bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time Series Prediction Method of Metrics of Dispatching Automation System Based on AI Platform
Authors: Wan Xiong , Shen Jialing , Kong Yanru , Huang Xinjian , Lao Yinyin , Ji Xuechun
Published: March 2023

In view of the shortcomings of manual operation mode and passive anomaly perception in the current dispatching automation system, this paper provides a time series prediction method for the metrics of the dispatching automation system based on the artificial intelligence platform. Firstly, based on the collected metrics of the dispatching automation system, the time series prediction algorithm of metrics based on Long Short-Term Memory(LSTM) and LightGBM(LGB) combined model is studied. Then, the algorithm is integrated into a one-stop graphical interactive modeling tool and the model training process is drawn. Through the task is automatic split and distributed model training is automatically carried out on a regular basis. Then, the AI model service sharing technology based on Kubernetes is used to realize the model service release and automatic update, and the platform interactive development component is used to realize automatic online prediction and rolling iterative update. Finally, the actual data of the system metrics is used for example analysis, and the results show that the proposed method can realize the advance prediction of the system metrics, and realize the whole process automatic integration model training and prediction based on the artificial intelligence platform, and effectively improve the model training efficiency, meet the real-time and security requirements of the dispatching automation system, and is more suitable for engineering application scenarios.
Sliding Window Pooling Extreme Learning Machine Based Capacity Prediction of Lithium-ion Batteries
Authors: Han Caiyun , Yuan Huimei
Published: March 2023

Lithium batteries have been widely used in various fields. Accurately predicting the remaining useful life (RUL) of batteries is greatly significant for the safety, reliability and health management of batteries. Based on the measured parameters in the process of charge and discharge of battery, the extraction method of singular value decomposition (SVD) is used to get the health indicators (HIs) related to capacity. And the traditional extreme learning machine (ELM) method has been used to predict the RUL of lithium battery, but the prediction results are divergent, random and low precision. Therefore, this paper proposes sliding window pooling ELM (SW-PELM) method to solve these problems by adding a sliding window and pooling connections. The simulation experiment was carried out through the data of lithium-ion battery from three different research institutions. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm can well improve the divergence and random ELM prediction results, and has higher prediction accuracy compared with other improved ELM algorithms.
On Defect Grading for the Relay Protection Devices Based on TF-IDF Assignment and Simple Classifiers
Authors: Tao Chang , Zheng Shaoming , Wang Shuhong , Dong Peng , Tian Mingwei , Liu Yimin , Xue Ancheng
Published: March 2023

Accurate grading of relay protection device (RPD) defects can improve the maintenance and reliability of RPD to ensure the safety of power grid. Based on the text record of defects of RPDs in a regional power grid and the defect text dictionary, this paper analyses the defect grading method with Term Frequency-Inverse Document Frequency (TF-IDF) assignment method and simple classifiers. The details are as follows: firstly, the construction of relay protection devices defect dictionary is introduced. Secondly, the vectorization text of relay protection devices defect is formed; combined with TF-IDF assignment method, and then, the relay protection devices defect grading models based on five simple classifiers are constructed respectively. Finally, the performance of the above defect grading methods is compared and analysed based on the k-fold crossover method. The grading models constructed in the paper can provide an auxiliary to relay protection device operation.
Research on Dust Removal Strategies of Photovoltaic Panels in Ultra-high Altitude Photovoltaic Demonstration Base
Authors: Xiong Changquan , Zhang Yuning , Chen Guoyong , Qiao Qin
Published: March 2023

Photovoltaic modules are susceptible to dust in the environment when generating electricity outdoors. If not cleaned in time, the conversion efficiency of the modules will decrease. Outdoor centralized power generation components are different from distributed power generation components. Centralized power generation often covers a large area and is located in a complex climate. Even within the same plant, the impact of dust on photovoltaic panels varies from region to region. In recent years, there have been more and more technologies for cleaning the surface of photovoltaic panels, such as manual cleaning, water cleaning, mechanical cleaning, and electrostatic cleaning. Depending on the geographical environment and climatic conditions, various methods have both advantages and disadvantages. This work firstly sorts out the characteristics and typical applications of different leading photovoltaic panel cleaning technologies, and then, the dust removal technology strategies for specific photovoltaic plants located in Sichuan Province of China is proposed according to the environmental attributes of low-latitude, ultra-high altitude, and cold regions.
Research on Quantum Computing Standard System Architecture and Roadmap
Authors: Yang Hong , Wang Jingjing , Sun Xu
Published: March 2023

Quantum computing is an important branch of quantum information technology. Quantum computing is far more powerful than traditional computing in solving some problems, and it has great potential for commercial and military applications. Firstly, this paper introduces the status quo of quantum computing research and the status of domestic and foreign standards, and then discusses the demands of quantum computing standards, and expounds on the necessity of a quantum computing standard system. Then give the quantum computing architecture standard system diagram. Finally, there is a roadmap for Quantum computing standardization is given, including the short, medium and long term. The architecture and the roadmap will be helpful to guide the standardization work as well as the application development.
Application Research on Intelligent Paving Construction Technology of Asphalt Pavement Based on 3D Mechanical Control
Authors: Wang Tong , Gao Haibo , Liu Xinchao
Published: March 2023

