bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Does the distribution of Wormian bone frequencies across different world regions reflect genetic affinity between populations?
Authors: Movsesian Alla 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Background
Wormian, or sutural bones, are additional, irregularly shaped bone fragments that can occur within cranial sutures. These bones may arise due to various factors, including mechanical pressure on skull bones during early ontogenetic stages, such as during artificial cranial deformations, or due to genetic and environmental influences. This study investigates the potential genetic basis of sutural bones by comparing their frequencies across diverse global regions. It analyzed 33 craniological series, encompassing 2059 crania, to assess the frequency of sutural bones in the coronal, squamous, lambdoid, and occipitomastoid sutures among skeletal populations from regions including Aboriginal Australia, Melanesia, Southeast Asia, Siberia, Europe, and Native America. Biological distances between populations were calculated using Smith’s mean measure of divergence (MMD), with results visualized through multidimensional scaling.

Results
The analysis identified distinct clusters of Caucasian and Siberian populations. Siberian aboriginal populations are compactly grouped, consistent with mtDNA data indicating genetic roots dating back to the Neolithic inhabitants of the Lake Baikal region. Further, differentiation within these populations is linked to the founder effect and gene flow. Notably, genetically related groups like the Inuit and Chukchi of Chukotka differ from other Siberian groups. In contrast, southern Siberian populations, such as the Buryats and Mongols, are closely positioned, aligning with genetic data. The differentiation between Southeast Asian and African regions was subtler, with their clusters largely overlapping. Yet, genetic links between populations were observed in some cases. Thus, Australians, Melanesians, and Papua New Guineans were located close to each other on the multidimensional scaling map, as were two African populations.

Conclusions
The findings tentatively suggest a potential genetic component in the expression of Wormian bones, although this hypothesis requires further empirical support, particularly through genetic studies. While genetic factors may influence the expression of Wormian bones, environmental conditions and pathological processes also play significant roles. It can be suggested that Wormian bones could potentially serve as an additional tool in kinship analysis within burials; however, their utility significantly depends on the extent of their genetic influence. If future genetic studies confirm a substantial genetic component and its dominance over environmental factors, the use of these bones in anthropological and forensic analyses would receive additional validation.
Artificial intelligence: transforming cardiovascular healthcare in Africa
Authors: Ashinze Patrick , Akande Eniola , Bethrand Chukwu , Obafemi Eniola , David Olafisoye-Oragbade Oluwatosin , Akobe Suleiman Nasiru , Joyce Ndubuisi Onyinyechukwu , Izuchukwu Obidiegwu Jonathan , Okoro Ngozi Peace 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Background
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), a significant global health concern, are responsible for 13% of all deaths particularly in Africa, where they contribute substantially to the global disease burden, taking several millions of lives globally and annually. Despite advancements in healthcare, the burden of CVDs continues to rise steadily. This comprehensive review critically examines the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) management in Africa. Drawing on a diverse gamut of scholarly literature and empirical evidence, the review assesses the prevalence, impact, and challenges of CVDs in the African context.

Main body
The review highlights the potential of AI technologies to revolutionize CVD care, offering insights into its applications in diagnosis, treatment optimization, and remote patient monitoring. It explores existing literature sourced from databases like PUBMED, Scopus and Google Scholar about the current state of AI implementation in African healthcare systems, which are majorly resource-constrained, discussing successes, limitations, and future prospects. The work includes the prevalence and impact of CVDs in Africa, noting the significant public health burden and economic implications. Current challenges in addressing CVDs are outlined, focusing on resource constraints, healthcare system challenges, and socioeconomic factors. Our review takes a dive into AI’s role in healthcare, emphasizing its capabilities in disease diagnosis, treatment optimization, and patient monitoring, and presents current applications and case studies of AI in African cardiovascular healthcare. It also addresses the challenges and limitations of implementing AI in this context, such as inadequate infrastructure, lack of high-quality data, and the need for regulatory frameworks.

