bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Healing of the epithelial barrier in the ileum is superior to endoscopic and histologic remission for predicting major adverse outcomes in ulcerative colitis
Authors: Rath Timo , Atreya Raja , Bodenschatz Julia , Uter Wolfgang , Geppert Carol I. , Vitali Francesco , Zundler Sebastian , Waldner Maximilian J. , Hartmann Arndt , Neurath Markus F.
Published: October 2023

Background

Achieving endoscopic remission is a key therapeutic goal in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) that is associated with favorable long-term disease outcomes. Here, we prospectively compared the predictive value of endoscopic and/or histologic remission against ileal barrier healing for predicting long-term disease behavior in a large cohort of UC patients in clinical remission.

Methods

At baseline, UC patients in clinical remission underwent ileocolonoscopy with assessment of ileal barrier function by confocal endomicroscopy. Endoscopic and histologic disease activity and ileal barrier healing were scored using validated scores. During subsequent follow-up (FU), patients were closely monitored for clinical disease activity and occurrence of major adverse outcomes (MAO) defined as the following: disease relapse; UC-related hospitalization; UC-related surgery; necessity for initiation or dose escalation of systemic steroids, immunosuppressants, small molecules or biological therapy.

Results

Of the 73 UC patients included, 67% experienced MAO during a mean FU of 25 months. The probability of MAO-free survival was significantly higher in UC patients with endoscopic and/or histologic remission compared to patients with endoscopically and/or histologically active disease. Ileal barrier healing on endomicroscopy was highly accurate for predicting the further course of UC and outcompeted endoscopic and histologic remission for predicting MAO-free survival.

Conclusion

Ileal barrier healing in clinically remittent UC patients can accurately predict future MAO development and is superior in its predictive capabilities than endoscopic and histologic remission. Ileal barrier healing therefore represents a novel and superior surrogate parameter for stratification of UC patients according to their risk for development of complicated disease behavior.

Clinical trial registration

https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05157750, identifier NCT05157750.
P16 expression and recurrent cervical intraepithelial neoplasia after cryotherapy among women living with HIV
Authors: Maina Daniel , Chung Michael H. , Temmerman Marleen , Moloo Zahir , Wawire Jonathan , Greene Sharon A. , Unger Elizabeth R. , Mugo Nelly , Sakr Samah , Sayed Shahin , McGrath Christine J.
Published: October 2023

Background

The expression of p16 protein, a surrogate marker for high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV), is associated with cervical dysplasia. We evaluated correlates of p16 expression at treatment for high-grade cervical lesions and its utility in predicting the recurrence of cervical intraepithelial lesions grade 2 or higher (CIN2+) following cryotherapy among women with HIV.

Methods

This is a subgroup analysis of women with HIV in Kenya with baseline cervical biopsy-confirmed CIN2+ who were randomized to receive cryotherapy and followed every six-months for two-years for biopsy-confirmed recurrence of CIN2+. P16 immunohistochemistry was performed on the baseline cervical biopsy with a positive result defined as strong abnormal nuclear expression in a continuous block segment of cells (at least 10–20 cells).

Results

Among the 200 women with CIN2+ randomized to cryotherapy, 160 (80%) had a baseline cervical biopsy specimen available, of whom 94 (59%) were p16-positive. p16 expression at baseline was associated with presence of any one of 14 hrHPV genotypes [Odds Ratio (OR) = 3.2; 95% Confidence Interval (CI), 1.03–9.78], multiple lifetime sexual partners (OR = 1.6; 95% CI, 1.03–2.54) and detectable plasma HIV viral load (>1,000 copies/mL; OR = 1.43; 95% CI, 1.01–2.03). Longer antiretroviral therapy duration (≥2 years) at baseline had lower odds of p16 expression (OR = 0.46; 95% CI, 0.24–0.87) than <2 years of antiretroviral therapy. Fifty-one women had CIN2+ recurrence over 2-years, of whom 33 (65%) were p16-positive at baseline. p16 was not associated with CIN2+ recurrence (Hazard Ratio = 1.35; 95% CI, 0.76–2.40).

Conclusion

In this population of women with HIV and CIN2+, 41% of lesions were p16 negative and baseline p16 expression did not predict recurrence of cervical neoplasia during two-year follow up.
Manipulating atmospheric CO2 concentration induces shifts in wheat leaf and spike microbiomes and in Fusarium pathogen communities
Authors: Bakker Matthew G. , Whitaker Briana K. , McCormick Susan P. , Ainsworth Elizabeth A. , Vaughan Martha M.
Published: October 2023

Changing atmospheric composition represents a source of uncertainty in our assessment of future disease risks, particularly in the context of mycotoxin producing fungal pathogens which are predicted to be more problematic with climate change. To address this uncertainty, we profiled microbiomes associated with wheat plants grown under ambient vs. elevated atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration [CO2] in a field setting over 2 years. We also compared the dynamics of naturally infecting versus artificially introduced Fusarium spp. We found that the well-known temporal dynamics of plant-associated microbiomes were affected by [CO2]. The abundances of many amplicon sequence variants significantly differed in response to [CO2], often in an interactive manner with date of sample collection or with tissue type. In addition, we found evidence that two strains within Fusarium – an important group of mycotoxin producing fungal pathogens of plants – responded to changes in [CO2]. The two sequence variants mapped to different phylogenetic subgroups within the genus Fusarium, and had differential [CO2] responses. This work informs our understanding of how plant-associated microbiomes and pathogens may respond to changing atmospheric compositions.
Grid cells, border cells, and discrete complex analysis
Authors: Dabaghian Yuri
Published: October 2023

