bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The COVID-19 Normalization Process for Turkish Nations in terms of Health Communications: The Case of Türkiye, Azerbaijan, and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus
Authors: Ünlü Simge , Yaşar Lütfiye , Bilici Erdal
Published: December 2022

This study aims to determine how the health ministries of Türkiye, Azerbaijan, and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) formed health communication strategies through their official Twitter accounts during the normalization process COVID-19 pandemic. Within the scope of the research, based on the date when the normalization process of Türkiye, Azerbaijan, and the TRNC started, one-month Twitter posts were analyzed by the thematic analysis method. The study was diagnosed with the 2020.03 version of the Maxqda program. The findings determined that although the three countries struggled with the COVID-19 pandemic in line with different strategies, health ministries shared the public awareness and awareness in the normalization process of this global pandemic. The most shared content in all three countries is the COVID-19 Table, including the daily number of cases. When examining the impact and transformation of Twitter content based on the epidemic, the Republic of Türkiye has the most comprehensive range about the pandemic, followed by Azerbaijan and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. As a result, the pandemic affects the official Twitter account shares of the Ministry of Health in all three countries.
Spirituality and the Nursing and Midwifery Council Code
Authors: Barber Chris
Published: December 2022

This series of articles will explore the intersections of spirituality with the delivery of contemporary health care within a number of healthcare and nursing environments. This second article will set out and explore the Nursing and Midwifery Council code of professional conduct with regards to spiritual care, along with a tentative exploration of what ‘spiritual care’ looks like.
Why do we silo cyber security when criminals don't?
Authors: Golan Guy
Published: December 2022

Organisations rely on a number of suppliers to provide a wide range of security solutions and services. This creates complexity that attackers can exploit. So what can we do about this?
Fall incidence and associated factors in spinal cord injury patients who walk with or without an ambulatory assistive device
Authors:   School of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen Province, Thailand, Chaipiphat Natnaree , Amatachaya Sugalya ,   School of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen Province, Thailand, Thaweewannakij Thiwabhorn ,   School of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen Province, Thailand, Mato Lugkana ,   School of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen Province, Thailand
Published: December 2022

Background: The majority of ambulatory individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) require an ambulatory assistive device (AAD). However, the association between falls and gait aid use is still inconsistent. Subgroup analysis may provide the opportunity to differentiate these factors more clearly. Objectives: This study aimed to explore fall incidence and associated factors in SCI patients who walk with or without an AAD. Materials and methods: Ninety-seven participants were interviewed for their baseline demographic data, physical activity, history of falling and fear of falling. They were divided into 2 groups, AAD and non AAD group. They were assessed with three functional tests, including the Timed Up and Go Test, Five Time Sit to Stand Test and 10 Meter Walk Test. Then fall data was followed for six months. Results: More than one-third of all participants experienced at least one fall (40%). The results also showed that the proportion of falls in the AAD group was slightly greater than that of the non-AAD group (AAD=46% and non-AAD=32%). In the AAD group, a multiple variable analysis indicated a significantly higher fall rate among those who were younger than 50 years, used a cane or crutches and had moderate to high physical activity. For the non-AAD group, it was found that poor balance and a history of falls were strong factors associated with more falls. Conclusion: Falls were a serious issue for the participants who walk with or without an ADD. However, the factors affecting falls in these two groups were different. Thus, therapists should consider the factors associated with falls for each group of SCI patients separately to provide proper rehabilitation that prevents falls and subsequent injury.
No time to waste; the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on hip, knee, and shoulder arthroplasty surgeries in the Netherlands and Denmark
Authors: Latijnhouwers Daisy , Pedersen Alma , Kristiansen Eskild , Cannegieter Suzanne , Schreurs Berend W. , van den Hout Wilbert , Nelissen Rob , Gademan Maaike
Published: December 2022

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the estimated change in primary and revision arthroplasty rate in the Netherlands and Denmark for hips, knees, and shoulders during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 (COVID-period). Additional points of focus included the comparison of patient characteristics and hospital type (2019 vs COVID-period), and the estimated loss of quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) and impact on waiting lists.

Methods

All hip, knee, and shoulder arthroplasties (2014 to 2020) from the Dutch Arthroplasty Register, and hip and knee arthroplasties from the Danish Hip and Knee Arthroplasty Registries, were included. The expected number of arthroplasties per month in 2020 was estimated using Poisson regression, taking into account changes in age and sex distribution of the general Dutch/Danish population over time, calculating observed/expected (O/E) ratios. Country-specific proportions of patient characteristics and hospital type were calculated per indication category (osteoarthritis/other elective/acute). Waiting list outcomes including QALYs were estimated by modelling virtual waiting lists including 0%, 5% and 10% extra capacity.

