bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of a Thai semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire (semi-FFQ) for people at risk of metabolic syndrome
Authors: Nirdnoy Nattvara , Sranacharoenpong Kitti , Surawit Apinya , Pinsawas Bonggochpass , Mongkolsucharitkul Pichanun , Pongkunakorn Tanyaporn , Manosan Thamonwan , Ophakas Suphawan , Suta Sophida , Pumeiam Sureeporn , Mayurasakorn Korapat ,   Siriraj Health Study Group, Ratanasuwan Winai , Homsanit Mayuree , Charoencholvanich Keerati , Suktitipat Bhoom , Mitrpant Chalermchai , Pithukpakorn Manop , Suriyaphol Prapat , Krittayaphong Rungroj , Auewarakul Prasert , Tassaneetritap Boonrat , Poungvarin Naravat
Published: February 2023

Background

Food frequency questionnaires (FFQ) are a useful dietary assessment tool to determine relationships between diet and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Our purpose was to validate a semiquantitative FFQ (semi-FFQ) for Thais at risk of metabolic syndrome (MS).

Methods

The researchers identified 345 men and women aged 30–65 years who were eligible for the study. Ninety-four participants were finally enrolled (54 in a “urine-collection not-required” group and 40 in a “urine collection” group). They were asked to maintain a 4-day food record for 4 weeks and partook in a semi-FFQ interview during week 4. Urine samples and biochemical results related to MS were collected. Validation results were associated with three primary nutrients for MS (sugar, fat, and sodium) and biochemical results (blood glucose, lipid profiles, blood pressure, and 24-h urine sodium).

Results

The biomarker level of each key MS nutrient significantly increased commensurate with rises in semi-FFQ estimated intakes. Correlation coefficients (r) were as follows: fasting blood glucose, r = 0.221 (fruits) and r = 0.229 (desserts); triglycerides, r = 0.112 (a la carte-dishes); low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, r = 0.205 (rice-with-topping dishes); systolic blood pressure, r = 0.272 (snacks) and r = 0.190 (a la carte dishes). Fasting blood glucose was a significant biomarker associated with the development of metabolic syndrome (OR 1.42, 95% CI 1.12–1.81). We also found that fat (OR 1.28, 95% CI 1.09–1.89), sodium (OR 1.98, 95% CI 1.05–1.95) and energy (OR 1.09, 95% CI 1.01–1.17) from an a la carte meal were significantly associated with the development of metabolic syndrome.

Conclusions

Thai food has a unique characteristic since it often pairs various ingredients and seasoning in one menu. This semi-FFQ is a tool that offers relatively valid ranking for intake of energy, nutrients, single foods, and mixed dishes based on Thai menus associated with a risk for developing metabolic syndrome and NCDs. Using this tool could help identify unhealthy dietary patterns and help develop recommendations for people at risk with the goal of preventing NCDs.
Identification of consensus hairpin loop structure among the negative sense subgenomic RNAs of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Bokolia Naveen Prakash , Gadepalli Ravisekhar
Published: February 2023

Background

SARS-CoV-2 is the causative agent of worldwide pandemic disease coronavirus disease 19. SARS-CoV-2 bears positive sense RNA genome that has organized and complex pattern of replication/transcription process including the generation of subgenomic RNAs. Transcription regulatory sequences have important role in the pausing of replication/transcription and generation of subgenomic RNAs.

Results

In the present bioinformatics analysis, a consensus secondary structure was identified among negative sense subgenomic RNAs of SARS-CoV-2. This consensus region is present at the adjacent of initiation codon.

Conclusions

This study proposed that consensus structured domain could involve in mediating the long pausing of replication/transcription complex and responsible for subgenomic RNA production.
rs3761548 (C/A) and rs5902434 (del/ATT) polymorphisms of Foxp3 gene in Iranian patients with migraine
Authors: Faraji Fardin , Mosayebi Ghasem , Bahrami Maryam , Shojapour Mana
Published: February 2023

Background

Migraine is a neurovascular disorder; several studies have demonstrated the immune system plays a key role in migraine pathogenesis. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between FOXP3 gene polymorphism and susceptibility to migraine.

Methods

In a case–control study, 55 whole blood samples of patients with migraine and 80 healthy samples were collected. After DNA extraction, genotyping of the rs5902434 (del/ATT) and rs3761548 (C/A) FOXP3 was performed using sequence-specific primers method (PCR-SSP).

Results

The results of this study showed that there were statistically significant differences between patient and control group in genotype frequencies of rs3761548. In addition, the frequency of heterozygous genotype AC at rs3761548 in patients was found to be significantly higher than controls. We also found no significant differences between cases and controls were found in the allelic and genotype distribution of the rs5902434 (del/ATT) polymorphism. None of the rs5902434 (del/ATT) genotypes showed any significant association with the migraine.

