bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Combatting anthrax outbreaks across Nigeria’s national land borders: need to optimize surveillance with epidemiological surveys
Authors: Mogaji Hammed O. , Adewale Babatunde , Smith Stella I. , Igumbor Ehimario U. , Idemili Chidumebi J. , Taylor-Robinson Andrew W. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Anthrax is a non-contagious zoonotic disease caused by the Gram-positive, spore-forming bacterium Bacillus anthracis. Infection is common in livestock and wild animals such as cattle, goats, sheep, camels, and antelopes. In humans, anthrax may occur after contact with contaminated carcasses or animal products like milk and meat. The best method to prevent anthrax in people is to ensure livestock are vaccinated, which significantly limits the risk of zoonotic spread to humans. However, the rate of vaccination of domesticated animals kept by nomadic pastoralists in West Africa is low. These groups regularly cross over national boundaries with their grazing herds. Nigeria is a country that historically has done comparatively well to contain this public health threat. However, in 2023 several outbreaks of human disease appear linked to the consumption of anthrax-contaminated animal products brought into Nigeria by pastoralists from neighboring countries. Clinical manifestations include skin sores or ulcers, nausea, vomiting, and fever. This article aims to raise awareness of recent outbreaks of anthrax in West Africa and to call for a renewed focus on measures to combat this neglected public health concern to the region.

Main body
The imperative to pinpoint pivotal issues relating to the ongoing emergence of anthrax cases in Nigeria cannot be overstated. By delving into the prevalence of anthrax in both livestock and human populations residing along Nigeria’s borders, unraveling the genetic diversity and potential sources of B. anthracis strains, and identifying the primary animal host(s) responsible for transmission, we stand to enhance our understanding of this critical issue. Furthermore, investigating the multifaceted factors contributing to anthrax transmission, assessing community knowledge and practices, mapping common migratory routes of pastoralists, and formulating targeted intervention strategies tailored to the challenges of border communities, are each crucial steps towards effective control and prevention.

Conclusion
Closing these knowledge gaps on anthrax is not only essential for safeguarding both animal and human health but also for fostering sustainable and resilient communities. Addressing research questions on these interdisciplinary concerns will undoubtedly pave the way for informed decision-making, proactive measures, and a more secure future for Nigeria and its border regions.

Graphical Abstract
Critical appraisal of the piRNA-PIWI axis in cancer and cancer stem cells
Authors: Garcia-Borja Elena , Siegl Frantisek , Mateu Rosana , Slaby Ondrej , Sedo Aleksi , Busek Petr , Sana Jiri 
Published: February 2024

AbstractSmall noncoding RNAs play an important role in various disease states, including cancer. PIWI proteins, a subfamily of Argonaute proteins, and PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) were originally described as germline-specific molecules that inhibit the deleterious activity of transposable elements. However, several studies have suggested a role for the piRNA-PIWI axis in somatic cells, including somatic stem cells. Dysregulated expression of piRNAs and PIWI proteins in human tumors implies that, analogously to their roles in undifferentiated cells under physiological conditions, these molecules may be important for cancer stem cells and thus contribute to cancer progression. We provide an overview of piRNA biogenesis and critically review the evidence for the role of piRNA-PIWI axis in cancer stem cells. In addition, we examine the potential of piRNAs and PIWI proteins to become biomarkers in cancer.
Hybrid wrapper feature selection method based on genetic algorithm and extreme learning machine for intrusion detection
Authors: Maseno Elijah M. , Wang Zenghui 
Published: February 2024

