bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel artificial nerve transplantation of human iPSC-derived neurite bundles enhanced nerve regeneration after peripheral nerve injury
Authors: Nishijima Takayuki , Okuyama Kentaro , Shibata Shinsuke , Kimura Hiroo , Shinozaki Munehisa , Ouchi Takehito , Mabuchi Yo , Ohno Tatsukuni , Nakayama Junpei , Hayatsu Manabu , Uchiyama Keiko , Shindo Tomoko , Niiyama Eri , Toita Sayaka , Kawada Jiro , Iwamoto Takuji , Nakamura Masaya , Okano Hideyuki , Nagoshi Narihito
Published: February 2024

Background

Severe peripheral nerve damage always requires surgical treatment. Autologous nerve transplantation is a standard treatment, but it is not sufficient due to length limitations and extended surgical time. Even with the available artificial nerves, there is still large room for improvement in their therapeutic effects. Novel treatments for peripheral nerve injury are greatly expected.

Methods

Using a specialized microfluidic device, we generated artificial neurite bundles from human iPSC-derived motor and sensory nerve organoids. We developed a new technology to isolate cell-free neurite bundles from spheroids. Transplantation therapy was carried out for large nerve defects in rat sciatic nerve with novel artificial nerve conduit filled with lineally assembled sets of human neurite bundles. Quantitative comparisons were performed over time to search for the artificial nerve with the therapeutic effect, evaluating the recovery of motor and sensory functions and histological regeneration. In addition, a multidimensional unbiased gene expression profiling was carried out by using next-generation sequencing.

Result

After transplantation, the neurite bundle-derived artificial nerves exerted significant therapeutic effects, both functionally and histologically. Remarkably, therapeutic efficacy was achieved without immunosuppression, even in xenotransplantation. Transplanted neurite bundles fully dissolved after several weeks, with no tumor formation or cell proliferation, confirming their biosafety. Posttransplant gene expression analysis highlighted the immune system’s role in recovery.

Conclusion

The combination of newly developed microfluidic devices and iPSC technology enables the preparation of artificial nerves from organoid-derived neurite bundles in advance for future treatment of peripheral nerve injury patients. A promising, safe, and effective peripheral nerve treatment is now ready for clinical application.
Efficacy of different entomopathogenic nematode isolates, against the peach fruit fly, Bactrocera zonata (Saund.) (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: Sallam Radwa F. , Shalaby Fawzy F. , Hafez Adel A. , Abdel-Hameid Naglaa F. , Shairra Souad A.
Published: February 2024

Background

The invasive peach fruit fly (PFF), Bactrocera zonata (Saunders) (Diptera: Tephritidae), is a native of Southeast Asia. Entomopathogens like nematodes, bacteria, viruses and fungi have been shown to be effective as a biological control agent against B. zonata. Evaluation the efficacy of different entomopathogenic nematode isolates (EPNs) belonged to the two families (Steinernematidae and Heterorhabditidae); (Steinernema carpocapsae (AII), S. carpocapsae (EGAZ10), Heterorhabditis bacteriophora (HP88) and H. indica (EGAZ2) was carried out against the full-grown larvae of B. zonata under laboratory, semi-field and field conditions.

Results

Data revealed that in all the tested nematode isolates succeeded to reduce the emerging of the PFF, B. zonata compared to controls with significant differences. The LC50 values were 794.3, 1063.2, 1249.8 and 1446.8 IJs/ml, for S. carpocapsae (AII), S. carpocapsae (EGAZ10), H. bacteriophora (HP88) and H. indica (EGAZ2), respectively, at 3 days post treatments. The strain, S. carpocapsae (AII) was effective than S. carpocapsae (EGAZ10). Also, the strain H. bacteriophora (HP88) was more effective than H. indica (EGAZ2). Therefore, the combination between the effective two steinernematid strains (S. carpocapsae (AII) & S. carpocapsae (EGAZ10)) and the two heterorhabditis strains (H. bacteriophora (HP88) & H. indica (EGAZ2)) was efficient in the semi-field experiment. In field condition, the combination of the two efficient strains S. carpocapsae (AII) and H. bacteriophora (HP88) at the concentration of 3000 IJs/ml was more effective in controlling B. zonata causing mortality 97.5%. The Co-Toxicity factor values were − 67.6 for the combination of S. carpocapsae (AII) with S. carpocapsae (EGAZ10) which recorded an antagonistic effect. Also, antagonistic effects were observed for the combined application of H. bacteriophora (HP88) with H. indica (EGAZ2) (− 66.6) in semi-field application; and the same effect was recorded for the combination of S. carpocapsae (AII) with H. bacteriophora (HP88) (− 42.6) in field application.

