bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancement of damaged-image prediction based on digital twin technology
Authors: Guo Jing , Qi Deyu
Published: December 2023

Digital twins have revolutionized the field of image enhancement by applying their unique capabilities. A digital twin refers to a virtual replica of a physical object or system, which can be utilized to simulate and analyze real-world scenarios. In image enhancement, digital twins map entities to images, identify damaged areas, and restore them to their original state. This process involves utilizing the digital twin method to understand the underlying structure and characteristics of the image. The damaged areas can be accurately modeled and repaired using techniques like the Cahn-Hilliard equation. Additionally, neural network models are leveraged to measure the effectiveness of the image restoration process. Compared with the first-order numerical scheme, the second-order method can improve the prediction accuracy by more than 40% in some cases. Through these advancements, digital twins have significantly enhanced images’ quality, clarity, and visual appeal, contributing to various photography, healthcare, and remote sensing applications.
Synergistic impact of autocrine motility factor and curcumin on colorectal cancer cell proliferation
Authors: Kim Seok Joong , Kim Yangji , Van Duong Thanh , Park Hee Sung
Published: December 2023

Colorectal cancer (CRC) presents a formidable challenge, characterized by a steadily increasing incidence. Current approaches to manage CRC, including chemotherapy and targeted therapies, are burdened with significant limitations such as resistance development, adverse events, and high costs. Hence, there is an urgent demand for a more promising alternative. Autocrine motility factor (AMF), known for its role in promoting cancer cell motility, exhibits a unique ability to selectively impede the growth of cancer cells. In our study, we have elucidated the specific inhibitory effect of AMF derived from DU145 prostate cancer cells (D-AMF) on the proliferation of CRC cells. D-AMF effectively downregulated the expression of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) at both the mRNA and protein levels, resulting in a concurrent increase in the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Notably, the combination of D-AMF and curcumin proved highly effective in eliminating curcumin-resistant CRC cells. Therefore, the use of D-AMF in conjunction with curcumin holds promise as an alternative treatment approach for CRC.
Phylogenetic diversity of functional genes in deep-sea cold seeps: a novel perspective on metagenomics
Authors: Wang Danrui , Li Jiangtao , Su Lei , Shen Wenli , Feng Kai , Peng Xi , Wang Zhujun , Zhao Bo , Zhang Zheng , Zhang Zhaojing , Yergeau Étienne , Deng Ye
Published: December 2023

Background

Leakages of cold, methane-rich fluids from subsurface reservoirs to the sea floor are termed cold seeps. Recent exploration of the deep sea has shed new light on the microbial communities in cold seeps. However, conventional metagenomic methods largely rely on reference databases and neglect the phylogeny of functional genes.

Results

In this study, we developed the REMIRGE program to retrieve the full-length functional genes from shotgun metagenomic reads and fully explored the phylogenetic diversity in cold seep sediments. The abundance and diversity of functional genes involved in the methane, sulfur, and nitrogen cycles differed in the non-seep site and five cold seep sites. In one Haima cold seep site, the divergence of functional groups was observed at the centimeter scale of sediment depths, with the surface layer potentially acting as a reservoir of microbial species and functions. Additionally, positive correlations were found between specific gene sequence clusters of relevant genes, indicating coupling occurred within specific functional groups.

Conclusion

REMIRGE revealed divergent phylogenetic diversity of functional groups and functional pathway preferences in a deep-sea cold seep at finer scales, which could not be detected by conventional methods. Our work highlights that phylogenetic information is conducive to more comprehensive functional profiles, and REMIRGE has the potential to uncover more new insights from shotgun metagenomic data.
Body image perception, eating disorder behavior, self-esteem and quality of life: a cross-sectional study among female medical students
Authors: Mallaram Ganesh Kumar , Sharma Pragya , Kattula Dheeraj , Singh Swarndeep , Pavuluru Poojitha
Published: December 2023

Background

Eating disorders are strongly associated with body image concerns. Eating disorders tend to significantly impact the current and future health and quality of life of affected persons, their caregivers, and society. As body image is based on a social construct of ideal body image, it is essential to evaluate it in its cultural context.

Methods

The current study explored the relationship among body image perception, perceived stress, eating disorder behaviour and quality of life among female medical students (n = 777). Measurements included Body Shape Questionnaire, Body Image Quality of Life Inventory, Eating Attitudes Test-26 and Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. Multivariate analysis was conducted.

Results

There was a significant correlation between eating disorder behaviour and perceived body shape, body image, quality of life and self-esteem among our study participants. We also found eating disorder status was significantly associated with BMI, perceived body shape, quality of life and self-esteem.

Conclusions

This is of clinical implication to female medical students and healthcare professionals to engage early in primary and secondary prevention of eating pathologies. Increasing awareness of these facts among female students can help identify at-risk students and help them seek timely medical help.
What is day hospital treatment for anorexia nervosa really like? A reflexive thematic analysis of feedback from young people
Authors: Gledhill Lucinda J. , MacInnes Danielle , Chan Sze Chi , Drewery Charlotte , Watson Charlotte , Baudinet Julian
Published: December 2023

Background

A significant proportion of young people do not respond to the NICE recommended treatment for anorexia nervosa: Family Therapy. Whilst historically these young people would be admitted to inpatient services, which are associated with greater treatment cost, greater risk of relapse, and worse outcome, more recently evidence is building for the effectiveness of day programmes. One day programme that has been found to be effective is the Intensive Treatment Programme (ITP) of the Maudsley Centre for Child & Adolescent Eating Disorders in London, UK. However, to-date no studies have investigated how young people experience such a day programme.

