bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dissecting Loneliness in the Digital Age: An Insight into the Experiences of Medical Students Amid and Beyond the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Nashwan Abdulqadir J. , Alahmad Rawan , Abu Afifeh Ghazi , Abu Afifeh Nour
Published: June 2024

This narrative review explores loneliness among medical students, particularly heightened during the COVID-19 pandemic. This review aims to narratively describe how the digital age, both pre- and post-pandemic, influences loneliness and to assess the psychological effects of the pandemic on medical students. Our literature search, adhering to SANRA guidelines, scrutinized studies published in the last ten years focusing on loneliness among medical students. Our findings reveal that medical students experienced significant loneliness during the pandemic, attributed to virtual learning environments and decreased social interactions. Notably, the transition to online education has mitigated and exacerbated feelings of isolation. The review also highlights the dual role of social media in either alleviating or intensifying loneliness, depending on usage patterns and platform types. Overall, our study underscores the need for targeted interventions and support systems to address the mental well-being of medical students in the digital age and beyond, providing crucial insights for future research and policy-making in educational and psychological support frameworks.
Determinants of Household Resilience to Food Insecurity for Comparison: the Case of Chencha District, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Dereje Desta , Tilahun Temesgen , Yirgu Teshome
Published: June 2024

Background Food insecurity is a historical global human challenge, but has yet remained a burning development agenda. The capacity to withstand and recover from food insecurity shocks and stresses refereed as resilience, which is determined by a strand of factors. This paper deals with measuring and; identifying major determinants of household resilience to food insecurity among weaving-based livelihood system in Chencha district. Methods Multi-stage sampling technique was employed to generate data from 303 sample households through household survey, focus group discussion, and key informant interviews. The collected data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics, household resilience index, chi-square test, one-way ANOVA and econometric model (probit regression). Results The household survey revealed that 59.04% households were non-resilient, 24.42% were moderately resilient, 10.89% resilient and 4.95% highly resilient. The Chi-square and one-way ANOVA tests have shown a meaningful and statistically significant difference among resilience categories. Finally, probit model analysis indicated that access to credit, average years of family education, crop diversity, income diversity, landholding size, TLU, expected crop harvest, expected cash income from fruit trees, frequency of extension contact, FCS, annual food expenditure, ownerships of Radio, Jewelry, furnished bed, membership in local associations, and distance to local market have positively influenced the likelihood of attaining higher household resilience at CI 95% or P<1%, 5% and 10%. Whereas; lack of access to mobile phone, inability to read and write, family business, formal employment, and transfers of payment have decreased likelihood of households to achieve higher resilience level. Conclusions Therefore, improving household access to credit, education, income diversification, livestock and land, agricultural extension services, membership to local associations, mobile service, and income diversification would enhance household income and food security, which could in turn improve household resilience to food insecurity.
Comparison of image quality between Deep learning image reconstruction and Iterative reconstruction technique for CT Brain- a pilot study
Authors: Chandran M Obhuli , Pendem Saikiran , P S Priya , Chacko Cijo , , Priyanka , Kadavigere Rajagopal
Published: June 2024

Background Non-contrast Computed Tomography (NCCT) plays a pivotal role in assessing central nervous system disorders and is a crucial diagnostic method. Iterative reconstruction (IR) methods have enhanced image quality (IQ) but may result in a blotchy appearance and decreased resolution for subtle contrasts. The deep-learning image reconstruction (DLIR) algorithm, which integrates a convolutional neural network (CNN) into the reconstruction process, generates high-quality images with minimal noise. Hence, the objective of this study was to assess the IQ of the Precise Image (DLIR) and the IR technique (iDose4) for the NCCT brain. Methods This is a prospective study. Thirty patients who underwent NCCT brain were included. The images were reconstructed using DLIR-standard and iDose4. Qualitative IQ analysis parameters, such as overall image quality (OQ), subjective image noise (SIN), and artifacts, were measured. Quantitative IQ analysis parameters such as Computed Tomography (CT) attenuation (HU), image noise (IN), posterior fossa index (PFI), signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) in the basal ganglia (BG) and centrum-semiovale (CSO) were measured. Paired t-tests were performed for qualitative and quantitative IQ analyses between the iDose4 and DLIR-standard. Kappa statistics were used to assess inter-observer agreement for qualitative analysis. Results Quantitative IQ analysis showed significant differences (p<0.05) in IN, SNR, and CNR between the iDose4 and DLIR-standard at the BG and CSO levels. IN was reduced (41.8-47.6%), SNR (65-82%), and CNR (68-78.8%) were increased with DLIR-standard. PFI was reduced (27.08%) the DLIR-standard. Qualitative IQ analysis showed significant differences (p<0.05) in OQ, SIN, and artifacts between the DLIR standard and iDose4. The DLIR standard showed higher qualitative IQ scores than the iDose4. Conclusion DLIR standard yielded superior quantitative and qualitative IQ compared to the IR technique (iDose4). The DLIR-standard significantly reduced the IN and artifacts compared to iDose4 in the NCCT brain.
Digital Transformation and Its Relationship to the Job Performance of Employees at a Private University in Peru
Authors: Hilda Paola Arias Gonzales , Morán Santamaría Rogger Orlando , Lizana Guevara Nikolays Pedro , Pedro Otoniel Morales Salazar , Yasser Jackson Salazar López , Llonto Caicedo Yefferson , Cúneo Fernández Francisco Eduardo , Castro Mejía Percy Junior , Pérez Pérez Milagros Judith
Published: June 2024

