bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flares from Space Debris in LSST Images
Authors: Loeb Abraham
Published: February 2024

Owing to the exceptional sensitivity of the Vera C. Rubin Observatory, we predict that its upcoming LSST images will be contaminated by numerous flares from centimeter-scale space debris in Low Earth Orbits (LEO). Millisecond-duration flares from these LEO objects are expected to produce detectable image streaks of a few arcseconds with AB magnitudes brighter than 14.
Characterization of High-priority Landing Sites for Robotic Exploration Missions in the Apollo Basin, Moon
Authors: Orgel Csilla , Torres Ines , Besse Sebastien , van der Bogert Carolyn H. , Bahia Rickbir , Prissang René , Ivanov Mikhail A. , Hiesinger Harald , Michael Gregory , Pasckert Jan Hendrik , El Yazidi Mayssa , Bradak Balazs , Walter Sebastian H. G.
Published: February 2024

The South Pole–Aitken (SPA) basin is the oldest and largest visible impact structure on the Moon, making it a high priority science site for exploration missions. The 492 km diameter Apollo peak-ring basin is one of the youngest and largest basins within the SPA basin. We selected three regions of interest (ROIs) in the Apollo basin for which the landing and operational hazards are minimized and evaluated their science and in situ resource utilization (ISRU) potential. We examined topography, slope, crater density, rock abundance, geologic mapping, mineralogy, and inferred subsurface stratigraphy within each ROI. The results show that the terrain is safe for landing without precision landing (within a few hundred meters). The mare materials have high ISRU potential with relatively high FeO (∼16–20 wt%) and TiO2 (∼3–10 wt%) contents. Two robotic exploration mission architectures were examined for their scientific potential: (1) lander and rover with a dedicated payload suite and (2) the same architecture with sample return capability. In situ observations can address six of seven National Research Council concepts (1–3, 5–7) and Campaigns 1 and 5 of the European Space Agency’s Strategy for Science at the Moon.
The infinite-dimensional Pontryagin maximum principle for optimal control problems of fractional evolution equations with endpoint state constraints
Authors: Oh Yuna , Moon Jun
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we study the infinite-dimensional endpoint state-constrained optimal control problem for fractional evolution equations. The state equation is modeled by the $ \mathsf{X} $-valued left Caputo fractional evolution equation with the analytic semigroup, where $ \mathsf{X} $ is a Banach space. The objective functional is formulated by the Bolza form, expressed in terms of the left Riemann-Liouville (RL) fractional integral running and initial/terminal costs. The endpoint state constraint is described by initial and terminal state values within convex subsets of $ \mathsf{X} $. Under this setting, we prove the Pontryagin maximum principle. Unlike the existing literature, we do not assume the strict convexity of $ \mathsf{X}^* $, the dual space of $ \mathsf{X} $. This assumption is particularly important, as it guarantees the differentiability of the distance function of the endpoint state constraint. In the proof, we relax this assumption via a separation argument and constructing a family of spike variations for the Ekeland variational principle. Subsequently, we prove the maximum principle, including nontriviality, adjoint equation, transversality, and Hamiltonian maximization conditions, by establishing variational and duality analysis under the finite codimensionality of initial- and end-point variational sets. Our variational and duality analysis requires new representation results on left Caputo and right RL linear fractional evolution equations in terms of (left and right RL) fractional state transition operators. Indeed, due to the inherent complex nature of the problem of this paper, our maximum principle and its proof technique are new in the optimal control context. As an illustrative example, we consider the state-constrained fractional diffusion PDE control problem, for which the optimality condition is derived by the maximum principle of this paper.
BPA: A decentralized payment system that balances privacy and auditability
Authors: Gao Le , Zhang Junzhe , Yu Jiaxin , Tang Yin , Zeng Zhiqiang
Published: February 2024

The rapid development of blockchain transactions highlights the importance of privacy protection (including anonymity and confidentiality) and underscores the necessity for auditability. Some schemes, such as PGC and Miniledger, support privacy protection and auditability. However, they only offer incomplete privacy protection (i.e., supporting anonymity or confidentiality exclusively). In response to these issues, we propose a scheme that achieves partial anonymity, confidentiality, auditability, and traceability. By integrating a variant of Pedersen commitments and randomizable signatures, we achieve partial anonymity for users and the auditability of transactions, thereby protecting user privacy under audit conditions. Based on the twisted ElGamal encryption algorithm and specially constructed zero-knowledge proofs, we achieve confidentiality of transaction amounts under legal and regulatory conditions. System test results indicate that this scheme effectively meets the above requirements. The feasibility of this scheme is confirmed through system testing, comparative analysis, and security analysis.
“Never Settler Enough”
Authors: Perera Suvendrini , Pugliese Joseph
Published: February 2024