Method

Anonymous feedback was completed via online survey by 51 young people over a 5-year period (2018–2023) on discharge from ITP.

Results

Four main themes were identified: (1) Support—young people expressed the importance of boundaries but also of feeling validated, and encouraged; (2) Uniqueness: an experience like no other—ITP was described as different to any other treatment received before (both outpatient and inpatient); (3) Relationships – young people valued connecting with others in a similar situation and reflected that relationships at home changed throughout treatment; (4) Self-development – learning skills, developing independence, and exploring an identity outside of the eating disorder was valued.

Conclusions

It is hoped that the reflections from these young people can help to inform clinicians working in DPs and those hoping to set up novel DPs about key aspects of treatment.
Establishing the original order of the poems in Harward’s Almanac using paleography, codicology, X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, and statistical analysis
Authors: Biolcati Veronica , Woolley James , Lévêque Élodie , Rossi Andrea , Hoffmann Anna Grace , Visentin Andrea , Macháin Pádraig Ó , Iacopino Daniela
Published: December 2023

This work presents the results of a transdisciplinary analysis performed on Harward’s Almanac (Dublin, 1666), an extremely rare volume currently housed in the National Library of Ireland. The uniqueness and historical value of the Almanac is related to the presence of nineteen handwritten poems, entered by an anonymous scribe. These record textually important English clandestine satire circulating anonymously in Dublin in the late seventeenth and early eighteenth century. Following a comprehensive historical assessment, it appeared evident that the current order of leaves was incorrect. To reconstruct the correct order of the leaves, and hence the likely sequence in which the manuscript poems were inscribed, this study employed a codicological/paleographic analysis complemented by analytical (X-ray fluorescence, XRF) and statistical (Self Organizing Map, SOM) investigation. Specifically, point XRF analysis was carried out for each handwritten page of the Almanac, allowing identification of ink elemental compositions (iron-based ink) and successfully supporting the validity of historical hypotheses on the poems’ order of inscription. The statistical organization of XRF data by SOMs allowed easy bi-dimensional visualization of the data set (54 points) and identification of ink similarities, once more validating the historical assessment.
Pressure-support compared with pressure-controlled ventilation mitigates lung and brain injury in experimental acute ischemic stroke in rats
Authors: da Silva Adriana L. , Bessa Camila M. , Rocha Nazareth N. , Carvalho Eduardo B. , Magalhaes Raquel F. , Capelozzi Vera L. , Robba Chiara , Pelosi Paolo , Samary Cynthia S. , Rocco Patricia R. M. , Silva Pedro L.
Published: December 2023

Background

We aimed to evaluate the pulmonary and cerebral effects of low-tidal volume ventilation in pressure-support (PSV) and pressure-controlled (PCV) modes at two PEEP levels in acute ischemic stroke (AIS).

Methods

In this randomized experimental study, AIS was induced by thermocoagulation in 30 healthy male Wistar rats. After 24 h, AIS animals were randomly assigned to PSV or PCV with VT = 6 mL/kg and PEEP = 2 cmH2O (PSV-PEEP2 and PCV-PEEP2) or PEEP = 5 cmH2O (PSV-PEEP5 and PCV-PEEP5) for 2 h. Lung mechanics, arterial blood gases, and echocardiography were evaluated before and after the experiment. Lungs and brain tissue were removed for histologic and molecular biology analysis. The primary endpoint was diffuse alveolar damage (DAD) score; secondary endpoints included brain histology and brain and lung molecular biology markers.

Results

In lungs, DAD was lower with PSV-PEEP5 than PCV-PEEP5 (p < 0.001); interleukin (IL)-1β was lower with PSV-PEEP2 than PCV-PEEP2 (p = 0.016) and PSV-PEEP5 than PCV-PEEP5 (p = 0.046); zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) was lower in PCV-PEEP5 than PCV-PEEP2 (p = 0.042). In brain, necrosis, hemorrhage, neuropil edema, and CD45 + microglia were lower in PSV than PCV animals at PEEP = 2 cmH2O (p = 0.036, p = 0.025, p = 0.018, p = 0.011, respectively) and PEEP = 5 cmH2O (p = 0.003, p = 0.003, p = 0.007, p = 0.003, respectively); IL-1β was lower while ZO-1 was higher in PSV-PEEP2 than PCV-PEEP2 (p = 0.009, p = 0.007, respectively), suggesting blood–brain barrier integrity. Claudin-5 was higher in PSV-PEEP2 than PSV-PEEP5 (p = 0.036).

Conclusion

In experimental AIS, PSV compared with PCV reduced lung and brain injury. Lung ZO-1 reduced in PCV with PEEP = 2 versus PEEP = 5 cmH2O, while brain claudin-5 increased in PSV with PEEP = 2 versus PEEP = 5 cmH2O.
A systematic review of peer support interventions for student mental health and well-being in higher education
Authors: Pointon-Haas Julia , Waqar Luqmaan , Upsher Rebecca , Foster Juliet , Byrom Nicola , Oates Jennifer
Published: December 2023

Background

Higher education institutions (HEIs) are seeking effective ways to address the rising demand for student mental health services. Peer support is widely considered a viable option to increase service capacity; however, there are no agreed definitions of peer support, making it difficult to establish its impact on student mental health and well-being.

