bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of synthetic dataset generation methods for medical intervention rooms using medical clothing detection as an example
Authors: Schülein Patrick , Teufel Hannah , Vorpahl Ronja , Emter Indira , Bukschat Yannick , Pfister Marcus , Rathmann Nils , Diehl Steffen , Vetter Marcus
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The availability of real data from areas with high privacy requirements, such as the medical intervention space is low and the acquisition complex in terms of data protection. To enable research for assistance systems in the medical intervention room, new methods for data generation for these areas must be researched. Therefore, this work presents a way to create a synthetic dataset for the medical context, using medical clothing object detection as an example. The goal is to close the reality gap between the synthetic and real data.

Methods

Methods of 3D-scanned clothing and designed clothing are compared in a Domain-Randomization and Structured-Domain-Randomization scenario using two different rendering engines. Additionally, a Mixed-Reality dataset in front of a greenscreen and a target domain dataset were used while the latter is used to evaluate the different datasets. The experiments conducted are to show whether scanned clothing or designed clothing produce better results in Domain Randomization and Structured Domain Randomization. Likewise, a baseline will be generated using the mixed reality data. In a further experiment it is investigated whether the combination of real, synthetic and mixed reality image data improves the accuracy compared to real data only.

Results

Our experiments show, that Structured-Domain-Randomization of designed clothing together with Mixed-Reality data provide a baseline achieving 72.0% mAP on the test dataset of the clinical target domain. When additionally using 15% (99 images) of available target domain train data, the gap towards 100% (660 images) target domain train data could be nearly closed 80.05% mAP (81.95% mAP). Finally, we show that when additionally using 100% target domain train data the accuracy could be increased to 83.35% mAP.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it can be stated that the presented modeling of health professionals is a promising methodology to address the challenge of missing datasets from medical intervention rooms. We will further investigate it on various tasks, like assistance systems, in the medical domain.
Antimicrobial activities of metabolites isolated from endophytic Aspergillus flavus of Sarcophyton ehrenbergi supported by in-silico study and NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Singab Abdel Nasser B. , Elkhawas Yasmin A. , Al-Sayed Eman , Elissawy Ahmed M. , Fawzy Iten M. , Mostafa Nada M.
Published: August 2023

Background

Endophytic Aspergillus species produce countless valuable bioactive secondary metabolites. In the current study, Aspergillus flavus an endophyte from the soft coral Sarcophyton ehrenbergi was chemically explored and the extracted phytoconstituents were subsequently evaluated for antimicrobial activity. This is accomplished by employing nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and computational techniques. Additionally, An in vitro anticancer analysis of A. flavus total extract against breast cancer cells (MCF-7) was investigated.

Result

Six compounds were separated from the crude alcohol extract of the endophytic Aspergillus flavus out of which anhydro-mevalonolactone was reported for the first time. The anti-fungal and anti-Helicobacter pylori properties of two distinct compounds (Scopularides A and B) were assessed. Additionally, computational research was done to identify the binding mechanisms for all compounds. Both the compounds were found to be active against H. pylori with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 7.81 to 15.63 µg/ mL as compared with clarithromycin 1.95 µg/ mL. Scopularides A was potent against both Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger with MIC values ranging from 3.9 to 31.25 µg/ mL, while scopularides B only inhibits Candida albicans with MIC value of 15.63 µg/ mL and weak inhibitory activity against A. niger (MIC = 125 µg/ mL). Furthermore, cytotoxic activity showed a significant effect (IC50: 30.46 mg/mL) against MCF-7 cells.

Conclusion

Our findings report that cytotoxic activity and molecular docking support the antimicrobial activity of Aspergillus flavus, which could be a promising alternative source as a potential antimicrobial agent.
General anesthetic management in two patients with an anaphylaxis history cholinergic urticaria
Authors: Kotera Atsushi
Published: August 2023

Background

Cholinergic urticaria is triggered by an increased body temperature after exercise, passive warming, or emotional stresses. The anesthetic management used for two patients with an anaphylaxis history after cholinergic urticaria is described.

Case presentation

Patient 1: A 34-year-old female was scheduled for a right-side thyroidectomy. At 27 years old, she experienced post-exercise anaphylaxis and repeated episodes of hives following exercise, sunbathing, mental stresses, and the consumption of spicy foods. Patient 2: A 35-year-old female was scheduled for a laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy. At 19 years old, she experienced anaphylaxis after a long bath and then hives after hot showers, bicycle riding, and long walks. For both patients, intraoperative passive warming was not performed to prevent excessive warming, and prophylactic antiemetics and multimodal analgesia were used to minimize their perioperative stresses.

Conclusion

Careful anesthetic management is necessary to prevent anaphylaxis during anesthesia in a patient with a history of cholinergic urticaria.
Baseline vitamin D levels and functional outcome in thrombolyzed stroke patients
Authors: Masoud Mohammed M. , Ramadan Alshaimaa Yassin , AbdelAziz Manar Mahmoud , Soliman Rash H. , ElMonem Noha A. Abd
Published: August 2023

Background

The primary treatment for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients is intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (IV rt-PA). A link between vitamin D insufficiency and worse post-stroke outcomes and more severe strokes was suggested. The present study aimed to assess the prognostic significance of baseline vitamin D levels in AIS patients treated with rt-PA. The present prospective study was conducted 66 patients with acute ischemic stroke within the therapeutic window and treated with rt-PA. Vitamin D levels were assessed using commercial double antibody sandwich enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. The primary study outcome is patient disability of any degree as assessed by the modified Rankin scale (mRS).

