bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Novel filtering method for Hyperspectral image classification: Optimization using Genetic algorithm
Authors: Huang Kai-Hsiang , Lau Tsz-Kin , Hsu Hsieh-Chih 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Due to the increasing demand for hyperspectral image (HSI) classification, there is a need for improvements and enhancements to achieve more accurate and cost-effective results. Image processing plays a significant role in HSI classification, primarily used for image smoothing and denoising. Filtering, a popular method in image processing, is typically based on mathematical equations. However, in this study, filtering is treated as an optimization problem to provide a novel filter for HSI processing and classification. An optimized filter (OF) was generated and optimized using genetic algorithm (GA) based on the Pavia University (PU) dataset, which preprocessed using Minimum Noise Fraction (MNF). Subsequently, the OF was applied to HSI classification for three datasets using Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGB). The results were compared with median filter (MF) and Gaussian filter (GF). The findings demonstrated that, in comparison to MF and GF, OF exhibited the strongest enhancement and achieved the highest accuracy in most situations, including different sampling scenarios for various datasets. Moreover, OF demonstrated excellent performance in aiding HSI classification, especially in classes with a higher number of samples. The study's outcomes highlight the feasibility of generating a filter specifically for HSI processing and classification using GA, which is deemed acceptable and effective. Based on the results, filtering has evolved into an optimization problem, expanding beyond being solely a mathematical problem. Filters can now be generated and optimized based on the goals and requirements of image-related tasks, extending beyond HSI applications.
Dupilumab in Eosinophilic Esophagitis in Children: A Large Retrospective Multicenter Study
Authors: HASOSAH MOHAMMED , Kamal Nagla , Sukkar Ghassan , AlSahafi Asharf , Zaidan Ali , Ghous Nouf , Alshahrani Abdulmajed , Zahrani Ziyad Al , Hasosah Naif , Qurashi Mansour , Goronfolah Loie 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background: Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory disease of the esophagus. Adult study demonstrated effectiveness of dupilumab in the treatment of EoE.
The aim of this study was to describe children who were difficult-to-treat EoE with conventional treatment and to identify symptomatic, histologic, and endoscopic improvement after dupilumab treatment.
Methods: A retrospective, multicenter study of children who confirmed EoE were conducted. We completed the chart review who were prescribed dupilumab for EoE. Demographic information, symptoms, endoscopic and histologic findings, and medications were collected. Response to dupilumab was evaluated.
Results: We identified 11 patients in the present study. The study population comprised 7 males (64 %) and 4 female (36 %). The median age at presentation was 11.6 years (range, 8–13 years). Dupilumab at a dose of 200-300 mg was administrated in all patients as second-line therapy for children with EoE who refractory to conventional therapy (proton pump inhibitors, corticosteroids, and dietary restrictions). The study reported the effectiveness of dupilumab in symptoms, endoscopy, and histology were 82%, 73% and 90%, respectively. The mean EoE Endoscopic Reference Scoring System Scores (EREFS) changed from baseline 9.4 (prior to dupilumab) to 0.5 (post dupilumab). In addition to improvement in EoE, all patients reported decreased corticosteroid use in EoE and decreased inhaled corticosteroid in asthma, suggesting that dupilumab has the potential to be effective in patients with multiple concurrent atopic conditions. Dupilumab is well-tolerated safety profile except one patient who developed conjunctivitis.
Conclusions: This first largest pediatric study adds to the effectiveness of dupilumab in symptoms, endoscopy, and histology of EoE as a second-line therapy who refractory to current therapy. A longitudinal large prospective study is necessary for guidance on how to initiate dupilumab for treatment of childhood EoE and long follow-up data on dupilumab.
ChatGPT-4.0: A Promising Tool for Diagnosing Thyroid Nodules
Authors: Lyu Guo-Rong , Hong Dao-Rong , Huang Chun-Yan , Zhong Huo-Hu 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objective
This study aims to explore the application value of ChatGPT-4.0 in the ultrasonic image analysis of thyroid nodules, comparing its diagnostic efficacy and consistency with that of sonographers.