Aims

This systematic review aims to better understand and evaluate peer support in HEIs.

Method

Five databases, OpenGrey and Grey Matters were searched in May 2021. Included studies were quantitative, longitudinal (with and without a control) or cross-sectional with a control. The vote-counting method was used for synthesis. The risk of bias was assessed with the National Institutes of Health Quality Assessment Tool.

Results

Three types of peer support were represented in 28 papers: peer-led support groups, peer mentoring and peer learning. Peer learning and peer mentoring had more positive, significant results reported for the outcomes of anxiety and stress. Peer-led support groups were the only type targeting students with mental health difficulties.

Conclusions

The heterogeneity of measures and outcomes prevents firm conclusions on the effectiveness of peer support for mental health and well-being. Most studies were rated ‘poor’ or ‘fair’ in their risk of bias. There is not a solid evidence base for the effectiveness of peer support. Nonetheless, HEIs can use the terminology developed in this review for shared discussions that guide more robust research and evaluation of peer support as an intervention.
Repeated boat noise exposure damages inner ear sensory hair cells and decreases hearing sensitivity in Atlantic croaker (Micropogonias undulatus)
Authors: Badlowski Gina A. , Boyle Kelly S.
Published: December 2023

Anthropogenic noise is becoming a major underwater pollutant because of rapidly increasing boat traffic worldwide. But its impact on aquatic organisms remains largely unknown. Previous studies have focused mainly on high-frequency and impulsive noises (i.e. sonar); however, boat noise is more pervasive, continuous, and its highest intensity and component frequencies overlap the auditory bandwidth of most fishes. We assessed the impacts of boat noise on saccular sensory hair cell density and hearing thresholds of a soniferous species, Atlantic croaker (Micropogonias undulatus). In two laboratory experiments, individuals were subjected to simulated boat noise: a single 15-min exposure and 3 days of intermittent noise (simulating passing vessels). Immediately after both experiments, fish were either (1) tested for hearing sensitivity with auditory evoked potential (AEP) tests or (2) euthanized for fluorescent phalloidin and TUNEL labeling for hair cell density counts. Relative to controls, no differences were observed in auditory thresholds nor hair cell density between individuals subjected to a single 15-min noise exposure. However, fish from the 3-day experiment showed decreased sensory hair cell density, increased apoptotic cells, and higher hearing thresholds than control fish at 300, 800 and 1000 Hz. Our results demonstrate that impacts from boat noise depend upon the duration and frequency of exposure. For a species reliant on vocalization for communication, these impacts may hinder spawning success, increase predation risks and significantly alter the ecosystem.
Expression of Fascin and SALL4 in odontogenic cysts and tumors: an immunohistochemical appraisal.
Authors: Kulkarni Spoorti , Alampally Harishanker , Guddattu Vasudev , Rodrigues Gabriel , Carnelio Sunitha
Published: December 2023

Background Various stemness markers (SOX2, OCT4, and NANOG) have been studied in odontogenic cysts and tumors. However, studies on SALL4 having similar properties of stemness has not been documented. Additionally, insight into fascin as a migratory molecule is less explored. In this study, the expression of SALL4 and fascin were evaluated in ameloblastoma, adenomatoid odontogenic tumor (AOT), odontogenic keratocyst (OKC), dentigerous cyst (DC), radicular cyst (RC), and calcifying odontogenic cyst (COC). Methods Semi-quantitative analysis of fascin and SALL4 immuno-positive cells was done in a total of 40 cases of ameloblastoma (11 plexiform, 12 follicular, 12 unicystic, and 5 desmoplastic) variants, 6 cases of AOT, 15 each of OKC, DC, RC and 5 of COC. Chi-square test was applied to evaluate the association between SALL4 and fascin expression in odontogenic cysts and tumors. Results Fascin immunopositivity was observed in peripheral ameloblast-like cells, and weak or absent in stellate reticulum-like cells. A moderate to weak immune-reactivity to SALL4 was observed in the cytoplasm of ameloblastoma, epithelial cells of dentigerous and radicular cysts, having a marked inflammatory infiltrate, which is an interesting observation. COC and AOT had negative to weak expressions. No recurrence has been reported. Conclusions Expression of fascin in ameloblastomas elucidate their role in motility and localized invasion. Its expression in less aggressive lesions like DC, COC, AOT will incite to explore the other functional properties of fascin. SALL4 expression in the cytoplasm of odontogenic cysts and tumors may represent inactive or mutant forms which requires further validation.
Assessing the impact of frequent mammography after breast cancer treatment from a single-institution retrospective analysis
Authors: Spector Kellie , LeVee Alexis , Karlan Scott , Amersi Farin , Gower Arjan , McArthur Heather
Published: December 2023

