bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship between passion and athlete identity in sport: the mediating and moderating role of dedication
Authors: Uğraş Sinan , Mergan Barış , Çelik Talip , Hidayat Yusuf , Özman Cemal , Üstün Ümit Doğan
Published: February 2024

Background

In addition to the fact that the concept of passion in sports plays a significant role in the formation of the identity concept of athletes, the dedication of athletes to the sports branches they are interested in also has a significant impact on their passion for the sport they are interested in as well as their identity as an athlete. In this direction, the research aims to investigate the role of dedication as a mediator and moderator in the relationship between athlete identity and passion in sport.

Methods

The research was designed using the quantitative research technique of relational surveying. As data collection instruments for the research, the athlete identity scale, the passion in sport scale, and the sports commitment scale were utilized. 237 amateur and professional athletes, of which 142 were male and 95 were female (Mage = 22.7), participated voluntarily in the study by random sampling. The data were analyzed with the PROCESS and Jamovi programs in order to examine the direct and indirect effects.

Results

Significant effects of sports passion on commitment and athlete identity were found. Since both dedication and athlete identity had a significant effect on passion for sports, it was determined that passion for sports continues to influence athlete identity through the medium of dedication. The moderator significance of medium, high, and low values of devotion was determined.

Ethics approval number

226394, date of registration: 03/11/2022.

Conclusion

On the basis of the results of the statistical analyses, it was determined that the concept of dedication has a mediating and moderating effect on the relationship between sports passion and athlete identity.
Effects of self-regulation strategies on EFL learners’ language learning motivation, willingness to communication, self-efficacy, and creativity
Authors: Zhang Tingting
Published: February 2024

This study tried to know how self-regulation strategies (SRS) affected the motivation, self-efficacy, willingness to communicate (WTC), and creativity of Chinese EFL learners as they learned English language. To do this, eighty intermediate EFL students were selected and divided into two groups: experimental and control. Four questionnaires were then used to assess the participants’ motivation for language acquisition, WTC, self-efficacy, and creativity prior to the intervention. Subsequently, SRS was used to treat the experimental group (EG), whereas a traditional instruction was given to the control group (CG) without the use of SRSs. Four questionnaires were given again as post-tests following a 15-session treatment to gauge how the treatment affected the students’ motivation for language acquisition, WTC, self-efficacy, and creativity. Based on the study’s results, the EG considerably outstripped the CG on each of the four post-tests. The findings of this research have some implications for researchers, English teachers, EFL learners, and other stakeholders.
Job and life satisfaction of apprentices: the effect of personality, social relations, and decent work
Authors: Zambelli Camilla , Marcionetti Jenny , Rossier Jérôme
Published: February 2024

Based on the social cognitive model and on the psychology of working theory, this research aims to study the job and life satisfaction of apprentices, considering proactive personality, person-supervisor and person-group fit, occupational self-efficacy, and decent work as antecedents. The participants were 530 Swiss apprentices enrolled in a three-year VET program with the Federal VET Diploma. The results show that proactivity is directly linked with person-supervisor and person-group fit, occupational self-efficacy, and job and life satisfaction. Decent work is related positively with job satisfaction. Person-supervisor and person-group fit seem to directly influence occupational self-efficacy. Decent work, in turn, seems to mediate the relationship between person-supervisor and person-group fit and job satisfaction. In conclusion, this study suggests that encouraging apprentices’ proactivity, person-supervisor and person-group fit at work could be crucial to improving their perceptions of decent work and increasing their job and life satisfaction.
Prevalence, distribution, and severity of cerebral amyloid angiopathy differ between Lewy body diseases and Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Walker Lauren , Simpson Harry , Thomas Alan J. , Attems Johannes
Published: February 2024

Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), Parkinson’s disease dementia (PDD), and Parkinson’s disease (PD) collectively known as Lewy body diseases (LBDs) are neuropathologically characterised by α-synuclein deposits (Lewy bodies and Lewy neurites). However, LBDs also exhibit pathology associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) (i.e. hyperphosphorylated tau and amyloid β (Aβ). Aβ can be deposited in the walls of blood vessels in the brains of individuals with AD, termed cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA). The aim of this study was to investigate the type and distribution of CAA in DLB, PDD, and PD and determine if this differs from AD. CAA type, severity, and topographical distribution was assessed in 94 AD, 30 DLB, 17 PDD, and 11 PD cases, and APOE genotype evaluated in a subset of cases where available. 96.3% AD cases, 70% DLB cases and 82.4% PDD cases exhibited CAA (type 1 or type 2). However only 45.5% PD cases had CAA. Type 1 CAA accounted for 37.2% of AD cases, 10% of DLB cases, and 5.9% of PDD cases, and was not observed in PD cases. There was a hierarchical topographical distribution in regions affected by CAA where AD and DLB displayed the same distribution pattern that differed from PDD and PD. APOE ε4 was associated with severity of CAA in AD cases. Topographical patterns and severity of CAA in DLB more closely resembled AD rather than PDD, and as type 1 CAA is associated with clinical dementia in AD, further investigations are warranted into whether the increased presence of type 1 CAA in DLB compared to PDD are related to the onset of cognitive symptoms and is a distinguishing factor between LBDs. Possible alignment of the the topographical distribution of CAA and microbleeds in DLB warrants further investigation. CAA in DLB more closely resembles AD rather than PDD or PD, and should be taken into consideration when stratifying patients for clinical trials or designing disease modifying therapies.
Military community engagement to prevent firearm-related violence: adaptation of project safe guard for service members
Authors: Kennedy S. Rachel , Buck-Atkinson Jessica , Moceri-Brooks Jayna , Johnson Megan L. , Anestis Michael D. , Carrington Makala , Baker Justin C. , Fisher Mary E. , Nease Donald E. , Bryan AnnaBelle O. , Bryan Craig J. , Betz Marian E.
Published: February 2024

