bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Epidemic modelling by birth-death processes with spatial scaling
Authors: Arharas Ihsan , El Fatini Mohamed , Louriki Mohammed , Pettersson Roger 
Published: July 2024

AbstractIn epidemic modeling, interpretation of compartment quantities, such as s, i, and r in relevant equations, is not always straightforward. Ambiguities regarding whether these quantities represent numbers or fractions of individuals in each compartment rise questions about significance of the involved parameters. In this paper, we address these challenges by considering a density-dependent epidemic modelling by a birth-death process approach inspired by Kurtz from 1970s’. In contrast to existing literature, which employs population size scaling under constant population condition, we scale with respect to the area. Namely, under the assumption of spatial homogeneity of the population, we consider the quantities of susceptible, infective and recovered per unit area. This spatial scaling allows diffusion approximation for birth-death type epidemic models with varying population size. By adopting this approach, we anticipate to contribute to a clear and transparent description of compartment quantities and parameters in epidemic modeling.
Laryngeal cancer incidence trends in the United States over 2000–2020: a population-based analysis
Authors: Mousavi Seyed Ehsan , Ilaghi Mehran , Aslani Armin , Najafi Morvarid , Yekta Zahra , Nejadghaderi Seyed Aria 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Introduction
Laryngeal cancers account for one-third of all head and neck cancers. We aimed to report the incidence trends of laryngeal cancer over 2000–2020 in the United States (US), by age, sex, race/ethnicity, and histological subtypes.

Methods
Data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results 22 database were used to identify patients with laryngeal cancer based on the International Classification of Diseases for Oncology, version 3. Age-standardized incidence rates (ASIRs) for laryngeal cancer, adjusted for reporting delays, were calculated. The Joinpoint Regression Program was then utilized to determine annual percent changes (APCs) and average annual percent changes (AAPCs) in the trends. The analysis excluded data from 2020 to prevent potential bias related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results
A total of 104,991 cases of laryngeal cancer were identified in the US from 2000 to 2019. Squamous cell carcinoma was the predominant subtype, accounting for 94.53% of cases. Above 73.20% occurred among non-Hispanic whites, with the highest incidence observed among individuals aged 55–69 years (46.71%). The ASIRs were 5.98 and 1.25 per 100,000 population for men and women, respectively. Over 2000–2019, there was a significant reduction in ASIRs for laryngeal cancer in both sexes. Non-Hispanic black men exhibited the highest ASIR (9.13 per 100,000) and the largest decline in the ASIRs over 2000–2019 (AAPC: -3.26%).