Background Despite prior attempts to establish guidelines, many radiologists still recommend frequent (every six month) mammography after breast conserving surgery. Ideally this recommendation would be based on the incremental value (recurrences detected earlier) of non-annual screening, compared to the associated harm (from false positive results leading to patient distress, unnecessary biopsies/procedures and costs). The aim of this study was to analyze the outcomes of performing biannual mammograms at our institution in order to determine if this may provide any additional benefit to annual mammograms. Methods A retrospective analysis of 359 female patients with stage 0-III breast cancer who underwent breast-conservation surgery was performed. Data were obtained on breast cancer characteristics, imaging, pathology, and recurrence rates. Descriptive analyses were subsequently performed. Results A total of 569 6-month and 18-month mammograms were completed after breast-conservation therapy. This led to 22 biopsies, only one of which detected a recurrence (in a high-risk patient who was unable to complete recommended treatment). Conclusions The data suggest that annual surveillance mammography following breast conserving therapy (BCT) is likely sufficient for detection of recurrences, with increased screening leading to increased harm without benefit. More frequent screening should be limited to select high-risk patients.
Case Report: Tolosa-Hunt syndrome, a neuroinflammatory origin of painful ophthalmoplegia
Authors: Abdelrahman Amro , Elgassim Moayad , Abdalkarim Asmaa , Babiker Anas Mohamed , Abdeen Muhnad , Abass Shahd M. , Babiker Isra , Algaly Gufran , Fadul Khalid Y. , Ahmed Sara M.I. , Bagi Fajr Jamal A. , Abugabala Muhammad , Saied Amin , Elgassim Mohamed
Published: December 2023

Background Tolosa-Hunt syndrome is a rare neuroinflammatory disease that affects the cavernous sinus and superior orbital fissure, resulting in symptoms of neuropathy. Case presentation We report a case of a 35-year-old male patient with no past medical history who presented to the emergency department (ED) complaining of a four-day history of progressively increasing headaches associated with right eye pain and double vision. A physical examination showed findings suggestive of abducens nerve palsy. A computed tomography (CT) scan showed subtle asymmetric thickening of the right cavernous sinus, which prompted further investigation by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. The MRI scan showed intensely enhanced soft tissue thickening in the right cavernous sinus region, slightly extending to the right orbital apex, which caused enlargement of the cavernous sinus and appeared isointense to the adjacent muscles on T1 and T2. The diagnosis of Tolosa-Hunt syndrome was made after the exclusion of all other possible pathologies. The patient received prednisolone therapy; his symptoms improved, and he was discharged after three days. Two weeks later, the patient presented again to the ED with the same symptoms and was treated symptomatically. Conclusions This case highlights a very rare etiology for painful ophthalmoplegia, which is Tolosa-Hunt syndrome. Thickening of the cavernous sinus on MRI images with a background history of painful ophthalmoplegia and headache should raise clinician’s suspicion towards the disease. In addition, exclusion of other possible causes is very important, as Tolosa-Hunt syndrome is a diagnosis of exclusion.
Critical care services in Bagmati province of Nepal: A cross sectional survey
Authors: Aryal Diptesh , Luitel Subekshya , Paudel Sushila , Shakya Roshni , Pandey Janaki , Amatya Isha , Acharya Prashant , Pant Suman , Paneru Hem Raj , Beane Abi , Haniffa Rashan , Gyanwali Pradip
Published: December 2023

Background This study aimed to assess the current status of critical care services in 13 districts of Bagmati Province in Nepal, with a focus on access, infrastructure, human resources, and intensive care unit (ICU) services. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among healthcare workers employed in 87 mixed medical/surgical ICUs across Bagmati Province. Data were collected through structured questionnaires administered via face-to-face and telephone interviews. Descriptive analysis was used for data analysis, involving frequencies and percentages. Results A total of 123 ICUs were identified in the province, providing 1167 beds and 615 functioning ventilators. The average ICU bed availability per 100,000 population was 19, ranging from 3.6 in Makwanpur to 33.9 in Kathmandu. Out of 13 districts, 95% of beds were concentrated in just four districts, while six had no ICU facilities. Of the available facilities, 69.9% were owned by private entities. One-to-one nurse-to-ventilated bed ratio was maintained by 63.4% of ICUs during daytime, and 62.6% at nighttime. Furthermore, 74.8% of ICUs had consultants trained in critical care medicine. While essential equipment availability was higher in Bagmati province, gaps existed in the availability of oxygen plants and isolation rooms. Similarly, many ICUs offered continuous medical education and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training, but improvements were necessary in clinical audits, antibiotic stewardship programs, and research engagement. Conclusions Disparities in critical care resources were evident across districts in Bagmati Province, highlighting the need for a balanced and decentralized approach to ensure equitable access to care. Although there were disparities, numerous ICUs were effectively carrying out multiple critical care procedures. This study suggests conducting a nationwide mapping of ICU resources, prioritizing infrastructure development, optimizing resource allocation, and establishing national protocols.
HYBRID PROBABILISTIC DEEP LEARNING FOR DAMAGE IDENTIFICATION
Authors: ZHANG YANG , WANG YOU-WU , NI YI-QING
Published: December 2023

