bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical needs assessment to inform development of a new assay to detect antimalarial drugs in patient samples: A case study
Authors: Coonahan Erin S. , Amaratunga Chanaki , Long Carole A. , Tarning Joel
Published: August 2023

Point-of-care assays have greatly increased access to diagnostic information and improved healthcare outcomes globally, especially in the case of tropical diseases in rural settings. Increased recognition of the impact of these tools and increased funding, along with advances in technology have led to a surge in development of new assays. However, many new tools fail to fulfill their intended purpose due to a lack of clinical impact, operational feasibility, and input from envisioned operators. To be successful, they must fit into existing clinical decision-making models and be designed in collaboration with end users. We describe a case study of the development of a new low-cost sensor for antimalarial drugs, from initial planning through collection and incorporation of design feedback to final assay design. The assay uses an aptamer-based sensor to detect antimalarial drugs from patient samples for tracking antimalarial use in Southeast Asia, a region with a long history of emerging antimalarial drug resistance. Design and use-case input was collected from malaria control experts, researchers, and healthcare workers to develop target product profiles. Data was collected via surveys and in-person interviews during assay development and ultimately informed a change in assay format. This aptamer sensor platform can be easily adapted to detect other small molecule and protein targets and the design process described here can serve as a model for the development of effective new assays to improve access to healthcare technology.
Officials’ promotion expectation, corporate strategic deviance and corporate growth in China: The moderating effect of corporate ownership
Authors: Li Yugang , Fang Xiuyuan
Published: August 2023

Government (especially local government) plays an important role in China’s economic growth, the government is made up of officials, corporates are participants and the driving force of market economy, therefore, ignoring officials may not be able to directly explain the mechanism of corporate growth. This paper intends to discover how officials’ promotion expectation may be beneficial for corporates—directly and/or indirectly via corporate strategic deviance—in terms of corporate growth. We conduct an empirical analysis of Chinese listed companies to test these arguments, the results show that officials’ promotion expectation has a significantly positive impact on corporate growth; corporate strategic deviance has a mediating effect on the relationship between officials’ promotion expectation and corporate growth; compared with non-state-owned enterprises, corporate strategic deviance has less influence on state-owned enterprises’ growth. Our research generates a more comprehensive understanding of the political stakeholders-corporate growth relationship, provides direct evidence for the positive role of officials in corporate growth and expands the mediating research of corporate growth.
Knockout of CLTC gene reduces but not completely block SFTSV infection
Authors: Liu Tiezhu , Li Jiajia , Wang Xueqi , Huang Tao , Wu Wei , Li Aqian , Li Chuan , Huang Xiaoxia , Wang Qin , Li Dexin , Wang Shiwen , Liang Mifang
Published: August 2023

Clathrin is a key protein for viruses to enter host cells. Previous studies often use clathrin inhibitors or gene knockdown technology to partially inhibit the function of clathrin, but whether SFTSV can infect host cells without clathrin expression remains unclear. In this research, a clathrin heavy chains (CLTC) knockout A549 cell line was established by CRISPR/Cas9 technology, and the knockout of CLTC was verified by PCR, Western blot, immunofluorescence and T7E1 analysis. The off-target effect was evaluated by PCR combined with Sanger sequencing. Furthermore, this research verified that SFTSV infection was significantly inhibited, but not completely blocked, due to the deletion of CLTC protein. Our research also found that lipid raft inhibitor Filipin, other than macropinocytosis inhibitor EIPA, could significantly reduce SFTSV infection, and the inhibition was more obviously observed when Filipin was used in CLTC knockout cells. These result indicated that clathrin-dependent and lipid raft mediated endocytosis are the major two mode used by SFTSV entry. In conclusion, this study constructed a CLTC knockout cell line, which, for the first time, established a cell model for the study of the function of CLTC protein, and provided direct evidence that SFTSV pendent could still infect cells without clathrin. Additionally, we confirmed that lipid raft mediated endocytosis, as a clathrin-independent pathway, could be another key mode for SFTSV entry.
Weighing heavy: Heavy serving dishes increase food serving
Authors: Tal Aner , Grinstein Amir , Kleijnen Mirella
Published: August 2023

The current work demonstrates that people serve themselves greater amounts of food when carrying heavier serving dishes. This effect occurs because increases in carried weight lower consumers’ sensitivity to the weight of the food served. Decreased sensitivity to weight of food served in turn leads people to continue serving past the point where they would normally stop. The paper demonstrates this effect across two lab studies involving actual food serving (with a third lab study extending the outcomes to unhealthy food choices reported in the S1 Appendix). The studies also demonstrate liking for the food moderates the effect, such that carrying greater weight leads people to serve an increased amount of liked, but not of less well liked, foods. The findings extend prior research regarding the effects of dish weight on food judgment to provide a first demonstration of effects of weight not only on judgment but on behavior. In this, they help expand our understanding of the ways in which elements in the eating environment effects food consumption. In addition, the studies provide initial evidence for the mechanism behind the phenomenon: reduced sensitivity to weight. The research carries important implications for public well being, given that increases in serving sizes may contribute to obesity.
Central and local arterial stiffness in White Europeans compared to age-, sex-, and BMI-matched South Asians
Authors: van der Sluijs Koen M. , Thannhauser Jos , Visser Iris M. , Nabeel P. M. , Raj Kiran V. , Malik Afrah E. F. , Reesink Koen D. , Eijsvogels Thijs M. H. , Bakker Esmée A. , Kaur Prabhdeep , Joseph Jayaraj , Thijssen Dick H. J.
Published: August 2023

