bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parallel Wavelength-Division-Multiplexed Signal Transmission and Dispersion Compensation Enabled by Soliton Microcombs and Microrings
Authors: Lu Liangjun , Liu Yuanbin , Zhang Hongyi , Liu Jiacheng , Du Jiangbing , Li Yu , He Zuyuan , Chen Jianping , Zhou Linjie , Poon Andrew
Published: September 2023

The proliferation of computation-intensive technologies has led to a significant rise in the number of datacenters, posing challenges for high-speed and power-efficient datacenter interconnects (DCIs). Although inter-DCIs based on intensity modulation and direct detection (IM-DD) along with wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM) technologies exhibit cost-effective, power-efficient, and large-capacity properties, the requirement of multiple laser sources leads to high costs and limited scalability. Moreover, careful considerations must be given to the chromatic dispersion in the C-band as it restricts the transmission length of the optical signals. Electronic and optical approaches based on digital signal processing algorithms or dispersion-compensating fibers suffer from either a high power consumption or a lack of full reconfigurability. In this study, we present an original scalable on-chip parallel IM-DD data transmission system enabled by a single-soliton Kerr microcomb and a reconfigurable microring resonator (MRR)-based dispersion compensator. The highly compact MRR-based Kerr microcomb and dispersion compensator are intrinsically compatible with the parallel processing nature of the WDM link. Besides, the reconfigurability of the dispersion compensator shows the validation for various data-rate transmissions over multiple single-mode fiber lengths of up to 40 km, with a power consumption of below 160 mW, regardless of the modulation format or of the number of transmission channels utilized. Through our experimental validation, we demonstrate an aggregate bit rate of 1.68 Tbit/s over a 20-km-long single-mode fiber using 15 independent wavelength channels spaced at 100 GHz. Our approach holds significant promise for achieving data communications at a scale exceeding 10 terabits, making it highly valuable for future hyper-scale DCIs.
Clinical Presentation, Aetiological Characteristics, Risk Factors and In-hospital Outcome of Nosocomial Infection following Acute Aortic Dissection Surgery in Adult Patients
Authors: Ren Jianwei , Xin Yu , Zhang Jianye , Liu Yan , Liu Yulei , Zhu Guangfa
Published: September 2023

Background
Nosocomial infection (NI) is one of the most common complications after acute aortic dissection surgery (AADS) and contributes significantly to mortality and length of hospital stay. Therefore, this study analysed the clinical characteristics of NI and determined the risk factors for the occurrence and development of NI and in-hospital outcomes.
Methods
During this study, 429 adult patients with AADS were divided into an infected group (n = 141) and a noninfected group (n = 288). Complete clinical data (including baseline clinical characteristics and laboratory results, surgery-related variables, and clinical outcomes) were collected for statistical analysis. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine the independent risk factors for the occurrence of NI after AADS.
Results
The incidence of NI in AADS was 29.0%. The main clinical presentations were hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP = 51.8%), ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP = 24.8%) and bloodstream infection (BSI = 18.4%). The most common pathogenic bacteria were gram-negative bacilli (GNB = 68.8%), including Klebsiella pneumoniae (27.7%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (16.3%) and Acinetobacter baumannii (13.5%). Multivariate regression analysis found that preexisting cerebrovascular disease, lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), total protein and serum albumin, longer operation time and cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time, second operation in-hospital, exposure to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT), and proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use were independent risk factors for the occurrence of NI (all P < 0.01). Compared with noninfected patients, the intensive care unit (ICU) stay time and total hospital stay time were significantly prolonged after the occurrence of NI (all P < 0.001). The risks of other complications, such as acute kidney injury (AKI), acute upper gastrointestinal haemorrhage, new cerebral infarction, paraplegia or hemiplegia, and new cerebral haemorrhage, were significantly higher in patients with NI after AADS than in noninfected patients (all P < 0.001). The in-hospital mortality (46.1%) of NI after AADS was significantly higher than that of noninfected patients (3.5%, P < 0.001).
Conclusions
This study identified the high morbidity and mortality of NI after AADS. The most frequent infection types were HAP, VAP and BSI, and the most common microorganisms isolated were Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii. Meanwhile, many risk factors affect the occurrence and development of NI. Hence, clinicians should be reminded to identify high-risk patients early and develop individualized perioperative prevention and management programs to reduce the morbidity and mortality of NI and improve the prognosis of patients with AAD.
Regulatory sequence-based discovery of anti-defense genes in archaeal viruses
Authors: Peng Xu , Bhoobalan-Chitty Yuvaraj , Xu Shuanshuan , Alvarez Laura Martínez , Karamycheva Svetlana , Makarova Kira , Koonin Eugene
Published: September 2023