Results

The present study included 66 ischemic stroke patients treated with rt-PA. At baseline, there were 37 patients (56.1%) with low vitamin D levels. Comparison between patients with normal and low vitamin D levels regarding baseline data revealed that the former group were significantly younger and had significantly smaller infarct size patients with normal vitamin D had significantly lower NIHSS at day 2 and day 7. Interestingly, patients with low vitamin D levels had significantly higher frequency of rt-PA related hemorrhage, higher frequency of chest infection, longer hospital stay and higher mRS at 90 days. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified vitamin D level as significant predictor of functional outcome at 90 days.

Conclusions

Baseline vitamin D levels is considered a significant predictor of functional outcome in AIS patients treated with rt-PA. It’s also related to infarct size and treatment complications.
Arithmetic hip knee angle measurement on long leg radiograph versus computed tomography—inter-observer and intra-observer reliability
Authors: Gieroba Tom Jan , Marasco Sofia , Babazadeh Sina , Di Bella Claudia , van Bavel Dirk
Published: August 2023

Background

Pre-operative alignment is important for knee procedures including total knee arthroplasty (TKA), especially when considering alternative alignments. The arithmetic Hip Knee Angle (aHKA) is a measure of coronal alignment calculated using the medial proximal tibial (MPTA) and lateral distal femoral angles (LDFA). Traditionally, aHKA is measured on long leg radiographs (LLR). This study assesses the reproducibility of aHKA measurement on LLR and robotic-assisted TKA planning CT.

Methods

Sixty-eight TKA patients with pre-operative LLR and planning CTs were included. Three observers measured the LDFA, MPTA and aHKA three times on each modality and intra-observer and inter-observer reliability was calculated. Statistical analysis was undertaken with Pearson’s r and the Bland–Altman test.

Results

Mean intra-observer coefficient of repeatability (COR) for LLR vs. CT: MPTA 3.50° vs. 1.73°, LDFA 2.93° vs. 2.00° and aHKA 2.88° vs. 2.57° for CT. Inter-observer COR for LLR vs. CT: MPTA 2.74° vs. 1.28°, LDFA 2.31° vs. 1.92°, aHKA 3.56° vs. 2.00°. Mean intra-observer Pearson’s r for MPTA was 0.93 for LLR and 0.94 for CT, LDFA 0.90 for LLR and 0.91 for CT and aHKA 0.92 for LLR and 0.94 for CT. Inter-observer Pearson’s r for LLR compared to CT: MPTA 0.93 vs. 0.97, LDFA 0.91 vs. 0.90, aHKA 0.91 and 0.95.

Conclusion

When compared to LLR, CT measurements of MPTA, LDFA and aHKA are more reproducible and have a good correlation with LLR measurement. CT overcomes difficulties with positioning, rotation, habitus and contractures when assessing coronal plane alignment and may obviate the need for LLRs.
Sustainable health—a call to action
Authors: Wanyenze Rhoda K. , Alfvén Tobias , Ndejjo Rawlance , Viberg Nina , Båge Karin , Batte Charles , Helldén Daniel , Lindgren Helena , Mayega Roy William , Ndeezi Grace , Peterson Stefan Swartling , Nawangwe Barnabas , Ottersen Ole Petter
Published: August 2023

Sustainablehealth, a multisectoral area for study, research, and practice towards improving health and well-being for all while staying within planetary boundaries, is a prerequisite to reaching the 2030 agenda and the work and journey towards a world in which everyone, everywhere can live a healthy and fulfilled life.
From quantum foam to graviton condensation: The Zel'dovich route
Authors: Tello Pablo G. , Succi Sauro , Bini Donato , Kauffman Stuart
Published: August 2023

Based on a previous ansatz by Zel'dovich for the gravitational energy of virtual particle-antiparticle pairs, supplemented with the holographic principle, we estimate the vacuum energy in a fairly reasonable agreement with the experimental values of the cosmological constant. We further highlight a connection between Wheeler's quantum foam and graviton condensation, as contemplated in the quantum N-portrait paradigm, and show that such connection also leads to a satisfactory prediction of the value of the cosmological constant. The above results suggest that the “unnaturally” small value of the cosmological constant may find a quite “natural” explanation once the nonlocal perspective of the large N-portrait gravitational condensation is endorsed.
Predicting Bilateral Subtypes of Primary Aldosteronism Without Adrenal Vein Sampling: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Ng Elisabeth , Gwini Stella May , Zheng Winston , Fuller Peter J , Yang Jun
Published: August 2023

Context

Primary aldosteronism (PA) is the most common endocrine cause of hypertension. The final diagnostic step involves subtyping, using adrenal vein sampling (AVS), to determine if PA is unilateral or bilateral. The complete PA diagnostic process is time and resource intensive, which can impact rates of diagnosis and treatment. Previous studies have developed tools to predict bilateral PA before AVS.

Objective

Evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of published tools that aim to identify bilateral subtypes of PA.

Methods

Medline and Embase databases were searched to identify published models that sought to subtype PA, and algorithms to predict bilateral PA are reported. Meta-analysis and meta-regression were then performed.

Results

There were 35 studies included, evaluating 55 unique algorithms to predict bilateral PA. The algorithms were grouped into 6 categories: those combining biochemical, radiological, and demographic characteristics (A); confirmatory testing alone or combined with biochemical, radiological, and demographic characteristics (B); biochemistry results alone (C); adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation testing (D); anatomical imaging (E); and functional imaging (F). Across the identified algorithms, sensitivity and specificity ranged from 5% to 100% and 36% to 100%, respectively. Meta-analysis of 30 unique predictive tools from 32 studies showed that the group A algorithms had the highest specificity for predicting bilateral PA, while group F had the highest sensitivity.