Background

Ethnicity impacts cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, and South Asians demonstrate a higher risk than White Europeans. Arterial stiffness is known to contribute to CVD, and differences in arterial stiffness between ethnicities could explain the disparity in CVD risk. We compared central and local arterial stiffness between White Europeans and South Asians and investigated which factors are associated with arterial stiffness.

Methods

Data were collected from cohorts of White Europeans (the Netherlands) and South Asians (India). We matched cohorts on individual level using age, sex, and body mass index (BMI). Arterial stiffness was measured with ARTSENS® Plus. Central stiffness was expressed as carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cf-PWV, m/s), and local carotid stiffness was quantified using the carotid stiffness index (Beta) and pressure-strain elastic modulus (Epsilon, kPa). We compared arterial stiffness between cohorts and used multivariable linear regression to identify factors related to stiffness.

Results

We included n = 121 participants per cohort (age 53±10 years, 55% male, BMI 24 kg/m2). Cf-PWV was lower in White Europeans compared to South Asians (6.8±1.9 vs. 8.2±1.8 m/s, p<0.001), but no differences were found for local stiffness parameters Beta (5.4±2.4 vs. 5.8±2.3, p = 0.17) and Epsilon (72±35 vs. 70±31 kPa, p = 0.56). Age (standardized β, 95% confidence interval: 0.28, 0.17–0.39), systolic blood pressure (0.32, 0.21–0.43), and South Asian ethnicity (0.46, 0.35–0.57) were associated with cf-PWV; associations were similar between cohorts (p>0.05 for interaction). Systolic blood pressure was associated with carotid stiffness in both cohorts, whereas age was associated to carotid stiffness only in South Asians and BMI only in White Europeans.

Conclusion

Ethnicity is associated with central but not local arterial stiffness. Conversely, ethnicity seems to modify associations between CVD risk factors and local but not central arterial stiffness. This suggests that ethnicity interacts with arterial stiffness measures and the association of these measures with CVD risk factors.
Cache a Killer: Cache Valley virus seropositivity and associated farm management risk factors in sheep in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Bergevin Michele D. , Ng Victoria , Menzies Paula , Ludwig Antoinette , Mubareka Samira , Clow Katie M.
Published: August 2023

Cache Valley virus (CVV) disease is a mosquito-borne zoonosis endemic to North America. CVV disease is reported most often in sheep, causing lethal congenital deformities. There are limited data on CVV in Ontario, which is the largest sheep producing province in Canada. This study aimed to determine CVV seroprevalence in Ontario sheep flocks and investigate farm management factors associated with CVV exposure. A cross-sectional study was performed including 364 mature ewes across 18 farms selected from the five largest sheep districts in the province. A questionnaire was administered at each farm to determine farm management practices pertinent to the flock and ewes specifically sampled. Mixed multivariable logistic regression with a random effect for farm was conducted to assess associations between CVV seropositivity (outcome variable) and farm management risk factors (predictor variables). CVV seroprevalence was 33.2% in individual ewes (95% CI: 28.4%-38.1%) as determined by a virus neutralization assay with a titre > 4. Sixteen of the eighteen flocks (88.9%) had at least one CVV seropositive ewe. Increased age, smaller flock size, and sheep housing near wetlands, lakes, or ponds were found to be significantly associated with higher odds of CVV seropositivity. These findings are valuable in guiding breeding practices and housing during mosquito season to minimize infection and, ultimately, CVV disease in the flock.
Intensive care nurse managers’ experiences during the first wave of the Covid-19 pandemic: Implications for future epidemiological crises
Authors: Dobrowolska Beata , Gutysz-Wojnicka Aleksandra , Dziurka Magdalena , Ozdoba Patrycja , Ozga Dorota , Penar-Zadarko Beata , Markiewicz Renata , Markiewicz-Gospodarek Agnieszka , Palese Alvisa
Published: August 2023

Background

Nurse managers play an important role in coordinating the multidisciplinary teamwork, which is specifically important in emergency and crises situations like the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this qualitative study is twofold: (1) to explore the experiences of the Intensive care units (ICU) nurse managers regarding their work during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, and (2) to analyse what implications might be provided based on experiences of nurse managers for future possible epidemiological crises.

Methods

In-depth phone interviews were conducted to explore the experiences of ward managers–nurses (n = 15) working in different hospitals across Poland. Interviews were taped and transcribed verbatim, and then qualitatively analysed.