Results

During COVID-period, fewer arthroplasties were performed than expected (Netherlands: 20%; Denmark: 5%), with the lowest O/E in April. In the Netherlands, more acute indications were prioritized, resulting in more American Society of Anesthesiologists grade III to IV patients receiving surgery. In both countries, no other patient prioritization was present. Relatively more arthroplasties were performed in private hospitals. There were no clinically relevant differences in revision arthroplasties between pre-COVID and COVID-period. Estimated total health loss depending on extra capacity ranged from: 19,800 to 29,400 QALYs (Netherlands): 1,700 to 2,400 QALYs (Denmark). With no extra capacity it will take > 30 years to deplete the waiting lists.

Conclusion

The COVID-19 pandemic had an enormous negative effect on arthroplasty rates, but more in the Netherlands than Denmark. In the Netherlands, hip and shoulder patients with acute indications were prioritized. Private hospitals filled in part of the capacity gap. QALY loss due to postponed arthroplasty surgeries is considerable. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(12):977–990.
Inversion of the Optical Properties of Apples Based on the Convolutional Neural Network and Transfer Learning Methods
Authors: Li Yibai , Li Yibai , Wang Haoyun , Zhang Yuzhuo , Wang Jiangbo , Xu Huanliang , Wang Haoyun , Zhang Yuzhuo , Wang Jiangbo , Xu Huanliang
Published: December 2022

Highlights

Convolutional neural network and MMD transfer learning methods are applied in inversion of optical properties.

The classification accuracy of apples’ peel and pulp absorption coefficients are 84.61% and 92.47%, the accuracy of peel and pulp scattering coefficients are 83.56% and 86.53%, respectively.

The depth optical characteristics can better reflect brix and moisture of apple then optical properties and hyperspectral data, the correlations are in the form of 0.98 and 0.98.

Abstract. An inversion of optical properties is an important test for determining the quality of fruit. The conventional inversion model of the optical properties uses measured hyperspectral images as the training data. Studies show that the conventional machine learning method for inverting the optical properties results in low inversion accuracy, especially with curved models. Hence, the present study uses a convolutional neural network scheme to train the simulated hyperspectral images. Moreover, the maximum mean discrepancy (MMD) transfer method is used to transfer the simulated hyperspectral images to the measured hyperspectral images of apples. To evaluate the performance of the proposed method, the present study uses it to classify a variety of an apple’s optical properties, including the peel absorption, pulp absorption, peel scattering, and pulp scattering coefficients. The classification accuracies of the peel and pulp absorption coefficients are 84.61% and 92.47%, respectively. The classification accuracies of the peel and pulp scattering coefficients are 83.56% and 86.53%, respectively. These inversion results are compared with convolutional neural networks, neural networks, and support vector machines with measured hyperspectral images. It was found that the proposed inversion model is an effective scheme for optical property inversion. To prove the necessity of optical property inversion, the least squares, decision tree and random forest regression methods are performed to analyze the correlation between the depth of optical characteristics and the brix and moisture. The present study shows that these correlations are in the form of 0.98 and 0.98. The correlation coefficients increase by 0.36 and 0.25 compared to the measured hyperspectral images. The conclusions show that the proposed inversion model is an effective scheme for apple optical property inversion. Keywords: Apple tissue, Hyperspectral, Optical property inversion, Quality inspection.
SVRice: An Automated Rice Seed Vigor Classification System via Radicle Emergence Testing Using Image-Processing, Curve-Fitting, and Clustering Methods
Authors: Yimpin Achitpon , Yimpin Achitpon , Sermwuthisarn Parichat , Phimcharoen Wanwisa , Chaisan Tanapon , Onwimol Damrongvudhi , Sermwuthisarn Parichat , Phimcharoen Wanwisa , Chaisan Tanapon , Onwimol Damrongvudhi
Published: December 2022

Highlights

SVRice package: a simple and effective procedure for automatic rice seed vigor classification was verified.

The package consists of three important parts: image analysis, curve-fitting, and cluster analysis.

Findings provide an effective rice seed vigor classification system that promises to reduce the production costs.

Abstract. Rice seed vigor classification is important for seed storage management by seed producers and by farmers while planning their cultivation activities. Field emergence is a direct method of seed vigor testing but is laborious, time-consuming and subjective. This article presents the SVRice package, a simple, cost-efficient, and flexible procedure based on computer image analysis for high-throughput, automatic rice seed vigor classification. SVRice consists of four steps: dynamic imaging, image processing, curve fitting, and clustering. Seed vigor was classified based on radicle emergence indices, such as maximum radicle emergence (MaxRE), mean radicle emergence time (MRET), radicle emergence speed (t50), uniformity of radicle emergence (U7525), and area under the curve of the radicle emergence fitted curve (AUC). Parameters used to classify rice seed vigor, such as MRET, U7525, and t50, were strongly negatively correlated with the saturated salt accelerated aging (SSAA) test. A germination time of 90 h at 25°C was sufficient for effective classification based on SVRice, whereas the SSAA test took approximately 400 h to complete. The SVRice software algorithm was created to be especially suitable for assessment after six months under controlled atmosphere storage (at 15°C and 37% RH in a hermetic bag). The study showed that SVRice could unambiguously classify 40 indica rice samples with different varieties, production years, production sites, storage times, and storage conditions compared with the SSAA test. Findings provide an effective seed vigor classification system that promises to reduce the production costs and encourages competitiveness of seed producers. Keywords: Image analysis, Oryza sativa, Radicle emergence, Seed vigor, SVRice.
A Data Augmentation Approach Based on Generative Adversarial Networks for Date Fruit Classification
Authors: Ufuah Donald , Ufuah Donald , Thomas Gabriel , Balocco Simone , Manickavasagan Annamalai , Thomas Gabriel , Balocco Simone , Manickavasagan Annamalai
Published: December 2022

Highlights

Classification of date fruit hardness levels from images.

