarian aging by affecting the biological functions of granulosa cells (GCs) through multiple mechanisms. The lncRNA NEAT1 is significantly downregulated in aging ovaries; however, the exact regulatory mechanism has not been elucidated. In the current study, we aimed to investigate the effects of the lncRNA NEAT1 in GC functions during ovarian aging and explore its therapeutic potential. We observed that NEAT1 expression is downregulated in GCs of older patients with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR), which is closely associated with ovarian reserve function and assisted reproductive cycle outcomes. Functional assays revealed that NEAT1 promotes KGN cell proliferation by increasing the proportion of S-phase cells and inhibiting apoptosis. Bioinformatics analysis and a dual-luciferase reporter assay confirmed that NEAT1 acts as a miR-204-5p sponge and identified ESR1 as a miR-204-5p target gene, both of which were significantly differentially expressed in the GCs of older patients with DOR. Mechanistic experiments demonstrated that NEAT1 acts as a competitive endogenous RNA and adsorbs miR-204-5p through molecular sponging, which in turn promotes the expression of ESR1 and upregulates the expression of key enzymes (steroidogenic acute regulatory protein and cytochrome P450 family 19 subfamily A member 1) involved in steroid hormone synthesis. This induces estradiol biosynthesis and activates the downstream mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway to promote the phosphorylation of extracellular signaling-related kinase and cyclic adenosine monophosphate response element binding protein, which affects the cell cycle and results in the promotion of proliferation and inhibition of apoptosis of KGN cells. Our results suggest that NEAT1 activates the downstream MAPK pathway through the miR-204-5p/ESR1 axis; regulates GC proliferation, apoptosis, and the cell cycle; and affects steroid biosynthesis. Therefore, NEAT1 represents a potential therapeutic target to delay ovarian aging.
Optimization of Multi-Threshold Trading Strategies in the Directional Changes Paradigm
Authors: Salman Ozgur , Melissourgos Themistoklis , Kampouridis Michael 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to investigate the potential of using the Directional Changes (DC) paradigm for financial forecasting. DC is an event-based approach that differs from the traditional physical time data, which employs fixed time intervals and uses a physical time scale. The DC method records price movements when specific events occur instead of using fixed intervals. The determination of these events relies on a threshold, which captures significant changes in price of a given asset. This work employs eight trading strategies that are developed based on directional changes. These strategies were profiled using varying values of thresholds to provide a comprehensive analysis of their effectiveness. In order to enhance the performance of both the thresholds and trading strategies, a genetic algorithm was utilized to optimize their respective weights. This approach provided a more comprehensive analysis and enriched the information available to our trading strategy. To analyze our model in our experiment, we utilized 200 stocks listed on the New York Stock Exchange. Furthermore, the method proposed in this study successfully generated profitable trading strategies that exhibited superior performance when compared to specific DC-based benchmarks commonly utilized in the existing literature. Additionally, the proposed method outperformed conventional strategies based on technical indicators such as ADX, Aroon, CCI, EMA, MACD, RSI, and WilliamR.
Intrapatient Tacrolimus Variability is Associated with Medical Nonadherence among Pediatric Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Sigurjonsdottir Vaka Kristin , Gavcovich Tara B. , DeFreitas Marissa J. , Serrano Claudia , Rivas Esther , Jorge Migdalia , Seeherunvong Wacharee , Katsoufis Chryso , Glaberson Wendy , Oliva Melisa , Mattiazzi Adela D. , Abitbol Carolyn , Chandar Jayanthi 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background: Long-term survival of kidney allografts is limited by multiple factors, including nonadherence. High intrapatient variability (IPV) in tacrolimus levels (≥30%) is associated with de novo donor-specific antibody (dnDSA) formation, increased risk of rejection and graft loss.
Methods: We prospectively analyzed the association between tacrolimus IPV and nonadherence in pediatric kidney transplant recipients. We derived a composite adherence score from 0-3 points based on (1) Basel Assessment of Adherence to Immunosuppressive Medical ScaleÓ; (2) healthcare team score; and (3) intentionally missed laboratory or clinic visits. A score of 1 or more was considered nonadherent. Tacrolimus 12-hour trough levels, patient characteristics and clinical outcomes were collected. Tacrolimus IPV was calculated as the coefficient of variation.
