bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk factors of a severe course of pediatric multi-system inflammatory syndrome temporally associated with COVID-19
Authors: Stasiak Aleksandra , Perdas Ewelina , Smolewska Elżbieta
Published: August 2022

Pediatric multi-system inflammatory syndrome temporally associated with COVID-19 (PIMS-TS) is a serious complication of a previous SARS-CoV-2 infection. The disease causes multiple organ failure, but in some patients, a more severe course of the disease is observed. The treatment is multidirectional and depends on the severity and course of the disease, as some patients do not respond to the recommended treatment. The aim of this study was to identify laboratory risk factors affecting the more severe course of the disease and resistance to standard therapy. It is a single-center retrospective study considering 51 patients with PIMS-TS. Clinical features, laboratory results, and additional imaging tests data were taken into account. Fifty-one patients with PIMS-TS were hospitalized within a 16-month observation period. In the studied group, 26/51 children (51%) were girls. The mean age of patients was 7 years. Sex of the patient was not a risk factor for changes in cardiovascular system or severe course of the disease. Sixteen patients (31.3%) required transfer to the intensive care unit. Children with initially higher concentrations of NT-proBNP, troponin, creatinine, triglycerides, C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, ferritin, D-dimers and lower hematocrit, platelet count, lymphocytes, and ejection fraction should be strictly observed as they have a higher risk of severe course of the disease.

Conclusions: Laboratory parameters especially markers of myocardial damage, markers of inflammation, blood count, as wells as biochemical parameters are significant risk indicators of severe course of PIMS -TS and their concentration can be defined as predictor of disease severity.

What is Known:• Pediatric multisystem inflammatory syndrome temporally associated with COVID-19 (PIMS-TS) is a serious complication of a previous SARS-CoV-2 infection in the group of pediatric patients• Course of the disease may be severe, which may cause long-term complications and the need for longitudinal patient care.

What is New:• Children with higher concentrations of NT-proBNP, troponin, creatinine, TG, CRP, PCT, ferritin, D-dimers and lower hematocrit, PLT, lymphocytes, and EF have a higher risk of a severe course of the disease.• Patients with high concentration of NT-proBNP, troponin, CRP, lactates, ferritin, D-dimers, creatinine and a lower concentration of PLT, albumin, leukocytes; lymphopenia, hyponatremia are at risk for intravenous immunoglobulin resistance.
Was tun mit urbanen Gewässern? Evaluierung des ökologischen Nutzens am Wienfluss mittels Habitatmodellierung
Authors: Gruber Gabriel , Hayes Daniel S. , Lett Amélie , Zeiringer Bernhard , Pinter Kurt
Published: August 2022

Ein offenes Kontinuum in Fließgewässern ist zentral für den Lebenszyklus vieler Wanderfischarten wie der Barbe (Barbus barbus) oder der Nase (Chondrostoma nasus). Obwohl bereits mehrere Jahre an der Passierbarkeit gearbeitet wird, ist derzeit die Durchgängigkeit bei etwa der Hälfte der österreichischen Wasserkörper immer noch eingeschränkt. Fließgewässer, welche durch städtischen Raum fließen, weisen zudem oft über lange Strecken starke anthropogene Beeinträchtigungen und daher eine geringe Lebensraumqualität auf. Der Wienfluss ist ein Beispiel für ein Gewässer, welches abschnittsweise eine potenziell gute Habitatausstattung für die Donaufischfauna aufweist, im Unterlauf jedoch von Querbauwerken fragmentiert ist und über mehrere Kilometer in einem Betongerinne fließt. In der vorliegenden Arbeit wird der Frage nachgegangen, ob die Wiederanbindung eines urbanen Gewässers wie dem Wienfluss für ein Flusssystem wie das der Donau einen ökologischen Nutzen bringen kann. Dazu erstellten wir drei hydro-dynamische Habitatmodelle flussauf des stark regulierten Unterlaufs. Mittels Präferenzkurven von Barben und Nasen unterschiedlicher Alters- und Lebensstadien – (i) Larve, (ii) Juvenil, (iii) Adult im Sommerhabitat, (iv) Adult im Laichhabitat – wurde die Habitateignung jedes Abschnitts für typische Abflüsse analysiert. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass alle Strecken geeignete Habitate für Larven- und Juvenilstadien beider Fischarten aufweisen. Adult- und Laichhabitate sind hingegen nur eingeschränkt vorhanden; die höchste Nutzung ist bei Abflüssen um Mittelwasser zu erwarten. Zusammenfassend bietet die Wiederanbindung die Möglichkeit, dass die oberen Abschnitte für die Reproduktion und die Entwicklung der Jungfische geeignet sind. In Folge ist von einer positiven Strahlwirkung auf die Populationen der Donau auszugehen. Eine Ausschöpfung des Revitalisierungspotenzials würde sich zusätzlich positiv auf andere Aspekte wie den Erholungswert, die Landschaftsästhetik, das Städteklima und auf die Fischerei auswirken.
Multiple dimensions of radiographic reconstruction for the optimal operative strategy of sacral meningeal cysts
Authors: Ma Qianquan , Xie Jingcheng , Yang Chenlong , Wu Chao , Zhang Jia , Yin Xiaoliang , Si Yu , Liu Ying , Yang Jun , Sun Jianjun
Published: August 2022

Background and purpose

The contents and subtypes of sacral cysts are sophisticated in many cases. We applied multiple dimensional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) reconstruction to preoperatively clarify the specific subtype of sacral meningeal cysts.