As the major construction equipment of asphalt pavement, the performance of the paver plays a critical role in pavement construction quality, directly affecting the smoothness and compactness of the pavement, etc. Therefore, by analyzing the influence of the paver leveling method on the levelness, this project uses 3D mechanical control technology to optimize the automatic leveling method of pavers, which can improve the asphalt pavement construction process. It can also improve the quality and economic efficiency of asphalt pavement construction by increasing the automation, standardization, and wisdom of pavers.
Correlating topographical characteristics of relaxed layer to tribology in Cu-Gr-TiC composite system
Authors: Gautam Gaurav , Singh Kamalesh Kumar , Mohan Sunil
Published: March 2023

The copper graphite composites are often being applied as bearing materials in various industries. In present investigation, the correlation between the topographical characteristics of relaxed layer to tribology in Cu-Gr-TiC composite system has been investigated. For this purpose, the flake powder metallurgy approach was used to fabricate Cu-Gr-TiC composites and the tribology of these composites was studied under lubricating (synthetic SAE 20W40 motor oil) condition. Variable loads of 10 N–70 N, sliding velocities of 0.75 m s−1–3 m s−1, and sliding distances of 2000 m–8000 m were the test parameters for sliding wear of composites under lubricating conditions. The worn surfaces were examined using SEM and EDS while topographical parameters were studied by AFM. The other properties like mechanical and physical properties were also studied for the sintered samples to better correlate the overall results of surface topography and tribology. The tests depict the successful fabrication of the composites. The composite having 4.5 wt% TiC particles exhibit maximum hardness and least wear and CoF under lubricating environment. The results of sliding wear test conducted under lubrications revealed that rise in the concentration of nano TiC particles in the matrix improves the composite’s tribological performance. The mechanism of wear for pure copper sample is abrasion whereas for TiC particle reinforced composite is smooth ploughing and delamination. The surface topographical parameters that are average surface roughness, area peak to valley height and skewness depicted less roughness values and better load bearing capacity for 4.5 wt% TiC reinforced Cu-Gr sample. The fabricated TiC reinforced copper graphite composites could be utilized as bearing materials in automotive industries.
Von Neumann equivalence and 𝑀_{𝑑} type approximation properties
Authors: Battseren Bat-Od
Published: March 2023

We show that

M
d

M_d

-approximation-property,

M
d

M_d

-weak-amenability, and

M
d

M_d

-weak-Haagerup-property are stable under von Neumann equivalence (hence also Measure equivalence and W*-equivalence). We also show that these properties are inherited from lattices.
HER2 Gene Protein Assay: A Robust Tool for Evaluating HER2 Status and Intratumoral Heterogeneity in Endometrial Cancers
Authors: Shafi Saba , Nitta Hiroaki , Shah Manan , Challa Bindu , Parwani Anil V , Li Zaibo
Published: March 2023

Objectives

Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) status in endometrial cancer is usually determined by immunohistochemistry and/or in situ hybridization. We employed a novel HER2 gene protein assay (GPA) to simultaneously assesses HER2 gene amplification and protein expression in high-grade endometrial cancers.

Methods

We performed GPA in 180 endometrial cancers, including 106 serous carcinomas, 34 carcinosarcomas, and 40 mixed epithelial carcinomas. HER2 status was determined using the 2018 HER2 guidelines for breast carcinoma, and HER2 intratumoral heterogeneity (ITH) was examined. Clinicopathologic characteristics were collected and correlated with HER2 status.

Results

HER2 positivity was noted in 32% of serous carcinomas, significantly higher than in carcinosarcomas (5.9%) and mixed carcinomas (12.5%). HER2 ITH was detected in 32% of serous carcinomas, significantly greater than in carcinosarcomas (8.8%) and mixed carcinomas (10%). Patients with carcinosarcoma had a significantly lower overall survival than patients with serous or mixed epithelial carcinoma, but HER2 status caused no difference in survival in patients with serous carcinoma.

Conclusions

HER2 GPA can be used to accurately determine HER2 status in endometrial cancers and is a highly valuable tool for identifying HER2 heterogeneity.
Interobserver and Interantibody Reproducibility of HER2 Immunohistochemical Scoring in an Enriched HER2-Low–Expressing Breast Cancer Cohort
Authors: Karakas Cansu , Tyburski Haley , Turner Bradley M , Wang Xi , Schiffhauer Linda M , Katerji Hani , Hicks David G , Zhang Huina
Published: March 2023

Objectives

We assessed the interobserver and interantibody reproducibility of HER2 immunohistochemical scoring in an enriched HER2-low–expressing breast cancer cohort.

Methods

A total of 114 breast cancer specimens were stained by HercepTest (Agilent Dako) and PATHWAY anti-HER2 (4B5) (Ventana) antibody assays and scored by 6 breast pathologists independently using current HER2 guidelines. Level of agreement was evaluated by Cohen κ analysis.

