bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Influence of conflicting prior information on action anticipation in soccer players: an ERP study
Authors: Ji Qingchun , Zhou Chenglin , Wang Yingying 
Published: December 2023

ObjectivePrior probability information and visual kinematic information are essential for action anticipation in athletes. The aims of this study were to examine how conflicting prior information influences anticipatory judgment in athletes vs. non-athletes and to explore the underlying cognitive mechanisms.MethodsThe aim of Experiment 1 was to determine the moment when prior information influenced action anticipation in athletes vs. non-athletes. To that end, 17 semi-elite soccer goalkeepers and 18 non-athletes received prior information about the probability of the direction that a player on a video would kick a ball into the goal. Participants then anticipated the trajectory of the ball when the action of the player’s kick on the video was truncated at the moment the foot contacted the ball (time T) or one frame (T-1; 50 ms) or two frames (T-2; 100 ms) before the foot-ball contact. The aim of Experiment 2 was to elucidate the adaptive cognitive-motor behavior exhibited by highly trained soccer players at the moment when their anticipatory performance was most influenced by prior information. Experiment 2 included 27 different semi-elite soccer players with many years of experience as a goalkeeper and 27 different non-athletes. Participants anticipated the direction of the kick when the kinematic action of the kicker at the moment the anticipatory performance of the participants was most influenced by prior information (as determined in Experiment 1) was congruent, incongruent, or neutral. Action anticipation accuracy and response time were evaluated for both experiments, whereas event-related potential components N1, N2, and P3 were assessed only in Experiment 2.ResultsThe results of Experiment 1 showed that anticipatory accuracy was significantly higher among athletes than non-athletes and that anticipatory accuracy with directional information given was significantly higher than that when no prior information was given or when prior information without directional information was given (p &lt; 0.001) for both T-1 (p’s ≤ 0.034) and T-2 (p’s &lt; 0.001) occlusion points. In Experiment 2 using those two video occlusion times, the amplitude of the N1 component, which reflects selective attention to stimulus properties, was significantly higher in athletes than in non-athletes (p &lt; 0.001). The amplitude of the N2 component, which has been associated with conflict monitoring, for the incongruent condition was significantly higher than that for both neutral (p &lt; 0.001) and congruent (p &lt; 0.001) conditions in athletes. Non-athletes exhibited no significant N2 amplitude differences for any prior information condition.ConclusionIntegrating prior information enhanced action anticipation in semi-elite soccer players, particularly 50 and 100 ms before the foot-ball contact. Semi-elite soccer players prioritized early selective attention and conflict monitoring of kinematic information, facilitating action anticipation using the prior information.
Monipar: movement data collection tool to monitor motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease using smartwatches and smartphones
Authors: Sigcha Luis , Polvorinos-Fernández Carlos , Costa Nélson , Costa Susana , Arezes Pedro , Gago Miguel , Lee Chaiwoo , López Juan Manuel , de Arcas Guillermo , Pavón Ignacio 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionParkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder commonly characterized by motor impairments. The development of mobile health (m-health) technologies, such as wearable and smart devices, presents an opportunity for the implementation of clinical tools that can support tasks such as early diagnosis and objective quantification of symptoms.ObjectiveThis study evaluates a framework to monitor motor symptoms of PD patients based on the performance of standardized exercises such as those performed during clinic evaluation. To implement this framework, an m-health tool named Monipar was developed that uses off-the-shelf smart devices.MethodsAn experimental protocol was conducted with the participation of 21 early-stage PD patients and 7 healthy controls who used Monipar installed in off-the-shelf smartwatches and smartphones. Movement data collected using the built-in acceleration sensors were used to extract relevant digital indicators (features). These indicators were then compared with clinical evaluations performed using the MDS-UPDRS scale.ResultsThe results showed moderate to strong (significant) correlations between the clinical evaluations (MDS-UPDRS scale) and features extracted from the movement data used to assess resting tremor (i.e., the standard deviation of the time series: r = 0.772, p &lt; 0.001) and data from the pronation and supination movements (i.e., power in the band of 1–4 Hz: r = −0.662, p &lt; 0.001).ConclusionThese results suggest that the proposed framework could be used as a complementary tool for the evaluation of motor symptoms in early-stage PD patients, providing a feasible and cost-effective solution for remote and ambulatory monitoring of specific motor symptoms such as resting tremor or bradykinesia.
