bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Orta Çağ Avrupası'nda Din Dışı Müzik ve Gezgin Müzisyenlik Gelenekleri
Authors: NUR Ali Doğan , BAĞCI Hakan
Published: September 2023

Müzik tarihinde, farklı milletlere ait şarkı ve dansların var olduğu bilinmekle birlikte, bu şarkı ve danslar arasında kökeninin nereden geldiği bilinmeyenler de mevcuttur. Birçoğunun oldukça eski zamanlarda ortaya çıktığı, bazılarının kilise müziğinden türediği; bazılarının ise Orta Çağ’da gezgin müzisyenler tarafından oluşturulduğu söylenegelmiştir. Gregoryen ilahinin yanında, gezgin müzisyenler tarafından yaratılan ve daha doğal bir evrimle majör-minör tonaliteye doğru ilerleyen ezgi dağarı, ilerleyen yüzyıllarda hem dini hem de din dışı müziğin temelini oluşturmuştur. Hem şairlik hem de müzisyenlik yapan gezgin müzisyenler, eyaletten eyalete gezip kasaba ve şatolarda konaklayarak şarkıları aracılığıyla olay ve haberleri yaymışlardır. Bu yetenekli ve deneyimli şair-müzisyenler şöhretlerini, özellikle “saf ve asil” aşkı işledikleri şiir ve şarkılarına dayandırmışlardır. Yüzyıllar boyunca Avrupa'nın çeşitli bölgelerine yayılan gezgin müzisyenler, farklı zamanlarda, farklı ülke ve yörelerde değişik isimlerle tanınmışlardır. Bu gezgin müzisyenlere, Güney Fransa ve Provence’te “troubadour”, Kuzey Fransa’da “trouvère”, Almanya ve Avusturya’da başta “minnesänger” daha sonra “meistersinger”, İngiltere’de “minstrel” ve “gleeman”, İtalya’da “travatore”, İspanya’da ise “trovador/trobador” denilmiştir. Bunların dışında “jongleur”, “ménestrel” ve “goliard”lar da bu geleneğin önemli temsilcileridir. Gezgin müzisyenlerin, eserlerinde işledikleri ortak tema çoğunlukla ulaşamadıkları gizemli aşktır. Enstrüman çalarak şarkı söylen, şiir okuyan hatta dans eden bazı gezgin müzisyenlerin vücutlarına taktığı zillerle müziğe farklı bir boyut kazandırdığı, hatta müzik eşliğinde hokkabazlık ve soytarılık yaparak tek kişilik gösteriler sunduğu bilinmektedir. Orta Çağ Avrupa’sında din dışı şarkılar ve danslar, gündelik yaşamın birçok yönüne eşlik etmiş, hatta sadece pazar yerlerindeki kalabalıkları eğlendirmekle kalmayıp kraliyet ziyaretleri ve dini festivaller gibi özel etkinliklere de renk katmıştır.
Identification of potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for breast cancer based on gene expression omnibus
Authors: Zhang Xiong , Mi Zhi-Hui
Published: September 2023

In recent years, metabolomics research has become a hot spot in the screening and treatment of cancer. It is a popular technique for the quantitative characterization of small molecular compounds in biological cells, tissues, organs or organisms. Further study of the tumor revealed that amino acid changes may occur early in the tumor. The rapid growth and metabolism required for survival result in tumors exhibiting an increased demand for amino acids. An abundant supply of amino acids is important for cancer to maintain its proliferative driving force. Changes in amino acid metabolism can be used to screen malignant tumors and improve therapeutic outcomes. Therefore, it is particularly important to study the characteristics of amino acid metabolism in colorectal cancer. This article reviews several specific amino acid metabolism characteristics in colorectal cancer.
Prognostic model of hepatocellular carcinoma based on cancer grade
Authors: Zhang Guo-Xin , Ding Xiao-Sheng , Wang You-Li
Published: September 2023

In recent years, metabolomics research has become a hot spot in the screening and treatment of cancer. It is a popular technique for the quantitative characterization of small molecular compounds in biological cells, tissues, organs or organisms. Further study of the tumor revealed that amino acid changes may occur early in the tumor. The rapid growth and metabolism required for survival result in tumors exhibiting an increased demand for amino acids. An abundant supply of amino acids is important for cancer to maintain its proliferative driving force. Changes in amino acid metabolism can be used to screen malignant tumors and improve therapeutic outcomes. Therefore, it is particularly important to study the characteristics of amino acid metabolism in colorectal cancer. This article reviews several specific amino acid metabolism characteristics in colorectal cancer.
Closed thoracic drainage in elderly patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease complicated with spontaneous pneumothorax: A retrospective study
Authors: Wang Wei , Zhu Dong-Ning , Shao Shan-Shan , Bao Jun
Published: September 2023

