bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Plasmodium falciparum genetic diversity and multiplicity of infection among asymptomatic and symptomatic malaria-infected individuals in Uganda
Authors: Mwesigwa Alex , Ocan Moses , Cummings Bryan , Musinguzi Benson , Kiyaga Shahiid , Kiwuwa Steven M , Okoboi Okoboi , Castelnuovo Barbara , Bikaitwoha Everd Maniple , Kalyango Joan N. , Karamagi Charles , Nankabirwa Joaniter I. , Nsobya Samuel L , Kibwika Pauline Byakika 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background: Plasmodium falciparum remains a significant public health challenge globally, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, where it accounts for 99% of the disease burden. Infection outcomes vary widely from asymptomatic to severe, influenced by factors such as parasite genetic diversity and multiplicity of infection (MOI). This study utilized seven neutral microsatellite markers to investigate Plasmodium falciparum genetic diversity and MOI in both asymptomatic and symptomatic individuals in Uganda.
Methods: This cross-sectional study analyzed 225 isolates from asymptomatic and symptomatic malaria patients (ages 6 months to ≥18 years). Genetic diversity and multiplicity of infection (MOI) of Plasmodium falciparum were assessed using seven microsatellite markers. STATA ver 17 and genetic analysis software were used for data analysis.
Results: Plasmodium falciparum exhibited high genetic diversity in both asymptomatic and symptomatic infections. The mean expected heterozygosity (He) ranged from 0.798 (95% CI: 0.75-0.84) in symptomatic uncomplicated cases to 0.809 (95% CI: 0.77-0.85) in asymptomatic cases. MOI did not significantly differ (p = 0.3342) between asymptomatic and symptomatic infections, with mean MOI ranging from 1.92 (95% CI: 1.61–2.23) in symptomatic complicated cases to 2.10 (95% CI: 1.83–2.37) in asymptomatic cases. Polyclonal infections were prevalent, varying from 58.4% (95% CI: 44.60-72.39) to 63% (95% CI: 51.22-74.78) across malaria infection categories.
Conclusion:There is a high level of Plasmodium falciparum genetic diversity and MOI in Uganda. Asymptomatic carriers host harbor diverse parasites, posing challenges for malaria control and necessitating targeted interventions for effective strategies.
Percent amplitude of fluctuations demonstrates altered brain activity in patients with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Authors: Rodriguez-Manrique Daniela , Bremer Benno , Gürsel Deniz A. , Zimmer Claus , Koch Kathrin 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Resting state fMRI (rs-fMRI) Studies have shown that patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) exhibit alterations in cortical excitability and neuronal synchronisation. Amplitude of low frequency fluctuations (ALFF) is a measure used assess the intensity of low frequency oscillations (LFOs) between 0.01-0.1Hz, which are believed to reflect neural activity. Amplitudes of these LFOs are of particular interest as they have shown to range depending on brain area and task. However, ALFF requires standardization and current methods show several shortcomings. To this end, percentage amplitude of fluctuations (PerAF) represents a new approach that has been shown to be valid and more reliable. To attain an improved understanding of OCD pathophysiology, this study investigated alterations of PerAF in a sample of OCD patients. Rs-fMRI data and Yale-Brown Compulsive Obsessive Scale (Y-BOCS) scores of 47 OCD patients and 36 age- and sex-matched healthy controls were obtained. Using RESTplus, the data were preprocessed and PerAF at each voxel was calculated. Groups were compared using t-tests for independent samples, and results were correlated with Y-BOCS scores. Compared to controls, OCD patients showed significantly lower PerAF in the bilateral cingulate gyrus and the right temporal gyrus. Additionally, OCD patients also displayed significantly decreased LFOs signal intensity in the bilateral thalamus and the insula. Notably, these differences showed a trend in correlating with patient-reported compulsion severity and duration of illness. These results indicate that (m)PerAF identifies differences in spontaneous brain activity between OCD patients and healthy controls. Our study shows alterations in LFOs that seem to be neuropathologically relevant for the disorder of OCD but further studies are certainly needed to assess the reliability of this relatively new analysis approach.