CPFTransformer: transformer fusion context pyramid medical image segmentation network
Authors: Li Jiao , Ye Jinyu , Zhang Ruixin , Wu Yue , Berhane Gebremedhin Samuel , Deng Hongxia , Shi Hong 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionThe application of U-shaped convolutional neural network (CNN) methods in medical image segmentation tasks has yielded impressive results. However, this structure’s single-level context information extraction capability can lead to problems such as boundary blurring, so it needs to be improved. Additionally, the convolution operation’s inherent locality restricts its ability to capture global and long-distance semantic information interactions effectively. Conversely, the transformer model excels at capturing global information.MethodsGiven these considerations, this paper presents a transformer fusion context pyramid medical image segmentation network (CPFTransformer). The CPFTransformer utilizes the Swin Transformer to integrate edge perception for segmentation edges. To effectively fuse global and multi-scale context information, we introduce an Edge-Aware module based on a context pyramid, which specifically emphasizes local features like edges and corners. Our approach employs a layered Swin Transformer with a shifted window mechanism as an encoder to extract contextual features. A decoder based on a symmetric Swin Transformer is employed for upsampling operations, thereby restoring the resolution of feature maps. The encoder and decoder are connected by an Edge-Aware module for the extraction of local features such as edges and corners.ResultsExperimental evaluations on the Synapse multi-organ segmentation task and the ACDC dataset demonstrate the effectiveness of our method, yielding a segmentation accuracy of 79.87% (DSC) and 20.83% (HD) in the Synapse multi-organ segmentation task.DiscussionThe method proposed in this paper, which combines the context pyramid mechanism and Transformer, enables fast and accurate automatic segmentation of medical images, thereby significantly enhancing the precision and reliability of medical diagnosis. Furthermore, the approach presented in this study can potentially be extended to image segmentation of other organs in the future.
Deep learning algorithm using bispectrum analysis energy feature maps based on ultrasound radiofrequency signals to detect breast cancer
Authors: Wang Qingmin , Jia Xiaohong , Luo Ting , Yu Jinhua , Xia Shujun 
Published: December 2023

BackgroundUltrasonography is an important imaging method for clinical breast cancer screening. As the original echo signals of ultrasonography, ultrasound radiofrequency (RF) signals provide abundant tissue macroscopic and microscopic information and have important development and utilization value in breast cancer detection.MethodsIn this study, we proposed a deep learning method based on bispectrum analysis feature maps to process RF signals and realize breast cancer detection. The bispectrum analysis energy feature maps with frequency subdivision were first proposed and applied to breast cancer detection in this study. Our deep learning network was based on a weight sharing network framework for the input of multiple feature maps. A feature map attention module was designed for multiple feature maps input of the network to adaptively learn both feature maps and features that were conducive to classification. We also designed a similarity constraint factor, learning the similarity and difference between feature maps by cosine distance.ResultsThe experiment results showed that the areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves of our proposed method in the validation set and two independent test sets for benign and malignant breast tumor classification were 0.913, 0.900, and 0.885, respectively. The performance of the model combining four ultrasound bispectrum analysis energy feature maps in breast cancer detection was superior to that of the model using an ultrasound grayscale image and the model using a single bispectrum analysis energy feature map in this study.ConclusionThe combination of deep learning technology and our proposed ultrasound bispectrum analysis energy feature maps effectively realized breast cancer detection and was an efficient method of feature extraction and utilization of ultrasound RF signals.
The development of a clinical research educational training for community health workers using the joint task force for clinical trial competency framework
Authors: Yakubov Amin , Pimenova Dina , Ahmed Alzahraa , Corvacho Romelia , Madigan Joanna , Naik Jay , Lyu Chen , McFarlane Anita , Foster Victoria , Haseltine Megan , Trifonov Alexandr , Cabrera Ivette , Rios Clarissa , Gross Rachel , Jay Melanie , Lord Aaron , Gold-von Simson Gabrielle , Roy Brita , Freeman Amy , Islam Nadia , Holahan James 
Published: December 2023

Introduction: The NYU Clinical &amp; Translational Science Institute, in collaboration with a number of community-engaged initiatives, developed a training for community health workers (CHWs) to enhance health literacy about clinical research. This innovative research training provides CHWs with a basic level of competency in clinical research to convey the importance of research to communities and better advocate for their health needs. CHWs are an underutilized resource to engage diverse populations in clinical research. The training also addresses the need to expand and diversify the clinical research workforce—integrating CHWs into research teams and connecting underserved populations with research opportunities to enhance quality of care.Methods: Structured individual interviews and focus group sessions were held with CHWs as well as clinical research faculty and staff to identify knowledge gaps in clinical research and identify best practices for educating community members on research. Using the Joint Task Force (JTF) for Clinical Trial Competency framework, an online course was developed consisting of 28 modules offered asynchronously for internal and external audiences. Topics include the fundamentals of clinical research, scientific concepts and research design, research ethics, study management, clinical study operations, communications, and teamwork, as well as the importance of diversity and equity in research and the barriers to participation.Results: Learning was evaluated using multiple choice questions after each module to ensure the fundamental level of knowledge was obtained. A separate survey, completed at the conclusion of the course, evaluated the quality of training.Discussion: The course aims to enhance the knowledge and skills of CHWs to help promote greater understanding of clinical research within the communities they serve, including the risks and benefits of clinical research and opportunities for participation. As members of the research team, community stakeholders can help design interventions tailored to the unique needs, culture, and context of their communities. In addition, this research training equips trainees with skills to engage the community actively, involving them in the research process and ensuring community priorities are represented in research through more community engaged processes.
