bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental drivers behind the genetic differentiation in mountain chickadees (Poecile gambeli)
Authors: Srikanthan P. , Burg T.M.
Published: November 2023

Anthropogenic climate change has a large impact on wildlife populations and the scale of the impacts has been increasing. In this study, we utilised 3dRAD sequence data to investigate genetic divergence and identify the environmental drivers of genetic differentiation between 12 populations of mountain chickadees, family Paridae, sampled across North America. To examine patterns of genetic variation across the range, we conducted a discriminant analysis of principal components (DAPC), admixture analysis, and calculated pairwise Fst values. The DAPC revealed four clusters: southern California, eastern Rocky Mountains, northwestern Rocky Mountains, and Oregon/northern California. We then used BayeScEnv to highlight significant outlier SNPs associated with the five environmental variables. We identified over 150 genes linked to outlier SNPs associated with more than 15 pathways, including stress response and circadian rhythm. We also found a strong signal of isolation by distance and local temperature was highly correlated with genetic distance. Maxent simulations showed a northward range shift over the next 50 years and a decrease in suitable habitat, highlighting the need for immediate conservation action.
Measurement of the $$\gamma n\rightarrow K^0\Sigma ^0$$ differential cross section over the $$K^*$$ threshold
Authors:   BGOOD Collaboration, Kohl K. , Jude T. C. , Alef S. , Beck R. , Braghieri A. , Cole P. L. , Elsner D. , Di Salvo R. , Fantini A. , Freyermuth O. , Frommberger F. , Ghio F. , Gridnev A. , Hammann D. , Hannappel J. , Kozlenko N. , Lapik A. , Sandri P. Levi , Lisin V. , Mandaglio G. , Messi R. , Moricciani D. , Nedorezov V. , Nikonov V. A. , Novinskiy D. , Pedroni P. , Polonskiy A. , Reitz B.-E. , Romaniuk M. , Scheluchin G. , Schmieden H. , Stuglev A. , Sumachev V. , Tarakanov V.
Published: November 2023

The differential cross section for the quasi-free photoproduction reaction $$\gamma n\rightarrow K^0\Sigma ^0$$

γ
n
→

K
0

Σ
0

was measured at BGOOD at ELSA from threshold to a centre-of-mass energy of $$2400\,\hbox {MeV}$$

2400

MeV

. Close to threshold the results are consistent with existing data and are in agreement with partial wave analysis solutions over the full measured energy range, with a large coupling to the $$\Delta (1900)1/2^-$$

Δ

(
1900
)

1
/

2
-

evident. This is the first dataset covering the $$K^*$$

K
∗

threshold region, where there are model predictions of dynamically generated vector meson-baryon resonance contributions.
CC-CBTA-Based Floating Inductance Simulator with CM/VM PID Controllers
Authors: Sagbas M. , Taskiran Z. G. Cam , Ayten U. E.
Published: November 2023

This work describes voltage-mode (VM), current-mode (CM) PID controllers and an electrically controllable floating inductance (FI) simulator circuit. Only a single current-controlled current backward transconductance amplifier (CC-CBTA) and a grounded capacitor are used in the proposed FI simulator circuit. One CBTA, one CC-CBTA, two capacitors and one resistor are used in the proposed PID controllers. All of the proposed circuits have appropriate input and output impedance values, allowing them to be utilized in cascade connections without requiring a buffer circuit. There is also no matching constraint between the active and passive values of the proposed circuit. The SPICE software environment and experimental results were used to validate theoretical derivations and associated outcomes. The layout of the CC-CBTA has been built, and the post-layout simulations are carried out using the netlist extracted from the layout. Comparisons were made with similar circuits found in the professional literature.
Some Results on Semi-Symmetric Spaces
Authors: Benroummane Abderrazzak
Published: November 2023

We give some properties of semi-symmetric pseudo-Riemannian manifolds as an indecomposable irreducible Ricci pseudo-Riemannian manifold (i.e. the minimal polynomial of its Ricci operator is irreducible) is semi symmetric if and only if it is locally symmetric. We also show that any semi-symmetric pseudo-Riemannian manifold will be foliated. Moreover, if the metric is Lorentzian, the Ricci operator has only real eigenvalues and more precisely, on each leaf, it is diagonalizable with at most a single non zero eigenvalue or isotropic.
Kinetic theory of overpopulated gluon systems with inelastic processes
Authors: Chen Zhengyu
Published: November 2023

In this work, the role of inelastic processes in the formation of a transient Bose–Einstein condensation (BEC) is investigated based on kinetic theory. We calculate the condensation rate for an overpopulated gluon system which is assumed to be in thermal equilibrium and with the presence of a BEC. The matrix elements of the inelastic processes are chosen as the isotropic one and the gluons are considered to have a finite mass. Our calculations indicate that the inelastic processes can hinder the formation of a BEC since the negatively infinite net condensation rate can destroy any BEC instantly.
AN EVOLUTIONARY MODEL OF SOCIAL NETWORK STRUCTURE DRIVEN BY INFORMATION INTERACTION
Authors: NIAN FUZHONG , ZHOU JIANJIAN , QIAN YINUO
Published: November 2023

