bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Image-free single-pixel keypoint detection for privacy preserving human pose estimation
Authors: Tsoy Aleksandr , Liu Zonghao , Zhang Huan , Zhou Mi , Yang Wenming , Geng Hongya , Jiang Kui , Yuan Xin , Geng Zihan
Published: January 2024

Computer vision technology has been applied in various fields such as identification, surveillance, and robot vision. However, computer vision algorithms used for human-related tasks operate on human images, which raises data security and privacy concerns. In this Letter, we propose an image-free human keypoint detection technique using a few coded illuminations and a single-pixel detector. Our proposed method can complete the keypoint detection task at an ultralow sampling rate on a measured one-dimensional sequence without image reconstruction, thus protecting privacy from the data collection stage and preventing the acquisition of detailed visual information from the source. The network is designed to optimize both the illumination patterns and the human keypoint predictor with an encoder–decoder framework. For model training and validation, we used 2000 images from Leeds Sport Dataset and COCO Dataset. By incorporating EfficientNet backbone, the inference time is reduced from 4 s to 0.10 s. In the simulation, the proposed network achieves 91.7% average precision. Our experimental results show an average precision of 88.4% at a remarkably low sampling rate of 0.015. In summary, our proposed method has the advantages of privacy protection and resource efficiency, which can be applied to many monitoring and healthcare tasks, such as clinical monitoring, construction site monitoring, and home service robots.
Full-day profiling of a beam attenuation coefficient using a single-photon underwater lidar with a large dynamic measurement range
Authors: Shangguan Mingjia , Yang Zhifeng , Lin Zaifa , Weng Zhenwu , Sun Jiaxin
Published: January 2024

A compact underwater lidar system, utilizing a single-photon detection technology, is proposed to effectively eliminate interference from the sea–air interface and enhance the accuracy of water optical property measurements. However, the high sensitivity of the single-photon detector poses challenges, including daytime operation difficulties due to strong solar radiation noise and detector saturation from near-field lidar signals. To address these issues, the laser and optical receiver of the lidar are optimized to suppress solar radiation noise, and a dual-telescope structure is introduced to improve the dynamic measurement range beyond 70 dB. In addition, a Monte Carlo simulation establishes the relationship between beam attenuation coefficients (c) and lidar attenuation coefficients (Klidar), enabling the retrieval of c profiles from Klidar. A field experiment conducted in the South China Sea, spanning from inshore to offshore waters, demonstrates the effectiveness of the lidar. The results highlight its potential applications, including the assessment of subsurface particulate organic carbon (POC).
Frequency conversion to the telecom O-band using pressurized hydrogen
Authors: Hamer Anica , Razavi Tabar Seyed Mahdi , Yashwantrao Priyanka , Aghababaei Alireza , Vewinger Frank , Stellmer Simon
Published: January 2024

Large-scale quantum networks rely on optical fiber networks and photons as so-called flying qubits for information transport. While dispersion and absorption of optical fibers are minimum at the infrared telecom wavelengths, most atomic and solid state platforms operate at visible or near-infrared wavelengths. Quantum frequency conversion is required to bridge these two wavelength regimes, and nonlinear crystals are currently employed for this process. Here, we report a novel approach of frequency conversion to the telecom band. This interaction is based on coherent Stokes Raman scattering (CSRS), a four-wave mixing process resonantly enhanced in a dense molecular hydrogen gas. We show the conversion of photons from 863 nm to the telecom O-band and demonstrate that the input polarization state is preserved. This process is intrinsically broadband and can be adapted to any other wavelength.
Deep learning enhanced super-resolution x-ray fluorescence microscopy by a dual-branch network
Authors: Zheng Xiaoyin , Kankanallu Varun R. , Lo Chang-An , Pattammattel Ajith , Chu Yong , Chen-Wiegart Yu-Chen Karen , Huang Xiaojing
Published: January 2024

X-ray fluorescence (XRF) microscopy is a powerful technique for quantifying the distribution of elements in complex materials, which makes it a crucial imaging technique across a wide range of disciplines in physical and biological sciences, including chemistry, materials science, microbiology, and geosciences. However, as a scanning microscopy technique, the spatial resolution of XRF imaging is inherently constrained by the x-ray probe profile and scanning step size. Here we propose a dual-branch machine learning (ML) model, which can extract scale-variant features and bypass abundant low-frequency information separately, to enhance the spatial resolution of the XRF images by mitigating the effects of blurring from the probe profile. The model is trained by simulated natural images, and a two-stage training strategy is used to overcome the domain gap between the natural images and experimental data. The tomography reconstruction from enhanced XRF projections shows an improvement in resolution by a scale factor of four and reveals distinct internal features invisible in low-resolution XRF within a battery sample. This study offers a promising approach for obtaining high-resolution XRF imaging from its low-resolution version, paving the way for future investigations in a broader range of disciplines and materials.
Optical colorimetric LiTaO3 wafers for high-precision lithography on frequency control of SAW devices
Authors: Fang Ming Hui , Xie Yinong , Xue Fangqi , Wu Zhilin , Shi Jun , Yang Sheng Yu , Liu Yilin , Liu Zhihuang , Wang Hsin Chi , Li Fajun , Liu Qing Huo , Zhu Jinfeng
Published: January 2024

