bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Rare Complication of Valproate-Induced Acute Pancreatitis in an Adult Patient with Bipolar Disorder: A Case Report
Authors: Kaur p , Bhasin D , Kundra T.S.
Published: April 2023

Background: Valproate-induced pancreatitis is an idiosyncratic reaction of the drug, commonly seen in the paediatric age group, between 1 week to 8 years of starting the drug.

Case: The authors present a case report of a 61-year-old patient who presented with acute pancreatitis. All common causes were ruled out. The patient had a significant treatment history of taking valproate for bipolar disorder for 12 years. The patient was resuscitated with intravenous fluids and analgesics. Sodium valproate was stopped. The patient was monitored to detect early symptoms of systemic inflammatory response syndrome or any organ dysfunction or failure. The patient was sent to the ward after 4 days. The patient had a good outcome due to early diagnosis and resuscitation.

Conclusion: Acute pancreatitis is a rare and potentially fatal complication in patients on valproate. After ruling out other common causes, a detailed medical and treatment history can lead to the diagnosis of this entity. Healthcare providers should be vigilant about the early signs and symptoms of pancreatitis, including acute abdomen, vomiting, and raised serum amylase and lipase.
Therapies in the Pipeline for Systemic Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Betancur Juan Felipe , Molina Jose Fernando , Tobón Gabriel J.
Published: April 2023

The current goals in the development of novel therapeutics of systemic autoimmune diseases are to develop agents more effective than conventional therapies as well as to reduce the risk of organ damage. To achieve this goal, large multicentre randomised controlled trials are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of novel agents. Whether these novel modalities are synergistic to conventional drugs, the optimal dosages, and duration of treatment, need to be explored.

As expected, the development of new molecules for the treatment of autoimmune diseases is constant, and there are different ongoing clinical trials. We review the different molecules in the pipeline, summarised in Tables 1, 2, and 3. We also show the successes, failures, and molecules that require more evidence.
Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma of the Foot in a Patient with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Litwic Anna , Sampson Madeleine , Foria Vipul , Dennison Dennison
Published: April 2023

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have an increased risk of developing malignant lymphomas, especially non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL). However, primary lymphoma in a joint is rare. Here we report a case of a 68-year-old man with a background of RA who presented with a 1-year history of pain and swelling in his right ankle. Initial imaging results comprised of X-ray and magnetic resonance imaging were inconclusive. Ultrasound scan of the right foot revealed a very large vascular mass with grossly eroded tarsal bones, and a biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of diffuse large B cell lymphoma. Involvement of lymphoma of ankle/foot joints is very rare: to our knowledge this is the first case of a primary diffuse large B cell lymphoma of the joints of the mid and hind foot with underlying bone destruction in a patient with a background of RA. This case is important because it highlights that malignancy should be suspected in every patient with a background of RA and unusual characteristics before assuming a diagnosis of flare of RA. This is important because early diagnosis of NHL can contribute to improved outcome.
Pregnancy in Chronic Arthritis: Only a Matter of Planning
Authors: Vela Paloma
Published: April 2023

Chronic arthritis often affects women of childbearing age. The old concept that having chronic arthritis constitutes a major obstacle to women when planning a pregnancy is now obsolete. Thanks to our current capacity to control the activity of rheumatoid arthritis and other chronic inflammatory conditions, and due to the availability of highly effective drugs such as tumour necrosis factor inhibitor agents and other biological agents, many women with these diseases are now able to consider the challenge of childbearing and raising children. Careful pre-conceptional evaluation and risk assessment constitutes the first step of proper care, which can be individualised according to the disease. More than ever, rheumatologists must know how to deal with this situation, and must be able to provide adequate counselling regarding the control of arthritis during conception and pregnancy.
Introducing New Biosimilars Into Current Treatment Algorithms
Authors: Allport Juliette
Published: April 2023

Three biosimilar products are now licensed for the treatment of rheumatic diseases in Europe. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) requires that similarity between a biosimilar and its reference product is demonstrated using a rigorous, stepwise process that includes extensive physicochemical and biological analytical testing, non-clinical pharmacology, clinical evaluations, and pharmacovigilance plans. Each step is highly sensitive to any differences between products and progressively reduces any uncertainty over similarity; all steps must be satisfied to demonstrate biosimilarity. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires a similar stringent biosimilar development process.

The etanercept biosimilar SB4 (Benepali®), recently approved for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, axial spondyloarthritis (ankylosing spondylitis, non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis), and plaque psoriasis, is herein used to demonstrate the detailed analytical characterisation and clinical testing that are required by the EMA before biosimilars are approved for use. A comprehensive characterisation study involving >55 physiochemical and >25 biological assays demonstrated that SB4 has highly similar structural, physicochemical, and biological quality attributes to reference etanercept. A Phase I study demonstrated pharmacokinetic equivalence between SB4 and reference etanercept in healthy male subjects. Furthermore, a Phase III, randomised, controlled trial performed in patients with moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis despite treatment with methotrexate (MTX) showed that SB4 was equivalent to etanercept in terms of efficacy, safety, and immunogenicity.

