bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Table-GPT: Table Fine-tuned GPT for Diverse Table Tasks
Authors: Li Peng , He Yeye , Yashar Dror , Cui Weiwei , Ge Song , Zhang Haidong , Rifinski Fainman Danielle , Zhang Dongmei , Chaudhuri Surajit
Published: May 2024

Language models, such as GPT-3 and ChatGPT, demonstrate remarkable abilities to follow diverse human instructions and perform a wide range of tasks, using instruction fine-tuning. However, when we test language models with a range of basic table-understanding tasks, we observe that today's language models are still sub-optimal in many table-related tasks, likely because they are pre-trained predominantly on one-dimensional natural-language texts, whereas relational tables are two-dimensional objects. In this work, we propose a new "\emphtable fine-tuning '' paradigm, where we continue to train/fine-tune language models like GPT-3.5 and ChatGPT, using diverse table-tasks synthesized from real tables as training data, which is analogous to "instruction fine-tuning'', but with the goal of enhancing language models' ability to understand tables and perform table tasks. We show that our resulting \sys models demonstrate: (1) better table-understanding capabilities, by consistently outperforming the vanilla GPT-3.5 and ChatGPT, on a wide range of table tasks (data transformation, data cleaning, data profiling, data imputation, table-QA, etc.), including tasks that are completely holdout and unseen during training, and (2) strong generalizability, in its ability to respond to diverse human instructions to perform new and unseen table-tasks, in a manner similar to GPT-3.5 and ChatGPT. Our code and data have been released at https://github.com/microsoft/Table-GPT for future research.
Temporal JSON Keyword Search
Authors: Dyreson Curtis , Shatnawi Amani , Bhowmick Sourav S. , Sharma Vishal
Published: May 2024

JSON keyword search searches the current versions of documents in a collection. However, JSON documents change over time due to edits. Some applications, such as data forensics and auditing, need to search past versions of documents and for changes to documents. This paper introduces a system called Temporal JSON Keyword Search (TJKS) for search in a collection of JSON documents that vary over time. TJKS lets users control which temporal slice, or part of the history, can be searched using a temporal search semantics; we support both of the major temporal semantics: sequenced and nonsequenced search. This paper presents the semantics of temporal JSON keyword search, discusses an efficient implementation, and evaluates the implementation. Our extensions are largely orthogonal to specific keyword search techniques, so this research provides a blueprint for extending keyword search to include time and potentially other kinds of metadata.
Understanding the Performance Implications of the Design Principles in Storage-Disaggregated Databases
Authors: Pang Xi , Wang Jianguo
Published: May 2024

Storage-compute disaggregation has recently emerged as a novel architecture in modern data centers, particularly in the cloud. By decoupling compute from storage, this new architecture enables independent and elastic scaling of compute and storage resources, potentially increasing resource utilization and reducing overall costs. To best leverage the disaggregated architecture, a new breed of database systems termed storage-disaggregated databases has recently been developed, such as Amazon Aurora, Microsoft Socrates, Google AlloyDB, Alibaba PolarDB, and Huawei Taurus. However, little is known about the effectiveness of the design principles in these databases since they are typically developed by industry giants, and only the overall performance results are presented without detailing the impact of individual design principles. As a result, many critical research questions remain unclear, such as the performance impact of storage-disaggregation, the log-as-the-database design, shared-storage, and various log-replay methods.

In this paper, we investigate the performance implications of the design principles that are widely adopted in storage-disaggregated databases for the first time. As these databases were usually not open-sourced, we have made a significant effort to implement a storage-disaggregated database prototype based on PostgreSQL v13.0. By fully controlling and instrumenting the codebase, we are able to selectively enable and disable individual optimizations and techniques to evaluate their impact on performance in various scenarios. Furthermore, we open-source our storage-disaggregated database prototype for use by the broader database research community, fostering collaboration and innovation in this field.
GE
2
: A General and Efficient Knowledge Graph Embedding Learning System
Authors: Zheng Chenguang , Jiang Guanxian , Yan Xiao , Yin Peiqi , Zhou Qihui , Cheng James
Published: May 2024

Graph embedding learning computes an embedding vector for each node in a graph and finds many applications in areas such as social networks, e-commerce, and medicine. We observe that existing graph embedding systems (e.g., PBG, DGL-KE, and Marius) have long CPU time and high CPU-GPU communication overhead, especially when using multiple GPUs. Moreover, it is cumbersome to implement negative sampling algorithms on them, which have many variants and are crucial for model quality. We propose a new system called GE
2
, which achieves both generality and efficiency for graph embedding learning. In particular, we propose a general execution model that encompasses various negative sampling algorithms. Based on the execution model, we design a user-friendly API that allows users to easily express negative sampling algorithms. To support efficient training, we offload operations from CPU to GPU to enjoy high parallelism and reduce CPU time. We also design COVER, which, to our knowledge, is the first algorithm to manage data swap between CPU and multiple GPUs for small communication costs. Extensive experimental results show that, comparing with the state-of-the-art graph embedding systems, GE
2
trains consistently faster across different models and datasets, where the speedup is usually over 2x and can be up to 7.5x.
Akane: Perplexity-Guided Time Series Data Cleaning
Authors: Han Xiaoyu , Xiong Haoran , He Zhenying , Wang Peng , Wang Chen , Wang X. Sean
Published: May 2024