The interaction of information and the evolution of network structure are inseparable. In order to construct social network evolution and information propagation models that better fit real-world scenarios, this paper proposes a social network structure evolution model driven by changes in the strength of relationships between individuals through their information interactions with each other. During the evolution process of the network, information interaction between individuals is also influenced by the network structure. Therefore, we improve traditional propagation models and construct an information propagation model with dynamic propagation rates. The proposed model is used to simulate both the spread of information and the evolution of network structures in real social networks. Finally, simulation results are compared to real-world data, demonstrating the effectiveness and rationality of the proposed model.
Assistance in Teleoperation of Redundant Robots through Predictive Joint Maneuvering
Authors: Brooks Connor , Rees Wyatt , Szafir Daniel
Published: November 2023

In teleoperation of redundant robotic manipulators, translating an operator’s end effector motion command to joint space can be a tool for maintaining feasible and precise robot motion. Through optimizing redundancy resolution, the control system can ensure the end effector maintains maneuverability by avoiding joint limits and kinematic singularities. In autonomous motion planning, this optimization can be done over an entire trajectory to improve performance over local optimization. However, teleoperation involves a human-in-the-loop who determines the trajectory to be executed through a dynamic sequence of motion commands. We present two systems, Predictive Kinematic Control Tree and Predictive Kinematic Control Search, for utilizing a predictive model of operator commands to accomplish this redundancy resolution in a manner that considers future expected motion during teleoperation. Using a probabilistic model of operator commands allows optimization over an expected trajectory of future motion rather than consideration of local motion alone. Evaluation through a user study demonstrates improved control outcomes from this predictive redundancy resolution over minimum joint velocity solutions and inverse kinematics-based motion controllers.
Towards a Better Performance in Facial Expression Recognition: A Data‐Centric Approach
Authors: Mejia-Escobar Christian , Cazorla Miguel , Martinez-Martin Ester
Published: November 2023

Facial expression is the best evidence of our emotions. Its automatic detection and recognition are key for robotics, medicine, healthcare, education, psychology, sociology, marketing, security, entertainment, and many other areas. Experiments in the lab environments achieve high performance. However, in real‐world scenarios, it is challenging. Deep learning techniques based on convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have shown great potential. Most of the research is exclusively model‐centric, searching for better algorithms to improve recognition. However, progress is insufficient. Despite being the main resource for automatic learning, few works focus on improving the quality of datasets. We propose a novel data‐centric method to tackle misclassification, a problem commonly encountered in facial image datasets. The strategy is to progressively refine the dataset by successive training of a CNN model that is fixed. Each training uses the facial images corresponding to the correct predictions of the previous training, allowing the model to capture more distinctive features of each class of facial expression. After the last training, the model performs automatic reclassification of the whole dataset. Unlike other similar work, our method avoids modifying, deleting, or augmenting facial images. Experimental results on three representative datasets proved the effectiveness of the proposed method, improving the validation accuracy by 20.45%, 14.47%, and 39.66%, for FER2013, NHFI, and AffectNet, respectively. The recognition rates on the reclassified versions of these datasets are 86.71%, 70.44%, and 89.17% and become state‐of‐the‐art performance.
The Parallel Solving Method of Robot Kinematic Equations Based on FPGA
Authors: Zhang Deli , Jiang Shaohua , Zhe Liu
Published: November 2023

In the implementation of robot motion control, complex kinematic computations consume too much central processing unit (CPU) time and affect the responsiveness of robot motion. To solve this problem, this paper proposes a parallel method for solving kinematic equations of articulated robots based on the coordinate rotation digital computer (CORDIC) algorithm. The method completes the fast calculation of the transcendental function based on the CORDIC algorithm, adopts the tree structure method to optimize the key computational paths of forward and inverse solutions, and designs a parallel pipeline to realize the low latency and high throughput of the kinematic equations. The experiments of the proposed method are validated based on the field-programmable gate array (FPGA) hardware experimental platform, and the experimental results demonstrate that the computational time to complete the entire kinematic equations is 4.68 μs, of which the computational time for the kinematic positive solution is 0.52 μs and the computational time for the kinematic inverse solution is 4.16 μs.
Research on Optimization of Total Nitrogen Peak Suppression in Wastewater Treatment Based on the Data Driven Method
Authors: Lu Chao , Dong Zhao
Published: November 2023

In order to solve the problems of water eutrophication, algae anoxic decay, and death by biological poisoning, which are caused by the excessive emission of total nitrogen in wastewater treatment process, this paper proposes a method of total nitrogen peak suppression which is based on neural network decision optimization. First, the SSORBF neural network is established according to the wastewater treatment process, and total nitrogen, inflow flow, current total nitrogen, dissolved oxygen concentration, and nitrate nitrogen concentration are selected to predict the total nitrogen concentration. Second, the density- and memory-based NSGA2 multiobjective optimization method is used to set the optimal solution to meet the requirement of energy consumption. If the prediction of total nitrogen exceeded the set value, the optimal control strategy is adopted to control the peak value of total nitrogen in advance, and it cannot exceed the national maximum allowable emission value. If the prediction of total nitrogen is lower than the set value, it continues to track the parameter set value. Finally, compared with other methods, the proposed method can effectively suppress the peak value of total nitrogen under 18 mg/L and reduce the energy consumption in wastewater treatment by 7.6%. It can provide decisions and advice for wastewater treatment plants.
Flea-Borne Typhus Presenting with Acalculous Cholecystitis and Severe Anemia
Authors: Varadarajan Ramya , Patel Ashmi P. , Rashidi Keyvon , Oh Albert , Rahman Rashmeen , Neal Ryan
Published: November 2023

