bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Associations between urban greenspace (normalized difference vegetation index) and SARS-CoV-2 incidence and severity across three Irish cities
Authors: Hynds Paul , O'Dwyer Jean , Boudou Martin , Garvey Patricia , o'Haiseadha Coilin , Khandelwal Shivam 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

To date, relatively few epidemiological studies have sought to identify and quantify associations between nature and SARS-CoV-2 infection. Likewise, while multiple studies have focused on the clinical factors pre-empting SARS-CoV-2 (e.g., underlying health conditions, age), no Irish research has examined the effect of the natural environmental on SARS-CoV-2 incidence or severity (hospitalization, ICU admission and mortality). Identifying areas and communities at higher risk due to local environmental factors constitutes a knowledge gap for informing mitigation/intervention strategies prior to future similar public health events. Accordingly, the current study focused on three major Irish cities: Dublin, Cork, and Galway. A Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) dataset was constructed using the Google Earth Engine Explorer and Sentinel-2 MSI (Multispectral Instrument) open-access software. NDVI values were geographically linked to Small Area (SA) units across all three cities and associated with their respective SARS-CoV-2 incidence and severity rates from March to November 2020, with demographically and socioeconomically delineated (to account for the confounding) generalised linear modelling subsequently employed to identify relationships between greenspace proportion and SARS-CoV-2. Overall, 22,773 symptomatic laboratory-confirmed and georeferenced cases of SARS-CoV-2 were included for analyses. Greenspace proportion was negatively associated with SARS-CoV-2 incidence rates across all three cities (i.e., increased greenspace conurrent with lower incidence of SARS-CoV-2), with these associations remaining significant when models included potential confounders (aORs 0.101–0.501). Likewise, increased greenspace was typically associated with decreased levels of SARS-CoV-2, however, associations were less pronounced or not present in areas characterised by younger populations and/or increasing affluence. Differing levels of association were found with respect to case gender (male cases typically more “responsive”) and city (less populated cities typically more “responsive”). Findings provide a crucial evidence base for researchers, policymakers and healthcare practitioners to appropriately design non-pharmaceutical interventions and engage with communities to successfully promote appropriate health behaviours.
Role of Glucocerebrosidase in Metabolic Reprogramming and Prognosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Insights from a Comprehensive Gene Expression Analysis
Authors: Li Xin , Ma Jie , Wang Kun , Xu Xiaoyu , Li Jiarui , Yang Yanhui , Yang Yi 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) poses a substantial global public health concern, with its intricate pathogenesis remaining incompletely elucidated. Metabolic reprogramming is pivotal in liver cancer progression. This study investigates the role of the lysosomal enzyme Glucocerebrosidase (GBA) in HCC initiation.
Methods: We analyzed GBA-related gene expressions in 1003 primary liver cancer samples from the GEO database and 433 liver cancer samples from the TCGA database to examine GBA expression patterns and their association with liver cancer prognosis. Additionally, we manipulated GBA and glucosylceramide synthase (UGCG) expressions in the MHCC-97H cell line to investigate their effects on lysosomal and non-lysosomal metabolic genes.
Results: GBA expression was significantly elevated in liver cancer samples and closely associated with poor prognosis. Overexpression of GBA led to upregulation of related lysosomal metabolic genes (NEU1, CTSD, CTSA, GALNS, GLB1) and non-lysosomal metabolic genes (ACOT8, FDPS, PMVK, PIGC, B4GALT3). Non-lysosomal genes were involved in N-acetyl metabolism, fatty acid β-oxidation, and cholesterol synthesis. Co-upregulation of UGCG and GBA resulted in a dose-dependent increase in ACOT family gene expressions (ACOT8, ACOT4, ACOT9, ACOT11). Survival analysis indicated high expression of these genes was related to lower short-term survival rates in liver cancer patients.
Conclusion: Our findings suggest GBA plays a role in the metabolic reprogramming of HCC, influencing disease progression and prognosis by modulating genes involved in N-acetyl metabolism and lysosomal complexes. Downregulating GBA expression may present a potential therapeutic strategy for managing HCC.