Results

Three main categories were identified:(1)Challenge of working with the unknown,(2)Nurse managers’ expectations, and(3)Methods of coping and received support. The COVID-19 pandemic strongly affected the work of ICU nurse managers and uncovered the malfunctioning of the healthcare system.

Conclusion

It is important to improve the knowledge and competence of hospital management personnel through exercises and in-service training on how to handle emergencies in order to improve the management of healthcare facilities, increase the safety of patients and employees, and the quality of healthcare.
Teaching hospitals and their influence on survival after valve replacement procedures: A retrospective cohort study using inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW)
Authors: Maldonado-Cañón Kevin , Buitrago Giancarlo , Molina Germán , Rincón Tello Francisco Mauricio , Maldonado-Escalante Javier
Published: August 2023

Background

The effect of teaching hospital status on cardiovascular surgery has been of common interest in recent decades, yet its magnitude on heart valve replacement is still a matter of debate. Given the ethical and practical unfeasibility of randomly assigning a patient to such an exposure, we use the inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) to assess this marginal effect on the survival of Colombian patients who underwent a first heart valve replacement between 2016 and 2019.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted based on administrative records. The time-to-death event and cumulative incidences of death, readmission, and reoperation are presented as outcomes. An artificial sample is configured through IPTW, adjusting for sociodemographic variables, comorbidities, technique, and intervention weight.

Results

Of a sample of 3,517 patients, 1,051 (29.9%) were operated on in a teaching hospital. The median age was 65.0 (18.1–91.5), 38.5% of patients were ≤60, and 6.9% were ≥80. The cumulative incidences of death at 30, 90 days, and one year were 5.9%, 8%, and 10.9%, respectively. Furthermore, 23.5% of the patients were readmitted within 90 days and 3.6% underwent reintervention within one year. The odds of 30-day mortality are lower for patients operated in a teaching hospital (OR 0.51; 95% CI 0.29–0.92); however, no effect on survival was identified in terms of time-to-event of death (HR 1.07; 95%CI 0.78–1.46).

Conclusions

After IPTW, the odds of 30-day mortality are lower for patients operated in a teaching hospital. There was no effect on survival, 90-day or one-year mortality, 90-day readmission, or one-year reintervention. Together, we offer an opening for investigating an exposure that has yet to be explored in Latin America with potential value to understand teaching hospitals as the essential nature of reality of an academic-clinical synergy.
Contribution of peri-urban land use and agriculture to entropy and food of mega-cities: On sustainability, planning by control theory and recycling of organics
Authors: Nuppenau Ernst-August
Published: August 2023

In this article we propose an ecological economics orientation of peri-urban development, looking at land use planning, local food and entropy. Based on a mathematical model, we present an operational concept of minimizing negative externalities within a given population. The model applies control theory. The concept is introduced to facilitate closing cycles, conduct spatial planning and reduce costs to achieve the ecological target of improved entropy. To this end, we look at more soundly defined metropolitan areas. An emphasis is placed on optimally assuring space for urban agriculture and on enabling recycling in ever-growing cities. Our concept is grounded in the use of peri-urban agriculture and regional food provision as an integrated system, which is based on the recycling of organic matter. Firstly, we reference current unhealthy developFfigments and show how cycles were removed as growth occurred. Secondly, as market-oriented city expansions showed limited scope for peri-urban farming, we suggest entering into regional planning. Planning shall ensure a better use of space and can be based on organic matter recycling (composting, slurry, etc.). The article provides a theoretical background for the occurrence of modified land use (systems). These systems shall alleviate some external burdens of large and growing cities. The approach looks at ecological, economic and social aspects in parallel, to outline principles for more sustainable land use, including peri-urban land. Methodologically we offer land use modelling, looking at interactions of industry, residence, and farming. The functions of a city are integrated into a methodical approach of distance from centre to periphery.
Effect of feeding toy and the presence of a dog owner during the feeding time on dog welfare
Authors: Boonhoh Worakan , Wongtawan Tuempong , Sriphavatsarakom Prarom , Waran Natalie , Chiawwit Phatcharaporn , Tanthanathipchai Noppharat , Suttidate Naparat
Published: August 2023

Background and Aim: A conventional feeding bowl is the primary method that dog owners use to feed their dogs, but this may not encourage natural behaviors and may even exacerbate unwanted behaviors. This study aimed to compare a conventional feeding bowl to a feeding toy in relation to behavior, cortisol levels, and heart rate variability (HRV).

Materials and Methods: The behaviors of four dogs were recorded and analyzed while being fed using either a stainless bowl (B) or a feeding toy (T) and either alone (A) or accompanied by a dog owner (O) for 30 min with each treatment (BA, BO, TA, and TO treatments). The dogs that were fed alone with the stainless bowl (BC) or the feeding toy (TC) were fed for 15 min/day for 7 days with their treatment, and serum cortisol levels measured on the first and last days of treatment. The dogs fed by the stainless bowl (BH) or the feeding toy (TH) with the owner present for 15 min for each treatment had their heart rate (HR) and HRV recorded by Polar® H10 during feedings The results were compared using a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), repeated measure ANOVA, and Student’s t-test.