Dirty data are prevalent in time series, such as energy consumption or stock data. Existing data cleaning algorithms present shortcomings in dirty data identification and unsatisfactory cleaning decisions. To handle these drawbacks, we leverage inherent recurrent patterns in time series, analogize them as fixed combinations in textual data, and incorporate the concept of perplexity. The cleaning problem is thus transformed to minimize the perplexity of the time series under a given cleaning cost, and we design a four-phase algorithmic framework to tackle this problem. To ensure the framework's feasibility, we also conduct a brief analysis of the impact of dirty data and devise an automatic budget selection strategy. Moreover, to make it more generic, we additionally introduce advanced solutions, including an ameliorative probability calculation method grounded in the homomorphic pattern aggregation and a greedy-based heuristic algorithm for resource savings. Experiments on 12 real-world datasets demonstrate the superiority of our methods.
Qr-Hint: Actionable Hints Towards Correcting Wrong SQL Queries
Authors: Hu Yihao , Gilad Amir , Stephens-Martinez Kristin , Roy Sudeepa , Yang Jun
Published: May 2024

We describe a system called Qr-Hint that, given a (correct) target query Q* and a (wrong) working query Q, both expressed in SQL, provides actionable hints for the user to fix the working query so that it becomes semantically equivalent to the target. It is particularly useful in an educational setting, where novices can receive help from Qr-Hint without requiring extensive personal tutoring. Since there are many different ways to write a correct query, we do not want to base our hints completely on how Q* is written; instead, starting with the user's own working query, Qr-Hint purposefully guides the user through a sequence of steps that provably lead to a correct query, which will be equivalent to Q* but may still "look" quite different from it. Ideally, we would like Qr-Hint's hints to lead to the "smallest" possible corrections to Q. However, optimality is not always achievable in this case due to some foundational hurdles such as the undecidability of SQL query equivalence and the complexity of logic minimization. Nonetheless, by carefully decomposing and formulating the problems and developing principled solutions, we are able to provide provably correct and locally optimal hints through Qr-Hint. We show the effectiveness of Qr-Hint through quality and performance experiments as well as a user study in an educational setting.
Characterizing the Performance and Cost of Blockchains on the Cloud and at the Edge
Authors: Loghin Dumitrel , Dinh Tien Tuan Anh , Gang Chen , Teo Yong Meng , Ooi Beng Chin
Published: May 2024

While state-of-the-art permissioned blockchains can achieve thousands of transactions per second on commodity hardware with x86/64 architecture, their performance when running on different architectures, such as ARM, is not clear. The goal of this work is to characterize the performance and cost of permissioned blockchains on different hardware systems, which is important as diverse application domains are adopting blockchains. To this end, we conduct extensive cost and performance evaluation of two permissioned blockchains, namely Hyperledger Fabric and ConsenSys Quorum, on five different types of hardware covering both x86/64 and ARM architecture, as well as both cloud and edge computing. The hardware nodes include servers with Intel Xeon CPU, servers with ARM-based Amazon Graviton CPU, and edge devices with ARM-based CPU such as Nvidia Jetson TX2 and Raspberry Pi 4. Our results reveal a diverse profile of the two blockchains across different settings, demonstrating the impact of hardware choices on the overall performance and cost. We find that Graviton servers outperform Xeon servers in many settings due to their powerful CPU and high memory bandwidth. Edge devices with ARM architecture, on the other hand, exhibit low performance. When comparing the cloud with the edge, we show that the cost of the latter is much smaller in the long run if manpower cost is not considered.
Temperature Dependent Anomalous Threshold Voltage Modulation of a-IGZO TFT by Incorporating Variant Gate Stresses
Authors: Aslam Muhammad , Chang Shu-Wei , Chen Yi-Ho , Lee Yao-Jen , Li Yiming , Lee Wen-Hsi
Published: May 2024

Amorphous indium gallium zinc oxide (a-IGZO) has recently made significant advancement as a key material for electronic component design owing to its compatibility with complementary metal oxide semiconductor technologies. A comprehensive analysis of reliability-related issues is required to determine the true potential of a-IGZO-based devices for next-generation electronics applications. To address this objective, we electrically characterize scaled-channel a-IGZO thin film transistors (TFTs) under positive bias (temperature) stress (PB(T)S). Both PBS and PBTS are characterized by positive and negative Vth shift, respectively, during the various gate stresses. In particular, the negative Vth shift is explained by the generation of donor-like traps stimulated by ionization of oxygen vacancy/hydrogen at elevated temperature. The TFTs exhibit relatively decent stability during the PBS operation. The analysis of devices with variant channel dimensions implies that long-channel devices exhibit relatively higher stability and performance compared to the short-channel ones. We also observe that the Vth can be controllably adjusted by employing the top gate (TG) with bottom gate sweep. Moreover, the stress-induced partial recovery mechanism is experimentally observed owing to detrapping of charges. Generally, the reported results infer a perceptive understanding of scaled-channel a-IGZO-TFTs which helps with shaping performance-enhancement strategies.
Critical environmental core temperature limits and heart rate thresholds across the adult age span (PSU HEAT Project)
Authors: Cottle Rachel M. , Fisher Kat G. , Leach Olivia K. , Wolf S. Tony , Kenney W. Larry
Published: May 2024

