bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strategic Upward Striving Toward $100 Million Revenue: Setting Goals to Attract External Attention
Authors: Keum Daniel Dongil , Ryan Stephen
Published: June 2023

We provide evidence that in certain contexts, firms set upward-striving goals and that this upward striving yields significant performance and visibility benefits. We develop a model of variable attention in which, as firms’ performance levels approach cognitively salient round numbers, managers strategically shift their focus from easier-to-reach goals based on historical and social reference points to more challenging goals that provide external visibility and capital market benefits. As one specific yet important instance of an upward shift in attention, we document a significant increase in revenue growth rates as firms’ annual revenue approaches $100 million. Firms achieving this goal obtain discontinuous increases in analyst and media coverage, investment by new institutional investors, and executive compensation. We find no evidence of decreased investment efficiency or profitability, suggesting that managers typically build slack into their goal levels. Our theory extends to goals based on other salient round numbers, such as revenue of $10 million, $500 million, and $1 billion. This study recasts behavioral theory of firm research in an open systems perspective, highlighting the externally directed aspects of firm goal setting.

Supplemental Material: The online appendices are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/orsc.2021.15148 .
Ocio educativo y acción sociocultural, promotores de participación y cohesión social
Authors: Morata García Txus , Alonso Saez Israel , Palasi Luna Eva , Berasategi Sancho Naiara
Published: June 2023

INTRODUCCIÓN. Se presenta los resultados de la investigación “Ocio, acción sociocultural y cohesión social”, cuyo objetivo ha sido profundizar en la correlación existente entre las prácticas de ocio y de acción sociocultural dirigidas a los niños/as, adolescentes y jóvenes, y la cohesión social del territorio y la participación como dimensión de esta. Se estudian casos de cuatro barrios de las comunidades autónomas de Cataluña y País Vasco, seleccionados a partir de la elaboración de un mapa de indicadores de cohesión social construido mediante sistemas internacionales validados. MÉTODO. La metodología de investigación ha sido un diseño mixto explicativo secuencial (DEXPLIS) de carácter participativo. A partir de las aportaciones de vecinos, personas significativas de los barrios, profesionales y niños/as, adolescentes y jóvenes, se analizaron sus percepciones sobre la contribución de las entidades y actividades de ocio y acción sociocultural al desarrollo de la participación y cohesión social en los barrios. En concreto, participaron 836 personas en las diferentes fases y técnicas de recogida de datos. RESULTADOS. Los resultados muestran evidencias de las relaciones existentes entre la participación en actividades de ocio educativo y de acción sociocultural y la cohesión social percibida, a nivel de barrio y general, por parte de los participantes. También cómo la participación en dichas actividades de niños y niñas y adolescentes contribuye a la mejora y a la profundización en aspectos claves de la cohesión social, como el apoyo vecinal y la propia participación social. DISCUSIÓN. Concluimos el trabajo discutiendo los resultados y destacando aspectos que este estudio pone de manifiesto, especialmente la necesidad de reconocer la aportación de las entidades e iniciativas de ocio educativo y de acción sociocultural en relación no solo con la socialización y la formación de niños, jóvenes y adultos, sino también con su aportación en la vida comunitaria, la participación y cohesión social de sus territorios.
The Royal College of Surgeons of England Damage Control Orthopaedic Trauma Skills course (DCOTS): resuscitative knowledge and confidence in surgical skills are reliably maintained at six months post course
Authors: Parker P , Bodger O , Pallister I
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Since 2012, the Damage Control Orthopaedic Trauma Skills course (DCOTS) has trained more than 250 surgeons in the principles and practice of damage control orthopaedics and early appropriate care. This Royal College of Surgeons of England (RCS England) course takes place at the RCS England Partner cadaver laboratory at Brighton and Sussex Medical School. Trauma is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the UK, and the course has tried to pass on the lessons of war and conflict from its military faculty and hard-won lessons of “developed world” trauma from its experienced civilian faculty.

