bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of agricultural land management practices on the selected soil quality indictors: empirical evidences from the south Ethiopian highlands
Authors: Abera Aklilu , Wana Desalegn
Published: February 2023

Background

Land degradation is a major challenge that adversely affects soil fertility, agricultural production, and environmental sustainability. To curb this, various agricultural land management (ALM) measures have been practiced for the last three decades. This research investigated the effects of ALM practices on selected soil quality indicators in the Ojoje sub-watershed, Southern Ethiopia Highlands. A total of 72 composite soil samples were collected from non-treated and treated plots (i.e., land treated for 5 and 10 years with only physical practices and integrated measures) at a depth of 0–20 cm. A one-way ANOVA was used to demonstrate statistically significant variations on soil quality indicators. Simple regression analysis was used to explain the proportional variance of soil quality indicators due to ALM measures.

Result

The findings of the study indicate that integrated ALM practices have positive effects on the soil quality indicators. Most soil quality indicators, such as the soil organic carbon, soil organic matter, total nitrogen, available phosphorous, sulfur, boron and percentage of cation exchange capacity, were significant (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05) as a result of ALM practices. However, soil bulk density, potassium and percentage of silt contents were higher, but the difference was insignificant. Thus, the mean value of soil quality indicators increased steadily with age of intervention and application of integrated physical and biological conservation measures.

Conclussion

ALM practices had stronger effects when land was treated with integrated ALM measures and conserved for an extended period of time. Hence, integrating ALM practices and maintaining them for the long term is crucial for improving soil quality and enhancing agricultural productivity.
A novel approach for joint line restoration in revision total ankle arthroplasty based on the three‐dimensional registration of the contralateral tibia and fibula
Authors: Hodel S. , Calek A. K. , Cavalcanti N. , Fucentese S. F. , Vlachopoulos L. , Viehöfer A. , Wirth S. H.
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The use of total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) is increasing over time, as so will the need for revision TAAs in the future. Restoration of the ankle joint line (JL) in revision TAA is often difficult due to severe bone loss. This study analyzed the accuracy of a three‐dimensional (3D) registration of the contralateral tibia and fibula to restore the ankle joint line (JL) and reported side‐to‐side differences of anatomical landmarks.

Methods

3D triangular surface models of 96 paired lower legs underwent a surface registration algorithm for superimposition of the mirrored contralateral lower leg onto the original lower leg to approximate the original ankle JL using a proximal, middle and distal segment. Distances of the distal fibular tip, anterior and posterior medial colliculus to the JL were measured and absolute side‐to‐side differences reported. Anterior lateral distal tibial angle (ADTA) and lateral distal tibial angle (LDTA) were measured.

Results

Mean JL approximation was most accurate for the distal segment (0.1 ± 1.4 mm (range: ‐3.4 to 2.8 mm)) and middle segment (0.1 ± 1.2 mm (range: ‐2.8 to 2.5 mm)) compared to the proximal segment (‐0.2 ± 1.6 mm (range: ‐3.0 to 4.9 mm)) (p = 0.007). Distance of the distal fibular tip, the anterior, and posterior medial colliculus to the JL, ADTA and LDTA yielded no significant side‐to‐side differences (n.s.).

Conclusion

3D registration of the contralateral tibia and fibula reliably approximated the original ankle JL. The contralateral distal fibular tip, anterior and posterior medial colliculi, ADTA and LDTA can be used reliably for the planning of revision TAA with small side‐to‐side differences reported.

Level of Evidence

IV.
Addressing ethical issues related to prenatal diagnostic procedures
Authors: Kaye Dan Kabonge
Published: February 2023

Background

For women of advanced maternal age or couples with high risk of genetic mutations, the ability to screen for embryos free of certain genetic mutations is reassuring, as it provides opportunity to address age-related decline in fertility through preimplantation genetic testing. This procedure has potential to facilitate better embryo selection, improve implantation rates with single embryo transfer and reduce miscarriage rates, among others, yet confers some risk to the embryo and additional costs of assisted reproductive technology. This raises questions whether, when and which patients should receive routine PGT-A prior to embryo transfer.

Discussion

Prenatal diagnostic procedures refer to tests done when one or both genetic parents has a known genetic disorder (or has worries about the disorder) and testing is performed on them, their gametes or on the embryos to determine if the latter is likely to carry a genetic disorder. PGT is used to identify genetic defects in gametes or embryos (often created through in vitro fertilization (IVF). The procedures generate immense potential to improve health and wellbeing by preventing conception or birth of babies with undesirable traits, life-limiting conditions and even lethal conditions. However, they generate a lot of information, which often may challenge decision-making ability of healthcare providers and parents, and raise ethical challenges.