Conclusion
Our review emphasizes the urgent need for collaborative efforts among policymakers, healthcare providers, and researchers to overcome barriers to AI integration and ensure equitable access to innovative healthcare solutions. By fetching existing research and offering practical recommendations, this review contributes to the academic discourse on AI-driven healthcare interventions in Africa, offering an understanding of the opportunities and challenges in leveraging technology to address pressing public health concerns. It calls for increased research, investment, and collaboration to harness AI’s full potential in transforming cardiovascular healthcare in Africa.
Skin cancer classification using non-local means denoising and sparse dictionary learning based CNN
Authors: Pandey Apeksha , Teja Manepalli Sai , Sahare Parul , Kamble Vipin , Parate Mayur , Hashmi Mohammad Farukh 
Published: September 2024

AbstractSkin conditions are becoming increasingly prevalent across the world in current times. With the rise in dermatological disorders, there is a need for computerized techniques that are completely noninvasive to patients’ skin. As a result, deep learning models have become standard for the computerized detection of skin diseases. The performance efficiency of these models improves with access to more data with their primary aim being image classification. In this paper, we present a skin disease detection methodology using image processing techniques, non-local means denoising and convolutional neural network (CNN) backed by sparse dictionary learning. Here, the major benefit of using NLM denoising followed by sparse dictionary learning with CNNs in image classification lies in leveraging a multi-stage approach that enhances the quality of input data, extracts meaningful and discriminative features, and improves the overall performance of the classification model. This combined approach addresses challenges such as noise robustness, feature extraction, and classification accuracy, making it particularly effective in complex image analysis tasks. For denoising, the average Peak Signal to Noise Ratio (PSNR) obtained for images from HAM-10000 dataset is 33.59 dB. For the ISIC-2019 dataset, the average PSNR for the train folder is 34.37 dB, and for the test folder it is 34.39 dB. The deep learning network is trained for the analysis of skin cancer images using a CNN model and is achieving acceptable results in classifying skin cancer types. The datasets used contain high-resolution images. After all the tests, the accuracy obtained is 85.61% for the HAM-10000 dataset and 81.23% for the ISIC-2019 dataset, which is on par with existing approaches validated by benchmarking results.
When do shoppers prefer using QR codes? Empirical evidence from Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Man The , Alang Tho 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThis research aimed to explore the factors influencing the behavioural intention to use over-the-counter (OTC) QR codes for purchasing products in Vietnamese supermarkets. The study included 996 consumers and employed a questionnaire-based survey method to test the hypotheses using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). Drawing on the theory of reasoned action (TRA) and signalling theory, the findings identified five key factors that positively affected the intention to use OTC QR codes: perceived usefulness of OTC QR codes (e.g., for payment and traceability), attitude, customer satisfaction, and supply chain transparency. Additionally, the perceived usefulness of OTC QR codes positively impacted attitude and customer satisfaction, while its usefulness for traceability enhanced supply chain transparency. The study also identified the moderating influence of personal innovativeness on the relationship between perceived usefulness of OTC QR codes for payment and attitude and customer satisfaction. Furthermore, the moderating role of electronic Word-of-Mouth (e-Word-of-Mouth) in the relationship between customer satisfaction, attitude, and behavioural intention was discovered. This research contributes to the existing literature by expanding our understanding of the perceived usefulness of OTC QR codes and elucidating the various mechanisms through which their both functionalities could encourage consumer adoption in the context of Vietnamese supermarkets.
Monitoring the Efficacy of Auditory Training through Changes in Brainstem and Cortical Auditory Evoked Potentials: A Systematic Review
Authors: Hajimohammadi Ali , Heidari Fatemeh 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Introduction
Auditory training (AT) exercises as the main part of auditory rehabilitation have emerged as a promising method for enhancing auditory perception and communication skills in individuals with hearing impairments or difficulties in auditory processing. Through AT, the central auditory nervous system (CANS) undergoes changes that optimize neural circuits, resulting in improved auditory perception. Auditory-evoked potentials (AEPs), including the auditory brainstem responses (ABRs) and cortical auditory-evoked potentials (CAEPs), offer objective measurements of neural responses and serve as valuable biomarkers to assess the effectiveness of AT.