Conclusions

Despite the variability in published predictive algorithms, they are likely important for decision-making regarding the value of AVS. Prospective validation may enable medical treatment upfront for people with a high likelihood of bilateral PA without the need for an invasive and resource-intensive test.
Clinical Features and Outcome Analysis of Type B Insulin Resistance Syndrome: A Single-Center Study in China
Authors: Zhao Linlin , Li Wei , Liu Lv , Duan Lian , Wang Linjie , Yang Hongbo , Zhang Huabing , Li Yuxiu
Published: August 2023

Context

Type B insulin resistance syndrome (TBIRS) is a rare condition, for which effective treatment remains challenging.

Objective

This work aimed to summarize the clinical characteristics of TBIRS and explore effective therapeutic strategies.

Methods

The clinical manifestations, biochemical indices, and treatment of 8 patients (3 men and 5 women) with TBIRS from Peking Union Medical College Hospital were retrospectively analyzed and their clinical outcomes were evaluated.

Results

The average age of the patients was 49.5 ± 16.5 years, and the duration of the disease ranged from 2 months to 1 year. Seven patients with hyperglycemia had normal/lower triglycerides (TGs) and lower insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels. One patient complained of intractable hypoglycemia. Five patients had accompanied systemic lupus erythematosus, 2 had mixed connective tissue disease, and 1 had undifferentiated connective tissue disease. Five patients had acanthosis nigricans and 3 women of child-bearing age had hyperandrogenism. All 8 patients were treated with glucocorticoids combined with immunosuppressants, among whom, 5 received high-dose glucocorticoid pulse therapy followed by conventional-dose glucocorticoid therapy, all of whom achieved partial remission within 2 to 4 weeks. Among the 3 patients receiving conventional glucocorticoid therapy, 2 achieved partial remission within 2 to 4 weeks. Six patients were tracked for 10 weeks to 4 years; 4 and 2 achieved complete and partial remission, respectively.

Conclusion

Decreased serum complement 3 and IGF-1 levels and normal/decreased TG levels act as striking biochemical features of TBIRS. High-dose glucocorticoid pulse therapy followed by conventional-dose long-term therapy combined with immunosuppressants achieves good clinical efficacy.
Zebrafish regulatory genomic resources for disease modelling and regeneration
Authors: Jimenez Gonzalez Ada , Baranasic Damir , Müller Ferenc
Published: August 2023

In the past decades, the zebrafish has become a disease model with increasing popularity owing to its advantages that include fast development, easy genetic manipulation, simplicity for imaging, and sharing conserved disease-associated genes and pathways with those of human. In parallel, studies of disease mechanisms are increasingly focusing on non-coding mutations, which require genome annotation maps of regulatory elements, such as enhancers and promoters. In line with this, genomic resources for zebrafish research are expanding, producing a variety of genomic data that help in defining regulatory elements and their conservation between zebrafish and humans. Here, we discuss recent developments in generating functional annotation maps for regulatory elements of the zebrafish genome and how this can be applied to human diseases. We highlight community-driven developments, such as DANIO-CODE, in generating a centralised and standardised catalogue of zebrafish genomics data and functional annotations; consider the advantages and limitations of current annotation maps; and offer considerations for interpreting and integrating existing maps with comparative genomics tools. We also discuss the need for developing standardised genomics protocols and bioinformatic pipelines and provide suggestions for the development of analysis and visualisation tools that will integrate various multiomic bulk sequencing data together with fast-expanding data on single-cell methods, such as single-cell assay for transposase-accessible chromatin with sequencing. Such integration tools are essential to exploit the multiomic chromatin characterisation offered by bulk genomics together with the cell-type resolution offered by emerging single-cell methods. Together, these advances will build an expansive toolkit for interrogating the mechanisms of human disease in zebrafish.
The role, impact, and interrelation of technical external drivers, namely ESA2010, IPSAS/EPSAS accounting standardization and ERP systems, towards public sector accounting reforms
Authors: Μαρκογιαννοπούλου Αντωνία
Published: August 2023

