bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Survival Improvements in Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Sequential Therapy by Era
Authors: Nakamura Yoshiko , Hirooka Masashi , Hiraoka Atsushi , Koizumi Yohei , Yano Ryo , Morita Makoto , Okazaki Yuki , Imai Yusuke , Ohama Hideko , Hirooka Kana , Watanabe Takao , Tada Fujimasa , Yoshida Osamu , Tokumoto Yoshio , Abe Masanori , Hiasa Yoichi
Published: November 2023

Treatment modalities for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have changed dramatically, with systemic therapy as the primary option. However, the effect of sequential treatment on prognosis remains unclear. This retrospective study included patients who began systemic therapy between 2009 and 2022. The patients were separated into three groups according to systemic therapy commencement. The number of therapy lines, treatment efficacy, and overall survival (OS) were compared. Multivariate analyses of the prognostic factors were analyzed using the Cox proportional hazards model. Overall, 336 patients were included (period 1: 2009–2013, n = 86; period 2: 2014–2018, n = 132; period 3: 2019–2022, n = 118). A significant etiological trend was observed with decreasing viral hepatitis-related HCC and increasing non-viral hepatitis-related HCC. Across periods 1–3, the proportion of patients who were administered >2 lines progressively increased (1.2%, 12.9%, and 17.0%, respectively; p < 0.001) and the median OS was significantly prolonged (14.3, 16.8, and 31.0 months; p < 0.001). The use of <3 lines, the non-complete and partial response of the first line, modified albumin–bilirubin at grade 2b or 3, an intrahepatic tumor number ≥ 5, extrahepatic metastasis, and alpha-fetoprotein at ≥400 ng/mL were the strongest factors associated with shorter OS. Sequential therapies have contributed to significant improvements in HCC prognosis, suggesting that sequential treatment post-progression is worthwhile for better survival.
Role of Tumor Microenvironment in Pituitary Neuroendocrine Tumors: New Approaches in Classification, Diagnosis and Therapy
Authors: Tapoi Dana Antonia , Popa Maria-Linda , Tanase Cristiana , Derewicz Diana , Gheorghișan-Gălățeanu Ancuța-Augustina
Published: November 2023

Adenohypophysal pituitary tumors account for 10–15% of all intracranial tumors, and 25–55% display signs of invasiveness. Nevertheless, oncology still relies on histopathological examination to establish the diagnosis. Considering that the classification of pituitary tumors has changed significantly in recent years, we discuss the definition of aggressive and invasive tumors and the latest molecular criteria used for classifying these entities. The pituitary tumor microenvironment (TME) is essential for neoplastic development and progression. This review aims to reveal the impact of TME characteristics on stratifying these tumors in view of finding appropriate therapeutic approaches. The role of the pituitary tumor microenvironment and its main components, non-tumoral cells and soluble factors, has been addressed. The variable display of different immune cell types, tumor-associated fibroblasts, and folliculostellate cells is discussed in relation to tumor development and aggressiveness. The molecules secreted by both tumoral and non-tumoral cells, such as VEGF, FGF, EGF, IL6, TNFα, and immune checkpoint molecules, contribute to the crosstalk between the tumor and its microenvironment. They could be considered potential biomarkers for diagnosis and the invasiveness of these tumors, together with emerging non-coding RNA molecules. Therefore, assessing this complex network associated with pituitary neuroendocrine tumors could bring a new era in diagnosing and treating this pathology.
An Interpretable Radiomics Model Based on Two-Dimensional Shear Wave Elastography for Predicting Symptomatic Post-Hepatectomy Liver Failure in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Zhong Xian , Salahuddin Zohaib , Chen Yi , Woodruff Henry C. , Long Haiyi , Peng Jianyun , Xie Xiaoyan , Lin Manxia , Lambin Philippe
Published: November 2023

Objective: The aim of this study was to develop and validate an interpretable radiomics model based on two-dimensional shear wave elastography (2D-SWE) for symptomatic post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) prediction in patients undergoing liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods: A total of 345 consecutive patients were enrolled. A five-fold cross-validation was performed during training, and the models were evaluated in the independent test cohort. A multi-patch radiomics model was established based on the 2D-SWE images for predicting symptomatic PHLF. Clinical features were incorporated into the models to train the clinical–radiomics model. The radiomics model and the clinical–radiomics model were compared with the clinical model comprising clinical variables and other clinical predictive indices, including the model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score and albumin–bilirubin (ALBI) score. Shapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) was used for post hoc interpretability of the radiomics model. Results: The clinical–radiomics model achieved an AUC of 0.867 (95% CI 0.787–0.947) in the five-fold cross-validation, and this score was higher than that of the clinical model (AUC: 0.809; 95% CI: 0.715–0.902) and the radiomics model (AUC: 0.746; 95% CI: 0.681–0.811). The clinical–radiomics model showed an AUC of 0.822 in the test cohort, higher than that of the clinical model (AUC: 0.684, p = 0.007), radiomics model (AUC: 0.784, p = 0.415), MELD score (AUC: 0.529, p < 0.001), and ALBI score (AUC: 0.644, p = 0.016). The SHAP analysis showed that the first-order radiomics features, including first-order maximum 64 × 64, first-order 90th percentile 64 × 64, and first-order 10th percentile 32 × 32, were the most important features for PHLF prediction. Conclusion: An interpretable clinical–radiomics model based on 2D-SWE and clinical variables can help in predicting symptomatic PHLF in HCC.
Long-Term Usage of Proton Pump Inhibitors Associated with Prognosis in Patients with Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Wu Chin-Chia , Fang Chuan-Yin , Yu Ben-Hui , Chang Chun-Ming , Hsu Ta-Wen , Hung Chung-Lin , Hung Shih-Kai , Chiou Wen-Yen , Tsai Jui-Hsiu
Published: November 2023