Methods
For this systematic review, we conducted a comprehensive search in multiple databases, including MEDLINE (via PubMed), Science Direct, Web of Science, and SciELO, up until August 18, 2023. There were no study type restrictions or limitations on publication time. Following a careful assessment of the article quality and their alignment with the inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 25 articles were selected for inclusion in this study.

Results
Based on the findings of the reviewed studies, it has been reported that AT exercises lead to an increase in the amplitude of waves in both brainstem and cortical AEPs, with the exception of P1 and N2 waves. Furthermore, it has been observed that the latency of these responses decreases following AT.

Conclusion
The application of brainstem and cortical AEPs as objective electrophysiological tools holds promise in assessing the effectiveness of AT exercises and confirming the selected approach for AT.
Effect of Adding Electroacupuncture to Standard Triple Antiemetic Therapy on Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Shen Guoshuang , Ren Dengfeng , Zhao Fuxing , Wang Miaozhou , Liu Zhen , Feng Xiumei , He Yingjian , Liu Xinlan , Ling Xiaoling , Zhao Yi , Song Feixue , Ma Jiyan , Li Enxi , She Tong , Liu Zhilin , Li Zitao , Huang Shifen , Chen Yongzhi , Yang Jingru , Li Xuan , Duan Li , Da Mengting , Zheng Yonghui , Li Yongxin , Zhao Jiuda 
Published: September 2024

PURPOSE
We aim to determine the effectiveness of adding electroacupuncture to standard triple antiemetic therapy for treating chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV).

METHODS
From March 2022 to December 2023, a randomized, blind, sham-controlled trial conducted across six Chinese hospitals investigated patients with breast cancer undergoing highly emetogenic chemotherapy (HEC). Patients were randomly assigned to either true electroacupuncture (n = 120) or sham electroacupuncture (n = 119) groups, with both groups receiving standard triple antiemetic therapy. The primary end point was the proportion of complete protection (no vomiting, no need for rescue treatment, and no significant nausea, as evaluated using the visual analog scale [VAS]) within 120 hours after receiving HEC.

RESULTS

Among 239 randomly assigned patients, 235 (98.3%) completed the trial. In the full analysis set, compared with the sham electroacupuncture group, the true electroacupuncture group demonstrated a significant increase in the complete protection rate from 34.5% to 52.9% (
P
= .004). Additionally, true electroacupuncture also showed enhanced total control (4.3%
v
13.4%;
P
= .014), no significant nausea (37.9%
v
58.8%;
P
= .001), no nausea (4.3%
v
13.4%;
P
= .014), and nausea VAS score = 0 mm (4.3%
v
12.6%;
P
= .023). However, the occurrence of no vomiting in the overall stage was similar (76.7%
v
73.9%;
P
= .622) in both groups. Post hoc exploratory analysis showed a significantly higher rate of complete protection during the delayed stage in the true electroacupuncture group compared with the sham electroacupuncture group, with no significant difference observed during the acute stage.

CONCLUSION
Adding true electroacupuncture to standard triple antiemetic therapy significantly enhances the efficacy of CINV treatment in patients with breast cancer receiving HEC.
The interactions of macrophages, lymphocytes, and mesenchymal stem cells during bone regeneration
Authors: Murayama Masatoshi , Chow Simon K. , Lee Max L. , Young Bill , Ergul Yasemin S. , Shinohara Issei , Susuki Yosuke , Toya Masakazu , Gao Qi , Goodman Stuart B. 
Published: September 2024