Conclusion

Prenatal diagnostic procedures have potential to address uncertainty and risk of having a child affected with a genetic disease. They, however, often raise own uncertainty and controversies, whose origin, manifestation and related ethical issues are presented. There is need to develop individual and couple decision support tools that incorporate patients’ values and concerns in the decision-making process in order to promote more informed decisions, during counseling.
Cognitive functions and epilepsy-related characteristics in patients with generalized tonic–clonic epilepsy: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Sayed Nesma Mohamed , Aldin Magda Taha Kamal , Ali Samir Elshamly , Hendi Ahmed Elarabi
Published: February 2023

Background

Epilepsy is a brain disorder affecting nearly 65 million people worldwide. It is characterized by sudden, transient, and uncontrolled episodes of brain dysfunction secondary to hypersynchronous abnormal discharge of cortical neuronal cells resulting in motor, sensory, and behavioral manifestations. Cognitive deterioration can occur in approximately 70–80% of epileptic patients with a variety of epilepsy-related characteristics being implicated. This study aimed to assess cognitive functions in a sample of patients with generalized tonic–clonic epilepsy and determine its relation to different epilepsy-related characteristics. It was designed as a case–control cross-sectional study in which 106 participants were enrolled and divided into two groups: a case group of fifty-three patients diagnosed with generalized tonic–clonic epilepsy and a control group including fifty-three healthy subjects. Sociodemographic and epilepsy-related characteristics and a variety of cognitive functions were assessed for both groups.

Results

Epileptic patients were significantly suffering from impairment in attention, memory, visuospatial (P = 0.001), and language functions (P = 0.018) compared to the healthy control group.

Conclusions

Epileptic patients are significantly suffering from cognitive impairment with a variety of contributing epilepsy-related characteristics.
Evading Race: STEM Faculty Struggle to Acknowledge Racialized Classroom Events
Authors: King Gretchen P. , Russo-Tait Tatiane , Andrews Tessa C.
Published: February 2023

This study investigated whether and how STEM instructors noticed exclusionary racialized events experienced by Black students in classroom narratives. Color-evasive racial ideology was pervasive. This paper qualitatively characterizes incarnations of color-evasion enacted by STEM instructors and the racialized events they noticed.
Association between impaired glucose metabolism and long-term prognosis at the time of diagnosis of depression: Impaired glucose metabolism as a promising biomarker proposed through a machine-learning approach
Authors: Lee Dong Yun , Cho Yong Hyuk , Kim Myoungsuk , Jeong Chang-Won , Cha Jae Myung , Won Geun Hui , Noh Jai Sung , Son Sang Joon , Park Rae Woong
Published: February 2023

Background

Predicting the course of depression is necessary for personalized treatment. Impaired glucose metabolism (IGM) was introduced as a promising depression biomarker, but no consensus was made. This study aimed to predict IGM at the time of depression diagnosis and examine the relationship between long-term prognosis and predicted results.

Methods

Clinical data were extracted from four electronic health records in South Korea. The study population included patients with depression, and the outcome was IGM within 1 year. One database was used to develop the model using three algorithms. External validation was performed using the best algorithm across the three databases. The area under the curve (AUC) was calculated to determine the model’s performance. Kaplan–Meier and Cox survival analyses of the risk of hospitalization for depression as the long-term outcome were performed. A meta-analysis of the long-term outcome was performed across the four databases.

Results

A prediction model was developed using the data of 3,668 people, with an AUC of 0.781 with least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) logistic regression. In the external validation, the AUCs were 0.643, 0.610, and 0.515. Through the predicted results, survival analysis and meta-analysis were performed; the hazard ratios of risk of hospitalization for depression in patients predicted to have IGM was 1.20 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02–1.41, p = 0.027) at a 3-year follow-up.

Conclusions

We developed prediction models for IGM occurrence within a year. The predicted results were related to the long-term prognosis of depression, presenting as a promising IGM biomarker related to the prognosis of depression.
On the complex and dimensional relationship of maternal posttraumatic stress disorder during early childhood and child outcomes at school-age
Authors: Moser Dominik Andreas , Graf Shannen , Glaus Jennifer , Urben Sébastien , Jouabli Sondes , Pointet Perrizolo Virginie , Suardi Francesca , Robinson JoAnn , Rusconi Serpa Sandra , Plessen Kerstin Jessica , Schechter Daniel Scott
Published: February 2023

Background

Several studies have shown associations between maternal interpersonal violence-related posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), child mental health problems, and impaired socioemotional development. However, the existing literature lacks evidence linking constellations of risk factors such as maternal interpersonal-violence-related PTSD, psychopathology, and interactive behavior with toddlers and outcome measures at school-age.

Methods

This study involved a prospective, longitudinal investigation of 62 mothers and examined the relationship between maternal variables measured when children were in early childhood (mean age 27 months), and child outcomes when children were school-age (age mean = 83.2 months) while retaining a focus on the context of maternal PTSD. To identify and weigh associated dimensions comparatively, we employed sparse canonical correlation analysis (sCCA) aimed at associating dimensions of a dataset of 20 maternal variables in early childhood with that of more than 20 child outcome variables (i.e., child psychopathology, life-events, and socioemotional skills) at school-age.

