bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Naturalization and invasion potential of Sesuvium portulacastrum L. recorded as alien species in Egypt
Authors: Heneidy Selim Z. , Bidak Laila M. , Halmy Marwa Waseem A. , Fakhry Amal M. , Toto Soliman M. , El Kenany Eman T. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractSesuvium portulacastrum is a perennial halophyte of family Aizoaceae, non-native to Egypt, which was introduced from France ten years ago as an ornamental species. This study reports the detection of S. portulacastrum in the wild in Egypt. Voucher specimens were deposited in the Herbarium of Alexandria University (ALEX). A population of the species was recorded in the wild near Maruit Lake in the north-western coast of Egypt in 2018 during plant resources surveys of the region. The study aimed to assess the potential for S. portulacastrum to spread as an alien species through field observations and geospatial measurements under current conditions in its new habitat. The measured morphological parameters were higher than those recorded in its native habitats. The field observation for three years revealed that the species is proliferating and expanding in the investigated site forming large mats of mean size of up to 9 m2. The spatial extent of S. portulacastrum based on the EOO and AOO was quantified, and the expansion rate was estimated at 0.16 ha/year in the investigated site. The geospatial parameter used in the study will not only help in determining the spread rate of the alien species spatially and temporally, but also in its effective management through guiding managers in developing monitoring plans for the species under the changing climate uncertainty. Continuous monitoring and early detection of any potential threats of the introduced species are highly recommended, to avert any potential adverse impacts on native biodiversity and assess its behaviour in the wild habitat.
Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies among Japanese healthcare workers from 2020 to 2022 as assayed by two commercial kits
Authors: Yan Yan , Saito Kaori , Naito Toshio , Ito Kanami , Nojiri Shuko , Horiuchi Yuki , Deshpande Gautam A. , Yokokawa Hirohide , Tabe Yoko 
Published: February 2024

AbstractAntibody tests are used as surveillance tools for informing health policy making. However, results may vary by type of antibody assay and timing of sample collection following infection. Long-term longitudinal cohort studies on antibody assay seropositivity have remained limited, especially among Asian populations. Using blood samples obtained at health physicals (2020–2022) of healthcare workers (mass vaccinated with mRNA COVID-19 vaccines) at a Japanese medical center, we measured N-specific antibodies using two commercially available systems. Roche Elecsys Anti-SARS-CoV-2 measures total antibodies and Abbott Alinity SARS-CoV-2 IgG measures only IgG. Among 2538 participants, seroprevalence was found to be 16.6% via total antibody assay versus 12.9% by IgG-only (including grayzone) by mid-June 2022. For 219 cases with a previous PCR-confirmed infection, positivity was 97.3% using total antibody assay versus 76.3% using IgG-only assay at the 2022 health physical. Using PCR positive test date as day 0, while the positivity of the total antibody assay was retained for the entire study period (until more than 24-months post-infection), the IgG-only assay’s positivity declined after month 4. The Mantel–Haenszel test found a significant difference in the two assays’ seropositivity, between stratified groups of “within 3 months” and “4 months or more” from infection (P < 0.001). Our study found significant differences in seropositivity over time of total antibody versus IgG-only assays, suggesting an optimal assay for retaining sensitivity over the entire infection period when designing seroprevalence studies.
A new bio imagery user-friendly tool for automatic morphometry measurement on muscle cell cultures and histological sections
Authors: Brun Aurélien , Mougeot Guillaume , Denis Philippe , Collin Marie Laure , Pouchin Pierre , Montaurier Christophe , Walrand Stéphane , Capel Frédéric , Gueugneau Marine 
Published: February 2024

