bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Competencia emprendedora y competencia emocional: experiencia de Aprendizaje-Servicio con alumnado universitario
Authors: López Requena Estefanía , Valero Carrero Susana
Published: February 2023

Las instituciones educativas reflexionan sobre la manera en la que poder incorporar la formación competencial en las aulas, aquellas metodologías más idóneas para potenciarlas. Esta investigación presta atención al desarrollo de la competencia emprendedora y la competencia emocional. Se propone como objetivo general explorar de qué manera se han desarrollado ambas competencias por parte del alumnado universitario participante en la experiencia de Aprendizaje-Servicio (ApS) desarrollada en el contexto universitario. La muestra recogida fue de 94 alumnos/as de primer curso del grado de Pedagogía de la Universidad de Valencia (42 PA y 52 PC). Tras el análisis de todas las reflexiones del alumnado, a partir de la técnica análisis de contenido se concluye que, por un lado, el alumnado valoró positivamente la utilización del ApS como metodología de aula; por otro lado, gracias a su uso se fomentó el compromiso, la responsabilidad, la creatividad, la motivación, el autoconocimiento, las relaciones interpersonales, etc., es decir, habilidades asociadas tanto a la competencia emocional como a la emprendedora. Esta experiencia muestra que la innovación metodológica cercana al desarrollo de competencias para la mejora de la sociedad fortalece la consecución de la tercera misión universitaria, la de transferir a la ciudadanía un producto/servicio socialmente responsable.
Enhancement of plasmonic photovoltaics with pyramidal nanoparticles
Authors: Yassin Heba M. , El-Batawy Yasser M. , Soliman Ezzeldin A.
Published: February 2023

Light trapping as a result of embedding plasmonic nanoparticles (NPs)
into photovoltaics (PVs) has been recently used to achieve better
optical performance compared to conventional PVs. This light trapping
technique enhances the efficiency of PVs by confining incident light
into hot-spot field regions around NPs, which have higher absorption,
and thus more enhancement of the photocurrent. This research aims to
study the impact of embedding metallic pyramidal-shaped NPs inside the
PV’s active region to enhance the efficiency of plasmonic silicon PVs.
The optical properties of pyramidal-shaped NPs in visible and
near-infrared spectra have been investigated. The light absorption
into silicon PV is significantly enhanced by embedding periodic arrays
of pyramidal NPs in the cell compared to the case of bare silicon PV.
Furthermore, the effects of varying the pyramidal-shaped NP dimensions
on the absorption enhancement are studied. In addition, a sensitivity
analysis has been performed, which helps in identifying the allowed
fabrication tolerance for each geometrical dimension. The performance
of the proposed pyramidal NP is compared with other frequently used
shapes, such as cylinders, cones, and hemispheres. Poisson’s and
Carrier’s continuity equations are formulated and solved for the
current density–voltage characteristics associated with embedded
pyramidal NPs with different dimensions. The optimized array of
pyramidal NPs provides an enhancement of 41% in the generated current
density when compared to the bare silicon cell.
Laser lift-off mechanism and optical-electric characteristics of red Micro-LED devices
Authors: Tian Wenya , Wu Yongshuan , Xiao Jinqing , Wang Pengkai , Li Junhui
Published: February 2023

The removal of a sapphire substrate by laser lift-off, photoluminescence detection technology, and the luminous efficiency of size-dependent devices are very hot issues for the Micro-LED display, which is thoroughly studied in this paper. The mechanism of thermal decomposition of the organic adhesive layer after laser irradiation is analyzed in detail, and the thermal decomposition temperature of 450 °C solved by the established one-dimensional model is highly consistent with the inherent decomposition temperature of the PI material. The spectral intensity of PL is higher, and the peak wavelength is red-shifted by about 2 nm compared to EL under the same excitation condition. The results of size-dependent device optical-electric characteristics show that the smaller the device size, the lower the luminous efficiency under the same display resolution and PPI conditions, and the higher corresponding display power consumption.
Ultra-narrowband interference circuits enable low-noise and high-rate photon counting for InGaAs/InP avalanche photodiodes
Authors: Fan Yuanbin , Shi Tingting , Ji Weijie , Zhou Lai , Ji Yang , Yuan Zhiliang
Published: February 2023

Afterpulsing noise in InGaAs/InP single photon avalanche photodiodes (APDs) is caused by carrier trapping and can be suppressed successfully through limiting the avalanche charge via sub-nanosecond gating. Detection of faint avalanches requires an electronic circuit that is able to effectively remove the gate-induced capacitive response while keeping photon signals intact. Here we demonstrate a novel ultra-narrowband interference circuit (UNIC) that can reject the capacitive response by up to 80 dB per stage with little distortion to avalanche signals. Cascading two UNIC’s in a readout circuit, we were able to enable a high count rate of up to 700 MC/s and a low afterpulsing of 0.5 % at a detection efficiency of 25.3 % for 1.25 GHz sinusoidally gated InGaAs/InP APDs. At a temperature of -30