Conclusions

According to finding of our study, polymorphism rs3761548 in FOXP3 gene were associated with susceptibility to migraine. Further studies with larger sample sizes and different populations in other parts of the world are needed to investigate relationship between this polymorphism on migraine susceptibility.
Role of arterial spin labeling magnetic resonance perfusion in acute ischemic stroke
Authors: ElBeheiry Ahmed Adel , Hanora Mohamed Ahmed , Youssef Ahmed Farid , Al Neikedy Abdel Aziz Mohamed , Elhabashy AbdelRahman , Khater Hamada Mohamed
Published: February 2023

Background

Arterial spin labeling (ASL) is a recently used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) perfusion technique in acute cerebrovascular stroke conditions; it can detect the hypo perfused areas on basis of qualitative and quantitative measurements and also identify the area at risk known as penumbra by detecting the diffusion/perfusion mismatch. The purpose of this study was to assess the role of ASL perfusion technique in management of acute ischemic stroke and its ability to predict the clinical outcome of acute stroke patients. The study was prospectively carried out on 33 patients clinically presented with acute stroke from the first of August 2020 till the first of August 2021. All cases were clinically assessed by stroke consultant followed by brain imaging including conventional MRI and ASL perfusion technique, based upon which management was established. These imaging data were correlated with the clinical outcome after 3 months using Modified Rankin Scale.

Results

Sixteen cases (48.48%) showed ischemic penumbra with diffusion perfusion mismatch with three cases presenting within the first 4 h managed by intravenous thrombolytic therapy and 13 cases presenting later than 4 h, 10 of whom were managed by endovascular intervention. The group with ischemic penumbra showed significant positive correlation with favorable clinical outcome while the group without ischemic penumbra showed significant positive correlation with poor clinical outcome. Quantitative ASL values were statistically significantly higher (p ≤ 0.05) in patients with favorable clinical outcome than those with poor clinical outcome. The estimated cut off values of ASL absolute cerebral blood flow and relative cerebral blood flow to predict favorable or poor outcome using ROC curve analysis were 19 ml/100gm/min and 74% compared to the contralateral side respectively.

Conclusion

The use of MRI as a primary diagnostic tool in arterial ischemic stroke with the application of non-contrast ASL perfusion sequence allows precise detection of perfusion deficit and diffusion perfusion mismatch (penumbra) and provides a reliable insight into outcome prediction.
A deep reinforcement learning model for resilient road network recovery under earthquake or flooding hazards
Authors: Fan Xudong , Zhang Xijin , Wang Xiaowei , Yu Xiong
Published: February 2023

As the backbone and the ‘blood vessel’ of modern cities, road networks provide critical support for community activities and economic growth, with their roles even more crucial due to the dramatic progress in urbanization. The service of road networks is subjected to the increasing frequency of high-consequence natural hazards such as earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, etc. Identifying resilient restoration sequences is essential to mitigate the disruption of such important infrastructure networks. This paper investigates a novel decision-support model to optimize post-disaster road network repair sequence. The model, named as GCN-DRL model, integrates the advantages of deep reinforced learning (DRL) with graph convolutional neural network (GCN), two emerging artificial intelligence (AI) techniques to achieve efficient recovery of road network service. The model is applied to analyze two cases of community road networks in the US that are subjected to different types of hazards, i.e., earthquakes and flooding. The performance of repair sequence by the GCN-DRL model is compared with two commonly used methods, i.e., repair sequence by the genetic algorithm and by prioritization based on graph importance with betweenness centrality. The results showed the decision sequence by GCN-DRL model consistently achieved superior performance in road network restoration than the conventional methods. The AI-based decision model also features high computational efficiency since the GCN-DRL model can be trained before the hazard. With a pre-trained GCN-DRL model, a close to optimal decision-making process can be made available rapidly for different types of new hazards, which is advantageous in efficiently responding to hazards when they happen. This study demonstrates the promise of a new AI-based decision support model to improve the resilience of road networks by enabling efficient post-hazards recovery.
The impact of screen exposure among school-aged children in South India during the COVID-19 pandemic: an online survey
Authors: Dessai Teja Deepak , Sigdel Surakshya , Chand Thakendra , Bhat Rashmi J. , Kumar Kaushlendra
Published: February 2023

Background

The impact of excessive screen time with personal listening devices (PLDs) on vision, hearing, balance, and overall health among adults has been reported in the literature. However, its impact on children is not well documented. A survey was undertaken to highlight the possible effects of screen time combined with transducers on vision, hearing, balance, and overall health complaints in children via parental proxy. This cross-sectional survey consisted of questions divided into four domains: vision, hearing, balance, and overall health. It was conducted online using social media to avail total maximum responses.

Results

A total of 136 responses were obtained from the parents of children studying from grade 1 to 8 through the survey conducted in south India. Increased negative impact on vision was observed in more than 50% of children. Similarly, the hearing and balance domain reported 16% ear pain, 4.4% tinnitus, 9.6% dizziness, 8.8% nausea, and 2.2% imbalance while walking. Likewise, the overall stress domain reported 26.5% general body discomfort, 37.5% neck pain and stiffness, 29.4% headaches, 43.4% lack of concentration, 39.7% overall changes in child’s health and 46.3% behavioral issues with various severity markings (slight to severe).