Conclusions
Laryngeal cancer incidence rates showed a decline from 2000 to 2019, in addition to 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additional research is required to investigate risk factors and their influence on incidence rates of laryngeal cancer.
Monitoring the invasion of Campuloclinium macrocephalum (less) DC plants using a novel MaxEnt and machine learning ensemble in the Cradle Nature Reserve, South Africa
Authors: Makobe Benjamin , Mhangara Paidamwoyo , Gidey Eskinder , Kganyago Mahlatse 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe proliferation of non-native plant species has caused significant changes in global ecosystems, leading to a surge in international interest in the use of remote sensing technologies for both local and global detection applications. The Greater Cradle Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is facing a decline in its global status due to the spread of pompom weeds, affecting its biodiversity. A significant reduction in grazing capacity leads to the displacement of game animals and the replacement of native vegetation. We used Sentinel-2A multispectral images to map the distribution of pompom weeds. At the nature reserve from 2019 to 2024, which allowed us to distinguish it from other land cover types and determine the appropriateness of the habitat. The SVM model provided 44% and 50.7% spatial coverage of pompom weed at the nature reserve in 2019 and 2024, respectively, whereas the RF model yielded 31.1% and 39.3%, respectively. The MaxEnt model identified both soil and rainfall as the most important environmental factors in fostering the aggressive proliferation of pompom weeds at the nature reserves. The MaxEnt predictive model obtained an area under curve score of 0.94, indicating outstanding prediction model performance. Classification of above 75%, indicating that they could distinguish pompom weeds from existing land cover types. For sustainable environmental management, this study suggests using predictive models to effectively eradicate the spatial distribution of invasive weeds in the present and future.
Strut-and-Tie Method for GFRP-RC Deep Members
Authors: Hussain Zahid , Nanni Antonio 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe current code provisions in ACI 440.11 are based on the flexural theory that applies to slender members and may not represent the actual structural behavior when the shear span-to-reinforcement depth ratio is less than 2.5 (i.e., deep members). The Strut-and-tie method (STM) can be a better approach to design deep members; however, this chapter is not included in the code. Research has shown that STM models used for steel-reinforced concrete (RC) give satisfactory results when applied to glass fiber-reinforced polymer-reinforced (GFRP)-RC members with a/d less than 2.5. Therefore, this study is carried out to provide insights into the use of STM for GFRP-RC deep members based on the available literature and to highlight the necessity for the inclusion of a new chapter addressing the use of STM in the ACI 440.11 Code. It includes a design example to show the implications of ACI 440.11 code provisions when applied to GFRP-RC deep members (i.e., isolated footings) and compares it when designed as per STM provided in ACI 318-19. It was observed that current code provisions in ACI 440.11 required more concrete thickness (i.e., h = 1.12 m) leading to implementation challenges. However, the required dimensions decreased (i.e., h = 0.91 m) when the design was carried out as per STM. Due to the novelty of GFRP reinforcement, current code provisions may limit its extensive use in RC buildings, particularly in footings given the water table issues and excavation costs. Therefore, it is necessary to adopt innovative methods such as STM to design GFRP-RC deep members if allowed by the code.
A review on the cultivation, bioactive compounds, health-promoting factors and clinical trials of medicinal mushrooms Taiwanofungus camphoratus, Inonotus obliquus and Tropicoporus linteus
Authors: Tee Phoebe Yon Ern , Krishnan Thiiben , Cheong Xin Tian , Maniam Snechaa A. P. , Looi Chung Yeng , Ooi Yin Yin , Chua Caroline Lin Lin , Fung Shin-Yee , Chia Adeline Yoke Yin 
Published: July 2024

AbstractMedicinal mushrooms, such as Taiwanofungus camphoratus, Inonotus obliquus, and Tropicoporus linteus, have been used in traditional medicine for therapeutic purposes and promotion of overall health in China and many East Asian countries for centuries. Modern pharmacological studies have demonstrated the large amounts of bioactive constituents (such as polysaccharides, triterpenoids, and phenolic compounds) available in these medicinal mushrooms and their potential therapeutic properties. Due to the rising demand for the health-promoting medicinal mushrooms, various cultivation methods have been explored to combat over-harvesting of the fungi. Evidence of the robust pharmacological properties, including their anticancer, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, antioxidant, and antiviral activities, have been provided in various studies, where the health-benefiting properties of the medicinal fungi have been further proven through numerous clinical trials. In this review, the cultivation methods, available bioactive constituents, therapeutic properties, and potential uses of T. camphoratus, I. obliquus and T. linteus are explored.
A review on the thermochemical reaction mechanisms for distiller pyrolysis process
Authors: Lin Sheng-Lun , Zhang Hongjie , Chen Wei-Hsin , Wu Yee-Lin , Wu Che-Wei , Huang Shih-Wei 
Published: July 2024

AbstractCircular utilization of distillery byproducts is crucial, and pyrolysis has emerged as a viable technology for converting them into fuels and high-value chemicals. This review investigates the thermochemical reactions of byproducts generated during the grain fermentation process. We begin by discussing the physicochemical properties of these byproducts as they relate to their potential conversion into fuels. Subsequently, we explore various thermochemical processes for biomass-to-energy conversion, including the influence of reaction conditions and catalysts. The intricate interactions between cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, and protein during pyrolysis are then examined. These interactions, particularly the Maillard reaction between proteins and carbohydrates and vapor–solid interactions, significantly impact the reaction pathways and ultimately the yield and quality of bio-oil, a key product of the pyrolysis process. Understanding these interactions, as evidenced by studies demonstrating the influence of levoglucosan, furfural, and hydroxyacetic acid on product yields, is essential for optimizing pyrolysis processes of distillery byproducts and maximizing the efficiency of biomass energy conversion. By elucidating the theoretical foundation and scientific basis for optimizing the energy conversion of distillery byproducts, this review aims to contribute to the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly practices within the brewing industry.
Calculation of the ratio of branching fractions
Authors: Amirkhanlou Elnaz , Mohammadi Behnam 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The LHCb Collaboration has reported for the first time the branching fraction for the