Conclusion

All EPNs’ experiments showed that the efficacy of foreign nematodes than the local ones. So, combination of the two highly effective imported strains gave satisfied results, especially in the field experiment.
Primary and secondary postpartum haemorrhage: a review for a rationale endovascular approach
Authors: Alonso-Burgos Alberto , Díaz-Lorenzo Ignacio , Muñoz-Saá Laura , Gallardo Guillermo , Castellanos Teresa , Cardenas Regina , Chiva de Agustín Luis
Published: February 2024

Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is a significant cause of maternal mortality globally, necessitating prompt and efficient management. This review provides a comprehensive exploration of endovascular treatment dimensions for both primary and secondary PPH, with a focus on uterine atony, trauma, placenta accreta spectrum (PAS), and retained products of conception (RPOC). Primary PPH, occurring within 24 h, often results from uterine atony in 70% of causes, but also from trauma, or PAS. Uterine atony involves inadequate myometrial contraction, addressed through uterine massage, oxytocin, and, if needed, mechanical modalities like balloon tamponade. Trauma-related PPH may stem from perineal injuries or pseudoaneurysm rupture, while PAS involves abnormal placental adherence. PAS demands early detection due to associated life-threatening bleeding during delivery. Secondary PPH, occurring within 24 h to 6 weeks postpartum, frequently arises from RPOC. Medical management may include uterine contraction drugs and hemostatic agents, but invasive procedures like dilation and curettage (D&C) or hysteroscopic resection may be required.

Imaging assessments, particularly through ultrasound (US), play a crucial role in the diagnosis and treatment planning of postpartum haemorrhage (PPH), except for uterine atony, where imaging techniques prove to be of limited utility in its management. Computed tomography play an important role in evaluation of trauma related PPH cases and MRI is essential in diagnosing and treatment planning of PAS and RPOC.

Uterine artery embolization (UAE) has become a standard intervention for refractory PPH, offering a rapid, effective, and safe alternative to surgery with a success rate exceeding 85% (Rand T. et al. CVIR Endovasc 3:1-12, 2020). The technical approach involves non-selective uterine artery embolization with resorbable gelatine sponge (GS) in semi-liquid or torpedo presentation as the most extended embolic or calibrated microspheres. Selective embolization is warranted in cases with identifiable bleeding points or RPOC with AVM-like angiographic patterns and liquid embolics could be a good option in this scenario. UAE in PAS requires a tailored approach, considering the degree of placental invasion. A thorough understanding of female pelvis vascular anatomy and collateral pathways is essential for accurate and safe UAE.

In conclusion, integrating interventional radiology techniques into clinical guidelines for primary and secondary PPH management and co-working during labour is crucial.

Graphical Abstract
Fatal form of immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) developed post pneumonia in a solid organ transplant recipient
Authors: Hussain Hussain , Fadel Aya , Casmartino Ekaterina , Sullivan John , Fernandes Amanda , Garcia Samantha , Garcia Efrain
Published: February 2024

Background

Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) is a complex phenomenon commonly diagnosed with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). However, rarely, IRIS can develop with other diseases outside of HIV. We are discussing a rare presentation of IRIS following a pseudomonal infection.

Case presentation

We present a 79-year-old Hispanic male who completed a course of cefepime for Pseudomonas aeruginosa hospital-acquired pneumonia. The patient had a 21-year history of solid organ transplant and immunosuppressive therapy, and he developed a fatal form of IRIS post-Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Conclusions

IRIS may occur in any immunocompromised patient who develops an insidious onset of unexplained clinical and serological deterioration.
Teaching, assessment and best practice in undergraduate psychiatry education in the UK: cross-sectional survey
Authors: Sharma Deepika , Hewson Thomas , Mahalingappa Sridevi Sira , Fallon James , Hyland Declan , Abraham Seri , Sidwell Alexa , Dave Subodh
Published: February 2024

Aims and method

We conducted a cross-sectional survey to examine how undergraduate psychiatry is taught and assessed across medical schools in the UK that have at least one cohort of graduated students.

Results

In total, 27 medical schools completed the survey. Curriculum coverage of common mental disorders, assessment skills and mental health law was broadly consistent, although exposure to psychiatric subspecialties varied. Significant variation existed regarding the duration of psychiatry placements and availability of enrichment activities. Small-group teaching, lectures and e-learning were the most frequent teaching modalities and various professionals and lived experience educators (patient and/or carers) contributed to teaching. Objective structured clinical examinations and multiple-choice questions dominated assessments.

Clinical implications

Medical schools should consider increasing students’ exposure to different psychiatric subspecialties and integrating physical and mental health training to address comorbidity and promote holistic care. Future research should explore whether specific undergraduate experiences promote greater career interest and skills in psychiatry.
Ελλάδα, Ευρώπη και διεθνής τρομοκρατία, από τον ψυχρό πόλεμο στη νέα τρομοκρατία
Authors: Φιλντίσης Αναστάσιος
Published: February 2024