We propose a mechanism enabling the appearance of border cells—neurons firing at the boundaries of the navigated enclosures. The approach is based on the recent discovery of discrete complex analysis on a triangular lattice, which allows constructing discrete epitomes of complex-analytic functions and making use of their inherent ability to attain maximal values at the boundaries of generic lattice domains. As it turns out, certain elements of the discrete-complex framework readily appear in the oscillatory models of grid cells. We demonstrate that these models can extend further, producing cells that increase their activity toward the frontiers of the navigated environments. We also construct a network model of neurons with border-bound firing that conforms with the oscillatory models.
Magnetic resonance imaging arterial spin labeling hypoperfusion with diffusion-weighted image hyperintensity is useful for diagnostic imaging of Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease
Authors: Kitazaki Yuki , Ikawa Masamichi , Hamano Tadanori , Sasaki Hirohito , Yamaguchi Tomohisa , Enomoto Soichi , Shirafuji Norimichi , Hayashi Kouji , Yamamura Osamu , Tsujikawa Tetsuya , Okazawa Hidehiko , Kimura Hirohiko , Nakamoto Yasunari
Published: October 2023

Background and objectives

Magnetic resonance imaging with arterial spin labeling (ASL) perfusion imaging is a noninvasive method for quantifying cerebral blood flow (CBF). We aimed to evaluate the clinical utility of ASL perfusion imaging to aid in the diagnosis of Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease (CJD).

Methods

This retrospective study enrolled 10 clinically diagnosed with probable sporadic CJD (sCJD) based on the National CJD Research & Surveillance Unit and EuroCJD criteria and 18 healthy controls (HCs). Diffusion-weighted images (DWIs), CBF images obtained from ASL, N-isopropyl-(123I)-p-iodoamphetamine (123IMP)-single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) images, and 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18FDG)-positron emission tomography (PET) images were analyzed. First, the cortical values obtained using volume-of-interest (VOI) analysis were normalized using the global mean in each modality. The cortical regions were classified into DWI-High (≥ +1 SD) and DWI-Normal (< +1 SD) regions according to the DWI-intensity values. The normalized cortical values were compared between the two regions for each modality. Second, each modality value was defined as ASL hypoperfusion (< −1 SD), SPECT hypoperfusion (< −1 SD), and PET low accumulation (< −1 SD). The overall agreement rate of DWIs with ASL-CBF, SPECT, and PET was calculated. Third, regression analyses between the normalized ASL-CBF values and normalized SPECT or PET values derived from the VOIs were performed using a scatter plot.

Results

The mean values of ASL-CBF (N = 10), 123IMP-SPECT (N = 8), and 18FDG-PET (N = 3) in DWI-High regions were significantly lower than those in the DWI-Normal regions (p < 0.001 for all); however, HCs (N = 18) showed no significant differences in ASL-CBF between the two regions. The overall agreement rate of DWI (high or normal) with ASL-CBF (hypoperfusion or normal) (81.8%) was similar to that of SPECT (85.2%) and PET (78.5%) in CJD. The regression analysis showed that the normalized ASL-CBF values significantly correlated with the normalized SPECT (r = 0.44, p < 0.001) and PET values (r = 0.46, p < 0.001) in CJD.

Discussion

Patients with CJD showed ASL hypoperfusion in lesions with DWI hyperintensity, suggesting that ASL-CBF could be beneficial for the diagnostic aid of CJD.
Association of ultraprocessed foods consumption and cognitive function among children aged 4–7 years: a cross-sectional data analysis
Authors: Liu Shun , Mo Caimei , Lei Lidi , Lv Fangfang , Li Jinxiu , Xu Xuemei , Lu Peini , Wei Gangjie , Huang Xuanqian , Zeng Xiaoyun , Qiu Xiaoqiang
Published: October 2023

Background

Sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption has shown associations with cognitive function in preschool children, but effects of other ultraprocessed foods consumption are rarely discussed in China. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between ultraprocessed food consumption and cognitive function among preschool children in China.

Methods

A total of 325 children aged 4–7 years were included from Guangxi Zhuang Birth Cohort in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. Face-to-face interviews with parents using the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) was conducted to investigate the status of seven ultraprocessed foods consumption (i.e., chocolate, biscuits, candy, fast-food, ice cream, SSBs, and sweet bakery products). The mandarin-language version of the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence (WPPSI, Fourth Edition) was applied to assess the cognitive function of children. Multiple linear and logistic regression models were used to assess the associations between ultraprocessed food consumption and the full-scale intelligence quotient (FSIQ) and different domains and risk of cognitive deficit, respectively.