In recent years, metabolomics research has become a hot spot in the screening and treatment of cancer. It is a popular technique for the quantitative characterization of small molecular compounds in biological cells, tissues, organs or organisms. Further study of the tumor revealed that amino acid changes may occur early in the tumor. The rapid growth and metabolism required for survival result in tumors exhibiting an increased demand for amino acids. An abundant supply of amino acids is important for cancer to maintain its proliferative driving force. Changes in amino acid metabolism can be used to screen malignant tumors and improve therapeutic outcomes. Therefore, it is particularly important to study the characteristics of amino acid metabolism in colorectal cancer. This article reviews several specific amino acid metabolism characteristics in colorectal cancer.
Acute acquired concomitant esotropia with congenital paralytic strabismus: A case report
Authors: Zhang Meng-Di , Liu Xiang-Yu , Sun Ke , Qi Shou-Nan , Xu Chun-Ling
Published: September 2023

In recent years, metabolomics research has become a hot spot in the screening and treatment of cancer. It is a popular technique for the quantitative characterization of small molecular compounds in biological cells, tissues, organs or organisms. Further study of the tumor revealed that amino acid changes may occur early in the tumor. The rapid growth and metabolism required for survival result in tumors exhibiting an increased demand for amino acids. An abundant supply of amino acids is important for cancer to maintain its proliferative driving force. Changes in amino acid metabolism can be used to screen malignant tumors and improve therapeutic outcomes. Therefore, it is particularly important to study the characteristics of amino acid metabolism in colorectal cancer. This article reviews several specific amino acid metabolism characteristics in colorectal cancer.
Tumor recurrence after pathological complete response in locally advanced gastric cancer after neoadjuvant therapy: Two case reports
Authors: Xing Yu , Zhang Zi-Li , Ding Zhi-Ying , Song Wei-Liang , Li Tong
Published: September 2023

In recent years, metabolomics research has become a hot spot in the screening and treatment of cancer. It is a popular technique for the quantitative characterization of small molecular compounds in biological cells, tissues, organs or organisms. Further study of the tumor revealed that amino acid changes may occur early in the tumor. The rapid growth and metabolism required for survival result in tumors exhibiting an increased demand for amino acids. An abundant supply of amino acids is important for cancer to maintain its proliferative driving force. Changes in amino acid metabolism can be used to screen malignant tumors and improve therapeutic outcomes. Therefore, it is particularly important to study the characteristics of amino acid metabolism in colorectal cancer. This article reviews several specific amino acid metabolism characteristics in colorectal cancer.
Combination therapy with toripalimab and anlotinib in advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: A case report
Authors: Chen Si-Cong , Ma Dong-Heng , Zhong Jia-Jian
Published: September 2023

In recent years, metabolomics research has become a hot spot in the screening and treatment of cancer. It is a popular technique for the quantitative characterization of small molecular compounds in biological cells, tissues, organs or organisms. Further study of the tumor revealed that amino acid changes may occur early in the tumor. The rapid growth and metabolism required for survival result in tumors exhibiting an increased demand for amino acids. An abundant supply of amino acids is important for cancer to maintain its proliferative driving force. Changes in amino acid metabolism can be used to screen malignant tumors and improve therapeutic outcomes. Therefore, it is particularly important to study the characteristics of amino acid metabolism in colorectal cancer. This article reviews several specific amino acid metabolism characteristics in colorectal cancer.
Transverse mesocolic hernia with intestinal obstruction as a rare cause of acute abdomen in adults: A case report
Authors: Zhang Chun , Guo Deng-Fang , Lin Feng , Zhan Wen-Feng , Lin Jian-Yuan , Lv Gui-Fang
Published: September 2023

In recent years, metabolomics research has become a hot spot in the screening and treatment of cancer. It is a popular technique for the quantitative characterization of small molecular compounds in biological cells, tissues, organs or organisms. Further study of the tumor revealed that amino acid changes may occur early in the tumor. The rapid growth and metabolism required for survival result in tumors exhibiting an increased demand for amino acids. An abundant supply of amino acids is important for cancer to maintain its proliferative driving force. Changes in amino acid metabolism can be used to screen malignant tumors and improve therapeutic outcomes. Therefore, it is particularly important to study the characteristics of amino acid metabolism in colorectal cancer. This article reviews several specific amino acid metabolism characteristics in colorectal cancer.
Treatment of posterior interosseous nerve entrapment syndrome with ultrasound-guided hydrodissection: A case report
Authors: Qin Lan-Hui , Cao Wan , Chen Fei-Tong , Chen Qi-Bo , Liu Xi-Xia
Published: September 2023

In recent years, metabolomics research has become a hot spot in the screening and treatment of cancer. It is a popular technique for the quantitative characterization of small molecular compounds in biological cells, tissues, organs or organisms. Further study of the tumor revealed that amino acid changes may occur early in the tumor. The rapid growth and metabolism required for survival result in tumors exhibiting an increased demand for amino acids. An abundant supply of amino acids is important for cancer to maintain its proliferative driving force. Changes in amino acid metabolism can be used to screen malignant tumors and improve therapeutic outcomes. Therefore, it is particularly important to study the characteristics of amino acid metabolism in colorectal cancer. This article reviews several specific amino acid metabolism characteristics in colorectal cancer.
Solitary intraosseous neurofibroma in the mandible mimicking a cystic lesion: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Hong Xia , Wang Feng , Ye Xin , Yao You-Dan , Yin Ying , Yang Hong-Yu
Published: September 2023