Determinants and barriers of modern family planning uptake among postpartum mothers at selected regional referral hospitals in Uganda, October 2023
Authors: Nakkazi Joan , Buhuguru Remmy Nasanairo , Wandui Charles Sebunyo , Looru Mark , Emor Vincent , Misinde Ronald , Ongol Denis , Ocen James , Mwolobi Esther , Yatuwa Jude , Kizito Ali , Nakimuli Cynthia , Nambozo Harriet , Agings Willy , Opira Churchill , Morukileng Job , Nakaweesi Winfred , Elayeete Sarah , Kizito Saudah Namubiru , Ario Alex R. , Bulage Lilian , Gonahasa Doreen Nsimiire , Nansikombi Hildah Tendo 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Postpartum family planning (PPFP) is important in reducing the risk of complications associated with closely spaced pregnancies. Family planning programmes usually promote the use of modern methods rather than traditional methods as the latter have a higher failure rate. However, only 28% of postpartum women in Uganda use modern FP. We identified determinants and barriers of modern FP uptake among postpartum mothers at selected regional referral hospitals (RRH) in Uganda, October 2023.
Methods
We conducted a cross-sectional study among 499 postpartum mothers aged 18–49 years, and attending immunization clinics in seven selected RRH during October 2023. We defined modern FP uptake as use of a contemporary contraception method including: condoms, intrauterine devices (IUD), male or female sterilization, injectables, oral contraceptives and implants. We conducted interviews to collect data on sociodemographic characteristics, reproductive health and obstetric history and modern FP uptake. We summarized participant characteristics using frequency distributions, and identified determinants of uptake using modified Poisson regression.
Results
Among 499 postpartum mothers, most were aged 25–34 years (45%), unemployed (33%), and had attained secondary education (45%). The majority had heard about modern FP (85%), received counselling regarding PPFP (64%), and were using modern FP methods (46%). Mother being formally employed (aPR = 1.5, 95%CI: 1.1–2.1), having an employed partner (aPR = 4.14, 95%CI:1.31–13.05), exclusive breastfeeding (aPR = 0.8, 95%CI: 0.65–0.99), receiving counselling on FP (aPR = 2.9,95%CI: 2.1–4.02) were associated with modern FP uptake. Among 270 mothers who did not take up modern FP, spouse not being around (17%), fear of side effects (13%), and not being decided on method (10%) were the commonest reasons for non-uptake of modern FP.
Conclusion
Uptake of modern FP among postpartum mothers was suboptimal given that all postpartum mothers should be using family planning. Mother being employed, partner employment, exclusive breastfeeding and receiving counselling on FP were associated with uptake of modern FP. Spouse not being around, fear of side effects and not being decided on FP method, were the commonest reasons for non-uptake of modern FP. We recommended intensifying FP counseling services in addition to health education for mothers and their partners on the benefits of using modern FP to improve modern FP uptake among postpartum mothers.
Non-linear Association between Composite Dietary Antioxidant Index and Pulmonary Function: A Cross-Sectional Study Based on NHANES 2007-2012
Authors: Wang Ping , Wang Jiaxin , Jiang Zewei , Liu Bin 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
The relationship between pulmonary function and various diseases was well established; however, limited research has been conducted to examine the association between diet and pulmonary function. Investigating the potential correlation between the composite dietary antioxidant index (CDAI) in diet and pulmonary function could provide valuable insight into the role of diet in improving pulmonary function.
Methods
This cross-sectional population-based study utilized data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES 2007 - 2012). Weighted multivariate linear regression analysis and stratified analysis were constructed to analyze the association of CDAI and pulmonary function—forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC). Restricted Cubic Spline was employed to detect the non-linearly association between them.