Results

We found that frequent consumption of candy (β = −3.34, 95% CI: −5.62∼−1.06; p = 0.004) and sweet bakery products (β = −2.77, 95% CI: −5.58∼0.04; p = 0.054) were significant associated with decreased FSIQ scores in the linear regression models. However, only frequent consumption of candy was statistically significantly associated with an increased risk of cognitive deficit (OR = 2.05, 95% CI: 1.11∼3.79; p = 0.023) in the logistic regression models. For the different domains, we found frequent consumption of candy (β = −3.85, 95% CI: −6.28∼−1.43; p = 0.002) and sweet bakery products (β = −3.48, 95% CI: −6.47∼−0.49; p = 0.023) was also significantly associated with lower Verbal Comprehension Index (VCI). When combining the seven ultraprocessed foods, we found children who frequently consumed more than two kinds of ultraprocessed foods had a significant decrease of VCI scores (β = −2.66; 95% CI: −5.12∼−0.19; p = 0.035) too.

Conclusion

Our results suggested that frequent consumption of individual (candy and sweet bakery products) and multiple ultraprocessed foods may decrease VCI scores and thereby impact cognitive function in children aged 4–7 years.
Novel therapeutic approaches for pediatric diencephalic tumors: improving functional outcomes
Authors: Cockle Julia V. , Corley Elizabeth A. , Zebian Bassel , Hettige Samantha , Vaidya Sucheta J. , Angelini Paola , Stone Joanna , Leitch R Jane , Albanese Assunta , Mandeville Henry C. , Carceller Fernando , Marshall Lynley V.
Published: October 2023

Pediatric diencephalic tumors represent a histopathologically and molecularly diverse group of neoplasms arising in the central part of the brain and involving eloquent structures, including the hypothalamic-pituitary axis (HPA), optic pathway, thalamus, and pineal gland. Presenting symptoms can include significant neurological, endocrine, or visual manifestations which may be exacerbated by injudicious intervention. Upfront multidisciplinary assessment and coordinated management is crucial from the outset to ensure best short- and long-term functional outcomes. In this review we discuss the clinical and pathological features of the neoplastic entities arising in this location, and their management. We emphasize a clear move towards ‘function preserving’ diagnostic and therapeutic approaches with novel toxicity-sparing strategies, including targeted therapies.
Rapid multi-task diagnosis of oral cancer leveraging fiber-optic Raman spectroscopy and deep learning algorithms
Authors: Li Xing , Li Lianyu , Sun Qing , Chen Bo , Zhao Chenjie , Dong Yuting , Zhu Zhihui , Zhao Ruiqi , Ma Xinsong , Yu Mingxin , Zhang Tao
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Oral cancer, a predominant malignancy in developing nations, represents a global health challenge with a five-year survival rate below 50%. Nonetheless, substantial reductions in both its incidence and mortality rates can be achieved through early detection and appropriate treatment. Crucial to these treatment plans and prognosis predictions is the identification of the pathological type of oral cancer.

Methods

Toward this end, fiber-optic Raman spectroscopy emerges as an effective tool. This study combines Raman spectroscopy technology with deep learning algorithms to develop a portable intelligent prototype for oral case analysis. We propose, for the first time, a multi-task network (MTN) Raman spectroscopy classification model that utilizes a shared backbone network to simultaneously achieve different clinical staging and histological grading diagnoses.

Results

The developed model demonstrated accuracy rates of 94.88%, 94.57%, and 94.34% for tumor staging, lymph node staging, and histological grading, respectively. Its sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy compare closely with the gold standard: routine histopathological examination.

Discussion

Thus, this prototype proposed in this study has great potential for rapid, non-invasive, and label-free pathological diagnosis of oral cancer.
A novel, simple near-infrared thoracoscopic technique by a particular route for locating lung nodules
Authors: Li Zhengjun , Xia Mozhu , Liu Chang , Xie Liwei , Wang Tao , Ren Yi
Published: October 2023

Background

The localization of pulmonary nodules prior to thoracoscopic surgery remains challenging for thoracic surgeons, especially for those nodules that are not visible or palpable on the lung surface. Our study is a simple and effective minimally invasive method using indocyanine green through a special pathway to locate pulmonary nodules and fluorescence thoracoscopic surgery.

Methods

Thoracoscopic surgery was performed for 18 undiagnosed peripheral non-solid nodules no larger than 2 cm after location. After 0.3 mg/kg indocyanine green was injected through the peripheral vein, the puncture needle was pulled out after it reached approximately 1 cm of the pulmonary parenchyma near the nodules. This was followed by transfer to the operating room. The nodule was initially localized by using a near-infrared thoracoscope to visualize indocyanine green fluorescence. Then, thoracoscopic resection was performed.

Results

Eighteen patients received this special and simple localization method, and underwent near-infrared, image-guided, video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery resection. Median computed tomography (CT) tumor size was 1.2 cm. Median depth from the pleural surface is 1.6 cm (range, 0.1–4.6 cm). The median time of CT-guided intervention was 12 min. The duration of thoracoscopic surgery was 67 min. Indocyanine green fluorescence was clearly identified in 17 of 18 patients (94.4%). The surgical margins were all negative on final pathology. The final diagnoses included 17 primary lung cancers, and 1 benign lung tumor.