AbstractTRUEFAD (TRUE Fiber Atrophy Distinction) is a bioimagery user-friendly tool developed to allow consistent and automatic measurement of myotube diameter in vitro, muscle fiber size and type using rodents and human muscle biopsies. This TRUEFAD package was set up to standardize and dynamize muscle research via easy-to-obtain images run on an open-source plugin for FIJI. We showed here both the robustness and the performance of our pipelines to correctly segment muscle cells and fibers. We evaluated our pipeline on real experiment image sets and showed consistent reliability across images and conditions. TRUEFAD development makes possible systematical and rapid screening of substances impacting muscle morphology for helping scientists focus on their hypothesis rather than image analysis.
Multi-instance learning based lung nodule system for assessment of CT quality after small-field-of-view reconstruction
Authors: Ma Yanqing , Cao Hanbo , Li Jie , Lin Mu , Gong Xiangyang , Lin Yi 
Published: February 2024

AbstractSmall-field-of-view reconstruction CT images (sFOV-CT) increase the pixel density across airway structures and reduce partial volume effects. Multi-instance learning (MIL) is proposed as a weakly supervised machine learning method, which can automatically assess the image quality. The aim of this study was to evaluate the disparities between conventional CT (c-CT) and sFOV-CT images using a lung nodule system based on MIL and assessments from radiologists. 112 patients who underwent chest CT were retrospectively enrolled in this study between July 2021 to March 2022. After undergoing c-CT examinations, sFOV-CT images with small-field-of-view were reconstructed. Two radiologists analyzed all c-CT and sFOV-CT images, including features such as location, nodule type, size, CT values, and shape signs. Then, an MIL-based lung nodule system objectively analyzed the c-CT (c-MIL) and sFOV-CT (sFOV-MIL) to explore their differences. The signal-to-noise ratio of lungs (SNR-lung) and contrast-to-noise ratio of nodules (CNR-nodule) were calculated to evaluate the quality of CT images from another perspective. The subjective evaluation by radiologists showed that feature of minimal CT value (p = 0.019) had statistical significance between c-CT and sFOV-CT. However, most features (all with p < 0.05), except for nodule type, location, volume, mean CT value, and vacuole sign (p = 0.056–1.000), had statistical differences between c-MIL and sFOV-MIL by MIL system. The SNR-lung between c-CT and sFOV-CT had no statistical significance, while the CNR-nodule showed statistical difference (p = 0.007), and the CNR of sFOV-CT was higher than that of c-CT. In detecting the difference between c-CT and sFOV-CT, features extracted by the MIL system had more statistical differences than those evaluated by radiologists. The image quality of those two CT images was different, and the CNR-nodule of sFOV-CT was higher than that of c-CT.
Convergence and equilibrium in molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Ormeño Franco , General Ignacio J. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractMolecular dynamics is a powerful tool that has been long used for the simulation of biomolecules. It complements experiments, by providing detailed information about individual atomic motions. But there is an essential and often overlooked assumption that, left unchecked, could invalidate any results from it: is the simulated trajectory long enough, so that the system has reached thermodynamic equilibrium, and the measured properties are converged? Previous studies showed mixed results in relation to this assumption. This has profound implications, as the resulting simulated trajectories may not be reliable in predicting equilibrium properties. Yet, this is precisely what most molecular dynamics studies do. So the question arises: are these studies even valid?Here, we present a thorough analysis of up to a hundred microseconds long trajectories, of several system with varying size, to probe the convergence of different structural, dynamical and cumulative properties, and elaborate on the relevance of the concept of equilibrium, and its physical and biological meaning. The results show that properties with the most biological interest tend to converge in multi-microsecond trajectories, although other properties–like transition rates to low probability conformations–may require more time.
Advancing neighbourhood climate action: opportunities, challenges and way ahead
Authors: Joshi Neelakshi , Agrawal Sandeep , Ambury Hana , Parida Debadutta 
Published: February 2024