Results
In total, 8926 individuals from the NHANES dataset represented around 149.48 million non-institutionalized residents of the United States (mean age: 44.08 ± 0.43 years, with females accounting for 50.03%). The weighted multivariable linear regression models showed a positive association between CDAI and pulmonary function, consistent with the sensitive analysis. When compared to the lowest quartile, the beta value (β) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for FVC in Q3 and Q4 CDAI groups were 117.18 (55.43, 178.93), and 143.57 (97.23, 189.91), respectively; for FEV1, they were 70.64 (21.21, 120.07), and 76.68 (25.73, 127.63).
Conclusions
Our investigation found that CDAI levels were non-linearly and positively associated to FVC and FEV1. Based on these results, supplementing the combined antioxidants derived from food may be a promising and effective strategy for improving pulmonary function.
First report of invasive mealybug Hypogeococcus pungens Granara de Willink from India
Authors: Joshi Sunil , Rajgopal Nernakallu N. , Amarendra Bellapu , Asritha Chava , Karthik Chiikkabidare M. , Venkatesan Thiruvengadam , Sushil Satya Nand 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Over the last decade, India has witnessed unintentional entry of five species of invasive species of mealybugs, perhaps due to globalization and global trade, leading to economic and ecological negative consequences. Through this paper, we report the first occurrence of the destructive mealybug Hypogeococcus pungens Granara de Willink in India infesting two nursery plant species of Alternanthera and a wild Portulaca sp. As early detection, identification, and rapid reporting are essential for the successful management of destructive species, we describe in details the field and diagnostic characters of mounted mealybug with help of field and microphotographic images. We also confirmed the identity of the mealybug through molecular studies by sequencing mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COX I) and 28S ribosomal genes. Information on its host range, natural enemies, and distribution is provided. Management options in the event of an outbreak are discussed briefly. This new arrival warrants special attention in India as it is a potentially damaging plant pest in landscapes, and vertical gardening practiced in offices, commercial complexes, and luxury apartments.
Association between Headache and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) among Middle-aged and Elderly Individuals: Evidence from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS)
Authors: Li Tianjiao , Li Lingxuan , Bai Xiujuan , Xie Hongyang , Ping Rongyu , Guo Yane , Li Dongmei , Zhang Yuwei , Sun Bo 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Studies investigating the association between headache and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are lacking. This study evaluated the independent association between headache and MCI among middle-aged and older Chinese adults using data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS).
Methods
This prospective cohort study used headache and cognitive data from two waves of the CHARLS collected in 2011 (wave 1) and 2015 (wave 3). The study population consisted of individuals who are 45 years of age or older with complete data on headache and cognitive assessments. We used statistical methods such as linear regression and multiple logistic regression to analyze the data.
Results
The study initially enrolled 12,623 participants with a mean age of 58.9 years; 52.6% were female. Cognitive scores were lower in the headache group across all domains in the cross-sectional analysis (β= -0.39, 95% CI: -0.57~-0.21).
Longitudinally, the headache group had a higher risk of MCI at baseline (OR=2.30, 95% CI: 2.05 to 2.58) and follow-up (OR=2.46, 95% CI: 1.86 to 3.26), with persisting significance after adjustments (baseline adjusted OR=1.32, follow-up adjusted OR=1.42, both p<0.05). In the subgroup analyses, no significant interactions were observed between the groups (p > 0.05).
Conclusions
Participants with headache disorders had lower cognitive scores and had a higher risk of developing MCI in middle-aged and older Chinese population. As headache may increase the risk of MCI, headache prevention and treatment is of vital importance in preventing cognitive impairment, improving the quality of life in middle-aged and older population.
Nivolumab Combined with Chemotherapy in FGFR2 and PD-L1 Co- Expressing Metastatic Gastric Cancer: A Prospective Phase 2 NIVOFGFR2 Study
Authors: Tsimafeyeu Ilya , Musayeva Gunel , Mahmudova Samira , Otkhozoria Nana , Abbasov Bahadur , Kahharov Alisher , Guliyev Fuad 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Immunotherapy is increasingly significant in treating metastatic gastric cancer. This prospective phase 2 study investigates the efficacy and safety of combining nivolumab with chemotherapy in patients with metastatic gastric cancer co-expressing FGFR2 and PD-L1.
