bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A click-based electrocorticographic brain-computer interface enables long-term high-performance switch-scan spelling
Authors: Candrea Daniel N. , Shah Samyak , Luo Shiyu , Angrick Miguel , Rabbani Qinwan , Coogan Christopher , Milsap Griffin W. , Nathan Kevin C. , Wester Brock A. , Anderson William S. , Rosenblatt Kathryn R. , Uchil Alpa , Clawson Lora , Maragakis Nicholas J. , Vansteensel Mariska J. , Tenore Francesco V. , Ramsey Nicolas F. , Fifer Matthew S. , Crone Nathan E. 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Background Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) can restore communication in movement- and/or speech-impaired individuals by enabling neural control of computer typing applications. Single command “click” decoders provide a basic yet highly functional capability.Methods We sought to test the performance and long-term stability of click-decoding using a chronically implanted high density electrocorticographic (ECoG) BCI with coverage of the sensorimotor cortex in a human clinical trial participant (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03567213) with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). We trained the participant’s click decoder using a small amount of training data (< 44 minutes across four days) collected up to 21 days prior to BCI use, and then tested it over a period of 90 days without any retraining or updating.Results Using this click decoder to navigate a switch-scanning spelling interface, the study participant was able to maintain a median spelling rate of 10.2 characters per min. Though a transient reduction in signal power modulation interrupted testing with this fixed model, a new click decoder achieved comparable performance despite being trained with even less data (< 15 min, within one day).Conclusion These results demonstrate that a click decoder can be trained with a small ECoG dataset while retaining robust performance for extended periods, providing functional text-based communication to BCI users.
Study on the influence of structural characteristics of urban green space plant communities on carbon sequestration and its optimal regulation
Authors: Zhang Xuguang , Huang Hengshuo , Tu Ke , Li Rui , Zhang Xinyu , Wang Peng , Li Yonghua , Yang Qiusheng , Acerman Aidan C , Guo Nan , Liu Yang 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Plant communities serve as the fundamental components of urban green spaces and play a critical role in mitigating climate change by reducing atmospheric CO2 concentrations. The structural characteristics of plant communities have a significant impact on their carbon sequestration function. This study utilized aboveground carbon storage, soil carbon storage, and maintenance carbon emissions as quantifiers of carbon income and expenditure and examined 106 plant communities (20 m×20 m) in Zhengzhou Green Expo Park. The aim was to establish a statistical relationship model between the plant community structural characteristics and total annual carbon sequestration, providing a quantitative basis for regulating community structure to improve the carbon sequestration ability of urban green spaces. The results showed that density and coverage characteristics were significant factors positively correlated with the annual carbon sequestration of the plant communities. The fastest increase in annual carbon sequestration in the plant community reached 44%, from 183.04 kg CO2-eq/y− 1 to 327.67 kg CO2-eq/y− 1/400 m2, with density ranging from 0.1 to 0.15 and coverage from 0.5 to 1. The carbon sequestration amount did not increase significantly following continuous increases in density and coverage characteristics. Density played a key structural role in regulating the total carbon sequestration of the plant communities, being 27.24 times more effective than coverage. This study provides valuable data for increasing the carbon sink ability of urban green spaces through plant structure regulation and supporting low-carbon development strategies in urban management and also has positive implications for reducing the atmospheric carbon content and mitigating climate warming potentials in urban green spaces.
