bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Circulating tumour cell counts and ultrasomics signature-based nomogram for preoperative prediction of early recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma after radical treatment
Authors: Li Wei , Zhuang Bo-Wen , Qiao Bin , Zhang Nan , Hu Hang-Tong , Li Cong , Xie Xiao-Hua , Kuang Ming , Lu Ming-De , Xie Xiao-Yan , Wang Wei
Published: September 2022

To develop and validate a nomogram incorporating circulating tumour cell counts (CTCs) and the ultrasomics signatures of contrast-enhancement ultrasound (CEUS) for predicting postoperative early recurrence (ER) of HCC after radical treatment.

Methods

Between December 2017 and December 2018, 153 HCC patients (134 males and 19 females; mean age, 56.0 ± 10.2 years; range, 28–78 years) treated with radical therapy were enrolled in our retrospective study and were divided into a training cohort (n = 107) and a validation cohort (n = 46). All patients underwent preoperative CTC tests and CEUS examinations before treatment. The ultrasomics signature was extracted and built from CEUS images. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify the significant variables related to ER, which were then combined to build a predictive nomogram. The performance of the nomogram was evaluated by its discrimination, calibration and clinical utility. The predictive model was further evaluated in the internal validation cohort.

Results

HBV DNA, serum AFP level, CTC status, tumour size and ultrasomics score were identified as independent predictors associated with ER (all p < 0.05). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that the CTC status (OR = 7.02 [95% CI, 2.07 to 28.38], p = 0.003) and ultrasomics score (OR = 148.65 [95% CI, 25.49 to 1741.72], p < 0.001) were independent risk factors for ER. The nomogram based on ultrasomics score, CTC status, serum AFP level and tumour size exhibited C-indexes of 0.933 (95% CI, 0.878 to 0.988) and 0.910 (95% CI, 0.765 to 1.055) in the training and validation cohorts, respectively, fitting well in calibration curves. Decision curve analysis further confirmed the clinical usefulness of the nomogram.

Conclusion

The nomogram incorporating CTC, ultrasomics features and independent clinical risk factors achieved satisfactory preoperative prediction of ER in HCC patients after radical treatment.

Advances in knowledge

1. CTC status and ultrasomics score were identified as independent predictors associated with ER of HCC after radical treatment. 2. The nomogram constructed by ultrasomics score generated by 17 ultrasomics features, combined with CTCs and independent clinical risk factors such as AFP and tumour size. 3. The nomogram exhibited satisfactory discriminative power, and could be clinically useful in the preoperative prediction of ER after radical treatment in HCC patients.
Effect of team-based learning on critical thinking: A quasi-experimental study
Authors: Asif Zeb Muhammad , Mahboob Usman , Shaheen Neelofar
Published: September 2022

Objectives: To determine the effect of Team-based learning (TBL) on the critical thinking of health professions students.

Methods: This quasi-experimental study, was done in paramedical and nursing sciences institutes using the convenience sampling technique. Students included were enrolled in the haematology course of paramedic institute from January to December 2020 and adult health course of the nursing institute of Khyber Medical University. Six dimensions of critical thinking (CT) of the students before and after TBL were determined using the critical thinking disposition inventory.

Results: The study participants included 89 students, comprising 58 students from the paramedic’s institute and 31 from the nursing institute; 67 (75.28%) males and 22 (24.71%) females. The overall pre-test score of CT was 257.46 ± 21.73, and the post-test score was 274.55 ± 19.36, which was statistically significant (p-value = 0.000). The pre-test score of six dimensions, namely, analyticity, inquisitiveness, systematicity, truth-seeking, self-confidence, and open-mindedness was 41.35 ± 5.15, 44.73 ± 4.77, 41.12±6.87, 43.17± 5.19, 44.94±6.03, 42.38 ± 5.32 respectively, whereas the post-test scores were 44.57± 5.28, 47.11 ± 4.69, 46.12± 5.54, 45.77 ± 5.05, 47.58 ± 5.65, 43.56 ± 4.56 correspondingly. Analyticity (p=.000), inquisitiveness (p=.000), systematicity (p=.000), truth-seeking (p=.000) and self-confidence (p=.000) were statistically significant. However, open-mindedness was statistically insignificant (p=.074).

Conclusion: TBL improves five out of six dimensions of students’ critical thinking. Besides its established evidence to increase knowledge, TBL can also be used as a teaching methodology for enhancing students’ critical thinking.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.8.6146

How to cite this:Zeb MA, Mahboob U, Shaheen N. Effect of team-based learning on critical thinking: A quasi-experimental study. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(8):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.8.6146

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
The STArgardt Remofuscin Treatment Trial (STARTT): design and baseline characteristics of enrolled Stargardt patients
Authors: Dhooge Patty P.A. , Möller Philipp T. , Boon Camiel J.F. , Lotery Andrew J. , Herrmann Philipp , Battaglia Parodi Maurizio , Klein Wolfgang , Fsadni Mario G. , Wheeler-Schilling Thomas H. , Jungmann Oliver , Müller Hans , Holz Frank G. , Schmitz-Valckenberg Steffen , Peters Tobias M. , Stingl Katarina , Hoyng Carel B. ,   Soraprazan Consortium
Published: September 2022

Background: This report describes the study design and baseline characteristics of patients with Stargardt disease (STGD1) enrolled in the STArgardt Remofuscin Treatment Trial (STARTT).

