bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attitudes toward learning communication skills among Iranian medical students
Authors: Kandevani Naser Yousefzadeh , Labaf Ali , Mirzazadeh Azim , Pormehr Pegah Salimi
Published: February 2024

Background

Attitudes determine behavior, and alterations in attitude may result in behavioral changes. Medical students would benefit from learning communication skills. This study aimed to determine the attitude of medical students toward the importance of learning communication skills and the training courses and their role in contributing.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, 442 medical students from three different levels of medical training were enrolled. Students in the first 4 years of the medical program were classified as basic sciences and physiopathology students, those in the fifth and sixth years were classified as clerkship students, and those in the last three terms of medical training were classified as interns. The attitude among these three groups was assessed by the Communication Skills Attitude Scale (CSAS) questionnaire, and the contributing factors were determined.

Results

The mean total points for attitude in positive and negative aspects were 50.7 and 30.9, respectively showing a positive attitude toward communication skills among medical students. The median scores of the scales Important in Medical Content, Excuse, Learning, and Overconfidence varied significantly from highest to lowest, respectively. Gender, educational level, ethnic origin, language, family burden, paternal literacy, history of presence in communication skills courses, self-report from communication skills, and need to further learning in this era showed significant association with attitude (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

It may be concluded that generally, medical students have a positive attitude toward communication skills, and this perspective is a multi-factorial entity that programming according to the various related factors would help to attainment of additional communication capabilities among medical students.
Decoding the transcriptional heterogeneity, differentiation lineage, clinical significance in tissue-resident memory CD8 T cell of the small intestine by single-cell analysis
Authors: Fang Jialing , Lei Jun , He Boxiao , Wu Yankang , Chen Peng , Sun Zaiqiao , Wu Ning , Huang Yafei , Wei Pengcheng , Yin Lei , Chen Yongshun
Published: February 2024

Resident memory T (Trm) cells which are specifically located in non-lymphoid tissues showed distinct phenotypes and functions compared to circulating memory T cells and were vital for the initiation of robust immune response within tissues. However, the heterogeneity in the transcriptional features, development pathways, and cancer response of Trm cells in the small intestine was not demonstrated. Here, we integrated scRNA-seq and scTCR-seq data pan-tissue T cells to explore the heterogeneity of Trm cells and their development pathways. Trm were enriched in tissue-specific immune response and those in the DUO specially interacted with B cells via TNF and MHC-I signatures. T cell lineage analyses demonstrated that Trm might be derived from the T_CD4/CD8 subset within the same organ or migrated from spleen and mesenteric lymph nodes. We compared the immune repertoire of Trm among organs and implied that clonotypes in both DUO and ILE were less expanded and hydrophilic TRB CDR3s were enriched in the DUO. We further demonstrated that Trm in the intestine infiltrated the colorectal cancer and several effector molecules were highly expressed. Finally, the TCGA dataset of colorectal cancer implied that the infiltration of Trm from the DUO and the ILE was beneficial for overall survival and the response to immune checkpoint blockade.
The burden of disease in metachromatic leukodystrophy: results of a caregiver survey in the UK and Republic of Ireland
Authors: Thomas Sophie , Morrison Alexandra , Morton Georgina , Roberts Pat , Clark Vivienne , Imrie Jackie
Published: February 2024

Background

Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD) is a rare, autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disease characterised by the progressive loss of motor function and severe decline in cognitive function. Limited information is available on the burden MLD places on patients and their families and the medical and social support these patients need. Three UK-based MLD patient organisations commissioned an online survey, and follow-up semi-structured interviews to describe and quantify these burdens across MLD subtypes, stage of disease (including end of life) and treatment status (untreated, gene therapy or hematopoietic stem cell transplant [HSCT]).

Results

A total of 24 patients were included in the study: thirteen late infantile (LI), six early juvenile (EJ), two late juvenile (LJ) and three adult onset (AO). Six patients had received gene therapy and one had received an HSCT. MLD patients receiving no disease modifying treatment bore a high symptom burden: 94% were wheelchair dependent, 88% required tube feeding, 88% were incontinent, 82% had lost their speech and all the children were either unable to attend education or needed specialist provision. Patients were reliant on numerous medical interventions and assistive equipment. All early-onset patients (LI and EJ) were wheelchair dependent, and tube fed, with all EJ patients having lost all speech. The caregiving responsibilities of parents impacted their employment, finances, relationships and health. Patients treated with gene therapy or HSCT were more mobile and were able to eat normally and two thirds of the children were able to attend mainstream school.

Conclusions

The impact of illness that patients and their caregivers faced was extensive, and the level of care, amount of medication, number of hospital visits and educational support required were substantial. Financial constraints often brought about by inability to work also placed considerable strain on families. The study increases understanding of the burden of MLD on patients and their families, and the level of unmet need in the treatment of the disease.
Analysis of the first ten years of FDA’s rare pediatric disease priority review voucher program: designations, diseases, and drug development
Authors: Mease Catherine , Miller Kathleen L. , Fermaglich Lewis J. , Best Jeanine , Liu Gumei , Torjusen Erika
Published: February 2024

Background

The Rare Pediatric Disease (RPD) Priority Review Voucher (PRV) Program was enacted in 2012 to support the development of new products for children. Prior to requesting a voucher, applicants can request RPD designation, which confirms their product treats or prevents a rare disease in which the serious manifestations primarily affect children. This study describes the trends and characteristics of these designations. Details of RPD designations are not publicly disclosable; this research represents the first analysis of the RPD designation component of the program.