Conclusions

CT-guided single puncture of indocyanine green after peripheral intravenous injection is a simple, effective, and safe method to locate the nodule. This offers surgeons the ease of localization through direct indocyanine green fluorescence imaging, and it can be used as an effective alternative to other placement methods of locating pulmonary nodules.
Musculoskeletal adverse events induced by immune checkpoint inhibitors: a large-scale pharmacovigilance study
Authors: Liu Hao , Li Yumin , Li Jie , Zhang Qiongchi , Wu Jingtao , Li Xinyu , Meng Liesu , Cao Shuai , Li Haopeng
Published: October 2023

Background: The musculoskeletal toxicity of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) is receiving increasing attention with clinical experience. Nevertheless, the absence of a systematic investigation into the musculoskeletal toxicity profile of ICIs currently results in the under-recognition of associated adverse events. Further and more comprehensive investigations are warranted to delineate the musculoskeletal toxicity profile of ICIs and characterize these adverse events.

Material and methods: The present study employed the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System database to collect adverse events between January 2010 and March 2021. We utilized both the reporting odds ratio and the Bayesian confidence propagation neural network algorithms to identify suspected musculoskeletal adverse events induced by ICIs. Subsequently, the clinical characteristics and comorbidities of the major musculoskeletal adverse events were analyzed. The risk of causing these events with combination therapy versus monotherapy was compared using logistic regression model and Ω shrinkage measure model.

Results: The musculoskeletal toxicity induced by ICIs primarily involves muscle tissue, including neuromuscular junctions, fascia, tendons, and tendon sheaths, as well as joints, spine, and bones, including cartilage. The toxicity profile of PD-1/PD-L1 and CTLA-4 inhibitors varies, wherein the PD-1 inhibitor pembrolizumab exhibits a heightened overall risk of inducing musculoskeletal adverse events. The major ICIs-induce musculoskeletal adverse events, encompassing conditions such as myositis, neuromyopathy (including myasthenia gravis, Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome, Guillain-Barré syndrome, and Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy), arthritis, fractures, myelitis, spinal stenosis, Sjogren’s syndrome, fasciitis, tenosynovitis, rhabdomyolysis, rheumatoid myalgia, and chondrocalcinosis. Our study provides clinical characteristics and comorbidities of the major ICIs-induced musculoskeletal adverse events. Furthermore, the combination therapy of nivolumab and ipilimumab does not result in a statistically significant escalation of the risk associated with the major musculoskeletal adverse events.

Conclusion: Immune checkpoint inhibitors administration triggers a range of musculoskeletal adverse events, warranting the optimization of their management during clinical practice.
The zhuyu pill relieves rat cholestasis by regulating the mRNA expression of lipid and bile metabolism associated genes
Authors: Han Jun , Wu Peijie , Wen Yueqiang , Liu Chao , Liu Xinglong , Tao Huan , Zhang Fenghua , Zhang Xiaodan , Ye Qiaobo , Shen Tao , Chen Xiaofeng , Yu Han
Published: October 2023

Background: The Zhuyu pill (ZYP), composed of Coptis chinensis Franch. and Tetradium ruticarpum (A. Jussieu) T. G. Hartley, is an effective traditional Chinese medicine with potential anti-cholestatic effects. However, the underlying mechanisms of ZYP remain unknown.

Objective: To investigate the mechanism underlying the interventional effect of ZYP on mRNA-seq analysis in cholestasis rat models.

Materials and methods: This study tested the effects of a low-dose (0.6 g/kg) and high-dose (1.2 g/kg) of ZYP on a cholestasis rat model induced by α-naphthyl-isothiocyanate (ANIT, 50 mg/kg). Serum biochemistry and histopathology results were used to evaluate the therapeutic effect of ZYP, and mRNA-Seq analysis was performed and verified using real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR). GO, KEGG, and GSEA analyses were integrated to identify the mechanism by which ZYP impacted cholestatic rats.

Results: ZYP was shown to significantly improve abnormal changes in the biochemical blood indexes and liver histopathology of cholestasis rats and regulate pathways related to bile and lipid metabolism, including fatty acid metabolism, retinol metabolism, and steroid hormone biosynthesis, to alleviate inflammation, cholestasis, and lipid metabolism disorders. Relative expression of the essential genes Cyp2a1, Ephx2, Acox2, Cyp1a2, Cyp2c11, and Sult2a1 was verified by qRT-PCR and showed the same trend as mRNA-seq analysis.

Conclusion: ZYP has a significant anti-cholestatic effect by regulating bile metabolism and lipid metabolism related pathways. These findings indicate that ZYP is a novel and promising prospect for treating cholestasis.
Dynamic 18F-FDG-PET kinetic parameters for epileptogenic zone localization in drug-resistant epilepsy
Authors: Khamwan Kitiwat , Sukprakun Chanan , Limotai Chusak , Jirasakuldej Suda , Jantarato Attapon , Hemachudha Thiravat , Tepmongkol Supatporn
Published: October 2023

Objective: Precisely localizing the seizure onset zone remains a challenging task in drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) patients especially given its critical role in successful surgery and effective management. This study aimed to investigate the kinetic parameters of regional 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) uptake in DRE patients, aiming to identify the kinetic parameters best enabling the identification of the epileptogenic region.