Background

Suicide, especially by firearm, remains a leading cause of death in military populations in the USA. Reducing access to firearms, especially during high risk times, may help prevent suicide and other forms of violence. The purpose of this study was to adapt a promising existing lethal means safety intervention (Project Safe Guard, PSG) for cross-cutting violence prevention and peer support in active-duty service communities using community engagement methods.

Methods

A two-pronged community-engaged research approach was employed, including the Community Translation (CT) process that engaged 15 Service Members from one installation to help adapt PSG successfully. In addition, qualitative data was collected from 40 active-duty service members and military violence prevention specialists through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions.

Results

Qualitative data and CT feedback led to site-specific PSG adaptations. Participants emphasized the importance of peer-to-peer discussions and highlighted resource allocation, leadership support, and stigma on firearm ownership as potential implementation challenges.

Conclusions

Findings demonstrate the feasibility of community-engaged research to adapt lethal means safety interventions within military populations. PSG implementation should consider resource allocation, leadership support, and addressing stigma. This study has implications for future policies and standards for performing research on sensitive topics, particularly among military populations.
Phantom study and clinical application of total-body 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging: How to use small voxel imaging better?
Authors: Qi Chi , Sui Xiuli , Yu Haojun , Wang Siyang , Hu Yan , Sun Hongyan , Yang Xinlan , Wang Yihan , Zhou Yun , Shi Hongcheng
Published: February 2024

Background

Conventional PET/CT imaging reconstruction is typically performed using voxel size of 3.0–4.0 mm in three axes. It is hypothesized that a smaller voxel sizes could improve the accuracy of small lesion detection. This study aims to explore the advantages and conditions of small voxel imaging on clinical application.

Methods

Both NEMA IQ phantom and 30 patients with an injected dose of 3.7 MBq/kg were scanned using a total-body PET/CT (uEXPLORER). Images were reconstructed using matrices of 192 × 192, 512 × 512, and 1024 × 1024 with scanning duration of 3 min, 5 min, 8 min, and 10 min, respectively.

Results

In the phantom study, the contrast recovery coefficient reached the maximum in matrix group of 512 × 512, and background variability increased as voxel size decreased. In the clinical study, SUVmax, SD, and TLR increased, while SNR decreased as the voxel size decreased. When the scanning duration increased, SNR increased, while SUVmax, SD, and TLR decreased. The SUVmean was more reluctant to the changes in imaging matrix and scanning duration. The mean subjective scores for all 512 × 512 groups and 1024 × 1024 groups (scanning duration ≥ 8 min) were over three points. One false-positive lesion was found in groups of 512 × 512 with scanning duration of 3 min, 1024 × 1024 with 3 min and 5 min, respectively. Meanwhile, the false-negative lesions found in group of 192 × 192 with duration of 3 min and 5 min, 512 × 512 with 3 min and 1024 × 1024 with 3 min and 5 min were 5, 4, 1, 4, and 1, respectively. The reconstruction time and storage space occupation were significantly increased as the imaging matrix increased.

Conclusions

PET/CT imaging with smaller voxel can improve SUVmax and TLR of lesions, which is advantageous for the diagnosis of small or hypometabolic lesions if with sufficient counts. With an 18F-FDG injection dose of 3.7 MBq/kg, uEXPLORER PET/CT imaging using matrix of 512 × 512 with 5 min or 1024 × 1024 with 8 min can meet the image requirements for clinical use.
Oral pathologies and underweight conditions among people living with HIV/AIDS in a health facility in Yaoundé, Cameroon: a study of 205 cases
Authors: Boukeng Lionel Berthold Keubou , Nzefa Léonie Dapi , Sali Djouwairiyatou , Minkandi Claude Axel , Bevela Jean Yves , Nouko Ariane , Ebogo Charly Etoa
Published: February 2024

Background

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a public health concern worldwide. The clinical manifestations include underweight and oral lesions. The objective of this study was to assess the relationship between oral pathologies and underweight among HIV-positive patients in Yaoundé, Cameroon.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study between February 1st and 30th June 2021 at Yaoundé Central Hospital in Cameroon. A total of 205 HIV positive patients aged at least 18 years were recruited via consecutive sampling. The questionnaire consisted of sociodemographic information, anthropometric data, dietary habits, HIV history and treatment and oral examination data. The data were analysed with R software. Multivariate analysis was used to assess the risk of being underweight among HIV-positive patients with oral pathologies. A p value < 0.05 was considered to indicate statistical significance.

Results

The prevalence of oral pathologies was 52.7% (95% CI: 45.6–59.6), and the main pathologies were candidiasis (40.5%, 95% CI: 33.7–47.5) and linear erythema (32.2%, 95% CI: 25.9–39.1). The prevalence of underweight was 20% (95% CI: 14.88–26.26). Binary logistic regression revealed that HIV-positive patients with oral pathologies were 10.89 (95% CI: 2.28–16.63) times more likely to be underweight than were HIV positive and AIDS patients without oral pathologies (p = 0.002).