Methods
This is a prospective study based on real clinical scenarios. The study included 124 patients with thyroid nodules confirmed by pathology who underwent ultrasound examinations at Fujian Medical University Affiliated Second Hospital. A physician not involved in the study collected ultrasound images of the thyroid nodules, capturing three images for each nodule—the maximum cross-sectional, maximum longitudinal, and the section best representing the nodular characteristics—for ChatGPT-4.0 image analysis, classified according to the 2020 China Thyroid Nodule Malignancy Risk Stratification Guide (C-TIRADS). Two sonographers with different qualifications (a resident and an attending physician) independently performed the ultrasound examinations, also classifying the thyroid nodules according to the C-TIRADS guidelines. Using fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy or surgical pathology results as the gold standard, the consistency and diagnostic efficacy of ChatGPT-4.0 were compared with those of the sonographers.
Results
(1) ChatGPT-4.0 diagnosed thyroid nodules with a sensitivity of 86.2%, specificity of 60.0%, and AUC of 0.731, comparable to the resident's sensitivity of 85.1%, specificity of 66.7%, and AUC of 0.759 (p > 0.05), but lower than the attending physician's sensitivity of 97.9% and AUC of 0.889 (p < 0.05). (2) ChatGPT-4.0 showed good consistency with the resident in thyroid nodule classification (Kappa value = 0.729), but its consistency with pathological diagnosis was lower than that between the attending physician and the pathological diagnosis (Kappa values of 0.457 vs 0.816 respectively).
Conclusion
ChatGPT-4.0 has a certain clinical application value in the risk stratification diagnosis of thyroid nodules, comparable to the level of diagnosis by resident physicians.
Predict Cancer-specific Survival After Nephrectomy for Nonmetastatic Renal Cancer: A Deep Learning-Based Prognostic Model
Authors: Yu Shuhong , Wang Xuanyu , Wang Siyu , Xu Ximing 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
There are few analyses comparing radical nephrectomy with resection of the renal parenchyma only (RNRP) or radical nephrectomy that includes simultaneous resection of the parenchyma, affected perirenal fascia, perirenal fat, and ureter (RNPU) relative to partial nephrectomy (PN) for patients with nonmetastatic (M0) renal cell carcinoma (RCC) in terms of cancer-specific survival (CSS). This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different nephrectomy on the CSS of nonmetastatic RCC (nmRCC) and to identify the main beneficiaries of different nephrectomy.
Methods
The data was collected from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database. Kaplan-Meier plots, and multivariable Cox regression models were used. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to reduce the effect of selection bias. A prognostic model for nmRCC patients after nephrectomy was established using the deep learning framework.
Results
Kaplan-Meier analysis after PSM showed that lymph node dissection (LND) was effective in patients after RNRP (HR = 0.41, 95%CI: 0.27–0.64, p < 0.0001). RNRP demonstrated less strongly association with CSS than was PN (HR = 0.49, 95%CI༚0.34–0.71, p < 0.0001). The established prognostic model showed that grade II stage I T1N0M0 patients were the primary beneficiary population of RN.
Conclusions
RN is more recommended than PN for grade II stage I T1N0M0 RCC patients. LND is necessary when performing RNRP.
Sonography for the diagnosis of acute diverticulitis in the emergency department – case series of 96 cases
Authors: Jathurshan Pakiyarajah , Klingberg Karsten , Nicole Kofmel , Beat Lehmann 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background:
Acute abdomen is a frequent reason for consultation in the emergency department. Acute diverticulitis is common, especially in elderly patients. Computer tomography (CT) and sonography are available for imaging. In order to minimize the number of CT scans, systematic ultrasound as first line imaging is performed in many centers. Little is known about the accuracy of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) in diagnosing acute diverticulitis by emergency physicians. The aim of this retrospective study is to determine, whether ultrasound can be used as first diagnostic measure in suspected cases.