In silico identification of viral anti-CRISPR proteins (Acrs) has relied largely on the guilt-by-association method with known Acrs or anti-CRISPR associated proteins (Acas) used as the bait. However, the low number and limited spread of the characterized archaeal Acrs and Acas hinders our ability to identify Acrs using guilt-by-association. Here, based on an observation that the few characterized archaeal Acrs and Aca are transcribed immediately post viral infection, we hypothesized that these genes, and many other unidentified anti-defense genes, are under the control of conserved regulatory sequences including a strong promoter, which can be used to predict anti-defense genes (ADG) in archaeal viruses. Using this consensus sequence based method, we identified 354 potential anti-defense related genes in 57 archaeal viruses and 6 metagenome-assembled genomes. Experimental validation identified a CRISPR subtype I-A inhibitor and the first virally encoded inhibitor of an archaeal toxin-antitoxin based immune system. We also identified regulatory proteins potentially akin to Acas that can facilitate further identification of ADGs combined with the guilt-by-association approach. These results demonstrate the potential of regulatory sequence analysis for extensive identification of ADGs in viruses of archaea and bacteria.
Ecological interactions amplify cumulative effects in marine ecosystems
Authors: Beauchesne David , Cazelles Kevin , Daigle Rémi , Gravel Dominique , Archambault Philippe
Published: September 2023

The Convention on Biological Diversity is setting ambitious goals for preserving biodiversity, the first of which states that the integrity of ecosystems must be enhanced. This recognizes that biodiversity is not a mere collection of species; it also includes the diversity of interactions driving ecological dynamics and ecosystem functioning. Yet management still overwhelmingly operates in silos, focusing on single stressor and species. Here, we assess the cumulative effects of climate change and human activities on species of the St. Lawrence marine ecosystem in eastern Canada using a novel approach that explicitly considers the web of interactions structuring communities. We uncover cumulative effects that would otherwise be overlooked if species interactions were ignored, particularly for fishes and marine mammals, many of which are exploited or endangered. This suggests that management plans and recovery strategies may be ignoring significant threats by overlooking species interactions. Our approach is, to our knowledge, the first ecosystem-based approach relevant to the management of exploited and endangered species which can evaluate the less obvious yet no less significant effects arising from species interactions in a multiple stressors framework.
Effect of nutrient density on performance and egg quality of laying hens at high altitude
Authors: Moreano Jhonatan Steve Inca , Aquino Eyner Eduardo Torres , Flores Keyro Alberto Melendez , Martinez Diego A.
Published: September 2023

The effect of nutritional density on performance and egg quality has not been stablished in hens at high altitudes. This study evaluated the effect of different nutritional densities on performance and egg quality of laying hens at high altitude. Sixty 45-weeks old Hy-Line Brown hens distributed in 12 cages (5 birds each) and assigned to one of three dietary treatments (i.e, low nutritional density, LND; medium nutritional density, MND –control diet; high nutritional density, HND) were fed during four weeks and assessed during the las one. Feed intake, egg production rate, egg mass, feed conversion ratio, and external and internal egg quality were evaluated. No differences were observed in performance, egg weight, egg length, egg width, egg surface area, and egg shape index (P > 0.05). Shell weight, thickness, and weight per unit of surface area were higher in the LND and MND diets compared to the HND (P = 0.003, P = 0.017, and P = 0.031, respectively). While dense albumen length was greater in the control diet (MND) compared to LND and HND (P = 0.049), no other internal quality trait showed differences (P > 0.05). In conclusion, laying hens fed LND and MND diets showed better shell integrity (greater shell weight and thickness).
Implementation of a Standardized Protocol for Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Monitoring Reduces False Negative Results during Neck Surgery: A Quality Control Case Study
Authors: Simmons Colby , Montejano Julio , Eagleston Lauren , Cao Scott , Kaizer Alexander M. , Jameson Leslie , Oliva Anthony , Clavijo Claudia F.
Published: September 2023

Background:
Recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury during neck surgery can cause significant morbidity related to vocal cord (VC) dysfunction. VC electromyography (EMG) is used to aid in identification of the RLN and can reduce the probability of inadvertent surgical injury. Errors in placement of specialized EMG endotracheal tubes (ETT) can result in unreliable signals, false-negative responses, or no response when stimulating the RLN. We describe a novel educational protocol developed to optimize uniformity in placement of ETTs to improve reliability of RLN monitoring.
Methods:
Intraoperative neuromonitoring database was queried for all neck surgeries requiring RLN monitoring. Data points extracted for all cases requiring EMG monitoring for neck procedures. Free running and stimulated EMG were monitored and continuously recorded by a certified technologist. Alerts were compared between 2013-14 and 2015-18 using a two-sample test of proportions.
Results:
Significant reductions in alerts were demonstrated after protocol implementation (7.5% pre-implementation to 2.1% post). Alerts were compared between 2013-14 (overall alert rate of 1.8%, pre-implementation period) and 2015-18 (overall alert rate of 2.8%, post-implementation period).
Conclusion:
Protocolization for placement of EMG-ETT improved accuracy in EMG monitoring. In the follow-up cohort of 1,080 patients, use of this protocol continued to reduce the rate of alerts related to ETT malposition confirming the sustainability of this intervention through routine education. Risk of nerve injury is reduced when the rate of alerts is minimized. Scheduled or continuous protocol education of anesthesia personnel should continue to ensure compliance with protocol.
Social media usage and students’ social anxiety, loneliness and Well-being: Does digital mindfulness-based intervention effectively work?
Authors: Sun Li
Published: September 2023