In conclusion, the biosimilar development process performed according to EMA or FDA guidelines is highly rigorous and comprehensive. Biosimilars such as SB4 are now available in clinical practice and are likely to improve access, reduce costs, and ultimately, improve health outcomes.
Tubular Ectasia of the Rete Testis: What Is Behind It?
Authors: Rogel Ramón , Avargues Ana , Luján Saturnino , Betancourt Jesús Andrés , Broseta Enrique , Boronat Francisco
Published: April 2023

Background: Tubular ectasia of the rete testis (TERT) is a dilatation of the seminiferous tubules of the mediastinum testis. It tends to be asymptomatic and usually constitutes an incidental finding of imaging studies. Scrotal ultrasound (SU) shows tubules with a cystic appearance, suggesting a number of possible diagnoses, including testicular tumours.

Objective: To review our experience and describe the clinical and ultrasound features.

Design: Retrospective descriptive review.

Setting: The images were obtained by SU on an ambulatory basis. SU was performed with the Pro Focus Ultrasound System (BK Medical®, Massachusetts, USA). The indications of the exploration, the SU findings, and the associated conditions were the variables analysed.

Participants: 460 SU studies performed in our hospital between 2010 and 2013. The subjects were men, with a median age of 66 years (range 47–78).

Outcome Measurements and Statistical Analysis: SPSS® version 20 (IBM, New York, USA) was used for the descriptive analysis of the data.

Results and Limitations: TERT was identified in 23 out of 460 SU studies performed. SU was indicated due to the presence of scrotal swelling in 7 patients (30%), an epididymal mass in 8 patients (35%), mild testicular pain in 6 patients (26%), and post-surgical control in 2 asymptomatic patients. Within the 23 patients, 10 (43.4%) were diagnosed with an epididymal cyst, 3 (13%) with chronic epididymitis, and 9 (39%) with a hydrocoele. With regard to associated conditions, 3 (13%) had undergone ipsilateral inguinal hernia repair, 3 (13%) had undergone ipsilateral hydrocoelectomy, and 1 (4%) had a history of contralateral testicular cancer. TERT was unilateral in all cases. No malignant degeneration of the lesions was observed in our series.

Conclusions: According to our experience, TERT is an incidental condition where detailed clinical history, adequate physical examination, and SU findings can lead to the diagnosis. Knowledge of this disease is therefore essential for urologists.

Patient summary: In this report we analyse the clinical features and the SU findings associated with TERT, a condition incidentally found in imaging studies of men in their 60s usually performed for other reasons.
Analysis of Question Types and Expressions in Discussion Scripts: Focused on the Discussion Scripts of the Korean Language Education Conference
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Jang Minjung , Hong Yunhye
Published: April 2023

This study is aimed at analyzing question types of expert group in the context of discussion. This is to examine expert group how to raise questions and how to ask background information on the content of the presentation in formal discussion contexts and to help international students to ask questions properly to develop into discussion in academic contexts. This study analyzed 60 discussion scripts of academic conferences in 3 Korean language education academic associations and typed questions and extracted the frequency of them. The types of questions are ‘knowledge’, ‘comprehension’, ‘application’, ‘analysis’, ‘synthesis’, ‘evaluation’. While the frequency of ‘evaluation’ and ‘synthesis’ are high, the frequency of ‘knowledge’ was the lowest. This study showed typical examples for each question type and examine characteristics and expressions of question types. It is expected that the results of this analysis will be used as basic materials for the educational content of questioning as a debater in Korean language education for academic purposes.
A Study on the Effect of Global Competency through English Extra-curriculum Programme
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Park Sunyoung
Published: April 2023

This study investigates how the extra-curriculum programme, which is called English Clinic operated by J university, affects global competency. To find out the mean difference between pre and post survey on global competency for the participants, the paired t-test is applied. And to find out what the learners achieved, the participants’ self-reports with regard to how they have changed before and after taking the programme were analyzed. The results demonstrate that the participation of English Clinic leads to the improvement of overall global competencies, not only foreign language literacy also global citizenship and multicultural acceptance. In addition, the learners show positive attitude changes on internal motivation to study English and on improvement of self-confidence.
A Phenomenological Study on the Doctoral Course Experience of Adult Learners Majoring in Counseling
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Lee Seonhwa , Lee kisoon
Published: April 2023

