bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vertical Distributions of Zn, Cd, Pb and Cu at Tropical Coastal Sediments: In Case of West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Lasumin Nazerita , Mohamed Khairul Nizam , Yusuff Ferdaus Mohamat
Published: January 2023

The level and pollution status of Zn, Cd, Pb, Cu in sediment cores of Bagan Pasir estuary, Sungai Buloh estuary, and the coastline of Port Dickson was assessed. Based on the vertical profiles of metals concentrations, the order of metals’ concentration in decreasing manner was Zn>Pb>Cu>Cd at Bagan Pasir and Sungai Buloh stations, while Zn>Cu>Pb>Cd at Port Dickson station. Most of the analyzed metals were below the Interim Sediment Quality Guidelines and the effect range-low (ERL) at all sampling stations. The results of geo-accumulation index, contamination factor and pollution load index classified the sediments quality as unpolluted with studied metals with the exception of the element Pb at certain depths of the sediment cores as well as historical pollution at bottom sediment at Sungai Buloh station. Therefore, metal concentrations in the sediments of these stations were not at an alarming stage, however, requires regular monitoring from the authorities to maintain sustainable management of these areas especially at Sungai Buloh due to anthropogenic activities.
Synthesis of some Schiff base Derivatives using One pot Grinding Method and Its Biological activities
Authors: Anusuya V Anusuya V , Muruganantham N Muruganantham N , Anitha P Anitha P , Mahesh S Mahesh S
Published: January 2023

In this present study, we reported the synthesis of some Schiff base derivatives by one pot grinding method from 2-hydroxy benzohydrazide and Aromatic aldehydes. NMR and IR spectroscopy were used to characterize the synthesized compounds. The antioxidant, antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory properties of the Schiff base derivatives 3(a-j) were studied. Regarding standards, all the compounds demonstrated good biological activity.
Development of A Novel One-pot Process for the Synthesis of Tolcapone
Authors: Bodkhe Arjun , Sudrik Vilas , Karpe Dnyaneshwar , Lawande Shamrao
Published: January 2023

Novel one-pot process for the preparation of tolcapone., 2-methoxy anisole compound 9 treated with 4-methyl benzoyl chloride compound 10 using aluminium chloride gives 4-hydroxy -3-methoxy-4-methyl benzophenone compound 11 Further on nitration using new nitrating agent i.e. melamine nitrate to get corresponding nitro benzophenone compound 6. After demethylation using 48% HBr-Acetic acid to get pure Tolcapone 1 by the cost-effective and commercially feasible process.
3D error calibration of spatial spots based on dual position-sensitive detectors
Authors: Cheng Shaowei , Liu Jin , Li Zeng , Zhang Pengcheng , Chen Jiquan , Yang Haima
Published: January 2023

In this paper, a dual position-sensitive detector-based vision measurement system camera is built instead of a traditional CCD camera. The 3D position information for the light point is calculated according to the 2D coordinate information of a certain light point in the space illuminated on the two position-sensitive detector (PSD) photosensitive surfaces, which is used for position detection of the spatial light point. In addition, the positioning model for 2D PSDs with different spot sizes in the Gaussian spot mode is derived by the mathematical model of Lucovsky’s differential equation for a PSD. For the nonlinear distortion of the PSD, a nonlinear error calibration method using a particle swarm combined with a back propagation neural network is proposed to correct the errors in the measured values through the relationship between the input and output values, to obtain the predicted value that approximates the real coordinates. Then, by comparing the influence of different spot sizes on the positioning accuracy, we conclude that the smaller the spot formed by the convergence of the beam under the optical lens, the higher the positioning accuracy. We believe this conclusion can help improve the accuracy of PSD measurements. Finally, a red LED light spot is set up, and the 3D position measurement and error calibration of the light spot is done by dual PSD cameras, which better solves the position detection problem of a space light spot under close-range conditions because it is fast, reliable, and easy to implement. It also provides an effective method to detect the motion trajectory of a moving light spot in space.
Integrating clinical access limitations into iPDT treatment planning with PDT-SPACE
Authors: Wang Shuran , Saeidi Tina , Lilge Lothar , Betz Vaughn
Published: January 2023

PDT-SPACE is an open-source software tool that automates interstitial photodynamic therapy treatment planning by providing patient-specific placement of light sources to destroy a tumor while minimizing healthy tissue damage. This work extends PDT-SPACE in two ways. The first enhancement allows specification of clinical access constraints on light source insertion to avoid penetrating critical structures and to minimize surgical complexity. Constraining fiber access to a single burr hole of adequate size increases healthy tissue damage by 10%. The second enhancement generates an initial placement of light sources as a starting point for refinement, rather than requiring entry of a starting solution by the clinician. This feature improves productivity and also leads to solutions with 4.5% less healthy tissue damage. The two features are used in concert to perform simulations of various surgery options of virtual glioblastoma multiforme brain tumors.
Iterative supervised learning approach using transceiver bit-error-rate measurements for optical line system optimization
Authors: Borraccini Giacomo , D’Amico Andrea , Straullu Stefano , Usmani Fehmida , Ahmad Arsalan , Curri Vittorio
Published: January 2023

