bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition during heart regeneration through genetic lineage tracing
Authors: Gao Zibei , Lu Zhengkai , Meng Jinyan , Lin Chao-Po , Zhang Hui , Tang Juan
Published: June 2023

The epicardium is the important outermost mesothelial/epithelial layer of the heart that serves as a signaling center for cardiac development and repair. During heart development, epicardial cells undergo a process known as epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition to form diverse mesenchymal cell lineages, such as fibroblasts, coronary vascular smooth muscle cells, and pericytes. However, it is not clear whether the reverse process, mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition (MET), takes place in the mammalian heart. In this study, we performed apical resection on neonatal hearts and used Fap-CreER;Ai9 labeling to track activated fibroblasts in the injured cardiac regions. We found that these fibroblasts underwent MET to generate epicardial cells during heart regeneration. To our knowledge, this is the first report of MET occurring in vivo during heart development and regeneration. Our findings suggest that it is feasible to directly convert fibroblasts into epicardial cells, providing a novel approach to generate epicardial cells.
The global geomagnetic field over the historical era: what can we learn from ship-log declinations?
Authors: Schanner Maximilian , Bohsung Lukas , Fischer Clara , Korte Monika , Holschneider Matthias
Published: June 2023

Modern geomagnetic field models are constructed from satellite and observatory data, while models on the millennial timescale are constructed from indirect records of thermoremanent and sedimentary origin. An intermediate period, spanning the last four centuries, is covered by historical survey data and ship-logs, which is strongly dominated by geomagnetic declination information. We apply a sequentialized, Gaussian process-based modeling technique to this dataset and propose a new field model for this era. In order to investigate the information gained from declination records from ship-logs, we separate the dataset and construct a second model, where unpaired declination records (i.e., measurements where only declinations are reported and the rest of the field vector is missing) are removed. The availability of more records helps notably to constrain global field properties like the dipole moment. It also allows to resolve some detailed field structures more accurately. Based on the model constructed from the full dataset, we perform an analysis of the South Atlantic Anomaly and regions of low field intensity in general. We extend a recent analysis of center of mass movement and area evolution of the South Atlantic Anomaly further back in time and confirm the findings of its non-monotonous growth.

Graphical Abstract
OCT biomarkers as predictors of visual improvement in diabetic macular edema eyes receiving dexamethasone implants
Authors: Visioli Giacomo , Alisi Ludovico , Mastrogiuseppe Elvia , Albanese Giuseppe Maria , Romano Enrico , Iannetti Ludovico , Armentano Marta , Giovannetti Francesca , Gharbiya Magda
Published: June 2023

Background

Several optical coherence tomography (OCT) biomarkers have been proposed as predictors for functional and anatomical outcomes in Diabetic Macular Edema (DME). This study aims to examine the impact of these OCT features on the visual acuity improvement of patients with DME after long-acting Dexamethasone intravitreal implants (DEX-I) injection. Furthermore, the safety and impact of DEX-I on clinical parameters, including intraocular pressure (IOP) were assessed.

Methods

In this retrospective observational study, we reviewed the medical records of naïve and non-naïve eyes with DME who received at least one DEX-I. The primary endpoint was visual acuity improvement of ≥ 5 ETDRS letters at 1 month and 4 months after treatment. Secondary outcomes were the changes in OCT biomarkers and the impact of DEX-I on IOP at 1 and 4 months of follow-up. Linear panel regression analysis was used to test for differences in central subfield thickness (CST) over time and it was stratified according to biomarkers at baseline. Finally, a logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors predicting visual improvement at 1 and 4 months.

Results

We included 33 eyes of which 63.6% were at an advanced stage of DME. Overall, CST, cube average thickness (CAT), cube volume (CV), and intraretinal cystoid spaces > 200 μm (ICS) decreased following DEX-I injection (p < 0.001). Additionally, a thicker CST at baseline was observed in eyes with better visual improvement at one month (p = 0.048). After logistic regression analysis, CST was retained as the only predictor for visual improvement at one month (p = 0.044). Furthermore, panel regression analysis identified a relation between subfoveal neuroretinal detachment (SND) at baseline and CST increase at four months. Lastly, only 15.2% of the eyes necessitated topical medication for IOP reduction, with no differences observed when stratifying between naïve and non-naïve eyes.

