bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Otolith elemental fingerprints reveal source-sink dynamics between two Greenland halibut nurseries in the St. Lawrence Estuary and Gulf
Authors: Bassi L , Tremblay R , Morissette O , Sirois P
Published: April 2023

In fisheries science, it is important to understand the population dynamics of commercial species and also their movements from the nursery to the population, especially for juvenile individuals, to avoid overfishing. To determine their migration patterns among nurseries, we collected juvenile Greenland halibut Reinhardtius hippoglossoides from 2 nurseries inside our study area, the Estuary and Gulf of St. Lawrence, in the summer of 2016. We measured the concentrations of chemical elements in their otoliths along a margin-core transect and used the margin elemental fingerprints of Mg, Mn, Sr, and Ba to infer migratory behaviour between 2 sample sites, the Estuary and North Anticosti nurseries. Using a random-forest analysis, we achieved an overall reclassification success of margin elemental fingerprints to their capture site of 77%. Most fish sampled from both sample sites originated from the estuary (82.5%), suggesting an important asymmetry in the source-sink dynamics between these nurseries. Juvenile Greenland halibut migrate towards the North Anticosti nursery at a smaller-than-expected size (approximately 26 cm) corresponding to 2.5-3 yr old fish. Despite sexual dimorphism in growth, sex does not affect migratory behaviour or timing of migration before sexual maturation. Our study highlights the recruitment dynamics of Greenland halibut and confirms the estuary as the main nursery in the St. Lawrence system.
THE FIELD OF PROFESSIONAL SKILL AS A PREREQUISITE FOR THE GENERAL DISPOSITION OF THE PROFESSIONAL TRAINING OF A MUSICIAN-PERFORMER
Authors: OHANEZOVA-HRYHORENKO OLHA , ZYMA LIUDMYLA , WANG JIN , VAN TSZIUNI , YIN JIAYUAN
Published: April 2023

In the article, an attempt is made to outline the field of professional skills in frames of the effectiveness of professional training of musicians-performers. The pilot experiment aimed at researching the field of professional skills of university students and teachers, as well as performers who have experience both in concert and teaching activities is described. The results of experiment are presented and discussed, showing what qualities are professionally important for musicians-performers for the successful mastering of the profession and further work in a professional environment. Moreover, in particular, based on the results of the correlation and factor analysis, the conclusion is made that professional education proceeds as specified by the structure of the field of professional skill.
Navigating the mCRPC Landscape: Exploring Key Clinical Decision Points
Authors: Amirthalingam Saroshi
Published: April 2023

The Bayer satellite symposium was introduced by Prof Fred Saad, who gave an introduction into the use of radium-223 in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). Results from the recent Phase III ALpharadin in SYMptomatic Prostate Cancer (ALSYMPCA) study were also presented. Profs Kramer, Tombal, and Gschwend then each presented case studies on patients they had treated with radium-223. Each speaker also provided their own personal view and recommendations for use of radium-223 based on their experience with these patients. Prof Gschwend concluded the symposium with important considerations for the urologist in using radium-223 in mCRPC.
Kidney Stones and Ceftriaxone
Authors: Dursun Murat , Otunctemur Alper , Ozbe Emin
Published: April 2023

Metabolic causes such as hypercalciuria, urinary tract infection, and obstruction are the most common aetiologies of urolithiasis, and drugs, although important in this regard, are rarely the cause of urolithiasis. Administration of one of these drugs, ceftriaxone (CTX), has been associated with biliary pseudolithiasis in adult and paediatric patients, and rarely may cause urolithiasis. Several factors, including drug concentration and incubation time, are very important for determining the degree of CTX/calcium (Ca) crystallisation in the urine. According to this data, CTX crystallisation was a dose and time-dependent reaction. It is particularly important to monitor patients on high-dose long-term CTX treatment with the urinary Ca to creatinine ratios, ultrasound sonography, and renal function testing, as these individuals may be at greater risk of large stones and renal damage. This type of screening may help prevent permanent complications in the future. This underlying review will help to educate readers on the pathophysiology and interaction between CTX and urolithiasis.
Effectiveness of Flexible Ureteroscopy and Laser Lithotripsy in the Management of Urinary Calculi in Patients with Congenital Abnormalities of the Kidney and Ureter
Authors: Alkan Erdal , Sarıbacak Ali , Oguz Ozkanli Ahmet , Acar Oguz , Derya Balbay Mevlana
Published: April 2023

Introduction: We present our experience with retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) in patients with calculi in congenital anomalies of the upper urinary tract. Methods: A total of 29 patients with urinary stones and congenital anomalies of the kidney and ureter, including duplicated collecting system, horseshoe kidney (HSK), malrotated kidney, ureteropelvic junction stenosis (UPJ-S), and ectopic pelvic kidney (EPK), were treated with RIRS between January 2008 and December 2014. Success was defined as the absence of stone fragments or the presence of only asymptomatic insignificant residual fragments <3 mm. Results: A total of 35 procedures were performed. There was UPJ-S in two of the six patients with HSK and they were both treated with endopyelotomy. There were bilateral stones in two patients with HSK and one of these was treated in two separate sessions. In the UPJ-S group, endopyelotomy and lithotripsy were simultaneously performed in all but three patients who were treated in separate sessions. There was UPJ-S in one patient with an EPK, and endopyelotomy and laser lithotripsy were performed in separated sessions. Significant residual stones were detected in four patients. No major intraoperative or postoperative complications were seen. Conclusion: RIRS is an effective and well-tolerated treatment option in the management of urinary calculi patients with anomalous upper urinary tracts.
Cultivating Love towards the Prophet in the Early Modern Ottoman Period: Arguments and Practice
Authors: Karić Dženita
Published: April 2023

