bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Enhancing brain tumor detection: a novel CNN approach with advanced activation functions for accurate medical imaging analysis
Authors: Kaifi Reham 
Published: September 2024

IntroductionBrain tumors are characterized by abnormal cell growth within or around the brain, posing severe health risks often associated with high mortality rates. Various imaging techniques, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are commonly employed to visualize the brain and identify malignant growths. Computer-aided diagnosis tools (CAD) utilizing Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) have proven effective in feature extraction and predictive analysis across diverse medical imaging modalities. MethodsThis study explores a CNN trained and evaluated with nine activation functions, encompassing eight established ones from the literature and a modified version of the soft sign activation function.ResultsThe latter demonstrates notable efficacy in discriminating between four types of brain tumors in MR images, achieving an accuracy of 97.6%. The sensitivity for glioma is 93.7%; for meningioma, it is 97.4%; for cases with no tumor, it is 98.8%; and for pituitary tumors, it reaches 100%.DiscussionIn this manuscript, we propose an advanced CNN architecture that integrates a newly developed activation function. Our extensive experimentation and analysis showcase the model's remarkable ability to precisely distinguish between different types of brain tumors within a substantial and diverse dataset. The findings from our study suggest that this model could serve as an invaluable supplementary tool for healthcare practitioners, including specialized medical professionals and resident physicians, in the accurate diagnosis of brain tumors.
Uterine inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Bai Liping , Han Ling , Zheng Ai , Chen Yali 
Published: September 2024

ObjectiveUterine inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (UIMT) is a rare tumor of the female reproductive tract with uncertain malignant potential. Previous case series reports have limited our understanding of its diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, we conducted a retrospective analysis of patient files at West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University to contribute valuable clinical insights to future treatment strategies for this disease.MethodWe comprehensively reviewed patient files of individuals diagnosed with UIMT from January 1st, 2013 to May 1st, 2023.ResultsWe included twenty-seven cases of uterine inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor in our study. Of these, 51.85% (14 cases) were diagnosed with abnormal uterine bleeding, 2 cases had dysmenorrhea, and 12 were unexpectedly diagnosed with suspected uterine fibroids. Ten cases performed total hysterectomy, and 17 cases underwent lesion resection. The positive rate of anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) immunohistochemistry reached 96.3%. After a median of 8 months follow-up time, all patients were disease-free and had survived.ConclusionUterine inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor is easily misdiagnosed, making its diagnosis challenging. Histological features, immunohistochemical results, and molecular confirmation using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) or Next-generation sequencing should be used to confirm the diagnosis. Positive ALK immunohistochemistry, ALK rearrangement, ALK fusion are helpful in diagnosis and ALK inhibitor therapy. Total hysterectomy is often performed for women who do not require fertility, while lesion resection and close follow-up may be considered for those who require fertility preservation.
Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials assessing the efficacy of nigella sativa supplementation for allergic rhinitis treatment
Authors: He Yuxiao , Hu Xiaoyan , Chang Lanyin , Liu Shuang , Lv Liangge , Qin Gang , Jiang Liang 
Published: September 2024

BackgroundDemonstrating the positive effects of Nigella sativa supplementation (Nigella spp) on Allergic Rhinitis (AR) treatment is challenging. To investigate the role of Nigella spp in managing AR, a comprehensive review through systematic reviews and meta-analyses was conducted.PurposeTo carry out a meta-analysis of clinical trials that used Nigella spp in treating AR based on current data.Study DesignA meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was performed.MethodsVarious databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Science Direct, Springer Link and the Cochrane Library, were searched until October 2023 to obtain RCTs assessing impact of Nigella spp in the control of AR. The current meta-analysis was carried out with a random-effects model.ResultsThere were 8 studies enrolled, and our meta-analysis findings revealed that, relative to the control group, observation group exhibited the markedly increased total effective rate for allergic rhinitis treatment (odds ratio [OR] = 4.24, 95% confidence interval [CI] (2.57, 7.27), and p &lt; 0.00001); three studies showed that the effect of Nigella spp for nasal symptoms treatment among patients with allergic rhinitis was superior in observation group to control group [mean difference = −2.60, 95% CI (−2.82, −2.38), p &lt; 0.00001]; adverse effects occurred in five studies, all of which were transient, did not require medical intervention, and were not statistically significant between the two groups [OR = 1.01, 95% CI (0.59, 1.73), p = 0.98].ConclusionThe observation group demonstrated relative safety and had an enhanced effect on allergic rhinitis treatment and total nasal symptom improvement than the control group. The inclusion of fewer studies and the lower quality of trial design might affect the stability of the results. However, the evidence-based findings that Nigella spp for allergic rhinitis treatment is more accurate should be validated in future large-scale, multicenter, and well-designed RCTs.
Mitigative role of cysteamine against unilateral renal reperfusion injury in Wistar rats
Authors: Alabi Babatunde Adebola , Nku-Ekpang Okot-Asi , Lawal Sodiq Kolawole , Iwalewa Ezekiel Olugbenga , Omobowale Temidayo , Ajike Richard , Lawal Ridwan Abiodun 
Published: September 2024

BackgroundIschemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is unavoidable during kidney transplant and it is responsible for delayed or non-function after kidney transplantation. Cysteamine is the standard drug in the management of nephropathic cystinosis and its extra-renal complications. Thus, we designed this study to investigate its potential against renal reperfusion injury.ResultsSignificant elevation of H2O2, MDA, and nitrite and reduced GPx, GSH, and protein thiol in the Ischemia-reperfusion injury rats was reversed by cysteamine (50 and 100 mg/kg). Serum MPO, TNF-α, IL-1β, creatinine, and AOPP were significantly elevated in IRI while rats treated with cysteamine revealed a significant decrease (p &lt; 0.05) in the activities of these pro-inflammatory and renal injury markers.ConclusionBased on its activity against inflammation, apoptosis, and free radical-induced stress, cysteamine has great potential to be used as a kidney transplant pre-operative drug to prevent renal reperfusion injury.
Metabolomics and network pharmacology reveal partial insights into the hypolipidemic mechanisms of ferulic acid in a dyslipidemia mouse model
Authors: Zeng Zhihao , Xiao Guanlin , Liu Yanchang , Wu Minshan , Wei Xingqin , Xie Canhui , Wu Guangying , Jia Dezheng , Li Yangxue , Li Sumei , Bi Xiaoli 
Published: September 2024

IntroductionHyperlipidemia is a condition characterized by abnormal levels of lipids and lipoproteins in the plasma, posing significant health risks. Ferulic acid (FA) is an organic acid with therapeutic properties for diabetes and hyperlipidemia.MethodsTo explore biomarkers for FA treatment of hyperlipidemia and elucidate the mechanisms of lipid-lowering-related changes in metabolic pathways by metabolomics and network pharmacology. Initially, a hyperlipidemic mouse model induced by triton WR-1339 was established to evaluate the therapeutic effects of FA. Subsequently, serum metabolomics was utilized to identify differential metabolites, and metabolic pathway analysis was performed using MetaboAnalyst 6.0. Thirdly, network pharmacology was employed to identify potential targets of FA for hyperlipidemia. Finally, the compound-target-metabolite (C-T-M) network obtained core targets and validated them with molecular docking.ResultsBiochemical analysis and histological examination showed that FA had lipid-lowering effects on hyperlipidemic mice. It identified 31 potential biomarkers for FA against hyperlipidemia by metabolomics involving lipid and amino acid metabolism. Lipid and atherosclerosis signaling pathways were identified as the key signaling pathways of FA against hyperlipidemia by KEGG analysis. Conjoint analysis showed that FA against hyperlipidemia was associated with 18 core targets and six biomarkers. Molecular docking results showed that FA has a high binding affinity to these core targets.DiscussionThrough the synergy of network pharmacology and metabolomics, this study provides insights into how FA regulates endogenous metabolites, underscoring its promise as a treatment for hyperlipidemia.
Predictors of depression among caregivers of patients with severe mental illness in Northwest Ethiopia, 2023: an explanatory sequential mixed-method study
Authors: Munie Birhanu Mengist , Birhan Zelalem , Legas Getasew , Asnakew Sintayehu , Belete Amsalu , Beyene Getnet Mihretie , Shiferaw Kirubel , Mulu Anemut Tilahun , Kassie Yohannes Tesfahun , Aytenew Tigabu Munye , Tedla Assasahegn 
Published: September 2024