Conclusion

Our analyses suggest that a ticker baseline CST may serve as a positive predictor of early visual improvement and SND presence at baseline may be a negative prognostic factor for CST increase 4 months after DEX-I injection. Other well-known biomarkers, such as disorganization of the inner retinal layers (DRIL) and hyperreflective foci (HF), did not demonstrate prognostic value on visual outcomes, at least within the first four months following the injection.
The scientific value of fire in wilderness
Authors: Kreider Mark R. , Jaffe Melissa R. , Berkey Julia K. , Parks Sean A. , Larson Andrew J.
Published: June 2023

Background

Wilderness areas are important natural laboratories for scientists and managers working to understand fire. In the last half-century, shifts in the culture and policy of land management agencies have facilitated the management practice of letting some naturally ignited fires burn, allowing fire to fulfill its ecological role and increasing the extent of fire-related research opportunities. With the goal of identifying the global scientific advances enabled by this paradigm shift in wilderness fire management, we conducted a systematic review of publications that either (1) selected protected areas for investigation because of an active fire regime enabled by wilderness fire management, (2) studied modern fires or fire regimes deliberately located in a wilderness area, or (3) conducted applied research to support wilderness fire management.

Results

Our systematic review returned a sample of 222 publications that met these criteria, with an increase in wilderness fire science over time. Studies largely occurred in the USA and were concentrated in a relatively small number of protected areas, particularly in the Northern Rocky Mountains. As a result, this sample of wilderness fire science is highly skewed toward areas of temperate mixed-conifer forests and historical mixed-severity fire regimes. Common principal subjects of publications included fire effects (44%), wilderness fire management (18%), or fire regimes (17%), and studies tended to focus on vegetation, disturbance, or wilderness management as response variables.

Conclusions

This work identifies major scientific contributions facilitated by fire in wilderness, including self-limitation of fire, the effects of active fire regimes on forest and aquatic systems, barriers and potential solutions to wilderness fire management, and the effect of fire on wilderness recreation and visitor experiences. Our work reveals geographic and bioclimatic areas where more research attention is needed and highlights under-represented wilderness areas that could serve to fill these gaps. Finally, we identify priorities for future wilderness fire research, including the past and potential role of Indigenous and prescribed burning, the effects of changing climate and fire regimes on ecosystem processes, and how to overcome barriers to wilderness fire management.
Cognitive impairment in adults under compulsory psychiatric care: association with psychotic symptoms and high-dose antipsychotics
Authors: Karanikola Maria , Nystazaki Maria , Kaikoushi Katerina , Middleton Nicos , Chatzittofis Andreas
Published: June 2023

Background

There is limited evidence on the association between cognitive function, psychotic symptoms and doses of antipsychotics in adults under compulsory psychiatric care.

Aims

We assessed (a) the degree of cognitive impairment in adults involuntarily hospitalised for compulsory psychiatric care and (b) correlation of Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score with psychotic symptoms, polypharmacy and prescription of high-dose antipsychotics.

Method

This was a nationwide, cross-sectional study, conducted at the only referral state hospital for compulsory psychiatric care in Cyprus (December 2016–February 2018). Τhe MoCA was applied for the assessment of cognitive functioning. The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) was applied for the assessment of psychotic symptoms.

Results

The sample comprised 187 men and 116 women. The mean MoCA score was 22.09 (reported scale range (RSR): 3–30); the mean PANSS general symptoms subscale score was 49.60 (RSR = 41–162). The participants who reported positive psychiatric history (mean 21.71, s.d. 5.37), non-adherence to pharmacotherapy (mean 21.32, s.d. 5.56) and prescription of high-dose antipsychotics (with medication prescribed as needed: mean 21.31, s.d. 5.70; without medication prescribed as needed: mean 20.71, s.d. 5.78) had lower mean MoCA scores compared with those who reported negative psychiatric history (mean 23.42, s.d. 4.51; P = 0.017), adherence to pharmacotherapy (mean 23.10, s.d. 6.61; P = 0.003) and no prescription of high-dose antipsychotics (with medication prescribed as needed: mean 22.56, s.d. 4.90; without medication prescribed as needed: mean 22.60 s.d. 4.94; P = 0.045–0.005), respectively. Mean MoCA score was mildly and inversely associated with total PANSS score (r = −0.15, P = 0.03), PANSS general (r = −0.18, P = 0.002) and PANSS negative (r = −0.16, P = 0.005) symptoms subscales, respectively.

Conclusions

Our findings support the evaluation of cognitive functioning in adults under compulsory psychiatric care via the MoCA tool, with focus on those prescribed high-dose antipsychotics, with positive mental health history and non-adherence to pharmacotherapy.
Playing with the cultural pilgrimage to stimulate tourism: the xFORMAL project on cultural heritage and informal learning.
Authors: Siri Anna , Di Nuzzo Annalisa , Marchesini Simona
Published: June 2023

The focus on culture as an engine of sustainable development has favoured its gradual acquisition by institutions engaged in the protection and promotion of heritage as an enabling and systemic factor capable of connecting innovation, education, research, and citizen engagement in a single chain.

Knowledge of the landscape that combines works of nature and humankind and its bio-cultural diversity makes it possible to identify innovative informal education and new tourist itineraries where the real experience is presented as a cultural pilgrimage.