In structural health monitoring, various types of sensors collect a large amount of data for structural defect detection. These data provide critical support for the application of machine learning for structural damage identification. However, machine learning relies heavily on training data, whose quality and distribution can affect the effectiveness of detection models in real-world damage identification. In addition, machine learning contains a large number of parameters that are highly uncertain, which results in the output of machine learning models is not always as reliable. These deterministic deep networks usually make overconfident decisions in some data. The ability of deep learning to provide safe and reliable decisions is very important when applied in the field of engineering. In order to ensure the decision security of machine learning models, this paper proposes a hybrid probabilistic deep network for structural damage identification. The proposed method converts deterministic weights into a Gaussian distribution, which in turn quantifies the uncertainty in machine learning. Among them, variational inference is used for uncertainty modeling of probabilistic deep networks. These uncertainty metrics can be used to determine whether the output of the machine learning model is reliable. Nevertheless, the introduction of uncertainty weakens the learning ability of deep networks. Meanwhile, the number of parameters in the probabilistic layer is twice that of the deterministic layer for the same architecture. Therefore, probabilistic deep learning is more difficult to train compared to deterministic deep learning. To address these issues, deep learning with hybrid probabilistic and non-probabilistic layers needs to be investigated. This paper analyzed and discussed the effects of different numbers of probability layers on the effectiveness of structural damage identification. Finally, a series of experimental results showed that the proposed method is able to accurately identify structural damage while quantifying the decision uncertainty.
MULTI-SCALE MT-INSAR TECHNIQUES FOR STRUCTURAL HEALTH MONITORING: APPLICATIONS TO THE ITALIAN CULTURAL HERITAGE CONTEXT
Authors: CAPRINO AMEDEO , BONALDO GIANMARCO , LORENZONI FILIPPO , PORTO FRANCESCA DA
Published: December 2023

In recent years, the number of applications of Multi-Temporal Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (MT-InSAR) techniques for structural health monitoring (SHM) purposes has constantly raised. One of the main advantages that MT-InSAR can provide is the possibility to analyze wide areas, such as entire cities or archaeological sites. Thus, several interferometric algorithms have proven to be particularly valid when applied in urban contexts, considering the high reflectivity provided by the structures. In addition, the growing availability of high-resolution SAR satellite constellations, such as the Italian COSMO-SkyMed and the German TerraSAR-X, allows obtaining significantly accurate measures and detecting high density of Measurement Points (MP). Consequently, sufficiently detailed information on single structures can be recorded, permitting to perform both urban scale and local scale analyses. On the other hand, several drawbacks are still present, mostly related to the hardly post-processing processes needed. Indeed, beside the technical difficulties that can be encountered during the analysis (e.g. geocoding errors and noisiness in the time series), an expert interpretation of the results is still required to avoid misinterpretation of data. Anyway, considering both advantages and disadvantages of the technique, MT-InSAR undoubtedly represents a very cost-effective tool in the structural monitoring field. In this paper, MT-InSAR applications for structural monitoring on the Italian Cultural Heritage context are presented. The analyses have been conducted at both urban and local scale, processing images acquired by COSMO-SkyMed constellation in Stripmap mode (~3 meters resolution). First, spatial interpolation algorithms have been implemented to estimate the overall deformations at urban scale. Subsequently, the attention has focused on some of the main cultural assets of the case-study cities, investigating the MPs detected on the structures themselves. In this work, three cities are presented as case-studies: Verona, Padova (North Italy), and L’Aquila (central Italy). For each city, a specific Cultural Heritage structure has been selected for the local scale analysis, namely the Roman Arena in Verona, the Scrovegni Chapel in Padova, and the Civic Tower in L’Aquila. All these monuments have been monitored by traditional SHM techniques for years, with the possibility to correlate and validate onsite and satellite data.
SATELLITE MONITORING OF TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE
Authors: OZKAN ISTEMI F. , CUSSON DANIEL , SHAIKH SHAHROZ W.
Published: December 2023

Harsh weather conditions caused by climate change and increased traffic loads can accelerate the aging process of core public infrastructure. Conventional condition assessment methods primarily rely on visual inspections conducted years apart, making it difficult to detect subtle, ongoing changes in performance resulting from structural deterioration. Consequently, engineers may be unable to initiate early countermeasures to prevent service disruption or structural failure. In response, public infrastructure owners are actively seeking innovative solutions that can help maintain high levels of user safety, reduce service disruption, extend the service life of infrastructure, and lower overall life-cycle costs. To this end, the National Research Council Canada, Transport Canada, and Infrastructure Canada have collaborated for several years to adapt, further develop and validate space-based earth observation technology for monitoring key public infrastructure, including bridges and, more recently, marine ports and airports. Case studies on runways of the Vancouver International Airport and wharves of the Vancouver Fraser Port have been conducted to validate remote satellite observations with in-situ surveying subsidence measurements. Satellite image interferometry allows the mapping of displacement by determining the signal phase change within pairs of co-registered pixels from two radar images of the same target taken at different times. The result is a line-of-sight (LOS) displacement measurement that can be used to remotely assess uplift, subsidence, and horizontal motion taking place over time. Since it is a 1D measurement taken at an angle from the zenith, the vertical and horizontal components are unknown a priory. Thus, attempting to validate satellite LOS measurements with in-situ surveying vertical measurements can be challenging since one has to make valid assumptions about the horizontal movements of the ground targets being measured – in our case, the riding surface of the airport runways or the port wharves. This paper compares satellitemeasured displacements and field survey measurements at selected locations and discusses challenges associated with the interpretation of satellite measurements.
ROUND-TRIP TRANSLATION AS A WRITING TOOL FOR ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE
Authors: Zamorano-Mansilla Juan Rafael
Published: December 2023