A synthetic notch (synNotch) system linking intratumoral immune-cancer cell communication to a synthetic blood biomarker assay
Authors: Fu YangHao , Wang TianDuo , Ronald John A. 
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Cellular immunotherapy has greatly improved cancer treatment in recent years. For instance, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy has been proven highly effective in treating hematological malignancies, and many CAR cell designs are being explored for solid tumors. However, many questions remain why responses differ across patients and some tumor types are resistant. Improved and relatively inexpensive ways to monitor these cells could provide some answers. Clinically, blood tests are regularly used to monitor these therapies, but blood signals often do not reflect the activity of immune cells within the tumor(s). Here, using the synthetic Notch (synNotch) receptor that tethers antigen binding to customized transgene expression, we linked intratumoral immune-cancer cell communication to a simple secreted reporter blood test. Specifically, we engineered immune cells with a CD19-targeted synNotch receptor and demonstrated that binding to CD19 on cancer cells in vivo resulted in the production of secreted embryonic alkaline phosphatase (SEAP) at levels that are readily detected in the blood.Methods and Results: Jurkat T cells were engineered via sequential lentiviral transduction of two components: an anti-CD19 synNotch receptor and a synNotch response element encoding SEAP. Co-culture of engineered cells with CD19+, but not CD19−, Nalm6 cells, resulted in significantly elevated SEAP in media. Nod-scid-gamma (NSG) mice were subcutaneously injected with either CD19+ or CD19− Nalm6 cells. Intratumoral injection of engineered T cells (1x107) resulted in significantly elevated blood SEAP activity in mice bearing CD19+ tumors (n = 7), but not CD19− tumors (n = 5).Discussion: Our synNotch reporter system allows for the monitoring of antigen-dependent intratumoral immune-cancer cell interactions through a simple and convenient blood test. Continued development of this system for different target antigens of interest should provide a broadly applicable platform for improved monitoring of many cell-based immunotherapies during their initial development and clinical translation, ultimately improving our understanding of design considerations and patient-specific responses.
The effectiveness of community friendship groups on participant social and mental health: a meta-analysis
Authors: Grishina Micah , Rooney Rosanna Mary , Millar Lynne , Mann Rachel , Mancini Vincent Oreste 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionSocial disconnectedness and isolation are risk factors for poor mental health. Community-based friendship group interventions have been designed to increase an individual’s social capital and consequently their mental wellbeing. Structured and unstructured friendship groups reflect two distinct approaches to friendship group interventions.MethodsThis meta-analysis investigated whether structured or unstructured community friendship groups are more effective for mental health and social capital outcomes. A systematic search of quantitative studies was conducted across seven databases and study quality was assessed using the Effective Public Health Practice Project (EPHPP) tool. Eight studies (2 unstructured and 6 structured friendship groups) were included in the review, published between 2005 and 2020.ResultsStructured friendship groups had a small significant effect on reducing participant depression symptoms. There was not enough available data to compare the effectiveness of structured and unstructured groups for mental health outcomes. There was substantial heterogeneity between studies to calculate pooled effect sizes for any social capital outcomes. Data synthesis indicated mixed reviews for social capital outcomes, likely due to the large heterogeneity and limited studies.DiscussionThis meta-analysis provides limited support for positive mental health outcomes following structured community-based friendship group interventions. There is a need for additional research as a large research gap remains, particularly for unstructured friendship groups.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=260639, CRD42021260639.
Determinants of waterpipe smoking in Iranian adults: results from the IROPICAN study
Authors: Seyyedsalehi Monireh Sadat , Shah Aneri , Rashidian Hamideh , Hadji Maryam , Marzban Maryam , Ansari-Moghaddam Alireza , Nejatizadeh Azim , Boffetta Paolo , Zendehdel Kazem 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionWaterpipe smoking has become increasingly popular in Western countries, particularly among young individuals. This study aims to identify the factors influencing waterpipe smoking by focusing on consumption patterns.MethodsWe utilized data from a multicenter case–control study (IROPICAN) conducted in Iran. Multivariate logistic regression estimated the adjusted odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals as a measure of association between waterpipe smoking and different factors.ResultsAmong 3,477 subjects were included, 11.8% were waterpipe smokers. Most of &lt;50 years old smokers were occasional (80%), while daily smokers were often &gt;50 years (85%). Around 59% of occasional users started it before 30 years old. Low education, low SES, alcohol consumption, cigarette smoking, secondhand smoke exposure, and opium use were associated with waterpipe smoking. Stratified analysis by frequency pattern showed an association between occasional smoking with age 0.97 (0.96–0.98), university degree 0.36 (0.17–0.76), urban dwellers 1.40 (1.06–1.86) and between high SES and daily smoking 0.34 (0.17–0.69).ConclusionOur results offer valuable information to policymakers for developing waterpipe smoking control measures. The occasional waterpipe smoking results may be generalized to the younger people in Western countries.