The lncRNA Snhg11, a new candidate contributing to neurogenesis, plasticity and memory deficits in Down syndrome
Authors: Dierssen Mara , Sierra Cesar , Sabariego Miguel , Fernández-Blanco Alvaro , Cruciani Sonia , Zamora-Moratalla Alfonsa , Novoa Eva Maria 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Down syndrome (DS) stands as the prevalent genetic cause of intellectual disability, yet comprehensive understanding of its cellular and molecular underpinnings remains limited. In this study, we explore the cellular landscape of the hippocampus in a DS mouse model through single-nuclei transcriptional profiling. Our findings demonstrate that trisomy manifests as a highly specific modification of the transcriptome within distinct cell types. Remarkably, we observed a significant shift in the transcriptomic profile of granule cells in the dentate gyrus (DG) associated with trisomy. We identified the downregulation of a specific small nucleolar RNA host gene, Snhg11, as the primary driver behind this observed shift in the trisomic DG. Notably, reduced levels of Snhg11 in this region were also observed in a distinct DS mouse model, the Dp(16)1Yey, as well as in human postmortem tissue, indicating its relevance in Down syndrome. To elucidate the function of this long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), we knocked down Snhg11 in the DG of wild-type mice. Intriguingly, this intervention alone was sufficient to impair synaptic plasticity and adult neurogenesis, resembling the cognitive phenotypes associated with trisomy in the hippocampus. Our study uncovers the functional role of Snhg11 in the DG and underscores the significance of this lncRNA in intellectual disability. Furthermore, our findings highlight the importance of the DG in the memory deficits observed in Down syndrome.
The ARIA trial protocol; A randomised controlled trial to assess the clinical, technical and cost effectiveness of a cloud-based, ARtificially Intelligent image fusion system in comparison to standard treatment to guide endovascular Aortic aneurysm repair (ARIA)
Authors: Budge James , Carrell Tom , Yaqub Medeah , Wafa Hatem , Waltham Matt , Pilecka Izabela , Kelly Joanna , Murphy Caroline , Palmer Stephen , Wang Yanzhong , Clough Rachel 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Endovascular repair of aortic aneurysmal disease is established due to perceived advantages in patient survival, reduced postoperative complications, and shorter hospital lengths of stay. High spatial and contrast resolution 3D CT angiography images are used to plan the procedures and inform device selection and manufacture but in standard care the surgery is performed using image-guidance from 2D X-ray fluoroscopy with injection of nephrotoxic contrast material to visualise the blood vessels. This study aims to assess the benefit to patients, practitioners and the health service of a novel image fusion medical device (Cydar EV), which allows this high resolution 3D information to be available to operators at the time of surgery.
Methods
The trial is a multi-center, open label, two-armed randomised controlled clinical trial of 340 patient, randomised 1:1 to either standard treatment in endovascular aneurysm repair or treatment using Cydar EV, a CE-marked medical device comprising of cloud computing, augmented intelligence and computer vision. The primary outcome is procedural time, with secondary outcomes of procedural efficiency, technical effectiveness, patient outcomes and cost effectiveness. Patients with a clinical diagnosis of AAA or TAAA suitable for endovascular repair and able to provide written informed consent will be invited to participate.
Discussion
This trial is the first randomised controlled trial evaluating advanced image fusion technology in endovascular aortic surgery, and is well placed to evaluate the effect of this technology on patient outcomes and cost to the NHS.
Trial registration
: ISRCTN13832085
Emerging many-to-one weighted mapping in hippocampus-amygdala network underlies memory formation
Authors: Wang Dong , Liu Jun , Hall Arron 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Memories are crucial for our daily lives, yet the network-level organizing principle that governs neural representations of our experiences remains to be determined. Employing dual-site electrophysiology recording in freely behaving mice, we discovered that hippocampal dorsal CA1 (dCA1) and basolateral amygdala (BLA) utilize distinct coding strategies to represent novel experiences. A small assembly of BLA neurons rapidly emerged during memory acquisition and remained active during subsequent consolidation, whereas the majority of dCA1 neurons engaged in the same processes. Machine learning decoding revealed that dCA1 population spikes predicted the BLA assembly firing rate. This suggests that most dCA1 neurons concurrently index an episodic event by rapidly establishing weighted communications with a specific BLA assembly, a process we call “many-to-one weighted mapping.” Furthermore, we demonstrated that closed-loop optoinhibition of BLA activity triggered by dCA1 ripples after new learning resulted in impaired memory. These findings highlight hippocampus-amygdala communication underlying memory formation and provide new insights into how the brain creates and stores memories.
