bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Short-distance seed and pollen dispersal in both hunted and intact forests in the lower canopy African rainforest tree, Coula edulis Baill (Coulaceae)
Authors: Kamdem Narcisse Guy , Sonké Bonaventure , Sergeant Saskia , Deblauwe Vincent , Hardy Olivier J. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Mammal-dispersed tropical trees can face regeneration problems due to increasing hunting pressure. We studied the case of Coula edulis Baill (Coulaceae), an African rainforest tree that produces the 'African walnut', an essential food and income resource for rural communities in Cameroon. We compared gene flow and regeneration dynamics in three populations with contrasting levels of human disturbance and mammal abundance. Using 21 nuclear microsatellite markers, we estimated the outcrossing rate and contemporary seed and pollen dispersal distances, and we analyzed the fine-scale spatial genetic structure (FSGS) to infer historical gene dispersal distances.
Results
Juveniles were outcrossed while 22–30% of the seeds were selfed, suggesting the elimination of inbred seeds. The mean dispersal distances were relatively short for seeds (105–219 m) and pollen (173–358 m), both shorter in the most intact forest. Immigration rates were three to four times higher for pollen (33–71%) than for seeds (7–28%), indicating some long-distance pollen dispersal. FSGS was strong in all populations (Sp = 0.023–0.036), suggesting short-range historical gene dispersal distances consistent with contemporary estimates. We detected assortative mating, possibly due to higher flowering synchronicity between related individuals. The most disturbed plots had an inverted J-shaped trunk diameter structure, typical of continuous regeneration, while the intact forest had a complex diameter structure with a weak regeneration pulse.
Conclusions
Our results suggest that forest disturbance and mammal hunting do not significantly affect the dispersal distances of seed and pollen for Coula edulis, contrary to other mammals-dispersed trees. We hypothesize that the main dispersers are scatter hoarding rodents that are less impacted, or even facilitated, by hunting pressure. The species appears to regenerate better in disturbed forests, possibly due to a reduction in seed and seedling predators. However, natural populations are threatened by ongoing forest conversion into agriculture.
Emergence of human infections with the novel avian influenza in Zhejiang Province, China post COVID-19 pandemic: An epidemiological analysis
Authors: Wang Xiaoxiao , Mao Haiyan , Kong Lingjie , Xu Zenghao , Ren Jiangping , Sun Zhou , Shou Jun , Pang Zhifeng , Sun Yi , Lou Xiuyu , Su Lingxuan , Huang Chen , Sun Jimin , Ling Feng , Jiang Jianmin , Chen Zhiping 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Avian influenza viruses (AIVs) continue to pose a significant public health threat globally, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic. Between January 2020 and January 2024, four human cases of AIV infection were reported in Zhejiang Province, China, raising concerns about the emergence of novel strains. A 63-year-old woman from Anhui Province became the first globally reported case of AIV H10N5 infection, likely contracted while slaughtering live ducks. In June 2022, a 33-year-old man from Zhejiang Province was confirmed as first case of AIV H10N3 in Zhejiang Province and the second case globally. Additionally, two women, aged 51 and 55, were confirmed to have AIV H5N6 infection in December 2021, with no epidemiological links between them. Their infections were likely caused by exposure to infected or contaminated poultry during unprotected cleaning and processing activities. Except for H10N5 patient who died, the other three patients recovered after antiviral treatment with oseltamivir. Epidemiological investigations and genomic analysis confirmed avian origins for these cases. These cases underscore the ongoing risk posed by novel AIV strains, particularly in environments where there is direct or indirect contact with infected birds, such as wet markets or poultry processing facilities. Continuous surveillance, improved monitoring, and stricter protocols for poultry handling and processing are crucial to reducing the risk of human exposure to these viruses. This study emphasizes the need for enhanced preventive measures to mitigate the potential for future outbreaks of AIV in humans.