Methods

Participating surgeons were invited to score their self-reported confidence before attending the DCOTS course, immediately afterwards and again 6 months later. A modified four-point Likert scale was used, with responses from 1 = No Confidence to 4 = Very Confident. Damage control resuscitation principles with damage control surgery showed the greatest retained increase at 6 months – 100% – which is extremely satisfying.

Results

Self-reported confidence in pelvic external fixation was initially 93% dropping to 85%, which is also considered good to excellent. For pelvic packing, confidence was 90% at the end of the course, up from 19% precourse. This dropped to 62%, which was still considered good but low for the high standards of the course. This may relate to UK trainees’ lack of familiarity with the concept.

Conclusions

Three of the main skills taught on the DCOTS are effectively retained at 6 months post course.
Textual Problems in the Danişmendname
Authors: BEKKER NIELSEN Tønnes
Published: June 2023

Danişmendname, günümüze ulaşabilmiş en eski Türk destanlarından biridir. Aslen sözlü anlatım için bestelenmiş olan eser, ilk olarak 13. yüzyılda Selçuklu sarayında kaleme alınmış, ardından bir asır sonra Tokat Valisi Arif Ali tarafından düzenlenip genişletilmiştir. Kendisini bütünlüklü bir anlatı ve başka bir destanın (Battalname’nin) devamı olarak sunsa da, şu anki haliyle metin, Tevrat anlatıları ve Hıristiyan hagiografisi de dahil olmak üzere çeşitli türlerden ödünç alındığına dair kanıtlar gösteriyor. Daniş¬mendname'nin 18 nüshası bilinmekte ve genellikle doğrudan veya dolaylı olarak Arif Ali nüshasından türetilen nüshalar olduğu varsayılmaktadır. P (Paris) ve I (İstanbul) elyazmalarının analizi ve karşılaştırıl¬ması, metindeki bazı farkları tespit eder ve bu iki el yazmasının aslında ortak bir arketipin kopyaları değil, özetleri olduğunu ortaya çıkarır. Epitomatörler, Arif Ali'nin metnini kısaltmış ve yeniden düzenlemiştir
Psikolojik Sermayenin İncelemesi ve Sentezi
Authors: ÇİZEL Rabia , AŞKUN Volkan
Published: June 2023

Hem bilimsel araştırmacılar hem de uygulayıcılar, birçok çalışma düzeyinde çalışan tutumları, davranışları ve performansı ile ilişkilendirilen psikolojik sermaye (PsiSer) fikrine önemli ölçüde ilgi göstermiştir. Bununla birlikte, yazında kavramın varlığı, nasıl ölçüldüğü, gelişimini etkileyen unsurlar ve bireysel, ekip ve organizasyonel düzeylerde sonuçları ne zaman ve nasıl etkilediğine ilişkin tartışmalar devam etmektedir. Bu anlamda çalışma uluslararası işletme ve yönetim alanında PsiSer yazınının kapsamlı bir incelemesini ve sentezini sunmaktadır. Bu çalışma, bibliyometrik analiz yoluyla, işletme ve yönetim alanında PsiSer perspektifini benimseyen çalışmalardan elde edilen teorik ve ampirik çalışmaları sentezlemeyi amaçlamaktadır. İlk olarak, ortak atıf ve bibliyografik eşleştirme analizi kullanılarak yazının entelektüel yapısı ve araştırma çerçevesi incelenmektedir. Daha sonra, işletme ve yönetim PsiSer yazınındaki anahtar kelimeleri kullanılarak alanın kavramsal yapısı eşdizim kelime analizi yoluyla gösterilmektedir. Bütünleştirici içgörülere dayanarak, özellikle Türkiye'deki insan kaynakları yönetimi araştırmacılarının teorik, ampirik ve metodolojik gelişimini PsiSer perspektifine yönlendirmek için bir araştırma gündemi önerilmektedir.
Polycrisis or crises of capitalist social reproduction
Authors: Jayasuriya Kanishka
Published: June 2023