In recent years, metabolomics research has become a hot spot in the screening and treatment of cancer. It is a popular technique for the quantitative characterization of small molecular compounds in biological cells, tissues, organs or organisms. Further study of the tumor revealed that amino acid changes may occur early in the tumor. The rapid growth and metabolism required for survival result in tumors exhibiting an increased demand for amino acids. An abundant supply of amino acids is important for cancer to maintain its proliferative driving force. Changes in amino acid metabolism can be used to screen malignant tumors and improve therapeutic outcomes. Therefore, it is particularly important to study the characteristics of amino acid metabolism in colorectal cancer. This article reviews several specific amino acid metabolism characteristics in colorectal cancer.
Enlightenolatry from Peter Gay to Steven Pinker: Mass Marketing Enlightenment and the Thick Eighteenth Century
Authors: Coppola Al
Published: September 2023

Abstract: Peter Gay's two-volume study, The Enlightenment: An Interpretation (1966/69), won the National Book Award in 1966, where its tendentious version of the Enlightenment was embraced as a moderate, hopeful response to the radicalized public sphere of the 1960s. This essay argues that Gay's achievement, and the interdisciplinary seminar that he founded at Columbia University to develop it, provided a key impetus for the organization of the institutional study of eighteenth-century studies. Moreover, the constellation of ideas celebrated as the "Enlightenment" in Gay's work has provided an enduring template for twenty-first-century Enlightenolatrists like Steven Pinker, whose Enlightenment Now (2018) slavishly follows Gay's argument. The persistence of Gay's "undead text," in the sense of Lorraine Daston and Sharon Marcus's phrase (2019), suggests an additional and troubling dimension to eighteenth-century studies beyond the "wide" and "deep" eighteenth centuries as theorized by Felicity Nussbaum (2003) and Joseph Roach (2007).
Otto Neurath's Distorted Reception of Weber's Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism
Authors: Arnswald Ulrich
Published: September 2023

Abstract: Otto Neurath probably never read Max Weber's The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism , but only perceived it through J.B. Kraus's book Scholasticism, Puritanism, and Capitalism . For Kraus, as a Jesuit, it was important to take a clear position in the conflict between Protestants and Catholics. The goal of his argument was to downplay and limit the importance of Protestantism to modern capitalism. He therefore hardly addresses Weber's particular argumentation. Neurath, in turn, presumably relied on Kraus in order to call upon a Jesuit as a key witness for Marxism. This as well as Neurath's well-known tendency for polemics made him follow Kraus, who with his criticism of Weber by means of Marx wanted to establish, as Neurath called it, a 'Marxism of a Jesuit' as a third way. Kraus's criticism triggered Neurath's misconception that Weber's writing should be understood as an anti-thesis to Marx. Surprisingly, he never realized how closely Weber's approach in the empirically based study corresponded with his own methodological approach of an empirical sociology.
Tunable birefringence and elliptical polarization eigenmodes in a biplate of two quarter-wave plates
Authors: Pabón Jhon , Hernandez Cristian , Torres Rafael
Published: September 2023

Birefringence of elliptical polarization eigenmodes can be conceptualized as a composite system comprising two distinct media: one with linear polarization eigenmodes and the other with circular polarization eigenmodes. However, the practical realization of such a system often involves the combination of two birefringent quarter-wave plates (QWPs). In this study, our objective is to characterize the variable retardation and variable elliptical polarization eigenmodes exhibited by a biplate consisting of two quarter-wave plates. Additionally, we aim to analyze the geometric properties of the transformation of one state of polarization on the Poincaré sphere, employing the emerging state’s curve. This curve corresponds to the intersection between the Poincaré sphere and a cone. The outcomes of our study are presented as a function of the angle between the fast axes of the two QWPs. The findings have the potential to contribute to the configuration of q-plates and facilitate the development of quantum communication protocols.
Controlling the polarization dependence of the complex transmission spectrum using the Brewster effect in metafilms
Authors: Tamayama Yasuhiro
Published: September 2023

We propose a method for controlling the polarization dependence of the complex transmission spectrum using the Brewster effect in a two-dimensional array of meta-atoms with finite thickness, which we refer to as a metafilm. We show that the complex transmission spectra of the orthogonal linear polarization components can be controlled independently without reflection by stacking multiple metafilms that exhibit only an electric dipole resonance. As a proof-of-concept numerical demonstration, we design several broadband waveplates with high transmission efficiency based on simple design principles. The proposed method would enable us to easily design anisotropic metamaterials with various complex transmission spectra.
Beam smoothing by introducing spatial dispersion for high-peak-power laser pulse compression
Authors: Yang Xihang , Tang Xiaofeng , Liu Yanqi , Bin Jianhui , Leng Yuxin
Published: September 2023