Methods:
We performed a retrospective analysis at the emergency department of the University Hospital Bern, Switzerland from 2012–2019. In our department, an ultrasound is done for patients with suspected diverticulitis. The test characteristics of conclusive ultrasound exams were compared to CT, which is considered as the gold standard.
Results:
A total of 705 patients were identified by our screening of medical records. 609 (86%) patients had to be excluded, because no imaging (12%), only a CT (55%) or only a sonography has been performed (10%) and because of absence of consent (9%). The data of 96 (14%) patients were available for analysis. 48 patients had a conclusive ultrasound, 48 patients had an inconclusive ultrasound exam. The overall accuracy of POCUS is 79% for diverticulitis and the rate of false positive exams was 25%.
Discussion:
In this study, experienced examiners showed higher accuracy, highlighting the importance of training and skill level. However, the rate of inconclusive ultrasound exams remains a concern, indicating the need for further standardization and training. Moreover, POCUS demonstrated limited sensitivity for detecting complications, emphasizing the complementary role of CT, particularly in cases of suspected abscesses or perforations
Conclusion:
POCUS is a valuable tool in experienced hands for diagnosing AD, but its utility is limited in less experienced examiners. Additional imaging should be considered in patients with inconclusive ultrasound or high clinical suspicion for complications. Standardization of imaging protocols and further training of examiners may improve diagnostic accuracy. However, the study's limitations, including selection bias and variability among examiners, warrant cautious interpretation of the results.
Uncovering the class II-bacteriocin predatiome in salivarius streptococci
Authors: Hols Pascal , Damoczi Julien , Knoops Adrien , Martou Marie-Sophie , Jaumaux Félix , Gabant Philippe , Mahillon Jacques , Mignolet Johann 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Facing the surge of antibiotic resistance, the medical field has a critical need for alternatives to treat bacterial infections. Among these, the use of bacteriocins is considered to be a promising route. In the human commensal Streptococcus salivarius, the production of unmodified bacteriocins is directly controlled at the transcriptional level by the quorum-sensing ComRS system. Here, we used an integrated approach combining bioinformatics and synthetic biology to discover bacteriocins from salivarius streptococci active against human pathogens. We developed a bioinformatic pipeline that combines conservation of DNA regulatory motifs and features of bacteriocin primary sequences to uncover cryptic class II bacteriocins. Notably, we identified more than 50 bacteriocin candidates clustered into 21 groups from 100 genomes of S. salivarius. Strain-based analysis of bacteriocin cocktails revealed an important diversity restricted to seven distinct loci, probably resulting from bacteriocin intra- and inter-species exchanges. Using in vitro or in vivo production and synthetic biology tools, we showed that most of them are active against a panel of Gram-positive bacteria, including clinically-relevant pathogens. Overall, this work provides a search-to-test generic pipeline for the discovery of uncharacterized bacteriocins in Gram-positive bacteria that could be used in cocktails for broad applications in the food and biomedical fields.
