bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A decision support system for the optimal allocation and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines using analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and integer programming (IP) model
Authors: Culaste Hannah Faye C. , Torres Noe Jay D. , Lachica Zython Paul T. , Lorono Honey Glenn P. , Inguillo Ross Fievanni , Mata May Anne E. , Namoco Rhoda A.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

In the Philippines, scheduling the COVID-19 vaccine rollout has been a challenging task. The local government units (LGUs) have to carefully work with limited resources to avoid underutilizing vaccines while considering prioritization schemes in the rollout. As the country continues to vaccinate its population to manage the spread of COVID-19, planning the prioritization of individuals becomes more apparent in the vaccination rollout with respect to the COVID-19 situation in their respective areas.

Methods

Our study develops a location-allocation model that aims to optimally schedule the COVID-19 vaccine rollout of a municipality. Here we applied the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to determine the prioritization of communities (i.e., barangays) in the vaccine rollout based on the number of COVID-19 cases, the population density, and the proximity of the community to the available vaccine sites. Consequently, an integer programming (IP) model was formulated to determine the assignment of individuals to the vaccine stations with respect to the prioritization of their community in the rollout, as well as the minimum number of vaccine stations to open.

Results and discussion

The AHP-based IP model proposed in this study not only assigns individuals to vaccination centers, but is also capable of tailoring the vaccine rollout to prioritize individuals depending on the preferences of the LGUs, and the COVID-19 situation in their areas. Furthermore, the vaccine rollout framework in this work is applicable to other vaccine-preventable diseases (e.g., rabies, measles, etc.) should LGUs embark on adapting this approach.
Robust deep semi-supervised learning with label propagation and differential privacy
Authors: Yan Zhicong , Li Shenghong , Duan Zhongli , Zhao Yuanyuan
Published: May 2023

Semi-supervised learning (SSL) methods provide a powerful tool for utilizing abundant unlabeled data to strengthen standard supervised learning. Traditional graph-based SSL methods prevail in classical SSL problems for their intuitional implementation and effective performance. However, they encounter troubles when applying to image classification followed by modern deep learning, since the diffusion algorithms face the curse of dimensionality. In this study, we propose a simple and efficient SSL method, combining a graph-based SSL paradigm with differential privacy. We aim at developing coherent latent feature space of deep neural networks so that the diffusion algorithm in the latent space can give more precise predictions for unlabeled data. Our approach achieves state-of-the-art performance on the Cifar10, Cifar100, and Mini-imagenet benchmark datasets and obtains an error rate of 18.56% on Cifar10 using only 1% of all labels. Furthermore, our approach inherits the benefits of graph-based SSL methods with a simple training process and can be easily combined with any network architecture.
GSI CTA evaluation of the vertebrobasilar artery in normal adults at high altitude
Authors: Wei Jia , Hu Huiying , He Xin , Bao Haihua
Published: May 2023

Objective

Vascular geometry is influenced by several factors during its growth and development. Here, we compared the differences in vertebrobasilar geometry among residents of a plateau region at different altitudes and investigated the relationship between vascular geometry and altitude.

Methods

Data of some adults in the plateau region who experienced vertigo and headache as the main symptoms but had no evident abnormalities found during imaging examination were collected. They were divided into three groups based on an altitude gradient: group A (1,800–2,500 masl), group B (2,500–3,500 masl), and group C (over 3,500 masl). They underwent head–neck energy-spectrum computed tomography angiography with a gemstone spectral imaging scanning protocol. The following indices were observed: (1) vertebrobasilar geometric configurations (walking, tuning fork, lambda, and no confluence), (2) vertebral artery (VA) hypoplasia, (3) the bending number of bilateral VA intracranial segment, (4) length and tortuosity of the basilar artery (BA), and (5) anteroposterior (AP)–mid–BA angle, BA–VA angle, lateral–mid–BA angle, and VA–VA angle.

Results

Of the 222 subjects, 84 of them were included in group A, 76 in group B, and 62 in group C. The number of participants in walking, tuning fork, lambda, and no confluence geometries was 93, 71, 50, and 8, respectively. As altitude increased, the tortuosity of the BA also increased (1.05 ± 0.06 vs. 1.06 ± 0.08 vs. 1.10 ± 0.13, P = 0.005), as did the lateral–mid–BA angle (23.18° ± 9.53° vs. 26.05° ± 10.10° vs. 31.07° ± 15.12°, P = 0.007) and the BA–VA angle (32.98° ± 17.85° vs. 34.51° ± 17.96° vs. 41.51° ± 19.22°, P = 0.024). There was a relatively weak positive correlation between the altitude and the tortuosity of the BA (rs = 0.190, P = 0.005), the lateral–mid–BA angle (rs = 0.201, P = 0.003), and the BA–VA angle (rs = 0.183, P = 0.006) which showed a significant difference. Compared with groups A and B, there were more multibending groups and fewer oligo-bending groups in group C (P < 0.001). There was no difference found in the vertebral artery hypoplasia, actual length of the BA, VA–VA angle, and AP–mid–BA angle among the three groups.