The term polycrisis has recently gained much interest in academia and policy-making circles as a perspective to understand the nature of ‘overlapping emergencies’ – geopolitical, ecological, pandemics and economic – that are disrupting policy and politics in the Global North and South. How do we understand the nature of these new forms of crisis? This provocation argues that polycrisis, while a good descriptive term for the overlapping emergencies that characterise the current conjecture, should be analysed in terms of the larger crisis of capitalist social reproduction. The polycrisis needs to be understood as a political crisis that arises from a contradiction between social reproduction and the crisis of capital accumulation. It leads to increasing authoritarian statist forms as well as the growing resistance and dissent that is a feature of the broken politics of time and distinguishes the multiple intersecting crises of the 21st century.
Quantitative multiphoton imaging of cell metabolism, stromal fibers, and keratinization enables label-free discrimination of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Xiang Feng , Yu Jia , Jiang Danling , Hu Weiwang , Zhang Rongli , Huang Chenming , Wu Ting , Gao Yufeng , Zheng Aiping , Liu Tzu-ming , Zheng Wei , Li Xi , Li Hui
Published: June 2023

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) features atypical clinical manifestations and a low 5-year survival rate (< 5% in many developing countries where most of the disease occurs). Precise ESCC detection and grading toward timely and effective intervention are therefore crucial. In this study, we propose a multidimensional, slicing-free, and label-free histopathological evaluation method based on multispectral multiphoton fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (MM-FLIM) for precise ESCC identification. To assess the feasibility of this method, comparative imaging on fresh human biopsy specimens of different ESCC grades is performed. By constructing fluorescence spectrum- and lifetime-coded images, ESCC-induced morphological variations are unveiled. Further quantification of cell metabolism and stromal fibers reveals potential indicators for ESCC detection and grading. The specific identification of keratin pearls provides additional support for the early detection of ESCC. These findings demonstrate the viability of using MM-FLIM and the series of derived indicators for histopathological evaluation of ESCC. As there is an increasing interest in developing multiphoton endoscopes and multiphoton FLIM systems for clinical use, the proposed method would probably allow noninvasive, label-free, and multidimensional histological detection and grading of ESCC in the future.
Potential application of PS-OCT in the safety assessment of non-steroidal topical creams for atopic dermatitis treatment
Authors: Duan M. Q. , Byers Robert A. , Danby Simon G. , Sahib Sura , Cha Amy , Zang Chuanbo , Werth John , Adiri Roni , Taylor Rosie N. , Cork Michael J. , Matcher Stephen J.
Published: June 2023

Crisaborole 2% ointment is a non-steroidal treatment for mild-moderate atopic dermatitis (AD) and may produce fewer adverse effects than topical corticosteroids (TCS). We used PS-OCT to quantify dermal collagen at baseline and after 29 days of treatment with crisaborole and betamethasone valerate (BMV), in 32 subjects. PS-OCT detected a mean increase 1 × 10-6, 95% CI (6.3, 1.37) × 10-6 in dermal birefringence following TCS use (p < 0.0001, ad-hoc, not powered), whereas a change of -4 × 10-6, 95% CI (-32, 24) × 10-6 was detected for crisaborole (p = 0.77, ad-hoc, not powered). These results could suggest a differential effect on dermal collagen between the two compounds. PS-OCT may thus find an important role in safety assessment of novel AD treatment’ and larger trials are warranted.
Phase-matching quantum key distribution with the single-photon-added coherent source
Authors: Li Jiaao , Li Zhenhua , Sun Zhongqi , Zhou Ling , Li Yue , Wang Haoyang , Ma Haiqiang
Published: June 2023