Combination of deep networks and an expert system to yield better accuracies.

Abstract. Machine learning techniques have been used in various agricultural applications from farming to post-harvest operations. For some cases, a large amount of data is not available and improving on classification accuracies based on deep networks cannot be an option. Such is the case presented here for sorting date fruits based on their hardness into three classes (soft, semi-hard, hard). The original dataset in this work consists of 1800 monochrome images with 600 images per class obtained from different growing regions in Oman. This is a limited number of examples to consider deep networks. Thus, this work proposes data augmentation based on Generative Adversarial Networks (GAN) to synthetically augment the date fruit images. It incorporates a Densely Connected Convolutional Network (DenseNet) for date fruit classification. The goal is to generate enough images so that DenseNet can successfully classify them. The GAN images help during the training part when a large dataset is used for training. Accuracies of 100%, 100%, and 99% were achieved for the hard, soft, and semi-hard classes by using an expert system in combination with two DenseNet networks, one network trained for classifying hard and soft cases as well as a second network that classifies the three classes. Keywords: Data augmentation, Deep learning, Expert system, Fruit classification, GAN, Neural networks.
3D Pore Structure Characterization of Stored Grain Bed
Authors: Nwaizu Charles Chioma , Nwaizu Charles Chioma , Zhang Qiang , Iluno Christiana , Zhang Qiang , Iluno Christiana
Published: December 2022

Highlights

An image analysis for reconstruction of 3D pore structure within bulk grain was presented.

Mathematical models for porosity and tortuosity were developed from the 3D reconstructed images.

The mathematical models can be incorporated in computational model of flow through bulk grains.

Abstract. An image analysis technique for reconstruction of the complex 3D pore structure within bulk grain from 2D section images was presented. The technique relies on aligning successive 2D images of cut-sections obtained from colored-wax solidified soybean grain beds, which were then subjected to image processing using ImageJ software developed by the National Institute of Health (NIH, Bethesda, Md.) for the reconstruction and visualization of different airflow paths within the bulk grain. Porosity and tortuosity values were quantified from the 3D image volume and 3D reconstructed inter-connected airflow paths to develop empirical mathematical models for predicting porosity and tortuosity as a function of compaction due to the pressure exerted by the grain depth. Results indicated that the rate of decrease in porosity was higher at the lower compaction grain depth and then gradually approached a minimum value as the compaction grain depth increased. At the top of the compacted grain, the porosity of the tested soybean bed was determined to be 0.42 and reduced to 0.34 at a compaction pressure of 14.2 kPa (equivalent to a compaction grain depth of 25 m). Tortuosity increased with the compaction pressure from 1.15 to 1.58 at a compaction pressure of 14.2 kPa (equivalent to 25 m of grain depth), or by 37.4%. Keywords: Grain bed, Image analysis, Pore structure, Porosity, Tortuosity.
Uso didáctico de un laboratorio virtual para favorecer la progresión de los modelos mentales de los estudiantes sobre circuitos de corriente eléctrica
Authors: Pontes Pedrajas Alfonso
Published: December 2022

INTRODUCCIÓN. Estamos desarrollando un proyecto de investigación sobre aprendizaje de conceptos físicos en la enseñanza universitaria, utilizando las tecnologías de la información y la comunicación (TIC) para mejorar la calidad educativa. En este estudio se describe una experiencia sobre el uso didáctico de un programa de simulación de circuitos eléctricos que permite al alumnado realizar tareas de indagación y modelización, trabajando en el entorno virtual Phet-DC. MÉTODO. En la experiencia han participado 59 estudiantes de primer curso de ingeniería, que han cumplimentado un cuestionario de preguntas abiertas sobre circuitos eléctricos básicos, en la fase previa y posterior al proceso de enseñanza. Mediante una rúbrica de análisis cualitativo se han categorizado las respuestas de los participantes, identificando los modelos mentales sobre la corriente eléctrica que subyacen en sus explicaciones. RESULTADOS. En el pretest aplicado antes de la enseñanza se aprecia la existencia predominante de ideas acientíficas y modelos mentales de carácter alternativo en las respuestas del alumnado. Durante la experiencia los estudiantes analizan el comportamiento de diferentes tipos de circuitos en el laboratorio virtual, plantean hipótesis sobre el funcionamiento de tales sistemas y contrastan sus hipótesis previas con los resultados observados en cada simulación. Tras el desarrollo de esta experiencia educativa los re­­sultados del postest muestran una mejora significativa en la comprensión y aplicación del modelo científico de corriente eléctrica por parte de los participantes. DISCUSIÓN. Tras utilizar un laboratorio virtual como principal recurso educativo, en esta experiencia se ha observado una evolución bastante positiva de los modelos mentales de los estudiantes sobre el funcionamiento de los circuitos eléctricos. Por ello podemos considerar que el uso didáctico de programas de simulación supone una mejora importante de la calidad de la educación científica.
Hybrid Approach for Automated Test Data Generation
Authors: Kumar Gagan , Chopra Vinay
Published: December 2022