The dose–response effect of proton pump inhibitors on colorectal cancer prognosis is still under exploration. This population-based study in Taiwan was designed to examine the effect of proton pump inhibitors on overall death, colorectal cancer-specific death, and recurrence in colorectal cancer patients with different cumulative proton pump inhibitor dose levels. This cohort study was based on the Taiwan Cancer Registry and Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database from 2005 to 2020. After frequency matching with a 1:1 ratio, a total of 20,889 users with proton pump inhibitors and 20,889 without proton pump inhibitors were analyzed. The cumulative defined daily dose level of proton pump inhibitor was stratified to explore the dose–response relationship. A proton pump inhibitor exposure cumulative defined daily dose > 60 after colorectal cancer diagnosis had higher risk of all-cause death than non-proton pump inhibitor users with adjusted hazard ratios of 1.10 (95% CIs: 1.04–1.18). For recurrence, a proton pump inhibitor exposure cumulative defined daily dose > 60 had reduced recurrence risk with an adjusted hazard ratio of 0.84 (95% CIs: 0.76–0.93). This study demonstrated that the long-term use of proton pump inhibitors in patients with colorectal cancer was associated with an increased risk of death that related to the proton pump inhibitor exposure cumulative defined daily dose > 60 and had different dose–response effect in various dose level.
Exosomal Long Non-Coding Ribonucleic Acid Ribonuclease Component of Mitochondrial Ribonucleic Acid Processing Endoribonuclease Is Defined as a Potential Non-Invasive Diagnostic Biomarker for Bladder Cancer and Facilitates Tumorigenesis via the miR-206/G6PD Axis
Authors: Gao Yuting , Wang Xuan , Luo Huarong , Chen Chen , Li Jing , Sun Ruixin , Li Dong , Sun Zujun
Published: November 2023

Bladder cancer (BLCA) is one of the cancers that is highly sensitive to specific non-invasive tumor biomarkers that facilitate early diagnosis. Exosome-derived long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) hold promise as diagnostic biomarkers for BLCA. In this study, we employed RNA-sequencing to compare the expression patterns of lncRNAs in urine exosomes from three BLCA patients and three healthy individuals. RMRP displayed the most significant differential expression. Elevated RMRP expression levels were observed in urinary and plasma exosomes from BLCA patients compared with those from healthy individuals. RMRP exhibited significant associations with certain BLCA patient clinicopathological features, including tumor stage, poor prognosis, and tumor grade. Combined diagnosis using RMRP in urine and plasma exosomes demonstrated a superior diagnostic performance with receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. RMRP was found to be related to BLCA tumor progression and the cell migration and invasion processes via the miR-206/G6PD axis both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, RMRP serves as an miR-206 sponge, as suggested by dual-luciferase reporter assays and RNA immunoprecipitation. Our study suggests that the combined diagnosis of RMRP in urinary and plasma exosomes can serve as an excellent non-invasive diagnostic biomarker for BLCA patients. Additionally, targeting the RMRP/miR-206/G6PD axis holds promise as a therapeutic strategy for BLCA.
The Mirage of Upward Mobility: Conceptualization and Implications for Teen Dating Violence Prevention
Authors: Puigvert-Mallart Lídia , León-Jiménez Susana , Joanpere Mar , Ramis-Salas Mimar , Flecha Ramón
Published: November 2023

Alcohol and drug abuse are recognized risk factors in scientific literature that can leave female adolescents vulnerable to experience teen dating violence (TDV) in their relationships. These risk factors are highlighted in prevention campaigns, empowering girls to proactively avoid or decline situations that may put them at risk of such violence. This study delves into an underexplored risk factor for TDV, the Mirage of Upward Mobility (MUM), and its connections to previously established elements: coercive discourse, peer pressure, and the pursuit of status. A total of 146 relevant studies on TDV, and factors related to it, have been reviewed. MUM is conceptualized as the erroneous belief that engaging in relationships with traditionally dominant and disrespectful partners increases social status and attractiveness, although in reality, what happens is that that status and that attractiveness decrease. The study discusses the existence and factors contributing to MUM and underscores its importance as a risk factor for experiencing TDV to include in prevention campaigns.
Detection of Beach–Dune Geomorphic Changes by Means of Satellite and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Data: The Case of Altamura Island in the Gulf of California
Authors: Flores-de-Santiago Francisco , Valderrama-Landeros Luis , Villaseñor-Aguirre Julen , Álvarez-Sánchez León F. , Rodríguez-Sobreyra Ranulfo , Flores-Verdugo Francisco
Published: November 2023