Results

We used an internal US Food and Drug Administration database to analyze all RPD designations between 2013 and 2022. Multiple characteristics were analyzed, including the diseases targeted by RPD designation, whether the product targeted a neonatal disease, product type (drug/biologic), and the level of evidence (preclinical/clinical) to support designation. There were 569 RPD designations during the study period. The top therapeutic areas were neurology (26%, n = 149), metabolism (23%, n = 131), oncology (18%, n = 105). The top diseases targeted by RPD designation were Duchenne muscular dystrophy, neuroblastoma, and sickle cell disease. Neonatology products represented 6% (n = 33), over half were for drug products and 38% were supported by clinical data.

Conclusions

The RPD PRV program was created to encourage development of new products for children. The results of this study establish that a wide range of diseases have seen development—from rare pediatric cancers to rare genetic disorders. Continued support of product development for children with rare diseases is needed to find treatments for all children with unmet needs.
Impact of emergency physician performed ultrasound in the evaluation of adult patients with acute abdominal pain: a prospective randomized bicentric trial
Authors: Brau François , Papin Mathilde , Batard Eric , Abet Emeric , Frampas Eric , Le Thuaut Aurélie , Montassier Emmanuel , Le Bastard Quentin , Le Conte Philippe
Published: February 2024

Background

Abdominal pain is common in patients visiting the emergency department (ED). The aim of this study was to assess the diagnostic contribution of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) in patients presenting to the ED with acute abdominal pain.

Methods

We designed an interventional randomized, controlled, open label, parallel-group, trial in two French EDs. We included adult patients presenting to the ED with acute abdominal pain. Exclusion criteria were a documented end-of-life, an immediate need of life-support therapy and pregnant or breast-feeding women. Patients were randomized in the experimental group (i.e., workup including POCUS) or control group (usual care). The primary objective of the study was to assess the added value of POCUS on diagnostic pathway in the ED, according to the diagnostic established a posteriori by an adjudication committee. The primary endpoint was the proportion of exact preliminary diagnosis between the 2 groups. The preliminary diagnosis made after clinical examination and biological results with POCUS (intervention arm) or without POCUS (usual care) was considered exact if it was similar to the adjudication committee diagnosis.

Results

Between June 2021 11th and June 2022 23th, 256 patients were randomized, but five were not included in the primary analysis, leaving 125 patients in the POCUS group and 126 patients in the usual care group (130 women and 121 men, median [Q1-Q3] age: 42 [30;57]). There was no difference for exact diagnosis between the two groups (POCUS 70/125, 56% versus control 78/126 (62%), RD 1.23 [95% CI 0.74–2.04]). There was no difference in the accuracy for the diagnosis of non-specific abdominal pain nor number of biological or radiological exams. Diagnostic delays and length of stay in the ED were also similar.

Conclusions

In this trial, systematic POCUS did not improve the rate of diagnostic accuracy in unselected patients presenting to the ED with acute abdominal pain. However, as it was a safe procedure, further research should focus on patients with suspected etiologies where POCUS is particularly useful.

Trial registration: This trial was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov on 2022/07/20 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04912206?id=NCT04912206&rank=1) (NCT04912206).
High dietary inflammatory index associates with inflammatory proteins in plasma
Authors: Mattavelli Elisa , Piperni Elisa , Asnicar Francesco , Redaelli Laura , Grigore Liliana , Pellegatta Fabio , Nabinejad Amir , Tamburini Sabrina , Segata Nicola , Catapano Alberico Luigi , Baragetti Andrea
Published: February 2024

Background and aim

Unhealthy dietary habits and highly caloric foods induce metabolic alterations and promote the development of the inflammatory consequences of obesity, insulin resistance, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Describing an inflammatory effect of diet is difficult to pursue, owing lacks of standardized quali-quantitative dietary assessments. The Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) has been proposed as an estimator of the pro- or anti-inflammatory effect of nutrients and higher DII values, which indicate an increased intake of nutrients with pro-inflammatory effects, relate to an increased risk of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases and we here assessed whether they reflect biologically relevant plasmatic variations of inflammatory proteins.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, seven days dietary records from 663 subjects in primary prevention for cardiovascular diseases were analyzed to derive the intake of nutrients, foods and to calculate DII. To associate DII with the Normalized Protein eXpression (NPX), an index of abundance, of a targeted panel of 368 inflammatory biomarkers (Olink™) measured in the plasma, we divided the population by the median value of DII (1.60 (0.83–2.30)).

Results

332 subjects with estimated DII over the median value reported a higher intake of saturated fats but lower intakes of poly-unsaturated fats, including omega-3 and omega-6 fats, versus subjects with estimated dietary DII below the median value (N = 331). The NPX of 61 proteins was increased in the plasma of subjects with DII > median vs. subjects with DII < median. By contrast, in the latter group, we underscored only 3 proteins with increased NPX. Only 23, out of these 64 proteins, accurately identified subjects with DII > median (Area Under the Curve = 0.601 (0.519–0.668), p = 0.035).