H διατριβή εξετάζει τη διεθνή τρομοκρατία στην Ελλάδα από το 1974 έως την εξάρθρωση της «17 Νοέμβρη» το 2002 και τις επιπτώσεις της τρομοκρατικής δράσης στις εξωτερικές σχέσεις της χώρας. Η μελέτη του φαινομένου πραγματοποιείται στο ευρύτερο ιστορικό πλαίσιο των περιόδων που καλύπτει η διατριβή, ειδικότερα του Ψυχρού Πολέμου και της πρώτης μεταψυχροπολεμικής περιόδου. Εντός αυτού του πλαισίου, μελετώνται οι μεταβολές που λαμβάνουν χώρα συνεπεία των ευρύτερων γεωπολιτικών εξελίξεων, αλλά και των εσωτερικών παραγόντων που επηρεάζουν και διαμορφώνουν τη δράση των τρομοκρατικών ομάδων. Μέσα από μία συγκριτική προσέγγιση με τα τεκταινόμενα στο πεδίο της τρομοκρατίας σε επιλεγμένες χώρες της Δυτικής Ευρώπης, μελετώνται ομοιότητες και διαφορές της ελληνικής περίπτωσης. Παρά την ύπαρξη ακροδεξιών τρομοκρατικών οργανώσεων κατά τη δεκαετία του 1970, έμφαση αποδίδεται πέραν των οργανώσεων αραβικής/διεθνούς τρομοκρατίας στις ακροαριστερές τρομοκρατικές οργανώσεις, καθώς μεγάλο μέρος των ενεργειών τους στρέφεται εναντίον στόχων ξένου – κυρίως αμερικανικού – ενδιαφέροντος. Σε αυτό το πλαίσιο εξετάζονται συνέχειες και τομές της ελληνικής εξωτερικής πολιτικής κατά την περίοδο 1974-2002, οι μεταβολές του τρομοκρατικού φαινομένου και οι επιπτώσεις του στις σχέσεις κυρίως με τις ΗΠΑ και τις υπόλοιπες χώρες της Δυτικής Ευρώπης. Επιπλέον σκιαγραφούνται οι στάσεις του πολιτικού συστήματος και της κοινής γνώμης απέναντι στο φαινόμενο και οι εξελίξεις στο πεδίο της καταπολέμησής του.
The impact of interviewer characteristics on residency candidate scores in Emergency Medicine: a brief report
Authors: Coughlin Ryan F. , Bod Jessica , Wood D. Brian , Goldflam Katja , Della-Giustina David , Joseph Melissa , Devlin Dylan , Wong Ambrose H. , Tsyrulnik Alina
Published: February 2024

Background At the conclusion of residency candidate interview days, faculty interviewers commonly meet as a group to reach conclusions about candidate evaluations based on shared information. These conclusions ultimately translate into rank list position for The Residency Match. The primary objective is to determine if the post-interview discussion influences the final scores assigned by each interviewer, and to investigate whether interviewer characteristics are significantly associated with the likelihood of changing their score. Based on Foucault’s ‘theory of discourse’ and Bourdieu’s ‘social capital theory,’ we hypothesized that interviewer characteristics, and the discourse itself, would contribute to score changes after a post-interview discussion regarding emergency medicine residency candidates. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional observational study of candidate scores for all candidates to a four-year emergency medicine residency program affiliated with Yale University School of Medicine during a single application cycle. The magnitude and direction of score changes, if any, after group discussion were plotted and grouped by interviewer academic rank. We created a logistic regression model to determine the odds that candidate scores changed from pre- and post-discussion ratings related to specific interviewer factors. Results A total of 24 interviewers and 211 candidates created 471 unique interviewer-candidate scoring interactions, with 216 (45.8%) changing post-discussion. All interviewers ranked junior to professor were significantly more likely to change their score compared to professors. Interviewers who were women had significantly lower odds of changing their individual scores following group discussion (p=0.020; OR 0.49, 95% CI 0.26-0.89). Conclusions Interviewers with lower academic rank had higher odds of changing their post-discussion scores of residency candidates compared to professors. Future work is needed to further characterize the influencing factors and could help create more equitable decision processes during the residency candidate ranking process.
Development of the lexicon, trained panel validation and sensory profiling of new ready-to-eat plant-based "meatballs" in tomato sauce
Authors: Talens Clara , Lago Maider , Illanes Eder , Baranda Ana , Ibargüen Mónica , Santa Cruz Elena
Published: February 2024

Background Providing educational content for children and parents can promote healthy nutritional habits. During the TITAN project, a pilot digital contest where participants have to developed ready-to-eat meatballs in sauce, using only plant-based ingredients, will be tested. The objective of this study was to develop the lexicon needed to objectively assess the sensory profile of this product. Methods Eight judges were recruited and trained. Thirteen 1-hour sessions took place over three months. The steps followed were the selection of commercial reference, generation of descriptors, training of the panel, validation of the trained panel and product characterisation. The judges chose one commercial reference (using simple hedonic evaluation) to serve as a reference. The accepted intensity scale for the generated descriptors was from 0 (low intensity) to 9 (very intense). To test the first versions of the game, food product developers involved in the project, acted as participants, and used a mix of lentils, quinoa, and oats to enhance the commercial version. R-project software was used to analyse the performance of the panel and the sensory profiles. Results A glossary with 14 descriptors was generated. The discriminatory capacity of the panel was confirmed by examining the significance of the product effect (p < 0.05). The product–judge interaction was not significant (p > 0.05) for most of the evaluated attributes, indicating a good degree of panel agreement. Overall, the panel was considered reproducible after 9 sessions. Although the appearance, firmness, fragility and chewiness were considered similar to the reference, juiciness and taste (understood as meaty flavour) of the new product were deemed improved. Conclusions According to the panel, two of the most appreciated attributes associated with meat analogues, juiciness and taste, were improved compared to the commercial reference. Therefore, the first approach for further development of the contest/game was validated.
Gestational trophoblastic disease a contemporary review of diagnostic and pathology. Current challenge and future directions for gynecologists and obstetricians
Authors: Senat Hanna , Grabowska Patrycja , Senat Aleksandra , Bolla Patrycja , Madej Aleksandra , Marczyńska Zuzanna
Published: February 2024

Gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) is a heterogenous group of disorders assosiated with abnromal proliferation of trophoblast and their course is characterized by varying degrees of malignancy. WHO classified GTD into three categories: tumor-like lesions, molar pregnancies and gestational trophoblastic neoplasms.HM is characterized by abnormal proliferation of both syncytiotrophoblast and cytotrophoblast, edema of placental villi, with or without the presence of a fetus. Complete and partial moles have been classified as two separate disease entities, and their division depends on the genetic material they contain. The complete mole has a complete set of chromosomes coming only from paternal genome, while the partial mole is triploid and the genetic material transferred comes from the father and the mother. Post-molar gestational trophoblast neoplasia (GTN) is a clinical diagnosis based on the observation of a persistent increase or persistently high hCG concentration after evacuation of the mole, requiring evaluation and treatment. Invasive hydatidiform mole, together with choriocarcinoma and placental tumor, belong to gestational trophoblast neoplasia. Currently, research has shown that short tandem repeat (STR) genotyping is the gold standard for making the correct diagnosis and this test should be performed if possible. GTD diseases originate from both syncytiotrophoblast and cytotrophoblast tissues and as a result of which they produce an extremely sensitive marker -human chorionic gonadotropin. The facts stated above and significant sensitivity to chemotherapy mean that the average cure rate for this disease currently exceeds 90%. Although the main treatment of gestational trophoblast neoplasia involves the use of cytostatics in cases with worse prognosis, i.e. those with a higher risk, surgery turns out to be an invaluable treatment method.
A Dedicated Pricing Algorithm to Solve a Large Family of Nurse Scheduling Problems with Branch-and-Price
Authors: Legrain Antoine , Omer Jérémy
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we describe a branch-and-price algorithm for the personalized nurse scheduling problem. The variants that appear in the literature involve a large number of constraints that can be hard or soft, meaning that they can be violated at the price of a penalty. We capture the diversity of the constraints on individual schedules by seven generic constraints characterized by lower and upper bounds on a given quantity. The core of the column generation procedure is in the identification of individual schedules with minimum reduced cost. For this, we solve a shortest path problem with resource constraints (SPPRC) where several generic constraints are modeled as resource constraints. We then describe dominance rules adapted to the presence of both upper and lower bounds on the resources and leverage soft constraints to improve the dominance. We also describe several acceleration techniques for the solution of the SPPRC, and branching rules that fit the specificities of the problem. Our numerical experiments are based on the instances of three benchmarks of the literature including those of the two international nurse rostering competitions (INRC-I and INRC-II). Their objective is threefold: assess the dominance rules and the acceleration techniques, investigate the capacity of the algorithm to find provable optimal solutions of instances that are still open, and conduct a comparison with best published results. The most noticeable conclusion is that the improved solution of the SPPRC allows to solve optimally all the INRC-II instances where a four-week planning horizon is considered and 40% of the eight-week instances.

History: Accepted by Andrea Lodi, Area Editor for Design & Analysis of Algorithms–Discrete.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/ijoc.2023.0019 .
Making Lemonade from Lemons: A Transaction Cost Economics Perspective on Third-Party Disruptions in a Multivendor Information Technology Service
Authors: Liu Haoyuan , Wen Wen , Barua Anitesh , Whinston Andrew B.
Published: February 2024

In modern enterprise computing environments, multiple information technology (IT) services from first and third parties are often integrated to form coherent solutions for enterprise customers. In this study, we seek to understand how uncertainties introduced by third-party services shape enterprise customers’ use of various IT services in these multivendor service settings. Specifically, we analyze a case of disruption caused by a third party that affects the multivendor service but does not directly affect the first-party services. We find a temporary increase in the use of first-party services that serve as similar-goal substitutes during the disruption; however, there is a net decline in the total use of services in the long run. To assess what actions the first party can take during such disruptions to turn the challenge into an opportunity, we analyze the first party’s technical support log using deep learning techniques. We find that if the first party offers high-quality technical support that addresses product-related issues, it may be able to make lemonade out of lemons. Such technical support effectively boosts customers’ use of first-party services in the long run. Curiously, however, similar efforts by the first party in the predisruption period are ineffective in achieving the same effect.
How Has the COVID-19 Pandemic Affected Students’ Online Social Presence?
Authors: Panjehfouladgaran Hamidreza , Stavropoulou Foteini , Teimouri Misha
Published: February 2024

The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has affected higher education institutions worldwide as they had to switch from face-to-face to online teaching almost overnight. This abrupt change made a huge impact on teaching, learning, and particularly, student engagement. This paper focuses on online social presence as an element of student engagement, which represents how students feel under synchronous online teaching. A survey was conducted among 244 first-year students to evaluate the impact of online social interaction, online collaboration, online contact with staff, online engagement, and online active learning on online social presence. Structural equation modeling was used to test and evaluate these multivariate relationships. Our study illustrates that all variables have a significant positive relationship with online social presence. In particular, online social interaction and online collaboration show a more powerful relationship with student online social presence. Thus, digital technologies should be adopted in a way that encourages students to actively interact with their peers.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF INAPORTNET APPLICATION SYSTEMS AGAINST PORTBASE TO IMPROVE PORT PERFORMANCE IN INDONESIA
Authors: Rasyad Lucky , Andy Fitri , Sumanta I Gusti Ngurah
Published: February 2024