The increasing use of digital technologies in daily life has led to a growing number of studies in the field of digital psychology. While research in this area has provided valuable insights into the potential benefits and drawbacks of digital technologies for mental health and well-being, there is still much to be learned about the complex relationship between technology and psychology. This study aimed to investigate the effects of mindfulness-based mobile apps on university students' anxiety, loneliness, and well-being. It also explored the participants’ perceptions of the addictiveness of mindfulness-based mobile apps. The study used a multi-phase research design consisting of a correlational research method, a pretest-posttest randomized controlled trial, and a qualitative case study. Three subsets of participants were selected for each phase: correlations (n = 300), treatment (n = 60), and qualitative (n = 20). Data were collected from various sources, including the social anxiety scale, well-being scale, social media use integration scale, and interview checklist. Pearson correlation, multiple regression, and t-tests were used to analyze the quantitative data, while thematic analysis was used for the qualitative data. The results confirmed a significant correlation between social media use and the study variables. The treatment also decreased students' anxiety and increased their well-being. The participants also had different positive perceptions of the use of mindfulness-based mobile apps. These findings have theoretical and practical implications for digital psychologists.
A 3D-printed micro-hemispherical shell resonator with electrostatic tuning for Coriolis vibratory gyroscope
Authors: Che Lufeng , Hou Baoyin , Zhu Ye , He Chaofan , Wang Weidong , Ding Zhi , He Wen , He Yong
Published: September 2023

The emergence of micro-hemispherical resonant gyroscopes, combining the advantages of exceptional stability and long lifetime with miniaturization, has opened up new possibilities for the development of whole-angle gyroscopes. The primary drawback of the existing methods used for manufacturing micro-hemispherical resonant gyroscopes based on MEMS technology is the intricate and costly process involved. Here we report the design, fabrication, and characterization of the first 3D-printable micro-hemispherical shell resonator for Coriolis vibrating gyroscope. One remarkable advancement is fabrication in just two steps, rather than the dozen or so steps of traditional micromachining. Utilizing the intricate shaping capability and ultra-high precision offered by projection micro stereolithography, we are able to fabricate 3D high-aspect-ratio resonant structures and controllable capacitive air gaps, both of which are extremely difficult for MEMS technology. In addition, the fabricated resonators can be tuned for resonance frequency by electrostatic forces and exhibit higher quality factor in air compared to MEMS micro-hemispherical resonators. This work demonstrates the feasibility of rapidly batch-manufacturing micro-hemispherical shell resonators, paving the way for the development of micro-hemispherical resonator gyroscopes for portable inertial navigation. Concurrently, this particular design concept could be further applied to increase the uptake in the MEMS community.
Correlation between relative dose intensity of adjuvant S-1 chemotherapy and psoas muscle mass volume and survival after resection of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Sakamoto Teruhisa , Kishino Mikiya , Murakami Yuki , Miyatani Kozo , Hanaki Takehiko , Shishido Yuji , Kihara Kyoichi , Matsunaga Tomoyuki , Yamamoto Manabu , Tokuyasu Naruo , Fujiwara Yoshiyuki
Published: September 2023

Background
This study aimed to investigate the prognostic relationship between relative dose intensity of adjuvant S-1 chemotherapy and psoas muscle mass volume in patients with resected pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.
Methods
We enrolled 105 patients with histologically confirmed pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who had undergone pancreatectomy.
Results
Adjuvant S-1 chemotherapy was administered to 72 (68.6%) of the 105 patients and not to the remaining 33 patients. Patients were stratified into high- and low-relative dose intensity groups by the cutoff value for relative dose intensity; the latter group included patients who did not receive adjuvant S-1 chemotherapy. Five-year overall and relapse-free survival rates were significantly higher in the high- than in the low-relative dose intensity group. There were statistically significant differences in 5-year overall and relapse-free survival between four patient groups stratified according to combinations of relative dose intensity and psoas muscle mass volume (5-year overall survival: P = 0.010, 5-year relapse-free survival: P = 0.044). The area under the curve for the combination of relative dose intensity and psoas muscle mass volume (0.694) was greater than that for relative dose intensity alone (0.657). According to multivariate analysis, a combination of relative dose intensity and psoas muscle mass volume was an independent prognostic factor in our study patients.
Conclusions
A sufficient dosage of adjuvant S-1 chemotherapy is important in improving survival of patients with resected pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. A combination of relative dose intensity and psoas muscle mass volume may predict the prognosis of patients with resected pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.
Dysregulated Glycerophospholipid Metabolism and ChAT Overexpression in Wrap-Restraint Stress-Induced IBS Mice: A Multi-Omics Approach to Gut-Brain Axis Disruption and Potential Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Zhang Fan , Zhou Yanlin , Li Fuhao , Sun Shaopeng , Guo Lingnan , Xu Maosheng , Lv Bin
Published: September 2023