decay as

. They measured the branching fraction of this decay relative to that of the

normalization channel as

. In this work, we have studied the

and

decays in three scales of μ and strong coupling values mesons using a simple model based on the framework of the factorization approach presented. We have obtained

for

decay at

and

for

decay at

. We have also estimated

at

which is consistent with the experimental result.
Effects of Low-dose Methotrexate With Methimazole in Patients With Graves’ Disease: Results of a Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Xie Pu , Shen Liyun , Peng Rongguang , Wang Yanqiu , Yin Qinglei , Chen Xinxin , Jin Zhou , Ning Guang , Wang Weiqing , Wang Shu , Zhou Yulin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Context
Supplemental methotrexate (MTX) may affect the clinical course of Graves’ disease (GD).

Objective
To evaluate the efficacy of add-on MTX on medical treatment in GD.

Design
Prospective, open-label, randomized supplementation controlled trial.

Setting
Academic endocrine outpatient clinic.

Patients
One hundred fifty-three untreated hyperthyroid patients with GD.

Intervention
Patients received MTX 10 mg/w with methimazole (MMI) or MMI only. MTX and MMI were discontinued at months 12 to 18 in euthyroid patients.

Main Outcome Measures
Discontinuation rate at month 18 in each group.

Results
In the MTX with MMI group, the discontinuation rate was higher than the MMI group at months 15 to 18 [50.0 vs 33.3%, P = .043, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.020-3.922; and 55.6 vs 38.9%, P = .045, 95% CI 1.011-3.815, respectively). The decrease in thyrotropin-related antibodies (TRAb) levels in the MTX with MMI group was significant from baseline to month 6 compared to the MMI alone group [MTX + MMI 67.22% (43.12-80.32), MMI 54.85% (33.18-73.76), P = .039] and became more significant from month 9 [MTX + MMI 77.79% (62.27-88.18), MMI 69.55% (50.50-83.22), P = .035] to month 18 (P &lt; .01 in 15-18 months). A statistically significant difference was seen between the levels of TRAb in the MTX with MMI group and the MMI group at 9 to 18 months. There were no significant differences in the levels of free T3, free T4, and TSH between the 2 groups. No serious drug-related adverse events were observed in either group (P = .771).