BackgroundSevere mental illness results in an enormous social and economic burden on affected individuals, their families, and communities, especially in developing countries, such as Ethiopia.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to assess the level of depression among caregivers of patients with severe mental illness in Debre Tabor Town, Northwest Ethiopia in 2023.MethodsThis institution-based explanatory mixed study was conducted at Debre Tabor Compressive Specialized Hospitals between September 30 to October 30, 2023. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select 260 study participants, and a public health questionnaire was used to assess depression. Epicollect5 was used to collect data, which were then exported to the SPSS-25 for analysis. Variables with a p-value &lt;0.25 were considered candidates for the multivariate logistic regression analysis. The odds ratios with a 95% confidence interval were used to determine the strength of the association. An in-depth interview was conducted with 11 participants, selected using purposive sampling.ResultsThe prevalence of depression was 31.3% (95% CI = 29.7–38.6). The multivariate analysis showed that being female (AOD = 2.43, CI = 1.42–7.23), divorced/widowed (AOD = 1.8, CI = 1.32–6.34), poor social support (AOD = 2.2, CI = 1.9–5.87), and perceived stigma (AOD = 2.33, CI = 0.24–13.22) were positively associated with depression. The qualitative results suggest that being female, illiterate, severity of the illness, poor social support, and stigma were factors for depression.Conclusions and recommendationsThe prevalence of depression was high among caregivers of patients with severe mental illness. Female sex, being divorced or widowed, being illiterate, poor social support, and perceived stigma were the contributing factors. This implies that a greater focus on caregivers and the government increases mental health literacy and mental health community services.
Exploring psychosocial factors influencing sexually transmitted infection intention testing among medical students: a cross-sectional study in two universities
Authors: Loaiza-Guevara Valentina , Acosta María Alejandra Gómez , Álvarez Angie Valeria Aguirre , Martínez Valentina Agudelo , Montoya María Camila Montes , Ramírez Alexandra Agudelo , Izquierdo-Condoy Juan S. 
Published: September 2024

BackgroundDespite the significant global burden of sexually transmitted infections (STI), detection rates are poor. Acceptance of these tests is influenced by several factors that have not been explored among Colombian medical students.ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to describe the behaviors and psychosocial factors toward STI screening among medical students of two universities in Pereira, Colombia, between March and June 2020.MethodsAn observational, cross-sectional study was conducted with 284 medical students in the first 3 years of undergraduate at two universities. An online, self-administered survey was conducted between March 2020 and June 2020, using an instrument from the “STI Testing Questionnaire,” to assess behaviors and psychosocial factors toward STI testing. Frequencies and percentages were used for descriptive analysis. The association between characteristics and psychosocial factors with STI testing intention was obtained using a logistic regression model. A p-value &lt;0.05 was accepted as statistically significant for all analyses.ResultsA total of 284 medical students participated in this study. The majority were female (56.7%), and 53.2% were from private universities. Eighty-four point 5% (84.5%) had risky sexual behaviors, and only 32.4% reported intentions to be tested for STIs. Among the psychosocial factors, 64.1% reported high social pressure, and 43.0% reported social fear. An association with the intention to undergo STI testing was identified in those who had been previously tested (OR = 2.486; 95% CI: 1.492–4.142) and in those who engaged in risky sexual behaviors (OR = 3.537; 95% CI: 1.437–8.704).ConclusionMedical students exhibit a high prevalence of risky sexual behaviors but show a disturbing lack of intention to undergo STI screening. Prior experiences significantly influence screening intentions, while social pressure and fear also play a role. These insights can serve as a basis for targeted interventions to improve STI screening rates and enhance sexual health education among Colombian medical students.
Understanding adolescent consumption patterns and attitudes towards the “puff” on the path to a smoke-free generation: a 2022 French perspective
Authors: Cottin Marin , Catellin Marion , De Guiran Elen , Miliani Katiuska , Josseran Loïc , Gautier Sylvain 
Published: September 2024