This article looks into one aspect of devotional piety of the early modern Ottoman period. It focuses on a manual on tashwīq, or encouragement of longing and love towards the Prophet, by a 17th century Ottoman Bosnian scholar Ḥasan Imām-zāde. Through the analysis of the components of the manual, some of the mechanisms of producing a Prophet-centred devotional habitus are fleshed out, such as argumentation of love and practices enhancing it such as the taṣliya (evoking blessings on the Prophet). In that context, love emerges as a result of a conscious effort which involves active human effort. In this way, the article points to the necessity of a more nuanced research of the devotional in Islam through the focus on the mechanisms of the cultivation of emotions. Based on the premise that emotions are not fixed and unchangeable throughout time, the textual practice of tashwīq will be set into its early modern Ottoman context, and in particular at the crossroads of Balkan-Arab mobilities of the 17th century.
Feudal Law and the Unionist Writings of Thomas Craig
Authors: Dodd Leslie
Published: April 2023

Amidst the flood of unionist literature that followed the accession of James VI to the throne of England, Thomas Craig's De unione regnorum Britanniae stands out as the largest, at around 95,000 words, and the most sophisticated in terms of its argumentation. This article examines Craig's argumentation in detail and shows that he understood British history as a repeating cycle of internecine conflicts between the peoples of Britain followed by invasion and conquest by continental powers. For Craig, the existential threat to Britain was Spain, the dominant Catholic power of the day. While negotiations for an end to the long war between England and Spain were contemporaneous with union negotiations, the De unione can still be seen as a warning about the ongoing dangers of disunity among British Protestants. It is shown that Craig's solution to the lingering historical antagonism between England and Scotland and the unwillingness on either side to compromise their fundamental national identity lay in an idealised version of the feudal-legal relationship as the foundation for the union.
BANK CAPITAL AND BANK PROFITABILITY OF VIETNAM COMMERCIAL BANKS
Authors: Sang Tang My  , Anh Nguyen Quoc
Published: April 2023

The commercial banking system plays an important role in providing capital to businesses and other organizations, so bank capital receives great attention from many different subjects in the economy. This position is even more crucial for Vietnam, a developing country because the corporate bond market is relatively small in comparison to the size of the economy. As a result, commercial bank business efficiency is a problem that requires attention since it has a direct impact on the efficiency with which capital is provided to firms, as well as the market's stability. The research study concerning the effect of bank capital on bank profitability was conducted using data gathered from 22 Vietnam commercial banks from 2011 to 2020, using Pooled OLS, FEM, REM, and GMM methodologies. The results show that bank capital has a negative relationship with profitability. Bank profitability is also positively affected by bank size, credit risk, credit growth, and capital adequacy ratio. This study offers a new understanding of the relationship between bank capital, and bank profitability in Vietnam and proposed implications for Vietnam commercial banks' governance solutions, a country whose financial system depends mainly on banks, has transformed its capital management direction according to Basel 2 guidelines and is preparing for Basel 3 standards.
Effect of Production Volume on Prevention Costs, Valuation Costs, and Damaged Products in the Seafood Processing Industry
Authors: Ardiansyah  , Umarella Barus
Published: April 2023

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of production volume on prevention costs, the effect of production volume on appraisal costs, the effect of production volume on damaged products, the Effect of prevention costs on damaged products, and the effect of appraisal costs on damaged products. This type of research is quantitative. The type of research data is secondary data for 2019-2020 which consists of reports on production volume, prevention costs, appraisal fees, and damaged products. The analytical method uses the Smart Partial Least Square (SmartPLS) software 3. The results of this study indicate that production volume has a positive and significant effect on prevention costs, production volume has a positive and significant effect on appraisal costs, production volume has a positive and significant effect on damaged products, prevention costs have a negative but not significant effect on damaged products, and appraisal costs have a positive but not significant effect on damaged products. All hypotheses put forward in this study were declared accepted. The implications of the results of this study can be taken into consideration for companies by comparing data on handling costs, appraisal costs, production volume.
Calving Out a Space to Exist: “Marked” Identities in Polar Science’s “Unmarked Spaces”
Authors: Lawrence Anya , Escobedo Luis
Published: April 2023