Surface acoustic wave (SAW) resonators based on lithium tantalate (LT, LiTaO3) wafers are crucial elements of mobile communication filters. The use of intrinsic LT wafers typically brings about low fabrication accuracy of SAW resonators due to strong UV reflection in the lithography process. This hinders their resonance frequency control seriously in industrial manufacture. LT doping and chemical reduction could be applied to decrease the UV reflection of LT wafers for high lithographic precision. However, conventional methods fail to provide a fast and nondestructive approach to identify the UV performance of standard single-side polished LT wafers for high-precision frequency control. Here, we propose a convenient on-line sensing scheme based on the colorimetry of reduced Fe-doped LT wafers and build up an automatic testing system for industrial applications. The levels of Fe doping and chemical reduction are evaluated by the lightness and color difference of LT-based wafers. The correlation between the wafer visible colorimetry and UV reflection is established to refine the lithography process and specifically manipulate the frequency performance of SAW resonators. Our study provides a powerful tool for the fabrication control of SAW resonators and will inspire more applications on sophisticated devices of mobile communication.
The spinal cord facilitates cerebellar upper limb motor learning and control; inputs from neuromusculoskeletal simulation
Authors: Bruel Alice , Abadía Ignacio , Collin Thibault , Sakr Icare , Lorach Henri , Luque Niceto R. , Ros Eduardo , Ijspeert Auke
Published: January 2024

Complex interactions between brain regions and the spinal cord (SC) govern body motion, which is ultimately driven by muscle activation. Motor planning or learning are mainly conducted at higher brain regions, whilst the SC acts as a brain-muscle gateway and as a motor control centre providing fast reflexes and muscle activity regulation. Thus, higher brain areas need to cope with the SC as an inherent and evolutionary older part of the body dynamics. Here, we address the question of how SC dynamics affects motor learning within the cerebellum; in particular, does the SC facilitate cerebellar motor learning or constitute a biological constraint? We provide an exploratory framework by integrating biologically plausible cerebellar and SC computational models in a musculoskeletal upper limb control loop. The cerebellar model, equipped with the main form of cerebellar plasticity, provides motor adaptation; whilst the SC model implements stretch reflex and reciprocal inhibition between antagonist muscles. The resulting spino-cerebellar model is tested performing a set of upper limb motor tasks, including external perturbation studies. A cerebellar model, lacking the implemented SC model and directly controlling the simulated muscles, was also tested in the same. The performances of the spino-cerebellar and cerebellar models were then compared, thus allowing directly addressing the SC influence on cerebellar motor adaptation and learning, and on handling external motor perturbations. Performance was assessed in both joint and muscle space, and compared with kinematic and EMG recordings from healthy participants. The differences in cerebellar synaptic adaptation between both models were also studied. We conclude that the SC facilitates cerebellar motor learning; when the SC circuits are in the loop, faster convergence in motor learning is achieved with simpler cerebellar synaptic weight distributions. The SC is also found to improve robustness against external perturbations, by better reproducing and modulating muscle cocontraction patterns.
Intimate partner violence is independently associated with poor utilization of antenatal care in Arba Minch town, southern Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Deresa Dinagde Dagne , Tesema Kassahun Fikadu , Wolde Fitsum , Heyi Gudisa Weyessa , Feyisa Gizu Tola , Walle Agmasie Damtew
Published: January 2024

To ensure the best possible health conditions for both mother and fetus throughout pregnancy, skilled healthcare professionals provide antenatal care (ANC) to expectant mothers. Even though the introduction of antenatal care has reduced maternal mortality by 34% since 2002, some atypical behaviors, such as intimate partner violence, have had a significant impact on how often women seek out expert medical treatment during pregnancy. Hence, early identification of such risk factors is very important to decrease maternal mortality from preventable causes. To assess the prevalence and factors of intimate partner violence and associated factors among pregnant women at Arba Minch town, southern Ethiopia. An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 403 mothers who were enrolled from December 1, 2022, to January 30, 2023. The total sample size was allocated proportionately to the number of women attending antenatal care at each public health facility. Thus, systematic sampling was applied. Kobo Toolbox was used for data collection and cleaning, which was then analyzed using IBM SPSS Version 26. Statistical significance was determined at a p-value of less than 0.05. In this study area, the prevalence of intimate partner violence among pregnant women was 35% (95% CI: 30.5–39). The associated factors of intimate partner violence were late initiation of antenatal care (AOR = 3.81, 95% CI: 1.7, 6.04), non-autonomous women (AOR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.18, 3.14), inadequate antenatal utilization (AOR = 3.41, 95% CI: 1.8, 6.2), and a husband with an extra wife (AOR = 6.0, 95% CI: 4.2, 10.57).This study showed that more than one-third of pregnant women in this study area were facing intimate partner violence. Having extra wife, lack of women’s autonomy, less antenatal care utilization and late initiation of antenatal care were associated with Intimate Partner Violence (IPV). Therefore, it is essential to greatly empower women and provide them significant prestige in the home.
The current status of neglected tropical diseases in Japan: A scoping review
Authors: Harada Yuriko , Iwashita Hanako , Moriyasu Taeko , Nagi Sachiyo , Saito Nobuo , Sugawara-Mikami Mariko , Yoshioka Kota , Yotsu Rie ,   on behalf of Japan NTD Study Group
Published: January 2024

