bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation between virulence and antimicrobial resistance to antimicrobial drugs in Klebsiella Pneumoniae
Authors: Nusrat Bibi  , Sabahat  , Zahra Kalim  , Muhammad Owais  , Hafiz Ali Raza  , Kausar Shaheen
Published: July 2023

Klebsiella pneumoniae is accountable for a widespread range of infections such as pneumonia, urinary tract infections, liver abscesses and bacteremia. In addition to susceptible clinical isolates involved in multidrug-resistant (MDR), nosocomial infections and hypervirulent (hvKP) strains have evolved separately in distinct clonal groups. These isolates are spread in various geographical regions globally. However, the virulence of K. pneumoniae is still unknown but the virulence of hvKP is beginning to revealed. The antimicrobial resistance is creating threatened for the treatment of K. pneumoniae. The antimicrobial resistance is usually associated with genetic mobile elements such as plasmids having virulence determinants. A proficient pathogen should be virulent, resistant to antibiotics, and epidemic. However, the interplay between resistance and virulence is poorly understood. Here, we review current knowledge on the topic.
Characterization of the 2012 and 2013 Metro Manila “Enhanced Habagat” Heavy Rainfall Events
Authors: Bagtasa Gerry
Published: July 2023

The strong southwest monsoon episodes in August 2012 and 2013, locally referred to as the “Enhanced Habagat ” 2012 and 2013, respectively, resulted in rainfall that exceeded the monthly mean rainfall of the affected regions along western Luzon, including Metro Manila. The prolonged heavy rainfall events were the result of tropical cyclone enhancement of the monsoon winds. The synoptic environment in the two events was characterized by the deepening of the Asian monsoon trough depicted by the zonally-oriented and eastward-extended 1000 hPa isobar. The deep troughs were caused each year by a combination of tropical cyclones located to the northeast of the Philippines – Typhoon Haikui in 2012 and Severe Tropical Storm Trami in 2013, and remnant tropical cyclones in the northern South China Sea region that formed several days prior to the enhanced Habagat episodes. The monsoon trough induced a low-level westerly jet in the South China Sea toward the western Luzon region that transported a narrow stream of moisture-laden air mass to Metro Manila and surrounding areas. Consequently, heavy precipitation ensued. Analysis showed the remnant lows are as important as the enhancing tropical cyclones Haikui and Trami in inducing the westerly jets. Removal of the enhancing tropical cyclones in numerical model simulations still showed a relatively deep monsoon trough that led to heavy rainfall along western Luzon. In addition, the intrusion of low potential vorticity area to the eastern and northern flanks of the tropical cyclones facilitated the strengthening of the steering ridge that resulted in their westward and slow translational motion, making the events last for several days and exacerbating the impacts. Furthermore, the Madden-Julian Oscillation possibly serves as a precursor to heavy rainfall events. Compounded with a populous megacity, understanding the mechanisms that lead to these extreme hazards is vital to future forecasting and disaster risk management of similar events.
Developing Effective Marketing Strategies for Herviolet After COVID-19 Pandemic: A Case Study of Herviolet
Authors: Soempeno Rio Dzaki , Aprilianty Fitri
Published: July 2023

The recent COVID-19 pandemic has limited many ethnic modern-style fashion brand’s selling and promotional activities to almost a halt. Their previous main source of income and publicity through national conventions and exhibitions, became unavailable due to pandemic policies and restrictions. These brands must now find a way to capitalize the usage of digital marketing as a way to promote and sell their product. Herviolet is one of the ethnic modern brands that were affected, and are struggling with their marketing efforts due to an ineffective marketing strategy. As stated by Herviolet’s owner, the company does not have a marketing department, goal, nor strategy. Therefore, this research is designed to create solutions towards Herviolet’s marketing strategy problems that will help them increase their brand awareness and product knowledge. An internal and external analysis will be conducted, with the latter using PESTEL and Porter’s Five Forces Analysis, and will be summarized with a SWOT Analysis. A qualitative methodology will also be conducted, using semi-structured interviews towards Herviolet’s owner and two regular customers, where the interview results will be analyzed using open coding. A monthly social media performance analysis will also be conducted, where the account insights, data, and performance will be analyzed to give an image of Herviolet’s current social media performance. From this research, 3 solutions were developed for Herviolet in order to improve their marketing strategy, brand awareness, and product knowledge.
Pengaruh Kepemimpinan Islami dan Religiusitas terhadap Kinerja Karyawan
Authors: Desri Suryatman , Nazaruddin Erizal , Sabila Salima Sindi , Alfiana Meza Putri
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this research is to examine the effect of Islamic leadership and religiosity on employee performance in organizations. Transformational theory and Islamic work ethics are the theoretical foundations of this research. Previous studies have shown that Islamic leadership and individual religiosity have a positive effect on employee performance through factors such as job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and Islamic work ethics. This study uses secondary research methods by collecting relevant and publicly available data from previous studies. The data will then be processed using descriptive analysis techniques to provide an overview of the relationship between research variables. The results of the analysis show that Islamic leadership has an effect on employee performance, but religiosity has no significant effect on employee performance. This shows that leaders who apply the concept of Islamic leadership and pay attention to the spiritual aspects of their subordinates can positively influence their performance.
CALLUS CULTURES OF SPERGULARIA MARINA (L.) GRISEB.: OBTAINING AND PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS
Authors:   Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, Pungin Artem V. , Larceva Lidiya O. ,   Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, Kulakov Maksim V. ,   Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, Popova Elena A. ,   Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University
Published: July 2023