Methods: In total, 87 patients with genetically confirmed STGD1 were randomized in a double-masked, placebo-controlled proof of concept trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of 20 milligram oral remofuscin for 24 months. The primary outcome measure is change in mean quantitative autofluorescence value of an 8-segment ring centred on the fovea (qAF8). Secondary efficacy variables are best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), low-luminance visual acuity (LLVA), mesopic microperimetry (mMP),  spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), reading speed on Radner reading charts, and patient-reported visual function as assessed by the National Eye Institute Visual Functioning Questionnaire 25 (NEI VFQ-25) and Functional Reading Independence (FRI) Index.

Results: Mean age of participants was 35±11 years with 49 (56%) female. Median qAF8 value was 438 Units (range 210-729). Median BCVA and LLVA in decimal units were 0.50 (range 0.13-0.80) and 0.20 (range 0.06-0.63), respectively. The median of the mean retinal sensitivity with mMP was 20.4 dB (range 0.0-28.8). SD-OCT showed median central subfield retinal thickness of 142 µm (range 72-265) and median macular volume of 1.65 mm3 (range 1.13-2.19). Compared to persons without vision impairment, both reading performance and patient-reported visual function were significantly lower (p<0.001, one sample t-test). Mean reading speed was 108±39 words/minute with logRAD-score of 0.45±0.28. Mean VFQ-25 composite score was 72±13. Mean FRI Index score 2.8±0.6.

Conclusions: This trial design may serve as reference for future clinical trials as it explores the utility of qAF8 as primary outcome measure. The baseline data represent the largest, multi-national, STGD1 cohort to date that underwent standardized qAF imaging, reading speed assessment and vision-related quality of life measures which all contribute to the characterization of STGD1.

EudraCT registration: 2018-001496-20 (09/05/2019)
Cadet Education in Russia
Authors: Vasil'cheko N.
Published: September 2022

The article contains a complete classification of cadet educational establishments in the Russian Federation of which the cadet secondary school is singled out and being examined thoroughly. During the examination the distinguishing features and benefits of studying at cadet secondary schools in comparison with cadet military corps on the one hand and secondary schools on the other hand are accentuated. The features and benefits lay the basis for high social demand and prospects of such schools. After that, by means of juxtapositional analysis the so called cadet component, indices of effectiveness of the educational process, regulatory and legal framework, facilities and equipment of randomly selected cadet secondary schools are being highlighted and described. In the conclusion the author suggests an updated and more precise definition of a cadet secondary school, emphasises the necessity of modernisation of its legal framework, and indicates a roadmap to further development of the cadet secondary education in Russia.
Structure and Content of Monitoring of Professional Trajectories of Graduates of Pedagogical Classes
Authors: Ponomareva T. , Chukaev O. , Lykova A.
Published: September 2022

The article is devoted to the problems of studying the professional trajectories of graduates of pedagogical classes. The need for research in the monitoring mode is determined by the importance of identifying internal and external factors that influence the choice of pedagogical classes by graduates of professions and vocational education at different levels, as well as conditions that determine the productivity of their development of the main professional educational program. The results of the first stage of the study described in the article allowed us to conclude that despite the motivation of students of pedagogical classes, a wide range of pedagogical technologies used, a significant part of graduates make a choice not in favor of the pedagogical profession. This circumstance determines the need for a prolonged assessment of the productivity of pedagogical classes in the aspect of analyzing the content of the educational process. The conducted research allows us to identify ways to improve the effectiveness of the system of pre-professional training of a future teacher.
Roads of the Caribbean: regional analysis from Environmental Impact Assessments in Colombia
Authors: Cardona-Almeida César Antonio , Cerro-Amell Rosa , Mendoza-Navarro Susana , Santos-Rocha Ana Carolina , Zuluaga Mario Alejandro , Batista Angélica , Zamora David M , Canales Fausto A. , Hernández-Manrique Olga
Published: September 2022

The road infrastructure produces several impacts on the environment. In the Colombian Caribbean region, the growing road infrastructure threatens systems equilibrium in diverse and not well-known ways. Despite the several administrative tools available in Colombian legislation to manage every project impact, the big picture of the interconnected regional ecosystems falls out of scope. To study the large-scale problems in landscape, we analyzed eight Environmental Impact Studies of road construction projects in the region. We did a scientific and institutional literature review to shed light on the possible unseen problems and future challenges. Results suggest that Environmental Impact Assessments for each project focus on construction processes, ignore accumulative and residual effects, and use typified measures to cover a broad set of impacts. We offer recommendations from an integrated analysis perspective for future projects to understand landscape and water systems alteration at the regional scale.
Social Preferences of Young Professionals and the Financial Industry
Authors: Gill Andrej , Heinz Matthias , Schumacher Heiner , Sutter Matthias
Published: September 2022

Trust is an important element of many financial transactions. Yet, the financial industry has been struggling with public mistrust. One explanation for this could be the selection of individuals who wish to work in and get job offers from the financial industry. In this paper, we examine the selection into the financial industry based on social preferences. We identify the social preferences of business and economics students, and, for more than six years, follow up on their early career choices and their job placement after graduation. Students eager to work in the financial industry behave in a substantially less trustworthy manner and show less willingness to cooperate than those with other career plans. The job market does not alleviate this selection. Those subjects who find their first permanent job in finance behave in significantly less trustworthy manner in a trust game than those working in other industries.

