bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The impact of urban environment on spatial navigation in elderly people with mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Santos-Rocha Pedro , Bonifácio Ana , Almeida André , Alcobia Paulo , Erskine Andrew , Conceição Marta , Marques-Reis João Pedro , Burghardt Tyson , Morgado Paulo , Miranda Bruno 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Spatial cognition deficits are particularly prevalent in early stages of Alzheimer’s disease and in individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Previous research using simplistic virtual reality (VR) settings was able to show such navigation impairments. However, the degree to which such results apply to more naturalistic environments remains unknown. Our study aims to test the hypothesis that spatial navigation in an elderly population with MCI could be improved by re-designing an urban space. Twenty-five MCI patients and a similar group of age- and gender-matched controls will be recruited to perform an urban spatial navigation VR task (uSNT). The uSNT is a modified version of the well-known virtual supermarket paradigm (designed to assess both egocentric and allocentric orientation processes), but the VR environment will be a real neighborhood of Lisbon. Specific interventions will be performed to various key parameters (street-level complexity, land-use, design, and green areas) and potential confounding elements (colors, textures, street occupation) of the urban scenario. Furthermore, eye tracking and electroencephalography data will be collected. Details of our task design and methodological approach to compare the navigation performance of both groups will be provided. In the future, we expect that the urban (re-)design interventions will positively impact on the navigation performance of MCI participants, being a clear proof-of-principle, that customize urban planning/design is key to enhance the autonomy and quality of life of such patients. Additionally, this research will establish the feasibility of replicating experimental conditions and ensuring consistency across different studies and subjects.
xECGArch: A trustworthy deep learning architecture for interpretable ECG analysis considering short-term and long-term features
Authors: Goettling Marc , Hammer Alexander , Malberg Hagen , Schmidt Martin 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Deep learning-based methods have demonstrated high classification performance in the detection of cardiovascular diseases from electrocardiograms (ECGs). However, their blackbox character and the associated lack of interpretability limit their clinical applicability. To overcome existing limitations, we present a novel deep learning architecture for interpretable ECG analysis (xECGArch). For the first time, short- and long-term features are analyzed by two independent convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and combined into an ensemble, which is extended by methods of explainable artificial intelligence (xAI) to whiten the blackbox. To demonstrate the trustworthiness of xECGArch, perturbation analysis was used to compare 13 different xAI methods. We parameterized xECGArch for atrial fibrillation (AF) detection using four public ECG databases (n = 9,854 ECGs) and achieved an F1 score of 95.43 % in AF versus non-AF classification on an unseen ECG test dataset. A systematic comparison of xAI methods showed that deep Taylor decomposition provided the most trustworthy explanations (+24 % compared to the second-best approach). xECGArch can account for short- and long-term features corresponding to clinical features of morphology and rhythm, respectively. Further research will focus on the relationship between xECGArch features and clinical features, which may help in medical applications for diagnosis and therapy.
Quantifying the biodiversity pressures of fruit and vegetable consumption in the United Kingdom, India, and South Africa
Authors: Chapman Abbie , Green Rosemary , Hadida Genevieve , Kennard Harry , Mabhaudhi Tafadzwanashe , Scheelbeek Pauline , Dalin Carole 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Globally, fruit and vegetable consumption must increase to improve human health. Production must increase to meet demand, potentially pressuring biodiversity. Here, we describe new biodiversity-pressure metrics, which we use to compare the biodiversity pressures associated with fruits and vegetables consumed in the United Kingdom (UK), India, and South Africa. We found that biodiversity pressure for individual crops varies greatly with origin. In all three countries, imported fruits are typically associated with greater pressure than domestically grown fruits. In India and South Africa, domestically supplied vegetables generally have a greater biodiversity pressure than those which are imported. Oranges, popular in the UK and South Africa, have a biodiversity pressure (mean: 391 species.hectares/tonne; SD: 446) almost three times higher than bananas (mean: 141 species.hectares/tonne; SD: 148) - a favourite in the UK and India. Our findings provide evidence to support decisions to develop sustainable food systems for better planetary health.
Cerebra: A Computationally Efficient Framework for Accurate Protein Structure Prediction
Authors: Gong Haipeng , Hu Jian , Wang Weizhe 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Remarkable progress has been made in the field of protein structure prediction in the past years. State-of-the-art methods like AlphaFold2 and RoseTTAFold2 achieve prediction accuracy close to experimental structural determination, but at the cost of heavy computational consumption for model training. In this work, we propose a new protein structure prediction framework, Cerebra, for improving the computational efficiency of protein structure prediction. In this innovative network architecture, multiple sets of atomic coordinates are predicted parallelly and their mutual complementary is leveraged to rapidly improve the quality of predicted structures through a novel attention mechanism. Consequently, Cerebra markedly reduces the model training consumption, achieving a training acceleration of at least 7 folds, in comparison to OpenFold, the academic version of AlphaFold2. When evaluated on the CAMEO and CASP15 sets, the Cerebra model insufficiently trained on a single GPU only shows slight performance inferiority to the published OpenFold model.