Οι εξελίξεις στις λογιστικές πρακτικές και στα λογιστικά πρότυπα έχουν δημιουργήσει την ανάγκη για εναρμονισμένες και διαφανείς οικονομικές και δημοσιονομικές καταστάσεις μεταξύ των κυβερνήσεων σε παγκόσμιο επίπεδο. Παρά το γεγονός ότι η καταλληλότητα της λογιστικής σε δεδουλευμένη βάση για το δημόσιο τομέα είναι ένα αμφιλεγόμενο ζήτημα, η υιοθέτησή της τυγχάνει παγκόσμιας αποδοχής επειδή επιτρέπει την κατάρτιση ισολογισμών και την πληροφόρηση για τα έσοδα και τα έξοδα, όχι μόνο σε επίπεδο κυβέρνησης αλλά και στο δημόσιο τομέα ως σύνολο. Η δεδουλευμένη μέθοδος διευκολύνει στην παρουσίαση αξιόπιστης οικονομικής πληροφόρησης για την υποστήριξη της λήψης αποφάσεων, ενώ θεωρείται ότι η άμεση πρόσβαση σε χρηματοοικονομικές πληροφορίες ενισχύει τη δημοσιονομική βιωσιμότητα, τη διαφάνεια και τη λογοδοσία. Πέρα από αυτά τα οφέλη, οι λογιστικές πληροφορίες αποτελούν προϋπόθεση για την αξιολόγηση της δημοσιονομικής βιωσιμότητας και της αποτελεσματικής κατανομής και προγραμματισμού των πόρων των κυβερνήσεων. Με γνώμονα αυτή τη διαμάχη μεταξύ της λογιστικής σε δεδουλευμένη βάση και της ταμειακής βάσης και του γεγονότος ότι η λογιστική σε δεδουλευμένη βάση έχει προωθηθεί από την Επιτροπή Δημοσίου Τομέα της Διεθνούς Ομοσπονδίας Λογιστών (IFAC) ως το επίκεντρο των Διεθνών Λογιστικών Προτύπων Δημοσίου Τομέα (IPSAS) και των Ευρωπαικών Λογιστικών Προτύπων (EPSAS) και ως εργαλείο χρηματοοικονομικής μέτρησης για την ενίσχυση της λογοδοσίας και της λήψης αποφάσεων, η διατριβή αυτή διερευνά τη συμβολή εξωτερικών τεχνικών παραγόντων προς την υιοθέτηση της λογιστικής σε δεουλευμένη βάση από χώρες μέλη της Ευρωπαικής Ένωσης και το Ηνωμένο Βασίλειο. Σύμφωνα με την πρόσφατη κατηγοριοποίηση (World Bank/ PULSAR, 2021), η διατριβή εστιάζει σε τρεις τεχνικούς εξωτερικούς παράγοντες, όπως του λογιστικού πλαισίου ESA2010 σε δεδουλευμένη βάση, της τεχνολογίας πληροφορικής με τον εκσυγχρονισμό των λογισμικών-πληροφοριακών συστημάτων (ERPs) και της λογιστικής τυποποίησης IPSAS/EPSAS και υπογραμμίζει τη συμβολή τους προς τις μεταρρυθμίσεις της Λογιστικής του Δημοσίου Τομέα (PSA).
Σύζευξη πρωτογενούς και δευτερογενούς κοσμικής ακτινοβολίας γαλαξιακής και ηλιακής προέλευσης
Authors: Ξαπλαντέρης Λουκάς
Published: August 2023

Στην παρούσα διδακτορική διατριβή προσδιορίστηκε μια νέα συνάρτηση σύζευξης μεταξύ πρωτογενούς και δευτερογενούς κοσμικής ακτινοβολίας (γαλαξιακής και ηλιακής προέλευσης). Η εργασία χαρακτηρίζεται από έντονη πρωτοτυπία καθότι ο προσδιορισμός της εν λόγω συνάρτησης σύζευξης στηρίχτηκε σε αναλυτικούς υπολογισμούς της κβαντικής θεωρίας πεδίου, κάτι το οποίο δεν έχει επιχειρηθεί μέχρι στιγμής. Μετά τον πλήρη υπολογισμό της συνάρτησης σύζευξης (κάνοντας χρήση ενός θεωρητικού μοντέλου), η συνάρτηση εφαρμόστηκε σε καταγεγραμμένα γεγονότα διακύμανσης της έντασης της κοσμικής ακτινοβολίας (ΚΑ) και πιο συγκεκριμένα σε τρεις μειώσεις Forbush (Φεβρουαρίου 2011, Μαρτίου 2012, Σεπτεμβρίου 2017) και ένα γεγονός Επίγειας Επαύξησης (GLE72). Από τις εφαρμογές αυτές προέκυψαν άκρως ενθαρρυντικά αποτελέσματα, με τα εξαγόμενα φάσματα της πρωτογενούς ΚΑ να συμφωνούν με τα αντίστοιχα πειραματικά σε μεγάλο βαθμό. Σχολιάζεται ότι τα δεδομένα της δευτερογενούς ΚΑ εξασφαλίστηκαν μέσω του Διεθνούς Δικτύου Μετρητών Νετρονίων (NMDB) ενώ το πρωτογενές φάσμα από δεδομένα του δορυφόρου GOES 13 του οργανισμού ΝΟΑΑ.
"Ευφυή" βιομιμητικά υλικά
Authors: Μάντσου Αγλαΐα
Published: August 2023