Materials and methods

We preoperatively used multimodal neural reconstruction MRI sequences to evaluate 76 patients with sacral cysts. The linear nerve roots were precisely traced based on sagittal or coronal images processed at various angles and levels which was conducive to the design of the operation strategy.

Results

Cysts with nerve passage were detected in 47 cases (62%, 47/76), whereas cysts without nerve roots were detected in 24 cases (32%, 24/76). Five patients had mixed cysts with or without nerve roots. Intraoperative exploration results proved the high accuracy of image reconstruction; only one cyst without a nerve root was misdiagnosed prior to surgery.

Conclusion

MRI reconstruction based on the three-dimensional fast imaging employing steady-state acquisition T2 sequence precisely tracked the nerve roots of sacral cysts and guided the optimal strategy during surgery.
Preferences for attributes of long-term care in dementia: a scoping review of multi-criteria decision analyses
Authors: Speckemeier Christian
Published: August 2022

Aim

Long-term care considerations for persons with dementia are complex. Multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) methods are increasingly used to support healthcare decisions. The objective of this scoping review was to identify and analyze published MCDAs in which preferences for living and care concepts for persons with dementia are determined.

Subject and methods

A literature search was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Google Scholar in October 2021. Searches were limited to peer-reviewed articles published up to October 14, 2021. The included publications aimed at eliciting care preferences for persons with dementia from patients, relatives, healthcare practitioners or the broader public by means of MCDA.

Results

Ten studies were included of whom seven were published in 2017 or afterwards. In nine studies, a discrete choice experiment (DCE) was conducted. The majority of studies surveyed the general population or caregivers of persons with dementia. Five studies assessed preferences for attributes of home care and two for long-term care facilities. Willingness to pay was addressed in eight studies. Choice task structure and experimental design varied widely. Despite different objectives, strong preferences for continuous care by the same person, organizational aspects, and caregiver expertise were found across studies.

Conclusion

This review shows that MCDA methods have successfully been applied to analyze preferences for living and care arrangements for persons with dementia. The majority of publications report on DCEs, and a variety of different study objectives and methodological approaches have been observed. Further research is needed to inform the design of innovative concepts which are a valuable alternative to existing care options.
Measures, Gaps, and Mitigation Strategies in Bangladesh’s COVID-19 Response
Authors: Al Sattar Abdullah , Irin Nusrat , Belgrad Joseph P. , Haider Najmul , Chisty Nurun Nahar , Mohsin Md. Abu Shoieb , Foysal Mohammad , Das Tridip , Uddin Md. Helal , Hasan Rubyath Binte , Ferdous Jinnat , Hasan Mahmudul , Mahmud Rashed , Samad Mohammed Abdus , Giasuddin Mohammad , Biswas Paritosh Kumar , Pfeiffer Dirk Udo , Debnath Nitish Chandra , Fournié Guillaume , Tomley Fiona M. , Hoque Md. Ahasanul
Published: August 2022

The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) spread rapidly from China to most other countries around the world in early 2020 killing millions of people. To prevent virus spread, world governments implemented a variety of response measures. This paper’s objectives were to discuss the country’s adopted measures to combat the virus through June 2020, identify gaps in the measures’ effectiveness, and offer possible mitigations to those gaps. The measures taken included screening device deployment across international air and land ports, flight suspensions and closures from COVID-19 affected countries, and declaration and extension of a national public holiday (equivalent to lockdowns in other countries). Identified gaps were test kit, PPE, ICU beds, and ventilator shortages, limited public awareness, and insufficient coordination and collaboration among national and international partners. Proper and timely risk mapping, preparedness, communication, coordination, and collaboration among governments and organizations, and public awareness and engagement would have provided sufficient COVID-19 mitigation in Bangladesh.
Shortest path with acceleration constraints: complexity and approximation algorithms
Authors: Ardizzoni S. , Consolini L. , Laurini M. , Locatelli M.
Published: August 2022

We introduce a variant of the Shortest Path Problem (SPP), in which we impose additional constraints on the acceleration over the arcs, and call it Bounded Acceleration SPP (BASP). This variant is inspired by an industrial application: a vehicle needs to travel from its current position to a target one in minimum-time, following pre-defined geometric paths connecting positions within a facility, while satisfying some speed and acceleration constraints depending on the vehicle position along the currently traveled path. We characterize the complexity of BASP, proving its NP-hardness. We also show that, under additional hypotheses on problem data, the problem admits a pseudo-polynomial time-complexity algorithm. Moreover, we present an approximation algorithm with polynomial time-complexity with respect to the data of the original problem and the inverse of the approximation factor $$\epsilon$$
ϵ
. Finally, we present some computational experiments to evaluate the performance of the proposed approximation algorithm.
A generalized shortest path tour problem with time windows
Authors: Di Puglia Pugliese L. , Ferone D. , Festa P. , Guerriero F.
Published: August 2022