This study was conducted to explore and understand their unique life experiences and learning experiences in response to the recent expansion of lifelong education policies and the increasing number of adult learners who are attracting attention as new learners go to college. Six adult learners who started a doctoral program in counseling after their 40s and completed or earned a doctorate were selected for in-depth interviews. All interviews were conducted individually and analyzed according to Giorgi's phenomenological method procedure. As a result of the qualitative analysis, five essential themes and 13 central themes were derived: “Continuous Learning Journey,” “Study I Never, Never Give Up,” “Arduous Learning Journey,” “Special Companionship with Grateful Connections,” and “The Lucky Gift of Adult Learning Journey.” This study is significant in preparing basic data for effective support of students by examining the life and learning experiences of six adult learners in depth.
A Case Study on the Operation of 'Excellent Liberal Arts Lecture Certification System'
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Lee Donguk , Jeon Jonghee
Published: April 2023

The purpose of this study is to examine the implementation and improvement plans of the excellent liberal arts lecture certification system as a way to improve the lecture quality of liberal arts education. This is to enhance instructors' willingness to develop subjects by combining quantitative values (30%) of lecture evaluation results and qualitative evaluation of professors and students (70%) and discovering and sharing subjects that show outstanding improvement efforts. To this end, through a preliminary implementation plan in 2019, each contest was held in 2020 and 2021, and each of nine liberal arts subjects applied were reviewed and four subjects were selected. The subjects included 3 advanced liberal arts subjects, 1 personality subject in 2020, and 4 advanced liberal arts subjects in 2021. The subjects were certified for the next two years, and the instructors received rewards and certificates, and presented them as excellent cases at the instructor workshop to share teaching strategies and know-how. Through this study, it can be confirmed that it is important not only to select and discover excellent liberal arts lectures, but also to encourage and spread instructors' efforts to improve lectures.
Analysis on the Visual Preference Factors of Camera Directing in Online Eating Content: Focused on Teenagers and People in their 20s Living in the Seoul Metropolitan Area
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Kim Daeyong , Yoo Sangwan
Published: April 2023

This study analyzed camera directing by selecting 5 top channels with many subscribers among online eating content to investigate the preference factors that affect viewers' visual preferences according to camera directing in producing online eating content. Based on this, camera angle mainly used in eating content was divided into low angle, eye-level angle, high angle(10 degrees), and high angle(20 degrees), and eight types of slide photos were produced by dividing the shot size into full shot, medium shot, bust shot, and close-up shot. For the analysis, statistical analysis techniques such as factor analysis, multiple regression analysis, and correlation analysis were used after a survey of 223 samples with experience in watching online eating content. As a result, the most preferred camera angle for watching online eating content was an eye-level angle, and the most preferred shot size was a medium shot. Through factor analysis, the factor group was identified through emotional adjectives that affect visual preferences and their multiple regression analysis. In addition, various camera directing methods preferred by viewers were presented through correlation analysis between camera angle and shot size.
The Meaning and Development Plan of Gugak Education as Culture and Arts Education
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Kang Sunha
Published: April 2023

This study examined the current status and significance of Gugak social culture and arts education, presented the aesthetic value and meaning of Gugak, and sought the vision and prospects for the development of Gugak education. Gugak culture and arts education enhances the quality of life and creativity to develop social practice through art, restores the everydayness of art and forms a creative cultural community, and develops Korean identity and community through performing arts education. Gugak education is divided into Korean traditional music experience and Korean traditional music learning, and more fundamentally, it aims at reflection on humans and insight into the times. Gugak culture and arts education aims to cultivate culture and arts teachers as creative talents, implement convergent art education that revitalizes cultural diversity, and customize education that reflects regional specificity. It promotes creativity, artistic sensibility, cognitive problem-solving skills, collaboration, and communication skills based on the digital environment. Beneficiaries of Gugak culture and arts education will be able to develop their lives creatively by wisely coping with new era changes that emphasize creativity and innovation in thinking.
A Qualitative Study on the Genre Recognition of Digital Narrative Audience: Focused on HN2 Hypernarrative
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Jang Nohyun
Published: April 2023

The purpose of this study is to find out how the positive/negative perception of the hypernarrative genre is formed for audiences who are new to hypernarrative, and what characteristics of hyper-narrative have the greatest impact on the audience. For this purpose, the reviews of hyper-narratives written by 91 college students majoring in literary creation were analyzed based on the qualitative method. As a result of the analysis, 91 research participants mainly formed a positive perception of the hypernarrative that they had first encountered. They recognized hypernarrative as a genre that is interesting, impressive, and brings a sense of concentration and immersion. On the other hand, research participants understood 'audience centrality' as the basic characteristic of hypernarrative and 'expansion of narrative through connection' as the core characteristic. Through this, it can be confirmed that the research participants understood the change and expansion of the narrative created by hyperlinks as the genre essence of hypernarrative.
The Meaning of the Spiderweb, with Special Reference to N’Guessan’s Contes Agni De l’Indénié
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Yu Jaimyong
Published: April 2023