In this article, the authors examine the systemic nature of state violence and racial terror in the context of the Australian settler state and Indigenous deaths in custody. Drawing on Steve Martinot and Jared Sexton’s (2003) concept of a “double economy of terror,” the authors contend that police violence and Aboriginal deaths in custody must be read in terms of the standard operating procedures of a double economy of terror that ensures the institutional reproduction of the Australian settler colonial state. Death in police custody, Perera and Pugliese argue, is coextensive with the larger governmental and administrative apparatuses of the colonial state. In the face of the settler state’s systemic ignorability of the ongoing racialized violence against Indigenous peoples, the authors conclude their paper opposing such a state with an Indigenous voice that refuses tacit acquiescence and that howls with rage at the mounting Aboriginal deaths in custody and rates of Indigenous imprisonment.
Endless Lists
Authors: Pristovšek Jovita
Published: February 2024

The article delves into the enduring ramifications of historical and contemporary processes of racialization, the delineation of societal divisions, the forsaking of marginalized communities, and the coerced isolation or seclusion of specific populations. Within the realm of necropolitical afterlives, these terms indicate the manners in which these persistent predicaments have molded and persist in molding the realms of life and death for diverse groups. Analysis encompassing necro-lives holds significance in comprehending the sway of necropolitics, unearthing systemic injustices, and amplifying the voices silenced. The bodies of necro-lives amalgamate in communal endeavors for justice, parity, and human rights. Necro-lives call for mobilization and advocacy to deconstruct necropolitical frameworks and forge more just and impartial societies. Necropolitics, entailing dominion over life and death by influential necro-entities, can be contextualized through these themes, spotlighting how certain populations endure violence, disregard, or isolation beyond their corporeal existence, thereby perpetuating cycles of injustice and suffering.
Wind on the Beach
Authors: Liponik Vesna
Published: February 2024

Review of On Biopolitics: An Inquiry into Nature and Language by Marco Piasentier (New York: Routledge, 2021).
Contacto inter-dialectal en la Ceuta medieval: las variedades árabes andalusí y marroquí en una obra literaria de laḥn al-ʿāmma
Authors: Vicente Ángeles
Published: February 2024

En la actualidad, la situación sociolingüística de la ciudad de Ceuta es propicia para el estudio de la interacción lingüística entre el árabe vernáculo y la variedad del español hablados en la ciudad. Esta realidad no es nueva ya que su localización geográfica ha permitido que durante siglos haya sido punto de encuentro de diferentes lenguas y culturas.
En época medieval, Ceuta formó parte del territorio conocido como al-Andalus y, gracias a ello, las huellas lingüísticas del árabe andalusí en la zona fueron importantes. Pero, además, la población autóctona vecina hablaba una variedad del árabe marroquí o del bereber que pudieron ejercer alguna influencia adstrática en la variedad andalusí.
El objetivo de este trabajo es llevar a cabo un estudio de dialectología comparada para determinar la posibilidad de la existencia de dos variedades vernáculas diferentes en época medieval en el entorno del estrecho de Gibraltar: el árabe andalusí y el árabe marroquí.
Para ello, nos centraremos en una obra literaria que data de la segunda mitad del siglo XII y la compararemos con los datos de otras fuentes andalusíes.
Los datos con los que disponemos nos muestran cómo en el siglo XII el árabe marroquí y el andalusí eran dos variedades árabes muy similares pero con diferente evolución dentro del tipo magrebí, y cómo la ciudad de Ceuta era, igual que lo es hoy, el principal territorio donde interaccionan las influencias lingüísticas llegadas de Marruecos y de la península ibérica.
Visiones islámicas tempranas y medievales acerca de la autoridad materna en circunstancias de diferencia religiosa
Authors: Simonsohn Uriel
Published: February 2024

Mientras que desde una perspectiva islámica los musulmanes debían ofrecer lealtad primordial a Dios y a Su mensaje, los lazos de parentesco podían poner en tela de juicio ese compromiso. Los ideales islámicos, articulados a través de diversos géneros literarios, reflejan esta tensión, presentando una priorización de la comunidad religiosa sobre la familia. Al mismo tiempo, sin embargo, los sentimientos de parentesco se utilizaban a menudo para inculcar ideales religiosos e identidad entre los miembros de la comunidad. La percepción islámica primitiva y medieval de la autoridad materna ilustra bien este punto, ya que las madres musulmanas desempeñan un papel crucial en la formación de la identidad islámica de sus hijos. Sin embargo, en circunstancias opuestas, cuando la autoridad materna no musulmana estaba presente en entornos familiares dominados por el islam, se hacía necesaria una adaptación de las normas y reglamentos. En este ensayo, examino una serie de posturas islámicas relativas a los casos en que las madres, tanto musulmanas como no musulmanas, podían influir en las inclinaciones religiosas de sus hijos durante conflictos o diferencias interreligiosas. Estas posturas arrojan luz sobre una faceta adicional de los esfuerzos islámicos por preservar la integridad religiosa de los creyentes musulmanes, en particular de los niños musulmanes pequeños, dentro de un contexto religioso socialmente diverso. Aparecen en diversos géneros literarios con programas normativos, como el Corán, la exégesis coránica, las tradiciones proféticas, los compendios jurídicos, las biografías de los primeros musulmanes (ṣaḥāba), y literatura sobre etiqueta social (adab), que abarca desde el siglo I/VII al VII/XIII.
Role of Single Port Rigid Thoracoscopy in Undiagnosed Pleural Effusion
Authors: Rawat Jagdish , Kumar Anil , Mrigpuri Parul , Jangpangi Dev Singh , Singh Abhay Pratap , Bhatt Ritisha
Published: February 2024