Defining the working points of optical amplifiers is a key factor when managing optical networks, particularly for the quality of transmission (QoT) of deployed connections. However, given the lack of knowledge of physical layer parameters, in many cases operators use these infrastructures suboptimally. In this work, a methodology is presented that optimizes the QoT of an optical line system (OLS) by setting the working points of the erbium-doped fiber amplifiers (EDFAs), by analysis of simulations that use synthetic data derived from experimental characterization of commercial devices. The procedure is divided into three phases: a physical layer characterization, a design process, and an iterative supervised learning approach. Within the first phase, a novel amplifier physical layer characterization is used, exploiting a simple EDFA model that allows an efficient estimation of the OLS behavior, knowing only the setting operative ranges of the devices. The results show that the satisfactory outcome produced during the design phase is further improved by the iterative supervised learning approach. The latter approach is implemented for single OLSs between couples of adjacent reconfigurable optical add and drop multiplexers, each equipped with a certain set of transceivers, enabling the QoT estimation of the specific OLS.
Polarization-dependent four-port fiber optical circulator based on the Sagnac effect
Authors: Regelskis Kęstutis , Kodz Jaroslav , Gavrilinas Nikolajus , Želudevičius Julijanas
Published: January 2023

We demonstrate theoretically and experimentally a fiber optical circulator with a rotating ring interferometer based on the Sagnac effect. A ratio of 104:1 in light transmittance in the forward and backward directions between the same input/output ports of the circulator was experimentally demonstrated. The optical isolation in the backward direction was 24 dB.
Dispersed fringe cophasing method based on principal component analysis
Authors: Zhang Yongfeng , Xian Hao , Rao Changhui
Published: January 2023

With the success of the Webb telescope, dispersed fringe sensing (DFS), with the significant merit of a large capture range, is proving to be a promising cophasing approach for a large-aperture segmented telescope. In this Letter, a novel, to the best of our knowledge, piston error extraction method based on principal component analysis (PCA) technology is proposed. In this method, all the one-dimension intensity distributions along the dispersion axis for different interference positions are regarded as a set of random phase-shifted interference signals. PCA technology is utilized to obtain its corresponding continuous principal phase and the piston error could be directly estimated proportionally from the slope of the phase–wavenumber line. This method avoids nonlinear operations, similar to Shi’s traditional framework; no active move is needed for fine cophasing, and the method is also free of characteristic constant calibration in sidelobe peak displacement- and slope-based methods. Preliminary simulations of the method’s coarse-then-fine cophasing ability with high accuracy are presented here to show its potential.
Angular accelerometer based on a dual-polarization fiber-optic Sagnac interferometer
Authors: Ma Xiangdong , Chen Yanjun , Wang Wenbo , Cao Yuwen , Zhu Lanxin , Huang Huimin , Li Zhengbin
Published: January 2023

High-performance angular accelerometers are essential for precise dynamics control of aircraft, satellites, etc. Here, we propose, for the first time to the best of our knowledge, an angular accelerometer based on a dual-polarization fiber-optic Sagnac interferometer, which exhibits relatively high sensitivity and a broad bandwidth. The experimental results show that the angular accelerometer achieves a flat frequency response in the bandwidth range of 0.01–100 Hz. The sensitivity reaches 6.6 × 10−8 rad/s2/

Hz

. In addition, the proposed fiber-optic angular accelerometer does not rely on any mechanical structure and has strong environmental adaptability. This research provides a feasible solution for the design and implementation of new high-performance angular accelerometers, which contributes to their development in the fields of inertial navigation and rotational seismology.
High-power diode-end-pumped 1314 nm laser based on the multi-segmented Nd:YLF crystal
Authors: Jiang Cong , Huang Weining , He Qibang , He Jiayi , Zhu Siqi , Yin Hao , Li Zhen , Chen Zhenqiang , Dai Shibo
Published: January 2023

We demonstrate the first multi-segmented Nd:YLF laser, to the best of our knowledge. The multi-segmented crystal was designed to straightforwardly aim for the minimum thermal stress without sacrificing the overall laser efficiency, with the influence of the pump beam waist position considered in particular. Integrating the enhanced thermo-mechanical resistance of multi-segmented crystal and the alleviated heat load of low quantum defect pumping, this end-pumped 1314 nm Nd:YLF laser system delivered a maximum continuous-wave output power of up to 35.5 W under a pump power of 105 W, corresponding to an optical-to-optical efficiency of 33.8%. Furthermore, by incorporating an acousto-optic modulator, an active Q-switching oscillator was accomplished, yielding a maximum average output power of 22.9 W at a pulse repetition frequency (PRF) of 20 kHz and a largest pulse energy of 13.6 mJ at a PRF of 1 kHz.
Rotational Doppler shift tripling via third-harmonic generation of spatially structured light in a quasi-periodically poled crystal
Authors: Cheng Zi-Mo , Xue Shu-Tian , Lou Yan-Chao , Wan Pei , Ren Zhi-Cheng , Ding Jianping , Wang Xi-Lin , Wang Hui-Tian
Published: January 2023

The rotational Doppler effect—the angular version of the Doppler effect—shows a frequency shift phenomenon happening when light passes through a rotating object and its angular momentum is changed. The rotational Doppler effect has been widely studied with various light waves based on different angular momentum transform mechanisms and successfully utilized to detect the rotation of objects. However, these studies are mostly limited to linear optics. As the rotational Doppler effect is closely related to the frequency degree of freedom and frequency conversion always happens in nonlinear optics, it is of great significance to explore the rotational Doppler effect in nonlinear optics. Although nonlinear rotational Doppler phenomena have been observed in second-harmonic generation with circularly polarized Gaussian fundamental light and a rotating nonlinear crystal, there is still the open challenge of how to realize Doppler frequency shift conversion (similar to conventional nonlinear frequency conversion), such as doubling or tripling. Here we report the experiment observation of rotational Doppler shift conversion in nonlinear optics. We demonstrate the tripling of a rotational Doppler frequency shift in third-harmonic generation of a spatially structured fundamental wave. Frequency shifts can be extracted from the intensity beating signals with the interference of two components of vector fields with opposite topological charges and the measured modulation frequency of the beating signal for the generated third harmonic. Our results will excite more research on nonlinear optics with spatially structured light, and our method may create opportunities for precision measurement of frequency shifts.
Freight Service Platform Ecosystems – Value Co-Creation durch Einsatz mobiler Telematik für Transportladungsträger in Plattform-Ökosystemen
Authors: Heinbach Christoph , Thomas Oliver
Published: January 2023