Background: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that affects a significant portion of the global population. Despite extensive research in recent years, the pathophysiology of IBS remains poorly understood, and there is currently no definitive cure for the condition. However, recent advances in high-throughput technologies such as genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics have allowed for exploration of IBS at the multi-omics level. These approaches enable us to examine IBS from multiple perspectives and identify potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for the condition.
Methods:This study employed a comprehensive multi-omics investigation on the IBS model induced by “wrap-restraint stress”, revealing significant abnormalities in systemic glycerophospholipid metabolism within the gut-brain axis.
Results:Metabolomics analysis demonstrated decreased phosphatidylcholine (PC) content and increased lysophosphatidylcholine (lyso-PC) levels in multiple tissues of IBS mice. Concurrently, transcriptomic analysis indicated increased transcription of Choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), a crucial enzyme involved in the acetylcholine synthesis pathway. To explore potential therapies, we administered α-NETA, a ChAT inhibitor, to IBS mice in subsequent experiments. Remarkably, α-NETA treatment improved various IBS-like symptoms, including increased body weight, decreased visceral sensitivity, reduced fecal water content, and alleviated anxiety-like behaviors. Additionally, α-NETA administration significantly elevated PC levels in multiple tissues while reducing the levels of Cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2), an enzyme responsible for PC degradation into lyso-PC.
Conclusions: Our findings suggest that elevated levels of acetylcholine induced by ChAT overexpression and enhanced activity induce gut-brain axis disturbances and a variety of IBS-like symptoms in mice. This study highlights the therapeutic potential of targeting glycerophospholipid metabolism and ChAT as a promising approach for managing IBS.
Gap control method for electrochemical milling machining under robot trajectory error perturbation
Authors: Yu Liang , Fang Ming , Jiang Lijun , Chu Xu Feng , Hou Liang Liang , Cheng Xu , Wang Jun Long
Published: September 2023

Industrial robots have great potential for highly flexible manufacturing of complex and difficult-to-machine parts due to their advantages of high flexibility, high dexterity, and strong sensing ability. Also, electrochemical milling machining methods have important application prospects in the efficient and precise machining of difficult-to-cut machined part materials. Robotic electrochemical milling is now becoming a hot spot in the research of new electrochemical machining technology. However, the weak stiffness and low precision of industrial robots themselves will produce errors in the normal gap in electrochemical milling. The inter-electrode gap directly affects the process performance of electrochemical machining in terms of machining accuracy and surface quality. To reduce the effect of robot trajectory error perturbations on the interpolar gap, real-time control of the machining gap is required. In this paper, we propose a normal motion error correction control system that extends the seventh axis. Its gap control strategy is based on real-time measurement of the machining current, the current fluctuation is converted into a normal error compensation amount, and the end-effector completes the error amount of the machining gap compensation. The response performance of this gap control system was simulated and analyzed, and an experimental platform was designed and built. Finally, to verify the effectiveness of the machining gap control servo system, experiments were carried out on the machining of flat workpieces. The experimental results surface that the method can effectively control the IEG fluctuation in robotic electrochemical milling within a small range, which ultimately improves the machining accuracy and surface quality of the parts.
Evaluating local primary health care actions to address health inequities: analysis of Australia's Primary Health Networks
Authors: Windle Alice , Javanparast Sara , Freeman Toby , Baum Fran
Published: September 2023

Background
Meso-level, regional primary health care organisations such as Australia’s Primary Health Networks (PHNs) are well placed to address health inequities through comprehensive primary health care approaches. This study aimed to examine the equity actions of PHNs and identify factors that hinder or enable the equity-orientation of PHNs’ activities.
Methods
Analysis of all 31 PHNs’ public planning documents, case study interviews with a sample of five PHNs’ stakeholders, and analysis of internal planning guidance documents, employing an existing framework to examine equity actions.
Results
PHNs displayed clear intentions and goals for health equity and collected considerable evidence of health inequities. However, their planned activities were largely restricted to individualistic clinical and behavioural approaches, with little to facilitate access to other health and social services, or act on the broader social determinants of health. PHNs’ equity-oriented planning was enabled by organisational values for equity, evidence of local health inequities, and engagement with local stakeholders. Equity-oriented planning was hindered by federal government constraints and lack of equity-oriented planning process mechanisms.
Conclusions
PHNs’ equity actions were limited. They need greater autonomy and systematic planning mechanisms to capitalise on their local evidence and connections to address health inequities.
Logarithmic-Function And Geometric Algebra Based Variable Step-size Least Mean Square Algorithm.
Authors: shahzad khurram , WANG RUI
Published: September 2023