This paper studies a generalization of the shortest path tour problem with time windows (GSPTPTW). The aim is to find a single-origin single-destination shortest path, which has to pass through an ordered sequence of not necessarily disjoint node-subsets. Each node has a time window for each node-subset to which it belongs. We investigate the theoretical properties of GSPTPTW and propose a dynamic programming approach to solve it. Numerical results collected on a large set of new benchmark instances highlight the effectiveness of the proposed solution approach.
The impact of the mountain barrier on the spread of heavy metal pollution on the example of Gorce Mountains, Southern Poland
Authors: Miśkowiec Paweł
Published: August 2022

The main objective of this study was to determine the content, mobility, and the variability of concentration of zinc, lead, and cadmium in soils from the Gorce Mountains (south Poland), located over 100 km south-east from the potential industrial sources of contamination—zinc-lead sulfide ore mine and smelter in Bukowno, as well as hard coal mines of Silesia region and Kraków Nowa-Huta steelwork. The abovementioned problem is crucial in the context of the traditional mountain farming still extant in the region, as well as intensively developing tourism. The geoaccumulation index and potential ecological risk index were adopted to evaluate soil pollution in the study area and the BCR sequential extraction technique to assess mobility of the abovementioned elements. The obtained results clearly show that the pollution from distant industrial sources in the mountains is detectable. Apart from the increased concentrations of the tested metals in the soil (especially available forms), there is also a strong correlation between the concentrations of lead, zinc, and cadmium, which proves their common source of origin. The main evidence is the fact that differences in the concentrations of the tested metals on the windward and leeward sides were statistically significant. This also means that the studied mountain area, despite relatively low altitudes (up to 1310 m above sea level), constitutes a measurable barrier to the spread of atmospheric pollutants.
Story points changes in agile iterative development
Authors: Pasuksmit Jirat , Thongtanunam Patanamon , Karunasekera Shanika
Published: August 2022

Story Points (SP) are an effort unit that is used to represent the relative effort of a work item. In Agile software development, SP allows a development team to estimate their delivery capacity and facilitate the sprint planning activities. Although Agile embraces changes, SP changes after the sprint planning may negatively impact the sprint plan. To minimize the impact, there is a need to better understand the SP changes and an automated approach to predict the SP changes. Hence, to better understand the SP changes, we examine the prevalence, accuracy, and impact of information changes on SP changes. Through the analyses based on 19,349 work items spread across seven open-source projects, we find that on average, 10% of the work items have SP changes. These work items typically have SP value increased by 58%-100% relative to the initial SP value when they were assigned to a sprint. We also find that the unchanged SP reflect the development time better than the changed SP. Our qualitative analysis shows that the work items with changed SP often have the information changes relating to updating the scope of work. Our empirical results suggest that SP and the scope of work should be reviewed prior or during sprint planning to achieve a reliable sprint plan. Yet, it could be a tedious task to review all work items in the product (or sprint) backlog. Therefore, we develop a classifier to predict whether a work item will have SP changes after being assigned to a sprint. Our classifier achieves an AUC of 0.69-0.8, which is significantly better than the baselines. Our results suggest that to better manage and prepare for the unreliability in SP estimation, the team can leverage our insights and the classifier during the sprint planning. To facilitate future studies, we provide the replication package and the datasets, which are available online.
Screening for Autism Spectrum Condition Through Inner City Homeless Services in the Republic of Ireland
Authors: Boilson A. M. , Churchard A. , Connolly M. , Casey B. , Sweeney M. R.
Published: August 2022

Homeless service users were screened for autism spectrum disorder through one of Ireland’s leading not for profit service providers. Keyworkers acted as proxy informants; their caseloads were screened using the DSM-5—Autistic Traits in the Homeless Interview (DATHI). Client current and historical health and behaviour data was collated. A representative sample of 106 eligible keyworkers caseloads were screened, identifying 3% “present” and 9% “possibly present” for autistic traits with the DATHI. These findings suggest a high estimate of autism prevalence and support emerging evidence that, people with autism are overrepresented in the homeless population, compared to housed populations. Autism may be a risk factor for entry into homelessness and a challenge to exiting homeless and engaging with relevant services.
Understanding the Use of the Term “Weaponized Autism” in An Alt-Right Social Media Platform
Authors: Welch Christie , Senman Lili , Loftin Rachel , Picciolini Christian , Robison John , Westphal Alexander , Perry Barbara , Nguyen Jenny , Jachyra Patrick , Stevenson Suzanne , Aggarwal Jai , Wijekoon Sachindri , Baron-Cohen Simon , Penner Melanie
Published: August 2022

Background

The term “weaponized autism” is frequently used on extremist platforms. To better understand this, we conducted a discourse analysis of posts on Gab, an alt-right social media platform.

Methods

We analyzed 711 posts spanning 2018–2019 and filtered for variations on the term “weaponized autism”.

Results

This term is used mainly by non-autistic Gab users. It refers to exploitation of perceived talents and vulnerabilities of “Weaponized autists”, described as all-powerful masters-of-technology who are devoid of social skills.