Conclusion

This large-scale proteomic study supports that higher DII reflects changes in the plasmatic abundance of inflammatory proteins. Larger studies are warranted to validate.
The chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyp patient journey in the United States and Europe
Authors: Hwee Jeremiah , Lee Lauren , Small Mark , Smith Steven G. , Benson Victoria S. , Zhang Shiyuan
Published: February 2024

In this letter to the editor, we present questionnaire-based data assessing the patient journey of adults with moderate–severe Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps (CRSwNP) in the USA and five European countries. These data highlight how long and difficult the patient journey with CRSwNP can be and how improved disease awareness among physicians could lead to more timely diagnosis and treatment, and hence improved management of patients.
Metastasis of cervical cancer indicated by elevation of serum CA125 produced by mediastinal lymph nodes: a case report
Authors: Honda Ken-ichi , Miyama Masato , Nishii Yuko , Tasaka Reiko , Nakano Yusuke , Umesaki Naohiko , Fukuda Takeshi , Ichimura Tomoyuki , Yasui Tomoyo , Sumi Toshiyuki
Published: February 2024

Background

In patient assessment for recurrence of neoplasia, a biomarker that shows an elevated serum value before the first treatment is a candidate for follow-up examination. The biomarker squamous cell carcinoma antigen is usually utilized for follow-up of squamous cell cancer of the cervix.

Case presentation

We herein report a 30-year-old Japanese woman of postoperative metastasis of cervical squamous cell cancer to the mediastinal and supraclavicular lymph nodes as indicated by an elevated serum cancer antigen 125 concentration and not by the squamous cell carcinoma antigen value. After chemoradiotherapy and chemotherapy, the serum cancer antigen 125 concentration decreased to a normal value. Squamous cell carcinoma antigen was found to be distributed in both the squamous cell cancer tissue of the cervix and the supraclavicular lymph node metastatic tissue. By contrast, cancer antigen 125 was distributed in the supraclavicular lymph node metastatic tissue but not in the original squamous cell cancer tissue of the cervix.

Conclusion

In this case, metastasis of cervical cancer to the mediastinal and supraclavicular lymph nodes was shown by the biomarker cancer antigen 125, which was not present in the original neoplasia.
Prediction of chemical reaction yields with large-scale multi-view pre-training
Authors: Shi Runhan , Yu Gufeng , Huo Xiaohong , Yang Yang
Published: February 2024

Developing machine learning models with high generalization capability for predicting chemical reaction yields is of significant interest and importance. The efficacy of such models depends heavily on the representation of chemical reactions, which has commonly been learned from SMILES or graphs of molecules using deep neural networks. However, the progression of chemical reactions is inherently determined by the molecular 3D geometric properties, which have been recently highlighted as crucial features in accurately predicting molecular properties and chemical reactions. Additionally, large-scale pre-training has been shown to be essential in enhancing the generalization capability of complex deep learning models. Based on these considerations, we propose the Reaction Multi-View Pre-training (ReaMVP) framework, which leverages self-supervised learning techniques and a two-stage pre-training strategy to predict chemical reaction yields. By incorporating multi-view learning with 3D geometric information, ReaMVP achieves state-of-the-art performance on two benchmark datasets. Notably, the experimental results indicate that ReaMVP has a significant advantage in predicting out-of-sample data, suggesting an enhanced generalization ability to predict new reactions. Scientific Contribution: This study presents the ReaMVP framework, which improves the generalization capability of machine learning models for predicting chemical reaction yields. By integrating sequential and geometric views and leveraging self-supervised learning techniques with a two-stage pre-training strategy, ReaMVP achieves state-of-the-art performance on benchmark datasets. The framework demonstrates superior predictive ability for out-of-sample data and enhances the prediction of new reactions.
Transcriptome-wide association studies associated with Crohn’s disease: challenges and perspectives
Authors: Jia Keyu , Shen Jun
Published: February 2024

Crohn’s disease (CD) is regarded as a lifelong progressive disease affecting all segments of the intestinal tract and multiple organs. Based on genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and gene expression data, transcriptome-wide association studies (TWAS) can help identify susceptibility genes associated with pathogenesis and disease behavior. In this review, we overview seven reported TWASs of CD, summarize their study designs, and discuss the key methods and steps used in TWAS, which affect the prioritization of susceptibility genes. This article summarized the screening of tissue-specific susceptibility genes for CD, and discussed the reported potential pathological mechanisms of overlapping susceptibility genes related to CD in a certain tissue type. We observed that ileal lipid-related metabolism and colonic extracellular vesicles may be involved in the pathogenesis of CD by performing GO pathway enrichment analysis for susceptibility genes. We further pointed the low reproducibility of TWAS associated with CD and discussed the reasons for these issues, strategies for solving them. In the future, more TWAS are needed to be designed into large-scale, unified cohorts, unified analysis pipelines, and fully classified databases of expression trait loci.
Automated visual quality assessment for virtual and augmented reality based digital twins
Authors: Roullier Ben , McQuade Frank , Anjum Ashiq , Bower Craig , Liu Lu
Published: February 2024