Results

Although the interobserver agreement rate for both antibodies achieved substantial agreement, the average rate of agreement for HercepTest was significantly higher than that for the 4B5 clone (74.3% vs 65.1%; P = .002). The overall interantibody agreement rate between the 2 antibodies was 57.8%. Complete interobserver concordance was achieved in 44.7% of cases by HercepTest and 45.6% of cases by 4B5. Absolute agreement rates increased from HER2 0-1+ cases (78.1% by HercepTest and 72.2% by 4B5; moderate agreement) to 2-3+ cases (91.9% by HercepTest and 86.3% by 4B5; almost perfect agreement).

Conclusions

Our results demonstrated notable interobserver and interantibody variation on evaluating HER2 immunohistochemistry, especially in cases with scores of 0-1+, although the performance was much more improved among breast-specialized pathologists with the awareness of HER2-low concept. More accurate and reproducible methods are needed for selecting patients who may benefit from the newly approved HER2-targeting agent on HER2-low breast cancers.
‘Rising Number of Homeless is the Legacy of Tory Failure’: Discoursal Changes and Transitivity Patterns in the Representation of Homelessness in The Guardian and Daily Mail from 2000 to 2018
Authors: Gómez-Jiménez Eva M , Bartley Leanne Victoria
Published: March 2023

Experts in different fields have claimed that the UK has experienced a process of growing economic inequality since the 1970s. Following Fairclough’s dialectal-relational approach, this paper presents a detailed, systematic analysis of the representation of homeless people and homelessness in The Guardian and Daily Mail from 2000 to 2018, in order to explore how these have been discursively represented over time. Therefore, our study addresses two specific research questions: How have homelessness and homeless people been represented in the UK press? Are there any discoursal changes in representation with the passing of time? The analysis, which has employed mostly qualitative but also quantitative (statistical) methods drawing on corpus-assisted discourse analysis, is informed by the theory of transitivity within Systemic Functional Linguistics. Results indicate that, within an overall negative representation of homeless people and homelessness in this period, there have been some significant discoursal changes over time. As such, this paper contributes to critical discourse studies and transitivity research on a relevant social problem, that of growing economic inequality in the UK.
Cairn Energy: when retroactive taxation not justified by prevention of tax avoidance is unfair and inequitable
Authors: Kuźniacki Błażej , van Weeghel Stef
Published: March 2023

In late 2020, the Cairn Tribunal concluded one of the largest investor-state arbitration disputes to date. The core of the dispute was retroactive taxation of offshore indirect transfers of shares of companies with underlying assets situated in India (crude petroleum and natural gas fields). The Tribunal decided that India had violated the fair and equitable standard under the UK–India bilateral investment treaty by the retroactive taxation without a specific justification for doing so. Notably, India failed to persuade the Tribunal that the retroactive tax law aimed against abusive tax avoidance. In the article, the authors aim to partly respond to a call of Professor Thomas Wälde for a systematization of the red flags arising from the conduct of host states in taxation matters viewed against investment protection mechanisms. By analysing the Cairn Tribunal’s reasoning, the authors identify and examine two red flags: (i) retroactive taxation and (ii) prevention of tax avoidance. Their conclusion is that states should exercise caution with such red flags rather than rush to terminate international investment agreements or carve out tax measures from the fair and equitable standard in remaining and prospective international investment agreements.
Microtoxin for Improving Pore Size, Skin Laxity, Sebum Control, and Scars: A Roundtable on Integrating Intradermal Botulinum Toxin Type A Microdoses Into Clinical Practice
Authors: Fabi Sabrina Guillen , Park Je-Young , Goldie Kate , Wu Woffles
Published: March 2023

Background

In aesthetic clinical practice, botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) is best known for its use as a neuromodulator for the treatment of dynamic facial lines; however, when injected intradermally as microdroplets, BoNT-A can improve skin quality and overall skin appearance.

Objectives

To discuss key aspects of microtoxin use in clinical practice and provide expert guidance on utilization.

Methods

As part of a continuing medical education lecture series and roundtable, the authors discussed key aspects of microtoxin patient selection, injection technique, and safety.

Results

The experiences of expert faculty are shared here. Clinical experience is consistent with reported data. Microtoxin can be used to reduce pore size, sebum production, rosacea, acne, and fine lines, and to improve jawline and neck definition. Intradermal injection can also be employed for the improvement of transverse neck lines as well as for the safe prevention and management of scars and keloids.