Knowledge mapping of MIRNA in hepatocellular carcinoma from 2012-2022:a bibliometric analysis
Authors: liu bowen , li xiaobin , ma 贵萍 , li Feng , yi fan , hu shiping 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background: This study aims to reveal the research hotspots, scientific preface, and future trends in this field by conducting a metrological analysis of the literature related to miRNA research in hepatocellular carcinoma.
Methods: Articles related to miRNA research in hepatocellular carcinoma in the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) were searched. The annual distribution, countries, institutions, authors, journals, citations, and keywords of published articles from 2012-2022 were visualized and analyzed by CiteSpace and VOSviewer software.
Results: A total of 7065 English-language articles published between 2012 and 2022 were collected, with the majority of publications coming from China (n=2419), followed by the United States and Egypt, with Sun Yat-sen University having the highest number of publications of all institutions (n=153). The top published and co-cited authors were Chen, Gang, and Bartel DP, respectively. articles were mainly published in Oncotarget (n=119). Initially, the hotspots were "hbv", "mir-21", "akt3" and "beta-catenin ", while in recent years the focus has shifted to "sorafenib resistance", "exosome", "stem cell " and "pi3k".
Conclusion:miRNAs are of great research importance in elucidating HCC occurrence, progression, treatment, and prognosis prediction, and have become prospective biomarkers and therapeutic targets for HCC. Therefore, actively exploring the detailed mechanisms of miRNA-mediated HCC onset and progression may offer promising prospects for future improvements in the clinical outcomes of HCC patients.
Over-activation of STING Induces Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Apoptosis via Binding Affinity with IP3R in Salivary Gland Cells of Sjögren's Syndrome
Authors: Xu Jiabao , Yin Junhao , Chen Changyu , Xie Lisong , Wang Zhijun , Wang Baoli , Zhao Ruowen , Zheng Lingyan , Fu Jiayao , Zhang Zhiyuan 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune disease characterized by lymphocytic infiltration and cell death of salivary gland epithelial cells (SGECs). However, the connection between immune signaling to the fate of SS remains unclear.
Methods
We demonstrated that high lactate levels induces the cGAS-STING singaling transduction in SGECs of SS patients. Furthermore, in vitro study in salivary gland A253 cell line and in vivo study of NOD/Ltj mice model show that lactate-induced abnormal activation of STING results in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress.
Results
Mechanistically, we found that overactivated STING disrupts Ca2+ homeostasis in ER by altering its interaction with the inositol trisphosphate receptor (IP3R), consequently causing ER damage, triggering ER stress and cell apoptosis.
Conclusion
This research sheds new light on the mechanism of SS but also reveals the pivotal roles of STING-IP3R binding, providing novel avenues for the treatment of autoimmune disorders.
A multicentre phase III study comparing efficacy &amp; safety of novel extended-release vs. conventional formulation of Dydrogesterone in Indian patients with endometriosis
Authors: Sasikala T , Kushwaha Shikha , Agarwal Mukta , Jain Vandana , Bawa Deepti , Narayan Suchitra , Daultani PavanKumar , Jaiswal Ashok , Chinda Monika , Singh Anit 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Purpose: To compare the efficacy and safety of novel once-daily extended-release (ER) dydrogesterone 20 mg versus conventional twice-daily dydrogesterone 10 mg in Indian patients with endometriosis
Method: A phase III prospective, randomized, double-blind, single-dummy, two-arm, active-controlled, parallel, multicenter study was performed in six gynecology centers across India. The patients of 18 to 45 years of age with a confirmed diagnosis of endometriosis on ultrasonography (USG) and having endometriosis-associated pelvic pain score (EAPP) of at least 30mm on a 100 mm visual analog scale (VAS) were randomly assigned to a 1:1 ratio to either once-daily dydrogesterone ER 20 mg or twice-daily dydrogesterone 10 mg arms for a treatment period of 90 days. The primary outcome was a change from baseline in EAPP score at the end of the treatment.
Results: A total of 288 patients with a mean age of 31.8 ± 6.9 years were enrolled in the study. At day 90, both the treatment arms showed a significant reduction (p<0.05) in EAPP score from baseline (i.e. –34.2 ± 15.3mm and –33.1 ± 14.8mm in once daily dydrogesterone ER and twice daily dydrogesterone 10 mg, respectively), with no significant difference between the two arms (p=0.53). With both formulations, patients experienced a significant reduction in the size of endometrioma, serum vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF) levels, use of rescue analgesics, and significant improvement in the health-related quality-of-life parameters. A favorable safety profile of dydrogesterone was confirmed, and no significant safety concerns were reported during the study.