Bone regeneration and repair are crucial to ambulation and quality of life. Factors such as poor general health, serious medical comorbidities, chronic inflammation, and ageing can lead to delayed healing and nonunion of fractures, and persistent bone defects. Bioengineering strategies to heal bone often involve grafting of autologous bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) or mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) with biocompatible scaffolds. While BMAC shows promise, variability in its efficacy exists due to discrepancies in MSC concentration and robustness, and immune cell composition. Understanding the mechanisms by which macrophages and lymphocytes – the main cellular components in BMAC – interact with MSCs could suggest novel strategies to enhance bone healing. Macrophages are polarized into pro-inflammatory (M1) or anti-inflammatory (M2) phenotypes, and influence cell metabolism and tissue regeneration via the secretion of cytokines and other factors. T cells, especially helper T1 (Th1) and Th17, promote inflammation and osteoclastogenesis, whereas Th2 and regulatory T (Treg) cells have anti-inflammatory pro-reconstructive effects, thereby supporting osteogenesis. Crosstalk among macrophages, T cells, and MSCs affects the bone microenvironment and regulates the local immune response. Manipulating the proportion and interactions of these cells presents an opportunity to alter the local regenerative capacity of bone, which potentially could enhance clinical outcomes.Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2024;13(9):462–473.
Tandem heterodyne light sources with dual acousto-optic modulators as an example of the optical rotation measurement of water as a function of temperature
Authors: Chiu Ming-Hung , Chiu Chao-Ching 
Published: September 2024

We propose a new, to the best of our knowledge,
heterodyne light source based on a series of dual acousto-optic
modulators (AOMs). This structure differs from the Mach–Zehnder
architecture. The two acoustic waves with a little frequency
difference are in opposite directions to each other, and there are two
mirrors and a half-wave plate between them. The zeroth-order beam from
the first AOM passing through the wave plate is normally incident into
the second AOM. Adjusting the two mirrors lets the +1st-order beams of the two AOMs
coincide, as do the two −1st order beams. Consequently, two sets
of common-path heterodyne beams with orthogonal polarizations are
formed. The phase resolution of a heterodyne interferometer that we
implemented with this design is about 0.04 deg. We use it to
measure the optical rotation (OR) of water as a function of
temperature. When the temperature rises, the OR increases and goes
from negative to positive.
Are boarding secondary schools suitable for students with asthma? An asynchronous online focus group discussion among members of an asthma awareness group
Authors: Amorha Kosisochi Chinwendu , Ochie Kossy Maryann , Ogbodo Stephen Chukwuma , Akunne Olisaemeka Zikora , Obi Ogechi Christiana , Ene Nwamaka Theresa , Ifeanyi Chukwudi Richard , Ikokwu Jonathan , Eze Chibuike Victor , Ogbonna Emmanuella Tochukwu , Chukwu Marydith Ifeoma , Okafor Chinedu Collins , Echeta Chiamaka Ruth , Nwani Somtochi Prosper , Okoye Christabel Ogechukwu , Okonkwo Vanessa Chinweike , Eneje Chisom Jennifer , Ozota Gerald Obinna 
Published: September 2024

Introduction
Children in boarding schools spend most of their time without their parents or caregivers, causing concerns about the suitability of such schools for children with asthma. This study assessed individuals’ opinions regarding the suitability of boarding secondary schools for children with asthma.

Methods
A qualitative design was adopted for this study using a focus group discussion held on a social media platform (WhatsApp®) of the Asthma Awareness and Care Group (AACG), The group comprised 150 registered members. The study was guided by a structured protocol and based on a vignette comprising three questions. Data were analysed via thematic analysis using framework principles.

Results
Out of the 150 eligible members, there were responses from only 19 participants. Majority of the respondents were aged ≤ 30 years (n = 17, 89.5%). The three main themes generated from the thematic analysis include the appropriateness of boarding schools for children with asthma; facilities necessary for boarding schools to cater to children with asthma; and outright rejection of children with asthma by boarding schools. Respondents conceptualised the appropriateness of boarding schools for students with asthma in six distinct sub-themes: asthma severity and extent of control, child’s self-efficacy and assertiveness, child equipped with tools (knowledge, inhalers, and asthma control diary), school awareness, facilities, and active support, availability of a guardian, and the knowledge and perception of teachers and schoolmates about asthma. The sub-themes associated with the themes were presented, alongside exemplar quotes from respondents. The majority of the respondents (61.5%) were in support of allowing children with asthma attend boarding schools but with some caveats such as without liability to the school, if facilities are unavailable.