Little attention has been paid to neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) in high-income countries and no literature provides an overview of NTDs in Japan. This scoping review aims to synthesize the latest evidence and information to understand epidemiology of and public health response to NTDs in Japan. Using three academic databases, we retrieved articles that mentioned NTDs in Japan, written in English or Japanese, and published between 2010 and 2020. Websites of key public health institutions and medical societies were also explored. From these sources of information, we extracted data that were relevant to answering our research questions. Our findings revealed the transmission of alveolar echinococcosis, Buruli ulcer, Chagas disease, dengue, foodborne trematodiases, mycetoma, scabies, and soil-transmitted helminthiasis as well as occurrence of snakebites within Japan. Other NTDs, such as chikungunya, cystic echinococcosis, cysticercosis, leishmaniasis, leprosy, lymphatic filariasis, rabies, and schistosomiasis, have been imported into the country. Government agencies tend to organize surveillance and control programs only for the NTDs targeted by the Infectious Disease Control Law, namely, echinococcosis, rabies, dengue, and chikungunya. At least one laboratory offers diagnostic testing for each NTD except for dracunculiasis, human African trypanosomiasis, onchocerciasis, and yaws. No medicine is approved for treatment of Chagas disease and fascioliasis and only off-label use drugs are available for cysticercosis, opisthorchiasis, human African trypanosomiasis, onchocerciasis, schistosomiasis, and yaws. Based on these findings, we developed disease-specific recommendations. In addition, three policy issues are discussed, such as lack of legal frameworks to organize responses to some NTDs, overreliance on researchers to procure some NTD products, and unaffordability of unapproved NTD medicines. Japan should recognize the presence of NTDs within the country and need to address them as a national effort. The implications of our findings extend beyond Japan, emphasizing the need to study, recognize, and address NTDs even in high-income countries.
Identification of a critical role for ZIKV capsid α3 in virus assembly and its genetic interaction with M protein
Authors: Jablunovsky Anastazia , Narayanan Anoop , Jose Joyce
Published: January 2024

Flaviviruses such as Zika and dengue viruses are persistent health concerns in endemic regions worldwide. Efforts to combat the spread of flaviviruses have been challenging, as no antivirals or optimal vaccines are available. Prevention and treatment of flavivirus-induced diseases require a comprehensive understanding of their life cycle. However, several aspects of flavivirus biogenesis, including genome packaging and virion assembly, are not well characterized. In this study, we focused on flavivirus capsid protein (C) using Zika virus (ZIKV) as a model to investigate the role of the externally oriented α3 helix (C α3) without a known or predicted function. Alanine scanning mutagenesis of surface-exposed amino acids on C α3 revealed a critical CN67 residue essential for ZIKV virion production. The CN67A mutation did not affect dimerization or RNA binding of purified C protein in vitro. The virus assembly is severely affected in cells transfected with an infectious cDNA clone of ZIKV with CN67A mutation, resulting in a highly attenuated phenotype. We isolated a revertant virus with a partially restored phenotype by continuous passage of the CN67A mutant virus in Vero E6 cells. Sequence analysis of the revertant revealed a second site mutation in the viral membrane (M) protein MF37L, indicating a genetic interaction between the C and M proteins of ZIKV. Introducing the MF37L mutation on the mutant ZIKV CN67A generated a double-mutant virus phenotypically consistent with the isolated genetic revertant. Similar results were obtained with analogous mutations on C and M proteins of dengue virus, suggesting the critical nature of C α3 and possible C and M residues contributing to virus assembly in other Aedes-transmitted flaviviruses. This study provides the first experimental evidence of a genetic interaction between the C protein and the viral envelope protein M, providing a mechanistic understanding of the molecular interactions involved in the assembly and budding of Aedes-transmitted flaviviruses.
A novel trypsin of Trichinella spiralis mediates larval invasion of gut epithelium via binding to PAR2 and activating ERK1/2 pathway
Authors: Han Lu Lu , Lu Qi Qi , Zheng Wen Wen , Li Yang Li , Song Yan Yan , Zhang Xin Zhuo , Long Shao Rong , Liu Ruo Dan , Wang Zhong Quan , Cui Jing
Published: January 2024

Background

Proteases secreted by Trichinella spiralis intestinal infective larvae (IIL) play an important role in larval invasion and pathogenesis. However, the mechanism through which proteases mediate larval invasion of intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) remains unclear. A novel T. spiralis trypsin (TsTryp) was identified in IIL excretory/secretory (ES) proteins. It was an early and highly expressed protease at IIL stage, and had the potential as an early diagnostic antigen. The aim of this study was to investigate the biological characteristics of this novel TsTryp, its role in larval invasion of gut epithelium, and the mechanisms involved.