This study examines ‘Araignée aux funérailles divines’ and ‘Araignée et Dieu’ in Contes Agni de l’Indénié and analyzes why the spider, strategist, weaves the spiderweb and what the spiderweb means as it is formed as the text develops through the text analysis. The spiderweb is one of the survival skills that the spider uses against its counterparts. The survival skill in this collection signifies the spider’s obsession with food. Because of the obsession, the spider sometimes betrays others and other times exacts revenge. However, betrayals and retaliation backfire and threaten the spider’s life. To turn the table, the spider weaves the web and escapes from death. In this respect, the strategies the humanized spider uses correspond to the means of supporting the communities by transforming wisdom into survival skills. The web, thus, provides us with a chance to contemplate what is inside humans.
Augusto Boal’s Theatre practice and reading education: Focused on the 'questioning' reading method
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Lee Mieun , Kim Gyeompseop
Published: April 2023

The research presented an alternative model of reading education as an attempt to help the readers 'acquisition, enlightenment, and active praxis'. The reading model is based on the strategy of 'self-generated question', and aims to restore the readers ‘right to think’ and ‘right to act’ through ‘conversation’ and ‘discussion’. This is an attempt to supplement not only the limitations of the existing ‘self-generated question’ strategy, but also the problems of reading education that disregards the essential aspects of reading. The research quoted the most popular Forum Theatre among Boal's 'Theatre Oppressed'. Just as Boal made the audience an active subject by empowering all the authority of the play to the spect-actor, the ‘questioning’ reading method model makes the readers the subject of reading. Active ‘questioning’ and ‘conversation’ made by readers enable them to reason dialectically about problems in reality, and theatre activity presented as reading activity can be practical exercises that can transform reality. Therefore, the 'questioning' reading method model is a reading education that reinforces the essence of reading.
Different lexicons make different rivals
Authors: Arndt-Lappe Sabine
Published: April 2023

Analogy-based theories assume that in situations of affix competition, language users create novel word forms on the basis of similar existing forms in their Mental Lexicons ( Baayen et al. 2011 ; Daelemans & van den Bosch 2005; Skousen 1989 ). Interestingly, however, simulation studies employing computational implementations of analogical theories have almost invariably adopted a rather abstractionist view of the Mental Lexicon, representing the word stock of the language, and abstracting away from differences between individual speakers (see, e.g., Arndt-Lappe 2014 ; Chapman & Skousen 2005 ; Eddington 2006 ; Nieder et al. 2021 ). This is a problem because it precludes the possibility of testing a central prediction of analogical theories: if affixes are assigned on the fly on the basis of similar words in the lexicon, then speakers with different lexicons should make different choices. The present paper provides a proof-of-concept study addressing this issue for the form-based rivalry between the two English adjectival suffixes - ic and - ical. Analogical Modeling of Language (AML; Skousen et al. 2013 ) is used as a computational model. On the basis of a survey of the distribution of derivatives in different registers in the British National Corpus, predictions of the analogical model are compared for a simulated speaker with a large vocabulary (including academic words) and a simulated speaker with a small vocabulary that is based mainly on words from spoken language. The statistical analysis of the simulations reveals that, while sharing some basic properties, the two models make very clear – and testable – predictions about speaker differences.
Models and mechanisms in philosophy of psychiatry: Editorial introduction
Authors: Kästner Lena , Walter Henrik
Published: April 2023

The background for this special issue is the multidisciplinary workshop "Minds, Models and Mechanisms: Current Trends in Philosophy of

Psychiatry" which was held at Saarland University in April 2021. Though we had to switch to an online format due to the pandemic, the

discussions at the event have been extremely inspiring. It brought together experts from diverse disciplines, like clinical psychiatry,

neuroscience, computational modelling, philosophy of mind and cognition, and philosophy of science. Joining forces, researchers from these

disciplines presented their ideas on the subject. In the aftermath of the workshop, the organizers issued an open call for contributions.

After a rigorous review process five papers made it into the final issue, each making an original contribution to the field.
Machine learning and its impact on psychiatric nosology: Findings from a qualitative study among German and Swiss experts
Authors: Starke Georg , Elger Bernice Simone , De Clercq Eva
Published: April 2023

The increasing integration of Machine Learning (ML) techniques into clinical care, driven in particular by Deep Learning (DL) using Artificial Neural Nets (ANNs), promises to reshape medical practice on various levels and across multiple medical fields. Much recent literature examines the ethical consequences of employing ML within medical and psychiatric practice but the potential impact on psychiatric diagnostic systems has so far not been well-developed. In this article, we aim to explore the challenges that arise from the recent use of ANNs for the old problems of psychiatric nosology. To enable an empirically supported critical reflection on the topic, we conducted semi-structured qualitative interviews with Swiss and German experts in computational psychiatry. Here, we report our findings structured around two themes, namely (1) the possibility of using ML for defining or refining of psychiatric classification, and (2) the desirability of employing ML for psychiatric nosology. We discuss these themes by relating them to recent debates about network theory for psychiatric nosology and show why empirical research in the field should critically reflect on its contribution to psychopathology research. In sum, we argue that beyond technical, regulatory, and ethical challenges, philosophical reflection is crucial to harness the potential of ML in psychiatry.
THE SPEED OF ADJUSTMENT TOWARDS OPTIMAL CAPITAL STRUCTURE: DO OWNERSHIP CONCENTRATION AND BOARD DIVERSITY MATTER?
Authors: Abdul Hadi Zulkafli  , Hanis Adiela Ibrahim
Published: April 2023