Conclusion

As the altitude increased, the tortuosity of the BA and the sagittal angle of the vertebrobasilar arterial system also increased. The increase in altitude can lead to changes in vertebrobasilar geometry.
Case report: Multimodality imaging revealing ruptured giant coronary artery aneurysm presenting with hemoptysis
Authors: Gong Xiangfeng , Zhang Hongwei , Peng Wanlin , Yang Gang , Xiao Zhenghua
Published: May 2023

Giant coronary artery aneurysm (CAA) is a relatively uncommon disease that is defined by a focal dilation of at least 20 mm and characterized by various clinical symptoms. However, cases presenting primarily with hemoptysis have not been reported. A man in his late 20 s suffering from persistent chest pain for over 2 months was transferred to our emergency department for intermittent hemoptysis lasting for 12 h. Bronchoscopy detected fresh blood in the left upper lobe bronchus without a definite bleeding source. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated a heterogeneous mass and the high-intensity signals suggested active bleeding. coronary computed tomography (CT) angiography demonstrated a giant ruptured CAA wrapped in a large mediastinal mass Coronary angiography confirmed the CAA originating from the left anterior descending artery. The patient underwent an emergency sternotomy and an enormous hematoma arising from a ruptured CAA densely adhering to the left lung was identified. The patient recovered uneventfully and was discharged on the 7th day later. The ruptured CAA masquerading as hemoptysis highlights the indispensability of multimodality imaging for accurate diagnosis. Urgent surgical intervention is desirable in such life-threatening conditions.
Effects of fluoride on in vitro hydroxyapatite demineralisation analysed by 19F MAS-NMR
Authors: Ferizoli Bajram , Cresswell-Boyes Alexander J. , Anderson Paul , Lynch Richard J. M. , Hill Robert G.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Fluoride plays a major role in inhibiting enamel dissolution and promoting fluorapatite formation. Porous hydroxyapatite (HAP) discs can be used as an enamel analogue in artificial demineralisation/remineralisation studies.

Method

The aim of the study was to monitor the fluoride-mineral phases formed on HAP surfaces as a function of fluoride concentration ([F−]) under demineralising conditions, using 19F magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (MAS-NMR) spectroscopy, and compare the results with a previous study using an enamel substrate. Porous HAP blocks were immersed in demineralisation solutions (0.1 M acetic acid, pH 4.0) with increasing [F−] (0–1450 ppm).

Results

At below 50 ppm [F−], 19F MAS-NMR showed fluoride-substituted apatite formation; above 50 ppm [F−], calcium fluoride (CaF2) was formed in increasing proportions. These results mirrored those of previous similar studies with an enamel substrate. Further increases in fluoride caused no further measurable reduction in demineralisation but increased the proportion of CaF2 formed. The total calcium concentration [Ca] and total phosphorus [P] concentrations in the solution were measured by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy. At high fluoride concentrations, the solution total [P] increased, and the molar Ca:P ratios decreased to values consistent with the formation of CaF2. However, Ca:P ratios found at low [F−] were higher than those in the previous enamel study and consistent with the formation of a partially fluoridated apatite.

Conclusions

Under demineralising conditions, CaF2 formed on HAP at an [F−] of 50 ppm and above, whereas fluoridated apatite formed at an [F−] below 50 ppm. The results were consistent with those obtained when an enamel substrate was used.
New insights into geological setting of the summit area of mount Etna volcano (Italy) inferred from 2D gravity data modelling
Authors: Pánisová Jaroslava , Greco Filippo , Carbone Daniele , Branca Stefano Felice , Vajda Peter
Published: May 2023

Gravimetric observations were carried out in 2015, to image the uppermost portion of the volcanic plumbing system of Mt. Etna (Italy). Gravity measurements were performed using two relative gravimeters, along a profile that crosses the summit craters area (elevations between 2,820 and 3,280 m a.s.l.). Accurate positioning of the gravity observation points was determined through GPS measurements. After applying elevation and terrain corrections, the reduced gravity data were used to build a 2D density model of the uppermost part of the volcano edifice. This model was constrained using to-date knowledge of the structural setting of the area and the available volcanological data. We highlighted the presence of low-density material below the summit craters, down to the depth of about 2.1 km, interpreted as highly altered, fumarolized and structurally weakened material. It is also likely that the close presence of the conduits feeding the summit craters of the volcano contributes to the gravity low in the SW half of the measurement profile. Conversely, the gravity low observed at the northern edge of the profile could reflect the high concentration of faults and eruptive fissures in the Pizzi Deneri area, in correspondence of the Ellittico caldera rim.
The use of oral questioning to improve students’ reasoning skills in primary school mathematics learning
Authors: Mahmud Muhammad Sofwan , Mohd Drus Nadia Fasha
Published: May 2023

