bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spectral induced polarization tomography inversion: Hybridizing homotopic continuation with Bayesian inversion
Authors: Roudsari Mohamad Sadegh , Ghanati Reza , Bérubé Charles L.
Published: May 2024

Induced polarization tomography offers the potential to better characterize the subsurface structures by considering spectral content from data acquisition over a broad frequency range. Spectral induced polarization (SIP) tomography is generally defined as a nonlinear inverse problem commonly solved through deterministic gradient-based methods. To this end, the spectral parameters, i.e., direct current resistivity, chargeability, relaxation time, and frequency exponent, are resolved by individually or simultaneously inverting all frequency data, followed by fitting a generalized Cole-Cole model to the inverted complex resistivities. Due to the high correlation between the Cole-Cole model parameters and a lack of knowledge about the initial approximation of the spectral parameters, using the classical least-squares methods may lead to inaccurate solutions and impede reliable uncertainty analysis. To cope with these limitations, we introduce a new approach based on a hybrid application of a globally convergent homotopic continuation method and a Bayesian inference to reconstruct the distribution of the subsurface spectral parameters. The homotopic optimization, owing to its fast and global convergence, is first implemented to invert multifrequency SIP data sets aimed at retrieving the complex-valued resistivity. Then, Bayesian inversion based on a Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) sampling method, along with a priori information including the lower and upper bounds of the prior distributions, is used to invert the complex resistivity for the Cole-Cole model parameters. By applying the MCMC inversion algorithm, a full nonlinear uncertainty appraisal can be provided. We numerically evaluate the performance of our method using synthetic and real data examples in the presence of topographical effects. Numerical results prove that the homotopic continuation method outperforms the classic, smooth inversion algorithm in the sense of approximation accuracy and computational efficiency. In addition, we determine that our hybrid inversion strategy provides reliable representations of the main features and structure of the earth’s subsurface in terms of the spectral parameters.
Identifying predictors of adverse outcomes after termination of seclusion in psychiatric intensive care units
Authors: Rogers Jonathan P. , Lewis Gabriella , Lobo Maria , Wyke Clementine , Meaburn Alexander , Harding Fiona , Garvey Rebecca , Irvine Jenny , Yahya Ahmed Saeed , Kornblum Daisy , Cullen Alexis E. , Mirfin David , Lewis Glyn
Published: May 2024

Background

Seclusion is a restrictive practice that many healthcare services are trying to reduce. Previous studies have sought to identify predictors of seclusion initiation, but few have investigated factors associated with adverse outcomes after seclusion termination.

Aims

To assess the factors that predict an adverse outcome within 24 h of seclusion termination.

Method

In a cohort study of individuals secluded in psychiatric intensive care units, we investigated factors associated with any of the following outcomes: actual violence, attempted violence, or reinitiation of seclusion within 24 h of seclusion termination. Among the seclusion episodes that were initiated between 29 March 2018 and 4 March 2019, we investigated the exposures of medication cooperation, seclusion duration, termination out of working hours, involvement of medical staff in the final seclusion review, lack of insight, and agitation or irritability. In a mixed-effects logistic regression model, associations between each exposure and the outcome were calculated. Odds ratios were calculated unadjusted and adjusted for demographic and clinical variables.

Results

We identified 254 seclusion episodes from 122 individuals (40 female, 82 male), of which 106 (41.7%) had an adverse outcome within 24 h of seclusion termination. Agitation or irritability was associated with an adverse outcome, odds ratio 1.92 (95% CI 1.03 to 3.56, P = 0.04), but there was no statistically significant association with any of the other exposures, although confidence intervals were broad.

Conclusions

Agitation or irritability in the hours preceding termination of seclusion may predict an adverse outcome. The study was not powered to detect other potentially clinically significant factors.
Antineoplastic Therapy Administration Safety Standards for Adult and Pediatric Oncology: ASCO-ONS Standards
Authors: Siegel Robert D. , LeFebvre Kristine B. , Temin Sarah , Evers Amy , Barbarotta Lisa , Bowman Ronda M. , Chan Alexandre , Dougherty David W. , Ganio Michael , Hunter Bradley , Klein Meredith , Miller Tamara P. , Mulvey Therese Marie , Ouzts Amanda , Polovich Martha , Salazar-Abshire Maritza , Stenstrup Elaine Z. , Sydenstricker Christine Marie , Tsai Susan , Olsen MiKaela M.
Published: May 2024

ASCO Standards are evidence-based standards to provide frameworks for best practices in cancer care, following the standards development process as outlined in the
ASCO Standards Policies and Procedures Manual
. ASCO Standards follow the
ASCO Conflict of Interest Policy for Clinical Practice Guidelines

.

Standards and other guidance (“Guidance”) provided by ASCO is not a comprehensive or definitive guide to treatment options. It is intended for voluntary use by providers and should be used in conjunction with independent professional judgment. Guidance may not be applicable to all patients, interventions, diseases or stages of diseases. Guidance is based on review and analysis of relevant literature, and is not intended as a statement of the standard of care. ASCO does not endorse third-party drugs, devices, services, or therapies and assumes no responsibility for any harm arising from or related to the use of this information. See complete disclaimer in
Appendix 1
(online only) for more.