This paper was accepted by Yan Chen, behavioral economics and decision analysis.

Funding: Financial support was provided from the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation) under Germany’s Excellence Strategy [Grant EXC 2126/1–390838866], the University of Cologne [Hans Kelsen Prize], and the Center for Financial Studies.

Supplemental Material: The data files and online appendices are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.4562 .
Revenue Management of a Professional Services Firm with Quality Revelation
Authors: Talluri Kalyan , Tsoukalas Angelos
Published: September 2022

In this paper, the authors tackle the operational problem of managing a professional service firm (PSF). A PSF, such as a management consulting firm, law firm, or an accounting firm, has employees of varying skills, backgrounds, qualifications, and experience. The operational problem of PSFs can be summarized as a bidding-cum-matching problem where the probability of winning depends on the quality of the employees promised for the job as well as the price quoted in the bid. Should the employees (hence, the quality) be committed as part of the bid, or should the firm rely on reputation? How much should the firm bid, given one or the other strategy and available resources, taking future bids into consideration? How many employees of each type should the firm have on hand? What is the optimal utilization level of each type? These are some of the questions this paper addresses.
Large-Time Behavior of Finite-State Mean-Field Systems With Multiclasses
Authors: Dawson Donald A. , Sid-Ali Ahmed , Zhao Yiqiang Q.
Published: September 2022

We study in this paper large-time asymptotics of the empirical vector associated with a family of finite-state mean-field systems with multiclasses. The empirical vector is composed of local empirical measures characterizing the different classes within the system. As the number of particles in the system goes to infinity, the empirical vector process converges toward the solution to a McKean-Vlasov system. First, we investigate the large deviations principles of the invariant distribution from the limiting McKean-Vlasov system. Then, we examine the metastable phenomena arising at a large scale and large time. Finally, we estimate the rate of convergence of the empirical vector process to its invariant measure. Given the local homogeneity in the system, our results are established in a product space.

Funding: This research was supported by Discovery Grant of the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada [NSERC 315660] and by Carleton University.
Kaplan Meier's Analysis of Clinical Improvement Of Defecation Frequency In Pediatrics Patient With Diarrhea That Given Vitamin D As Adjuvant Therapy
Authors: Kurniawan Nurcholid Umam , R Sutrimo Usali , Darmawan Endang
Published: September 2022

Diarrhea is the second leading cause of death in children under 5 years after pneumonia with a mortality prevalence of 8%. Diarrhea is a digestive disease with signs of bowel movements with a sudden consistency of loose stools 3 times or more in 24 hours, mostly caused by microorganisms (bacteria and viruses). The cure rate for diarrhea after receiving fluid replacement therapy and antibiotics for diarrhea caused by bacteria is quite high, but the mortality rate due to diarrhea is still high, therefore there needs to be an effort to add therapy to improve patient clinical outcomes. Vitamin D is known to play a role in the body's defense function, both in natural and adaptive immunity and plays a role in the body's defense in cases of infections, allergies, and autoimmunity. This study is an experimental double blind randomized clinical trial which was analyzed using Kaplan Meier. The research subjects were children aged 6 months to 18 years who were divided into two groups, namely the treatment group (n = 35) and the control group (n = 35). The treatment group received vitamin D and for the control group received a placebo. The data taken includes the results of the frequency of defecation of patients. The results of this study indicate that vitamin D is effective in accelerating the reduction in the frequency of defecation in children with diarrhea. Â Keywords: Diarrhea, Vitamin D, Defecation, Kaplan Meier
Synovial Chondromatosis of Knee
Authors: Prisila Elvina , Heriyanto Moch.Junaidy , Budi Rahayu Ana
Published: September 2022

Synovial chondromatosis (also called synovial osteochondromatosis) is a type of non-cancerous tumor that arises in the lining of a joint. It has been divided into primary and secondary forms. Primary synovial chondromatosis was originally considered to represent chondroid metaplasia in the synovium of a joint with resultant formation of multiple intraarticular chondral bodies. Secondary synovial chondromatosis is associated with joint abnormalities, such as mechanical or arthritic conditions, that cause intraarticular chondral bodies. Primary synovial chondromatosis typically affects adults, predominantly men, in the third to fifth decades of life. Synovial osteochondromatosis manifests clinically with joint pain, swelling, and limitation of motion. Although the condition is not cancerous, it can severely damage the affected joint and, eventually, lead to osteoarthritis. As conclusion, this case is typical of secondary synovial chondromatosis that is the result of a degenerative change in the joint.
Evaluation of Disaster Course Learning Methods in the Academic Phase of Medical Education Study Program
Authors: Alim Ahmad Muttaqin , Qomariyah Nurul , Nisa Afifah Khoiru
Published: September 2022

This study was designed to evaluate students and lecturer perceptions of the learning methods used in Disaster Course. A qualitative cross-sectional descriptive study with focus group discussion (FGD) was conducted. Twenty students and eight Disaster’s lecturers in Faculty of Medicine Universitas Ahmad Dahlan participated in the study. The results showed that students have different perceptions from lectures. Students assessed the learning methods used are less effective due to their role as a passive learner. While the lectures assessed the effectiveness of their teaching methods varied according their ability to teach in large classes.
Profile Analysis of COVID-19 Patients in Jambi Province
Authors: Nengsih Titin Agustin , Rahmy Hafifatul Auliya , Guspianto Guspianto , Kalsum Ummi , Sitanggang Hendra Dhermawan , Alharthi Amirah Saeed
Published: September 2022