Defining Life Skills in health promotion at school: a scoping review
Authors: Darlington-Bernard Adeline , Salque Corélie , Masson Julien , Darlington Emily , Carvalho Graça S. , Carrouel Florence 
Published: December 2023

BackgroundLife Skills have been central to Health Promotion interventions and programmes with children and adolescents for over 40 years. School is a strategic setting for Life Skills education. Recently, policy-and decision-makers have focused on Life Skills development for youth. Research on Life Skills has gained momentum. Different terms are used to discuss and define Life Skills. Research identifies a lack of conceptual definition. The purpose of this study is to identify the definitions in the literature in English and French, and to reach a conceptual and consensual definition.MethodThe Scoping Review methodology was used. Three research questions aim to identify how Life Skills are defined in the field of health promotion at school, to see whether a conceptual and consensual definition exists, and, if relevant, to propose a conceptual definition. The search was conducted in 5 databases by 3 reviewers. This study focused on full-text publications in English or French, human studies, health promotion in school, school pupils, teacher training, and with a definition of Life Skills. Publications on after-school activities, higher education outside teacher training, adult education, other than peer-reviewed scientific papers were excluded.Results48 publications were included in English and 7 in French. NVIVO was used to determine and compare the French and English terms used for Life Skills and their definitions. According to the three research questions, (i) the terms used to define Life Skills are diverse and numerous, with different purposes at school in relation to health promotion, and different taxonomies, and relate to different areas of research; (ii) no consensual, conceptual definition of Life Skills was found; (iii) further semantic, epistemological and ontological clarifications are required.ConclusionSome conceptual definitions of Life Skills exist without consensus. Life Skills being at the crossroads between different fields could explain this and is illustrated by the multiplicity and diversity of the terms employed, and the various taxonomies and purposes used at school in health promotion. This may also explain why they are difficult to evaluate. Defining Life Skills consensually cannot be achieved due to the diversity of research perspectives from different fields.
Les récentes propositions de révision en Italie et en France sur les instruments de démocratie directe
Authors: Evangelisti Adriano 
Published: December 2023

L’article se focalise sur les récents débats, en France et en Italie, et sur les propositions de révision constitutionnelle tendant à insérer de nouveaux instruments de démocratie directe. Malgré leurs différences, les propositions sont animées d’une même volonté à savoir rendre plus central le rôle des citoyens pour la formation des politiques publiques. Si en France les propositions instaurant de nouveaux procédés viennent des députés d’opposition suite au mouvement des Gilets Jaunes, en Italie, l’initiative est prise par les deux partis au gouvernement, M5* et Ligue, conformément aux engagements pris par ces deux forces politiques dans le contrat de Gouvernement.
L’article va examiner en premier lieu les trois propositions qui ont été déposées en Italie, ensuite seront analysées les propositions françaises et l’instrument fortement soutenu par les Gilets Jaunes, le Référendum d’initiative citoyenne (RIC).
Melamine Ethoxylates as Novel Formaldehyde Free Replacements of Resin Re-Tanning Agents
Authors: Ammenn Jochen 
Published: December 2023

Melamine urea formaldehyde condensates or resin re-tanning agents are commonly used in the leather industry. They give riseto homogeneous filling, are easily and widely applicable, but generally contribute to free formaldehyde, measurable in emissionor extraction methods. Many projects to resolve this issue have been carried out. The weakness of the resin re-tanning is the reversibility of the bond formation between formaldehyde and two amino groups. The formaldehyde forms a methylene group after condensation with two amino groups and releases water. This methylene group can be hydrolyzed under acidic conditions to release formaldehyde again, reversing the synthesis.
Melamine ethoxylates were found to be a formaldehyde free, stable, and easily applicable alternative. Besides the fact that they are made without formaldehyde, it proved to be possible to incorporate renewable components into their synthesis, giving rise to an even more sustainable product. Another sustainable aspect of this chemistry is the delivery of the potential product as a concentrated liquid versus most resin re-tanning agents being placed into the market as spray dried powders, consuming significant amounts of energy in the process.
Melamine ethoxylates show advantages in application on leather in comparison with classical resin re-tanning agents. An insightinto the scope of application will be given, showing that melamine ethoxylates can be considered a formaldehyde free replacement for resin re-tanning agents