PURPOSE

To update the ASCO-Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) standards for antineoplastic therapy administration safety in adult and pediatric oncology and highlight current standards for antineoplastic therapy for adult and pediatric populations with various routes of administration and location.

METHODS

ASCO and ONS convened a multidisciplinary Expert Panel with representation of multiple organizations to conduct literature reviews and add to the standards as needed. The evidence base was combined with the opinion of the ASCO-ONS Expert Panel to develop antineoplastic safety standards and guidance. Public comments were solicited and considered in preparation of the final manuscript.

RESULTS

The standards presented here include clarification and expansion of existing standards to include home administration and other changes in processes of ordering, preparing, and administering antineoplastic therapy; the advent of immune effector cellular therapy; the importance of social determinants of health; fertility preservation; and pregnancy avoidance. In addition, the standards have added a fourth verification.

STANDARDS

Standards are provided for which health care organizations and those involved in all aspects of patient care can safely deliver antineoplastic therapy, increase the quality of care, and reduce medical errors.

Additional information is available at
www.asco.org/standards
and
www.ons.org/onf
.
Exact prime density reproduced through resonant tunneling across a double barrier system
Authors: Pal Charli Chinmayee , Mahapatra Prasanta Kumar
Published: May 2024

A solid-state experiment based on quantum tunneling is proposed to reproduce the natural numbers and prime numbers as resonant tunneling energies in a double barrier system (DBS). For getting the prime numbers as eigenvalues the well potential is considered as the superposition of a smooth potential which is estimated using a semi-classical approach and a weak local fluctuating potential. We use the transfer matrix approach and finite element method by taking only the smooth part of the potential to obtain resonant energies which reproduces the local average prime density and the local average prime gap exactly. The methodology when applied to a quadratic potential of the well, produces whole numbers as eigenvalues except for a constant zero-point energy —the energy levels of a simple harmonic oscillator.
Local Ecdysone synthesis in a wounded epithelium sustains developmental delay and promotes regeneration in Drosophila
Authors: Terry Douglas , Schweibenz Colby , Moberg Kenneth
Published: May 2024

Regenerative ability often declines as animals mature past embryonic and juvenile stages, suggesting that regeneration requires redirection of growth pathways that promote developmental growth. Intriguingly, the Drosophila larval epithelia require the hormone ecdysone (Ec) for growth but require a drop in circulating Ec levels to regenerate. Examining Ec dynamics more closely, we find that transcriptional activity of the Ec-receptor (EcR) drops in uninjured regions of wing discs, but simultaneously rises in cells around the injury-induced blastema. In parallel, blastema depletion of genes encoding Ec biosynthesis enzymes blocks EcR activity and impairs regeneration but has no effect on uninjured wings. We find that local Ec/EcR signaling is required for injury-induced pupariation delay following injury and that key regeneration regulators upd3 and Ets21c respond to Ec levels. Collectively, these data indicate that injury induces a local source of Ec within the wing blastema that sustains a transcriptional signature necessary for developmental delay and tissue repair.
Effects of comprehensive nursing intervention on quality of life, Self-efficacy, gastrointestinal reaction and immune function of patients with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy
Authors: Hao Fang , Guo Cui-xin , Zhang Ya-min , Guo Shu-yun
Published: May 2024

Objective: To assess the effects of comprehensive nursing intervention on quality of life, self-efficacy, gastrointestinal reaction and immune function of patients with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy.
Methods: This was a retrospective study. One hundred and twenty patients receiving chemotherapy after breast cancer surgery were randomly divided into the experimental group and the control group(n=60) from January 2021 to January 2023. Patients in the perioperative period, the experimental group were given comprehensive nursing intervention, while those in the control group were given conventional specialist nursing intervention. The differences in quality of life, self-efficacy, gastrointestinal reaction, immune function and patient satisfaction between the two groups were compared and analyzed.
Results: After the intervention, the SF-36 scores in the experimental group were significantly higher than those in the control group (P=0.00), the efficacy indicators were significantly improved compared to the control group(P=0.00); the scores of gastrointestinal symptoms in the experimental group were significantly lower than those in the control group after the intervention(P<0.05). The indexes of CD3+, CD4+ and CD4+/CD8+ in the experimental group after the intervention were significantly higher than those in the control group(P=0.00); The patient satisfaction in the experimental group was 100%, which was significantly higher than 92% in the control group, with statistically significant differences (P=0.02).
Conclusion: Comprehensive nursing intervention leads to a variety of benefits in the treatment of patients with breast cancer during postoperative chemotherapy, such as relieving patients’ gastrointestinal reactions, improving their immune function and quality of life, besides effectively improving their self-efficacy, which is worthy of clinical application.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.6.7857
How to cite this: Hao F, Guo C, Zhang Y, Guo S. Effects of comprehensive nursing intervention on quality of life, Self-efficacy, gastrointestinal reaction and immune function of patients with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(6):1235-1240. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.6.7857
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Factors that hinder critical thinking and their resolution: Is active learning the key?
Authors: Takeuchi Akiko , Jin Shigeki , Murakami Manabu , Matoba Kotaro
Published: May 2024