In recent decades, interest in halophyte plants has increased due to their high content of biologically active substances with powerful antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antitumor properties and promising for the prevention of various diseases. Several species of halophytes grow on the territory of the Kaliningrad region, among which the rare species Spergularia marina (L.) Griseb. is of particular interest, the biological activity and content of secondary metabolites of which have not been studied sufficiently. The purpose of this study was to obtain callus cultures, to study the content of some groups of phenolic compounds and the antioxidant activity of extracts. The study carried out the selection of growth regulators and concentrations that induce callus formation. 19 nutrient media were selected for the induction of S. marina callus cultures. The conducted phytochemical analysis showed a significant content of phenolic compounds and hydroxycinnamic acids, as well as a high level of antioxidant activity of extracts of callus cultures. Out of 19 callus cultures, cultures obtained on Murashige and Skoog nutrient media containing the following combinations of growth regulators are promising for obtaining target secondary metabolites: 0.25 mg/l TDZ and 1 mg/l 2,4-D; 0.1 mg/l TDZ and 1.5 mg/l 2,4-D; 0.25 mg/l TDZ and 0.25 mg/l IBA; 0.5 mg/l TDZ and 0.25 mg/l IBA; 0.25 mg/l KinN and 0.5 mg/l 2,4-D.
Los contratos de locación de servicios y los derechos laborales en la municipalidad distrital de Pueblo Nuevo, 2020-2022
Authors:   , Garay Chávez Annie Jeraldine , Sánchez Napanga Teodolinda Katherin
Published: July 2023

El presente trabajo de investigación se encuentra inspirado en determinar la incidencia de los contratos de locación de servicios en los derechos laborales en la Municipalidad Distrital de Pueblo Nuevo durante el periodo 2020 – 2022, a raíz de la precariedad laboral que viven los trabajadores municipales al ser contratados por la comuna distrital bajo la condición de locación de servicios para el despliegue de laborales personales, subordinadas y remuneradas. En ese sentido, en la presente tesis se aplicó el tipo de investigación aplicada con enfoque cuantitativo, además, de un diseño no experimental con corte trasversal – correlacional. Para esto se realizaron encuestas a través de un cuestionario con 21 preguntas dirigidas a 100 locadores de servicios de la Municipalidad Distrital de Pueblo Nuevo. Finalmente, de los resultados acopiados se evidencio la desnaturalización de los contratos de locación de servicios aplicados a los trabajadores municipales, debido a que los servicios desplegados por los anteriormente mencionados corresponden a un vínculo contractual de naturaleza laboral, lo que permito la formulación de conclusiones orientadas al respeto y protección de los derechos laborales de los trabajadores municipales por parte de la comuna distrital.
Experimentación con modelos de Deep Learning para la detección de objetos
Authors: Jiménez Láinez Andrés , Pérez Godoy María Dolores
Published: July 2023

Experimentaremos con un modelo de deep learning para detectar diferentes tipos de flores en una imagen, analizando varios parámetros para ver su correcto funcionamiento y explicar las posibles causas de los mismos.
Three-Dimentional Printing Materials for Maxillofacial Structure Development: A Review
Authors: Suresh Kavya , Kandisa Ravi V. , Chekuri Dilip K. , Tiwari Pramil
Published: July 2023

A 3D printing is an additive manufacturing technique that has wide applications in various fields, including healthcare, especially in producing complex and entangled geometries like maxillofacial structures. Various 3D printing techniques are available; however, the range of biomaterials satisfying the printability criteria is limited. Generally, 3D printing biomaterials fall under classes as such a metals, ceramics, polymers, composites and hydrogels. In maxillofacial structure development, 3D printing is used for manufacturing surgical guides, models, splints, patient-specific implants and facial prostheses. This review describes various 3D printable materials and a brief overview of 3D printing techniques, specifically explored in maxillofacial structure-related applications. 3D bioprinting materials are beyond the scope of this review.
Movable typing of full‐lumen personalized Vein‐Chips to model cerebral venous sinus thrombosis
Authors: Zhao Yunduo Charles , Zhang Yingqi , Nasser Arian , Hong Tianbo , Wang Zihao , Sun Allan , Moldovan Laura , Edwards Leon S , Passam Freda , Butcher Ken S , Ang Timothy , Ju Lining Arnold
Published: July 2023