Reasoning skills are essential mathematical skills that need to be taught to students starting in primary school and have even become the main domain in global assessments such as TIMSS and PISA. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the implementation of the use of oral questioning in improving students’ reasoning skills in mathematics at the primary school level. Data for the qualitative case study were collected through semi-structured interviews, observations, and field notes. Six mathematics teachers from six different primary schools were selected as participants in the study using the purposive sampling method. The data were then analyzed using a constant comparative method to identify the patterns and themes that emerged. The study found six types of oral questions that are identified as being used by mathematics teachers to help students improve their mathematical reasoning skills and thinking, namely, provocative mathematical questions, puzzle-shaped questions, breaking down hard problems into easier parts, contextual questions, questions to explain the mistakes, and questions asking for clarification. The findings showed that primary mathematics teachers used a variety of oral questions to help students develop their mathematical reasoning skills and, at the same time, assist them in developing higher order thinking skills. This research has implications for expanding the literature and understanding of how primary school teachers perceive that using certain oral questions can help improve students’ mathematical reasoning. In addition, the study’s results revealed the importance of oral questioning in teaching mathematical reasoning skills.
Specific dilation pattern in placental circulation and the NO/sGC role in preeclampsia placental vessels
Authors: Tang Jiaqi , Zhang Yumeng , Zhang Ze , Tao Jianying , Wu Jue , Zheng Qiutong , Xu Ting , Li Na , Xu Zhice
Published: May 2023

Objective

Endothelial functions in controlling blood flow in placental circulation are still unclear. The present study compares vascular dilations between placental circulation and other vessels, as well as between normal and preeclampsia placental vessels.

Methods

Placental, umbilical, and other vessels (cerebral and mesenteric arteries) were collected from humans, sheep, and rats. Vasodilation was tested by JZ101 and DMT. Q-PCR, Western blot, and Elisa were used for molecular experiments.

Results

Endothelium-dependent/derived vasodilators, including acetylcholine, bradykinin, prostacyclin, and histamine, mediated no or minimal dilation in placental circulation, which was different from that in other vessels in sheep and rats. There were lower mRNA expressions of muscarinic receptors, histamine receptors, bradykinin receptor 2, endothelial nitric oxide synthesis (eNOS), and less nitric oxide (NO) in human umbilical vessels when compared with placental vessels. Exogenous NO donors (sodium nitroprusside, SNP) and soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) activators (Bay41-2272) decreased the baseline of vessel tone in placental circulation in humans, sheep, and rats, but not in other arteries. The sGC inhibitor ODQ suppressed the reduced baseline caused by the SNP. The decreased baseline by SNP or Bay41-2272 was higher in placental vessels than in umbilical vessels, suggesting that the role of NO/sGC is more important in the placenta. NO concentrations in preeclampsia placental vessels were lower than those in control, while no significant change was found in umbilical plasma between the two groups. eNOS expression was similar between normal and preeclampsia placental vessels, but phosphorylated eNOS levels were significantly lower in preeclampsia. Following serotonin, SNP or Bay41-2272-mediated dilations were weaker in preeclampsia placental vessels. The decreased amplitude of SNP- or Bay41-2272 at baseline was smaller in preeclampsia. The decreased amplitudes of ODQ + SNP were comparable between the two groups. Despite higher beta sGC expression, sGC activity in the preeclampsia placenta was lower.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that receptor-mediated endothelium-dependent dilation in placental circulation was significantly weaker than other vessels in various species. The results, showed firstly, that exogenous NO played a role in regulating the baseline tone of placental circulation via sGC. Lower NO production and decreased NO/sGC could be one of the reasons for preeclampsia. The findings contribute to understanding specific features of placental circulation and provide information about preeclampsia in placental vessels.
A model for irritable bowel syndrome and anxiety comorbidities in relation to alcohol use disorders
Authors: Vashkevich Katsiaryna , Janiuk Kathryn , Maleki Nasim
Published: May 2023

About 95% of human body serotonin synthesis occurs in the gastrointestinal tract (GI). Lack of sufficient serotonin levels is thought to play a key role in mood disorders, including anxiety disorders. In this study, we looked at a disorder affecting the GI tract, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and aimed to determine whether IBS is differentially associated with anxiety disorders in 252 chronic pain patients in the presence of a history of alcohol use disorders (AUD) given that alcohol is an extremely aggressive substance for the GI mucosa. We found that while the prevalence of IBS was not affected by the presence of AUD in chronic pain patients, IBS had significantly higher comorbidity with anxiety disorders in chronic pain patients with comorbid alcohol use disorders. We argue that these findings highlight mechanistic differences in the comorbidity of anxiety disorders with chronic pain and AUD, implicating a central role for GI problems stemming from chronic alcohol use. The findings may have important implications for the treatment of IBS patients with AUD who commonly present with anxiety disorders which could motivate the continuation of problematic drinking and impede recovery success. We propose that addressing GI problems in patients with AUD may help manage AUD and recovery more effectively.
Beyond cellulose: pharmaceutical potential for bioactive plant polysaccharides in treating disease and gut dysbiosis
Authors: Niu Yuanlin , Liu Wei , Fan Xueni , Wen Dongxu , Wu Dan , Wang Hongzhuang , Liu Zhenjiang , Li Bin
Published: May 2023