∘

C, we measured an afterpulsing probability of 1 % at a detection efficiency of 21.2 %.
Multiplexed random-access optical memory in warm cesium vapor
Authors: Meßner Leon , Robertson Elizabeth , Esguerra Luisa , Lüdge Kathy , Wolters Janik
Published: February 2023

The ability to store large amounts of photonic quantum states is regarded as substantial for future optical quantum computation and communication technologies. However, research for multiplexed quantum memories has been focused on systems that show good performance only after an elaborate preparation of the storage media. This makes it generally more difficult to apply outside a laboratory environment. In this work, we demonstrate a multiplexed random-access memory to store up to four optical pulses using electromagnetically induced transparency in warm cesium vapor. Using a Λ-System on the hyperfine transitions of the Cs D1 line, we achieve a mean internal storage efficiency of 36% and a 1/e lifetime of 3.2 µs. In combination with future improvements, this work facilitates the implementation of multiplexed memories in future quantum communication and computation infrastructures.
Penalty mitigation for OSC-induced XPM in long-haul WDM coherent systems by digital up-conversion coding
Authors: Chen Zhuo , Zhang Jie , Zhong Linsheng , Dai Xiaoxiao , Mei Liang , Du Ping , Wang Yaqin , Yang Tianpu , Yang Qi , Liu Deming
Published: February 2023

Due to the cross phase modulation (XPM) effect, in long-haul high-speed dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) coherent systems, using a low-speed on-off-keying (OOK) format optical supervisory channel (OSC) will introduce extra nonlinear phase noise, which restricts the transmission distance. In this paper, we propose a simple OSC coding method to mitigate the OSC-induced nonlinear phase noise. According to the split-step solution of the Manakov equation, we up-convert the baseband of the OSC signal out of the pass-band of the walk-off term to reduce the spectrum density of XPM phase noise. Experimental results show that the optical signal to noise ratio (OSNR) budget on the 400 G channel of 1280-km transmission is improved by 0.96 dB, which achieves almost the same performance with the no OSC case.
Simulation-based inference for non-parametric statistical comparison of biomolecule dynamics
Authors: Verdier Hippolyte , Laurent François , Cassé Alhassan , Vestergaard Christian L. , Specht Christian G. , Masson Jean-Baptiste
Published: February 2023

Numerous models have been developed to account for the complex properties of the random walks of biomolecules. However, when analysing experimental data, conditions are rarely met to ensure model identification. The dynamics may simultaneously be influenced by spatial and temporal heterogeneities of the environment, out-of-equilibrium fluxes and conformal changes of the tracked molecules. Recorded trajectories are often too short to reliably discern such multi-scale dynamics, which precludes unambiguous assessment of the type of random walk and its parameters. Furthermore, the motion of biomolecules may not be well described by a single, canonical random walk model. Here, we develop a two-step statistical testing scheme for comparing biomolecule dynamics observed in different experimental conditions without having to identify or make strong prior assumptions about the model generating the recorded random walks. We first train a graph neural network to perform simulation-based inference and thus learn a rich summary statistics vector describing individual trajectories. We then compare trajectories obtained in different biological conditions using a non-parametric maximum mean discrepancy (MMD) statistical test on their so-obtained summary statistics. This procedure allows us to characterise sets of random walks regardless of their generating models, without resorting to model-specific physical quantities or estimators. We first validate the relevance of our approach on numerically simulated trajectories. This demonstrates both the statistical power of the MMD test and the descriptive power of the learnt summary statistics compared to estimates of physical quantities. We then illustrate the ability of our framework to detect changes in α-synuclein dynamics at synapses in cultured cortical neurons, in response to membrane depolarisation, and show that detected differences are largely driven by increased protein mobility in the depolarised state, in agreement with previous findings. The method provides a means of interpreting the differences it detects in terms of single trajectory characteristics. Finally, we emphasise the interest of performing various comparisons to probe the heterogeneity of experimentally acquired datasets at different levels of granularity (e.g., biological replicates, fields of view, and organelles).
Sizing up spotted lanternfly nymphs for instar determination and growth allometry
Authors: Bien Theodore , Alexander Benjamin H. , White Eva , Hsieh S. Tonia , Kane Suzanne Amador
Published: February 2023