Iranian medical students' experiences, perceptions, and psychological conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Nedaei Abolfazl , Alehashemi Alireza , Farajpour Arezou , Roodbraki Narjes 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Background and aim:Quarantine and social distancing caused by the 2019 coronavirus disease have posed significant challenges for various aspects of the healthcare system including medical students. On the other hand, being exposed to COVID-19 is associated with a high risk of depression and anxiety among healthcare workers. In this study, we attempt to examine the psychological effects and perceptions of medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic.Methods: This national cross-sectional study was conducted on Iranian medical students in 2021. The data collection tool is an electronic questionnaire that includes demographic characteristics, the PHQ-9 and the GAD-7 standard questionnaires, and a researcher-designed questionnaire on medical students' educational experience.Results: 2176 medical students participated in our study. The results showed that the satisfaction of e-learning among Iranian medical students is below average. Additionally, we observed a high prevalence of depression (40.1%) and anxiety (23.9%). Also men were less depressed and anxious than women (p < 0.01). Although there are higher levels of anxiety among students in clinical years than non-clinical years (p = 0.005), there is no significant difference in the levels of depression and satisfaction of electronic education (p > 0.05). On the other hand, increase in depression and anxiety rates, as well as poor internet quality, were associated with a decrease in the satisfaction of e-learning (p < 0.001). Additionally, 62.1% of people agreed that blended learning is better to be continued after the pandemic.Conclusion: Due to the high prevalence of depression and anxiety among students and its impact on e-learning satisfaction, it is recommended to establish effective strategies to provide support for medical students, especially during times of crisis.
Designing and testing low-cost solar water heater using date palm fibers and starch
Authors: Ziani Lotfi , Khemissat Mohamed Anis , Ziani Zakarya 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Solar water heaters are a type of renewable energy technology that converts solar energy into heat to warm water. Solar water heaters are becoming increasingly popular due to their eco-friendliness, cost-effectiveness, and low maintenance requirements. In this study, we focused on developing low-cost solar collectors using date palm waste as thermal insulation. Date palm waste is a readily available and abundant resource in many regions and using it in solar collectors can help reduce waste and promote sustainability. We created two solar collectors using crushed date palm waste, with one collector using the waste alone and the other mixed with starch. We conducted tests in accordance with the European standard EN 12975-2-2006 and modeled the thermal behavior of the collectors. Our results showed that our solar collectors performed well and exhibited behavior comparable to that of a commercial solar collector, with a production cost up to three times less. The use of date palm waste as thermal insulation in solar collectors is an innovative approach that aligns with the principles of sustainability and environmental friendliness. Furthermore, our study provides valuable insights into the development of low-cost solar water heaters, which could potentially increase the adoption of renewable energy technologies in various settings.
Study on the correlation between calprotectin level in children with simple obesity
Authors: Junlong Hu , Li Zhang 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the correlation between serum and fecal calprotectin levels in children with simple obesity, and to analyze the correlation of calprotectin with body mass index, inflammatory factors, and insulin resistance. Fifty-four children with simple obesity who visited the Department of Pediatrics of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University from August 2018 to October 2020 were selected as the experimental group, and 60 healthy children with normal weight were selected as the control group. Height, weight, and body mass index were measured in the experimental and control group. Serum and fecal calprotectin, serum TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8,C-reactive protein, total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density and low density lipoprotein cholesterol, and fasting blood glucose and insulin were measured. Differences between the two groups were compared. The differences in body mass index, serum and fecal calprotectin, serum cytokines, and homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance between the two groups were statistically significant (p > 0.05). Serum calprotectin was correlated with body mass index, serum cytokines, and homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance, whereas fecal calprotectin was only correlated with body mass index. Obese children were in a state of metabolic disorders and chronic inflammation, including an intestinal inflammation. Calprotectin may be involved in the pathogenesis of obesity-associated chronic inflammation and insulin resistance.