AbstractCities are emerging as key sites for action on climate change. Within cities, urban neighbourhoods are increasingly taking leadership in addressing local effects of climate change through mitigation and adaptation programs. Bottom-up action on climate change through neighbourhood scale programs presents opportunities in terms of getting the community to partner and participate in climate action. However, neighbourhood scale programs often run into challenges in terms of limited participation, impact and resources to keep the programs running. In this paper, we advance the literature on the opportunities and challenges of neighbourhood scale climate action. We do so by analysing three neighbourhood scale programs that address climate action in Canada and in Australia. We adopt online workshops as a research methodology where volunteers from the three programs share their experiences of opportunities and ways of overcoming challenges of neighbourhood climate action. Our findings illustrate that collaborative governance between the city and the neighbourhoods, incremental community building and consolidating local resources are important for advancing neighbourhood climate action. This paper adds to the thin body of knowledge on neighbourhood scale climate action and presents ways of overcoming the challenges of bottom-up climate action.
Speech Science as the Foundation for Voice and Motor Speech Disorders
Authors: McHenry Monica A. , Grover Vikas 
Published: February 2024

Purpose:
Physiological concepts can be effectively taught in speech science. These will serve as the foundation for understanding the physiological changes associated with neurogenic and voice disorders. In this tutorial, relevant concepts are highlighted across the respiratory, phonatory, velopharyngeal, and articulatory systems. Student activities and illustrative videos are presented. The culminating activity is based on a speech sample of an individual with moderate flaccid–spastic dysarthria. Students relate the physiological changes associated with dysarthria to the acoustic outcomes.

Conclusions:
Although traditionally speech science focuses on acoustics, this tutorial provides guidance on shaping the class to highlight the physiology underlying the acoustics. In this manner, students more easily see the clinical relevance.
A Comprehensive Scoping Review of Caregivers' Experiences With Augmentative and Alternative Communication and Their Collaboration With School Professionals
Authors: Kim John , Soto Gloria 
Published: February 2024

Purpose:
Parent engagement and involvement is essential for the successful implementation of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems in the home. The purpose of the current study is to gain a deeper understanding of caregivers' experiences with AAC systems and their collaboration with school professionals during the implementation of AAC, which may have led to subsequent abandonment.

Method:
This review intentionally included qualitative studies that employed semistructured interviews, focus groups, and ethnographic investigations that documented the experiences and perceptions of families implementing AAC at home. Electronic database search, ancestral search, and forward search procedures resulted in a total of 27 peer-reviewed studies portraying the voices of 319 caregivers.

Results:
An inductive analysis was conducted to record recurring themes into codes. The codes were thematically synthesized into three main themes: (a) the family unit, (b) the service providers, and (c) the AAC system.

Conclusions:
The results emphasized the need for participatory practices of family involvement in co-constructing a collaborative AAC service provision. Future research directions should implement this practice and explore the outcomes of this process to validate its efficacy.
Modelling and simulation study on dynamic pollution accumulation process of composite insulator
Authors: Yang Zhongyi , Liu Dongxiong , Zeng Xiangjun , Fan Caijin , Yang Xin , Huang Yafei 
Published: February 2024