This study is the first to identify critical environmental core temperature and heart rate thresholds across the adult age spectrum. In addition, our data demonstrate that the rate of decline in Tc and HR limits with age is environmental-dependent. These findings provide strong empirical data for the development of safety guidelines and policy decisions to mitigate excessive heat- and cardiovascular-related morbidity and mortality for impending heat events.
An Efficient Anomaly Detection Method for Industrial Control Systems: Deep Convolutional Autoencoding Transformer Network
Authors: Shang Wenli , Qiu Jiawei , Shi Haotian , Wang Shuang , Ding Lei , Xiao Yanjun
Published: May 2024

Industrial control systems (ICSs), as critical national infrastructures, are increasingly susceptible to sophisticated security threats. To address this challenge, our study introduces the CAE-T, a deep convolutional autoencoding transformer network designed for efficient anomaly detection and real-time fault monitoring in ICS. The CAE-T utilizes unsupervised deep learning, employing a convolutional autoencoder for spatial feature extraction from multidimensional time-series data, and combines this with a transformer architecture to capture long-term temporal dependencies. The design of the model facilitates rapid training and inference, while its dual-component approach, utilizing an optimization function based on support vector data description (SVDD), enhances detection accuracy. This integration synergistically combines spatiotemporal feature extraction, significantly improving the robustness and precision of anomaly detection in ICS environments. The CAE-T model demonstrated notable performance enhancements across three industrial control system datasets. Notably, the CAE-T model achieved approximately a 70.8% increase in F1 score and a 9.2% rise in AUC on the WADI dataset. On the SWaT dataset, the model showed improvements of approximately 2.8% in F1 score and 5% in AUC. The power system dataset saw more modest gains, with an approximately 0.1% uptick in F1 score and a 1% increase in AUC. These improvements validate the CAE-T model’s efficacy and robustness in anomaly detection across various scenarios.
Hypoperfusion in Supramarginal and Orbital Gyrus, Position Discrimination Test, and Microsaccades as a Predictor of Pisa Syndrome in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Yoritaka Asako , Hayashi Tetsuo , Fusegi Keiko , Nakayama Sachiko , Haneda Jun , Hattori Nobutaka
Published: May 2024

Patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) experience significantly reduced quality of life when PD is complicated with Pisa syndrome (PS). PS is a postural abnormality associated with a lateral bending of the trunk, causing the patient to lean to one side. Microsaccades during fixation are transmitted to the visual cortex, and this gaze movement may be impaired in PD. We aimed to detect presymptomatic signs of PS. We enrolled 50 patients with PD without dementia and investigated the visual systems in patients with concurrent PD and PS based on a Romberg ratio of<1.0. Gaze analysis, pupil diameter, stabilization tests, neuropsychological tests, and cerebral perfusion scintigraphy were reviewed and statistically analyzed. Two years later, we divided the patients into three groups as follows: PISA++ (patients who had PS at enrollment), PISA-+ (patients without PS that developed PS during the 2-year period), and PISA-- (patients without PS that did not develop PS during the 2-year period). The PISA-+ group exhibited a significantly higher daily levodopa dose and longer fixations, as well as lower position discrimination, Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Third Edition blocking, and blood flow in the left supramarginal and orbital gyri than that in the PISA-- group. The PISA++ group showed a significantly longer fixation time and lower Mini-Mental State Examination score, Romberg ratio of area, amplitude, velocity of microsaccades, and blood flow in the left precuneus and cuneus than that in the PISA-+ group. Before the onset of PS, hypoperfusion occurred in the correlative visual cortex and the position discrimination test. Patients with PS have reduced saccades and slow microsaccades.
Fixation of Olecranon Fractures Using a Hybrid Intramedullary Screw and Tension Band Construct
Authors: Rush Kaitlin , Fisher John , Jain Neil , Gottlich Caleb , Caroom Cyrus
Published: May 2024

Introduction. Olecranon fractures are common injuries that require surgical intervention for optimal outcomes. Various fixation methods have been described in the literature, including the use of intramedullary proximal ulna screws in combination with tension band augmentation. Limited research has compared this hybrid technique to other established methods of fixation. This study compared complication and reoperation rates between multiple groups. Methods. A retrospective review was conducted on patients with olecranon fractures who underwent internal fixation at a level 1 trauma center between January 1st, 2013, and April 22nd, 2023. Data was collected using CPT codes, and patients were categorized into five groups based on the method of fixation received: no implant, tension band only, locking olecranon plate, intramedullary screw and tension band hybrid, and others. Variables such as patient demographics, Mayo fracture classification, open vs. closed injury, implant type, reoperation rates, and postoperative complications were recorded. Results. A total of 217 patients were included in the study. No difference was found with implant choice and reoperation rate (p=0.461). There was a significant difference found with reoperation and fracture type (p=0.027) and open fracture (p=0.002). Conclusion. The primary findings of this study indicate no significant difference in implant choice and reoperation rates among the various fixation methods used for olecranon fractures. These findings suggest that the hybrid fixation technique, utilizing intramedullary proximal ulna screws in combination with tension band augmentation, is a viable and comparable treatment option when evaluated against other well-documented methods of fixation. This study also reiterates that severity of initial injury is often the most important factor related to poorer outcomes. Further discussion and analysis of the data will provide a comprehensive understanding of implications and recommendations for olecranon fracture fixation.
Influence of Mechanical and Microscopic Properties of Red Sandstone Modified by Different Solid Waste Materials
Authors: Chen Xiangmei , Ren Yongqiang , Tang Baoli , Yang Guohui
Published: May 2024