PurposeTobacco use remains the leading preventable cause of death in France, with 75,000 deaths each year. France aims to reduce smoking and achieve a smoke-free generation by 2032. However, recent tobacco industry innovations which mainly target young people, could undermine this goal. The main objective of this study is to assess the knowledge and consumption patterns of the “puff” among French adolescents in 2022.MethodsA cross-sectional study using a structured online survey on a representative sample of 400 adolescents aged 13 to 16 years was conducted from July 4th to 20th, 2022.ResultsAround 66% of adolescents reported having heard of the puff”, and one in ten having tried it. Slightly fewer of them have tried cigarettes; 89.6% of experimenters reported that it allowed them to explore unique flavors, 81.9% found it fun to play with the puff-cloud, and 94.5% of regular consumers considered it a stylish or cool product. 76% of adolescents believe that the puff is dangerous to their health, 71.6% describe it as a polluting device, and 62.8% think it’s a gadget.ConclusionThe “puff” is widely known by French adolescents and more commonly used than cigarettes, due, in part, to marketing specifically designed to target youth. That is why it could represent a threat to the smoke-free generation objectives. Public health policy could be informed by the ecological awareness of adolescents as a new lever of counter-influence to prevent this kind of consumption, as did ACT with the #stopcigarettespollution prevention campaign.
Disproportionate preponderance of HPV genotypes associated with anogenital warts among HIV-positive MSM
Authors: Borena Wegene , Kitchen Maria , Gisinger Martin , Taylor Ninon , Oberkofler Hannes , Dewasurendra Diyani , Widschwendter Andreas , Stoiber Heribert , von Laer Dorothee , Sarcletti Mario 
Published: September 2024

BackgroundIn this study, we characterized the HPV genotype distribution in a population of 489 adults already positive for HPV DNA. The study population was divided into two groups: 244 HIV-positive (HIV+) men who have sex with men (MSM) undergoing routine anal screening for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and 245 women undergoing routine cervical cancer screening. Acknowledging the fact that women and MSM represent two independent circles of sexual practices, which are—largely—exclusive of each other, we were interested in determining if particular genotypes of human papillomavirus (HPV) disproportionately predominate in one of these circles compared to the other.ResultsHIV+ MSM are significantly more likely to be infected with multiple genotypes at a time, with an odds ratio (OR) of 9.30 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.91–22.1) and a p-value of &lt;0.001. In addition, multivariable-adjusted logistic regression analysis showed that anal swab samples were significantly more likely to harbor lrHPV infections, with an OR of 6.67 (95% CI: 2.42–18.4) and a p-value of &lt;0.001, in particular, HPV 6, with an OR of 8.92 (95% CI: 3.84–20.7) compared to cervical samples of screening women.ConclusionGiven the significant impact of recurrent anogenital warts (AGWs) on quality of life and the accompanying predisposition to invasive anal cancer, our data underscore the critical need for HPV vaccination. This includes expanding vaccination eligibility to include both boys and adults within high-risk populations.
Light and scanning electron microscopy of the eye of Siganus luridus (Rüppell, 1828)
Authors: Derbalah Amira , El-Gendy Samir A. A. , Abd-Elhafeez Hanan H. , Soliman Soha , El-Mansi Ahmed A. , Seif Manal , Rashwan Ahmed M. , Eldesoqui Mamdouh B. , Rutland Catrin Sian , Kubale Valentina , Alsafy Mohamed A. M. 
Published: September 2024