Background Private universities in Peru still need to implement digital transformation models to enhance the job performance of faculty and staff, achieving consistent improvement in the performance levels of university teachers by deploying technological and didactic tools for students. Therefore, the study aims to determine the relationship between digital transformation and the job performance of employees at a Private University. Methods The research approach was quantitative, employing a non-experimental, longitudinal correlational design. The technique used was a survey, applied to a sample of 104 employees (school heads, faculty, and a director) from the university on a national level from a total population of 144. Results Descriptive results reveal that the university has regularly adopted tools related to digital transformation. In particular, it has efficiently employed agile technologies, Big Data, and various technological means, benefiting 90% (52% and 38%) of the staff. The study also showed a high positive correlation (0.92>0.7) between digital transformation and the job performance of staff at the Private University, confirming that there is a significant connection between the variables studied. Conclusions Therefore, creating an innovative culture across all hierarchical levels and identifying key technologies that add value to the learning flow can meet the needs of an increasingly demanding society.
The Elder Brother, Virgil’s De apibus, and the Chronology of the Plays in the Canon of John Fletcher and His Collaborators, 1617–20
Authors: Lovascio Domenico
Published: June 2024

This article argues that John Brinsley's 1620 translation of Virgil's Georgics, Book IV, is a source for John Fletcher and Philip Massinger's The Elder Brother. This contention results in dating the play to 1620 rather than 1618 as suggested by Martin Wiggins. The re-dating has consequences for the dating of other plays in the canon of Fletcher and his collaborators for the period 1617 to 1620, and I propose a new chronology for the Fletcher plays in this time span.
Perceptions and use of recovery strategies in water polo players and coaches: a worldwide survey
Authors: Barrenetxea-Garcia Josu , Perazzetti Andrea , Nuell Sergi , Mielgo-Ayuso Juan , Villarreal Eduardo Sáez de , Calleja-González Julio
Published: June 2024

The objective of this study was to assess the perceived usefulness, actual use and limitations for the application of recovery strategies among water polo (WP) players and their coaches around the world. A total of 231 WP players and 76 coaches representing all continents, both genders and all levels of competition, completed a freely accessible online survey. This was divided into three sections: sociodemographic data (8 questions), importance of perceived usefulness of recovery strategies (3 questions), and actual use of recovery methods (6 questions). The majority of players and coaches considered recovery strategies as very important (52.4% and 59.2%, respectively) and posttraining session (28.1% and 26.5%) were the most frequently used times. The most selected reasons to justify their use were to reduce the injury risk (30.4% and 26.9%) and the most limitation to the use of recovery strategies were that they are too time-consuming (34.9% and 29%). In the case of the players, stretching were the strategies perceived as most useful and used (12.7% and 18.1%); and in the case of the coaches, it was active recovery (11.2% and 15%). The present study suggests a degree of discrepancy between the scientific literature and the research participants’ perceptions and usages of recovery methods. This information may be of interest for coaches and technical staff of WP teams to look for appropriate recovery strategies for the improvement of their players’ performance.
An evidence-based nipple care pathway for new breastfeeding mothers: a Delphi study
Authors: Olalere Oladipupo , Harley Clare
Published: June 2024

Background/Aims

Only 1% of UK mothers maintain exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months, as per global recommendations. Early breastfeeding cessation often involves complex issues, with nipple-related injuries being a common cause. This study aimed to develop an evidence-based tool for early identification and management of breastfeeding-related nipple injuries through expert consensus.

Methods

A mixed method approach was used, including a 5-stage scoping review and a modified Delphi consensus technique with 26 UK-based maternal health experts and experienced breastfeeding mothers.

Results

Consensus (80% agreement) was reached on recommendations, including the provision of realistic information, early peer support engagement and Lanolin use. Some commonly recommended practices, such as letting the nipple air dry, did not reach consensus, highlighting a misalignment between expert consensus and published guidance.

Conclusions

This study generated evidence-based, expert-validated self-management guidance, emphasising the need for improved stakeholder engagement in policy development.
The diversity debate: is midwifery higher education addressing the challenges of systemic racism?
Authors: Chenery-Morris Sam , Divers Jo
Published: June 2024

This series of six articles is inspired by themes arising from the Royal College of Midwives State of Midwifery Education report. The series explores the current landscape and challenges in educating the future midwifery workforce, particularly those that pertain to the higher education workforce. This third article highlights the lack of global majority midwifery academics, and charts the decisions and experiences of global majority applicants and students in midwifery higher education. The barriers these students face include systemic and individual racism. These experiences likely impact global majority midwives choosing academic careers, yet greater diversity and representation is needed in the education workforce. This article explores how this might be achieved by examining sources of systemic racism and how to decolonise midwifery curricula in order to tackle inequality not just for educators and professionals, but for women in midwifery care.
Lupus mesenteric vasculitis with gastrointestinal bleeding as the primary manifestation: a case report
Authors: Cheng Jirong , Wu Qian , Wu Qiurong , Peng Yuanhong
Published: June 2024