Conclusion
Supplemental MTX with MMI resulted in a higher discontinuation rate and improvement in decreased TRAb levels to homeostatic levels faster than methimazole treatment alone at months 12 to 18.
Loss of Function of Vasoactive-intestinal Peptide Alters Sex Ratio and Reduces Male Reproductive Fitness in Zebrafish
Authors: Yu Yang , Tanaka Sakura , Wong Ten-Tsao , Zohar Yonathan , Zmora Nilli 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Vasoactive-intestinal peptide (Vip) is a pleiotropic peptide with a wide range of distribution and functions. Zebrafish possess 2 isoforms of Vip (a and b), in which Vipa is most homologous to the mammalian form. In female zebrafish, Vipa can stimulate LH secretion from the pituitary but is not essential for female reproduction, as vipa−/− females display normal reproduction. In contrast, we have found that vipa−/− males are severely subfertile and sex ratio of offspring is female-biased. By analyzing all aspects of male reproduction with wild-type (WT) males, we show that the testes of vipa−/− are underdeveloped and contain ∼70% less spermatids compared to WT counterparts. The sperm of vipa−/− males displayed reduced potency in terms of fertilization (by ∼80%) and motility span and duration (by ∼50%). In addition, vipa−/− male attraction to WT females was largely nonexistent, indicating decreased sexual motivation. We show that vipa mRNA and protein is present in Leydig cells and in developing germ cells in the testis of WT, raising the possibility that endogenous Vipa contributes to testicular function. Absence of Vipa in vipa−/− males resulted in downregulation of 3 key genes in the androgen synthesis chain in the testis, 3β-hsd, 17β-hsd1, and cyp11c1 (11β-hydrogenase), associated with a pronounced decrease in 11-ketotestosterone production and, in turn, compromised reproductive fitness. Altogether, this study establishes a crucial role for Vipa in the regulation of male reproduction in zebrafish, like in mammals, with the exception that Vipa is also expressed in zebrafish testis.
Influence of humanistic care-based operating room nursing on safety, recovery, and satisfaction after radical surgery for colorectal carcinoma
Authors: Wang Xian-Pu , Niu Min 
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND
Radical surgery is a preferred treatment for colorectal carcinoma, wherein nursing intervention is essential for postoperative recovery and prevention of complications. Recently, the application of humanistic care in medical care has attracted attention. Humanistic care emphasizes comprehensive care, with importance attached to patients’ physical needs as well as psychological and emotional support to provide more humane and personalized care services. However, no clinical reports have examined the use of humanistic care in patients undergoing radical surgery for colorectal carcinoma.
AIM
To investigate the influence of humanistic care-based operating room nursing on the safety, postoperative recovery, and nursing satisfaction of patients who have undergone radical surgery for colorectal carcinoma.
METHODS
In total, 120 patients with rectal cancer who underwent surgery in Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University between August 2023 and March 2024 were selected and grouped based on the nursing methods employed. Of these patients, 55 were treated with routine nursing intervention (control group) and 65 were provided humanistic care-based operating room nursing (research group). The patients’ vital signs were recorded, including systolic/diastolic blood pressure (SBP/DBP) and heart beats per minute (BPM), as well as serum stress indices, including norepinephrine (NE), adrenal hormone (AD), and cortisol (Cor). Postoperative recovery and complications were also recorded. Patients’ negative emotions, life hope, and nursing satisfaction were evaluated using the Self-rating Depression/Anxiety Scale (SDS/SAS), Herth Hope Index (HHI), and self-developed nursing satisfaction questionnaire, respectively.
RESULTS
During emergence from anesthesia, SBP, DBP, and BPM levels were found to be lower in the research group than those in the control group, also serum Cor, AD, and NE levels were lower. In addition, the research group had shorter operative, awakening, anal exhaust, first postoperative ambulation, drainage tube removal, intestinal recovery, and hospital times. The total complication rate and the SDS and SAS scores were lower in the research group than those in the control group. The HHI and nursing satisfaction scores were higher in the research group.
CONCLUSION
Humanistic care-based operating room nursing can mitigate physiological stress responses, reduce postoperative complications, promote postoperative recovery, relieve adverse psychological emotions, and enhance life hope and nursing satisfaction in patients undergoing radical surgery for colorectal carcinoma, which can be popularized in clinical practice.
Assessment of early factors for identification or prediction severe acute pancreatitis in pregnancy
Authors: Mei Li-Fen , Gan Quan , Hu Jing , Li Yun-Xiang , Tian Rui , Shi Cheng-Jian 
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND
Acute pancreatitis in pregnancy (APIP) is a rare and serious condition, and severe APIP (SAPIP) can lead to pancreatic necrosis, abscess, multiple organ dysfunction, and other adverse maternal and infant outcomes. Therefore, early identification or prediction of SAPIP is important.
AIM
To assess factors for early identification or prediction of SAPIP.
METHODS
The clinical data of patients with APIP were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were classified with mild acute pancreatitis or severe acute pancreatitis, and the clinical characteristics and laboratory biochemical indexes were compared between the two groups. Logical regression and receiver operating characteristic curve analyses were performed to assess the efficacy of the factors for identification or prediction of SAPIP.
RESULTS
A total of 45 APIP patients were enrolled. Compared with the mild acute pancreatitis group, the severe acute pancreatitis group had significantly increased (P < 0.01) heart rate (HR), hemoglobin, neutrophil ratio (NEUT%), and neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR), while lymphocytes were significantly decreased (P < 0.01). Logical regression analysis showed that HR, NEUT%, NLR, and lymphocyte count differed significantly (P < 0.01) between the groups. These may be factors for early identification or prediction of SAPIP. The area under the curve of HR, NEUT%, NLR, and lymphocyte count in the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was 0.748, 0.732, 0.821, and 0.774, respectively. The combined analysis showed that the area under the curve, sensitivity, and specificity were 0.869, 90.5%, and 70.8%, respectively.
CONCLUSION
HR, NEUT%, NLR, and lymphocyte count can be used for early identification or prediction of SAPIP, and the combination of the four factors is expected to improve identification or prediction of SAPIP.
The Future of Optical Networking in Service Provider Networks: Defined by External Factors
Authors: Gerstel Ori 
Published: July 2024