Virtual and augmented reality digital twins are becoming increasingly prevalent in a number of industries, though the production of digital-twin systems applications is still prohibitively expensive for many smaller organisations. A key step towards reducing the cost of digital twins lies in automating the production of 3D assets, however efforts are complicated by the lack of suitable automated methods for determining the visual quality of these assets. While visual quality assessment has been an active area of research for a number of years, few publications consider this process in the context of asset creation in digital twins. In this work, we introduce an automated decimation procedure using machine learning to assess the visual impact of decimation, a process commonly used in the production of 3D assets which has thus far been underrepresented in the visual assessment literature. Our model combines 108 geometric and perceptual metrics to determine if a 3D object has been unacceptably distorted during decimation. Our model is trained on almost 4, 000 distorted meshes, giving a significantly wider range of applicability than many models in the literature. Our results show a precision of over 97% against a set of test models, and performance tests show our model is capable of performing assessments within 2 minutes on models of up to 25, 000 polygons. Based on these results we believe our model presents both a significant advance in the field of visual quality assessment and an important step towards reducing the cost of virtual and augmented reality-based digital-twins.
Enhanced impacts of the North Pacific Victoria mode on the Indian summer monsoon onset in recent decades
Authors: Zhang Suqin , Qu Xia , Huang Gang
Published: February 2024

Victoria mode (VM), the second dominant mode of North Pacific sea surface temperature variability, has been identified as one of the important factors influencing the Indian summer monsoon (ISM) onset. The positive phase of the May VM delays the ISM onset by both tropical and extratropical pathways. Here, we found a significant interdecadal enhancement of their relationship since the early 1990s, which is mainly attributed to the structure changes and increased variance of the VM. In recent decades, the VM has shown more significant warm SST anomalies in the tropical central Pacific, which drive the large-scale divergent circulation more effectively. This enhanced divergent circulation leads to low-level divergence and reduced rainfall in the tropical Asian summer monsoon region. The reduced rainfall excites equatorial Rossby wave response and anomalous easterly winds in the northern Indian Ocean, delaying the ISM onset. Besides, the increased variance of the VM after 1992/1993 stimulates a stronger extratropical Rossby wave train. This stationary Rossby wave train induces a stronger cooling to the northwest of India, which weakens the land-sea thermal contrast and leads to the delayed ISM onset. This finding should be taken into account to improve short-term predictions of the monsoon onset.
Engaging adolescents in chronic disease prevention research: insights from researchers about establishing and facilitating a youth advisory group
Authors: Partridge Stephanie R. , Mandoh Mariam , Todd Allyson , Raeside Rebecca
Published: February 2024

Our comment discusses our experience establishing a youth advisory group focused on chronic disease prevention research. The comment highlights three key learnings: the need for researchers to adapt their working style, the importance of redefining the power dynamics, and disrupting traditional research structures to align with co-researcher engagement models.
Safety and efficacy of favipiravir in COVID-19 patients with pneumonia. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study (FAVID)
Authors: Horcajada Juan P. , Aldonza Rebeca , Real Mónica , Castañeda-Espinosa Silvia , Sendra Elena , Gomez-Junyent Joan , López-Montesinos Inmaculada , Gómez-Zorrilla Silvia , Briansó Silvia , Duran-Taberna Montserrat , Fernández Andrés , Tarragó Cristina , Auguet-Quintillá Teresa ,   the COVID-MAR Research group, Arenas-Miras Maria , Arrieta‐Aldea Itziar , Cañas-Ruano Esperanza , Güerri‐Fernandez Roberto , Knobel Hernando , Montero Maria Milagro , Pelegrín Ivan , Sánchez‐Martínez Francisca , Sorlí Luisa , Villar‐García Judith ,   the COVID-HJ23 group, Alibalic Ajla , Camaron Javier , Febrer Anna Maria , Bertran Laia , Barrientos Andrea
Published: February 2024

Purpose

To design a randomized clinical trial to assess the efficacy and safety of favipiravir in patients with COVID-19 disease with pneumonia.

Methods

A randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial of favipiravir in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia was conducted in three Spanish sites. Randomization 1:1 to favipiravir or placebo (in both groups added to the Standard of Care) was performed to treat the patients with COVID-19 pneumonia. The primary endpoint was “time to clinical improvement,” measured as an improvement for ≥ two categories on a 7-point WHO ordinal scale in an up to 28 days' time frame.

Results

Forty-four patients were randomized (23 in the favipiravir group and 21 in the placebo group). The median time to clinical improvement was not different between the favipiravir and the placebo arms (10 days for both groups) and none of the secondary endpoints showed significant differences between arms.

The proportion of adverse events (both serious and non-serious) was statistically different between the favipiravir group (68.29%) and the placebo group (31.7%) (p = 0.019), but there was insufficient statistical evidence to correlate the degree of severity of the events with the treatment group.