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease where the body loses tolerance to its own antigens, particularly nuclear antigens. Abnormal responses from T and B cells lead to the production of autoantibodies and the formation of immune complexes in tissues, triggering complement activation, inflammation, and irreversible organ damage. SLE can affect any part of the body, resulting in diverse clinical symptoms. One rare manifestation of SLE is lupus mesenteric vasculitis (LMV), which presents with vague symptoms, abnormal laboratory findings, and specific imaging features. LMV, although uncommon, can progress to severe complications such as bowel perforation, haemorrhage, and even mortality. Here, we report a case of LMV with the involvement of multiple organ systems (including mucocutaneous, musculoskeletal, serosal cavities, and haematological systems), presenting initially with life-threatening intractable gastrointestinal bleeding, and complicated by severe pulmonary infection. By sharing this case, we aim to enhance clinicians' confidence in managing critical SLE cases and raise awareness about disease surveillance.
Trait emotional intelligence and its impact on quality of life, anxiety, and depression in patients with gastric cancer
Authors: Zhao Huarong , Song Shiqin , Lv Xiaobo , Huang Shike
Published: June 2024

Aims/Background Trait emotional intelligence is associated with anxiety and depression symptoms and quality of life in cancer patients. However, studies on the relationship of trait emotional intelligence with anxiety, depression, and quality of life in gastric cancer patients are limited. This study investigates the relationship of trait emotional intelligence with depression and quality of life in gastric cancer patients to provide a theoretical basis for clinical management.

Methods A total of 270 patients with gastric cancer treated in our hospital from July 2020 to July 2023 were selected, of which 31 patients with missing questionnaire entries and missed visits were screened out, resulting in the enrolment of 239 gastric cancer patients in this study. In this survey, self-administered general information questionnaires, namely Trait Emotional Intelligence Short Form (TEIQue-SF), European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) were used.

Results TEIQue-SF total scores were positively correlated with QLQ-C30 scores (p < 0.001) and negatively correlated with HADS-A and HADS-D scores (p < 0.001). TEIQue-SF total score was a superior positive predictor of the QLQ-C30 score (β = 0.412, p < 0.001) and a superior negative predictor of the HADS score (β = –0.740, p < 0.001). TEIQue-SF total score (β = 0.141, p = 0.006) and HADS score (β = –0.665, p < 0.001) were good predictors of QLQ-C30 score. The direct effect of TEIQue-SF total score on QLQ-C30 score was 0.141, while HADS score between TEIQue-SF total score and QLQ-C30 score had a mediated effect value of 0.492.

Conclusion Trait emotional intelligence not only directly affects the quality of life, but also indirectly affects the quality of life through anxiety and depression. Clinicians should pay attention to the anxiety, depression, and emotional intelligence of patients with gastric cancer to help them improve their quality of life.
Bioactive Compounds and Antioxidant Activity in Greek-style Yoghurt Infused with Shield Aralia Leaves
Authors:   Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Politeknik Kesehatan Kemenkes Malang, Malang 65122, Indonesia, Pertami Sumirah Budi ,   Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Airlangga,Surabaya 60115, Indonesia, Yunitasari Esti ,   Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Airlangga,Surabaya 60115, Indonesia, Budiono Budiono ,   Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Politeknik Kesehatan Kemenkes Malang, Malang 65122, Indonesia, Yulifah Rita ,   Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Politeknik Kesehatan Kemenkes Malang, Malang 65122, Indonesia, Astuti Nurul Puji ,   Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Politeknik Kesehatan Kemenkes Malang, Malang 65122, Indonesia, Herawati Tutik ,   Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Politeknik Kesehatan Kemenkes Malang, Malang 65122, Indonesia, Arifah Siti Nur ,   Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Negeri Malang, Malang 65145, Indonesia, Atho’illah Mochammad Fitri ,   Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Brawijaya University, Malang 65145, Indonesia
Published: June 2024

The objective of this study was to determine bioactive compounds, nutrition, antioxidant activity, total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) in shield aralia yoghurt. Shield aralia leaves (SAL) have traditionally been used as herbal plant. Fortification of shield aralia in yoghurt increased the health-benefits of yoghurt by the incorporated phytochemical constituent of herb such as polyphenol and flavonoid groups which can be used to treat various disease including atherosclerosis, obesity, diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular disease. The Greek-style yoghurt with addition SAL resulted on new bioactive compounds belong to α-linoleic acid (ALA) including -hydroperoxy-octadecadienoic acid (9-HpODE), (15Z)-9,12,13-Trihydroxy-15-octadeconoic acid, 13(s)-hydroperoxylinolenic acid (13(S)-HPOTrE), and (E)-6-hydroxyoctadec-4-eonoic acid or NP-011548. The proximate test results revealed that shield aralia yoghurt has high-protein content (15.46%), low-fat and carbohydrate content (0.16% and 0.88%, respectively). The antioxidant activity based on 2, 2-duphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay of shield aralia yoghurt was 68.66%, while TPC of SAL yogurt reached 62.61 mg GAE/g and the TFC was 201.05 mg QE/g. These results suggested that under fermentation by lactic-acid bacteria (LAB) increased the beneficial values of shield aralia leaves compared with shield aralia raw extract. Shield aralia yoghurt could be as promising supplementation for wellness care and also could be as exogenous antioxidant to increase body defense.
Practices of recognition and misrecognition in encounters between social workers and parents struggling with poverty
Authors: Sanfelici Mara , Gui Luigi
Published: June 2024