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a type of stroke associated with COVID‐19 vaccine‐induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia. The precise etiology of CVST often remains elusive due to the highly heterogeneous nature of its governing mechanisms, specifically, Virchow's triad that involves altered blood flow, endothelial dysfunction, and hypercoagulability, which varies substantially amongst individuals. Existing diagnostic and monitoring approaches lack the capability to reflect the combination of these patient‐specific thrombotic determinants. In response to this challenge, we introduce a Vein‐Chip platform that recapitulates the CVST vascular anatomy from magnetic resonance venography and the associated hemodynamic flow profile using the “Chinese Movable Type‐like” soft stereolithography technique. The resultant full‐lumen personalized Vein‐Chips, functionalized with endothelial cells, enable in‐vitro thrombosis assays that can elucidate distinct thrombogenic scenarios between normal vascular conditions and those of endothelial dysfunction. The former displayed minimal platelet aggregation and negligible fibrin deposition, while the latter presented significant fibrin extrusion from platelet aggregations. The low‐cost movable typing technique further enhances the potential for commercialization and broader utilization of personalized Vein‐Chips in surgical labs and at‐home monitoring. Future research and development in this direction will pave the way for improved management and prevention of CVST, ultimately benefiting both patients and healthcare systems.
The MINT Sprint 2.0: A picture naming test for detection of naming impairments in Alzheimer's disease and in preclinical AD
Authors: Gollan Tamar H. , Garcia Dalia L. , Stasenko Alena , Murillo Mayra , Kim Chi , Galasko Douglas , Salmon David P.
Published: July 2023

INTRODUCTION

Evidence on the onset of naming deficits in Alzheimer's disease (AD) is mixed. Some studies showed an early decline, but others did not. The present study introduces evidence from a novel naming test.

METHODS

Cognitively normal (n = 138), mild cognitive impairment (MCI;n = 21), and Alzheimer's disease (AD;n = 31) groups completed an expanded Multilingual Naming Test with a time‐pressured administration procedure (MINT Sprint 2.0). Cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers classified participants as true controls (n = 61) or preclinical AD (n = 26).

RESULTS

Total correct MINT Sprint 2.0 scores exhibited good sensitivity and specificity (>0.85) for discriminating true controls from cognitively impaired (MCI/AD) groups and showed significant differences between true controls and preclinical AD groups. Time measurement did not improve classification, but percent resolved scores exhibited promise as an independent AD marker.

DISCUSSION

Naming deficits can be detected in the earliest stages of AD with tests and procedures designed for this purpose.
Type‐II Red Phosphorus: Wavy Packing of Twisted Pentagonal Tubes
Authors: Yoon Jun‐Yeong , Lee Yangjin , Kim Dong‐Gyu , Oh Dong Gun , Kim Jin Kyun , Guo Linshuo , Kim Jungcheol , Choe Jeongheon , Lee Kihyun , Cheong Hyeonsik , Kim Chae Un , Choi Young Jai , Ma Yanhang , Kim Kwanpyo
Published: July 2023

Elemental phosphorus exhibits fascinating structural varieties and versatile properties. The unique nature of phosphorus bonds can lead to the formation of extremely complex structures, and detailed structural information on some phosphorus polymorphs is yet to be investigated. In this study, we investigated an unidentified crystalline phase of phosphorus, type‐II red phosphorus (RP), by combining state‐of‐the‐art structural characterization techniques. Electron diffraction tomography, atomic‐resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), powder X‐ray diffraction, and Raman spectroscopy were concurrently used to elucidate the hidden structural motifs and their packing in type‐II RP. Electron diffraction tomography, performed using individual crystalline nanowires, was used to identify a triclinic unit cell with volume of 5330 Å3, which is the largest unit cell for elemental phosphorus crystals up to now and contains approximately 250 phosphorus atoms. Atomic‐resolution STEM imaging, which was performed along different crystal‐zone axes, confirmed that the twisted wavy tubular motif is the basic building block of type‐II RP. Our study discovered and presented a new variation of building blocks in phosphorus, and it provides insights to clarify the complexities observed in phosphorus as well as other relevant systems.
Infinite‐time partially observed nonzero‐sum bilinear affine‐quadratic stochastic differential game and its application to competitive advertising
Authors: Tao Wang , Zhang Cheng‐Ke , Yang Lu
Published: July 2023

Due to the conjunction of huge expenditure and latent inefficiencies, competitive advertising has always been occupying a front‐and‐center place in marketing, among which a bilinear system is one of the most important. Because much real business is two giants playing among other emerging challengers and the players can only inspect the market through a related noisy process by the random sampling survey, the sales‐advertising dynamics is a partially observed nonzero‐sum stochastic differential game. However, by the intrinsic difficulties of mathematics, there is no extant research to augment the analysis on the infinite‐time horizon, which is of particular significance to implementing the online sales campaign and evaluating the consequence of endless competition. Motivated by this, controllability and stability analysis are explored first for the iterative approximation to bilinearity. Then, the simulation provides a rapid prototyping and automatic approach for the most efficient strategies. Moreover, four implications have been discovered by comparison with eight examples as the application of four encounters on finite‐ and infinite‐time horizons. Several new insights have been revealed for those struggling to develop successful advertising strategies.
Being cut off from social identity resources has shaped loneliness during the coronavirus pandemic: A longitudinal interview study with medically vulnerable older adults from the United Kingdom
Authors: Harkin Lydia , Stuart Avelie , Stevenson Clifford , Talbot Catherine , Daly Rosie , Park Miriam Sang‐Ah , Katz Dmitri , Gooch Daniel , Price Blaine
Published: July 2023