Increasing the bit rate and transmission distance of quantum key distribution (QKD) without quantum repeaters is a formidable challenge, which is limited by the secret-key capacity (SKC). Fortunately, phase-matching QKD (PM-QKD) can overcome this limitation by matching the phase of two coherent states and encoding the key information into the common phase. But the probability of the weak coherent source (WCS) sending a single photon is small, so studying the QKD of different signal sources is one of the effective ways to improve the performance of the QKD protocol. The single-photon-added coherent state (SPACS) has a high probability of sending single photons and is closer to an ideal single-photon source than WCS. We have done simulations combining the advantages of the source with the advantages of PM-QKD. Numerical simulations show that the SPACS-PM-QKD protocol also has the ability to break the SKC, and using the SPACS is better in terms of communication distance and key rate compared to WCS.
Long-range photonics-aided 17.6 Gbit/s D-band PS-64QAM transmission using gate recurrent unit algorithm with a complex QAM input
Authors: Xie Tangyao , Yu Jianguo
Published: June 2023

D-band fiber-wireless technique that overcomes the bandwidth bottleneck of electrical devices has been popularized, but long-range D-band wireless transmission is still limited by the large absorption loss. So, the exploration of m-QAM formats is essential for the D-band long distance wireless transmission due to their different spectrum efficiency and SNR requirement. Moreover, nonlinearity in photonics-aided millimeter-wave (mm-wave) system is also a significant problem caused by fiber, photoelectrical devices and power amplifiers. So it is critical to employ a machine learning-based nonlinear compensation algorithm especially for long-distance D-band wireless delivery. A novel Gate Recurrent Unit (GRU) algorithm with a complex QAM input is proposed to further improve the receiver sensitivity of coherent D-band receiver, which effectively preserves the relative relationship between I/Q components of QAM signals and has memory capabilities with a better precision. We mainly discuss three learners with a complex QAM input, including complex-valued neural network (CVNN), single-lane Long Short-Term Memory (SL-LSTM) and single-lane Gate Recurrent Unit (SL-GRU). Thanks to these adaptive deep learning methods, we successfully realize 135 GHz 4Gbaud QPSK and PS-64QAM signal wireless transmission over 4.6 km, respectively. Considering the aspects of transmission capacity and recovery precision, CVNN equalizer is suitable for QPSK recovery, SL-GRU would be the best choice for PS-64QAM over D-band long range wireless transmission link up to km magnitude. The effective data rate can be achieved up to 17.6 Gbit/s. Therefore, we believe that the combination of high-order modulation and NN supervised algorithms with a complex input has an application prospect for the future 6 G mobile communication.
Transverse mode instability in fiber laser oscillators
Authors: Dong Liang , Zervas Michalis N.
Published: June 2023

What we believe to be a first theoretical study of transverse mode instability (TMI) in oscillators based on a stimulated thermal Rayleigh scattering (STRS) model is conducted. Higher order mode (HOM) lasing is found to happen at high powers. Further fundamental mode (FM) growth is limited once HOM lasing takes place, with further increase of pump power mostly going to HOM growth, a fundamentally different phenomenon from that in fiber amplifiers. TMI thresholds defined as when the HOM lasing condition is met is studied. The results are consistent with the measured TMI thresholds and their dependence on pumping configurations and pump wavelengths.
Nonreciprocal topological mode conversion by encircling an exceptional point in dynamic waveguides
Authors: Liu Qingjie , Wang Tiantian , Lei Quan , Zhao Dong , Ke Shaolin
Published: June 2023

The topology of exceptional points (EPs) has been revealed by taking stationary or dynamical encircling around them, which induces eigenstate exchange or chiral mode conversion. However, the conversions are usually reciprocal obeying restricted transmittances. Here we propose the concept of nonreciprocal encircling of EPs in a dynamic waveguide under complex modulation. The waveguide allows direction-dependent EPs in their quasienergy spectra due to different phase-matching conditions for opposite propagation direction. We design a closed loop that will encircle the EP in the backward direction but not in the forward direction. In this way, a nonreciprocal topological conversion is achieved as the forward transmittance from the even to odd mode significantly exceeds the backward transmittance from the odd to even mode. As a result, the forward propagation produces two modes with equal strength while the backward propagation leads to a specific mode regardless of the input. The structure is promising for making robust optical isolators.
Improving the hole injection efficiency in AlGaN DUV LEDs by minimizing the band offset at the p-EBL/hole supplier interface
Authors: Tian Wentao , Liu Mengran , Li Shuti , Liu Chao
Published: June 2023