Methods
Eligible patients were aged 18 years or older, with previously untreated HER-2 negative, PD-L1 positive, and FGFR2 positive metastatic gastric adenocarcinoma. Patients received nivolumab (360 mg every 3 weeks) in combination with chemotherapy (CAPOX: capecitabine 1000 mg/m² twice daily on days 1–14 and oxaliplatin 130 mg/m² on day 1, every 3 weeks). Tumor assessments were conducted using RECIST v1.1 every 8 weeks for 48 weeks, then every 12 weeks. The primary endpoint was the 1-year progression-free survival (PFS) rate. Secondary endpoints included median PFS, overall survival (OS), objective response rate (ORR), and grade ≥ 3 adverse events (AEs).
Results
From June 2022 to October 2023, 194 patients were assessed for eligibility, with 23 patients enrolled and treated. At a median follow-up of 17.3 months, the 1-year PFS rate was 30.4%, with a median PFS of 6.0 months (95% CI, 4.3–7.7). The median OS was 15.1 months (95% CI, 13.2–16.8). The ORR was 21.7%, with one complete response and four partial responses. Grade 3 or higher TRAEs were reported in 34.8% of patients, primarily associated with chemotherapy. No treatment-related deaths occurred.
Conclusions
While the primary endpoint of improved 1-year PFS rate was not met, the study offers valuable insights into the potential benefits of combining nivolumab with chemotherapy in FGFR2 and PD-L1 co-expressing metastatic gastric cancer. Future research should optimize patient selection, assess combined immunotherapy and targeted anti-FGFR2 therapy, and further investigate the role of subsequent treatments to maximize therapeutic benefits.
Loss to follow-up of patients after antiviral treatment as an additional barrier to HCV elimination
Authors: Dorota Zarębska-Michaluk , Michał Brzdęk , Olga Tronina , Justyna Janocha-Litwin , Marek Sitko , Anna Piekarska , Jakub Klapaczyński , Anna Parfieniuk-Kowerda , Sobala-Szczygieł Barbara , Magdalena Tudrujek-Zdunek , Łukasz Laurans , Robert Flisiak 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Eliminating hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections is a goal set by the World Health Organization. This has become possible with the introduction of highly effective and safe direct-acting antivirals (DAA) but limitations remain due to undiagnosed HCV infections and loss of patients from the cascade of care at various stages, including those lost to follow-up (LTFU) before the assessment of the effectiveness of the therapy. The aim of our study was to determine the extent of this loss and to establish the characteristics of patients experiencing it.
Methods
Patients with chronic HCV infection from the Polish retrospective multicenter EpiTer-2 database who were treated with DAA therapies between 2015--2023 were included in the study.
Results
In the study population of 18,968 patients, 106 had died by the end of the 12-week post-treatment follow-up period, and 509 patients did not report for evaluation of therapy effectiveness while alive and were considered LTFU. Among patients with available assessment of sustained virological response (SVR), the effectiveness of therapy was 97.5%. A significantly higher percentage of men (p<0.0001) and a lower median age (p=0.0001) were documented in LTFU compared to the group with available SVR assessment. In LTFU patients, comorbidities such as alcohol (p<0.0001) and drug addiction (p=0.0005), depression (p=0.0449) or other mental disorders (p<0.0001), and and co-infection with human immundeficiency virus (HIV) (p<0.0001) were significantly more common as compared to those with SVR assessment. They were also significantly more often infected with genotype (GT) 3, less likely to be treatment-experienced and more likely to discontinue DAA therapy.
Conclusions
In a real-world population of nearly 19,000 HCV-infected patients, we documented a 2.7% loss to follow-up rate. Independent predictors of this phenomenon were male gender, GT3 infection, HIV co-infection, alcohol addiction, mental illnessess, lack of prior antiviral treatment and discontinuation of DAA therapy.
