bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Multi-scale Differences in Landscape Connectivity Evaluation and Protection Strategies: A Case Study of Chongqing, China
Authors: Rao Xianlong , Li Jue , Li Jiayan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In the context of rapid urban expansion, protecting landscape connectivity has become an important means of addressing habitat fragmentation and enhancing biodiversity. Using Chongqing, China, as a case study, this research establishes a multi-scale evaluation framework of "main urban area - main metropolitan area - Chongqing city." By employing landscape connectivity indices and ecological security patterns, the study reveals the scale differences in landscape connectivity from both structural and functional perspectives and proposes protection strategies from a multi-scale viewpoint. The results indicate that in terms of structural connectivity, when the research scale is expanded to medium and large scales, the dPC levels of all core areas within the main urban area (small scale) significantly drop to levels 1–3. At the large scale, the core areas in Jiangjin District, Nanchuan District, and Fuling District within the main metropolitan area (medium scale) exhibit characteristics of significant downgrading (level 8 to level 2), some downgrading (level 9 to level 8), and upgrading (level 7 to level 9), respectively. In terms of functional connectivity, the corridors (394.79 km²) and sources (39.61 km²) in Beibei District, Yubei District, Nan'an District, and Banan District are very important for landscape connectivity protection at small and medium scales; the corridors (11.33 km²) and sources (1180.41 km²) in Nanchuan District and Fuling District are crucial for landscape connectivity protection at medium and large scales. This study provides systematic and comprehensive strategic references for landscape connectivity protection.
Enhancing Point Cloud Density using MEMS Mirror-based Focusing for LiDAR Systems
Authors: Li Wen Jung , YANG Donghai , CHEN Meng , YU Xiaodong , CHEN Qingjiu , ZHANG Guanglie 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

LiDAR has become a prominent technology in 3D sensing due to its reliable distance detection. However, the sparse point cloud data it produces, particularly during long-range scanning, poses challenges for data processing. To overcome this, we developed a novel LiDAR system with a focusing functionality to improve point cloud density when scanning distance objects. The system, which comprises a MEMS mirror-based LiDAR and a CMOS camera, leverages the adjustable light beam steering of the MEMS mirror to dynamically alter the laser beam angle according to the target size, thereby enhancing the point cloud density for long-range targets. The integrated camera and image recognition technology facilitate automatic target detection, enabling dynamic control of the MEMS mirrors for focusing. Experimental results showed a significant increase in effective returns on the target from 18 to 93 after focusing at a distance of 30 meters, improving vertical resolution by 83.4%. Scanning of long-range targets also demonstrated a substantial enhancement in point cloud density and resolution.
Acrocyanosis as a rare presentation of drug-induced cutaneous vasculitis: A Case Report
Authors: Zakaria Ezwan Rafizi , Ghazali Wan Syamimee Wan , Sazali Hafsah , Shahril Nor Shuhaila , Nawi Siti Nurbaya Mohd 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: Acrocyanosis is characterised by persistent bluish discoloration of the extremities, resulting from reduced peripheral blood flow leading to increased oxygen extraction. The aetiology can be divided into primary and secondary causes. While primary acrocyanosis is generally painless and has a benign course, secondary causes may lead to complications. This case reported acrocyanosis secondary to cutaneous vasculitis which progressed to digital gangrene, which is a rare complication of cutaneous vasculitis.
Case presentation: A 68-year-old man presented with a four-day history of bluish discolouration involving bilateral toes associated with pain and started to become gangrenous. Investigations for critical limb ischemia did not show evidence of critical arterial stenosis. Further history revealed history of recent administration of intramuscular injections with diclofenac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent for renal colic pain a few days prior to the onset of the . Thorough skin search showed multiple purpuric rash of his thighs, buttocks and abdomen. Skin biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of cutaneous (lymphocytic) vasculitis, which was likely to be drug-induced. The acrocyanosis initially responded to methylprednisolone, however unfortunately it progressed further to digital gangrene which required bilateral transmetatarsal amputations.