Conclusions

The term “weaponized autism” is simultaneously glorified and derogatory. For some autistic people, the partial acceptance offered within this community may be preferable to lack of acceptance offered in society, which speaks to improving societal acceptance as a prevention effort.
Adolescent Parents’ Intersecting Identities and Experiences: A Qualitative Examination of Adolescents’, Grandparents’, and School Staff’s Perspectives
Authors: Perez-Brena Norma J. , Anders Kristin M. , Toews Michelle L. , Duncan Jeneé C.
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to identify the multiple and intersecting identities adolescent parents manage, and the social supports and constraints that inform their adjustment. Adolescents (n = 13; 70% cisgender women; 100% Latinx; Mage = 19.37, SD = 0.92) who became parents between the ages of 14–18, their parents (n = 17; 82% cisgender women; 94% Latinx), and school staff (n = 7; 100% cisgender women; 71% White) provided triangulating information on adolescent parents’ experiences. Using focus group methodology and Qual-to-Qual coding techniques, we found that adolescents inhabit intersecting social identities based on their parenting status, adolescence/youth, student role, child/family role, and gender. These intersecting social identities informed the social and developmental contexts that adolescents navigated, which were experienced as promotive or inhibiting environments. Adolescents described the demands to be engaged in multigenerational familial contexts (e.g., large coparenting teams, power differentials between adolescents and their parents), their exposure to stereotypes, assumptions, and discrimination based on their intersecting identities, and the high social demands/resources imposed on them by family and school supports. These experiences led to contextualized outcomes, such as an increase in growth and maturity. The participants often described their experiences as both stressors and sources of support; therefore, we discuss the duality of these experiences and the implications for future interventions.
Child Language Brokering in Healthcare: Exploring the Intersection of Power and Age in Mediation Practices
Authors: Iqbal Humera , Crafter Sarah
Published: August 2022

This paper aims to explore young people’s perspectives of a real-life scenario of child language brokering in a healthcare setting (the doctor’s office), when the topic of discussion is sensitive and potentially conflictual. Child Language brokers are migrant young people who translate and interpret for family members, peers and the local community. Often the spaces in which children broker (e.g., healthcare, banks), referred to here as a ‘contact zone’, are dominated by adults in positions of authority and unequal power differentials. The language broker and those for whom they are brokering may be in a less powerful position because of their migration status and/or age status. Existing research has focused mainly from the view of adults and young people’s perspectives on the practice are underexplored. We draw the existing literature to explore how brokers understand the wider societal context and the strategies they employ to manage conflict. Findings are presented from 29 individual qualitative vignette-based interviews with language brokers (aged 13–16) in the United Kingdom which were qualitatively analysed. Findings show how these children play a vital role in protecting those for whom they broker, often navigating sophisticated social interactions and tactics (such as delay and selective modification). Equally, they carry a weight of responsibility trying to manage complicated, perhaps morally questionable, situations. By asking brokers to reflect on a real-life healthcare scenario, we are advancing understanding of migrant youth brokers and the families they support in their day to day lives.
Steerable sheath visualizable under 3D electroanatomical mapping facilitates paroxysmal atrial fibrillation ablation with minimal fluoroscopy
Authors: Rajendra Anil , Hunter Tina D. , Morales Gustavo X. , Zei Paul , Boo Lee Ming , Varley Allyson , Osorio Jose
Published: August 2022

Background

Advances in technology and workflows have facilitated substantial reductions in fluoroscopy utilization and procedure times for atrial fibrillation (AF) ablations. A recently available steerable sheath, visualizable on a 3D electroanatomical map (EAM), may further simplify low/zero fluoroscopy ablation workflows by facilitating understanding of the relative positions of the catheter and sheath. The objective of this study was to demonstrate feasibility, safety, procedural efficiency, and clinical effectiveness of incorporating the new visualizable sheath into a low-fluoroscopy workflow.

Methods

Consecutive de novo paroxysmal AF procedures were performed with a porous tip contact force catheter at a high-volume site between January 2018 and May 2019. Procedures performed with and without the VIZIGO™ EAM-visualizable sheath (Vizigo) were compared. All ablations employed the same standardized low-fluoroscopy workflow. Statistical analyses employed stabilized inverse probability of treatment weights (IPTW) to balance cohorts by operator and key patient characteristics.

Results

Cohorts of 142 Vizigo and 173 non-Vizigo patients were similar at baseline. Use of the Vizigo sheath was associated with approximately 10% improvement in catheter stability (p = 0.0005), 16% reduction in radiofrequency time (p < 0.0001), and 7% fewer ablations that used fluoroscopy (p = 0.0030). There was one cardiac tamponade in each cohort and no deaths, atrioesophageal fistulas, or strokes. Single-procedure freedom from atrial arrhythmia recurrence through 12 months was similar between cohorts (p = 0.9556).