Conclusions

Longer periods of screen exposure have various negative impacts on vision, hearing, balance system, and overall health. These effects have to be managed for the health of our children.
Deep-learning-based local wavefront attributes and their application to 3D prestack data enhancement
Authors: Gadylshin Kirill , Silvestrov Ilya , Bakulin Andrey
Published: February 2023

The work presents a novel workflow to accelerate the estimation of local wavefront attributes (LWAs) from massive 3D prestack seismic data using deep learning (DL) focusing on data enhancement. A standard estimation method based on a semblance-based brute-force optimization provides good results but is time consuming. A modification of the U-net convolutional neural network, commonly used in image processing applications, is proposed to link the seismic data with the wavefront attributes. Color pixel image input for the neural network is generated through a straightforward seismic data regularization based on supergrouping followed by red, green, and blue encoding. The proposed workflow can be adapted to any 3D prestack seismic volume. Conventional semblance-based attributes estimation is required for the training step but only for approximately 1% of the total data. The prediction step is very efficient and reduces the overall run time significantly. The verification of the proposed approach is performed on challenging real land and marine data sets. As a result, DL-based estimation of LWAs accelerates computation up to 200 times compared to the standard method. The attributes from the proposed DL-based approach indicate an acceptable match compared with the brute-force semblance-based optimization results. Conventional and proposed estimation methods result in comparable prestack data enhancement results for more reliable seismic processing in challenging areas.
BXQ-350: Modulating ceramide and sphingosine-1-phosphate for antitumor activity in patients with advanced CRC.
Authors: Rixe Olivier , Curry Richard Charles , Morris John Charles , Muller Carolyn , Noonan Anne M. , Puduvalli Vinay K. , Villano John L. , Wise-Draper Trisha Michel , Wesolowski Robert , Yilmaz Emrullah , Tapolsky Gilles , Takigiku Ray
Published: February 2023

154

Background: Sphingolipids are a class of bioactive signaling molecules implicated in multiple cellular processes and molecular pathways. Many publications have demonstrated that ceramides are proapoptotic, synergize with cancer treatments, and mitigate chemoresistance. Findings also demonstrated that sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a key sphingolipid that promotes cancer cell proliferation, activates multiple oncogenic pathways, and stimulates immuno-suppressor cell populations promoting a pro-tumoral microenvironment. Several studies of colorectal cancer patients have shown high levels of ceramides being associated with improved survival, while high S1P levels are associated with a poor prognosis. Hence, modulation of sphingolipid metabolism continues to be a promising treatment approach. Methods: BXQ-350 is a nanovesicle of Saposin C, an allosteric activator of sphingolipid metabolism, that lowers systemic S1P and increases C18 ceramide. BXQ-350 was investigated in a Phase 1 dose-escalation safety study in an all-comer cancer patients with advanced solid malignancies ( NCT02859857 ) to determine its safety profile and potential clinical activity as monotherapy. Samples were collected to explore potential biomarkers. Results: 13 patients (~17.8% of evaluable patients) had a clinical benefit up to cycle 6 (PR, SD), with the majority experiencing a decrease in systemic S1P levels and an increase in C18 levels. 8 patients (~11% of evaluable patients) had PFS > 6 months, with 2 patients still on study six years after enrollment. Analysis of plasma samples also revealed an increase in anti-tumoral cytokines (IFNg, TNFa, IL-2) and a decrease in pro-tumoral ones (IL-6, 8, 10). Among patients with PFS > 6 months, there were 4 recurrent CRC patients (1PR, 3SD): 1 patient had a PFS of ~12 months, 2 of ~18 months, and 1 is still on study after 6 years. Conclusions: Results of this Phase 1 study in heavily pretreated patients show BXQ-350 was well tolerated and seem to generate a clinical benefit in CRC patients via modulation of S1P and ceramides. A phase 2 trial of BXQ-350 in combination with FOLFOX/Bevacizumab in newly diagnosed mCRC is on-going with plans to further investigate this novel mechanism of action. Clinical trial information: 02859857 .
BXQ-350 may alleviate symptoms of chemotherapy- induced peripheral neuropathy via modulation of S1P.
Authors: Wesolowski Robert , Noonan Anne M. , Curry Richard Charles , Morris John Charles , Muller Carolyn , Puduvalli Vinay K. , Rixe Olivier , Villano John L. , Wise-Draper Trisha Michel , Yilmaz Emrullah , Tapolsky Gilles , Takigiku Ray
Published: February 2023

93

Background: Chemotherapy Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN) is a debilitating side effect associated with many chemotherapeutic agents. It significantly impacts quality of life during treatment, causes lasting neuropathy, and may also shorten the treatment regimen, potentially impacting clinical benefit. The pathology of CIPN is still not completely understood, however, increasing evidence suggests sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) may be an important signaling molecule. Altered neuronal sphingolipid metabolism has been linked to neuropathic pain, evidenced by elevated plasma levels of S1P in patients receiving chemotherapy. Methods: BXQ-350 is a nanovesicle of Saposin C, an allosteric activator of sphingolipid metabolism, that lowers systemic S1P. BXQ-350 was investigated in an adult Phase 1 dose-escalation safety study in heavily pretreated all-comer cancer patients with advanced solid malignancies ( NCT02859857 ). The primary objective was to determine the safety profile and potential clinical activity of BXQ-350 as monotherapy. Samples were collected to explore potential biomarkers. Results: BXQ-350 was safe and well tolerated. Clinical signs of activity were observed in 13 patients (~17.8% of evaluable patients) experiencing a clinical benefit (PR, SD) up to cycle 6 and beyond including: 4 CRC, 1 pancreatic, and 1 GIST patient. Two patients are still on study six years after enrollment, including 1 CRC. Interestingly, a pancreatic cancer patient with chronic CIPN at time of enrollment spontaneously reported a significant improvement of her neuropathic symptoms shortly after receiving BXQ-350. Investigation of potential improvements in patients with chronic CIPN at time of enrollment revealed that 4 out of 10 patients experienced an improvement of their symptoms that seemed to be associated with a decrease in S1P systemic levels following BXQ-350 administration. BXQ-350 was subsequently investigated in a murine oxaliplatin-CIPN preclinical model with results showing a dose-dependent prevention/resolution of CIPN correlating with decreasing systemic S1P levels. Conclusions: Results of this Phase 1 study in heavily pretreated patients shows that BXQ-350 was well tolerated and seems to generate a clinical benefit via modulation of S1P. There were preliminary signs that BXQ-350 may alleviate symptoms of CIPN in relation to decreasing S1P concentration. Additional studies are underway to better understand this novel mechanism of action. Clinical trial information: 02859857 .
The ROWAN study: Safety and efficacy of transarterial radioembolization with Y-90 glass microspheres and the STRIDE regimen in hepatocellular carcinoma.
Authors: He Aiwu Ruth , Toskich Beau
Published: February 2023

