bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Barriers and Enablers for Generative Artificial Intelligence in Clinical Psychology: A Qualitative Study Based on the COM-B and Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) models.
Authors: Tambo Daniel de la Fuente , Moreno Sara Iglesias , Ruiz Manuel Armayones 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background: This study investigated the perceptions of care psychologists regarding the adoption of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in therapeutic practice. A qualitative method is used, relying on the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) and the COM-B model to analyse both perceived factors such as rejection (barriers) and factors that promote acceptance (facilitators) of GenAI.
Methods: A thematic qualitative study design was adopted, and semistructured and in-depth interviews were conducted with 14 private care psychologists. The interviews focused on TDF domains to identify barriers and enablers. All the interviews were recorded and transcribed. The data were analysed via a thematic approach, with the identified topics associated with the TDF and COM-B components.
Results: Twenty-three factors were identified that influenced the decision to accept or reject GenAI in therapy, with 14 factors acting as barriers and 9 acting as facilitators. These factors are classified within the TDF domains. Highlighted barriers included a lack of understanding of AI and concerns about the confidentiality and privacy of information shared in therapy, whereas the main facilitators were training in AI skills and the possibility of having a digital assistant.
Conclusion: This study reveals the need for greater understanding of training in AI among psychologists. The acceptance of AI varies depending on the training and experience of professionals; some show concern for the future of their profession, whereas others highlight that it is an opportunity to improve interventions. Information privacy concerns are significant and have been identified as key factors for enabling AI deployment.
Secure Mobile Authentication With Blockchain Utilizing Ecc, Zkps, and Post- Quantum Cryptography
Authors: COSKUN Vedat , AJLOUNI Naim , Busra OZDENIZCI 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The increasing reliance on smartphones for sensitive transactions has underscored the urgent need for robust authentication methods in mobile applications, especially in sectors such as finance and legal services. Traditional authentication mechanisms frequently fail to meet high-security standards due to inadequate integration of advanced biometric credentials. This paper presents a Blockchain-based Triple-Layer Authentication (TLA) system that enhances mobile security by integrating PIN/passwords, one-time passwords (OTPs), and biometric data through advanced cryptographic techniques, including Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC), Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZKPs), and Post-Quantum Cryptography. By employing Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) for the secure storage of encrypted user credentials, the TLA system not only improves security but also safeguards user privacy. The model addresses the key elements of knowledge, possession, and inherent user traits, significantly strengthening user authentication. A thorough complexity analysis indicates that ECC is optimal for mobile environments due to its low computational overhead, while the shuffling mechanism operates with a complexity of \(\:O\left(n\:log\:n\right)\), making it feasible for mobile devices. Additionally, Non-Interactive Zero-Knowledge Proofs (NIZK’s) and Bulletproofs ensure efficient ZKP processes, and while Post-Quantum ZKPs offer necessary future-proofing against quantum threats, they may require further optimization for practical use on mobile platforms. The implementation of the TLA model demonstrates its effectiveness and reliability in enhancing mobile service security through comprehensive testing and validation in real-world scenarios. This study provides a comparative analysis with existing solutions and identifies avenues for future improvements, establishing the TLA model as a robust and innovative approach to contemporary authentication challenges in the digital landscape.
Molecular Epidemiological Studies of pfmdr-1 Gene in Plasmodium falciparum Among Undergraduates in A Private University in Lagos State
Authors: Ibrahim Azeez G , Bassey Omolola , Adebayo Dorcas , Esther Nwaoha 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
The prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum-resistant parasites remains one of the major challenges to malaria control and eradication in sub-Saharan Africa. Monitoring the molecular markers that confer resistance to various antimalarial drugs is important for tracking the prevalence of resistant parasites and optimizing the therapeutic longevity of current drugs. Morbidity and mortality among students remain quite high despite the availability of malaria management strategies. Therefore, the aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of malaria with its possible risk factors and the presence of pfmdr-1 genes and the drugs in which the mutant allele combinations N86Y, Y184F, S1034C and N1042D are sensitive to among undergraduates in Anchor University.