Enhancing Antitumor Activity of Herceptin in HER2-Positive Breast Cancer Cells: A Novel DNMT-1 Inhibitor Approach
Authors: Ren Li-li , Song Yan-ru , Song Zhen-chuan , Yang Hua , Zhang Qian , Ji Meng-meng , Xiao Na , Wen Ming , Wang Ji-hai 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

HER2 antagonists remain the cornerstone of therapy for patients with HER2-positive breast cancer. This study introduces a novel small-molecule inhibitor of DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT-1), referred to as DI-1, designed to synergize with HER2 antagonists in treating HER2-positive breast cancer cells. Clinical data reveal a negative correlation between DNMT-1 expression and PTEN levels, and a positive correlation with the methylation rates of PTEN's promoter. In experiments with SKBR3 and BT474 cells, DI-1 effectively reduced the methylation of PTEN's promoter region, thereby upregulating PTEN expression. This upregulation, in turn, enhanced the cells' sensitivity to HER2 antagonists, indicating that DI-1’s mechanism involves inhibiting DNMT-1’s recruitment to PTEN's promoter region. Consequently, by increasing PTEN expression, DI-1 amplifies the sensitivity of HER2-positive breast cancer cells to treatment, suggesting its potential as a promising therapeutic strategy in this context.
"The system"- An AI-Based Knowledge Recommender to Support Precision Education, Improve Reporting Productivity and Reduce Cognitive Load
Authors: Lopez-Rippe Julian , Reddy Manasa , Velez-Florez Maria Camila , Amiruddin Raisa , Gokli Ami , Francavilla Michael , Reid Janet R. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Using artificial intelligence (AI) to augment knowledge is key to establishing precision education in modern radiology training. Our department has developed a novel AI-derived knowledge recommender, “The system” (RH), that augments the training of radiology residents and fellows, leading to the first precision education program in radiology.
Purpose
To assess the impact on trainees of an AI-based knowledge recommender compared to traditional knowledge sourcing for radiology reporting through reporting time, quality, cognitive load, and learning experiences.
Materials and Methods
A mixed methods prospective study allocated trainees to intervention and control groups, working with and without access to RH, respectively. Validated questionnaires and observed and graded simulated PACS-based reporting at the start and end of a month’s rotation assessed technology acceptance, image interpretation quality, turnaround time, cognitive load, and attitudes toward modified learning strategies.
Results
The RH group showed a statistically significant reduction in mean case reading time by 161.5 seconds for every case (~ 2 ½ minutes; p = 0.022) and mean case-sourcing time by 113 seconds for difficult cases (~ 2 minutes; p = 0.026). The intervention group showed a 14% increase in image interpretation accuracy (p < 0.001) as well as reduced overall workload (p = 0.029), mental demand (p = 0.030), and effort (p = 0.039). Additionally, 45–65% positively rated productivity and effectiveness with over 80% finding it flexible and easy to use, with strong optimism towards technology (3.9–4.3/5) and moderate to high intrinsic motivation (5.1-6.0/7). Eighty-four percent of participants requested access to RH for their next rotation.
Conclusion
This study supports the growing philosophy that AI will boost rather than replace human intelligence in medical training with enhanced quality and productivity. Our knowledge recommender can effectively augment the knowledge and performance of radiology trainees, and it is highly likely that the learner will use RH to promote self-directed learning. Further testing of a larger external cohort will support more widespread implementation of RH for precision education.
FCGR3A polymorphism : It is helpful for the management of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Zhong Xushu , Xu Juan , Yang Yunfan , Liu Qinyu , Tang Wenjiao , Wang Jie , Zhang Chunlan , Lv Shuli , Long Yanhong , Xu Caigang 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Fc receptors (FcRs) polymorphisms may affect the affinity of rituximab for antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) effector cells. The C1qA polymorphism may influence C1q levels, but their significance in treatment response and survival is unknown. This study evaluated the role of FCGR3A, C1qA, and HLA-G polymorphisms in the outcomes of patients with diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) treated with rituximab and chemotherapy. Genomic DNA was isolated from the peripheral blood in 314 patients with newly diagnosed DLBCL. The association of polymorphisms in FCGR3A, C1qA, and HLA-G genes with overall response rate (ORR) and overall survival (OS) was analyzed. The ORR for FCGR3A genotypes VV, FV, and FF were 90.3, 82.7, and 84.7%, respectively, there was no statistical difference (P > 0.05). A significant difference was observed in the 5-year OS rate between the FF (51.8%), FV (66.9%), and VV (74.2%) genotypes (P = 0.009). The 5-year OS rate for patient with FF genotypes treated for ≤ six cycles was significantly lower than those treated for > six cycles (46 vs. 65.1%, P = 0.018). No statistically significant relationship was found between the C1qA gene polymorphism and patients' outcomes (P > 0.05). The HLA-G gene polymorphism was rarely detected in this study. FCGR3A gene polymorphism was associated with the survival of DLBCL patients and acted as an independent prognostic factor. Prolonged treatment has been anticipated to improve patients’ survival among rituximab-insensitive FF genotype patients. In contrast, more than six cycles of treatment did not result in additional survival benefits for patients with rituximab-sensitive VV and FV genotype.