The potential of the technique known as round-trip translation to detect errors in language use has been exploited in the design of programs for automatic error detection (Hermet & Désilets, 2009; Madnani et al., 2012), but to my knowledge, no study has explored the potential of translators as a tool that learners themselves can use to correct their writing in a second language. Consequently, there is no information as to how many of the transformations introduced by round-trip translation are useful for learners, how many simply rephrase the original text, or how many actually make it worse. Hermet and Désilets (2009) report a “repair rate” of 66.4% working with prepositions in French, while Madnani et al. (2012) report 36% successful changes, 33% paraphrasing and 31% changes for the worse in 200 sentences in English. The present study found a significant improvement in the number of corrections in texts written in English by Spanish students (97%) at the cost of generating an excessive number of false positives (34%). The most reliable transformations are those affecting spelling or word morphology, which correct errors in 88.33% and 78.57% of cases, respectively. These results show the progress made in machine translation and the reliability of the round-trip translation technique for correcting errors and inform which transformations are most useful.
Desafiando a los frailes evangelizadores. El arzobispo de México, Montufar, y la creación de parroquias (1551-1572)
Authors: Aguirre Salvador Rodolfo
Published: December 2023

Este trabajo estudia las primeras parroquias seculares de indios en el arzobispado de México, en la era del gobierno de fray Alonso de Montúfar, caracterizado por un enfrentamiento con los frailes por la supremacía de la Iglesia. También se analizan esas parroquias de miles de indios: sin una organización interna eficaz ni ministros suficientes, pero con el objetivo de frenar el poder de los frailes en el centro de Nueva España.
Along the River, towards God: raṅga Shrines along Rivers
Authors: Czerniak-Drożdżowicz Marzenna
Published: December 2023

The article addresses a specific religious phenomenon found in the region of South India and connected to a group of Vaiṣṇava temples hosting the Raṅganātha form of Viṣṇu. The temples in question are located along the rivers, in this case, Kāverī and Pallar. Waters, especially rivers, perceived not only as a means of ensuring vegetation but also as endowed with certain divine attributes and often personified as goddesses, have in addition a place-connecting aspect. Keeping this in mind, the present enquiry takes as the starting point the Raṅganātha temple in Śrīraṅgam on the Kāverī-Kolliṭam river and revisits the concept of the holy sites of Viṣṇu, called raṅgas, situated along the banks of the rivers Kāverī and Pallar, and on their islands. The study, using, among others, some māhātmyas from the region, is the very first, largely preliminary attempt to broach this topic.
Medicine within a Cultural Ecosystem
Authors: Kędzia-Warych Ilona
Published: December 2023

The paper examines the concept of Tamil siddha literature as an integrating force for the local cultural ecosystem. The research is based on texts ascribed to two prominent authors of Tamil siddha tradition, namely Siddhar Yākōpu and Siddhar Pōkar (ca. 17th cent.). The first part of the paper looks at representations of nature in the Siddhars‘ texts, and demonstrates that the authors attribute certain extraordinary powers and divinity to nature. This further suggests that such views on nature allow the Siddhars to interconnect different realms typically viewed as separate in the contemporary secular perspective where liberatory practices are positioned apart from domains like nature and medicine. Attempts to integrate various fields of siddha lore are evident in the Siddhars‘ texts, for instance, in Vaittiya Kallāṭam, which is analyzed in the second section of the paper. To this end, among others, the perspective of material ecocriticism is applied to examine the images of natural material substances in Tamil siddha texts.
Renal pelvic haemorrhage complicating emphysematous pyelonephritis
Authors: Komagamine Junpei , Kano Yasuhiro
Published: December 2023

Subepithelial haemorrhage of the renal pelvis is a rare cause of haematuria and can be diagnosed based on radiographic findings. This haemorrhage often appears as a non-enhancing hyperdense mass in the renal pelvis on computed tomography, which sometimes results in unnecessary nephrectomy because it can mimic renal neoplasms. It can be managed conservatively, and its prognosis is generally benign. We report a case of renal pelvic haemorrhage complicating emphysematous pyelonephritis that needed emergent nephrectomy. Our case highlights the importance of careful observation for complications of urinary tract infection, although complications are rare.
Entre a Fome-tabu e o Trauma Intencional: Implicações Políticas e Metapsicológicas da Fome
Authors: Basso Samanta , Martins Karla , Rabêlo Fabiano
Published: December 2023