A major ongoing research effort seeks to understand the behavior, ecology and control of the spotted lanternfly (SLF) (Lycorma delicatula), a highly invasive pest in the U.S. and South Korea. These insects undergo four nymphal stages (instars) before reaching adulthood, and appear to shift host plant preferences, feeding, dispersal and survival patterns, anti-predator behaviors, and response to traps and chemical controls with each stage. However, categorizing SLF life stage is challenging for the first three instars, which have the same coloration and shape. Here we present a dataset of body mass and length for SLF nymphs throughout two growing seasons and compare our results with previously-published ranges of instar body lengths. An analysis using two clustering methods revealed that 1st-3rdinstar body mass and length fell into distinct clusters consistently between years, supporting using these metrics to stage nymphs during a single growing season. The length ranges for 2nd-4th instars agreed between years in our study, but differed from those reported by earlier studies for diverse locations, indicating that it is important to obtain these metrics relevant to a study’s region for most accurate staging. We also used these data to explore the scaling of SLF instar bodies during growth. SLF nymph body mass scaled with body length varied between isometry (constant shape) and growing somewhat faster than predicted by isometry in the two years studied. Using previously published data, we also found that SLF nymph adhesive footpad area varies in direct proportion to weight, suggesting that footpad adhesion is independent of nymphal stage, while their tarsal claws display positive allometry and hence disproportionately increasing grasp (mechanical adhesion). By contrast, mouthpart dimensions are weakly correlated with body length, consistent with predictions that these features should reflect preferred host plant characteristics rather than body size. We recommend future studies use the body mass vs length growth curve as a fitness benchmark to study how SLF instar development depends on factors such as hatch date, host plant, temperature, and geographic location, to further understanding of life history patterns that help prevent further spread of this invasive insect.
Diagnostic accuracy of magnetic resonance elastography and point-shear wave elastography for significant hepatic fibrosis screening: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Schambeck João Paulo L. , Forte Gabriele C. , Gonçalves Luana M. , Stuker Guilherme , Kotlinski João Bruno F. , Tramontin Giacomo , Altmayer Stephan , Watte Guilherme , Hochhegger Bruno
Published: February 2023

The hepatic diseases are extremely common in clinical practice. The correct classification of liver fibrosis is extremely important, as it influences therapy and predicts disease outcomes. The purpose of this study is to compare the diagnostic performance of point-shear wave elastography (pSWE) and magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) in the hepatic fibrosis diagnostic. A meta-analysis was carried out based on articles published until October 2020. The articles are available at following databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Scientific Electronic Library Online, LILACS, Scopus, and CINAHL. Diagnostic performances were analyzed per METAVIR F2, using 3.5kPa as target fibrosis. Assessment of the methodological quality of the incorporated papers by the QUADAS-2 tool for pSWE and MRE. A total 2,153 studies articles were evaluated and 44 studies, comprising 6,081 patients with individual data, were included in the meta-analysis: 28 studies for pSWE and 16 studies for MRE. The pooled sensitivity and specificity were 0.86 (95%CI 0.80–0.90) and 0.88 (95%CI 0.85–0.91), respectively, for pSWE, compared with 0.94 (95%CI 0.89–0.97) and 0.95 (95%CI 0.89–0.98) respectively, for MRE. The pooled SROC curve for pSWE shows in the area under the curve (AUC) of 0.93 (95%CI 0.90–0.95), whereas the AUC for MRE was 0.98 (95%CI 0.96–0.99). The diagnostic odds ratio for pSWE and MRE were 41 (95%CI 24–72) and 293 (95%CI 86–1000), respectively. There was statistically significant heterogeneity for pSWE sensitivity (I² = 85.26, P<0.001) and specificity (I² = 89.46, P<0.001). The heterogeneity for MRE also was significant for sensitivity (I² = 73.28, P<0.001) and specificity (I² = 87.24, P<0.001). Therefore, both pSWE and MRE are suitable modalities for assessing liver fibrosis. In addition, MRE is a more accurate imaging technique than pSWE and can be used as alternative to invasive biopsy.
Advancing biomedical science through investments in elite training
Authors: Heggeness Misty L. , Ginther Donna K. , Larenas Maria I. , Carter-Johnson Frances D.
Published: February 2023

How can governments invest in the public good of science in a way that accelerates advancement and encourages innovation at the frontier of science–all the while acknowledging that investing in science means investing in scientists? The Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (NRSA) program is a research-training program administered by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) that makes such investments. This study examines the impact of NRSA postdoctoral fellowships on subsequent career outcomes using NIH administrative records on applicants for the fellowship from 1996 to 2008. It finds that fellowships increased the probability of receiving subsequent research awards from 4.0 to 6.3 percentage points and of achieving a major independent research award from 2.6 to 4.6 percentage points. The findings demonstrate that federally funded fellowships promote the retention of scientists in the biomedical research workforce.
Conformity and tradition are more important than environmental values in constraining resource overharvest
Authors: Wright Glenn , Salk Carl , Magnuszewski Piotr , Stefanska Joanna , Andersson Krister , Benavides Jean Paul , Chazdon Robin
Published: February 2023

We present the results of a hybrid research design that borrows from both experimental techniques—experimental games—and observational techniques—surveys—to examine the relationships between basic human values and exposure to natural ecosystems, on the one hand, and collective action for resource governance, on the other. We initially hypothesize that more frequent exposure to forests, and more pro-environmental values will be associated with more conservation action. However, we find that other values—tradition and conformity—are more important than pro-environmental values or exposure to nature. Our results imply that resource governance is likely to be more successful where resource users hold values that facilitate cooperation, not necessarily strong pro-environmental values.
What are the perceived needs of people living with chronic pain regarding physiotherapy services? A scoping review protocol
Authors: Gervais-Hupé Jonathan , Filleul Arthur , Perreault Kadija , Gaboury Isabelle , Wideman Timothy H. , Charbonneau Céline , Loukili Fatiha , Gagnon Martine , Hudon Anne
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Chronic pain represents a major health issue, affecting the physical and mental health of approximately one in five people worldwide. It is now widely recognized that health professionals should use interventions that meet the needs of people living with chronic pain. Therefore, physiotherapists should attend to patients’ perceived needs regarding physiotherapy services, i.e. the needs that are perceived by patients themselves based on their beliefs, values, preferences and expectations. However, previous reviews have mainly focused on health professionals’ and experts’ evaluations of patients’ needs, which may result in inadequate answers to these needs. Therefore, a better understanding of patients’ perceived needs could lead to more ethical and higher quality physiotherapy services.