Background. Flea-borne typhus (FBT), an uncommon illness in the United States, typically presents as a high continuous fever with commonly associated symptoms including headache, myalgias, and rashes on the trunk and extremities. Patients infected with FBT may also present with atypical symptoms. As such, the combination of its relatively low incidence in the United States coupled with its variability in associated symptoms poses a diagnostic challenge for clinicians; early empiric treatment with doxycycline is warranted prior to a definitive diagnosis to reduce the risk of damage to vital organs. Case Report. This case describes a 54-year-old male who presented to an emergency room in Houston, Texas, with one week of constant right upper quadrant abdominal pain and fevers up to 40°C. The patient was initially diagnosed with Grade III severe acute cholangitis after abdominal ultrasound revealed gallbladder sludge and wall thickening without ductal dilatation, but a subsequent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography was unremarkable. Following intermittent fevers and worsening anemia, the patient was started on oral doxycycline for atypical infection, and an infectious disease workup subsequently returned a positive titer for Rickettsia typhi. He experienced rapid symptomatic and clinical improvement, and the patient was discharged home with a final diagnosis of flea-borne typhus. Conclusion. Albeit uncommon, the presentation of this patient’s symptoms and final diagnosis of flea-borne typhus demonstrates the importance of (1) keeping atypical infections such as FBT in the differential diagnosis and (2) beginning empiric treatment to prevent damage to vital organs if suspicion of FBT is high.
A2ML1 Inhibits Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Progression and Serves as a Novel Prognostic Biomarker
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyun , Tang Chaogui , Lian Jianchun , Jiang Yuzhang
Published: November 2023

Studies have established a correlation between α2-macroglobulin-like 1 (A2ML1) and the prognosis of lung, pancreatic, and breast cancers; however, research on its involvement in the pathogenesis of esophageal carcinoma remains limited. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the role of A2ML1 in the progression of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Immunohistochemical staining was employed to assess the expression level of A2ML1 protein in both tumor and adjacent normal tissues of patients with ESCC. The Kaplan–Meier method, along with univariate and multivariate Cox risk ratio analyses, was used to determine survival rates and prognostic factors. Furthermore, two human ESCC cell lines, KYSE30 and KYSE150, were used to assess the effect of A2ML1 overexpression on cell proliferation and apoptosis. A human apoptosis antibody kit was also used to analyze the downstream action proteins of A2ML1, and a nude mouse xenotransplantation model was used to evaluate the effect of A2ML1 on ESCC tumorigenesis in vivo. The protein level of A2ML1 in ESCC tissues was significantly lower than that in normal esophageal tissues, and higher A2ML1 protein levels were associated with smaller ESCC tumor sizes and improved tumor-specific survival rates. Multivariate analysis established A2ML1 as a novel independent prognostic factor for ESCC. Moreover, A2ML1 overexpression significantly inhibited ESCC cell proliferation and promoted apoptosis. A2ML1 consistently inhibited tumor growth in mouse models. Furthermore, the human apoptotic antibody kit results showed increased expression of the proliferation-inhibiting protein p21 downstream of KYSE150 cells overexpressing A2ML1. Our findings demonstrate that a correlation exists between A2ML1 and ESCC prognosis and that A2ML1 plays an antitumor role in ESCC progression. This study underscores the potential of A2ML1 as a novel biomarker for predicting the prognosis of ESCC.
Evaluation of Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities, and Metabolite Profiling of Selected Medicinal Plants of Nepal
Authors: Shrivastava Amit Kumar , Keshari Muskan , Neupane Manisha , Chaudhary Sheshbhan , Dhakal Purna Kala , Shrestha Laxmi , Palikhey Anjan , Yadav Chandrajeet Kumar , Lamichhane Gopal , Shekh Mohammad Ujair , Yadav Rakesh Kumar
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant, antiarthritic, and anti-inflammatory properties of extracts from the leaves of twelve different medicinal plants in Nepal. We then evaluated the total phenolic, flavonoid, and tannin contents of the extract using in-vitro assays and characterized it using GC-MS analysis. Results revealed that most of the leaf extracts contained phenolic compounds, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and saponins. Few plants also showed the presence of glycosides, phytate, and vitamin C. Among the studied plants, Neolamarckia cadamba exhibited the highest total phenolic and tannin contents, as 241.53 ± 0.20 µg of gallic acid equivalent/mg and 74.48 ± 1.081 µg of tannic acid equivalent/mg, respectively. Ipomoea batatas exhibited the highest total flavonoid content, as 53.051 ± 1.11 µg of quercetin equivalent/mg. Moreover, Raphanus sativus demonstrated significant ferrous ion chelating, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, hydrogen peroxide scavenging, and total antioxidant activities with IC50 value of 4.76 ± 0.68 µg/mL, 5.84 ± 0.14 µg/mL, 6.89 ± 0.16 µg/mL, and 8.99 ± 0.20 µg/mL, respectively. Similarly, Colocasia esculenta and Cicer arietinum exhibited the highest hydroxyl radical and nitric oxide scavenging activities, measuring IC50 value of 7.22 ± 0.56 µg/mL and 9.06 ± 0.10 µg/mL, respectively. Among all the extracts, Amorphophallus paeoniifolius displayed significant human red blood cell (HRBC) membrane stabilization activity (IC50 = 6.22 ± 0.78 µg/mL). Furthermore, Raphanus sativus, Chenopodium album, Cicer arietinum, and Murraya koenigii exhibited the highest inhibitory activities against protein denaturation with bovine serum albumin, antiarthritic, lipoxygenase inhibitory, and proteinase inhibitory, measuring IC50 of 7.48 ± 0.48 µg/mL, 9.44 ± 1.62 µg/mL, 14.67 ± 1.94 µg/mL, and 28.57 ± 2.39 µg/mL, respectively. In conclusion, this study demonstrated the twelve leaf extracts’ significant antioxidant, antiarthritic, and anti-inflammatory activities.
Monitoring Changes in Clustering Solutions: A Review of Models and Applications
Authors: Atif Muhammad , Shafiq Muhammad , Farooq Muhammad , Ayub Gohar , Leisch Friedrich , Ilyas Muhammad
Published: November 2023