Results

Phase 1 variables with the highest weights were those of maternal psychopathology: PTSD, depressive and dissociative symptoms, and self-report of parental stress. The highest weighted Phase 2 child outcome measures were those of child psychopathology: PTSD, anxiety, and depressive symptoms as well as peer bullying and victimization.

Conclusions

sCCA revealed that trauma-related concepts in mothers were significantly and reliably associated with child psychopathology and other indicators of risk for intergenerational transmission of violence and victimization. The results highlight the dimensional and multifaceted nature—both for mothers as well as children—of the intergenerational transmission of violence and associated psychopathology.
Camrelizumab Plus Apatinib in Patients With Recurrent or Metastatic Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma: An Open-Label, Single-Arm, Phase II Study
Authors: Ding Xi , Zhang Wei-Jing , You Rui , Zou Xiong , Wang Zhi-Qiang , Ouyang Yan-Feng , Peng Lan , Liu You-Ping , Duan Chong-Yang , Yang Qi , Lin Chao , Xie Yu-Long , Chen Si-Yuan , Liu Yong-Long , Gu Chen-Mei , Xie Ruo-Qi , Huang Pei-Yu , Hong Ming-Huang , Hua Yi-Jun , Chen Ming-Yuan
Published: February 2023

PURPOSE

Immune checkpoint inhibitors combined with antiangiogenic therapy reportedly have potential synergistic antitumor activity. We investigated the activity and safety of this regimen for recurrent/metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

METHODS

This single-arm, Simon two-stage study enrolled patients with recurrent/metastatic NPC who were refractory to at least first-line systemic therapy and treatment-naive to immune checkpoint inhibitors. The patients received camrelizumab 200 mg once every 3 weeks and apatinib 250 mg once per day. The primary end point was the objective response rate. Key secondary end points included disease control rate, progression-free survival, duration of response, overall survival, and safety.

RESULTS

Between October 14, 2020, and December 23, 2021, 58 patients were enrolled, and all were included in the efficacy and safety analysis set. The objective response rate was 65.5% (95% CI, 51.9 to 77.5), and the disease control rate was 86.2% (95% CI, 74.6 to 93.9). The median duration of response was not reached, and the median progression-free survival was 10.4 months (95% CI, 7.2 to 13.6), with a median follow-up duration of 12.4 months (range, 2.1-19.9 months). Treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) of grade 3 or higher were reported in 34 (58.6%) patients, with the most common being hypertension (19.0%), nasopharyngeal necrosis (15.5%), headache (12.1%), AST elevation (10.3%), and creatine phosphokinase elevation (10.3%). Sixteen (27.6%) patients discontinued apatinib treatment before progression because of unbearable TRAEs, and the most common complication was nasopharyngeal necrosis (9/16; 56.3%). Recurrent nasopharyngeal lesions (odds ratio, 5.94 [95% CI, 1.45 to 24.24]) and reirradiation (odds ratio, 5.33 [95% CI, 1.15 to 24.79]) were significantly positively correlated with nasopharyngeal necrosis.

CONCLUSION

Camrelizumab plus apatinib had promising antitumor activity in patients with refractory recurrent/metastatic NPC who failed first-line therapy. Moderate to severe TRAEs were experienced by 58.6%, including nasopharyngeal necrosis associated with local recurrence and a history of reirradiation.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Cancer Screening Delays
Authors: Zhang Xiaochen , Elsaid Mohamed I. , DeGraffinreid Cecilia , Champion Victoria L. , Paskett Electra D. ,   for the Impact of COVID-19 on Behaviors across the Cancer Control Continuum in Ohio group, Brock Guy , Washington Chasity , Ferketich Amy K. , Hampel Heather , Aker Heather
Published: February 2023

PURPOSE

To examine delays in cancer screenings during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

Participants from previous studies (N = 32,989) with permissions to be recontacted were invited to complete a survey between June and November 2020. Participants (n = 7,115) who met the age range for cancer screenings were included. Participants were asked if they planned to have and then if they postponed a scheduled mammogram, Pap test, stool blood test, colonoscopy, or human papillomavirus (HPV) test. Logistic regression was used to determine the factors associated with cancer screening delays for each planned test.

RESULTS

The average age was 57.3 years, 75% were female, 89% were non-Hispanic White, 14% had public insurance, and 34% lived in rural counties. Those who planned cancer screenings (n = 4,266, 60%) were younger, more likely to be female, with higher education, had private insurance, and lived in rural counties. Specifically, 24% delayed a mammogram (n = 732/2,986), 27% delayed a Pap test (n = 448/1,651), 27% delayed an HPV test (n = 59/220), 11% delayed a stool blood test (n = 44/388), and 36% delayed a colonoscopy (n = 304/840). Age, race/ethnicity, education, and health insurance were associated with delays in cancer screenings (all P < .05). Compared with non-Hispanic White women, non-Hispanic Black women had lower odds of delaying a mammogram (odds ratio [OR], 0.60; 95% CI, 0.39 to 0.94), Hispanic women had higher odds of delaying Pap test (OR, 2.46; 95% CI, 1.34 to 4.55), and women with other race/ethnicity had higher odds of delaying both Pap test (OR, 2.38; 95% CI, 1.41 to 4.02) and HPV test (OR, 5.37; 95% CI, 1.44 to 19.97).

