bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Glaucoma detection using non-perfused areas in OCTA
Authors: Schottenhamml Julia , Würfl Tobias , Ploner Stefan , Husvogt Lennart , Lämmer Robert , Hohberger Bettina , Maier Andreas , Mardin Christian 
Published: May 2024

AbstractMultiple ophthalmic diseases lead to decreased capillary perfusion that can be visualized using optical coherence tomography angiography images. To quantify the decrease in perfusion, past studies have often used the vessel density, which is the percentage of vessel pixels in the image. However, this method is often not sensitive enough to detect subtle changes in early pathology. More recent methods are based on quantifying non-perfused or intercapillary areas between the vessels. These methods rely upon the accuracy of vessel segmentation, which is a challenging task and therefore a limiting factor for reliability. Intercapillary areas computed from perfusion-distance measures are less sensitive to errors in the vessel segmentation since the distance to the next vessel is only slightly changing if gaps are present in the segmentation. We present a novel method for distinguishing between glaucoma patients and healthy controls based on features computed from the probability density function of these perfusion-distance areas. The proposed approach is evaluated on different capillary plexuses and outperforms previously proposed methods that use handcrafted features for classification. Moreover the results of the proposed method are in the same range as the ones of convolutional neural networks trained on the raw input images and is therefore a computationally efficient, simple to implement and explainable alternative to deep learning-based approaches.
Coastal and deep-sea biodegradation of polyhydroxyalkanoate microbeads
Authors: Hyodo Natsumi , Gan Hongyi , Ilangovan Manikandan , Kimura Satoshi , Kasuya Ken-ichi , Isobe Noriyuki , Iwata Tadahisa 
Published: May 2024