Recently, adaptive filtering algorithms have attracted much more attention in the field of signal processing.To make improvement in the performance of sigmoid function and geometric algebra based least mean square algorithm (GA-SVSLMS), this article proposed the novel approach to adaptive filtering with variable step size based on logarithmic function and geometric algebra (GA). First, the presented approach to adaptive filtering with variable step size based on geometric algebra represents the multi-dimensional signal as a GA multi-vector for the vectorization process. Second, by establishing a non-linear relationship between the step size and the error signal to achieve fast convergence and small steady error under reasonable computational complexity. Furthermore, we analyze the influence of the parameters in the step change factor on the proposed algorithm. Simulation conclusion reveals that the algorithm outperforms existing variable step size LMS algorithms based on other functions in terms of convergence rate and steady state error.
Assessing the phytoextraction of cadmium, lead, and zinc from a slag-contaminated soil by legume species inoculated with rhizobial strains
Authors: Silva Jessyca Adriana Gomes Florêncio , de Freitas Ana Dolores Santiago , Silva Vinicius Santos Gomes da , Fernandes-Júnior Paulo Ivan , Fernandes Aline Melo , Souza Pablo Acácio dos Santos , de Oliveira Andressa Silva , Santos Nielson Machado , Nascimento Clístenes Williams Araújo do , Santos Carolina Etiene de Rosália e Silva
Published: September 2023

Metal-polluted soils can pose a severe threat to the environment and need remediation. We assessed the potential of jack bean and mucuna inoculated with rhizobial strains on the phytoremediation of soils contaminated by lead (Pb) smelting activities in Santo Amaro, Bahia state, the most serious case of Pb contamination in Brazil. Plants were grown in pots containing soils with three contamination levels for Pb, cadmium (Cd), and zinc (Zn) based on the distance from the chimney of the abandoned Pb smelter plant. Legumes and inoculated strains were tolerant to soil contamination. The BR 2811 strain is potentially indicated to increase jack bean biomass. The Cd, Pb, and Zn concentrations in plants were highest when grown on the soil with the highest contamination level. We found significant interactions between strains and soil contamination levels for phytoextraction efficiency, although the very high metal contents in soil can make phytoextraction unfeasible due to the time required to bring the metals to regulatory concentrations. The Cd, Pb and Zn net removal from soil was proportional to increased contamination levels. The legumes did not show potential for Pb phytoextraction, but they have the potential for Zn phytoextraction and Cd phytostabilization. The BR 2811, BR 3501 and BR 7606 strains were the most promising to increase the phytoremediation potential of jack bean and mucuna.
Reprogramming a doxycycline-inducible gene switch system for bacteria-mediated cancer therapy
Authors: Ngo Hien Thi-Thu , Nguyen Dinh-Huy , You Sung-Hwan , Nguyen Khuynh Van , Kim So-Young , Hong Yeongjin , Min Jung-Joon
Published: September 2023

Purpose: Attenuated Salmonella typhimurium is a potential biotherapeutic antitumor agent because it can colonize tumors and inhibit their growth. The present study aimed to develop a doxycycline (Doxy)-inducible gene switch system in attenuated S. Typhimurium and assess its therapeutic efficacy in various tumor-bearing mice models.
Procedures: A Doxy-inducible gene switch system comprising two plasmids was engineered to trigger expression of cargo genes (Rluc8 and clyA). Attenuated S. Typhimurium carrying Rluc8 were injected intravenously into BALB/c mice bearing CT26 tumors and bioluminescence images were captured at specified intervals post-administration of doxycycline. The tumor-suppressive effects of bacteria carrying clyA were evaluated in BALB/c mice bearing CT26 tumors and in C57BL/6 mice bearing MC38 tumors.
Results: Expression of fimE gene, induced only in the presence of Doxy, triggered a unidirectional switch of the POXB20 promoter to induce expression of the cargo genes. The switch event was maintained over a long period of bacterial culture. After intravenous injection of transformed Salmonella into mice bearing CT26 tumors, the bacteria transformed with the Doxy-inducible gene switch system for Rluc8 targeted only tumor tissues, and expressed the payloads 2 days after Doxy treatment. Notably, bacteria carrying the Doxy-inducible gene switch system for clyA effectively suppressed tumor growth and prolonged survival, even after just one Doxy induction.
Conclusions: These results suggest that attenuated S. typhimurium carrying this novel gene switch system elicited significant therapeutic effects through a single induction triggering and were a potential biotherapeutic agent for tumor therapy.
Altered levels of cytokine, T- and B-lymphocytes, and PD-1 expression rates in drug- naïve schizophrenia patients with acute phase
Authors: Zheng Yali , Zhang Qi , Zhou Xianqin , Yao Linjuan , Zhu Quanfeng , Fu Zhengchuang
Published: September 2023