Methodology/Principal finding

TsTryp with C-terminal domain was cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3), and the rTsTryp had the enzymatic activity of natural trypsin, but it could not directly degrade gut tight junctions (TJs) proteins. qPCR and western blotting showed that TsTryp was highly expressed at the invasive IIL stage. Immunofluorescence assay (IFA), ELISA and Far Western blotting revealed that rTsTryp specifically bound to IECs, and confocal microscopy showed that the binding of rTsTryp with IECs was mainly localized in the cytomembrane. Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) confirmed that rTsTryp bound to protease activated receptors 2 (PAR2) in Caco-2 cells. rTsTryp binding to PAR2 resulted in decreased expression levels of ZO-1 and occludin and increased paracellular permeability in Caco-2 monolayers by activating the extracellular regulated protein kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2) pathway. rTsTryp decreased TJs expression and increased epithelial permeability, which could be abrogated by the PAR2 antagonist AZ3451 and ERK1/2 inhibitor PD98059. rTsTryp facilitated larval invasion of IECs, and anti-rTsTryp antibodies inhibited invasion. Both inhibitors impeded larval invasion and alleviated intestinal inflammation in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusions

TsTryp binding to PAR2 activated the ERK1/2 pathway, decreased the expression of gut TJs proteins, disrupted epithelial integrity and barrier function, and consequently mediated larval invasion of the gut mucosa. Therefore, rTsTryp could be regarded as a potential vaccine target for blocking T. spiralis invasion and infection.
Teledentistry for improving access to, and quality of oral health care: A protocol for an overview of systematic reviews and meta-analyses
Authors: Kengne Talla Pascaline , Allison Paul , Bussières André , Giraudeau Nicolas , Komarova Svetlana , Basiren Quentin , Bergeron Frédéric , Emami Elham
Published: January 2024

Digital technologies are becoming essential to address and optimize the suboptimal performance of healthcare systems. Teledentistry involves the use of information and communication technology to improve access to oral health care and the quality of oral health care delivery. Several systematic reviews (SRs) have been conducted to synthesize evidence on the effectiveness of teledentistry but with conflicting results. The aim of this review is to comprehensively summarize available SRs and provide evidence on the impact of teledentistry on access to oral care, patients’ and oral healthcare providers’ outcomes, quality of oral health care and costs. This protocol has been registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO CRD42022373964). Six electronic databases including MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Embase.com), CINAHL (EBSCO), Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Epistemonikos will be searched for SRs of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed reviews evaluating teledentistry modalities involving both patients and/or oral health care providers (OHCPs). We will include studies published in English or French. The outcomes will include patients’ outcomes (e.g., access to oral health care, patient-reported outcomes, and patient-reported experiences); patient indicators (e.g., clinical outcomes, adherence to treatment, adverse outcomes and costs); and OHCP indicators (e.g., diagnostic accuracy, barriers and enablers costs and equity). Two independent reviewers will perform data screening, data extraction and will assess the quality of included studies using AMSTAR 2 and ROBIS tools. Data will be synthesized narratively and presented by tables and graphs. We will report any overlap of primary studies in the SRs. A statement on the strength of evidence for each outcome will be provided if possible. This review will inform decision-makers, patients, OHCPs, and researchers on the potential effectiveness, benefits, and challenges of teledentistry and support them in making recommendations for its use. Results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, presentations at conferences, and on social media.
"Some missions can be quite emotionally painful." Paramedic´s experience exercising coercion during assignments—A qualitative study
Authors: Bergem Anne Kristine , Thorvaldsen Nina Øye , Häikiö Kristin , Olsen-Bergem Heming
Published: January 2024

Background

More than 70% of respondents in a previous survey among paramedics reported use of coercion or physical force towards patients. Coercion outside hospital is not permitted, and neither routines nor equipment intended for physical restraint is available in the Norwegian ambulance services. Paramedics carry out assignments involving use of force and coercion on unclear legal grounds, with no training in techniques or proper equipment. Attitudes and experiences of healthcare workers regarding incidents involving coercion in mental health care services are frequently reported in the research literature, yet little is known about paramedics’ experiences, and which factors contribute to their moral stress.

Methods

In the period June-August 2021, almost 400 employees in the ambulance services in a county in the eastern part of Norway were invited to answer a digital questionnaire. One question had an open text field with the question "Can you say something about how you experience transporting patients where force has to be used to secure the patient during transport?". The answers were analyzed using Graneheim and Lundman’s content analysis.