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.6.9490
How to cite this: Takeuchi A, Jin S, Murakami M, Matoba K. Factors that hinder critical thinking and their resolution: Is active learning the key?. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(6):1313-1314.   doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.6.9490
Philosophy as a way of life and the nature of the political:
Authors: Makris Spiros
Published: May 2024

The theologico-political problem has marked Leo Strauss’ engagement with the question of the Western political thought from Plato onwards. Strauss brings to the fore the relationship between vita contemplativa and vita activa or the relationship between the philosopher-citizen and the city and in this sense, the question concerning the life of Socrates in ancient Athens as well as the meaning of the Socratic phenomenon itself. It is no exaggeration to claim that Strauss’ oeuvre can be regarded as an intellectual endeavor on Socrates’ presence in the Athenian agora as the ideal exemplification of a philosophical way of life within a political community.
Modeling multivariate time series
Authors: Τσαμτσακίρη Παναγιώτα
Published: May 2024

Η μελέτη των χρονοσειρών αποτελεί αντικείμενο έρευνας τα τελευταία χρόνια ειδικά των διακριτών μοντέλων με ετεροσκεδαστικότητα. Ενώ υπάρχουν πολλές μελέτες στην μονοδιάστατη περίπτωση , στην πολυδιάστατη η βιβλιογραφία είναι περιορισμένη. Ο λόγος για το παραπάνω είναι ότι υπάρχουν αρκετές δυσκολίες στην δομή και την ανάλυση πολυμεταβλητών μοντέλων χρονοσειρών. Συμπεριλαμβάνοντας δύο γενικές κατηγορίες χρονοσειρών τα εμπόδια της πρώτης κατηγορίας σχετικά με την δομή και την ανάλυση, δεν είναι σημαντικές δυσκολίες της δεύτερης και το αντίστροφο. Λαμβάνοντας υπόψην τα παραπάνω ενώ στα ετεροσκεδαστικά μοντέλα η εργοδικότητα είναι εύκολο να μελετηθεί, η εφαρμογή μεθόδων για την εκτίμηση των παραμέτρων είναι δύσκολη. Επιπλέον όταν η σχετική συσχέτιση πρέπει να ληφθεί υπόψιν, η εκτίμηση του μοντέλου γίνεται περισσότερο πολύπλοκη. Στην διατριβή αυτή η δομή ενός πολυμεταβλητού Integer Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Heteroskedastic(INGARCH) και ενός πολυμεταβλητού Conditional Autoregressive Range(CARR) μοντέλου χρονοσειρών μελετώνται. Το INGARCH(1,1) μοντέλο και εφαρμογές στις 2 διαστάσεις έχουν ήδη μελετηθεί τα τελευταία χρόνια. Το μειονέκτημα είναι ότι οι τιμές της συσχέτισης είναι περιορισμένες και αυτό προκύπτει απο την δομή του μοντέλου. Βασιζόμενοι σε μια οικογένεια copulas ένα πολυμεταβλητό INGARCH(1,1) και ένα CARR(1,1) μοντέλο μελετώνται θεωρώντας ότι τα volatilities εκφράζονται όχι μόνο με προηγούμενες τιμές τους και προηγούμενες τιμές της μεταβλητής αλλά και απο προηγούμενες τιμές άλλων μεταβλητών και παραμέτρων. Σύμφωνα με την πολυπλοκότητα του μοντέλου η καταλληλότητα και η ικανότητα για μελέτη δεδομένων όπου τα πλήθος τους δεν είναι μεγάλο, εξετάζεται με προσομοιώσεις. Πρόβλεψη h-βημάτων μπροστά σύμφωνα με την δεσμευμένη μέση τιμή στα volatilities γίνεται και οι περιθώριες κατανομές πυκνότητας υπολογίζονται. Αρχικά θεωρώντας μονοδιάστατα ΙNGARCH μοντέλα όπου τα volatilities εκφράζονται γραμμικά ή λογαριθμικά γραμμικά προσφέροντας λιγότερη ή περισσότερη ελαστικότητα στους περιορισμούς των συνθηκών στασιμότητας αντίστοιχα, ένα Μπευζιανό Trans-dimensional Markov Chain Monte Carlo εφαρμόζεται. Έπειτα μια νέα οικογένεια κατανομών Sarmanov παρουσιάζεται με σκοπό να βελτιώσει τις τιμές των ορίων του συντελεστή συσχέτισης. Μια σύγκριση των τιμών του με τις ήδη υπάρχουσες παρουσιάζεται γραφικά. Ένα πολυμεταβλητό INGARCH(1,1) μοντέλο προτείνεται βασισμένο στην καινούρια οικογένεια copulas και μια εφαρμογή με δεδομένα απο τροχαία ατυχήματα σε τρείς πόλεις της Ολλανδίας παρουσιάζεται. Επίσης μελετάται ένα πολυμεταβλητό CARR(1,1) μοντέλο όπου η κατανομή είναι πολυδιάστατη εκθετική και τα όρια του συντελεστή συσχέτισης εξετάζονται. Οι εφαρμογές του προτεινόμενου μοντέλου είναι απο τον τομέα της βιώσιμης ανάπτυξης και των ανανεώσιμων πηγών ενέργειας.
An investigation of syrinx morphometry and sound frequency association in lovebirds (Agapornis fischeri) chirps
Authors: Dewi Cytra Meyliana Surya , Dhamayanti Yeni , Fikri Faisal , Purnomo Agus , Khairani Shafia , Chhetri Shekhar , Purnama Muhammad Thohawi Elziyad
Published: May 2024