AbstractWith the widespread application of composite insulators in transmission lines, exploring the accumulation mechanism of pollution particles on composite insulator surfaces is of importance to ensure the safe and steady operation of the power system. Addressing the current theoretical shortcomings, this study categorises the accumulation process of particles on the insulator surface into three stages, namely ‘spatial motion’, ‘surface collision’, and ‘surface motion’. The motion and rotation velocities in a multi‐physics field are calculated in the spatial motion stage. In the surface collision stage, a parameter called ‘neck height’ is introduced to determine the optimum mechanics theory, and the normal deposition criterion is established. For the surface motion stage, the sliding displacement and rolling displacement on the surface are calculated based on the rotation speed of the particles. A dynamic pollution accumulation model of the composite insulator is established based on the normal deposition criterion and tangential displacement. Finally, numerical simulations are performed by using the finite element method. Simulation results show that the proposed model agrees with the actual insulator pollution accumulation, and the deposition model is still applicable for various types of composite insulators operating in different applied voltages. The deposition probability of particles increases with the increasing particle size. In the surface motion stage, particle displacement increases with particle size and wind velocity.
Endoscopic submucosal dissection for early esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: long-term results from a Western cohort
Authors: Beaufort Ilse N. , Frederiks Charlotte N. , Overwater Anouk , Brosens Lodewijk A.A. , Koch Arjun D. , Pouw Roos E. , Bergman Jacques J.G.H.M. , Weusten Bas L.A.M. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background Although endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is established as first-choice treatment for early esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) worldwide, most data are derived from Asian studies. We aimed to evaluate the long-term outcomes of ESD for patients with early ESCC in a Western cohort.
Methods In this retrospective cohort study, patients with early ESCC amenable to ESD were included from four tertiary referral hospitals in the Netherlands between 2012 and 2017. All ESD procedures were performed by experienced endoscopists, after which the decision for additional treatment was made on a per-patient basis. Outcomes were curative resection rate, ESCC-specific survival, and overall survival.
Results Of 68 included patients (mean age 69 years; 34 males), ESD was technically successful in 66 (97%; 95%CI 93%–100%), with curative resection achieved in 34/66 (52%; 95%CI 39%–64%). Among patients with noncurative resection, 15/32 (47%) underwent additional treatment, mainly esophagectomy (n = 10) or definitive chemoradiation therapy (n = 4). Endoscopic surveillance was preferred in 17/32 patients (53%), based on severe comorbidities or patient choice. Overall, 31/66 patients (47%) died during a median follow-up of 66 months; 8/31 (26%) were ESCC-related deaths. The 5-year overall and ESCC-specific survival probabilities were 62% (95%CI 52%–75%) and 86% (95%CI 77%–96%), respectively.
Conclusion In this Western cohort with long-term follow-up, the effectiveness and safety of ESD for early ESCC was confirmed, although the rate of noncurative resections was substantial. Irrespective of curative status, the long-term prognosis of these patients was limited mainly due to competing mortality.
Diagnostic Performance of 99mTc-Sestamibi SPECT/CT and
18F-Choline PET/CT in Locating Hyperfunctioning Parathyroid
Glands in Patients with Primary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Mandic Ante , Kraljevic Ivana , Skoric Polovina Tanja , Zibar Tomsic Karin , Dusek Tina , Balasko Annemarie , Solak Mirsala , Kastelan Darko 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Objective This study aimed to assess the diagnostic performance of
99mTc-sestamibi SPECT/CT and 18F-choline PET/CT in
detecting hyperfunctioning parathyroid glands in patients undergoing surgery for
primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT).
Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients who underwent
PHPT-related surgery between April 2019 and May 2022. The study focused on
patients undergoing either 99mTc-sestamibi SPECT/CT (81 patients) or
18F-choline PET/CT (33 patients) scans before surgery to pinpoint
hyperfunctioning parathyroid gland(s). In the majority of patients,
18F-choline PET/CT was performed after negative or inconclusive
findings on 99mTc-sestamibi SPECT/CT. Pathohistological reports were
utilized as the reference standard for evaluating the accuracy of the imaging
findings.
Results The study encompassed 83 patients (70 females, 84.3%) with an
average age of 57.2 years (24–80 years). The pathohistological analysis
identified a total of 98 glands. In a per-lesion analysis, the detection rate of
99mTc-sestamibi SPECT/CT was 57% (95% CI 45.3–68.1), while the
detection rate of 18F-choline PET/CT was 90.3% (95% CI
74.3–98.0).
Conclusion The results of our study showed the significant usefulness of
18F-choline PET/CT in patients with negative or inconclusive
results of 99mTc-sestamibi SPECT/CT in accurately locating
hyperfunctioning parathyroid glands in PHPT patients.
Transition-Metal-Catalyzed C–H Activation Reactions for the Creation and Modification of Organic Fluorophores
Authors: Kapur Manmohan , Chand Tapasi 
Published: February 2024