Conclusions

Use of a 3D EAM-visualizable sheath resulted in improved catheter stability, reduced radiofrequency time, and more procedures performed without fluoroscopy, without compromise to safety or effectiveness.
An Epistemic Separation Logic with Action Models
Authors: van Ditmarsch Hans , Galmiche Didier , Gawek Marta
Published: August 2022

In this paper we present an extension of (bunched) separation logic, Boolean BI, with epistemic and dynamic epistemic modalities. This logic, called action model separation logic ($$\mathrm {AMSL}$$AMSL), can be seen as a generalization of public announcement separation logic in which we replace public announcements with action models. Then we not only model public information change (public announcements) but also non-public forms of information change, such as private announcements. In this context the semantics for the connectives$$*$$∗and$$\mathrel {-*}$$-∗from separation logic are epistemic versions of their usual semantics. This is because formulas are interpreted in states, not in resources, and agents may be uncertain between different states representing the same resource. We present the logic$$\mathrm {AMSL}$$AMSLand its semantics, with a detailed case study that highlights its interest for modeling. We also prove the elimination of the dynamics modalities and discuss some alternative epistemic semantics for the separation connectives.
PMT Signal Transmission for Hard X-Ray Diagnostics of Future Tokamaks
Authors: Nowak vel Nowakowski P. , Makowski D. , Walewski W.
Published: August 2022

A pair of a scintillator and a Photomultiplier Tube (PMT) is often used as a Hard X-Ray (HXR) radiation detector in existing tokamaks such as JET, EAST, COMPASS or ASDEX-U. Future nuclear fusion reactors such as ITER or DEMO will use more powerful magnets and confine a larger volume of hot plasma. Placement of the detectors used for plasma diagnostic will be constrained by high temperatures, magnetic fields and ionizing radiation present near the tokamak vessel. It might be necessary to move detectors away from tokamak to a safer location. This might generate problems with pulse discrimination and transmission of the signal. In the case of the ITER tokamak, sensitive electronics such as digitizers cannot be installed close to the reactor due to harsh environmental conditions. A new approach to component placement is needed to protect those devices. The PMT signal will be transmitted via an over 100 m long coaxial cable to the digitizer located in the adjacent diagnostic building. The long cables will introduce additional signal attenuation. Also, the RF noise from the tokamak environment can couple into the signal. To improve the signal-to-noise ratio a dedicated PMT amplifier with a high output range (from + 1.5 to − 11 V) was proposed.The paper presents issues with signal transmission in HXR diagnostic systems and includes a discussion on the methodology of PMT signal transmission in the conditions of the future tokamaks. A proposal of guidelines for selection of the signal chain components and design of a dedicated PMT amplifier is part of this paper.
Phylogenetic, Allometric, and Ecological Factors Affecting Morphological Variation in the Scapula and Humerus of Spiny Rats (Rodentia: Echimyidae)
Authors: Carvalhaes Jeiel Gabrir , Tavares William Corrêa , do Val Vilela Roberto , D’Andrea Paulo Sérgio
Published: August 2022

Locomotion, as a fundamental function in mammals directly associated with the use of ecological resources, is expected to have anatomical structures functionally committed that evolved under intense selective pressure, possibly carrying specializations for different locomotor habits. Among caviomorph rodents, the family Echimyidae stands out for having the greatest species richness, with relatively well-resolved phylogenetic relationships, wide variation in body mass, and remarkable diversity of locomotor habits, including arboreal, scansorial, semi-aquatic, semifossorial, and terrestrial forms. Thus, Echimyidae constitutes a promising model for understanding how phylogenetic, allometric, and ecological factors affect the evolution of postcranial structures directly linked to locomotor function. We investigated the influence of these three factors on scapular and humeral morphological variation in 38 echimyid species using two-dimensional geometric morphometry and phylogenetically informed comparative methods. Scapular and humeral shape variation had a low correlation with body mass and structure size, conveying a small or negligible allometric effect. Conversely, a significant moderate to strong phylogenetic signal was detected in both structures, suggesting that an important part of their morphometric variation results from shared evolutionary history. Notably, morphological variation of the scapula was extensively structured by phylogeny, without the marked influence of locomotor habits, suggesting that its shape may be a suitable taxonomic marker. Finally, locomotor habits were important in structuring the morphological variation of the humerus. Our results suggest that the morphologies of the scapula and humerus, despite being anatomically and functionally interconnected, were differentially shaped by ecological factors associated with locomotor habits.
Evidence Against Superconductivity in Flux Trapping Experiments on Hydrides Under High Pressure
Authors: Hirsch J. E. , Marsiglio F.
Published: August 2022

It has recently been reported that hydrogen-rich materials under high-pressure trap magnetic flux, a tell-tale signature of superconductivity (Minkov et al., Trapped magnetic flux in hydrogen-rich high-temperature superconductors, Ref. 1). Here, we point out that under the protocol used in these experiments the measured results indicate that the materials don’t trap magnetic flux. Instead, the measured results either are experimental artifacts or originate in magnetic properties of the sample or its environment unrelated to superconductivity. Together with other experimental evidence analyzed earlier, this clearly indicates that these materials are not superconductors.
Greedy structure learning from data that contain systematic missing values
Authors: Liu Yang , Constantinou Anthony C.
Published: August 2022