Method
Dried blood spots (DBS) were collected from 340 students after testing for the presence of Plasmodium falciparum parasites using RDT kits (On-site Rambo Rapid Detection Kit). The spots were subjected to DNA extraction. The extracted product was then amplified using the Nested PCR and the amplicons was runs on the gel to identify the presence and genotype of gene mutations base pairs. The data was analyzed using the SPSS versions 27 Software.
Results
The prevalence of malaria in this study was 20.59%. Female students that participated in the study showed higher percentage of malaria than the male, 75.7% and 24.3% respectively. Malaria was also reported in all age groups but the infection rate was highest in the 16–20 age groups (82.9%). 70.88% of the populations studied don’t make use of mosquito nets, and 28.24% don’t use insecticide. Among the P. falciparum positive patients, it was also observed that those who indulge in self-medication and those who didn’t complete their malaria-drugs dosage, presented a higher percentage of those positive for malaria. 66.67% of the population size uses drug combinations of Arthemether and Lumefantrine.
Conclusion
No mutant allele combinations of the molecular marker of pfmdr1 gene among the participants with P. falciparum was detected in the study.
Impact of the use of cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) on patient access to innovative medicines for cancer and rare diseases: A comparison of CEA versus non-CEA markets
Authors: Katsikostas-Michopoulos George , Alleman Cathelijne , Azough Ali , Hickson Stacey , Griffin Adrian , Rollmann Danielle , McKendrick Jan 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Although previous studies have examined approaches to health technology assessment (HTA) and different resulting levels of patient access across individual markets, data focusing on the use of cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) versus other primary approaches to value assessment (e.g., based on relative clinical effectiveness) were previously lacking in the published literature. This study aimed to identify how the use of CEA impacted national-level patient access decisions for innovative medicines.
Methods
National-level patient access decisions in 10 markets with established systems (CEA: Australia, Canada, England, Scotland, Sweden; non-CEA: France, Germany, Italy, Spain, United States [US]) were assessed for all first indications of oncology and orphan drugs with initial European Medicines Agency regulatory approval between 2016 and 2019, and all subsequent indications approved to December 2021. Corresponding US, Australian, and Canadian approvals for the respective drugs were also included. To ensure consistency across markets, a patient access decision was defined as the first applicable national-level access outcome decision recommending some positive level of patient access (either full access or restricted access) or the final negative recommendation (no access).
Results
The sample included 129 unique drug/indication pairs (70 individual drugs). Overall, 862 patient access decisions were identified. The number of patient access decisions was markedly higher in non-CEA (n = 510) than CEA markets (n = 352). The total number and proportion of full patient access decisions was also higher in non-CEA (n = 335 [65.7%]) than CEA (n = 124, [35.2%]) markets, with restricted patient access decisions more common in CEA (n = 150 [42.6%]) than non-CEA (n = 113 [22.2%]) markets. The types of patient access decisions (i.e., no vs. full vs. restricted vs. no access) also varied across agencies, even within CEA and non-CEA markets.
Conclusions
National-level positive patient access decisions for innovative oncology and orphan medicines were more limited in markets that primarily use CEA in value assessments than in those that do not. Patient access restrictions beyond the regulatory label were also applied more often in CEA than non-CEA markets at the national level, recognizing that additional (and heterogeneous) barriers that impact ultimate patient access may occur downstream of the national decision in some markets.
Synchronous Oral Heterotopic Gastrointestinal Cyst and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: First Case Report
Authors: Silva Caroline Alfaia , Rosa Túlio Silva , Ribeiro Lidiane de Paula , Reinheimer Angélica , Rivero Elena Riet Correa , Modolo Filipe , Gondak Rogério Oliveira , Albuquerque-Júnior Ricardo Luiz Cavalcanti 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background.