Climate Change Adjustment Factor on rainfall depths in river basins of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Authors: Umar Muhammad 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Flooding in Pakistan is generally contributed from rivers and floods are generally caused by heavy concentrated rainfall in the river basins during the monsoon season (July through September). Pakistan has a long history of floods and associated damages. Due to global climate change and its impact on Pakistan in recent years, the frequency and intensities of floods and corresponding damages have increased manifold. In the recent history, Pakistan has experienced unprecedented flooding in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) in 2010 and 2022; occurrence of the flood events in upper most reaches of northern areas have proved that the climate change has severely impacted our region. In this study, 20 CMIP-6 General Circulation Models (GCMs) have been selected for the individual river basins of KPK namely Swat, Panjkora, Chitral, Kabul, Kurrum, Gomal and DI Khan. These models have undergone qualitative evaluations to determine their suitability for further analysis. The scrutiny of model selections is based on specific criteria, including daily frequency of data, availability of SSP 2-4.5 (middle of the road) and SSP 5-8.5 (business as usual) scenarios, and correlations between observed and climate model data, which helps exclude the least reliable GCMs. Based on the criteria, daily data for both baseline and future scenarios have been downloaded and processed for 20 GCMs that passed the initial evaluation. Subsequently, these shortlisted GCMs underwent additional assessments for dry, wet, hot, and cold conditions (delta approach method). As a result, five GCMs in each catchment have been selected as the most suitable candidates for conducting future climate projections. Statistical downscaling technique was opted for and corrected precipitation data from Quantile Delta Mapping (QDM) approach. To estimate the return period of maximum daily precipitation, the widely used Generalized Extreme Value (GEV) distribution was employed. Results indicates an adjustment factor for design rainfall under a 100-year return period in KPK, Pakistan, range from 1.2–21.3% due to climate change, also factors have been calculated for various return periods in study. This study offers valuable insights for engineers, planners, and various departments to the rising risk of extreme rainfall and to flooding. Understanding these impacts is crucial for developing effective adaptation strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change in the region.
Development of a novel fluorescent gauze using indocyanine green
Authors: Urade Takeshi , Tsuchida Shinobu , Oji Kentaro , Fujiwara Yoshiaki , Fukuoka Yasushi , Yasuda Takahiro , Fukumoto Takumi 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Gauzes are used in various ways, including wiping blood, compressing organs, and as markers during surgery. However, losing gauze during surgery can lead to pieces being left inside the body, causing time-consuming searches and unnecessary radiation exposure. To address this, we developed a fluorescent gauze using indocyanine green (ICG), which fluoresces under near-infrared (NIR) light. This study aimed to evaluate the fluorescence intensity (FI) of the gauze and confirm its fluorescence in a porcine abdominal cavity. We dissolved 25 mg of ICG in 10 ml of glycerol, ethanol, distilled water, and 5% bovine serum albumin, then diluted each solution 5- to 106-fold with distilled water. The gauze was dyed using these solutions. A rigid laparoscope observed the fluorescent gauze in a dark room under NIR light, and FI was measured. The gauze treated with a 100-fold dilution of each ICG dyestuff showed the strongest fluorescence. This gauze was then placed in a pig's abdominal cavity and observed under NIR light, demonstrating that the fluorescence could penetrate two or three layers of the mesentery. Our fluorescent gauze, confirmed both ex vivo and in vivo, should be manufactured for clinical use and further validated for its utility.
Fatigue Impact of Mixed Reality in Mass Casualty Incidents Training
Authors: Cintora-Sanz Ana María , Muñoz-Romo Raúl , Blanco-Lara Alberto , Sanchiz-Torres Paula , Vázquez-Rodríguez Tatiana , Redondo-Lozano María , Cardós-Alonso Carmen 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Academic research on the psychological effects of mixed reality (MR) vocational training is scarce. Understanding this use is still being determined. This study analysed the degree of fatigue in different domains after MR multi-victim incident resolution training, taking this into account to improve the user experience and the learning procedure. This study valued the fatigue of participants of the MR six field trials of the MED1stMR project in the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Germany, Greece, Spain and Sweden. There were 260 participants (N), of whom 173 were male and 87 female. The mean age of the participants was 40.16 years (M). The mean professional experience in emergency medicine was 12.28 years. We used a fatigue scale validated for application in mixed-reality professional training. The fatigue questionnaire addressed five fatigue domains and was answered after MR training. The MR fatigue scale applied to Medical First Responders (MFRs) showed and detected relevant fatigue dimensions: General, Social, Emotional, Emotional, Visual, and Motivational fatigue. Both general fatigue and visual fatigue had the most significant effects. Among the professions analysed in the training, the medical profession suffered more significant visual fatigue than the rest of the professionals.