Airborne influenza virus in daycare centers
Authors: Zhang Jia Lin , Wang Yu-Chun , Lee Yi Lien , Yang Chun-Yuh , Chen Pei-Shih 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

This study investigated the concentration of airborne influenza virus in daycare centers and influence factors, such as common colds prevalence, air pollutants, meteorological factors. A total of 209 air samples were collected from daycare centers in Kaohsiung and influenza virus was analyzed using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Air pollutants and metrological factors were measured using real-time monitoring equipment. Winter had the highest positive rates of airborne influenza virus and the highest prevalence of the common cold, followed by summer and autumn. The concentration of CO was significantly positively correlated with airborne influenza virus. Daycare center A with natural ventilation and air condition systems had the higher concentration of airborne influenza A virus, airborne fungi, and airborne bacteria, as well as prevalence of the common cold than those in daycare center B with a mechanical ventilation system and air purifiers, while the concentrations of CO2, CO, UFPs in daycare center A were lower than those in daycare center B. We successfully detected airborne influenza virus in daycare centers, demonstrating that aerosol sampling for influenza can provide novel epidemiological insights and inform the management of influenza in daycare centers.
Pica practice during pregnancy is associated with low maternal haemoglobin levels and gestational age among women in the Cape Coast Metropolis, Ghana
Authors: Ayensu Jessica , Essuman Mainprice Akuoko , Nyavowoyi Ernestina Elikplim Atsupi , Russell Nicholas , Agyapong Nana Ama Frimpomaa , Mohammed Awal Seidu , Nsiah-Asamoah Christiana , Klevor Moses Kwashie 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Background:Pica during pregnancy poses substantial harm to the mother and the unborn baby. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of pica practice and its associations with pregnancy and birth outcomes among mothers in Cape Coast, Ghana.Methods:A cross-sectional study involving 580 nursing mothers receiving postnatal care in three health facilities in the Cape Coast Metropolis was undertaken from July to September 2021. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain data on pica prevalence, knowledge of pica, pica practice, and pregnancy and birth outcomes.Results:The mean age of the participants was 28.63 ± 5.97 years.Prevalence of pica was 42.9%. White clay and ice were the most commonly consumed pica items. Statistically significant associations were found between pica behaviour and maternal haemoglobin levels at the first ANC visit (X2=13.568; p<0.001), 28thweek (X2=36.103; p<0.001) and 36thweek (X2=65.022; p<0.001) of pregnancy; infants’ gestational age (X2= 23.697; p = 0.004); maternal age (X2= 13.15; p = 0.004); occupation (X2= 10.50; p = 0.015); and maternal knowledge of pica and its effects (X2= 8.26; p = 0.004). Regression analysis revealed that pregnant women who practiced pica were more likely to have low haemoglobin levels at the first ANC visit (OR =1.878; 95% CI 1.341 -2.631, p<0.001), 28thweek (OR =2.853; 95% CI 2.018 - 4.032, p<0.001) and 36thweek of pregnancy (OR =4.255; 95% CI 2.967- 6.101, p<0.001). M mothers who practiced pica were more likely to deliver before 37 weeks of gestation (OR =2.404; 95% CI 1.682 – 3.436, p<0.001).Conclusion:Pica is a common practice among the study participants and was significantly associated with lower maternal haemoglobin levels and gestational age. Counselling and education on pica and its effects should be intensified and prioritized during the prenatal period.
Pre- and Peri-Pandemic Deployment Trajectories of Mental Health:Any Different?
Authors: Bühler Antje , Willmund Gerd-Dieter 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
With the purpose of preventing the troops from becoming a contagion vector of SARS-Cov-2, pre-deployment and post-deployment quarantine have been mandatory for the military worldwide. This study investigates if deployment-related quarantining has impacted on the mental health trajectory across the deployment cycle. Pandemic-specific studies of mental health are criticized for lacking a pre-pandemic reference point. In this study, we address this shortcoming.