Portrait of a series of patients with pheochromocytoma/paraganglioma from a reference center in Brazil: Relevance of prior background features
Authors: Lima José Viana , Scalissi Nilza M. , Goldman Suzan M. , Kater Claudio E. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Context: Pheochromocytomas (Pheo) and paragangliomas (PGL) (PPGL) are catecholamine-producing tumours, whose functionality is confirmed by elevated plasma (Pl) and/or 24-h urinary (Ur) metanephrines (MN).
Objective/Design: We review clinical, hormonal, and imaging aspects of 116 patients studied prospectively: 93 Pheo, 22 PGL, and one Pheo plus PGL.
Results: Twenty-five % PPGL were discovered incidentally. Systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) was present in 81% (43% on stage 3), whereas 9.5% were prehypertensiveand 9.5%, normotensive. SAH plus paroxysms occurred in 31 (33%) patients, being exclusively sustained in the remaining; 26 (28%) had resistant SAH. Orthostatic hypotension was present in 65% of patients. Pl/Ur MN and normetanephrine (NMN) were compared to those of a positive (56 functioning PPGL) and a negative control group (654 subjects with normal MN/NMN). Total and fractionated Ur MN were elevated in 94% PPGL patients. Cut-off values of 885 mcg/24-h for Ur MN, and of 1.5 nmol/L for Pl MN identified functioning lesions with 100%/100% sensitivity and 93%/97% specificity, respectively. MRI detected 56% Pheo on the right side,25% on the left, and 19% bilateral; 13 of 23 PGL (56.5%) were retroperitoneal and 10 (43.5%), cervical. Right-side Pheo were larger (5.8 cm) than left-side ones (3.7 cm), but retroperitoneal (6.5 cm) and neck PGL (6.9 cm) were similar in size. Tumour size positively correlated with total Ur MN.
Conclusions: in this large cohort of PPGL patients we highlighted relevant aspects of SAH, the frequentlyoverlooked manifestation of orthostatic hypotension, common incidental presentation, and significant tumour size/hormonal production correlation.
Research on hydrodynamic characteristics of a floating horizontal axis tidal turbine considering wave and platform motion
Authors: Mei Yunlei , Jing Fengmei , Wang Xinru , Guo Bin , Lu Qiang 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The floating horizontal-axis tidal turbine (FHATT) stands out as the most commercially viable tidal energy device. This paper reviews recent literature on FHATT and summarizes experimental and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) methods employed in FHATT research. Based on this foundation, the coupling effects of wave and platform motion (pitch/roll) on FHATT hydrodynamic performance were investigated through flume experiments and CFD simulations. The variations of the power coefficient (CP) and thrust coefficient (CT) are analyzed under different platform motion periods, amplitudes, wave periods, and wave heights. The results demonstrate that under the coupling of waves and pitch motion, CP and CT exhibit dual-frequency oscillations based on the pitch period, with oscillation amplitudes increasing with both pitch frequency (wave frequency) and pitch amplitude (wave height). Within the working conditions of this study, the maximum mean output power under the coupling of pitch motion and waves increases by 26.1%. The maximum fluctuation amplitude of CP reaches 349.8%. When waves and roll motion are coupled, wave parameters dominate, while the influence of roll motion can be ignored. Moreover, the hydrodynamic fluctuations induced by waves and platform motion can couple with each other. This coupling effect not only amplifies the fluctuation amplitude of hydrodynamic coefficients but also has the potential to offset each other. These findings provide insights into the structural design and system control of FHATT, serving as valuable references for FHATT development.
Fathers Role in Infant Feeding and Care: Exploring Perceptions, Practices, And Challenges in Lesotho’s Rural Communities
Authors: Kaloro Kaloro , Mahlelehlele Bokang , TURKSON Rose Kokui Dufe 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Few studies have been conducted that considered the fathers’ role in proper nutrition of infants and young children. Mothers are the ones perceived to offer optimal care and feeding to infants while fathers are often responsible for the income related support especially in low-income class families. Therefore, this study was intended to find out to what degree fathers were involved in infants’ care and feeding.