Στα πλαίσια αυτού του έργου σχεδιάστηκαν και συντέθηκαν με τεχνικές μοριακής βιολογίας, μη τοξικά πρωτεϊνικά βιο-ικριώματα, τα οποία προσελκύουν στελεχιαία κύτταρα και επάγουν την διαφοροποίησή τους προς οστεοκύτταρα ή χονδροκύτταρα με σκοπό την αναγέννηση κατεστραμμένου ιστού. Τα ικριώματα συνδυάζουν τις μηχανικές ιδιότητες της ανθρώπινης τροποελαστίνης (υψηλή ελαστικότητα), της φιμπροΐνης του μεταξιού (μηχανική αντοχή) και της προσκολλητικής πρωτεΐνης-1 του μυδιού (ανθεκτικότητα, προσκόλληση σε επιφάνειες). Επιπλέον, εκθέτουν πεπτίδια κυτταρικής προσκόλλησης και δραστικά πεπτίδια από αυξητικούς παράγοντες που επάγουν την οστεογένεση (BMP-2) ή τη χονδρογένεση (TGF-β1). Τα βιο-ϊκριώματα σχηματίζουν τριδιάστατα, ημι-άκαμπτα, ιξωδοελαστικά δίκτυα στους 37 oC με υψηλές τιμές ελαστικότητας και ιξώδους. Τα ρεολογικά πειράματα έδειξαν επίσης πως οι ίνες αυτών των δικτύων αποκτούν σταδιακά παράλληλο προσανατολισμό κατά την επίδραση περιστροφικών δυνάμεων ροής. Με κατάλληλη επεξεργασία σχηματίστηκαν πορώδη βιο-ϊκριώματα με υψηλή διασυνδεσιμότητα πόρων. Τα πειράματά μας έδειξαν ότι τα πορώδη βιο-ϊκριώματα που περιέχουν σηματοδοτικά πεπτίδια από την BMP-2 ή τον TGFβ1 επάγουν με μεγάλη αποτελεσματικότητα την έκφραση γονιδίων-δεικτών και ενεργοποιούν κανονικά και μη κανονικά μονοπάτια σηματοδότησης της οστεογένεσης ή της χονδρογένεσης αντίστοιχα, μετά από 21 ημέρες καλλιέργειας. Επιπρόσθετα, μελετήθηκε η επίδραση μεταβολιτών αναερόβιων βακτηρίων του γαστρεντερικού μικροβιώματος σε επιθηλιακά καρκινικά κύτταρα Caco-2 που αναπτύσσονται παρουσία του βιοϋλικού, και διαπιστώθηκαν επιδράσεις σε μεταβολίτες και γονίδια της αντιγραφής του DNA, στο φαινότυπο των κυττάρων και στην έκφραση πρωτεϊνών που συμμετέχουν στον σχηματισμό των μικρολαχνών και των στεγανών κυτταρικών συνδέσμων, οι οποίες υποδεικνύουν την πιθανή προστατευτική δράση του βιοϋλικού έναντι βακτηριακών μεταβολιτών που προάγουν τον υπερπολλαπλασιασμό των καρκινικών Caco-2.
The genome sequence of the Locust Fly, Stomorhina lunata (Fabricius, 1805)
Authors: Mitchell Ryan , Sivell Olga ,   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: August 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Stomorhina lunata (the Locust Fly; Arthropoda; Insecta; Diptera; Rhiniidae). The genome sequence is 728.1 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 6 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the X sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 16.49 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 18,358 protein coding genes.
Game—DISASTER: Blockchain-Enabled Token Trading Game for Supply Chain Management
Authors: Wendt Kai , Hellwig Daniel , Babich Volodymyr , Huchzermeier Arnd
Published: August 2023

This paper describes the blockchain-enabled token trading game for supply chain management, a web-based supply chain simulation. The game uses blockchain technology’s concepts to create virtual markets for supplier capacity trading among retailers, in which participants take on the role of a retailer, have different valuations for products, and submit an order before knowing their demand; after demand realization, participants trade tokens (claims on the supplier’s capacity) among themselves using virtual markets to maximize their profits. The game provides participants with firsthand experience with how blockchain technology can be used in practice, thus serving as an interactive pedagogical tool. More generally, the game is intended to help supply chain management and blockchain technology students and executives understand the challenges of serving uncertain customer demand and the role of virtual markets in providing an effective remedy for reconciling supply and demand, thus improving supply chain performance.

Supplemental Material: The supplemental material is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/ited.2023.0015 . The Teaching Note and PowerPoint presentation are available at https://www.informs.org/Publications/Subscribe/Access-Restricted-Materials .
Competitive Algorithms for the Online Minimum Peak Job Scheduling
Authors: Escribe Célia , Hu Michael , Levi Retsef
Published: August 2023

Algorithms to schedule medical appointments

This paper was inspired by a field collaboration effort to develop and disseminate a real-time appointment scheduling decision support tool for an outpatient cancer infusion center in a large healthcare system. Two challenging aspects of scheduling daily medical appointments are that each patient is scheduled upon arrival without knowledge on future patients and that the appointments typically consume scarce physical resources (e.g., chairs, nurses, and doctors). A desirable schedule should have relatively smooth utilization over the course of a day to minimize the peak demand for the scarce resources. This paper develops new real-time (online) algorithms to schedule appointments in medical and other settings. It establishes theoretical properties of these algorithms, showing that they perform close to algorithms that could exploit full retrospective information on all the appointments. Additionally, it provides important insights to guide efficient real-time appointment scheduling policies in practice.
Inclusive, sustainable economic transformation: an analysis of trends and trade-offs
Authors: Diwakar Vidya
Published: August 2023

This article presents a typology to capture varying degrees of inclusive, sustainable economic transformation in low- and middle-income countries. We perform a cluster analysis of these pillars – poverty and inequality, environmental sustainability, and economic transformation – proxied by a set of quantitative indicators with data pooled between 2000 and 2018. This is supported by descriptive analysis of correlations in change over time between indicators as well as an exploration of the contextual risk and governance profiles underpinning these changes. From this analysis, we identify five clusters of countries with a range of outcomes across the three pillars. Countries consistently performing well across the three dimensions are not readily evident, though some countries are able to achieve moderate outcomes. Policy implications point to the need to get the basics right around pro-poor infrastructure development and making certain sectors greener in an effort to advance tripartite gains.
Changing Narratives and Provoking Dialogue: An Analysis of the HIV Stigma and Faith Summit
Authors: Jones Shonda R. , Mathews Allison , Colbert Kia , Simon Barbara , Smith-Bankhead Neena , Usher DaShawn , McGoy Shanell L.
Published: August 2023

Summary: GLAAD in partnership with the Gilead COMPASS Initiative® Coordinating Centers conducted a three-day summit to address the HIV epidemic in the Southern region of the United States. The summit featured virtual panel discussions with HIV experts, faith leaders, community advocates, and entertainers to bring about conversation and change around HIV stigma.
Hybrid machine-learning framework for volumetric segmentation and quantification of vacuoles in individual yeast cells using holotomography
Authors: Lee Moosung , Kunzi Marina , Neurohr Gabriel , Lee Sung Sik , Park YongKeun
Published: August 2023