This article comprehensively reviews the applications and algorithms used for monitoring the evolution of clustering solutions in data streams. The clustering technique is an unsupervised learning problem that involves the identification of natural subgroups in a large dataset. In contrast to supervised learning models, clustering is a data mining technique that retrieves the hidden pattern in the input dataset. The clustering solution reflects the mechanism that leads to a high level of similarity between the items. A few applications include pattern recognition, knowledge discovery, and market segmentation. However, many modern-day applications generate streaming or temporal datasets over time, where the pattern is not stationary and may change over time. In the context of this article, change detection is the process of identifying differences in the cluster solutions obtained from streaming datasets at consecutive time points. In this paper, we briefly review the models/algorithms introduced in the literature to monitor clusters’ evolution in data streams. Monitoring the changes in clustering solutions in streaming datasets plays a vital role in policy-making and future prediction. Of course, it has a wide range of applications that cannot be covered in a single study, but some of the most common are highlighted in this article.
Clinicopathological Characteristics and Survival Outcomes in Patients with Advanced Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Who Were Intraoperatively Diagnosed Non-Curative
Authors: Sugase Takahito , Kanemura Takashi , Takeoka Tomohira , Sugimura Keijiro , Yamamoto Masaaki , Shinno Naoki , Hara Hisashi , Omori Takeshi , Mukai Yosuke , Mikamori Manabu , Hasegawa Shinichiro , Haraguchi Naotsugu , Akita Hirofumi , Nishimura Junichi , Wada Hiroshi , Matsuda Chu , Yasui Masayoshi , Miyata Hiroshi
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Curative esophagectomy is not always possible in patients with locally advanced esophageal cancer. However, few studies have investigated patients who underwent non-curative surgery with intraoperative judgment. This study aimed to investigate patient characteristics and clinical outcomes for patients undergoing non-curative surgery and compare them between non-resectional and non-radical surgery. Methods: Among 989 consecutive patients with thoracic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma who were preoperatively expected for curative esophagectomy, 66 who were eligible for non-curative surgery were included in this study. Results: Intraoperative diagnosis of T4b accounted for 93% of the reasons for the failure of curative surgery. In those patients, esophageal cancer locally invaded into the aortobronchial constriction (70%), trachea (25%), or pulmonary vein (5%). Lymph node metastasis mainly invaded into the trachea (50%) or bronchus (28%). The overall survival of patients with non-curative surgery was 51.5%, 25.7%, and 10.4% at 6, 12, and 24 months after surgery, respectively. Although there were no differences in preoperative patient characteristics between non-resectional and non-radical surgery, distant metastasis, especially pleural dissemination, was significantly observed in T4b patients due to esophageal cancer with non-radical surgery than those with non-resectional surgery (35% vs. 15%, p = 0.002). Even in patients with non-curative surgery, R1 resection and postoperative chemoradiotherapy were identified as independent factors for survival 1 year after surgery (p = 0.047, and 0.019). Conclusions: T4b tumor located in aortobronchial constriction or trachea/bronchus makes it difficult to diagnose whether it is resectable or unresectable. Moreover, surgical procedures and perioperative treatment were deeply associated with the clinical outcomes.
Hepcidin Removal during Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy
Authors: Colbert James F. , Griffin Benjamin R. , Rolloff Kristy , Erzen Christopher L. , Haeger Sarah M. , Altmann Chris , Okamura Kayo , Campbell Ruth , Teitelbaum Isaac , Faubel Sarah
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) or end stage kidney disease (ESKD) may require continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) as a supportive intervention. While CRRT is effective at achieving solute control and fluid balance, the indiscriminate nature of this procedure raises the possibility that beneficial substances may similarly be removed. Hepcidin, an antimicrobial peptide with pivotal roles in iron homeostasis and pathogen clearance, has biochemical properties amenable to direct removal via CRRT. We hypothesized that serum hepcidin levels would significantly decrease after initiation of CRRT. Methods: In this prospective, observational trial, we enrolled 13 patients who required CRRT: 11 due to stage 3 AKI, and 2 due to critical illness in the setting of ESKD. Plasma was collected at the time of enrollment, and then plasma and effluent were collected at 10:00 a.m. on the following 3 days. Plasma samples were also collected from healthy controls, and we compared hepcidin concentrations in those with renal disease compared to normal controls, evaluated trends in hepcidin levels over time, and calculated the hepcidin sieving coefficient. Results: Plasma hepcidin levels were significantly higher in patients initiating CRRT than in normal controls (158 ± 60 vs. 17 ± 3 ng/mL respectively, p < 0.001). Hepcidin levels were highest prior to CRRT initiation (158 ± 60 ng/mL), and were significantly lower on day 1 (102 ± 24 ng/mL, p < 0.001) and day 2 (56 ± 14 ng/mL, p < 0.001) before leveling out on day 3 (51 ± 11 ng/mL). The median sieving coefficient was consistent at 0.82–0.83 for each of 3 days. Conclusions: CRRT initiation is associated with significant decreases in plasma hepcidin levels over the first 2 days of treatment regardless of indication for CRRT, or presence of underlying ESKD. Since reduced hepcidin levels are associated with increased mortality and our data implicate CRRT in hepcidin removal, larger clinical studies evaluating relevant clinical outcomes based on hepcidin trends in this population should be pursued.
Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma: A Case Report about a Male Patient with Pectoral Implants
Authors: Riecke Kerstin , Steinhilper Lisa , Von Bülow Charlotte , Schwarz Dorothee , Burandt Eike , Striefler Jana Käthe , Müller Volkmar , Schmalfeldt Barbara , Witzel Isabell
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is still a rare extralymphatic lymphoma. As of March 1, 2023, approximately 1,355 cases of BIA-ALCL have been reported worldwide. However, no such case has yet been described with pectoral implants in male patients. Most patients with BIA-ALCL present with nonspecific implant-associated symptoms such as late-onset seroma, swollen breasts, and deformation of implants. Case Presentation: Here, we describe BIA-ALCL in a 76-year-old male patient who presented with a late-onset seroma in order to raise awareness for BIA-ALCL also in men after esthetic chest surgery with silicone pectoral implants. The patient had undergone augmentation of the pectoralis muscle with implants for esthetic reasons 9 years before. First cytological specimens showed no malignancy. A repeated cytological assessment after 6 weeks from recurring seroma showed characteristic CD30+ T-cell clones. Surgery with complete bilateral capsulectomy and implant removal was performed. Due to the early-stage ALCL being limited only to the capsule and no evidence of systemic disease, adjuvant systemic treatment was not considered necessary. Conclusion: Any persisting late-onset seroma also in male patients with pectoral implants should raise suspicion of ALCL as differential diagnosis and should be assessed with cytological examination.
Photoreceptor Outer Segment Loss at the Macular Hole Border: Clinical Characteristics and Surgical Prognosis
Authors: Qi Biying , Yu Yanping , Yang Xiaohan , Zhang Ke , Wu Xijin , Wang Xinbo , Feng Xiao , Jia Qinlang , Liu Wu
Published: November 2023