The European project of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Programme RISE project, xFORMAL, in which the authors collaborate, was born to create an informal way of accessing the cultural heritage of one's territory, revealing its past, history, and the civilisations that preceded us.

After two years of closure due to the pandemic, this project reintroduced an authentic experience through gamification, a contact with landscapes, museums, and archaeological sites with physical, social, and cultural dimensions of their environments across space and over time.

On this basis, the article presents the case study and experimental plan behind the construction of the game xFORMAL as an informal learning case.
The genome sequence of a carabid beetle, Nebria salina (Fairmaire & Laboulbène, 1854)
Authors: Sivell Olga , Sivell Duncan ,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: June 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual femaleNebria salina(a carabid beetle; Arthropoda; Insecta; Coleoptera; Carabidae). The genome sequence is 256.7 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 21 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the assembled X sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 24.7 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 10,671 protein coding genes.
The genome sequence of the Minor Shoulder-knot, Brachylomia viminalis (Fabricius, 1777)
Authors: Boyes Douglas , Boyes Clare ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: June 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Brachylomia viminalis (the Minor Shoulder-knot; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Noctuidae). The genome sequence is 782.2 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 16.15 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 20,191 protein coding genes.
Current Directions of Education in Russia at the Present Stage
Authors: Kuzovleva O.
Published: June 2023

The article discusses current trends and approaches for the modern educational process concerning educational standards, the involvement of practitioners in the educational process and the education of persons with disabilities. The purpose of this article is to consider modern problems arising in the process of teaching disciplines at a university, to determine the means, conditions and methods of improving the competence of university graduates.
On the Issue of Effective Verification of the Quality of Students’ Knowledge in Accordance with Their Personal Characteristics
Authors: Dogadina E. , Bocharov M.
Published: June 2023

The issue of effective testing of the quality of students’ knowledge is relevant and significant in the field of education. It is necessary to improve the practice of assessing students’ knowledge in order to achieve maximum quality and efficiency. However, the educational process should be not only effective but also maximally adapted to each student. The paper presents a system for optimizing the quality control of students’ knowledge, depending on their personal characteristics. This task will be solved on the basis of intelligent methods of modeling, optimization and decision making. As one of the ways to test the quality of knowledge, a control work was chosen, performed both individually and in small groups. This article is devoted to the issue of the optimal distribution of students for work in groups or individually. The developed adaptive system performs optimization based on several optimality criteria and taking into account the normalized personal characteristics of students. As an optimization method, a genetic algorithm was chosen, the chromosomes of which are encoded in accordance with the personal characteristics of students. The best options for combining the personal qualities of students when divided into groups are determined. Pareto-optimal sets for a multi-criteria objective function are obtained taking into account the criteria importance coefficients.

The developed system will allow not only to reduce the teacher’s time spent on the process of dividing into groups, but also to make this process the most effective for students by taking into account their personal qualities.
Mathematical modeling of individual flow movement of people from the maternity hospital building in case of fire
Authors: Sazonova Svetlana , Sysoev Dmitriy , Sokolova Ol'ga
Published: June 2023

Statistical data on the number of fires and people killed in fires in the Russian Federation for the period under review and on the objects of fires are presented. The basics of fire safety of maternity hospitals are considered. The fire safety assessment of the maternity hospital in question was carried out. The data on the fire protection system of the maternity hospital building, on the smoke protection and alarm systems used, on fire-fighting water supply, as well as information on the characteristics of electricity, heating and ventilation are given. Mathematical models used to calculate the evacuation time of people from the maternity hospital building in question are presented. The coordinate scheme of a possible variant of the placement of people who are at a given time on the evacuation routes is considered. The possible density of the flow of evacuating people in the stream within the considered evacuation area is analyzed. The basic calculation formulas used in the design of buildings, taking into account the organization of the movement of human flows, are given. The program used the Fogard complex, which implements an individual flow model developed on the basis of a mathematical model of the individual flow movement of people from the building. The developed evacuation plan of a typical floor was used as the initial data for the calculations. As a result, the main goal of the work was achieved, which is to analyze the movement of human flows and clarify the estimated time needed to rescue evacuees from the maternity hospital building.
Flow hydrodynamics discrete stochastic model
Authors: Astrakhantseva Irina , Bobkov Sergey
Published: June 2023