CONCLUSION

Our findings highlighted the urgency for health care providers to address the significant delays in cancer screenings in those most likely to delay. Strategies and resources are needed to help those with barriers to receiving guideline-appropriate cancer screening.
Current Neurosurgical Care in Ethiopia Using the Lens of the Lancet Global Health Commission on High-Quality Health Systems
Authors: Asfaw Zerubabbel K. , Barthélemy Ernest J. , Tirsit Abenezer , Zhan Serena , Gizaw Abel , Hannah Theodore , Yibeltal Mestet , Laeke Tsegazeab , Germano Isabelle M.
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND:

Neurosurgery is a rapidly developing specialty in Ethiopia. Previous global neurosurgery studies have highlighted the need for synchronizing workforce increase with improving quality, access, and capacity to provide neurosurgical care.

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate Ethiopia's neurosurgical system and highlight the critical interventions required for the sustained development of Ethiopian neurosurgery as part of a high-quality health system (HQHS).

METHODS:

A comprehensive survey was sent to all practicing neurosurgeons. Public databases on Ethiopian census reports and current road infrastructure were used for spatial analysis of neurosurgical access.

RESULTS:

The survey response rate was 90% (45/50). Most respondents were men (95.6%), aged 30 to 40 years (82%), who worked at national referral hospitals (71%). The reported annual caseload per practicing neurosurgeon was >150 cases for 40% of urban and 20% of rural neurosurgeons. Head and spine neurotrauma and tumors were the most common neurosurgical indications. Computed tomography scanner was the most widely available diagnostic equipment (62%). 76% of respondents indicated the presence of postoperative rehabilitation care at their institutions. Thirteen percent and 27% of the nation lived within a 2-hour and 4-hour driving distance from a neurosurgical center, respectively.

CONCLUSION:

The results highlight the need for vital improvements in neurosurgical capacity to sustain progress toward HQHS. Promoting sustained development in all components of HQHS can be achieved by diversifying the workforce and training residency candidates committed to practicing in underserved regions. Additional strategies might include establishing a national registry for neurosurgical data and implementing policy changes conducive to improving perihospital care and other health system components.
Successful Endoscopic Surgery Under Stereotactic Navigation for a Symptomatic Interhemispheric Arachnoid Cyst Without the Agenesis of the Corpus Callosum in an Elderly Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Miyauchi Masaharu , Fujita Mitsugu , Tsuyuguchi Naohiro , Nakano Naoki , Nakao Takayuki , Kato Amami , Takahashi Jun C.
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE:

In adults and elderly patients, most arachnoid cysts are asymptomatic. Interhemispheric arachnoid cyst (IHAC) is clinically rare. In this report, we describe a rare case of a symptomatic IHAC without the agenesis of the corpus callosum in an elderly patient who underwent stereotactic endoscopic neurosurgery with excellent results.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION:

An 85-year-old woman with multiple systemic complications presented with progressive left hemiparesis. MR images, including diffusion tensor images, at the initial examination showed a large IHAC in the right parietal region without the agenesis of the corpus callosum. The patient underwent 3 MR image scans over the next year, and the lesions were markedly enlarged. Endoscopic cyst fenestration using a stereotactic neuronavigation system was performed between the IHAC and the bilateral ventricles. Postoperatively, the IHAC was reduced to a size sufficient to improve her hemiparesis.

CONCLUSION:

This is the first report of successful stereotactic endoscopic neurosurgery for a symptomatic IHAC without the agenesis of the corpus callosum. Further experience is required to confirm the usefulness of this minimally invasive procedure.
Changes in Distributed Motor Network Connectivity Correlates With Functional Outcome After Surgical Resection of Brain Tumors
Authors: Yamao Yukihiro , Sawamoto Nobukatsu , Kunieda Takeharu , Inano Rika , Shibata Sumiya , Kikuchi Takayuki , Arakawa Yoshiki , Yoshida Kazumichi , Matsumoto Riki , Ikeda Akio , Takahashi Ryosuke , Fukuyama Hidenao , Miyamoto Susumu
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND:

In patients with brain tumors around the motor cortices, deterioration of motor performance may be observed even if the integrity of the cortical output is maintained. Especially, resection of medial premotor area (PM) can cause postoperative deterioration called supplementary motor area syndrome.

OBJECTIVE:

To clarify the neuronal mechanisms underlying postsurgical deterioration with a case-control study.