Conclusion

Oral candidiasis and linear erythema were common in HIV positive and AIDS patients. HIV-positive and AIDS patients with these oral pathologies were at higher risk of being underweight than were those without oral pathologies. The effective medical care of these patients must include oral and nutritional management.
Evaluation of the wound healing effect of Nishamalaki, an Ayurvedic formulation comprising Curcuma longa and Phyllanthus emblica in aging rats
Authors: Panda Vandana , Vaswani Lavina , S Sudhamani , Hingorani Lal , Deshmukh Amol
Published: February 2024

Background

There are very few drugs available for healing wounds in the aged population, which is more prone to chronic cutaneous wounds that are particularly hard to heal and require a long healing process. This study which deals with age-related wound healing, investigates the healing effect of Nishamalaki, a classic antidiabetic Ayurvedic formulation comprising turmeric (Curcuma longa) and Indian gooseberry (Phyllanthus emblica), on cutaneous wounds in aging rats.

Methods

Rats with excision wounds of 7 mm created on their dorsal side received Nishamalaki (500 mg/kg p.o) daily, or a combination of Nishamalaki (500 mg/kg p.o) with 1% Nishamalaki gel applied on the wound or the reference standard metformin (2 μmol) applied on the wound daily till the scabs fell off.

Results

All treatments enhanced the rate of formation of granulation tissue and wound contraction. All treated rats showed lower blood glucose levels compared with their 1st-day values and significantly lower blood glucose levels when compared with the Aged Control rats. A significant restoration of the aging-depleted L-hydroxyproline, hexosamine, ascorbic acid, PDGF, AMPK, and mTOR levels, and attenuation of the aging-elevated IL-6 and TNF-α levels was elicited by all treatments. The treatments significantly restored the aging-depleted endogenous antioxidants. The Nishamalaki combination treatment of the oral extract and topical gel displayed a better wound-healing effect than the oral treatment alone. The histopathological studies on skin ulceration, hair follicles, granulation tissue, and collagen fiber formation of the wound tissues corroborated the biochemical findings.

Conclusion

Curcumin and other antioxidant polyphenolic components of Nishamalaki may be responsible for its wound-healing effect. For the first time, the present study has investigated the action of PDGF, AMPK, and mTOR on cutaneous wounds. They seem to be acting together to promote wound healing and repair.

Graphical Abstract
Intranasal administration enhances size-dependent pulmonary phagocytic uptake of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles
Authors: Baek Seung Ho , Hwang Eun-Ha , Hur Gyeung Haeng , Kim Green , An You Jung , Park Jae-Hak , Hong Jung Joo
Published: February 2024

Background

Nanoparticles exhibit distinct behaviours within the body, depending on their physicochemical properties and administration routes. However, in vivo behaviour of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles, especially when administered nasally, remains unexplored; furthermore, there is a lack of comparative analysis of uptake efficiency among different administration routes. Therefore, here, we aimed to comprehensively investigate the real-time in vivo behaviour of PLGA nanoparticles across various administration routes. PLGA-NH2 nanoparticles of three sizes were synthesised using an oil-in-water single-emulsion method. We assessed their uptake by murine macrophage RAW264.7 cells using fluorescence microscopy. To enable real-time tracking, we conjugated p-SCN-Bn-deferoxamine to PLGA-NH2 nanoparticles and further radiolabelled them with 89Zr-oxalate before administration to mice via different routes. Nanoparticle internalisation by lung immune cells was monitored using fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis.

Results

The nanoparticle sizes were 294 ± 2.1 (small), 522.5 ± 5.58 (intermediate), and 850 ± 18.52 nm (large). Fluorescent labelling did not significantly alter the nanoparticle size and charge. The level of uptake of small and large nanoparticles by RAW264.7 cells was similar, with phagocytosis inhibition primarily reducing the internalisation of large particles. Positron emission tomography revealed that intranasal delivery resulted in the highest and most targeted pulmonary uptake, whereas intravenous administration led to accumulation mainly in the liver and spleen. Nasal delivery of large nanoparticles resulted in enhanced uptake by myeloid immune cells relative to lymphoid cells, whereas dendritic cell uptake initially peaked but declined over time.

Conclusions

Our study provides valuable insights into advancing nanomedicine and drug delivery, with the potential for expanding the clinical applications of nanoparticles.
AI applications in musculoskeletal imaging: a narrative review
Authors: Gitto Salvatore , Serpi Francesca , Albano Domenico , Risoleo Giovanni , Fusco Stefano , Messina Carmelo , Sconfienza Luca Maria
Published: February 2024

This narrative review focuses on clinical applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in musculoskeletal imaging. A range of musculoskeletal disorders are discussed using a clinical-based approach, including trauma, bone age estimation, osteoarthritis, bone and soft-tissue tumors, and orthopedic implant-related pathology. Several AI algorithms have been applied to fracture detection and classification, which are potentially helpful tools for radiologists and clinicians. In bone age assessment, AI methods have been applied to assist radiologists by automatizing workflow, thus reducing workload and inter-observer variability. AI may potentially aid radiologists in identifying and grading abnormal findings of osteoarthritis as well as predicting the onset or progression of this disease. Either alone or combined with radiomics, AI algorithms may potentially improve diagnosis and outcome prediction of bone and soft-tissue tumors. Finally, information regarding appropriate positioning of orthopedic implants and related complications may be obtained using AI algorithms. In conclusion, rather than replacing radiologists, the use of AI should instead help them to optimize workflow, augment diagnostic performance, and keep up with ever-increasing workload.