Objective

The aim of this scoping review is thus to explore what is known from the existing literature about the perceived needs of people living with chronic pain regarding physiotherapy services.

Methods

This scoping review will follow Arksey and O’Malley’s six-step framework. Medline, Embase, CINHAL, and APA PsycINFO will be used to search the scientific literature. The grey literature will also be searched using Google Scholar, OpenGrey and ProQuest Dissertation & Theses Global (PQDTGlobal). Studies published in English and French will only be considered. Two independent reviewers will perform the selection and extraction processes. Descriptive statistics will be performed to characterize the included studies. Quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods studies will be analyzed and synthetized using convergent qualitative meta-integration. Thereby, we will use the seven steps for convergent qualitative meta-integration proposed by Frantzen and Fetters to transform, analyze and integrate the quantitative and qualitative data.

Inclusion criteria

Included studies will describe the perceived needs of adults living with chronic pain regarding physiotherapy services. Studies focusing on the perspectives of health professionals and rehabilitation services other than physiotherapy will be excluded.
Classical and Bayesian estimation for type-I extended-F family with an actuarial application
Authors: Alfaer Nada M. , Bandar Sarah A. , Kharazmi Omid , Al-Mofleh Hazem , Ahmad Zubair , Afify Ahmed Z.
Published: February 2023

In this work, a new flexible class, called the type-I extended-F family, is proposed. A special sub-model of the proposed class, called type-I extended-Weibull (TIEx-W) distribution, is explored in detail. Basic properties of the TIEx-W distribution are provided. The parameters of the TIEx-W distribution are obtained by eight classical methods of estimation. The performance of these estimators is explored using Monte Carlo simulation results for small and large samples. Besides, the Bayesian estimation of the model parameters under different loss functions for the real data set is also provided. The importance and flexibility of the TIEx-W model are illustrated by analyzing an insurance data. The real-life insurance data illustrates that the TIEx-W distribution provides better fit as compared to competing models such as Lindley–Weibull, exponentiated Weibull, Kumaraswamy–Weibull, α logarithmic transformed Weibull, and beta Weibull distributions, among others.
In search for optimal induction chemotherapy for advanced nasopharyngeal cancer: Standard dosing of Docetaxel, Platinum, and 5-Fluorouracil (TPF) followed by chemoradiation
Authors: Jun Michelle , Pinto Harlan , Le Quynh-Thu , Quon Andrew , Hara Wendy , Coty Jessie , McMillan Alex , Lu Rong , Winters Elzbieta , Lira Ruth , Colevas A. Dimitrios
Published: February 2023

Objectives

A phase II = design is used to evaluate the efficacy and feasibility of full dose docetaxel, platinum, and 5-fluorouracil (TPF) in a sequential chemoradiation treatment locally advanced (LA) or oligometastatic (OM) NPC patients.

Materials and methods

Twenty patients with LANPC (M0 cohort) and six patients with OMNPC (M1 cohort) received induction standard dose T (75 mg/m2) P (75 mg/m2) F (750 mg/m2 IVCI x 5days) x 3 followed by weekly cisplatin (40 mg/m2) or carboplatin (AUC 1.5) x 6 concurrent with radiation therapy of 70 Gy over 6.5–7 weeks. The first five patients received bevacizumab as part of an exploratory objective of hypoxia modification using correlative fluoromisonidasole (18F-MISO) PET CT scanning.

Results

The 18F-MISO imaging failed to reveal adequate levels of baseline hypoxia necessary to evaluate for changes with chemotherapy and bevacizumab. Ninety percent of M0 patients and 83% of M1 patients received the full-intended TPF and radiation dose. Eighty-five percent of M0 patients and all M1 patients received at least 60% of the full-intended concurrent platinum dose. The 2-year progression free survival (PFS) rate for the M0 cohort was 90% (95% CI: 77.8%– 100%), and was sustained at 5 years. The 2-year PFS rate for the M1 cohort was 66.7% (95% CI: 37.9%– 100%). The 2-year overall survival (OS) rates for the M0 and M1 cohorts were 100% and 83.3% (95% CI: 58.3%– 100%), respectively. At five years, OS was 94.4% for the M0 cohort.

Conclusion

Administration of standard-dose TPF as induction chemotherapy in this NPC patient population is both feasible and effective when coupled with definitive concurrent chemoradiation.