Regenerative Effect of Lyophilized Mesenchymal Stem Cells Combined with Platelet-Rich Fibrin in a Skin Wound Model in Geriatric and Young Rats
Authors: BULUT Osman , GENC Deniz , DEMIRCI Çiğdem Elif , TEKİN Leyla , DÜMBEK Tolga Meriç , BÜLBÜL Aziz 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the regenerative effect of lyophilized dental follicle mesenchymal stem cells (DF-MSCs) combined with platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) on geriatric skin wounds. Human DF-MSCs isolated from healthy donors and PRF were mixed and incubated in a 37°C incubator for 1–2 hours containing 1 million cells in 150 mg PRF. The mixture was suspended in a freeze-drying solution and then lyophilized. Wounds were created on the back skin of Wistar albino rats using a 6 mm punch. Lyophilized DF-MSCs, PRF, or PRF + DF-MSCs were applied to the wounds of rats. On the 15th day, the wound area was histopathologically evaluated in rats. Peripheral blood samples from rats were analyzed for total reactive oxygen species (TAOS), and inflammatory cytokine levels using ELISA. In both young and geriatric rats treated with lyophilized PRF + DF-MSCs, wound area began started to significantly decrease from the 10th day compared to the untreated group (p < 0.05). Histopathological examination revealed that in the lyophilized PRF + DF-MSCs treated groups, epithelial integrity and scarless healing significantly increased compared to the untreated groups (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in TAOS, total oxidant state (TOS), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin-6 (IL6), and hydroxyproline levels in serum samples from young rats on the 15th day (p < 0.005). In geriatric rats, hydroxyproline (HYPS) levels were increased in the DF-MSC and PRF + DF-MSC groups (p < 0.01), and IL6 was increased in the PRF group compared to the control group (p < 0.01). Lyophilized PRF + DF-MSCs, which is a shelf-stable and ready-to-use product, hold promise, especially for traumatic wounds in geriatric individuals with longer healing times.
Feasibility of using sub-milliSievert prospective electrocardiogram-triggered cardiac CT for imaging neonatal coronary arteries
Authors: nie chi , he xiaofang , wang qian , zheng xiaoyan , li jianyin , fang ruqi , zhong yumin 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate the feasibility of imaging coronary arteries in neonates with congenital heart disease (CHD) using sub-mSv prospective electrocardiogram (ECG)-triggered coronary CT.
Materials & Methods: We retrospectively reviewed neonatal coronary CT images performed on a 16cm-wide detector CT system at a single center from March 2021 to March 2022. Low-dose prospective ECG-triggering coronary CT was performed, and images were reconstructed using an adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction algorithm. Subjective image quality was assessed using a five-point grading scale. Objective image quality was assessed using the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) of the aortic root and beam hardening artifacts. Images were compared among neonates of different groups according to weight, birth history, pulmonary infection, and tracheal intubation.
Results: Sixty-one participants were included. The incidence of coronary artery anomalies in neonates was 4.92% (3/61). The effective dose was 0.42±0.06mSv, and most images were acceptable for diagnosis, with good agreement between reviewers (κ=0.55–0.67). The visualization rate for the proximal vessel segments and all vessel segments was 90.98% and 81.79%, respectively. Aortic root SNR, CNR were adequately high at 17.33±5.32HU and 22.41±4.31 HU, respectively, and beam hardening artifacts were low at 26.22±11.24 HU. No significant difference in the image quality of the coronary arteries was found between patients of different groups (P>0.05).
Conclusion: Sub-millisievert prospective ECG-triggered coronary CT provides excellent coronary visualization in neonates with CHD and may confirm the diagnosis of coronary anomalies. Image quality was not affected by weight, birth history, pulmonary infection, or intubation.
Clinical Relevance Statement: sub-millisievert electrocardiograph-triggered cardiac CT provides excellent coronary visualization in neonates with CHD and confirm the diagnosis of coronary anomalies.