Using a partial adjustment model of capital structure, this study examines the role of ownership concentration and board diversity on the speed of adjustment towards optimal leverage. While a degree of ownership concentration can create value, board diversity on the other hand, is vital for companies to endure shifting market conditions. Both components are necessary for leveraging the outcomes of recent Malaysian Corporate Governance Strategic Priorities (2017-2023). As such, recognizing factors that could hinder the adjustment process is important as firms may deviate from their optimal leverage. The analysis of this study includes the top 100 non-financial Malaysian listed companies from 2012 to 2017. Evidence from this study indicates large Malaysian firms have optimal leverage and adjust at a modest rate towards their target in the long-term. The results are robust when using two alternative measures of ownership concentration, which are the single largest shareholder (OC1) and five largest shareholders (OC5). This study reveals both proxies have negative impact on adjustment speed. In other words, large firms with high level of concentrated ownership adjust their leverage slower towards the optimal level. Likewise, a negative significant relationship is found between board diversity and adjustment speed with the presence of OC5. Firm size is also found to have a significant impact on adjustment speed. These results potentially have long-term ramifications for corporate governance, as specific prerogatives for minority shareholders and directors representing them are required to reduce the negative externalities brought by concentrated ownership. Firms should outweigh the cost and benefits of board diversity, as more diverse boards may hinder the adjustment process.
BUREAUCRATIC BEHAVIOUR, AND ITS INFLUENCE TOWARDS COMPETITIVENESS – ANALYSING THE SUPPLY CHAIN OF BANGLADESHI CLOTHING INDUSTRY
Authors: Ahasanul Haque  , Md. Nuruzzaman  , Mohammad Shamsuddoha
Published: April 2023

Distribution systems are becoming increasingly complex and dynamic in business in the consumer market of clothing or Readymade Garments (RMG) products. There are many exterior influencing elements like political action (PA), country risk (CR), and bureaucratic behaviours (BB) that are influencing the clothing supply chain and posing threats to its competitiveness. A research question has developed to know how BB activities affect competitiveness. Based on this research question, this research aims to determine BB’s influence on the competitiveness of the clothing supply chain. Stakeholder philosophies and resource dependence theory have been considered to develop a hypothesis in this study. The Quantitative research method was applied in this study. The data were collected through a field survey. Partial Least Squire (PLS) based Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was used to analyse collected data. Seven hypotheses were developed in this research. Among them, five hypotheses are supported, and two hypotheses are not supported. In addition, mediation test results are not reflected as positive. The findings are discussed in detail in the discussion and implementation part of this study. The clothing (RMG) industry of Bangladesh could implement the result to improve competitiveness.
Current development of stretchable self-powered technology based on nanomaterials toward wearable biosensors in biomedical applications
Authors: Wang Qianqian , Sun Xu , Liu Chen , Wang Chunge , Zhao Wenjie , Zhu Zehui , Ma Sainan , Zhang Sheng
Published: April 2023

In combination with the growing fields of artificial intelligence and Internet-of-things (IoT), the innovation direction of next-generation biosensing systems is toward intellectualization, miniaturization, and wireless portability. Enormous research efforts have been made in self-powered technology due to the gradual decline of traditional rigid and cumbersome power sources in comparison to wearable biosensing systems. Research progress on various stretchable self-powered strategies for wearable biosensors and integrated sensing systems has demonstrated their promising potential in practical biomedical applications. In this review, up-to-date research advances in energy harvesting strategies are discussed, together with a future outlook and remaining challenges, shedding light on the follow-up research priorities.
Anti-Cholera toxin activity of selected polyphenols from Careya arborea, Punica granatum, and Psidium guajava
Authors: Charla Rajitha , Patil Priyanka P. , Patil Vishal S. , Bhandare Vishwambhar V. , Karoshi Veeresh , Balaganur Venkanna , Joshi Rajesh K. , Harish Darasaguppe R. , Roy Subarna
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Careya arborea, Punica granatum, and Psidium guajava are traditionally used to treat diarrheal diseases in India and were reported to show anti-Cholera toxin activity from our earlier studies. As polyphenols are reported to neutralize Cholera toxin (CT), the present study investigated the inhibitory activity of selected polyphenols from these plants against CTB binding to GM1 receptor using in silico, in vitro, and in vivo approaches.