Results

We received eighty-five completed responses (response rate 21%). Force was used by 62 paramedics. Twenty-three left the text field open. The answers showed many unique responses. Content analysis resulted in two overarching themes; 1) lack of routines, equipment, and training regarding use of coercion and force in the ambulance service, and 2) paramedics were confronted with ethical dilemmas, alone and without support from legislation or management.

Conclusions

The paramedics experienced discomfort related to the exercise of force and coercion during ambulance assignments due to the experience of unclear legislation, lack of training, routines, and equipment in addition to frequent ethical dilemmas and the concern about lack of support from the employer. A clearer legal basis, adapted equipment in the ambulance and regular training, will contribute to greater security in the performance of the work, which will provide safer and more caring treatment for the patients and less moral stress for the staff. With established routines, the employer will be implicitly obliged, and paramedics will be safer in the performance of their work. Ethical reflection must be offered and put into a system.
Motor neuron activity enhances the proteomic stress caused by autophagy defects in the target muscle
Authors: Srivastav Saurabh , van der Graaf Kevin , Jonnalagadda Prisha C. , Thawani Maanvi , McNew James A. , Stern Michael
Published: January 2024

Several lines of evidence demonstrate that increased neuronal excitability can enhance proteomic stress. For example, epilepsy can enhance the proteomic stress caused by the expression of certain aggregation-prone proteins implicated in neurodegeneration. However, unanswered questions remain concerning the mechanisms by which increased neuronal excitability accomplishes this enhancement. Here we test whether increasing neuronal excitability at a particular identified glutamatergic synapse, the Drosophila larval neuromuscular junction, can enhance the proteomic stress caused by mutations in the ER fusion/GTPase geneatlastin(atl). It was previously shown that larval muscle from theatl2null mutant is defective in autophagy and accumulates protein aggregates containing ubiquitin (poly-UB aggregates). To determine if increased neuronal excitability might enhance the increased proteomic stress caused byatl2, we activated theTrpA1-encoded excitability channel within neurons. We found that TrpA1 activation had no effect on poly-UB aggregate accumulation in wildtype muscle, but significantly increased poly-UB aggregate number inatl2muscle. Previous work has shown thatatlloss from either neuron or muscle increases muscle poly-UB aggregate number. We found that neuronal TrpA1 activation enhanced poly-UB aggregate number whenatlwas removed from muscle, but not from neuron. Neuronal TrpA1 activation enhanced other phenotypes conferred by muscleatlloss, such as decreased pupal size and decreased viability. Taken together, these results indicate that the proteomic stress caused by muscleatlloss is enhanced by increasing neuronal excitability.
Enhancing curve and surface applications with trigonometric polynomial basis functions
Authors: Rasheed Aqsa , Bashir Uzma , Ibraheem Farheen , Javed Shazia
Published: January 2024

This article primarily focuses on the utilization and importance of parametric curves in surface design. It delves into the construction and applications of parametric curves, exploring the implementation of trigonometric polynomial basis functions that possess two shape parameters. Initially, these basis functions are employed in constructing both rational and non-rational curves. Later, they are employed to define the surfaces generated by these curves. The discussion includes rational surfaces, tensor product surfaces, and various specialized surfaces. The aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the role and potential of parametric curves in surface design.
Perfusion vs non-perfusion computed tomography imaging in the late window of emergent large vessel ischemic stroke: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Diestro Jose Danilo B. , Omar Abdelsimar T. , Zhang Yu-qing , Kishibe Teruko , Mastrolonardo Alexander , Lannon Melissa Mary , Ignacio Katrina , Pimenta Ribeiro Pontes Almeida Eduardo , Malvea Anahita , Diouf Ange , Sharma Arjun Vishnu , Yang Qingwu , Qiu Zhongming , Almekhlafi Mohammed A. , Nguyen Thanh N. , Zafar Atif , Pereira Vitor Mendes , Spears Julian , Marotta Thomas R. , Farrokhyar Forough , Sharma Sunjay
Published: January 2024

Background

Guidelines recommend the treatment of emergent large vessel ischemic stroke (ELVIS) patients presenting beyond 6 hours of last known well time with endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) based on perfusion computed tomography (CT) neuroimaging. We compared the outcomes (long-term good clinical outcomes, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH), and mortality) of ELVIS patients according to the type of CT neuroimaging they underwent.

Methods

We searched the following databases: Medline, Embase, CENTRAL, and Scopus from January 1, 2015, to June 14, 2023. We included studies of late-presenting ELVIS patients undergoing EVT that had with data for non-perfusion and perfusion CT neuroimaging. We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines. Data were pooled using a random effects model.

Results

We found 7 observational cohorts. Non-perfusion versus perfusion CT was not statistically significantly different for both long-term clinical (n = 3,224; RR: 0.96; 95% CI 0.86 to 1.06; I2 = 18%) and sICH (n = 3,724; RR: 1.08 95% CI 0.60 to 1.94; I2 = 76%). Perfusion CT had less mortality (n = 3874; RR: 1.22; 95% CI 1.07 to 1.40; I2 = 0%). The certainty of these findings is very low because of limitations in the risk of bias, indirectness, and imprecision domains of the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations.