Results: The dogs spent more time eating and interacting with the feeding toys than stainless bowls. The activity of the dogs was higher when using feeding toys, particularly with the TO treatment. Cortisol levels were significantly lower on day 7 than on day 1 of the TC treatment. The dogs’ HR was higher during TH treatment than during BH treatment. All HRV parameters were decreased significantly when feeding the dog with the toys.

Conclusion: The results of this study support the idea that feeding enrichment supports the natural feeding behaviors of dogs as they mimic hunting and playing behaviors. This reduced unwanted behavior, cortisol levels, and HRV, and increased food consumption, eating duration, and active behaviors. The presence of the dog’s owner is important because it can enhance feeding and active behaviors, and feeding enrichment can improve the dog’s welfare and the dog-human relationship.

Keywords: cortisol, dog behavior, dog welfare, dog-human relationship, feeding toy, heart rate variability.
Molecular prevalence of Anaplasma spp. in cattle and assessment of associated risk factors in Northeast Thailand
Authors: Seerintra Tossapol , Saraphol Bhuripit , Thanchomnang Tongjit , Piratae Supawadee
Published: August 2023

Background and Aim: Anaplasma spp. are common rickettsia species described in ruminant hosts, including cattle. The clinical signs of anaplasmosis range from asymptomatic to mortality. However, there are insufficient studies on epidemiology surveys of this blood pathogen. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and risk factors of anaplasmosis in beef and dairy cattle in Northeast, Thailand.

Materials and Methods: A total of 187 blood samples of beef and dairy cattle were collected from five provinces in Northeast Thailand. Anaplasma spp. infections were screened by microscopic examination and polymerase chain reaction targeting specific genes (msp4 gene for Anaplasma marginale and 16S rRNA gene for Anaplasma platys and Anaplasma bovis). Moreover, the associated risk factors for the infections were evaluated.

Results: Overall, blood samples from cattle revealed that 17.6% (33/187) were positive for Anaplasma spp. by microscopic examination and 20.8% (39/187) were positive by DNA amplification. Of these 20.8%, 17.6% were A. marginale and 3.2% were A. platys. However, A. bovis infection was not detected. Infection with Anaplasma spp. and A. marginale showed a significant association with breed and gender (p < 0.05) while age and packed cell volume levels showed no significant statistical relationship between Anaplasma spp. infected and uninfected animals.

Conclusion: This study indicated that anaplasmosis is distributed in beef and dairy cattle in Thailand; therefore, prevention and control strategies for these pathogens should be improved. This information will benefit veterinarians and cowherds by avoiding vector exposure and eliminating tick breeding sites.

Keywords: anaplasmosis, beef cattle, blood parasite, dairy cattle, molecular detection.
Salt tolerance threshold and physiological responses in Bach Thao goats drinking diluted seawater under tropical conditions
Authors: Nguyen Thiet , Truong Khang Van , Nguyen Ngu Trong , Thammacharoen Sumpun
Published: August 2023

Background and Aim: Climate change challenges with incremental sea level cause saltwater intrusion, which has affected the quality of freshwater and groundwater in coastal provinces, particularly the Mekong River Delta provinces of Vietnam. Interestingly, Bach Thao goats are predominant in this area and well adapted to saline water under tropical conditions. Therefore, this study investigated the salt tolerance threshold of Bach Thao goats drinking diluted seawater (DSW).

Materials and Methods: The experiment was performed using seven Bach Thao male goats (20.60 ± 1.12 kg) and divided into two phases. In Phase 1 (control, C), all goats were provided fresh water (FW) for 7 days from two identical buckets, and daily water intake (WI) was recorded from both buckets. In Phase 2 (preference test, PT), each goat was provided FW from the first bucket and DSW from the second bucket or vice versa. The concentration of DSW for the preference test was 0.5%-2.0%.

Results: Body weight and dry matter intake showed no differences according to DSW consumption; however, WI was significantly lower during Phase 2 (p < 0.05), which was due to the lower WI with 1.5% and 2% of DSW (p < 0.05). Goats showed a similar preference for fluid intake between FW and DSW at 0.0%–1.0% levels and began avoiding DSW at 1.5% and rejected at 2.0% of DSW. Goats consuming 1.5% of DSW showed increased respiration rate from 13:00 to 19:00 h and rectal temperature at 13:00 h (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Goats can tolerate up to 1.0% of DSW. Shifting to FW activated aversive drinking to 1.5% and 2.0% of DSW. This behavioral response was prominent at 0.5% DSW. Moreover, goats that drank 1.5% of DSW had decreased thermoregulation.