Software testing has long been thought to be a good technique to improve the software quality and reliability. Path testing is the most reliable software testing technique and the key method for improving software quality among all testing approaches. On the other hand, test data quality has a big impact on the software testing activity’s ability to detect errors or defects. To solving testing problem, one must locate the entire search space for the relevant input data to encompass the different paths in the testable program. To satisfy path coverage, it is vital test to look at the accumulated test data across the thorough search area. A new approach based on ant colony optimization and negative selection algorithm (HACO-NSA) is presented in this research which overcome the flaws associated with search-based test data by generated automated test data. The optimum path testing objective is to generate appropriate test data to maximise coverage and to enhance the test data’s efficacy, as a result, the test data’s adequacy is validated using a path-based fitness function. In the NSA generation stage, the suggested method alters the new detectors creation using ACO. The proposed approach is evaluated for metrics such as average coverage, average generation, average time, and success rate and comparison has been done with random testing, ant colony optimization and negative selection algorithm Different benchmark programs have been used for object-oriented system. The findings show that the hybrid methodology escalates the coverage percentage and curtail test data size, reduces the redundancy in data and enhances the efficiency. The proposed approach is follows IEEE 829-2008 test documentation in entire testing process.
Smart Album Management System Based on SE-ResNeXt
Authors: Feng Zhendong , Liu Wei , Yu Yinghuai
Published: December 2022

With the rapid popularization and development of smart phones and other technological devices, pictures have become the main media for people to record information. However, the traditional mobile photo album has many problems. First of all, with the development of the times, the higher the pixel of the image, the larger the memory required. Obviously, the traditional file storage structure can no longer meet the storage of users’ massive photos. Secondly, people store a large number of face images in mobile phones, so there is a strong demand for face recognition and classification management based on different faces. Third, in the face of the management of massive photos, general image recognition and classification is also a very demanding function. In response to the call of “deeply implementing the digital economy strategy” in today’s era, our team makes full use of the functions of the cloud platform and a large number of industrial resources, and integrates independent optimization algorithms to develop an intelligent cloud album management system that realizes intellectualization and application innovation. SE-ResNeXt algorithm is the core algorithm of this system, which can recognize and extract effective information from massive images in various application scenarios, and help users to intelligently and automatically classify and manage images according to different contents. This paper deeply studies the Intelligent Cloud album management system based on SE-ResNeXt. The system is built by nginx+uwsgi+django+vue as a whole. It has the functions of intelligent classification, face recognition, cloud storage and so on. It aims to provide users with simpler, more intimate and more intelligent album management services.
Study on the Kansei Image of Linear Elements of Wooden Screens on the Basis of Modern Aesthetics
Authors: An Shun , Guo Zhongning , Fang Hai
Published: December 2022

As a primitive furniture with the longest history in China, the screen (pingfeng) originated in the western Zhou Dynasty and went through the Han and Tang dynasties, the Five Dynasties, the Song Dynasty, and the Ming and Qing dynasties and is still being used to date. This paper aims to explore the modern aesthetics contained in the traditional screen line and measure the contribution of some linear elements to the overall modern characteristics of the screen. By adopting the method of Kansei engineering, quantitative research is carried out on the Kansei image and the linear patterns of the traditional Chinese screens. The results show that the factors affecting the modern aesthetics of the screen have three linear elements: the top section (pingmao), the upright brackets (zhanya), and the base (dunzuo), with the top section and the base having the greatest influence on the “modern” kansei image of the screen. On the basis of these linear features, the style of the screen can be determined, and the quantitative data can provide reference for the design of modern screens.
How transparent are charitable foundations? A large-scale comparison of transparency levels in grant-making trusts and foundations in England and Wales
Authors: Abnett Helen , de Vries Robert
Published: December 2022

Debate on the role of charitable grant-making foundations often references concerns about their lack of transparency. There has, however, been limited empirical investigation of foundation transparency levels. In this study, we report the largest-ever investigation of transparency among grant-making foundations in England and Wales. Based on a novel dataset, which captures the level of grant-specific data published by more than 2,200 foundations over five years from 2014 to 2018 (inclusive), we find that: (a) overall, these foundations are transparent in their disclosure of grant-specific data; (b) the results also paint a picture of stability – of those foundations with published trustees’ annual reports and accounts in all five years of this study, 78 per cent had the same disclosure practice throughout; and (c) a specific regulatory change mandating grant-specific disclosure has not substantially increased levels of disclosure. This study therefore provides detailed evidence that contributes to and expands the conversation on English and Welsh foundation transparency.
Strengthening global institutional philanthropy: insights from an organisational capacity index in Latin America1
Authors: Bird Matthew D. , León Vicente M.
Published: December 2022