Background
Altered immune function in patients with schizophrenia has been of great interest, and although many studies have explored the changes in peripheral immune cell levels in patients with acute-phase, relatively few studies have addressed the functional phenotype of immune cells and expression rates of programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)/ programmed cell death-Ligand 1 (PD-L1). The aim of this study was to investigate the extent of immune cells activation, PD-1/PD-1 expressions, and altered cytokine levels in drug-naïve schizophrenia patients with acute-phase.
Methods
Drug-naïve schizophrenia patients in acute-phase and healthy individuals were enrolled in this study as experimental and control groups, separately. Socio-demographic information including gender, age, duration of illness, and smoking status was collected for each subject. The percentage of T-, B-, and natural killer (NK)-cells, as well as their expressions of PD-1/PD-L1, and the levels of cytokines including interferon (IFN)-γ, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, Interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, IL-6, and IL-10, were examined.
Results
Drug-naïve schizophrenia patients in acute-phase had higher levels of peripheral blood CD4 + T cells and B cells, higher PD-1 expression in B cells, and lower levels of CD8 + T cells. In addition, IL-6 levels of peripheral blood were higher in schizophrenia patients (all P < 0.05).
Conclusions
Significant immune stress was present in schizophrenia patients with acute-phase.
Reducing Hand Radiation during Renal Access for Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy: A Comparison of Radiation Reduction Techniques
Authors: Chen Ricky , Joo Eun Hye , Baas Catalina , Hartman John , Amasyali Akin , Belle Joshua D. , Ritchie Cayde , Baldwin Elizabeth , Okhunov Zhamshid , Farkouh Ala’a , Baldwin D. Duane
Published: September 2023

Introduction
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy confers the highest radiation to the urologist’s hands compared to other urologic procedures. This study compares radiation exposure to the surgeon’s hand and patient’s body when utilizing three different techniques for needle insertion during renal access.
Methods
Simulated percutaneous renal access was performed using a cadaveric patient and separate cadaveric forearm representing the surgeon’s hand. Three different needle-holding techniques were compared: conventional glove (control), a radiation-attenuating glove, and a novel needle holder. Five 300-second fluoroscopy trials were performed per treatment arm. The primary outcome was radiation dose (mSv) to the surgeon’s hand. The secondary outcome was radiation dose to the patient. One-way ANOVA and Tukey’s B post-hoc tests were performed with p<0.05 considered significant.
Results
Compared to the control (3.92 mSv), both the radiation-attenuating glove (2.48 mSv) and the needle holder (1.37 mSv) reduced hand radiation exposure (p<0.001). The needle holder reduced hand radiation compared to the radiation-attenuating glove (p<0.001). The radiation-attenuating glove resulted in greater radiation produced by the C-arm compared to the needle holder (83.49 vs 69.22 mGy; p=0.019). Patient radiation exposure was significantly higher with the radiation-attenuating glove compared to the needle holder (8.43 vs 7.03 mSv; p=0.027).
Conclusion
Though radiation-attenuating gloves decreased hand radiation dose by 37%, this came at the price of a 3% increase in patient exposure. In contrast, the needle holder reduced exposure to both the surgeon’s hand by 65% and the patient by 14%. Thus, a well-designed low-density needle holder could optimize radiation safety for both surgeon and patient.
Deep Reinforcement Learning Approach Based Grammatical Error Correction
Authors: Akbar Muhammad Hamza , Asghar Rabail , Hussain Muzammal , Farhan Muhammad , ALOTAIBI Faiz Abdullah , Alnfiai Mrim M.
Published: September 2023

Natural Language Processing (NLP) is a field of study that focuses on the interaction between computers and human language. It encompasses various techniques and methodologies aimed at enabling machines to understand, interpret, and generate human language text or speech. NLP plays a crucial role in many applications, including machine translation, sentiment analysis, information retrieval, and Grammatical Error Correction (GEC). Grammatical Error Correction (GEC) is an important task in natural language processing that aims to automatically correct errors in written text. It involves detecting and correcting errors related to grammar, syntax, spelling, punctuation, and other linguistic aspects. However, existing study is solely based on classical machine learning and deep learning methods for GEC. This study proposes a new approach using a DQN model and leverages the C4_200M dataset to automate the GEC process. The main goal of this study is to optimize the selection of action-value function (Q-function) and train a DRL model for automatic grammatical error correction and set baseline results using reinforcement learning (RL) techniques. Findings show that the proposed DQN model outperformed machine learning and rule‑based techniques.
Stability of mechanically exfoliated layered monochalcogenides under ambient conditions
Authors: Hlushchenko Daria , Siudzinska Anna , Cybinska Joanna , Guzik Malgorzata , Bachmatiuk Alicja , Kudrawiec Robert
Published: September 2023

Monochalcogenides of groups III (GaS, GaSe) and VI (GeS, GeSe, SnS, and SnSe) are materials with interesting thickness-dependent characteristics, which have been applied in many areas. However, the stability of layered monochalcogenides (LMs) is a real problem in semiconductor devices that contain these materials; therefore, it is an important issue that needs to be explored. This article presents a comprehensive study of the degradation mechanism in mechanically exfoliated monochalcogenides in ambient conditions using Raman and photoluminescence spectroscopy supported by structural methods. A higher stability (up to three weeks) was observed for GaS; the most reactive were Se-containing monochalcogenides. Surface protrusions appeared after the ambient exposure of GeSe was detected by scanning electron microscopy. In addition, the degradation of GeS and GeSe flakes were observed in the operando experiment in transmission electron microscopy. Further, the amorphization of the material progressed from the flake edges. The reported results and conclusions on the degradation of LMs are useful to understand surface oxidation, air stability, and to fabricate stable devices with monochalcogenides. The results indicate that LMs are more challenging for exfoliation and optical studies than transition metal dichalcogenides such as MoS2, MoSe2, WS2, or WSe2.
In Markov process, an extremal reversible measure is an extremal invariant measure
Authors: Yagisita Hiroki
Published: September 2023

