bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
23Na MRI: inter-reader reproducibility of normal fibroglandular sodium concentration measurements at 3 T
Authors: Arponen Otso , McLean Mary A. , Nanaa Muzna , Manavaki Roido , Baxter Gabrielle C. , Gill Andrew B. , Riemer Frank , Kennerley Aneurin J. , Woitek Ramona , Kaggie Joshua D. , Brackenbury William J. , Gilbert Fiona J. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Background
To study the reproducibility of 23Na magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measurements from breast tissue in healthy volunteers.

Methods
Using a dual-tuned bilateral 23Na/1H breast coil at 3-T MRI, high-resolution 23Na MRI three-dimensional cones sequences were used to quantify total sodium concentration (TSC) and fluid-attenuated sodium concentration (FASC). B1-corrected TSC and FASC maps were created. Two readers manually measured mean, minimum and maximum TSC and mean FASC values using two sampling methods: large regions of interest (LROIs) and small regions of interest (SROIs) encompassing fibroglandular tissue (FGT) and the highest signal area at the level of the nipple, respectively. The reproducibility of the measurements and correlations between density, age and FGT apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values were evaluatedss.

Results
Nine healthy volunteers were included. The inter-reader reproducibility of TSC and FASC using SROIs and LROIs was excellent (intraclass coefficient range 0.945−0.979, p < 0.001), except for the minimum TSC LROI measurements (p = 0.369). The mean/minimum LROI TSC and mean LROI FASC values were lower than the respective SROI values (p < 0.001); the maximum LROI TSC values were higher than the SROI TSC values (p = 0.009). TSC correlated inversely with age but not with FGT ADCs. The mean and maximum FGT TSC and FASC values were higher in dense breasts in comparison to non-dense breasts (p < 0.020).

Conclusions
The chosen sampling method and the selected descriptive value affect the measured TSC and FASC values, although the inter-reader reproducibility of the measurements is in general excellent.

Relevance statement
23Na MRI at 3 T allows the quantification of TSC and FASC sodium concentrations. The sodium measurements should be obtained consistently in a uniform manner.

Key points
• 23Na MRI allows the quantification of total and fluid-attenuated sodium concentrations (TSC/FASC).
• Sampling method (large/small region of interest) affects the TSC and FASC values.
• Dense breasts have higher TSC and FASC values than non-dense breasts.
• The inter-reader reproducibility of TSC and FASC measurements was, in general, excellent.
• The results suggest the importance of stratifying the sodium measurements protocol.

Graphical Abstract
Astrocyte dysregulation as an epileptogenic factor: a systematic review
Authors: Sumadewi Komang Trisna , de Liyis Bryan Gervais , Linawati Ni Made , Widyadharma I Putu Eka , Astawa I Nyoman Mantik 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Background
Epilepsy initiation involves multifactorial etiologies, including genetic susceptibility, structural anomalies, and glial cell dysregulations, particularly in astrocytes. Despite advancements in understanding various factors, the mechanisms of astrocyte dysregulation in epilepsy, critical for neural homeostasis, remain elusive, requiring comprehensive evaluation of molecular pathways and cellular interactions for future targeted interventions.

Methods
A systematic search of PubMed, ScienceDirect, and the Cochrane databases up to January 1st 2024 identified relevant studies predominantly from experimental models, forming the basis for an in-depth analysis of astrocytic contributions to epileptic pathophysiology. The aims, subjects, epilepsy induction techniques, assessment methods, and findings of each studies were presented.

Results
A total of 24 clinical trials met the inclusion criteria and were included in the systematic review. Altered potassium buffering compromises extracellular potassium regulation, fostering hyperexcitability. Aquaporin dysfunction disrupts water homeostasis, aggravating seizure susceptibility. Disturbances in glutamatergic transmission, marked by changes in glutamate transporter function, contribute to excitotoxicity, fueling epileptogenesis. Intricacies in calcium signaling and disruptions in calcium-binding proteins tip intracellular calcium balance towards hyperexcitability. Dysfunctional GABA transporters compromise inhibitory neurotransmission, upsetting excitatory–inhibitory balance. Gap junction protein dysregulation disrupts astroglial networks, impacting neuronal synchronization in epileptogenic circuitry. Compromised BBB allows entry of epileptogenic factors, exacerbating the epileptogenic milieu.