Most models and best practices for effective philanthropy come from high-income settings. However, these frameworks may have limited applications in low- and middle-income countries where local philanthropic organisations operate in the context of weaker institutions, less government capacity and less-elaborate ecosystems. What organisational capacities do philanthropic organisations need in developing countries? An organisational capacity index for Latin America offers a guide – with lessons for philanthropic organisations in the region and beyond.
Light control using vertically aligned dichroic dye films for windshield antireflection in automotive displays
Authors: Choi Tae-Hoon , Lee Hyun Wook , Ha Jin Uk
Published: December 2022

A vertically aligned dichroic dye (VA-Dye) film, whose absorption axis is perpendicular to that of its substrates, was laminated on a display panel in which the absorption axis of the top polarizer was set to 0°. In the vertical viewing angle of the display panel, the absorption axes of the top polarizer and dichroic dye are at right angles to each other, and, so, the light emitted from the display panel can be blocked. In the horizontal viewing angle of the display panel, the absorption axes of the top polarizer and dichroic dye are parallel to each other so that the light emitted from the display panel can be transmitted. Based on these polarization optics, we achieved complete elimination of light emitted in the upward or downward direction of the display panel, while the light emitted to the left and right is transmitted. We also added a designed optical compensation film using a positive biaxial (

+

B

) retarder to the VA-Dye film so that the light emitted in the upward and downward directions of the display panel could be blocked in a wide viewing angle range (not only in the vertical direction, but also in the diagonal direction). The display panel using the VA-Dye film with the

+

B

retarder showed excellent optical performance, such as significantly lower transmittance over a wide viewing angle range in the upward direction and relatively higher transmittance compared to that of a reference panel without the VA-Dye film. In addition, the VA-Dye film can be manufactured with a lower thickness, easier fabrication, and lower cost when compared with other technologies.
Spatio-temporal classification for polyp diagnosis
Authors: González-Bueno Puyal Juana , Brandao Patrick , Ahmad Omer F. , Bhatia Kanwal K. , Toth Daniel , Kader Rawen , Lovat Laurence , Mountney Peter , Stoyanov Danail
Published: December 2022

Colonoscopy remains the gold standard investigation for colorectal
cancer screening as it offers the opportunity to both detect and
resect pre-cancerous polyps. Computer-aided polyp characterisation can
determine which polyps need polypectomy and recent deep learning-based
approaches have shown promising results as clinical decision support
tools. Yet polyp appearance during a procedure can vary, making
automatic predictions unstable. In this paper, we investigate the use
of spatio-temporal information to improve the performance of lesions
classification as adenoma or non-adenoma. Two methods are implemented
showing an increase in performance and robustness during extensive
experiments both on internal and openly available benchmark
datasets.
High-fidelity diabetic retina fundus image synthesis from freestyle lesion maps
Authors: Hou Benjamin
Published: December 2022

Retina fundus imaging for diagnosing diabetic retinopathy (DR) is an efficient and patient-friendly modality, where many high-resolution images can be easily obtained for accurate diagnosis. With the advancements of deep learning, data-driven models may facilitate the process of high-throughput diagnosis especially in areas with less availability of certified human experts. Many datasets of DR already exist for training learning-based models. However, most are often unbalanced, do not have a large enough sample count, or both. This paper proposes a two-stage pipeline for generating photo-realistic retinal fundus images based on either artificially generated or free-hand drawn semantic lesion maps. The first stage uses a conditional StyleGAN to generate synthetic lesion maps based on a DR severity grade. The second stage then uses GauGAN to convert the synthetic lesion maps into high resolution fundus images. We evaluate the photo-realism of generated images using the Fréchet inception distance (FID), and show the efficacy of our pipeline through downstream tasks, such as; dataset augmentation for automatic DR grading and lesion segmentation.
Optical model-based calibration of gray levels for laser damage size assessment
Authors: Hallo Guillaume , Lacombe Chloé , Fouchier Marin , Zerrad Myriam , Néauport Jérôme , Hild François
Published: December 2022

Fused silica is prone to damage under ultraviolet laser irradiation. Because they are key components to achieve fusion on high energy laser facilities, final fused silica optics are analyzed after each laser shot. The quantification of damage sites is limited by the image resolution. Measurements of scattered light by damage sites allow for sub-pixel detection and growth monitoring after a calibration step based on time-consuming measurements at laser facilities. It is proven herein that modeling laser damage size monitoring based on light scattering is efficient to link gray levels to damage diameters, thereby avoiding any experimental calibration based on reference optics at the facility.
High-speed detection of 1550  nm single photons with superconducting nanowire detectors
Authors: Craiciu Ioana , Korzh Boris , Beyer Andrew D. , Mueller Andrew , Allmaras Jason P. , Narváez Lautaro , Spiropulu Maria , Bumble Bruce , Lehner Thomas , Wollman Emma E. , Shaw Matthew D.
Published: December 2022

Superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors are a key technology for quantum information and science due to their high efficiency, low timing jitter, and low dark counts. In this work, we present a detector for single 1550 nm photons with up to 78% detection efficiency, timing jitter below 50 ps FWHM, 158 counts/s dark count rate, as well as a maximum count rate of 1.5 giga-counts/s at 3 dB compression. The PEACOQ detector (Performance-Enhanced Array for Counting Optical Quanta) comprises a linear array of 32 straight superconducting niobium nitride nanowires that span the mode of an optical fiber. This design supports high count rates with minimal penalties for detection efficiency and timing jitter. We show how these trade-offs can be mitigated by implementing independent readout for each nanowire and by using a temporal walk correction technique to reduce count-rate dependent timing jitter. These detectors make quantum communication practical on a 10 GHz clock.
Topological metasurface: from passive toward active and beyond
Authors: You Jian Wei , Lan Zhihao , Ma Qian , Gao Zhen , Yang Yihao , Gao Fei , Xiao Meng , Cui Tie Jun
Published: December 2022

Metasurfaces are subwavelength structured thin films consisting of arrays of units that allow the control of polarization, phase, and amplitude of light over a subwavelength thickness. Recent developments in topological photonics have greatly broadened the horizon in designing metasurfaces for novel functional applications. In this review, we summarize recent progress in the research field of topological metasurfaces, first from the perspectives of passive and active in the classical regime, and then in the quantum regime. More specifically, we begin by examining the passive topological phenomena in two-dimensional photonic systems, including both time-reversal broken systems and time-reversal preserved systems. Subsequently, we discuss the cutting-edge studies of active topological metasurfaces, including nonlinear topological metasurfaces and reconfigurable topological metasurfaces. After overviewing topological metasurfaces in the classical regime, we show how they could provide a new platform for quantum information and quantum many-body physics. Finally, we conclude and describe some challenges and future directions of this fast-evolving field.
Magnitude and factors associated with post-tuberculosis lung disease in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Maleche-Obimbo Elizabeth , Odhiambo Mercy Atieno , Njeri Lynette , Mburu Moses , Jaoko Walter , Were Fredrick , Graham Stephen M.
Published: December 2022

Background

Emerging evidence suggests that after completion of treatment for tuberculosis (TB) a significant proportion of patients experience sequelae. However, there is limited synthesized evidence on this from low-income countries, from Sub-Saharan Africa, and in HIV infected individuals. We seek to provide an updated comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis on the magnitude and factors associated with post-TB lung disease (PTLD) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase and CINAHL for studies from LMICs with data on post-TB lung health in patients who had previously completed treatment for pulmonary TB. Data on study characteristics, prevalence of PTLD–specifically abnormal lung function (spirometry), persisting respiratory symptoms and radiologic abnormalities were abstracted. Statistical analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel and R version 4.1 software, and random effects meta-analysis conducted to compute pooled prevalence of PTLD, evaluate heterogeneity, and assess factors associated with PTLD.

Results

We identified 32 eligible studies with 6225 participants. Twenty-one studies were from Africa, 16 included HIV infected participants, spirometry was conducted in 20 studies, symptom assessment in 16 and chest imaging in eight. Pooled prevalence of abnormal lung function was 46.7%, persistent respiratory symptoms 41.0%, and radiologic abnormalities 64.6%. Magnitude of any type of PTLD varied by HIV status (HIV- 66.9%, HIV+ 32.8%, p = 0.0013), across geographic setting (SE Asia 57.5%, Southern America 50.8%, and Africa 38.2%, p = 0.0118), and across urban-rural settings (symptom prevalence: rural 68.8%, urban 39.1%, mixed settings 27.9%, p = 0.0035), but not by income settings, sex or age-group.

Conclusions

There is high burden of post-TB persistent respiratory symptoms, functional lung impairment and radiologic structural abnormalities in individuals living in LMICs. Burden varies across settings and by HIV status. This evidence may be valuable to advocate for and inform implementation of structured health care specific to the needs of this vulnerable population of individuals.
Menstrual cycle changes: A cross-sectional study of Saudi females following SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Abdel-Moneim Youssef A. S. , Alghamdi Hussam Y. , Alrashed Abdulaziz M. , Jawhari Amjad M. , Bukhari Suhaib M. M. , Bukhari Nirmeen M. M. , Abdel-Moneim Ahmed S.
Published: December 2022