AbstractIntrusion detection systems play a critical role in the mitigation of cyber-attacks on the Internet of Things (IoT) environment. Due to the integration of many devices within the IoT environment, a huge amount of data is generated. The generated data sets in most cases consist of irrelevant and redundant features that affect the performance of the existing intrusion detection systems (IDS). The selection of optimal features plays a critical role in the enhancement of intrusion detection systems. This study proposes a sequential feature selection approach using an optimized extreme learning machine (ELM) with an SVM (support vector machine) classifier. The main challenge of ELM is the selection of the input parameters, which affect its performance. In this study, the genetic algorithm (GA) is used to optimize the weights of ELM to boost its performance. After the optimization, the algorithm is applied as an estimator in the sequential forward selection (wrapper technique) to select key features. The final obtained feature subset is applied for classification using SVM. The IoT_ToN network and UNSWNB15 datasets were used to test the model's performance. The performance of the model was compared with other existing state-of-the-art classifiers such as k-nearest neighbors, gradient boosting, random forest, and decision tree. The model had the best quality of the selected feature subset. The results indicate that the proposed model had a better intrusion detection performance with 99%, and 86% accuracy for IoT_ToN network dataset and UNSWNB15 datasets, respectively. The model can be used as a promising tool for enhancing the classification performance of IDS datasets.
Effects of a first-year undergraduate engineering design course: survey study of implications for student self-efficacy and professional skills, with focus on gender/sex and race/ethnicity
Authors: Sperling Jessica , Mburi Menna , Gray Megan , Schmid Lorrie , Saterbak Ann 
Published: February 2024

AbstractBackgroundStudents’ academic self-efficacy maximizes likelihood for success and retention, yet prior research suggests that historically underrepresented (minoritized) undergraduate students in higher education and in college-level engineering show lower self-efficacy, which has been linked to histories of systemic exclusion. To address such gaps in student success, this work examines the effect of a new first-year undergraduate engineering design course on students’ self-efficacy, as measured by students’ assessment of their ability to achieve engineering design goals, and their confidence in their professional skills such as teamwork, communication, and leadership. It draws upon two aligned survey studies that examine this development (a) among the students participating in the course during the academic semester and (b) among both course participants and non-participants in the year following the course. Survey results for all students were considered, with attention to specific demographic subgroups traditionally underrepresented in engineering.ResultsAnalyses indicate effect of the course on self-efficacy and other examined constructs, such as communication and teamwork, during the course semester and continued effects in engineering design self-efficacy and tinkering self-efficacy in the year following course participation. Results also reveal differences for specific racial/ethnic and gender/sex subgroups in numerous constructs, including suggestion of specific effect for female students.ConclusionsThis study’s focus on the implication of engineering design education on self-efficacy and other critical professional outcomes, as well as its attention to specific demographic subgroups, adds to research on engineering education and the effect of design-focused coursework using project-based learning. The study indicates an increased potential role for such coursework, as early as the first year of a university trajectory, in fostering student growth and increased representation in the field. Findings on differences by gender/sex and by racial/ethnic groups, including clearer positive effect for female students but more complexity in effect for underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, support added research probing experience and outcomes within and across these groups.
Wind speed prediction for site selection and reliable operation of wind power plants in coastal regions using machine learning algorithm variants
Authors: Mollick Tajrian , Hashmi Galib , Sabuj Saifur Rahman 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThe challenge of predicting wind speeds to facilitate site selection and the consistent operation of wind power plants in coastal regions is a global concern. The output of wind turbines is subject to fluctuations corresponding to changes in wind speed. The unpredictable characteristics of wind patterns introduce vulnerabilities to wind power facilities in wind power plants. To address this unpredictability, an effective strategy involves forecasting wind speeds at specific locations during wind power plant operations. While previous research has explored various machine learning algorithms to tackle these issues, satisfactory results have not been achieved, and Bangladesh faces challenges in this regard, especially in low-wind speed areas. This study aims to identify the most accurate machine learning-based algorithm to forecast the short-term wind speed of two areas (Kutubdia and Cox's Bazar) located on the eastern coast of Bangladesh. Wind speed data for a span of 21.5 years, ranging from January 2001 to June 2022, were sourced from two outlets: the Bangladesh Meteorological Department and the website of NASA. Wind speed has been forecasted using 14 different regression-based machine learning models with a comprehensive overview. The results of the experiment highlight the exceptional predictive performance of a boosting-based ensemble method known as categorical boosting, especially in the context of forecasting wind speed data obtained from NASA. Based on the testing data, the evaluation yields remarkable results, with coefficients of determination measuring 0.8621 and 0.8758 for wind speed in Kutubdia and Cox's Bazar, respectively. The study underscores the critical importance of prioritizing optimal turbine site selection in the context of wind power facilities in Bangladesh. This approach can yield benefits for stakeholders, including engineers and project owners associated with wind projects.
Sine Spin flat detector CT can improve cerebral soft tissue imaging: a retrospective in vivo study
Authors: Schmitt Niclas , Wucherpfennig Lena , Jesser Jessica , Neuberger Ulf , Güney Resul , Bendszus Martin , Möhlenbruch Markus A. , Vollherbst Dominik F. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Flat detector computed tomography (FDCT) is frequently applied for periinterventional brain imaging within the angiography suite. Novel technical developments such as the Sine Spin FDCT (S-FDCT) may provide an improved cerebral soft tissue contrast. This study investigates the effect of S-FDCT on the differentiation between gray and white matter compared to conventional FDCT (C-FDCT) and multidetector computed tomography (MDCT).