Der Einsatz innovativer Informationstechnologien in Gütertransportsystemen offenbart neue Entfaltungspotenziale, um die Servitization in der Branche voranzutreiben. Neue datenbasierte Dienstleistungsangebote entstehen dabei durch Internet of Things (IoT) Plattform-Ökosysteme und ermöglichen den Informationsaustausch zwischen den beteiligten Akteuren. Diese Entwicklung wird insbesondere durch die Nutzung mobiler Telematik als Enabler-Technologie deutlich, die zunehmend für Transportladungsträger (TLT, z. B. Trailer) im B2B Bereich angewendet wird, damit intelligente Dienste entstehen, die von den Akteuren gemeinsam genutzt werden können. Vor diesem Hintergrund ermöglichen telematikgestützte TLT eine Value Co-Creation durch die Einbeziehung des Kunden, die von den einzelnen Akteuren in übergreifenden Dienstleistungsbereichen realisiert wird. In diesem Beitrag stellen die Autoren das Konzept Freight Service Platform Ecosystems (FSPEs) vor, das eine prozessorientierte Value Co-Creation durch telematikgestützte TLT in Plattform-Ökosystemen orchestriert. Basierend auf den Ergebnissen einer durchgeführten Studie wird ein Gestaltungsvorschlag für FSPEs präsentiert. Anschließend wird auf Grundlage des Value in Interaction Modells die positive Gestaltung der Werte entlang der identifizierten Dimensionen in FSPEs herausgestellt. Durch das präsentierte Konzept und die plattformbasierten Interaktionen werden abschließend strategische Handlungsmaßnahmen für gemeinsame Wertschöpfungen formuliert. Eine Value Co-Creation entsteht für die Akteure insbesondere für die Leistungsbewertung, Anomalieerkennung, Risikobewertung, Kommunikation und den Frachtinformationsaustausch, die einen vernetzten Flottenbetrieb in digitalisierten und zunehmend autonomen Transportlogistikketten unterstützen.
Improving cascade outcomes for active TB: A global systematic review and meta-analysis of TB interventions
Authors: Marley Gifty , Zou Xia , Nie Juan , Cheng Weibin , Xie Yewei , Liao Huipeng , Wang Yehua , Tao Yusha , Tucker Joseph D. , Sylvia Sean , Chou Roger , Wu Dan , Ong Jason , Tang Weiming
Published: January 2023

Background

To inform policy and implementation that can enhance prevention and improve tuberculosis (TB) care cascade outcomes, this review aimed to summarize the impact of various interventions on care cascade outcomes for active TB.

Methods and findings

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we retrieved English articles with comparator arms (like randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and before and after intervention studies) that evaluated TB interventions published from January 1970 to September 30, 2022, from Embase, CINAHL, PubMed, and the Cochrane library. Commentaries, qualitative studies, conference abstracts, studies without standard of care comparator arms, and studies that did not report quantitative results for TB care cascade outcomes were excluded. Data from studies with similar comparator arms were pooled in a random effects model, and outcomes were reported as odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) and number of studies (k). The quality of evidence was appraised using GRADE, and the study was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42018103331). Of 21,548 deduplicated studies, 144 eligible studies were included. Of 144 studies, 128 were from low/middle-income countries, 84 were RCTs, and 25 integrated TB and HIV care. Counselling and education was significantly associated with testing (OR = 8.82, 95% CI:1.71 to 45.43; I2 = 99.9%, k = 7), diagnosis (OR = 1.44, 95% CI:1.08 to 1.92; I2 = 97.6%, k = 9), linkage to care (OR = 3.10, 95% CI = 1.97 to 4.86; I2 = 0%, k = 1), cure (OR = 2.08, 95% CI:1.11 to 3.88; I2 = 76.7%, k = 4), treatment completion (OR = 1.48, 95% CI: 1.07 to 2.03; I2 = 73.1%, k = 8), and treatment success (OR = 3.24, 95% CI: 1.88 to 5.55; I2 = 75.9%, k = 5) outcomes compared to standard-of-care. Incentives, multisector collaborations, and community-based interventions were associated with at least three TB care cascade outcomes; digital interventions and mixed interventions were associated with an increased likelihood of two cascade outcomes each. These findings remained salient when studies were limited to RCTs only. Also, our study does not cover the entire care cascade as we did not measure gaps in pre-testing, pretreatment, and post-treatment outcomes (like loss to follow-up and TB recurrence).