Conclusions

Favipiravir administered for ten days to patients with COVID-19 and pneumonia did not improve outcomes compared with placebo. Although this is an underpowered negative study, efficacy results align with other randomized trials. However, in the present study, the non-serious adverse events were more frequent in the favipiravir group.
System biology approach to delineate expressional difference in the blood mononuclear cells between healthy and Turner syndrome individuals
Authors: Farooqui Anam , Tamkeen Naaila , Tazyeen Safia , Ali Sher , Ishrat Romana
Published: February 2024

Background

Turner syndrome (TS) is a rare disorder associated either with complete or partial loss of one X chromosome in women. The information on the genotype–phenotype relationship in TS is inadequate. Comparing the healthy and Turner syndrome patients may help elucidate the mechanisms involved in TS pathophysiology. Gene expression differences between healthy and individuals with Turner syndrome were characterized using the systems-biology approach of weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) on 182 microarray peripheral mononuclear blood samples (PBMC).

Results

The coexpression networks of healthy and TS had scale-free topology that ensures network robustness. In the process, five modules were preserved between healthy and TS, which carry several genes common in each module. Two of them, SMCHD1 and PGK1, have already been reported to be involved in TS. Previously reported genes of TS, specifically, PTPN22, RPS4X, CSF2RA, and TIMP1, were missing in their respective modules. Dysfunction, differential expression, or absence of these genes could lead to a progressive disruption of molecular pathways leading to the pathophysiology of TS. Indeed, we observed a significant difference in the functions of these modules when compared within and across the healthy and TS samples. We identified four clusters in the PPI network constructed from the top 15 KME enriched in significant functions.

Conclusion

Overall, our work highlights the potential molecular functions, pathways, and molecular targets of TS that can be exploited therapeutically in the human healthcare system.
The use of extracorporeal blood purification therapies and sequential extracorporeal support in patients with septic shock (EROICASS): a study protocol for a national, non-interventional, observational multicenter, prospective study
Authors: De Rosa Silvia , Ferrari Fiorenza , Greco Massimiliano , Pota Vincenzo , Umbrello Michele , Cotoia Antonella , Pasin Laura , Nalesso Federico , Paternoster Gianluca , Villa Gianluca , Lassola Sergio , Miori Sara , Sanna Andrea , Cantaluppi Vicenzo , Marengo Marita , Valente Fabrizio , Fiorentino Marco , Brunori Giuliano , Bellani Giacomo , Giarratano Antonino
Published: February 2024

Background

Septic shock, a critical condition characterized by organ failure, presents a substantial mortality risk in intensive care units (ICUs), with the 28-day mortality rate possibly reaching 40%. Conventional management of septic shock typically involves the administration of antibiotics, supportive care for organ dysfunction, and, if necessary, surgical intervention to address the source of infection. In recent decades, extracorporeal blood purification therapies (EBPT) have emerged as potential interventions aimed at modulating the inflammatory response and restoring homeostasis in patients with sepsis. Likewise, sequential extracorporeal therapy in sepsis (SETS) interventions offer comprehensive organ support in the setting of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). The EROICASS study will assess and describe the utilization of EBPT in patients with septic shock. Additionally, we will evaluate the potential association between EBPT treatment utilization and 90-day mortality in septic shock cases in Italy.

Methods

The EROICASS study is a national, non-interventional, multicenter observational prospective cohort study. All consecutive patients with septic shock at participating centers will be prospectively enrolled, with data collection extending from intensive care unit (ICU) admission to hospital discharge. Variables including patient demographics, clinical parameters, EBPT/SETS utilization, and outcomes will be recorded using a web-based data capture system. Statistical analyses will encompass descriptive statistics, hypothesis testing, multivariable regression models, and survival analysis to elucidate the associations between EBPT/SETS utilization and patient outcomes.

Conclusions

The EROICASS study provides valuable insights into the utilization and outcomes of EBPT and SETS in septic shock management. Through analysis of usage patterns and clinical data, this study aims to guide treatment decisions and enhance patient care. The implications of these findings may impact clinical guidelines, potentially improving survival rates and patient outcomes in septic shock cases.
Experimental and theoretical analysis of finely bedded porous rock models with internal cracks
Authors: da Costa Marcus Danilo F. Borges , de Figueiredo José Jadsom S. , de Lima Celso Rafael , da Silva Daniel N. N. , Aum Pedro T. P.
Published: February 2024

The behavior of ultrasonic waves in synthetic rocks consisting of alternating layers of sand-based (porous and permeable) and acrylic (unporous) materials is investigated. Two synthetic layered media are created, one without cracks and the other with parallel cracks in one of the layers, to increase anisotropy and simulate a heterogeneous transversely isotropic medium with a vertical axis of symmetry. Microcomputed tomography is used to obtain images of the samples, which indicate that there are no bubbles present and that the layers are well connected without any gaps or breaks. The experiment uses ultrasonic measurements to determine the propagation of P and S waves, with transducers at frequencies of 100 kHz, 500 kHz, and 1 MHz for traveltime and waveform measurements. These three sources are chosen to verify the effective behavior of the samples, which depends on the relationship between the dominant wavelength of investigation and the layer thickness ([Formula: see text]). The measured velocities are compared with theoretical models based on Backus, Kennett (traditional models), and Backus (modified for cracked media by Schoenberg and Muir’s theory). The main finding is that the cracked medium exhibits at least twice as large a difference in behavior for P- and S-wave vertical velocities as a function of the number of layers compared with the uncracked medium.
Induced polarization of clay-rich materials — Part 3: Partially saturated mixtures of clay and pyrite
Authors: Revil André , Ghorbani Ahmad , Su Zhaoyang , Cai Hongzhu , Hu Xiangyun
Published: February 2024