Although sandy islands in arid environments are vital protection sites for endemic species, they face constant natural and anthropogenic hazards, such as storm surge impacts and the occasional presence of off-road vehicles. Monitoring the sedimentary dune-beach displacement and balance is essential because sediment transportation usually does not depend on external sources, such as rivers. The latest generation of geomatic applications may be relevant to understanding coastal vulnerability due to their ability to acquire and process spatial data at unprecedented scales. The objective of this study was to analyze the sedimentary dynamics of a distinctive dune corridor on Altamura Island in the Gulf of California, Mexico. We compared three ultra-high spatial resolution digital surface models (DSMs) with geomorphic change detection (DoD), covering the 1150 m coastal stretch. We used light detection and ranging (LiDAR) data and analyzed changes in the coastline with the semi-automatic CoastSat tool. Although the orthomosaics and the DSM collected in April, June, and October 2021 show different conditions in sediment distribution along the beach-dune interface, depending on the direction and intensity of the wind, the two DoDs showed a constant sediment distribution balance of ~13 M m3 between April and June and June and October. LiDAR data along the 40-km length of the sandy island indicate that the entire island could present a similar sedimentation pattern between the dune and beach interface. The CoastSat data indicate a constant accretion of 125 m in the beach-ocean interface between 2015 and 2022. This study demonstrates that the sediment balance between the dune and the beach on arid sandy islands is vital for conserving their shoreline and all associated coastal ecosystems.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Magnetron Sputtering TiN-Ni Nanocrystalline Composite Films
Authors: Ma Bingyang , Yuan Haitian , He Zongqian , Shang Hailong , Hou Yanjie , Ju Hongbo , Fernandes Filipe
Published: November 2023

In this paper, TiN-Ni nanostructured composite films with different Ni contents are prepared using the magnetron sputtering method. The composition, microstructure, and mechanical properties of composite films are analyzed using an X-ray energy spectrometer (EDS), a scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction technology (XRD), a transmission electron microscope (TEM), and nanoindentation. All the films grow in a columnar crystal structure. There are only TiN diffraction peaks in the XRD spectrum, and no diffraction peaks of Ni and its compounds are observed. The addition of the Ni element disrupts the integrity of TiN lattice growth, resulting in a decrease in the grain size from 60 nm in TiN to 25 nm at 20.6% Ni. The film with a Ni content of 12.4 at.% forms a nanocomposite structure in which the nanocrystalline TiN phase (nc-TiN) is surrounded by the amorphous Ni (a-Ni) phase. The formation of nc-TiN/a-Ni nanocomposite structures relies on the good wettability of Ni on TiN ceramics. The hardness and elastic modulus of the film gradually decrease with the increase in Ni content, but the toughness is improved. The hardness and elastic modulus decrease from 19.9 GPa and 239.5 GPa for TiN film to 15.4 GPa and 223 GPa at 20.6 at.% Ni film, respectively, while the fracture toughness increases from 1.5 MPa·m1/2 to 2.0 MPa·m1/2. The soft and ductile Ni phase enriched at the TiN grain boundaries hinders the propagation of cracks in the TiN phase, resulting in a significant increase in the film’s toughness. The research results of this paper provide support for the design of TiN-Ni films with high strength and toughness and the understanding of the formation mechanism of nanocomposite structures.
Evaluation of Resistance Properties of Selected Surface Treatments on Medium Density Fibreboards
Authors: Slabejová Gabriela , Vidholdová Zuzana , Iždinský Ján
Published: November 2023

The protection and decorative value of raw wood-based boards with various coatings can be enhanced during the service life of furniture using surface treatment techniques. In this study, selected transparent, pigmented polyurethane email finish and thin foils, commonly used in furniture, were used for surface treatments of medium-density fibreboards with a thickness of 18 mm. Water-borne finish with polyurethane–acrylate resin, solvent-borne finish with polyacrylate resin, and finish based on native oil and waxes, as well as pigmented polyurethane email finish, were used on veneered medium-density fibreboards. The thin foils (polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, and lacquered acryl film) were used for raw medium-density fibreboards. Several resistance surface properties were investigated. It was found that the hardness and resistance to impact were very much related to the interactions between the coating film or thin foil and the substrate. The type of surface finish had a substantial impact on the coating and foil’s resistance qualities, such as resistance to mould and cold liquids.
The Accuracy of Computational Results from Wolfram Mathematica in the Context of Summation in Trigonometry
Authors: Nocar David , Grossman George , Vaško Jiří , Zdráhal Tomáš
Published: November 2023

This article explores the accessibility of symbolic computations, such as using the Wolfram Mathematica environment, in promoting the shift from informal experimentation to formal mathematical justifications. We investigate the accuracy of computational results from mathematical software in the context of a certain summation in trigonometry. In particular, the key issue addressed here is the calculated sum ∑n=044tan⁡1+4n°. This paper utilizes Wolfram Mathematica to handle the irrational numbers in the sum more accurately, which it achieves by representing them symbolically rather than using numerical approximations. Can we rely on the calculated result from Wolfram, especially if almost all the addends are irrational, or must the students eventually prove it mathematically? It is clear that the problem can be solved using software; however, the nature of the result raises questions about its correctness, and this inherent informality can encourage a few students to seek viable mathematical proofs. In this way, a balance is reached between formal and informal mathematics.
Constructing the Bounds for Neural Network Training Using Grammatical Evolution
Authors: Tsoulos Ioannis G. , Tzallas Alexandros , Karvounis Evangelos
Published: November 2023