Conclusion: Knowledge on clinical features, aetiology and investigations of secondary acrocyanosis is crucial for early recognition and treatment of the underlying cause to prevent irreversible complications.
Biophysical Properties of CTCFL and AHR Condensate Regulate Glutathione S-Transferase Mediated Lymph Node Density in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Huanrong , Wang Rong , Zhong Haihui , Gu Peigui 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) prognosis is closely associated with lymph node density (LND). The identification of biomarkers and regulatory mechanisms influencing LND could enhance our understanding of ESCC progression and inform therapeutic strategies.Methods This study analyzed 8,716 esophageal cancer patients to determine the prognostic significance of LND. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to assess clinical factors. Gene expression data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) were used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between LND < 0.12 and LND ≥ 0.12 groups. Functional enrichment, protein-protein interactions, and transcriptional regulation were investigated using advanced computational tools, immunoprecipitation, immunofluorescence, CUT&Tag sequencing, and phase separation assays.Results Higher LND (≥ 0.12) was associated with poorer survival outcomes. DEGs analysis revealed significant enrichment in glutathione metabolic pathways. CTCFL and AHR transcription factors were identified as key regulators of glutathione S-Transferase (GSTs) genes. These transcription factors exhibited phase separation properties, enhancing GSTs transcription. Knockdown experiments confirmed that CTCFL and AHR collaboratively regulate GSTs, affecting reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and LND. In vivo, ESCC models demonstrated upregulation of CTCFL, AHR, and GSTs in high-LND mice, corroborating the regulatory role of these factors in tumor progression.Conclusion The transcription factors CTCFL and AHR regulate GST-mediated glutathione metabolism, influencing LND and ESCC progression. Targeting these regulatory pathways may offer novel therapeutic approaches for managing ESCC.
Comparative Evaluation of Hypertension Prevention, Treatment and Control Efforts among Pilot and Non-pilot Health Facilities in Amhara Region, Northern Ethiopia, 2022: a Parallel Evaluation Design
Authors: Gashe Abiyie Demelash , Addisu Alefech , Zenebe Dawit , Yusuf Aman 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background With increasing trends of hypertension, Ethiopia has been piloting hypertension program whose effectiveness was not ascertained yet. Therefore, this study aimed to determine effectiveness of pilot hypertension program in the Amhara region of Ethiopia. Methods We followed a parallel evaluation design to describe hypertension prevention, treatment and control efforts of four pilot and four non-pilot facilities in Amhara region from April 1–30, 2022. We used checklist with a structured questionnaire to collect data from record reviews, patient interviews and observations. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. The statistical comparison was made using chi-square test, t-test, 95% CI and p < 0.05. Result Pilot facilities demonstrated better performances in hypertension prevention (72.8% vs 43.6%), hypertension treatment (85.3% vs 55.0%) and hypertension control (49.8% vs 42.4%) domains. The rate of opportunistic blood pressure (BP) screening was higher in pilot facilities (91%) 95% CI: 87.8–93.5% than non-pilot facilities (74.4%), 95% CI: 71.2–79.7%. There was a statistically significant difference in hypertension detection rates between pilot facilities (19.9%), 95% CI: 16.2–24.0%) and non-pilot facilities (14.9%), 95% CI: 11.7–18.6%. Half (51.8%) of hypertensive patients in pilot and 42.4% in non-pilot facilities had controlled thier BP with a statistically significant difference between facilities, chi-square, X2 = 0.823; p < 0.001. The mean performances across three domains was better in pilot facilities than non-pilot facilities (76.1% vs51.2%), t-test, t = 2.125; p = 0.042. Conclusion the evaluation of the pilot hypertension program in the Amhara region of Ethiopia has demonstrated promising results. Pilot facilities showed better performances across the three domains. They demonstrated better opportunistic BP screening, case detection and retention into care, and BP control compared to non-pilot facilities. Based on these findings, pilot hypertension program in the Amhara region should be scaled up into nationwide program and the successful components pilot program such as structured approach to hypertension management, protocol adherence, and integration of hypertension service into primary healthcare should be replicated.