Source rocks for oil and gas are often associated with shales that are rich in pyrite and kerogen. Induced polarization is a suitable tool to characterize these formations. We develop a new experimental database of 43 laboratory experiments using mixtures of clay and pyrite under fully or partially water-saturated conditions. The liquid water saturation is in the range of 20%–100%, whereas the pyrite content is in the range of 0%–17%. Spectral-induced polarization measurements are performed in the frequency range of 0.1 Hz to 45 kHz at room temperature (approximately 25°C ± 1°C). The complex conductivity spectra are fitted with a Cole-Cole model, and the Cole-Cole parameters are determined using a stochastic procedure based on a Markov chain Monte Carlo sampler. The Cole-Cole parameters associated with low-frequency dispersion are then plotted as a function of the (water) saturation and pyrite content (volume fractions). Four predictions of the model are tested against the experimental data. We find that the model is able to explain the results, including (1) the chargeability depends on the pyrite content in a predictable way, (2) the (instantaneous) conductivity depends on the saturation according to Archie’s law, (3) the Cole-Cole exponent does not depend on the saturation and pyrite content (except at very small pyrite content of <1 vol%), and (4) the relaxation time is inversely proportional to the instantaneous conductivity. We also develop a more advanced petrophysical model using a double Cole-Cole distribution, in which one distribution is associated with the clay minerals and the other is associated with the pyrite.
Practice Consolidation Among US Medical Oncologists, 2015-2022
Authors: Milligan Michael , Erfani Parsa , Orav E. John , Schleicher Stephen , Brooks Gabriel A. , Lam Miranda B.
Published: February 2024

PURPOSE

Health care consolidation has significantly affected cancer care delivery, with oncology practices undergoing substantial consolidation over the past two decades. This study investigates practice consolidation trends among medical oncologists (MOs), factors associated with consolidation, and changes in MO geographic distribution.

METHODS

Medicare data from 2015 to 2022 were used to assess MO practice consolidation in hospital referral regions (HRRs), linked with regional health care market data and physician demographics. The Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI) was used to measure consolidation, and the Gini coefficient was used to measure MO distribution across counties. Multivariable linear regression explored factors associated with MO practice consolidation.

RESULTS

Between 2015 and 2022, the number of MOs increased by 14.5% (11,727-13,433), whereas the number of MO practices decreased by 18.0% (2,774-2,276). The mean number of MOs per practice increased by 40% (4.26-5.95; P < .001). The percentage of MOs in small practices decreased, whereas larger practices saw an increase. MO consolidation, as indicated by the HHI, increased by 9% (median HHI, 0.3204-0.3480). HRRs with higher baseline hospital consolidation and more hospital beds per capita were more likely to have MO practice consolidation. Despite MO practice consolidation, the county-level distribution of MOs did not change substantially.

CONCLUSION

On the basis of Federal Trade Commission classifications, MO practices were highly concentrated in 2015 and consolidated even further by 2022. While distribution of MOs at the county level remained stable, further research is needed to assess the effects of rapid consolidation on cancer care cost, quality, and access. These data have important implications for policymakers and payers as they design programs that ensure high-quality, affordable cancer care.
Right anterior mini-thoracotomy aortic valve replacement versus transcatheter aortic valve implantation in octogenarians: a single-center retrospective study
Authors: Im Ji Eun , Jung Eun Yeung , Lee Seok Soo , Min Ho-Ki
Published: February 2024

Background: The aim of this study was to compare the early outcomes of octogenarians undergoing minimally invasive right anterior mini-thoracotomy aortic valve replacement (RAT-AVR) with those undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) for aortic valve disease.Methods: In this single-center retrospective study, data were collected from octogenarians before and after RAT-AVR and TAVI between January 2021 and July 2022. Short-term outcomes, including the length of hospital stay, in-hospital mortality, all-cause mortality, and other major postoperative complications, were compared and analyzed.Results: There were no significant differences in in-hospital mortality, stroke, acute kidney dysfunction requiring renal replacement therapy, length of intensive care unit stay, or length of hospital stay. However, the TAVI group had a higher incidence of permanent pacemaker insertion (10% vs. 0%, p=0.54) and paravalvular leaks (75% vs. 0%, p<0.001).Conclusion: In the present study on octogenarians, both TAVI and RAT-AVR showed comparable short-term results. Although both procedures were considered safe and effective in the selected group, RAT-AVR had a lower incidence of complete atrioventricular block and paravalvular regurgitation.
An Integrated Predictive Maintenance and Operations Scheduling Framework for Power Systems Under Failure Uncertainty
Authors: Okumuşoğlu Bahar Cennet , Basciftci Beste , Kocuk Burak
Published: February 2024