Conclusion: Once daily dydrogesterone ER 20 mg and twice daily dydrogesterone 10 mg demonstrated a significant and similar reduction in EAPP and all other secondary parameters along with marked improvements in parameters related to quality of life.
Registration Number: CTRI/2023/03/050698
A mixed methods evaluation of the effect of confidence-based versus conventional multiple-choice questions on student performance and the learning journey
Authors: Chong Luke X , Hockley Nick , Wood-Bradley Ryan J , Armitage James A 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Traditional single best answer multiple-choice questions (MCQs) are a proven and ubiquitous assessment tool. By their very nature, MCQs prompt students to guess a correct outcome when unsure of the answer, which may lead to a reduced ability to reliably assay student knowledge. Moreover, the traditional Single Best Answer Test (SBAT) offers binary feedback (correct or incorrect) and therefore offers no feedback or enhancement of the student learning journey. Confidence-based Answer Tests (CBATs) are designed to improve reliability because participants are not forced to guess where they cannot choose between two or more alternative answers which they may favour equally. CBATs enable students to reflect on their knowledge and better appreciate where their mastery of a particular subject may be weaker. Although CBATs can provide richer feedback to students and improve the learning journey, their use may be limited if they significantly alter student scores or grades, which may be viewed negatively. The aim of this study was to compare performance across these test paradigms, to investigate if there are any systematic biases present.
Methods
Thirty-four first-year optometry students and 10 lecturers undertook a test comprising 40 questions. Each question was completed using two specified test paradigms; for the first paradigm, they were allowed to weight their answers based on confidence (CBAT), and a single best answer (SBAT). Upon test completion, students undertook a survey comprising both Likert scale and open-ended responses regarding their experience and perspectives on the CBAT and SBAT multiple-choice test paradigms. These were analysed thematically.
Results
There was no significant difference between paradigms, with a median difference of 1.25% (p = 0.313, Kruskal-Wallis) in students and 3.33% (p = 0.437, Kruskal-Wallis) in staff. The survey indicated that students had no strong preference towards a particular method.
Conclusions
Since there was no significant difference between test paradigms, this validates implementation of the confidence-based paradigm as an equivalent and viable option for traditional MCQs but with the added potential benefit that, if coupled with reflective practice, can provide students with a richer learning experience. There is no inherent bias within one method over another.
Satellite mapping reveals complex patterns of agricultural intensification in the Sahel
Authors: Tong Xiaoye , Brandt Martin , Rasmussen Laura , Hiernaux Pierre , Herrmann Stefanie , Bruun Thilde , Reiner Florian , Abdi Abdulhakim , Li Sizuo , Fensholt Rasmus 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The scarcity of spatial data on agricultural intensification often results in a reliance on cropland expansion as the sole quantifiable variable for assessing food production, being especially the case for smallholder farming systems in drylands. Here, we demonstrate that a new generation of satellite data and computer science technologies can be applied to derive key cropping system metrics, used to categorize seven archetypes of cropping systems in western Sahel for the year 2019. On a large scale, we document a widespread existence of extensive, yet distinct different patterns of agricultural intensification. In Senegal, for instance, 67% of croplands experienced intensification with no obvious decline in soil fertility while in contrast, Niger experienced only 13% intensification. The variations between countries can be attributed to historical agrarian cultures and development trajectories. Our approach provides a step forward in identifying agricultural intensification of smallholder farmers in drylands, with the findings emphasizing the adaptability to local environmental conditions.
Use of Estonian Biobank Data and Participant Recall to Improve Wilson’s Disease Management
Authors: Nurm Miriam , Reigo Anu , Annilo Tarmo , Toomsoo Toomas , Nõukas Margit , Nikopensius Tiit , Pankratov Vasili , Reisberg Tuuli , Hudjašov Georgi , Team Estonian Biobank Research , Haller Toomas , Tõnisson Neeme 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Population-based biobanks enable genomic screening to support initiatives that prevent disease onset or slow its progression and to estimate the prevalence of genetic diseases in the population. Wilson’s disease (WD) is a rare genetic copper-accumulation disorder for which timely intervention is crucial, as treatment is readily available. We studied WD in the Estonian Biobank population to advance patient screening, swift diagnosis, and subsequent treatment. Combined analysis of genotype and phenotype data from electronic health records (EHRs) consolidated at the Estonian biobank led to the identification of 17 individuals at high risk of developing WD, who were recalled for further examination and deep phenotyping. All recall study participants, regardless of phenotype, age, and prior WD diagnosis, had low serum ceruloplasmin and copper levels, and 87% also exhibited signs of early to late neurodegeneration. The p.His1069Gln variant in ATP7B, a prevalent pathogenic mutation, showed a striking four- to five-fold enrichment in Estonians compared with other populations. Based on our analysis of genetic and nationwide health registry data, we estimate that WD remains underdiagnosed and undertreated in Estonia. Our study demonstrates that personalized medicine, implemented with the collaboration of medical professionals, has the potential to reduce the healthcare burden by facilitating the accurate diagnosis of rare genetic diseases. To our knowledge, this report is the first to describe a large-scale national biobank–based study of WD.