Post-compression can effectively further improve the peak power of laser pulses by shortening the pulse duration. Which has been investigated in various ranges of energy and central wavelength. However, the spatial intensity profile of high-peak-power laser pulses is generally inhomogeneous due to pump lasers, imperfect optical components, and dust in the optical layout. In post-compression, the B-integral is proportional to intensity, and wavefront distortions are induced in the spectral broadening stage, leading to a decrease in focusing intensity. Moreover, the beam intensity may be strongly modulated and beam inhomogeneity will be intensified in this process, causing damage to optical components and limiting the achievement of high peak power enhancement. In this study, to address these challenges, the laser pulse is first smoothed by introducing spatial dispersion using prism pairs or asymmetric four-grating compressors, and then the smoothed pulse is used for post-compression. The simulation results indicate that this method can effectively remove hot spots from laser pulses and maintain high peak power enhancement in post-compression.
Broadband optical nonlinearity and all-optical switching features in low-defect GaN
Authors: Shi Fangyuan , Li Zhongguo , Wu Xingzhi , Yang Junyi , Xiao Zhengguo , Wu Quanying , Song Yinglin , Fang Yu
Published: September 2023

GaN is a one of promising materials for nonlinear optical applications. In this work, the broadband nonlinear optical response and potential applications for all-optical switching (AOS) are evaluated in low-defect GaN. In the pump-probe experiments, the ultrafast optical switching times are consistent with pulse widths accompanied with relative weak free-carrier absorption response, and the modulation contrast can reach ∼60% by varying the polarization orientations between the pump and probe lights. In the visible region, the broadband two-photon absorption effect exhibits excellent values for the imaginary part of figure of merit (FOM), providing the possibility of AOS based on nonlinear absorption (magnitude). While in the near-infrared region and under the presence of three-photon absorption, not only the real part of FOM based on Kerr effect is evaluated, but also the maximum light intensity for the usage of AOS based on nonlinear refraction (phase) is determined. The broadband nonlinear optical and AOS features in low-defect GaN will be highly favorable for the applications in the field of integrated nonlinear photonics and photonic circuits.
Resolution enhancement via guided filtering for spatial-frequency multiplexing single-shot high-speed imaging
Authors: Li Hang , Li YaHui , Sun BoNan , He Kai , Gao GuiLong , Chen Ping , Song WenYan , Wang Xing , Tian JinShou
Published: September 2023

The frequency recognition algorithm for multiple exposures (FRAME) is a progressive single-shot high-speed videography technique that employs the spatial-frequency multiplexing concept to provide high temporal and spatial resolution. However, the inherent crosstalk from the zero-frequency component to the carrier-frequency component leads to resolution degradation and artifacts. To improve recovered frames’ quality, we propose a FRAME reconstruction method using guided filters for a removal of the zero-frequency component, which can minimize the artifacts while enhance spatial resolution. A total variation (TV) denoising operation is involved to remove artifacts further to achieve optimized performances. Simulations and experiments were conducted to demonstrate the robust and efficient post-processing capability of the proposed method. With a two-frame experimental system, the results of a USAF 1951 resolution target reveal a 1.8-fold improvement in spatial resolution from 16 lp/mm to 28.5 lp/mm. For complex dynamic scenarios, the wide field of high-speed fuel spray was shot and the proposed method can resolve two droplets with a 30 μm distance which outperforms the traditional method.
Assessing the responses of different vegetation types to drought with satellite solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence over the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau
Authors: Luo Yi , Yang Jian , Yang Songxi , Wang Ao , Shuo Shi , Du Lin
Published: September 2023

The Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau (YGP) is an important ecological region in southwestern China with frequent and severe droughts affecting its vegetation and ecosystem. Many studies have used vegetation indices to monitor drought effects on vegetation across the entire ecosystem. However, the drought response of different vegetation types in the YGP is unclear. This study used solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence (SIF) and normalized difference vegetation Index (NDVI) data to monitor different vegetation types. The results showed that cropland was most sensitive and woody savanna was most resistant to drought. SIF had a stronger correlation with drought than NDVI, indicating its potential for vegetation monitoring.
Development analysis of magnetorheological precession finishing (MRPF) technology
Authors: Liu Jiaming , He Jiakuan , Peng Yunfeng
Published: September 2023

Magnetorheological polishing (MRF) has emerged as a critical non-contact sub-aperture polishing technology due to its notable attributes of high precision and minimal damage. However, MRF's inherent D-shaped removal function leads to reduced convergence efficiency of surface form error and introduces mid-spatial-frequency (MSF) waviness. To address these challenges, we propose magnetorheological precession finishing (MRPF) technology, which ingeniously combines MRF with bonnet precession polishing to generate a Gaussian-like removal function. A pivotal component of what we believe to be a novel approach is the design and fabrication of a specialized hemispherical magnetorheological precession polishing head. The design process incorporates magnetostatic simulations and magnetic force analysis to determine the optimal generating conditions for magnetorheological ribbons. Spot polishing experiments confirm the suitability of a 30° precession angle. Experimental results demonstrate that 8-step polishing achieves a Gaussian-like removal function. Additionally, uniform polishing of fused quartz surfaces significantly reduces Ra from 0.7 µm to 2.14 nm. This research showcases the feasibility of MRPF as a new technical route to achieve Gaussian-like removal functions and nanometer-scaled surface roughness.
Approach to multispectral thermometry with Planck formula and hybrid metaheuristic optimization algorithm
Authors: Zhao Baolin , Zhang Kaihua , Li Longfei , He Yinxin , Yu Kun , Liu Yufang
Published: September 2023