This study explores recognition and misrecognition practices in encounters between parents in poverty and social workers trying to help them. The goal of the analysis is to understand how such practices can lead the actors involved to feel either included and valued or misrecognized and excluded, and which factors influence these possibilities. The research was carried out by administering qualitative interviews to 40 parents struggling with poverty and 27 social workers in eight Italian regions. The analysis identified four forms of recognition and misrecognition: negative recognition, invisibility, conditional recognition and mutual recognition. The first three ‘ethnocentric’ forms exclude reciprocity by denying recognition or generating instrumental forms of recognition, negatively affecting the helping relationship. Practices of mutual recognition are instead made collectively in interactions in which professionals not only express care for the other but also assume and treat the person as an autonomous individual who can take up a critical stance towards recognition practices and norms in the helping relationship. Recognition practices also emerge as a powerful tool for social workers to fight the vicious circles of misrecognition of parents in poverty; however, these relations need to be nurtured and made possible, through meso- and macro-level interventions as well.
High-quality phase imaging by phase-shifting digital holography and deep learning
Authors: Li Huayang , Xu Xianfeng , Xue Ming , Ren Zhanhong
Published: June 2024

Quantitative phase imaging (QPI) technology is widely used in biomedical imaging and other fields because it can realize exact imaging for transparent phase-type samples, which is of great research significance. The complex amplitude distribution of the object wave obtained by phase-shifting digital holography (PSDH) reproduction can provide phase information for QPI, but its existence of phase wrapping and other problems limits its practical application. Although the traditional phase unwrapping algorithm provides a solution, it has problems such as low unwrapping accuracy or long time running. To solve these problems in QPI, a high-quality phase imaging (HQPI) method by PSDH and deep learning (DL) is proposed, where QPI is achieved by extracting the unknown phase shift using a generalized non-iterative phase shift extraction algorithm and unwrapping the wrapped phase by a DL network. Both numerical simulations and optical experiments verify the feasibility of the method. By comparing with the traditional phase unwrapping algorithm, it is demonstrated that the DL unwrapping method has higher unwrapping accuracy and more efficiency. The results show that the method of HQPI is capable of realizing comparatively fast and accurate QPI.
Compression and self-compression of frequency modulated spherical photon density waves in anisotropic scattering media
Authors: Luchinin Alexander G. , Dolin Lev S. , Kirillin Mikhail Yu.
Published: June 2024

We report on the results of a simulation of the photon density waves with pulse amplitude modulation by a complex frequency modulated signal. The problem is considered for the optical properties typical for sea water with anisotropy factor values varying from 0.75 to 0.93 at source-detector distances up to 120 m. It is shown that multiple scattering in a medium does not prevent effective compression of a signal registered using matched detection. Two competing phenomena affecting the detected pulse duration and depending on the central frequency of the modulation signal are discussed. The effect of faster attenuation of high harmonics in a complexly modulated signal leads to the detected signal duration increase as a consequence of multiple scattering. On the other hand, anomalous dispersion of photon density waves in media with scattering anisotropy leads to the pulse self-compression. The simulation results presented in the paper demonstrate the prevalence of different phenomena depending on the central frequency of the modulation signal resulting in a pulse duration decrease or increase in different frequency ranges covering the band from 107 to 2⋅109 Hz. The effect of the phase function shape on the observed effect is also discussed.
Experimental study on the keyhole dynamic evolution and porosity formation during laser welding of Ti-6Al-4V alloy
Authors: Tao Donglin , Gao Yanfeng , Pan Hao , Zeng Lixue , Zhang Zhao
Published: June 2024