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier

NCT00896181.
Identification of therapeutic sensitivities in a spheroid drug combination screen of Neurofibromatosis Type I associated High Grade Gliomas
Authors: Dougherty Jacquelyn , Harvey Kyra , Liou Angela , Labella Katherine , Moran Deborah , Brosius Stephanie , De Raedt Thomas
Published: February 2023

Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) patients develop an array of benign and malignant tumors, of which Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors (MPNST) and High Grade Gliomas (HGG) have a dismal prognosis. About 15–20% of individuals with NF1 develop brain tumors and one third of these occur outside of the optic pathway. These non-optic pathway gliomas are more likely to progress to malignancy, especially in adults. Despite their low frequency, high grade gliomas have a disproportional effect on the morbidity of NF1 patients. In vitro drug combination screens have not been performed on NF1-associated HGG, hindering our ability to develop informed clinical trials. Here we present the first in vitro drug combination screen (21 compounds alone or in combination with MEK or PI3K inhibitors) on the only human NF1 patient derived HGG cell line available and on three mouse glioma cell lines derived from the NF1-P53 genetically engineered mouse model, which sporadically develop HGG. These mouse glioma cell lines were never exposed to serum, grow as spheres and express markers that are consistent with an Oligodendrocyte Precursor Cell (OPC) lineage origin. Importantly, even though the true cell of origin for HGG remains elusive, they are thought to arise from the OPC lineage. We evaluated drug sensitivities of the three murine glioma cell lines in a 3D spheroid growth assay, which more accurately reflects drug sensitivities in vivo. Excitingly, we identified six compounds targeting HDACs, BRD4, CHEK1, BMI-1, CDK1/2/5/9, and the proteasome that potently induced cell death in our NF1-associated HGG. Moreover, several of these inhibitors work synergistically with either MEK or PI3K inhibitors. This study forms the basis for further pre-clinical evaluation of promising targets, with an eventual hope to translate these to the clinic.
Translation, cultural adaptation and pilot testing of a questionnaire measuring the factors affecting the acceptance of telemedicine by Greek cancer patients
Authors: Papachristou Nikolaos , Vasileios Ravikalis , Sarafis Pavlos , Bamidis Panagiotis
Published: February 2023

The emergency presented through the COVID-19 pandemic exposed the need to adopt remote, technology-driven solutions and make healthcare services more resilient. To do so, we need technological applications (i.e., telemedicine) that are designed and tailored to the end-users (i.e., chronic patients) needs and the type of healthcare service they get (i.e., cancer care). The requirements above are especially relevant to Greece, being a country with numerous sparsely populated regions (e.g., islands, regions at the borders) and a deteriorating access to healthcare for all citizens. Trying to address such diverse problems and needs, there have been multiple, different telemedicine and telecare projects in Greece in the past years. To support the future design and implementation of such endeavours, in this study we translated a questionnaire measuring the acceptance of telemedicine by patients and adapted it to the Greek context. We continued by running a small-scale pilot with 73 Greek women with breast cancer to assess the adapted instrument for its reliability and construct validity. The created questionnaire had good overall and internal reliability scores for most sub-scales. Factor analysis did not identify the same number of latent dimensions as the original theoretical model. Reverse wording items needing to be recoded were identified, and items that could be omitted in future versions of the questionnaire. Increasing the sample size for the purposes of a longitudinal study, the construct, convergent, and discriminant validity are elements to be further examined in future studies. It is envisaged that the creation of this questionnaire will support the adoption of telemedicine by Greek healthcare services into more routine areas of patient care provision.
The difference in quasi-induced exposure to crashes involving various hazardous driving actions
Authors: Zhang Guopeng , Cai Ying , Li Lei
Published: February 2023

In quasi-induced exposure (QIE) theory, the presence of hazardous driving action is the typical determinant of the driver’s responsibility for a crash. However, there is a lack of effort available to analyze the impacts of hazardous actions on the QIE estimate, which may result in estimation bias. Thus, the study aims to explore the difference in QIE to crashes involving various hazardous driving actions. Chi-square test is conducted to examine the consistency of non-responsible party distributions among the crashes involving various hazardous actions. Multinomial logit model and nested logit model are employed to identify the disparities of contributing factors to the actions. Results indicate that: 1) the estimated exposures appear to be inconsistent among the crashes with different hazardous actions, 2) driving cohorts have differential propensities of performing various hazardous actions, and 3) factors such as driver-vehicle characteristics, time, area, and environmental condition significantly affect the occurrence of hazardous actions while the directions and magnitude of the effects show great disparities for various actions. It can be concluded that the QIE estimates are significantly different for crashes involving various hazardous actions, which serves to highlight the importance of clarifying the specific hazardous actions for responsibility assignment in QIE theory.
Development of a feeding simulation to evaluate how feeding distribution in aquaculture affects individual differences in growth based on the fish schooling behavioral model
Authors: Takahashi Yuki , Komeyama Kazuyoshi
Published: February 2023