Enhancing Performance of BLDC: An Improved Fast Terminal Slide Mode Control for BLDC Motor Speed Control
Authors: Neda Omar Muhammed 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Due to their several merits over brushed DC motors, comprising their superior dynamic characteristics, higher efficiency, a slightly lower noise level, and their utilize of an electronic commutation unit rather than a mechanical one, a brushless direct current (BLDC) motors are in high demand in a wide range of applications. To optimize efficacy and performance, the optimal control method for a BLDC motor operating at different speeds or loads needs to be planned. The objective of this study is for improving the speed control method for BLDC motors operating at various loads or reference speeds. This work suggests an improved method to control the speed of BLDC motors by using the improved fast terminal slide mode control (IFTSMC) technique. With the help of simulation, the suggested strategy's efficiency is evaluated utilizing MATLAB/Simulink software. A comparison is made between the proposed methodology, the proportional integral derivative (PID), and the sliding mode control (SMC) approaches for demonstrating the superiority and robustness of the control method that is offered. In comparison to other methods, the suggested control approach has a lower overshoot value of 0.008%, while 13.1368% for the PID, and 1.3% under the SMC method. Finally, the proposed IFTSMC shows less steady state error (SSE) in the speed responses under all case studies where the SSE of IFTSMC is 0.116745 RPM and this value is better to that of the PID (3.609496 RPM) and SMC (5.316406 RPM).
Agroforestry in buffer zones as a strategy for biodiversity conservation and resource management: A case study from Bouba Ndjidda National Park, Cameroon
Authors: Boukeng Elvire José Djiongo , Atangana Alain R. , Avana Marie Louise Tiencheu , Zapfack Louis , Desrochers André , Dzo Imelda Gaëlle Maaku , Banoho Louis-Paul-Roger Kabelong , Khasa Damase 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Protected areas in the Sudano-Sahelian zone face increasing threats from human activities. Implementing agroforestry systems (AFS) in buffer zones is recommended to mitigate these threats. We characterized AFS around Bouba Ndjidda National Park (BNNP), Cameroon, using ethnobotanical surveys and tree inventories in 50 m x 50 m quadrats. The study focused on AFS diversity, structure, woody plant diversity, and the uses of agroforestry trees and products by local communities to assess their contribution to conserving tree resources and proposing actions to reducing encroachment on the park's resources. Identified AFS included agroforestry parklands (98%), homegardens (83%), fallows (72%), and live fences (6%). Woody plant richness comprised 50 species from 42 genera and 23 families, with Fabaceae being the most dominant. Acacia polyacantha had the highest Importance Value Index at 88.65. Species richness was higher in fallows and agroforestry parklands. Live fences had the highest Shannon index and the lowest Simpson and Pielou's evenness indices. Tree density was higher in live fences (P < 0.05) than in other AFS. Farmers used woody plant species primarily for fuelwood (66.49%) and food (63.69%). Vitellaria paradoxa recorded the highest Use Value at 4.36, while Anacardium occidentale had the highest Cultural Importance Index at 1.00. Two endangered species, Khaya senegalensis and Vitellaria paradoxa, were found in the AFS. Enriching agroforestry systems with species that produce firewood and food while promoting the protection and cultivation of endangered species is crucial for biodiversity conservation and sustainable livelihoods.
Third generation cryotherapy reduces time to surgery and local complications in patients with ankle fractures: a prospective randomized controlled trial.