Background In the issue of biodiversity, the domestication of birds as pets and trade animals requires special attention as a conservation effort. Lovebirds (Agapornis fischeri) are popular birds worldwide, due to their varied ornamentation and melodic chirping sound. Syrinx structure is suspected to be the main source of sound production during the chirping period. This study aimed to investigate syrinx morphometry and its correlation with sound frequency produced in lovebirds. Methods A total of 24 lovebirds of different ages and gender were investigated. Polymerase chain reaction method was performed to determine lovebird gender, meanwhile bird age was identified based on post-hatch recordings at the breeding farm. Thus, we enrolled male (n=12) and female (n=12) lovebirds aged 2 (n=4), 3 (n=4), and 4 (n=4) months in the investigation group, respectively. Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) was performed to evaluate sound frequency during chirping period. Then, syrinx morphometry was identified using a topographic approach and methylene blue staining. Each variable was evaluated with Image J software and vernier caliper. Results Based on a topographical approach, we reported the general cartilage structure of the tracheosyringeal, bronchosyringeal, paired protrusions, tracheolateral muscles, sternotracheal muscles, and syringeal muscles in lovebird syrinx. In particular, the tympaniform membranes lateral lead a crucial role in modulating the frequency of male lovebirds more significantly (p=0,009) compared to female. On the other hand, the tympaniform membranes lateral dexter (p=0,02) and sinister (p=0,05) in females showed wider compared to male. We also reported a negative correlation between sound frequency compared to tympaniform membranes lateral dexter (y = -913,56x + 6770,8) and sinister (y = -706,16x + 5736). Conclusions It can be concluded that the tympaniform membranes lateral produced the lovebirds’ primary sound. The sound frequency of male lovebirds was higher compared to female, however negatively correlated with the area of tympaniform membranes lateral.
Case Report: Effect of rTMS on urinary incontinence in major vascular neurocognitive disorder
Authors: Ni Xiaohong , Ke Hongyan , Tian Yu , Zhou Lei , Chen Xin , Liao Yuangao
Published: May 2024

Background Urinary incontinence (UI) was an intractable symptom and many efforts had been made to combat this symptom over the past decades. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) was used in many diseases for its focusing on neural network regulation. However, rTMS on the cortical urination center for acting on urination process remained further study. Case report A 67-year-old female farmer suffered from UI over two weeks. She was diagnosed with major vascular neurocognitive disorder. The patient received rTMS on the bilateral paracentral lobule. Stimulation was administered at 20 Hz with 25 stimulation trains of 30 stimuli each with a 30-second intertrain interval. After a 5-day course of rTMS intervention, the patient reported full awareness of her urination, but her neurocognitive decline had not improved at all. Conclusions In this case of UI with major vascular neurocognitive disorder, rTMS on the bilateral paracentral lobule was applied and therapeutic effect on UI was obvious.
Evaluating the effect of the addition of Nano-cellulose fibers on certain properties of heat-cured acrylic resin denture base material
Authors: H. Fadhel Maysem , N.Safi Ihab
Published: May 2024

Background Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) is the most often used polymer for denture bases because to its inexpensive cost, lightweight nature, insolubility in mouth fluid, outstanding cosmetic features, and ease of repairability. However, various limitations such as insufficient surface hardness, low strength, brittleness, weak flexural strength, poor impact strength, and low fatigue resistance have a detrimental impact on acrylic resins. Method This research examined the impact strength, transverse strength, surface hardness, surface roughness, and color stability of heat-cured acrylic denture base material after 0.5% and 1% by wt. CNFs were added. The cellulose nanofibers were combined with a PMMA monomer for 5 minutes in a probe sonicator. One group of samples was made without cellulose nanofibers in PMMA, while two groups were prepared with 0.5% and 1% CNFs by weight, and tests of the impact strength, transverse strength, surface hardness, surface roughness, and color stability of the samples were carried out. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including the mean and standard deviation, and bar charts were used to visualize the results. Sample interactions and fiber dispersion were assessed using FTIR and FE-SEM. Results Compared to the control group, 0.5% by wt. and 1% by wt. CNF improved the impact and transverse strength substantially, while shore D surface hardness was not improved. Hue (a) and chroma (b) were substantially influenced by CNF at 0.5% by weight compared to the control group, although surface roughness and color value (L) were not. Surface roughness, color value (L), and color hue (a) were substantially impacted by 1% compared to the control group; however, color chroma (b) was not. Conclusions This research found that 0.5% and 1% by wt. CNF in PMMA resin increased the impact strength, transverse strength, surface hardness, surface roughness, color value, hue, and chroma of heat-cured polymethyl methacrylate denture base material.
Effects of dynamic versus static parameter-guided fluid resuscitation in patients with sepsis: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sricharoenchai Thiti , Saisirivechakun Pannarat
Published: May 2024