Conclusions
Collectively, these astrocytic dysregulations unveil intricate contributors to epilepsy onset and progression.
Retrieval of sea ice thickness using FY-3E/GNOS-II data
Authors: Xie Yunjian , Yan Qingyun 
Published: June 2024

AbstractSea ice, a significant component in polar regions, plays a crucial role in climate change through its varying conditions. In Global Navigation Satellite System-Reflectometry (GNSS-R) studies, the observed surface reflectivityΓserves as a tool to examine the physical characteristics of sea ice covers. This facilitates the large-scale estimation of first-year ice thickness using a two-layer sea ice-seawater medium model. However, it is important to note that when Sea Ice Thickness (SIT) becomes thicker, the accuracy of SIT retrieval via this two-layer model begins to decline. In this paper, we present a novel application of a spaceborne GNSS-R technique to retrieve SIT based on a three-layer model using the data from Fengyun-3E (FY-3E). Soil Moisture Ocean Salinity (SMOS) data are treated as the reference. The performance of the proposed three-layer model is evaluated against a previously established two-layer model for SIT retrieval. The analysis used the sea ice data from 2022 and 2023 with SITs less than 1.1 m. By comparing the retrieved SITs against reference values, the three-layer model achieved a Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 0.149 m and Correlation Coefficient (r) of 0.830, while the two-layer model reported the RMSE of 0.162 m andrvalue of 0.789. A scheme incorporating both models yielded superior results than either individual model, with the RMSE of 0.137 m andrreaching up to 0.852. This study is the first application of FY-3E for GNSS-R SIT retrieval, combining the advantages of a two-layer model and a three-layer model and extending the precision of GNSS-R retrieval for SIT to within 1.1 m. This provides a good reference for the future studies on GNSS-R SIT retrieval.
Prevalence and characteristics of patent foramen ovale in a sample of Egyptian population: a computed tomography study
Authors: Shehata Ahmed , Nasser Abdulaziz , Mohsen Ahmed , Anwar Samaan Amir , Mostafa Amir , Hassan Mohamed 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Background
The reported prevalence of patent foramen ovale (PFO) in the general population is variable. It ranges between 8.6 and 42% according to the population studied and the imaging technique used. We aim to prospectively assess the prevalence and characteristics of PFO and interatrial septum (IAS) abnormalities as well as the related clinical manifestations in a sample of Egyptian population.

Results
This study comprised 1000 patients who were referred for CT coronary angiography (CTCA). Mean age was 52.5 ± 10.9 years. The prevalence of PFO among the studied population was 16.3%; closed PFO (grade I) 44.2%, open PFO (grade II) 50.9%, and open PFO with jet (grade III) 4.9%. Anatomical high-risk PFO features—defined as the presence of at least 2 or more of the following (diameter ≥ 2 mm, length ≥ 10 mm, septal aneurysm “ASA”, or redundant septum)—were found in 51.5% of PFOs’ population. Other IAS abnormalities as redundant septum (8.6%), ASA (5.3%), Bachmann’s bundle (4.5%), microaneurysm (2.6%), and atrial septal defect (ASD) (0.4%) were detected. There was a lower rate of coexistence of ASA with PFO (p = 0.031). Syncope was significantly higher in patients with PFO compared to those without PFO (6.7% vs. 1.6%, p = 0.001). Stroke, transient ischaemic attacks (TIA), and dizziness were similar in both groups. TIA, dizziness, and syncope were significantly higher in patients with IAS abnormalities including PFO compared to those without IAS abnormalities. Syncope was also significantly higher in PFO with high-risk anatomical features compared to those with non-high-risk PFO population (p = 0.02).

Conclusion
The prevalence of PFO in our study was approximately 16.3%, almost half of them showed anatomical high-risk features for stroke. Dizziness, syncope and TIA were significantly higher in patients with IAS abnormalities including PFO.
Radiologist’s approach in diagnosing fronto-ethmoidal meningoencephalocele in an adult: a case report
Authors: Sood Anshul , Mishra Gaurav Vedprakash , Kashikar Shivali , Gupta Roohi , Shelar Sheetal , Khandelwal Shreya 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Background
Fronto-ethmoidal meningoencephalocele is an uncommon pathology. Most of the cases present a history of trauma or paranasal surgical intervention. Spontaneous development of such pathology is extremely rare. The aim of this case report was to demonstrate a rare appearance of spontaneous fronto-ethmoidal meningoencephalocele in an adult male with high-quality images in multiple modalities used in radiology.