Learning from data that contain missing values represents a common phenomenon in many domains. Relatively few Bayesian Network structure learning algorithms account for missing data, and those that do tend to rely on standard approaches that assume missing data are missing at random, such as the Expectation-Maximisation algorithm. Because missing data are often systematic, there is a need for more pragmatic methods that can effectively deal with data sets containing missing values not missing at random. The absence of approaches that deal with systematic missing data impedes the application of BN structure learning methods to real-world problems where missingness are not random. This paper describes three variants of greedy search structure learning that utilise pairwise deletion and inverse probability weighting to maximally leverage the observed data and to limit potential bias caused by missing values. The first two of the variants can be viewed as sub-versions of the third and best performing variant, but are important in their own in illustrating the successive improvements in learning accuracy. The empirical investigations show that the proposed approach outperforms the commonly used and state-of-the-art Structural EM algorithm, both in terms of learning accuracy and efficiency, as well as both when data are missing at random and not at random.
A Caregiver-Child Intervention for Mitigating Toxic Stress (“The Resiliency Clinic”): A Pilot Study
Authors: Jeung Joan , Hessler Jones Danielle , Frame Laura , Gilgoff Rachel , Long Dayna , Thakur Neeta , Koita Kadiatou , Bucci Monica , Burke Harris Nadine
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Primary care-based interventions that promote nurturing caregiving relationships and early relational health may help mitigate toxic stress and promote resilience in children. This pilot study aims to: (1) describe a novel group-based, psychoeducational primary care intervention for children experiencing adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) (“The Resiliency Clinic”), (2) assess program feasibility and acceptability, and (3) explore effects on child/caregiver behavioral health.

Methods

Intervention design centered on promoting supportive caregiving, caregiver/child self-regulation and co-regulation and teaching evidence-based stress management tools. Program feasibility and acceptability were assessed through attendance data and caregiver focus groups. Behavioral health measures were obtained at baseline and 8-month follow-up.

Results

Of 101 eligible families, 38 (37.6%) enrolled and attended a median of 3.00 (mean = 2.95, sd = 1.75) out of 6 sessions. Caregivers reported high satisfaction and benefits including stress management tools and connection with staff and other parents. There were modest, statistically non-significant improvements in caregiver stress (d = 0.23) and child executive functioning (d = 0.27).

Discussion

In conclusion, a group intervention teaching supportive caregiving and stress mitigation is feasible and acceptable for many families in an urban federally qualified health center (FQHC) with a signal for modest improvements in behavioral health. Future program iterations will seek to address participation barriers and expand the intervention’s capacity to promote early relational health.
Evaluation of the cytotoxic, anticancer, and genotoxic activities of Acacia nilotica flowers and their effects on N-methyl-N-nitrosourea-induced genotoxicity in mice
Authors: Diab Kawthar A. , Fahmy Maha A. , Hassan Emad M. , El-Toumy Sayed A.
Published: August 2022

Purpose

In this study, two main research objectives were examined: (1) the cytotoxic and anticancer activities of the aqueous methanol extract from Acacia nilotica flowers on three human cancer cells, namely lung A549, breast MCF-7, and leukemia THP-1 cells, and (2) the genotoxic effects of A. nilotica extract and its influence on DNA damage induced by N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU) in mice.

Methods

Mice were orally treated with A. nilotica extract (200, 500, and 800 mg/kg for 4 days) with or without MNU (80 mg/kg intraperitoneally for 24 h).

Results

In vitro experiments showed that A549 cells were the most sensitive to A. nilotica extract among the tested cell lines. A. nilotica extract inhibited A549 cell proliferation by blocking the cell cycle at the G2/M phase and accumulating apoptotic cells in the sub-G0/G1 phase in A549 cells. In vivo experiments showed that MNU induced positive and negative genotoxicity in bone marrow cells and spermatocytes, respectively. Negative genotoxicity was observed in A. nilotica extract-treated groups only. However, A. nilotica extract (800 mg/kg) remarkably increased comet tail formation in bone marrow cells. Unexpectedly, the absence of antigenotoxicity was observed in three cotreated groups with A. nilotica extract and MNU compared with the MNU-treated group. Astonishingly, cotreatment with MNU and A. nilotica extract at a dose above 200 mg/kg remarkably increased micronucleus and comet tail formation in bone marrow cells compared with the MNU-treated group.

Conclusions

A. nilotica extract possessed anticancer activity with relative genotoxic effects at high doses.
Spray-drying Microencapsulation of an Extract from Tilia tomentosa Moench Flowers: Physicochemical Characterization and in Vitro Intestinal Activity
Authors: Mainente Federica , Piovan Anna , Zanoni Francesca , Chignola Roberto , Cerantola Silvia , Faggin Sofia , Giron Maria Cecilia , Filippini Raffaella , Seraglia Roberta , Zoccatelli Gianni
Published: August 2022