For minority employees at the British Antarctic Survey (BAS), the organisation has enriched their careers, while offering equality, diversity and inclusivity (EDI) measures to mitigate some of the issues affecting them. However, the way they belong to BAS remains impacted by the structural and everyday practices that shape their lives through identity processes. In light of BAS’ ambition to enhance Antarctic science opportunities to underrepresented groups, this study engages with the lived experiences and perspectives of minority BAS employees at their workplace. We argue that while they experience and perceive rejection, discrimination and exclusion, these practices are tangled up in the dominant and majority group’s internal identification processes rather than by the isolated and deliberate action of its members. Those who are part of the “unmarked” dominant group have, from an early age, internalised national, ethnic, gender, and other forms of belonging and continue to engage in new boundary demarcation in the present. In this way, it is in their contact with non-members, that the boundaries between the “marked” and “unmarked” come to the fore, even when the intention of the dominant group may be to erode such boundaries.
Biocompatibility enhancement via post-processing of microporous scaffolds made by optical 3D printer
Authors: Jeršovaitė Jurga , Šarachovaitė Ugnė , Matulaitienė Ieva , Niaura Gediminas , Baltriukienė Daiva , Malinauskas Mangirdas
Published: April 2023

Providing a 3D environment that mimics the native extracellular matrix is becoming increasingly important for various applications such as cell function studies, regenerative medicine, and drug discovery. Among the most critical parameters to consider are the scaffold’s complicated micro-scale geometry and material properties. Therefore, stereolithography based on photopolymerization is an emerging technique because of its ability to selectively form volumetric structures from liquid resin through localized polymerization reactions. However, one of the most important parameters of the scaffold is biocompatibility, which depends not only on the material but also on the exposure conditions and post-processing, which is currently underestimated. To investigate this systematically, microporous scaffolds with pore sizes of 0.05 mm3 corresponding to a porosity of 16,4% were fabricated using the stereolithography printer Asiga PICO2 39 UV from the widely used resins FormLabs Clear and Flexible. The use of various polymers is usually limited for cells because, after wet chemical development, the non-negligible amount of remaining monomers intertwined in the photopolymerized structures is significantly toxic to cells. Therefore, the aim of this research was to find the best method to remove monomers from the 3D scaffold by additional UV exposure. For this purpose, a Soxhlet extractor was used for the first time, and the monomers were immersed in different alcohols. A Raman microspectroscopy was also used to investigate whether different post-processing methods affect DC (cross-linking) to find out if this specifically affects the biocompatibility of the scaffolds. Finally, mesenchymal stem cells from rat dental pulp were examined to confirm the increased biocompatibility of the scaffolds and their ability to support cell differentiation into bone tissue cells.
Bok: real killer or bystander with non-apoptotic roles?
Authors: Bonzerato Caden G. , Wojcikiewicz Richard J. H.
Published: April 2023

Bcl-2-related ovarian killer, Bok, was first labeled “pro-apoptotic” due to its ability to cause cell death when over-expressed. However, it has become apparent that this is not a good name, since Bok is widely expressed in tissues other than ovaries. Further, there is serious doubt as to whether Bok is a real “killer,” due to disparities in the ability of over-expressed versus endogenous Bok to trigger apoptosis. In this brief review, we rationalize these disparities and argue that endogenous Bok is very different from the pro-apoptotic, mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization mediators, Bak and Bax. Instead, Bok is a stable, endoplasmic reticulum-located protein bound to inositol 1,4,5 trisphosphate receptors. From this location, Bok plays a variety of roles, including regulation of endoplasmic reticulum/mitochondria contact sites and mitochondrial dynamics. Therefore, categorizing Bok as a “killer” may well be misleading and instead, endogenous Bok would better be considered an endoplasmic reticulum-located “bystander”, with non-apoptotic roles.
Taking up the quest for novel molecular solar thermal systems: Pros and cons of storing energy with cubane and cubadiene
Authors: Merino-Robledillo Cecilia , Marazzi Marco
Published: April 2023

Molecular solar thermal (MOST) systems are working their way as a possible technology to store solar light and release it when necessary. Such systems could, in principle, constitute a solution to the energy storage problem characteristic of solar cells and are conceived, at a first instance, as simple molecular photoswitches. Nevertheless, the optimization of their different required properties is presently limiting their technological scale up. From the chemical perspective, we need to design a novel MOST system based on unconventional photoswitches. Here, by applying multi-configurational quantum chemistry methods, we unravel the potentialities of ad hoc-designed molecular photoswitches, which aim to photoproduce cubane or cubadiene as high-energy isomers that can be thermally (or eventually catalytically) reverted to the initial structure, releasing their stored energy. Specifically, while cubane can be photoproduced via different paths depending on the reactant tricycle diene conformation, an undesired bicyclic by-product limits its application to MOST systems. An evolution of this starting design toward cubadiene formation is therefore proposed, avoiding conformational equilibria and by-products, considerably red shifting the absorption to reach the visible portion of the solar spectrum and maintaining an estimated storage density that is expected to overcome the current MOST reference system (norbornadiene/quadricyclane), although consistently increasing the photoisomerization energy barrier.
Abnormal glucose metabolism in virus associated sepsis
Authors: Zhang Peng , Pan Shangwen , Yuan Shiying , Shang You , Shu Huaqing
Published: April 2023