The precise, quantitative evaluation of intracellular organelles in three-dimensional (3D) imaging data poses a significant challenge due to the inherent constraints of traditional microscopy techniques, the requirements of the use of exogenous labeling agents, and existing computational methods. To counter these challenges, we present a hybrid machine-learning framework exploiting correlative imaging of 3D quantitative phase imaging with 3D fluorescence imaging of labeled cells. The algorithm, which synergistically integrates a random-forest classifier with a deep neural network, is trained using the correlative imaging data set, and the trained network is then applied to 3D quantitative phase imaging of cell data. We applied this method to live budding yeast cells. The results revealed precise segmentation of vacuoles inside individual yeast cells, and also provided quantitative evaluations of biophysical parameters, including volumes, concentration, and dry masses of automatically segmented vacuoles.
Conv-TabNet: an efficient adaptive color correction network for smartphone-based urine component analysis
Authors: Deng Yiming , Qiu Jiasheng , Xiao Zhonglin , Tang Baojian , Liu Demin , Chen Shuchao , Shi Zhongbao , Tang Xuehui , Chen Hongbo
Published: August 2023

The camera function of a smartphone can be used to quantitatively detect urine parameters anytime, anywhere. However, the color captured by different cameras in different environments is different. A method for color correction is proposed for a urine test strip image collected using a smartphone. In this method, the color correction model is based on the color information of the urine test strip, as well as the ambient light and camera parameters. Conv-TabNet, which can focus on each feature parameter, was designed to correct the color of the color blocks of the urine test strip. The color correction experiment was carried out in eight light sources on four mobile phones. The experimental results show that the mean absolute error of the new method is as low as 2.8±1.8, and the CIEDE2000 color difference is 1.5±1.5. The corrected color is almost consistent with the standard color by visual evaluation. This method can provide a technology for the quantitative detection of urine test strips anytime and anywhere.
Automatic control method for freeform surface shapes
Authors: Cheng Dewen , Li Danyang , Yao Cheng , Chen Hailong , Chi Cheng , Wang Yongtian
Published: August 2023

Designing freeform optics with high degrees of freedom can improve their optical performances; however, there are high requirements for controlling the surface shapes of such optics. Optical designers need to add constraints to the optimization process and make repeated adjustments to ensure the manufacturability of these shapes; this process is cumbersome and relies heavily on the experience of the designer. In this study, an automatic control method for freeform surface shapes is proposed. By adding an outer loop to the optimization process, the principal curvature and sag departure of the sampling points are gradually controlled during the optimization cycle based on the system requirements and surface evaluation results. The method was implemented in CODE V and successfully applied to a design example in freeform prism optics.
Gold-coated tilted fiber Bragg gratings for lead ion sensing
Authors: Zhu Tianbo , Loyez Médéric , Chah Karima , Caucheteur Christophe
Published: August 2023

Surface plasmon resonance sensor based on gold-coated tilted fiber Bragg gratings (SPR-TFBGs) are perfectly suited for fine refractometry. Thanks to the functionalization of the gold layer, they can be used for label-free biosensing. They have been largely used for the specific detection of proteins and cells. In this work, we experimentally demonstrate that they are enough sensitive to detect a very small entity like an environmental pollutant. In this context, we report here a bio-functionalization of the SPR-TFBG with thrombin aptamers for lead ion detection. We used aqueous solutions of lead ions with increasing concentrations from 0.001 ppb to 10 ppb. Based on the affinity bending of Pb2+ ions to the thrombin aptamer, we experimentally demonstrated low detection level of lead ion concentration (0.001 ppb) while the saturation limit is meanly fixed by the physical dimension of the sensor and the binding efficiency.
Imaging through scattering media under strong ambient light interference via the lock-in process
Authors: Shui Yuyang , Zhou Jianying , Luo Xin , Liang Haowen , Liu Yikun
Published: August 2023

Scattered light imaging techniques leveraging memory effects have been extensively investigated, yet most approaches are limited to operating in predominantly dark environments. The introduction of additional optical noise disrupts the fine structure of the original speckle pattern, undermining spatial correlation and resulting in imaging failure. In this study, we present a high-performance imaging method that integrates a lock-in process to overcome this limitation. Our experimental results demonstrate that the proposed technique enables successful imaging of targets in low signal-to-background ratio (SBR) environments, even at SBR levels as low as -28.0 dB. Furthermore, the method allows for the directional separation of targets with distinct modulation frequencies. This innovative approach has the potential to significantly expand the applicability of scattering imaging techniques by eliminating the constraints of dark field environments, thereby enhancing the convenience of in vivo microscopy and daytime astronomical observations.
First passage time of laser-driven tunneling
Authors: Zheltikov Aleksei M.
Published: August 2023

The notion of the first passage time is shown to offer a meaningful extension to quantum tunneling, providing a closed-integral-form analytical unification of the tunneling rate and the tunneling passage time. We demonstrate that, in suitable potential settings, the quantum first passage time, found as a solution to the Fokker–Planck and backward Kolmogorov’s equations for the quantum probability density, recovers the hallmark results for the Kramers escape rate, the lifetime of tunneling quasi-stationary wave packets, leads to a classical, distance-over-speed passage time for a free-particle wave function, and offers useful insights into Keldysh’s intimation on the electron barrier-traversal time in field-induced ionization.
Object-independent wavefront sensing method based on an unsupervised learning model for overcoming aberrations in optical systems
Authors: Ge Xinlan , Zhu Licheng , Gao Zeyu , Wang Ning , Ye Hongwei , Wang Shuai , Yang Ping
Published: August 2023