Keywords: body weight, climate change, freshwater, salt tolerance.
The Economic and Social Implications of Negative Externalities in Nickel Mining
Authors: Kusuma Jony Puspa , Ananda Candra Fajri , Khusaini Moh. , Manzilati Asfi
Published: August 2023

This research provides an in-depth understanding of the externalities caused by nickel mining and the importance of communities taking collective action against mining activities in Kolaka Regency. This research focused on sea cucumber fishing households in Tambea Village, Pomalaa Sub-district. In some cases, companies with an IUP can carry out practices that can cause harm to the community and the surrounding environment. Environmental contamination, restricted access to land, and economic limitations are the main issues affected communities face. In the face of adverse economic and social implications due to the negative externalities of nickel mining, sea cucumber fishermen have taken collective action and realized the importance of advocating for their rights and protecting the environment and natural resources that support their livelihoods. To address these negative externalities, we need a comprehensive policy design. Qualitative approach This research uses data collection techniques. The data collected in the case study came from participant narratives, direct observation, and analysis of relevant documents that can provide an in-depth understanding of the unique context, with qualitative analysis revealing a wealth of information and detailed details. The location of the case study research is in a village called Tambea Village, Pomalaa District, Kolaka Regency. The results illustrate the economic and social negative externalities caused by this mining activity to sea cucumber fishermen. The results of this study are expected to be the basis for designing comprehensive policies to reduce the negative impacts of nickel mining and protect fishing communities and the surrounding environment.
Employment Trends and Relative Influence of U.S. Retail Subsector Employments on GDP
Authors: Khan Abdullah
Published: August 2023

This paper studies employment trends of the U.S. retail industry and its twelve subsectors for the period 1998 through 2021.  The retail subsectors are: motor vehicle and parts dealers (NAICS 441),  furniture and home furnishing stores (NAICS 442),  electronics retail stores (NAICS 443),  building material retail stores (NAICS 444),  food and beverage stores (NAICS 445),  health and personal care retail stores (NAICS 446),  gasoline stations (NAICS 447), clothing and accessories retail stores (NAICS 448), sporting goods, hobby goods, books, and music retail stores (NAICS 451), general merchandise stores (NAICS 452), miscellaneous retail stores (NAICS 453), and nonstore retail stores (NAICS 454). Comparing the pre-pandemic (2017-19) and post-pandemic (2019-21) employment growth rates, this study finds nonstore retailers (NAICS 454) and Food and beverages stores (NAICS 445) to be the most pandemic-proof subsectors in terms of retail employment. Besides multi-jurisdictional employment trends of this industry, this paper also explores the state-level influence of retail sub-sectoral employments on U.S. GDP  using a fixed panel regression model. The retail subsectors that displayed statistically significant positive correlation with GDP are motor vehicle dealerships, health and personal care stores, clothing stores, and nonstore retailers such as electronic shopping and mail order businesses.  Among the control variables, state-level total patent counts had statistically significant positive correlation with GDP.
Theories of Consciousness and Emergent Technologies: The Impact of Personality on Approaches to Change and Choice
Authors: Benjamin Colin , Bitetto Paul
Published: August 2023

This article delves into the nature of consciousness, aiming to reconcile conflicting theories beyond dualism and panpsychism by addressing differences between early and late adopters of emerging technologies. We propose a new perspective on the integrity of consciousness that transcends binary divisions and embraces the unity of all life forms.   Their contributions embrace the interplay between subjective and objective elements, acknowledging that changes and choices arise from complex interactions between known and unknown broader systemic influences. Appreciating the synthesis of traditional and progressive elements, alternative thinkers encourage a dynamic and balanced perspective, where truth is not confined to a singular perspective but emerges from the richness of diverse viewpoints. This paves the way for a more inclusive and comprehensive understanding of attitudes and opinions fostering a greater appreciation for the intricate interconnectedness of life's complexities.
The Unreliability of Ageing Narrative in John Banville’s The Sea and Ancient Light
Authors: Li Huifang , Li Junlin
Published: August 2023

The Sea and Ancient Light were both written after the author John Banville has reached his sixties. As a writer with a strong consciousness of age identity, Banville interwove his age concern with his narrative techniques in these two works. Among them, the unreliability of the protagonists’ narrative is the most distinct feature and it was carried out through three aspects. First, Banville deliberately inserts self-blurring narratives to indicate the symptom of amnesia which is popular among the aged group; Second, the recurrent self-referential fabricated details imply a confusion between reality and fancy in the aged life and the difficulty in maintaining the aged self; Third, invention and imagination is encouraged as a way to restore the self-identification of the elders. Therefore, the commonly labelled postmodern narrative of Banville is rather a realistic depiction of the aged life.
Accelerating Aggregation Queries on Unstructured Streams of Data
Authors: Russo Matthew , Hashimoto Tatsunori , Kang Daniel , Sun Yi , Zaharia Matei
Published: August 2023

Analysts and scientists are interested in querying streams of video, audio, and text to extract quantitative insights. For example, an urban planner may wish to measure congestion by querying the live feed from a traffic camera. Prior work has used deep neural networks (DNNs) to answer such queries in the batch setting. However, much of this work is not suited for the streaming setting because it requires access to the entire dataset before a query can be submitted or is specific to video. Thus, to the best of our knowledge, no prior work addresses the problem of efficiently answering queries over multiple modalities of streams.

