bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sparse Coding of Episodic Memory in the Human Hippocampus is Related to the Excitability of Neurons at Encoding and Predicts Subsequent Memory
Authors: Tallman Catherine , Steinmetz Peter , Wixted John 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Neurocomputational models hold that individual episodic memories are represented by a sparse, pattern-separated coding scheme in the hippocampus. In addition, recent theories of neuronal allocation suggest that the assignment of individual neurons to a sparse code is non-random and is associated with intrinsic neural excitability. Here, utilizing an independent dataset of single-unit recordings from epilepsy patients, we demonstrate that a relatively small proportion of high-firing hippocampal neurons represent a single item within a recognition memory test. Critically, only items that were both remembered and showed heightened excitability during encoding were preferentially allocated to a sparse, pattern-separated code, one that was selectively present in the hippocampus. Our findings suggest that individual episodic memories are represented by a sparse distributed coding scheme and that neuronal excitability guides the preferential allocation of hippocampal neurons into sparse codes, which in turn supports subsequent retrieval.
Dynamic Coordinated Geminal-atom Catalyst for Highly Efficient Photo-Fenton Reactions
Authors: Qi Kun , Qiao Yucheng , Zhan Su , He Qiuchen , Zhang Yang , Li Jiangpeng , Jiang Wenjun , Chen Keqiang , Lu Lanlu , Voiry Damien , Zhou Feng 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Understanding and leveraging non-reactive species in natural environments to modulate the active centers of geminal-atom catalysts (GACs) is crucial for enhancing their catalytic performance. In this study, we present a two-coordinated geminal Cu atomic catalyst and, for the first time, uncover the mechanism by which dynamic metal second coordination shell and non-reactive species boost its photo-Fenton activity. This breakthrough enables the efficient removal of pollutants such as marine microorganisms, oils, and microplastics. Through experimental studies, operando X-ray absorption spectroscopy, and theoretical analyses, we demonstrate that the dynamic coordination environment promotes synergistic dual-atom interactions, and the second coordination shell influences the significant orbital overlap between the central metal and the delocalized ligand orbitals, enabling direct electron transfer. Additionally, the dynamic coordination of GACs induces a local spin transition, which lowers the reaction barrier through spin-crossover at the active site. This, in turn, reduces the spin-flip barrier for forming the singlet-state *OOH and OH-, thereby accelerating spin non-conservation reactions. The interactions between CO32- ions and adjacent Cu sites significantly alter the electronic structure of the catalytic centers. These modifications enhance charge transfer kinetics, leading to a remarkable 17-fold increase in hydroxyl radical production. This innovative approach—utilizing non-reactive species to amplify the photo-Fenton activity of Cu GACs—offers a constructive solution for environmental remediation in complex matrices and provides valuable guidance for designing high-performance catalysts tailored to challenging environmental conditions.
Genome Survey of Sphallerocarpus gracilis Based on High-throughput Sequencing
Authors: Qi Shiming , Zhang Chunmei , Yan Fang , Zhang Xifeng , Zhao Gang , Song Hai , Chen Ye , Liu Zhenrong 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Sphallerocarpus gracilis is a high-value medicinal and green health food product. The analysis of the genomic characteristic information of S. gracilis can lay a theoretical foundation for whole genome sequencing and molecular mechanism research of the biosynthesis of bioactive active ingredients. In this study, survey genome sequencing technology was employed to evaluate the genomic characteristics of S. gracilis using K-mer analysis, and smudgeplot analysis was used to evaluate its chromosome ploidy. The K-mer analysis results showed that the genome size of the sample was approximately 1,071 Mb, and the corrected genome size was 1,063 Mb. The heterozygosity rate, the proportion of repeat sequences, and GC content were determined 1.22%, 76.33%, and 35.70%, respectively. Based on the smudgeplot analysis, the maximum possible ploidy of the analyzed species was AB type, corresponding to a diploid plant. Blast analysis revealed S. gracilis to have a close relative relationship with Daucus carota (4.78%). In summary, the results indicate that the genome of S.gracilis is a complex and large genome with high heterozygosity and repetition and a large genome. This study provides a theoretical basis for future whole genome sequencing and related research.