Polysaccharides derived from plants, algae, or fungi serve as the major components of some human diets. Polysaccharides have been shown to exhibit diverse biological activities in improving human health, and have also been proposed to function as potent modulators of gut microbiota composition, thus playing a bi-directional regulatory role in host health. Here, we review a variety of polysaccharide structures potentially linked to biological functions, and cover current research progress in characterizing their pharmaceutical effects in various disease models, including antioxidant, anticoagulant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, hypoglycemic, and antimicrobial activities. We also highlight the effects of polysaccharides on modulating gut microbiota via enrichment for beneficial taxa and suppression of potential pathogens, leading to increased microbial expression of carbohydrate-active enzymes and enhanced short chain fatty acid production. This review also discusses polysaccharide-mediated improvements in gut function by influencing interleukin and hormone secretion in host intestinal epithelial cells.
Concerted suppressive effects of carisbamate, an anti-epileptic alkyl-carbamate drug, on voltage-gated Na+ and hyperpolarization-activated cation currents
Authors: Hung Te-Yu , Wu Sheng-Nan , Huang Chin-Wei
Published: May 2023

Carisbamate (CRS, RWJ-333369) is a new anti-seizure medication. It remains unclear whether and how CRS can perturb the magnitude and/or gating kinetics of membrane ionic currents, despite a few reports demonstrating its ability to suppress voltage-gated Na+ currents. In this study, we observed a set of whole-cell current recordings and found that CRS effectively suppressed the voltage-gated Na+ (INa) and hyperpolarization-activated cation currents (Ih) intrinsically in electrically excitable cells (GH3 cells). The effective IC50 values of CRS for the differential suppression of transient (INa(T)) and late INa (INa(L)) were 56.4 and 11.4 μM, respectively. However, CRS strongly decreased the strength (i.e., Δarea) of the nonlinear window component of INa (INa(W)), which was activated by a short ascending ramp voltage (Vramp); the subsequent addition of deltamethrin (DLT, 10 μM) counteracted the ability of CRS (100 μM, continuous exposure) to suppress INa(W). CRS strikingly decreased the decay time constant of INa(T) evoked during pulse train stimulation; however, the addition of telmisartan (10 μM) effectively attenuated the CRS (30 μM, continuous exposure)-mediated decrease in the decay time constant of the current. During continued exposure to deltamethrin (10 μM), known to be a pyrethroid insecticide, the addition of CRS resulted in differential suppression of the amplitudes of INa(T) and INa(L). The amplitude of Ih activated by a 2-s membrane hyperpolarization was diminished by CRS in a concentration-dependent manner, with an IC50 value of 38 μM. For Ih, CRS altered the steady-state I–V relationship and attenuated the strength of voltage-dependent hysteresis (Hys(V)) activated by an inverted isosceles-triangular Vramp. Moreover, the addition of oxaliplatin effectively reversed the CRS-mediated suppression of Hys(V). The predicted docking interaction between CRS and with a model of the hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) channel or between CRS and the hNaV1.7 channel reflects the ability of CRS to bind to amino acid residues in HCN or hNaV1.7 channel via hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions. These findings reveal the propensity of CRS to modify INa(T) and INa(L) differentially and to effectively suppress the magnitude of Ih. INa and Ih are thus potential targets of the actions of CRS in terms of modulating cellular excitability.
Practical considerations in an era of multicolor optogenetics
Authors: Rindner Daniel J. , Lur Gyorgy
Published: May 2023

The ability to control synaptic communication is indispensable to modern neuroscience. Until recently, only single-pathway manipulations were possible due to limited availability of opsins activated by distinct wavelengths. However, extensive protein engineering and screening efforts have drastically expanded the optogenetic toolkit, ushering in an era of multicolor approaches for studying neural circuits. Nonetheless, opsins with truly discrete spectra are scarce. Experimenters must therefore take care to avoid unintended cross-activation of optogenetic tools (crosstalk). Here, we demonstrate the multidimensional nature of crosstalk in a single model synaptic pathway, testing stimulus wavelength, irradiance, duration, and opsin choice. We then propose a “lookup table” method for maximizing the dynamic range of opsin responses on an experiment-by-experiment basis.
Validity of CSF alpha-synuclein to predict psychosis in prodromal Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Monge-García Sonia , García-Ayllón María-Salud , Sánchez-Payá José , Gasparini-Berenguer Ruth , Cortés-Gómez María-Ángeles , Sáez-Valero Javier , Monge-Argilés José-Antonio
Published: May 2023

Background

Alzheimer's disease (AD) accompanied by psychotic symptoms (PS) has a poor prognosis and may be associated with imbalances in key neural proteins such as alpha-synuclein (AS).

Aim

The aim of the study was to evaluate the diagnostic validity of AS levels in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) as a predictor of the emergence of PS in patients with prodromal AD.

Materials and methods

Patients with mild cognitive impairment were recruited between 2010 and 2018. Core AD biomarkers and AS levels were measured in CSF obtained during the prodromal phase of the illness. All patients who met the NIA-AA 2018 criteria for AD biomarkers received treatment with anticholinesterasic drugs. Follow-up evaluations were conducted to assess patients for the presence of psychosis using current criteria; the use of neuroleptic drugs was required for inclusion in the psychosis group. Several comparisons were made, taking into account the timing of the emergence of PS.