Synchronous lesions in the oral cavity are uncommon and present diagnostic challenges, particularly when a benign lesion coexists with a malignancy. Heterotopic gastrointestinal cyst of the oral cavity (HGIC), typically seen in pediatric patients, contains ectopic gastrointestinal tissue and is rarely found in adults. This report describes a case of a HGIC in an adult patient concomitant with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), which is believed to be the first report of this unique entity.
Methods and results.
A 62-year-old man presented with an ulcerated lesion on the right floor of the mouth. An incisional biopsy was performed, and the pathology revealed that it was an HGIC with a pathological cavity lined by tall columnar epithelial cells with basally displaced nuclei and apical microvilli (brush border), synchronous with an SCC exhibiting a proliferation of epidermoid cells with moderate cellular atypia, pleomorphism, and nuclear hyperchromatism. The patient is currently undergoing regular follow-up, with further evaluations planned to monitor local disease control and prevent potential complications.
Conclusion.
Early and accurate identification of coexisting lesions may be crucial for effective clinical management and a broader understanding of the pathogenesis of these conditions.
Transient, Turbulent Hall Currents in the Sunlit Terrestrial Ionosphere
Authors: Ivarsen Magnus , Jin Yaqi , Huyghebaert Devin , Miyashita Yukinaga , St.-Maurice Jean-Pierre , Hussey Glenn , McWilliams Kathryn , Kasahara Satoshi , Sibeck David , Song Kaili , Jayachandran P , Dan Billett , Clausen Lasse , Yokota Shoichiro , Miyoshi Yoshizumi , Kasahara Yoshiya , Shinohara Iku , Matsuoka Ayako 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The `cusp' emerges from a direct coupling between Earth's ionosphere and the solar wind, and the dynamic auroras found in the cusp-region have long been taken to reflect the time-history of pulsed magnetic reconnection between Earth's magnetic field and that of the Sun. However, the prevailing explanation is challenged by observations of chorus wave-driven energetic particle precipitation on closed magnetic field lines, which excited strong modulations to the ionospheric electric field. Intense Hall current channels formed along the open-closed field-line boundary, triggering the Farley-Buneman instability and the consequent proliferation of intense meter-scale turbulent waves in the bottomside ionosphere. The finding is unearthed using data mining techniques applied to a large database of coherent scatter radar echoes from small-scale ionospheric plasma turbulence. The emerging radar tracking technique allows for the ionospheric electric field to be monitored over time. Further evidence in favour of our explanation is found with ground-based observations of magnetospheric plasma convection and GPS scintillations, as well as in situ observations from a weather satellite and an inner-magnetosphere spacecraft. Our results suggest that during geomagnetic storms the electrodynamics of the cusp-region can at times be driven by wave-particle interactions in the dayside magnetosphere instead of the solar wind.
Trends in the Concurrent Use of Illicit Drugs and Interacting Medications Among Adults in the United States
Authors: Qato Dima Mazen , Ozenberger Katharine 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Introduction: The concurrent use of illicit drugs and prescription medications with potential drug-drug interactions (DDIs) significantly increases the risk of adverse events, including unintentional overdose. This study investigates trends in the concurrent use of illicit drugs such as cannabis, heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine (HCM) and interacting prescription medications among U.S. adults from 2013 to 2018.
Methods: Data were collected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) for adults aged 18-59 years (N=10,321). Concurrent use was defined as the use of at least one illicit drug with one interacting prescription medication within the prior 30 days. Micromedex was used to identify medications having a contraindicated, major or moderate drug-drug interaction with illicit drugs.
Result: The prevalence of concurrent use of illicit drugs and prescription medications increased from 5.1% to 9.8% between 2013 and 2018 (P=0.004). The concurrent use of illicit drugs with at least one interacting medication did not significantly change during this period and affected 3.1% of US adults in 2017-2018. Nearly one in five (18.4% [95% CI, 15.6%-21.6%]) adults that use cannabis and one in four (26.6% [95% CI, 19.4%-35.4%]) adults that use HCM used at least one interacting medication. Central nervous system depressants were the most common interacting medication among adults that used cannabis. Antidepressants, proton pump inhibitors, and opioid analgesics were the most common among adults that used HCM.