Conclusions

Expanding the use of BoNT-A, a predictable, minimally invasive, and affordable treatment to address commonly encountered complaints is appealing. The authors have found that making patients aware of microtoxin as a treatment option results in an increased interest in and utilization of BoNT-A, and high satisfaction among appropriately selected patients.
Soft calibration for selection bias problems under mixed-effects models
Authors: Gao Chenyin , Yang Shu , Kim Jae Kwang
Published: March 2023

Calibration weighting has been widely used to correct selection biases in nonprobability sampling, missing data and causal inference. The main idea is to calibrate the biased sample to the benchmark by adjusting the subject weights. However, hard calibration can produce enormous weights when an exact calibration is enforced on a large set of extraneous covariates. This article proposes a soft calibration scheme, where the outcome and the selection indicator follow mixed-effect models. The scheme imposes an exact calibration on the fixed effects and an approximate calibration on the random effects. On the one hand, our soft calibration has an intrinsic connection with best linear unbiased prediction, which results in a more efficient estimation compared to hard calibration. On the other hand, soft calibration weighting estimation can be envisioned as penalized propensity score weight estimation, with the penalty term motivated by the mixed-effect structure. The asymptotic distribution and a valid variance estimator are derived for soft calibration. We demonstrate the superiority of the proposed estimator over other competitors in simulation studies and using a real-world data application on the effect of BMI screening on childhood obesity.
Approaches to Forecasting Damage by Invasive Forest Insects and Pathogens: A Cross-Assessment
Authors: Raffa Kenneth F , Brockerhoff Eckehard G , Grégoire Jean-Claude , Hamelin Richard C , Liebhold Andrew M , Santini Alberto , Venette Robert C , Wingfield Michael J
Published: March 2023

Nonnative insects and pathogens pose major threats to forest ecosystems worldwide, greatly diminishing the ecosystem services trees provide. Given the high global diversity of arthropod and microbial species, their often unknown biological features or even identities, and their ease of accidental transport, there is an urgent need to better forecast the most likely species to cause damage. Several risk assessment approaches have been proposed or implemented to guide preventative measures. However, the underlying assumptions of each approach have rarely been explicitly identified or critically evaluated. We propose that evaluating the implicit assumptions, optimal usages, and advantages and limitations of each approach could help improve their combined utility. We consider four general categories: using prior pest status in native and previously invaded regions; evaluating statistical patterns of traits and gene sequences associated with a high impact; sentinel and other plantings to expose trees to insects and pathogens in native, nonnative, or experimental settings; and laboratory assays using detached plant parts or seedlings under controlled conditions. We evaluate how and under what conditions the assumptions of each approach are best met and propose methods for integrating multiple approaches to improve our forecasting ability and prevent losses from invasive pests.
Hello, LaMDA!
Authors: Martin Joel T
Published: March 2023

Artificial intelligence has become so advanced that modern day chatbots seem almost human in their capabilities. But is it possible for a machine or computer system to be sentient, or conscious? Exploring a recent case of mistaken identity, Martin argues that there are more important questions for society.
SSH1 promotes progression of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma via p38 MAPK-CXCL8 axis
Authors: Chen Fanghua , Aye Ling , Yu Lei , Liu Longzi , Liu Yuming , Lin Youpei , Gao Dongmei , Gao Qiang , Zhang Shu
Published: March 2023

Protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs) are involved in malignant transformation and metastasis. According to one of our previous studies, Slingshot homolog 1 (SSH1), a member of PTPs, is significantly associated with the survival of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) patients. However, the underlying mechanisms of SSH1 in iCCA remain largely elusive. Here, the expression and clinical significance of SSH1 were assessed using the iCCA patient samples. The results showed that SSH1 was dramatically up-regulated in iCCA tissues and elevated SSH1 expression was associated with worse overall survival of iCCA patients. Overexpression of SSH1 accelerated the proliferation, migration, and invasion of iCCA cells, and also inhibited cell apoptosis. Furthermore, the downstream signaling pathway of SSH1 in iCCA was explored and it was revealed that the increased expression of SSH1 could activate the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway and enhance the expression of C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL8). Notably, the high correlation of SSH1 with CXCL8 jointly indicated the poor prognosis in iCCA patients. Thus, our study suggests SSH1 as a potentially promising target for iCCA, which promoted iCCA progression through a potential p38 MAPK-CXCL8 axis.
Extensive expertise in endocrinology: glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide–dependent Cushing's syndrome
Authors: Lacroix André
Published: March 2023

Thirty years ago, we identified that cortisol secretion in some patients with unilateral adenoma or primary bilateral macronodular adrenal hyperplasia (PBMAH) was stimulated by food intake; this was secondary to the abnormal adrenocortical responsiveness to physiological post-prandial increase in glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP). This resulted from the ectopic expression of non-mutated GIP receptor in the pathological adrenal tissues of those patients. Although ectopic GIP receptor (GIPR) was confirmed in a relatively limited number of cases to date, its elucidation leads to the identification of a wide diversity of aberrant G-protein-coupled receptors regulating steroidogenesis and cell proliferation in a high proportion of patients with PBMAH or cortisol-secreting adenomas. In addition, ectopic GIPR was identified in other endocrine tumors including somatotroph pituitary tumors with paradoxical growth hormone response to oral glucose, medullary thyroid carcinomas, and other neuroendocrine tumors. The first molecular pathogenic mechanism responsible for ectopic GIPR expression was elucidated in unilateral GIP–dependent adenomas in which somatic duplication and rearrangements in chromosome region 19q13.32 containing the GIPR locus lead to increased expression of GIPR which was enhanced by the activity of a glucocorticoid response element. Recently, germline lysine demythylase 1A (KDMIA) mutations combined with somatic chromosome 1p deletions were found to be specifically responsible for ectopic GIPR in sporadic or familial GIP–dependent PBMAH and can be associated with adrenal myelolipoma, monoclonal gammopathy of unknown significance (MGUS), or multiple myeloma. Screening for ectopic GIPR should be conducted in all patients with PBMAH; genetic studies to identify KDM1A mutations should be offered to such patients in order to detect affected members and provide early detection of PBMAH and other potential associated neoplasias. The elucidation of GIP–dependent Cushing's syndrome (CS) illustrates that careful bedside phenotyping of rare conditions can lead to identification of genetically determined diseases requiring personalized approaches to investigation and therapy.
Peer effects on academic self-concept: a large randomized field experiment
Authors: Keller Tamás , Kim Jinho , Elwert Felix
Published: March 2023