AbstractMicrobeads find widespread usage in personal care items and cosmetics, serving as exfoliants or scrubbing agents. Their micro-scale size poses challenges in effective drainage capture and given their origin from non-biodegradable oil-based plastics, this contributes substantially to marine pollution. In this study, microbeads were prepared by a simple yet scalable melt homogenization method using four types of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), namely poly[(R)-3-hydroxybutyrate] (P(3HB)), poly[(R)-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-(R)-3-hydroxyvalerate] (P(3HB-co-3HV)), poly[(R)-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-(R)-3-hydroxyhexanoate] (P(3HB-co-3HHx)) and poly[(R)-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-(R)-4-hydroxyvalerate] (P(3HB-co-4HB)). Microbeads with different surface smoothness, compressive strength (6.2–13.3 MPa) and diameter (from 1 ~ 150 μm) could be produced. The microbeads were subjected to a comprehensive degradation analysis using three techniques: enzymatic, Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) evaluations, and in situ degradation tests in the deep-sea off Misaki Port in the northern Pacific Ocean (depth of 757 m). Qualitatively, results from enzymatic and in situ degradation demonstrated significant degradation within one week and five months, respectively. Quantitatively, BOD findings indicated that all PHA microbeads degraded similarly to cellulose (~ 85% biodegradability in 25 days). In conclusion, PHA microbeads from this study exhibit promising potential as alternatives to conventional non-biodegradable microbeads.
Excitation signal optimization for minimizing fluctuations in knock out slow extraction
Authors: Niedermayer Philipp , Singh Rahul 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe synchrotron is a circular particle accelerator used for high energy physics experiments, material and life science, as well as hadron cancer therapy. After acceleration to the desired energies, particle beams are commonly extracted from the synchrotron using the method of resonant slow extraction. The goal is to deliver a steady particle flux—referred to as spill—to experiments and treatment facilities over the course of seconds while slowly emptying the storage ring. Any uncontrolled intensity fluctuations in the spill are detrimental to the efficiency of beam usage, as they lead to detector pileups or detector interlocks, hindering experiments and cancer treatment. Among the most widely used extraction scheme in medical facilities is the Radio Frequency Knock Out (RF-KO) driven resonant slow extraction, where the stored beam is transversely excited with a radio frequency (RF) field and the spill intensity is controlled by the excitation signal strength. This article presents particle dynamics simulations of the RF-KO system with the focus on finding effective mechanism for minimizing the intensity fluctuations while maintaining a good extraction efficiency and other advantages of KO extraction. An improved beam excitation signal which optimizes these main objectives is found, and is rigorously compared experimentally with other commonly applied techniques.
Comparative study on effect of pomegranate peel powder as natural preservative and chemical preservatives on quality and shelf life of muffins
Authors: Giri Namrata Ankush , Bhangale Aditi , Gaikwad Nilesh N. , Manjunatha N. , Raigond Pinky , Marathe R. A. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThis research aims to investigate the potential of utilizing pomegranate peel powder (PPP) as a natural preservative in muffin preparation. Pomegranate peel is a rich source of bioactive compounds, including phenolics, flavonoids, and tannins, which possess high antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The In-Vitro antifungal activity of pomegranate peel powder (8% PPP), potassium sorbate (0.1% PS) and calcium propionate (0.5% CP) was assessed against Penicillium sp. and Aspergillus sp. using poison food technique. The PPP showed the anti-fungal activity by delaying the growth of microorganism on media plate similar to the PS and CP. The effect of utilization of PPP on quality characteristics of muffins were compared with the muffins with chemical preservatives (0.1% PS and 0.5% CP). The viscosity and specific gravity of batter significantly increased from 7.98 to 11.87 Pa s and 1.089–1.398 respectively on addition of 8% PPP. The optical microscopic structure of PPP added batter revealed the decrease in the number of air cells from 24 to 12 with radius range of 6.42–72.72 μm and area range of 511.03–15,383.17 µm2. The functional properties of flour with PPP had higher water absorption capacity, foaming stability, emulsification activity and emulsion stability than others. The addition of PPP significantly increase the weight (32.83 g), and decrease the height (31.3 mm), volume (61.43 cm3), specific volume (1.67 cm3/g) and baking loss (10.19%). The 418.36% increase in fibre content, 14.46% and 18.46% decrease in carbohydrates and energy value was observed in muffin with 8% PPP as compared to control respectively. The total phenols was increased from 0.92 to 12.5 mg GAE/100 g, total tannin from 0.2 to 8.27 mg GAE/100 g, In-vitro antioxidant activity by DPPH from 6.97 to 29.34% and In-vitro antioxidant activity by FRAP from 0.497 to 2.934 mg AAE/100 g in muffins added with 8% PPP. The muffin with PPP was softer than control and muffin with 0.1% PS. The addition of PPP resulted to improve in muffin texture but taste slightly bitter. During the storage of muffins at room temperature (27–30 °C), the moisture content of muffin with PPP was reduced from 17.04 to 13.23% which was higher than the rest of the treatments. Similarly, the hardness of sample with PPP was higher than the sample with 0.5% CP, but lowers than control and sample with 0.1% PS throughout the storage period. The results suggest that pomegranate peel powder can be successfully used as a natural preservative in place of chemical preservatives in muffins, to extend the shelf life. This study provides the opportunity to use PPP as functional ingredient and natural preservative in different bakery products.
Novel therapeutic strategies for rare mutations in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Gou Qitao , Gou Qiheng , Gan Xiaochuan , Xie Yuxin 
Published: May 2024