Chaos-induced optical chirality
Authors: Xiao Yun-Feng , Zhang Rui-Qi , Zhang Yi-Fei , Zhu Yunke , Kullig Julius , Kong Xianghong , Chen Weijin , Gao Yunan , Qiu Cheng-Wei , Jing Hui , Wiersig Jan , Gong Qihuang , Cao Qi-Tao 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Chirality and chaos, both rooted in symmetry breaking, have been long intriguing in fundamental and applied physics. Despite their shared foundation, these two fundamental concepts have largely evolved independently, leaving unexplored potential at their intersection. Here, we report chaos-induced optical chirality in a quantum-dot microlaser, establishing the first direct link between these fundamental phenomena. We reveal that chaotic light dynamics breaks time-reversal symmetry, creating locally imbalanced intensities between counterpropagating cavity modes. By integrating a chirality transformer into the microcavity, this local imbalance is transformed into global chirality, producing highly directional intracavity lasing fields with a measured counterpropagating power ratio exceeding 10 dB. Remarkably, this chaos-induced chirality exhibits exceptional robustness to variations in the transformer’s position and universality across different cavity boundary shapes, surpassing the versatility of conventional approaches, thus paving the way for innovative chiral photonic devices, unidirectional quantum networks and beyond.
Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Towards Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and HPV Vaccination among Students at Higher Institutions of Learning in Buea, South West Region of Cameroon: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Sobe Lucianni Ewang 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common viral sexually transmitted infection (STI) of the reproductive tract, causing a range of diseases in men and women. HPV causes almost half a million cases of cervical cancer and 250,000 related deaths, 80% of which occur in developing countries. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices towards HPV and HPV vaccination among students at higher institutions of learning in Buea.
Methods
A cross-sectional study design was used, where participants were selected from nine higher institutions of learning in Buea by means of random sampling. A self-administered structured questionnaire was used to collect information from 414 participants. A descriptive summary of the data was presented via frequency tables, percentages and graphs via Microsoft Excel. The descriptive statistics were mostly used to describe the outcome variables as percentages. The logistic regression model was used to test for associations between knowledge, attitudes and practices and the sociodemographic characteristics of the participants, and Pearson’s chi square test was used to examine the associations between the dependent variables and sex. A P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The data were analysed via Microsoft Excel 2013 and the statistical software R studio version 4.2.1.
Results
Among the respondents, 56% (231/414) were females and 44% (183/414) were males, of whom only 1% (4/414) had good knowledge of HPV and its vaccination, and 11.8% (49/414) and 87.2% (361/414) had moderate and poor knowledge, respectively. With respect to attitudes towards HPV and HPV vaccination, 37% (153/414) and 63% (261/414) demonstrated negative and positive attitudes, respectively, whereas 86.2% (357/417) and 13.8% (57/414) demonstrated adequate and inadequate practices, respectively. There was a statistically significant association between knowledge and sex (P = 0.032, χ2 = 6.857) and between attitudes and sex (P = 0.007, χ 2 = 6.857). However, there was not a statistically significant association between practice and sex (P = 0.438, χ2 = 0.438).
Conclusions
Generally, this study revealed that students at higher institutions of learning in Buea do not have sufficient knowledge about HPV and HPV vaccination. However, this study highlights the need for more health campaigns to increase awareness of the disease in schools.
Estimating liver cirrhosis severity with extracellular volume fraction by spectral CT
Authors: Zhang Hong , Hao Ee , Xia Dongqin , Ma Mingyue , Wu Jiayu , Liu Tongchi , Gao Ming , Wu Xiaoping 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Purpose To investigate the diagnostic value of spectral CT in calculating extracellular volume fraction (ECV) for assessing the severity of liver cirrhosis.