Background: The potential for COVID-19 transmission has increased sharply, so the government must implement various strategies to control the spread, especially in Jambi Province. The number of positive confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Jambi Province until August 26, 2021, was 27,422 people, with a case fatality rate is 2.37%. This condition illustrates that the spread of COVID-19 is increasing every day, so the government has set a lockdown at Level 4. Method: This research aims to analyze the profile of COVID-19 patients in Jambi Province (secondary data analysis) with a cross-sectional study design. Data analysis includes univariate analysis with the mean difference test and Chi-Square test. Result: The results show that the age of COVID-19 patients is significantly different between men and women. Furthermore, based on the Chi-Square test, it shows a significant relationship between age and gender and between region and age with a p-value <0.05. Conclusion: Indeed, the risk of COVID-19 cases increases with age and differs for each gender with a high level of mobility.
Marital Age, Cigarette Exposure, Physical Activity, Sleep Duration, and Prenatal Depression
Authors: Syam Azniah , HM Ashar , Arna Abrar Eva , Syam Asriah
Published: September 2022

Background: Extensive studies indicate that prenatal depression disrupts a woman's life and has a detrimental effect on the mother-child and further breastfeeding. Numerous factors associated with nutrition, physical activity, sleep patterns, and exposure to cigarette smoke are strongly suspected of contributing to the dysregulation of hormones associated with depression. This study aims to examine the association between physical activity, nutritional status, prior exposure to cigarette smoke, and the risk of prenatal depression. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 79 pregnant women at the Pampang Primary Healthcare Center between January and March 2021. Using chi-square and multiple logistic regression, identify the risk factors that most significantly contribute to the risk of prenatal depression. Result: Married under the age of 19th (p<0.039), inactive daily exercise (p<0.023), inadequate sleep duration (p<0.045), and mothers who have been exposed to cigarette smoke for more than a year (p<0.001) all increased the risk of prenatal depression. Cigarette exposure, contributes most, with a 5.4-fold increased risk of developing mental disorders while breastfeeding. Conclusion: It is critical for health services to include early screening for prenatal depression during antenatal care as a means of preventing future breastfeeding difficulties, particularly in mothers with vulnerability.
Better Together: Facilitating FAIR Research Output Sharing (APAC time zones)
Authors: Rittman Martyn , Chen Xiaoli , Cheng Chieh-Chih Estelle , Jiang Lulu , Liu Jia
Published: September 2022

Unique and persistent identifiers for researchers, institutes, and different types of research outputs, alongside comprehensive metadata, facilitates Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable (FAIR) research. In the second webinar of the Better Together series hosted by Crossref, DataCite, and ORCID, we welcomed a guest co-organizer CSTR (Common Science and Technology Resource Identifier) to jointly present a session focused on the sharing of scholarly resources, leveraging both the global and local identifier infrastructure and services. We go into detail about how repositories can leverage open scholarly infrastructure to help researchers share more, cite more, and generate impact. Part of this webinar focuses on some use cases in the Mandarin-speaking community. However, the presentation is be conducted in English with slides in both English and Mandarin. In this webinar we covered the following topics: Who we are Besides papers, what other resources can be shared? What’s the difference between “sharing” and “publishing”? How our organizations work together to make different types of scholarly resources Findable, Accessible, Interoperable and Reusable Science Data Bank and how it integrates with identifiers in their workflow This webinar took place on 19 September 2022 at 6am UTC/ 14:00 Beijing. This webinar lasts 90 minutes including time for Q&A. 研究者、科研机构、和科研成果都能利用独特永久识别符(PID)及其背后丰富详尽的元 数据,实现可查询、可获取、可互操作、可复用的FAIR科研数据原则。此次Crossref, DataCite, ORCID和通用科技资源标识符CSTR合办的线上宣讲会,将着重讨论机构存 储库利用国际国内开放标识符基础设施,帮助研究者分享、引用不同类型研究成果,产生 影响力。 本次宣讲会以英文进行,幻灯片内容将以中英双语呈现。 时间 2022年9月19日 06:00 上午 世界标准时间UTC
Development of a preclinical CCD-based temperature modulated fluorescence tomography platform
Authors: Nouizi Farouk , Erkol Hakan , Nikkhah Deniz , Kwong Tiffany C. , Gulsen Gultekin
Published: September 2022