Results

A total of 130 patients with prodromal AD were included in this study. Of these, 50 (38.4%) met the criteria for PS within an 8-year follow-up period. AS was found to be a valuable CSF biomarker to differentiate between the psychotic and non-psychotic groups in every comparison made, depending on the onset of PS. Using an AS level of 1,257 pg/mL as the cutoff, this predictor achieved at least 80% sensitivity.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this study represents the first time that a CSF biomarker has shown diagnostic validity for prediction of the emergence of PS in patients with prodromal AD.
Long-term follow-up of nutritional status in children with GLUT1 Deficiency Syndrome treated with classic ketogenic diet: a 5-year prospective study
Authors: De Amicis Ramona , Leone Alessandro , Pellizzari Marta , Foppiani Andrea , Battezzati Alberto , Lessa Chiara , Tagliabue Anna , Ferraris Cinzia , De Giorgis Valentina , Olivotto Sara , Previtali Roberto , Veggiotti Pierangelo , Bertoli Simona
Published: May 2023

Introduction

The classic ketogenic diet (cKD) is an isocaloric, high fat, low-carbohydrate diet that induces the production of ketone bodies. High consumption of dietary fatty acids, particularly long-chain saturated fatty acids, could impair nutritional status and increase cardiovascular risk. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term effects of a 5-year cKD on body composition, resting energy expenditure, and biochemical parameters in children affected by Glucose Transporter 1 Deficiency Syndrome (GLUT1DS).

Methods

This was a prospective, multicenter, 5-year longitudinal study of children with GLUT1DS treated with a cKD. The primary outcome was to assess the change in nutritional status compared with pre-intervention, considering anthropometric measurements, body composition, resting energy expenditure, and biochemical parameters such as glucose and lipid profiles, liver enzymes, uric acid, creatinine, and ketonemia. Assessments were conducted at pre-intervention and every 12 months of cKD interventions.

Results

Ketone bodies increased significantly in children and adolescents, and remained stable at 5 years, depending on the diet. No significant differences were reported in anthropometric and body composition standards, as well as in resting energy expenditure and biochemical parameters. Bone mineral density increased significantly over time according to increasing age. Body fat percentage significantly and gradually decreased in line with the increase in body weight and the consequent growth in lean mass. As expected, we observed a negative trend in respiratory quotient, while fasting insulin and insulin resistance were found to decrease significantly after cKD initiation.

Conclusion

Long-term adherence to cKD showed a good safety profile on anthropometric measurements, body composition, resting energy expenditure, and biochemical parameters, and we found no evidence of potential adverse effects on the nutritional status of children and adolescents.
Integrated high-throughput analysis identifies super enhancers in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Zeng Jie , Chen Jiahong , Li Maozhang , Zhong Chuanfan , Liu Zezhen , Wang Yan , Li Yuejiao , Jiang Funeng , Fang Shumin , Zhong Weide
Published: May 2023

Background: Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) is a highly aggressive stage of prostate cancer, and non-mutational epigenetic reprogramming plays a critical role in its progression. Super enhancers (SE), epigenetic elements, are involved in multiple tumor-promoting signaling pathways. However, the SE-mediated mechanism in mCRPC remains unclear.

Methods: SE-associated genes and transcription factors were identified from a cell line (C4-2B) of mCRPC by the CUT&Tag assay. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between mCRPC and primary prostate cancer (PCa) samples in the GSE35988 dataset were identified. What’s more, a recurrence risk prediction model was constructed based on the overlapping genes (termed SE-associated DEGs). To confirm the key SE-associated DEGs, BET inhibitor JQ1 was applied to cells to block SE-mediated transcription. Finally, single-cell analysis was performed to visualize cell subpopulations expressing the key SE-associated DEGs.

Results: Nine human TFs, 867 SE-associated genes and 5417 DEGs were identified. 142 overlapping SE-associated DEGs showed excellent performance in recurrence prediction. Time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed strong predictive power at 1 year (0.80), 3 years (0.85), and 5 years (0.88). The efficacy of his performance has also been validated in external datasets. In addition, FKBP5 activity was significantly inhibited by JQ1.

Conclusion: We present a landscape of SE and their associated genes in mCPRC, and discuss the potential clinical implications of these findings in terms of their translation to the clinic.
Controlling multiple returnings in non-sequential double ionization with orthogonal two-color laser pulses
Authors: Ma Xiaomeng , Zhang Xiaofan , Tong Aihong
Published: May 2023

With the three-dimensional semi-classical ensemble model, we studied the non-sequential double ionization by orthogonal two-color laser pulses. Our calculations show that the proportion of events experiencing multiple returnings, the sum of the final energies of two electrons, and the ion momentum distribution depend on the relative phase of the two-color fields, exhibiting oscillatory behavior with a period of π. Back analysis of these trajectories reveals that we can control the recollision energy of the electron by changing the relative phase of the two-color laser pulse. As a consequence, the trajectories of multiple-returning ions change with the relative phase, resulting in relative-phase-dependent ion momentum distributions. The result shows that the momentum distribution of the ions in the trajectories of multiple returnings is clearly wider than that for the case of single returning. For the multiple-returning events, the binary recollision leads to a smaller scattering angle of the first electron.
Efficacy of closed cell wet-suit at various depths and gas mixtures for thermoprotection during military training dives
Authors: Kelly Karen R. , Palombo Laura J. , Jensen Andrew E. , Bernards Jake R.
Published: May 2023

Purpose: To evaluate a closed-cell wet-suit for thermal protective capability during extreme cold water exposure at various depths.