Method
We pooled pre-pandemic data and peri-pandemic data: The pre-pandemic sample, 156 soldiers, and a sub-sample of the pandemic sample, 130 soldiers, completed the BSI/Mini-SCL three times, two weeks before deployment, two weeks after deployment and at a follow-up, three to six months after deployment. This pandemic sub-sample had undergone pre-deployment and post-deployment quarantining. Soldiers in this subsample completed the Mini-SCL five times.
Results
Using a two-way repeated measures ANOVA, we found significant main effects for the within-subjects factor, showing a decrease in mental health symptoms over time, a significant main effect for the between subject factor, with the pandemic sample displaying a higher General Severity Index (GSI) of the Mini-SCL/BSI than the pre-pandemic sample, and a significant interaction between both factors indicating different mental health trajectories across the deployment cycle.
Conclusions
Though the impact of the pandemic and specific containment measures are difficult to disentangle, this study suggests an impact of the pandemic rather than a health-adverse impact of the specific deployment-related quarantining. It illustrates how important it is for future studies to collect representative samples, select the critical timing of measurement and choosing the same economic measures.
Analysis of factors related to the use of analgesics in patients with acute pancreatitis
Authors: He Qiongyao , He Wu , Gong Jing , Lu Fu-Er 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Objectives: Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an acute inflammatory process of the pancreas accompanied by abdominal pain, and analgesics are usually used to treat the pain of AP. We sought to identify factors associated with analgesic administration and independent risk factors for the increased frequency of analgesics administered in AP patients.
Methods: In this retrospective single-center observational study, we included eligible adult patients admitted with AP between 2018 and 2022. Patients were classified into 2 groups based on the use of analgesics: analgesic group and non-analgesic group.
Results: We included 600 AP patients and 40.6% received analgesia drug, of which 72.1% were treated with dizoxin and 54.4% with diclofenac sodium. Patient-related factors (history of gallstones, puncture and drainage, hyperlipidemia, severe pancreatitis, pancreatic injury, high infection index, liver and kidney dysfunction, hospital stay >14 days) were related to the use of analgesics. Severe pancreatitis and low-dose administration of diclofenac sodium were independent risk factors for the increased frequency of analgesics administered. The drug dependence was reduced when the patients were ≥ 65 years or had received diclofenac sodium at high dose.
Conclusions: In addition to the characteristics of patients, the prescription patterns of analgesics and the treatment methods of AP also have an impact on patients' analgesics use and dependence.
Validity and test-retest reliability of the Swedish version of the Geriatric Depression Scale among very old adults
Authors: Snellman Sandra , Hörnsten Carl , Olofsson Birgitta , Gustafson Yngve , Lövheim Hugo , Niklasson Johan 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background:
The Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) has shown good validity and reliability, but few studies have examined the GDS among very old adults or the Swedish translation.
Objectives:
Evaluate the validity and reliability of the Swedish version of GDS-15 among very old adults.
Methods:
In the Umeå85+/GErontological Regional DAtabase (GERDA) study, 387 participants were assessed with both the GDS-15 and the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). The mean age was 91 years. Concurrent validity between the scales was calculated using Spearman's correlation. We used the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) V symptom criteria for depression based on MADRS item scores to define depression. We calculated Area Under the Curve (AUC) and found an optimal cut off.
A convenience sample with 60 individuals was used to calculate test-retest reliability with Cohen’s kappa and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC).
Results:
Spearman's correlation coefficients between total scores for GDS-15 and MADRS were 0.60. Cronbach's alpha for the whole scale was 0.73. The AUC was 0.90 for distinguishing major depression, and the recommended cut off of ≥ 5 showed a sensitivity of 95.2% and specificity of 65.8%. The test-retest showed that Cohen’s kappa was substantial (0.71) and the ICC was excellent (0.95).
Conclusions:
The Swedish version of the GDS-15 showed good validity and reliability among very old adults. The generally recommended cut-off of ≥ 5 seems reasonable to use with the Swedish version and among very old adults.