Artificial neural networks are widely established models of computational intelligence that have been tested for their effectiveness in a variety of real-world applications. These models require a set of parameters to be fitted through the use of an optimization technique. However, an issue that researchers often face is finding an efficient range of values for the parameters of the artificial neural network. This paper proposes an innovative technique for generating a promising range of values for the parameters of the artificial neural network. Finding the value field is conducted by a series of rules for partitioning the original set of values or expanding it, the rules of which are generated using grammatical evolution. After finding a promising interval of values, any optimization technique such as a genetic algorithm can be used to train the artificial neural network on that interval of values. The new technique was tested on a wide range of problems from the relevant literature and the results were extremely promising.
Synthesis of Black Phosphorene/P-Rich Transition Metal Phosphide NiP3 Heterostructure and Its Effect on the Stabilization of Black Phosphorene
Authors: Bao Tana , Bolag Altan , Tian Xiao , Ojiyed Tegus
Published: November 2023

Black phosphorus (BP), as a direct band gap semiconductor material with a two-dimensional layered structure, has a good application potential in many aspects, but the surface state of it is extremely unstable, especially that of single-layer black phosphorus. In this study, BP crystals and two-dimensional black phosphorus (2D BP) are prepared by a mechanical ball-milling–liquid-phase exfoliation method. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectrum and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) results showed that red phosphorus (RP) successfully turned to BP by the mechanical ball-milling method. The spectrophotometric analysis has detected absorption peaks at 780 nm, 915 nm, and 1016 nm, corresponding to single, double, and three-layer BP bandgap emission. A simple solvothermal strategy is designed to synthesize in-plane BP/P-rich transition metal phosphide (TMP) heterostructures (BP/NiP3) by defect/edge-selective growth of NiP3 on the BP nanosheets. HRTEM analysis indicates that the metal ions are preferentially deposited on the defects of 2D BP such as edges and unsaturated sites, forming a 2D BP/NiP3 in-plane heterojunction.
Impurity Oxygen-Triggered α- → β-Si3N4 Phase Transformation at 1900 °C
Authors: Imamura Hisayuki , Kura Kazuhiro , Kawata Tsunehiro , Honda Sawao , Asaka Toru , Iwamoto Yuji
Published: November 2023

Oxide additive-free α- → β-Si3N4 phase transformation of a high-purity commercial α-Si3N4 powder was investigated at 1600 to 1900 °C under a nitrogen pressure of 980 kPa. The XRD analysis revealed that the α- → β-Si3N4 phase transformation proceeded mainly at 1900 °C, and was completed by the extensive 1900 °C heat treatment for 20 h. This phase transformation temperature was 33 °C lower than the theoretical α-Si3N4 dissociation temperature and was confirmed as completely different from that often discussed for the liquid-phase sintering of α-Si3N4 powder by direct comparison with the phase transformation behavior of a reference powder, α-Si3N4 powder doped with 1 mol% Y2O3. The unique α- → β-Si3N4 phase transformation was further studied by a set of characterization techniques including elemental analysis, HAADF-STEM and STEM-EDS analyses. The results strongly suggested that the oxide additive-free α- → β-Si3N4 phase transformation was governed by the formation of a metastable solid solution between α-Si3N4 and impurity oxygen of approximately 0.6 wt%, which promoted the dissociation below the theoretical α-Si3N4 dissociation temperature to afford thermodynamically favorable β-Si3N4. Along with the β-Si3N4 formation, the impurity oxygen concentrated at the grain boundaries was released from the sample via the grain boundary diffusion to afford high-purity β-Si3N4.
Photon Absorption Remote Sensing Imaging of Breast Needle Core Biopsies Is Diagnostically Equivalent to Gold Standard H&E Histologic Assessment
Authors: Tweel James E. D. , Ecclestone Benjamin R. , Gaouda Hager , Dinakaran Deepak , Wallace Michael P. , Bigras Gilbert , Mackey John R. , Reza Parsin Haji
Published: November 2023