TPS622

Background: In patients with early and intermediate hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who are ineligible for resection, thermal ablation, or liver transplant, transarterial radioembolization (TARE) with yttrium-90 glass microspheres has shown superior efficacy compared to transarterial chemoembolization; a subset of patients progress despite effective local therapy. Immunotherapy using the single tremelimumab regular interval durvalumab (STRIDE) regimen has demonstrated superior overall survival to sorafenib in advanced HCC. Recent work showed that TARE upregulates both the innate and adaptive immune systems. The possibility for TARE and STRIDE to have additive or synergistic effects when combined is of current scientific and clinical interest. The primary objective of the Phase II ROWAN Study is to assess the objective response rate and durability of local tumor control with TARE followed by STRIDE vs. TARE alone. Methods: ROWAN is a global, open-label, prospective, multicenter randomized controlled trial comparing treatment with TARE using glass microspheres followed by the STRIDE regimen (a single dose of 300 mg tremelimumab combined with 1500 mg monthly dose of durvalumab for 18 months) to TARE alone in HCC. ROWAN will include 150 patients across approximately 20 study sites in North America and Europe. Key inclusion criteria: HCC, diagnosed by radiographic imaging or histology; ineligible for or declined liver resection, thermal ablation, or transplantation; Child-Pugh A; ECOG 0; life expectancy ≥6 months; treatment naïve; unilobar tumor; measurable by mRECIST; tumor volume ≤25% of whole liver volume; and untreated future liver remnant volume ≥30% of whole liver volume. Key exclusion criteria: extrahepatic metastases; shunt fraction with a lung dose of >30 Gy; macrovascular invasion; infiltrative disease not evaluable by mRECIST; history of any organ allograph; autoimmune or inflammatory disorder; current use of immunosuppressive medication; history of malignancy other than HCC within past 3 years; and active infection. Patients will be randomized in a 1:1 ratio to two study arms (TARE followed by STRIDE or TARE alone) using two stratification factors (TARE treatment goal [ablative vs. non-ablative] and alpha fetoprotein level [>400 vs. ≤400 ng/mL]). Tumor and blood samples will be collected for correlative studies. Co-primary efficacy endpoints are objective response rate and duration of response (localized mRECIST). The primary safety endpoint is the number of adverse events (AEs) and serious AEs. Interim statistical analyses will be conducted after 25 patients have been randomized to each arm and completed the second imaging assessment 6 months post-randomization; final analysis will be after the last evaluable patient has completed the 18 months follow-up visit post-randomization or discontinued treatment. Clinical trial information: 05063565 .
Augmented Reality–Assisted Percutaneous Rhizotomy for Trigeminal Neuralgia
Authors: Berger Assaf , Choudhry Osamah J. , Kondziolka Douglas
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND:

Percutaneous rhizotomy of the trigeminal nerve is a common surgery to manage medically refractory trigeminal neuralgia. Traditionally, these procedures have been performed based on anatomic landmarks with fluoroscopic guidance. Augmented reality (AR) relays virtual content on the real world and has the potential to improve localization of surgical targets based on preoperative imaging.

OBJECTIVE:

To study the potential application and benefits of AR as an adjunct to traditional fluoroscopy-guided glycerol rhizotomy (GR).

METHODS:

We used traditional fluoroscopy-guided percutaneous GR technique as previously described, performed under general anesthesia. Anatomic registration to the Medivis SurgicalAR system was performed based on the patient's preoperative computerized tomography, and the surgeon was equipped with the system's AR goggles. AR was used as an adjunct to fluoroscopy for trajectory planning to place a spinal needle into the medial aspect of the foramen ovale.

RESULTS:

A 50-year-old woman with multiple sclerosis–related right-sided classical trigeminal neuralgia had persistent pain, refractory to medications, previous gamma knife stereotactic radiosurgery, and percutaneous radiofrequency rhizotomy performed elsewhere. The patient underwent AR-assisted fluoroscopy-guided percutaneous GR. The needle was placed into the right trigeminal cistern within seconds. She was discharged home after a few hours of observation with no complications and reported pain relief.