This Letter introduces the idea of unsupervised learning into object-independent wavefront sensing for the first time, to the best of our knowledge, which can achieve fast phase recovery of arbitrary objects without labels. First, a fine feature extraction method which only depends on the wavefront aberrations is proposed. Then, a lightweight neural network and an optical feature system are combined to form an unsupervised learning model, and the neural network is promoted to be well trained by reversely outputting fine features. Simulation results prove that the proposed method can effectively overcome the aberrations (static or variable) existing in the optical system and achieve wavefront sensing of different objects with high precision and efficiency.
Learning-based correction with Gaussian constraints for ghost imaging through dynamic scattering media
Authors: Peng Yang , Chen Wen
Published: August 2023

In this Letter, we propose a learning-based correction method to realize ghost imaging (GI) through dynamic scattering media using deep neural networks with Gaussian constraints. The proposed method learns the wave-scattering mechanism in dynamic scattering environments and rectifies physically existing dynamic scaling factors in the optical channel. The corrected realizations obey a Gaussian distribution and can be used to recover high-quality ghost images. Experimental results demonstrate effectiveness and robustness of the proposed learning-based correction method when imaging through dynamic scattering media is conducted. In addition, only the half number of realizations is needed in dynamic scattering environments, compared with that used in the temporally corrected GI method. The proposed scheme provides a novel, to the best of our knowledge, insight into GI and could be a promising and powerful tool for optical imaging through dynamic scattering media.
Light scattering features induced by residual layers in dielectric dewetted nanoparticles
Authors: Granchi Nicoletta , Fagiani Luca , Barri Chiara , Fedorov Alexey , Abbarchi Marco , Vincenti Maria Antonietta , Intonti Francesca , Bollani Monica
Published: August 2023

All-dielectric, sub-micrometric particles obtained through solid state dewetting of thin SiGe-films have been shown to support Mie resonances together with a high-quality monocrystalline composition and atomically smooth facets. Recently, a precise study on the impact given by the effective complex morphology of a SiGe dewetted nanoparticle to the Mie scattering properties has been provided and carried on through a novel experimental technique called Dark-field Scanning Optical Microscopy. In this work, by means of the same experimental technique and numerical simulations of light scattering, we show how the presence of a pedestal enriched with silicon placed under the SiGe-nanoparticle results in a sharp peak at high energy in the total scattering cross-section. Exploiting a tilted illumination to redirect scattered light, we are able to discriminate the spatial localization of the pedestal-induced resonance. Our results contribute to extending the practical implementations of dewetted Mie resonators in the field of light scattering directionality, sensing applications and show further engineering options beyond the simple isolated-island case.
Photonic Band Imaging
Authors: Okada Sho , Kagami Hibiki , Sakamoto Itsuki , Nishiyama Nobu , Hu Xiao , Amemiya Tomo
Published: August 2023

Structural colors are produced via the scattering and reflection of light with a specific wavelength through micro/nanostructures. Distinguishing between colors derived from pigment and those obtained from structures in images acquired via optical microscopy remains challenging. Analysis of structure-derived coloration necessitates evaluations using destructive techniques, such as scanning electron microscopy. Herein, we propose a new imaging technique—photonic band imaging—based on hyperspectral infrared Fourier image spectroscopy. Using this technique, mapping of images and reflection of information on specific locations across the entire photonic band, can be performed. The developed device allows the non-destructive visualization of information derived from the analyzed objects.
Integrated density of states algorithm for one-dimensional randomly layered optical media
Authors: Kissel Glen
Published: August 2023

Anderson localization simulations in one-dimensional disordered optical systems usually focus on the localization length or its inverse, but the calculation of the density of states has appeared less frequently for such models. In this paper a technique originally used to calculate the integrated density of states for one-dimensional disordered crystals supporting electron propagation is modified for use with randomly layered optical media. The density of states is then readily available via differentiation. The algorithm is demonstrated on one-dimensional quarter-wave stack and non-quarter-wave stack models with layer thicknesses disordered.
All-fiber tunable devices based on high-index photonic crystal fibers filled with liquid crystals
Authors: Ertman Slawomir , Chychłowski Miłosz , Bednarska Karolina , Pazdzior Adam , Jaworska Olga , Czapla Aleksandra , Bieda Marcin , Halendy Monika , Rozycka Julia , Wasilewska Natalia , Kolodynska Oliwia , Harmata Piotr , Pysz Dariusz , Buczynski Ryszard , Wolinski Tomasz
Published: August 2023

In this paper we present all-in fiber tunable devices based on specially designed and optimized high-index photonic crystal fibers filled with nematic liquid crystals. A special host microstructured optical fibers have been designed and manufactured to ensure low-loss index guiding and mode field diameter matching to SMF-28 fiber, ensuring low losses on interconnections with leading in-out FC/PC connectorized pigtails. We present four types of tunable all-fiber devices: tunable retarders with tuning range as high as 20 λ, tunable polarizers with variable axis of polarization and continuously tunable polarization dependent losses, tunable and fully controllable polarization controller and finally indeterministic depolarizer in which depolarization is caused by random thermodynamic process. We also present a cost-effective method to achieve change in the direction of the steering electric field, which was controlled by custom-made programable controllers. Finally, we present a method for effective packaging for the proposed devices.
Impact of a multi-disease integrated screening and diagnostic model for COVID-19, TB, and HIV in Lesotho
Authors: Katende Bulemba , Bresser Moniek , Kamele Mashaete , Chere Lebohang , Tlahali Mosa , Erhardt Rahel Milena , Muhairwe Josephine , Ayakaka Irene , Glass Tracy R. , Ruhwald Morten , van Ginneken Bram , Murphy Keelin , de Vos Margaretha , Amstutz Alain , Mareka Mathabo , Mooko Sekhele Matabo , Reither Klaus , González Fernández Lucia
Published: August 2023