Loneliness is a pernicious problem in older adulthood, associated with physical decline and isolation from valued social groups. However, the long‐term evolving experiences of ageing, identity and loneliness have yet to be elucidated. We use a Qualitative Longitudinal Research interview approach with nine vulnerable older adults (Agemean = 79.4 years), in which five participants were interviewed twice between 2019 and 2020, and four participants were interviewed at three‐time points from 2019 to 2021. This study aims to understand the unfolding experiences of ageing, social identity and loneliness during a prolonged period of social isolation during the Coronavirus pandemic. A theoretically guided thematic analysis highlights that participants initially experience ‘Categorisation as Vulnerable and Loss of Agency’ and ‘Shrinking Social Worlds’, leading to ‘Undermining of Reciprocal Support’ and ‘Fears of Persistent Loneliness’. Findings suggest that interventions to ameliorate loneliness among older adults would benefit from addressing age‐based stereotypes and emphasising the value of reciprocal contributions that older adults can make to their networks, as well as scaffolding and enhancing social identification with new groups. Please refer to the Supplementary Material section to find this article'sCommunity and Social Impact Statement.
Management of a broken guiding catheter tip: Cut and fix technique
Authors: Singh Navreet , Swamy Ajay J. , Bajaj Nitin , Gupta Ankush
Published: July 2023

A 49‐year‐old male presented with class III exertional angina, 1 year after angioplasty of the left anterior descending artery (LAD) and right coronary artery. Coronary angiogram revealed 90% in‐stent restenosis (ISR) in mid‐LAD with angiographic impression of stent fracture. Optical coherence tomographic evaluation of mid‐LAD ISR showed a distinct 3 mm long “eclipse sign” indicating embolized, broken guiding catheter tip as a cause of ISR, which was confirmed on reviewing 1‐year‐old angiographic images. This was managed with “cut and fix technique” using cutting balloon and another drug‐eluting stent. Optical coherence tomographic at 9 months showed well endothelialized stent with a thin layer of neo‐intimal hyperplasia over the sandwiched broken guiding tip.
The influence of postfire recovery and environmental conditions on boreal vegetation
Authors: Jorgensen Alexis Gardiner , Alfaro‐Sánchez Raquel , Cumming Steven G. , White Alison L. , Degré‐Timmons Geneviève Éliane , Day Nicola , Turetsky Merritt , Johnstone Jill F. , Walker Xanthe J. , Baltzer Jennifer L.
Published: July 2023

Climate change is increasing the frequency and extent of fires in the boreal biome of North America. These changes can alter the recovery of both canopy and understory vegetation. There is uncertainty about plant and lichen recovery patterns following fire, and how they are mediated by environmental conditions. Here, we aim to address these knowledge gaps by studying patterns of postfire vegetation recovery at the community and individual species level over the first 100+ years following fire. Data from vegetation surveys collected from 581 plots in the Northwest Territories, Canada, ranging from 1 to 275 years postfire, were used to assess the influence of time after fire and local environmental conditions on plant community composition and to model trends in the relative abundance of several common plant and lichen species. Time after fire significantly influenced vegetation community composition and interacted with local environmental conditions, particularly soil moisture. Soil moisture individually (in the absence of interactions) was the most commonly significant variable in plant and lichen recovery models. Patterns of postfire recovery varied greatly among species. Our results provide novel information on plant community recovery after fire and highlight the importance of soil moisture to local vegetation patterns. They will aid northern communities and land managers to anticipate the impacts of increased fire activity on both local vegetation and the wildlife that relies on it.
Ictal and interictalSPECTwith99mTc‐HMPAOin presurgical epilepsy. I: Predictive value and methodological considerations
Authors: Prener Martin , Drejer Veronica , Ziebell Morten , Jensen Per , Madsen Camilla Gøbel , Olsen Svitlana , Thomsen Gerda , Pinborg Lars H. , Paulson Olaf B.
Published: July 2023

Objective

This retrospective study investigates the predictive value of ictal subtraction single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) co‐registered to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (SISCOM) for successful epilepsy surgery.

Methods

57 patients examined with SISCOM as a part of epilepsy surgery evaluation were divided into two groups based on seizure duration after tracer injection (group 1: Seizure duration above or equal to 30 s, group 2: Seizure duration under 30 s). SISCOM was compared to the surgical site and categorized as good or poor concordance. Subsequently, Odds ratios (ORs) and positive predictive values (PPVs) were calculated for each group for good surgical outcome, freedom from disabling seizures.

Results

The PPVs and ORs for good surgical outcome was 74.1% and 5.71 for group 1 and 40% and 0.22 for group 2. SISCOM had a similar positive predictive value regardless of whether the focus was in the same or neighboring lobe, but same hemisphere as the resection.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the implementation of a precise definition for a well‐executed ictal SPECT scan with respect to seizure duration after injection enhances the positive predictive value (PPV) and odds ratio (OR) for successful surgical outcome, surpassing previous findings, whether the focus in resected lobe or the neighboring.
In vitro multitarget activity of sulfadiazine substituted triazenes as antimicrobial, cytotoxic, and larvicidal agents
Authors: Aydin Hasan , Akocak Süleyman , Lolak Nebih , Uslu Uğur , Sait Ahmet , Korkmaz Serol , Parmaksiz Ayşe , Ceylan Onur , Aksakal Abdulbaki
Published: July 2023