CONCLUSION:

AR-assisted percutaneous rhizotomy may enhance the learning curve of these types of procedures and decrease surgery duration and radiation exposure. This allowed rapid and correct placement of a spinal needle through the foramen ovale.
Ontogenetic changes in the concentration of serum proteins in chick and mammalian embryos
Authors: Grabowski Casimer T.
Published: February 2023

It is generally recognized, on the basis of electrophoretic studies, that the serum proteins of individuals in the perinatal period of development are somewhat different than those of the adult (Kekwick, 1959; Lehrer & Toben, 1965). It is also known that the protein content of the serum of perinatal mammals is low, and gradually rises to the adult level over a period of weeks or months (McMurray, Roe & Sweet, 1948; Knapp & Routh, 1949; Ewerbeck & Levens, 1950; Potter, 1952; Halliday & Kekwick, 1957). Virtually nothing, however, is known about the serum proteins of very young vertebrate embryos, presumably because of technical difficulties involved in obtaining samples suitable for quantitative study.
Development of a UK primary standard for positron emitters in gas
Authors: Μαρούλη Μαρία
Published: February 2023

Η πιθανότητα εκπομπών αερίων από τοποθεσίες με κύκλοτρα κατά την παραγωγή ποζιτρονίων για χρήση στην πυρηνική απεικόνιση αποτελεί ζήτημα δημόσιας ασφάλειας και οι χειριστές υποχρεούνται να μετρούν με ακρίβεια τυχόν τέτοιες εκπομπές. Παρόλο που τα όργανα παρακολούθησης των εκροών είναι διαθέσιμα εδώ και αρκετά χρόνια, δεν υπάρχει κατάλληλη εγκατάσταση βαθμονόμησης. Η ιχνηλασιμότητα σε ένα πρωτεύον πρότυπο είναι απαραίτητη για να είναι ακριβείς αυτές οι μετρήσεις. Αυτό το έργο επικεντρώθηκε στην ανάπτυξη ενός πρωτεύοντος προτύπου βασισμένου σε ένα σύστημα που έχει ήδη καθιερωθεί στο NPL για την τυποποίηση β-εκπομπών όπως 85Kr και 133Xe. Προηγούμενες πρότυπες μετρήσεις β+-εκπομπών έχουν πραγματοποιηθεί με χρήση υγρών ή στερεών πηγών. Σε αντίθεση με τις προαναφερθείσες μεθόδους πρότυπων μετρήσεων για εκπομπούς ποζιτρονίων (οι οποίες έχουν πραγματοποιηθεί με χρήση υγρών ή στερεών πηγών), έχει αναπτυχθεί ένα πρωτεύον πρότυπο για εκπομπές ποζιτρονίων σε αέριο, το οποίο μπορεί να χρησιμοποιηθεί για τη βαθμονόμηση των οργάνων που χρησιμοποιούνται σε τοποθεσίες PET/κύκλοτρων. Το 11C επιλέχθηκε ως το ραδιονουκλίδιο που θα τυποποιηθεί. Τα 18F, 15O και 13N δεν μπορούσαν να χρησιμοποιηθούν λόγω πειραματικών παραγόντων. Για την παροχή ενός δείγματος ενεργού αερίου κατάλληλου για μέτρηση και για την παροχή σύγκρισης με ένα υπάρχον πρότυπο που βασίζεται στη μέτρηση ενός υγρού, έχει αναπτυχθεί μια μέθοδος για τη μετατροπή του διττανθρακικού νατρίου σε διοξείδιο του άνθρακα με επακόλουθη ξήρανση και παγίδευση του αερίου. Ένα δείγμα 11C που απελευθερώθηκε με αυτόν τον τρόπο μετρήθηκε με εσωτερική αναλογική μέτρηση αερίου χρησιμοποιώντας ένα σύστημα τριών ανιχνευτών. Αυτό το έγγραφο περιγράφει την τυποποίηση του 11C με μέτρηση αερίων και τη σύγκριση των πρωτογενών αποτελεσμάτων τυποποίησης με μια ανεξάρτητη μέτρηση ενός δείγματος του ίδιου διαλύματος διττανθρακικού νατρίου που χρησιμοποιήθηκε για τη δημιουργία του ενεργού αερίου. Η ανεξάρτητη μέτρηση πραγματοποιήθηκε χρησιμοποιώντας ένα δευτερεύον πρότυπο θάλαμο ιόντων. Ο πειραματικός προσδιορισμός των απωλειών μέτρησης στην εσωτερική αναλογική μέτρηση αερίου ήταν δύσκολος. Μερικές από τις απώλειες για την τυποποίηση 11C, 13N, 15O 18F έχουν υπολογιστεί χρησιμοποιώντας τον κώδικα PENELOPE Monte Carlo. Ο κώδικας PENELOPE επιλέχθηκε για τη μελέτη των απωλειών μέτρησης επειδή ήταν ο καταλληλότερος κώδικας για την προσομοίωση της αλληλεπίδρασης ποζιτρονίων τη στιγμή της παρούσας εργασίας. Οι συντελεστές διόρθωσης που υπολογίστηκαν με το PENELOPE ήταν λιγότεροι από 0,6 % για το σύστημα των τριών ανιχνευτών που χρησιμοποιήθηκαν ως κύριο πρότυπο. Ένα όργανο μεταφοράς για τη βαθμονόμηση τοπικών οργάνων σε θέσεις ραδιονουκλεϊδίων που εκπέμπουν ποζιτρόνια μπορεί να πραγματοποιηθεί με βάση το πρωτεύον πρότυπο.
The knowledge, attitude and practice level of dental auxiliaries regarding oral health care for pregnant patients in the eastern province of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alibrahim Daneah , El. Mahalli Azza
Published: February 2023

Background:The purpose of this research was to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of dental auxiliaries related to oral health care for pregnant patientsin the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia.