Case presentation
This case report demonstrates an extremely rare pathology of spontaneous development of fronto-ethmoidal meningoencephalocele in a 50-year-old male. The patient complained of swelling involving the nasal bridge, the left side of the nose, and the left cheek for more than 20 years, which was spontaneous without any trauma or surgical intervention. The patient underwent radiological investigations of ultrasonography, computed tomography of the paranasal sinus, and contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of the brain. The diagnosis of spontaneous development of left fronto-ethmoidal meningoencephalocele abutting the left orbit was made. No other complications of the brain tissue were noted.

Conclusions
Knowledge about etiopathogenesis and various types of meningoencephalocele helps manage this pathology.
The impact of service innovation on customer satisfaction and customer loyalty: a case in Vietnamese retail banks
Authors: Nguyen Ha Minh , Ho Trinh Kieu Thi , Ngo Trung Thanh 
Published: June 2024

AbstractCustomer loyalty continues to be a crucial factor for retail banks in maintaining market share, increasing revenue and profits, and reducing costs in the highly competitive business landscape of today. They consistently strive for innovation to maintain a competitive edge, introducing novel experiences and heightened satisfaction to customers, thereby enhancing customer loyalty. This study aims to examine the effect of service innovation on customer satisfaction and loyalty in the Vietnamese banking sector. The research investigates banking service innovation from three angles: novel service concept, novel service procedure, and novel technological distribution system. To confirm the relationship between concepts and complete the survey questionnaire, qualitative research techniques are employed. Simultaneously, a quantitative research technique (structural equation modeling—SEM) is used to assess the relationship between concepts. The study surveyed 398 clients of Vietnamese retail banks. All dimensions of service innovation, including novel service concept, novel service procedure, and novel technological distribution system, have positive effects on customer satisfaction and loyalty. Customer satisfaction also has a substantial effect on customer loyalty. Finally, it then draws some conclusions and makes some recommendations to retail banks to improve both customer satisfaction and customer loyalty via enhancing service innovation.
Discovering thematic change and evolution of political connections research
Authors: Widaryanti  , Wan Abdullah Wan Amalina 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThis research aims to enlighten current and future research trends on political connections by providing complete bibliometric mapping through network studies on political connections. Utilizing Biblioshiny, the Bibliometrics R package, multi-perspective research publications on political connections from 2003 to the third quarter of 2023 were discovered and analyzed. This bibliometric analysis provides valuable insights regarding current and future publications on political connections. The most prolific contributors, the most used keywords, the most productive countries and sources, the most cited publications, and the most productive sources of information are network analysis data about co-occurrence networks. The discourse revolves around issue mapping data on political connection studies. The search method used to find related literature is the Scopus database. This research contributes valuable information to help other researchers map ongoing and future investigations into political connections. This bibliometric analysis of 294 documents is the first regarding political connections known to researchers. This evaluation emphasizes annual publication trends, authors, publications, countries, organizations, and most productive sources, determining potential future research objectives. The research on political connections was published in early 2003. No papers were released on this subject for 3 years after 2003 (2003–2005), which shows that the growth of this academic field slowed down for ten years. There were significant changes in 2011, and many more linked papers have been released. Authors from the USA and China significantly contributed to the initial scientific journal papers on their political connections. Hong Kong, China, and Australia are recognized as leading nations in scholarly contributions to studying political connections. Chinese scholars spearheaded the collaborative publication effort focused on political connections, with the USA and Australian experts following suit. Based on indexed terms, political connections, sustainable development, and financial performance are trending keywords. These results show possible directions for further research into political connections.
Foreign bank presence and income inequality in Africa: What role does economic freedom play?
Authors: Iddrisu Khadijah 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThis study contributes to income equality (IE) literature by examining four important issues. First, the study examines the effects of foreign bank presence (FBP) on IE. Second, the paper identifies the minimum threshold level of FBP which can lead to IE. Third, the effect of economic freedom on IE was investigated. Fourth, the paper determines whether economic freedom interacts with FBP to minimise IE. The findings are based on macro data for 33 African countries from 1995 to 2020. The findings from the two-stage system generalised method of moment indicate that unconditionally, FBP reduces income inequality. Also, results from the threshold effect reveal that whilst FBP reduces income inequality, if it exceeds 52%, it may contribute to it. Additionally, the study reveals that economic freedom dampens IIE. Furthermore, economic freedom conditions FBP to reduce IE. Based on these findings, policymakers are advised to exercise caution in attracting foreign banks and to promote local financial institutions. Policymakers are also advised to implement policies to promote economic freedom.
The development of the Egyptian 24-h movement guidelines for adults aged 50 years and older: an integration of sleep, sedentary behavior, and physical activity by the Egyptian Academy of Bone and Muscle Health
Authors: El Miedany Yasser , Toth Mathias , Plummer Susan , El Gaafary Maha , Mahran Safaa , Elwakil Walaa 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Background
With the vision of healthy aging, the Egyptian Academy of Bone and Muscle Health followed an established guideline development process to create the Egyptian 24-h movement clinical guideline for adults aged 50 years and older adults. This guideline highlights the significance of movement behaviors across the whole 24-h day. Online databases (PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library) were searched for relevant peer-reviewed studies that met the a priori inclusion criteria.