For the mathematical description of hydrodynamic conditions in industrial equipment, idealized models are usually used. Upon receipt, a number of simplifying assumptions are made, which, on the one hand, facilitate the use, and on the other hand, the Appearance of the adequacy of the model. All typical models of flow structures are deterministic and continual. At the same time, it became known that the real situation arises in the process of considering possible factors. This trend leads to the need for a wider application of probabilistic approaches to modeling technological processes and apparatuses using modern digital technologies. This article cancels an attempt to create a hydrodynamic model using probabilistic cellular automata. In the model of occurrence, there is one reason for two flow velocities, a decision on the occurrence of a pressure drop, and the other is due to random walks of microvolumes of a moving medium. The described procedure for creating a model contains the results of its use. In particular, the results of modeling of motion trajectories in rare cases, the phenomena of their general movement and detection in rare zones were found. The article presents the results of a comparison of a discrete stochastic model with the types of a diffusion model, in terms of reflecting the physical essence of current flows, the possibilities of determining parameter models, and ease of use. The decisive aspects of the new model, its advantages and revolutions are shown. Possible areas of application of the obtained model. Under investigation are the results of simulation modeling using the proposed model, which reveal repeated results not only consistent with the classical approaches of hydrodynamics, but allow obtaining new data on the course of the processes under study.
Model of completing of mobile complex with optimal composition of telecommunication equipment for maintenance and repair of facilities in complex organized systems
Authors: Shipilova Elena , Lavlinskaya Oksana , Ignatov Dmitriy
Published: June 2023

The issues of optimal organization of the functioning of complex organized systems are within the competence of management subjects who need a problem-oriented tool in the form of models of analysis and synthesis of organization structures. The article considers the approach to the synthesis of the optimal composition of the mobile complex, as a sub-system of a complex organized critical system. The task of completing a mobile complex with the optimal composition of telecommunication equipment for servicing and repairing facilities is formulated. A mathematical model of the problem is proposed. The model is classified as a multi-index open assignment task with invalid assignments. This type of task relates to linear programming transport problems. Methods of bringing the problem to a closed type are considered, equivalent transformations of the assignment matrix are proposed, reducing the problem to a linear model. By entering additional constraints on the model, the effect of invalid assignments is taken into account. To implement a mathematical model, a solution method based on "greedy" algorithms has been proposed. The mathematical model is implemented in the form of a software application that showed the reliability of the results obtained, versatility and high resistance to changes in input data.
FORMATION OF THE PRODUCTIVITY OF ECOLOGICALLY PLASTIC SPRING WHEAT VARIETIES IN THE CONDITIONS OF THE VOLUGA REGION OF THE REPUBLIC OF TATARSTAN
Authors: Serzhanov Igor , Shaykhutdinov Farit , Garaev Razil , Serzhanova Al'bina , Zalyalov Ranis
Published: June 2023

The article is devoted to the issue of comparative cultivation of spring wheat varieties of different breeding schools: Simbirtsit - GNU Ulyanovsk Research Institute of Agriculture; Yoldyz GNU Tatar Research Institute of Agriculture; Ekada 109 - GNU Ulyanovsk Research Institute of Agriculture, Penza Research Institute of Agriculture, Bashkir Research Institute of Agriculture, Samara Research Institute of Agriculture; Balkysh - GNU Tatar Research Institute of Agriculture; Alvaris, Burlak - Penza Research Institute of Agriculture; Arhat - GNU Ulyanovsk Research Institute of Agriculture and Idelle - GNU Tatar Research Institute of Agriculture. Morphostructural indicators have varietal differences. On average, over three years, such varieties as Arkhat-91 cm, Balkysh - 73 and Ekada 109-72 cm turned out to be the tallest. In other varieties, this figure ranged from 67 to 71 cm. The largest number of spikelets in an ear, as well as the number of grains in an ear was formed in varieties Ekada 109, Yoldyz and Idelle. The largest leaf area per unit area on both feeding backgrounds was formed by varieties Ekada 109 – 33,2 ... 34,1 thousand m2 / ha and Arhat – 32,8 ... 33,5 thousand m2 / ha. Over the years of research, the yield of the tested varieties, both on the fertilized variant and on the natural background of nutrition, differed sharply. The most fruitful studies over the years have identified such indicators as Ekada 109 – 3,1 ... 5,79 t per ha, Burlak – 2,31 ... 4,91 and Yoldyz – 2,54 ... 4,3 application of fertilizers. The same varieties showed the best results on a natural background of nutrition. On average, over three years, the increase from different varieties was: in the variant without fertilizers, the variety Yoldyz 0,34 t/ha, Burlak 0,44 and Ekada 109 – 0,62 t/ha compared to the standard. On the variant with fertilizers 0,64; 0,97 and 1,24 t/ha, respectively.
INFLUENCE OF CHEMICALS ON THE FORMATION OF GREEN MASS YIELD OF MAIZE WITH MILK-WAX RIPENING COBS
Authors: Yakhin Ildar , Gabitov Ranis , Hismatullin Mars , Trofimov Nikolay , Gabbasov Ilfat
Published: June 2023