Relevance statement This narrative review provides an overview of AI applications in musculoskeletal imaging. As the number of AI technologies continues to increase, it will be crucial for radiologists to play a role in their selection and application as well as to fully understand their potential value in clinical practice.

Key points

• AI may potentially assist musculoskeletal radiologists in several interpretative tasks.

• AI applications to trauma, age estimation, osteoarthritis, tumors, and orthopedic implants are discussed.

• AI should help radiologists to optimize workflow and augment diagnostic performance.

Graphical Abstract
The impact of board gender diversity on the accrual/real earnings management practice: evidence from an emerging market
Authors: Attia Eman F. , Yassen Sameh , Chafai Ahmed , Qotb Ahmed
Published: February 2024

This paper examines the impact of gender diversity on financial reporting quality (accrual and real earnings management). We use a sample of 78 Egyptian listed companies over the period 2009–2021. The quality of financial reporting is measured using different models of earnings management (accrual and real earnings management). Accrual earnings management (AEM) is detected through four different models developed by modified Jones model, the Kasznik model, Kothari model, Raman and Shahrur model, while real earnings management (REM) is measured using six different model which are abnormal cash flows from operations (ABCFO), abnormal production costs (ABPROD), abnormal discretionary expenditures (ABDISEXP) and three aggregate proxies (RM1, RM2, RM3). Using the system generalized method of moments, companies with more gender diversity are more effective in reducing accrual earnings manipulation (AEM). The exception is the modified Jones model. Moreover, we find that gender diversity is positively and significantly correlated with financial reporting quality based on proxies of real earnings-based activity, except for RM2. The study found a non-significant and negative relationship between board diversity and RM2 as a proxy for REM. Overall, the empirical results based on accrual and real earnings management models (AEM and REM) support the notion that enterprises with more gender diversity on the board are more effective in controlling earnings manipulation practices. The predictions of corporate governance theories are confirmed. Policy makers should continue to promote and support gender diversity in leadership positions within organizations. This can be achieved through initiatives such as diversity quotas, mentoring programs, and leadership development opportunities for women.
Emerging trends in social media marketing: a retrospective review using data mining and bibliometric analysis
Authors: Bashar Abu , Wasiq Mohammad , Nyagadza Brighton , Maziriri Eugine Tafadzwa
Published: February 2024

The study conducts a comprehensive retrospective analysis of the social media marketing literature along with text mining and bibliometric analysis using data obtained from the Scopus database. The analysis is conducted for the literature published during 2007–2022 using VOSviewer application and Biblioshiny. The analysis revealed the publication trend and emerging themes in the research landscape of social media marketing. This study has pointed towards important theoretical and practical implications pertaining to the social media marketing. It contributes to the understanding of social media marketing research by identifying and listing the best journal, authors, country, documents, most occurred words, social and intellectual structure, and emerging research trends. The results revealed that social media marketing research is at the focal point of the researchers throughout the word. This study found that there are lack of studies from firm perspective especially small retailers; adoption of disruptive technologies such as AI, ML and block chain and its impact need more exploration.
Economic Evaluation of Targeted Therapies for Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase– and ROS1 Fusion–Positive Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer in India
Authors: Gupta Dharna , Gupta Nidhi , Singh Navneet , Prinja Shankar
Published: February 2024

PURPOSE

Targeted therapies, such as crizotinib and ceritinib, have shown promising results in treating non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with specific oncogenic drivers like anaplastic lymphoma kinase ( ALK), c-ros ( ROS1) oncogene, etc. This study aims to assess the cost-effectiveness of these therapies for patients with NSCLC in India.

METHODS

The Markov model consisted of three health states: progression-free survival, progressive disease, and death. Lifetime costs and consequences were estimated for three treatment arms: crizotinib, ceritinib, and chemotherapy for patients with ALK- and ROS1-positive NSCLC. Incremental cost per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) gained with crizotinib and ceritinib was compared to chemotherapy and assessed using a willingness-to-pay threshold of one-time per capita gross domestic product in India.