In this work we propose InQuest, a system for accelerating aggregation queries on unstructured streams of data with statistical guarantees on query accuracy. InQuest leverages inexpensive approximation models ("proxies") and sampling techniques to limit the execution of an expensive high-precision model (an "oracle") to a subset of the stream. It then uses the oracle predictions to compute an approximate query answer in real-time. We theoretically analyzed InQuest and show that the expected error of its query estimates converges on stationary streams at a rate inversely proportional to the oracle budget. We evaluated our algorithm on six real-world video and text datasets and show that InQuest achieves the same root mean squared error (RMSE) as two streaming baselines with up to 5.0x fewer oracle invocations. We further show that InQuest can achieve up to 1.9x lower RMSE at a fixed number of oracle invocations than a state-of-the-art batch setting algorithm.
Sieve: A Learned Data-Skipping Index for Data Analytics
Authors: Tong Yulai , Liu Jiazhen , Wang Hua , Zhou Ke , He Rongfeng , Zhang Qin , Wang Cheng
Published: August 2023

Modern data analytics services are coupled with external data storage services, making I/O from remote cloud storage one of the dominant costs for query processing. Techniques such as columnar block-based data organization and compression have become standard practices for these services to save storage and processing cost. However, the problem of effectively skipping irrelevant blocks at low overhead is still open. Existing data-skipping efforts maintain lightweight summaries (e.g., min/max, histograms) for each block to filter irrelevant data. However, such techniques ignore patterns in real-world data, enabling ineffective use of the storage budget and may cause serious false positives.

This paper presents Sieve, a learning-enhanced index designed to efficiently filter out irrelevant blocks by capturing data patterns. Specifically, Sieve utilizes piece-wise linear functions to capture block distribution trends over the key space. Based on the captured trends, Sieve trades off storage consumption and false positives by grouping neighboring keys with similar block distributions into a single region. We have evaluated Sieve using Presto, and experiments on real-world datasets demonstrate that Sieve achieves up to 80% reduction in blocks accessed and 42% reduction in query times compared to its counterparts.
Clinical use of bone markers: a challenge to variability
Authors: Filella Xavier , Guañabens Núria
Published: August 2023

Bone markers are a group of substances released into circulation during bone formation and/or resorption. These substances can be measured in blood and urine to obtain information about metabolic bone disorders. This review provides an insight into factors influencing bone marker variability and describes different approaches to minimize variability and interpret results appropriately. Variability in bone marker concentrations results from biological and analytical variability across assays. Other influencing factors include gender, age, physical exercise, circadian rhythm, and diet. The multiplicity of influencing factors hinders the establishment of accurate reference values. Gaining a deep understanding of bone marker variability is the first step to ascertain their clinical usefulness. Bone marker variability can be minimized by controlling as many variables as it is possible and through the standardization of patient preparation and sample collection and handling.
A high-gain dual-beam folded transmit-reflect-array antenna based on phase-shifting surface
Authors: Zhang Min , Tang Baiqing , Li Xin , Jiang Peng , Hu Wei , Jiang Wen , Gao Steven
Published: August 2023

In this paper, a high-gain dual-beam folded transmit-reflect-array antenna is designed based on the shared aperture method. It consists of the top transmit-reflect-array, the bottom transmitarray, and the feed horn located at the center of the bottom transmitarray. A phase-shifting surface is proposed as the transmission unit cell capable of transmitting incident waves while providing adequate transmission phase shift. The designed transmission unit cell is improved into the transmit-reflect unit cell by adding polarization grids to realize the reflection function. The bottom transmitarray is constructed by transmission unit cells. The top transmit-reflect-array is composed of transmit-reflect unit cells and polarization grids vertical to the unit cell. The x-polarized wave transmits through the top transmit-reflect-array and forms a pencil beam in the forward direction. In addition, the y-polarized wave is reflected by the top transmit-reflect-array and transmits through the bottom transmitarray to form a pencil beam in the backward direction. The tested realized gains of the transmitted beam and reflected beam at 10 GHz are 19.87 dBi with an aperture efficiency of 48.27 % and 23.95 dBi with an aperture efficiency of 30.88 %, respectively. With its low profile and ease of manufacture, it has great prospects for navigation and radar communication.
Comparative analysis of different empirical mode decomposition-kind algorithms on sea-level inversion by GNSS-MR
Authors: Jian Linghuo , Wang Xinpeng , Huang Shengxiang , Hao Haining , Zhang Xianyun , Yang Xiyuan
Published: August 2023