Keyhole dynamic evolution significantly affects laser welding quality.
For observing the keyhole’s dynamic behaviors directly, a sandwich
workpiece that consists of a piece of quartz glass and a piece
of  Ti-6Al-4V alloy is used in experiments of this study, and
the dynamic behaviors of the keyhole are recorded with a high-speed
camera. The experimental results show that, in the first 5 ms
of welding, the depth and width of the keyhole increase linearly and,
at about 70 ms, a relatively stable keyhole is formed. A
keyhole typically exhibits the shape of a “7” character in a short
period after it forms. At this stage, the laser beam is reflected by
the wall of the keyhole repeatedly until it reaches the
bottom, which results in some tiny pore formations in the middle part
of the keyhole. In subsequent welding, the collapsing and rebuilding
process of the keyhole are observed, and big pores are formed at the
bottom of the keyhole. The results of this research are helpful to
understand the mechanism of the keyhole dynamic evolution and porosity
formation during titanium alloy laser welding.
Delayed-focus micro-angle measurement optical system based on structural segregation
Authors: Xing Yuhang , Li Hong , Cui Xiwen , Sun Guangkai , Zhu Lianqing
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we propose a delayed-focusing type micro-angle measurement optical system based on the Cassegrain structure (cassette structure), analyze the basic cassette structure and the Galilean laser beam expanding system, and determine the primary and secondary mirror structure as a reflective focusless system as a determining module. This focusless system emits and receives parallel light, and the light source and detector separated by the beam splitter are designed as replaceable modules. Additionally, the imaging quality of the system can be optimized, or the effect of meeting different imaging requirements can be achieved, by changing the number and type of corrective mirrors and the parameters of the specific glass elements in the replaceable modules. After the final optimization, the radius of the imaging spot of the combined mirror group can be limited to 6.1 µm; the modulation transfer function is better than 0.6 at 100 lp/mm; the difference between the meridian and the arc-vector curves is less than 0.1; and the theoretical angular accuracy reaches 0.2″. The delayed-focusing system structure is analyzed under different temperature fields to provide guidance for the design of the subsequent structure temperature control. Comparison and analysis with commonly used angle measurement optical systems are also made. It is concluded that the structure meets the requirements for use in the on-orbit environment, completes the reuse of the established structural modules, and further saves the manufacturing cost, which provides a feasible solution to the problem of monitoring the small angular changes in the field of space.
Photoluminescence properties of two-dimensional semiconductor heterointerfaces
Authors: Liu Hao , Chen Liping , Chen Tianhong , Wang Kaili , Jin Zhihan , Tan Chee Leong , Shi Yi , Yan Shancheng
Published: June 2024

Two-dimensional metal-sulfur compounds have attracted much attention due to their novel physical properties, such as layered structure, ultrathin physical dimensions, and continuously tunable bandgap. The vertical stacking of different 2D semiconductors enables the heterojunction to retain the excellent properties of its constituent materials and has physical properties such as interlayer energy transfer and interlayer carrier transfer. In this paper, we utilize the carrier interlayer transfer properties of p-n heterojunctions and form heterojunctions using p-type Te and PdSe2 prepared with n-type monolayer WS2 using the microzone transfer technique. We found that the PL spectrum of monolayer WS2 is purer after heterojunction formation. The photoluminescence peaks representing exciton recombination are sharper, while the peaks represented by trions almost disappear. These phenomena indicate that we can utilize p-n junctions to capture the PL spectra of excitons in WS2, which is important for the further study of the optical properties of 2D metal-sulfur compounds.
Computational imaging-based single-lens imaging systems and performance evaluation
Authors: Wei Shijie , Cheng Huachao , Xue Ben , Yang Xihang , Ma Yinpeng , Wang Yue , Xi Teli , Shao Xiaopeng
Published: June 2024

The minimalist optical system has a simple structure, small size, and lightweight, but the low optical complexity will produce optical aberration. Addressing the significant aberration degradation in minimalist systems, we propose a high-quality computational optical framework. This framework integrates a global point spread function (PSF) change imaging model with a transformer-based U-Net deep learning algorithm to achieve high-quality imaging in minimalist systems. Additionally, we introduce an imaging performance evaluation method based on the modulation transfer degree of resolution (MTR). We addressed severe chromatic and spherical aberrations in single-lens systems, a typical example of minimalist optical systems, by simulating the degradation process and reconstructing the imaging effects. This approach demonstrated significant improvements, thus validating the feasibility of our method. Specifically, our technique calculated the MTR values in real images captured with the GCL010109 single lens at 0.8085, and with the GCL010110 single lens at 0.8055. Our method enhanced the imaging performance of minimalist systems by 4 times, upgrading minimalist system capabilities from poor to good lens grade. This work can provide reference for wavefront coding, matelens, diffraction optical systems, and other computational imaging work. It can also promote the application of miniaturization of medical, aerospace, and head-mounted optical systems.
Self-power, multiwavelength photodetector based on a Sn-doped Ge quantum dots/hexagonal silicon nanowire heterostructure
Authors: Fan Linlin , Wang Lei , He Haiyan , Yang Deren , Li Dongsheng
Published: June 2024

Tin-doped germanium quantum dots (Sn-doped Ge QDs)-decorated hexagonal silicon nanowires (h-Si NWs) were adopted to overcome the low infrared response of silicon and the excess dark current of germanium. High-quality Sn-doped Ge QDs with a narrow bandgap can be achieved through Ge-Sn co-sputtering on silicon nanowires by reducing the contact area between heterojunction materials and Sn-induced germanium crystallization. The absorption limit of the heterostructure is extended to 2.2 µm, and it is sensitive to 375–1550 nm light at 0 V, which has optimality at 1342 nm, with a photo-to-dark current ratio of over 815, a responsivity of 0.154 A/W, and a response time of 0.93 ms. The superior performance of the Sn-doped Ge QDs/h-Si NW photodetector in multiwavelength is attractive for multi-scenario applications.
Sensorless adaptive optics in the second near-infrared window for deep vascular imaging in vivo
Authors: Li Dayan , Shi Tianyue , Xiao Yao , Wu Changfeng
Published: June 2024