To improve the strength of red sandstone roadbed and elevate the utilization rate of solid waste materials, this study explored the enhancement of red sandstone using three types of solid waste materials: slag‐micronized powder, fly ash, and waste incineration bottom ash. The mechanical properties of various solid waste materials, including compaction, unconfined compressive strength, and disintegration test results, were evaluated to assess the enhancement of red sandstone. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy was employed to analyze the microstructural alterations induced by these materials. The results indicated that the optimal moisture content of fly ash‐improved soil and slag micropowder‐improved soil gradually increased, whereas the maximum dry density decreased with an increase in the solid waste material admixture. At an 11% dosage of waste incineration bottom ash, the maximum unconfined compressive strength reached 2,386 kPa. The soil–water characteristic curves for the different solid waste materials exhibited a similar overall trend. Notably, the disintegration rate significantly slowed at a 9% dosage of fly ash, whereas at 11% dosage of waste incineration bottom ash, the disintegration rate nearly reached 0%, demonstrating optimal improvement effects. This suggested that the bottom ash effectively enhanced the water stability performance of red sandstone and increased its resistance to disintegration. Microscopic analysis revealed that slag micropowder and fly ash were comparatively less effective in enhancing red sandstone. The waste incineration bottom ash efficiently generated substantial cementitious material to fill pores. In summary, employing 11% waste incineration bottom ash was recommended to enhance red sandstone in practical roadbed improvement projects.
Supplementary Table 2 from LYVE-1–expressing Macrophages Modulate the Hyaluronan-containing Extracellular Matrix in the Mammary Stroma and Contribute to Mammary Tumor Growth
Authors: Elfstrum Alexis K. , Rumahorbo Annisa H. , Reese Lyndsay E. , Nelson Emma V. , McCluskey Braedan M. , Schwertfeger Kathryn L.
Published: May 2024

Table depicting shortened GSEA terms and corresponding full GSEA name referenced in Figure 5D and 6B.
Trichoscopy of Discoid Lupus Erythematosus in Caucasian Scalp: A Review
Authors: Milan Elisa , Vezzoni Roberta , Starace Michela V.R.
Published: May 2024

Background: Scalp discoid lupus erythematosus in Caucasians is still a rare disease with a variable clinical presentation. Its dermoscopic characteristics are poorly described in literature, especially in the white population. The aim of this review was to critically analyze published papers on this topic and summarize relevant features. Summary: A comprehensive search for eligible articles was conducted in the databases of MEDLINE/PubMed. Results were analyzed following dermoscopic patterns such as follicular openings, hair shafts, perifollicular surface, and vessel pattern. Key Messages: The most representative features appeared the absence of follicular openings and the presence of follicular keratotic plugs, along with yellow-brown and red dots. In long-lasting lesions with chronic stage, trichoscopy showed the absence of follicular openings, white or milky red cicatricial patches, white and brown structureless areas, and thick arborizing vessels.
Correlation between Matrix Metalloproteinase Presence and Caries Surface Appearance
Authors: El Sharkasi Lamis , Bingle Lynne , Martin Nicolas , Subka Samiya , Deery Chris
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Cariogenic bacterial acids dissolve the inorganic elements in dentine, leaving the dentine matrix exposed. Host-derived matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play an essential role in caries progression as they are significant regulators of extracellular matrix turnover and can degrade exposed collagen. This paper investigates the expression of MMP2 and MMP9 across various stages of caries in primary human teeth and relate this with a diagnosis recorded by the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS). Methods: Twenty-four sections (150 μm in thickness) from extracted teeth, clinically diagnosed using ICDAS, were immunohistochemically treated with monoclonal anti-MMP2 and anti-MMP9 antibodies. Positive staining was visualised by immunofluorescence using a VectorFluor Duet Double Labeling Kit. Images from triplicate samples for each ICDAS score were analysed using ImageJ software. Collagen degradation in caries lesions was detected using a hydroxyproline assay. Results: MMPs were weakly detected in caries with ICDAS 1–2 scores, and an insignificant increase was detected in ICDAS 3. However, a significant increase in MMP expression was seen in caries with an ICDAS score of 4–6. There was a strong positive correlation between the ICDAS score and MMP2 (r [6] = 0.86, p = 0.002) and between ICDAS and MMP9 (r [6] = 0.82, p = 0.004). Data were analysed using two-way ANOVA followed by Tukey multiple comparison test (*p < 0.05). Conclusion: The use of ICDAS to assess the severity of caries lesions and how this correlates with the presence of MMP in these lesions validates the modern approach to caries management with a minimally invasive concept.
Partial vertical integration in the citrus agro-industrial system: a bargaining or efficiency instrument?
Authors: Azevedo Paulo Furquim de
Published: May 2024