Accurate temperature measurement has significant implications for product quality, industrial process control, and scientific research. As a non-contact temperature measurement method with broad application prospects, multispectral thermometry still poses significant challenges in data processing. Currently, most multispectral thermometry methods use the Wien approximation equation to construct the objective function. However, the use of the Wien approximation equation is conditional and generally applicable only to low temperatures or short wavelengths. In this paper, what we believe is a new data processing model of multispectral thermometry is established based on the Planck formula; Additionally, a feasible region constraint method is proposed to constrain the emissivity range; By utilizing a hybrid metaheuristic optimization algorithm based on differential evolution (DE) and multi-population genetic (MPG) algorithms, the simulation results of six different models and experimental results of silicon carbide demonstrate that the proposed algorithm achieves an average relative error in temperature measurement within 0.42% and a random relative error within 0.79%. The average computation time for each temperature inversion is approximately 0.26 seconds. The accuracy and efficiency of the algorithm ensure that it can be applied to real-time temperature measurement in industrial field.
Deep nonlocal low-rank regularization for complex-domain pixel super-resolution
Authors: Xu Hanwen , Li Daoyu , Chang Xuyang , Gao Yunhui , Luo Xiaoyan , Yan Jun , Cao Liangcai , Xu Dong , Bian Liheng
Published: September 2023

Pixel super-resolution (PSR) has emerged as a promising technique to break the sampling limit for phase imaging systems. However, due to the inherent nonconvexity of phase retrieval problem and super-resolution process, PSR algorithms are sensitive to noise, leading to reconstruction quality inevitably deteriorating. Following the plug-and-play framework, we introduce the nonlocal low-rank (NLR) regularization for accurate and robust PSR, achieving a state-of-the-art performance. Inspired by the NLR prior, we further develop the complex-domain nonlocal low-rank network (CNLNet) regularization to perform nonlocal similarity matching and low-rank approximation in the deep feature domain rather than the spatial domain of conventional NLR. Through visual and quantitative comparisons, CNLNet-based reconstruction shows an average 1.4 dB PSNR improvement over conventional NLR, outperforming existing algorithms under various scenarios.
Three-dimensional printing of a beam expander to enable the combination of hundred-micron optical elements and a single-mode fiber
Authors: Zhu Haodong , Li Minglong , Hu Tie , Zhao Ming , Yang ZhenYu
Published: September 2023

We use a flexible two-photon photopolymerization direct laser writing to fabricate an integrated diffractive lens system on a fiber tip to expand the output beam of the fiber. The results show that the micro-integrated beam expander based on double lenses (axial size of about 100 μm) has a magnification of 5.9 and a loss of 0.062 dB. Subsequently, we demonstrate the fabrication of a spiral phase plate (diffractive optical elements) and micro-lens arrays (refractive optical elements) on an integrated beam expander, and their optical properties are measured and analyzed, respectively. This Letter is an exploration of the future integrated micro-optical systems on an optical fiber tip.
A safety mechanism enables tissue-specific resistance to protein aggregation during aging in C. elegans
Authors: Jung Raimund , Lechler Marie C. , Fernandez-Villegas Ana , Chung Chyi Wei , Jones Harry C. , Choi Yoon Hee , Thompson Maximilian A. , Rödelsperger Christian , Röseler Waltraud , Kaminski Schierle Gabriele S. , Sommer Ralf J. , David Della C.
Published: September 2023

During aging, proteostasis capacity declines and distinct proteins become unstable and can accumulate as protein aggregates inside and outside of cells. Both in disease and during aging, proteins selectively aggregate in certain tissues and not others. Yet, tissue-specific regulation of cytoplasmic protein aggregation remains poorly understood. Surprisingly, we found that the inhibition of 3 core protein quality control systems, namely chaperones, the proteasome, and macroautophagy, leads to lower levels of age-dependent protein aggregation in Caenorhabditis elegans pharyngeal muscles, but higher levels in body-wall muscles. We describe a novel safety mechanism that selectively targets newly synthesized proteins to suppress their aggregation and associated proteotoxicity. The safety mechanism relies on macroautophagy-independent lysosomal degradation and involves several previously uncharacterized components of the intracellular pathogen response (IPR). We propose that this protective mechanism engages an anti-aggregation machinery targeting aggregating proteins for lysosomal degradation.
Most endovascular thrombectomy patients have Target Mismatch despite absence of formal CT perfusion selection criteria
Authors: Subramaniam Jayden C. , Cheung Andrew , Manning Nathan , Whitley Justin , Cordato Dennis , Zagami Alessandro , Cappelen-Smith Cecilia , Tian Huiqiao , Levi Chris , Parsons Mark , Butcher Ken S.
Published: September 2023

Endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) is the standard of care for large vessel occlusion stroke. Use of Computed Tomographic Perfusion (CTP) to select EVT candidates is variable. The frequency of treatment and outcome in patients with unfavourable CTP patterns is unknown. A retrospective analysis of CTP utilisation prior to EVT was conducted. All CTP data were analysed centrally and a Target Mismatch was defined as an infarct core ≤70 ml, penumbral volume ≥15ml, and a total hypoperfused volume:core volume ratio >1.8. The primary outcome was good functional outcome at 90 days, defined as a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score 0–2. follow-up infarct volume, core expansion and penumbral salvage volumes were secondary outcomes. Of 572 anterior circulation EVT patients, CTP source image data required to generate objective maps were available in 170, and a Target Mismatch was present in 151 (89%). The rate of 90-day good functional outcome was similar between Target Mismatch (53%) and Large Core Non-Mismatch groups (46%, p = 0.629). Median follow-up infarct volume in the Large Core Non-Mismatch group (104ml [IQR 25ml-189ml]) was larger than that in the Target Mismatch patients (16ml [8ml-47ml], p<0.001). Despite a lack of formal CTP selection criteria, the majority of patients treated at our centres had a Target Mismatch. Patients without Target Mismatch had larger follow-up infarct volumes, but the functional recovery rate was similar to that in Target Mismatch patients. Infarct volumes should be included as objective assessment criteria in the evaluation of the efficacy of EVT in non-Target Mismatch patients.
Mobile phones and infant health at birth
Authors: Pesando Luca Maria , Qiyomiddin Komin
Published: September 2023

There is increasing evidence that digital technologies such as mobile phones have the potential to shape some of the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as health, education, and nutrition, even among the most resource-deprived countries and communities in the world. Nonetheless, little research has focused on the intergenerational implications of digital technologies for infant health and wellbeing. This study leverages Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) data from 29 low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) to explore associations between mothers’ ownership of mobile phones and their children’s health at birth, as measured by birth weight and low birth weight (LBW), i.e., weight lower than 2,500 grams. Infants born to women owning mobile phones fare consistently better in terms of birth weight, even after accounting for potential socioeconomic confounders and other sources of media or information in the household. Partly, mechanisms are consistent with the idea of broader knowledge and access to healthcare services, as associations are mediated by a higher number of antenatal visits, higher likelihood of having a birth assisted by a health professional, and by the extent to which mothers hear about family planning by text message. Associations are strongest among low-educated mothers. Also, associations are stronger in countries where infant health is poorer yet mobile-phone diffusion is higher, highlighting the comparatively higher potential of the diffusion of mobile phones for global development in poorest contexts. Our findings may be of interest to scholars and policymakers concerned with identifying relatively cheap policy levers to promote global health and wellbeing in disadvantaged contexts, particularly among women.
Macular retinal circulation in healthy eyes examined by optical coherence tomography angiography extended interscan time analysis
Authors: Ishikura Masaharu , Muraoka Yuki , Nishigori Naomi , Kadomoto Shin , Numa Shogo , Murakami Tomoaki , Hata Masayuki , Tsujikawa Akitaka
Published: September 2023

Purpose

To examine whether extended interscan time (IST) on optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) can detect slow retinal blood flow, which is undetectable on default IST, in the healthy macula.

Methods

OCTA (OCT-A1, Canon Inc.) scanning of a macular area measuring 4 × 4 mm2 of 14 healthy eyes of 14 healthy volunteers with no history or evidence of systemic and macular diseases was performed. ISTs were set at 7.6 (IST7.6, default setting), 12.0 (IST12.0), and 20.6 msec (IST20.6). Ten OCTA images were acquired at each IST, and an averaged image was created. For each averaged OCTA image obtained at IST7.6, IST12.0, and IST20.6, we defined the area surrounded by the innermost capillary ring as the foveal avascular zone (FAZ). We qualitatively evaluated the delineation of the capillaries consisting of the FAZ and quantitatively measured the FAZ area at each IST.

Results

Extensions from IST7.6 to IST12.0 and IST20.6 could newly delineated retinal capillaries that were undetectable at the default IST; new capillaries were detected in 10 (71%) eyes at IST12.0 and 11 (78%) eyes at IST20.0. The FAZ areas were 0.334 ± 0.137 mm2, 0.320 ± 0.132 mm2, and 0.319 ± 0.129 mm2 for IST7.6, IST12.0, and IST20.0, respectively; the FAZ areas at IST12.0 and IST20.0 were significantly decreased compared with that at IST7.6 (p = 0.004 and 0.002, respectively).