Maintenance planning plays a key role in power system operations under uncertainty as it helps providers and operators ensure a reliable and secure power grid. This paper studies a short-term condition-based integrated maintenance planning with operations scheduling problem while considering the possible unexpected failure of generators as well as transmission lines. We formulate this problem as a two-stage stochastic mixed-integer program with failure scenarios sampled from the sensor-driven remaining lifetime distributions of the individual system elements whereas a joint chance constraint consisting of Poisson Binomial random variables is introduced to account for failure risks. Because of its intractability, we develop a cutting-plane method to obtain an exact reformulation of the joint chance constraint by proposing a separation subroutine and deriving stronger cuts as part of this procedure. We also derive a second-order cone programming-based safe approximation of this constraint to solve large-scale instances. Furthermore, we propose a decomposition algorithm implemented in parallel fashion for solving the resulting stochastic program, which exploits the features of the integer L-shaped method and the special structure of the maintenance and operations scheduling problem to derive valid and stronger sets of optimality cuts. We further present preprocessing steps over transmission line flow constraints to identify redundancies. To illustrate the computational performance and efficiency of our algorithm compared with more conventional maintenance approaches, we design a computational study focusing on a weekly plan with daily maintenance and hourly operational decisions involving detailed unit commitment subproblems. Our computational results on various IEEE instances demonstrate the computational efficiency of the proposed approach with reliable and cost-effective maintenance and operational schedules.

History: Accepted by Andrea Lodi, Area Editor for Design & Analysis of Algorithms—Discrete.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/ijoc.2022.0154 .
Real-Time Derivative Pricing and Hedging with Consistent Metamodels
Authors: Jiang Guangxin , Hong L. Jeff , Shen Haihui
Published: February 2024

In derivative pricing and hedging, the consistency between the price and Greek surfaces (i.e., the Greek surfaces can be obtained by differentiating the price surface) is important in stabilizing the balance sheet and reducing the hedging cost. To build consistent surfaces of the price and Greeks for real-time decisions, we propose to use the gradient-enhanced stochastic kriging method, based on the data collected through extensive simulation experiments conducted when the market is closed. In addition to the naturally guaranteed consistency, we prove that the constructed price and Greek surfaces are more accurate than those constructed separately using stochastic kriging. Besides the consistency between the price and Greeks, we show that the partial differential equation relation between the price and Greeks, implied by the famous Feynman-Kac formula, can also be used to further improve the accuracy of the constructed surfaces. The numerical studies show that our proposed metamodeling methods work well for derivative pricing and hedging.

History: Accepted by Bruno Tuffin, Area Editor for Simulation.

Funding: This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China [Grants 72161160340, 72293562, 72121001, 72031006, and 72171060].