Background: In recent years, medical thoracoscopy has been well established to play an important role in undiagnosed pleural effusion; however, this procedure is underutilized due to limited availability of the instruments it requires. This study analysed the outcome of single port rigid thoracoscopy in patients with undiagnosed pleural effusions.Methods: This study retrospectively analysed the outcomes of all patients with undiagnosed pleural effusion presenting to our centre between 2016 to 2020 who underwent single port rigid medical thoracoscopy as a diagnostic procedure.Results: In total, 92 patients underwent single port rigid medical thoracoscopy. The most common presenting symptom was shortness of breath. A majority of the patients had lymphocytic exudative pleural effusion. The average biopsy sample size was 18 mm, and no major complication was reported in any of the patients.Conclusion: Single port rigid thoracoscopy is a safe and well-tolerated procedure that yields a biopsy of a larger size with high diagnostic yield. Moreover, the low cost of the instruments required by this procedure makes it particularly suited for use in developing countries.
The impact of structured education on knowledge and self-efficacy in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients
Authors: Sayuti Erlin , Malini Hema , Lenggogeni Devia Putri
Published: February 2024

Patients diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) need to acquire knowledge and self-confidence to effectively engage in self-care activities. A structured education program has the potential to influence knowledge, self-efficacy, and self-care behavior. This study aimed to investigate the impact of education on the knowledge, self-efficacy, and self-care of individuals with T2DM. The research employed a quasi-experimental non-equivalent control group design with purposive sampling. The total sample size consisted of 60 participants, with 30 in each group. The intervention group attended a four-session T2DM structured education program conducted by internal medicine specialists, nurses, nutritionists, and pharmacists, while the control group continued with their usual monthly check-ups. The results of the independent t-test revealed differences in knowledge, self-efficacy, and self-care between the intervention and control groups in the post-test assessment. Education for T2DM patients was found to be effective in enhancing knowledge (p-value=0.000), self-efficacy (p-value=0.000), and self-care (p-value=0.000), making it a recommended component of self-management education to prevent complications. The implications of this study may assist hospitals in developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for implementing structured education programs for individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus as a means of enhancing patients’ management skills for T2DM.
An anterior segment optical coherence tomography study of lower lacrimal punctal stenosis
Authors: Salaheldin Mayar M. , Nada Ossama , Elshinawy Reham F. , Elwan Sheriff
Published: February 2024

Aims

To assess the lower lacrimal punctal measurements in patients with punctal stenosis versus normal participants using anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT).

Patients and methods

The study included 39 puncti of 21 healthy asymptomatic volunteers attending the general and oculoplastic outpatient clinics (group I: control group) and 30 puncti of 17 patients with a clinical diagnosis of punctal stenosis defined as the punctal diameter less than 0.3 mm measured by slit-lamp biomicroscopy (group II: cases group). The punctal diameter is measured by slit-lamp biomicroscopy in all participants. The external punctal diameter, the inner punctal diameter at three depths (100, 200, and 500 μm), the punctal depth and tear meniscus height were measured using AS-OCT.

Results

The internal punctal diameter at 100 μm (239.51±91.14 vs. 168.77±118.07 µm), 200 μm (156.67±75.20 vs. 71.63±76.41 µm), and 500 μm (74.92±60.99 vs. 24.07±34.30 µm) showed statistically significant lower measurements in the cases group compared with the control group. No statistically significant differences were found comparing both groups regarding external punctal diameter otherwise. In the cases group, the punctal diameter measured by slit-lamp biomicroscopy had highly significant statistical evidence of positive correlation with the internal punctal diameter at 200 μm.

Conclusion

AS-OCT provides a superior ability to assess the patency of the proximal lacrimal drainage system over the routine slit-lamp examination, especially when the internal punctal diameter is measured at a depth of 200 µm. Further research is required to build consensus on standard terminologies, define the standard measurements, and acquire more extensive normative databases. This would mostly be useful in diagnosis of cases of epiphora with externally nonstenosed puncti and distally patent passages.
Ahmed glaucoma valve augmented with mitomycin C and amniotic membrane as a first intervention in advanced primary congenital glaucoma
Authors: Ali Haytham M. , Wagdy Fareed , Tharwat Ahmed
Published: February 2024

Aim

The goal of this study is to assess the effectiveness of implantation of an Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) augmented with the use of mitomycin-C (MMC) and preserved amniotic membrane (AM), as a first line of intervention in cases of advanced primary congenital glaucoma (PCG).

Patients and methods

Prospective clinical and interventional trial was done on 30 eyes of 24 patients, aged between 6 months and 3 years, with advanced PCG at presentation. AGV (model FP8) implantation augmented with use of MMC and two layers of cryopreserved human AM as a primary intervention.