Conclusion

In OCTA for healthy participants, extensions of the ISTs newly detected retinal capillaries with slow blood flow around FAZ. The FAZ shapes varied with different ISTs. Thus, the blood flow dynamics are not physiologically uniform around FAZ. Compared with conventional OCTA, this protocol enables a more detailed evaluation of retinal circulation and provides a better understanding of the physiological circulatory status of the healthy retina, and may enable the assessment of circulation in the very early stages in diseased eyes.
The impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on the demographic, clinical and social profiles of patients admitted to the Pneumology Department for a COPD exacerbation
Authors: Fernández Villar Alberto , Golpe Gómez Rafael , González Montaos Almudena , Fernández García Sara , Pazos Area Luis , Priegue Carrera Ana , Ruano Raviña Alberto , Represas Represas Cristina
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Although a reduction in admissions for pathologies other than SARS-CoV-2 has been reported during the pandemic, there are hardly any specific studies in relation to COPD. The objective of this study was to analyse differences in the profile of those admitted for AEPOC and their prognosis during this period.

Methods

Prospective study (SocioEPOC validation cohort) conducted in two hospitals. Demographic, clinical and social characteristics were compared among patients admitted for an AECOPD before and after the declaration of the COVID-19 healthcare emergency. Mortality and the need for hospital care in the following 3 months were analysed.

Results

340 patients (76.6% male, 72 years, FEV1 43.5%) were included, 174 in the post-pandemic phase. During pandemic, especially before population-level vaccination, admissions for AECOPD were in patients with more severe disease and with a higher level of eosinophils. No differences were found in social profile, except they had more informal caregivers. The mortality rate at 90 days was the same (9%), although those admitted during the pandemic came for more hospital visits in the following 3 months (53.8% vs. 42%; p = 0.003), with the pandemic phase being an independent predictor of this possibility (OR = 1.6.; 95% IC = 1.1–2.6).

Conclusions

In the first few months of the pandemic, the clinical profile of patients hospitalised for an AECOPD differed from that both prior to this period and during the latter months of the pandemic, with minimal changes at the social level. Although the mortality rate were similar, unscheduled hospital visits increased during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Measuring the efficacy of a vaccine during an epidemic
Authors: Scala Antonio , Cavallo Pierpaolo
Published: September 2023

The urgency to develop vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in the acceleration of clinical trials. Specifically, a broad spectrum of efficacy levels has been reported for various vaccines based on phase III cohort studies. Our study demonstrates that conducting large cohort phase III clinical trials during the peak of an epidemic leads to a significant underestimation of vaccine efficacy, even in the absence of confounding factors. Furthermore, we find that this underestimation increases with the proportion of infectious individuals in the population during the experiment and the severity of the epidemic, as measured by its basic reproduction number.
Surgical treatment of spondylolisthesis by oblique lumbar interbody fusion and transpedicular screw fixation: Comparison between conventional double position versus navigation-assisted single lateral position
Authors: Han Junghoon , Ha Chang-Min , Yuh Woon Tak , Ko Young San , Kim Jun-Hoe , Kim Tae-Shin , Lee Chang-Hyun , Lee Sungjoon , Lee Sun-Ho , Khan Asfandyar , Chung Chun Kee , Kim Chi Heon
Published: September 2023

Background and objectives

Oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) procedures involve anterior insertion of interbody cage in lateral position. Following OLIF, insertion of pedicle screws and rod system is performed in a prone position (OLIF-con). The location of the cage is important for restoration of lumbar lordosis and indirect decompression. However, inserting the cage at the desired location is difficult without reduction of spondylolisthesis, and reduction after insertion of interbody cage may limit the amount of reduction. Recent introduction of spinal navigation enabled both surgical procedures in one lateral position (OLIF-one). Therefore, reduction of spondylolisthesis can be performed prior to insertion of interbody cage. The objective of this study was to compare the reduction of spondylolisthesis and the placement of cage between OLIF-one and OLIF-con.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 72 consecutive patients with spondylolisthesis for this study; 30 patients underwent OLIF-one and 42 underwent OLIF-con. Spinal navigation system was used for OLIF-one. In OLIF-one, the interbody cage was inserted after reducing spondylolisthesis, whereas in OLIF-con, the cage was inserted before reduction. The following parameters were measured on X-rays: pre- and postoperative spondylolisthesis slippage, reduction degree, and the location of the cage in the disc space.

Results

Both groups showed significant improvement in back and leg pains (p < .05). Transient motor or sensory changes occurred in three patients after OLIF-con and in two patients after OLIF-one. Pre- and postoperative slips were 26.3±7.7% and 6.6±6.2% in OLIF-one, and 23.1±7.0% and 7.4±5.8% in OLIF-con. The reduction of slippage was 74.4±6.3% after OLIF-one and 65.4±5.7% after OLIF-con, with a significant difference between the two groups (p = .04). The cage was located at 34.2±8.9% after OLIF-one and at 42.8±10.3% after OLIF-con, with a significant difference between the two groups (p = .004).