In preclinical research, fluorescence molecular tomography (FMT) is the most sensitive imaging modality to interrogate whole-body and provide 3D distribution of fluorescent contract agents. Despite its superior sensitivity, its mediocre spatial-resolution has been the main barrier to its clinical translation. This limitation is mainly due to the high scattering of optical photons in biological tissue together with the limited boundary measurements that lead to an undetermined and ill-posed inverse problem. To overcome the limitations of FMT, we previously introduced a novel method termed, Temperature Modulated Fluorescence Tomography (TMFT). TMFT utilizes thermos-sensitive fluorescent agents (ThermoDots) as a key component and localizes them with high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU). Scanning the focused HIFU beam having a diameter Ø = 1.3 mm across the tissue while monitoring the variation in the measured fluorescence signals reveals the position of the ThermoDots with high spatial accuracy. We have formerly built a prototype TMFT system that uses optical fibers for detection. In this paper, we present an upgraded version using a CCD camera-based detection that enables non-contact imaging. In this version, the animal under investigation is placed on an ultrasound transparent membrane, which eliminates the need for its immersion in optical matching fluids that were required by the fiber-based system. This CCD-based system will pave the way for convenient and wide-spread use of TMFT in preclinical research. Its performance validation on phantom studies demonstrates that high spatial-resolution (∼1.3 mm) and quantitative accuracy in recovered fluorophore concentration (<3% error) can be achieved.
Knowledge distillation technique enabled hardware efficient OSNR monitoring from directly detected PDM-QAM signals
Authors: Xiang Junjiang , Cheng Yijun , Chen Shiwen , Xiang Meng , Qin Yuwen , Fu Songnian
Published: September 2022

Deep neural network (DNN) enabled optical SNR (OSNR) monitoring is vital to facilitate the management of agile optical networks. However, both the scale size and the implementation complexity of DNNs prevent their practical application. Here, we experimentally demonstrate the knowledge distillation technique (KDT) for DNN-based OSNR monitoring from the directly detected polarization division multiplexed 16 quadrature amplitude modulation (PDM-16QAM) and PDM-64QAM signals by the use of amplitude histograms. First, both floating-point operations (FLOPs) and parameters (Params) are introduced into the fiber optic communications as the evaluation metrics for the computational complexity of DNNs. Then, the pre-trained teacher network and the to-be-used student network constitute a KDT network, while the task of the pre-trained teacher network transfers the knowledge to the student network. From the experimental results, we learn that the KDT benefits the student network and realizes a rms error (RMSE) of 0.98 dB over OSNR ranges of 14–24 dB and 23–34 dB for 10 Gbaud PDM-16QAM and PDM-64QAM signals, respectively. The Params of the student network are only 0.004M, and the FLOPs are 0.25M, which are less than that of existing OSNR monitoring schemes. Meanwhile, an RMSE improvement of 0.23 dB arising in the OSNR monitoring has been secured to the student network with the help of KDT. Therefore, we believe our proposed KDT is promising for optical performance monitoring with a lightweight DNN.
Analysis of the performance of a polarized LiDAR imager in fog
Authors: Ballesta-Garcia Maria , Peña-Gutiérrez Sara , Rodríguez-Aramendía Ana , García-Gómez Pablo , Rodrigo Noel , Bobi Aleix R. , Royo Santiago
Published: September 2022

This paper focuses on exploring ways to improve the performance of LiDAR imagers through fog. One of the known weaknesses of LiDAR technology is the lack of tolerance to adverse environmental conditions, such as the presence of fog, which hampers the future development of LiDAR in several markets. Within this paper, a LiDAR unit is designed and constructed to be able to apply temporal and polarimetric discrimination for detecting the number of signal photons received with detailed control of its temporal and spatial distribution under co-polarized and cross-polarized configurations. The system is evaluated using different experiments in a macro-scale fog chamber under controlled fog conditions. Using the complete digitization of the acquired signals, we analyze the natural light media response, to see that due to its characteristics it could be directly filtered out. Moreover, we confirm that there exists a polarization memory effect, which, by using a polarimetric cross-configuration detector, allows improvement of object detection in point clouds. These results are useful for applications related to computer vision, in fields like autonomous vehicles or outdoor surveillance where many variable types of environmental conditions may be present.
Continuous-wave and passively Q-switched pulsed 1.5 µm Er:Yb:Ba3Gd(PO4)3 lasers
Authors: Wu Jie , Huang Jianhua , Huang Yidong , Gong Xinghong , Lin Yanfu , Luo Zundu , Chen Yujin
Published: September 2022

An eye-safe 1567 nm continuous-wave laser with a maximum output power of 50 mW and a slope efficiency of 21.1% was demonstrated in an Er:Yb:Ba3Gd(PO4)3 crystal. By using a Co2+:MgAl2O4 crystal with an initial transmission of 95% as a saturable absorber, a stable passively Q-switched pulsed laser was also realized in the crystal. The effects of the output coupler transmission and cavity length on pulsed performance were investigated. At an absorbed pump power of 350 mW, a 1541 nm Er:Yb:Ba3Gd(PO4)3 pulsed laser with a repetition frequency of 0.86 kHz, duration of 38 ns, energy of 21.2 µJ, and peak output power of 0.56 kW was obtained.
Frequency combs with multiple offsets in THz-rate microresonators
Authors: Puzyrev D. N. , Skryabin D. V.
Published: September 2022

Octave-wide frequency combs in microresonators are essential for self-referencing. However, it is difficult for the small-size and high-repetition-rate microresonators to achieve perfect soliton modelocking over the broad frequency range due to the detrimental impact of dispersion. Here we examine the stability of the soliton states consisting of one hundred modes in silicon-nitride microresonators with the one-THz free spectral range. We report the coexistence of fast and slow solitons in a narrow detuning range, which is surrounded on either side by the breather states. We decompose the breather combs into a sequence of sub-combs with different carrier–envelope offset frequencies. The large detuning breathers have a high frequency of oscillations associated with the perturbation extending across the whole microresonator. The small detuning breathers create oscillations localised on the soliton core and can undergo the period-doubling bifurcation, which triggers a sequence of intense sub-combs.
Efficient large-scale single-pixel imaging
Authors: Li Daoyu , Gao Zhijie , Bian Liheng
Published: September 2022