Conclusions

Among TB interventions, education and counseling, incentives, community-based interventions, and mixed interventions were associated with multiple active TB care cascade outcomes. However, cost-effectiveness and local-setting contexts should be considered when choosing such strategies due to their high heterogeneity.
Effectiveness of a peer educator-coordinated preference-based differentiated service delivery model on viral suppression among young people living with HIV in Lesotho: The PEBRA cluster-randomized trial
Authors: Kopo Mathebe , Lejone Thabo Ishmael , Tschumi Nadine , Glass Tracy Renée , Kao Mpho , Brown Jennifer Anne , Seiler Olivia , Muhairwe Josephine , Moletsane Ntoli , Labhardt Niklaus Daniel , Amstutz Alain
Published: January 2023

Background

Southern and Eastern Africa is home to more than 2.1 million young people aged 15 to 24 years living with HIV. As compared with other age groups, this population group has poorer outcomes along the HIV care cascade. Young people living with HIV and the research team co-created the PEBRA (Peer Educator-Based Refill of ART) care model. In PEBRA, a peer educator (PE) delivered services as per regularly assessed patient preferences for medication pick-up, short message service (SMS) notifications, and psychosocial support. The cluster-randomized trial compared PEBRA model versus standard clinic care (no PE and ART refill done by nurses) in 3 districts in Lesotho.

Methods and findings

Individuals taking antiretroviral therapy (ART) aged 15 to 24 years at 20 clinics (clusters) were eligible. In the 10 clinics randomized to the intervention arm, participants were offered the PEBRA model, coordinated by a trained PE and supported by an eHealth application (PEBRApp). In the 10 control clusters, participants received standard nurse-coordinated care without any service coordination by a PE. The primary endpoint was 12-month viral suppression below 20 copies/mL. Analyses were intention-to-treat and adjusted for sex.

From November 6, 2019 to February 4, 2020, we enrolled 307 individuals (150 intervention, 157 control; 218 [71%] female, median age 19 years [interquartile range, IQR, 17 to 22]). At 12 months, 99 of 150 (66%) participants in the intervention versus 95 of 157 (61%) participants in the control arm had viral suppression (adjusted odds ratio (OR) 1.27; 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.79 to 2.03]; p = 0.327); 4 of 150 (2.7%) versus 1 of 157 (0.6%) had died (adjusted OR 4.12; 95% CI [0.45 to 37.62]; p = 0.210); and 12 of 150 (8%) versus 23 of 157 (14.7%) had transferred out (adjusted OR 0.53; 95% CI [0.25 to 1.13]; p = 0.099). There were no significant differences between arms in other secondary outcomes. Twenty participants (11 in intervention and 9 in control) were lost to follow-up over the entire study period. The main limitation was that the data collectors in the control clusters were also young peers; however, they used a restricted version of the PEBRApp to collect data and thus were not able to provide the PEBRA model. The trial was prospectively registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03969030).

Conclusions

Preference-based peer-coordinated care for young people living with HIV, compared to nurse-based care only, did not lead to conclusive evidence for an effect on viral suppression.

Trial registration

clinicaltrials.gov, NCT03969030, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03969030.
Twenty-seven ZAD-ZNF genes of Drosophila melanogaster are orthologous to the embryo polarity determining mosquito gene cucoid
Authors: Li Muzi , Kasan Koray , Saha Zinnia , Yoon Yoseop , Schmidt-Ott Urs
Published: January 2023

The C2H2 zinc finger gene cucoid establishes anterior-posterior (AP) polarity in the early embryo of culicine mosquitoes. This gene is unrelated to genes that establish embryo polarity in other fly species (Diptera), such as the homeobox gene bicoid, which serves this function in the traditional model organism Drosophila melanogaster. The cucoid gene is a conserved single copy gene across lower dipterans but nothing is known about its function in other species, and its evolution in higher dipterans, including Drosophila, is unresolved. We found that cucoid is a member of the ZAD-containing C2H2 zinc finger (ZAD-ZNF) gene family and is orthologous to 27 of the 91 members of this family in D. melanogaster, including M1BP, ranshi, ouib, nom, zaf1, odj, Nnk, trem, Zif, and eighteen uncharacterized genes. Available knowledge of the functions of cucoid orthologs in Drosophila melanogaster suggest that the progenitor of this lineage specific expansion may have played a role in regulating chromatin. We also describe many aspects of the gene duplication history of cucoid in the brachyceran lineage of D. melanogaster, thereby providing a framework for predicting potential redundancies among these genes in D. melanogaster.
An analysis of the impact of China’s macroeconomic performance on its trade partners: Evidence based on the GVAR model
Authors: Alam Aftab , Ma Jingmei , Hussain Ibrar , Fazal Rizwan
Published: January 2023

Economic strategies and planning are critical to a country’s growth and development. China, like many other countries, is seeking the most cost-effective trade deals. Using the Global Vector Auto Regression (GVAR) model, this study examined the impact of a shock to China’s macroeconomic factors on trading economies. The major findings reveal that there is no co-movement between the shock in Chinese gross domestic product (GDP) and German macroeconomic indicators; however, the shock has a positive and substantial influence on Japan’s GDP and Unites States (US)’ exchange rate. It is also worth noting that a shock to Chinese trade volume is more susceptible and more disturbing than a shock to US trade volume since it reduces trade volume and causes the Ren Min Bi (RMB) to devalue permanently. Furthermore, the analysis shows that Chinese stock prices have a major influence on German economy since China’s GDP, trade volume, and currency appreciate over time when its stock price rises. Finally, the exchange rate shock is beneficial to Germany as it boosts GDP and trade volume but has a negative influence on US stock prices. The current study is, therefore, expected to be a suitable beginning point for the governments and policymakers of trading partners to design an effective trade policy to minimize the impact on major economic variables.
Weighted power Maxwell distribution: Statistical inference and COVID-19 applications
Authors: Almuqrin Muqrin A. , Almutlak Salemah A. , Gemeay Ahmed M. , Almetwally Ehab M. , Karakaya Kadir , Makumi Nicholas , Hussam Eslam , Aldallal Ramy
Published: January 2023