Multidrug resistance (MDR) causes difficulties in the treatment of infections and cancer. Research and development studies have become increasingly important for the strategy of preventing MDR. There is a need for new multitarget drug research and advancement to reduce the development of drug resistance in drug‐drug interactions and reduce cost and toxic effects. This study aimed to determine the effects of multi‐target triazene compounds on antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, cytotoxic, and larvicidal activities were investigated in vitro. A series of 12 novel of 1,3‐diaryltriazene‐substituted sulfadiazine (SDZ) derivatives were synthesized, and the obtained pure products characterized in detail by spectroscopic and analytic methods (FT‐IR, 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, and melting points). The antibacterial and antifungal activities of these derivatives (AH1‐12) were determined by broth microdilution method. All derivatives have been evaluated in cell‐based assays for cytotoxic and antiviral activities against Modified Vaccinia Virus Ankara. The larvicidal efficacy of these chemical compounds was also investigated by using Lucilia sericata (L. sericata) larvae. Twelve 1,3‐diaryltriazene‐substituted SDZ derivatives (AH1‐12) were designed and developed as potent multitargeted compounds. Among them, the AH1 derivative showed the most antibacterial and antifungal activity. Besides, synthesized derivatives AH2, AH3, AH5, and AH7 showed higher antiviral activity than SDZ. All synthesized derivatives showed higher cytotoxic activity than SDZ. Also, they showed larvicidal activity at 72 h of the experiment. As a result, these compounds might be great leads for the development of next‐generation multitargeted agents.
Therapeutic effect of thymoquinone on brain damage caused by nonylphenol exposure in rats
Authors: Ceylan Tayfun , Akin Ali Tuğrul , Karabulut Derya , Tan Fazile Cantürk , Taşkiran Mehmet , Yakan Birkan
Published: July 2023

Nonylphenol (NP), causes various harmful effects such as cognitive impairment and neurotoxicity. Thymoquinone (TQ), has antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. In this study, our aim is to investigate the effects of TQ on the brain damage caused by NP. Corn oil was applied to the control group. NP (100 mg/kg/day) was administered to the NP and NP + TQ groups for 21 days. TQ (5 mg/kg/day) was administered to the NP + TQ and TQ groups for 7 after 21 days. At the end of the experiment, the new object recognition test was applied to the rats and the rats were killed and their brain tissues were removed. Sections taken from brain tissues were stained with hematoxylin–eosin for histopathological evaluation. In addition, neuronal nuclei (NeuN), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), Cas‐3, and nerve growth factor (NGF) immunoreactivities were evaluated in brain tissue sections. In addition, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) activities were determined. Comet assay was applied to determine DNA damage in cells. The results of our study showed that NP, caused behavioral disorders and damage to the cerebral cortex in rats. This damage in the form of neuron degeneration seen in the cortex was associated with apoptosis involving Cas‐3 activation, increased DNA damage, and free oxygen radicals. NP, SOD, and CAT caused a decrease in enzyme activities. In addition, the cellular protein NeuN was decreased, astrocytosis‐associated GFAP was increased, and growth factor NGF was decreased. When all our evaluations are taken together, treatment with TQ showed an ameliorative effect on the behavioral impairment and brain damage caused by NP exposure.
Cameron–Liebler sets for maximal totally isotropic flats in classical affine spaces
Authors: Guo Jun , Wan Lingyu
Published: July 2023

Let be the ‐dimensional classical affine space with parameter over a ‐element finite field , and be the set of all maximal totally isotropic flats in . In this paper, we discuss Cameron–Liebler sets in , obtain several equivalent definitions and present some classification results.
Hybrid fractional laser facial resurfacing: A comparison between a single treatment at high settings versus multiple treatments at low to moderate settings
Authors: Shenhav Leah T. , Shehadeh Waseem , Alcotzer Inbar , Artzi Ofir
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Fractional laser treatments for facial skin rejuvenation is an evolving field with the increase of innovative technologies. Typically, better results are achieved by using more aggressive approaches although this is accompanied by an increased risk. The demand for a modality that combines efficacy with minimal downtime and risk of adverse events led to the development of a hybrid laser, which delivers a fractional treatment of ablative CO2 and nonablative 1570 nm lasers, simultaneously. This study compares the clinical results, side effects, and downtime profile of the hybrid laser in multiple low‐to‐moderate‐setting treatments versus a single high‐setting treatment in the facial area.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective single‐center study included 44 patients who underwent 1–3 treatments with the hybrid laser for facial rejuvenation between the years 2020–2022. The patients were divided into two groups based on the number of treatments they had received (Group A; single high‐setting treatment, Group B; 2–3 low‐to‐moderate setting treatments). Three independent nontreating physicians evaluated the objective improvement by assessing the patients' standardized clinical photographs before and after the treatments, using three different scales. Treatment data, adverse events, and patients' satisfaction in each group were also reviewed.

Results

A superiority to 2–3 low‐to‐moderate setting treatments (Group B) was found in most of the evaluated scales. Patients' satisfaction was significantly higher in Group B, and the average downtime was significantly lower: 4.3 ± 1.6 days versus 7.3 ± 2.3 days in Group A. The expected treatment effects were significantly milder in severity in Group B as graded by the patients, and no adverse events were reported in this group. An average overall improvement of 51%–75% according to Global Esthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) was found in both groups.