Introduction: During macular hole (MH) formation, the vitreofoveal traction may lead to foveal neural tissue avulsion and consequent photoreceptor loss. However, the clinical significance of the photoreceptor outer segment disruption at the MH border remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the clinical features and surgical outcomes of MHs with photoreceptor outer segment disruption at the MH border. Methods: This study retrospectively reviewed 86 eyes from 85 patients who underwent vitrectomy combined with internal limiting membrane peeling for idiopathic MHs. Baseline and postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and foveal microstructure on optical coherence tomography images were compared between eyes with smooth and bumpy morphology, the latter of which was defined as those with an uneven and irregular surface with evident lumps and indentations at the MH border. Results: The bumpy morphology was identified in 59 of 86 eyes (68.9%). At baseline, eyes with a bumpy MH morphology had a significantly larger minimum linear diameter (p = 0.043), a longer external limiting membrane defect (p = 0.013), and a worse baseline BCVA (p = 0.017) than those with a smooth morphology. Postoperatively, in a multivariate regression model adjusting preoperative confounding effects, eyes with bumpy borders were associated with a longer ellipsoid zone defect (p = 0.006) and a thinner central fovea (p = 0.002) at 1 month, and a thinner central fovea (p = 0.005) and a worse BCVA (p = 0.015) at 10 months. Conclusion: A severe photoreceptor outer segment loss is common at the MH border, which represents a chronic pathogenic process and may be an independent predictor for an incomplete photoreceptor recovery and worse long-term visual outcomes after surgery.
Monogenic Causes Identified in 23.68% of Children with Steroid-Resistant Nephrotic Syndrome: A Single-Centre Study
Authors: Zhang Luyan , Zhao Fei , Ding Guixia , Chen Ying , Zhao Sanlong , Chen Qiuxia , Sha Yugen , Che Ruochen , Huang Songming , Zheng Bixia , Zhang Aihua
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS) is the second most common cause of end-stage kidney disease in children, mostly associated with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). Advances in genomic science have enabled the identification of causative variants in 20–30% of SRNS patients. Methods: We used whole exome sequencing to explore the genetic causes of SRNS in children. Totally, 101 patients with SRNS and 13 patients with nephrotic proteinuria and FSGS were retrospectively enrolled in our hospital between 2018 and 2022. For the known monogenic causes analysis, we generated a known SRNS gene list of 71 genes through reviewing the OMIM database and literature. Results: Causative variants were identified in 23.68% of our cohort, and the most frequently mutated genes in our cohort were WT1 (7/27), NPHS1 (3/27), ADCK4 (3/27), and ANLN (2/27). Five patients carried variants in phenocopy genes, including MYH9, MAFB, TTC21B, AGRN, and FAT4. The variant detection rate was the highest in the two subtype groups with congenital nephrotic syndrome and syndromic SRNS. In total, 68.75% of variants we identified were novel and have not been previously reported in the literature. Conclusion: Comprehensive genetic analysis is key to realizing the clinical benefits of a genetic diagnosis. We suggest that all children with SRNS undergo genetic testing, especially those with early-onset and extrarenal phenotypes.
No Effect of Continued Antiarrhythmic Drug Treatment on Top of Optimized Pulmonary Vein Isolation in Patients With Persistent Atrial Fibrillation: Results From the POWDER-AF2 Trial
Authors: Demolder Anthony , O’Neill Louisa , El Haddad Milad , Scherr Daniel , Vijgen Johan , Wolf Michael , Berte Benjamin , Bisbal Felipe , Johannessen Arne , Rivero-Ayerza Maximo , De Potter Tom , De Becker Benjamin , Polain de Waroux Jean-Benoît le , Knecht Sebastien , Tavernier Rene , Duytschaever Mattias
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND:

In patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (PersAF), catheter ablation aiming for pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is associated with moderate clinical effectiveness. We investigated the benefit of continuing previously ineffective class 1C or 3 antiarrhythmic drug therapy (ADT) in the setting of a standardized PVI-only ablation strategy.

METHODS:

In this multicenter, randomized controlled study, patients with PersAF (≥7 days and <12 months) despite ADT were prospectively randomized 1:1 to PVI with ADT continued versus discontinued beyond the blanking period (ADT ON versus ADT OFF). Standardized catheter ablation was performed aiming for durable isolation with stable, contiguous, and optimized radio frequency applications encircling the pulmonary veins (CLOSE protocol). Clinical visits and 1-to-7-day Holter were performed at 3, 6, and 12 months. The primary end point was any documented atrial tachyarrhythmia lasting >30 seconds beyond 3 months. Prospectively defined secondary end points included repeat ablations, unscheduled arrhythmia-related visits, and quality of life among groups.

RESULTS:

Of 200 PersAF patients, 98 were assigned to ADT OFF and 102 to ADT ON. The longest atrial fibrillation episode qualifying for PersAF was 28 (10–90) versus 30 (11–90) days. Clinical characteristics and procedural characteristics were similar. Recurrence of atrial tachyarrhythmia was comparable in both groups (20% OFF versus 21.2% ON). No differences were observed in repeat ablations and unscheduled arrhythmia-related visits. Marked improvement in quality of life was observed in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS:

In patients with PersAF, there is no benefit in continuing previously ineffective ADT beyond the blanking period after catheter ablation. The high success rate of PVI-only might be explained by the high rate of durable isolation after optimized PVI and the early stage of PersAF (POWDER-AF2).

REGISTRATION:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT03437356.
At What Cost? Is Technical Education Worth the Investment?
Authors: Dougherty Shaun M. , Smith Mary M.
Published: November 2023

Career and technical education (CTE) has existed in the United States for over a century, and only in recent years have there been opportunities to assess the causal impact of participating in these programs while in high school. To date, no work has assessed whether the relative costs of these programs meet or exceed the benefits as described in recent evaluations. In this paper, we use available cost data to compare average costs per pupil in standalone high school CTE programs in Connecticut and Massachusetts to the most likely counterfactual schools. Under a variety of conservative assumptions about the monetary value of known educational and social benefits, we find that programs in Massachusetts offer clear positive returns on investment, whereas programs in Connecticut offer smaller, though mostly non-negative expected returns. We also consider the potential cost effectiveness of CTE programs offered in other contexts to address questions of generalizability.
Money, Morality, and Modernity: A Javanese Remake of a 1930 American Whodunnit in 1960s Indonesia
Authors: Wieringa E.P.
Published: November 2023

Suparto Brata (1932–2015) belongs to the pioneers of the Western model of the whodunnit in modern Javanese literature. His early (1962) work Pethité Njai Blorong (The Tail of Nyai Blorong) is a remake of the 1930 whodunnit While the Patient Slept by the US crime novelist Mignon G. Eberhart (1899–1996), which is a murder mystery in true Agatha Christie fashion. This article shows how Suparto Brata did not simply reproduce Eberhart’s detective story in a postcolonial Indonesian setting but thoroughly and successfully reworked it until it hardly resembled its prototype anymore, turning a foreign example into a veritable modernist Javanese kind of Bildungsroman that mirrored 1960s Indonesian societal issues under the shadow of Sukarno’s nationalist policies and catastrophic economic conditions.
Proxy Observations of Surface Wind from a Globally Distributed Network of Wave Buoys
Authors: Dorsay Ciara , Egan Galen , Houghton Isabel , Hegermiller Christie , Smit Pieter B.
Published: November 2023