Methods
A retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained patient database was performed, including patients who underwent mechanical thrombectomy in our institution and received S-FDCT or C-FDCT as well as MDCT. Differentiation between gray and white matter on the contralateral hemisphere to the ischemic stroke was analyzed quantitatively by contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) and qualitatively (5-point ordinal scale).

Results
In a cohort of 109 patients, MDCT demonstrated the best differentiation between gray and white matter compared to both FDCT techniques (p ≤ 0.001). Comparing both generations of FDCT, S-FDCT provided better visibility of the basal ganglia (p = 0.045) and the supratentorial cortex (p = 0.044) compared to C-FDCT both in quantitative and qualitative analyses. Median CNR were as follows: S-FDCT 2.41 (interquartile range [IQR] 1.66–3.21), C-FDCT 0.96 (0.46–1.70), MDCT 3.43 (2.83–4.17). For basal ganglia, median score and IQR were as follows: S-FDCT 2.00 (2.00–3.00), C-FDCT 1.50 (1.00–2.00), MDCT 5.00 (4.00–5.00).

Conclusions
The novel S-FDCT improves the periinterventional imaging quality of cerebral soft tissue compared to C-FDCT. Thus, it may improve the diagnosis of complications within the angiography suite. MDCT provides the best option for x-ray-based imaging of the brain tissue.

Relevance statement
Flat detector computed tomography is a promising technique for cerebral soft tissue imaging, while the novel Sine Spin flat detector computed tomography technique improves imaging quality compared to conventional flat detector computed tomography and thus may facilitate periinterventional diagnosis of gray and white matter.

Key points
• Flat detector computed tomography (FDCT) is frequently applied for periinterventional brain imaging.
• The potential of novel Sine Spin FDCT (S-FDCT) is unknown so far.
• S-FDCT improves the visibility of cerebral soft tissue compared to conventional FDCT.
• Multidetector computed tomography is superior to both FDCT techniques.
• S-FDCT may facilitate the evaluation of brain parenchyma within the angiography suite.

Graphical Abstract
Depression and anxiety and its association with problematic social media use in the MENA region: a systematic review
Authors: Abbouyi Samira , Bouazza Samira , El Kinany Soukaina , El Rhazi Karima , Zarrouq Btissame 
Published: February 2024

AbstractBackgroundThe use of the social media has increased significantly in recent decades, and research on the impact of problematic social media use on mental health is a relatively new and growing area of study in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Social media users are prone to developing addictive behaviors and suffering from mental illness, including depression and anxiety. The present paper aims to systematically review the available research examining the association between problematic social media use (PSMU) and depression and anxiety symptoms that was done in the Middle East and North Africa region (MENA region).MethodsThe academic databases Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane were used to conduct a literature search. Problematic social media use and the MENA region and their synonyms were main keywords in the Boolean search strategy. We selected articles based on the following criteria: (i) addressed the relationship between problematic social media use and depression and anxiety; (ii) MENA region population-based studies; and (iii) published in English. There were no age, gender, or educational status restrictions, and there was no time limit for this review. The literature search was conducted in December 2021.ResultsThe selection criteria led to the retention of 15 articles. The findings of the systematic review demonstrated that most of these studies have found a significant association between problematic social media use and depression and anxiety symptoms. Some studies showed stress, generalized trust, perceived social support, fear of COVID-19, and misunderstanding of COVID-19 mediating the relationship between social media use and depressive and anxiety symptoms.ConclusionsWhile there is evidence that there is a relationship between PSMU and anxiety and depressive symptoms, longitudinal studies are needed to confirm this relationship.
Functional long-term outcome following endovascular thrombectomy in patients with acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Rogalewski Andreas , Klein Nele , Friedrich Anja , Kitsiou Alkisti , Schäbitz Marie , Zuhorn Frédéric , Gess Burkhard , Berger Björn , Klingebiel Randolf , Schäbitz Wolf-Rüdiger 
Published: February 2024