Conclusions

The new hybrid laser generates remarkable clinical outcomes in facial rejuvenation. Performing several treatments at mild to moderate settings can lead to a safer and more favorable procedure while maintaining high efficacy and achieving higher patients' satisfaction.
Integrating assemblage structure and habitat mapping data into the design of a multispecies reef fish survey
Authors: Switzer Theodore S. , Keenan Sean F. , Thompson Kevin A. , Shea Colin P. , Knapp Anthony R. , Campbell Matthew D. , Noble Brandi , Gardner Chris , Christman Mary C.
Published: July 2023

Objective

Since 2010, three spatially disjunct reef fish video surveys have provided fishery-independent data critical to the assessment and management of reef fishes in the Gulf of Mexico. Although analytical approaches have recently been developed to integrate data from these surveys into a single measure of relative abundance and size composition, a more parsimonious approach would be to integrate survey efforts under a single Gulf-wide survey design. Accordingly, we conducted a retrospective analysis of historical video- and habitat-mapping data to develop a novel stratified random sampling design for conducting surveys of natural and artificial reef habitats.

Methods

We conducted a series of classification and regression tree analyses to delineate both spatial and habitat strata, and conducted simulations to assess the performance of an optimized survey design.

Result

Spatially, classification and regression tree results identified three depth strata (10–25 m, >25–50 m, >50–180 m) and three regional strata (north-central Gulf, Big Bend, southwest Florida) in the eastern Gulf. For both natural and artificial reefs, habitat strata were delineated based on a combination of relative relief (low, medium, high) and size of the individual reef feature, although reef scale differed markedly between natural (<100 m2, 100–1000 m2, >1000 m2) and artificial habitats (<25 m2, 25–100 m2, >100 m2). To optimize effort among sampling strata, effort was allocated proportionally based on a combination of habitat availability and managed-species richness for each stratum. Simulation results indicated that relative median biases were <10% and relative median absolute deviations <30% on estimates of abundance for most species examined on natural reefs under the optimal design, except Greater Amberjack Seriola dumerili. These measures of bias and imprecision were similar or higher for most species simulated using simple random and stratified random survey designs. Estimated relative median bias and relative median absolute deviations were notably higher for artificial reef surveys.

Conclusion

Based on these results, survey efforts were integrated as the Gulf Fishery Independent Survey of Habitat and Ecosystem Resources (G-FISHER) in 2020.
Persistent post–COVID‐19 neuromuscular symptoms
Authors: Abrams Rory M. C. , Zhou Lan , Shin Susan C.
Published: July 2023

Neuromuscular symptoms may develop or persist after resolution of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection. Besides residual sensorimotor symptoms associated with acute neuromuscular complications of coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19), such as Guillain–Barré syndrome, critical illness neuromyopathy, and rhabdomyolysis, patients may report persistent autonomic symptoms, sensory symptoms, and muscle symptoms in the absence of these acute complications, including palpitations, orthostatic dizziness and intolerance, paresthesia, myalgia, and fatigue. These symptoms may be associated with long COVID, also known as post–COVID‐19 conditions or postacute sequelae of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, which may significantly impact quality of life. Managing these symptoms represents a challenge for health‐care providers. Recent advances have identified small‐fiber neuropathy as a potential etiology that may underlie autonomic dysfunction and paresthesia in some long COVID patients. The pathogenic mechanisms underlying myalgia and fatigue remain elusive and need to be investigated. Herein we review the current state of knowledge regarding the evaluation and management of patients with persistent post–COVID‐19 neuromuscular symptoms.
Perspectives of on‐farm biosecurity and disease prevention among selected pig veterinarians and pig farmers in Sweden
Authors: Gröndal Hedvig , Tuominen Krista , Sternberg Lewerin Susanna
Published: July 2023

Background

Biosecurity is important in preventing the spread of infectious diseases in animal production. Previous studies have identified a disparity between the biosecurity recommendations provided by veterinarians and the actual practices implemented by farmers. This study compared group discussions with a few key actors among Swedish pig veterinarians and farmers on pig farm biosecurity.

Methods

Two focus group discussions were conducted, one with five Swedish pig veterinarians and one with three pig farmers, to explore their views on pig farm biosecurity and efficient biosecurity measures. The discussions were analysed to identify differences and similarities in how biosecurity was perceived.

Results

The study identified differences between the veterinarians and pig farmers in how they perceived good biosecurity and the level of biosecurity in Swedish pig herds. The veterinarians perceived that adhering strictly to the farming system and its barriers was essential for good biosecurity. The biosecurity in the pig farms was often considered inadequate. The veterinarians described difficulties in biosecurity‐related communication with the farmers. The pig farmers valued the flexibility of the farming system over strict barriers and described that the level of biosecurity was good in Swedish pig herds. However, both groups also shared similar views regarding the challenges in farm biosecurity. They highlighted that biosecurity measures with proven efficacy are important for farmer motivation.