Discussion and Conclusion: The rising trend in the concurrent use of illicit drugs and interacting medications poses a significant risk for overdose. More than 1 in 30 US adults, aged 18-59 years, concurrently used either cannabis or HCM with an interacting medication is at risk of a unintentional drug overdose. National efforts to improve the safe use of prescriptions among people that use illicit drugs should address potential drug-drug interactions.
Simplified LSL-Net architecture for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles detection in real-time
Authors: Camacho-Gonzalez Francisco David , Garcia-Rojas Nestor Andres , Martínez-Trinidad José Francisco , Carrasco-Ochoa Jesús Ariel 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

In this paper, we propose a simplified architecture based on LSL-Net for detecting unmanned aerial vehicles, this architecture integrates the ability to track and detect them, based on convolutional neural networks. The biggest challenge is the creation of a model that allows us to have good results without the need for large computational resources, in addition to this we must take into account the scarcity of training images for drone detection. To address this problem, we developed simplified LSL-Net architecture using dilated convolutions that allows us to reach our objective. Finally, our proposed architecture integrates the detection and tracking of drones. Experiments show that our architecture performs well with limited resources, achieving an accuracy of 97\% in training and in the detection of new elements.
StackMFF: End-to-end Multi-Focus Image Stack Fusion Network
Authors: Xie Xinzhe , Jiang Qingyan , Chen Dong , Guo Buyu , Li Peiliang , Zhou Sangjun 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Existing end-to-end multi-focus image fusion networks demonstrate efficacy in merging two images but often introduce various types of image degradation due to error accumulation resulting from iterative fusion when applied to image stacks. To address this limitation, we propose a novel approach that directly fuses the entire image stack using a specially designed 3D convolutional neural network. The proposed method leverages an innovative training pipeline based on monocular depth estimation to generate a large-scale dataset, ensuring robust performance across diverse scenarios. Furthermore, to facilitate comprehensive evaluation and comparison within the field, we establish a benchmark for this field and release a comprehensive toolbox encompassing 12 distinct algorithms. Extensive experimental results demonstrate that our proposed method effectively fuses multi-focus image stacks while mitigating image degradation, achieving state-of-the-art performance in both fusion quality and processing speed. The codes are available at https://github.com/Xinzhe99/StackMFF.
Adding Highly Variable Genes to Spatially Variable Genes Can Improve Cell Type Clustering Performance in Spatial Transcriptomics Data
Authors: Li Yijun , Stanojevic Stefan , He Bing , Jing Zheng , Huang Qianhui , Kang Jian , Garmire Lana X. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Spatial transcriptomics has allowed researchers to analyze transcriptome data in its tissue sample's spatial context. Various methods have been developed for detecting spatially variable genes (SV genes), whose gene expression over the tissue space shows strong spatial autocorrelation. Such genes are often used to define clusters in cells or spots downstream. However, highly variable (HV) genes, whose quantitative gene expressions show significant variation from cell to cell, are conventionally used in clustering analyses. In this report, we investigate whether adding highly variable genes to spatially variable genes can improve the cell type clustering performance in spatial transcriptomics data. We tested the clustering performance of HV genes, SV genes, and the union of both gene sets (concatenation) on over 50 real spatial transcriptomics datasets across multiple platforms, using a variety of spatial and non-spatial metrics. Our results show that combining HV genes and SV genes can improve overall cell-type clustering performance.
Pantoea osteomyelitidis sp. nov., a novel opportunistic human pathogen causing chronic osteomyelitis: case report, genomic characterization and literature review
Authors: Keidar-Friedman Danielle , Leshin-Carmel Daniel , Tsur Anka , Amsalem Muriel , Tolkach Daria , Brosh-Nissimov Tal , Sorek Nadav 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background: Pantoea species are increasingly recognized as opportunistic human pathogens. We describe a rare case of osteomyelitis that has developed slowly over two decades, with the identification of the causative agent as a novel species of Pantoea.