Temporary changes in the menstrual cycle have recently been reported following SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. In the current study, we aimed to screen menstrual cycle changes following SARS-CoV-2 infection in Saudi Arabia. The type and duration of these changes have been screened in relation to the severity of coronavirus disease symptoms and vaccination status. In total, 956 individuals responded: sixty-nine did not get the COVID-19 vaccine, while the remaining were vaccinated with either a single dose of ChAdOx1 vaccine (n:45) or BNT162b2 vaccine (n: 142) or two doses of the vaccine (n:700) using BNT162b2 (n:477), ChAdOx1 (n:89) or ChAdOx1/ BNT162b2 (n:134). Approximately 26.1% (18/69) of the subjects who did not receive the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine and 15.3% (29/188) and 26.4% (185/700) of the subjects who received single and double doses of the vaccines, respectively, reported menstrual cycle changes. The persistence of menstrual cycle changes for more than six months was reported by 6.4% (61/956) of the participants. These changes were significantly correlated with the severity of COVID-19 infection. We concluded that menstrual cycle changes, associated with COVID-19 infection, increase due to the severity of COVID-19 infection. Thus, menstrual cycle changes are among the long-term effects associated with COVID-19 infection.
Molecular detection and phylogeny of Ehrlichia canis and Anaplasma platys in naturally infected dogs in Central and Northeast Thailand
Authors: Purisarn Andaman , Wichianchot Sakulchit , Maneeruttanarungroj Cherdsak , Mangkit Bandid , Raksajit Wuttinun , Kaewmongkol Sarawan , Jarudecha Thitichai , Sricharern Wanat , Rucksaken Rucksak
Published: December 2022

Background and Aim: Ehrlichia canis and Anaplasma platys are tick-borne, Gram-negative bacteria that cause canine monocytic ehrlichiosis and canine cyclic thrombocytopenia, respectively. These diseases are of great importance and are distributed globally. This study aimed to create new primers for the identification of E. canis and A. platys in naturally infected dogs using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), DNA sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis using the 16S rDNA and gltA genes.

Materials and Methods: In total, 120 blood samples were collected from dogs in three different locations (Saraburi, Buriram, and Nakhon Ratchasima provinces) in Central and Northeast Thailand. The molecular prevalence of E. canis and A. platys was assessed using PCR targeting the 16S rDNA and gltA genes. All positive PCR amplicons were sequenced, and phylogenetic trees were constructed based on the maximum likelihood method.

Results: Ehrlichia canis had an overall molecular prevalence of 15.8% based on the 16S rDNA gene, compared to 8.3% based on the gltA gene. In addition, the overall molecular prevalence of A. platys using the 16S rDNA gene was 10.8%, while the prevalence rate was 5.8% using the gltA gene. Coinfection was 0.8% in Saraburi province. The partial sequences of the 16S rDNA and gltA genes of E. canis and A. platys in dogs in Central and Northeast Thailand showed 96.75%–100% identity to reference sequences in GenBank. Phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rDNA and gltA genes revealed that E. canis and A. platys sequences were clearly grouped into their own clades.

Conclusion: This study demonstrated the molecular prevalence of E. canis and A. platys in Central and Northeast Thailand. The 16S rDNA and gltA genes were useful for the diagnosis of E. canis and A. platys. Based on the phylogenetic analysis, the partial sequences of the 16S rDNA and gltA genes in E. canis and A. platys were related to prior Thai strains and those from other countries.
AINDA SOBRE O INTERESSE DAS GERAÇÕES FUTURAS: O PROBLEMA DAS RELAÇÕES INTERGERACIONAIS À LUZ DA REVISÃO DO ART. 9º DA CONSTITUIÇÃO ITALIANA
Authors: Porena Daniele
Published: December 2022

Contextualização: A revisão realizada com a lei constitucional n. 1/2022 introduziu no art. 9º da Constituição o princípio segundo o qual a República protege o meio ambiente, a biodiversidade e os ecossistemas, também no interesse das gerações futuras. Objetivo: O objetivo desta contribuição é analisar o significado assumido pela dimensão intergeracional no tecido constitucional: isto é, em particular, na perspectiva dos direitos fundamentais e das chances de vida que a nova norma constitucional parece garantir também em favor das gerações futuras. Metodologia: A metodologia adotada foi a indutiva, valendo-se da revisão bibliográfica e legal. Resultados: A responsabilidade de cada geração para com a outra, para além da garantia dos direitos fundamentais, não parece poder ir além do compromisso de que à próxima geração serão garantidas oportunidades de vida não inferiores às usufruídas pela anterior. Caberá então a cada geração decidir se, e como aproveitar as oportunidades deixadas em aberto por aqueles que a precederam. Aqui, então, está outra possível "regra de ouro" das relações intergeracionais: não a paridade de direitos (com exceção, como mencionado, dos direitos fundamentais), mas uma igualdade nas oportunidades de cultivar e realizar o próprio ideal de direito.
TRANSICIÓN ENERGÉTICA EN AMÉRICA LATINA Y EL CARIBE
Authors: Celi Frugoni Alina
Published: December 2022