Background Fluid resuscitation is an essential component for sepsis treatment. Although several studies demonstrated that dynamic variables were more accurate than static variables for prediction of fluid responsiveness, fluid resuscitation guidance by dynamic variables is not standard for treatment. The objectives were to determine the effects of dynamic inferior vena cava (IVC)-guided versus (vs.) static central venous pressure (CVP)-guided fluid resuscitation in septic patients on mortality; and others, i.e., resuscitation targets, shock duration, fluid and vasopressor amount, invasive respiratory support, length of stay and adverse events. Methods A single-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted at Thammasat University Hospital between August 2016 and April 2020. Septic patients were stratified by acute physiologic and chronic health evaluation II (APACHE II) <25 or ≥25 and randomized by blocks of 2 and 4 to fluid resuscitation guidance by dynamic IVC or static CVP. Results Of 124 patients enrolled, 62 were randomized to each group, and one of each was excluded from mortality analysis. Baseline characteristics were comparable. The 30-day mortality rates between dynamic IVC vs. static CVP groups were not different (34.4% vs. 45.9%, p=0.196). Relative risk for 30-day mortality of dynamic IVC group was 0.8 (95%CI=0.5-1.2, p=0.201). Different outcomes were median (interquartile range) of shock duration (0.8 (0.4-1.6) vs. 1.5 (1.1-3.1) days, p=0.001) and norepinephrine (NE) dose (6.8 (3.9–17.8) vs. 16.1 (7.6–53.6) milligrams, p=0.008 and 0.1 (0.1-0.3) vs. 0.3 (0.1-0.8) milligram⋅kilogram−1, p=0.017). Others were not different. Conclusions Dynamic IVC-guided fluid resuscitation does not affect mortality of septic patients. However, this may reduce shock duration and NE dose, compared with static CVP guidance.
Clinical and pathological characteristics of blastoid mantle cell lymphoma: a single institution experience
Authors: Monappa Vidya , Prabhu Swathi , Kudva Ranjini , Godkhindi Vishwapriya Mahadev , Pai Kanthilatha , Pai Ananth , Mailankody Sharada
Published: May 2024

Background Blastoid mantle cell lymphoma (B-MCL) is a rare aggressive lymphoma. It is characterized by blastoid morphology with high proliferation and inconsistent immunohistochemistry (IHC), making it a diagnostic challenge for the pathologist. Methods This is a retrospective analytical cohort study. We reviewed biopsy confirmed cases of B-MCL diagnosed over a period of 10 years (January 2012 to December 2022). The clinical presentation, histopathological and IHC findings, treatment received, and survival outcomes were studied. Randomly selected cases of classic MCL (n=12), diagnosed during the same period served as controls. Results A total of 12 cases were studied. Four cases were transformed from previously diagnosed MCL; 8 cases arose de novo. Mean age was 61.17 years and the male: female ratio was 5:1. Half of the cases showed extra nodal extension and 81.8% had bone marrow involvement. Gastrointestinal tract was the most common site of extra nodal involvement. Histopathological examination showed diffuse involvement of the lymph node with medium sized cells. On immunohistochemistry, one of the cases showed loss of CD5 expression while the other had aberrant CD10 expression. Mean Ki-67 index was 58.09% in the cases and 16.33% in controls and was statistically significant (p=0.005). The median overall survival (OS) for cases was 2 years vs 8 years in controls. The p53 over expression (>30% nuclear positivity) was seen in 66.6% cases (4/6). Conclusion There are several factors that contribute to the aggressiveness of B-MCL, and new treatment approaches might be required to improve patient outcomes.
Exploring the Potential for Tuition-Free Higher Education in South Africa: A Scoping Review
Authors: Ramasu Tlotlo , Kanakana-Katumba Grace
Published: May 2024

The debate on tuition-free higher education has raged in South Africa since the #FeesMustFall protests at South African universities in 2015 and 2016. The government responded with a tuition-free education policy targeting students from households earning less than R350 000. However, the question remains can South Africa sustain a tuition-free education policy given its developing nation status and the levels of its GDP? This article sought to assess the feasibility of tuition-free higher education for all in South Africa. A scoping review was used, and fifteen articles about tuition-free higher education feasibility in South Africa were reviewed. The choice of the scoping review was due to the need for an understanding of the current state of play in research on the feasibility of tuition-free higher education in South Africa. The results suggest that tuition-free higher education for all is not feasible in South Africa. There seems to be a consensus that South Africa lacks the resources to finance tuition-free higher education for all. Tuition-free higher education is also viewed as a regressive tax on the poor given that the majority of students in higher education institutions come from middle and upper-income households. However, it is important to note that a distinction is drawn between tuition-free higher education for all and tuition-free higher education for the poor and academically deserving. The latter seems to receive support with some viewing it as a moral imperative in an unequal society such as South Africa’s. It is recommended that future studies approach the issue from an empirical standpoint whereby the GDP levels are assessed against higher education funding.
The genome sequence of the common awl robberfly, Neoitamus cyanurus (Loew, 1849)
Authors: Crowley Liam M. , Akinmusola Ruth Y. ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: May 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Neoitamus cyanurus (the common awl robberfly; Arthropoda; Insecta; Diptera; Asilidae). The genome sequence is 365.5 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 10 chromosomal pseudomolecules. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 16.63 kilobases in length.
El portafolio docente: una estrategia de reflexión para la autorregulación de la tarea docente
Authors: Lluch Molins Laia , Cano García Elena
Published: May 2024