Corn is a valuable food and technical crop and almost all its parts are used in different branches of industry which cannot do without corn grains and pulp and paper mills use its leaves and stems. In addition, the crop has important agronomic importance in controlling field weeds. It is one of the most important cereal crops in world agriculture. As a high-yielding crop, it plays an important role in fodder production. A powerful reserve for increasing corn yields is mineral fertilizers, as well as the widespread introduction of new zoned varieties and hybrids of corn into production. This article presents the influence of organic and mineral fertilizers with macro-, micro-, complex fertilizers and growth regulators on corn yield and production. Sufficient nutrients are necessary to obtain high yields. Various growth-promoting substances are also used in modern agricultural practice. They improve seed germination and germination energy, accelerate plant growth, plant development and increase yield. Using special mixtures of fertilizers for corn concentrates all the necessary complexes of nutrients. The necessary complex of nutrients is applied in one step, which reduces the unevenness of fertilization. Spraying of combined fertilizers containing microelements and growth regulators before sowing increases plant resistance to adverse weather conditions. The use of combined compositions of NPK fertilizers allows the development of resource-saving systems and reduces the cost of fertilizers.
Endurance Training and Cardiovascular Health: Mechanism and Clinical Implications
Authors: Rokicki Sebastian , Skoczylas Kamila , Schok Katarzyna , Mikulska Julia
Published: June 2023

Introduction and objective:

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide, but regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Intensive endurance training brings many undeniable benefits but recently there have been scientific studies regarding potential complications that this type of physical activity may cause. This publication attempts to analyze whether the intensity of endurance training can reach a level at which it becomes harmful to the health of athletes.

Materials and methods:

This article reviews the literature on the impact of physical activity on cardiovascular health, with particular emphasis on endurance training. Articles were searched by key words, e.g. endurance training, cardiovascular health, marathon, running, cycling in various configurations, in Pubmed, Medline, Google Scholar databases.

Actual state of knowledge:

Regular physical activity is commonly regarded as the best preventive factor for cardiovascular diseases. Intensive endurance training significantly increases the efficiency of the cardiovascular system. Despite the significant benefits of regular endurance training, scientific reports suggest that athletes practicing this type of activity are more prone to developing certain cardiovascular disorders, such as coronary heart disease, atrial fibrillation, sinus bradycardia, and myocardial fibrosis.

Colclusion:

Regular and moderate aerobic physical activity is key to maintain optimal health. Endurance athletes develop a series of adaptations in the cardiovascular system, exhibit greater survival rates, and are less likely to experience sudden cardiac death compared to those who do not engage in regular physical activity. There is evidence suggesting a higher incidence of certain cardiovascular complications compared to healthy individuals who do not engage in sports. The reasons for these changes and their impact should be the subject of further research.
Law and sustainability: Perspectives for Lithuania and Beyond
Authors: Bartocelli Alessio , Sagatienė Dovilė
Published: June 2023

Law fostering sustainability and sustainable development is one of the fastest-developing, most challenging legal disciplines globally. Sustainability has many different definitions, but its essence was articulated by the Brundtland Commission, tasked by the UN in 1987 to formulate a global agenda for change: “Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” The edited volume Law and Sustainability analyses the ways on how law and legal profession should change and contribute to sustainability.
“Mejor nutrición no significa necesariamente más comida”: educación alimentaria y fomento agrícola en Argentina (1960-1970)
Authors: Reyna Carla
Published: June 2023

Introducción: el artículo analiza los lineamientos en educación alimentaria y de fomento agrícola que circularon en la Revista “Educador Sanitario”, publicación oficial de la repartición nacional de educación sanitaria de Argentina durante los años 1960. Desarrollo: el trabajo explora las adaptaciones discursivas que realizaron los sanitaristas argentinos a las directrices internacionales de desarrollo para promover la campaña mundial contra el “hambre oculta”, definido como aquellos patrones culturales alimentarios de baja calidad nutricional. Luego, examina las prescripciones dietéticas para las familias populares que pretendían estimular como hábitos calidad, variedad y austeridad. Por último, revisa las tensiones y contradicciones inmanentes a las referencias eruditas en torno al fomento agrícola y a las reglas del libre comercio, al evidenciar las inequidades alimentarias y la falta de infraestructura a nivel federal para lograr la ansiada modernización agroalimentaria. Conclusiones: Las discursividades desarrollistas sobre alimentación nutritiva apropiadas por la Revista fueron funcionales al clima de proscripción peronista. Los consejos dietéticos y en economía doméstica apuntaron a sustituir el consumo cárnico por otras fuentes proteicas, como legumbres y lácteos; y los hidratos de carbono simples por complejos, como las hortalizas. No obstante, sus vinculaciones con el fomento a las agro-economías de subsistencia refutaron la prevalencia del “hambre oculta” como problema alimentario en Argentina. Pues, en sintonía con los parámetros internacionales, de esta manera se propiciaría una dinámica de redistribución alimenticia, capaz de reponer las vacancias del mercado interno y de estimular las exportaciones netas al prevenir la erosión de los saldos exportables.
Relationship between Demographic and Employment Parameters with Job Stress Among Employees of an Oil Field in Western Iran
Authors: Askari Ali , Borjaki Jabar , Mahdinasab Laila , Abadi Ali Salehi Sahl
Published: June 2023