During the course of this research, we came up with a brand new distribution that is superior; we then presented and analysed the mathematical properties of this distribution; finally, we assessed its fuzzy reliability function. Because the novel distribution provides a number of advantages, like the reality that its cumulative distribution function and probability density function both have a closed form, it is very useful in a wide range of disciplines that are related to data science. One of these fields is machine learning, which is a sub field of data science. We used both traditional methods and Bayesian methodologies in order to generate a large number of different estimates. A test setup might have been carried out to assess the effectiveness of both the classical and the Bayesian estimators. At last, three different sets of Covid-19 death analysis were done so that the effectiveness of the new model could be demonstrated.
Importance of feeding status evaluation in older patients undergoing hemodialysis
Authors: Notomi Satoko , Kitamura Mineaki , Horita Noriko , Yamaguchi Kosei , Harada Takashi , Nishino Tomoya , Funakoshi Satoshi , Abe Yasuyo
Published: January 2023

Older hospitalized patients undergoing hemodialysis are increasingly experiencing malnutrition caused by dysphagia. However, only a few studies have focused on this problem. We used the Kuchikara Taberu Balance Chart (KTBC) to evaluate the patients’ feeding status and examined its association with their nutritional status and prognosis. This study included elderly patients undergoing hemodialysis who were hospitalized at Nagasaki Renal Center for > 3 days between June 2021 and February 2022. In total, 82 inpatients were included [mean age, 73.4 ± 10.0 years; men, 57.3%; median dialysis vintage, 79.0 months (interquartile range, 37.3–164.8)]. We classified patients with lower than the median KTBC score (57 points) as being at risk for dysphagia; 37 patients (45.1%) were at risk for dysphagia. Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient (ρ) elucidated that the KTBC total score was significantly associated with each nutritional indicator [serum albumin level (ρ = 0.505, p < 0.001); geriatric nutritional risk index (ρ = 0.600, p < 0.001); and nutritional risk index (ρ = -0.566, p < 0.001)]. The KTBC score was also closely associated with the body mass index (ρ = 0.228, p = 0.04). Patients with a lower KTBC score showed poor prognosis (log-rank test: p = 0.001), and age- and sex-adjusted Cox proportional analysis showed that the KTBC score was associated with life prognosis (hazard ratio, 0.90; 95% confidential interval, 0.86–0.94; p < 0.001). Therefore, we concluded that the patients at risk of dysphagia, identified using the KTBC score, were malnourished and had a poor prognosis. Hence, the evaluation of dysphagia using the KTBC is encouraged to prevent malnutrition in vulnerable older patients undergoing hemodialysis.
Use of the reversible jump Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm to select multiplicative terms in the AMMI-Bayesian model
Authors: Silva Carlos Pereira da , Mendes Cristian Tiago Erazo , Silva Alessandra Querino da , Oliveira Luciano Antonio de , Von Pinho Renzo Garcia , Balestre Marcio
Published: January 2023

The model selection stage has become a central theme in applying the additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) model to determine the optimal number of bilinear components to be retained to describe the genotype-by-environment interaction (GEI). In the Bayesian context, this problem has been addressed by using information criteria and the Bayes factor. However, these procedures are computationally intensive, making their application unfeasible when the model’s parametric space is large. A Bayesian analysis of the AMMI model was conducted using the Reversible Jump algorithm (RJMCMC) to determine the number of multiplicative terms needed to explain the GEI pattern. Three a priori distributions were assigned for the singular value scale parameter under different justifications, namely: i) the insufficient reason principle (uniform); ii) the invariance principle (Jeffreys’ prior) and iii) the maximum entropy principle. Simulated and real data were used to exemplify the method. An evaluation of the predictive ability of models for simulated data was conducted and indicated that the AMMI analysis, in general, was robust, and models adjusted by the Reversible Jump method were superior to those in which sampling was performed only by the Gibbs sampler. In addition, the RJMCMC showed greater feasibility since the selection and estimation of parameters are carried out concurrently in the same sampling algorithm, being more attractive in terms of computational time. The use of the maximum entropy principle makes the analysis more flexible, avoiding the use of procedures for correcting prior degrees of freedom and obtaining improper posterior marginal distributions.
A mixed-methods approach to understand university students’ perceived impact of returning to class during COVID-19 on their mental and general health
Authors: Ding Qinglan , Ward Mark Daniel , Edwards Nancy , Wu Emily Anna , Kersey Susan , Funk Marjorie
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This study investigated the prevalence and risk factors of mental and general health symptoms among university students attending in-person and online classes during COVID-19. We also explored their experiences returning to in-person classes and their views on the university’s COVID-19-related policies.

Methods

In this sequential explanatory mixed-methods study (2020–2021), U.S. university student respondents (N = 1030; 603 women [58.5%], 907 [88.1%] aged 18–24 years) completed a quantitative, cross-sectional survey assessing their mental and general health symptoms experienced while taking classes during the COVID-19 pandemic. The survey link was distributed through social media and email invitations. Three separate follow-up focus groups (n = 27), consisting of an average of nine focus group respondents who had completed the quantitative survey per group, were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide. Focus group respondents provided qualitative responses on their experiences returning to class during COVID-19 and adhering to COVID-19-related policies.