Inaportnet is a digital system used to facilitate operational systems at Indonesian ports whose system is similar to the portbase in the Netherlands which also has the same function and purpose. The main aim of this research is to compare the level of effectiveness and efficiency of the Inaportnet work sys-tem which is considered to be still far from the Portbase work system which has been proven operationally quite effective in Dutch ports based on primary data collected from interviews with the Dutch Portbase and also Inaportnet Indonesia. In the interview results, significant differences were found in the way these two systems work where Portbase prioritizes security by carrying out two-step verification to prevent data leaks and also the possibility of sys-tem hacking. On the other hand, Inaportnet has not done this so it has the po-tential to experience disruption when the system is not available and creates uncertainty in recording cargo volumes where the recording process is still done manually by relying on documents from shipping agents so that if Inaportnet is not available, it makes it difficult to access documents digitally and need a long time. The results of this research show that if the Inaportnet system is modified and slightly combined with the Portbase system on certain systems, the operational system will likely increase its efficiency and the data in the Inaportnet system will be more reliable and trustworthy so as to in-crease cooperation and strengthen trust between incumbent.
Why worry
Authors: Rawstrone Annette
Published: February 2024

There are many strategies that practitioners can use to help children deal with anxiety. By Annette Rawstrone
Maths function
Authors: O'Connor Rosemary
Published: February 2024

Executive functions play an important role in early maths, says Rosemary O'Connor, from a University of Oxford team who have developed a programme to embed these crucial mental skills into fun maths activities
Team values: Share point
Authors: Bateman Charlotte , Mendola Charlotte
Published: February 2024

Charlotte Bateman is managing director of Little Barn Owls Farm School and Nursery in West Sussex, where she works with, and supports, colleague Charlotte Mendola – a nursery educator who is studying for a Level 3 qualification, and has been at the setting for just under a year.
Spelling it out
Authors: Jozwiak Gabriella
Published: February 2024

Our panel discuss what settings can do to improve the written English of staff in order to ensure communications with parents remain professional. By Gabriella Jozwiak
Comparative analysis of deep learning techniques for accurate stroke detection
Authors:   Department of Radiological Technology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok Province, Thailand, Kaewlek Titipong , Sitinwan Ketmanee ,   Department of Radiological Technology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok Province, Thailand, Lueangaroon Kunaporn ,   Department of Radiological Technology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok Province, Thailand, Sansuriyawong Wasita ,   Department of Radiological Technology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok Province, Thailand
Published: February 2024

Background: The traditional diagnosis of strokes through computed tomography (CT) heavily relies on radiologists’ expertise for accurate interpretation. However, the increasing demand for this critical task exceeds the available radiologist workforce, necessitating innovative solutions. This research addresses this challenge by introducing deep learning techniques to enhance the initial screening of stroke cases, thereby augmenting radiologists’ diagnostic capabilities. Objective: This study aims to compare four techniques for classifying stroke lesions in CT images. Materials and methods: Four distinct models-CNN-2-Model, LeNet, GoogleNet, and VGG-16-were trained using a dataset comprising 1,636 CT images, including 1,111 normal brain images and 525 stroke images. Seventy percent of the images were used to train the most effective deep learning model, and subsequently, these images were utilized to evaluate the performance of each model. The evaluation involved assessing accuracy, precision, sensitivity, specificity, F1 score, false positive rate, and AUC. Results: The evaluation process included a comprehensive statistical analysis of the models’ prediction results. The findings revealed that VGG-16 emerged as the top-performing deep learning model, achieving an impressive accuracy of 0.969, precision of 0.952, sensitivity of 0.952, specificity of 0.978, F1 score of 0.952, false positive rate of 0.022, and AUC of 0.965. Conclusion: In conclusion, deep learning techniques, particularly the VGG-16 model, demonstrate significant promise in enhancing the accuracy of stroke lesion classification in CT images. These findings underscore the potential of leveraging advanced technologies to address the growing challenges in stroke diagnosis and pave the way for more efficient and accessible healthcare solutions.
Design of Industrial IoT Intrusion Security Detection System Based on LightGBM Feature Algorithm and Multi-layer Perception Network
Authors: Deng Yongsheng
Published: February 2024

Continuous improvement of machine learning technology has provided more support for intrusion security detection in the industrial Internet of Things (IoT). The intrusion security detection system based on LightGBM feature algorithm and multi-layer perception network fusion provides more options for improving security detection, further enhancing the effectiveness of industrial IoT intrusion security detection. By comparing the applications of different models in the security detection process, the model constructed based on the LightGBM feature algorithm can achieve higher accuracy and precision in industrial IoT intrusion security detection, as well as higher F1-score and AUC values; A more reasonable detection time also lays the foundation for improving the overall efficiency of industrial IoT intrusion security detection. Therefore, in the field of industrial IoT intrusion security detection, the detection model constructed in this article can provide more support for further improvement and improvement of IoT intrusion security detection performance.
Heimdallr, Baldr, and Solarstein: designing the next generation of VLTI instruments in the Asgard suite
Authors: Taras Adam K. , Robertson J. Gordon , Allouche Fatme , Courtney-Barrer Benjamin , Carter Josh , Crous Fred , Cvetojevic Nick , Ireland Michael , Lagarde Stephane , Martinache Frantz , McGinness Grace , N’Diaye Mamadou , Robbe-Dubois Sylvie , Tuthill Peter
Published: February 2024