Social theories posit that peers affect students’ academic self-concept (ASC). Most prominently, Big-Fish-Little-Pond, invidious comparison, and relative deprivation theories predict that exposure to academically stronger peers decreases students’ ASC, and exposure to academically weaker peers increases students’ ASC. These propositions have not yet been tested experimentally. We executed a large and pre-registered field experiment that randomized students to deskmates within 195 classrooms of 41 schools (N = 3,022). Our primary experimental analysis found no evidence of an effect of peer achievement on ASC in either direction. Exploratory analyses hinted at a subject-specific deskmate effect on ASC in verbal skills, and that sitting next to a lower-achieving boy increased girls’ ASC (but not that sitting next to a higher-achieving boy decreased girls’ ASC). Critically, however, none of these group-specific results held up to even modest corrections for multiple hypothesis testing. Contrary to theory, our randomized field experiment thus provides no evidence for an effect of peer achievement on students’ ASC.
Convergence or redundancy: alternative views about the evolutionary genomics of character displacement
Authors: Crawford Douglas L , Thompson Max C , Conn Trinity , Kaufman Madeline , Voytko Trenton , Merritt Anna M , MacKay Heather , Billings Tessa , Chng Yi , Stuart Yoel E , Oleksiak Marjorie F
Published: March 2023

An evolutionary debate contrasts the importance of genetic convergence versus genetic redundancy. In genetic convergence, the same adaptive trait evolves because of similar genetic changes. In genetic redundancy, the adaptive trait evolves using different genetic combinations, and populations might not share the same genetic changes. Here we address this debate by examining single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with the rapid evolution of character displacement in Anolis carolinensis populations inhabiting replicate islands with and without a competitor species (1Spp and 2Spp islands, respectively). We identify 215-outliers SNPs that have improbably large FST values, low nucleotide variation, greater linkage than expected and that are enriched for genes underlying animal movement. The pattern of SNP divergence between 1Spp and 2Spp populations supports both genetic convergence and genetic redundancy for character displacement. In support of genetic convergence: all 215-outliers SNPs are shared among at least three of the five 2Spp island populations, and 23% of outlier SNPS are shared among all five 2Spp island populations. In contrast, in support of genetic redundancy: many outlier SNPs only have meaningful allele frequency differences between 1Spp and 2Spp islands on a few 2Spp islands. That is, on at least one of the 2Spp islands, 77% of outlier SNPs have allele frequencies more similar to those on 1Spp islands than to those on 2Spp islands. Focusing on genetic convergence is scientifically rigorous because it relies on replication. Yet, this focus distracts from the possibility that there are multiple, redundant genetic solutions that enhance the rate and stability of adaptive change.
Feedback reports to the general practitioner (GP) on the patients’ experiences: are GPs interested, and is this interest associated with GP factors and patient experience scores?
Authors: Bjertnæs Øyvind A , Norman Rebecka M , Eide Torunn B , Holmboe Olaf , Iversen Hilde H , Telle Kjetil , Valderas Jose M
Published: March 2023

Background

Patient experience feedback is key in patient centred health systems, but empirical evidence of general practitioner (GP) interest in it is sparse. We aimed to: (i) quantitatively estimate the level of GP interest for feedback reports on patient experience; (ii) explore determinants of such interest; and (iii) examine potential association between a priori interest and patient experience.

Methods

The patient experience survey included maximum 300 randomly selected patients for each of 50 randomly selected GPs (response rate 41.4%, n = 5,623). GPs were sent a postal letter offering feedback reports and were grouped according to their replies: (i) interested in the report; (ii) not interested. Associations between interest and GP variables were assessed with Chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression, while associations between interest and scores for 5 patient experiences scales were assessed with multilevel regression models.

Results

About half (n = 21; 45.7%) of the GPs showed interest in the report by asking to receive the report. The only GP variable associated with a priori interest was being a specialist in general practice (58.6% vs. 23.5% for those without) (P = 0.021). Interest was significantly associated with the practice patient experience scale (4.1 higher score compared with those not interested, P = 0.048). Interest in the report had small and nonsignificant associations with the remaining patient experience scales.