RESULTS

The total lifetime cost per patient for ALK-positive NSCLC was ₹332,456 ($4,054 US dollars [USD]), ₹1,284,100 ($15,659 USD), and ₹2,337,779 ($28,509 USD) in the chemotherapy, crizotinib, and ceritinib arms, respectively. The mean QALYs lived per patient were 1.20, 2.21, and 3.34, respectively. For patients with ROS1-positive NSCLC, the total cost was ₹323,011 ($3,939 USD) and ₹1,763,541 ($21,507 USD) for chemotherapy and crizotinib, with mean QALYs lived per patient of 1.16 and 2.73, respectively. Nearly 92% and 81% reduction in the price of ceritinib and crizotinib is required to make it a cost-effective treatment option for ALK- and ROS1-positive NSCLC, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our study findings suggest that the prices of ceritinib and crizotinib need to be reduced significantly to justify their value for inclusion in India's publicly financed health insurance scheme for treatment of patients with locally advanced/metastatic ALK- and ROS1-positive NSCLC, respectively.
Development and Validation of a Prediction Model of Outcome After B-Cell Maturation Antigen-Directed Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-Cell Therapy in Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Gagelmann Nico , Dima Danai , Merz Maximilian , Hashmi Hamza , Ahmed Nausheen , Tovar Natalia , Oliver-Caldés Aina , Stölzel Friedrich , Rathje Kristin , Fischer Luise , Born Patrick , Schäfer Lisa , Albici Anca-Maria , Schub Natalie , Kfir-Erenfeld Shlomit , Assayag Miri , Asherie Nathalie , Wulf Gerald Georg , Kharboutli Soraya , Müller Fabian , Shune Leyla , Davis James A. , Anwer Faiz , Vucinic Vladan , Platzbecker Uwe , Ayuk Francis , Kröger Nicolaus , Khouri Jack , Gurnari Carmelo , McGuirk Joseph , Stepensky Polina , Abdallah Al-Ola , Fernández de Larrea Carlos
Published: February 2024

PURPOSE

Although chimeric antigen receptor T therapy (CAR-T) cells are an established therapy for relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM), there are no established models predicting outcome to identify patients who may benefit the most from CAR-T.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This is an international retrospective observational study including patients with RRMM infused with currently available commercial or academically produced anti–B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) CAR-T. We describe characteristics and outcomes in Europe (n = 136) and the United States (n = 133). Independent predictors of relapse/progression built a simple prediction model (Myeloma CAR-T Relapse [MyCARe] model) in the training cohort (Europe), which was externally validated (US cohort) and tested within patient- and treatment-specific subgroups.

RESULTS

The overall response rate was 87% and comparable between both cohorts, and complete responses were seen in 48% (Europe) and 49% (the United States). The median time to relapse was 5 months, and early relapse <5 months from infusion showed poor survival across cohorts, with the 12-month overall survival of 30% (Europe) and 14% (the United States). The presence of extramedullary disease or plasma cell leukemia, lenalidomide-refractoriness, high-risk cytogenetics, and increased ferritin at the time of lymphodepletion were independent predictors of early relapse or progression. Each factor received one point, forming the three-tiered MyCARe model: scores 0-1 (low risk), scores 2-3 (intermediate risk), and a score of 4 (high risk). The MyCARe model was significantly associated with distinct 5-month incidence of relapse/progression ( P < .001): 7% for low-risk, 27% for intermediate-risk, and 53% for high-risk groups. The model was validated in the US cohort and maintained prognostic utility for response, survival, and outcomes across subgroups.

CONCLUSION

Outcomes of patients with RRMM after CAR-T are comparable between Europe and the United States. The MyCARe model may facilitate optimal timing of CAR-T cells in patient-specific subgroups.
Renin as a Prognostic Marker in Intensive Care and Perioperative Settings: A Scoping Review
Authors: Kotani Yuki , Belletti Alessandro , Maiucci Giacomo , Lodovici Martina , Fresilli Stefano , Landoni Giovanni , Bellomo Rinaldo , Zarbock Alexander
Published: February 2024

Serum renin increases in response to sympathetic nerve activation and hypotension. Recent studies have reported the association of serum renin levels with adverse clinical outcomes in acute care settings. This scoping review aimed to systematically review the available literature on renin as a prognostic marker in intensive care and perioperative patients. We searched for studies published since inception until March 31, 2023, which assessed the association between serum renin levels and clinical outcomes or the effect of synthetic angiotensin II administration on serum renin levels in critically ill and perioperative patients in PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library. The primary outcome was mortality at the longest follow-up; the secondary outcomes were adverse renal outcomes (ie, acute kidney injury, the need for renal replacement therapy, and major adverse kidney events), hemodynamic instability, outcomes to angiotensin II administration, and prognostic performance for mortality when compared with lactate. Among the 2081 studies identified, we included 16 studies with 1573 patients (7 studies on shock, 5 on nonspecific critical illness, 2 on cardiac surgery, 1 on noncardiac surgery, and 1 on coronavirus disease 2019). A significant association between serum renin levels and poor outcomes was identified in 14 studies, with 10 studies demonstrating an association with mortality. One post hoc analysis found that angiotensin II administration reduced mortality in patients with markedly elevated renin values. Two studies showed that renin was superior to lactate as a prognostic marker of mortality. Our scoping review showed that elevated serum renin levels may be associated with clinically relevant outcomes among various perioperative and intensive care populations. Increased serum renin levels may identify patients in which synthetic angiotensin II administration improves clinical outcomes and may outperform serum lactate in predicting mortality.
Acute Intraoperative Tympanic Membrane Rupture in Patient Anesthetized With Desflurane Without Nitrous Oxide: A Case Report
Authors: Cincotta Dylan J. , Brandenburg Jacob B.
Published: February 2024

We report a case of acute intraoperative tympanic membrane (TM) rupture in a patient anesthetized with desflurane without N2O. The patient was undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) to treat ascending cholangitis. TM rupture is known to occur with N2O but has not been reported in the literature with the use of inhaled volatile anesthetics without N2O. We suspect that several factors contributed to this complication, including prone positioning, a remote history of ear trauma, and the selection of desflurane as the maintenance anesthetic as opposed to a vapor with a higher blood-gas partition coefficient.
Spinal Anterior Dural Dissection: Moving From Differential to Unifying Diagnosis
Authors: Knafo Steven , Herbrecht Anne , Cauquil Cécile , Sarov Mariana , Not Adeline , Ancelet Claire , Nasser Ghaida , Benhamou Dan , Oillic Pierre-Antoine , Guey Stéphanie , Lenglet Timothée , Parker Fabrice , Aghakhani Nozar
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collections extending longitudinally at the anterior aspect of the spinal dura have been reported in association with various conditions and under multiple names. The aim of this study was to report cases associated with brachial amyotrophy (BA) and examine its relationship with other clinical variants.