We consider a discrete-time temporally-homogeneous conservative Markov process. We show that extremality of reversible measure implies extremality of invariant measure. Using analogue of Dirichlet form, we modify a proof that in stochastic Ising model (Glauber dynamics), an extreme Gibbs state is an extreme invariant measure.
Landed oligarchy harm schooling contribution to structural change: Lessons learned from Indonesia
Authors: Firdausy Carunia Mulya , Buhaerah Pihri
Published: September 2023

Landed oligarchy is one of the long standing problems in many developing countries. As no recent studies examine this issue, this study aims at filling this research gap by analyzing specifically whether or not the landed oligarchic harms schooling contribution to the structural change by taking Indonesia as a case study. Using the Socio-economic Survey (SUSENAS) data and employing the expenditure and employment share approaches, it was found that higher-educated employment in Indonesia contributes positively to manufacturing and services. The employability of senior high school-educated workers is higher in the manufacturing sector while the service sectors are in favor of college-educated workers. However, the contribution of schooling is relatively limited if the landless household share is more than 40 percent. This study confirms that landed oligarchy harms higher-educated employment's contribution to Indonesia's structural transformation process. This evidenced-based research has valuable policy contributions, especially for the Asia Pacific, American Latin and African economies in rethinking the practices of land oligarchy to sustain their development programs. It is now or never.
JEL: Q15; Q18.
Assessment of Groundwater Vulnerability by Modified DRASTIC Model and Analytic Hierarchy Process over Urban and Suburban Landscape of an Indian Megacity
Authors: Islam Kazi Hamidul , Das Reshmi
Published: September 2023

Groundwater is one of the major sources of freshwater on earth, so its quality and quantity are important. However, domestic water supply is a serious issue in megacities due to the enormous population growth and urban sprawl. This study analyses groundwater vulnerability in an Indian megacity Kolkata, where ⁓52% of the population are dependent on groundwater. Over the last thirty years, impervious surfaces over the studied area have increased about three times which resulted in the decrease of groundwater recharge. Based on the data analyses of the last two decades, it is observed that groundwater table has been depleting substantially towards the east and west from river Ganga that flows through the study area. To reduce groundwater contamination and recover groundwater table, an assessment of groundwater vulnerability is essential. The present study focuses on the modified DRASTIC model for groundwater vulnerability assessment. An additional parameter, land use land cover (LULC), was added to form the DRASTIC-L model. The ratings of subcategories of eight parameters are allocated based on the local environmental condition. In addition, the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) is used to assign a weight to each parameter in order to reduce human subjectivity in vulnerability assessments. To validate the accuracy of the results, correlation between the groundwater vulnerability index and groundwater quality parameter data is performed. The correlation between DRASTIC scores and nitrate (R = 0.36) and phosphate (R = 0.35) levels improved to R = 0.56 and R = 0.51 respectively after using DRASTIC-L AHP. The overall results reveal that the groundwater aquifer in the study area is facing contamination due to LULC changes and shallow depth of groundwater. We suggest that modified DRASTIC AHP model can be used to deliver reliable results making it a valuable tool for initial assessments for groundwater vulnerability for stakeholders and policymakers.
Posterior Capsular Radial Sign: A Novel Method to Confirm Anterior Vitreous Cortex Resection in Phacovitrectomy
Authors: Qu Shen , Zhou Qi , Shao Yu-Ting , Lin Ming-Yue , Shen Jia-Qi , Niu Guo-Zhen , Han Wen-Ting , Zhang Li , Bi Yan-Long
Published: September 2023