Conclusions

Almost half of the GPs, and almost 3 in 5 of specialists in general practice, were interested in receiving a GP-specific feedback report on patient experiences. Interest in the report was generally not related to patient experience scores.
Change in Decision-Making Analysis and Preferences in Old Age
Authors: Wilson Robert S , Yu Lei , Stewart Christopher C , Bennett David A , Boyle Patricia A
Published: March 2023

Objectives

To test the hypotheses that decision making ability declines in old age and that a higher level of cognitive reserve is associated with a reduced rate of decline.

Methods

As part of an ongoing cohort study, 982 older adults without dementia at study enrollment completed measures of purpose in life and cognitive activity which were used as markers of cognitive reserve. At annual intervals thereafter, they completed 6 tests of decision making.

Results

In a factor analysis of baseline decision making scores, 3 measures (financial/health literacy, financial/health decision making, scam susceptibility) loaded on an “analytic” factor and 3 (temporal discounting small stakes, temporal discounting large stakes, risk aversion) loaded on a “preferences” (for temporal discounting and avoiding risk) factor. During a mean of 4.7 years of follow-up (standard deviation = 2.9), analytic factor scores decreased (mean = 0.042-unit per year, standard error [SE] = 0.006, p < .001) and preferences factor scores increased (mean = 0.021-unit per year, SE = 0.006, p < .001), with a correlation of 0.13 (p < .001) between rates of change. Evidence of an association between cognitive reserve and decision making was mixed with purpose in life related to change in analytic decision making, whereas past (but not current) cognitive activity was related to change in decision making preferences.

Discussion

Decision making analysis and preferences change over time in late life. Change over time in decision making components is relatively independent and differentially related to age and cognitive reserve.
Will political disagreement silence political expression? The role of information repertoire filtration and discussion network heterogeneity
Authors: Zhang Xinzhi
Published: March 2023

The present research aims to extend the literature on the effects of interpersonal political disagreement on political expression on social media. It investigates how disagreement-motivated information repertoire filtration and discussion network heterogeneity play a role in the disagreement–expression nexus. A two-wave online panel survey (n = 791) implemented in Hong Kong finds that encountering disagreement during political conversations is associated with filtering the information repertoire. While information repertoire filtration itself may not lead to political expression, political disagreement influenced political expression via information repertoire filtration, and this effect was stronger when network heterogeneity was low. The result indicates that politically motivated selectivity makes already-homogeneous online networks even more fragmented. The present study enriches the literature regarding how digitally mediated disconnectivity creates a personalized, homogeneous private sphere during interpersonal political communication, which may fail to nurture an open and inclusive society.
Petrificando la rama judicial en Colombia: autointerés judicial y control de constitucionalidad inapropiado de reformas constitucionales a la justicia
Authors: Benítez-R Vicente F
Published: March 2023

This article analyzes the judicial review of constitutional amendments aimed at modifying the judiciary in Colombia. It holds that when the Supreme Court of Justice (under the previous Constitution) and the Constitutional Court (under the Constitution currently in force) have quashed acceptable amendments to the judiciary, they have probably exercised such a review in a self-interested way, that is, in a non-impartial manner. Building upon the notion of “inappropriate judicial review,” the article argues that this potential lack of impartiality deepens traditional objections associated with judicial review of amendments (like democratic, interpretive and petrification issues) and undermines courts’ credibility before public opinion, thus risking their independence. After diagnosing this constitutional pathology and showing it has spread to some other jurisdictions, this research suggests that judicial review of amendments should continue in place to neutralize abusive constitutional changes. Nevertheless, regarding reasonable amendments to the judicial branch, it proposes a set of institutional and behavioral alternatives that could help mitigate the difficulties that underly a judicial scrutiny of a constitutional amendment that impacts the judges in charge of such a scrutiny.
Immunity of Heterologously and Homologously Boosted or Convalescent Individuals Against Omicron BA.1, BA.2, and BA.4/5 Variants
Authors: Jäger Michael , Diem Gabriel , Sahanic Sabina , Fux Vilmos , Griesmacher Andrea , Lass-Flörl Cornelia , Wilflingseder Doris , Tancevski Ivan , Posch Wilfried
Published: March 2023

Background

The emerged severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Omicron variants BA.1, BA.2, and BA.4/5 demonstrate higher transmission and infection rates than previous variants of concern. To evaluate effectiveness of heterologous and homologous booster vaccination, we directly compared cellular and humoral immune responses as well as neutralizing capacity against replication-competent SARS-CoV-2 wild type, Delta, and Omicron variants BA.1, BA.2, and BA.4/5.

Methods

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells and serum samples from 137 participants were investigated, in 3 major groups. Individuals in the first group were vaccinated twice with ChAdOx1 and boosted with a messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine (BNT162b2 or mRNA-1273); the second group included triple mRNA­–vaccinated participants, and the third group, twice-vaccinated and convalescent individuals.

Results

Vaccination and convalescence resulted in the highest SARS-CoV-2–specific antibody levels, stronger T-cell responses, and best neutralization against wild type, Delta Omicron BA.2, and BA.4/5, while a combination of ChAdOx1 and BNT162b2 vaccination elevated neutralizing capacity against Omicron BA.1. In addition, heterologous booster regimens, compared with homologous regimens, showed higher efficacy against Omicron BA.2 as well as BA.4/5.