AbstractLung cancer is still the leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Over the past two decades, the management of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has undergone a significant revolution. Since the first identification of activating mutations in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene in 2004, several genetic aberrations, such as anaplastic lymphoma kinase rearrangements (ALK), neurotrophic tropomyosin receptor kinase (NTRK) and hepatocyte growth factor receptor (MET), have been found. With the development of gene sequencing technology, the development of targeted drugs for rare mutations, such as multikinase inhibitors, has provided new strategies for treating lung cancer patients with rare mutations. Patients who harbor this type of oncologic driver might acquire a greater survival benefit from the use of targeted therapy than from the use of chemotherapy and immunotherapy. To date, more new agents and regimens can achieve satisfactory results in patients with NSCLC. In this review, we focus on recent advances and highlight the new approval of molecular targeted therapy for NSCLC patients with rare oncologic drivers.
Inverted n–p junction 940‐nm vertical‐cavity surface‐emitting laser arrays consisting of 875 devices on p‐GaAs substrate
Authors: Lee Yong Gyeong , Pouladi Sara , Kim Nam‐In , Moradnia Mina , Kim Jaekyun , Lee Keon Hwa , Ryou Jae‐Hyun 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe authors demonstrate a large‐area vertical‐cavity surface‐emitting laser (VCSEL) 25 × 35 array on a p‐type GaAs substrate with an emission wavelength of ∼940 nm and optical output power > 1 W, using an inverted junction (n‐up) epitaxial structure for emerging sensing applications. The electrical characteristic (series resistance) of the inverted n–p VCSELs is better than that of standard p–n VCSELs, but optical characteristics (the threshold current density and slope efficiency) are worse possibly due to crystalline defects originating from the p‐type substrate whose effect could be avoided in small‐area VCSELs. Other inverted junction structures on an n‐type substrate are needed for further development.
Modelling and analysis of nuclear reactor system coupled with a liquid metal battery
Authors: Shigrekar Amey , Peng Jiangkai , Olowu Temitayo O. , Gallego Dias Fernando , Westover Tyler 
Published: May 2024

AbstractTraditionally, nuclear power plants in the U.S. provide baseload power to the power grid because they have less flexibility for ramping their output power than natural gas peaking plants. However, achieving climate goals to reduce the consumption of fossil‐based natural gas places pressure on nuclear power plants and other power generators to ramp up their power output to balance grid generation with demand. This paper presents the modelling and performance analysis of a nuclear reactor system (NRS) coupled to a liquid‐metal battery (LMB) to improve its dynamic response and enable its black start capability. The NRS and LMB thermal behaviour are modelled in Dymola, while the electrical dynamics of the LMB and power grid are modelled in RTDS‐RSCAD. Both simulation platforms are coupled and share their thermal and electrical data using a Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) communication protocol. The dynamic performance of the NRS‐LMB integration is tested on the IEEE 9 bus, which demonstrates its ability to respond and provide frequency and voltage regulation. The black start capability of the NRS‐LMB is also evaluated by simulating a grid outage and using the LMB to supply the auxiliary loads required to bring the NRS back online as soon as possible. The results show that coupling an NRS to an LMB improves the system dynamic performance and enables it to black start after being disconnected from the grid for several days.
Evaluating proficiency testing implementation and identifying challenges that government comprehensive specialized hospital laboratories in northwest Ethiopia faced as they participated in the external quality assessment scheme: A document-based, interview-driven evaluation
Authors: Cherie Negesse , Adane Kasaw , Wolde Maereg , Nigus Mesele , Deress Teshiwal 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Objectives
To assess the implementation of proficiency testing in the northwest Ethiopian government comprehensive specialized hospital laboratories, with a focus on identifying and understanding the challenges encountered during their participation in the external quality assessment scheme.

Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 3 comprehensive specialized hospitals in northwest Ethiopia, analyzing 41 documented laboratory test parameters from 2020 to 2022. In addition, face-to-face, in-depth interviews were carried out to identify the major challenges the participating institutions faced.

Results
The study covered a total of 41 tests across 9 cycles. Overall, proper implementation of proficiency testing was observed in 59.3% of the tests, with 61.8% maintaining consistent implementation status over 3 consecutive years. In addition, the overall performance of the laboratory was 54.3%, with a 68.7% participation rate. The predominantly identified challenges included the lack of participation, insufficient reagents and supplies, inadequacy of suitable proficiency testing materials, equipment malfunction and downtime, lack of management support, insufficient budget, and inadequate training and awareness.