Conclusion
Children’s age, autonomy, asthma management status, and the school’s readiness were identified as important considerations for the safe attendance of children with asthma at boarding schools.
Assessing the Environmental Impact of Layer Chicken Farming: Sustainable Islamic Business Ethics and Economics
Authors: Aswar Muhammad Asrul , Arif Usman , Kurniawan Chandra , Nur Sausan , Aprilia Aura Nur , Pramudita Oktavia Dwi 
Published: September 2024

Abstract: This research examines the environmental impacts of layer farming from an Islamic studies perspective, focusing on Islamic business ethics and the interpretation of Qur'anic verses related to environmental conservation. Layer chicken farming, while providing economic and social benefits, also causes significant environmental impacts. This study uses a Qur'anic interpretation approach from Tafsir Al-Mishbah by Quraish Shihab, focusing on the cultivation practices by UD. Berkah Telur in Madiun. The research is qualitative-descriptive, collecting data through interviews and review of relevant literature. The results showed that UD. Berkah Telur tries to apply the principles of Islamic business ethics, especially in terms of livestock welfare and healthy product quality. However, there are still challenges in implementing sustainable Islamic economic principles across all aspects of operations. Nonetheless, the business has demonstrated a commitment to social and environmental responsibility in accordance with Islamic teachings. Islamic business ethics, as interpreted through Tafsir Al-Mishbah, underscores the importance of a vision of sustainability that is not only oriented towards short-term profits but also towards preserving the environment for the future.

Abstrak: Penelitian ini mengkaji dampak lingkungan dari budidaya ayam petelur dalam perspektif studi Islam, dengan menitikberatkan pada etika bisnis Islam dan interpretasi ayat-ayat Al-Qur'an terkait pelestarian lingkungan. Budidaya ayam petelur, meskipun memberikan manfaat ekonomi dan sosial, juga menimbulkan dampak lingkungan yang signifikan. Studi ini menggunakan pendekatan tafsir Al-Qur'an dari Tafsir Al-Mishbah karya Quraish Shihab, dengan fokus pada praktik budidaya oleh UD. Berkah Telur di Madiun. Penelitian ini bersifat kualitatif-deskriptif, mengumpulkan data melalui wawancara dan kajian literatur yang relevan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa UD. Berkah Telur berusaha menerapkan prinsip etika bisnis Islam, terutama dalam hal kesejahteraan ternak dan kualitas produk yang sehat. Namun, masih ada tantangan dalam menerapkan prinsip ekonomi Islam yang berkelanjutan di seluruh aspek operasional. Meskipun demikian, usaha ini telah menunjukkan komitmen terhadap tanggung jawab sosial dan lingkungan sesuai ajaran Islam. Etika bisnis Islam, sebagaimana diinterpretasikan melalui Tafsir Al-Mishbah, menggarisbawahi pentingnya visi keberlanjutan yang tidak hanya berorientasi pada keuntungan jangka pendek tetapi juga pada pelestarian lingkungan untuk masa depan.
The Fear of Failure: Ratings as a Form of Provisional Governance
Authors: Best Jacqueline 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
In Rating Politics, Zsófia Barta and Alison Johnson dig deeply into how and why ratings agencies act the way that they do and come up with a surprising conclusion: in spite of their very considerable global power, ratings agencies are above all driven by their fear of failure. In this short essay, I will take a closer look at this preoccupation with rating failures and draw out some of its wider implications for how we think about global economic governance. I will suggest that rather than seeing this fear of failure as a specific feature of ratings agencies we may want to understand it as part of a wider global shift towards more provisional forms of governance.
Future Contingents, Bivalence, and the Excluded Middle in Aristotle
Authors: Izgin Christopher 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
The principle of bivalence (PB) states that every declarative sentence is either true or false, and the principle of excluded middle (PEM) states that one member of any contradictory pair must be true. According to the standard interpretation of Int. 9, PB fails for future contingents. Moreover, some standardists believe that PEM fails for pairs of contradictory future contingents, whereas other standardists attempt to rescue PEM by applying the method of supervaluations. I argue that PB and PEM are not suspended and that the method of supervaluations fails to explain how PEM holds. I propose an interpretation of Int. 9 according to which neither PB nor PEM fails.