The rising sea level caused by global climate change might impact the human living environment. Global navigation satellite systems (GNSS)-multipath reflection (MR) technology holds significant potential for monitoring tide level changes. GNSS-MR technology typically employs low-order polynomials to extract the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) residuals containing GNSS interference signals. It utilizes Lomb-Scargle (LSP) spectral analysis or empirical mode decomposition (EMD) to obtain the dominant frequency of the SNR residuals, which is then converted into tidal heights. However, as the satellite elevation angle increases, the GNSS interference signals decrease and the traditional method does not adapt well to the extraction of SNR residuals under such conditions. A series of improved EMD-kind algorithms, namely ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD), complementary ensemble empirical mode decomposition (CEEMD), complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise (CEEMDAN), and improved complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise (ICEEDMAN), have been proposed to address the shortcomings of EMD algorithms such as end effect and mode aliasing. However, these improved EMD-kind algorithms have yet to be reported in sea level inversion. This study investigates the mitigation effects of EMD-kind algorithms on GNSS-MR direct signal and noise to improve the stability and accuracy of an SNR residual sequence with high satellite elevation angles. Experimental data from the HKQT station for one week and the SC02 station for one year are utilized to validate the effectiveness and accuracy of these algorithms in extracting SNR residuals. Compared to the traditional polynomial method, the experimental results demonstrate that all EMD-kind algorithms effectively address the distortion issue in traditional inversion methods under long periods, higher satellite elevation angles, and low GNSS receiver sampling rates. Among these algorithms, the results from the experiments show that ICEEMDAN consistently provides the best inversion accuracy. The results of the comparative analysis show that ICEEMDAN effectively reduces non-interference signals in SNR residuals at higher satellite elevation angles, expanding the useable range of satellite elevation angles and improving the utilization and temporal resolution of GNSS data inversion. Hence, it is an effective and appropriate approach to improving the accuracy of GNSS-MR tide level monitoring.
Aspar and Apollonius–religion and politics in choosing the eastern consul for 460 CE
Authors: Bleeker Ronald A.
Published: August 2023

This article takes a fresh look at the identification of the East Roman consul for 460 CE. Although recent scholarship has favored a military candidate over a civil candidate of the same name, the author suggests that there is a better argument for the civil candidate based on an examination of East Roman political and religious issues in the 440 s and 450 s. If so, the choice may also shed new light on Aspar’s political strategy in the late 450 s and early resistance to the advancement of his son, Patricius.
Fundamental Theory and R-linear Convergence of Stretch Energy Minimization for Spherical Equiareal Parameterization
Authors: Huang Tsung-Ming , Liao Wei-Hung , Lin Wen-Wei
Published: August 2023

Here, we extend the finite distortion problem from bounded domains in ℝ2to closed genus-zero surfaces in ℝ3by a stereographic projection. Then, we derive a theoretical foundation for spherical equiareal parameterization between a simply connected closed surfaceMand a unit sphere 𝕊2by minimizing the total area distortion energy on ̅ℂ. After the minimizer of the total area distortion energy is determined, it is combined with an initial conformal map to determine the equiareal map between the extended planes. From the inverse stereographic projection, we derive the equiareal map betweenMand 𝕊2. The total area distortion energy is rewritten into the sum of Dirichlet energies associated with the southern and northern hemispheres and is decreased by alternatingly solving the corresponding Laplacian equations. Based on this foundational theory, we develop a modified stretch energy minimization function for the computation of spherical equiareal parameterization betweenMand 𝕊2. In addition, under relatively mild conditions, we verify that our proposed algorithm has asymptotic R-linear convergence or forms a quasi-periodic solution. Numerical experiments on various benchmarks validate that the assumptions for convergence always hold and indicate the efficiency, reliability, and robustness of the developed modified stretch energy minimization function.
Accurate and fast small p-value estimation for permutation tests in high-throughput genomic data analysis with the cross-entropy method
Authors: Shi Yang , Shi Weiping , Wang Mengqiao , Lee Ji-Hyun , Kang Huining , Jiang Hui
Published: August 2023

Permutation tests are widely used for statistical hypothesis testing when the sampling distribution of the test statistic under the null hypothesis is analytically intractable or unreliable due to finite sample sizes. One critical challenge in the application of permutation tests in genomic studies is that an enormous number of permutations are often needed to obtain reliable estimates of very small p-values, leading to intensive computational effort. To address this issue, we develop algorithms for the accurate and efficient estimation of small p-values in permutation tests for paired and independent two-group genomic data, and our approaches leverage a novel framework for parameterizing the permutation sample spaces of those two types of data respectively using the Bernoulli and conditional Bernoulli distributions, combined with the cross-entropy method. The performance of our proposed algorithms is demonstrated through the application to two simulated datasets and two real-world gene expression datasets generated by microarray and RNA-Seq technologies and comparisons to existing methods such as crude permutations and SAMC, and the results show that our approaches can achieve orders of magnitude of computational efficiency gains in estimating small p-values. Our approaches offer promising solutions for the improvement of computational efficiencies of existing permutation test procedures and the development of new testing methods using permutations in genomic data analysis.
Change-of-Direction Speed Assessments and Testing Procedures in Tennis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Schneider Celine , Rothschild Jeff , Uthoff Aaron
Published: August 2023