Conclusions
The results of this study highlight the ineffective implementation of proficiency testing. Contributing factors include personnel issues, equipment and supplies challenges, managerial shortcomings, difficulties with proficiency testing providers, budgetary constraints, and a lack of training and motivation.
A simple risk stratification model for prostate cancer using histopathologic findings of radical prostatectomy
Authors: Semba Remi , Uchida Katsunori , Hirokawa Yoshihumi , Shiraishi Taizo , Onishi Takehisa , Sasaki Takeshi , Inoue Takahiro , Watanabe Masatoshi , Miyamoto Hiroshi 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Objectives
To develop a simple postoperative risk stratification based on histopathologic findings from radical prostatectomy specimens.

Methods
This study included 3 cohorts of patients with a preoperative diagnosis of clinically localized prostate cancer: 1 derivation cohort (n = 432) and 2 validation cohorts (n = 506 and n = 720). First, a postoperative risk stratification model was developed in the derivation cohort using the factors extraprostatic extension, surgical margin status, seminal vesicle invasion, and lymph node involvement. Each of the first 3 factors was assigned 0 or 1 point for negative or positive results, respectively, and the sum of the points, ranging from 0 to 3, was scored. pN1 was not scored but was analyzed separately. Validation cohorts were then used to evaluate the predictive accuracy of the model. Additionally, we compared the model with the Cancer of the Prostate Risk Assessment (CAPRA) score.

Results
Because the log-rank test showed no statistically significant differences between scores 1 vs 2 or score 3 vs pN1 in the derivation cohort, the following 3-level risk stratification was created: low risk (score 0), intermediate risk (score 1-2), and high risk (score 3 or pN1). There were statistically significant differences in recurrence-free survival between any of 2 groups of 3-level risk stratification. This model similarly worked in both validation cohorts. The C indexes for the model were higher than those for the CAPRA score.

Conclusions
This simple postoperative risk stratification model, based on radical prostatectomy findings, has a prognostic impact that has been validated in a multicenter population.
The Neuropsychological Assessment Battery Driving Scenes Test in a Dementia Clinic
Authors: Ashendorf Lee , Withrow Susanne , Gavett Brandon E 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Objective
In dementia research, the Driving Scenes test from the Neuropsychological Assessment Battery has been shown to relate to memory, dementia diagnosis, and functional impairment. The aim of the current study was to examine Driving Scenes and its component scores, and their relationships with cognition and daily functioning, in a mixed dementia clinic sample.

Method
One hundred U.S. military veterans between the ages of 55 and 88 were administered a full neuropsychological protocol that included Driving Scenes.

Results
The Driving Scenes score and its subscores were strongly related to memory skills, and there were additional subscore associations with language and visuospatial functions. Driving Scenes uniquely predicted reported bill payment difficulties and tendency to get lost while driving, which were not predicted by other performances across cognitive domains.

Conclusion
Driving Scenes is a clinically and functionally relevant measure of memory. Although the Driving Scenes total score remains useful in dementia evaluations, component scores and error scores contribute additional practical information.
Co-Occurrence of Apathy and Impulse Control Disorders in Parkinson Disease: Variation across Multiple Measures
Authors: Scott Bonnie M , Eisinger Robert S , Mara Roshan , Rana Amtul-Noor , Thompson Sable , Okun Michael S , Gunduz Aysegul , Bowers Dawn 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Objective
To determine if the co-occurrence of apathy and impulse control disorders (ICDs) in Parkinson disease is dependent on instrument selection and assess the concurrent validity of three motivation measures by examining interrelationships between them.

Method
Ninety-seven cognitively normal individuals with idiopathic Parkinson disease (PD) completed the Questionnaire for Impulsive-Compulsive Disorders in Parkinson Disease–Rating Scale (QUIP-RS) and three apathy measures: the Apathy Scale, Lille Apathy Rating Scale, and Item 4 of the Movement Disorder Society–Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale.