Methods: Consecutive DRE patients with clinically mandated interictal 18F-FDG PET/CT were recruited from October 2019 to September 2020 for pre-surgical evaluation. Immediately after injecting 18F-FDG of 112–179 MBq, dynamic data were acquired for 90 min. The motion correction and resampling to the Montreal atlas was performed in order to generate a transformation matrix. 116 volume of interests (VOIs) and regional time-activity curves (TACs) were generated by employing the automated anatomical labeling (AAL) template using PMOD software. Kinetic parameters of FDG unidirectional blood-brain clearance (K1), efflux (k2), phosphorylation (k3), and net metabolic flux (Ki) were derived using irreversible 2-tissue-compartment model with an image-derived input function (IDIF). The kinetic parameters values obtained from all regions were ranked and compared with the presumed epileptogenic zone (EZ).

Results: Eleven DRE patients (5 males, 6 females, mean age 35.1 ± 10.2 years) were analyzed. We found that the region with the lowest values of Ki provided correct lateralization in 7/7 (100%) of patient with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and the region with the lowest Ki and k3 parameters showed concordance with the EZ in 100% and 71.4% of patients, respectively.

Conclusion: The present parametric approach to the evaluation of FDG-PET may be more sensitive than semi-quantitative approaches for the detection of pathophysiology in the EZ of patients with medically unresponsive TLE in addition to the routine clinical investigations.
Remote fruit fly detection using computer vision and machine learning-based electronic trap
Authors: Molina-Rotger Miguel , Morán Alejandro , Miranda Miguel Angel , Alorda-Ladaria Bartomeu
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Intelligent monitoring systems must be put in place to practice precision agriculture. In this context, computer vision and artificial intelligence techniques can be applied to monitor and prevent pests, such as that of the olive fly. These techniques are a tool to discover patterns and abnormalities in the data, which helps the early detection of pests and the prompt administration of corrective measures. However, there are significant challenges due to the lack of data to apply state of the art Deep Learning techniques.

Methods

This article examines the detection and classification of the olive fly using the Random Forest and Support Vector Machine algorithms, as well as their application in an electronic trap version based on a Raspberry Pi B+ board.

Results

The combination of the two methods is suggested to increase the accuracy of the classification results while working with a small training data set. Combining both techniques for olive fly detection yields an accuracy of 89.1%, which increases to 94.5% for SVM and 91.9% for RF when comparing all fly species to other insects.

Discussion

This research results reports a successful implementation of ML in an electronic trap system for olive fly detection, providing valuable insights and benefits. The opportunities of using small IoT devices for image classification opens new possibilities, emphasizing the significance of ML in optimizing resource usage and enhancing privacy protection. As the system grows by increasing the number of electronic traps, more data will be available. Therefore, it holds the potential to further enhance accuracy by learning from multiple trap systems, making it a promising tool for effective and sustainable fly population management.
Theme-centered interaction and developmental tasks as research method and pedagogical tool regarding identity development in VET
Authors: Thole Christiane
Published: October 2023

This paper presents the methodology of a PhD project on identity development in German dual track VET. The mixed methods approach comprises theory-driven longitudinal case studies using qualitative and quantitative data and a document analysis of curricula. The study was part of a larger design-based research project and aimed to evaluate a newly developed and implemented VET curriculum for the retail sector from the learners’ point of view. The new curriculum contained a special competence dimension to foster vocational identity development and a major interest was to investigate the extent to which the curriculum succeeded to do so. The paper will start with a summary and assessment of limitations and advantages of research designs applied in different existing studies examining identity development. The author will then outline identity-relevant theories and approaches that proved to be useful for her research interest. Subsequently, she will describe the resulting design for collecting and analyzing her data. The core result consists of a theme-centered process analysis visualizing the individual state of developmental tasks. With the presentation of three exemplary cases she will illustrate how her approach allowed her to deeply understand the identity of the respective person and at the same time generate general insights about identity development of learners in VET. Finally, strengths and limitations of her approach will be discussed. This research approach is also suited to supporting pedagogical design, representing major added value.
Phenomenological characteristics of autobiographical future thinking in nurses with burnout: a case-control study
Authors: Xue Bowen , Feng Yaping , Zheng Jie , Li Xin , Zhao Yihui , Yang Xiaoshan , Zhang Yu , Wang Shujin , Hu Zhiguo , Luo Hong
Published: October 2023

Objective

Nurses constitute the largest group of healthcare workers worldwide, and job burnout is very common among them. This study aims to explore abnormal future thinking in nurses with burnout. Additionally, the study investigates whether these manifestations worsen as burnout progresses.