AbstractEndovascular thrombectomy (EVT) is the most effective treatment for acute ischemic stroke caused by large vessel occlusion (LVO). Yet, long-term outcome (LTO) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in these patients have rarely been addressed, as opposed to modified Rankin scale (mRS) recordings. We analysed demographic data, treatment and neuroimaging parameters in 694 consecutive stroke patients in a maximum care hospital. In 138 of these patients with respect on receipt of written informed consent, LTO and HRQoL were collected over a period of 48 months after EVT using a standardised telephone survey (median 2.1 years after EVT). Age < 70 years (OR 4.82), lower NIHSS on admission (OR 1.11), NIHSS ≤ 10 after 24 h (OR 11.23) and complete recanalisation (mTICI3) (OR 7.79) were identified as independent predictors of favourable LTO. Occurrence of an infection requiring treatment within the first 72 h was recognised as a negative predictor for good long-term outcome (OR 0.22). Patients with mRS > 2 according to the telephone survey more often had complaints regarding mobility, self‐care, and usual activity domains of the HRQoL. Our results underline a sustainable positive effect of effective EVT on the quality of life in LVO stroke. Additionally, predictive parameters of outcome were identified, that may support clinical decision making in LVO stroke.
Review of accelerated construction of bridge piers - methods and performance
Authors: Kenarkoohi Mohammadreza , Hassan Munzer 
Published: February 2024

AbstractBridges are an essential part of every road and transportation system, and all countries must build bridges to improve their infrastructure. Accelerated bridge construction (ABC) is an innovative approach that has been noticed in recent years to facilitate and accelerate the process of building, repairing, or replacing bridges. This paper underscores the significance of ABC in bridge construction, focusing on its potential to offer speed, safety, and enhanced longevity for bridge pier. Through a comprehensive exploration of prefabricated elements and systems specific to bridge piers, insights into their applicability, advantages, and limitations are presented. A special section is dedicated to the investigation of pier connections under seismic loads. Furthermore, the review contrasts ABC with traditional construction methodologies, highlighting areas of excellence and potential improvement for ABC.
Evaluation of the psychometrics of the Social Impact Scale and its association with depression among asymptomatic COVID-19 carriers
Authors: Wang Rongxi , Wang Zuxin , Shi Dake , Xu Liling , Liu Yujie , Liu Shangbin , Chen Hui , Chen Yingjie , Xia Danni , Ge Xin , Xu Huifang , Chen Yufei , Wang Zhiqiang , Chang Ruijie , Hu Fan , Shen Tian , Wang Ying , Cai Yong 
Published: February 2024

Background
COVID-19 carriers experience psychological stresses and mental health issues such as varying degrees of stigma. The Social Impact Scale (SIS) can be used to measure the stigmatisation of COVID-19 carriers who experience such problems.

Aims
To evaluate the reliability and validity of the Chinese version of the SIS, and the association between stigma and depression among asymptomatic COVID-19 carriers in Shanghai, China.

Method
A total of 1283 asymptomatic COVID-19 carriers from Shanghai Ruijin Jiahe Fangcang Shelter Hospital were recruited, with a mean age of 39.64 ± 11.14 years (59.6% male). Participants completed questionnaires, including baseline information and psychological measurements, the SIS and Self-Rating Depression Scale. The psychometrics of the SIS and its association with depression were examined through exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis and receiver operating characteristic analysis.