O sistema agroindustrial citrícola brasileiro é caracterizado pela integração vertical parcial para trás, ou seja, a maior parte das processadoras de suco produzem, elas próprias, parte dos insumos (laranjas) de que necessitam. Os argumentos presentes na literatura para explicar esse fenômeno são variados, no entanto concluem unanimemente pela eficiência dessa forma de se estruturar a transação entre citricultores e indústria processadora. Este artigo argumenta que, ao contrário da posição dominante, a integração vertical observada atende a um propósito estratégico na barganha entre as partes, podendo ser adotada mesmo em se tratando de uma forma organizacional menos eficiente. Ao final é avaliada a posição recentemente tomada pelo Conselho Administrativo de Defesa Econômica (CADE) na análise desse caso.
M. J. Molloy. Selected Plays
Authors: Bastos Beatriz Kopschitz Xavier
Published: May 2024

Joseph Ronsley & Ann Saddlemyer. Selected Plays. M. J. Molloy. Gerrards Cross: Colin Smythe and Washington D.C.: The Catholic University of America Press, 1998. 394 pp.
Associations Between Genetically Predicted Iron Status and Cardiovascular Disease Risk: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Barad Alexa , Clark Andrew G. , Pressman Eva K. , O'Brien Kimberly O.
Published: May 2024

Background

Mendelian randomization (MR) studies suggest a causal effect of iron status on cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, but it is unknown if these associations are confounded by pleiotropic effects of the instrumental variables on CVD risk factors. We aimed to investigate the effect of iron status on CVD risk controlling for CVD risk factors.

Methods and Results

Iron biomarker instrumental variables (total iron‐binding capacity [n=208 422], transferrin saturation [n=198 516], serum iron [n=236 612], ferritin [n=257 953]) were selected from a European genome‐wide association study meta‐analysis. We performed 2‐sample univariate MR of each iron trait on CVD outcomes (all‐cause ischemic stroke, cardioembolic ischemic stroke, large‐artery ischemic stroke, small‐vessel ischemic stroke, and coronary heart disease) from MEGASTROKE (n=440 328) and CARDIoGRAMplusC4D (Coronary Artery Disease Genome Wide Replication and Meta‐Analysis Plus the Coronary Artery Disease Genetics) (n=183 305). We then implemented multivariate MR conditioning on 7 CVD risk factors from independent European samples to evaluate their potential confounding or mediating effects on the observed iron–CVD associations. With univariate MR analyses, we found higher genetically predicted iron status to be associated with a greater risk of cardioembolic ischemic stroke (transferrin saturation: odds ratio, 1.17 [95% CI, 1.03–1.33]; serum iron: odds ratio, 1.21 [95% CI, 1.02–1.44]; total iron‐binding capacity: odds ratio, 0.81 [95% CI, 0.69–0.94]). The detrimental effects of iron status on cardioembolic ischemic stroke risk remained unaffected when adjusting for CVD risk factors (all
P
<0.05). Additionally, we found diastolic blood pressure to mediate between 7.1 and 8.8% of the total effect of iron status on cardioembolic ischemic stroke incidence. Univariate MR initially suggested a protective effect of iron status on large‐artery stroke and coronary heart disease, but controlling for CVD factors using multivariate MR substantially diminished these associations (all
P
>0.05).

Conclusions

Higher iron status was associated with a greater risk of cardioembolic ischemic stroke independent of CVD risk factors, and this effect was partly mediated by diastolic blood pressure. These findings support a role of iron status as a modifiable risk factor for cardioembolic ischemic stroke.
Prestroke Cognitive Impairment: Frequency and Association With Premorbid Neuropsychiatric, Functional, and Neuroimaging Features
Authors: Mele Francesco , Cova Ilaria , Nicotra Alessia , Maestri Giorgia , Salvadori Emilia , Cucumo Valentina , Masserini Federico , Martelli Martina , Pomati Simone , Bertora Pierluigi , Pantoni Leonardo
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

Some patients with stroke have prestroke cognitive impairment (pre-SCI), but its etiology is not clear. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to assess the frequency of pre-SCI and its association with premorbid neuropsychiatric, functional, and neuroimaging features.

METHODS:

Patients hospitalized in stroke unit with an informant who could complete IQCODE (Informant Questionnaire for Cognitive Decline in the Elderly) were included. Pre-SCI was diagnosed if the IQCODE score was >3.3. Prestroke assessment also included NPI-Q (Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire), the basic Activities of Daily Living and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living scales, and the Clinical Dementia Rating scale. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to evaluate the association of pre-SCI with age, sex, education, arterial hypertension, atrial fibrillation, white matter lesions, cerebral microbleeds, and pathological medial temporal lobe atrophy.

RESULTS:

IQCODE was available in 474 of 520 patients (91.2%; 45% women; mean age 75.5±13.3 years). Pre-SCI had a prevalence of 32.5% and was associated with prestroke NPI-Q (pre-SCI absent versus present, 1.7±2.3 versus 5.5±4.9;
P
<0.001), Activities of Daily Living scale (0.3±0.8 versus 1.8±1.9;
P
<0.001), Instrumental Activities of Daily Living scale (0.6±1.3 versus 3.8±4.0;
P
<0.001), and Clinical Dementia Rating scale score (0.7±1.7 versus 7.2±6.2;
P
<0.001). In the 271 patients with a magnetic resonance imaging available, the multivariate logistic regression showed that age (odds ratio [OR], 1.05 [95% CI, 1.62–9.73]), white matter lesions (OR, 1.26 [95% CI, 1.003–1.58]), and a pathological medial temporal lobe atrophy score (OR, 3.97 [95% CI, 1.62–9.73]) were independently associated with pre-SCI. In the 218 patients with ischemic stroke, white matter lesions (OR, 1.34 [95% CI, 1.04–1.72]) and medial temporal lobe atrophy (OR, 3.56 [95% CI, 1.38–9.19]), but not age, were associated with pre-SCI.