Results

At all-time intervals (at day 1, 1, 3, and 12 months following surgery), the postoperative intraocular pressures (IOPs) were significantly lower than the preoperative IOPs (16.83±2.78 mmHg at month 12 compared with a preoperative IOP of 38.29±4.23 mmHg). At all times, the postoperative corneal diameter was not noticeably smaller than the preoperative values (13.79±0.57 mm at month 12 compared with preoperative value of 13.93±0.58 mm).

Conclusion

AGV augmented with the use of MMC and AM can be considered as a secure and reliable approach for management of cases of advanced PCG, without additional risks compared with other techniques.
The use of anti-glaucoma medications following pediatric glaucoma surgery: a report on efficacy and trends in Cairo University
Authors: Salem Fatma , Gawdat Ghada , El Sayed Yasmine , Esmael Amanne
Published: February 2024

Purpose

To identify the pattern(s) in using antiglaucoma medications following glaucoma surgery in children and compare their efficacies.

Methods

Retrospective chart review of patients (≤12 years) receiving glaucoma surgery from January 2013 to December 2020. Partially responsive patients needing antiglaucoma medications to attain an Intraocular pressure (IOP) of at least 18 mmHg were divided into three groups: (A) received beta-blocker (β-Blockers); (B) received Prostaglandin analogues and (C) received fixed β-Blocker+ Carbonic anhydrase inhibitor (CAI) preparation. Data included demographics, clinical characteristics, IOP (before, after 1 month, and at last follow-up), and surgeries. Successful treatment attained IOP less than or equal to 18 mmHg on last follow-up. Side effects were recorded.

Results

Totally 200 eyes of 152 patients were included, (61%) presented within the first month of life, 54% were males, 31.6% had bilateral disease and (82.2%) had primary congenital glaucoma (PCG). Pre-treatment IOP was significantly higher in group C (P=0.009). The most common procedure performed was trabeculotomy (P=0.014). After a mean follow-up period of 20.12 months, all three groups showed a significant reduction in the IOP (P≤0.001), with the highest percent reduction attained in group C (43.7% vs. 33.4% and 33.1% in groups A and B, respectively) P=0.001. Final success rates were 41.2%, 83.3%, and 82.2% for groups A, B, and C, respectively. Dry eye was the most common side effect (32 eyes) mainly occurring in group A (21.6%).

Conclusions

The most frequently used antiglaucoma medications following partially successful surgery are CAI+β-Blocker combinations. They seem to have the most potent effect and are usually used as a first line the higher the initial IOP is.
Effect of intracameral injection of ceftazidime on corneal endothelium by specular microscope after uncomplicated phacoemulsification cataract surgery
Authors: Khodair Aya A.I. , Ghoraba Mouhamed Elsaadany , Elseht Rabab M. , Tadros Dina
Published: February 2024

Background

Loss of endothelial cells is inevitable after cataract surgery. Therefore, it is critical to protect the corneal endothelium during cataract surgery to reach good visual outcomes afterward. Maintenance of corneal clarity depends on the good function of healthy endothelial cells in addition to an intact pumping system intended to remove fluid from the corneal stoma.

Purpose

Our study aimed to assess changes in the corneal endothelium using specular microscopy, after intracameral injection of ceftazidime in uncomplicated phacoemulsification and compared with a placebo. The changes were measured preoperatively and 1 month postoperatively.

Patients and methods

Our prospective cohort study comprised 40 eyes from 35 patients diagnosed with cataract, all of whom underwent uncomplicated phacoemulsification for cataract extraction.

Results

Endothelial cell density significantly decreased postoperatively compared with preoperative values in both groups. Central thickness of the cornea, coefficient of variation, and visual acuity significantly increased postoperatively compared to preoperative values in both groups. Endothelial cell density showed a significant decrease postoperatively with a P value equal to 0.01 for group A (placebo group) and 0.02 for group B (ceftazidime group). Central thickness of the cornea, coefficient of variation, and visual acuity showed significant increases postoperatively with a P value equal to 0.026, 0.005, and 0.001 for group A and 0.001, 0.034, and 0.001 for group B, respectively.

Conclusion

Ceftazidime can be considered safe for corneal endothelium when used intracamerally during phacoemulsification cataract surgery for prophylaxis of postoperative endophthalmitis.
Study on the Prognosis Effect of Traditional Chinese Medicine Treatment in Patients with Diabetic Neuropathy – A Nationwide, Population-based Study in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Ting-Shuo , Li Peng-Fei , Huang Chia-Luen , Ho Li-Ju , Kuo Feng-Chih , Su Sheng-Chiang
Published: February 2024

Background:

Diabetic neuropathy (DN) is one of the common chronic complications, leading to limb disability and increased risks of hospitalization and mortality. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been commonly applied in Taiwan as an adjunctive treatment to ameliorate diabetes-associated chronic complications, including neuropathy.

Aim:

We aimed to investigate whether the clinical treatment of DN combined with TCM can reduce the associated hospitalization and mortality using the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) of Taiwan.

Methods:

We selected 1,152 patients with DN who received TCM treatment as the study cohort group, and 4,940 patients with DN who did not receive TCM treatment from Taiwan NHIRD were further matched 1:1 for sex, age, and index year as the comparison cohort group. Cox proportional hazards analysis was performed to compare hospitalization and mortality during a mean follow-up period of 15 years.