METHODS:

Twelve patients with brain tumors underwent preoperative and postoperative sessions consisting of motor performance evaluation and 3T-magnetic resonance imaging data acquisition. Based on additional postsurgical motor deficits, 6 patients were classified into “deficit group,” and 6 others were into “no deficit group.” Using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), the integrity of functional connectivity was evaluated by placing a seed in the ipsilesional primary motor area (M1). With motor task fMRI, hand and foot representations were identified in the M1 and lateral and medial PMs. Probabilistic tractography assessed anatomic connectivity in the cortico-cortical and corticofugal networks.

RESULTS:

Functional connectivity among M1 and lateral and medial PMs during resting-state fMRI was reduced postoperatively in the deficit group (P < .05, corrected) and preserved in the no deficit group. The deficit was unlikely to be attributable to surgical resection of specific anatomic connectivity. The amplitude of motor-evoked potential was maintained in available cases. These intraoperative observations agree with imaging findings suggesting preserved anatomic connectivity of the estimated corticofugal pathway.

CONCLUSION:

The present findings suggest that supplementary motor area syndrome is caused by disorganization of functional connectivity among cortical motor networks rather than resection of anatomic connectivity of corticofugal pathway.
Controlling Excimer-Origin Circularly Polarized Luminescence of Bipyrenyl-Arginine Peptides by Cyclodextrin in Water
Authors: Imai Yoshitane , Mimura Yuki , Motomura Yuki , Ikemura Ryoya , Shizuma Motohiro , Kitamatsu Mizuki
Published: February 2023

It is important to optimize the photoexcited-state conformation of chiral luminescent molecules to enhance the intensity of circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) and control the direction of CPL rotation. In pyrenyl peptide luminophores, the intensity and sign of CPL is determined by the solvent and intramolecular distance between pyrenyl units in addition to peptide chirality. However, the control of CPL properties in water is difficult, and new methods to control CPL in water are required. In this study, we achieved amplification and control of the sign of excimer-origin CPL by adding γ-cyclodextrin to a flexible bipyrenyl peptide luminophore with two arginine groups in water.
The genome sequence of a beetle-killing wasp, Tiphia femorata (Fabricius, 1775)
Authors: Crowley Liam M. ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective, Pointon Damon-Lee ,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: February 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Tiphia femorata (a beetle-killing wasp; Arthropoda; Insecta; Hymenoptera; Tiphilidae). The genome sequence is 276 megabases in span. Most of the assembly (98.73%) is scaffolded into 12 chromosomal pseudomolecules. The complete mitochondrial genome was also assembled and is 22.4 kilobases in length. Annotation of the genome in Ensembl identified 10,470 protein-coding genes.
The genome sequence of the Green-brindled Crescent, Allophyes oxyacanthae (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Boyes Douglas ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective, Holland Peter W. H. ,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: February 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Allophyes oxyacanthae (the Green-brindled Crescent; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Noctuidae). The genome sequence is 458 megabases in span. The whole assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the assembled Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.3 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl has identified 17,301 protein coding genes.
Solving AC Optimal Power Flow with Discrete Decisions to Global Optimality
Authors: Aigner Kevin-Martin , Burlacu Robert , Liers Frauke , Martin Alexander
Published: February 2023

We present a solution framework for general alternating current optimal power flow (AC OPF) problems that include discrete decisions. The latter occur, for instance, in the context of the curtailment of renewables or the switching of power-generation units and transmission lines. Our approach delivers globally optimal solutions and is provably convergent. We model AC OPF problems with discrete decisions as mixed-integer nonlinear programs (MINLPs). The solution method starts from a known framework that uses piecewise linear relaxations. These relaxations are modeled as mixed-integer linear programs and adaptively refined until some termination criterion is fulfilled. In this work, we extend and complement this approach by problem-specific as well as very general algorithmic enhancements. In particular, these are mixed-integer second order cone programs as well as primal and dual cutting planes. For example, objective and no-good cuts help to compute good feasible solutions in which outer approximation constraints tighten the relaxations. We present extensive numerical results for various AC OPF problems in which discrete decisions play a major role. Even for hard instances with a large proportion of discrete decisions, the method is able to generate high-quality solutions efficiently. Furthermore, we compare our approach with state-of-the-art MINLP solvers. Our method outperforms all other algorithms.

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

Funding: This research has been funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research of Germany [Grant 05M18WEB]. This research has been performed as part of the Energie Campus Nürnberg and is supported by funding of the Bavarian State Government. The authors thank the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft for support within projects A05, B06, B07, and B10 of the Sonderforschungsbereich/Transregio 154 “Mathematical Modelling, Simulation and Optimization using the Example of Gas Networks.” This work has been supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, Germany [Grant 03El1036A].

Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/ijoc.2023.1270 .
On the Arithmetic Mean Estimators of a Family of Estimators of Finite Population Variance of Ratio Type
Authors: Yunusa Mojeed Abiodun , Audu Ahmed , Muili Jamiu Olasunkanmi
Published: February 2023

For many years, one of the difficult components of sampling theory has been the estimation of population characteristics, especially variance. The estimation of variability is very essential in many fields (Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, and so on) to know how one quantity varies with respect to another quantity. This paper proposes arithmetic estimators of a group of ratio estimators for populations with finite variance. Using a Taylor series technique, the bias and MSE of the proposed estimators are determined up to the first order of approximation together with the efficiency conditions over existing estimators. The effectiveness of the proposed estimators in comparison to the current estimators is evaluated using a real-world data set. The empirical findings demonstrate that the suggested estimators outperform the current estimators taken into account in the study. Hence, these suggested estimators are recommended for use in real life scenario.
Optimized sinusoidal patterns for high-performance computational ghost imaging
Authors: Yu Wangtao , Li Dekui , Guo Kai , Yin Zhiping , Guo Zhongyi
Published: February 2023

Computational ghost imaging (CGI) can reconstruct scene images by
two-order correlation between sampling patterns and detected
intensities from a bucket detector. By increasing the sampling rates
(SRs), imaging quality of CGI can be improved, but it
will result in an increasing imaging time. Herein, in order to achieve
high-quality CGI under an insufficient SR, we propose
two types of novel sampling methods for CGI, to the best of our
knowledge, cyclic sinusoidal-pattern-based CGI (CSP-CGI) and
half-cyclic sinusoidal-pattern-based CGI (HCSP-CGI), in which CSP-CGI
is realized by optimizing the ordered sinusoidal patterns through
“cyclic sampling patterns,” and HCSP-CGI just uses half of the
sinusoidal pattern types of CSP-CGI. Target information mainly exists
in the low-frequency region, and high-quality target scenes can be
recovered even at an extreme SR of 5%. The proposed methods can
significantly reduce the sampling number and real-time ghost imaging
possible. The experiments demonstrate the superiority of our method
over state-of-the-art methods both qualitatively and
quantitatively.
Shaping focal field by grafted polarization
Authors: Ma Chenghao , Song Tiegen , Chen Ruixiang , Li Hehe , Li Xinzhong
Published: February 2023

In this paper, we propose a novel (to our knowledge) vector beam by combining the radially polarized beams with the different polarization orders, which is called the grafted polarization vector beam (GPVB). Compared with the tight focusing of traditional cylindrical vector beams, GPVB can present more flexible focal field patterns by adjusting the polarization order of two (or more) grafted parts. Moreover, because the GPVB possesses the non-axisymmetrical polarization state distribution, which will lead to the spin-orbit coupling in its tight focusing, it can obtain the spatial separation of spin angular momentum (SAM) and orbital angular momentum (OAM) in the focal plane. The SAM and the OAM are well modulated by adjusting the polarization order of two (or more) grafted parts. Furthermore, we also find the on-axis energy flow in the tight focusing of the GPVB can be changed from positive to negative by adjusting its polarization order. Our results provide more modulation freedom and potential applications in optical tweezers and particles trapping.
On-chip Ce:YIG/Si Mach–Zehnder optical isolator with low power consumption
Authors: Liang Jiachang , Li Yan , Dai Tingge , Zhang Yuejun , Zhang Xiaowei , Liu Hongjun , Wang Pengjun
Published: February 2023

The integrated optical isolator is an essential building block in photonic integrated chips. However, the performance of on-chip isolators based on the magneto-optic (MO) effect has been limited due to the magnetization requirement of permanent magnets or metal microstrips on MO materials. Here, an MZI optical isolator built on a silicon-on-insulator (SOI) without any external magnetic field is proposed. A multi-loop graphene microstrip operating as an integrated electromagnet above the waveguide, instead of the traditional metal microstrip, generates the saturated magnetic fields required for the nonreciprocal effect. Subsequently, the optical transmission can be tuned by varying the intensity of currents applied on the graphene microstrip. Compared with gold microstrip, the power consumption is reduced by 70.8%, and temperature fluctuation is reduced by 69.5% while preserving the isolation ratio of 29.44 dB and the insertion loss of 2.99 dB at1550 nm.
Effect of spectrum broadening on photon-counting fiber Bragg grating sensing
Authors: Ou ZhongHua , Fan XiaoDong , Zhang LiXun , Fan YunRu , Yuan ChenZhi , You LiXing , Liu Shuang , Liu Yong , Guo Guangcan , Zhou Qiang
Published: February 2023

In a photon-counting fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensing system, a shorter probe pulse width reaches a higher spatial resolution, which inevitably causes a spectrum broadening according to the Fourier transform theory, thus affecting the sensitivity of the sensing system. In this work, we investigate the effect of spectrum broadening on a photon-counting FBG sensing system with a dual-wavelength differential detection method. A theoretical model is developed, and a proof-of-principle experimental demonstration is realized. Our results give a numerical relationship between the sensitivity and spatial resolution at the different spectral widths of FBG. In our experiment, for a commercial FBG with a spectral width of 0.6 nm, an optimal spatial resolution of 3 mm and a corresponding sensitivity of 2.03 nm−1 can be achieved.
Freeform optical system design with differentiable three-dimensional ray tracing and unsupervised learning
Authors: Nie Yunfeng , Zhang Jingang , Su Runmu , Ottevaere Heidi
Published: February 2023