Results

The prevalence of mental health symptoms among survey respondents were 57.6% (n = 593) for depression, 41.5% (n = 427) for anxiety, and 40.8% (n = 420) for stress. Over 90% of respondents reported perceptions of good general health. Female respondents and respondents identified as non-binary gender had an increased risk for mental health symptoms compared to male respondents. Respondents with preexisting medical conditions had an increased risk for worse general health. Themes identified through qualitative analysis included (1) attending class during COVID-19 is associated with unhealthy behaviors, and poor health, (2) perceived challenges of online learning and increased feelings of isolation, (3) demand for COVID-19 policy reform and greater transparency of COVID-19 statistics; (4) difficulties in adhering to COVID-19 policies; and (5) concerns about acquiring and transmitting COVID-19.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that university students attending classes during the pandemic are experiencing negative mental health impacts. Although students were aware of COVID-19-related policies, many found it challenging to comply. Broad acceptance of COVID-19 policies will require greater transparency and information sharing.
Comparison of the size of bilateral testis in children with unilateral non-communicating hydrocele and its correlation with age
Authors: Li Peiqiang , Liu Fuyun , Huang Yan
Published: January 2023

Background

Opinions on the optimal age for surgical management of hydroceles in young boys are not uniform. Scrotal ultrasonography can be used to diagnose hydroceles and measure testicular size. A comparison of bilateral testicular size with hydrocele and the change in trend with age has not been reported. We therefore aimed to analyze the bilateral testicular size of children with unilateral non-communicating hydroceles and examine the correlation between age and testicular volume.

Methods

Non-communicating hydrocele cases in children were included. Ultrasound results, age, and diagnose time were retrospectively recorded. The bilateral testicular size was compared, and the correlation between age and testicular volume was analyzed.

Results

There were 138 cases of non-communicating hydrocele, ranging in age from 11 to 72 months. The diagnose time ranged from 3 days to 54 months. The volume of the testis on the side of the hydrocele was larger than that on the normal side (P < 0.001). Testicular length was not different bilaterally. Testicular width and height were greater on the hydrocele side than on the normal testicular side (P<0.001). Age was positively correlated with testicular volume on the normal side (P = 0.004) but not on the hydrocele side.

Conclusions

An important finding was that when the contralateral normal testicular volume increases with age, the testicular volume does not increase on the hydrocele side. This finding confirms the adverse effects of hydrocele on testicular growth and provides a basis for early treatment.
Aristóteles. Da adivinhação durante o sono. Apresentação, tradução e notas.
Authors: De Paoli Beatriz
Published: January 2023

Tradução para o português do opúsculo Da adivinhação durante o sono, de Aristóteles, precedido de breve apresentação e acompanhada de notas elucidativas do texto.
“Vais te maravilhar ao ouvires!” — Conservação, mousikḗ e o elogio de Platão à arte egípcia em Leis II, 653c — 654a
Authors: Meneguzzi Ana Clara , Brunhara Rafael
Published: January 2023

Em Leis, a mousikḗ é restabelecida na constituição da cidade (Magnésia) como um instrumento para a educação dos cidadãos. Segundo o Estrangeiro Ateniense, a regulação e preservação das formas corretas da mousikḗ, através de mélos e skhē̂ma, é também responsável pela manutenção da estabilidade cultural e política de Magnésia. Neste contexto, Platão enuncia um elogio à arte egípcia, que teria mantido o seu estilo e, consequentemente, a política egípcia estáveis por um longo tempo. Este artigo apresentará uma tradução do trecho 653c — 654a e três interpretações contemporâneas deste elogio. Por fim, as interpretações expostas serão avaliadas e uma possibilidade de aproximação entre o elogio platônico e a própria arte egípcia será sugerida, considerando suas prováveis funções sociais, religiosas e políticas.
La presencia en el principio: un argumento gnoseológico sobre la diferencia entre Platón y Plotino
Authors: Gutierrez Raul
Published: January 2023

La aceptación de la identidad de la Idea del Bien con lo Uno no necesariamente implica, como recentemente ha sostenido Gerson (2019), que Platón y Plotino comparten esa identificación en los mismos términos. Para insistir en esta diferencia me apoyo en un argumento gnoseológico. Si bien ambos filósofos sostienen la posibilidad de acceder a una presencia en el principio y para describirla recurren a una metáfora erótica, para Platón esa presencia implica la realización plena del Nous en la aprehensión noética del Bien y la generación de episteme, mientras que para Plotino implica el recogimiento no solo de la intelección, sino del deseo mismo de inteligir para acceder a una presencia superior a la episteme. Consecuentemente, Platón concibe al Bien/Uno como Idea – como Idea de Ideas - y cúspide del ser y lo inteligible, mientras que Plotino lo concibe como aneideon, amorfon y apeiron, y, por ende, como radicalmente transcendente al ser y al pensar.
Dialectic and Refutation in Plato and Aristotle
Authors: Spangenberg Pilar
Published: January 2023

The papers in this dossier were written within the framework of two research projects on the refutation strategies of radical adversaries in Plato’s and Aristotle’s writings. Both projects, directed by Graciela Marcos and based in the Institute of Philosophy “Dr. Alejandro Korn” (Instituto de Filosofía “Dr. Alejandro Korn”) of the Facultad de Filosofía y Letras of the Universidad de Buenos Aires, were subsidised by the Secretaría de Ciencia y Técnica of this university and by the Agencia Nacional de Promoción Científica y Técnológica (ANCyPT), to whom we would like to express our gratitude. Special thanks also to Fabián G. Mié, who, for several years, has been working on the question of dialectic in Plato and Aristotle and with whom, even if he has not formally joined our team, we have had the good fortune to exchange ideas and discuss many of the issues related to both projects. Fabián Mié’s work is therefore added to the works presented by Lucas M. Álvarez, María E. Díaz, Martín S. Forciniti, Julián Macías and Graciela E. Marcos in this dossier.
Una elección imposible: conocer y no conocer en el Aviario (Teeteto 196c7-d2)
Authors: González-Varela Edgar
Published: January 2023