AIM: The study was aimed at investigating perceptions, practices, and challenges of fathers in infancy (1-12 months) care and feeding.
METHOD: A qualitative study was conducted in Ha Mafefooane village in Roma, Maseru district of Lesotho. Six fathers, who had children between 1-12 months, participated in the study. Individual interviews in Sesotho language were carried out. Thematic analysis was adopted to identify emerged themes from the data.
RESULTS: The study showed that, traditional fathers are partially involved in infants’ care and feeding. Based on their perceptions, practices, and challenges of everyday infants’ care and feeding, fathers perceive routine child care and feeding as mothers’ duty and they only get involved as the way of assisting mothers as well as income generation. The findings showed that fathers lack knowledge of their role in child care and feeding practices.
CONCLUSION: This study helped to reveal the perception, practice and challenges of fathers with respect to the care, infant feeding. Fathers generally think that their role is to provide money for the house, while it is the duty of the mother to take care of the child by feeding and caring. The findings of this study suggest that educating fathers could raise awareness of their importance in infants’ care thus ensuring optimal infants’ feeding, growth and development.
Projected changes in seasonal and monthly atmospheric near surface parameters over West Africa from simulations of CORDEX-CORE ensemble
Authors: Lenouo Andre , Weber Torsten , Tamoffo Alain T. , Hoffmann Peter , Langendijk Gaby S. , Betant Carine , Um Alphonse Um , Meukaleuni Cyrille , Efon Eric , Djiondo Rinelle N. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Surface-to-near-surface atmospheric fluxes are essential to improve our understanding of their interactions. Evaluating their evolution allows for advancing climate applications. This study examines the seasonal and monthly Atmospheric Near Surface Parameters (ANSP) over West Africa during the early (2030–2060) and late (2071–2099) periods of the 21st century, considering the representative concentration pathways RCP 2.6 and RCP 8.5. We utilise nine experiments resulting from dynamically downscaling at ~25 km horizontal resolution, of three general circulation models (GCMs) by the means of three regional climate models (RCMs) participating in the Coordinated Regional Climate Downscaling Experiment – Coordinated Output for Regional Evaluations (CORDEX-CORE) initiative. The analysed ANSP includes mean temperature and relative humidity at 2 metres, precipitation and wind speed at 10 metres above the surface. To offer a comprehensive overview of the nine model experiments, we also present and compare the results of their ensemble mean against the reanalysis ERA5 used as reference over the period 1971-2000 for temperature, humidity and wind speed. Furthermore, we also used the rainfall data from Climate Hazards Group InfraRed Precipitation with Station version 2 (CHIRPS2) over the historical period (1983–2005). In general, the results show that the ensemble mean of the model experiments adequately simulates ANSP over West Africa over the historical period. The climate projections reveal an increase in seasonal 2-metre mean temperatures up to 5°C in September-October-November and June-July-August seasons during the last 30 years of the century over the Sahara Desert. Changes in 2-metre relative humidity during the period 2031-2060 are expected to reach 10% between 10°-15°N in the rainy and dry seasons. Meanwhile, changes in 10-metre wind and precipitation are projected to be less than 1 m/s and 1mm/day respectively across the entirety of West Africa.
In-vitro comparisons of African swine fever virus isolates from Uganda reveal similar genetic identity and titer amounts
Authors: Mulondo Samuel , Ezinga Richard , Kabaka Richard Mumali , Abila Patrick P’Odyek , Semakula Jimmy , Ssekiziyivu Rogers , Owila Godious , Anjero Byansi , Kiplangat Joshua , Dhikusooka Moses Tefula , Mugerwa Swidiq , Majalija Samuel , Kabuuka Tonny 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
African swine fever (ASF) is a highly contagious hemorrhagic fever affecting both domestic and wild pigs. It is endemic in sub-Saharan Africa with frequent outbreaks in Eastern and Central Africa. This disease is a threat to the pig industry causing a huge economic impact through pig deaths, failure to export pork or pork products and expenses incurred in its control and prevention.