Authors: Via Alessio Giai , Pipino Gennaro , Anzano Francesco , Alonzo Raffaella , D'Arrigo Carmelo , De Santis Stefania , Spoliti Marco , Fidone Giovanna , Lanzetti Riccardo Maria 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Ankle fractures are common injuries and cryotherapy is routinely used to reduce pain, swelling and local skin complications, both before and after surgery. However, the results on ankle surgery are contradictory. The aim of this study is to report the results with the use of third generation cryotherapy (Z- One®, Zamar, Italy) in the preoperative treatment of ankle fractures. We investigated the time to surgery, pain, opioids intake, and local skin complications. Methods 169 patients with ankle fracture were randomized in two groups, the cryotherapy group (89 patients) and the control group (C: 80 patients). The time-to- surgery, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the analgesic drug demand (including morphine or acetaminophen) were recorded. The development of skin complications was assessed on a daily basis. BMI and number of cigarettes smoked were also recorded. Results The mean time-to-surgery was shorter in patients treated with cryotherapy compared to the control group (34,78 hrs. vs. 91.44 hrs., p < 0.001). A significant difference between treatments and controls was also found for VAS, morphine intake (number of vails), and skin complications. The mean preoperatory VAS and morphine assumption were lower in the treatment group compared to controls (mean VAS 2.04 vs. 5.9, mean morphine assumption 0.01 vs. 0.83). 4.5% of patients in the cryotherapy group developed a skin complication compared to 28.7% of the control group, and the 85% of skin injuris occured in the non-cryotherapy group (p < 0.001). Conclusion Third generation cryotherapy is effective in reducing time-to-surgery, pre-operative pain and opioids intake in patients hospitalized for ankle fracture. It is also effective in reducing the occurrence of skin complications. No mayor complication related to the use of the device have been reported. Third generation cryotherapy may be useful in perioperative treatment of patients hospitalized for ankle fracture. Level of evidence: I (RCT) International Clinical Trial Registration Number: NCT06396364
Burnout Prevalence Among Health Care Providers at King Fahd Hospital of The University and Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University Family Medicine Center- Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alfayez Murtada , Holdar Mohammad 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
HCPs are often subject to elevated discomfort in their daily jobs and are more likely to suffer from behavioral illness. As a result of burnout, healthcare workers can experience symptoms such as mood disorders, and a sense of weakness.
Despite its critical significance, little is known about HCPs burnout in Saudi Arabia.
Aim
To determine the prevalence of burnout and potential risk factors among healthcare providers at King Fahd Hospital of The University and Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University Family Medicine Center in KSA with consideration of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Setting
The MBI used as contains 22 questionnaire items designed to be administered to HCPs (physicians, residents, interns, nurses, respiratory therapists, pharmacists, radiologists, laboratory technicians, and physiotherapists)
Methodology
We specifically targeted high load areas which currently responsible for caring for higher flow of patients and involved more in caring of COVID-19 patients, Emergency Medicine department. Primary care department, critical care units, and internal medicine department as well as a surgical department. This study was conducted in 2021-2023 as drawn randomly over 3 phases.
Results and Conclusion
We conclude that HCWs who care for inpatients have a higher depersonalization than those who care for outpatients. Interestingly, mixed work type i.e., caring for outpatients & inpatients did not have an impact on burnout level. Although, clinicians who cared for more clinic patients were found to have a higher level of Personal Accomplishment indicating a positive number of clinic patients cared for and personal accomplishment.
Loneliness and long-term health-related quality of life: A latent class analysis among middle-aged and older Australian women
Authors: Ding Ding , Hagani Neta , Owen Katherine , Clare Philip , Merom Dafna , Smith Ben 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Loneliness has been long associated with poor health outcomes including health-related quality of life (HRQoL). However, few studies used longitudinal data and none to our knowledge considered the dynamic nature of loneliness over time.
Objective
To identify longitudinal patterns of loneliness over 18 years and its association with physical and mental HRQoL of middle-aged and older women.
Methods
Data were from the Australian Longitudinal Study of Women's Health. Latent Class Analysis was conducted to identify long-term loneliness patterns. Multinomial logistic regression was used to examine the prospective associations between baseline predictors of loneliness and loneliness trajectories. Linear regression was used to examine the association between loneliness trajectories and HRQoL.