En este trabajo examino la “elección imposible” que Sócrates le plantea a Teeteto y que parece consistir en elegir entre:  aceptar (a) que el juicio falso es imposible, o (b) que es posible conocer y no conocer el mismo objeto (Teeteto 196c7-d2). De acuerdo con la interpretación tradicional de esta elección, Sócrates afirma que es necesario aceptar una de las dos opciones: (b). En consecuencia, Sócrates desarrollaría el Aviario como un modelo de explicación del error en el que es posible conocer y no conocer lo mismo. Aquí argumento en contra de esta lectura. Según mi interpretación, lo que dice Sócrates es que se deben rechazar los dos términos de la “elección imposible”, (a) y (b), y, por ende, el Aviario presenta un modelo en el que el juicio falso es posible sin tener que aceptar que es posible conocer y no conocer lo mismo.
Indonesian pediatricians’ understanding and management of infant regurgitation based on Rome IV criteria
Authors: Jonathan Fransesco Bernado Hubert , Sridevi Agus T. , Wicaksono Brahmantyo A. , Friska Dewi , Hegar Badriul
Published: January 2023

Background The diagnostic criteria of infant regurgitation have been well elucidated in the Rome IV criteria and pediatricians have been informed of them. However, as a functional disorder, infant regurgitation is susceptible to misdiagnosis and inappropriate management.

Objective To assess pediatricians’ diagnostic knowledge of and therapeutic approach to infant regurgitation.

Methods We conducted a cross-sectional, analytical study using a questionnaire based on Rome IV criteria for infant regurgitation diagnosis and standardized guidelines for management. The questionnaire was face-level validated by an expert and tested for both reliability and correlation using 30 test respondents. The questionnaire was then distributed electronically to 131 randomized pediatricians, who were members of the Indonesian Pediatric Society DKI Jakarta branch and graduated from pediatric residency within year 2005-2019.

Results Sixty-seven (51%) pediatricians reported applying the Rome IV criteria in daily clinical practice. Pediatricians who used Rome IV as their source of knowledge achieved mean and median diagnostic knowledge scores of 14.87 (SD 2.540) and 16 (range 8–20), respectively, with no significant correlation between the usage of ROME IV and the pediatricians’ diagnostic understanding (P=0.110), and mean and median therapeutic knowledge scores of 9.10 (SD 2.264) and 10 (range 4–12), respectively, with no significant correlation between the usage of ROME IV and the pediatricians’ therapeutic approach (P=0.486). Pediatricians’ diagnostic knowledge and therapeutic approach were not significantly different with regards to their practice experience, specialist institution, workplaces, and source of information.

Conclusion The majority of pediatricians surveyed have good diagnostic and therapeutic knowledge scores with regards to handling of Rome IV infant regurgitation.
Effect of vitamin D analogues calcitriol and paricalcitol in a rat model of puromycin aminonucleoside-induced nephrotic syndrome
Authors: Metin Hamdi , Ertan Pelin , KeskinoÄŸlu Ahmet , Türköz Uluer Elgin , Batir Muhammet Burak , KeskinoÄŸlu Pembe , Akogullari Damla , Çam Fethi Sirri
Published: January 2023

Background Renoprotective effects of vitamin D analogues have been shown in several experimental and clinical studies, the exact mechanism of the therapeutic effectiveness of these analogues in Nephrotic syndrome remains unclear, and these are relatively few studies on potential treatment roles for vitamin D analogues in nephrotic-range proteinuria. ?ndicate similar efficacy of the vitamin D analogues calcitriol and paricalcitol in time-limited amelioration of proteinuria in nephrotic syndrome, yet suggest the likelihood of mechanisms other than direct upregulation of nephrin and podocin in podocytes underlie the renoprotective effects of vitamin D analogues.

Objective To investigate the effect of vitamin D (Vit D) analogues calcitriol and paricalcitol on urinary protein/creatinine ratio (UPCR) and renal podocin and nephrin expression in a rat model of puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN)-induced nephrotic syndrome (NS).

Methods A total of 28 male Wistar Albino rats were separated into 4 groups (n=7 for each) including CON [control; intraperitoneal (IP) saline injection], PAN (NS + IP saline injection), PAN-C (NS + IP 0.4 µg/kg/day calcitriol injection), and PAN-P (NS + IP 240 ng/kg/day paricalcitol injection). Nephrotic syndrome was induced via intravenous (IV) administration of 10mg/100gr PAN. The UPCR as well as histopathological, immuno-histochemical, and real time PCR analyses of kidney tissue specimens were recorded and analyzed among the 4 groups.

Results Median UPCR (Day 4) was significantly lower in both the PAN-C [1.45 (range 1.20-1.80)] and PAN-P [1.40 (range 1.10-1.80)] groups than in the PAN group [2.15 (range 2.00-2.40)] (P<0.01 for each). The PAN group had significantly higher mean UPCR than the CON group [1.75 (range 1.40-2.00); P<0.05].  No significant difference in UPCR was noted between groups on Day 7. Median podocin mRNA expression was significantly higher in the PAN-P group compared to the PAN group [22.55 (range 22.42-23.02) vs. 22.06 (range 21.81-22.06), respectively; (P<0.01)].