Methods: Thirteen (n = 13) elite military divers who were tasked with cold-water training, participated in this study. To mimic various depths, the Ocean Simulation Facility (OSF) at the Navy Experimental Diving Unit (NEDU) was pressurized to simulate dive depths of 30, 50, and 75fsw. Water temperature remained at 1.8–2.0°C for all dives. Four divers dove each day and used the MK16 underwater breathing apparatus with gas mixes of either N202 (79:21) or HeO2 (88:12). Mean skin temperature (TSK) (Ramanathan, 1964), core temperature (Tc), hand and foot readings were obtained every 30 min for 30 and 50fsw and every 15 min during the 75fsw dive.

Results: TC was significantly reduced across all dives (p = 0.004); however, was preserved above the threshold for hypothermia (post dive Tc = 36.5 ± 0.4). There was no effect of gas mix on TC. TSK significantly decreased (p < 0.001) across all dives independent of depth and gas. Hand and foot temperatures resulted in the termination of three of the dives. There were no significant main effects for depth or gas, but there were significant main effects for time on hand temperature (p < 0.001) and foot temperature (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Core temperature is maintained above threshold for hypothermia. Variatioins in TC and TSK are a function of dive duration independent of depth or gas for a closed-cell wet-suit in cold water at various depths. However, both hand and foot temperatures reached values at which dexterity is compromised.
Understanding decision making in security operations centres: building the case for cyber deception technology
Authors: Reeves Andrew , Ashenden Debi
Published: May 2023

Introduction

A Security Operations Centre (SOC) is a command centre where analysts monitor network activity, analyse alerts, investigate potential threats, and respond to incidents. By analysing data activities around the clock, SOC teams are crucial in ensuring the prompt detection and response to security incidents. SOC analysts work under considerable pressure to triage and respond to alerts in very short time frames. Cyber deception technology offers the promise of buying SOC analysts more time to respond by wasting the resources and time of attackers, yet such technology remains underutilised.

Method

We carried out a series of interviews with experts to uncover the barriers which prevent the effective implementation of cyber deception in SOCs.

Results

By using thematic analysis on the data, it was clear that while cyber deception technology is promising it is hindered by a lack of use cases, limited empirical research that demonstrates the efficacy of the technology, hesitancy to embrace a more active form of cyber defence, issues surrounding the over promising of results by off-the-shelf vendors, and an aversion to interrupting the decision-making processes of SOC analysts.

Discussion

Taking this last point about the decision-making processes of SOC analysts we make the case that naturalistic decision making (NDM) would help us better understand how SOC analysts make decisions and how cyber deception technology could be used to best effect.
Validation and reliability test of Chinese language patient-reported impact of symptoms in schizophrenia scale
Authors: Lin Xiao , Tian Hongjun , Wang Lina , Li Ranli , Ma Xiaoyan , Sun Yun , Cai Ziyao , Ping Jing , Chen Langlang , Zhuo Chuanjun , Yu Haiping
Published: May 2023

Background

Patient-reported outcomes, or subjective evaluations directly reflecting the patient’s views, feelings, and judgments, are now being used to evaluate the outcomes of care and treatment of people with schizophrenia. In this study, we used an updated tool, the patient-reported impact of symptoms in schizophrenia scale (PRISS), translated into Chinese languages to assess the subjective experiences of schizophrenia patients.

Objective

This study aimed to test the psychometrics of the Chinese languages PRISS (CL-PRISS).

Method

This study used the Chinese version of PRISS (CL-PRISS), acquired from the harmonized English-language version. A total of 280 patients enrolled in this study were asked to complete the CL-PRISS, the positive and negative syndrome scale (PANSS), and the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHO-DAS). Construct and concurrent validity was tested using the confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and Spearman correlation coefficient, respectively. The reliability of CL-PRISS was tested using Cronbach’s α coefficient and the internal correlation coefficient.

Results

Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) analysis demonstrated three major factors in CL_PRISS: the first factor is productive experiences, the second factor is affective-negative, and the third factor experiences. The factor loadings between items and factors ranged from 0.436 to 0.899 (RMSEA = 0.029, TLI = 0.940, CFI = 0.921). The correlation coefficient between the CL_PRISS and PANSS was 0.845, and between the CL-PRISS and WHO-DAS was 0.886. The ICC of the total CL_PRISS was 0.913, and Cronbach’s α was 0.903.