A partir do reconhecimento de uma situação original de desamparo e dependência do outro a qual a criança está estruturalmente submetida, pontua-se que o apaziguamento da fome - considerado uma necessidade fundamental - culmina na consolidação da alteridade como lugar de referência e endereçamento, na erogeneização do corpo próprio, na constituição do Eu e na potencialização do devir do desejo. Logo, a fome e o fracasso do apelo ao outro são experiências potencialmente traumáticas, que produzem vulnerabilidades sociais e psíquicas graves e duradouras. Entende-se que as frustrações das expectativas de saciedade da fome, sobretudo na infância, produzem uma espécie de dor moral, correlata à fragilização da confiança no outro. Com Josué de Castro, reforça-se o aspecto político inarredável da fome, que se amalgama a suas implicações psíquicas e físicas. Com o médico e escritor pernambucano, sublinha-se a existência de uma intenção histórica do Estado brasileiro de ignorar, desmentir e até mesmo provocar a fome. É lembrado que, como um arguto leitor de Freud, o autor faz uso da teoria pulsional psicanalítica como operador conceitual para pensar a fome. Na esteira da contribuição de Castro, Ferenczi é trazido à baila a fim de fundamentar o caráter intencional e político do trauma da fome.
“Rússia de mil anos”: espectros da “Grande Guerra Patriótica” nos discursos presidenciais de Vladimir Putin para o Dia da Vitória (2014-2022)
Authors: Geller Jr. Lúcio
Published: December 2023

A Segunda Guerra Mundial é ainda hoje um objeto de disputas. Na Rússia, ela até possui outra denominação: “Grande Guerra Patriótica”. Assim que começou a guerra na Ucrânia em 2022, o período do entre guerras na União Soviética também foi evocado em comparações, justificativas e polêmicas entre os envolvidos. Não raro, Vladimir Putin foi associado a líderes do século XX que vão da esquerda até a extrema direita, dificultando as possibilidades de compreendê-lo. Por isso, o objetivo deste artigo é investigar como os espectros – conforme Ethan Kleinberg – da “Grande Guerra Patriótica” são construídos nos discursos oficiais de Putin. Para tanto, foram analisados 23 discursos proferidos nas celebrações do Dia da Vitória (9 de maio) entre o início das tensões com a Ucrânia, em 2014, e a eclosão da guerra, em 2022.
O projeto de transição brasileiro: operação democracia autoritária
Authors: Brandão Silvia
Published: December 2023

O artigo versa sobre o modelo de transição implementado pelo Estado brasileiro e sua relação com os contornos e os modos de operar da democracia. Com foco nos efeitos de dominação, argumentamos que a perpetuação da autoanistia possibilita a continuidade e a atualização de mecanismos de modelação das condutas. Na análise a impunidade emerge como dispositivo de gestão da memória, das subjetividades e da política. No processo, sem desconsiderarmos as diferenças entre ditadura e democracia, assim como as lutas dos movimentos sociais por memória e justiça, observamos que o Estado ditatorial e as elites políticas parceiras foram hábeis na implementação de seu projeto de transição. Tiveram sucesso em nos impor pelo alto e sem rupturas profundas um modelo de democracia do tipo autoritário.
Uncovering English Learning Self-Efficacy: Evidence From the Chinese Senior High School Students
Authors: Zheng Wenjing , Liu Honggang
Published: December 2023

Understanding the level of English learning self-efficacy (ELS) and its influencing factors is significant for cultivating students’ self-confidence, enhancing their initiative, and stimulating their interest in English learning. Therefore, this study focused on levels of ELS levels and influencing factors among Chinese senior high school students. A mixed-method study was conducted using self-efficacy theory: a survey was administered to 325 high school students, and semi-structured interviews were carried out with nine students. Using the General Self-efficacy Scale (Schwarzer & Jerusalem, 1995), this paper explored the basic situation of senior high school students’ ELS. It aimed to answer the following questions: 1) What is the level of Chinese senior high school students’ ELS? and 2) What are the influencing factors related to Chinese senior high school students’ ELS? The data analysis led to the following conclusions: 1) Chinese senior high school students showed a medium ELS level; and 2) the differences between the ideal and real selves, learning experiences, academic emotions, and learning strategies influence students’ ELS.
An Empirical Study on English Learning Motivation among Chinese Senior High School Students
Authors: Wang Huayang , Liu Honggang
Published: December 2023

Motivation research in foreign language learning is booming, and self-determination theory (SDT) has attracted wide attention. This study used mixed methods with 410 Chinese senior high school students as participants. The study aimed to answer the following three main questions: (1) What are the levels of Chinese senior high school students’ English learning motivation (ELM)? (2) Do the students’ ELM levels differ by gender? (3) What are the influencing factors of the students’ ELM? The following conclusions were drawn from the data analysis. First, the participants had a median level of ELM. Second, their ELM was more inclined towards self-determination. Third, girls’ levels of intrinsic regulation and identified regulation were significantly higher than those of boys. Fourth, anxiety and negative peer influence were two factors that contributed to a decline the students’ ELM. Cooperative learning and teacher support could improve students’ intrinsic learning motivation. The satisfaction of these three basic psychological needs promoted the internalization of external motivation. Based on the above findings, we offer the three following insights: it is crucial to maintain students’ autonomous ELM level; it is imperative to create a relaxed and positive classroom atmosphere; and teachers should try to meet students’ basic psychological needs.
Research progress on preparation of lateral femoral tunnel and graft fixation in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction
Authors: Dai Yue , Gao Wen-Jie , Li Wen-Chuan , Xiang Xian-Xiang , Wang Wei-Ming
Published: December 2023

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is one of the most common types of sports injuries. People’s need to participate in sports and desire for a high quality of life promotes the continuous development of ACL reconstruction technology. Arthroscopic ACL reconstruction has been recognized as an effective method for the treatment of ACL injuries. This review analyses and summarizes the advantages and limitations of each surgical procedure for arthroscopic ACL reconstruction reported in the relevant literature so as to promote the future development of more relevant techniques.
Accessory navicular in children
Authors: Xiang Feng , Liu Zhi-Qing , Zhang Xi-Ping , Li Yan-Jun , Wen Jie
Published: December 2023