Conclusions

This limited study suggested that different perspectives on biosecurity can contribute to communication difficulties between pig farmers and veterinarians. Acknowledging both the differences and similarities of the different perspectives may help improve cooperation and communication in biosecurity‐related questions.
Substance Use
Authors: Schleim Stephan
Published: July 2023

This chapter starts out with a theoretical discussion of the meaning of “drug”. As it turns out, three different kinds of psychoactive drugs can be distinguished. Central to this distinction is the understanding of appropriate medical use, which is subject to change. Historical examples illustrate how our personal and also governments’ ways to think about drugs changed since the nineteenth century. In the past, colonial authorities were the biggest drug traders and countries even waged war to enforce open markets. Cocaine, opium, and nitrous oxide (laughing gas) are addressed in detail. The legal regulation of that last substance even changed as the book was being written. The framework for people’s instrumental substance use is then introduced. It distinguishes different reasons for which drugs can be instrumentalized. Several common substances are described subsequently, addressing their respective risks and benefits. The final section presents important values that can guide moral decisions about drug use.
Complete Characterization of Polyhedral Self-Affine Tiles
Authors: Protasov Vladimir Yu. , Zaitseva Tatyana
Published: July 2023

A self-affine tile is a compact set $$G\subset {\mathbb R}^d$$

G
⊂

R

d

that admits a partition (tiling) by parallel shifts of the set $$M^{-1}G$$

M

-
1

G

, where M is an expanding matrix. We find all self-affine tiles which are polyhedral sets, i.e., unions of finitely many convex polyhedra. It is shown that there exists an infinite family of such polyhedral sets, not affinely equivalent to each other. A special attention is paid to integral self-affine tiles with standard digit sets, when the matrix M and the translation vectors are integer. Applications to the approximation theory and to the functional analysis are discussed.
The effect of thyroxine (T4) and goitrogen on growth, liver, thyroid, and gonadal development of red tilapia (O. mossambicus × O. urolepis hornorum)
Authors: Ismail Rania F. , Assem Samira S. , Sharaf Hossam E. R. , Zeitoun Ashraf A. M. , Srour Tarek M. A.
Published: July 2023

This study provides comprehensive results on the growth, thyroid, liver, and gonadal condition, maturity, and sex ratio in red tilapia exposed to exogenous thyroxine and goitrogen. One-gram red tilapia fingerlings were reared in three groups: control, thyroxine (T4) (10 nM), and goitrogen (sodium perchlorate, 30 mg/L) for 30 days, followed by 30 days without treatment. After the first 30 days of treatment, liver enzymes and whole-body T4 and T3 were assessed. The gonadosomatic index (GSI), maturity stages and sex ratio were examined. Final body weight (FBW), weight gain (WG), specific growth rate (SGR), and survival rate were also measured. Results revealed insignificant differences among groups in FBW, WG, SGR, and GSI, but the hepatosomatic index (HSI) of the goitrogen group significantly increased. Exogenous thyroxine significantly increased whole-body T4. Liver enzymes were not affected. Thyroid follicles of the thyroxine-treated fish showed large thyroid follicles, whereas the goitrogen-treated fish showed degenerated and negligible thyroid follicles. Liver tissue of the thyroxine-treated fish group displayed a few fat vacuoles, while perchlorate-treated fish showed hydrophobic degenerated hepatocytes. At the end of 60 days, the thyroxine treatment significantly increased FBW, WG, SGR, female GSI, and male hepatosomatic index (HSI). Perchlorate and thyroxine exposure, respectively, skewed sex ratios toward males and females. Exogenous T4 enhanced the maturity stages of both females and males, while perchlorate exposure delayed their gonadal ripening. These results validated the significant role of T4 during early life of red tilapia as it could improve the growth and maturity, and affect its sex ratio, while T4 insufficiency could alter these factors.
Environmental susceptibility for all: A data-driven approach suggests individual differences in domain-general and domain-specific patterns of environmental susceptibility
Authors: Markovitch Noam , Hart Yuval , Knafo-Noam Ariel
Published: July 2023

How we are influenced by our environment is a fundamental question in developmental science. Theories and empirical research have claimed that some individuals are susceptible to environmental influences and others are much less susceptible. The present study addressed four questions: (1) Is environmental susceptibility a continuous or categorical construct? (2) Is environmental susceptibility unidimensional (i.e., domain general) or multidimensional (i.e., domain specific)? (3) Are there genetic contributions to individual differences in environmental susceptibility? (4) What are the temperamental characteristics of different environmental susceptibility patterns? We used child- and mother-report data from a sample of 11-year-old twins (N = 1,507) and applied a novel data-driven approach to assess an environmental susceptibility space, based on simultaneous associations between multiple environmental exposures (18 measures relating to parenting, parent, peer, and twin relationships) and developmental outcomes (10 measures relating to empathy, prosocial behavior, aggression, and self-esteem). The results suggest that the environmental susceptibility space we assessed is better conceptualized as continuous and multidimensional. Different children showed susceptibility to different contexts and variation in domain-general versus domain-specific patterns. A comparison of distances between monozygotic and dizygotic twins within the space demonstrated genetic contributions. Finally, susceptibility patterns could not be differentiated based on a specific temperament trait, but rather related to temperament profiles.
Navigating the text generation revolution: Traditional data-to-text NLG companies and the rise of ChatGPT
Authors: Dale Robert
Published: July 2023

Since the release of ChatGPT at the end of November 2022, generative AI has been talked about endlessly in both the technical press and the mainstream media. Large language model technology has been heralded as many things: the disruption of the search engine, the end of the student essay, the bringer of disinformation … but what does it mean for commercial providers of earlier iterations of natural language generation technology? We look at how the major players in the space are responding, and where things might go in the future.
Anatomical structures, cell types, and biomarkers of the healthy human blood vasculature
Authors: Boppana Avinash , Lee Sujin , Malhotra Rajeev , Halushka Marc , Gustilo Katherine S , Quardokus Ellen M. , Herr Bruce W. , Börner Katy , Weber Griffin M.
Published: July 2023