Photon absorption remote sensing (PARS) is a new laser-based microscope technique that permits cellular-level resolution of unstained fresh, frozen, and fixed tissues. Our objective was to determine whether PARS could provide an image quality sufficient for the diagnostic assessment of breast cancer needle core biopsies (NCB). We PARS imaged and virtually H&E stained seven independent unstained formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded breast NCB sections. These identical tissue sections were subsequently stained with standard H&E and digitally scanned. Both the 40× PARS and H&E whole-slide images were assessed by seven breast cancer pathologists, masked to the origin of the images. A concordance analysis was performed to quantify the diagnostic performances of standard H&E and PARS virtual H&E. The PARS images were deemed to be of diagnostic quality, and pathologists were unable to distinguish the image origin, above that expected by chance. The diagnostic concordance on cancer vs. benign was high between PARS and conventional H&E (98% agreement) and there was complete agreement for within-PARS images. Similarly, agreement was substantial (kappa > 0.6) for specific cancer subtypes. PARS virtual H&E inter-rater reliability was broadly consistent with the published literature on diagnostic performance of conventional histology NCBs across all tested histologic features. PARS was able to image unstained tissues slides that were diagnostically equivalent to conventional H&E. Due to its ability to non-destructively image fixed and fresh tissues, and the suitability of the PARS output for artificial intelligence assistance in diagnosis, this technology has the potential to improve the speed and accuracy of breast cancer diagnosis.
Discovery of Cyanobacteria Associated with Cycads and Description of Three Novel Species in Desmonostoc (Nostocaceae)
Authors: Pecundo Melissa H. , Chen Tao , dela Cruz Thomas Edison E. , Griffith M. Patrick , Hu Zhangli , Chen Huirong , Li Nan
Published: November 2023

Heterocyte-forming cyanobacteria form symbiotic relationships with several lineages of plants. Here, twenty (20) strains of endosymbiotic cyanobacteria (cyanobionts) with Nostoc-like morphologies were isolated from the highly specialized coralloid roots of five host species in Cycadales—Cycas debaoensis, C. fairylakea, C. elongata, Ceratozamia robusta, and Macrozamia moorei. Molecular phylogeny based on the 16S rRNA gene placed these strains into seven different taxa within the Nostocaceae, specifically under the genera Desmonostoc and Dendronalium. The percent dissimilarity and unique patterns in the secondary structures of the D1-D1′, Box-B, V2, and V3 helices, which were based on the 16S–23S rRNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions, supported three distinct species in Desmonostoc. These three morphologically distinct novel species are described in this report: Desmonostoc debaoense sp. nov., Desmonostoc meilinense sp. nov., and Desmonostoc xianhuense sp. nov. Other investigated strains were phylogenetically identified as members of the recently discovered genus Dendronalium and represent the first report of association of that genus with cycads. Our findings suggest that the order Cycadales hosts diverse species of cyanobionts in their coralloid roots and that many potential unreported or novel taxa are present in cycads occurring in their natural habitat and await discovery.
Genotypic and Phenotypic Diversity of Endemic Golden Camellias Collected from China
Authors: Tang Jianmin , Zou Rong , Yang Yishan , Jiang Yunsheng , Wang Faming , Chai Shengfeng , Wei Xiao
Published: November 2023

Not only are the plants of the golden camellia group examples of high-quality camellia germplasm, but they are also a plant group with rich medicinal and nutritional value, and these plants are used as food, cosmetics and traditional medicine in China. There are approximately 50 species in this group around the world, and more than 30 species of golden camellia plants have been listed in China. The leaves and flowers of these species have similar shapes, and as such, they are often confused as the same species. Our study used simplified genome sequencing technology to construct a phylogenetic tree of plants in the Chinese golden camellia group, and we also described the evolutionary relationships. At the same time, the secondary metabolic indexes of the total phenols, total flavonoids, total anthocyanins and ellagic acid in the leaves were determined, and principal component clustering analysis was also performed. The results showed that the phylogenetic relationship and genetic distance among the plant species of Chinese golden camellia group plants were fully revealed. The cluster analysis of chemical secondary metabolism and genetic phylogenetic trees showed some of the same trends, thereby indicating that secondary metabolism golden camellia can be used as biomarkers for golden camellia. The research results provide phylogenetic information for the genotype and performance diversity of the golden camellia that is regionally distributed in China, as well as provide a theoretical basis for the research and development of potential bioactive substances.
User Perceptions of Avatar-Based Patient Monitoring for Intensive Care Units: An International Exploratory Sequential Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Lunkiewicz Justyna , Gasciauskaite Greta , Roche Tadzio Raoul , Akbas Samira , Nöthiger Christoph B. , Ganter Michael T. , Meybohm Patrick , Hottenrott Sebastian , Zacharowski Kai , Raimann Florian Jürgen , Rivas Eva , López-Baamonde Manuel , Beller Elisabeth Anna , Tscholl David Werner , Bergauer Lisa
Published: November 2023

Visual Patient Avatar ICU is an innovative approach to patient monitoring, enhancing the user’s situation awareness in intensive care settings. It dynamically displays the patient’s current vital signs using changes in color, shape, and animation. The technology can also indicate patient-inserted devices, such as arterial lines, central lines, and urinary catheters, along with their insertion locations. We conducted an international, multi-center study using a sequential qualitative-quantitative design to evaluate users’ perception of Visual Patient Avatar ICU among physicians and nurses. Twenty-five nurses and twenty-five physicians from the ICU participated in the structured interviews. Forty of them completed the online survey. Overall, ICU professionals expressed a positive outlook on Visual Patient Avatar ICU. They described Visual Patient Avatar ICU as a simple and intuitive tool that improved information retention and facilitated problem identification. However, a subset of participants expressed concerns about potential information overload and a sense of incompleteness due to missing exact numerical values. These findings provide valuable insights into user perceptions of Visual Patient Avatar ICU and encourage further technology development before clinical implementation.
Assessment of Pediatricians’ and General Practitioners’ Knowledge and Practice Regarding Oral Health, Dental Caries and Its Prevention in Children: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Tadin Antonija , Dzaja Karmela
Published: November 2023