Results
A total of 53 studies met the inclusion criteria. Leveraging evidence from the review of the literature led to the development of 27 statements answering the 5 key questions. Results revealed a major change in the previous basic understandings as it shifts away from focussing on a sole movement behavior to the combination of all the movement behaviors. Based on this, the final guideline was developed providing evidence-based recommendations for a “Healthy 24-Hour Day”, comprising a mix of light-intensity and moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activity, sleep, and sedentary behavior.

Conclusion
The developed guidelines are meant to help in the decision-making process and are intended for use by adults and older both nationally and internationally; also, for endorsement by the policy-makers. Dissemination and implementation efforts would impact positively on both health professionals and researchers and would also be useful to interested members of the public sector.
Women-led community institutions as a potential vehicle for the adoption of varieties and improved seed practices: an impact case from India
Authors: Hossain Mosharaf , Nayak Swati , Mohapatra Subhasmita , Trivedi Pooja , Waza Showkat A. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Rice–wheat rotation is the principal cropping system in South Asian countries. Increasing productivity under this cropping system in Northern India is not only a policy priority but also an important component towards ensuring food and nutritional security for the major portion of the Indian population. The objective of enhanced productivity is being pursued through innovative extension models focusing on the adoption of modern varieties and community-led seed production. The present experimental study (a randomized control trial) was conducted in Uttar Pradesh (India) to evaluate the efficacy of community institutions [e.g., women self-help group (WSHG)] based seed interventions in promoting the adoption of improved varieties amongst farmers. Besides, the impact on the implementation of quality seed production practices, adoption of seed quality measures, and participation in capacity-building trainings were also evaluated. The findings infer that implementing seed scaling programs through community institutions leads to a significantly higher rate of technological adoption than that executed through non-collectivized ways. Besides, farmers from WSHGs have more tendency towards learning new technologies and participating in training programs about improved crop management practices. The study also explains that WSHG-based programs are not a contributory factor in advancing farm technologies that are already in practice, such as seed cleaning and germination tests. This validated model can be suitably replicated for accelerated dissemination of seed-related innovations.
Preliminary results on effects of planting dates and maize growth stages on fall armyworm density and parasitoid occurrence in Zambia
Authors: Durocher-Granger Léna , Wu Gi-Mick , Finch Elizabeth A. , Lowry Alyssa , Yeap Yuen Ting , Bonnin J. Miguel , Offord Lisa , Kenis Marc , Dicke Marcel 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Fall armyworm (FAW),
Spodoptera frugiperda
(J.E. Smith), has become one of the main invasive species on earth since it was first found outside its native range in Africa in 2016. Integrated pest management (IPM) is a comprehensive tool that can help farmers managing pests while reducing the need of synthetic pesticides. Within an IPM strategy, proper time of planting is a critical management decision for farmers as planting too early or too late can lead to complete loss of the crop. Commonly, planting early to avoid peak infestation of FAW is recommended to farmers, however, no empirical data in Africa is available to sustain the advice. We studied the effects of planting dates of maize as well of maize growth stages on FAW density and on its local parasitoids in a field study. Three plots were setup (early, intermediate and late planting) and data was collected weekly in each plot. Plots were 20 m × 20 m to avoid small-plot effects, but the relatively large size of the plots was resource intensive and prevented replication. As such, this paper presents preliminary results due to the lack of true replicates across locations and years. Generalized Linear Models were used to model FAW density and parasitoids abundance and diversity. Our results showed an increase of egg masses over time from early to late planting. Additionally, parasitism probabilities were lower in the early planting treatment than for the intermediate and late plantings and decreased with increased maize maturity. Results on biodiversity of parasitoids show a less even trend for early and late whorl stages which are dominated by one or two species while maize reproductive stages show a more even distribution of species. Our preliminary research is the first to provide empirical evidence that planting early helps to avoid the peak activities of FAW moths. These findings provide important information for the sustainable management of FAW in Zambia with the aim to reduce chemical inputs and increase farmers’ incomes and livelihood.
Endostar combined with concurrent chemoradiotherapy versus concurrent chemoradiotherapy alone for locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (LA-NPC): A phase III, prospective, randomised-controlled, multicenter clinical trial.
Authors: Kang Min , Ma Daiyuan , Gao Jianquan , Wang Fen , Yu Bin , Lu Ying , Zhang Yong , Wu Fang , Hu Kai , Zhang Tingting , Yang Zhendong , Ruan Lin , Qin Yutao , Wei Zhuxin , Meng Zhen , Dong Huan , Qin Yating , Zhou Ziyan , Yin Yuanxiu , Wang Rensheng 
Published: June 2024