High angular resolution imaging is an increasingly important capability in contemporary astrophysics. Of particular relevance to emerging fields such as the characterization of exoplanetary systems, imaging at the required spatial scales and contrast levels results in forbidding challenges in the correction of atmospheric phase errors, which in turn drives demanding requirements for precise wavefront sensing. Asgard is the next-generation instrument suite at the European Southern Observatory’s Very Large Telescope Interferometer (VLTI), targeting advances in sensitivity, spectral resolution, and nulling interferometry. In this paper, we describe the requirements and designs of three core modules: Heimdallr, a beam combiner for fringe tracking, low order wavefront correction, and visibility science; Baldr, a Zernike wavefront sensor to correct high order atmospheric aberrations; and Solarstein, an alignment and calibration unit. In addition, we draw generalizable insights for designing such system and discuss integration plans.
Characterization of an uncooled mid-infrared Schottky photodetector based on a 2D Au/PtSi/p-Si nanohole array at a higher light modulation frequency
Authors: Abadi Ashenafi , Abubakr Eslam , Oshita Masaaki , Noda Daiji , Ohta Ryo , Kan Tetsuo
Published: February 2024

In this study, an uncooled 2D nanohole array PtSi/p-Si Schottky mid-infrared (MIR) photodetector, which is essential for on-chip Si-based low-barrier MIR detectors, is presented. Room temperature operation introduces susceptibility to thermal noise and can impact stability. Through modulation frequency and reverse bias optimization, the stability improved by 7 times at 170 Hz and −3.5V, respectively. The effective light detection and stability were confirmed through ON/OFF response measurements over a longer time. The wavelength-dependent responsivity, measured with a tunable MIR laser, confirmed the responsiveness of the device in the MIR region of 2.5 µm to 4.0 µm, with a maximum specific detectivity (D*) of 2.0×103cmHz1/2W−1 at 3.0 µm; this result shows its potential applicability for noninvasive human lipid monitoring. Overall, this study focuses on the crucial role of signal analysis optimization in enhancing the performance of MIR photodetectors at room temperature.
Large-range two-dimensional sub-nano-misalignment sensing for lithography with a piecewise frequency regression network
Authors: Wang Nan , Li Yi , Jiang Wei , Qin Zhen’an , Liu Jun
Published: February 2024

Circular gratings have been traditionally used as coarse alignment markers rather than fine ones for carrying out two-dimensional (2D) large-range misalignment measurements. This is primarily due to its complex phase distribution, which renders the extraction of information from high-precision alignment challenging using conventional frequency filtering methods. Along these lines, in this work, a novel, to the best of our knowledge, convolutional regression filter capable of achieving a 2D misalignment measurement with an impressive accuracy of 0.82 nm across a 3 mm range was introduced. Importantly, the proposed approach exhibited robustness against system errors and noise. It is anticipated that this strategy will provide an effective solution for similar misalignment sensing applications and hold promise for addressing future challenges in these fields.
Long-lived nitric oxide molecular tagging velocimetry with 1 + 1 REMPI
Authors: Jiang Naibo , Hsu Paul S. , Roy Sukesh , Wang Jincheng , Hu Hui , Rodrigues Neil , Danehy Paul M.
Published: February 2024

The successful demonstration of long-lived nitric oxide (NO) fluorescence for molecular tagging velocimetry (MTV) measurements is described in this Letter. Using 1 + 1 resonance-enhanced multiphoton ionization (REMPI) of NO at a wavelength near 226 nm, targeting the overlapping Q1(7) and Q21(7) lines of the A–X (0, 0) electronic system, the lifetime of the NO MTV signal was observed to be approximately 8.6 µs within a 100-Torr cell containing 2% NO in nitrogen. This is in stark contrast to the commonly reported single photon NO fluorescence, which has a much shorter calculated lifetime of approximately 43 ns at this pressure and NO volume fraction. While the shorter lifetime fluorescence can be useful for molecular tagging velocimetry with single laser excitation within very high-speed flows at some thermodynamic conditions, the longer lived fluorescence shows the potential for an order of magnitude more accurate and precise velocimetry, particularly within lower speed regions of hypersonic flow fields such as wakes and boundary layers. The physical mechanism responsible for the generation of this long-lived signal is detailed. Furthermore, the effectiveness of this technique is showcased in a high-speed jet flow, where it is employed for precise flow velocity measurements.
Dual-wavelength resolution matching digital holographic microscopy using one path structured illumination
Authors: Huang Meng , Han Yang , Jiang Zhuqing
Published: February 2024

A dual-wavelength resolution-matching digital holographic microscopy with one path structured illumination is presented, which can improve phase imaging resolution. In this configuration, a dual-wavelength hologram with two illumination modes corresponding to two different wavelengths can be flexibly recorded at one shot, and the imaging resolutions under the two wavelengths can reach equivalence by setting the modulation frequency of structure illumination. The expression for calculating the modulation frequency of structured illumination in a two-wavelength system is given. By setting the proper modulation frequency, the resolution of dual-wavelength phase imaging can be enhanced, which is verified in the phase imaging experiment of a USAF quantitative phase target. The dual-wavelength reconstructed phase map of paramecia cells exhibit the internal macronucleus, food vacuole and cilia. The imaging results demonstrate the resolution-matching approach using one path structured-illumination in effect for the improvement of phase imaging resolution.
Ultra-intense femtosecond laser interactions with aligned nanostructures
Authors: Rocca Jorge J. , Capeluto Maria G. , Hollinger Reed C. , Wang Shoujun , Wang Yong , Kumar G. Ravindra , Lad Amit D. , Pukhov Alexander , Shlyaptsev Vyacheslav N.
Published: February 2024