Schneider, C, Rothschild, J, and Uthoff, A. Change-of-direction speed assessments and testing procedures in tennis: a systematic review. J Strength Cond Res 37(9): 1888–1895, 2023—Change-of-direction speed (CODS) plays an essential role in tennis match play, and CODS performance is, therefore, commonly assessed and monitored in tennis players. Thus, the aim of this systematic review was to describe test characteristics, performance metrics, test-retest reliability, construct validity, and test outcomes of tests that are used to assess CODS in tennis players. A literature search conducted on PubMed and SPORTDiscus yielded 563 results. After applying the eligibility criteria, a total of 27 studies were included in the present review. Ten unique CODS tests were identified. 505 test variations were most frequently used across all studies, and total time required to complete the test was the predominant performance metric investigated. Intrasession test-retest reliability ranged from “moderate” to “excellent.” Intersession test-retest reliability as well as the effects of tennis performance, sex, and age on CODS performance were unclear given the subject demographics and the limited number of studies that investigated these aspects. In conclusion, most studies included CODS tests that exhibit longer COD entry and total distances but similar COD angles to those seen during tennis match play. All CODS tests have at least “moderate” intrasession test-retest reliability. However, to improve CODS assessment methods and to increase our current understanding of CODS performance in tennis players, there is a need to conduct more research on the intersession test-retest reliability, construct validity, and the effects of sex, age, and tennis performance and to investigate other performance metrics that might provide additional insights into CODS (e.g., phase-specific performance variables).
Factors Affecting Physical and Technical Performance in Australian Football
Authors: Wing Christopher , Hart Nicolas H. , Ma'ayah Fadi , Nosaka Kazunori
Published: August 2023

Wing, C, Hart, NH, Ma’ayah, F, and Nosaka, K. Factors affecting physical and technical performance in Australian football. J Strength Cond Res 37(9): 1844–1851, 2023—This study assessed player (i.e., lower-body strength and power and aerobic fitness) and environmental (e.g., venue) factors and their effects on the physical (e.g., distance) and technical (e.g., kicks) demands of Australian football (AF). Relative distance, high-speed running (HSR), and acceleration efforts for 19 matches by 33 players in a West AF League team were analyzed from global positioning system data split into periods of successful offense and defense and maximum ball in play (BiP) periods, as well as technical actions. Lower-body strength and power, and aerobic fitness were evaluated using a one-repetition trap-bar deadlift, countermovement jump, 2-km time trial, and Yo-Yo intermittent fitness test, respectively. In matches played at home, distance (p < 0.001, ES = 0.39) and HSR (p < 0.001, ES = 0.34) were significantly reduced during successful defense. In addition, tackle rate was significantly increased (p = 0.003, ES = 0.16) during successful defense when playing at home. Trap-bar deadlift relative to mass significantly increased relative distance (p = 0.004, ES = 0.51) and HSR (p = 0.029, ES = 0.40) in successful offense. In successful defense, superior time trial performance significantly increased relative distance (p < 0.001, ES = 0.58), HSR (p < 0.001, ES = 0.59), and acceleration efforts (p = 0.017, ES = 0.44), while relative distance (p < 0.001, ES = 0.62) and HSR (p = 0.004, ES = 0.52) were also increased during maximum BiP periods. The results demonstrate that player factors have the largest effect on the physical and technical performance of AF players.
Using Electronic Handgrip Dynamometry and Accelerometry to Examine Multiple Aspects of Handgrip Function in Master Endurance Athletes: A Pilot Study
Authors: Klawitter Lukus A. , Hackney Kyle J. , Christensen Bryan K. , Hamm Jeremy M. , Hanson Matt , McGrath Ryan
Published: August 2023

Klawitter, LA, Hackney, KJ, Christensen, BK, Hamm, JM, Hanson, M, and McGrath, R. Using electronic handgrip dynamometry and accelerometry to examine multiple aspects of handgrip function in master endurance athletes: A Pilot Study. J Strength Cond Res 37(9): 1777–1782, 2023—Electronic handgrip dynamometry and accelerometry may provide novel opportunities to comprehensively measure muscle function for human performance, especially for master athletes. This investigation sought to determine the multivariate relationships between maximal strength, asymmetry, rate of force development, fatigability, submaximal force control, bimanual coordination, and neuromuscular steadiness to derive one or more handgrip principal components in master-aged endurance athletes. We included n = 31 cyclists and triathletes aged 35–70 years. Maximal strength, asymmetry, rate of force development, fatigability, submaximal force control, bimanual coordination, and neuromuscular steadiness were measured twice on each hand using electronic handgrip dynamometry and accelerometry. The highest performing measures were included in the analyses. A principal component analysis was conducted to derive a new collection of uncorrelated variables from the collected handgrip measurements. Principal components with eigenvalues >1.0 were kept, and individual measures with a factor loading of |>0.40| were retained in each principal component. There were 3 principal components retained with eigenvalues of 2.46, 1.31, and 1.17. The first principal component, “robust strength,” contained maximal strength, rate of force development, submaximal force control, and neuromuscular steadiness. The second principal component, “bilateral synergy,” contained asymmetry and bimanual coordination, whereas the third principal component, “muscle conditioning,” contained fatigability. Principal components 1, 2, and 3 explained 44.0, 31.6, and 24.4% of the variance, respectively. Different dimensions of muscle function emerged from our findings, suggesting the potential of a muscle function battery. Further research examining how these measures are associated with appropriate human performance metrics and lower extremity correlates is warranted.