Optical systems have been crucial for versatile applications such as consumer electronics, remote sensing and biomedical imaging. Designing optical systems has been a highly professional work due to complicated aberration theories and intangible rules-of-thumb, hence neural networks are only coming into this realm until recent years. In this work, we propose and implement a generic, differentiable freeform raytracing module, suitable for off-axis, multiple-surface freeform/aspheric optical systems, paving the way toward a deep learning-based optical design method. The network is trained with minimal prior knowledge, and it can infer numerous optical systems after a one-time training. The presented work unlocks great potential for deep learning in various freeform/aspheric optical systems, and the trained network could serve as an effective, unified platform for generating, recording, and replicating good initial optical designs.
Real optical imaging simulation of laser-produced aluminum plasmas
Authors: He Siqi , Min Qi , Su Maogen , Lu Haidong , Wu Yanhong , Cao Shiquan , Sun Duixiong , Zhang Denghong , Dong Chenzhong
Published: February 2023

We developed a post-processing optical imaging model based on two-dimensional axisymmetric radiation hydrodynamics. Simulation and program benchmarks were performed using laser-produced Al plasma optical images obtained via transient imaging. The emission profiles of a laser-produced Al plasma plume in air at atmospheric pressure were reproduced, and the influence of plasma state parameters on radiation characteristics were clarified. In this model, the radiation transport equation is solved on the real optical path, which is mainly used to study the radiation of luminescent particles during plasma expansion. The model outputs consist of the electron temperature, particle density, charge distribution, absorption coefficient, and corresponding spatio-temporal evolution of the optical radiation profile. The model helps with understanding element detection and quantitative analysis of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy.
Creation of pure longitudinal super-oscillatory spot
Authors: Pant Bhavesh , Meena Hemant Kumar , Singh Brijesh Kumar
Published: February 2023

We present a method that creates a super-oscillatory focal spot of a tightly focused radially polarized beam using the concept of a phase mask. Using vector diffraction theory, we report a super-oscillatory focal spot that is much smaller than the diffraction limit and the super-oscillation criterion. The proposed mask works as a special polarization filter that enhances the longitudinal component and filters out the transverse component of radial polarization at focus, permitting the creation of a pure longitudinal super-oscillatory focal spot.
Cladding pumped bismuth-doped fiber amplifiers operating in O-, E-, and S-telecom bands
Authors: Vakhrushev Alexander , Khegai Aleksandr , Alyshev Sergey , Riumkin Konstantin , Kharakhordin Alexander , Firstova Elena , Umnikov Andrey , Lobanov Alexey , Afanasiev Fedor , Guryanov Aleksei , Melkumov Mikhail , Firstov Sergei
Published: February 2023

Bismuth-doped fibers (BDFs) are considered nowadays as an essential part of the development of novel optical amplifiers, which can provide a significant upgrade to existing fiber optic telecommunication systems, securing multiband data transmission. In this paper, a series of BDF amplifiers (BDFAs) for O-, E-, and S-telecom bands based on a cladding pumping scheme using low-cost multimode semiconductor laser diodes at a wavelength of 0.7–0.8 µm were demonstrated for, it is understood, the first time. The developed BDFAs are characterized by a high peak gain of >25–30 dB in the corresponding telecom bands and a relatively low noise figure of 5–6 dB. Comparative analysis shows that most of the parameters of cladding pumped BDFAs are close to those of the best core pumped ones. This research opens up new opportunities for utilizing Bi-doped fibers as a key element of cost-effective and ready-to-work BDFAs for various practical applications.
LRRC15 mediates an accessory interaction with the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein
Authors: Shilts Jarrod , Crozier Thomas W. M. , Teixeira-Silva Ana , Gabaev Ildar , Gerber Pehuén Pereyra , Greenwood Edward J. D. , Watson Samuel James , Ortmann Brian M. , Gawden-Bone Christian M. , Pauzaite Tekle , Hoffmann Markus , Nathan James A. , Pöhlmann Stefan , Matheson Nicholas J. , Lehner Paul J. , Wright Gavin J.
Published: February 2023

The interactions between Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and human host factors enable the virus to propagate infections that lead to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). The spike protein is the largest structural component of the virus and mediates interactions essential for infection, including with the primary angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. We performed two independent cell-based systematic screens to determine whether there are additional proteins by which the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 can interact with human cells. We discovered that in addition to ACE2, expression of LRRC15 also causes spike protein binding. This interaction is distinct from other known spike attachment mechanisms such as heparan sulfates or lectin receptors. Measurements of orthologous coronavirus spike proteins implied the interaction was functionally restricted to SARS-CoV-2 by accessibility. We localized the interaction to the C-terminus of the S1 domain and showed that LRRC15 shares recognition of the ACE2 receptor binding domain. From analyzing proteomics and single-cell transcriptomics, we identify LRRC15 expression as being common in human lung vasculature cells and fibroblasts. Levels of LRRC15 were greatly elevated by inflammatory signals in the lungs of COVID-19 patients. Although infection assays demonstrated that LRRC15 alone is not sufficient to permit viral entry, we present evidence that it can modulate infection of human cells. This unexpected interaction merits further investigation to determine how SARS-CoV-2 exploits host LRRC15 and whether it could account for any of the distinctive features of COVID-19.
Biologics for pediatric atopic dermatitis: A protocol of a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Cao Rui , Lu Jiaxing , Chen Zhao
Published: February 2023