Results:

A total of 687/225 enrolled patients (29.82%/9.77%) had hospitalization/mortality, including 298/97 in the TCM group (25.87%/8.42%) and 389/128 in the comparison group (33.77%/11.11%). Cox proportional hazard regression analysis showed a lower rate of hospitalization and mortality for patients in the TCM group (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] of 0.434, 95 confidence interval [CI] =0.172–0.798, P < 0.001; adjusted HR of 0.689, 95 CI = 0.372–0.981, P = 0.039). The Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that the cumulative risk of hospitalization and mortality in the study and comparison cohort groups was significantly different (log-rank P < 0.001 and P = 0.007, respectively).

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that the application of TCM might be beneficial for patients with DN to lower the risks of hospitalization and mortality; however, further prospective cohort studies are still required to confirm our observations.
Epidemiological Characteristics of Zika Virus Infections Imported into Taiwan between 2016 and 2021
Authors: Hsieh Chi-Jeng , Wu Wen-Tung , Lin Ming-Hsun , Lin Hung-Che , Sung Yueh-Feng , Yu Chia-Peng
Published: February 2024

Background:

Zika virus is a mosquito-borne virus that has resurfaced. It has been confirmed to cause microcephaly and Guillain–Barré syndrome. The number of Zika virus infections in South America has increased considerably since 2015.

Aim:

This study confirmed the epidemiological characteristics of the cases of Zika virus infections imported into Taiwan.

Methods:

Patients with travel history to areas at risk of Zika virus infections and had their blood, urine, or saliva samples tested positive for Zika virus through reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction by the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control were included in this study.

Results:

Taiwan reported its first case of Zika virus infection in January 2016, and it has reported 26 cases as of December 2021. Most of the patients were men (76.9%, 20/26), aged 20–59 years (73.1%, 19/26), and lived in Northern Taiwan (73.1%, 19/26). Most of the cases were reported in summer and autumn (76.9%, 20/26). The 26 patients included one 4-year-old girl and three teenage boys aged 15–19 years; 22 patients were from Southeast Asia, three patients were from the Americas, and one patient was from Africa.

Conclusion:

This study is the first to report on the epidemiological characteristics of Zika virus infections imported into Taiwan between 2016 and 2021. These findings can aid policymakers and clinical experts in developing prevention and control measures targeting Zika virus infections, which cause severe illness and imposes a considerable burden on the population.
What is the Current Picture of Secondhand Smoke Exposure among Never-smoker Adolescents in Indonesia?
Authors: Warouw Tati Suryati , Indriasih Endang , Raharni Raharni , Tarigan Ingan Ukur , Siahaan Selma , Faisal Debri Rizki , Kusnali Asep , Suratri Made Ayu Lely , Yulianti Anni , Sholikhah Hidayad Heny , Putro Gurendro , Rachmawati Tety , Rachmat Basuki , Nurlinawati Iin , Susianti Novia
Published: February 2024

Introduction:

Although Indonesia is not a signatory to the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, 84% of local governments have adopted Smoke-Free Areas (SFAs) as a national policy. This study examines exposure to secondhand smoke (SHS) in adolescents who have never smoked after 8 years of SFA implementation.

Methods:

We used data from the 2019 Global Youth Tobacco Survey and a cross-sectional research design to find 6121 students from 148 schools in 30 provinces in Indonesia who met the research inclusion criteria. To identify risk factors regarding SHS exposure, multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed.

Results:

Although the local government had adopted an SFA policy, 61.1% of adolescents aged 11–17 years, especially middle and high school students, have relatively high exposure to SHS. School environments had the highest prevalence of SHS exposure (50.5%), followed by public places (49.9%) and at home (46.2%). A significant risk factor for exposure to SHS in the school environment is observed in teachers smoking inside school buildings (odds ratio [OR] =4.32, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.81–4.89); exposure to SHS at home and in public place (OR = 3.29, 95% CI: 2.93–3.70), and exposure to tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship on offline and online media (OR = 2.07, 95% CI: 1.70–2.52).

Conclusion:

SFA policies must be evaluated and strengthened before they can be implemented to reduce smoking-related illnesses and economic losses. In addition, it is important to educate families and society about implementing SFA in school environments, public places, and at home.
The Association between Mobile Game Addiction and Mental Health Problems and Learning Outcomes among Thai Youths Classified by Gender and Education Levels
Authors: Phetphum Chakkraphan , Keeratisiroj Orawan , Prajongjeep Atchara
Published: February 2024

Introduction:

Youth are increasingly playing mobile games, which are distinct from traditional games, but there is limited research investigating the causal relationship between mobile game addiction and mental health problems in Thailand. This study investigated the association between mobile game addiction and depression, loneliness, and social anxiety as well as academic performance.

Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, data were collected from 3427 students in Thailand from May to September 2022, using a 5-part self-report questionnaire. A multistage random sampling was performed. Descriptive statistics and structural equation modeling (SEM) were used to analyze the data.