Methods

The study was conducted in inpatient ward nurses at a tertiary hospital in Hangzhou, China. In the first phase, two group of nurses were recruited: nurses with burnout (N = 70) and nurses without burnout (N = 70). In the second phase, three groups were recruited according to the burnout levels: mild burnout (N = 43), moderate burnout (N = 42) and severe burnout (N = 43). Data on job burnout were obtained using the Chinese Maslach Burnout Inventory. The Sentence Completion for Events in the Future Test (SCEFT) was employed to measure the content of future thinking, which was evaluated by two raters in terms of the specificity, emotional valence, and concrete content of the imagined future events. The proportions of specific types of events among all the produced events were calculated.

Results

The results revealed that nurses with burnout, compared to nurses without burnout, imagined fewer specific future events, positive events, and events related to relationships and achievement. They also had more omissions. As the level of burnout increased, their impairment in future thinking worsened. Furthermore, the results also revealed that the scores of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and personal accomplishment had significant correlations with the proportions of positive events and events related to relationships and achievement/mastery in nurses’ future thinking content.

Conclusion

The future thinking ability of nurses with burnout was impaired, and this impairment worsened as the symptoms of burnout progressed. The findings of the present study have important implications for nurse caring and advocate effective interventions targeting positive future thinking to mitigate nurses’ burnout.
The association between emotion malleability beliefs and severe psychological distress stratified by sex, age, and presence of any psychiatric disorders
Authors: Sasaki Yohei , Okubo Ryo , Takeda Kazuyoshi , Ikezawa Satoru , Tabuchi Takahiro , Shirotsuki Kentaro
Published: October 2023

Background

Recent studies have shown an association between psychological distress and emotion malleability beliefs, meaning mindsets about whether one’s emotions are fixed or changeable. However, most studies have not examined the association between these beliefs and sociodemographic factors.

Methods

A nationwide cross-sectional Internet survey of residents of Japan aged 15–79 years was conducted using sampling weights for national estimates to investigate the association between emotion malleability beliefs and sociodemographic factors and between fixed beliefs and severe psychological distress (SPD). SPD was defined as a Kessler 6 Scale score of ≥13. Adjusted odds ratios for SPD were calculated considering potential confounders. Further analyses were stratified by sex, age and presence of any psychiatric disorder.

Results

The analysis included 23,142 participants (female, 48.64%). Fixed beliefs were associated with female sex, age < 45 years, and presence of psychiatric disorders. These beliefs were associated with SPD, and additional analysis showed stronger associations with SPD among female respondents, respondents aged 45–59 years, and those aged ≥60 years.

Conclusion

Results indicate that female sex, age < 45 years, and current mental disorders were associated with fixed emotion malleability beliefs. Associations between fixed emotion malleability beliefs and SPD were particularly strong among female respondents and people aged ≥45 years compared with the general population. Our study extends the association between emotion malleability beliefs and psychological health to the general population. Future studies should explore mechanisms underlying individual differences in emotion beliefs.
Mothers’ experiences and perceptions about care provided during home deliveries in Alwa sub county, Kaberamaido district, Uganda– a qualitative study
Authors: Dektar Benbella , Beckford Anita Normans , Kemba Jonny , Crayson Belinda
Published: October 2023

Introduction

In Uganda 27% of deliveries take place outside a health facility. The existing gaps in quality of maternal and newborn health care must be addressed for Uganda to attain its health targets and consequently its economic targets. Some of the gaps include but are not limited to; ill-equipped healthcare facilities in rural settings, inadequate client/customer care skills by healthcare providers, and health worker absenteeism especially in the night hours. In Kaberamaido District, only 38.3% of the deliveries in Alwa sub county took place at a health facility. Despite the district local government and stakeholder efforts to promote health facility-based deliveries, sadly, a very low proportion of women use the health facilities for delivery. We sought to explore mothers’ experiences and perceptions about care provided during home deliveries in Alwa sub county, Kaberamaido district.

Methods

The study adopted a cross-sectional descriptive qualitative design. We purposively included 115 mothers who delivered outside the health facility and consented to participate and those who lost their babies within the last 24 months preceding the study. Other participants included in the study were village health team (VHT), traditional birth attendants (TBA) and older women. The main instruments used to collect data were focus group discussion (FGD) and in-depth interview (IDI) guides. All voice recordings from FGDs and interviews were transcribed and translated from the local language (Kumam) into English. Thematic content analysis was used to synthesize data by applying codes to segments of the transcripts upon which major domains were derived. Key findings were synthesized and quotes were carefully selected based on their relevance and representativeness to the analysis and study objective.

Results

Our findings indicated general satisfaction with the care provided during and after home delivery by TBAs as expressed by mothers. Motivation to seek services from TBAs was attributable to their vast experience spanning decades with history of safe delivery. Few mothers expressed discontent with TBA services citing abuse and rudeness.

Discussion

Our study underscored the common view that TBAs effectively managed home deliveries, providing satisfactory care to mothers. However, concerns emerged on TBAs’ capacity to manage complications, emphasizing a need for their reintegration into formal healthcare systems, alongside further training, and standardization in maternal care practices.
Assessing healthcare capacity crisis preparedness: development of an evaluation tool by a Canadian health authority
Authors: Gomes Chaves Breitner , Alami Hassane , Sonier-Ferguson Brigitte , Dugas Erika N.
Published: October 2023

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic presented health systems across the globe with unparalleled socio-political, ethical, scientific, and economic challenges. Despite the necessity for a unified, innovative, and effective response, many jurisdictions were unprepared to such a profound health crisis. This study aims to outline the creation of an evaluative tool designed to measure and evaluate the Vitalité Health Network’s (New Brunswick, Canada) ability to manage health crises.