Results
Fifty (51.5%) participants were classified as apathetic on at least one measure, and only four individuals (4.3%) obtained clinically elevated scores on all three measures. The co-occurrence of apathy and ICD varied across measures.

Conclusions
We observed a co-occurrence of apathy and ICDs in PD patients with each apathy instrument; however, limited concurrent validity exists across measures. This is important for future investigations into shared pathophysiology and the design of future clinical trials aimed at improving the early detection and treatment of these debilitating syndromes.
SC-Track: a robust cell-tracking algorithm for generating accurate single-cell lineages from diverse cell segmentations
Authors: Li Chengxin , Xie Shuang Shuang , Wang Jiaqi , Sharvia Septavera , Chan Kuan Yoow 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Computational analysis of fluorescent timelapse microscopy images at the single-cell level is a powerful approach to study cellular changes that dictate important cell fate decisions. Core to this approach is the need to generate reliable cell segmentations and classifications necessary for accurate quantitative analysis. Deep learning–based convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have emerged as a promising solution to these challenges. However, current CNNs are prone to produce noisy cell segmentations and classifications, which is a significant barrier to constructing accurate single-cell lineages. To address this, we developed a novel algorithm called Single Cell Track (SC-Track), which employs a hierarchical probabilistic cache cascade model based on biological observations of cell division and movement dynamics. Our results show that SC-Track performs better than a panel of publicly available cell trackers on a diverse set of cell segmentation types. This cell-tracking performance was achieved without any parameter adjustments, making SC-Track an excellent generalized algorithm that can maintain robust cell-tracking performance in varying cell segmentation qualities, cell morphological appearances and imaging conditions. Furthermore, SC-Track is equipped with a cell class correction function to improve the accuracy of cell classifications in multiclass cell segmentation time series. These features together make SC-Track a robust cell-tracking algorithm that works well with noisy cell instance segmentation and classification predictions from CNNs to generate accurate single-cell lineages and classifications.
Metritis and the uterine disease microbiome are associated with long-term changes in the endometrium of dairy cows
Authors: Silva Josiane C C , Caldeira Monica O , Moraes Joao G N , Sellmer Ramos Isabella , Gull Tamara , Ericsson Aaron C , Poock Scott E , Spencer Thomas E , Lucy Matthew C 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Cows with metritis (uterine disease) during the first 1 to 2 weeks postpartum have lower pregnancy rates when inseminated later postpartum (typically &gt;10 weeks). We hypothesized that metritis and the disease-associated uterine microbiome have a long-term effect on endometrial gene expression. Changes in gene expression may inform a mechanism through which disease lowers pregnancy rates. A total of 20 cows were enrolled at 1 to 2 weeks postpartum to either metritis (clinical disease; n = 10) or healthy (control; n = 10) groups and randomly assigned to be slaughtered at approximately 80 and 165 dpp (mid-lactation). The microbiome of the reproductive tract was sampled to confirm the presence of pathogens that are typical of metritis. In addition to the original clinical diagnosis, study cows were retrospectively assigned to uterine-disease and control groups based on the composition of their microbiome. There was no effect of early postpartum uterine disease on the uterine microbiome at mid-lactation (time of slaughter). Nonetheless, early postpartum metritis and the disease microbiome were associated with a large number of differentially-expressed genes at mid-lactation primarily in the caruncular compared with the inter-caruncular endometrium. Gene enrichment analysis identified oxidative phosphorylation as the primary pathway increased in caruncular endometrium of diseased cows whereas growth factor signaling pathways were reduced. The current study demonstrated that metritis and a uterine disease microbiome leave a sustained imprint on gene expression in the caruncular endometrium that may explain lower fertility in cows with postpartum uterine disease.