Penetrating Trauma Resulting in Strangulated Small Bowel Evisceration: A Case report
Authors: Atri Souhaib , brahim Maryem ben , aifia Rani el , Hammami Mahdi , Kacem Montassar 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Introduction : Evisceration of the small intestine following a stab wound is a rare and life-threatening complication resulting from severe abdominal trauma. This case report presents the clinical experience of a patient with small intestine evisceration after a stab wound, providing valuable insights into clinical manifestations, management, and care outcomes of this exceptional condition. Case report We present the case of a 24-year-old patient who was the victim of a penetrating trauma, leading to the strangulated evisceration of a segment of the small bowel. Upon clinical examination revealed a right flank abdominal wound as the site of strangulated small bowel evisceration. Given these clinical findings, the decision to perform an immediate exploratory laparotomy was imperative. A midline incision was made, and an exploratory laparotomy was performed. The strangulated bowel segment was well perfused, and no additional digestive lesions were identified. Consequently, abdominal lavage was carried out. The patient's postoperative course was uneventful, and the patient was discharged on the third day after surgery. Discussion: This case report emphasizes the urgency and significance of immediate surgical intervention in post-traumatic strangulated small bowel evisceration, particularly in cases involving sharp object injuries. The rarity of this condition should not undermine its critical nature, necessitating a meticulous clinical examination for timely assessment. Laboratory and radiological tests should not delay emergency surgery, considering the time sensitivity and potential consequences like intestinal necrosis. The choice between laparotomy and laparoscopy depends on the nature and severity of the injury, with laparoscopy offering diagnostic and therapeutic benefits in select cases. Overall, this case underscores the life-saving potential of prompt surgical intervention in managing this challenging condition Conclusion Post-traumatic strangulated small bowel evisceration represents a potentially grave condition. Nevertheless, prognosis primarily hinges on the severity of accompanying injuries. In cases of isolated post-traumatic strangulated small bowel evisceration, a favorable outcome can be achieved with prompt and appropriate intervention, involving immediate emergency laparotomy to address strangulation and perform a thorough evaluation of injuries.
Establishment and validation of a risk prediction model for the occurrence of frailty in elderly patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Wang Sen , Min Xiaoyan , Chen Xi , Pang Sisi , Zha Zhimin , Zhou Chuanwei , Guo Yan , Wang Xiangming 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the determinants of frailty in elderly patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and to develop and validate a predictive nomogram for frailty incidence.
Methods: The study enrolled 206 elderly patients with chronic HFpEF, admitted to the Department of Geriatric Cardiology at the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, from September 2021 to August 2023. The Fried frailty phenotype scale was used to evaluate all patients, who were then categorized into frailty and non-frailty groups. The participants were randomly allocated to either the training or validation group in a 7:3 ratio. Clinical data between the two groups were compared, and a univariate analysis was conducted using 52 clinical variables as independent variables. Predictive factors were selected from those with statistically significant differences in the univariate analysis through LASSO regression, followed by multivariate logistic regression analysis. The HFpEF frailty predictive nomogram was developed using R 4.2 software. The nomogram's performance was assessed using ROC curve analysis, Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test, calibration curve, and clinical decision curve.
Results: Following LASSO regression selection, multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that age, grip strength, MNA score, albumin, and tricuspid regurgitation velocity were independent risk factors for frailty incidence in HFpEF patients. The nomogram was developed based on these logistic regression results. The AUC of the ROC curve for the nomogram in the training set was 0.950 (95% CI: 0.911-0.869), and in the validation set, it was 0.932 (95% CI: 0.882-0.867), demonstrating strong discriminant performance of the model. The Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test indicated a good fit of the nomogram (χ2=4.761, P=0.783). The decision curve analysis (DCA) curve showed a significant net clinical benefit of the model.
Conclusion: The predictive model developed in this study exhibits strong predictive value for frailty incidence in HFpEF patients, offering a foundation for precise treatment of elderly HFpEF patients.