Sepsis is identified as a potentially lethal organ impairment triggered by an inadequate host reaction to infection (Sepsis-3). Viral sepsis is a potentially deadly organ impairment state caused by the host’s inappropriate reaction to a viral infection. However, when a viral infection occurs, the metabolism of the infected cell undergoes a variety of changes that cause the host to respond to the infection. But, until now, little has been known about the challenges faced by cellular metabolic alterations that occur during viral infection and how these changes modulate infection. This study concentrates on the alterations in glucose metabolism during viral sepsis and their impact on viral infection, with a view to exploring new potential therapeutic targets for viral sepsis.
An integrated signature of extracellular matrix proteins and a diastolic function imaging parameter predicts post-MI long-term outcomes
Authors: Koh Hiromi W.L. , Pilbrow Anna P. , Tan Sock Hwee , Zhao Qing , Benke Peter I. , Burla Bo , Torta Federico , Pickering John W. , Troughton Richard , Pemberton Christopher , Soo Wern-Miin , Ling Lieng Hsi , Doughty Robert N. , Choi Hyungwon , Wenk Markus R. , Richards A. Mark , Chan Mark Y.
Published: April 2023

Background

Patients suffering from acute myocardial infarction (AMI) are at risk of secondary outcomes including major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and heart failure (HF). Comprehensive molecular phenotyping and cardiac imaging during the post-discharge time window may provide cues for risk stratification for the outcomes.

Materials and methods

In a prospective AMI cohort in New Zealand (N = 464), we measured plasma proteins and lipids 30 days after hospital discharge and inferred a unified partial correlation network with echocardiographic variables and established clinical biomarkers (creatinine, c-reactive protein, cardiac troponin I and natriuretic peptides). Using a network-based data integration approach (iOmicsPASS+), we identified predictive signatures of long-term secondary outcomes based on plasma protein, lipid, imaging markers and clinical biomarkers and assessed the prognostic potential in an independent cohort from Singapore (N = 190).

Results

The post-discharge levels of plasma proteins and lipids showed strong correlations within each molecular type, reflecting concerted homeostatic regulation after primary MI events. However, the two molecular types were largely independent with distinct correlation structures with established prognostic imaging parameters and clinical biomarkers. To deal with massively correlated predictive features, we used iOmicsPASS + to identify subnetwork signatures of 211 and 189 data features (nodes) predictive of MACE and HF events, respectively (160 overlapping). The predictive features were primarily imaging parameters, including left ventricular and atrial parameters, tissue Doppler parameters, and proteins involved in extracellular matrix (ECM) organization, cell differentiation, chemotaxis, and inflammation. The network signatures contained plasma protein pairs with area-under-the-curve (AUC) values up to 0.74 for HF prediction in the validation cohort, but the pair of NT-proBNP and fibulin-3 (EFEMP1) was the best predictor (AUC = 0.80). This suggests that there were a handful of plasma proteins with mechanistic and functional roles in predisposing patients to the secondary outcomes, although they may be weaker prognostic markers than natriuretic peptides individually. Among those, the diastolic function parameter (E/e' - an indicator of left ventricular filling pressure) and two ECM proteins, EFEMP1 and follistatin-like 3 (FSTL3) showed comparable performance to NT-proBNP and outperformed left ventricular measures as benchmark prognostic factors for post-MI HF.

Conclusion

Post-discharge levels of E/e', EFEMP1 and FSTL3 are promising complementary markers of secondary adverse outcomes in AMI patients.
Effects of varying blood flow rate during peripheral veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygen (V-A ECMO) on left ventricular function measured by two-dimensional strain
Authors: Ng Pauline Yeung , Ma Tammy Sin Kwan , Ip April , Fang Shu , Li Andy Chak Cheung , Wong Alfred Sai Kuen , Ngai Chun Wai , Chan Wai Ming , Sin Wai Ching
Published: April 2023

Background

We evaluated the effects of varying blood flow rate during peripheral veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygen (V-A ECMO) on left ventricular function measured by two-dimensional strain.

Methods

Adult patients who were supported by peripheral V-A ECMO were recruited. Serial hemodynamic and cardiac performance parameters were measured by transthoracic echocardiogram within the first 48 h after implementation of V-A ECMO. Measurements at 100%, 120%, and 50% of target blood flow (TBF) were compared.

Results

A total of 54 patients were included and the main indications for V-A ECMO were myocardial infarction [32 (59.3%)] and myocarditis [6 (11.1%)]. With extracorporeal blood flow at 50% compared with 100% TBF, the mean arterial pressure was lower [66 ± 19 vs. 75 ± 18 mmHg, p < 0.001], stroke volume was greater [23 (12–34) vs. 15 (8–26) ml, p < 0.001], and cardiac index was higher [1.2 (0.7–1.7) vs. 0.8 (0.5–1.3) L/min/m2, p < 0.001]. Left ventricular contractile function measured by global longitudinal strain improved at 50% compared with 100% TBF [−2.8 (−7.6- −0.1) vs. −1.2 (−5.2–0) %, p < 0.001]. Similarly, left ventricular ejection fraction increased [24.4 (15.8–35.5) vs. 16.7 (10.0–28.5) %, p < 0.001] and left ventricular outflow tract velocity time integral increased [7.7 (3.8–11.4) vs. 4.8 (2.5–8.5) cm, p < 0.001]. Adding echocardiographic parameters of left ventricular systolic function to the Survival After Veno-arterial ECMO (SAVE) score had better discriminatory value in predicting eventual hospital mortality (AUROC 0.69, 95% CI 0.55–0.84, p = 0.008) and successful weaning from V-A ECMO (AUROC 0.68, 95% CI 0.53–0.83, p = 0.017).