We have experimentally validated the use of sensorless adaptive optics (AO) to enhance laser scanning confocal microscopy in the second near-infrared (NIR II) spectral range, termed as AO-NIR II confocal microscopy. This approach harnesses a NIR II fluorophore, excited by an 808 nm wavelength and emitting beyond 1000 nm, to visualize intricate structures in deep brain tissues with the intact skull. By leveraging the reduced scattering and aberrations in the NIR II spectrum, we successfully captured a three-dimensional (3D) vascular structure map extending 310 µm beneath the skull. AO typically boosts the fluorescence signal by approximately 2–3 times, leading to a superior contrast and diminished smearing effects. Consequently, small blood vessels at various depths can be clearly visualized, which might otherwise remain undetectable without AO corrections.
Subpopulations of neurons in the perirhinal cortex enable both modality-specific and modality-invariant recognition of objects
Authors: Lim Heung-Yeol , Lee Inah
Published: June 2024

The perirhinal cortex (PER) supports multimodal object recognition, but how multimodal information of objects is integrated within the PER remains unknown. Here, we recorded single units within the PER while rats performed a PER-dependent multimodal object-recognition task. In this task, audiovisual cues were presented simultaneously (multimodally) or separately (unimodally). We identified 2 types of object-selective neurons in the PER: crossmodal cells, showing constant firing patterns for an object irrespective of its modality, and unimodal cells, showing a preference for a specific modality. Unimodal cells further dissociated unimodal and multimodal versions of the object by modulating their firing rates according to the modality condition. A population-decoding analysis confirmed that the PER could perform both modality-invariant and modality-specific object decoding—the former for recognizing an object as the same in various conditions and the latter for remembering modality-specific experiences of the same object.
MTMol-GPT: De novo multi-target molecular generation with transformer-based generative adversarial imitation learning
Authors: Ai Chengwei , Yang Hongpeng , Liu Xiaoyi , Dong Ruihan , Ding Yijie , Guo Fei
Published: June 2024

De novo drug design is crucial in advancing drug discovery, which aims to generate new drugs with specific pharmacological properties. Recently, deep generative models have achieved inspiring progress in generating drug-like compounds. However, the models prioritize a single target drug generation for pharmacological intervention, neglecting the complicated inherent mechanisms of diseases, and influenced by multiple factors. Consequently, developing novel multi-target drugs that simultaneously target specific targets can enhance anti-tumor efficacy and address issues related to resistance mechanisms. To address this issue and inspired by Generative Pre-trained Transformers (GPT) models, we propose an upgraded GPT model with generative adversarial imitation learning for multi-target molecular generation called MTMol-GPT. The multi-target molecular generator employs a dual discriminator model using the Inverse Reinforcement Learning (IRL) method for a concurrently multi-target molecular generation. Extensive results show that MTMol-GPT generates various valid, novel, and effective multi-target molecules for various complex diseases, demonstrating robustness and generalization capability. In addition, molecular docking and pharmacophore mapping experiments demonstrate the drug-likeness properties and effectiveness of generated molecules potentially improve neuropsychiatric interventions. Furthermore, our model’s generalizability is exemplified by a case study focusing on the multi-targeted drug design for breast cancer. As a broadly applicable solution for multiple targets, MTMol-GPT provides new insight into future directions to enhance potential complex disease therapeutics by generating high-quality multi-target molecules in drug discovery.
How ready is the health care system in Northeast India for surgical delivery? a mixed-methods study on surgical capacity and need
Authors: Virk Amrit , King Rebecca , Heneise Michael , Aier Lanuakum , Child Catriona , Brown Julia , Jayne David , Ensor Tim
Published: June 2024

Background

Surgical services are scarce with persisting inequalities in access across populations and regions globally. As the world’s most populous county, India’s surgical need is high and delivery rates estimated to be sub-par to meet need. There is a dearth of evidence, particularly sub-regional data, on surgical provisioning which is needed to aid planning.

Aim and method

This mixed-methods study examines the state of surgical care in Northeast India, specifically health care system capacity and barriers to surgical delivery. It involved a facility-based census and semi-structured interviews with surgeons and patients across four states in the region.

Results

Abdominal conditions constituted a large portion of the overall surgeries across public and private facilities in the region. Workloads varied among surgical providers across facilities. Task-shifting occurred, involving non-specialist nursing staff assisting doctors with surgical procedures or surgeons taking on anaesthetic tasks. Structural factors dis-incentivised facility-level investment in suitable infrastructure. Facility functionality was on average higher in private providers compared to public providers and private facilities offer a wider range of surgical procedures. Facilities in general had adequate laboratory testing capability, infrastructure and equipment. Public facilities often do not have surgeon available around the clock while both public and private facilities frequently lack adequate blood banking. Patients’ care pathways were shaped by facility-level shortages as well as personal preferences influenced by cost and distance to facilities.