Conclusions

We showed that twice-vaccinated and convalescent individuals demonstrated the strongest immunity against Omicron BA.2 and BA.4/5 variant, followed by those receiving heterologous and homologous booster vaccine regimens.
How Motivation, Nomophobic Design and Environmental Demands Predict Students’ Media Multitasking when Participating in Online Courses During COVID-19: An Empirical Study with a HCI Time and Temporality Lens
Authors: Qin Xiangang , Clemmensen Torkil , Xin Hongqin
Published: March 2023

There is an emerging shift in human–computer interaction (HCI) research from things to events and towards time and temporality as a design material, which is made even more urgent by the unique time of the COVID-19 period. This paper pushes this shift forwards by investigating factors and the way that these shape online media multitasking behaviour over time during COVID-19. We model the factors along the WHAT and HOW dimensions of the HCI-over-Time model (HCIoT) with self-report data from 117 university students and objective behavioural data from 40 university students, who participated in an online course over 2 weeks during COVID-19. The results indicated a pervasiveness of media multitasking behaviour over time in an online course, driven by individual factors and enhanced by their mutual fit. Based on interpretation of our data, we suggest conceptualizing the COVID-19 period as the larger temporal environment in the HCIoT model. The discussion further explains how the broader idea of human–computer-environment fit is significant to understand HCIoT through an interaction lens. We discuss methodological issues related to differentiating between self-report and behavioural measures when applying the HCIoT model. The conclusion supports the feasibility and significance of conceptualizing media multitasking during COVID-19 as temporal HCI and of further developing and operationalizing the HCIoT model by using both behavioural and self-report measures.
Population pharmacokinetics and CSF penetration of flucytosine in adults with HIV-associated cryptococcal meningoencephalitis
Authors: Stott Katharine E , Ahmadu Ajisa , Kajanga Cheusisime , Moyo Melanie , Gondwe Ebbie , Chimang’anga Wezzie , Chasweka Madalitso , Unsworth Jennifer , Jimenez-Valverde Ana , Jagota Bhavana , Shah Reya V , Lawrence David S , Lalloo David G , Harrison Tom , Jarvis Joseph N , Hope William , Mwandumba Henry C
Published: March 2023

Background

There are limited data describing clinical flucytosine pharmacokinetics (PK). The variability of flucytosine partitioning into the CNS is not known. We described the interindividual variability in flucytosine PK in patients with HIV-associated cryptococcal meningoencephalitis. In addition, we quantified the extent and variability of CSF partitioning of flucytosine.

Methods

A PK study was conducted in 64 patients with confirmed HIV-associated cryptococcal meningoencephalitis in Blantyre, Malawi. A four-compartment PK model was developed, and Monte Carlo simulations were performed with flucytosine administered at different doses and in different schedules.

Results

The estimated mean apparent volume of the central compartment was 17.50 (SD 9.99) L; mean apparent clearance was 5.88 (SD 3.35) L/h; mean apparent volume of the CNS compartment was 41.73 (SD 13.66) L. From the Bayesian posterior estimates, AUC24 values at steady state (144–168 h) with doses of 25 mg/kg q6h were median (IQR) 890.38 (603.81–1213.70) mg.h/L in plasma and 595.66 (425.69–776.64) mg.h/L in CSF. The ratio of CSF:plasma AUC24 was 0.69 (IQR 0.58–0.82).

Conclusions

This study revealed significant interindividual variability in flucytosine PK in plasma and CSF in patients with HIV-associated cryptococcal meningoencephalitis. The population PK model is a first critical step for revised flucytosine regimens that maximize fungal killing and minimize toxicity and the emergence of resistance.
Maternal Mortality and Women’s Political Power
Authors: Bhalotra Sonia , Clarke Damian , Gomes Joseph Flavian , Venkataramani Atheendar
Published: March 2023

Millions of women continue to die during and soon after childbirth, even where the knowledge and resources to avoid this are available. We posit that raising the share of women in parliament can trigger action. Leveraging the timing of gender quota legislation across developing countries, we identify sharp sustained reductions of 7%–12% in maternal mortality. Investigating mechanisms, we find that gender quotas lead to increases in percentage points of 5–8 in skilled birth attendance and 4–8 in prenatal care utilization, alongside a decline in fertility of 6%–7% and an increase in the schooling of young women of about 0.5 years. The results are robust to numerous robustness checks. They suggest a new policy tool for tackling maternal mortality.
Visual misinformation on Facebook
Authors: Yang Yunkang , Davis Trevor , Hindman Matthew
Published: March 2023