In this study, we developed a feeding simulation using the fish schooling behavior model to evaluate growth differences from the feeding spatial distribution. In the proposed simulation, feeding behavior was modeled using the fish schooling model to simulate the amount of feed consumed by each individual. Next, body mass growth was calculated based on the amount of feed consumed. A 3.0-m diameter aquaculture tank was used for the simulation. We used three feeding methods to evaluate how feeding distribution affected growth: Feeding A, B, and C. The feed was distributed in a square pattern with one side length of 1.5, 1.0, or 0.5 m for Feeding A, B, and C groups, respectively. The results revealed that individual differences in body mass resulting from each feeding method differed greatly. The individual difference was largest in the Feeding C group. Here, maximum swimming speed was assumed to be proportional to total length. The feeding area of Feeding C was narrow; therefore, the first individual to arrive in the feeding area dominated the feed. Large individuals accessed the feed more easily than did small individuals. Consequently, the growth of large individuals became more rapid, and the individual differences became large in Feeding C. A rearing test can be conducted in a short time, and the optimal aquaculture operation was easily determined using the proposed simulation method. We concluded that the proposed simulation is useful as a decision-making tool for aquaculture management.
Ecological flexibility and adaptation to past climate change in the Middle Nile Valley: A multiproxy investigation of dietary shifts between the Neolithic and Kerma periods at Kadruka 1 and Kadruka 21
Authors: Le Moyne Charles , Roberts Patrick , Hua Quan , Bleasdale Madeleine , Desideri Jocelyne , Boivin Nicole , Crowther Alison
Published: February 2023

Human responses to climate change have long been at the heart of discussions of past economic, social, and political change in the Nile Valley of northeastern Africa. Following the arrival of Neolithic groups in the 6thmillennium BCE, the Northern Dongola Reach of Upper Nubia witnessed a cultural florescence manifested through elaborate funerary traditions. However, despite the wealth of archaeological data available from funerary contexts, including evidence for domesticated animals and plants as grave goods, the paucity of stratified habitation contexts hinders interpretation of local subsistence trajectories. While it is recognised archaeologically that, against the backdrop of increasing environmental deterioration, the importance of agriculture based on Southwest Asian winter cereals increased throughout the Kerma period (2500–1450 BCE), the contribution of domesticated cereals to earlier Neolithic herding economies remains unclear. This paper presents direct dietary data from a total of 55 Middle Neolithic and Kerma period individuals from Kadruka 21 and Kadruka 1. Microbotanical data obtained from human dental calculus and grave sediments are integrated with human and faunal stable isotopes to explore changes in dietary breadth over time. The combined results demonstrate the consumption of wild plant species, including C4wetland adapted grasses, by Middle Neolithic individuals at Kadruka 1. Despite existing evidence for domesticated barley in associated graves, the results obtained in this study provide no clear evidence for the routine consumption of domesticated cereals by Middle Neolithic individuals. Rather, direct microparticle evidence for the consumption of Triticeae cereals is only associated with a single Kerma period individual and corresponds with an isotopic shift indicating a greater contribution of C3-derived resources to diet. These results provide evidence for Neolithic dietary flexibility in Upper Nubia through the persistence of foraging activities and support existing evidence linking increased agricultural reliance to the development of the Kerma culture.
How is suicide risk assessed in healthcare settings in the UK? A systematic scoping review
Authors: Fedorowicz Sophia E. , Dempsey Robert C. , Ellis Naomi , Phillips Elliott , Gidlow Christopher
Published: February 2023

A high proportion of people contact healthcare services in the 12 months prior to death by suicide. Identifying people at high-risk for suicide is therefore a key concern for healthcare services. Whilst there is extensive research on the validity and reliability of suicide risk assessment tools, there remains a lack of understanding of how suicide risk assessments are conducted by healthcare staff in practice. This scoping review examined the literature on how suicide risk assessments are conducted and experienced by healthcare practitioners, patients, carers, relatives, and friends of people who have died by suicide in the UK. Literature searches were conducted on key databases using a pre-defined search strategy pre-registered with the Open Science Framework and following the PRISMA extension for scoping reviews guidelines. Eligible for inclusion were original research, written in English, exploring how suicide risk is assessed in the UK, related to administering or undergoing risk assessment for suicide, key concepts relating to those experiences, or directly exploring the experiences of administering or undergoing assessment. Eighteen studies were included in the final sample. Information was charted including study setting and design, sampling strategy, sample characteristics, and findings. A narrative account of the literature is provided. There was considerable variation regarding how suicide risk assessments are conducted in practice. There was evidence of a lack of risk assessment training, low awareness of suicide prevention guidance, and a lack of evidence relating to patient perspectives of suicide risk assessments. Increased inclusion of patient perspectives of suicide risk assessment is needed to gain understanding of how the process can be improved. Limited time and difficulty in starting an open discussion about suicide with patients were noted as barriers to successful assessment. Implications for practice are discussed.
A nonparametric alternative to the Cochran-Armitage trend test in genetic case-control association studies: The Jonckheere-Terpstra trend test
Authors: Manning Sydney E. , Ku Hung-Chih , Dluzen Douglas F. , Xing Chao , Zhou Zhengyang
Published: February 2023