More than 150 scientists from 17 consortia are collaborating on an international project to build a Human Reference Atlas, which maps all 37 trillion cells in the healthy adult human body. The initial release of this atlas provided hierarchical lists of the anatomical structures, cell types, and biomarkers in 11 organs. Here, we describe the methods we used as part of this initiative to build the first open, computer-readable, and comprehensive database of the adult human blood vasculature, called the Human Reference Atlas-Vasculature Common Coordinate Framework (HRA-VCCF). It includes 993 vessels and their branching connections, 10 cell types, and 10 biomarkers. With this paper we are releasing additional details on vessel types and subtypes, branching sequence, anastomoses, portal systems, microvasculature, functional tissue units, mappings to regions vessels supply or drain, geometric properties of vessels, and links to 3D reference objects. Future versions will add variants and connections to the lymph vasculature; and, it will iteratively expand and improve the database as additional experimental data become available through the participating consortia.
Enhancement in electrical conductivity of liquid crystals by graphene metal oxide composites
Authors: Khodaee M. , Dalir N. , Feghhi F. , Ansari N. , Mohammadimasoudi M. , Goudarzi A. , Nasiri A. F. , Kolahdouz M. , Mohseni SM.
Published: July 2023

Enhancing the electrical conductivity of liquid crystal (LC) circumvents challenges for application in advanced electronic components. Toward this, using additives made of different nanostructures that could result in functional LCs is suggested. In this paper, various concentrations of graphene (Gr)/metal-oxide (Fe3O4) nanocomposite (GMN) (0.0001–1 w%) were added to E7 nematic LC. We found that the role of anisotropic Gr flakes, their edges as well as surface-decorated-metal-oxide-additives have significant impact on electrical properties of E7. A range of appropriate additives of such a nanocomposite enhances the electrical conductivity of LCs. This effect can be traced through the decrease in the formation of GMN aggregates in the E7 and increase in the electrostatic field at the edges of the Gr sheets. Moreover, the presence of metal-oxide nanoclusters due to the presence of oxygen vacancies and defects facilitates the construction of conductive network for improving the charge transfer pathways and contributes to a stronger interaction of the Gr surface with charged species. These factors can provide Gr layers as dipole moments and lead to signal propagation in the dielectric medium. Our finding conveys a pathway toward significant enhancement of electrical conductivity in the LC family which can be useful for functional applications.
Recent progress in zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs)-derived nanomaterials for effective lithium polysulfide management in lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Zhang Mengjie , Mao Hanshu , Liang Yeru , Yu Xiaoyuan
Published: July 2023

This review discusses the physical/chemical design methods of ZIF-derived nanomaterials to realize effective lithium polysulfide management and summarizes current shortcomings and latent prospects of the application of ZIF-derived nanomaterials.
Perspectives of thin-film lithium niobate and electro-optic polymers for high-performance electro-optic modulation
Authors: Wang Mengke , Chen Yixin , Zhang Shengpeng , Dong Lianghai , Yao Hao , Xu Huajun , Chen Kaixin , Wu Jieyun
Published: July 2023

We summarized the recent progress and perspectives of Pockels electro-optic materials thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) and electro-optic polymer (EOP) for next-generation wide-bandwidth and low-power electro-optic modulation.
Le Grand Carénage, pierre angulaire de l’exploitation à long terme
Authors: Richard Sylvie
Published: July 2023

Pour passer la visite des 40 ans et viser les 60 ans d’exploitation, EDF a engagé un investissement massif sur l’ensemble de son parc nucléaire : le programme Grand Carénage. Un chantier colossal, inédit et qui permet d’envisager l’exploitation à long terme des réacteurs.
Densification of nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite powder via sintering: enhancing mechanical properties for biomedical applications
Authors: Akram Waseem , Khan Rafiullah , Amjad Muhammad , Muhammad Riaz , Yasir Muhammad
Published: July 2023

The effect of compaction load, sintering temperature and soaking time on the sinter-ability and densification of Nano crystalline hydroxyapatite (HA) was assessed. The compaction and sinter-ability of HA particles was done at three different compaction loads and temperatures ranging from 1 ton to 5 ton and 850 °C to 1250 °C, respectively. Compaction of the green pellets was best achieved at 5-ton compaction load and it’s percent green densification was up to 50% of the theoretical density of HA (3.16g cm−3). For sintered density, the best results were achieved at a temperature of 1250 °C and a compaction load of 1 ton which were 98% of the theoretical density. Soaking time at these sintering temperatures was varied between 1 and 3 h and was found that with the variation of soaking time from 3 h to 1 h, the sintered density decreased tremendously at 850 °C from 85% to 50% whereas at higher temperatures the decrease in density was only 4 to 6%. The maximum hardness of 625 (±28) HV1 was obtained for HA sintered at 1250 °C with a soaking time of 3 h. Phase analyses were carried out using an x-ray diffractometer. The HA phase was stable even at the highest sintering temperature of 1250 °C and did not decompose into α tri-calcium phosphate (TCP) and β TCP. The grain size was reduced by decreasing soaking time and lowering sintering temperature.