We conduct the first large-scale study of image-based political misinformation on Facebook. We collect 13,723,654 posts from 14,532 pages and 11,454 public groups from August through October 2020, posts that together account for nearly all engagement of U.S. public political content on Facebook. We use perceptual hashing to identify duplicate images and computer vision to identify political figures. Twenty-three percent of sampled political images (N = 1,000) contained misinformation, as did 20% of sampled images (N = 1,000) containing political figures. We find enormous partisan asymmetry in misinformation posts, with right-leaning images 5–8 times more likely to be misleading, but little evidence that misleading images generate higher engagement. Previous scholarship, which mostly cataloged links to noncredible domains, has ignored image posts which account for a higher volume of misinformation. This research shows that new computer-assisted methods can scale to millions of images, and help address perennial and long-unanswered calls for more systematic study of visual political communication.
Network Effectiveness in Context
Authors: Shumate Michelle , Dougherty Shaun M , Miles Joshua-Paul , Boyer Anne-Marie , Wang Rong , Gibson Zachary M , Cooper Katherine R
Published: March 2023

Increasingly, scholars and practitioners are interested in evaluating the effectiveness of interorganizational networks. We use a configuration approach to study network effectiveness. This research is a mixed-method study of 26 education networks in the United States. We measure network effectiveness by comparing 4th-grade literacy, 8th-grade literacy, and high-school graduation rates. We compare these scores with all school districts in the state using interrupted time series or parametric difference-in-differences approaches. Then, drawing from qualitative data from interviews and archives, we investigate the network governance, environmental characteristics, and theories of change associated with greater student achievement. We find three configurations associated with network effectiveness using fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis. One configuration combines decentralized governance with a project theory of change in the context of resource munificence. A second configuration associated with network effectiveness is to combine learning and systems alignment theories of change with smaller network size and resource munificence. The final configuration combines decentralized governance, a learning theory of change, less resource munificence, and larger network size and does not use a systems alignment theory of change. The results support the configurational approach, which suggests multiple configurations of factors in combination may result in network effectiveness.
Paul Hirst and religious education’s curriculum question: or how Hirst never thought religion was a form of knowledge at all
Authors: Aldridge David
Published: March 2023

Hirst consistently listed religion as a form of knowledge. He had numerous chances to revise this position, but did not. However, whenever Hirst actually considered religion and the curriculum in specific detail, either he did so without reference to the curriculum principles of liberal education, or he implicitly or explicitly rejected his own claim that religion was a form of knowledge. In this article I hope to contribute to an appreciation of Hirst’s work by showing how attempting to understand his thinking on religious education against the background of forms of knowledge both adds to confusion about what Hirst intended the forms of knowledge to be, and hinders an understanding of what his explicitly stated curriculum position on religion actually was. I speculate that Hirst included religion as a form of knowledge only as an ‘agnostic placeholder’ acknowledging the possibility that religion might turn out to be a form of knowledge. I then offer a brief assessment of this revised interpretation of Hirst’s position from the perspective of contemporary scholarship in the philosophy of religious education.
The plant vampire diaries: a historic perspective onCuscutaresearch
Authors: Hartenstein Maleen , Albert Markus , Krause Kirsten
Published: March 2023

The angiosperm genus Cuscuta lives as an almost achlorophyllous root- and leafless holoparasite and has therefore occupied scientists for more than a century. The ‘evolution’ of Cuscuta research started with early studies that established the phylogenetic framework for this unusual genus. It continued to produce groundbreaking cytological, morphological, and physiological insight throughout the second half of the 20th century and culminated in the last two decades in exciting discoveries regarding the molecular basis of Cuscuta parasitism that were facilitated by the modern ‘omics’ tools and traceable fluorescent marker technologies of the 21st century. This review will show how present activities are inspired by those past breakthroughs. It will describe significant milestones and recurring themes of Cuscuta research and connect these to the remaining as well as newly evolving questions and future directions in this research field that is expected to sustain its strong growth in the future.
Comparison of IgG Against COVID-19 Between Postmenopausal and Nonmenopausal Women Vaccinated With Sinopharm Vaccine
Authors: Nabatchian Fariba , Pakbaz Fatemeh , Cheshrokh Mostafa , Sajadi Maryam , Sharbati Shadi , Afrisham Reza
Published: March 2023

Objective

Since December 2019, the coronavirus disease has spread among the people of the world. Past studies have shown that viral diseases are more common and the immune response is stronger among menopausal women than nonmenopausal women. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to compare the amount of immunoglobulin (Ig)G against COVID-19 between postmenopausal and nonmenopausal women vaccinated with Sinopharm vaccine.

Methods

In this case-control study, 90 females vaccinated with the Sinopharm vaccine were randomly selected from February to April 2022: 45 menopausal participants as the case group and 45 nonmenopausal controls. Demographic characteristics were obtained and blood samples were taken from all subjects. A complete blood count was carried out and the levels of IgG against COVID-19 were measured by using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method.

Results

The mean age was 33.3 ± 7.3 years and 60.2 ± 7.02 years for control and menopausal women, respectively. A significant difference was found between the 2 groups for the levels of IgG antibodies against COVID-19 (P = .002, 17.2 ± 9.83 relative unit for case group and 10.2 ± 9.80 relative unit for control subjects). After adjusting, IgG against COVID-19 was significantly correlated to the menopausal state (odds ratio [confidence interval] = 1. 08 [1.03–1. 15]; P = .003).

Conclusion

The results of this study showed that menopausal women had higher levels of IgG against COVID-19 in comparison with nonmenopausal females. However, more complementary studies are needed in this regard.