Results: The nonadherent group had a significantly higher median tacrolimus IPV (31%) as compared to the adherent cohort (20%) (p < 0.001), with a positive correlation between tacrolimus IPV and composite adherence score (r = 0.44, p < 0.001). Antibody and T-cell mediated rejection, along with dnDSA formation were more prevalent in nonadherent patients and those with a high tacrolimus IPV.
Conclusions: Tacrolimus IPV may be a useful biomarker to identify high-risk patients, allowing for early interventions to prevent adverse graft outcomes.
The Role of Ferroptosis in Liver Injury after Cold Ischemia-Reperfusion in Rats with Autologous Orthotopic Liver Transplantation
Authors: Wu Wei , Xu Bei , Huang Haibin , Mao Ying , Gao Yuan , Bu Wenhao 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Using autologous orthotopic liver transplantation（AOLT） model in rats, the effect of lipid reactive oxygen species（L-ROS） inhibitor Ferrostain-1 on ferroptosis signal pathway was observed to determine whether ferroptosis occurred in rat liver injury after cold Cold ischemia-reperfusion(I/R). Thirty-two healthy adult SPF male SD rats，8 ~ 10 weeks old, weight 240 ~ 260g, It is divided into four groups by the method of random number table(n = 8)：Sham group,I/R group,I/R+Fer-1 group,I/R+DFO group. In I/R+Fer-1 group, Intraperitoneal injection of ferristatin-1(5mg /kg) 30 minutes before surgery；In I/R+DFO group, DFO 100mg/kg was injected intraperitoneally 1 h before operation and 12 h after operation. Blood samples were taken from the inferior hepatic vena cava 24 hours after reperfusion, After anesthesia, the rats were killed and part of their liver tissue was removed. The pathological changes of liver tissue sections were observed under high power microscope, and the liver injury was evaluated；Determination of serum malondialdehyde (MDA) and serum levels of ALT, AST, IL-6 by ELISA method，Determination of reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), MDA, Fe2+ and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in liver tissue. Compared with Sham group, the serum levels of IL-6,MDA, AST and ALT in I/R group were obviously higher (P < 0.05)；The levels of MDA and Fe2+ in liver tissue were significantly increased (P < 0.05)；The levels of SOD, GSH and GPX4 in liver tissue decreased. The levels of serum MDA, IL-6, AST and ALT in I/R+Fer-1 and I/R+DFO groups were significantly lower than those in I/R group at 24 hours after reperfusion；In I/R+Fer-1 group, the level of MDA in liver tissue decreased significantly, while the level of SOD, GSH and GPX4 in intestinal tissue increased (P < 0.05)；In I/R+DFO group, the levels of MDA and Fe2+ in liver tissue decreased significantly, while the level of SOD in intestinal tissue increased (P < 0.05).Ferroptosis is involved in pathophysiological process of liver injury after cold ischemia-reperfusion in AOLT rats.
WITHDRAWN: Pattern Synthesis in Butler-Matrix-Fed Cylindrical Antenna Array for Monopulse NR-IFF Radar Application
Authors: Fallah Mohsen , Nekounam Majid , Armaki Seyyed Hossein Mohseni 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

This paper presents the design and procedure of pattern synthesis in a cylindrical antenna array with electronic scan capability suitable for Non-Rotating Identification Friend or Foe (NR-IFF) radar system. To this purpose, 64 printed dipole antennas are placed around a cylindrical ground plane, out of which 16 elements in a 90-degree active sector are united to form the sum and difference radiation patterns required for monopulse technique. The electronic scan can be achieved through commutation of the active sector by a suitable feed network based on the Butler matrix, some variable phase shifters and SP4T switches. MATLAB and HFSS are linked together and particle swarm optimization algorithm is used to synthesize the desired radiation pattern in the active sector. This method is capable of taking into account the mutual coupling effect between the array elements and compensate for it during the design procedure.