El presente trabajo es fruto de una revisión sobre el tema realizada por docentes universitarias que han experimentado el uso del portafolios en sus aulas. Se aborda el uso de esta estrategia comenzando por su conceptualización, sus objetivos, sus características y los diferentes tipos de portafolios, así como sus fases de elaboración. Después, se vincula el portafolios al desarrollo de la competencia de aprender a aprender y se presenta una experiencia realizada en la Facultad de Educación de la Universidad de Barcelona con profesorado y el alumnado del Grado de Maestro de Educación Primaria. Finalmente, se profundiza en perspectivas futuras y recomendaciones para el uso del portafolios docente en relación con su implementación tanto en los procesos de formación inicial como en la práctica profesional docente.
Las órdenes religiosas y la sociedad neogranadina, siglos XVI-XIX
Authors: Plata William Elvis
Published: May 2024

Las órdenes religiosas no solo fueron las grandes protagonistas del proceso de cristianización de la Nueva Granada en los siglos XVI a XVIII, sino que, además, por lo mismo, adquirieron tal grado de poder y de influencia social, política y cultural que no es posible entender la sociedad colonial sin tener en cuenta el rol que desempeñaron. Junto con los obispados fueron, además, el eje de la Iglesia católica neogranadina en el periodo. Sin embargo, aún no contamos con explicaciones comprensivas globales sobre ello. Así, en el presente capítulo se buscará reseñar la manera como se construyó su estrecha relación con la sociedad, los aspectos fundamentales de su influencia y las fluctuaciones que experimentó, hasta su declive en el siglo XIX.
Employment Protection and Venture Capital Investment: The Impact of Wrongful Discharge Laws
Authors: Wang Wei , Yung Chris
Published: May 2024

Wrongful discharge laws (WDLs) provide limits to the employment-at-will doctrine, and thus impair operating flexibility, increasing expected financial distress costs by making it costly to fire employees. This impairment is detrimental to start-ups, leading to a decline in venture capital (VC) investment. Using a difference-in-differences framework enabled by the staggered adoption of WDLs across the U.S. states, we show VC investment declines after a state adopts the good faith exception (the strongest form of WDL). This decline is most pronounced in sectors with high labor dependency.

This paper was accepted by Victoria Ivashina, finance.

Supplemental Material: The data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2023.01936 .
Myxoma involving the pulmonary valve – A case report of an atypical cardiac tumor, treated using an unusual approach
Authors: Bhagia Geeta , Hussain Nasir , Arty Fnu , Chakravarthy Mithun , Shah Moneal
Published: May 2024

Background: Atypical myxoma has been reported in various locations in the heart, however, myxoma involving the pulmonary valve is rare. Here we present a case of pulmonic valve myxoma which was resected via a percutaneous approach. Case Report: A 66-year-old female with known metastatic adenocarcinoma of the lung, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease presented with acute onset shortness of breath for two days. The patient experienced respiratory arrest en-route to the hospital and required intubation. Computed tomography angiography (CTA) of the chest revealed a new 1.4 x 1.6 cm intracardiac mass along the pulmonary valve. Further evaluation with cardiac magnetic resonance imaging revealed it to be a large vascular tumor on the ventricular side of the pulmonary valve, attached with a narrow stalk. Due to high surgical risk, the patient underwent transesophageal echocardiographic guided percutaneous removal of the mass. Pathology confirmed the mass to be a myxoma. Conclusion: Atypical myxoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of valvular masses. Percutaneous resection of valvular masses may be feasible in high-risk surgical patients.
The opportunity of a second life
Authors: Perry Karl
Published: May 2024

This patient story is the third instalment of Karl Perry’s series, reflecting on his journey with cardiac disease. In this article, he recounts his experience of an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, and how this has affected his perspective on life after discharge from hospital.
Developing a Sow Vulva Volume Estimation Pipeline Based on LiDAR Imagery and Deep Learning
Authors: Xu Ziteng , Zhou Jianfeng , Bromfield Corinne , Lim Teng Teeh , Safranski Timothy J. , Calyam Prasad P.
Published: May 2024

Highlights

An artificial intelligence-enabled imagery data processing pipeline.

Sow vulva swelling can be quantified using imagery automatically.

Biological signs of sow estrus are quantified.

Abstract. Accurate and timely estrus detection is one of the critical factors for improving the conception rate of sows in swine reproduction. Estrus detection in the current industry relies on experienced breeding technicians using the back pressure test method, which is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and subjective. This study aimed to develop an image-processing pipeline that could predict the onset of estrus by monitoring the variation of the vulva volume of sows. A robotic imaging system consisting of a LiDAR camera was used to collect depth and infrared (IR) images of sows multiple times per hour. The developed image processing pipeline consisted of a deep learning model (MobileNet) to exclude images with defective postures (e.g., excreting posture, vulva region not showing) for vulva detection. The selected images were further processed to (1) segment sow vulva regions (3-dimensional surface) using a U-Net model, (2) exclude incorrectly segmented 3D vulva surfaces using a MobileNet model, and (3) calculate the vulva volume using the segmented 3D vulva surface. Results show that all three models achieved high test accuracy of 94.8% (MobileNet 1), 96.7% (U-Net), and 100% (MobileNet 2). The vulva volume was calculated using the developed pipeline for all the test sows. Daily average vulva volume showed a noticeable increase in all sows at 0-1 day prior to the onset of estrus. This study concluded that the developed image processing pipeline could automatically detect vulva swelling, which may be used as a biological sign indicating the onset of post-weaning estrus in sows. Keywords: 3D camera, Digital agriculture, Estrus detection, Robotic imaging system, Swine reproduction.
The role of topic shift and conversation turn in the intonation of Italian wh-questions
Authors: Sorianello Patrizia
Published: May 2024