Conclusion

The Chinese version of the PRISS (CL_PRISS) can be effectively used for assessing the subjective experience of Chinese patients with schizophrenia.
Clinicians’ perceptions of family involvement in the treatment of persons with psychotic disorders: a nested qualitative study
Authors: Hestmark Lars , Romøren Maria , Hansson Kristiane Myckland , Heiervang Kristin Sverdvik , Pedersen Reidar
Published: May 2023

Background

Family involvement in mental health care ranges from basic practices to complex interventions such as Family psychoeducation, the latter being a well-documented treatment for psychotic disorders. The aim of this study was to explore clinicians’ perceptions of the benefits and disadvantages of family involvement, including possible mediating factors and processes.

Methods

Nested in a randomised trial, which purpose was to implement Basic family involvement and support and Family psychoeducation in Norwegian community mental health centres during 2019–2020, this qualitative study is based on eight focus groups with implementation teams and five focus groups with ordinary clinicians. Using a purposive sampling strategy and semi-structured interview guides, focus groups were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed with reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Four main themes were identified as perceived benefits: (1) Family psychoeducation—a concrete framework, (2) Reducing conflict and stress, (3) A triadic understanding, and (4) Being on the same team. Themes 2–4 formed an interconnected triad of mutually reinforcing elements and were further linked to three important clinician-facilitated sub-themes: a space for relatives’ experiences, emotions and needs; a space for patients and relatives to discuss sensitive topics and an open line of communication between clinician and relative. Although far less frequent, three main themes were identified as perceived disadvantages or challenges: (1) Family psychoeducation—occasional poor model fit or difficulties following the framework, (2) Getting more involved than usual, and (3) Relatives as a potentially negative influence—important nonetheless

Conclusions

The findings contribute to the understanding of the beneficial processes and outcomes of family involvement, as well as the critical role of the clinician in achieving these and possible challenges. They could also be used to inform future quantitative research on mediating factors and implementation efforts.
One Health in the consciousness of veterinary students from the perspective of knowledge of antibiotic therapy and antimicrobial resistance: a multi-centre study
Authors: Sobierajski Tomasz , Wanke-Rytt Monika , Chajecka-Wierzchowska Wioleta , Śmiałek Marcin , Hryniewicz Waleria
Published: May 2023

One Health (OH) is one of the most essential global programs to rebalance the animal, human, and plant environments that depend on and affect each other. One element of the OH program is to draw attention to the phenomenon of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which poses a very high risk to human and animal health. OH is not only a health-promoting project but also has an educational dimension. Therefore, a survey was conducted among 467 veterinary students studying at top academic centers in Poland to find out whether they had heard of OH and whether knowledge of OH influences their knowledge and attitudes related to AMR. The study indicated statistically significant relationships between familiarity with the OH program and the year of study. The higher the year of study, the more students heard about OH. It was also shown that students who had heard of OH were significantly more likely—compared to students who had not heard of OH—to agree that increasing AMR is influenced by the overuse of antibiotics in veterinary medicine (70.7 vs. 55%; p = 0.014) and the use of too low doses of antibiotics in animals (49.8 vs. 28.6%; p = 0.016). The higher the year of study, the higher the percentage of students who say that carbapenems as antibiotics of last resort should be reserved only for humans (70% of final-year students vs. 30.8% of first-year students; p < 0.001). The study's results indicate the effectiveness of education in fostering positive attitudes toward AMR and the impact of knowledge of the OH program on knowledge of antibiotic therapy in the spirit of OH.
Making the sustainability hotspot analysis more participatory—experiences from field research in Zambia
Authors: Droppelmann Klaus , Müller Carolin
Published: May 2023

Food value chains constitute a core element of food systems. Along any value chain, several bottlenecks, and obstacles negatively affect the sustainability of the entire chain. Therefore, the identification and assessment of such sustainability hotspots is a vital step in the process towards higher levels of sustainability. Over the past few decades food value chains have been supported as part of development cooperation to help alleviate poverty and ensure food and nutrition security. However, so far, a suitable methodology to assess aspects of sustainability along such food value chains was not available. Therefore, we have adapted the sustainability hotspot analysis, originally developed by the Wuppertal Institute, and enhanced it with a participatory approach, thereby making it suitable for application in the context of development cooperation. In this paper, we present a step-by-step overview of the entire assessment process by using examples from its application in Zambia’s dairy and groundnut value chains. The developed methodology allows, through participatory means, the identification and assessment of sustainability aspects by stakeholders themselves, with the validation and amplification of assessment results by locally-based value chain experts. We demonstrate that results from this participatory hotspot analysis are aligned with the principles of agroecology promoted by the FAO, and are geared towards supporting transformative food system change processes. Our key findings from the application of the participatory hotspot analysis showed that sustainability hotspots occur in the social, economic, and ecological dimensions of sustainability along both value chains. It also became clear that hotspots are frequently interconnected, requiring a holistic approach based on a solid understanding of strong sustainability when designing solutions. We conclude that our participatory hotspot analysis provides a user-friendly methodology that generates action-oriented recommendations, and provides an ideal starting point in the development process for co-learning and co-creation of knowledge aimed at generating sustainability-enhancing innovations. The application of the participatory hotspot analysis reveals information on aspects that threaten the sustainability of value chains from a stakeholder perspective. Knowledge of these perspectives is essential, especially for development practitioners tasked with designing implementation strategies to improve the sustainability of value chains.
Safety and efficacy of aspirin after combined cerebral revascularization for ischemic moyamoya disease: A prospective study
Authors: Xue Bingqian , Zhang Shao , Guo Gaochao , Wu Ruiyu , Gu Kaiwen , Zhao Liming , Li Chaoyue
Published: May 2023

Objective

To analyze the safety and efficacy of regular aspirin use after combined cerebral revascularization in patients with ischemic moyamoya disease.