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate and compare the knowledge and practices of family physicians (general practitioners) and pediatricians concerning children’s oral health. Materials and Methods: This research involved a cross-sectional survey with 446 respondents, consisting of 77.8% women and 22.1% men, with 81.6% being general (family) practitioners and 18.4% pediatricians. The survey comprised five sections, gathering information on participants’ sociodemographic characteristics, routine oral cavity examination in clinical practice, knowledge about dental caries and its prevention, teething symptoms, and alternatives to fluorides for preventing dental caries. Results: The findings revealed an overall poor understanding of dental caries and its prevention, with an average score of 5.1 ± 1.6 out of a possible 10 points. Notably, practitioners with fewer pediatric patients during the workday, no training on oral health, and uncertainty about physicians’ active role in oral health prevention exhibited lower knowledge levels (p ˂ 0.05). Over 90% of participants conducted dental and oral mucosal examinations on their patients. About 25% had received continuing education on children’s oral health, and 70.6% expressed interest in further education on the subject. Conclusions: This study highlights insufficient knowledge among physicians regarding dental caries and its prevention. With most participants eager to learn and actively promote children’s oral health, providing training is essential to boost their knowledge and support children’s oral health.
Large Coherent States Formed from Disordered k-Regular Random Graphs
Authors: Scholes Gregory D.
Published: November 2023

The present work is motivated by the need for robust, large-scale coherent states that can play possible roles as quantum resources. A challenge is that large, complex systems tend to be fragile. However, emergent phenomena in classical systems tend to become more robust with scale. Do these classical systems inspire ways to think about robust quantum networks? This question is studied by characterizing the complex quantum states produced by mapping interactions between a set of qubits from structure in graphs. We focus on maps based on k-regular random graphs where many edges were randomly deleted. We ask how many edge deletions can be tolerated. Surprisingly, it was found that the emergent coherent state characteristic of these graphs was robust to a substantial number of edge deletions. The analysis considers the possible role of the expander property of k-regular random graphs.
Teacher Educators Experience Adopting Problem-Based Learning in Science Education
Authors: Aidoo Benjamin
Published: November 2023

Higher educational institutions have utilized problem-based learning (PBL) approaches over the last two decades. The approach has been found to enable educators to adopt different teaching and learning strategies. This study examined how teacher educators have adopted technology integrated PBL in teacher education. The study aimed to understand teacher educators perceptions of adopting the approach in their classrooms. Interviews were conducted with three teacher educators in Ghana. A thematic analysis was used to analyse the data from the interviews. The teacher educators believed integrating PBL into the curriculum emphasizes students learning roles to support their independent and self-directed learning. They also perceived that the PBL approach enabled them to create collaborative learning activities to interact and communicate with students, which can lead to conceptual knowledge development. The educators also indicated challenges such as a lack of beliefs and competence, inadequate resources, and limited time allocation for school inquiry-based lessons.
Assessment and Psychometric Properties of the 21-Item Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21) among Portuguese Higher Education Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Laranjeira Carlos , Querido Ana , Sousa Pedro , Dixe Maria Anjos
Published: November 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused substantial disruptions in the lives of higher education students, with detrimental repercussions for academic performance and overall mental health. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms among Portuguese higher education students during the first wave of the coronavirus pandemic and investigate DASS-21’s psychometric characteristics and whether it functions effectively during a pandemic. A convenience sampling procedure was used to recruit 1522 participants (75.1% women and 79.2% undergraduate students) for this cross-sectional research. Participants completed an e-survey created using DASS-21. The results revealed a considerable prevalence of symptoms of depression [≥10] (N = 434, 28.5%), anxiety [≥7] (N = 551, 36.2%), and stress [≥11] (N = 544, 35.7%). Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) revealed the scale’s three-factor structure, which matched the three DASS-21 subscales. Subsequently, the heterotrait–monotrait (HTMT) correlation ratio evaluated the scale’s discriminant validity, which was relatively good. Cronbach’s alpha measured the internal consistency of the DASS subscales, which was excellent (Cronbach’s α > 0.90). DASS-21 was shown to be a reliable and appropriate measure for assessing students’ mental health. Furthermore, DASS-21 is recommended for use by academics and healthcare professionals in measuring students’ psychological distress. Further validation studies of this scale are needed with larger and more representative samples.
Optimized Trajectory Tracking for Robot Manipulators with Uncertain Dynamics: A Composite Position Predictive Control Approach
Authors: Ren Shanrong , Han Linyan , Mao Jianliang , Li Jun
Published: November 2023