Conclusion

In the initial period of V-A ECMO support, measures of left ventricular function including left ventricular ejection fraction and global longitudinal strain were inversely related to ECMO blood flow rate. Understanding the heart-ECMO interaction is vital to interpretation of echocardiographic measures of the left ventricle while on ECMO.
AI chatbots not yet ready for clinical use
Authors: Au Yeung Joshua , Kraljevic Zeljko , Luintel Akish , Balston Alfred , Idowu Esther , Dobson Richard J. , Teo James T.
Published: April 2023

As large language models (LLMs) expand and become more advanced, so do the natural language processing capabilities of conversational AI, or “chatbots”. OpenAI's recent release, ChatGPT, uses a transformer-based model to enable human-like text generation and question-answering on general domain knowledge, while a healthcare-specific Large Language Model (LLM) such as GatorTron has focused on the real-world healthcare domain knowledge. As LLMs advance to achieve near human-level performances on medical question and answering benchmarks, it is probable that Conversational AI will soon be developed for use in healthcare. In this article we discuss the potential and compare the performance of two different approaches to generative pretrained transformers—ChatGPT, the most widely used general conversational LLM, and Foresight, a GPT (generative pretrained transformer) based model focused on modelling patients and disorders. The comparison is conducted on the task of forecasting relevant diagnoses based on clinical vignettes. We also discuss important considerations and limitations of transformer-based chatbots for clinical use.
Probabilistic seismic hazard function based on spatiotemporal earthquake likelihood simulation and Akaike information criterion: The PSHF study around off the west coast of Sumatra Island before large earthquake events
Authors: Triyoso Wahyu
Published: April 2023

The probabilistic seismic hazard function (PSHF) before large earthquake events based on the hypothesis earthquake forecast algorithm using the Akaike information criterion (AIC) is performed in this study. The motivation for using the AIC is to better understand the reliability model used to construct the PSHF. The PSHF as the function of the b-value is calculated based on a 5-year window length with a 1-year moving window (instantaneous PSHF) before a large earthquake event. The AIC is calculated based on the likelihood of success and failure using shallow earthquake catalog data around the west coast of Sumatra Island. The probability of occurrence defines the success criteria as more significant than the average probability of greater than or equal to the given magnitude; otherwise, it is defined as failure. Seismic potency has been determined based on the likelihood of an earthquake occurring in several decades or a hundred years. The seismicity rate model is developed based on the integrated data of pre-seismic shallow crustal movement data and the shallow crustal earthquake catalog data. Furthermore, the AIC is calculated based on the likelihood of success and failure as a function of b(t). The b(t) is the change in the b-value as a time function estimated based on shallow earthquake data from 1963 to 2016. In addition, the AIC before M7.9 of 2000, M8.5 of 2007, and M7.8 of 2010 is assessed. The δAIC is then introduced as a function of (AICmodel–AICreference) during the observation time. The positive δAIC implies that the likelihood of having a large earthquake is more significant; otherwise, it is smaller. By plotting the time of observation versus δAIC and the PSHF estimated as the function of b(t), we could identify a large positive gradient and increase the PSHF at each certain probability exceedance (PE) level before the great earthquake event. It consistently happened for the three events that were evaluated. It suggested that the results of this study might be very beneficial for probabilistic seismic hazard analysis (PSHA) and seismic mitigation realization.
Mesoscale convective systems in the third pole region: Characteristics, mechanisms and impact on precipitation
Authors: Kukulies Julia , Lai Hui-Wen , Curio Julia , Feng Zhe , Lin Changgui , Li Puxi , Ou Tinghai , Sugimoto Shiori , Chen Deliang
Published: April 2023

The climate system of the Third Pole region, including the (TP) and its surroundings, is highly sensitive to global warming. Mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) are understood to be a vital component of this climate system. Driven by the monsoon circulation, surface heating, and large-scale and local moisture supply, they frequently occur during summer and mostly over the central and eastern TP as well as in the downstream regions. Further, MCSs have been highlighted as important contributors to total precipitation as they are efficient rain producers affecting water availability (seasonal precipitation) and potential flood risk (extreme precipitation) in the densely populated downstream regions. The availability of multi-decadal satellite observations and high-resolution climate model datasets has made it possible to study the role of MCSs in the under-observed TP water balance. However, the usage of different methods for MCS identification and the different focuses on specific subregions currently hamper a systematic and consistent assessment of the role played by MCSs and their impact on precipitation over the TP headwaters and its downstream regions. Here, we review observational and model studies of MCSs in the TP region within a common framework to elucidate their main characteristics, underlying mechanisms, and impact on seasonal and extreme precipitation. We also identify major knowledge gaps and provide suggestions on how these can be addressed using recently published high-resolution model datasets. Three important identified knowledge gaps are 1) the feedback of MCSs to other components of the TP climate system, 2) the impact of the changing climate on future MCS characteristics, and 3) the basin-scale assessment of flood and drought risks associated with changes in MCS frequency and intensity. A particularly promising tool to address these knowledge gaps are convection-permitting climate simulations. Therefore, the systematic evaluation of existing historical convection-permitting climate simulations over the TP is an urgent requirement for reliable future climate change assessments.
Paradigm model of online learning experience during COVID-19 crisis in higher education
Authors: Huang Junjun , Yoon Dohye
Published: April 2023