Methods In this retrospective study, 172 patients (127 liver cirrhosis patients and 45 controls),who underwent spectral CT liver enhancement scans, and were categorized based on the Child-Pugh classification. During the delayed phase, ECV values were derived from iodine density map. These ECV values were then compared across the control group and subclassified cirrhosis groups (Child-Pugh classes A, B, and C). Furthermore, a correlation analysis was performed to assess the relationship between ECV values and Child-Pugh scores in liver cirrhosis. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of ECV values and MELD-Na in the Child-Pugh classification of liver cirrhosis.
Results The ECV values were 25.49±3.15, 29.73±3.20, 35.64±3.15, and 45.30±5.16 for the control, Child-Pugh A, Child-Pugh B, and Child-Pugh C group, respectively, demonstrating significant intergroup differences (F=184.67 P<0.001). A strong positive correlation was observed between ECV and Child-Pugh liver function classification (r=0.791, P<0.001). The diagnostic performance of ECV for differentiating between Child-Pugh classes A and B (AUC: 0.901), B and C (AUC: 0.966) was higher compared to the MELD-Na score (AUC: 0.772 and 0.868) (P<0.05, respectively). Multivariate analyses showed that ECV was the factor independently associated with cirrhosis (OR=1.610, P<0.001).
Conclusion ECV values measured using spectral CT can serve as a noninvasive biomarker for assessing the severity of liver cirrhosis.
Estimate of the Reduction in the Impact of Rainwater on Road Degradation in the Mbanya Catchment Area
Authors: Goune Achille Clovice , Essombo Bathelemy Essombo , Seutche Jean Calvin , Ekani Yannick Roger , Nsouandele Jean Luc , Ben-Bolie Germain Hubert 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

This article is part of the sustainable development of road infrastructure. It assesses the effects of rainwater on unpaved roads in the Mbanya catchment area between January 2019 and December 2023, and proposes mitigation measures. July is the month when the risk of deterioration on these unsealed roads is highest. The aim of the work is to limit the impact of rainwater on the deterioration of roads in the Mbanya catchment area. To this end, an experimental study was carried out to determine the initial water content in the soil and the quantity of quicklime needed to stabilise the soil. Genetic algorithms and neural networks were used to estimate the water content at different depths in the soil. The square correlation coefficient, with a value of around 0.72, and the root mean square error, with a value of around 0.37 on all the test data are performance indicators that demonstrate the high accuracy of the coupled genetic algorithm-neural network model. Porosity and the quantity of lime were used as input parameters for the model, and the results show that porosity and the quantity of lime have an influence on the evolution of the water content in the soil. The pavement construction project is possible on these unsealed roads in the Mbanya watershed, as the soils have a bearing capacity P ≥ .20MPa. However, the increase in water content can weaken as well as reduce the bearing capacity of the soil. Treating the soil with quicklime can lower the water content after water consumption and strengthen the bearing capacity.
Causes of damage of single use ureteroscope: a single center 2-year experience
Authors: El-Shazly Mohamed , Alorabi Ammar , Kandeel Hossam , Aziz Mohammed 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Since the evolution of flexible ureteroscopy from being reusable to disposable then reused disposable scopes aimed basically to reduce the cost, this study was conducted to evaluate the causes of reused disposable flexible ureteroscope damage in order to extend its longevity and increase the number of procedures per scope.
Patients and Methods:
This retrospective study was conducted in a single center between September 2022 and September 2024. Sixty-two reused disposable flexible ureteroscopes after resterilization were used for 202 patients over 235.7 hours. Potential causes of scope damage were observed, recorded and analyzed.
Results
The observed causes of reused disposable flexible ureteroscope damage were as follows: 32.3% of scopes were damaged by laser fiber related damage (either by sudden withdrawal of fiber during firing or transmitted energy), 27.4% by sustained excessive deflection, 19.4% by scope backloading technique, 9.6% by traumatic ureteral access sheath usage (such as scope withdrawal while deflected over the access sheath and stone fragment lodgment between the sheath and scope) and 11.3% by instrumental working channel damage. On comparing different related causes of damage, fine deflection proved to be superior to excessive deflection (p < 0.001) and access sheath usage proved to be significantly superior to backloading (p = 0.005) while there were no significant difference on comparing laser settings.