Identifications of novel genetic signals conferring susceptibility to human complex diseases is pivotal to the disease diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. Genetic association study is a powerful tool to discover candidate genetic signals that contribute to diseases, through statistical tests for correlation between the disease status and genetic variations in study samples. In such studies with a case-control design, a standard practice is to perform the Cochran-Armitage (CA) trend test under an additive genetic model, which suffers from power loss when the model assumption is wrong. The Jonckheere-Terpstra (JT) trend test is an alternative method to evaluate association in a nonparametric way. This study compares the power of the JT trend test and the CA trend test in various scenarios, including different sample sizes (200–2000), minor allele frequencies (0.05–0.4), and underlying modes of inheritance (dominant genetic model to recessive genetic model). By simulation and real data analysis, it is shown that in general the JT trend test has higher, similar, and lower power than the CA trend test when the underlying mode of inheritance is dominant, additive, and recessive, respectively; when the sample size is small and the minor allele frequency is low, the JT trend test outperforms the CA trend test across the spectrum of genetic models. In sum, the JT trend test is a valuable alternative to the CA trend test under certain circumstances with higher statistical power, which could lead to better detection of genetic signals to human diseases and finer dissection of their genetic architecture.
Minimal clinically-important differences for the ‘Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs’ (LOAD) and the ‘Canine Orthopedic Index’ (COI) client-reported outcomes measures
Authors: Innes John F. , Morton Mark A. , Lascelles B. Duncan X.
Published: February 2023

Client-reported outcomes measures (CROMs) have been previously validated for the evaluation of canine osteoarthritis. A published systematic review indicated that the ‘Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs’ (LOAD) and the ‘Canine Orthopedic Index’ (COI) can be recommended for use in dogs with osteoarthritis; these CROMs have also been used in the context of measuring surgical outcomes of dogs with orthopaedic conditions. However, the minimal clinically-important differences (MCIDs) for these CROMs have not been investigated. Such estimates would be useful for investigators and regulators so that these CROMs can be used in clinical trials. Data from the RCVS Knowledge Canine Cruciate Registry were extracted, and baseline and 6 week follow-up data on dogs that had received surgery for cranial cruciate ligament rupture were used to make estimates of MCIDs using distribution-based and anchor-based methods. Data from 125 dogs were categorised based on the anchor question and LOAD and COI scores analysed accordingly. The four anchor-based methods provided a range of MCIDs for each CROM (1 to 8.8 for LOAD and 3.5 to 17.6 for COI). In the two different distribution-based methods, the MCIDs for LOAD ranged from 1.5 (effect size) to 2.4 (standard error of measurement) and the effect size method yielded a result of 2.2 for COI. The results showed that the value of the MCIDs depended on the method that was applied. Receiver operator characteristic curves provided areas under the curve (AUCs) greater than 0.7, which indicated that the cut-off point was acceptable; LOAD had the greater AUC at 0.867. In summary, the authors currently recommend a MCID of ‘4’ for LOAD and ‘14’ for COI although further work in other clinical contexts (such as osteoarthritis associated with chronic pain) is required to add confidence to these estimates. For the first time, we have provided estimates for MCIDs for these two CROMs which will facilitate sample size estimates in future clinical studies that use these CROMs as outcomes measures.
The sex life of male patients with cirrhosis and its organic factors: What we have got so far?
Authors: Darmadi Darmadi , Pakpahan Cennikon , Ruslie Riska Habriel , Amanda Bella , Ibrahim Raditya
Published: February 2023

Objective

The purpose of this study was to examine the sex lives of male cirrhotic patients organic factors affect them.

Method

We did an observational study of 220 cirrhotic men’s satisfaction with their sexual lives. Assessment of sex satisfaction was carried out using the New Sexual Satisfaction Scale. The frequency of intercourse and masturbation was estimated. Then, the levels of albumin, total bilirubin, vitamin D, and sex steroids were examined. Ascites and sarcopenia subgroups of our patients were stratified.

Results

Along with sex steroids, albumin, total bilirubin, and vitamin D all had an impact on how satisfying sex was (r = 0.22), (r = 0.24), and (r = −0.17) affected sex satisfaction. There were strong positive correlations between vitamin D (r = 0.33), albumin (r = 0.59), and free testosterone, along with a negative correlation between total bilirubin (r = −0.63) and free testosterone. An imbalance in sex steroid levels was observed, leading to decreased frequency of intercourse(p < 0.0001), weakened erections(p < 0.0001), and reduced quality of orgasm (p < 0.0001). Significant new sex behavior changes were found, such as an increase in masturbation. Physical limitations such as ascites and sarcopenia also impacted the decreasing sex life.