The speed of single-pixel imaging (SPI) is tied to its resolution, which is positively related to the number of modulation times. Therefore, efficient large-scale SPI is a serious challenge that impedes its wide applications. In this work, we report a novel, to the best of our knowledge, sparse SPI scheme and corresponding reconstruction algorithm to image target scenes at above 1 K resolution with reduced measurements. Specifically, we first analyze the statistical importance ranking of Fourier coefficients for natural images. Then the sparse sampling with a polynomially decending probability of the ranking is performed to cover a larger range of the Fourier spectrum than non-sparse sampling. The optimal sampling strategy with suitable sparsity is summarized for the best performance. Next, a lightweight deep distribution optimization (D2O) algorithm is introduced for large-scale SPI reconstruction from sparsely sampled measurements instead of a conventional inverse Fourier transform (IFT). The D2O algorithm empowers robustly recovering sharp scenes at 1 K resolution within 2 s. A series of experiments demonstrate the technique’s superior accuracy and efficiency.
Mid-infrared polarization-insensitive grating coupler
Authors: Gao Haoran , Guo Rongxiang , Zhang Shujiao , Lin Chunzhen , Liu Tiegen , Cheng Zhenzhou
Published: September 2022

Mid-infrared (Mid-IR) (2–20 µm) silicon photonics has attracted much attention in the past few years due to its application potential in free-space optical communications, light detection and ranging, and molecular analysis. The grating coupler technology is one of the most widely employed approaches for light coupling between optical fibers and waveguides. In the mid-IR spectral region, due to the lack of reliable chalcogenide-fiber or ZBLAN-fiber polarization controllers, grating couplers usually suffer from huge insertion losses induced by the arbitrary polarization states of light coupled out of mid-IR fibers. As a result, it is significant to explore polarization-insensitive grating coupling techniques in mid-IR wavelengths. However, the study is currently still in its infancy. Here, we demonstrate an ultra-thin mid-IR polarization-insensitive grating coupler. The grating coupler has a maximum coupling efficiency of –11.5 dB at a center wavelength of ∼2200 nm with a 1-dB bandwidth of ∼148 nm. Compared with conventional subwavelength grating couplers, the polarization-dependent loss was improved from 9.6 dB to 2.1 dB. Moreover, we demonstrated a polarization-insensitive grating coupler at 2700-nm wavelength with a maximum coupling efficiency of –12.0 dB. Our results pave the way for the development of mid-IR photonic integrated circuits.
Optimizing laboratory-based surveillance networks for monitoring multi-genotype or multi-serotype infections
Authors: Cheng Qu , Collender Philip A. , Heaney Alexandra K. , McLoughlin Aidan , Yang Yang , Zhang Yuzi , Head Jennifer R. , Dasan Rohini , Liang Song , Lv Qiang , Liu Yaqiong , Yang Changhong , Chang Howard H. , Waller Lance A. , Zelner Jon , Lewnard Joseph A. , Remais Justin V.
Published: September 2022

With the aid of laboratory typing techniques, infectious disease surveillance networks have the opportunity to obtain powerful information on the emergence, circulation, and evolution of multiple genotypes, serotypes or other subtypes of pathogens, informing understanding of transmission dynamics and strategies for prevention and control. The volume of typing performed on clinical isolates is typically limited by its ability to inform clinical care, cost and logistical constraints, especially in comparison with the capacity to monitor clinical reports of disease occurrence, which remains the most widespread form of public health surveillance. Viewing clinical disease reports as arising from a latent mixture of pathogen subtypes, laboratory typing of a subset of clinical cases can provide inference on the proportion of clinical cases attributable to each subtype (i.e., the mixture components). Optimizing protocols for the selection of isolates for typing by weighting specific subpopulations, locations, time periods, or case characteristics (e.g., disease severity), may improve inference of the frequency and distribution of pathogen subtypes within and between populations. Here, we apply the Disease Surveillance Informatics Optimization and Simulation (DIOS) framework to simulate and optimize hand foot and mouth disease (HFMD) surveillance in a high-burden region of western China. We identify laboratory surveillance designs that significantly outperform the existing network: the optimal network reduced mean absolute error in estimated serotype-specific incidence rates by 14.1%; similarly, the optimal network for monitoring severe cases reduced mean absolute error in serotype-specific incidence rates by 13.3%. In both cases, the optimal network designs achieved improved inference without increasing subtyping effort. We demonstrate how the DIOS framework can be used to optimize surveillance networks by augmenting clinical diagnostic data with limited laboratory typing resources, while adapting to specific, local surveillance objectives and constraints.
Genomic findings of hypertrophic and dilated cardiomyopathy characterized in a Thai clinical genetics service
Authors: Trachoo Objoon , Yingchoncharoen Teerapat , Ngernsritrakul Tawai , Iemwimangsa Nareenart , Panthan Bhakbhoom , Klumsathian Sommon , Srisukh Sasima , Mukdadilok Anucha , Phusanti Sithakom , Charoenyingwattana Angkana , Chareonsirisuthigul Takol , Chantratita Wasun , Tangcharoen Tarinee
Published: September 2022