This study addresses the trajectory tracking control challenges of robot manipulators with uncertain dynamics. The aim is to achieve precise and smooth trajectory regulation through a novel composite position predictive control (PPC) scheme that integrates motion profile and disturbance preview techniques. First, we perform offline dynamics identification and feedforward compensation alongside a pre-defined motion profile. To handle the disturbances arising from uncertain dynamics, a super-twisting disturbance observer is designed, resulting in a dynamically compensated prediction model. Furthermore, the receding optimization operations for PPC are executed by solving an optimal solution associated with a joint angle tracking error. The combination of feedforward and feedback control improves the robot manipulator’s absolute positioning accuracy as opposed to the conventional model predictive control method, especially when dealing with uncertain dynamics. The effectiveness of the proposed control method is confirmed through trajectory tracking experiments conducted on a six-degree-of-freedom robot platform with varying end-effector loads. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed PPC method enhances tracking accuracy by approximately 45% and 25% when compared to the traditional inverse dynamic control (IDC) and the robust IDC approaches, respectively.
Fault-Tolerant Safety-Critical Control for Nonlinear Affine System by Using High-Order Control Barrier Function
Authors: Dong Zhe , Li Jianning , Wang Hailun
Published: November 2023

A class of fault-tolerant safety-critical controller design methods based on high-order control barrier function (HOCBF) is proposed to address the problem of safety and stability of system affected by actuator faults in safety-constrained nonlinear affine system. Firstly, the fault information is incorporated into the conventional HOCBF to obtain a new type of HOCBF with faults. Secondly, in the case of a strictly required range of control inputs, a sufficient condition is proposed to satisfy the existing constraints, where the control inputs are always within the restricted range and the sufficient condition is expressed as feasibility constraints. Next, based on the quadratic programming (QP) method, the control Lyapunov function, fault HOCBF, and feasibility constraints are incorporated together to ensure that the overall feasibility, stabilization, and safety are guaranteed of the considered closed-loop system. Finally, the adaptive cruise control system is taken as an example to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Human Body as a Signal Transmission Medium for Body-Coupled Communication: Galvanic-Mode Models
Authors: Aristov Vladimir , Elsts Atis
Published: November 2023

Signal propagation models play a fundamental role in radio frequency communication research. However, emerging communication methods, such as body-coupled communication (BCC), require the creation of new models. In this paper, we introduce mathematical models that approximate the human body as an electrical circuit, as well as linear regression- and random forest-based predictive models that infer the expected signal loss from its frequency, measurement point locations, and body parameters. The results demonstrate a close correspondence between the amplitude-frequency response (AFR) predicted by the electrical circuit models and the experimental data gathered from volunteers. The accuracy of our predictive models was assessed by using their root mean square errors (RMSE), ranging from 1.5 to 7 dB depending on the signal frequency within the 0.05 to 20 MHz range. These results allow researchers and engineers to simulate and forecast the expected signal loss within BCC systems during their design phase.
Cross-Domain Facial Expression Recognition through Reliable Global–Local Representation Learning and Dynamic Label Weighting
Authors: Gao Yuefang , Cai Yiteng , Bi Xuanming , Li Bizheng , Li Shunpeng , Zheng Weiping
Published: November 2023

Cross-Domain Facial Expression Recognition (CD-FER) aims to develop a facial expression recognition model that can be trained in one domain and deliver consistent performance in another. CD-FER poses a significant challenges due to changes in marginal and class distributions between source and target domains. Existing methods primarily emphasize achieving domain-invariant features through global feature adaptation, often neglecting the potential benefits of transferable local features across different domains. To address this issue, we propose a novel framework for CD-FER that combines reliable global–local representation learning and dynamic label weighting. Our framework incorporates two key modules: the Pseudo-Complementary Label Generation (PCLG) module, which leverages pseudo-labels and complementary labels obtained using a credibility threshold to learn domain-invariant global and local features, and the Label Dynamic Weight Matching (LDWM) module, which assesses the learning difficulty of each category and adaptively assigns corresponding label weights, thereby enhancing the classification performance in the target domain. We evaluate our approach through extensive experiments and analyses on multiple public datasets, including RAF-DB, FER2013, CK+, JAFFE, SFW2.0, and ExpW. The experimental results demonstrate that our proposed model outperforms state-of-the-art methods, with an average accuracy improvement of 3.5% across the five datasets.
Quality of Life and Health Determinants of Informal Caregivers Aged 65 Years and Over
Authors: Buckinx Fanny , Adam Stéphane , Aubertin-Leheudre Mylène , De Saint Hubert Marie , Mouton Alexandre , Potier Florence , Reginster Jean-Yves , Bruyere Olivier
Published: November 2023