Pulmonary arterial hypertension as an unusual presentation of angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma: a case report
Authors: Jung Ji Yoon 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: Angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma (AITL) is a rare form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma with diverse clinical presentations. This report describes a unique case of AITL presenting with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a rarely associated complication.
Case presentation: An 84-year-old male with a history of gastric cancer presented with dyspnea. Initial investigations revealed lymphadenopathy, pleural effusion, and severe PAH. Diagnostic workup, including histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis of an excisional lymph node biopsy and advanced imaging techniques, confirmed the diagnosis of AITL. The patient was treated with a mini-CHOP (comprising adriamycin, cyclophosphamide, mesna, vincristine, and prednisolone) chemotherapy regimen, leading to significant improvement in PAH and other symptoms, and achieving complete remission as confirmed by torso positron emission tomography-computed tomography scans. This case highlights the diagnostic challenge posed by atypical manifestations of AITL, such as PAH. The effective response to chemotherapy in this patient emphasizes the potential for conventional treatment regimens in managing rare presentations of AITL.
Conclusions: This report contributes to the limited literature on AITL with PAH and underscores the importance of considering AITL in differential diagnoses for patients presenting with PAH.
ABCG2 predicts the prognosis and is associated with immune infiltration in lung cancer: a bioinformatics study
Authors: Zhai Yang , Zhai XinLong 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
ATP-binding cassette superfamily G member 2 (ABCG2), a member of the ATP-binding cassette transporter family, is localized in the membrane of various human cancer cells and excludes drugs from cells in an ATP-dependent manner. Its expression is linked to numerous malignant tumors. This study focused on the expression of the ABCG2 gene in lung cancer and its association with patient prognosis.
Methods
The expression levels of ABCG2 between lung cancer and normal tissues were explored using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) database. The Human Protein Mapping (HPA) database was used to obtain the expression of ABCG2 protein in tissues and organs and intracellular protein expression patterns. ABCG2 was detected in the plasma membrane and nucleoplasm. University of California Santa Cruz (UCSC) and cBioPortal were used to obtain gene mapping and mutation information. The ABCG2 was significantly correlated with patient survival prognosis and immune infiltration of cancer‑associated fibroblasts in numerous types of cancer. Furthermore, Gene Ontology analysis identified that ABCG2 may be important in metabolic and cellular processes in human cancers.
Results
ABCG2 expression was significantly associated with multiple cancers, including lung cancer in TCGA. ABCG2 protein plays a crucial role in tumor regrowth by actively removing anticancer drugs from the cell through ABCG2-mediated efflux transport, thereby protecting against their toxic effects. The functional enrichment of ABCG2-related genes primarily involves the regulation of small GTPase-mediated signal transduction, myeloid leukocyte activation, positive regulation of cell adhesion, and endocytic vesicle localization. Additionally, it is associated with vacuolar membrane organization, lysosomal membrane organization, GTPase regulator activity, nucleoside-triphosphatase regulator activity, and small GTPase binding.
Conclusion
ABCG2 expression was significantly associated with poor prognosis in lung cancer patients. ABCG2 is involved in lung cancer immune infiltration and represents a suitable target for immunotherapy related to immune infiltration.
The Outcome of Thrombotic Microangiopathy in Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Haq Kanza , Lin Shanshan , Dasgupta Alana , Obaidi Zainab , Bagnasco Serena , Maggiore Umberto , Alachkar Nada 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
The outcome of kidney transplant recipients with a history of complement-mediated thrombotic microangiopathy (cTMA) and those who develop post-transplant de novo TMA (dnTMA) is largely unknown.