6002 Background: Cisplatin-based concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) has long been regarded as standard treatment for LA-NPC. However, approximately 30% of patients still fail to obtain a satisfactory effect. Endostar (Rh-endostatin), an anti-angiogenesis inhibitor, is well-tolerated and has been reported as a promising complement to CCRT. This trial aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of adding Endostar to CCRT for LA-NPC. Methods: In this prospective, randomized phase III study, patients with LA-NPC (stage III-IVb, 7th edition) were enrolled at 6 centers in China, and randomly assigned (1:1) to receive Endostar plus CCRT (CCRT+E group, n=150) or CCRT alone (CCRT group, n=150). Endostar (7.5 mg/m2/day, days 1-10, 15 days/cycle) was given continuously intravenously for 5 cycles (3 concurrent from 5 days before radiotherapy, and 2 adjuvant from the first day after the completion of radiotherapy). The primary endpoint was the progress-free survival (PFS) rate. The secondary endpoints included overall survival (OS), distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS), local-regional relapse-free survival (LRRFS), the rate of complete response (CR) at 3 months after RT, and safety. Results: Between November 2016 and July 2020, 300 patients with LA-NPC were randomized (CCRT+E group, 150; CCRT group, 150). As of the data cutoff (December 2023), the median follow-up was 66 months. Intention-to-treat analysis showed that patients in the CCRT+E group achieved better CR rate at 3 months after RT (90.0% vs 80.7%, P=0.022). The 3-year PFS was 84.8% in the CCRT+E group, and 75.1% in the CCRT group (HR, 0.544; 95% CI, 0.336-0.879; Plog-rank=0.011). The 3-year OS was 89.2% vs. 85.3% (HR, 0.595; 95% CI, 0.361-0.982; Plog-rank=0.039). The 3-year DMFS was 89.7% vs. 80.5% (HR, 0.468; 95% CI, 0.266-0.821; Plog-rank=0.007). The 3-year LRRFS was 91.5% vs. 90.8% (HR, 0.808; 95% CI, 0.407-1.604; Plog-rank=0.541). Patients in the CCRT+E group and in the CCRT group had similar Grade 3-4 acute and late toxicity profile (61.7% vs. 65.3%, p=0.519 and 8.0% vs.7.3%, p=0.815). Conclusions: The addition of Endostar to standard CCRT significantly improved the 3-year PFS of LA-NPC patients with good safety profile. Clinical trial information: NCT02907710 .