In the equilibrium range of the wave spectrum’s high-frequency tail, energy levels are proportional to the wind friction velocity. As a consequence of this intrinsic coupling, spectral tail energy levels can be used as proxy observations of surface stress and wind speed when direct observations are unavailable. Proxy observations from drifting wave-buoy networks can therefore augment existing remote sensing capabilities by providing long dwell observations of surface winds. Here we consider the skill of proxy wind estimates obtained from observations recorded by the globally distributed Sofar Spotter network (observations from 2021 to 2022) when compared with collocated observations derived from satellites (yielding over 20 000 collocations) and reanalysis data. We consider physics-motivated parameterizations (based on frequency−4 universal tail assumption), inverse modeling (estimate wind speed from spectral energy balance), and a data-driven approach (artificial neural network) as potential methods. Evaluation of trained/calibrated models on unseen test data reveals comparable performance across methods with generally of order 1 m s−1 root-mean-square difference with satellite observations.
Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation During Surgical Stabilization of Rib Fractures in Successful Management of Severe Blunt Chest Trauma
Authors: Jensen Stephanie , Dabagian Hannah Olson , Porter Kierstin , Thomas Bradley , Dieffenbaugher Sean , Cunningham Kyle , Green John , Ross Samuel W. , Sachdev Gaurav
Published: November 2023

Early surgical stabilization of rib fracture (SSRF) improves outcomes in patients with flail physiology and severely displaced fractures. We present two cases of patients with severe chest injury and large flail segment who underwent SSRF while on veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO). The patients developed respiratory failure within 24 hours of admission requiring VV-ECMO. The extent of their chest wall injury limited pulmonary mechanics prohibiting transition off VV-ECMO. Therefore, SSRF was performed on hospital days 2 and 3 and while on VV-ECMO support. Stabilizing the chest wall allowed for improved ventilation and successful decannulation from VV-ECMO on postoperative days 3 and 4. Ultimately, both achieved a functional recovery and were discharged home. These cases demonstrate a unique thoracic damage control strategy wherein SSRF is performed while on VV-ECMO. Improving chest stability and pulmonary mechanics with SSRF allowed for safe transition off VV-ECMO and achieved a favorable long-term outcome.
In the Beginning Was the Wort: A New Natural Theology of Meaning for Ecological Catastrophe
Authors: Sleigh Charlotte
Published: November 2023

This paper builds upon a recent corpus of popular science that has elevated previously unsung members of the biosphere—“worts.” It argues that the corpus constitutes a new natural theology, a search for meaning in the biosphere, and suggests a theological underpinning to what its authors intuit: that worts give meaning. To do this, the paper draws on Eduardo Kohn’s How Forests Think (2013) and its examination of meaning as a ubiquitous feature of the multispecies ecosystem. Following on from Kohn, two key arguments are made. First, Kohn’s posthuman anthropology is compatible with a Thomist treatment of organisms in terms of their distinct, life-orientated telos. Second, the current context of potential human extinction puts a life-orientated telos in a new light, reviving the validity of teleological thinking. Sharing the fate of nonhuman subjects, rather than treating them as scientific objects, authors and readers of the new natural theology find meaning among worts.
The effects of authoritative source cue and argument strength of correction tweets on MMR vaccine-related misinformation credibility
Authors: Lee Jiyoung , Kang Dayoung , Lee Hee Yun , Kim Ji Won
Published: November 2023

Objectives:

This study aimed to examine the joint effect of two core message elements – authoritative source and argument strength – in correction tweets to counter conspiratorial misinformation about the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine.

Design/Method:

An online experiment with US residents ( N = 404) was conducted in a 2 (authoritative correction sources: layperson vs US Centres for Disease Prevention and Control [CDC]) × 2 (correction argument strength: weak vs strong) design.

Results:

The results indicate that the correction employing strong arguments and a correction provided by the CDC heightened heuristic processing of the corrective information, which in turn increased the perceived credibility of the conspiratorial misinformation. The effect of the CDC correction on heuristic processing was heightened when it contained weak arguments. Notably, user-generated corrections with weak arguments reduced heuristic processing of the information and contributed to reducing the perceived credibility of the misinformation.

Conclusion:

Based on the findings, we argue that both communicator- and content-related cues jointly influence how audiences process corrective information. The current study discusses the potency of user-generated social media corrections to counter vaccine misinformation and provides practical implications for how user-generated social media correction can be utilised by health practitioners. Public health organisations should prioritise presenting corrective information in an easily understandable manner, using user-generated content that fosters a sense of connection and engagement with individuals.
Asymptomatic Urinary Tract Infection Treatment in Adults Admitted to Inpatient Psychiatry: A Retrospective COHORT study
Authors: Tristano Audrey , Knudsen Katherine , Sheikhi Malihe
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Treatment of asymptomatic bacteriuria remains prevalent despite recommendations against treatment in most patient populations. Rates of asymptomatic treatment of urinary tract infection (UTI) has not been thoroughly evaluated within the inpatient psychiatry population. The objective of this study is to describe the rate of antibiotic use for the treatment of asymptomatic UTI in psychiatric inpatients and investigate factors contributing to overuse. Methods: This IRB approved retrospective cohort study evaluated adults admitted to inpatient psychiatry from May 1, 2021 to May 1, 2022 that received an antibiotic for UTI. The primary outcome assessed the rate of asymptomatic treatment, defined as treatment without urinary symptoms. Secondary outcomes evaluated most frequently prescribed antibiotics, determined the impact of altered mental status (AMS) on treatment, and correlated the incidence of UTI treatment with primary psychiatric disorder. Results: One hundred nine patients were identified and 61 were included for analysis. The rate of asymptomatic treatment for UTI was 84%. The most prescribed antibiotic was nitrofurantoin (48%). All patients with AMS (23%) were asymptomatic. Altered mental status did not significantly impact the rate of empiric treatment ( P = .098). Primary psychiatric disorder did not significantly impact rate of empiric treatment for UTI ( P = .696). Common disorders in this population were depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder with rates of asymptomatic treatment of 79% (n = 19), 87% (n = 13), and 78% (n = 7), respectively. Discussion: Frequent asymptomatic treatment of UTI was identified in this inpatient psychiatry population. These results emphasize the need for antibiotic monitoring and stewardship in this setting.
The Port of Berbera and Geopolitics of the Western Indian Ocean
Authors: Gurjar Sankalp
Published: November 2023