Methods

Molecular modelling approach was used to investigate the intermolecular interactions of selected 20 polyphenolic compounds from three plants with CT using DOCK6. Based on intermolecular interactions, two phenolic acids, Ellagic acid (EA) and Chlorogenic acid (CHL); two flavonoids, Rutin (RTN) and Phloridzin (PHD) were selected along with their respective standards, Gallic acid (GA) and Quercetrin (QRTN). The stability of docked complexes was corroborated using molecular dynamics simulation. Furthermore, in vitro inhibitory activity of six compounds against CT was assessed using GM1 ELISA and cAMP assay. EA and CHL that showed prominent activity against CT in in vitro assays were investigated for their neutralizing activity against CT-induced fluid accumulation and histopathological changes in adult mouse.

Results and discussion

The molecular modelling study revealed significant structural stability of the CT-EA, CT-CHL, and CT-PHD complexes compared to their respective controls. All the selected six compounds significantly reduced CT-induced cAMP levels, whereas EA, CHL, and PHD exhibited > 50% binding inhibition of CT to GM1. The EA and CHL that showed prominent neutralization activity against CT from in vitro studies, also significantly decreased CT-induced fluid accumulation and histopathological changes in adult mouse. Our study identified bioactive compounds from these three plants against CT-induced diarrhea.
Correlation between caries activity and salivary microbiota in preschool children
Authors: Lin Xiuyan , Wang Yuan , Ma Zhe , Xie Meng , Liu Zhuo , Cheng Jinghui , Tian Yuzhao , Shi Hong
Published: April 2023

Early childhood caries (ECC) is the most common chronic infectious oral disease in preschool children worldwide. It is closely related to the caries activity (CA) of children. However, the distribution characteristics of oral saliva microbiomes in children with different CA are largely underexplored. The aim of this study was to investigate the microbial community in saliva of preschool children with different CA and caries status, and to analyze the difference of microbial community in saliva of children with different CA and its correlation with ECC. Subjects were divided into 3 groups based on the Cariostat caries activity test: Group H, high CA (n=30); Group M, medium CA (n = 30); Group L, low CA (n=30). Questionnaire survey was used to explore the related influencing factors of CA. According to the caries status (on the basis of decayed mising filled teeth), these subjects were divided into caries-free group (dmft=0, n=19), caries-low group (0 < dmft ≤ 4, n=27) and caries-high group (dmft > 4, n=44). Microbial profiles of oral saliva were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. There were significant differences in the microbial structure (P < 0.05). Scardovia and Selenomonas were the biomarkers of both H group and high caries group. The genus Abiotrophia and Lautropia were the biomarkers of both the L group and the low caries group, while the Lactobacillus and Arthrospira spp. were significantly enriched in the M group. The area under the ROC curve of the combined application of dmft score, age, frequency of sugary beverage intake, and the genus Scardovia, Selenomonas, and Campylobacter in screening children with high CA was 0.842. Moreover, function prediction using the MetaCyc database showed that there were significant differences in 11 metabolic pathways of salivary microbiota among different CA groups. Certain bacteria genera in saliva such as Scardovia and Selenomonas may be helpful in screening children with high CA.
Transcribing and translating forensic speech evidence containing foreign languages—An Australian perspective
Authors: Lai Miranda
Published: April 2023

There is a growing body of literature on forensic transcription of covert recordings obtained by clandestine law enforcement operations. Due to the nature of these operations, the quality of the recordings, particularly those obtained by planting listening devices in a car or a house, is often extremely poor. When tendering such recordings as evidence in court for prosecuting an alleged crime, a transcript will often accompany the recording to assist the triers of fact (i.e., judges and jurors) to hear better. In the context of multilingual and multicultural Australia, often such forensic recordings may contain languages other than English, and therefore a translation into English is required to facilitate understanding of the verbal exchanges in the recording. Little is known, however, about the people engaged by law enforcement to undertake these forensic translation tasks, what qualification and training they possess, how they carry out the tasks, and if there is a system to safeguard the quality and reliability of their translation output. This paper reports on the first ever survey conducted in Australia on professional interpreters and translators who have been engaged to perform this type of work. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis of text answers provide a qualitative account of the status quo which has not been documented before. Deficiencies of the current practice and its associated risks are identified. Recommendations are proposed as the first step to address the issues identified.
A novel hybrid autoencoder and modified particle swarm optimization feature selection for intrusion detection in the internet of things network
Authors: Saheed Yakub Kayode , Usman Aisha Abubakar , Sukat Favour Dirwokmwa , Abdulrahman Muftahu
Published: April 2023