Accessory navicular (AN) is a developmental variation of the secondary ossification center of the navicular tuberosity. Ten percent of patients with AN will have pain symptoms that affect walking and life. As the AN changes the position of the posterior tibial tendon insertion, children with AN often have posterior tibial tendon function insufficiency and flexible flat foot. Surgical treatment is often required after failure of conservative treatment. This article reviewed the etiology, clinical manifestations, complications, and treatment methods of AN.
Importance of well-designed meta-analyses in assessing medical and surgical treatments
Authors: Au Sunny Chi Lik
Published: December 2023

When evaluating the efficacy of medical or surgical treatments, the most robust study design is often considered to be the high-quality randomized clinical trial (RCT). However, the true answer lies in the meta-analysis of high-quality RCTs. While RCTs have their merits, meta-analyses possess two crucial qualities that make them superior: generalizability and the ability to verify replicability across different trials. A well-designed meta-analysis, defined here as a systematic review that pools data, holds significant advantages over individual RCTs. Retrospective and observational surgical research is prone to biases that are not mutually offsetting; instead, they accumulate. Selection bias, transfer bias, and assessment bias all taint retrospective studies more than randomized trials, making the novel treatment appear more effective than it truly is. Pooling studies suffering from these limitations in a meta-analysis amplifies these biases, causing an overestimation of treatment benefits. This becomes particularly concerning when the treatment itself carries substantial risks, as is often the case in surgical journals. The consequences can result in harm or even death for patients. While a well-designed meta-analysis is the best tool for assessing medical and surgical treatments, a weak meta-analysis amplifies biases and promotes flawed data. Thoughtful readers must become proficient in honing their methodological toolkits, delving deeper into topics like heterogeneity and publication bias. It is essential to avoid wasting time on meta-analyses drawing data from retrospective or observational research regarding surgical treatments.
Comprehensive analysis of sodium polystyrene sulfonate-induced colitis: A systematic review
Authors: Aver Gabriel Peixoto , Ribeiro Guilherme Ferreira , Ballotin Vinícius Remus , Santos Francisco Souza dos , Bigarella Lucas Goldmann , Riva Floriano , Brambilla Eduardo , Soldera Jonathan
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

Sodium polystyrene sulfonate (SPS) is commonly prescribed for the management of hyperkalemia, a critical electrolyte imbalance contributing to over 800000 annual visits to emergency departments.

AIM

To conduct a systematic review of documented cases of SPS-induced colitis and assess its associated prognosis.

METHODS

Following the PRISMA-P guidelines, our study employed Medical Subject Headings and Health Sciences Descriptors, skillfully combined using Boolean operators, to conduct comprehensive searches across various electronic databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, MEDLINE (PubMed), BIREME (Biblioteca Regional de Medicina), LILACS (Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature), SciELO (Scientific Electronic Library Online), Embase, and Opengray.eu. Language criteria were confined to English, Spanish, and Portuguese, with no limitations on the publication date. Additionally, we manually scrutinized the reference lists of retrieved studies. To present our findings, we utilized simple descriptive analysis.

RESULTS

Our search strategy yielded a total of 442 references. After rigorous evaluation, we included 51 references, encompassing 59 documented cases of colitis. Predominant clinical presentations included abdominal pain, observed in 35 (60.3%) cases, and bloating, reported in 18 (31%) cases. The most frequently affected sites of inflammation were the cecum, rectum, and small intestine, accounting for 31%, 25.8%, and 22.4% of cases, respectively. Colonoscopy findings were described in 28 (48.2%) cases, and 29 (50%) of patients required surgical intervention. Among the subset of patients for whom outcome data was available, 39 (67.2%) experienced favorable outcomes, while 12 (20.6%) unfortunately succumbed to the condition. The mean time required for resolution was 36.7 d, with a range spanning from 1 to 120 d.

CONCLUSION

SPS demonstrates the capacity to effectively lower serum potassium levels within 24 h. However, this benefit is not without the risk of bowel injury. Our study highlights the absence of high-quality data pertaining to the incidence of adverse events associated with SPS usage, making it challenging to determine whether the potential risks outweigh the benefits. However, a significant mortality rate related to SPS-induced colitis was noted. Future investigations should prioritize randomized controlled trials with a sufficiently large patient cohort to ascertain the true utility and safety profile of this medication.
Inflation in Cuba: An Analysis from the Perspective of the Main Nominal Anchors of Monetary Policy
Authors: Acosta Sergio Truebas
Published: December 2023

The lack of direct and indirect instruments and the features of the Cuban monetary and financial environment have implicated the need to base the monetary policy on the use of nominal anchors for price stabilization. This article has the objective of analyzing the relevance of the official exchange rate, the money supply, and the regulated prices as nominal anchors since the economic system reformation of the early 1990s.

With this objective in mind, the analysis provided by the article is divided into two sections. In the first, the use of the main nominal anchors in the macroeconomic stabilization carried out in the period 1990–2010 is evaluated. In the second, the factors that explain the loss of the main nominal anchors in the period 2011–2022 are examined.