Methods

From December 2020 to October 2021, a total of 326 patients diagnosed with ischemic moyamoya disease by global cerebral angiography and undergoing first-time combined cerebral revascularization at the Moyamoya Disease Diagnosis and Treatment Research Center of our hospital were selected. Combined cerebral revascularization: superficial temporal artery-middle cerebral artery (STA-MCA) +encephalo-duro-myo-synangiosis (EDMS).Patients were screened by 2 senior physicians according to established inclusion/exclusion criteria. Patients were divided into aspirin and non-aspirin groups based on whether they received regular oral aspirin after surgery. A total of 133 patients were enrolled in the aspirin group. A total of 71 patients (204 cases) were enrolled in the non-aspirin group. Related data were collected before and 1 year after surgery and statistically analyzed to assess the prognosis of both groups.

Results

In the two groups, the mRS Score was significantly different after one year (P = 0.023). TIA occurred in 26 patients (19.5%) in the aspirin group and 27 patients (38.0%) in the non-aspirin group within one year after surgery, and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P = 0.004). There was no significant difference in cerebral perfusion stage, the improvement rate of cerebral perfusion, Matsushima grading, bypass patency, and other complications within one year after the operation (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

In patients with ischemic moyamoya disease who underwent combined cerebral revascularization, postoperative administration of aspirin can reduce the incidence of TIA without increasing the risk of bleeding, but it can not significantly improve the cerebral perfusion of the operation side, Matsushima grading, and bypass patency.
Pancreatico-gastric fistula arising from IPMN associated with ductal adenocarcinoma of the pancreas: a case report and a literature review
Authors: AbuDalu M. , Munz Y. , Ohana G.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

An intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) is a potentially malignant cystic tumor that is characterized by an excessive papillary proliferation of mucin-producing epithelial cells. The IPMN usually exhibits different degrees of dysplasia and is accompanied by cystic dilation of the main pancreatic duct (MPD) or side branch. We report a case of an IPMN that has penetrated the stomach and has differentiated into an adenocarcinoma.

Case presentation

A 69-year-old female, suffering from chronic pancreatitis of unknown etiology, visited our outpatient clinic with complaints of sudden weight loss, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. She underwent several examinations to evaluate the reasons for her sudden onset of symptoms. A gastroscopy showed an ulcerated lesion covered with mucus. CT and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography images revealed that the MPD was dilated to 1.3 cm with a fistula formation between the MPD and the stomach. After a multidisciplinary discussion of this case, a total pancreatectomy was proposed. An en bloc total pancreatectomy with gastric wedge resection including the fistula together with splenectomy was carried out. A Roux-en-Y choledochojejunostomy and gastrojejunostomy were performed. Histology results revealed the association of IPMN with invasive carcinoma.

Discussion

Many reports on IPMN of the pancreas have been published recently. Fistula formation between IPMN and adjacent organs is possible. Given the CT and endoscopic ultrasonography findings, it shows that in our case a main duct IPMN (MD-IPMN) formed a pancreatico-gastric fistula. We point out that the adherence of invasive cancer cells contributed to the fistula formation between the pancreas and the stomach.

Conclusion

This case report provides evidence for the possibility of IPMN becoming complicated with pancreatico-gastric fistula. Thus, we suggest that surgical resection should be considered in the case of MD-IPMN because of its high propensity for malignant transformation.
Improving IELTS speaking skills of EFL learners through the extensive reading at a tertiary level
Authors: Shareef Liva Adil
Published: May 2023

Extensive reading has increased its popularity globally as it offers flexibility to choose any book and read in an increasing volume to derive pleasure. Accordingly, the number of studies regarding it has increased in the last two decades. It has been observed that a gap is prevalent in the literature to measure the effects of ER on students’ speaking competence through a standardized test at a tertiary level in Iraq context which has prompted the researcher to conduct this study. In this regard, the present study was carried out to investigate the effects of extensive reading on students’ speaking competence through the IELTS Academic Speaking Test within a span of 10 weeks. 45 Foundation English course students who joined lessons actively at TISHK International University in Erbil, Iraq were chosen by convenience sampling method in the 2022-2023 Academic Year. The data were collected through speaking exams and interviews in this mixed methods design study. Collected data analysed by SPSS 23 or NVivo revealed that extensive reading substantially increased students' marks in the IELTS Speaking test, restored their self-confidence, improved their motivation and affected their overall attitudes towards learning English in a pleasurable way. This study's implications can provide a basis for education stakeholders who are considering introducing an extensive reading-enriched program at educational institutions.