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) are the most common referrals in the Inherited Cardiovascular Condition (ICC) Genetics Service. Several issues must be discussed with patients and their families during the genetic consultation session, including the options for genetic testing and cardiovascular surveillance in family members. We developed an ICC registry and performed next-generation-based DNA sequencing for all patients affected by non-syndromic HCM and idiopathic DCM in our joint specialist genetics service. The target gene sequencing panel relied on the Human Phenotype Ontology with 237 genes for HCM (HP:0001639) and 142 genes for DCM (HP:0001644). All subjects were asked to contact their asymptomatic first-degree relatives for genetic counseling regarding their risks and to initiate cardiovascular surveillance and cascade genetic testing. The study was performed from January 1, 2014, to December 31, 2020, and a total of 62 subjects (31-HCM and 31-DCM) were enrolled. The molecular detection frequency was 48.39% (32.26% pathogenic/likely pathogenic, 16.13% variant of uncertain significance or VUS for HCM, and 25.81% (16.13% pathogenic/likely pathogenic, 9.68% VUS) for DCM. The most prevalent gene associated with HCM wasMYBPC3. The others identified in this study includedACTN2,MYL2,MYH7,TNNI3,TPM1, andVCL. Among the DCM subjects, variants were detected in two cases with theTTNnonsense variants, while the others were missense and identified inMYH7,DRSP3,MYBPC3, andSCN5A. Following the echocardiogram surveillance and cascade genetic testing in the asymptomatic first-degree relatives, the detection rate of new cases was 8.82% and 6.25% in relatives of HCM and DCM subjects, respectively. Additionally, a new pre-symptomatic relative belonging to an HCM family was identified, although the genomic finding in the affected case was absent. Thus, ICC service is promising for the national healthcare system, aiming to prevent morbidity and mortality in asymptomatic family members.
Exploring tissue morphodynamics using the photoconvertible Kaede protein in amphioxus embryos
Authors: Meister Lydvina , Escriva Hector , Bertrand Stéphanie
Published: September 2022

Photoconvertible proteins are powerful tools widely used in cellular biology to study cell dynamics and organelles. Over the past decade, photoconvertible proteins have also been used for developmental biology applications to analyze cell lineage and cell fate during embryonic development. One of these photoconvertible proteins called Kaede, from the stony coral Trachyphyllia geoffroyi, undergoes irreversible photoconversion from green to red fluorescence when illuminated with UV light. Undertaking a cell tracing approach using photoconvertible proteins can be challenging when using unconventional animal models. In this protocol, we describe the use of Kaede to track specific cells during embryogenesis of the cephalochordate Branchiostoma lanceolatum. This protocol can be adapted to other unconventional models, especially marine animals.
Paradoxical improvement of life quality in the COVID-19 era in psoriasis patients
Authors: Boch Katharina , Zillikens Detlef , Ludwig Ralf J. , Thaçi Diamant
Published: September 2022

Background

Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory disease. Beyond the physical dimensions, the disease has an extensive emotional and psychosocial effect on patients, influencing their quality of life, social life and interpersonal relationships. Thus patient-reported outcomes are a crucial instrument for the evaluation of disease burden. Navigating life in times of the COVID-19 pandemic is challenging, especially for persons suffering from chronic diseases. We here analyzed the impact of lockdown restrictions on psoriasis patients.

Objective

To compare the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) before and during the COVID-19 pandemic of patients with psoriasis.

Methods

Retrospective longitudinal analysis in adult patients with moderate to severe psoriasis undergoing biologic treatment between January 2020 and January 2021. DLQI, patient demographics, Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), and recent biologic treatment were recorded.

Results

103 patients were identified, of whom 19 had additional psoriatic arthritis. Female (n = 29) and male (n = 74) patients were distributed 1 to 3. Median age of patients was 54 years (range 18–85). All patients received biologic systemic treatment: anti-IL-23 (n = 39), anti-IL-17A (n = 30), anti-IL-12/23 (n = 25), or anti-TNFα (n = 9). Comparing DLQI scores before the COVID-19 pandemic and under lockdown restriction showed improved DLQI scores over time. Further analysis displayed that patients mostly ticked “not relevant” on social activities during lockdown. Thus, the DLQI scores may be artificial improved and may not really reflect the actual disease burden.

Conclusions

Psoriasis patients showed a contrary improvement of life quality despite harsh COVID-19 lockdown suggesting that DLQI should be modified when social life is restricted.
Modulating myoblast differentiation with RNA-based controllers
Authors: Dykstra Peter B. , Rando Thomas A. , Smolke Christina D.
Published: September 2022

Tunable genetic controllers play a critical role in the engineering of biological systems that respond to environmental and cellular signals. RNA devices, a class of engineered RNA-based controllers, enable tunable gene expression control of target genes in response to molecular effectors. RNA devices have been demonstrated in a number of systems showing proof-of-concept of applying ligand-responsive control over therapeutic activities, including regulation of cell fate decisions such as T cell proliferation and apoptosis. Here, we describe the application of a theophylline-responsive RNA device in a muscle progenitor cell system to control myogenic differentiation. Ribozyme-based RNA switches responsive to theophylline control fluorescent reporter expression in C2C12 myoblasts in a ligand dependent manner. HRAS and JAK1, both anti-differentiation proteins, were incorporated into RNA devices. Finally, we demonstrate that the regulation of HRAS expression via theophylline-responsive RNA devices results in the modulation of myoblast differentiation in a theophylline-dependent manner. Our work highlights the potential for RNA devices to exert drug-responsive, tunable control over cell fate decisions with applications in stem cell therapy and basic stem cell biology research.
A afirmação do Partido Republicano Português no Alentejo no ocaso da Monarquia
Authors: Baiôa Manuel
Published: September 2022