Conclusion

The use of either non-perfusion or perfusion CT neuroimaging may have little to no effect on long-term clinical outcomes and sICH for late-presenting EVT patients. Perfusion CT neuroimaging may be associated with a reduced the risk of mortality. Evidence uncertainty warrants randomized trial data.
The influence of big five personality traits on anxiety: The chain mediating effect of general self-efficacy and academic burnout
Authors: Wu Xiaoying , Zhang Weina , Li Yihui , Zheng Lange , Liu Jingyu , Jiang Yaye , Peng Yan
Published: January 2024

Background

As an important factor affecting personal health, anxiety has always been valued by people. Prior research has consistently shown that personality traits is associated with anxiety level,but little is known about the inner mechanism of this relationship. To fill the gap, the present research aims to explore the chain mediating role of general self-efficacy and academic burnout in the relationship between big five personality and anxiety.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was performed from September to November 2022. Self-reported questionnaires including the Big Five Personality Questionnaire, General Self-Efficacy Scale, College Student’s academic burnout Scale, Generalized Anxiety Scale and demographic characteristics were distributed to 2505 college students in a university in Hebei Province, of which 2,471 were valid. Statistical analysis was carried out through SPSS26.0 and SPSS PROCESS macro.

Results

Results showed four of the big five personality characters (i.e., extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and openness) were negatively correlated with anxiety. Neuroticism was positively correlated with anxiety. Moreover, general self-efficacy was found to be negatively correlated with academic burnout and anxiety; academic burnout was positively correlated with anxiety. Finally, general self-efficacy and academic burnout mediated the relationship between personality traits (i.e., extraversion, agreeableness, neuroticism, openness) and anxiety.

Conclusions

Personality traits (i.e., extraversion, agreeableness, neuroticism, and openness) could influence anxiety through the chain mediating effects of general self-efficacy and academic burnout. Interventions focusing on anxiety reduction may be successful in increasing general self-efficacy and decreasing students’ academic burnout.
Effectiveness and safety of immunosuppressive regimens used as maintenance therapy in kidney transplantation: The CESIT study
Authors: Bellini Arianna , Finocchietti Marco , Rosa Alessandro Cesare , Nordio Maurizio , Ferroni Eliana , Massari Marco , Spila Alegiani Stefania , Masiero Lucia , Bedeschi Gaia , Cardillo Massimo , Lucenteforte Ersilia , Piccolo Giuseppe , Leoni Olivia , Pierobon Silvia , Ledda Stefano , Garau Donatella , Davoli Marina , Addis Antonio , Belleudi Valeria ,   on behalf of CESIT study group
Published: January 2024

Maintenance immunosuppressive therapy used in kidney transplantation typically involves calcineurin inhibitors, such as tacrolimus or cyclosporine, in combination with mycophenolate or mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTORi) with or without corticosteroids. An Italian retrospective multicentre observational study was conducted to investigate the risk-benefit profile of different immunosuppressive regimens. We identified all subjects who underwent kidney transplant between 2009 and 2019, using healthcare claims data. Patients on cyclosporine and tacrolimus-based therapies were matched 1:1 based on propensity score, and effectiveness and safety outcomes were compared using Cox models (HR; 95%CI). Analyses were also conducted comparing mTORi versus mycophenolate among tacrolimus-treated patients. Patients treated with cyclosporine had a higher risk of rejection or graft loss (HR:1.69; 95%CI:1.16–2.46) and a higher incidence of severe infections (1.25;1.00–1.55), but a lower risk of diabetes (0.66;0.47–0.91) compared to those treated with tacrolimus. Among tacrolimus users, mTORi showed non-inferiority to MMF in terms of mortality (1.01;0.68–1.62), reject/graft loss (0.61;0.36–1.04) and severe infections (0.76;0.56–1.03). In a real-life setting, tacrolimus-based immunosuppressive therapy appeared to be superior to cyclosporine in reducing rejection and severe infections, albeit with an associated increased risk of diabetes. The combination of tacrolimus and mTORi may represent a valid alternative to the combination with mycophenolate, although further studies are needed to confirm this finding.
A feature selection method based on the Golden Jackal-Grey Wolf Hybrid Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Liu Guangwei , Guo Zhiqing , Liu Wei , Jiang Feng , Fu Ensan
Published: January 2024

This paper proposes a feature selection method based on a hybrid optimization algorithm that combines the Golden Jackal Optimization (GJO) and Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO). The primary objective of this method is to create an effective data dimensionality reduction technique for eliminating redundant, irrelevant, and noisy features within high-dimensional datasets. Drawing inspiration from the Chinese idiom “Chai Lang Hu Bao,” hybrid algorithm mechanisms, and cooperative behaviors observed in natural animal populations, we amalgamate the GWO algorithm, the Lagrange interpolation method, and the GJO algorithm to propose the multi-strategy fusion GJO-GWO algorithm. In Case 1, the GJO-GWO algorithm addressed eight complex benchmark functions. In Case 2, GJO-GWO was utilized to tackle ten feature selection problems. Experimental results consistently demonstrate that under identical experimental conditions, whether solving complex benchmark functions or addressing feature selection problems, GJO-GWO exhibits smaller means, lower standard deviations, higher classification accuracy, and reduced execution times. These findings affirm the superior optimization performance, classification accuracy, and stability of the GJO-GWO algorithm.
Comprehensive somatic mutational analysis in glioblastoma: Implications for precision medicine approaches
Authors: Azimi Parisa , Karimpour Mina , Yazdanian Taravat , Totonchi Mehdi , Ahmadiani Abolhassan
Published: January 2024