The study presents qualitative research on university students' online learning experience process at the higher education level. It used a grounded theory through semi-structured in-depth interviews with 25 university students for framing and structuring the paradigm model of university students' online learning experiences. A paradigm model illustrating this developmental process is presented, which includes the casual and contextual conditions that caused and evolved the central phenomenon for their online learning, the strategies used by the students to overcome external/internal disturbances in continuing their learning process, the conditions that helped/hindered those strategies, and the consequences. Finally, the following meaning units were discovered through the preceding paradigm model. The students started learning with a negative impression of unfamiliar learning methods such as online learning, but over time, they improved their self-management abilities and gained a broader understanding of self-discipline. In the midst of this, competence in digital literacy according to generational differences was also discovered as one of the factors affecting learning, forming a virtual community, and increasing personal learning through online interaction. Finally, the implications of the overall learning ecology for the future role of online learning were also considered. Based on this analysis of students' online learning experiences, the direction for online learning was suggested.
The effects of text structure on students’ use of comprehension strategies and cognitive outcomes during science text processing
Authors: Hunsu Nathaniel J. , Adesope Olusola , McCrudden Matthew T.
Published: April 2023

This study investigated the effect of refutation text structure on reading processes and learning. Undergraduate biology students (n = 116) who had high or moderate misconceptions were randomly assigned to read either a non-refutation text, a simple refutation text, or an elaborated refutation text that addressed commonly held misconceptions about genetic biology. Participants’ were prompted to think-aloud and type their thoughts as they read the text. Typed verbal responses were coded for the use of paraphrasing, bridging inferences, and elaborations. The results showed that the simple and elaborated refutation texts promoted the use of bridging inferences, and the elaborated refutation text promoted the use of elaborations compared to the non-refutation text. Neither text type nor misconception status had a significant effect on post learning outcomes. These results suggest that refutations with illustrative examples can increase the use of cognitive processes that support comprehension.
Validating criteria for identifying core concepts using many-facet rasch measurement
Authors: McLaughlin Jacqueline E. , Angelo Thomas A. , White Paul J.
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Core concepts are foundational, discipline-based ideas considered necessary for students to learn, remember, understand, and apply. To evaluate the extent to which a concept is “core,” experts often rate concepts using various criteria, such as importance, complexity, and timeliness. However, there is a lack of validity evidence for core concepts criteria.

Methods

Using a three-facet Many-Facet Rasch Measurement (MFRM) model, we analyzed 7,558 ratings provided by 21 experts/raters for 74 pharmacology core concepts using five criteria measured on a five-point scale.

Results

All of the criteria had Infit or Outfit MnSq values within the expected range (0.5 < MnSq < 1.7), suggesting the criteria contained an acceptable amount of variability; a reliability index of approximately 1.00 suggested that the criteria were reliably separated with a high degree of confidence. The rating scale Outfit MnSq statistics also fell within the 0.5–1.7 model fit limits; the “average measure” and “Rasch-Andrich thresholds” increased in magnitude as the rating scale categories increased, suggesting that core concepts with higher ratings were in fact meeting the criteria more convincingly than those with lower ratings. Adjusting expert ratings using the MFRM facets (e.g., rater severity) resulted in reorganization of core concepts rankings.

Conclusion

This paper is a novel contribution to core concepts research and is intended to inform other disciplines seeking to develop, implement, and refine core concepts within the biomedical sciences and beyond.
Global thyroid cancer incidence trend and age-period-cohort model analysis based on Global Burden of Disease Study from 1990 to 2019
Authors: Xu Le , Cao Zhe Xu , Weng Xin , Wang Can Fei
Published: April 2023

Background

In view of the rapid increase in the incidence of thyroid cancer (TC) and the spread of overdiagnosis around the world, the quantitative evaluation of the effect of age, period and birth cohort on the incidence of TC, and the analysis of the role of different factors in the incidence trend can provide scientific basis and data support for the national health departments to formulate reasonable prevention and treatment policies.

Methods

The study collated the global burden disease study data of TC incidence from 1990 to 2019, and used APC model to analyze the contribution of age, period and birth cohort to the incidence trend of TC.

Results

There was an obvious unfavorable upward trend in terms of age and cohort effect all over the world. Since 2007, the growth rate of risk slowed down and the risk in female even decreased since 2012, which mainly contributed to the developed countries. In all SDI countries, 2002 is the dividing point of risk between male and female. In 2019, The global age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) of TC in the 5 SDI countries all showed a significant upward trend, with the largest upward trend in the middle SDI countries.