Contextualización: El artículo aborda aspectos sensibles, que dificultan la transición energética hacia las energías renovables en América latina y el Caribe. La compleja geopolítica de la región y sus limitaciones confirman, que una visión mercantilista de la energía no ofrece elementos suficientes para una transición energética, justa y equitativa. El antecedente de referencia para este artículo, lo constituye la Reunión de Alto Nivel de la Comisión Económica para América Latina y el Caribe (CEPAL) sobre energías renovables para la adaptación y la integración regional (10-11 de febrero, 2022), de conformidad con el Objetivo 7 de los ODS 2030.
Objetivo: El estudio analiza aspectos prioritarios, para un modelo de transición energética sostenible: la inclusión social, la democracia y la soberanía energéticas, la integración regional y la lucha contra las desigualdades sociales a partir de la comprensión de la igualdad y la libertad individual.
Metodología: La investigación utiliza el método inductivo y revisión de la literatura.
Resultado: El resultado consiste en el aporte de elementos para la reflexión y el debate académico, acerca de las dificultades regionales actuales en un contexto de emergencia climática, ambiental y humana. Se espera con ello contribuir con las bases para lo que denominamos una geopolítica cultural de la energía sostenible, que beneficie a la población de América Latina y el Caribe, a la vez que capaz de incidir a escala global.
COMO RECONHECER UM DIREITO GLOBAL? DA POLICONTEXTURALIDADE À GESTÃO DOS CONFLITOS ENTRE ORDENS NORMATIVAS
Authors: Ramos Alves Paulo Roberto , Bonesso de Araújo Luiz Ernani , Wüst Zibetti Fabíola
Published: December 2022

Contextualização: Durante o século XX o conceito de soberania foi nitidamente enfraquecido diante do desenvolvimento de organizações privadas transnacionais, sendo que tais atores sociais, ao operarem de forma recursiva e autorreferente, tornaram-se capazes de (auto)produzir sua própria normatividade de modo a suprir, no âmbito organizacional, a necessidade de sua regulação interna e específica.

Objetivos: Analisar alternativas sistêmicas para a gestão de conflitos entre a normatividade dos atores jurídicos transnacionais e as ordens jurídicas estatais e supranacionais.

Metodologia: A pesquisa utilizou o método indutivo e os resultados foram expressos com base lógica indutiva.

Resultados: É justamente a capacidade de observação que permite construções jurídicas plurais e capazes de proporcionar soluções para a problemática apontada. Antes de tudo, porém, cabe ao direito contemporâneo delimitar sua intrínseca capacidade de observar observações, demarcando a possibilidade de que conflitos jurídicos sejam equacionados mediante uma racionalidade transversal, que permita o diálogo entre discursos jurídicos autônomos.
Safe thyroid surgery: comparison effectiveness of ICG angiography and intrathyroidal brilliant green injection for the prevention of postoperative hypoparathyroidism
Authors: Somova S. D. , Vabalayte K. V. , Romanchishen A. F.
Published: December 2022

BACKGROUND: More than 30,000 surgical interventions on the thyroid gland are performed annually in the Russian Federation. Surgeons are developing methods for the prevention of various postoperative complications, and therefore operations on this organ are considered relatively safe. Currently, there is no unequivocal effective method to prevent postoperative hypoparathyroidism. This complication is often recorded and can threaten the life and health of the patient, which is contrary to the concept of safe surgery.

AIM: To evaluate the effectiveness of intraoperative ICG angiography and intrathyroidal injection of brilliant green for the prevention of postoperative hypoparathyroidism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: 143 thyroidectomies were performed. The patients were divided into 3 groups: intraoperative angiography was used in 24 cases, brilliant green was injected to identify the parathyroid glands in 58 cases, visual assessment of the preservation of the parathyroid glands was used in 61 case. Calcium levels were measured in all patients included in the study before and after surgery.

RESULTS: Serum calcium levels in the pre- and postoperative period: 2.37±0.14 and 2.27±0.17 in group 1, and 2.38±0.16 and 2.21±0.16 in group 2, 2.39±0.17 and 2.18±0.19 in group 3. Hypocalcemia in the postoperative period was significantly higher in the group with a visual assessment of the parathyroid glands relative to the first two groups. Differences between calcium levels in the postoperative period in groups 2 and 3 were significant with a probability of more than 99% (p<0.01). Significant differences (≥95%) in calcium levels in the postoperative period between groups 1 and 2 (p < 0.05) were obtained. Serum PTH levels in the postoperative period: 6,2±0,4 in group 1, 5,6±0,57 in group 2, 3,5±0,32 in group 3. Differences between PTH levels in the postoperative period in groups 1 and 3 were significant with a probability of more than 99% (p<0.01). Significant differences (≥95%) in PTH levels in the postoperative period between groups 2 and 3 (p < 0.05) were obtained.

CONCLUSION: ICG angiography and brilliant green intrathyroidal injection are safe methods for identifying and preserving the parathyroid glands. The high level of hypocalcemia in group 3 indicates the need to search for new techniques in endocrine surgery in order to improve the safety of patients undergoing surgical treatment of thyroid pathology.