Methods

The methodology of this work was carried out in four stages: (1) construction of an evaluative framework; (2) validation of the framework; (3) construction of the evaluative tool for the Health Authority; and (4) evaluation of the capacity to manage a health crisis.

Results

The resulting evaluative tool incorporated 8 dimensions, 74 strategies, and 109 observable elements. The dimensions included: (1) clinical care management; (2) infection prevention and control; (3) governance and leadership; (4) human and logistic resources; (5) communication and technologies; (6) health research; (7) ethics and values; and (8) training. A Canadian Health Authority implemented the tool to support its future preparedness.

Conclusion

This study introduces a methodological strategy adopted by a Canadian health authority to evaluate its capacity in managing health crises. Notably, this study marks the first instance where a Canadian health authority has created a tool for emergency healthcare management, informed by literature in the field and their direct experience from handling the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.
Miniature Streams Show Scientists How Multiple Stressors Impact Our Rivers
Authors: Baikova Daria , Boden Lisa , Deep Aman , Doliwa Annemie , Hadžiomerović Una , Leese Florian , Madge Pimentel Iris , Mayombo Ntambwe A. Serge , Piggott Jeremy , Prati Sebastian , Stach Tom Lennard , Starke Jörn , Vermiert Anna-Maria
Published: October 2023

Rivers are the lifelines of our planet. We depend on them for drinking water and food production, and they are home to many plants and animals. Unfortunately, rivers are under pressure from stressors like increasing temperatures, pollution, and habitat destruction. We often know how a single stressor impacts a river, but when more than one stressor is present at the same time, the consequences are often unpredictable. To protect our rivers now and in the future, we must understand what happens in the rivers when multiple stressors are present at the same time. However, it is difficult to understand what multiple stressors are doing to aquatic life by just observing a river or doing a laboratory experiment. In this article, you will learn how experimental miniature streams can help us to investigate the consequences of multiple stressors on rivers.
Full-wave modeling of EMIC wave packets: ducted propagation and reflected waves
Authors: Hanzelka Miroslav , Li Wen , Ma Qianli , Qin Murong , Shen Xiao-Chen , Capannolo Luisa , Gan Longzhi
Published: October 2023

Electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves can scatter radiation belt electrons with energies of a few hundred keV and higher. To accurately predict this scattering and the resulting precipitation of these relativistic electrons on short time scales, we need detailed knowledge of the wave field’s spatio-temporal evolution, which cannot be obtained from single spacecraft measurements. Our study presents EMIC wave models obtained from two-dimensional (2D) finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulations in the Earth’s dipole magnetic field. We study cases of hydrogen band and helium band wave propagation, rising-tone emissions, packets with amplitude modulations, and ducted waves. We analyze the wave propagation properties in the time domain, enabling comparison with in situ observations. We show that cold plasma density gradients can keep the wave vector quasiparallel, guide the wave energy efficiently, and have a profound effect on mode conversion and reflections. The wave normal angle of unducted waves increases rapidly with latitude, resulting in reflection on the ion hybrid frequency, which prohibits propagation to low altitudes. The modeled wave fields can serve as an input for test-particle analysis of scattering and precipitation of relativistic electrons and energetic ions.
Clinical Profile and Outcome Analysis of Ear-Nose-Throat Symptoms in SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Subvariant Infections
Authors: Liu Yixuan , Huang Xiaoling , Li Peifan , Wang Di , Yin Haoning , Wang Na , Luo Yan , Li Huawei , Sun Shan
Published: October 2023

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics and outcomes of ear-nose-throat (ENT) symptoms in SARS-CoV-2 Omicron infected patients resulting from local transmission.

Methods: A convenience sampling network survey was conducted among individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2 to examine the characteristics and progression of ENT symptoms associated with local transmission. The survey comprised 52 questions, and univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were employed to assess the rate, severity, and outcome of ENT symptoms across different genders and age groups.

Results: Among the 1,366 individuals included in the investigation, a peak in new infections occurred on 20th December, and the majority (78.4%) were female. The most common symptoms reported were coughing (90.6%), nasal congestion (77.2%), and runny nose (74.3%). Otologic symptoms were predominantly represented by tinnitus (29.7%).