Methods: A cross-sectional study using a questionnaire survey was conducted. The knowledge, attitude, and practice were rated using the Likert scale out of 5. Knowledge and practice were categorized using bloom’s cut off point methods (80% and above isgood, and less than 80% is bad).Concerningattitude, (80% and above is positive, and less than 80% is negative) The questionnaires were sent to all  dental hygienists and assistants (N=358), and responses were collected from 218. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software was utilised to conduct statistical analysis.

Results: Out of the 358, 218 responded (response rate = 61%). More than half of the respondents showed relatively good knowledge (57.3%). Most respondents had a positive attitude (89.4%). Regarding practice, approximately two-thirds had a good practice (67.4%). The knowledge score of hygienists was significantly higher than dental assistants, and respondents with experience in treating pregnant patients had significantly higher knowledge scores than others who did not have experience in treating pregnant patients. There is a statistically significant positive correlation between practice scores and education.

Conclusions: The findings suggest the need to establish continuous education programs and for dental hygienists and dental assistants to adopt the best practice guidelines on perinatal oral health.
Integrated secure distance bounding and hardware-based security: A case study for the insurance claim verification of farmers during COVID-19
Authors: Kanak Alper , Ergün Salih , Arif İbrahim , Tanrıseven Sercan , Uğur Niyazi , van Schaik Gert-Jan , Badii Atta
Published: February 2023

Given the rapidly evolving developments in Fintech, Insurtech, Open Banking, and Mobile Money business models in recent years, the capability for ensuring strong authentication remains the most pressing need for the protection of security and privacy of data in this sector as in many other areas.

The security-integrity of insurance and financial transactions and workflows is vitally dependent on access control mechanisms to deliver strong multi-factor authentication (MFA) with operationally acceptable latency and throughput to support real-time response, particularly as demanded by the increasing online and mobile financial service models. 

The Critical-Chains Project was motivated by the above objectives as underpinned by the overarching commitment to accountability engineering as required by the operational logic. This must be crucially supported by real-time hardware-enabled services comprising authentication (including Distance Bounding and Prover’s Proximal Location Presence Verification), hardware security and cryptography (AUTH-as-a-Service, Hardware-Security-as-a-Service, Cryptography-as-a-Service) as delivered through the Critical-Chains main framework.

This paper reports on the development and evaluation of the innovative Hardware-enabled authentication and security capabilities of the Critical-Chains framework which is successfully validated in the context of financial services, specifically the insurance claim settlement application domain, and can also be deployed in any other domains where trusted authentication and specific location-time bound prover’s presence verification is required.
Genome sequence of Leishmania mexicana MNYC/BZ/62/M379 expressing Cas9 and T7 RNA polymerase
Authors: Beneke Tom , Dobramysl Ulrich , Catta-Preta Carolina Moura Costa , Mottram Jeremy Charles , Gluenz Eva , Wheeler Richard J.
Published: February 2023

We present the genome sequence of Leishmania mexicana MNYC/BZ/62/M379 modified to express Cas9 and T7 RNA-polymerase, revealing high similarity to the reference genome (MHOM/GT2001/U1103). Through RNAseq-based annotation of coding sequences and untranslated regions, we provide primer sequences for construct and sgRNA template generation for CRISPR-assisted gene deletion and endogenous tagging.
The genome sequence of the Small Ranunculus, Hecatera dysodea (Denis & Schiffermüller, 1775)
Authors: Broad Gavin R. ,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: February 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Hecatera dysodea (the Small Ranunculus; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Noctuidae). The genome sequence is 640.9 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 32 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z and W sex chromosomes. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.4 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl has identified 12,213 protein coding genes.
Consecuencias y resiliencia del turismo ante el impacto de la pandemia desde una visión de la gestión a escala local para el caso de Málaga.
Authors: Nuevo-López Abraham , Martínez del Vas Ginesa , Puig-Cabrera Miguel
Published: February 2023

El presente artículo lleva a cabo una exploración acerca del impacto de la pandemia de la COVID-19 en el sector turístico de la ciudad de Málaga. El objetivo principal del estudio es analizar los efectos que ha tenido dicha pandemia, así como las respuestas que se han dado para recomponer el sistema turístico en la capital malagueña. El trabajo utiliza una metodología cualitativa y descriptiva, priorizando la búsqueda de fuentes primarias (institucionales) para medir el impacto de la pandemia sobre el turismo en Málaga. Son dos las conclusiones principales del trabajo: en primer lugar, la industria turística malagueña ha mostrado tal nivel de dinamismo y resiliencia que ello le ha permitido iniciar una recuperación lenta pero pujante del tejido productivo turístico; en segundo lugar, la actuación de las administraciones públicas se ha mostrado, en general, diligente, eficaz, rápida y flexible, si bien es todavía insuficiente el nivel de interpenetración y sinergia entre administraciones públicas, operadores turísticos y residentes.
Metodología para la incorporación de información geográfica en Wikidata.
Authors: Obregón-Sierra Ángel , López-Otero Javier , Gavira-Narváez Antonio , Vega-Pozuelo Rafael F.
Published: February 2023