Conclusion

Switching the sequence of surgical procedures with OLIF-one facilitated both the reduction of spondylolisthesis and the placement of the cage at the desired location.
The machining torch movement for the rectangular plasma sheet metal cut
Authors: Neuenfeldt Júnior Alvaro , Francescatto Matheus , Araújo Olinto , Disconzi David , Stieler Gabriel
Published: September 2023

The sheet metals can be cut into rectangular or irregular pieces, where the main objective is to minimize the sheet metal’s physical waste. However, the operating time, the number of movements to cut all rectangles edges, and the cutting process quality, must be considered. The objective of this research was to compare the machining torch movement behavior using optimal and alternative solutions for rectangular plasma sheet metal cuts. A bottom-left-fill heuristic and a tabu search heuristic were used to find the alternative solution, while the optimal solution was obtained with a mixed-integer linear programming. The comparison was developed considering three parameters: the total processing time, the effective distance traveled by the machining torch to cut the metal, and the movement distance traveled by the machining torch without cutting the metal. The packing layout given by alternative solutions can reduce the operational cutting processing time and the distance covered by the machining torch movement. From an economic perspective, optimal solutions are recommended when compared to alternative solutions given the lower expenses with raw material waste.
When thinking you are better leads to feeling worse: Self-other asymmetries in pro-social behavior and increased anxiety during Covid-19
Authors: Helion Chelsea , Ulichney Virginia , Smith David V. , Jarcho Johanna
Published: September 2023

Self-serving biases (e.g., beliefs that one tends to perform better than peers) are generally associated with positive psychological outcomes like increased self-esteem and resilience. However, this tendency may be problematic in the context of collective action problems, wherein individuals are reliant on others’ pro-social behaviors to achieve larger goals. We examined this question in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic, and recruited participants for an online study (n = 1023) from a university community in Spring 2020. We found evidence for self-peer asymmetries in Covid-related knowledge and restriction behavior, such that participants reported that they knew more about Covid-related symptoms, were doing more to stop the spread of the disease, and were more pro-socially motivated in doing so than peers. Actual peer reports indicated that these were overestimations. This self-enhancement comes with a cost: the perceived self-peer restriction behavior asymmetry had an indirect effect on the positive relationships both from Covid-specific worry and from perceived stress to general anxiety symptom intensity during the early lockdown period. People tended to have more severe symptoms of anxiety when they were more worried about Covid-19 and when they reported greater perceived stress, especially when they underestimated others’ contributions to public health action relative to their own. This suggests that lack of trust in others’ pro-sociality may be personally maladaptive for mental health.
Rectal cancer presentation during the COVID-19 pandemic: Are decreasing screening rates leading to an increase in acute presentations?
Authors: Sutton Tia S. , Hao Scarlett , Suzuki Mizuki , Chua Aimei , Ciarrocca Anna Lisa , Honaker Michael D.
Published: September 2023

Nearly 23 million adults ages 50–75 are overdue for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. In March 2020, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid issued guidance that all non-urgent procedures be delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Screening delays may have effects on the presentation of rectal cancer and the natural history of the disease. The aim of this study was to determine if procedural suspension due to the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with an increased proportion of acute presentations or more advanced stage at diagnosis for patients with rectal cancer. We conducted a single-center, retrospective review of adult patients with new or recurrent rectal adenocarcinoma from 2016–2021. We compared patients presenting before (pre-COVID) to those diagnosed after (COVID) March 1, 2020. Of 208 patients diagnosed with rectal cancer, 163 were diagnosed pre-COVID and 45 patients in the COVID group. Cohorts did not differ among age, sex, race, insurance status, marital status, rurality, or BMI. There was no difference in stage at presentation with the majority diagnosed with stage III disease (40.0% vs 33.3%, p = 0.26). Similar proportions of patients presented acutely (67.5% vs 64.4%, p = 0.71). Presenting symptoms were also similar between cohorts. On adjusted analysis, male sex, white race, and uninsured status were found to have significant impact acuity of presentation, while diagnosis before or after the onset of the pandemic remained non-significant (OR 1.25, 95% CI0.57–2.72; p = 0.59). While screening rates have decreased during the COVID pandemic, patients with rectal cancer did not appear to have an increased level of acuity or stage at presentation. These findings could result from the indolent nature of the disease and may change as the pandemic progresses.
Cooperative protection of technical secrets in cultural industry cluster-based on evolutionary game model of leading enterprises and following enterprises
Authors: Xu Mingxia , Hu Zuojiao
Published: September 2023

Due to the confidentiality, value and exclusivity of technical secrets, how to protect the technical secrets within cultural industry clusters has become a paradoxical issue and a research hotspot. Focusing on the collaborative protection of technical secrets within cultural industry clusters, this paper analyzes the strategies of collaborative protection of technical secrets between leading enterprises and following enterprises based on evolutionary game theory, and uses dynamic evolution and simulation methods to identify key factors behind the strategy choices, which further enriches the evolutionary mechanism of collaborative protection, and expands the application scenarios of the theory of evolutionary game. As the research results show, the collaborative protection strategy of technical secrets within cultural industry clusters is feasible, the cost of collaborative protection, government subsidies, and compensation for collaborative deposits are key variables that determine the trend of the game. The government subsidy coefficient, the collaborative deposits, and the difference in the number of technology secrets are strongly sensitive factors underlying the mode of protection, while the synergistic benefits between firms are weakly sensitive factors. Therefore, this paper proposes that increasing government subsidies and collaborative deposits, and reducing the differences in the number of technical secrets among game subjects can promote enterprises to eliminate suspicion and increase their willingness to cooperate in protecting technical secrets.