Conclusion: The rate of specific symptoms showed a significant correlation with age and gender. It is crucial to provide timely medical intervention, especially for female patients. This study offers a comprehensive understanding of the symptom spectrum in individuals infected with the virus, providing valuable insights for the development of targeted symptom management strategies.
Development of a Real-Time Vespa velutina Nest Detection and Notification System Using Artificial Intelligence in Drones
Authors: Jeong Yuseok , Jeon Moon-Seok , Lee Jaesu , Yu Seung-Hwa , Kim Su-bae , Kim Dongwon , Kim Kyoung-Chul , Lee Siyoung , Lee Chang-Woo , Choi Inchan
Published: October 2023

Vespa velutina is an ecosystem disruptor that causes annual damage worth KRW 170 billion (USD 137 million) to the South Korean beekeeping industry. Due to its strong fertility and high-lying habitat, it is difficult to control. This study aimed to develop a system for the control of V. velutina nests using drones for detection and tracking the real-time location of the nests. Vespa velutina nest image data were acquired in Buan-gun and Wanju-gun (Jeollabuk-do), and artificial intelligence learning was conducted using YOLO-v5. Drone image resolutions of 640, 1280, 1920, and 3840 pixels were compared and analyzed. The 3840-pixel resolution model was selected, as it had no false detections for the verification image and showed the best detection performance, with a precision of 100%, recall of 92.5%, accuracy of 99.7%, and an F1 score of 96.1%. A computer (Jetson Xavier), real-time kinematics module, long-term evolution modem, and camera were installed on the drone to acquire real-time location data and images. Vespa velutina nest detection and location data were delivered to the user via artificial intelligence analysis. Utilizing a drone flight speed of 1 m/s and maintaining an altitude of 25 m, flight experiments were conducted near Gyeongcheon-myeon, Wanju-gun, Jeollabuk-do. A total of four V. velutina nests were successfully located. Further research is needed on the detection accuracy of artificial intelligence in relation to objects that require altitude-dependent variations in drone-assisted exploration. Moreover, the potential applicability of these research findings to diverse domains is of interest.
Fractal-Cluster Theory and Its Applications for the Description of Biological Organisms
Authors: Volov Vyacheslav Theodorovich
Published: October 2023

This article presents an overview of an alternative approach to the systematization and evolution of biological organisms on the basis of the fractal-cluster theory. It presents the foundations of the fractal-cluster theory for the self-organizing systems of the organism class. Static and dynamic efficiency criteria based on the fractal-cluster relations and the analytical apparatus of nonequilibrium thermodynamics are presented. We introduce a highly sensitive static criterion, D, which determines the deviation in the value of the clusters and subclusters of the fractal-cluster system structures from their reference values. Other static criteria are the fractal-cluster entropy H and the free energy F of an organism. The dynamic criterion is based on Prigogine’s theorem and is determined by the second differential of the temporal trend of the fractal-cluster entropy H. By using simulations of the cluster variations for biological organisms in the (H, D, F)-space, the criteria for the fractal-cluster stochastics as well as for energy and evolution laws are obtained. The relationship between the traditional and fractal-cluster approaches for identifying an organism is discussed.
Performance Analysis of a Diabatic Compressed Air Energy Storage System Fueled with Green Hydrogen
Authors: Migliari Luca , Micheletto Davide , Cocco Daniele
Published: October 2023

The integration of an increasing share of Renewable Energy Sources (RES) requires the availability of suitable energy storage systems to improve the grid flexibility and Compressed Air Energy Storage (CAES) systems could be a promising option. In this study, a CO2-free Diabatic CAES system is proposed and analyzed. The plant configuration is derived from a down-scaled version of the McIntosh Diabatic CAES plant, where the natural gas is replaced with green hydrogen, produced on site by a Proton Exchange Membrane electrolyzer powered by a photovoltaic power plant. In this study, the components of the hydrogen production system are sized to maximize the self-consumption share of PV energy generation and the effect of the design parameters on the H2-CAES plant performance are analyzed on a yearly basis. Moreover, a comparison between the use of natural gas and hydrogen in terms of energy consumption and CO2 emissions is discussed. The results show that the proposed hydrogen fueled CAES can effectively match the generation profile and the yearly production of the natural gas fueled plant by using all the PV energy production, while producing zero CO2 emissions.
MEVO: A Metamodel-Based Evolutionary Optimizer for Building Energy Optimization
Authors: Batres Rafael , Dadras Yasaman , Mostafazadeh Farzad , Kavgic Miroslava
Published: October 2023

A deep energy retrofit of building envelopes is a vital strategy to reduce final energy use in existing buildings towards their net-zero emissions performance. Building energy modeling is a reliable technique that provides a pathway to analyze and optimize various energy-efficient building envelope measures. However, conventional optimization analyses are time-consuming and computationally expensive, especially for complex buildings and many optimization parameters. Therefore, this paper proposed a novel optimization algorithm, MEVO (metamodel-based evolutionary optimizer), developed to efficiently identify optimal retrofit solutions for building envelopes while minimizing the need for extensive simulations. The key innovation of MEVO lies in its integration of evolutionary techniques with design-of-computer experiments, machine learning, and metaheuristic optimization. This approach continuously refined a machine learning model through metaheuristic optimization, crossover, and mutation operations. Comparative assessments were conducted against four alternative metaheuristic algorithms and Bayesian optimization, demonstrating MEVO’s effectiveness in reliably finding the best solution within a reduced computation time. A hypothesis test revealed that the proposed algorithm is significantly better than Bayesian optimization in finding the best cost values. Regarding computation time, the proposed algorithm is 4–7 times faster than the particle swarm optimization algorithm and has a similar computational speed as Bayesian Optimization.