Supplemental Material: The software that supports the findings of this study is available within the paper and its Supplemental Information ( https://pubsonline.informs.org/doi/suppl/10.1287/ijoc.2023.0292 ) as well as from the IJOC GitHub software repository ( https://github.com/INFORMSJoC/2023.0292 ). The complete IJOC Software and Data Repository is available at https://informsjoc.github.io/ .
Paludicola turfosa (Batrachospermales, Rhodophyta), a new record from Sebangau National Park, Central Kalimantan, Indonesia
Authors: Adam Chaidir , Segah Hendrik , Kawamura Koji , Pitoyo Dhanu , Adiwijaya Saputra , Damanik Zafrullah , SUSTIYAH Sustiyah , Pidjath Chartina , Rafsanjani Muhammad Arief
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Adam C, Segah H, Kawamura K, Pitoyo D, Adiwijaya S, Damanik Z, Sustiyah, Pidjath C, Rafsanjani MA. 2023. Paludicola turfosa (Batrachospermales, Rhodophyta), a new record from Sebangau National Park, Central Kalimantan, Indonesia. Intl J Bonorowo Wetlands 13: 66-72. Paludicola is a genus of red algae that inhabits freshwater environments. Based on initial observations, this genus was found in peat waters associated with the Rasau plant (Pandanus helicopus Kurz ex Miq.) in the peat swamp forest, Sebangau National Park. Of the many studies related to biodiversity in Sebangau National Park, none have reported the presence and description of algae, including members of the freshwater red algae Paludicola. The current status of red algae diversity in Indonesia has mostly been reported from marine ecosystems with only two species of freshwater red algae known from Indonesia. In this study, we report the preliminary description of the freshwater red algae Paludicola turfosa (Bory) M.L.Vis & Necchi, previously known as Batrachospermum turfosum Bory de Saint-Vincent from the peat water of Sebangau River, Sebangau National Park, as a new record for Indonesia. The P. turfosa was mainly found attached to the leaves of Rasau (P. helicopus) forming hair-like tufts representing its filamentous appearance. The descriptions include the recently updated taxonomy, general ecological macroscopic characteristics, and microscopic appearance of this algae.
Analysis of ecotourism development as a mangrove conservation effort in Pasir Kadilangu and Jembatan Api-Api, Kulon Progo, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Authors: ASTIKASARI LUNA , INDRIYANI SISCA , MURYANTO BEBI SYLVIA , AL MADANI AHSAN RISFATHONI , MUHAMMAD FARHAN , PUTRI AISYAH , HARTANTI ANDINI NOVIANA , AFIFAH RATIH NUR , ZUAINI PUJI ASTUTI KISWANTARI , REZAPRATAMA MUHAMMAD SYAVY , NEGARI SNADA INDAH TUK , SUNARTO SUNARTO , KUSUSMANINGRUM LIA , KURNIAWATI INDAH , BUDIHARTA SUGENG , FLORES ANDRIE BON , SETYAWAN AHMAD DWI
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Astikasari L, Indriyani S, Muryanto BS, Al Madani AR, Muhammad F, Putri A, Hartanti AN, Afifah RN, Zuaini PAK, Rezapratama MS, Negari SIT, Sunarto, Kususmaningrum L, Kurniawati I, Budiharta S, Flores AB, Setyawan AD. 2023. Analysis of ecotourism development as a mangrove conservation effort in Pasir Kadilangu and Jembatan Api-Api, Kulon Progo, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Indo Pac J Ocean Life 7: 125-132. Mangrove forests play an important role as a protector of coastal areas from abrasion and tsunamis while providing economic benefits for the surrounding communities. One management option for mangrove forests is through the development of mangrove-based ecotourism that combines the conservation and sustainable utilization of mangrove ecosystems. This study aimed to analyze the mangrove conservation efforts and ecotourism development at Pasir Kadilangu and Jembatan Api-Api, around Bogowonto River, located in Jangkaran Village, Temon Sub-district, Kulon Progo District, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The study was conducted in November 2022. Primary data was collected through semi-structured observations and interviews using snowball sampling to 100 respondents consisting of 50 respondents at Pasir Kadilangu Beach and 50 respondents at the Jembatan Api-Api, while secondary data were collected through a literature review related to the research being carried out. The results show that efforts to protect and preserve mangrove forests include beach cleaning, greening, and improving the condition of the surrounding environment. The local community utilizes the mangrove forests by selling mangrove products and souvenirs, ticketing, parking, and tour guiding. Most of the community agrees to develop an ecotourism area at Pasir Kadilangu Beach and Jembatan Api-Api Mangrove to protect and preserve mangrove forests while utilizing ecotourism.
The application of the blue economy concept for traditional fisheries management in a conflict zone
Authors: BIDAYANI ENDANG , RENIATI RENIATI , PRIYAMBADA AGUNG
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Bidayani E, Reniati, Priyambada A. 2023. The application of the blue economy concept for traditional fisheries management in a conflict zone. Indo Pac J Ocean Life 7: 143-147. The blue economy refers to an environmentally friendly management concept to ensure the sustainability of fish resources, considered an effective method in minimizing conflicts of interest in coastal areas. This study focused on one of the conflict zones in the Province of the Bangka Belitung Islands, located on the coast of Kebintik Village and Batu Belubang Village, Pangkalan Baru Sub-district, Central Bangka Province, Indonesia. This study aims to: (i) Analyse the implementation of the blue economy principles and (ii) Analyse the traditional capture fisheries management in conflict zones for sustainable fish resources. The research was conducted from June to July 2022. The population in this study includes traditional fishermen who have operated for more than one year in coastal areas, as many as 30 people and 30 people affected by the community's conflict. The research method of this study was a survey, while the data collection was conducted using census techniques and focus group discussions, generating both primary and secondary data. Primary data collection was conducted using a questionnaire, observation, and documentation. Meanwhile, secondary data collection was conducted through a literature study. The data analysis method used in this study is the descriptive method. The conclusions of this study are: (i) Implementation of blue economy principles, including resource efficiency, zero waste, social care, production cycle systems, investment, innovation, and adaptation, ranging from 86% - 100% or high category; and (ii) Traditional capture-fisheries management in conflict zones for sustainable fish resources which is considered as a compromise.
Energy Assessment of Solar Power Plant On-Grid Bi-direction 3 KW 1 Phase
Authors: Joewono Andrew , Angka Peter R , Sitepu* Rasional , Yuliati Yuliati
Published: February 2024

The potential for generating electricity from solar energy as one of the renewable energies is suitable for rural areas, small populations, or communal systems. However, this type of power plant requires a high investment budget. Photovoltaic power systems must be designed to meet the demand for electrical energy but require a large supply. To build a more efficient system, it is necessary to build a communal system. For a small population, a 3000-watt power generation system is made. It will be distributed directly to users; a 5000-watt system is made for a larger area. It will be distributed directly to users and interconnected between generators with the principle of load control. In this study, a solar power plant (PLTS) was designed with an on-grid bidirectional system. Solar panels' conversion of electrical energy is channeled to users and stored in a battery backup system. This PLTS system produces a maximum power of 3000 watts by using 8 units of 450wp solar panels, an inverter with a 48-volt on or off-grid mode system, and 4 12V 200 Ah backup batteries. From the measurement results, the PLTS system will start converting DC current into AC with a radiation value of 356 to 1258 W/m2. Produce on-grid AC current energy, a maximum of 2297 watts, and charge backup batteries with DC current, a maximum of 14.3 A. This on-grid (bidirectional) backup PLTS system can convert DC current into AC, supply it directly to the network electricity (grid), and perform energy backups when solar energy is not energized.