The interaction of ultrafast laser pulses of relativistic intensity with high aspect ratio nanostructures can efficiently and volumetrically heat matter to an ultra-high-energy-density regime encountered in the center of stars and within the core of fusion capsules compressed by the world’s largest lasers. It also generates gigantic quasi-static electromagnetic fields that accelerate particles to very high energy. Here, we present an overview of the physics and applications of these dense relativistic plasmas that can be created with pulses of relatively modest energy from lasers that can operate at a high repetition rate. Recent nanowire array experiments produced near-solid density plasmas with an extreme degree of ionization (e.g., Au+72), converted ultrafast pulses of laser light into intense x-ray flashes with record efficiency, and accelerated ions to MeV energies, efficiently driving micro-scale fusion reactions that generate flashes of quasi-monoenergetic neutrons. These plasmas also serve as a platform for advancing the understanding of atomic processes in extreme environments and open a new pathway to laser-driven fusion energy. The irradiation of nanostructures at intensities of >1×1022Wcm−2 is predicted to lead to an extreme ultra-high energy density plasma regime characterized by terabar pressures that is virtually unexplored.
Ethical issues in direct-to-consumer healthcare: A scoping review
Authors: Nagappan Ashwini , Kalokairinou Louiza , Wexler Anna
Published: February 2024

An increasing number of health products and services are being offered on a direct-to-consumer (DTC) basis. To date, however, scholarship on DTC healthcare products and services has largely proceeded in a domain-specific fashion, with discussions of relevant ethical challenges occurring within specific medical specialties. The present study therefore aimed to provide a scoping review of ethical issues raised in the academic literature across types of DTC healthcare products and services. A systematic search for relevant publications between 2011–2021 was conducted on PubMed and Google Scholar using iteratively developed search terms. The final sample included 86 publications that discussed ethical issues related to DTC healthcare products and services. All publications were coded for ethical issues mentioned, primary DTC product or service discussed, type of study, year of publication, and geographical context. We found that the types of DTC healthcare products and services mentioned in our sample spanned six categories: neurotechnology (34%), testing (20%), in-person services (17%), digital health tools (14%), telemedicine (13%), and physical interventions (2%). Ethical arguments in favor of DTC healthcare included improved access (e.g., financial, geographical; 31%), increased autonomy (29%), and enhanced convenience (16%). Commonly raised ethical concerns included insufficient regulation (72%), questionable efficacy and quality (70%), safety and physical harms (66%), misleading advertising claims (56%), and privacy (34%). Other frequently occurring ethical concerns pertained to financial costs, targeting vulnerable groups, informed consent, and potential burdens on healthcare providers, the healthcare system, and society. Our findings offer insights into the cross-cutting ethical issues associated with DTC healthcare and underscore the need for increased interdisciplinary communication to address the challenges they raise.
Effect of distributing locally produced cloth facemasks on COVID-19-like illness and all-cause mortality–a cluster-randomised controlled trial in urban Guinea-Bissau
Authors: Nanque Line M. , Jensen Andreas M. , Diness Arthur , Nielsen Sebastian , Cabral Carlos , Cawthorne Dylan , Martins Justiniano S. D. , Ca Elsi J. C. , Jensen Kjeld , Martins Cesario L. , Rodrigues Amabelia , Fisker Ane B.
Published: February 2024

Facemasks have been employed to mitigate the spread of SARS-CoV-2. The community effect of providing cloth facemasks on COVID-19 morbidity and mortality is unknown. In a cluster randomised trial in urban Bissau, Guinea-Bissau, clusters (geographical areas with an average of 19 houses), were randomised to an intervention or control arm using computer-generated random numbers. Between 20 July 2020 and 22 January 2021, trial participants (aged 10+ years) living in intervention clusters (n = 90) received two 2-layer cloth facemasks, while facemasks were only distributed later in control clusters (n = 91). All participants received information on COVID-19 prevention. Trial participants were followed through a telephone interview for COVID-19-like illness (3+ symptoms), care seeking, and mortality for 4 months. End-of-study home visits ensured full mortality information and distribution of facemasks to the control group. Individual level information on outcomes by trial arm was compared in logistic regression models with generalised estimating equation-based correction for cluster. Facemasks use was mandated. Facemask use in public areas was assessed by direct observation. We enrolled 39,574 trial participants among whom 95% reported exposure to groups of >20 persons and 99% reported facemasks use, with no difference between trial arms. Observed use was substantially lower (~40%) with a 3%, 95%CI: 0–6% absolute difference between control and intervention clusters. Half of those wearing a facemask wore it correctly. Few participants (532, 1.6%) reported COVID-19-like illness; proportions did not differ by trial arm: Odds Ratio (OR) = 0.81, 95%CI: 0.57–1.15. 177 (0.6%) participants reported consultations and COVID-19-like illness (OR = 0.83, 95%CI: 0.56–1.24); 89 participants (0.2%) died (OR = 1.34, 95%CI: 0.89–2.02). Hence, though trial participants were exposed to many people, facemasks were mostly not worn or not worn correctly. Providing facemasks and messages about correct use did not substantially increase their use and had limited impact on morbidity and mortality.