The Internet of Things (IoT) represents a paradigm shift in which the Internet is connected to real objects in a range of areas, including home automation, industrial processes, human health, and environmental monitoring. The global market for IoT devices is booming, and it is estimated that there will be 50 billion connected devices by the end of 2025. This explosion of IoT devices, which can be expanded more easily than desktop PCs, has led to an increase in cyber-attacks involving IoT devices. To address this issue, it is necessary to create novel approaches for identifying attacks launched by hacked IoT devices. Due to the possibility that these attacks would succeed, Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) are required. IDS' feature selection stage is widely regarded as the most essential stage. This stage is extremely time-consuming and labor-intensive. However, numerous machine learning (ML) algorithms have been proposed to enhance this stage to boost an IDS's performance. These approaches, however, did not produce desirable results in terms of accuracy and detection rate (DR). In this paper, we propose a novel hybrid Autoencoder and Modified Particle Swarm Optimization (HAEMPSO) for feature selection and deep neural network (DNN) for classification. The PSO with modification of inertia weight was utilized to optimize the parameters of DNN. The experimental analysis was performed on two realistic UNSW-NB15 and BoT-IoT datasets that are suitable for IoT environment. The findings obtained by analyzing the proposed HAEMPSO against the Generic attack in the UNSW-NB15 dataset gave an accuracy of 98.8%, and a DR of 99.9%. While the benign class revealed an accuracy of 99.9% and DR of 99.7%. In the BoT-IoT dataset, the DDoS HTTP attack revealed an accuracy of 99.22% and DR of 97.79%. While the benign class gave an accuracy of 97.54% and DR of 97.92%. In comparison with the state-of-the-art machine learning schemes, our proposed HAEMPSO-DNN achieved a competitive feat in terms of DR and accuracy.
Is red distribution width a valid tool to predict impaired iron transport in heart failure?
Authors: Campodonico Jeness , Carulli Ermes , Doni Francesco , Russo Gerardo Lo , Junod Daniele , Gaudenzi Asinelli Margherita , Bonomi Alice , De Martino Fabiana , Vignati Carlo , Pezzuto Beatrice , Agostoni Piergiuseppe
Published: April 2023

Background

Impaired iron transport (IIT) is a form of iron deficiency (ID) defined as transferrin saturation (TSAT) < 20% irrespective of serum ferritin levels. It is frequently observed in heart failure (HF) where it negatively affects prognosis irrespective of anaemia.

Objectives

In this retrospective study we searched for a surrogate biomarker of IIT.

Methods

We tested the predictive power of red distribution width (RDW), mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) to detect IIT in 797 non-anaemic HF patients.

Results

At ROC analysis, RDW provided the best AUC (0.6928). An RDW cut-off value of 14.2% identified patients with IIT, with positive and negative predictive values of 48 and 80%, respectively. Comparison between the true and false negative groups showed that estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was significantly higher (p = 0.0092) in the true negative vs. false negative group. Therefore, we divided the study population according to eGFR value: 109 patients with eGFR ≥ 90 ml/min/1.73 m2, 318 patients with eGFR 60–89 ml/min/1.73 m2, 308 patients with eGFR 30–59 ml/min/1.73 m2 and 62 patients with eGFR < 30 ml/min/1.73 m2. In the first group, positive and negative predictive values were 48 and 81% respectively, 51 and 85% in the second group, 48 and 73% in the third group and 43 and 67% in the fourth group.

Conclusion

RDW may be seen as a reliable marker to exclude IIT in non-anaemic HF patients with eGFR ≥60 ml/min/1.73 m2.
Safety and efficacy of substance-based medical devices: Design of an in vitro barrier effect test
Authors: Bassetto Rebecca , Perin Stefano , Amadio Emanuele , Zanatta Samuele , Nenzioni Davide , Bertin Walter
Published: April 2023

This study aims to develop an in vitro barrier effect test over biomimetic membrane, which is useful to establish the film forming ability of a substance-based medical device (SB-MD). The method contemplates a multiparametric approach including: i) the measurement of the transmembrane passage of a molecular-like marker over a lipid-impregnated biomimetic membrane (simulating the skin and gastro-intestinal and buccal tissues) by using a static diffusion cell apparatus (Franz cell); and ii) the evaluation of the integrity of the membrane (colorimetric test). In the first step, a series of lipid-impregnated biomimetic membranes (simulating gastro-intestinal, buccal, and skin tissues) were implemented and their permeability performance validated using model drugs (caffeine and acyclovir) by referring to literature data. As a result, the apparent permeability (Papp) of caffeine over the biomimetic gastro-intestinal membrane (Papp = 30.5E-6 cm/s) was roughly comparable to the literature values obtained with Caco-2 cell line membrane (Papp = 30.8E-6 cm/s) and with the Franz cell method (Papp = 36.2E-6 cm/s). Acyclovir was shown to be a poorly permeable substance both in the literature and experimental data. Following this step, the permeability study was extended to both biomimetic buccal and skin (STRAT-M®) membranes: for caffeine, biomimetic gastro-intestinal membrane was the most permeable (Papp = 30.5E-6 cm/s), followed by the buccal (Papp = 18.2E-6 cm/s) then the skin (Papp = 0.5E-6 cm/s) biomimetic membranes. In a second part of the work, the barrier effect test was developed following a similar permeability-like approach. The protocol was designed with the idea of assessing the capacity of a certain product to prevent the passage of caffeine across the biomimetic membrane with respect to a negative and positive control. The untreated membrane was the negative control, while membrane covered with a Vaseline film was the positive. As a last step, the developed barrier effect protocol was applied to an experimental gel-like SB-MD under development for the treatment of aphthae (Aphthae gel, an invented trade name), herein used as a case study. Regarding the results, Aphthae gel reduced the caffeine passage by 60.3%, thus highlighting its effectiveness to form a protective film. Overall, these results provide important knowledge and may pave the way for the use—including for industrial applications—of these simple but effective biomimetic membranes for carrying out high throughput screening necessary to design safe and effective SB-MDs before proceeding further with clinical trials, as requested by the regulations.
Assessment and analysis of the global ionosphere maps over China based on CMONOC GNSS data
Authors: Zhu Fuying , Yang Jian , Qing Yun , Li Xinxing
Published: April 2023