Case presentation: A 37-year-old generally healthy woman with suspected chronic osteomyelitis presented at our hospital. The condition was possibly related to an incident that occurred two decades before the onset of symptoms, involving a tibia fracture with a large open bleeding wound. The patient had undergone two aggressive debridement operations, systemic ciprofloxacin treatment, and local aminoglycoside therapy, eventually resulting in a full recovery.
Bone biopsy cultures revealed gram-negative coccobacilli that could not be identified by conventional clinical microbiology methods. Whole-genome sequencing and subsequent taxonomic and phylogenetic analyses revealed genetic relatedness to several Pantoea species. Comparative genomic analyses revealed conserved antibiotic resistance and virulence genes.
Conclusion: A literature review uncovered only five cases of osteomyelitis caused by Pantoea species that have been reported in the past, all of which were attributed to Pantoea agglomerans. We suggest that this new strain belongs to a yet unidentified Pantoea species, which we have named Pantoea osteomyelitidis. sp.nov. The high diversity of Pantoea and the obscured potential pathogenicity of this genus are discussed, emphasizing the need for further research into its clinical relevance.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the cornea in French Bulldog: case report
Authors: Nedev Vladi , Kalkanov Ismet 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background: Corneal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is considered as a rare condition in dogs and our aim is to report a case of the disease in French Bulldog and discus the factors leading to development of it. Misdiagnosing of SCC can potentially delay treatment and increase morbidity
Case presentation: A 2.6-year-old French Bulldog, with growing, nonpainful mass on the left eye was examined in University veterinary hospital of Trakia university in Stara Zagora. During the examination, a brown mass located on 6 o’clock with oval shape and diameter 4 mm, affection 20% of the cornea, was suspected as squamous cell carcinoma. A clinical examination showed no evidence of metastases and superficial keratectomy with further conjunctival flap were made and the mass was histologically examined and conformed the clinical diagnose. After 6 months from the surgery, there is no evidence of local or general metastasis.
Conclusion: surgical treatment must be considered the best therapeutic approach for ocular SCC in dogs even it is rare diagnosis.
Influence of Tree Roots on Matric Suction and Soil Moisture Dynamics in Tropical Residual Soil Slopes
Authors: Daud Solahuddin , Ishak Mohd Fakhrurrazi , Zolkepli Muhammad Farhan , Hasbollah Dayang Zulaika Abang , Muhammad Nurmunira , Ismi Puteri Izrina 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This article investigates active root tree zones on tropical residual soil slopes, specifically focusing on matric suction resulting from tree water uptake. Fieldwork involved collecting matric suction data with and without a mature tree (Alstonia Angustiloba) at the slope's top. The study examines how matric suction values and profiles respond to tree water intake and rainfall, revealing higher matric suction levels near the tree, significantly influenced by climate change, especially at the slope's surface. Prolonged extreme rainfall decreases matric suction, with most changes occurring within 4.4 m of tree trunks and at shallow depths (0.25 m). The findings suggest that preserving mature trees can enhance soil quality, particularly on slopes. Utilizing the unsaturated flow equation, this research confirms that tree transpiration induces suction in the unsaturated soil beneath the tree. Numerical simulations were conducted to compare soil moisture patterns with suction data from Pahang Matriculation College (PMC). Field equipment, including tensiometers, gypsum blocks, and rain gauges, recorded daily soil matric and rainfall from May 21 to June 12, 2019. The numerical model successfully simulated moisture transport patterns in the unsaturated zone near the mature tree, yielding satisfactory results. A comparison of actual soil suction patterns with simulated data indicated less than 5% variation, with discrepancies attributed to root density inconsistencies. This study highlights the critical role of trees in maintaining soil stability and moisture distribution.