IntroductionThe morphological characteristics of eyes in fishes are highly diverse and have evolved to meet the specific visual requirements as per their habitats. These morphological features of eyes are important for researchers and ecologists. The dusky spinefoot (Siganus luridus) is a tropical teleost fish with a laterally flattened body which lives in the Mediterranean Sea. Currently, there are no histological data relating to the Siganus luridus eye.MethodsIn this study, the morphology of the Siganus luridus eye was examined to enhance our understanding of its structure and its relationship to fish ecology. Detailed gross and microscopic features were recorded using light and scanning microscopy.ResultsThe key observations describe the main structural features of the eye of Siganus luridus, specifically, the diameter of the orbit, architecture of three tunics of eye and detailed lens description. The choroid was divided into four layers, and had a rete mirabile, consisting of numerous small blood vessels in the choroidal gland. The tapetum lucidum was observed, which is interesting since Siganus luridus is herbivore and herbivores typically lack a tapetum lucidum.DiscussionThese observations shed new light on the intricate eye structure of Siganus luridus and provide valuable insights into its visual abilities and adaptations to the aquatic environment and feeding behavior.
Robust Design of Two-Level Non-Integer SMC Based on Deep Soft Actor-Critic for Synchronization of Chaotic Fractional Order Memristive Neural Networks
Authors: Roohi Majid , Mirzajani Saeed , Haghighi Ahmad Reza , Basse-O’Connor Andreas 
Published: September 2024

In this study, a model-free PIφ-sliding mode control ( PIφ-SMC) methodology is proposed to synchronize a specific class of chaotic fractional-order memristive neural network systems (FOMNNSs) with delays and input saturation. The fractional-order Lyapunov stability theory is used to design a two-level PIφ-SMC which can effectively manage the inherent chaotic behavior of delayed FOMNNSs and achieve finite-time synchronization. At the outset, an initial sliding surface is introduced. Subsequently, a robust PIφ-sliding surface is designed as a second sliding surface, based on proportional–integral (PI) rules. The finite-time asymptotic stability of both surfaces is demonstrated. The final step involves the design of a dynamic-free control law that is robust against system uncertainties, input saturations, and delays. The independence of control rules from the functions of the system is accomplished through the application of the norm-boundedness property inherent in chaotic system states. The soft actor-critic (SAC) algorithm based deep Q-Learning is utilized to optimally adjust the coefficients embedded in the two-level PIφ-SMC controller’s structure. By maximizing a reward signal, the optimal policy is found by the deep neural network of the SAC agent. This approach ensures that the sliding motion meets the reachability condition within a finite time. The validity of the proposed protocol is subsequently demonstrated through extensive simulation results and two numerical examples.
Experiences of using the Recommended Summary Plan for Emergency Care and Treatment (ReSPECT) in English general practice: a qualitative study among key primary health and social care professionals, patients, and their relatives
Authors: Slowther Anne-Marie , Bernstein Celia Janine , Huxley Caroline , Harlock Jenny , Eli Karin , Mann Claire , Spencer Rachel , Dale Jeremy , Gill Paramjit , Blanchard Hazel , Underwood Martin , Griffiths Frances 
Published: September 2024

BackgroundThe Recommended Summary Plan for Emergency Care and Treatment (ReSPECT) has been implemented in many areas of the UK. It is unclear how ReSPECT is used in primary and community care settings.AimTo investigate how the ReSPECT process is understood and experienced in the community by clinicians, social care staff, patients, their relatives, and identify obstacles and enablers to its implementation.Design and settingA qualitative interview and focus-group study across 13 general practices in three areas of England, between January and December 2022.MethodWe interviewed GPs, specialist nurses, patients and relatives, and senior care home staff. Focus groups were conducted with community nurses, paramedics, and home care workers. Questions focused on understanding experiences of, and engagement with, ReSPECT. We analysed data using thematic analysis and a coding framework drawn from normalisation process theory.ResultsParticipants includedn= 21 GPs,n= 5 specialist nurses,n= 9 patients,n= 7 relatives,n= 31 care home staff,n= 9 community nurses,n= 7 home care workers, andn= 2 paramedics. Participants supported ReSPECT, regarding it as a tool to facilitate person-centred care. GPs faced challenges in timing the introduction of ReSPECT and ensuring sufficient time to complete plans with patients. ReSPECT conversations worked best when there was a trusting relationship between the clinician and the patient (and their family). Anticipating future illness trajectories was difficult, yet plans were rarely reviewed. Interpreting recommendations in emergencies was challenging.ConclusionThe ReSPECT process has not translated as well as expected in the community setting. A revised approach is needed to address the challenges of implementation in this context.