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), a malignant neoplasm originating from glial cells, remains challenging to treat despite the current standard treatment approach that involves maximal safe surgical resection, radiotherapy, and adjuvant temozolomide chemotherapy. This underscores the critical need to identify new molecular targets for improved therapeutic interventions. The current study aimed to explore the somatic mutations and potential therapeutic targets in GBM using somatic mutational information from four distinct GBM datasets including CGGA, TCGA, CPTAC and MAYO-PDX. The analysis included the evaluation of whole exome sequencing (WES) of GBM datasets, tumor mutation burden assessment, survival analysis, drug sensitivity prediction, and examination of domain-specific amino acid changes. The results identified the top ten commonly altered genes in the aforementioned GBM datasets and patients with mutations inOBSCNandAHNAK2alone or in combination had a more favorable overall survival (OS). Also, the study identified potential drug sensitivity patterns in GBM patients with mutations inOBSCNandAHNAK2, and evaluated the impact of amino acid changes in specific protein domains on the survival of GBM patients. These findings provide important insights into the genetic alterations and somatic interactions in GBM, which could have implications for the development of new therapeutic strategies for this aggressive malignancy.
Temporal precision and accuracy of audio-visual stimuli in mixed reality systems
Authors: Eckhoff Daniel , Schnupp Jan , Cassinelli Alvaro
Published: January 2024

Mixed Reality (MR) techniques, such as Virtual (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR), are gaining popularity as a new methodology for neuroscience and psychology research. In studies involving audiovisual stimuli, it is crucial to have MR systems that can deliver these bimodal stimuli with controlled timing between the onset of each modality. However, the extent to which modern MR setups can achieve the necessary precision and accuracy of audiovisual stimulus onset asynchronies (SOAs) remains largely unknown. The objective of this study is to systematically evaluate the lag and variability between the auditory and visual onset of audiovisual stimuli produced on popular modern MR head-mounted displays (HMDs) from Meta, Microsoft, HTC, and Varjo in conjunction with commonly used development environments such as Unity and the Unreal Engine. To accomplish this, we developed a low-cost measurement system that enabled us to measure the actual SOA and its associated jitter. Our findings revealed that certain MR systems exhibited significant SOAs, with one case averaging 156.63 ms, along with jitter of up to ±11.82 ms. Using our methodology, we successfully conducted experimental calibration of a headset, achieving SOAs of −3.89 ± 1.56 ms. This paper aims to raise awareness among neuroscience researchers regarding the limitations of MR systems in delivering audiovisual stimuli without prior calibration. Furthermore, we present cost-effective methods to calibrate these systems, thereby facilitating the replication of future results.
The epidemiological situation of tuberculosis in Spain according to surveillance and hospitalization data, 2012–2020
Authors: Pedraz Teresa , Herrera Laura , Vazquez Maria C. , Ramírez-Rubio Oriana , Cano Rosa , Herrador Zaida ,   on behalf of the Spanish Working Group on Tuberculosis
Published: January 2024

Background

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, tuberculosis (TB) was the leading cause of death from a single infectious agent. In Spain, TB notifications are registered through the National Epidemiological Surveillance Network (RENAVE). The Minimum Basic Data Set (CMBD) provides information on TB hospital discharges. This study aims to assess both registries to complete the picture of TB in order to improve national control strategies and make further progress toward its elimination.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed considering CMBD´s hospital discharges with TB as first diagnosis and notifications to RENAVE between 2012 and 2020. After describing the records of both systems and their differences by using descriptive and multivariate analysis, annual incidences rates were calculated in order to evaluate temporal trends and geographical patters.

Results

According to the CMBD database, there were 29,942 hospitalizations due to TB (65% pulmonary forms and 66% male) during the study period. RENAVE collected 44,520 reported cases, mostly males (62%) with pulmonary forms (72%). Young children were similar in both groups, showing the high frequency of hospitalization in this group. Almost all autonomous communities showed a downward trend, especially Asturias. Hospitalizations in 2020 were analyzed by month separately, and comparing with previous years, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic can be seen.