The global ionosphere map (GIM) total electron content (TEC) data are extensively employed to statistically study the seismic ionospheric disturbance characteristics. Due to the limitation of spatial coverage of ground-based GNSS receivers, in many regions, the GIM TEC results are obtained by interpolation or extrapolation, and therefore the actual accuracy is different. In this paper, based on the CMONOC GNSS data, a high-precision regional ionospheric map (RIM) model over China is established, and the assessment and analysis of the post-processed IGS GIM over China are conducted. Statistical results show that the average RMS of IGS GIM over China is less than 2 TECu. The comparison of the TEC values calculated by the GIM with the RIM shows that the two models give similar results. The Bias and STD of the difference over most of China is less than 2 TECu except in some low latitude areas. Meanwhile, the correlation between GIM and RIM is better in the daytime than at night, and it is not affected by space electromagnetic disturbance. The assessment results of accuracy in this paper are only applicable to the China region, and the accuracy of other regions needs to be further assessed.
Building inclusive early learning environments for children with a disability in low-resource settings: Insights into challenges and opportunities from rural Zimbabwe
Authors: Tafirenyika Joice , Mhizha Samson , Ejuu Godfrey
Published: April 2023

The majority of young children with a disability live in low- and middle-income countries, where access to inclusive early learning programs supported by governments or non-government organizations is usually unavailable for the majority of the population, who live in rural areas. This study explored the feasibility of leveraging materials and personnel available within local communities to provide inclusive early learning programs in rural Zimbabwe. Caregivers of young children with some disability were given the opportunity to describe their experienced challenges; ways in which they informally support their children’s early learning; and the types of skills and resources they were able and willing to offer to support the establishment and operation of a more formal group-based inclusive early learning program. Qualitative data were generated from a purposive sample of caregivers of children with diverse impairments (n = 12) in two remote rural districts in Zimbabwe. Themes were identified in the rich qualitative data caregivers provided during individual interviews. The challenges caregivers experienced included the failure of interventions to improve their children’s level of functioning, the lack of access to assistive devices, the perception that the local school would be unable to accommodate their children, and worry about the future. Despite these stressors, caregivers actively supported their children’s self-care, social, moral and cognitive development and sought ways to save the funds that would be needed if their children could attend school. Caregivers were also willing and able to provide diverse forms of support for the establishment and operation of an inclusive early education program: food, funding, teaching and learning materials, and free labor. The insights obtained from these data informed the design of local community-controlled inclusive early education programs and the types of support caregivers and children may need to participate fully in these.
Advantages and challenges of using digital technologies in mathematical modelling education – a descriptive systematic literature review
Authors: Cevikbas Mustafa , Greefrath Gilbert , Siller Hans-Stefan
Published: April 2023

Mathematical modelling is essential for teaching and learning of mathematics aimed at improving students’ competence in solving real-world problems with mathematical means. Innovative technology-rich approaches can provide new paradigms for mathematical modelling education, which may produce new opportunities for the learning and teaching of mathematical modelling. On the other hand, there may be a few challenges to the successful use of technology in modelling. Although several studies have focused on the use of digital technologies in modelling education, there is a lack of research on the educational potential of digital technologies in mathematical modelling. To close this research gap, we decided to conduct a descriptive systematic literature review on the advantages and challenges of using digital technologies for learners and instructors in mathematical modelling. The literature on mathematical modelling education was searchedviathree recognized databases. Literature search revealed 38 papers that were eligible for analysis. Based on empirical evidence, this paper describes the educational opportunities offered by digital technologies (e.g., academic, emotional/psychological, cognitive, social, and instructional/pedagogical enhancements) and challenges to their effectiveness (e.g., learners’ and instructors’ lack of competence or experience in using technology and “black-box” threats). The results of the study reveal that the advantages of the use of digital technologies in the modelling process outweigh the emerging challenges, which is a promising result discussed in detail.