The aim of this study is to analyse the intonation patterns of Italian wh-questions in relation to epistemic orientation, topic shift and turn organisation. The research conducted so far has shown that wh-questions have both falling and rising final contours. Linguistic, sociolinguistic, and pragmatic factors are recognised to affect intonation patterns. Nevertheless, the influence of conversational elements on intonation contours remains unclear and requires further research.
This study analyses a corpus of unplanned conversations to evaluate how the retention/change of topic and the maintenance/transfer of dialogic turn affect the intonation of questions. The research revealed two significant findings. Firstly, wh-question categorisation shows that the degree of epistemic certainty has a profound impact on topic shift and floor passing. Secondly, the results suggest that conversational aspects do not significantly affect the final intonation patterns. However, they do have a relevant effect on the initial pitch level of the questions, leading to an increase in the onset and overall pitch range.
PLATAFORMA BIM E GESTÃO DA CONSTRUÇÃO CIVIL NA REDUÇÃO DE IMPACTOS AMBIENTAIS
Authors: Gabriel dos Santos Oliveira  , Ana Rita Sulz de Almeida Campos
Published: May 2024

A sociedade contemporânea tem sido impulsionada pelo sistema econômico capitalista a intensificar o desejo excessivo e ilimitado pelo consumo, assumindo comportamentos e estilos de vida que estão em descompasso com a sustentabilidade e o equilíbrio do planeta.
Design of the primary mirror assembly for a space gravitational wave based on the optical path variation model
Authors: Fang Sijun , Hai Hongwen , Zhang Rui , Luo Jian , Fan Wentong , Zhao Kai , Li Bohong , Song Jie , Sun Qicheng , Cao Yehao , Fan Lei , Yan Yong
Published: May 2024

As an important component of the gravitational wave detection interferometric measurement system, the telescope’s main function is to receive and emit laser signals. Under the influence of in-orbit environmental disturbances, the telescope will experience structural deformation. This can result in changes in the propagation path of the laser within the telescope, which in turn affects the ranging accuracy. Therefore, it is necessary to suppress the optical path variation caused by the deformation of the telescope during the design phase of the telescope structure. In this paper, a calculation and analysis model of the non-geometric optical path length variation within the telescope was established using the first 36 orders of the fringe Zernike polynomials. The derivation of the geometric optical path variation within the telescope was completed, and the optical system error analysis was performed based on the internal optical path variation of the telescope as an evaluation index. The primary mirror components that meet the detection requirements were designed. The results showed that for the off-axis four-mirror optical system, under the same disturbance, the geometric optical path variation caused by the rigid displacement of the primary mirror dominates. When the environmental temperature stability is 2.8×10−6K⋅Hz−1/2 @0.1 Hz, the system’s optical path stability is reduced from the original 8.5pm⋅Hz−1/2 @0.1 Hz to 0.45pm⋅Hz−1/2 @0.1 Hz.
Design of a compact wide-band triple grating imaging spectrometer based on freeform surfaces
Authors: Chen Jianjun , Wang Linlin , Huo Limin , Kuang Cuifang , Mao Lei , Tan Mingyue , Shao Mingwei , Yin Lu
Published: May 2024

Wide-band, high spectral resolution, and miniaturized imaging spectrometers have important applications. However, the working band, spectral resolution, and volume of the imaging spectrometers are mutually restricted. To solve this problem, we proposed a method in which multiple working bands share the same optical components except gratings, and the working bands switch with the switching of the working gratings. Based on the freeform surfaces characterized by XY polynomials, we designed a compact wide-band triple grating imaging spectrometer through the design ideas of human-computer interaction and iterative optimization. The imaging spectrometer works in the wavelength band of 200nm∼1600nm, covering ultraviolet (UV), visible, and near-infrared light, and it has a compact optical path volume of 24mm×38mm×80mm. Three gratings with 0.0025 mm, 0.005 mm, and 0.01 mm line spacing are used to realize dispersion with high diffraction efficiency in the bands of 200nm∼400nm, 400nm∼800nm, and 800nm∼1600nm, respectively. The UV detector receives imaging light in the UV band (200nm∼400nm), and the visible near-infrared (VNIR) detector receives imaging light in the visible and near-infrared bands (400nm∼1600nm). The design results show that the spectral resolutions of the three bands are 0.4 nm, 0.8 nm, and 1.6 nm, and the spectral smile and keystone distortion are less than 1.4 µm. The design results have engineering application value.
O-band QKD link over a multiple ONT loaded carrier-grade GPON for FTTH applications
Authors: Makris N. , Ntanos A. , Papageorgopoulos A. , Stathopoulos T. , Konteli P. , Stathis A. , Giannoulis G. , Tsoni I. , Setaki F. , Zavitsanos D. , Lyberopoulos G. , Avramopoulos H. , Syvridis D. , Kanellos G. T.
Published: May 2024