CONCLUSIONS:

One-third of patients admitted to a stroke unit have pre-SCI that is associated with preexisting neuropsychiatric symptoms and functional performance. White matter lesions and medial temporal lobe atrophy are associated with pre-SCI, suggesting that both small vessel disease and neurodegeneration might be involved in its etiology.
Effect of the Blood Pressure and Antihypertensive Drugs on Cerebral Small Vessel Disease: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Ma Yazhou , Wang Mengmeng , Chen Xin , Yao Jianrong , Ding Yiping , Gao Qianqian , Zhou Jiayi , Lian Xuegan
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

Previous studies yielded conflicting results about the influence of blood pressure (BP) and antihypertensive treatment on cerebral small vessel disease. Here, we conducted a Mendelian randomization study to investigate the effect of BP and antihypertensive drugs on cerebral small vessel disease.

METHODS:

We extracted single-nucleotide polymorphisms for systolic BP and diastolic BP from a genome-wide association study (N=757 601) and screened single-nucleotide polymorphisms associated with calcium channel blockers, thiazides, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, and β-blockers from public resources as instrumental variables. Then, we chose the genome-wide association study of white matter hyperintensity (WMH; N=18 381), cerebral microbleed (3556 cases, 22 306 controls), white matter perivascular space (9317 cases, 29 281 controls), basal ganglia perivascular space (BGPVS; 8950 cases, 29 953 controls), hippocampal perivascular space (HIPPVS; 9163 cases, 29 708 controls), and lacunar stroke (6030 cases, 248 929 controls) as outcome data sets. Subsequently, we conducted a 2-sample Mendelian randomization analysis.

RESULTS:

We found that elevated systolic BP significantly increases the risk of BGPVS (odds ratio [OR], 1.05 [95% CI, 1.04–1.07];
P
=1.72×10
−12
), HIPPVS (OR, 1.04 [95% CI, 1.02–1.05];
P
=2.71×10
−7
), and lacunar stroke (OR, 1.41 [95% CI, 1.30–1.54];
P
=4.97×10
−15
). There was suggestive evidence indicating that elevated systolic BP is associated with higher WMH volume (β=0.061 [95% CI, 0.018–0.105];
P
=5.58×10
−3
) and leads to an increased risk of cerebral microbleed (OR, 1.16 [95% CI, 1.04–1.29];
P
=7.17×10
−3
). Elevated diastolic BP was significantly associated with higher WMH volume (β=0.087 [95% CI, 0.049–0.124];
P
=5.23×10
−6
) and significantly increased the risk of BGPVS (OR, 1.05 [95% CI, 1.04–1.06];
P
=1.20×10
−16
), HIPPVS (OR, 1.03 [95% CI, 1.02–1.04];
P
=2.96×10
−6
), and lacunar stroke (OR, 1.31 [95% CI, 1.21–1.41];
P
=2.67×10
−12
). The use of calcium channel blocker to lower BP was significantly associated with lower WMH volume (β=−0.287 [95% CI, −0.408 to −0.165];
P
=4.05×10
−6
) and significantly reduced the risk of BGPVS (OR, 0.85 [95% CI, 0.81–0.89];
P
=8.41×10
−19
) and HIPPVS (OR, 0.88 [95% CI, 0.85–0.92];
P
=6.72×10
−9
).

CONCLUSIONS:

Our findings contribute to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of cerebral small vessel disease. Additionally, the utilization of calcium channel blockers to decrease BP can effectively reduce the likelihood of WMH, BGPVS, and HIPPVS. These findings offer valuable insights for the management and prevention of cerebral small vessel disease.
A Diagnostic Analysis of the Mechanisms for Arctic Cyclone Intensity Evolution
Authors: Wang Zhuo , Yang Mingshi , Walsh John E. , Rauber Robert M. , Peng Melinda
Published: May 2024

The intensity evolution of Arctic cyclones (ACs) is examined via cyclone parameter space and composite analyses based on approximately 18 000 AC tracks during 1979–2021. Cyclone parameter spaces are defined by various parameters representing the cyclone structure and physical processes relevant to cyclone development. It is shown that intensifying ACs are associated with diabatic heating and characterized by a cold core in both the lower and upper troposphere, as well as a thermally asymmetric and vertically tilted structure. In contrast, the decay phase is associated with diabatic cooling and characterized by a vertically aligned cyclone with reduced horizontal asymmetry. The cyclone parameter space analysis also indicates a warm core in the lower troposphere for a subset of ACs, which may reflect a frontal occlusion. The transition from AC intensification to decay, on average, is marked by a sharp decrease in both upward motion and diabatic heating, along with the vertical alignment of the cyclone structure. Following this transition, an upright cyclone may persist for a long time due to the weak background vertical wind shear, diabatic cooling, and weak Rossby wave energy dispersion. The evolution of ACs can thus be regarded as a two-stage process: a baroclinic development stage aided by diabatic heating, during which the AC evolution may conform with the Norwegian model for midlatitude cyclones, and a slow decay stage of an equivalent barotropic cyclone, which may leave a remnant tropopause polar vortex after the erosion of the surface circulation.