The surge of the COVID-19 pandemic challenged health services globally, and in Lesotho, the HIV and tuberculosis (TB) services were similarly affected. Integrated, multi-disease diagnostic services were proposed solutions to mitigate these disruptions. We describe and evaluate the effect of an integrated, hospital-based COVID-19, TB and HIV screening and diagnostic model in two rural districts in Lesotho, during the period between December 2020 and August 2022. Adults, hospital staff, and children above 5 years attending two hospitals were pre-screened for COVID-19 and TB symptoms. After a positive pre-screening, participants were offered to enroll in a service model that included clinical evaluation, chest radiography, SARS-CoV-2, TB, and HIV testing. Participants diagnosed with COVID-19, TB, or HIV were contacted after 28 days to evaluate their health status and linkage to HIV and/or TB care services. Of the 179160 participants pre-screened, 6623(3.7%) pre-screened positive, and 4371(66%) were enrolled in this service model. Of the total 458 diagnoses, only 17 happened in children. One positive rapid antigen test for SARS-CoV-2 was found per 11 participants enrolled, one Xpert-positive TB case was diagnosed per 85 people enrolled, and 1 new HIV diagnosis was done per 182 people enrolled. Of the 321(82.9%) participants contacted after 28 days of diagnosis, 304(94.7%) reported to be healthy. Of the individuals that were newly diagnosed with HIV or TB, 18/24(75.0%) and 46/51(90.1%) started treatment within 28 days of the diagnosis. This screening and diagnostic model successfully maintained same-day, integrated COVID-19, TB, and HIV testing services, despite frequent disruptions caused by the surge of COVID-19 waves, healthcare seeking patterns, and the volatile context (social measures, travel restrictions, population lockdowns). There were positive effects in avoiding diagnostic delays and ensuring linkage to services, however, diagnostic yields for adults and children were low. To inform future preparedness plans, research will need to identify essential health interventions and how to optimize them along each phase of the emergency response.
Improving the quality of maternal and newborn healthcare at the district level: Addressing newborn deaths in Nepal
Authors: Ikeda Subaru , Shibanuma Akira , Pokharel Alpha , Silwal Ram Chandra , Jimba Masamine
Published: August 2023

Maternal and newborn care quality can be measured in three dimensions (Dimensions 1: care provision, 2: care experience, and 3: human and physical resources); however, little is known about which dimensions are associated with newborn and perinatal deaths. We examined the association between care quality and newborn and perinatal deaths in Nepal. This study incorporated secondary data from Nepal Service Provision Assessments (NSPA) 2015 (623 delivery facilities, facility inventory survey; 1,509 women, ANC clients interviews; 1,544 women, ANC observation) and Nepal Demographic and Health Surveys (NDHS) 2016 (5,038 women who reported having given birth in the five years preceding data collection). The outcome variables were newborn and perinatal deaths derived from the NDHS. The exposure variables were district-level maternal and newborn care quality scores calculated from the NSPA data. Covariates were women’s sociodemographic, health, and obstetric characteristics. We applied the administrative boundary method to link these two surveys. We conducted binary logistic regression analyses to examine the association between care quality and newborn/perinatal deaths. In Dimension 1, higher mean and maximum quality scores at the district level were associated with a lower number of newborn deaths (mean: odds ratio [OR] = 0.04, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.00–0.76; max: OR = 0.09, 95% CI: 0.01–0.58), but not with perinatal deaths. In Dimensions 2 and 3, the quality score was not significantly associated with newborn deaths and perinatal. Enhancing the quality of care provision at its average and highest levels in each district may contribute to the reduction of newborn deaths, but not perinatal death. Health administrators should assess the quality of care at the administrative division level and focus on enhancing both average and maximum care quality of health facilities in each region in the care provision dimension.
Evaluating user experience with immersive technology in simulation-based education: A modified Delphi study with qualitative analysis
Authors: Jacobs Chris , Foote Georgia , Williams Michael
Published: August 2023

Background

Immersive technology is becoming more widespread in simulation-based medical education with applications that both supplement and replace traditional teaching methods. There is a lack of validated measures that capture user experience to inform of the technology utility. We aimed to establish a consensus of items and domains that different simulation experts would include in a measure for immersive technology use.

Methods

A 3-stage modified Delphi using online software was conducted to support the conceptual framework for the proposed measure. The first round was informed by prior work on immersive technology in simulation. In the first round, participants were asked to describe what we could measure in simulation-based education and technology. Thematic analysis generated key themes that were presented to the participants in the second round. Ranking of importance in round 2 was determined by mean rank scores. The final round was an online meeting for final consensus discussion and most important domains by experts were considered.

Results

A total of 16 simulation experts participated in the study. A consensus was reached on the ideal measure in immersive technology simulation that would be a user questionnaire and domains of interest would be: what was learnt, the degree of immersion experienced, fidelity provided, debrief, psychological safety and patient safety. No consensus was reached with the barriers that this technology introduces in education.

Conclusions

There is varied opinion on what we should prioritise in measuring the experience in simulation practice. Importantly, this study identified key areas that aids our understanding on how we can measure new technology in educational settings. Synthesising these results in to a multidomain instrument requires a systematic approach to testing in future research.