We have successfully demonstrated the integration of a commercial O-band Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) system over a testbed that replicates a carrier-grade Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) optical access network consisting of components and systems installed in real-life FTTH operational deployments. The experiment demonstrated a QKD transmission over a 1:16 user Gigabit Optical Passive Network (GPON) configuration featuring a total of 9 Optical Network Terminals (ONTs) at the premises of the Telecom Operator COSMOTE that followed the operator’s standard FTTH divided in two splitting stages. The architecture we implemented was a downstream access network with the quantum transmitter located at the operator’s Central Office (CO) and the quantum receiver located on the end user’s side.
Precision glass molding technology for XY polynomial freeform optical elements with simulations and experiments
Authors: Zhang Zeguang , Liu Yue , Li Chuang , Ding Yan , Yang Chao , Zhao Yubo , Xue Changxi
Published: May 2024

Precision glass molding (PGM) technology, as an effective method for mass-producing glass lenses, is relatively mature in the molding process of aspheric lenses, but the glass molding technology for freeform optical elements is still in its infancy. For freeform optical elements, processing by conventional ultra-precision methods requires multiple processes and the resulting costs are high, while processing by PGM is efficient and inexpensive. Therefore, this paper investigates the molding technology of freeform lenses, the pre-compensation model of the freeform mold core is established, and predicts the residual stresses of freeform lenses after molding by the finite element method. Three different process parameters, molding temperature, molding rate and molding force, are verified. Experimental and simulation results show that the trends of residual stresses for the three process parameters are consistent. The optimal process parameters of the molding process are determined, under which the PV value of the molding lens is around 1.5µm. The experimental results show that the PV value of the molded lens is reduced to less than 1µm after using the pre-compensated mold core, which proves the validity of the pre-compensated model.
Directional surface plasmon polariton scattering using single magnetic nanoparticles
Authors: Sun Xuqing , Wang Fei , Sun Xiaojuan , Wang Xue , Cao Yitao , Ding Xiaoxi , Dou Yingjie , Fang Runze , Wang Chang , Liu Hongyao , Lu Xinchao , Gao Hang , Huang Chengjun
Published: May 2024

Directional surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) are expected to promote the energy efficiency of plasmonic devices, via limiting the energy in a given spatial domain. The directional scattering of dielectric nanoparticles induced by the interference between electric and magnetic responses presents a potential candidate for directional SPPs. Magnetic nanoparticles can introduce permeability as an extra manipulation, whose directional scattered SPPs have not been investigated yet. In this work, we demonstrated the directional scattered SPPs by using single magnetic nanoparticles via simulation and experiment. By increasing the permeability and particle size, the high-order TEM modes are excited inside the particle and induce more forward directional SPPs. It indicated that the particle size manifests larger tuning range compared with the permeability. Experimentally, the maximum forward-to-backward (F-to-B) SPP scattering intensity ratio of 118.52:1 is visualized by using a single 1 μm Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticle. The directional scattered SPPs of magnetic nanoparticles are hopeful to improve the efficiency of plasmonic devices and pave the way for plasmonic circuits on-chip.
A pilot acceptability evaluation of MomMind: A digital health intervention for Peripartum Depression prevention and management focused on health disparities
Authors: Zingg Alexandra , Franklin Amy , Ross Angela , Myneni Sahiti
Published: May 2024

Health disparities cause significant strain on the wellbeing of individuals and society. In this study, we focus on the health disparities present in the condition of Peripartum Depression (PPD), a significant public health issue. While PPD can be managed through therapy and medication, many women do not receive adequate PPD treatment due to issues of social stigma and limited access to healthcare resources. Digital health technologies can offer practical tools for PPD management. However, current solutions do not integrate behavior theory and are rarely responsive to the transient information needs stemming from women’s unique sociodemographic, clinical and psychosocial profiles. We describe a pilot acceptability evaluation of MomMind, a health-disparities focused digital health intervention for the prevention and management of PPD. A crucial MomMind advantage is its basis on behavior change theory and patient engagement as enabled by the Digilego digital health framework. Following an internal usability evaluation, MomMind was evaluated by patients through cross-sectional acceptability surveys, pre-and-post PPD health literacy surveys, and interviews. Survey respondents included n = 30 peripartum women, of whom n = 16 (53.3%) were Hispanic and n = 17 (56.7%) of low-income. Survey results show that 96.6% of participants (n = 29) approved and welcomed MomMind, and 90% (n = 27) found MomMind to be an appealing intervention. Additionally, significant improvements (p< = 0.05) were observed in participants’ PPD health literacy, specifically their ability to recognize PPD symptoms and knowledge of how to seek PPD information. Interview main themes include MomMind’s straightforward design and influence of others (family members, providers) on use of technology. Results suggest that enhancement of a digital health framework with health literacy theory can support production of digital health solutions acceptable to vulnerable populations. This study incorporates existing theories from different disciplines into a unified approach for mitigating health disparities, and produced a novel solution for promotion of health in a vulnerable population.