Este artigo centra-se na afirmação do Partido Republicano Português no Alentejo (Portugal) nos últimos anos da Monarquia Constitucional. Analisa os tópicos referentes às estruturas organizativas, ao nível das comissões concelhias, distritais e centros políticos deste partido. Os outros temas analisados foram a imprensa, a elite e os resultados eleitorais do Partido Republicano Português na região alentejana.
Prevalence of Hypertension in Policemen in Greyhounds Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India
Authors: Terapalli Srinivas  , Moravineni Usharani
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND

Hypertension, an elevated blood pressure of systolic /diastolic, is a serious medical condition and is a "silent killer" which increases the risks of heart disease, brain stroke, renal diseases etc. The WHO estimate is that 45% of deaths from heart disease and 51% of deaths from stroke worldwide are caused by hypertension. Policemen working in Greyhounds are having one of the most stressful occupations; hypertension is highly prevalent in this population, because their job is task-oriented, stressful duties and combing operations in naxalite areas. Some of the policemen habituated to unhealthy habits like smoking, consumption of alcohol and irregular dietary pattern. The contributory factors like obesity, excessive dietary sodium intake, and low physical activity, family history of hypertension increase BMI. The prevalence of hypertension observed among Greyhounds policemen is 39.6%, which is significantly higher than previous studies of hypertension in policemen. Hypertension can be prevented by adopting healthy lifestyle modifications, periodical check-ups, timely diagnosis and treatment. In this study, we wanted to find out the prevalence of hypertension in the policemen randomly selected in greyhounds Visakhapatnam.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study of total of 124 police men randomly selected greyhounds Visakhapatnam, the age ranged from 18 to 60 years. Data were collected using sphygmomanometer, body mass analyser (In Body 570), semi-structured interview schedule, and analysed in EXCEL using SPSS version 21.0.

RESULTS

Among 124 participants, 49 (39.6%) participants were found to be hypertensive. Increasing age, family history, smoking, higher BMI, presence of diabetes were the significant factors associated with hypertension among study subjects.

CONCLUSIONS

Hypertension in policemen emerged as an important health problem. Therefore, it is the need of the hour to devise a sound screening strategy to diagnose and treat hypertension among policemen. Devise a comprehensive strategy for the management of HTN.
A Linguagem Visual na Web
Authors: Perroni da Silva Glayse Ferreira
Published: September 2022

O presente artigo tem o objetivo de discutir o uso da linguagem visual na Web e de identificar os signos não verbais que aparecem nos websites. Foram capturadas imagens das páginas de dois sites disponíveis na Internet, o da Google e o da Folha.com. Com isto, foi feita uma análise dos casos de ocorrência da linguagem visual, utilizando a metodologia baseada em Joly (2003) e alguns preceitos de Dondis (2003), Aumont (1993) e Filho (2009). Os resultados do estudo mostraram que quanto mais informação o site disponibiliza, mais signos não verbais ele usa Percebeu-se que todos os signos visuais comunicam uma mensagem, que pode ser uma referência a uma ação, um complemento ou reforço a um signo verbal ou uma manifestação do estilo do site. O tipo de conteúdo que se deseja expressar, a forma como ele deve ser expresso e o público a quem se destina são fatores determinantes no uso da linguagem visual. Os resultados também mostraram que os signos não verbais são significantes e que eles contêm um sentido implícita ou explicitamente expresso, o qual deve ser interpretado pelo seu receptor.
Problemas concernentes às definições de cores em Dicionários Gerais do Português Brasileiro
Authors: Brangel Larissa Moreira
Published: September 2022

As definições de cores encontradas nos dicionários do português estão passíveis a uma série de críticas. A análise dos verbetes de cores dos dicionários AuE (2004), HouE (2001), MiE (2001) e AnMS (1813) revelou que nenhuma destas obras apresentam verbetes de cores satisfatórios no que diz respeito à elucidação do significado de uma cor. Além disso, foi constatado que poucas foram as modificações sofridas nas definições de cores das obras do século XXI quando comparadas à obra do século XIX. O fato de os verbetes de cores dos dias atuais apresentarem falhas semelhantes às dos verbetes de cores de obras editadas há quase 200 anos parece indicar uma lacuna nos estudos lexicográficos que trate das cores nos dicionários. O presente trabalho se dispõe a apresentar e discutir os problemas encontrados nos verbetes de cores. Para tanto, se procurou estabelecer uma relação entre os problemas encontrados nos verbetes de cores e a teoria lexicográfica, a fim de explicar o problema e, assim, melhor entendê-lo.
política recontextualizada
Authors: Costa Ivandilson , Pacheco Weslley Mayron Cunha
Published: September 2022

O presente trabalho busca apresentar uma abordagem do fenômeno da recontextualização do discurso político em termos do discurso publicitário. Toma como base os pressupostos teórico-metodológicos da Análise Crítica do Discurso, da qual se destacam temas como prática discursiva, prática social, análise social. Examina o funcionamento do gênero guia eleitoral, veiculado na televisão nas eleições do ano de 2008 na cidade de São Paulo.