Reducing the workforce's health condition is one of the significant challenges in industries. Various studies have shown that efficiency in industries has a crucial relationship with the workforce's health level. In addition, the employee's health can be affected by different variables such as stress or other job parameters and the type of work system. The present study was conducted to analyze the relationship between these parameters and job stress in an oil field. This work was a cross-sectional and descriptive-analytic investigation. The statistical population included workers that were present for duty (About 250 People). The data were collected through Osipow Occupational Stress Questionnaire, and then analyzed using the SPSS Statistics software (Ver. 22). The results show that the level of education has a significant relationship with most subscales of the questionnaire. Marital status and work experience had the lowest effect on job stress. Determining stress levels based on the classification related to the job group and the type of shift work system is similar, and these variables on the subscales affected the workload (p-value=0.001) and responsibility (p-value=0.000). Also, the results show that among the job groups, logistics (score: 197.4) and security (score: 177) have the highest and lowest tension, respectively. The results of this study showed that the effect of occupational variables on the defined ranges in the occupational stress questionnaire is different. These differences show that occupational stress has a dynamic nature, and any changes in the environmental dimensions can change the level of occupational stress.
Market and Industrialization Opportunities of Rumah Unggul Sistem Panel Instan (RUSPIN) Technology Using Business Model Canvas
Authors: Pramitaningrum Erlita , Nugraha Dimas Hastama
Published: June 2023

Rumah Unggul Sistem Panel Instan (RUSPIN) technology is the development of Rumah Instan Sederhana Sehat (RISHA) with several improvements. Besides resistance to earthquakes, this technology has advantages such as ease and speed of installation compared to conventional houses. As a new technological innovation that has been proven, to develop RUSPIN technology to be an industrialization model in the future, therefore a study of technology business plan is required. Research objectives eager to see the market and industrialization opportunities of RUSPIN technology. The study using Business Model Canvas (BMC) concept which strived to combine 9 business aspects such as customer segments, value proposition, channels, customer relationships, revenue streams, key resources, key activities, key partners, and cost structure into one complete concept map. As the result of this study, the market opportunity for RUSPIN technology is very large with the market segmentation is families that do not own a home and the target market for Low-Income Families (MBR). RUSPIN technology also has an opportunity to be industrialized by looking at the demand side (market opportunities), while from the supply side, efforts are needed to increase the number of certified RUSPIN applicators and developers.
Current perspectives on Lynch syndrome
Authors: Jenkins Emma , Seker Samantha , Limbu Aela
Published: June 2023

Emma Jenkins and Samantha Seker discuss the implementation of the National Lynch Syndrome Project
A stomal therapists experience of a novel chyme reinfusion device for high output enterostomies: A case series instituting a novel chyme reinfusion device in three patients
Authors: Ludlow Emma , Liu Chen
Published: June 2023

Background:

Reinfusing chyme down the distal limb of an enterostomy is a well-researched technique for helping prevent dehydration and electrolyte loss from a high-output enterostomy. However, it has not gained traction because it is a labour-intensive task that requires nursing management and further in-hospital care. A novel chyme reinfusion device that a patient can manage is now available (The InsidesTM System, The Insides Company, New Zealand).

Cases:

This paper explores a stomal therapist's experience instituting The InsidesTM System for three patients with high output enterostomies. The reinfusion device is a simple set-up that has been shown to reduce fluid and electrolyte imbalances, reduce and remove the need for parenteral nutrition and is patient managed. Patient experience and learning points gained from the three participants were collected across the themes of patient consent, education of patients and carers, custom tube installation into the distal limb, usability testing and feedback to the device developers.

Conclusions:

The novel chyme reinfusion device is a simple patient-managed solution that is easy to install and initiate. Clinical benefits include preventing dehydration and electrolyte loss from high-output double enterostomies. By instituting a thorough supportive follow-up management plan for each patient, there were minimal complications with high patient compliance and satisfaction.
Implications of the Professional Nurse Advocate programme
Authors: Harrison Penny
Published: June 2023

Penny Harrison discusses the Professional Nurse Advocate programme and its impact on gastrointestinal nurses
Catadioptric sensor concept with interlaced beam paths for imaging and pinpoint spectroscopy
Authors: Förster Erik , Cumme Samuel , Kraus Matthias , Dobschal Hans-Jürgen , Hillmer Hartmut , Brunner Robert
Published: June 2023