The article discusses the importance of upgradation and modernization of the port of Berbera in the context of evolving geopolitics of the Western Indian Ocean (WIO). The modernization of the Berbera is a part of the larger processes of geopolitics of seaports which is being played out in the WIO. Strategically important location of Berbera has always attracted foreign powers and in the contemporary geopolitics, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is playing a key role. The port of Berbera aspires to emerge as an important trans-shipment hub in the Gulf of Aden and the port development has geopolitical as well as geo-economic significance. In the development of the port and supporting infrastructure in and around Berbera, interests of Somaliland, Ethiopia and UAE converge. Therefore, the article focuses on the interests of these three powers in the context of the evolving geopolitics in the region.
The Joys and Sorrows of Parenting: Parental Burnout and Parental Involvement in Chinese and German Parents From a Demands-Resources Perspective
Authors: Teuber Ziwen , Grüter Sandra , Wang Qichen , Bobrowicz Katarzyna , Su Yanjie , Greiff Samuel
Published: November 2023

Parents are under pressure to perform well in both professional and family life while simultaneously remaining involved in their children’s development. This pressure is reflected by the prevalence of parental burnout, which is of concern in numerous societies. Drawing upon the demands-resources framework, we investigated parental burnout, parental involvement, and their antecedents (i.e., gender, socioeconomic status, single parenthood, the number of schoolchildren, in-group collectivism, self-esteem, and parent–teacher collaboration) in a cross-cultural setting. Analyses were based on 856 Chinese and 421 German parents’ self-reports. The results of latent mean comparisons showed that Chinese parents reported more parental burnout symptoms, less parental involvement, lower global self-esteem, and higher quality of parent–teacher collaboration in comparison with German parents. Multigroup structural equation models revealed that the relationships between parental burnout, parental involvement, and presumed factors of influence were comparable between the two cultural groups. Furthermore, self-esteem and parent–teacher collaboration can be seen as factors that protect against parental burnout and should encourage parents to get involved in their children’s education. This study provides evidence of the cross-cultural validity of the demands-resources framework and novel insights into the roles of resilience and engagement as a protective function of parenting resources.
Etiquette in the Context of Death and Dying: Communication and Conversation
Authors: Dayes Jennifer , Keenan Joseph , Sadza Michal , Croucher Karina
Published: November 2023

Death, bereavement, and grief are experiences suffused with conflict and disenfranchisement. Intricately connected is ‘etiquette’ – the sense of ‘should’ ‘must’ ‘right’ ‘wrong’ ‘appropriate’ and ‘inappropriate’ individuals feel in death and bereavement situations. This paper is the first of two answering the question, ‘where does etiquette arise in death and bereavement situations and what does this ‘look like?’’ The theme The etiquette of communication and conversation is described, highlighting the importance of early communication for resolving conflict, what is considered ‘appropriate’ communication and support, and the social values underpinning these. Data highlighted how the CBT concept of ‘shoulding and musting’ manifests in death and bereavement situations, gave insight into etiquette’s role in disenfranchising grief through shaping conversations, and offered suggestions for bereavement support. Though the term ‘etiquette’ may be misleading out of context, the concept resonated with the bereaved community and provided language to discuss the nuances of their experiences.
Death Preparedness: Development and Initial Validation of the Advance Planning Preparedness Scale
Authors: McLeod-Sordjan Renee
Published: November 2023

Delayed advance planning and costs of life sustaining treatments at end of life significantly contribute to the economic burden of healthcare. Clinician barriers include perceptions of inappropriate timing, lack of skills in end-of-life communication and viewing readiness as a behavior rather than a death attitude. This study developed and validated a measurement of psychological preparedness for advance directive completion. Confirmatory factor analysis ( N = 543) of a 35 item pool (Cronbach α = .96) supported five sub-scales; psychological comfort (α = .87), desire to know (α = .88), thinking (α = .84), willingness (α = .82) and existential reflection (α = .79) with a possible common factor (α = .84). Results suggested significant predictors of completing directives in 30 days included discussion (OR .08, p < .001), preparedness (OR 4.08, p = .03) and uncertainty (OR 4.37, p = .02). APP = 35 is a reliable and valid measure with utility to assess readiness for completion of EOL documents.