Results:

The prevalence of mobile game addiction among Thai youth was 22.2% (95% confidence interval = 20.9–23.7), which was higher among females (25.6%) than males (17.9%) with P < 0.001 and higher among high school students (25.6%) than vocational (20.6%) and undergraduate students (20.0%) with P = 0.001. According to the SEM analysis, mobile game addiction was significantly associated with depression (β = 0.36, P < 0.001), loneliness (β = 0.31, P < 0.001), social anxiety (β = 0.28, P < 0.001), and grade point average mediated by social anxiety (β = 0.10, P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

The model depicting the causal relationship between mobile game addiction, depression, loneliness, social anxiety, and academic performance is consistent with empirical data. The identification of a substantial group of addicted mobile gamers and the addiction effects on mental health issues supports efforts by all stakeholders to prevent youth from becoming game addicted as well as treat addicted gamers.
A Method of Applying Virtual Reality Converged Remote Platform Based on Crawfish Optimization Algorithm to Improve ESN Network
Authors: Ma Lili , Xie Bin , Liu Fengjun , Ma Liying
Published: February 2024

INTRODCTION: Immersive teaching and learning methods based on virtual reality-integrated remote platforms not only allow foreign language learners to learn in a vivid and intuitive learning environment, but also provide good conditions for multi-channel perceptual experiences of foreign language learners in terms of sight, sound and touch.OBJECTIVES: To address the problems of insufficiently systematic analysis and quantification, poor robustness and low accuracy of analysis methods in current effect analysis methods.METHODS: This paper proposes an effect analysis method of virtual reality fusion remote platform based on crawfish optimization algorithm to improve echo state network. First, the effect analysis system is constructed by analyzing the process of virtual reality fusion remote platform and extracting the effect analysis influencing elements; then, the echo state network is improved by the crayfish optimization algorithm and the effect analysis model is constructed; finally, the high accuracy of the proposed method is verified by the analysis of simulation experiments.RESLUTS: The proposed method improves the accuracy of the virtual reality fusion remote platform effect analysis model, the analysis time is 0.002s, which meets the real-time requirements, and the number of optimization convergence iterations is 16, which is better than other algorithms.CONCLUSION: The problems of insufficiently systematic analytical quantification of effect analysis methods, poor robustness of analytical methods, and low accuracy have been solved.
Improved Nuclear Reaction Heuristic Intelligence Algorithm for Online Learning in Self-Monitoring Strategy Convergence
Authors: Liu Fengjun , Lu Yang , Xie Bin , Ma Lili
Published: February 2024

INTRODCTION: By analyzing the problem of self-monitoring in English online learning and constructing a strategy-integrated evaluation method, we can not only enrich the theoretical research results of self-monitoring in online learning, but also improve the independent learning ability and self-monitoring ability of students in English online learning.
OBJECTIVES: To address the problem of poor optimization performance of current fusion optimization methods.METHODS:This paper proposes an online learning self-monitoring strategy fusion method based on improved nuclear reaction heuristic intelligent algorithm. First, the problems and enhancement strategies of online learning self-monitoring are analyzed; then, the online learning self-monitoring strategy fusion model is constructed by improving the nuclear reaction heuristic intelligent algorithm; finally, the proposed method is verified to be effective and feasible through the analysis of simulation experiments.
RESLUTS: The results show that the fusion method of learning self-monitoring strategies on the line at the 20th iteration number starts to converge to optimization with less than 0.1s optimization time, and the error of the statistical score value before and after weight optimization is controlled within 0.05.
CONCLUSION:Addressing the Optimization of Convergence of Self-Monitoring Strategies for English Online Learning.
Delta-shocks as limits of vanishing viscosity for a nonhomogeneous hyperbolic system
Authors: Li Shiwei
Published: February 2024

The Riemann problem for a 

2\times 2

hyperbolic system of conservation laws with time-dependent damping is discussed. Making use of the variable substitution method, we construct six kinds of Riemann solutions including rarefaction wave, contact discontinuity, shock wave as well as delta-shock. Under suitable generalized Rankine–Hugoniot relation and entropy condition, both existence and uniqueness of delta-shock solution are established. Because of the appearing of the damping, the Riemann solutions are no longer self-similar. All wave curves are monotonic and have convexity-concavity. Moreover, by employing the vanishing viscosity method, we introduce a time-dependent viscous system to prove the stability of the solutions containing the delta-shocks.
On the completed hull of non-degenerate inner product spaces
Authors: Hofmann Timo
Published: February 2024

Motivated by applications to general QFT, the completed hulls of non-degenerate inner product spaces

E, (\,{\cdot}\,,{\cdot}\,)

are considered. In order to decide whether or not

\smash{\tilde{E}}

endowed with the continuously extended inner product

(\,{\cdot}\,,{\cdot}\,)^{\sim}

is non-degenerate, the concept of c-linked l.c. topologies

\tau

is introduced, and it is shown that

\tilde{E}, (\,{\cdot}\,,{\cdot}\,)^{\sim}

is non-degenerate if and only if

\tau

is c-linked to some minimal majorant. Further, the concepts of quasi-decomposable inner product spaces and quasi-decomposition norms are introduced, and it is shown that