This paper presents the concept, optical design, and implementation of a catadioptric sensor for simultaneous imaging of a scene and pinpoint spectroscopy of a selected position, with object distances ranging from tens of centimeters to infinity and from narrow to wide adjustable viewing angles. The use of reflective imaging elements allows the implementation of folded and interlaced beam paths for spectroscopy and image acquisition, which enables a compact setup with a footprint of approximately 90mm×80mm. Although the wavelength range addressed extends far beyond the visible spectrum and reaches into the near infrared (∼400nm to 1000 nm), only three spherical surfaces are needed to project the intermediate image onto the image detector. The anamorphic imaging introduced by the folded beam path with different magnification factors in the horizontal and vertical directions as well as distortion can be compensated by software-based image processing. The area of the scene to be spectrally analyzed is imaged onto the input of an integrated miniature spectrometer. The imaging properties and spectroscopic characteristics are demonstrated in scenarios close to potential applications such as product sorting and fruit quality control.
Visualization of surgical maneuvers using intraoperative real-time volumetric optical coherence tomography
Authors: Li Jianwei D. , Viehland Christian , Dhalla Al-Hafeez , Trout Robert , Raynor William , Kuo Anthony N. , Toth Cynthia A. , Vajzovic Lejla M. , Izatt Joseph A.
Published: June 2023

Ophthalmic microsurgery is traditionally performed using stereomicroscopes and requires visualization and manipulation of sub-millimeter tissue structures with limited contrast. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive imaging modality that can provide high-resolution, depth-resolved cross sections, and has become a valuable tool in clinical practice in ophthalmology. While there has been substantial progress in both research and commercialization efforts to bring OCT imaging into live surgery, its use is still somewhat limited due to factors such as low imaging speed, limited scan configurations, and suboptimal data visualization. In this paper we describe, to the best of our knowledge, the translation of the fastest swept-source intraoperative OCT system with real-time volumetric imaging with stereoscopic data visualization provided via a heads-up display into the operating room. Results from a sampling of human anterior segment and retinal surgeries chosen from 93 human surgeries using the system are shown and the benefits that this mode of intrasurgical OCT imaging provides are discussed.
In-vitro quantitative measurement and analysis of the photosensitivity of cells to a weak pulse laser
Authors: Tian Lan , Zeng Ming , Tian Geng , Xu Jingjing
Published: June 2023

Light can trigger electrical activity in certain types of cells, and is considered to be a better means of biological regulation than electrical stimulation in the future. Due to the specificity and selectivity of natural cells’ photoresponse to optical signals, constructing an applicable method to explore which kinds of cells have photosensitivity and which bands of light could induce its photoresponse most effectively, is of great significance for lights’ medical applications. This paper firstly proposed a universal and operable system and corresponding method to quantitatively measure and analyze photosensitivity of cells in vitro to weak pulse laser, which is constructed with Ca2+ imaging module, adjustable laser lights module and laser positioning module. With the measurement system and method, the photosensitive effects of the natural spiral ganglion cells (SGCs) of mice are tested systemantically. Then a new photoresponse band of light (453 nm, 300 µs) is found for SGCs, and its minimum threshold is measured as 5.3 mJ/cm2. The results verify that the proposed method is applicable to screen the cells with photosensitive response, as well as to measure and analyze the working optical parameters, thus is beneficial for the optical biophysics and photobiology.
In-situ analysis of combustion aerosol using a supercontinuum lidar
Authors: Saleh Abba , Kalmankoski Kim , Genty Goëry , Toivonen Juha
Published: June 2023

We report real-time monitoring of coarse aerosol particle distribution in a 9 m wide full-scale industrial boiler using a broadband supercontinuum lidar. The technique utilizes the light backscattered from the aerosol to map the extinction profile using the Klett inversion method, with measured extinction values of 0.04 – 0.2 m−1 across the furnace. The technique further exploits differential absorption of water molecules in the 1.25 – 1.5 µm region to map the water vapor concentration profile in the furnace up to a distance of 3.9 m with a spatial resolution of 30 cm. We also take advantage of the strong reflection from the boiler back-wall to simultaneously measure the average water vapor temperature and concentration in the boiler in good agreement with reference readings from the boiler. Our results open novel perspectives for versatile 3D profiling of flue gas parameters and other industrial process analysis.
Measurement of the nonlinear parametric instability gain in dispersion oscillating fibers
Authors: Vanderhaegen Guillaume , Szriftgiser Pascal , Kudlinski Alexandre , Armaroli Andrea , Conforti Matteo , Trillo Stefano , Mussot Arnaud
Published: June 2023