Wikidata es una base de conocimiento libre, multilingüe y editable por cualquier usuario, que ha experimentado un crecimiento exponencial desde su creación hasta ser una de las más grandes de internet. Sin embargo, son pocos los estudios sobre la presencia y tratamiento de la información geográfica en dicho repositorio, entre otros motivos, debido a que no existe una metodología explícita para la inclusión de algunos datos. Así pues, en esta investigación se propone una metodología que incluye 6 fases que permiten la introducción de información geográfica en Wikidata en grandes cantidades, y disponer posteriormente de ella para la realización de análisis espaciales mediante un GIS. Dicha metodología se ha puesto en marcha a través de la introducción de una base de datos de 11.143 vértices geodésicos de España. Representa una contribución a la geografía, ya que permite el uso de Wikidata en un GIS, lo que puede contribuir a mejorar la eficiencia de los modelos que hagan uso de dicha información.
Sales-Based Rebate Design
Authors: Ajorlou Amir , Jadbabaie Ali
Published: February 2023

In this paper, we study a family of sales-based rebate mechanisms as an effective tool to implement price discrimination across a population of buyers with correlated heterogeneous valuations on indivisible goods and services. In order to implement such sales-based rebate mechanisms, the seller charges each buyer a fixed price at the time of purchase contingent on a rebate that is a function of the ex post sales volume to be realized at the end of the sales period. The seller declares both a price and a menu of rebates as a function of sales. We show that, when there is a common component of uncertainty in consumers’ valuations (to which we refer as the quality of the product), such rebates enable a seller to effectively induce different expected net prices at different valuations. Importantly, this effective price discrimination over valuations is achieved keeping both the base price and the rebate uniform across all buyers. This uniformity of price and rebate across buyers is a key advantage of our proposed rebate mechanism, thereby providing a new mechanism for price discrimination in crowd-based markets. We use tools and techniques from game theory and variational optimization to provide insight into the economics of such mechanisms. In particular, we identify two mechanisms that are monotone functions of the sales volume that are easy to implement in practice and perform well when compared with the much more complex optimal mechanism. We provide a rigorous analysis of the optimal mechanism and discuss practical limitations in implementing the globally optimal design, further demonstrating the efficacy of our proposed monotone mechanisms.

This paper was accepted by Gabriel Weintraub, revenue management and market analytics.

Funding: This research was supported by a Vannevar Bush Fellowship from the Office of Secretary of State and Army Research Office [MURI Project W911NF-19-1-0217].

Supplemental Material: The data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2023.4691 .
Optimal Retrieval in Puzzle-Based Storage Systems Using Automated Mobile Robots
Authors: Raviv Tal , Bukchin Yossi , de Koster René
Published: February 2023

Puzzle-based storage (PBS) systems store unit loads at very high density, without consuming space for transport aisles. In such systems, each load is stored on a moving device (conveyor module or transport vehicle), making these systems very expensive to build and maintain. This paper studies a new type of PBS system where loads are moved by a small number of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs). The AMRs (or vehicles) can travel freely underneath loads and lift a specific load and carry it to a neighboring vacant space. These systems are hard to analyze, as all the AMRs can move simultaneously with or without loads. We formulate an integer linear programming model that minimizes the retrieval time and the number of load and vehicle movements. The proposed model can handle single-load movements as well as block movements, multiple input/output points, and various constraints on simultaneous vehicle movements. The integer linear programming formulation can solve relatively small problems (a grid with up to about 50 cells) and a sufficient number of empty cells. For larger systems or those with few empty cells, a three-phase heuristic (3PH) is developed, which significantly outperforms the heuristic methods known to date and solves large instances sufficiently fast. The 3PH and an additional hybrid heuristic yield relatively small gaps from a lower bound provided by the integer linear programming model. We find that increasing the number of vehicles has a diminishing return effect on the retrieval times. Using a relatively small number of vehicles makes retrieval times only slightly longer than those obtained when having a vehicle under each load (which is equivalent to the traditional PBS systems). With single-load movement, more vehicles are needed compared with block movement to reach short retrieval times. Also, the marginal contribution of extra empty slots appears to decrease rapidly, which implies high storage densities can be obtained in practice.
Moderate- to fast-walking improves immunocytes through a positive change of muscle contractility in old women: a pilot study
Authors: Park Sihwa , Park Sang-Kyun , Jee Yong-Seok
Published: February 2023

This study aimed to examine whether compared with a program without walking, intervention programs with three types of walking can improve the muscle property and immunocytes in elderly women. Thirty-two subjects were randomly assigned to control group (CON), slow walking group (SWG), moderate walking group (MWG), and fast walking group (FWG). Three types of walking on treadmill were 30 min a day, 5 days/wk for 12 weeks. Muscle contraction time (Tc), maximum displacement (Dm), and immunocytes were tested by tensiomyography and flow cytometry. After the intervention, FWG had an increasing tendency in the muscle mass compared with other three groups. Tc of biceps femoris (BF) decreased in CON and SWG, while Tc of BF in MWG and FWG (30.58%± 23.71%) increased. It was similar in the rectus femoris (RF). Although Dm of BF and RF increased in CON and SWG, those decreased in MWG and FWG. Leucocytes of CON and SWG had a decreasing tendency, those of MWG (9.65%± 13.01%) and FWG (13.01%± 13.58%) increased. In the neutrophil, only CON decreased, whereas the three groups showed an increasing tendency. Helper T cell was increased only in FWG (19.61%± 19.94%), showing significant differences between groups (P= 0.009, η²= 0.378). Natural killer cell was improved in SWG and MWG but showed a clear increase in FWG (75.76%± 63.57%). It might be confirmed that walking for elderly increases the muscle property of the lower legs as they walk faster, which might be expected to improve the immunocytes function.
The impact of brain tissue oxygenation monitoring on mortality in adult patients with severe traumatic brain injuries: a systematic review
Authors: Ennis Carlyn , Avsar Pinar , Moore Zena , Patton Declan , O'Connor Tom , Varley Jarlath
Published: February 2023

Background:

Intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring and cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) monitoring are long established adjuncts in the management of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). However, brain tissue oxygenation (PbtO2) monitoring, used in conjunction with ICP or CPP monitoring, is an additional element that could be used in directing the management of TBIs.