\tilde{E}, (\,{\cdot}\,,{\cdot}\,)^{\sim}

is a Krein space.
On the radius of analyticity for a Korteweg–de Vries–Kawahara equation with a weak damping term
Authors: Boukarou Aissa , da Silva Daniel Oliveira
Published: February 2024

We consider the Cauchy problem for an equation of Korteweg–de Vries–Kawahara type with initial data in the analytic Gevrey spaces. By using linear, bilinear and trilinear estimates in analytic Bourgain spaces, we establish the local well-posedness of this problem. By using an approximate conservation law, we extend this to a global result in such a way that the radius of analyticity of solutions is uniformly bounded below by a fixed positive number for all time.
Progress in the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma with immune combination therapy
Authors: Pan Di , Liu Hao-Nan , Qu Peng-Fei , Ma Xiao , Ma Lu-Yao , Chen Xiao-Xiao , Wang Yu-Qin , Qin Xiao-Bing , Han Zheng-Xiang
Published: February 2024

Advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a severe malignancy that poses a serious threat to human health. Owing to challenges in early diagnosis, most patients lose the opportunity for radical treatment when diagnosed. Nonetheless, recent advancements in cancer immunotherapy provide new directions for the treatment of HCC. For instance, monoclonal antibodies against immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) such as programmed cell death protein 1/death ligand-1 inhibitors and cytotoxic t-lymphocyte associated antigen-4 significantly improved the prognosis of patients with HCC. However, tumor cells can evade the immune system through various mechanisms. With the rapid development of genetic engineering and molecular biology, various new immunotherapies have been used to treat HCC, including ICIs, chimeric antigen receptor T cells, engineered cytokines, and certain cancer vaccines. This review summarizes the current status, research progress, and future directions of different immunotherapy strategies in the treatment of HCC.
Prognostic nutritional index in predicting survival of patients with gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma: A systematic review
Authors: Fiflis Stylianos , Christodoulidis Grigorios , Papakonstantinou Menelaos , Giakoustidis Alexandros , Koukias Stergos , Roussos Paraskevi , Kouliou Marina Nektaria , Koumarelas Konstantinos Eleftherios , Giakoustidis Dimitrios
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Gastric cancer is the third most common cause of cancer related death worldwide. Surgery with or without chemotherapy is the most common approach with curative intent; however, the prognosis is poor as mortality rates remain high. Several indexes have been proposed in the past few years in order to estimate the survival of patients undergoing gastrectomy. The preoperative nutritional status of gastric cancer patients has recently gained attention as a factor that could affect the postoperative course and various indexes have been developed. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the role of the prognostic nutritional index (PNI) in predicting the survival of patients with gastric or gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma who underwent gastrectomy with curative intent.

AIM

To investigate the role of PNI in predicting the survival of patients with gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma.

METHODS

A thorough literature search of PubMed and the Cochrane library was performed for studies comparing the overall survival (OS) of patients with gastric or gastroesophageal cancer after surgical resection depending on the preoperative PNI value. The PRISMA algorithm was used in the screening process and finally 16 studies were included in this systematic review. The review protocol was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO).

RESULTS

Sixteen studies involving 14551 patients with gastric or esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma undergoing open or laparoscopic or robotic gastrectomy with or without adjuvant chemotherapy were included in this systematic review. The patients were divided into high- and low-PNI groups according to cut-off values that were set according to previous reports or by using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis in each individual study. The 5-year OS of patients in the low-PNI groups ranged between 39% and 70.6%, while in the high-PNI groups, it ranged between 54.9% and 95.8%. In most of the included studies, patients with high preoperative PNI showed statistically significant better OS than the low PNI groups. In multivariate analyses, low PNI was repeatedly recognised as an independent prognostic factor for poor survival.

CONCLUSION

According to the present study, low preoperative PNI seems to be an indicator of poor OS of patients undergoing gastrectomy for gastric or gastroesophageal cancer.
Early adenocarcinoma mixed with a neuroendocrine carcinoma component arising in the gastroesophageal junction: A case report
Authors: Cheng Yu-Qing , Wang Geng-Fang , Zhou Xiao-Li , Lin Min , Zhang Xin-Wen , Huang Qin
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Early adenocarcinoma mixed with a neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC) component arising in the gastroesophageal junctional (GEJ) region is rare and even rarer in young patients. Here, we report such a case in a 29-year-old Chinese man.

CASE SUMMARY

This patient presented to our hospital with a 3-mo history of dysphagia and regurgitation. Upper endoscopy revealed an elevated nodule in the distal esophagus 1.6 cm above the GEJ line, without Barrett’s esophagus or involvement of the gastric cardia. The nodule was completely resected by endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). Pathological examination confirmed diagnosis of intramucosal adenocarcinoma mixed with an NEC component, measuring 1.5 cm. Immunohistochemically, both adenocarcinoma and NEC components were positive for P53 with a Ki67 index of 90%; NEC was positive for synaptophysin and chromogranin. Next-generation sequencing of 196 genes demonstrated a novel germline mutation of the ERCC3 gene in the DNA repair pathway and a germline mutation of the RNF43 gene, a common gastric cancer driver gene, in addition to pathogenic somatic mutations in P53 and CHEK2 genes. The patient was alive without evidence of the disease 36 mo after ESD.