METHODS:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study including patients who presented with a motor deficit of the upper limbs and an anterior interdural CSF collection on spinal MRI. We performed a systematic review of the literature to include cases revealed by BA.

RESULTS:

Seven patients presenting with BA and a confirmed dural dissection on spinal MRI were included. All patients were male with a slowly progressing history of asymmetrical and proximal motor deficit of the upper limbs. Chronic denervation affecting mostly C5 and C6 roots was found on electroneuromyography. Spinal MRI demonstrated an anterior CSF collection dissecting the interdural space and exerting a traction on cervical motor roots. Dynamic computed tomography myelogram localized the dural defect every time it was performed (4/7 cases), and surgical closure was possible for 3 patients, leading to resolution of the collection. Literature review yielded 18 other published cases of spinal dural dissections revealed by BA, including 4 in association with spontaneous intracranial hypotension and 4 others in association with superficial siderosis.

CONCLUSION:

We propose a unifying diagnosis termed “spinal anterior dural dissection” (SADD) to encompass spinal dural CSF collections revealed by BA (SADD-BA), spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SADD-SIH), or superficial siderosis (SADD-SS).
Reflective Activity of a Teacher As a Basis for Correcting the Failure of Younger Schoolchildren
Authors: Limich Yu.
Published: February 2024

The article discusses the problem of school failure of children studying in primary school, describes its manifestations and gives possible reasons. The characteristics of a teacher who is able to work with children experiencing learning difficulties are given. Particular attention is paid to the important role played by the reflexive activity of the teacher in the process of eliminating the problems of failure of younger schoolchildren. The stages of teacher reflection in the context of working with school failure are presented.
The Practice of Applications a System of Unit Economics Indicators for the Purpose of Scaling a Business
Authors: Vakhorina Marina
Published: February 2024

The article is devoted to the study of a system of unit economics indicators as a tool for scaling and finding points of business growth, which is the purpose of the study. The goal is determined by the solution of theoretical and practical problems: to reveal the main metrics used by the unit economy and the formulas for their calculation; assess the unit-economy system, changing metrics and thereby achieving the necessary financial results; formulate conclusions about the further application of unit economics in Russian entrepreneurship practice. The article presents the results of a study of unit economics indicators of a new management model and the relationship between them. The necessity of using a system of unit economic indicators in Russian business practice is substantiated. General scientific methods were used, such as the method of critical assessment, practical methods of generalization and professional judgment. The historical prerequisites for the emergence of unit economics are determined. The methodological features of unit economics have been identified, forming it into an independent management technology. Scientific novelty is determined by practical research and comparative analysis of various metrics of the unit economy system that influence financial activity for the purpose of scaling. The results of the study can be used as recommendations in practical activities by entrepreneurs for the purpose of business development, as well as a theoretical basis for further research on this topic.
Assessing the Potential for Innovative Development of Russian Regions Using a Discriminant Model
Authors: Averina Tatyana
Published: February 2024

The article is the result of continuing work on discriminant analysis of innovative development of regions of the Russian Federation. Testing of the previously constructed discriminant model revealed its applicability for an integral assessment of the regions’ innovative potential. The greatest impact on the region’s ranking position exerted by the share of capital expenditures on technological innovation in the volume of gross regional product. This assessment characterizes to greater extent investments in development and depends on both the costs of innovation and the value of GRP.
Solving Bilevel Programs Based on Lower-Level Mond-Weir Duality
Authors: Li Yu-Wei , Lin Gui-Hua , Zhu Xide
Published: February 2024

This paper focuses on developing effective algorithms for solving a bilevel program. The most popular approach is to replace the lower-level problem with its Karush-Kuhn-Tucker conditions to generate a mathematical program with complementarity constraints (MPCC). However, MPCC does not satisfy the Mangasarian-Fromovitz constraint qualification (MFCQ) at any feasible point. In this paper, inspired by a recent work using the lower-level Wolfe duality (WDP), we apply the lower-level Mond-Weir duality to present a new reformulation, called MDP, for bilevel program. It is shown that, under mild assumptions, they are equivalent in globally or locally optimal sense. An example is given to show that, different from MPCC, MDP may satisfy the MFCQ at its feasible points. Relations among MDP, WDP, and MPCC are investigated. On this basis, we extend the MDP reformulation to present another new reformulation (called eMDP), which has similar properties to MDP. Furthermore, to compare two new reformulations with the MPCC and WDP approaches, we design a procedure to generate 150 tested problems randomly and comprehensive numerical experiments show that MDP has quite evident advantages over MPCC and WDP in terms of feasibility to the original bilevel programs, success efficiency, and average CPU time, whereas eMDP is far superior to all other three reformulations.

History: Accepted by Pascal Van Hentenryck, Area Editor for Computational Modeling: Methods & Analysis.