Conclusions

A decreasing trend on TB incidence was observed in Spain since 2012, although this trend might change after COVID-19 pandemic. The analysis of both databases, CMBD and RENAVE, has contributed to improve our knowledge of TB in Spain and will help improve the control of this disease.
Effects of timing of cord clamping on neonatal hemoglobin and bilirubin levels in preterm and term infants—A prospective observational cohort study
Authors: Malik Shikha , Kapu Madhuri , Jain Mahendra Kumar , patel Bhupeshwari , kabra Nandkishor
Published: January 2024

Background

Delayed cord clamping (DCC) is a proven beneficial intervention, but the suggested timings of DCC vary from 30 to 300 seconds after birth or until cord pulsation stops. This study aimed to find the optimum timing of DCC to maximize the benefits such as an increase in hemoglobin, and hematocrit without increasing the risks of polycythemia and hyperbilirubinemia.

Methods

We conducted a single-center prospective observational cohort study. All singleton neonates with gestational age ≥ 28 weeks born at the center in the 17 months of the study period from November 2020 to March 2022 were enrolled. Participants were divided into four groups based on DCC time: group A: <60 sec, group B: 60–119 sec, group C: 120–180 sec, and group D: >180 sec. The primary outcome was the levels of hemoglobin, hematocrit, and bilirubin at 48 hours of life.

Results

Four hundred and eight neonates were enrolled. They were divided into four groups based on the timing of DCC (group A: n = 52, group B: n = 137, group C: n = 155, group D: n = 64). With an increase in the duration of DCC, there was an increase in the level of hemoglobin and hematocrit without an increase in the risk of polycythemia or neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. The benefits were best in group C (120–180 sec) and group D (>180 sec).

Conclusions

DCC of ≥ 120 seconds appears to be optimal where hemoglobin and hematocrit are highest without an increase in the risk of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. The risk of adverse effects like polycythemia or neonatal hyperbilirubinemia requiring phototherapy did not increase even after extending the time of cord clamping to >180 seconds.
Rescheduling trains by crossover tracks to promote service quality of urban rail transit under partial blockages
Authors: Long Yuxuan , Han Baoming , Zhou Weiteng , Chen Zebin , Yang Ruixia
Published: January 2024

This study focuses on the rescheduling problem with disruptions that cause partial blockages in the urban rail transit (URT), contributing to extending the relative train rescheduling studies. The alternative driving measure (ADM), which could be regarded as one train rerouting measure, is used to skip the blocked section, and a mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) model is built based on it. Time-varying passenger flow as well as the turnaround process of rolling stocks is taken into consideration. To solve the model, a customized genetic algorithm is used to quickly generate high-quality solutions. Real-world data is studied and sensitivity analyses are taken to verify the feasibility and advantage of ADM. The results validate the proposed model and algorithm, as well as confirm that ADM shows significantly better performance than the practical operation measure in promoting passenger service quality of URT under partial blockage.
Income composition inequality of Chinese residents and fiscal redistribution effect: An empirical analysis on individual income tax and transfer system
Authors: Tu Xunhua , Yan Jie , Zheng Jing
Published: January 2024

Based on the data of China Family Panel Studies (CFPS), this paper decomposed Chinese residents’ income into labor income and capital income by income source, and measured the income inequality and income composition inequality of Chinese residents during 2010–2018. We take the Gini coefficient as a measure of inequality and, by decomposing it by income source, analyze the absolute and relative marginal effects of capital income and labor income on the overall income inequality. On this basis, this paper discusses the redistributive effect of financial instruments such as personal income tax and transfer payment on income inequality and income composition inequality. The results show that capital income is not only the main driving factor for the increase of overall income inequality, but also its influence on inequality is gradually increasing. The results of the redistribution effect of fiscal instruments show that although individual income tax and transfer payment both help to reduce the overall income inequality, only individual income tax can reduce the inequality of income composition, while transfer payment will exacerbate it. In the background of the rising share of capital income, it may widen the income distribution gap in the long run. Hence, future fiscal redistribution efforts should consider the income composition inequality. This includes further promotion of individual income tax reforms, optimization of the tax rate structure, enhancement of relevant tax laws governing capital income like property income, and continuous improvement in the redistributive impact of fiscal instruments.
Market segmentation and consumer motivations in protected natural parks: A study from Spain
Authors: Carvache-Franco Mauricio , Carrascosa-López Conrado , Carvache-Franco Wilmer
Published: January 2024

There has been an increase in the interest of tourists in the environment and enjoying it in recent years. This research aims to: a) Identify the motivational dimensions in the protected natural parks and b) Analyze the different segments in the protected natural parks. The research was conducted in the Posets-Maladeta protected area in Spain. The sample comprises 422 surveys got in situ. Data analysis involved the execution of factor analysis and non-hierarchical K-means segmentation. The findings suggest the presence of nine motivational dimensions in the protected natural park studied: self-development, interpersonal relationships, security measures, establishing personal bonds, escape, ego-defensive function, nature, entertainment, and rewards. In addition, within this protected natural park is confirmed the presence of two distinct segments: one focused on nature and the other encompassing multiple motives. The results contribute management guidelines for natural park managers for the benefit of communities and visitors. Additionally, this work can serve as a valuable addition to the academic literature concerning ecotourism.