CONCLUSION

Early adenocarcinoma with an NEC component arising in the distal esophageal side of the GEJ region showed evidence of gastric origin.
INVESTOR SENTIMENTS: A DEEP DIVE INTO THE COLLECTIVE MOOD OF THE MARKET
Authors: Satpal Dr.
Published: February 2024

Investor sentiment, the collective mood and perception of market participants, is a dynamic force that significantly influences financial markets. Investor sentiment is a critical driver of financial markets, reflecting the collective perceptions, attitudes and emotions of market participants. This study explores the multifaceted nature of investor sentiments. This study investigates the primary factors that contribute to shifts in investor sentiment, including economic indicators, corporate performance, geopolitical events, and broader macroeconomic trends. It analyzes how information asymmetry, behavioral biases, and social influences collectively contribute to the formation of investor sentiment. This study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how investor psychology influences the financial markets. Understanding investor sentiment is crucial for market participants, policymakers, and researchers seeking to comprehend market movements and develop effective risk management strategies. The study provides insights into the complex interplay of psychological, economic, and technological factors that underpin investor sentiment, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of contemporary financial markets.
RELATIONSHIP TREND OF CAPITAL STRUCTURE AND FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW
Authors: Priyanka  , Singh Prof. Rajbir
Published: February 2024

Capital structure plays a vital role in determining the mix of debt and equity in any company, value of shareholders also get maximized with the help of balanced capital structure in which financial performance plays a significant role in determining whether capital structure has an impact on company’s performance or not. This paper highlighted the relation of capital structure with financial performance with the help of content analysis of latest five years starting from year 2018 to 2022 using keywords search in database with words highlighting “capital structure” and “financial performance”. As many empirical studies have been conducted in this regard but very rare studies are done from the perspective of theoretical framework. With the help of this research paper, systematic literature review (content analysis) is explored between capital structure and financial performance with the help of Scopus database, showing a mixture of results, as some of the variables in some countries are positively related and vice-versa. Some companies show negative relation between capital structure and financial performance and some are representing positive relation with each other. The results of the study also highlighted that more of the studies in capital structure are done in developed countries as compared to developing countries.
The Effect of Service Quality, Company Image and Trust on Customer Satisfaction of Muamalat Bank
Authors: Anggoro Tommy , Karyatun Subur , Digdowiseiso Kumba , Muhammad Zikri
Published: February 2024

This study aims to address the existing research gap by investigating the impact of service quality, company image, and trust on customer satisfaction at Bank Muamalat Fatmawati branch, South Jakarta. The sample comprises 100 respondents who are customers of the mentioned branch. Primary data was collected through the distribution of questionnaires, and the data analysis utilized inferential analysis, employing multiple linear regression via the Statistical Product and Service Solution (SPSS) version 23.0 program. The results of the multiple linear regression analysis reveal that the service quality variable has a positive and significant influence on customer satisfaction at Bank Muamalat Fatmawati branch, South Jakarta. Similarly, the corporate image variable exhibits a positive and significant impact on customer satisfaction at the same branch. Additionally, the variable of trust demonstrates a positive and significant influence on customer satisfaction at Bank Muamalat Fatmawati branch, South Jakarta.
The impact of general and/or specific warm-up on power and velocity during squat and bench-press training
Authors: Neiva Henrique , Pombo Neves Pedro , Ruivo Alves Ana , Almeida Marinho Daniel , Ferraz Ricardo , Garrido Nuno , Cardoso Marques Mário
Published: February 2024

The study aimed to compare the effects of two warm-up strategies on mechanical force production during bench press and squat resistance training sessions. Twenty-six trained male subjects (24.37±5.83years, 75.48±12.12kg, 1.74±0.07m) performed a squat or bench press resistance training session after a specific warm-up (SWU) or general warm-up followed by a specific warm-up (GSWU). The SWU included 2x6 repetitions at 32% and 64% of the maximal load (1RM), respectively. The GSWU included 10 minutes of treadmill running (70% of heart rate reserve) followed by SWU. The resistance training session consisted of 3x6 with a load of 80% 1RM. Mechanical (mean propulsive velocity, mean propulsive power and velocity loss), physiological [heart rate (HR), blood lactate concentration], and psychophysiological variables (rating of perceived exertion) were evaluated. In the bench press and squat resistance training sessions, no differences were found in the mechanical and psychophysiological variables. When performing the bench press, the GSWU caused an increased HR response after warm-up (100.00±16.93bpm vs. 110.57±9.69bpm, p=0.03; ES=0.65, moderate effect). GSWU or SWU can both be used as preparatory activities for bench press and squat resistance training performance without related restrictions. These findings may be helpful for professionals to provide appropriate warm-up strategies to maximize resistance training.
Keywords: Pre-exercise, Strength, T-Force, Velocity, Physiology, Resistance Training