Discussion and conclusion

Skewed workloads across facilities and regions indicate uneven surgical delivery, with potentially variable care quality and provider efficiency. The need for a more system-wide and inter-linked approach to referral coordination and human resource management is evident in the results. Existing task-shifting practices, along with incapacities induced by structural factors, signal the directions for possible policy action.
Feasibility, reliability, and validity of physical function tests and IADL survey questions in women living in rural, highland Ethiopia
Authors: Golan Jenna , Thalacker-Mercer Anna , Hoddinott John
Published: June 2024

Physical function is the physical ability to fulfill one’s daily roles and responsibilities. Poor physical function is detrimental to health and income-generating activities. Unfortunately, there is a lack of validated methods to measure physical function in adult women in low- and middle-income countries, including Ethiopia, the locus of this study. This study evaluated the feasibility, reliability, and validity of physical tests, including the sit-to-stand (STS) and usual gait speed (UGS) and a context-appropriate instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) survey. The results of the STS were used to calculate a muscle quality index (MQI, STS accounting for body mass and leg length). Feasibility was ascertained qualitatively based on reports from the enumerators on their ability to administer the tests. Reliability was assessed by comparing the results of the tests and questions between each visit using either Cohen’s κ or Pearson’s ρ. The validity of MQI was assessed using relevant participant characteristics such as age and self-reported disability. The validity of the IADL was assessed using MQI. Study participants comprised 316 women between the ages of 18 and 45 years, living in rural Tigray, Ethiopia, who had previously participated in an impact evaluation of a safety net program. Over a one-week period, participants completed the STS and UGS tests and responded to the IADL survey questions three times. MQI was determined to be a feasible, reliable, and valid physical function test for women in rural, highland Ethiopia. UGS lacked feasibility and reliability; validity was not ascertained. The IADL questions were feasible and reliable, but validity was inconclusive. In rural Ethiopia, the MQI will be a valuable tool to develop interventions for improving physical function, which will have positive impacts on health and quality of life.
Particle swarm optimization solution for roll-off control in radiofrequency ablation of liver tumors: Optimal search for PID controller tuning
Authors: Faria Rafael Mendes , Rosa Suélia de Siqueira Rodrigues Fleury , Nunes Gustavo Adolfo Marcelino de Almeida , Santos Klériston Silva , de Souza Rafael Pissinati , Benavides Angie Daniela Ibarra , Alves Angélica Kathariny de Oliveira , da Silva Ana Karoline Almeida , Rosa Mario Fabrício , Cardoso Antônio Aureliano de Anicêsio , Faria Sylvia de Sousa , Berjano Enrique , da Rocha Adson Ferreira , dos Santos Ícaro , González-Suárez Ana
Published: June 2024

The study investigates the efficacy of a bioinspired Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) approach for PID controller tuning in Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) for liver tumors. Ex-vivo experiments were conducted, yielding a 9thorder continuous-time transfer function. PSO was applied to optimize PID parameters, achieving outstanding simulation results: 0.605% overshoot, 0.314 seconds rise time, and 2.87 seconds settling time for a unit step input. Statistical analysis of 19 simulations revealed PID gains:Kp(mean: 5.86, variance: 4.22, standard deviation: 2.05),Ki(mean: 9.89, variance: 0.048, standard deviation: 0.22),Kd(mean: 0.57, variance: 0.021, standard deviation: 0.14) and ANOVA analysis for the 19 experiments yielded a p-value ≪ 0.05. The bioinspired PSO-based PID controller demonstrated remarkable potential in mitigating roll-off effects during RFA, reducing the risk of incomplete tumor ablation. These findings have significant implications for improving clinical outcomes in hepatocellular carcinoma management, including reduced recurrence rates and minimized collateral damage. The PSO-based PID tuning strategy offers a practical solution to enhance RFA effectiveness, contributing to the advancement of radiofrequency ablation techniques.
Serum copper and obesity among healthy adults in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Liu Menglu , Fang Changchang , Mei Kaibo , Ling Jitao , Fu Wanying , Qi Xinrui , Yu Peng , Yan Zhiwei , Xu Liang , Zhao Yujie , Li Xiaozhong , Liu Xiao
Published: June 2024

Background

Copper (Cu) homeostasis are important processes in the cause of metabolic diseases, but the association between Cu and obesity remains unclear.

Methods

Participants were drawn from the 2011–2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Weighted logistic regression assessed the associations of serum Cu concentrations (tertiles) with obesity and central obesity in individuals without comorbidities. Obesity was defined as a BMI ≥30.0 kg/m2, and central obesity was defined as a waist circumference ≥80 cm for women and ≥95 cm for men.

Results

This cross-sectional study included 1,665 adults without comorbidities, representing 24,744,034 people (mean age 35.1 years, 48.5% female). High serum Cu levels (tertile 3: ≥19.19 μmol/L) were associated with higher odds of obesity (adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 4.48, 95% CI[confidence interval]: 2.44–8.32) and central obesity (OR: 2.36, 95% CI: 1.19–4.66) compared to low serum Cu levels (tertile 1: ≤15.64 μmol/L). The dose-response curve showed a nonlinear association between Cu levels and obesity (P-nonlinear = 0.02) and a linear association with central obesity (P-nonlinear = 0.21).