Funding: This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China [Grants 12071280 and 11901380].

Supplemental Material: The software that supports the findings of this study is available within the paper and its Supplemental Information ( https://pubsonline.informs.org/doi/suppl/10.1287/ijoc.2023.0108 ) as well as from the IJOC GitHub software repository ( https://github.com/INFORMSJoC/2023.0108 ). The complete IJOC Software and Data Repository is available at https://informsjoc.github.io/ .
Submodular Functions and Perfect Graphs
Authors: Abrishami Tara , Chudnovsky Maria , Dibek Cemil , Vušković Kristina
Published: February 2024

We give a combinatorial polynomial-time algorithm to find a maximum weight independent set in perfect graphs of bounded degree that do not contain a prism or a hole of length four as an induced subgraph. An even pair in a graph is a pair of vertices all induced paths between which are even. An even set is a set of vertices every two of which are an even pair. We show that every perfect graph that does not contain a prism or a hole of length four as an induced subgraph has a balanced separator which is the union of a bounded number of even sets, where the bound depends only on the maximum degree of the graph. This allows us to solve the maximum weight independent set problem using the well-known submodular function minimization algorithm.

Funding: This work was supported by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council [Grant EP/V002813/1]; the National Science Foundation [Grants DMS-1763817, DMS-2120644, and DMS-2303251]; and Alexander von Humboldt-Stiftung.
Has China's Growth Gone from Miracle to Malady?
Authors: Prasad Eswar
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACT: China's remarkable run of persistently high growth in recent decades is all the more stunning in light of the country's low levels of financial and institutional development, state-dominated economy, and nondemocratic government. Notwithstanding the inefficient and risky growth model, the government has maneuvered the economy around various stresses without any major financial or economic crash. With a shrinking labor force and declining efficiency of investment, raising productivity growth is key to maintaining reasonable GDP growth. Unbalanced reforms, a schizophrenic approach to the role of the market versus the state, and strains in financial and property markets could result in significant volatility but a financial or economic collapse is not in the cards.
Does Chinese need two structures for classifiers? A case study
Authors: Tan Dandan
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACT: The syntactic structure of the classifiers in Chinese has been assumed or argued to be left-branching, right-branching or mixed. This article examines three facts-number-classfier-de, the use of duo ‘extra, more’ and the conditional deletion of number––which are regarded by Xuping Li (2013) as evidence for the mixed structures. It is shown that the purported facts are partial and, when more related facts are taken into consideration, they together are equally compatible with an exclusively left-branching structure and thus cannot serve as support for a mixed structure analysis. Three kinds of arguments are reviewed in the last section which fare favorably with the left-branching structure. 摘要: 对于汉语量词的句法结构存在三类分析：左分支、右分支与左右分支共存。本文就李旭平(2013)用来支持共存分析的三个语法现象(数量词-de、数词或量词-多、量词前数词的数词省略)提出质疑：相关语料并不完整，而完整的语料与纯粹的左分支结构也完全吻合，所以并不能成为共存分析的依据。文章最后一节归纳近期文献中对左分支结构有利的三类语法现象，有些来自汉语，有些来自其他语言乃至类型学数据。
The role of breathy voice in Hmu tone perception
Authors: Liu Wen , Peng Gang , Kong Jiangping
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACT: Previous studies on tone perception have mainly focused on the role of F 0, while there are few but increasing studies on the effect of non-modal phonation. This study investigates the role of non-modal phonation in perceiving the five level tones used in Hmu, in which the lowest level tone (T11) is often referred to as “breathy voice”. First, an acoustic analysis was conducted on those tones to determine the voice quality and whether breathiness is limited to specific tones, revealing that breathiness only co-occurs with T11. Second, a perception experiment was performed to investigate whether breathiness can influence T11 identification. Results show that identification scores significantly differ only for the pairs of two continua that involve T11. This suggests that, relative to other tones, native speakers rely on breathiness in T11 identification, which derives from the accompanying phonation in its production. These findings shed light on how, alongside F 0, non-modal phonation contributes to tone perception, which demonstrates a new kind for the role of phonation in tonal contrasts. Considering these results, it is thus necessary to incorporate phonation cues when defining tone. 摘要: 前人对声调感知的研究主要聚焦在 F 0的作用上，鲜有研究关注特殊嗓音 发声类型的影响。本文研究特殊嗓音发声类型在苗语五平调(低平调T11 通常被认为具有气嗓音)感知中的作用。本项研究首先通过声学分析确 定五个平调的嗓音质量，以及气嗓特性是否仅限于特定声调，结果显示 气嗓特性仅与T11共现。在此基础上，本文通过感知实验研究气嗓音是 否会影响T11的辨认，结果表明，辨认得分仅在那些包含T11的声调连 续统中存在显著性差异。这表明，与其他平调相比，母语者在T11的辨 认中依赖其在言语产生中伴随而来的气嗓音。本文研究发现阐明了特殊 嗓音发声类型如何与 F 0共同作用于声调感知，这为发声类型在声调对立 中的角色提供了一种新类型。综合上述结果，从言语感知的视角看，本 文认为在定义声调时加入发声线索是十分必要的。
Compact, remote optical waveguide magnetic field sensing using double-pass Faraday rotation-induced optical attenuation
Authors: Guo Yunlong , Canning John , Chaczko Zenon , Peng Gang-Ding
Published: February 2024