Methods
Using plaque counts in 6 well cell culture plates, we determined titers of 5 old field viruses namely UG-P9C, UG-SOR36, UG-SQ517B, UG-KAS04, and UG-BUN05 isolated by Kabuuka et al, 2024, and one new field strain UG-P3E.
Results
Sucrose purification of virus isolates resulted in higher titer yields in comparison to supernatant-derived titers. High titers of up to 8.0 x 10− 8 pfu/ml, a log higher than the usual recommended commercial vaccine titer requirements of 1.0 x 10− 7 pfu/ml were registered for some isolates. Further partial genome sequencing of the p72 gene of ASF indicated that all six isolates belong to genotype IX of African swine fever viruses. This study therefore presents scientific evidence that ASF viruses in Uganda are majorly genotype IX, and these have sufficient titers for further vaccine development work.
Failure Analysis of Advanced Ceramics using Bivariate Weibull Distribution and Bayesian Estimation
Authors: Hajizadeh Pouria , Khosravi Mostafa , Ravandi Mohammad 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

This research paper presents a comprehensive study on modeling the failure behavior of advanced ceramics by integrating phenomenological and physics-based approaches. The proposed methodology utilizes the bivariate Weibull distribution to capture the complex failure mechanisms in advanced ceramics, considering the impact of Subcritical Crack Growth (SCG). Approximate Bayesian Computation (ABC) is employed for parameter estimation, leveraging Metropolis-Hastings (MH) and Hamiltonian Monte Carlo (HMC) algorithms to enhance computational efficiency. The study validates the proposed models against a physics-based Batdorf theory approach using NASA’s CARES/Life. Results demonstrate the robustness of the ABC MH and ABC HMC models, highlighting the capability of statistical approach to predict failure dynamics in advanced ceramics under varying conditions. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of advanced ceramic failure mechanisms, paving the way for further advancements in material science and engineering applications of ceramics.
Prevalence and Perception of Premature Ejaculation in Algeria: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: BOURAS SAMIR , Yebdri samir 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Premature ejaculation (PE) is a prevalent sexual dysfunction in men. Despite its significant impact, it remains underreported in the Maghreb countries, particularly in Algeria, due to cultural taboos. This study aims to provide essential epidemiological data on PE in this region.
Methods
A prevalence survey was conducted in January 2024 in the urology department, involving 120 men and 18 women. Participants completed a questionnaire addressing the prevalence of PE, its effects on sexual satisfaction, and perceptions within the couple. Several variables were analyzed to identify potential correlations.
Results
PE was reported by 42% of men and 22% of women regarding their partners, with an intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT) ≤ 2 minutes reported by 39.2% of men and 27.7% of women. Incidence increased to 45% among men over 50. The median IELT was 3.5 minutes overall and 1.5 minutes among those with PE. No significant correlation was found between age, sexual frequency, sexual satisfaction, and PE, though significant associations with erectile dysfunction and lower urinary tract symptoms were identified.
Conclusion
The prevalence of PE shows considerable variability, ranging from 4–75%, and tends to increase with age. To our knowledge, this is the first epidemiological study on PE in Algeria and potentially the Maghreb. It underscores the importance of increased awareness and targeted management strategies to improve sexual health and quality of life for affected individuals
Simulation Environment for Reconfigurable Virtual Accelerators Using a Field Programmable Gate Array Development Environment
Authors: Kawai Shunya , Maeda Eriko , Yaguchi Kazuki , Osana Yasunori , Miyoshi Takefumi , Nakajo Hironori 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

In recent years, studies on artificial intelligence and high-performance computing have accelerated computations using field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). High-Level Synthesis (HLS) is beneficial for implementing algorithms from these fields onto FPGAs as circuits. However, because the circuits generated by HLS are generally larger than those designed with hardware description language, using FPGAs in practice presents challenges regarding resource restrictions. To address these issues, we proposed a Reconfigurable Virtual Accelerator (ReVA), that allows the sharing of resources across multiple FPGAs and enables the implementation of large-scale circuits. In this study, we proposed and implemented a ReVA Simulator. Furthermore, we estimated the execution time when utilizing ReVA and performed evaluations. The evaluation results demonstrate that the ReVA Simulator achieves a fast Fourier transform reduced by 36% compared to execution in C.