Aims:

To determine the impact of PbtO2 monitoring on mortality in adult patients with severe TBIs.

Methods:

A systematic review of electronic databases was performed in October 2021. A total of six articles were identified for inclusion. Data were extracted using a pre-designed extraction tool. Analysis was undertaken using RevMan for the mortality rates and a narrative analysis for the secondary outcomes.

Findings:

A total of 926 participants were evaluated. Of these, 269 received PbtO2 monitoring. There was no significant difference in mortality rates between the groups, with the PbtO2 and ICP/CPP groups having a mortality rate of 25% (72/284) and 26% (171/662), respectively. The odds ratio was calculated as 0.88 (0.63–1.23, P=0.45) suggesting a 37% reduction in the odds of mortality when PbtO2 is used. However, the 95% confidence intervals do indicate a non-statistical finding. Morbidity rates between the two groups were also similar, with some limited evidence (one study) demonstrating a higher fiscal cost associated with PbtO2 monitoring.

Conclusions:

There was no significant difference in mortality or morbidity rates between the two groups. Based on these results, this systematic review cannot support the addition of PbtO2 monitoring to guide the treatment of adult patients with severe TBIs.
Research Roundup
Authors: Harrison-Dening Karen
Published: February 2023

Karen Harrison-Dening provides a synopsis and brief review of a selection of recently published research articles that are of interest to neuroscience nurses, highlighting key points to keep you up to date; a full reference is provided for those who wish to read the research in more detail
2023 and beyond
Authors: Naik Paru
Published: February 2023

As the British Journal of Neuroscience Nursing enters it's third year of publishing a supplement dedicated to multiple sclerosis (MS), Paru Naik gives thanks to the readers and contributors of the journal. Additionally, Paru reflects on the different ways that the MS Trust are helping to tackle the tremendous pressures that MS Specialist nurses are currently facing.
Employment Law SOS
Authors: Chander Tina
Published: February 2023

This month, our employment law expert looks at annual leave allocation, a fight at a Christmas party and what to do when a premises move upsets a large proportion of the workforce
Breaking Down Barriers
Authors: Hackitt Dame Judith
Published: February 2023

The challenge of encouraging females into engineering and manufacturing is huge, and will require collaboration from all areas of industry
Keeping Pace with an Evolving Threat
Authors: Bandos Tim
Published: February 2023

In 2016, nearly 40% of all cyber attacks globally were aimed at manufacturers. Organisations have to be more aware of the threats, and prepare accordingly
Employment Law SOS
Authors: Nodder Ruth
Published: February 2023

This month, our employment lawyer explores a harassment claim against a contract worker, unlawful interview techniques directed at female candidates and culpability when a member of staff is injured by a robot after entering its caged-off area
Optimal Performance
Authors: Beck Chris
Published: February 2023

Manufacturers are hesitant to invest in new technology due in part to the costs associated, according to a study conducted by InfinityQS. However, as the company’s director of channel programs, Jason Chester, tells Manufacturing Management, they should start looking at their technology investments in a different way
The geriatric guinea pig
Authors: Edis Abigail
Published: February 2023

Guinea pigs make enduring and entertaining pets for the old and young, with an average lifespan of 5–7 years. However, with advances in veterinary medicine and better owner education, these animals are living longer and requiring ongoing care. This article discusses common age-related conditions, and looks at the ongoing home and veterinary care that can be offered to these species into their later years.
Teaching students how to interpret animal emotions part 1: in the classroom and on placement
Authors: Nicholson Sandra L
Published: February 2023

Identifying the patient's emotional state enables veterinary nurses to tailor care, provide better advice on animal training and behaviour problems, and stay safe during human–animal interactions. However, the ability to interpret animal emotions is not instinctive and must be learnt. This article refers to Herrington and Oliver's ‘authentic learning framework’, which may be used in the classroom and during clinical placements to structure teaching and learning. For example, classroom-based teaching could transmit appropriate knowledge (‘scaffolding’), demonstrate the interpretation process (provide ‘access to expert performance’ and ‘modelling’) and task students with identifying animal emotions in images and YouTube videos (‘authentic activities’). Within clinical placement, supervisors could activate their students' knowledge by using questioning, model their own process of identifying animal emotions (‘access to expert performance’), and set authentic learning activities such as an audit of animals' emotions. Within both contexts, reflection and discussion should be encouraged, coaching provided as necessary, and authentic assessment used to gauge student ability. Placement supervisors can build their formal knowledge of animal emotions by reviewing their students' learning materials, attending animal behaviour conferences or webinars, accessing reliable websites and reading academic journal articles. This would also count towards their annual continuing veterinary education requirements. Part 2 of this article will discuss putting into practice what has been learned.