Methods
We retrospectively studied all kidney transplant recipients with end-stage kidney disease secondary to cTMA and those who developed dnTMA, between Jan 2000 and Dec 2020 in our center.
Results
We identified 134 patients, 22 with cTMA and 112 had dnTMA. Patients with cTMA were younger at the time of TMA diagnosis (age at diagnosis, 28.9 ± 16.3. vs 46.5 ± 16.0 years; P < 0.001). T-cell mediated rejection, borderline rejection, and calcineurin inhibitor toxicity were more prevalent in the first kidney transplant biopsy (P < 0.05) in the dnTMA group, and antibody-mediated rejection was more prevalent in anytime-biopsy (P = 0.027). After adjusting for potential confounders, cTMA was associated with a 6-fold increase in the hazard of transplant failure during the first-year post-transplant (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR): 6.37 [95%CI: 2.17 to18.68; P = 0.001]; the aHR decreased by 0.87 (95% CI: 0.76 to 0.99: P = 0.033) per year elapsed since transplantation. Long-term allograft survival was similar in both groups.
Conclusion
Post kidney transplant TMA is an important cause of poor allograft survival. More studies are needed to enhance our understanding and management of this disorder.
A novel ecological momentary assessment app for the investigation of daily cognitive functioning in breast cancer survivors: A feasibility study
Authors: Cobden Annalee L. , Burnett Jake , Saward Jacqueline B , Burmester Alex , Singh Mervyn , Domínguez Juan , Gates Priscilla , Lippey Jocelyn , Caeyenberghs Karen 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Breast cancer survivors often experience cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI), such as problems with memory and attention. However, typical neuropsychological test batteries are unable to capture the day-to-day variability of cognition and may be underestimating CRCI. The present study aims to assess the feasibility, usability, and validity of a novel ecological momentary assessment (EMA) app of cognition.
Methods
Nineteen breast cancer survivors 6–36-months post-chemotherapy and 26 healthy controls completed the NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery. Subsequently, participants completed the EMA app (once a day, for 30 days) comprising four cognitive tasks assessing processing speed, working memory, inhibition, and attention. At the conclusion of the app, participants completed a usability questionnaire on which content analysis was performed. Feasibility was assessed against eight criteria, including accessibility, app compliance and technical smoothness. Convergent construct validity was assessed using Spearman's correlation analyses between the NIH toolbox and the EMA app.
Results
Five of eight feasibility criteria were met, including: accessibility, app motivation, participation rate, drop-out, and data collection. Additionally, our content analyses revealed four themes important to usability: self-development, altruism, engagement, and functionality. Majority of the EMA tasks were moderately positively correlated with the corresponding constructs of the NIH toolbox tasks (R’s range: 0.55–0.64), indicating, better performance on the EMA app coincided with better performance on the NIH toolbox.
Conclusions
Our findings show the app was accessible, participants were motivated to complete sessions and our tasks showed good construct validity.
Implications for Cancer Survivors:
Our novel EMA app can be used as a comprehensive cognitive measure in cancer survivors.
Static Gesture Recognition Based on Thermal Imaging Sensors
Authors: Zhi-yuan ZHANG , Hao REN , Hao LI , Kang-hui YUAN , ZHU Chu-feng 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Gesture recognition technology has demonstrated its applicability in various scenarios within the field of human-computer interaction, owing to its flexibility and non-contact nature. In particular, thermal imaging technology which is not limited by lighting conditions and effectively reduces the risk of privacy disclosure by capture only thermal radiation rather than detailed features. In this study, a low resolution 32 x 24 pixels end-to-end embedded infrared thermal imaging camera gesture recognition system is developed. A thermal imaging gesture dataset of 4,500 images is constructed to train and evaluate the system. The effects on improve gesture recognition accuracy by research the spatial transform network attention mechanism (STN) is discussed. Thus, a new method combines lightweight Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) and STN is propose. Additionally, the proposed method achieves 98.5% recognition accuracy and inference time of only 59 milliseconds per frame on embedded devices when tested on self-made infrared thermal imaging sign language gesture dataset, outperforming mainstream lightweight models.