Conclusion
Longevity of su-FURS can be extended through the avoidance of possible causes of damage. The best cost effective practice can be achieved by performing flexible ureteroscopy with avoidance of scope backloading in tight ureter and using of ureteral access sheath, avoidance of excessive deflection by lower calyceal stone relocation and avoidance of in-situ disintegration and insertion of laser fiber in a straight scope before deflection with careful holding of the fiber to avoid its sudden withdrawal while firing inside the scope.
18F-FDG PET/CT in the evaluation of femoral head osteonecrosis in patients with lymphoma
Authors: Song Le , Li Hui , Zhu Anhui , Zhang Weifang 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Objective To describe the imaging features of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) on fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/CT and explore the value of PET/CT in assessing ONFH in patients with lymphoma.Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data, PET/CT, and MRI manifestations of 17 patients with ONFH and lymphoma. The FDG uptake of ONFH was recorded, and the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) of ONFH was measured. The staging and extent of ONFH, and other bone involvements, were visually assessed.Results A total of 31 femoral heads were involved, including 2 in stage 1, 24 in stage 2, 4 in stage 3, and 1 in stage 4. The median SUVmax of ONFH in stage 3–4 (5.27) was higher than that in stage 1–2 (1.37) (P = 0.002). In stage 1 lesions, both density and FDG uptake were normal. For stage 2 lesions, 11 showed increased FDG uptake along the peripheral linear high-density and/or within the necrotic region, 5 had peripheral increased uptake with internal decreased uptake, 2 exhibited decreased uptake, and 6 showed normal uptake. All lesions in stages 3–4 demonstrated increased FDG uptake along the peripheral linear high-density and/or at the osteolytic area. Thirteen stage 2 lesions were confined above the epiphyseal line, while 11 stage 2 lesions and 5 stage 3–4 lesions extended below the epiphyseal line. The extent of 20 stage 2 lesions and 5 stage 3–4 lesions observed on CT matched that seen on MRI. Nine patients had osteonecrosis in other bones. The humeral heads were involved in 9 patients, with 4 showing increased FDG uptake along the linear high-densities. Bilateral ilia were involved in 6 patients, with 5 demonstrating peripheral linear high densities and internal decreased FDG uptake. One patient had multiple involvements of the vertebrae, ribs, and scapulae.Conclusions In patients with lymphoma, ONFH exhibits variable degrees of FDG uptake and may be accompanied by involvement of other bones. PET/CT is helpful in diagnosing ONFH and detecting multiple bone involvements while assessing lymphoma.
Estimating risk of long COVID using a Bayesian network-based decision support tool
Authors: Sinclair Jane E. , Mayfield Helen J. , Lu Hongen , Brown Samuel J. , Moghaddam Tina , Waller Michael , Bonner Carissa , Williams Olivia , Litt John C.B. , Short Kirsty R. , Lau Colleen L. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background: Long COVID causes substantial health burden globally, affecting ~30.6% of adults who have ever had symptomatic COVID-19. Despite this, long COVID remains overlooked in public health decision-making. We built a model and easy-to-access online tool for exploring six-month long COVID risk factors.
Methods: A Bayesian network model was developed to estimate long-term COVID-19 adverse outcome probability using data from published studies and government reports. The model calculates probabilities of hospitalization, ICU admission, and death, under different scenarios of vaccine coverage, sex, age, comorbidities, previous infection number, and drug treatments. The model also estimates six-month long COVID symptom risk including cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, pulmonary, or neurologic symptoms, kidney issues, metabolic problems, coagulation disorders, fatigue, and mental health problems.
Results: Model estimates show incomplete vaccination, missed drug treatment during acute infection, and repeated infections to be the greatest controllable influences of increased long COVID risk. The model can be updated to include emerging best evidence, data pertinent to specific countries, vaccines, and outcomes. The interactive user-friendly web-based risk-assessment tool (part of the COVID-19 Risk Calculator (CoRiCal) suite), enables easy access to model outputs.