Conclusion

This study suggests that higher serum Cu levels are associated with increased odds of obesity in healthy American adults.
Efficient simulation of Time-Fractional Korteweg-de Vries equation via conformable-Caputo non-Polynomial spline method
Authors: Yousif Majeed A. , Hamasalh Faraidun K. , Zeeshan Ahmad , Abdelwahed Mohamed
Published: June 2024

This research presents a novel conformable-Caputo fractional non-polynomial spline method for solving the time-fractional Korteweg-de Vries (KdV) equation. Emphasizing numerical analysis and algorithm development, the method offers enhanced precision and modeling capabilities. Evaluation via the Von Neumann method demonstrates unconditional stability within defined parameters. Comparative analysis, supported by contour and 2D/3D graphs, validates the method’s accuracy and efficiency against existing approaches. Quantitative assessment using L2 and L∞ error norms confirms its superiority. In conclusion, the study proposes a robust solution for the time-fractional KdV equation.
Characterization and spatiotemporal variations of fluorescent dissolved organic matter in leachate from old landfill-derived incineration residues and incombustible waste
Authors: Nguyen Thi Ngoc , Kusakabe Taketoshi , Takaoka Masaki
Published: June 2024

Dissolved organic matter (DOM) influences the bioavailability and behavior of trace metals and other pollutants in landfill leachate. This research characterized fluorescent dissolved organic matter (FDOM) in leachate from an old landfill in Japan during a 13-month investigation. We employed excitation–emission matrix (EEM) fluorescence spectroscopy with parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC) to deconvolute the FDOM complex mixture into three fluorophores: microbial humic-like (C1), terrestrial humic-like (C2), and tryptophan-like fluorophores (C3). These FDOM components were compared with findings from other studies of leachate in landfills with different waste compositions. The correlations among EEM-PARAFAC components, dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentration, and ultraviolet–visible and fluorescence indices were evaluated. The FDOM in leachate varied spatially among old and extended leachate collected in the landfill and leachate treatment facility. The FDOM changed temporally and decreased markedly in August 2019, November 2019, and April 2020. The strong positive correlation between HIX and %C2 (r = 0.87, ρ = 0.91, p < 0.001)) implies that HIX may indicate the relative contribution of terrestrial humic-like components in landfill leachate. The Fmax of C1, C2, and C3 and the DOC concentration showed strong correlations among each other (r > 0.72, ρ > 0.78, p < 0.001) and positive correlations with leachate level (r > 0.41, p < 0.001), suggesting the importance of hydrological effects and leachate pump operation on FDOM.
Immunological and molecular assessment of HIV-1 mutations for antiretroviral drug resistance in Saudi Arabia
Authors: El-Daly Mai M. , Zaher Kawther A. , Zaki Eitezaz A. , Bajrai Leena H. , Alhazmi Mohammad M. , Abdulhaq Ahmed , Azhar Esam I.
Published: June 2024

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a significant threat to public health. HIV genotyping and antiretroviral resistance testing may have contributed to improved non-treated management. Immune markers might assist HIV-1 diagnosis and drug-resistant variant identification. HIV-1 immunogenicity and molecular characteristics of antiretroviral drug resistance are evaluated in 56 treatment-naive HIV patients. DNA sequencing and retroviral resistance testing identified HIV-1 genotypes. 55.4% of patients were susceptible to protease inhibitors (PI), nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTI), and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTI) antiretroviral drugs, whereas 44.6% had drug-resistance mutations against at least one antiretroviral drug. 3.6% of cases had PI-resistant mutations, while 30.4% had NRTI-resistant mutations, and 30.4% had NNRTI-resistant mutations. In patients who are susceptible to PI, the mean value of human plasma sCD80 is 2.11 ± 0.65 ng/mL; in patients with mutations, it is 3.93 ± 2.91 ng/mL. Individuals who are susceptible to PI have plasma sCD27 levels of 78.7 ± 63.2 U/mL, whereas individuals who are mutant have levels of 56.5 ± 32.1 U/mL. IP-10’s mean value was 363 ± 109.2 pg/mL for the susceptible patients and 429 ± 20.7 pg/mL for the mutated patients. In susceptible patients, the plasma sCD4 level is 0.163 ± 0.229 ng/mL; in mutant patients, it is 0.084 ± 0.012 ng/mL. The data showed a relative relation between immunological parameters such as sCD80, sCD27, sCD4, and IP-10 and mutation for drug resistance.
An algorithmic approach to detect generalization in sketch maps from sketch map alignment
Authors: Manivannan Charu , Krukar Jakub , Schwering Angela
Published: June 2024

Sketch maps are valuable tools used across various disciplines including spatial cognition, environmental psychology, and spatial reasoning. A common approach to evaluate sketch maps in research is to align and compare them with metric maps. However, sketch maps are highly abstract and contain generalized information causing difficulty in their alignment. Current approaches to study sketch maps cannot handle generalized information. They require a one-on-one correspondence between features in the metric map and features in the sketch map. But memory is often generalized. This paper makes two contributions to the research on sketch maps: (i) we present an algorithmic approach to detect generalization in sketch maps (ii) we present an online tool that creates a generalized metric map corresponding to features in sketch maps. Previously, we identified nine types of generalization in sketch maps. In this paper, we develop formal operators to detect these generalizations and implement them as an online tool. We evaluated our algorithm with a set of 11 sketch maps containing 84 instances of generalization. The results indicated that our algorithm consistently detects instances of generalization in sketch maps.