The evolution of optical networking in service providers was fueled by technology achievements, such as coherent transmission and ROADM advancements. Its future is likely to be defined by factors that are outside the SP optical networking domain: collaboration of optical networks and routers will fundamentally change how optical networks are built and operated, sophisticated software control systems and webscale applications driving the roadmap for optical components and network architectures.
Full-text article not available; see video presentation
Erbium-Doped Si3N4 Photonic Integrated Circuits and Wafer-Scale Fabrication to Include our Recent Progress
Authors: Liu Yang 
Published: July 2024

We present the recent progress on Erbium-doped Si<sub>3</sub>N<sub>4 </sub>photonic integrated circuits-based devices including high-power amplifiers and hertz-linewidth lasers, and the fabrication via wafer-scale processes.
Full-text article not available; see video presentation
Photonic Integrated Circuits for Quantum Communication
Authors: Bacco Davide , Guarda Giulia , Cocchi Sebastiano , Vigliar Caterina , Zahidy Mujtaba , Ding Yunhong , Oxenløwe Leif , Occhipinti Tommaso , Zavatta Alessandro 
Published: July 2024

We report an overview of photonic integrated circuits for generating, manipulating, and measuring quantum states of light (qubit and qudit) in the context of quantum communications and quantum networks.
Full-text article not available; see video presentation
Trapped-Ion Quantum Computing With Integrated Photonics
Authors: DeBono Bryan , Semenenko Henry , Nugent Lora , Krogstad Molly , Ollanik Adam , Nguyen Duc , Campbell Sara , Schultz Justin , Plascak Michael , Bushati Rezlind , Zultak Johanna , Rowe Mary 
Published: July 2024

Quantinuum’s trapped-ion quantum computer utilizes the QCCD architecture which exhibits high-fidelity operations, mid-circuit measurements, and full connectivity. This talk discusses how we can address scaling challenges with visible-light integrated photonics to facilitate large-scale quantum computing.
Full-text article not available; see video presentation
Challenges for ticks and tick-borne diseases research in Southeast Asia: Insight from the first international symposium in Cambodia
Authors: Yean Sony , Prasetyo Didot Budi , Marcombe Sebastien , Hadi Upik Kesumawati , Kazim Abdul Rahman , Tiawsirisup Sonthaya , Chinh Vu Duc , Matsuno Keita , Low Van Lun , Bonnet Sarah , Boulanger Nathalie , Lam Tommy Tsan-Yuk , Abdad Mohammad Yazid , Herbreteau Vincent , Chavatte Jean-Marc , Sum Samuth , Ren Theary , Sakuntabhai Anavaj , Maquart Pierre-Olivier , Rakotonirina Antsa , Boyer Sebastien 
Published: July 2024

Background
Ticks, as critical vectors of a variety of pathogens, pose a significant public health challenge globally. In Southeast Asia (SEA), ticks are responsible for transmitting a diverse array of pathogens affecting humans and animals. The geographical and ecological diversity of SEA provides a unique environment that supports a wide range of tick species, which complicates the management and study of tick-borne diseases (TBDs).

Methodology/principal findings
This article synthesizes findings from the first international symposium on ticks and TBDs in Southeast Asia, held in Phnom Penh on June 22 and 23, 2023. It highlights regional efforts to understand tick ecology and pathogen transmission.
This paper proposes to present a summary of the various presentations given during the symposium following 3 main parts. The first one is devoted to the state of knowledge regarding ticks and TBDs in SEA countries, with presentations from 6 different countries, namely Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam. The second part focuses on the development of new research approaches on tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) and TBDs. The last part is a summary of the round table discussion held on the final day, with the aim of defining the most important challenges and recommendations for researches on TBP and TBD in the SEA region.

Conclusions/Significance
Key topics discussed include advancements in diagnostic tools, such as MALDI-TOF MS and proteomics, and the development of sustainable strategies for tick management and disease prevention. The symposium facilitated the exchange of knowledge and collaborative networks among experts from various disciplines, promoting a unified approach to tackling TBDs in the region. The symposium underscored the need for enhanced surveillance, diagnostics, and inter-regional cooperation to manage the threat of TBDs effectively. Recommendations include the establishment of a regional database for tick identification and the expansion of vector competence studies. These initiatives are crucial for developing targeted interventions and understanding the broader implications of climate change and urbanization on the prevalence of TBDs.