Conclusion Seven-day calcitriol and paricalcitol supplementation in a rat model of PAN-induced nephrotic syndrome had similar efficacy, in terms of temporary amelioration of proteinuria.
Comparison of lipid profile values in pediatric patients with cyanotic and acyanotic congenital heart disease
Authors: Ningsih Fifi Febria , Abdillah Hafaz Zakky , Nafianti Selvi
Published: January 2023

Background Incidence of congenital heart disease (CHD) is about 0.8% of every child born. This heart defect is associated with dyslipidemia in children. Lipid profiles examination in patients with CHD can be used to determine risk factors for atherosclerosis.

Objective To examine differences in lipid profiles in children with cyanotic and acyanotic CHD.

Methods This was a cross-sectional study on 60 pediatric CHD patients at Haji Adam Malik Hospital, Medan, North Sumatera, from December 2020 to March 2021. Subjects were included by consecutive sampling. Data of patient’s age, gender, weight, height, complete blood count, blood glucose, and lipid profiles were recorded. Unpaired T-test analysis and Mann-Whitney test were then performed to analyze variables in cyanotic and acyanotic CHD patients.

Results Of a total of 60 CHD children, 26 subjects had a diagnosis of cyanotic CHD and 34 subjects had a diagnosis of acyanotic CHD. The most common cause of cyanotic CHD was tetralogy of Fallot (76.9%), while the most common cause of acyanotic CHD were ventricular septal defect and patent ductus arteriosus (32.4% each). Analysis of lipid profiles on both groups revealed that low density lipoprotein (LDL) was significantly lower in the cyanotic group than in the acyanotic group (P<0.05). However, other lipid profile values, were not significantly different between groups. In addition, there was no significant difference in incidence of dyslipidemia between cyanotic and acyanotic CHD.

Conclusion Low density lipoprotein is significantly lower in the cyanotic CHD group than in the acyanotic CHD group. But there are no significant differences in the other lipid profiles measurement and incidence of dyslipidemia between groups.
Inflammatory and coagulation marker profiles in severe pediatric COVID-19 patients: a systematic review
Authors: Fathan Tartila , Pudjiadi Antonius Hocky , Putri Nina Dwi , Permata Nindya , Nursakina Yosilia
Published: January 2023

Background Children are susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection and often present mild manifestations. However, severe and critical cases have also been reported. The inflammation and coagulation marker profile pattern in these patients along with the white blood cell differential count in critical PICU cases with non-COVID-19 etiology is not entirely clear.

Objective To evaluate the inflammation and coagulation profiles in children presenting with severe/critical SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Methods A systematic search and review of scientific literature was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines using ProQuest, SCOPUS, EBSCOHost, ScienceDirect, Cochrane, EMBASE, and Pubmed databases. All relevant original studies until March 11, 2021, were included. The risk of bias was appraised using the Modified Newcastle Ottawa Scale and JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist tools.

Results We identified 14 studies across 6 countries, including a total sample of 159 severe and critically ill pediatric COVID-19 patients. Most of the subjects showed normal leukocytes, but increased CRP, procalcitonin, ferritin, and IL-6. Studies on coagulation profiles showed normal thrombocytes, PT, aPTT, and inconsistent D-dimer results. 

Conclusion Inflammation and coagulation parameters in severe/critically ill children with COVID-19 are atypical. Several inflammatory markers were elevated, including CRP, ferritin, procalcitonin, and IL-6. However, the elevated marker values are still lower compared to non-COVID infection patients. Further investigation of the parameters need to be done in serial examination multicenter studies, which include control subjects.
Hubungan Durasi Terapi Asam Valproat dengan Kadar Asam Folat Darah pada Epilepsi Anak
Authors: Furaida Fitry Nur , Julia Madarina , Triono Agung
Published: January 2023

Latar belakang. Penurunan kadar asam folat darah mengakibatkan kondisi perubahan mental, penurunan kognitif, anemia megaloblastik, hiperhomosistein, dan perburukan kendali kejang. Penelitian mengenai efek asam valproat terhadap kadar asam folat belum menunjukkan hasil yang konsisten. Sebagai obat anti epilepsi (OAE) lini pertama pada anak, penelitian pada anak penyandang epilepsi di Indonesia perlu dilakukan.Tujuan. Untuk mengetahui hubungan durasi terapi OAE asam valproat dan kadar asam folat darah pada anak penyandang epilepsi.Metode. Penelitian potong lintang pada bulan Oktober-November 2021 di poliklinik neurologi anak RSUP. Dr. Sardjito Yogyakarta. Subjek 28 penyandang epilepsi dengan monoterapi asam valproat, diperiksa kadar serum asam folat setelah puasa 10 jam. Uji korelasi dilakukan dengan metode Pearson. Analisis multivariat regresi linier dilakukan terhadap faktor perancu yang tidak dapat direstriksi. Nilai p<0,05 dianggap bermakna secara statistik.Hasil. Sebanyak 28 subjek penelitian dengan rerata durasi terapi 31,04±19,47 bulan. Diperoleh rerata kadar asam folat sebesar 19,5±6,47 ng/ml. Tidak ada hubungan antara durasi terapi dan kadar asam folat (r=0,045, p=0,819).Kesimpulan. Penyandang epilepsi dengan monoterapi asam valproat memiliki kadar asam folat pada rentang normal. Durasi terapi asam valptoat tidak mempengaruhi kadar asam folat.