Results
The average participant SIS score was 42.66 ± 14.61 (range: 24–96) years. Analyses suggested the model had four factors: social rejection, financial insecurity, internalised shame and social isolation. The model fit statistics of the four-factor SIS were 0.913 for the comparative fit index, 0.902 for the Tucker–Lewis index and 0.088 for root-mean-square error of approximation. Standard estimated factor loadings ranged from 0.509 to 0.836. After controlling for demographic characteristics, the total score of the 23-item SIS predicted depression (odds ratio: 1.087, 95% CI 1.061–1.115; area under the curve: 0.84, 95% CI 0.788–0.892).

Conclusions
The Chinese version of the SIS showed good psychometric properties and can be used to assess the level of perceived stigma experienced by asymptomatic COVID-19 carriers.
Women Anesthesiologists in Sub-Saharan Africa in the Pre-COVID Era: A Multinational Demographic Study
Authors: Ki Bertille K. , Onajin-Obembe Bisola , Adekola Oyebola , Baele Philippe L. , Binam Fidele , Daddy Hadjara , Diouf Elizabeth , Fanou Lionelle , Gathuya Zipporah N. , Igaga Elizabeth N. , Jeque Emilia , Mawandza Peggy , Nabukenya Mary T. , Nabulindo Susane M. , Nicole Rakotoarison R. C. , Robert Annie R. , Schwalbach Teresa , Uwambazimana Jeanne D’Arc , Vilasco Brigitte , Zomahoun Lidwine 
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:
Gender imbalance and poor representation of women complicate the anesthesiology workforce crisis in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This study was performed to obtain a better understanding of gender disparity among medical graduates and anesthesiologists in SSA.

METHODS:
Using a quantitative, participatory, insider research study, led by female anesthesiologists as the national coordinators in SSA, we collected data from academic or national health authorities and agencies. National coordinators were nominees of anesthesiology societies that responded to our email invitations. Data gathered from 13 countries included information on medical graduates, anesthesiologists graduating between 1998 and 2021, and number of anesthesiologists licensed to practice in 2018. We compared data between Francophone and Anglophone countries, and between countries in East Africa and West Africa/Central Africa. We calculated anesthesiology workforce densities and compared representation of women among graduating anesthesiologists and medical graduates.
Data analysis was performed using linear regression. We used F-tests on regression slopes to assess the trends in representation of women over the years and the differences between the slopes. A value of P < .050 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS:
Over a 20-year period, the representation of female medical graduates in SSA increased from 29% (1998) to 41% (2017), whereas representation of female anesthesiologists was inconsistent, with an average of 25%, and lagged behind. Growth and gender disparity patterns were different between West Africa/Central Africa and East Africa. Representation of female anesthesiologists was higher in East Africa (39.4%) than West Africa/Central Africa (19.7%); and the representation of female medical graduates in East Africa (42.5%) was also higher that West Africa/Central Africa (33.1%).

CONCLUSIONS:
On average, in SSA, female medical graduates (36.9%), female anesthesiologists (24.9%), and female anesthesiology residents projected to graduate between 2018 and 2022 (25.2%) were underrepresented when compared to their male counterparts. Women were underrepresented in SSA, despite evidence that their representation in medicine and anesthesiology in East African countries was rising.
8.R.2. Buchan, Thomas (2004) "Blessed is He who has brought Adam from Sheol"; Shemunkasho, Aho (2004) Healing in the theology of Saint Ephrem the Syrian
Authors: Annus Amar 
Published: February 2024

Buchan, Thomas (2004) "Blessed is He who has brought Adam from Sheol": Christ's descent to the dead in the theology of Saint Ephrem the Syrian. Piscataway: Gorgias Press. (Gorgias dissertations; 13. Early Christian studies; 2.) VII, 397 p. ISBN 1-59333-228-9.
Shemunkasho, Aho (2004) Healing in the theology of Saint Ephrem the Syrian. Piscataway: Gorgias Press. (Gorgias dissertations; 1. Near Eastern studies; 1.) XXII, 480 p. ISBN 1-59333-156-8.