Conclusion

The sex life of cirrhotic men is affected. The decrease in the frequency of intercourse and sexual satisfaction is noticeable in male patients and leads to increased masturbation. Free Testosterone, vitamin D, albumin, and bilirubin play role in their sex life. In addition, ascites and sarcopenia not only affect their sex life but also hamper the quality of their well-being.
Barriers to conducting independent quantitative research in low-income countries: A cross-sectional study of public health graduate students in Liberia
Authors: Kenneh Hajah , Fayiah Tamba , Dahn Bernice , Skrip Laura A.
Published: February 2023

Introduction

During recent disease outbreaks, quantitative research has been used to investigate intervention scenarios while accounting for local epidemiological, social, and clinical context. Despite the value of such work, few documented research efforts have been observed to originate from low-income countries. This study aimed to assess barriers that may be limiting the awareness and conduct of quantitative research among Liberian public health graduate students.

Methods

A semi-structured questionnaire was administered September-November 2021 to Master’s in Public Health (MPH) students in Liberia. Potential barriers around technology access, understanding of quantitative science, and availability of mentorship were interrogated. Associations between barriers and self-reported likelihood of conducting quantitative research within six months of the investigation period were evaluated using ordinal logistic regression.

Results

Among 120 participating MPH students, 86% reported owning a personal computer, but 18.4% and 39.4% had machines with malfunctioning hardware and/or with battery power lasting ≤2 hours, respectively. On average, students reported having poor internet network 3.4 days weekly. 47% reported never using any computer software for analysis, and 46% reported no specific knowledge on statistical analysis. Students indicated spending a median 30 minutes per week reading scientific articles. Moreover, 50% had no access to quantitative research mentors. Despite barriers, 59% indicated they were very likely to undertake quantitative research in the next 6 months; only 7% indicated they were not at all likely. Computer ownership was found to be statistically significantly associated with higher likelihood of conducting quantitative research in the multivariable analysis (aOR: 4.90,95% CI: 1.54–16.3).

Conclusion

The high likelihood of conducting quantitative research among MPH students contrasts with limitations around computing capacity, awareness of research tools/methods, and access to mentorship. To promote rigorous analytical research in Liberia, there is a need for systematic measures to enhance capacity for diverse quantitative methods through efforts sensitive to the local research environment.
Endothelial dysfunction in ME/CFS patients
Authors: Sandvik Miriam Kristine , Sørland Kari , Leirgul Elisabeth , Rekeland Ingrid Gurvin , Stavland Christina Særsten , Mella Olav , Fluge Øystein
Published: February 2023

Objective

A few earlier studies have found impaired endothelial function in patients with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). The present study investigated large-vessel and small-vessel endothelial function in patients with ME/CFS.

Study design

The study was a substudy of the RituxME trial, a national, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase III study on the effect of rituximab vs. placebo in ME/CFS patients in Norway. Flow-mediated dilation (FMD) and post-occlusive reactive hyperemia (PORH) was measured at baseline and after 18 months of treatment in 39 patients and compared with healthy controls. Other outcome measures were symptom severity and various physical function measures.

Results

ME/CFS patients had markedly reduced FMD compared to healthy controls at baseline (5.1% vs. 8.2%, p< 0.0001, adjusted for arterial diameter and sex), and significantly lower microvascular regulation measured by PORH than healthy controls (1354 PU vs. 2208 PU, p = 0.002). There were no differences between the treatment and placebo groups in symptom changes or vascular measures. As a group, the ME/CSF patients experienced a slight, but significant improvement in clinical symptoms after 18 months. PORH, but not FMD, was similarly improved (1360 to 1834 PU, p = 0.028). There was no significant correlation between FMD and PORH. There were non-significant tendencies towards associations between symptom severity/physical function measures and lower FMD and PORH, and a significant correlation between PORH and steps per 24 hours at baseline.

Conclusions

ME/CFS patients had reduced macro- and microvascular endothelial function, indicating that vascular homeostasis may play a role in the clinical presentation of this disease.
Musicians and non-musicians show different preference profiles for single chords of varying harmonic complexity
Authors: Witek Maria A. G. , Matthews Tomas , Bodak Rebeka , Blausz Marta W. , Penhune Virginia , Vuust Peter
Published: February 2023

The inverted U hypothesis in music predicts that listeners prefer intermediate levels of complexity. However, the shape of the liking response to harmonic complexity and the effect of musicianship remains unclear. Here, we tested whether the relationship between liking and harmonic complexity in single chords shows an inverted U shape and whether this U shape is different for musicians and non-musicians. We recorded these groups’ liking ratings for four levels of harmonic complexity, indexed by their level of acoustic roughness, as well as several measures of inter-individual difference. Results showed that there is an inverted U-shaped relationship between harmonic complexity and liking in both musicians and non-musicians, but that the shape of the U is different for the two groups. Non-musicians’ U is more left-skewed, with peak liking for low harmonic complexity, while musicians’ U is more right-skewed, with highest ratings for medium and low complexity. Furthermore, musicians who showed greater liking for medium compared to low complexity chords reported higher levels of active musical engagement and higher levels of openness to experience. This suggests that a combination of practical musical experience and personality is reflected in musicians’ inverted U-shaped preference response to harmonic complexity in chords.