A Novel Deep Learning Approach for Cervical Vertebral Maturation Classification
Authors: Norman Noraina Hafizan , Rosli Marshima Mohd , Al-Jaf Nagham Mohammed , Mohammad Norhasmira , Yusof Mohd Yusmiaidil Putera Mohd 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Objectives
This study aims to automatically determine the cervical vertebral maturation staging (CVM) on lateral cephalometric radiograph images using a customized deep convolutional neural network (DCNN) model and to evaluate the classification performance using a custom DCNN model in detecting CVM stages.
Methods
A dataset of 922 digital lateral cephalometric radiographs from individuals aged 7–20 years was collected. Image quality was assessed for artifacts and clarity of C2-C4 vertebrae. CVM staging was independently performed by two orthodontists, with inter-observer reliability assessed using kappa coefficient. Image pre-processing involved random oversampling to address class imbalance and resizing to 128x128 pixels. A custom convolutional neural network was developed, with hyperparameters optimized using random search. The final architecture comprised convolutional layers, global average pooling, dense layers, and dropout. The model was trained for 50 epochs using Adam optimizer and categorical cross-entropy loss. Performance evaluation included accuracy, loss, and confusion matrix analysis on a validation set.
Results
A novel convolutional neural network was developed for the classification of CVM staging. This custom model initially exhibited overfitting, achieving perfect training accuracy but only 57% validation accuracy due to class imbalance. Implementing Random Oversampling (ROS) addressed this issue by balancing the dataset. Hyperparameter tuning optimized the model architecture, resulting in a final validation accuracy of 85.96%. The model demonstrated strong performance in classifying CVMS 1, 2, and 3, with precision and recall exceeding 95%. However, classification of CVMS 4 and 5 posed challenges, with lower precision and recall values. Overall accuracy reached 88.2%, indicating a generally robust model, though further improvements are necessary for CVMS 5.
Conclusion
This study successfully developed a custom deep convolutional neural network for automated cervical vertebral maturation (CVM) staging on lateral cephalometric radiographs. By addressing class imbalance and optimizing hyperparameters, the model achieved a validation accuracy of 88.2%. While demonstrating potential for clinical application, the model’s performance varied across CVM stages, indicating a need for further refinement to improve accuracy and robustness.
Characterization of the Temporal Profile of the Antinociceptive Effects of an Intravenous Bolus of Ketamine Using the Analgesia Nociception Index
Authors: Navarrete Víctor , Ibacache Mauricio , Contreras Víctor , Cortínez Ignacio 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Purpose
An effect-site target-controlled infusion (TCI) would allow a more precise titration of intravenous analgesics effect. The analgesia nociception index (ANI) continuously monitors the analgesia/nociception balance during general anesthesia. This study aims to derive a PKPD model of ketamine to allow an effect-site TCI administration using the ANI information and previously described pharmacokinetic parameters.
Methods
Twenty adult patients under general anesthesia were prospectively studied. Patients received a single intravenous bolus of ketamine 0.1 mg·kg-1, and the subsequent ANI values were recorded. An effect compartment model incorporating the Domino PK parameter set was used to characterize the time lag between ketamine plasma concentrations and the ANI response. The model was parameterized with a single parameter Ke0. An Emax pharmacodynamic model was used to fit the ANI response data. Model parameters were estimated with NONMEM® 7.5. The minimum objective function value guided the model construction.
Results
After the ketamine administration, basal ANI values increased from 38.5 ± 4.95 to a maximum of 53.5 ± 4.95 with an observed time-to-peak effect of 1.83 ± 0.74 min. Modeling analysis revealed hysteresis between predicted plasma concentrations from the Domino model and observed ANI data. Hysteresis was characterized, incorporating an estimated Keo of 0.238 (CI95% 0.20–0.28) min-1 to the described PK parameters set.
Conclusions
The developed PKPD model, using Domino’s PK parameters and the ANI response data, adequately characterized the temporal profile of ketamine's antinociceptive effect. The current estimated model parameters can be used to perform an effect-site TCI of ketamine for analgesic purposes.