Background
The main purpose of this paper is to introduce a method that can accurately locate the posterior capsule of the lens to facilitate a relatively complete resection of the anterior vitreous body.
Methods
A total of 51 patients in the experimental group and control group were enrolled in this study. Phacoemulsification combined with vitrectomy was performed in all cases. After the cataract procedure was completed in the control group, the surgeon performed a conventional anterior vitrectomy with the operative eye. In the experimental group, anterior vitrectomy was performed according to the threadiness corrugation of the posterior capsule of the lens. During the operation, with the help of triamcinolone, two surgeons confirmed the resection of the anterior vitreous cortex; the best corrected visual acuity and intraocular pressure of all patients were recorded at 1 week, 1 month and 3 months after surgery.
Results
Fifty patients underwent phacoemulsification combined with vitrectomy, except one patient in the experimental group who was lost to follow-up. After surgery, no significant complications were observed in all patients except two patients in the control group with temporary increases in intraocular pressure. There was no significant difference in preoperative visual acuity between the two groups (t = 0.83, P = 0.25). Both groups had varying degrees of improvement in best corrected visual acuity at 1 week, 1 month and 3 months after surgery. Moreover, there was no significant difference in BCVA between the two groups at the three follow-up time points (t=-1.15, -1.65, -1.09, P = 0.53, 0.21, 0.23). After surgery, no significant complications were observed in all patients except two patients in the control group with temporary increases in intraocular pressure. Incomplete resection of the anterior vitreous cortex was observed in 2 patients in each group, but there was no significant difference (χ2 = 7.81, P > 0.05).
Conclusion
In the process of cataract surgery combined with vitrectomy, thready corrugation appears in the posterior capsule of the lens and is an important sign of its localization. Anterior vitrectomy can be accomplished safely and effectively with the help of thread-like corrugation, and the surgical effect is almost the same as that of traditional surgery. Especially suitable for beginners in vitreous surgery.
Significance of MHD Micropolar Tri-hybrid Nanofluid Flow past a Stretched Surface with Modified Fourier and Fick's law
Authors: Ahmad Shafiq , Khan Aamir Abbas
Published: September 2023

The present analysis focuses on a comprehensive study involving the synergistic exploration of diverse scientific concepts, encompassing micropolar trihybrid nanofluids, stagnation point flow, and second-grade fluids, with the use of expanded versions of the Fick's and Fourier's laws. Further, the influences of double stratification, viscous dissipation, activation energy, thermal radiation, and magnetohydrodynamics are incorporated. The research further extends to the implementation of the modified Fick's and Fourier’s laws, which provide a comprehensive framework for understanding heat-mass communication in such intricate systems. Using the proper similarity variables, the flow model equations are converted into their non-dimensional form. These transfer version equations are numerically resolved using MATLAB implementation of the BVP4C technique. For several emerging dimensionless parameters, the graphical and numerical results are derived and analysed. From the figures, clearly, with larger values of the 2nd -grade fluid parameters, the fluid velocity and temperature flow rapidly with the presence of ternary hybrid nanofluid in comparison to unary nanofluid.
The mediating role of flow in the relationship between simulation design and simulation educational satisfaction in Korean nursing students: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Lee Eun-Kyung , Ji Eun-Joo
Published: September 2023

Background
In Korea, there has been recent interest in nursing simulation education. Although students may find simulation-based teaching techniques fresh and fascinating, it is important to assess students' satisfaction with these techniques beyond their novelty value. Flow, the state of absolute immersion in a specific activity, is an important ask of simulated learning. Therefore, this study examined the mediating effect of flow on the relationships between simulation design and simulation educational satisfaction.
Method & Materials:
A cross-sectional study design was used. The participants of this study were 143 fourth-year nursing students who had participated in classes using simulations at three universities in Seoul, Daegu, and Jeonbuk. Data were collected from April 24 to May 3, 2023. Demographic data, simulation design scale, flow in simulation, and the educational satisfaction scale in simulation were collected via an online questionnaire. The data were analyzed using SPSS 25.0.
Results
Our results indicate that simulation design has a positive effect on flow and simulation educational satisfaction and flow has a positive effect on simulation educational satisfaction. Additionally, flow mediated the impact of simulation design on simulation educational satisfaction.
Conclusion
The significance of the current study lies in its confirmation of the link between simulation design and simulation educational satisfaction, as well as the mediating function of flow. Nursing students can achieve simulation educational satisfaction through simulation-based education if simulation educators follow best practices that improve flow through well-organized simulation design.
Consumers Lived Experiences and Satisfaction with Sub-Acute Mental Health Residential Services
Authors: Waks Shifra , Emma Morrisroe , Reece John , Fossey Ellie , Brophy Lisa , Fletcher Justine
Published: September 2023

Purpose: Sub-acute recovery-oriented facilities offer short-term residential support for people living with mental illness. They are generally highly regarded by consumers, with emerging evidence indicating that these services may support recovery. The aim of the current study was to explore the relationship between personal recovery and consumers’ satisfaction with sub-acute residential services, and consumers’ views about service features that aid recovery.
Method: Consumers at nineteen adult Prevention and Recovery Care Services in Victoria, Australia, were invited to complete measures containing sociodemographic information and measures on personal recovery and wellbeing. After going home, participants were invited to complete measures on service satisfaction and experience.
Results: Total and intrapersonal scores on the personal recovery measure increased significantly between Time 1 and Time 2, indicating marked improvement. Personal recovery and satisfaction measures were moderately to strongly correlated. Thematically analysed open-ended responses revealed themes of feeling connected, finding meaning and purpose, and self-empowerment as important aspects of these services, with some recommendations for improvements.
Conclusion: Sub-acute residential services may support individuals’ personal recovery, be preferable and more cost effective than in-patient services. Exploring consumers’ experiences of sub-acute residential services helps to understand their effectiveness, opportunities for improvement and intended impacts on personal recovery.