Background

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic pruritic inflammatory skin disease commonly occurring in children. The objective of this study is to evaluate the treatment of pediatric atopic dermatitis with biologics, as they have displayed immense promising results in several recent clinical trials on atopic dermatitis (AD).

Methods

We will conduct an extensive search for RCTs in several databases, including Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and PubMed, from the inception of the study till 15th May 2022. The primary outcomes will be the proportion of patients with EASI 75/90/100 after 12–16 weeks of treatment. The secondary outcomes will include the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), Investigator Global Assessment (IGA)0–1, body surface area (BSA), Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) scores, and incidence of adverse reactions. All studies will be screened by two independent researchers. They will assess the risk of bias in the included studies according to the RCTs bias risk evaluation tool in Cochrane System Review Manual 5.1.0. Meta-analysis will be performed using RevMan V.5.3.0 software.

Results

The research results will provide a reference for the clinical application of biological agents in pediatric atopic dermatitis.

Conclusion

We aim to evaluate the efficacy and safety of biologics in pediatric atopic dermatitis cases and provide evidence-based data for easy clinical application.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022319052 (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/#joinuppage).
Blood pressure monitoring during anesthesia induction using PPG morphology features and machine learning
Authors: Aguet Clémentine , Jorge João , Van Zaen Jérôme , Proença Martin , Bonnier Guillaume , Frossard Pascal , Lemay Mathieu
Published: February 2023

Blood pressure (BP) is a crucial biomarker giving valuable information regarding cardiovascular diseases but requires accurate continuous monitoring to maximize its value. In the effort of developing non-invasive, non-occlusive and continuous BP monitoring devices, photoplethysmography (PPG) has recently gained interest. Researchers have attempted to estimate BP based on the analysis of PPG waveform morphology, with promising results, yet often validated on a small number of subjects with moderate BP variations. This work presents an accurate BP estimator based on PPG morphology features. The method first uses a clinically-validated algorithm (oBPM®) to perform signal preprocessing and extraction of physiological features. A subset of features that best reflects BP changes is automatically identified by Lasso regression, and a feature relevance analysis is conducted. Three machine learning (ML) methods are then investigated to translate this subset of features into systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP) estimates; namely Lasso regression, support vector regression and Gaussian process regression. The accuracy of absolute BP estimates and trending ability are evaluated. Such an approach considerably improves the performance for SBP estimation over previous oBPM®technology, with a reduction in the standard deviation of the error of over 20%. Furthermore, rapid BP changes assessed by the PPG-based approach demonstrates concordance rate over 99% with the invasive reference. Altogether, the results confirm that PPG morphology features can be combined with ML methods to accurately track BP variations generated during anesthesia induction. They also reinforce the importance of adding a calibration measure to obtain an absolute BP estimate.
One test to rule them all: A qualitative study of formal, informal, and hidden curricula as drivers of USMLE “exam mania”
Authors: Geraghty Joseph R. , Russel Sarah M. , Renaldy Hilary , Thompson Trevonne M. , Hirshfield Laura E.
Published: February 2023

High-stakes examinations are an integral part of medical education. To practice in the United States (U.S.), students must pass the U.S. Medical Licensing Examinations (USMLE). With the transition of USMLE Step 1 to pass/fail scoring on January 26, 2022, a worldwide debate regarding how residency program directors will view the Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) exam emerged. Here, the authors explore the role of formal, informal, and hidden curricula related to USMLE, with broader implications for high-stakes examinations. Six focus groups of fourth-year students who recently took Step 2 CK and a supplemental curricular content analysis were conducted to explore students’ decision-making and emotions regarding the exam, including how the formal, informal, and hidden curricula influence their perspectives. Participants highlighted how informal and hidden curricula drive the belief that high-stakes examinations are the single most important factor in medical school. Prior experience with Step 1 drives behaviors and attitudes when preparing for Step 2 CK. Pressures from these examinations have unintended consequences on burnout, professional identity, specialty choice, and interpersonal interactions. Both interpersonal interactions within medical education as well as subconscious, unintended messaging can influence medical student approaches to and perspectives about high-stakes examinations. Within the context of U.S. medical training, with the transition to a new era of a pass/fail Step 1 examination, careful consideration to prevent shifting the current “Step 1 mania” to a “Step 2 CK mania” is warranted. More broadly, medical educators must examine the unintended yet potentially damaging pressures institutions generate in their medical trainees in relation to high-stakes examinations.