Significance Statement

Arctic cyclones are the primary weather system in the Arctic and are also an important component in the Arctic climate system owing to their role in modulating Arctic sea ice variability and poleward moisture and energy transport. We examined the cyclone structural characteristics and physical processes associated with the Arctic cyclone intensity evolution and proposed a two-stage conceptual model. A better understanding of the Arctic cyclone intensity change mechanisms will help us better anticipate the changes in Arctic cyclone activity in a warmer climate.
Comparison of the Characteristics and Precipitation Features of Mesoscale Convective Systems in Tropical Cyclones of Different Intensity Categories over the Western North Pacific
Authors: Wang Ke , Lyu Xinyu
Published: May 2024

The mesoscale features of 400 tropical cyclones (TCs) over the western North Pacific during 2014–21 were investigated through Global Precipitation Measurement Microwave Imager and Dual-Frequency Precipitation Radar observations. An improved algorithm has been developed to identify active mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) in TCs. These MCSs are continuous systems with active precipitation, exhibiting deep convection, and only account for a small portion of the precipitating pixels within a TC. This study highlights the evolving characteristics of MCSs and their precipitation features in TCs of different intensity categories. The development and evolution of active MCSs in TCs are influenced by the degree of organization of the system. During the tropical depression stage, the maintenance of MCSs relies heavily on substantial convective precipitation pixels, especially deep convection. The convection exhibits a high echo top height and significant ice scattering feature. As the TC intensity increases, MCSs are more likely to be in a mature state where convective precipitation is no longer as crucial for their development. This transition leads to a decrease in the proportion and the 20-dBZ echo top height of deep convection in both the inner- and outer-core regions. The proportion of stratiform precipitation increases, ultimately resulting in an expansion in the MCS size and an increase in the polarization-corrected temperatures (PCTs) of MCSs. By elucidating these phenomena, this study deepens our understanding of the structure and precipitation features of TCs, providing insights into the unique characteristics of MCS development that differ from the synoptic-scale features of TC development.
Screening for Breast Cancer Risk: An Analysis of Under-recognized Risk Factors and Comparison of Interventions
Authors: Wolf Mary , Vanderveken Rebecca L. , Rodriguez Gabriela , Kasumu Amanda , Frank Katie , Billy Matthew , Oxenberg Jacqueline C.
Published: May 2024

Recognition of patients at high risk (HR) for breast cancer allows earlier screening and opportunities for risk reduction. We compare patients referred to our breast clinic as HR vs referrals for other reason (ROR) and found to be HR. We evaluate under-recognized factors and treatment differences. A retrospective chart review of patients found to be HR but referred for any reason to our breast clinic from July 2012 to December 2022 was performed. Referral reason, demographics, hormonal history, family history, and other risk factors were evaluated and compared (HR vs ROR). While other risk models were used for screening, Gail and Tyrer-Cuzick version 7 (TCv7) were used for comparison. Breast imaging received, hormonal therapy, and genetics referral evaluations were compared. 195 patients were referred to our breast team, 113 (58%) were referred as HR while 82 (42%) were ROR. Average age was 47 years old. 175 (91%) were Caucasian. 74 (65.5%) were referred for genetic testing, and 32 (26%) tested positive for a genetic mutation (n = 10, 12% ROR). 67 (35%) were recommended chemoprevention (n = 32, 16.4% took chemoprevention). 6 (3.1%) underwent prophylactic mastectomies and 163 (85%) had supplemental breast imaging. Comparison of HR vs ROR did not show significant differences in hormonal factors or treatments received; however, TCv7 was higher in the group referred as HR ( P < .001). Our study showed that HR patients are more commonly referred secondary to family history but undergo similar treatments as those ROR. Accessibility to screening tools and education of risk factors, especially in minorities and those not otherwise being screened, may help better recognize HR.
‘Lines of flight’ in city food networks: A relational approach to food systems transformation
Authors: Discetti Roberta , Acuti Diletta
Published: May 2024

This paper focuses on multi-actor partnerships within city food networks geared towards food system transformation. While an emergent body of research uncovered collective tactics in the context of urban food strategies, more research is needed to understand how tactics mobilised by multiple state, civil society, and market actors change based on different engagements and connections – namely their relational aspects. We conducted a systematic literature review of interdisciplinary research on Fair Trade Towns, one of the most globally widespread examples of multi-actor city food networks, to observe tactics from a relational perspective, analysed through the Deleuzian theoretical device of ‘lines of flight’. Findings show what tactics are employed by different state, civil society, and market actors in city food networks, and how these different partnerships act along ‘lines of flight’, activated relationally depending on the connections and the power dynamics in different assemblages. We conclude by identifying new avenues for future research to understand the relational, unfolding, and complex character of food system transformation.
Residential Racial Segregation and Youth Firearm Aggression: Neighborhood Disadvantage and Exposure to Violence as Mediators
Authors: Lee Daniel B. , Stallworth Philip , Cunningham Rebecca M. , Walton Maureen A. , Neblett Enrique W. , Carter Patrick M.
Published: May 2024