Informal caregivers’ own quality of life, health status, and determinants are poorly understood despite their concern for the health of the individuals they assist. To compare the quality of life and the health determinants of older informal caregivers with those of older adults without caregiving responsibilities. An online survey was designed to investigate the quality of life and the health determinants of people aged 65 years and over, with a focus on informal caregivers. In addition to socio-demographic data, the number of informal caregivers was ascertained and the Zarit scale of caregiver burden was applied. Quality of life (SF-12) and health determinants (access to technology and level of physical activity (IPAQ)) were assessed and compared between informal caregivers and non-caregivers. A total of 111 participants were included in the study (70 ± 3.83 years, 71.2% women). The majority of respondents (91.8%) were Belgian. One-third of the respondents identified themselves as informal caregivers and declared themselves as having a severe burden (61.9 ± 15.2/88). Socio-demographic characteristics and access to technology were similar between informal caregivers and non-caregivers (p > 0.05). However, informal caregivers had a lower SF-12 score in the mental score domain (44.3 ± 10.2 vs. 50.7 ± 7.0; p = 0.004) and a lower level of physical activity (434 ± 312 METS/min/week vs. 1126 ± 815 METS/min/week; p = 0.01) than their peers. Informal caregivers reported a lower quality of life and a lower level of physical activity than their peers. Given the recognized importance of physical activity for overall health, this survey highlights the need to promote physical activity among older informal caregivers.
An Analysis of the Factors Affecting Forest Mortality and Research on Forecasting Models in Southern China: A Case Study in Zhejiang Province
Authors: Ding Zhentian , Ji Biyong , Yao Hongwen , Cheng Xuekun , Yu Shuhong , Sun Xiaobo , Liu Shuhan , Xu Lin , Zhou Yufeng , Shi Yongjun
Published: November 2023

Forests play a crucial role as the primary sink for greenhouse gases, and forest mortality significantly impacts the carbon sequestration capacity of forest ecosystems. A single type of forest mortality model has been developed, and its model variables are incomplete, leading to significant bias in mortality prediction. To address this limitation, this study harnessed data collected from 773 permanent plots situated in Zhejiang Province, China, spanning a period from 2009 to 2019. The primary objectives were to pinpoint the key variables influencing forest mortality and to construct forest mortality prediction models utilizing both traditional regression methods and machine learning techniques, ultimately aiming to provide a theoretical basis for forest management practices and future predictions. Four basic linear regression models were used in this study: Linear Regression (LR), Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) Stepwise Regression, Ridge Regression, and Lasso Regression. Four machine learning models, Gradient Boosting Regression (GBR), Random Forest (RF), Support Vector Regression (SVR), and Multilayer Perceptron (MLP), were used to model stand mortality. Mortality was used as the dependent variable, and environmental factors such as topographic factors, soil composition, stand characteristics, and climatic variables were used as independent variables. The findings unveiled that soil and stand-related factors exerted significant effects on the mortality rate, whereas terrain-related and climate factors did not exhibit statistical significance. The Random Forest model established by using stand age, tree height, ADBH, crown cover, humus layer thickness, and the biodiversity index has the highest fitting statistics such as R² and Mean Squared Error, indicating that it has a good fitting and prediction effect, which effectively predicts mortality at the stand level, and is a valuable tool for predicting changes in forest ecosystems, with practical value in estimating tree mortality to enhance forest management and planning.
Comparison of the Stand Structure Diversity of Open Pinus brutia Ten. Forests in Areas of Different Productivity in Central Cyprus
Authors: Petrou Petros , Stampoulidis Athanasios , Kitikidou Kyriaki , Milios Elias
Published: November 2023

The goal of this study is to compare the diversity of the stand structure of open P. brutia forests in areas of different productivity at middle elevations in central Cyprus. This will help us figure out how much biodiversity they can hold. Two plots of 4 ha were randomly established. One 200 m × 200 m square-shaped plot was established in a P. brutia formation in a medium productivity site, and one in a P. brutia formation in a bad productivity site. In each plot, dendrometrical data were recorded. In total, 160 hemispherical photographs were taken on both plots. The stand structure is more heterogeneous and complex at medium productivity sites compared to bad productivity sites. P. brutia formations in medium productivity sites can support greater biodiversity than the corresponding formations in bad productivity sites. In the open P. brutia formations of central Cyprus, forest practice must aim to increase the density of P. brutia trees in some tree groups to reduce light intensity under the group canopy. Moreover, trees with large diameters and/or heights must be protected from disturbances. This approach will increase the ability of formations to support biodiversity.
Spatial and Temporal Variations of Carbon Dioxide Fluxes in Urban Ecosystems of Changsha, China
Authors: Deng Zijun , Liu Xin , Zu Haoran , Luo Junyi , Chen Ying , Yi Meiling , Wang Xiao , Liang Xiaocui , Zhang Xiang , Yan Wende
Published: November 2023

Understanding the spatial and temporal variations of urban carbon dioxide fluxes (FCO2) and their influencing factors is crucial for solving urban climate problems and promoting the development of low-carbon cities. In this study, the carbon dioxide flux (FCO2) in Changsha City, China, was analyzed using the eddy covariance technique and flux footprint model. The results showed that the extent of the flux footprint within the observation site was mostly limited to 500 m. Diurnal variation of FCO2 showed a regular pattern influenced by plant photosynthesis and traffic flow. Meanwhile, photosynthesis was directly regulated by photosynthetically active radiation and indirectly regulated by air temperature and water vapor pressure differences. The average value of FCO2 was lower during the daytime than at night, indicating the high vegetation cover (43.5%) in the study area. In addition, there were spatial characteristics of FCO2 in each wind direction due to different surface land use in the study area. Notably, a decreasing trend in carbon dioxide content was observed after the area covered by vegetation was 1.8 times the area of buildings and major roads combined. These findings guide climate management, urban planning, and sustainable development toward a low-carbon society.