Half a loaf is better than no bread: Epidemiology, clinical characteristics, determinants and prognosis of heart failure with partial improved ejection fraction
Authors: Yin Xuan , Mao Hengyi , Jiang Feng , Yang Fan , Zhu Suyan , Cui Hanbin , Zhou Jifang 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
A subset of patients identified with heart failure (HF) with decreased ejection fraction (HFrEF) show a partial improvement in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Information regarding the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and outlook for patients with HF exhibiting partially improved ejection fraction (HFpimpEF) is scarce.
Methods
Among 3691 adults HF patients with had two LVEF echocardiograms that were at least three months apart in Yinzhou District, 350 of these were initially categorized as HFrEF (LVEF ≤ 40%). Subtypes included pHFrEF (LVEF ≤ 40), HFpimpEF (LVEF 41–49%, improvement < 10%), and HFimpEF (echocardiogram > 40, LVEF improvement ≥ 10%). The main outcome was mortality or first HF-related readmission.
Results
During a median follow-up of 15.6 months, 62 (17.7%) were HFpimpEF. Using multivariable Cox models, HFpimpEF demonstrated a lower risk of readmission or death than pHFrEF after adjustments compared to pHFrEF (adjusted hazard ratio: 0.55; 95% CI, 0.31–0.96; P = 0.037).
Conclusions
Given its unique clinical presentation, HFpimpEF is supposed to be recognized as a distinct HF subtype. This subtype is characterized by a partial improvement in LVEF and generally has a more favorable prognosis compared to pHFrEF.
Effectiveness of Integrating High-fidelity Simulation and Team-Based Learning in Pediatric postgraduates CPR Training: A Mixed Method Running Head：High-fidelity Simulation and TBL
Authors: Zhang Li-dan , Wang Li , Li Ya-ting , Guo Yao-yu , Lin Hong-xin , Ye Xiao-ting , Chen Hua-bao , Tang Yan-lai , Chen Chun , Xu Ling-ling 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background Given the overall lack of cardiopulmonary
resuscitation (CPR) training in society, Standardized CPR training
is very imperative to bolster widespread CPR adoption. At present,
the traditional teaching method is not conducive to improving
students' comprehensive ability, however, there is limited
literature on the combined use of high-fidelity simulation and
team-based learning (TBL) in pediatric graduate student education. The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of using high-fidelity simulation combined with TBL teaching method in standardized training of cardiopulmonary resuscitation for pediatric postgraduates.
Methods
This mixed-methods study involved twenty-four postgraduate students as experimental subjects. The teaching intervention comprised high-fidelity simulation combined with the team-based learning (TBL) method. Notably, all participants were new to this combined approach, having previously been exposed to traditional teaching methods. We measured total learning performance with a pre-post design. Subsequently, semi-structured interviews were employed, and data analysis followed Colaizzi's methodology. NVivo 12.0 was used to code and analyze interview records.
Results
The high-fidelity simulation + TBL teaching method led to significant improvements in clinical operation scores, including hands-on CPR (80.95 ± 5.81 vs 88.46 ± 7.35), endotracheal intubation (76.03 ± 6.51 vs 81.89 ± 9.72), defibrillation (79.96 ± 4.37 vs 89.84 ± 3.98), and team collaboration (28.33 ± 2.46 vs 32.99 ± 2.85) (P < 0.05). Additionally, a comprehensive qualitative analysis identified 10 core themes, which could be grouped into four thematic clusters: "Reflection and feedback," "Highly simulated clinical scenario," "Improving clinical thinking," and "Teamwork and communication."
Conclusion
The integration of high-fidelity simulation and TBL enhances teaching efficiency and overall clinical emergency response capabilities for postgraduate students, offering structured small group learning applicable to standardized pediatric CPR training.