Conclusions: This model and online tool can be used by individuals or in conjunction with clinicians for shared decision making on vaccination, pursuing early drug treatment during acute infection, and continuing protective behaviors such as masking and social distancing. It may also assist public health decision-makers to assess such effects at a population level, contributing to better-informed public health policies.
Novel Classification and Microsurgical Anatomy of the Basilar Artery: A Cadaveric Study
Authors: Ocampo-Navia Maria Isabel , Devia-Manosalva Diego Armando , Marín-Navas Felipe , Harker Pablo , Díaz Roberto , Berbeo-Calderón Miguel Enrique 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Purpose
The trunk of the BA remains underrepresented in microsurgical studies. This study aims to address this gap by providing a detailed review of the BA's microsurgical anatomy, proposing a novel segmental classification of the artery and the significance of each segment in various surgical pathologies and approaches.
Methods
A total of 20 cadaveric adult brain specimens were meticulously examined under high magnification, following Institutional Review Board approval. The dissection focused on the BA and its branches, with morphometric data collected, including dimensions and anatomical variations.
Results
This study included 20 specimens. A novel classification was proposed base on the blood flow direction, including three segments. The inferior segment extended from the junction of the VA to the origin of the most rostral collateral artery, averaging 3.55 mm in diameter and lengths between 9.0 and 17.1 mm, with 3 to 4 caudal perforators. The middle segment, which ranged from the inferior border of the anterior inferior cerebellar artery (AICA) to the origin of the superior cerebellar artery, measured 3.44 mm in diameter and 15.2 mm in length, featuring 5–6 middle perforating branches. The superior segment ended at the bifurcation of the BA, with an average diameter of 4.2 mm and a length of 3.6 mm. The overall BA length averaged 30.7 mm, with a range of 23.5–38.2 mm.
Conclusion
A comprehensive understanding of the origin, course, branches and segments of the BA is crucial for mitigating vascular complications during both open and endovascular surgical procedures.
Comparative Efficacy of High-Intensity Interval Training and Local-Indigenous Games in Enhancing Physical, Technical, and Cognitive Performance in Youth Football Players: A Multi-Dimensional Analysis
Authors: Olfati¹ Leyla , Piralaiy² Elaheh , Khani³ Mostafa , Isabigloo⁴ Reza , Naddafha Siavash 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Objective
The present research was conducted with the aim of investigating the effect of six weeks of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and training based on selective Local Indigenous games on performance indicators and some specific skills in schoolchildren football players.
Methodology:
This research included 36 youth football players with an average age of 10.10 ± 1.24, who were randomly divided into three groups of 12 people control, HIIT, and local-indigenous games. All three groups were pre-tested, and then the HIIT and local Indigenous games groups performed their training protocol for six weeks (3 sessions per week on non-consecutive days, a total of 18 training sessions). HIIT sessions consisted of 6–8 repetitions of 30–60 seconds of all-out running with 4–4:15 minutes of rest between each repetition. Local-indigenous games also included selected local-indigenous games such as Arada Wordi, Khoros, Haft Sang, Machles, etc. To analyze statistical data, analysis of variance with repeated measurements and one-way analysis of variance were used (P < 0.05).
Result
HIIT and training based on selective local-indigenous games have a significant effect on speed, hand and foot coordination, agility, pass accuracy, shot accuracy, balance, aerobic and anaerobic power (P < 0.05). No significant difference was observed in hand coordination, foot coordination, pass accuracy and shot accuracy in the HIIT and local-Indigenous groups (P > 0.05), but there was a significant difference between the two groups in other indicators (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
Based on the results of the present research, 6 weeks of HIIT and local-indigenous games were effective in improving the physical fitness indicators of schoolchild football players. Due to the many advantages of both types of exercises, it seems desirable to include both types of these exercises in the training program of young soccer players.