Conclusion

The trend of rapid increase in the incidence of TC has begun to slow down, but the global incidence of TC has obvious gender and regional/national heterogeneity. Policy makers should tailor specific local strategies to the risk factors of each country to further reduce the burden of TC.
Molecular and clinical features of papillary thyroid cancer in adult patients with a non-classical phenotype
Authors: Zhou Jie , Wang Wei-Ran , Zhang Hui-Fang , Gao Qi-Qi , Wang Wei-Bin , Zhu Jian-Hua , Han Yu-Shuai , Chen Jing , Ma Tong-Hui , Zhang Xiao-Yan , Teng Xiao-Dong
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Genotyping is fundamental in papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) and helps to enhance diagnosis and prognosis and determine appropriate treatments. The phenotype-genotype association in PTC was previously studied, with BRAF V600E characterizing classic PTC and tall-cell PTC and RAS mutations characterizing follicular-variant PTC. In clinic, some non-classical histological subtypes of PTC were also identified, however, their genotype remains unclear. In this study, we collected samples of these non-classical PTC after the exclusion of classic phenotypes and examined their phenotypes, genotype and the relationship between phenotype and genotype.

Methods

We screened out non-classical PTC by excluding classical PTC from 1,059 different thyroid samples, and a total of 24 cases was obtained and described from the morphological features, which is rare in differentiated PTC. DNA/RNA sequencing was performed using 18 available samples to describe the genetic features.

Results

PTC with the non-classical phenotype were characterized cuboidal to low columnar tumor cells with subtle nuclear features of PTC and without discernible nuclear elongation, concurrently with dense microfollicles, delicate papillae or solid nodules with delicate fibrovascular cores. They were associated with lymphatic vessel invasion (P<0.001) but not with a worse prognosis (P=0.791). Gene fusions were identified in 14 of 18 (77.8%) cases, including eight fusions of NTRK and six fusions of RET. The high percentage of fusions in this papillary thyroid cancer subgroup suggested a correlation of gene fusions with the phenotype that does not belong to the BRAF V600E-mutant or RAS-mutant group.

Conclusions

Our study retrospectively screened a large cohort of different thyroid tissue samples, and presented the histopathological and genetic features of a non-classical phenotype of PTC from 24 patients. It may contribute to diagnose in PTC, and patients of these non-classical phenotype may benefit from targeted therapy, compared to a natural patient cohort without selection.
Short-term prediction of PV output based on weather classification and SSA-ELM
Authors: Ge Junxiong , Cai Guowei , Yang Mao , Jiang Liu , Hong Haimin , Zhao Jinyu
Published: April 2023

In this paper, according to the power output characteristics of distributed photovoltaic users, the SSA-ELM (Sparrow Search Algorithm - Extreme Learning Machine) model based on weather type division is proposed for photovoltaic power day ahead prediction. Because the solar panel power generation sequence of photovoltaic users contains high frequency fluctuations, in this paper we use the power sequence convergence effect to make cluster prediction on all photovoltaic panels to reduce the randomness of distributed photovoltaic. The prediction accuracy is further improved by dividing weather types. The historical data of distributed PV users in a region of Gansu province is used for modeling verification, and the results show that the prediction error of the proposed method is lower. In bad weather, the root mean square error is at least 0.02 less than the comparison model, and the average annual accuracy rate is 93.2%, which proves the applicability of the proposed method in different output types.
Evaluation and revision of long-range single-site lightning location accuracy considering the time delay of ground wave
Authors: Zhou Jiahao , Zhang Qilin , Zhang Junchao , Dai Bingzhe , Li Jie , Wang Yao , Gu Jiaying
Published: April 2023

Detecting the distance and orientation of long-distance thunderstorms has very important practical significance. The multi-station lightning location system relies on a high-precision time module and good network communication capabilities, but in some cases these conditions cannot be met, but there is still a need for lightning activity monitoring, and it is very important to establish a single-site lightning location system. In this paper, we have established a long-distance single-site lightning location station, and in order to improve the accuracy of distance estimation, a numerical algorithm is used to obtain the relationship between the ground wave arrival time delay and the propagation distance, and it is used to revise the time difference between the peak value of the skywave and ground wave. Moreover, we used multi-station lightning location data to revise the site-error in magnetic direction finder method to improve the accuracy of the direction calculation. The results show that the effective detection range of the single-site we have been established is 200 km–2000 km, and the revised average direction deviation dropped from 12.3° to 8.6°. The verification results of thunderstorms within the effective detection range show that the relative error of single-site lightning location is 8.4%–18.6% after the revision.
Knowledge mapping of resilience and human rights in supply chains: A roadmapping taxonomy for twin green and digital transition design
Authors: Pan Chung-Lien , Liao Han-Teng , Zhang Yuan
Published: April 2023

Supply chain sustainability (SCS) has gone beyond the sustainability-performance approach, towards the increasing adoption of the sustainability-practice approach. The use of digital technologies in this approach can enhance resilience and human rights, particularly in the context of the green and digital twin transition post-COVID-19 pandemic. To enrich the sustainability-practice approach, this paper aims to produce a roadmapping taxonomy, based on knowledge mapping of a dataset collected in late December 2022 from the Web of Science Core Collection. As the knowledge map reveals the dimensions of resilience, human rights, and digital technologies, the proposed taxonomy highlights the importance of dynamic capabilities in facing supply chain disruptions, especially their ripple effects, along with the corresponding digital technologies to enhance human social dynamics in facing such disruptions. The proposed taxonomy provides a knowledge-based framework for professionals and researchers to enhance their understanding of supply chain resilience in designing and implementing digital solutions. The proposed roadmapping taxonomy features a people- and community-centric perspective and several managerial insights, contributing to the wider discussions on the green and digital transformation of the supply chain, by shaping actions and interactions in networked, digitized, and datafied forms to enhance supply chain sustainability.
Microplastics in large marine herbivores: Florida manatees (Trichechus manatus latirostris) in Tampa Bay
Authors: Gowans Shannon , Siuda Amy N. S.
Published: April 2023