We report the observation of the parametric gain band distortion in the nonlinear (depleted) regime of modulation instability in dispersion oscillating fibers. We show that the maximum gain is shifted even outside the boundaries of the linear parametric gain band. Experimental observations are confirmed by numerical simulations.
Single-wavelength polarization- and mode-division multiplexing free-space optical communication at 689 Gbit/s in strong turbulent channels
Authors: Li Yiming , Chen Zhaozhong , Benton David M. , Patel Mohammed , Lavery Martin P. J. , Ellis Andrew D.
Published: June 2023

We experimentally demonstrated, for, it is believed, the first time,
high-capacity polarization- and mode-division multiplexing free-space
optical transmission with adequate strong turbulence resiliency. A
compact spatial light modulator–based polarization multiplexing
multi-plane light conversion module was employed to emulate strong
turbulent links. By employing advanced successive interference
cancellation multiple-input multiple-output decoder and redundant
receive channels, the strong turbulence resiliency was significantly
improved in a mode-division multiplexing system. As a result, we
achieved a record-high line rate of 689.2 Gbit/s, channel
number of 10, and net spectral efficiency of 13.9 bit/(s Hz) in
a single-wavelength mode-division multiplexing system with strong
turbulence.
Social-political and vaccine related determinants of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in Tanzania: A qualitative inquiry
Authors: Mtenga Sally , Mhalu Grace , Osetinsky Brianna , Ramaiya Kaushik , Kassim Tani , Hooley Brady , Tediosi Fabrizio
Published: June 2023

Vaccines have played a critical role in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic globally, and Tanzania has made significant efforts to make them available to the public in addition to sensitizing them on its benefit. However, vaccine hesitancy remains a concern. It may prevent optimal uptake of this promising tool in many communities. This study aims to explore opinions and perceptions on vaccine hesitancy to better understand local attitudes towards vaccine hesitancy in both rural and urban Tanzania. The study employed cross-sectional semi-structured interviews with 42 participants. The data were collected in October 2021. Men and women aged between 18 and 70 years were purposefully sampled from Dar es Salaam and Tabora regions. Thematic content analysis was used to categorize data inductively and deductively. We found that COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy exists and is shaped by multiple socio-political and vaccine related factors. Vaccine related factors included worries over vaccine safety (e.g., death, infertility, and zombie), limited knowledge about the vaccines and fear of the vaccine’s impact on pre-existing conditions. Participants also found it paradoxical that mask and hygiene mandates are expected even after vaccination, which further exacerbated their doubts about vaccine efficacy and their hesitancy. Participants possessed a range of questions regarding COVID-19 vaccines that they wanted answered by the government. Social factors included preference for traditional and home remedies and influence from others. Political factors included inconsistent messages on COVID-19 from the community and political leaders; and doubts about the existence of COVID-19 and the vaccine. Our findings suggest that the COVID-19 vaccine is beyond a medical intervention, it carries with it a variety of expectations and myths that need to be addressed in order to build trust and acceptance within communities. Health promotion messages need to respond to heterogeneous questions, misinformation, doubts, and concerns over safety issues. An understanding of country-specific perspectives toward COVID-19 vaccines can greatly inform the development of localized strategies for meaningful uptake in Tanzania.
Analysis of fixation materials in micro-CT: It doesn’t always have to be styrofoam
Authors: Scherberich Jan , Windfelder Anton G. , Krombach Gabriele A.
Published: June 2023

Good fixation of filigree specimens for micro-CT examinations is often a challenge. Movement artefacts, over-radiation or even crushing of the specimen can easily occur. Since different specimens have different requirements, we scanned, analysed and compared 19 possible fixation materials under the same conditions in the micro-CT. We focused on radiodensity, porosity and reversibility of these fixation materials. Furthermore, we have made sure that all materials are cheap and easily available. The scans were performed with a SkyScan 1173 micro-CT. All dry fixation materials tested were punched into 5 mm diameter cylinders and clamped into 0.2 ml reaction vessels. A voxel size of 5.33 μm was achieved in a 180° scan in 0.3° steps. Ideally, fixation materials should not be visible in the reconstructed image, i.e., barely binarised. Besides common micro-CT fixation materials such as styrofoam (-935 Hounsfield Units) or Basotect foam (-943 Hounsfield Units), polyethylene air cushions (-944 Hounsfield Units), Micropor foam (-926 Hounsfield Units) and polyurethane foam, (-960 Hounsfield Units to -470 Hounsfield Units) have proved to be attractive alternatives. Furthermore, more radiopaque materials such as paraffin wax granulate (-640 Hounsfield Units) and epoxy resin (-190 Hounsfield Units) are also suitable as fixation materials. These materials often can be removed in the reconstructed image by segmentation. Sample fixations in the studies of recent years are almost all limited to fixation in Parafilm, Styrofoam, or Basotect foam if the fixation type is mentioned at all. However, these are not always useful, as styrofoam, for example, dissolves in some common media such as methylsalicylate. We show that micro-CT laboratories should be equipped with various fixation materials to achieve high-level image quality.