Youth interpersonal firearm violence disproportionately affects Black youth, with residential racial segregation as a key determinant. Racially segregated neighborhoods, which are economically isolated (e.g., neighborhood disadvantage), are linked to increased exposure to violence. This exposure, in turn, is a determinant of youth firearm aggression (i.e., using a gun on someone else). Mechanisms from residential racial segregation to firearm aggression, however, have not been evaluated. Therefore, we tested neighborhood disadvantage and exposure to violence as mediators in the association between residential racial segregation and youth firearm aggression. Participants were 338 Black youth who had used drugs in the past 6 months and sought care in an urban emergency department. Using serial mediation analysis, residential racial segregation was indirectly associated with youth firearm aggression via neighborhood disadvantage and then exposure to violence. While researchers have documented the association between structural racism and firearm violence injury and incidents, our study assessed multiple socioecological mechanisms simultaneously. Identifying the downstream socioecological consequences of residential segregation can guide the development of firearm aggression prevention programs addressing the consequences of racism.
Performance evaluation and degradation analysis of 20 MW photovoltaic power plant located in the southwestern highlands of Algeria
Authors: Amrani Fatima Zohra Bochra , Boutlilis Fatima , Bekkouche Benaissa
Published: May 2024

This article evaluates the performance of a 20 MW grid-connected photovoltaic system installed in the Naama region, southwestern highlands of Algeria. The production database used in this work was recorded between January 1, 2017, and December 2022, from the plant’s SCADA system. During the first 5 years of production, the final yield varied from 3.88 in winter 2020 to 6.30 h/day in summer 2017, while the reference yield varied from 4.45 to 7.05 h/day, the annual average performance ratio is equal to 83.35%, and the annual average capacity factor was found to be 20.05% for the monitored period. These data are then compared with the predicted outcomes by a detailed difference analysis using three widely used PV simulation tools: PVsyst, SAM, and PVSol. Results indicate that the actual data strongly coincide with those predicted by the PVsyst simulation, as confirmed by statistical indices. However, the degradation of the PV plants over the monitored period is quantified using a linear model and a CSD model and is estimated at −1.43 and −1.55 %/year, respectively. In summary, the photovoltaic system performance indices obtained are satisfactory compared to large-scale photovoltaic systems reported in other studies.

Practical applications

This study evaluates the performance and degradation of a 20 MWp photovoltaic system located in the highlands of Algeria. The results of this article will serve as a baseline for the future construction of PV plants to raise awareness among decision-makers about the beginnings of the deterioration of installations to allocate a budget for the maintenance and operation of these installations. The findings of this study have the potential to contribute to the wider adoption of Photovoltaic systems as a viable alternative to traditional energy in Algeria and especially in the Highlands.
Feasibility and Effectiveness of a Computer-Assisted Instructional System Implemented by Teachers for Students on the Autism Spectrum With Intellectual Disabilities in China
Authors: Lee Gabrielle T. , Hu Xiaoyi , Yu Zhuojin , Hu Xiumei , Luke Nicole
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) implemented by special education teachers in a school setting in China. Feasibility was evaluated by procedural fidelity of teacher implementation and a social validity questionnaire. Effectiveness was measured by the acquisition of bidirectional naming through multiple exemplar instruction implemented in CAI for students on the autism spectrum with intellectual disabilities. Bidirectional naming is a key ability in early language development that allows children to expand their knowledge through incidental learning (Greer et al., 2011). Three students on the autism spectrum with intellectual disabilities (7 years of age; 1 female, 2 males) and their teachers (27–29 years of age; female) participated in this study. Using a single-case design--multiple probes across participants with pre- and post-assessments, all three students demonstrated improvements at post-instruction bidirectional naming assessments. Teachers implemented CAI with a high level of fidelity; they gave it high ratings for acceptability and feasibility. They were satisfied with CAI and student learning outcomes. All three students reported that they enjoyed learning with CAI. The implications and potential utilities of incorporating CAI in special education classrooms in China are discussed.
Association of Self-reported Depressed Mood and Alcohol or Tobacco Use Among Older Adults in India: A Study Based on Longitudinal Aging Study India Wave-1
Authors: Ranjan Ravina , Yadav Jeetendra , Ranjan Vandita , Venkateswaran Chitra , John Denny
Published: May 2024

Background:

Little information exists about the association between alcohol and tobacco use and self-reported depressed mood, such as feeling sad, blue, or depressed days (SBDD), among older adults in India

Aim:

The aim of this study was to examine the association between alcohol and tobacco use and self-reported depressed mood with SBDD among older adults in India.

Methods:

This study uses the Longitudinal Aging Study India (LASI) Wave 1 dataset of 10,487 respondents identified with self-reported mood disorders with SBDD. Descriptive statistics, bivariate, and multivariate models were performed.

Results:

In total, 19.7% of persons above 45 years of age experienced SBDD for 2 weeks during the last 12 months. Compared to nonusers, those who used tobacco or alcohol reported higher symptoms of SBDD. Several factors related to alcohol (e.g., illicit alcohol) and tobacco (e.g., smokeless tobacco) indicate a statistically significant association with the prevalence of prolonged sadness or depression.

Conclusion:

Analysis of LASI Wave 1 shows that lifestyle choices such as alcohol and tobacco use play a role in the burden and association of negative emotions such as SBDD among older adults in India.