Although there is growing concern about ingestion of microplastics by marine organisms, little research has been conducted on marine herbivores. This is the first study to document microplastic ingestion within the family Sirenia. Subsamples were collected from five locations in the gastrointestinal tracts (GI) of 26 dead manatees (Trichechus manatus latirostris) from Tampa Bay, Florida. During gross necropsies, macroplastic pieces were found in seven individuals (26.9%). Careful visual examination of the subsampled portions of the GI contents indicated that 19 individuals (73.1%) contained plastic particles. As five individuals had both macro and microplastic pieces, the overall frequency of occurrence of plastic ingestion was 76.9%. Due to the large volume of cellulose-rich ingested material, it was not feasible to analyze the entire gut contents, nor was it feasible to conduct chemical or enzymatic digestion; therefore, it is very likely that many microplastic pieces were not detected. Despite these technical challenges, it is clear that manatees in Tampa Bay are routinely consuming microplastics in addition to larger plastic pieces. Currently, nothing is known about the physiological effects of microplastic ingestion in sirenians, however environmental plastics could be concentrated by manatees through ingestion and the subsequent production of microplastics-laden feces.
Salmonella enterica serovar Paratyphi A-induced immune response in Caenorhabditis elegans depends on MAPK pathways and DAF-16
Authors: Ding Ai-Jun , Zhang Wei-Ming , Tao Jian , Chen Bing , Liu Xiao-Cao , Dong Yu , Ma Han-Jing , Pan Shao-Dong , He Jiang-Bo , Zeng Wei-Kun
Published: April 2023

Salmonella enterica serovar Paratyphi A (S. Paratyphi A) is a pathogen that can cause enteric fever. According to the recent epidemic trends of typhoid fever, S. Paratyphi A has been the major important causative factor in paratyphoid fever. An effective vaccine for S. Paratyphi A has not been developed, which made it a tricky public health concern. Until now, how S. Paratyphi A interacts with organisms remain unknown. Here using lifespan assay, we found that S. Paratyphi A could infect Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) at 25°C, and attenuate thermotolerance. The immune response of C. elegans was mediated by tir-1, nsy-1, sek-1, pmk-1, mpk-1, skn-1, daf-2 and daf-16, suggesting that S. Paratyphi A could regulate the MAPK and insulin pathways. Furthermore, we observed several phenotypical changes when C. elegans were fed S. Paratyphi A, including an accelerated decline in body movement, reduced the reproductive capacity, shortened spawning cycle, strong preference for OP50, arrested pharyngeal pumping and colonization of the intestinal lumen. The virulence of S. Paratyphi A requires living bacteria and is not mediated by secreting toxin. Using hydrogen peroxide analysis and quantitative RT-PCR, we discovered that S. Paratyphi A could increase oxidative stress and regulate the immune response in C. elegans. Our results sheds light on the infection mechanisms of S. Paratyphi A and lays a foundation for drugs and vaccine development.
Genetic variants of CTLA4 are associated with clinical outcome of patients with multiple myeloma
Authors: Gonzalez-Montes Yolanda , Rodriguez-Romanos Rocío , Villavicencio Alicia , Osca-Gelis Gemma , González-Bártulos Marta , Llopis Francesca , Clapes Victòria , Oriol Albert , Sureda Anna , Escoda Lourdes , Sarrà Josep , Garzó Ana , Lloveras Natàlia , Díez Isabel , Granada Isabel , Gallardo David
Published: April 2023

Immune dysfunction in patients with multiple myeloma (MM) affects both the innate and adaptive immune system. Molecules involved in the immune checkpoint pathways are essential to determine the ability of cancer cells to escape from the immune system surveillance. However, few data are available concerning the role of these molecules in predicting the kinetics of progression of MM. We retrospectively analysed polymorphisms of CTLA4 (rs231775 and rs733618), BTLA (rs9288953), CD28 (rs3116496), PD-1 (rs36084323 and rs11568821) and LAG-3 (rs870849) genes in 239 patients with newly diagnosed MM. Patients with a CTLA4 rs231775 AA/AG genotype showed a median progression-free survival (PFS) significantly lower than those with GG genotype (32.3 months versus 96.8 months respectively; p: 0.008). The 5-year PFS rate was 25% for patients with grouped AA and AG genotype vs 55.4% for patients with GG genotype. Multivariate analysis confirmed the CTLA4 rs231775 genotype as an independent risk factor for PFS (Hazard Ratio (HR): 2.05; 95% CI: 1.0-6.2; p: 0.047). Our results suggest that the CTLA4 genotype may identify patients with earlier progression of MM. This polymorphism could potentially be used as a prognostic biomarker.