AbstractOrganic fluorophores have consistently garnered significant interest owing to their widespread application across various multidisciplinary research fields. In the realm of biological research, these organic fluorophores find extensive use in diverse applications such as molecular imaging, DNA sequencing, drug discovery, and biosensors. Remarkably, in recent times, organic fluorescent molecules have emerged as pivotal elements in the advancement of organic electronics. Across several reaction pathways developed for constructing and modifying organic fluorophores, transition-metal-catalyzed C–H activation reactions have come across as a dependable and step-economical approach. In this review we discuss various transition-metal-catalyzed C–H activation-based approaches that have been employed to create and modify organic fluorescent molecules which find applications in multidisciplinary research areas.1	Introduction2	Basic Reactions for the Creation of Organic Fluorophores3	Merits and Drawbacks of Classical Reactions in the Creation and Modification of Organic Fluorophores4	C–H Activation/Functionalization Reactions5	C–H Activation Pathways in the Creation and Modification of Organic­ Fluorophores5.1	Electrophilic C–H Activation Reactions5.2	Heteroatom-Directed C–H Activation Reactions6	Conclusion
Effect of Dorsal Preservation Techniques on Septum Strength: An Experimental Animal Study
Authors: Erol Ozan , Berber Veysel , Soto-Galindo Germán Armando , Apaydin Fazil 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThis experimental animal model study investigates the impact of different methods employed in preservation rhinoplasty (PR) on the strength of the nasal roof, focusing on three techniques: high strip, low strip, and intermediate strip. Using 15 lamb heads as surgical models, the study addresses key questions related to the strengths of each PR techniques, the influence of septal cartilage harvesting on septum strength, and the effectiveness of spreader grafts for stability. The research involves detailed dissection steps and measurements at various nasal points, evaluating the resistance at each stage. Results indicate that the low strip technique demonstrates the most significant reduction in strength. Furthermore, the combination of PR techniques with structural grafts, specifically spreader grafts, is assessed, revealing the classical rectangular spreader graft to be more effective in stabilizing the dorsum. Despite the limitation of using the lamb heads as models, this study offers valuable insights into the effects of PR on nasal septum strength and provides a foundation for further research on the biomechanics of preservation techniques.
On the thermodynamics of plasticity during quasi-isentropic compression of metallic glass
Authors: Chen Kaiguo , Chen Bo , Cui Yinan , Yu Yuying , Yu Jidong , Geng Huayun , Kang Dongdong , Wu Jianhua , Shen Yao , Dai Jiayu 
Published: February 2024

Entropy production in quasi-isentropic compression (QIC) is critically important for understanding the properties of materials under extreme conditions. However, the origin and accurate quantification of entropy in this situation remain long-standing challenges. In this work, a framework is established for the quantification of entropy production and partition, and their relation to microstructural change in QIC. Cu50Zr50 is taken as a model material, and its compression is simulated by molecular dynamics. On the basis of atomistic simulation-informed physical properties and free energy, the thermodynamic path is recovered, and the entropy production and its relation to microstructural change are successfully quantified by the proposed framework. Contrary to intuition, entropy production during QIC of metallic glasses is relatively insensitive to the strain rate γ̇ when γ̇ ranges from 7.5 × 108 to 2 × 109/s, which are values reachable in QIC experiments, with a magnitude of the order of 10−2kB/atom per GPa. However, when γ̇ is extremely high (&gt;2×109/s), a notable increase in entropy production rate with γ̇ is observed. The Taylor–Quinney factor is found to vary with strain but not with strain rate in the simulated regime. It is demonstrated that entropy production is dominated by the configurational part, compared with the vibrational part. In the rate-insensitive regime, the increase in configurational entropy exhibits a linear relation to the Shannon-entropic quantification of microstructural change, and a stretched exponential relation to the Taylor–Quinney factor. The quantification of entropy is expected to provide thermodynamic insights into the fundamental relation between microstructure evolution and plastic dissipation.