Comparative study on different endoscopic submucosal dissection techniques for the treatment of superficial esophageal cancer and precancerous lesions
Authors: Jiang Shuanghong , Luo Zichen , Liu Xiuyu , Guo Haiyang , Cui Yutong , Liang Shiqi , Chen Xinrui , Zuo Ji , Wang Xianfei 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
This study aims to compare the effectiveness and safety of traditional endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), endoscopic submucosal tunneling dissection (ESTD), and endoscopic submucosal dissection with C-shaped incision (ESD-C) in the treatment of superficial esophageal cancer and precancerous lesions, providing reference and guidance for the treatment of esophageal cancer.
Methods
A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of patients who underwent ESD (n = 96), ESTD (n = 103), and ESD-C (n = 98) for superficial esophageal cancer or precancerous lesions between January 2017 and December 2022. Through comparative analysis, the effectiveness and safety of the three surgical methods were evaluated, and the risk factors for postoperative esophageal stricture were explored.
Results
In terms of total operative time and dissection time, the ESD group > ESTD group > ESD-C group; in terms of dissection speed, the ESD group < ESTD group < ESD-C group; in terms of dissection area, the ESD group < ESTD group and ESD-C group; and in terms of wound treatment time, the ESD group > ESTD group and ESD-C group. In terms of surgical outcomes, the en bloc resection rate was 100% in all three groups, with curative resection rates of 86.46%, 90.29%, and 87.76% in the ESD, ESTD, and ESD-C groups, respectively. The incidence of stricture was higher in the ESTD and ESD-C groups than in the ESD group. The risk factors for postoperative esophageal stricture included dissection area, circumferential proportion of the lesion, and injury to the muscularis propria.
Conclusion
ESD, ESTD, and ESD-C are all safe and effective methods for the treatment of superficial esophageal cancer and precancerous lesions. Among them, ESD-C demonstrates advantages over ESTD and ESD in terms of operative time, lesion resection speed, and surgical efficiency. With increasing circumferential proportion of the lesion, larger dissection area, and injury to the muscularis propria during surgery, the risk of postoperative esophageal stricture also increases accordingly.
Barriers and Enablers to the Implementation of Integration Models of Medical and Elderly Care Services in China: A Qualitative Study Using the Theoretical Domains Framework
Authors: Ye Li , Wu Jingyi , Li Kaijun , Sheng Pianpian , Ji Siyuan , Ye Minghua 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background Amidst China's rapid demographic aging,the government has initiated the integration of medical and elderly care services,with general practitioners (GPs) at the forefront.This study aims to investigate the perceptions of GPs regarding the barriers and enablers to the implementation of integration models in medical and elderly care services within the Chinese healthcare system.
Methods A qualitative study design was employed and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 23 general practitioners involved in primary and integrated healthcare.We utilized constructs from the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) to guide data collection and analysis,examining current practices and identifying key factors perceived to influence the implementation of integrated medical and elderly care services.Two researchers independently coded transcripts into predefined themes using deductive thematic analysis.
Results The barriers and enablers perceived by general practitioners were primarily categorized within eight TDF domains. Key barriers included: knowledge and skill deficiencies among general practitioners (GPs); absence of incentives; insufficient personnel; time constraints;traditional concept in elderly care. Additionalbarriers included unclear service provider roles, uneven distribution of resources, Underutilization of technology. In contrast,perceived enablers included: Sustained policy support; Comprehensive personnel training; innovation in service models; technological advancement.
Conclusions The utilization of the TDF provided a comprehensive insight into the barriers and enablers to the implementation of integrated medical and elderly care services, and consequently, has given direction to future interventions strategies aimed at enhancing the quality and effectiveness of this services.