Results
Baseline predictors such as current smoking, depression, anxiety, stress and low social engagement were associated with higher odds of increasing, stable medium and stable high loneliness. Compared to stable low loneliness, increasing [B = -3.73 (95%CI = -5.42, -2.04)], medium [B = -3.12 (95%CI = -5.08, -1.15)] and high loneliness [B = -5.67 (95%CI = -6.84, -4.49)] were associated with lower mental HRQoL. The increasing loneliness class was also associated with lower physical HRQoL [B = -1.06 (95%CI = -2.11, -0.02)]. Out of all HRQoL sub-scales, emotional role, social functioning and physical role were the most strongly associated with loneliness.
Conclusions
Long-term loneliness patterns are consistently associated with prospective physical and mental HRQoL. This finding highlights the importance of addressing loneliness among women to promote their health and well-being.
Psychometric Properties of an Arabic Translation of the shortest version of the Obsessive Beliefs Questionnaire (OBQ-9) in adults
Authors: Hemade Ali , Fekih-Romdhane Feten , Obeid Sahar , Hallit Souheil 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is a chronic and debilitating mental health condition characterized by intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors. The Obsessive Beliefs Questionnaire-9 is a concise tool designed to assess the dysfunctional beliefs central to OCD. This study aimed to translate, adapt, and validate the OBQ-9 for use in Arabic-speaking populations.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted on 392 Lebanese adults. Participants completed the Arabic OBQ-9, the Eating Attitudes Test-7, and the Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory-12 through online self-administered questionnaires. The OBQ-9 was translated using a forward-backward method and validated through confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), internal consistency reliability, gender invariance testing, and concurrent validity assessment.
Results
The CFA supported a three-factor structure of the Arabic OBQ-9, with fit indices improving significantly after minor modifications (χ2/df = 4.23, RMSEA = .091, SRMR = .060, CFI = .941, TLI = .908). The OBQ-9 demonstrated good internal consistency, with Cronbach's alpha values for the total score and subscales ranging from .70 to .84. Gender invariance was confirmed, with no significant differences between male and female scores (p = .446). Concurrent validity was supported by significant correlations between OBQ-9 scores and both EAT-7 (r = .21, p < .001) and OCI-12 (r = .41, p < .001) scores.
Conclusion
The Arabic OBQ-9 is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing obsessive beliefs in Arabic-speaking populations. It can enhance the accuracy of OCD diagnosis and treatment in clinical and research settings. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies and broader demographic samples to further validate the OBQ-9 and explore its applicability in other cultural contexts.
Widespread 3'UTR capped RNAs derive from G-rich regions in proximity to AGO2 binding sites
Authors: Haberman Nejc , Digby Holly , Faraway Rupert , Cheung Rebecca , Chakrabarti Anob M. , Jobbins Andrew M , Parr Callum , Yasuzawa Kayoko , Kasukawa Takeya , Yip Chi Wai , Kato Masaki , Takahashi Hazuki , Carninci Piero , Vernia Santiago , Ule Jernej , Sibley Christopher R , Martinez-Sanchez Aida , Lenhard Boris 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The 3’ untranslated region (3’UTR) plays a crucial role in determining mRNA stability, localisation, translation and degradation. Cap analysis of gene expression (CAGE), a method for the detection of capped 5’ ends of mRNAs, additionally reveals a large number of apparently 5’ capped RNAs derived from locations within the body of the transcript, including 3’UTRs. Here we provide direct evidence that these 3’UTR-derived RNAs are indeed capped and widespread in mammalian cells. By using a combination of AGO2 enhanced individual nucleotide resolution UV crosslinking and immunoprecipitation (eiCLIP) and CAGE following siRNA treatment, we find that these 3’UTR-derived RNAs likely originate from AGO2-binding sites, and most often occur at locations with G-rich motifs bound by the RNA-binding protein UPF1. High-resolution imaging and long-read sequencing analysis validate several 3’UTR-derived RNAs, showcase their variable abundance and show that they may not co-localise with the parental mRNAs. Taken together, we provide new insights into the origin and prevalence of 3’UTR-derived RNAs, show the utility of CAGE-seq for their genome-wide detection, and provide a rich dataset for exploring new biology of a poorly understood new class of RNAs.