Silver linden (Tilia tomentosa Moench, TtM) flowers possess several health-promoting properties, especially at the neurological level, such as intestinal relaxation activity associated with specific flavonols, particularly quercetin and kaempferol derivatives. However, such molecules are susceptible to degradation upon different triggers like heat, light and extreme pH values. To overcome the scarce stability of TtM flowers bioactive molecules and make them suitable for developing functional food and supplements, we applied microencapsulation. Spray-drying microencapsulation of TtM flowers extract was performed using three starch-derived wall materials: maltodextrin 12 DE (MD12) and 19 DE (MD19), and OSA-modified starch (OSA-S). The stability of total phenols, flavanols, and antioxidant capacity was monitored for 70 days under accelerated stress conditions (40 °C/70% RH) by HPLC and spectrophotometric methods, and the intestinal contractile activity was tested in a murine model. In comparison to MD12 and MD19, OSA-S stood out for the higher encapsulation efficiency of quercetin and kaempferol glycosides (+ 36–47% compared to MD12 and + 18–24% compared to MD19) and stability thereof (half-life on average + 30% compared to MD12 and + 51% compared to MD19). The intestinal contractile activity of OAS-S powders resulted comparable to the original extract, indicating that flavonols were biologically active and accessible. Our results underly the potential advantages of OSA-S encapsulated formulation as a functional ingredient for the development of nutraceutical products.
How important is subjective well-being for patients? A qualitative interview study of people with psoriasis
Authors: Newi Antonia-Luise , Tsianakas Athanasios , von Martial Sophia , Sommer Rachel , Blome Christine
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This qualitative study aimed to investigate the importance of subjective well-being (SWB) as an outcome of psoriasis treatment from patient’s perspective. We focused on the affective component of SWB as assessed with the Daily Experience Sampling Questionnaire (DESQ), a validated daily diary.

Methods

Semi-structured qualitative telephone interviews were conducted with in-patients of a dermatological rehabilitation clinic, after participants had completed the DESQ for up to seven days to get familiar with the concept of SWB. Patients were asked to reflect on the importance of SWB as treatment goal and on its relative importance as compared with other treatment outcomes. We also addressed whether SWB could be an indirect measure of benefit in that it reflects other important outcomes. Transcripts were analyzed using content analysis.

Results

Eleven patients participated (24–63 years, mean 53 years, 8 male, 3 female). Participants uniformly confirmed that changes in SWB reflected treatment benefit. All but one considered SWB to be a central aspect of treatment benefit—either as the most important treatment goal or as an indirect benefit indicator. In particular, participants described positive associations of SWB with other outcomes, such as symptoms. They reported that both the disease and the medical treatment had an impact on their SWB, which was reflected in the DESQ.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that SWB is a relevant indicator of treatment benefit for patients with psoriasis. Therefore, SWB measures, such as the DESQ, could be used to operationalize patient-relevant benefit of psoriasis treatment, complementing outcome measures currently used.
PIER: cyber-resilient risk assessment model for connected and autonomous vehicles
Authors: Park Seunghyun , Park Hyunhee
Published: August 2022

As more vehicles are being connected to the Internet and equipped with autonomous driving features, more robust safety and security measures are required for connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs). Therefore, threat analysis and risk assessment are essential to prepare against cybersecurity risks for CAVs. Although prior studies have measured the possibility of attack and damage from attack as risk assessment indices, they have not analyzed the expanding attack surface or risk assessment indices that rely upon real-time resilience. This study proposes the PIER method to evaluate the cybersecurity risks of CAVs. We implemented cyber resilience for CAVs by presenting new criteria, such as exposure and recovery, in addition to probability and impact, as indices for the threat analysis and risk assessment of vehicles. To verify its effectiveness, the PIER method was evaluated with respect to software update over-the-air and collision avoidance features. Furthermore, we found that implementing security requirements that mitigate serious risks successfully diminishes the risk indices. Using the risk assessment matrix, the PIER method can shorten the risk determination time through high-risk coverage and a simple process.
CD39 in the development and progression of pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Willcox Abbey , Lee Natasha Ting , Nandurkar Harshal H. , Sashindranath Maithili
Published: August 2022

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a devastating progressive disease characterised by pulmonary arterial vasoconstriction and vascular remodelling. Endothelial dysfunction has emerged as a contributing factor in the development of PAH. However, despite progress in the understanding of the pathophysiology of this disease, current therapies fail to impact upon long-term outcomes which remain poor in most patients. Recent observations have suggested the disturbances in the balance between ATP and adenosine may be integral to the vascular remodelling seen in PAH. CD39 is an enzyme important in regulating these nucleos(t)ides which may also provide a novel pathway to target for future therapies. This review summarises the role of adenosine signalling in the development and progression of PAH and highlights the therapeutic potential of CD39 for treatment of PAH.
Performance prediction, pacing profile and running pattern of elite 1-h track running events
Authors: Girardi Michele , Gattoni Chiara , Sponza Luca , Marcora Samuele Maria , Micklewright Dominic
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study aimed at comparing the predictive accuracy of the power law (PL), 2-parameter hyperbolic (HYP) and linear (LIN) models on elite 1-h track running performance, and evaluating pacing profile and running pattern of the men’s best two 1-h track running performances of all times.