Trial registration: clinicaltrials.gov: NCT04471766.
Food additive emulsifiers and cancer risk: Results from the French prospective NutriNet-Santé cohort
Authors: Sellem Laury , Srour Bernard , Javaux Guillaume , Chazelas Eloi , Chassaing Benoit , Viennois Emilie , Debras Charlotte , Druesne-Pecollo Nathalie , Esseddik Younes , Szabo de Edelenyi Fabien , Arnault Nathalie , Agaësse Cédric , De Sa Alexandre , Lutchia Rebecca , Huybrechts Inge , Scalbert Augustin , Pierre Fabrice , Coumoul Xavier , Julia Chantal , Kesse-Guyot Emmanuelle , Allès Benjamin , Galan Pilar , Hercberg Serge , Deschasaux-Tanguy Mélanie , Touvier Mathilde
Published: February 2024

Background

Emulsifiers are widely used food additives in industrially processed foods to improve texture and enhance shelf-life. Experimental research suggests deleterious effects of emulsifiers on the intestinal microbiota and the metabolome, leading to chronic inflammation and increasing susceptibility to carcinogenesis. However, human epidemiological evidence investigating their association with cancer is nonexistent. This study aimed to assess associations between food additive emulsifiers and cancer risk in a large population-based prospective cohort.

Methods and findings

This study included 92,000 adults of the French NutriNet-Santé cohort without prevalent cancer at enrolment (44.5 y [SD: 14.5], 78.8% female, 2009 to 2021). They were followed for an average of 6.7 years [SD: 2.2]. Food additive emulsifier intakes were estimated for participants who provided at least 3 repeated 24-h dietary records linked to comprehensive, brand-specific food composition databases on food additives. Multivariable Cox regressions were conducted to estimate associations between emulsifiers and cancer incidence. Overall, 2,604 incident cancer cases were diagnosed during follow-up (including 750 breast, 322 prostate, and 207 colorectal cancers). Higher intakes of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids (FAs) (E471) were associated with higher risks of overall cancer (HR high vs. low category = 1.15; 95% CI [1.04, 1.27], p-trend = 0.01), breast cancer (HR = 1.24; 95% CI [1.03, 1.51], p-trend = 0.04), and prostate cancer (HR = 1.46; 95% CI [1.09, 1.97], p-trend = 0.02). In addition, associations with breast cancer risk were observed for higher intakes of total carrageenans (E407 and E407a) (HR = 1.32; 95% CI [1.09, 1.60], p-trend = 0.009) and carrageenan (E407) (HR = 1.28; 95% CI [1.06, 1.56], p-trend = 0.01). No association was detected between any of the emulsifiers and colorectal cancer risk. Several associations with other emulsifiers were observed but were not robust throughout sensitivity analyses. Main limitations include possible exposure measurement errors in emulsifiers intake and potential residual confounding linked to the observational design.

Conclusions

In this large prospective cohort, we observed associations between higher intakes of carrageenans and mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids with overall, breast and prostate cancer risk. These results need replication in other populations. They provide new epidemiological evidence on the role of emulsifiers in cancer risk.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03335644.
Physicians’ attitudes towards secondary use of clinical data for biomedical research purposes in Germany. Results of a quantitative survey
Authors: Köngeter Anja , Schickhardt Christoph , Jungkunz Martin , Mehlis Katja , Winkler Eva C.
Published: February 2024

Background

For biomedical data-driven research purposes, secondary use of clinical data carries great but largely untapped potential. Physicians’ attitudes and their needs towards secondary data use are essential to inform its practical and ethically sound implementation but are currently understudied.

Objective

Therefore, the objectives of the study are to assess physicians’ (i) general attitudes and concerns, (ii) willingness to adapt workflows and to make data available for secondary use, (iii) group-specific conditions toward implementation of secondary use and associated concerns of physician-scientists and purely clinical physicians.

Methods

We developed an online survey based on a literature review and an expert interview study. Physicians in private practice and at two large German university hospitals were surveyed from May 2021 until January 2022.

Results

In total, 446 physicians participated in the survey. 96% [380/397] of all physicians reported a positive attitude towards secondary use; 87% [31/397] are in-principle willing to support secondary use of clinical data along with a small proportion of physicians with fundamental reservations. Secondly, the most important conditions for adapting workflows were funding of additional time and effort for research-adequate documentation (71% [286/390]) and the most important condition for providing patients’ clinical data was reliable protection of patients’ privacy (67% [254/382]). Thirdly, physician-scientists were more likely than purely clinical physicians to request additional funding for research-adequate documentation as a precondition for support (83% vs 69%, P = .002) and the privilege to conduct research with their own patients’ clinical data before other researchers are allowed to (43% vs 11%, P < .001); while purely clinical physicians more frequently require reliable protection of patient privacy (76% vs 62%, P = .007) and monetary compensation (45% vs 25%, P < .001).

Conclusion

Since this study presents high in-principle willingness of physicians to support secondary use along with little general concerns, it seems essential to address physicians’ group-specific conditions toward secondary use in order to gain their support.