Compact, magnetic field, B sensing is proposed and demonstrated by combining the two Faraday rotation elements and beam displacement crystals within a micro-optical fiber circulator with a fiber reflector and ferromagnets to allow high contrast attenuation in an optical fiber arm. Low optical noise sensing is measured at λ=1550nm as a change in attenuation, α, of optical light propagating through the optical noise sensing rotators and back. The circulator’s double-pass configuration, using a gold mirror as a reflector, achieves a magnetic field sensitivity s=Δα/ΔB=(0.26±0.02)dB/mT with a resolution of ΔB=0.01mT, over a detection range B=0−89mT. The circulator as a platform provides direct connectivity to the Internet, allowing remote sensing to occur. The method described here is amenable to multisensor combinations, including with other sensor technologies, particularly in future integrated waveguide Faraday optical circuits and devices, extending its utility beyond point magnetic field sensing applications.
High-efficiency fourth harmonic generation and polarization smoothing based on an orthogonal cascade of DKDP crystals: publisher’s note
Authors: Chai Xiangxu , Zhou Song , Wang Xiangbing , Li Ping , Feng Bin , Zhu Qihua , Wang Liquan
Published: February 2024

This publisher’s note corrects an error in Appl. Opt. 63, 1411 (2024)APOPAI0003-693510.1364/AO.512229.
Hybrid supervised and reinforcement learning for the design and optimization of nanophotonic structures
Authors: Yeung Christopher , Pham Benjamin , Zhang Zihan , Fountaine Katherine T. , Raman Aaswath P.
Published: February 2024

From higher computational efficiency to enabling the discovery of novel and complex structures, deep learning has emerged as a powerful framework for the design and optimization of nanophotonic circuits and components. However, both data-driven and exploration-based machine learning strategies have limitations in their effectiveness for nanophotonic inverse design. Supervised machine learning approaches require large quantities of training data to produce high-performance models and have difficulty generalizing beyond training data given the complexity of the design space. Unsupervised and reinforcement learning-based approaches on the other hand can have very lengthy training or optimization times associated with them. Here we demonstrate a hybrid supervised learning and reinforcement learning approach to the inverse design of nanophotonic structures and show this approach can reduce training data dependence, improve the generalizability of model predictions, and significantly shorten exploratory training times. The presented strategy thus addresses several contemporary deep learning-based challenges, while opening the door for new design methodologies that leverage multiple classes of machine learning algorithms to produce more effective and practical solutions for photonic design.
Conditional convolutional GAN-based adaptive demodulator for OAM-SK-FSO communication
Authors: Han Zheng , Chen Xiao , Wang Yiquan , Cai Yuanyuan
Published: February 2024

The perturbation of atmosphere turbulence is a significant challenge in orbital angular momentum shift keying-based free space optical communication (OAM-SK-FSO). In this study, we propose an adaptive optical demodulation system based on deep learning techniques. A conditional convolutional GAN (ccGAN) network is applied to recover the distorted intensity pattern and assign it to its specified class. Compared to existing methods based on convolutional neural networks (CNNs), our network demonstrates powerful capability in recovering the distorted light beam, resulting in a higher recognition accuracy rate under the same conditions. The average recognition accuracy rates are 0.9928, 0.9795 and 0.9490 when the atmospheric refractive index structure constant is set at 3 × 10−13, 4.45 × 10−13, 6 × 10−13m−2/3, respectively. The ccGAN network provides a promising potential tool for free space optical communication.
Watt-level output power and near-diffraction-limit beam quality mid-infrared Ho:GdVO4 self-Raman laser at 2.5 µm
Authors: Kang Panqiang , Zhang Xinlu , Jing Xiaofan , Chen Conghui , Zhang Longyi , Huang Jinjer
Published: February 2024

We demonstrate an efficient active Q-switched Ho:GdVO4 self-Raman laser at 2500 nm for the first time, to our knowledge. Using Ho:GdVO4 crystal as the gain medium for both the 2048nm fundamental laser and the 2500 nm Raman laser, the output performances of a new mid-infrared self-Raman laser were investigated. The maximum average output power of 1.45 W was achieved at an incident pump power of 22.5 W, with a slope efficiency of 25.8%, for an output transmittance of 30% and a pulse repetition frequency of 15 kHz. The maximum single pulse energy of 96.7 µJ with a pulse width of 11.35 ns was obtained, corresponding to the peak power of 8.5 kW. The beam quality was near diffraction limited with the M2 factors of 1.15 and 1.06 along the x and y directions. Moreover, adopting the two-end output way of the fundamental laser and the Raman laser, the Raman gain coefficient of Ho:GdVO4 crystal was estimated to be 1.14 cm/GW at 2048nm. This work shows that Ho:GdVO4 is an excellent self-Raman laser crystal for the generation of high power Raman laser at 2.5 µm.
A spectral vernier OFDR with High Frequency Response and Wide Measuring Range for Distributed Strain Sensing
Authors: Lin Cuofu , Chen Yuzhou , Yang Jun , Wei Ziqiao , Yang Jun , Wang Yuncai , YuwenQin
Published: February 2024

A spectral vernier OFDR for distributed strain sensing is proposed to break constraint relationship between strain measurement range and frequency response, achieving experimentally of 10856 με and 1.21 kHz with 10 cm spatial resolution, respectively.