In AlGaN-based deep ultraviolet light-emitting diodes (DUV LEDs), the large valence band offset between the Al-rich electron blocking layer (EBL) and p-AlGaN hole supplier weakens the chance of holes being injected into the active region. Only holes with kinetic energy larger than the barrier height at the EBL/p-AlGaN interface are allowed to climb over the EBL before entering the active region, limiting the hole injection efficiency and thus reducing the external quantum efficiency (EQE). In this work, we incorporate a thin AlGaN insertion layer between EBL and the p-AlGaN hole supplier to enhance the hole injection efficiency of DUV LEDs via regulating the energy band at the p-EBL/p-AlGaN interface. By systematically investigating and analyzing the effects of aluminum components in the insertion layers on the hole injection and the electron confinement, we found that the insertion layer with an Al composition of 45% can effectively enhance the EQE of DUV LEDs by 40.5% and suppress efficiency droop by 65.5%. The design strategy provides an effective approach to boost the hole injection efficiency for AlGaN-based DUV LEDs.
Fabrication and characterization of SiO2 glass containing YbPO4 crystals
Authors: Müller Robert , Lorenz Martin , Veber Alexander , Sajzew Roman , Kalide Andre , Kobelke Jens , Schwuchow Anka , Kuusela Luukas , Wondraczek Lothar , Petit Laetitia , Wondraczek Katrin
Published: June 2023

In the present work, we report on the preparation of silicate glass containing crystals by means of melting a mixture of YbPO4 xenotime structured crystals and SiO2 nanoparticles. This nanoparticle mixture is used for preparation of large volume core preforms for laser active optical fiber. Temperature dependent sintering and fiber drawing experiments at temperatures up to about 2000 °C were conducted in order to assess the integrity of the crystals in the preform and fiber, respectively. The survival of YbPO4 crystalline particles in silica was investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), electron probe microanalysis (EPMA), Raman spectroscopy as well as static and time resolved fluorescence measurements. It was found that the particles withstand the high-temperature steps during the fiber fabrication process. XRD and spectroscopic measurements suggest that the Yb ions are located in a crystalline but also in an amorphous silica-dominated surrounding in the fiber, suggesting the partial decomposition of the crystals during the fiber fabrication.
A Modeling Framework and LSTM Nonlinear Dynamics Predictor for Accelerating Data Generation in Ultrafast Optics and Laser System Design
Authors: Hirschman Jack , Wang Minyang , Abedi Erfan , Carbajo Sergio
Published: June 2023

Ultrafast optics and high-power laser systems are the backbone of nearly every major industry from semiconductor manufacturing and telecommunications to advanced medical procedures and next-generation energy and defense solutions. With the increasing integration of machine learning (ML) into laser system design, there is a growing demand for efficient data generation to aid experiment design, perform in-situ optimization, and improve the efficacy of system-wide digital twins. Toward this end, we present a novel start-to-end (S2E) modeling framework for complex laser systems that can be tailored to specific applications for large data generation. The simulation output can then be used in a wide variety of ML tasks from predicting pulse propagation behavior and laser system controls optimization to diagnostic characteristics extraction. However, the models, by necessity, can involve solving several coupled partial and ordinary differential equations including the Nonlinear Schrodinger Equation (NLSE), gain dynamics, and Maxwell’s equations, depending on the framework configuration. These complex cascaded nonlinear systems of equations become a significant time bottleneck in generating large quantities of data. To demonstrate a broad impact application of ML enhancing ultrafast optics simulations, we aim our studies on using long short-term memory (LSTM) networks to replace solving the NLSE for sum-frequency generation, a nonlinear optical process involving the interaction of three fields. We show how these models can provide significant speed-up for large data generation and can ultimately enable an S2E framework to be applied broadly across applications in the ultrafast optics field. Finally, we discuss a metric for assessing the performance of these networks in the context of the optics domain.
Community perspectives on AI/ML and health equity: AIM-AHEAD nationwide stakeholder listening sessions
Authors: Vishwanatha Jamboor K. , Christian Allison , Sambamoorthi Usha , Thompson Erika L. , Stinson Katie , Syed Toufeeq Ahmed
Published: June 2023

Artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) tools have the potential to improve health equity. However, many historically underrepresented communities have not been engaged in AI/ML training, research, and infrastructure development. Therefore, AIM-AHEAD (Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning Consortium to Advance Health Equity and Researcher Diversity) seeks to increase participation and engagement of researchers and communities through mutually beneficial partnerships. The purpose of this paper is to summarize feedback from listening sessions conducted by the AIM-AHEAD Coordinating Center in February 2022, titled the “AIM-AHEAD Community Building Convention (ACBC).” A total of six listening sessions were held over three days. A total of 977 people registered with AIM-AHEAD to attend ACBC and 557 individuals attended the listening sessions across stakeholder groups. Facilitators led the conversation based on a series of guiding questions, and responses were captured through voice and chat via the Slido platform. A professional third-party provider transcribed the audio. Qualitative analysis included data from transcripts and chat logs. Thematic analysis was then used to identify common and unique themes across all transcripts. Six main themes arose from the sessions. Attendees felt that storytelling would be a powerful tool in communicating the impact of AI/ML in promoting health equity, trust building is vital and can be fostered through existing trusted relationships, and diverse communities should be involved every step of the way. Attendees shared a wealth of information that will guide AIM-AHEAD’s future activities. The sessions highlighted the need for researchers to translate AI/ML concepts into vignettes that are digestible to the larger public, the importance of diversity, and how open-science platforms can be used to encourage multi-disciplinary collaboration. While the sessions confirmed some of the existing barriers in applying AI/ML for health equity, they also offered new insights that were captured in the six themes.
The evolutionary maintenance of ancient recombining sex chromosomes in the ostrich
Authors: Yazdi Homa Papoli , Olito Colin , Kawakami Takeshi , Unneberg Per , Schou Mads F. , Cloete Schalk W. P. , Hansson Bengt , Cornwallis Charlie K.
Published: June 2023

Sex chromosomes have evolved repeatedly across the tree of life and often exhibit extreme size dimorphism due to genetic degeneration of the sex-limited chromosome (e.g. the W chromosome of some birds and Y chromosome of mammals). However, in some lineages, ancient sex-limited chromosomes have escaped degeneration. Here, we study the evolutionary maintenance of sex chromosomes in the ostrich (Struthio camelus), where the W remains 65% the size of the Z chromosome, despite being more than 100 million years old. Using genome-wide resequencing data, we show that the population scaled recombination rate of the pseudoautosomal region (PAR) is higher than similar sized autosomes and is correlated with pedigree-based recombination rate in the heterogametic females, but not homogametic males. Genetic variation within the sex-linked region (SLR) (π = 0.001) was significantly lower than in the PAR, consistent with recombination cessation. Conversely, genetic variation across the PAR (π = 0.0016) was similar to that of autosomes and dependent on local recombination rates, GC content and to a lesser extent, gene density. In particular, the region close to the SLR was as genetically diverse as autosomes, likely due to high recombination rates around the PAR boundary restricting genetic linkage with the SLR to only ~50Kb. The potential for alleles with antagonistic fitness effects in males and females to drive chromosome degeneration is therefore limited. While some regions of the PAR had divergent male-female allele frequencies, suggestive of sexually antagonistic alleles, coalescent simulations showed this was broadly consistent with neutral genetic processes. Our results indicate that the degeneration of the large and ancient sex chromosomes of the ostrich may have been slowed by high recombination in the female PAR, reducing the scope for the accumulation of sexually antagonistic variation to generate selection for recombination cessation.
In-vitro high-throughput library screening—Kinetics and molecular docking studies of potent inhibitors of α-glucosidase
Authors: Ali Majid , Malik Khuram , Zaidi Asma , Farooq Umar , Bukhari Syed Majid , Majeed Zahid , Mahnashi Mater H. , Nawazish Shamyla , Abdulwahab Alqahtani , Alshaibari Khaled S.
Published: June 2023