Methods

The individual running speed–distance profile was obtained for nine male elite runners using the three models. Different combinations of personal bests times (3000 m-marathon) were used to predict performance. The level of absolute agreement between predicted and actual performance was evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), paired t test and Bland–Altman analysis. A video analysis was performed to assess pacing profile and running pattern.

Results

Regardless of the predictors used, no significant differences (p > 0.05) between predicted and actual performances were observed for the PL model. A good agreement was found for the HYP and LIN models only when the half-marathon was the longest event predictor used (ICC = 0.718–0.737, p < 0.05). Critical speed (CS) was highly dependent on the predictors used. Unlike CS, PLV20 (i.e., the running speed corresponding to a 20-min performance estimated using the PL model) was associated with 1-h track running performances (r = 0.722–0.807, p < 0.05). An even pacing profile with minimal changes of step length and frequency was observed.

Conclusions

The PL model may offer the more realistic 1-h track running performance prediction among the models investigated. An even pacing might be the best strategy for succeeding in such running events.
Remedying the Metamemory Expectancy Illusion in Source Monitoring: Are there Effects on Restudy Choices and Source Memory?
Authors: Schaper Marie Luisa , Bayen Ute J. , Hey Carolin V.
Published: August 2022

Metamemory monitoring, study behavior, and memory are presumably causally connected. When people misjudge their memory, their study behavior should be biased accordingly. Remedying metamemory illusions should debias study behavior and improve memory. One metamemory illusion concerns source memory, a critical aspect of episodic memory. People predict better source memory for items that originated from an expected source (e.g., toothbrush in a bathroom) rather than an unexpected source (e.g., shampoo in a kitchen), whereas actual source memory shows the opposite: an inconsistency effect. This expectancy illusion biases restudy choices: Participants restudy more unexpected than expected source–item pairs. The authors tested the causal relationships between metamemory and source memory with a delay and a source-retrieval attempt between study and metamemory judgment to remedy the expectancy illusion and debias restudy choices. Debiased restudy choices should enhance source memory for expected items, thereby reducing the inconsistency effect. Two groups studied expected and unexpected source–item pairs. They made metamemory judgments and restudy choices immediately at study or after delay, restudied the selected pairs, and completed a source-monitoring test. After immediate judgments, participants predicted better source memory for expected pairs and selected more unexpected pairs for restudy. After delayed judgments, participants predicted a null effect of expectancy on source memory and selected equal numbers of expected and unexpected pairs. Thus, the expectancy illusion was partially remedied and restudy choices were debiased. Nevertheless, source memory was only weakly affected. The results challenge the presumed causal relationships between metamemory monitoring, study behavior, and source memory.
Comparing Relative Bond Characteristics Between Spherical and Elongated Morphologies for Cold Spray Process Using SPH Simulation
Authors: Tai Wesley Kean Wah , Chakrabarty Rohan , Pinches Samuel , Huang Xiaodong , Lang Jeffrey , Song Jun , Ang Andrew Siao Ming
Published: August 2022

Under cold spray conditions, the modified Johnson–Cook model was adopted to perform single and multiple particle simulation for spherical and elongated aluminum alloy- Al-6061 feedstock particles. The splat formations were realistically presented; the temperature evolution throughout the deposition process stayed below the melting point of Al-6061, and the feedstock particles exhibited restitution for impact velocities lower than 200 m/s. Feedstock particles with elongated morphology experienced a lower elastic strain energy level than spherical morphology after impact, which implied the relative bond strength was higher for elongated particles than spherical particles. The displacement curves in single particle simulations for both morphologies suggested a spherical particle experienced a greater shock than the elongated particle upon impact. The relative bond strength achieved by multiple particle impact was lower than the single particle impact, even though the displacement curves showed the feedstock particles were individually embedded in the substrate.
Determinants of Adherence to Best Practice in Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Gantner Dashiell , Cooper D. Jamie , Finfer Simon , Bragge Peter
Published: August 2022

Background

Management of patients with severe traumatic brain injury (sTBI) is highly variable and inconsistently aligned with evidence derived from high-quality trials, including those examining intravenous fluid resuscitation and use of decompressive craniectomy surgery. This study explored the barriers and facilitators of general and specific evidence-based practices in sTBI from the perspectives of stakeholder clinicians.

Methods

This was a qualitative study of semistructured interviews conducted with specialist clinicians responsible for acute care of patients with sTBI. Interview analysis was guided by the Theoretical domains framework (TDF), and key themes were mapped to relevant TDF behavioral domains.

Results

Ten neurosurgeons, 12 intensive care specialists, and three trauma physicians from six high-income countries participated between May 2020 and May 2021. Key TDF domains were environmental context and resources, social influences, and beliefs about consequences. Evidence-aligned management of patients with sTBI is perceived to be facilitated by admission to academic research-oriented hospitals, development of local practice protocols, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Determinants of specific practices varied and included health policy change for fluid resuscitation and development of patient-centered goals for surgical decision-making.

Conclusions

In choosing interventions for patients with sTBI, clinicians integrate local environmental, social, professional, and emotional influences with evidence and associated clinical practice guideline recommendations. This study highlights determinants of evidence-based practice that may inform implementation efforts and thereby improve outcomes for patients with sTBI.