High throughput screening of synthetic compounds against vital enzymes is the way forward for the determination of potent enzyme inhibitors. In-vitro high throughput library screening of 258 synthetic compounds (comp. 1–258), was performed against α-glucosidase. The active compounds out of this library were investigated for their mode of inhibition and binding affinities towards α-glucosidase through kinetics as well as molecular docking studies. Out of all the compounds selected for this study, 63 compounds were found active within the IC50 range of 3.2 μM to 50.0 μM. The most potent inhibitor of α-glucosidase out of this library was the derivative of an oxadiazole (comp. 25). It showed the IC50 value of 3.23 ± 0.8 μM. Other highly active compounds were the derivatives of ethyl-thio benzimidazolyl acetohydrazide with IC50 values of 6.1 ± 0.5 μM (comp. 228), 6.84 ± 1.3 μM (comp. 212), 7.34 ± 0.3 μM (comp. 230) and 8.93 ± 1.0 μM (comp. 210). For comparison, the standard (acarbose) showed IC50 = 378.2 ± 0.12 μM. Kinetic studies of oxadiazole (comp. 25) and ethylthio benzimidazolyl acetohydrazide (comp. 228) derivatives indicated that Vmax and Km, both change with changing concentrations of inhibitors which suggests an un-competitive mode of inhibition. Molecular docking studies of these derivatives with the active site of α-glucosidase (PDB ID:1XSK), revealed that these compounds mostly interact with acidic or basic amino acid residues through conventional hydrogen bonds along with other hydrophobic interactions. The binding energy values of compounds 25, 228, and 212 were -5.6, -8.7 and -5.4 kcal.mol-1 whereas RMSD values were 0.6, 2.0, and 1.7 Å, respectively. For comparison, the co-crystallized ligand showed a binding energy value of -6.6 kcal.mol-1 along with an RMSD value of 1.1 Å. Our study predicted several series of compounds as active inhibitors of α-glucosidase including some highly potent inhibitors.
Direct numerical solutions of the SIR and SEIR models via the Dirichlet series approach
Authors: Prathom Kiattisak , Jampeepan Asama
Published: June 2023

Compartment models are implemented to understand the dynamic of a system. To analyze the models, a numerical tool is required. This manuscript presents an alternative numerical tool for the SIR and SEIR models. The same idea could be applied to other compartment models. The result starts with transforming the SIR model to an equivalent differential equation. The Dirichlet series satisfying the differential equation leads to an alternative numerical method to obtain the model’s solutions. The derived Dirichlet solution not only matches the numerical solution obtained by the fourth-order Runge-Kutta method (RK-4), but it also carries the long-run behavior of the system. The SIR solutions obtained by the RK-4 method, an approximated analytical solution, and the Dirichlet series approximants are graphically compared. The Dirichlet series approximants order 15 and the RK-4 method are almost perfectly matched with the mean square error less than 2 × 10−5. A specific Dirichlet series is considered in the case of the SEIR model. The process to obtain a numerical solution is done in the similar way. The graphical comparisons of the solutions achieved by the Dirichlet series approximants order 20 and the RK-4 method show that both methods produce almost the same solution. The mean square errors of the Dirichlet series approximants order 20 in this case are less than 1.2 × 10−4.
Validation of depression, anxiety, and stress scales (DASS-21) among Thai nursing students in an online learning environment during the COVID-19 outbreak: A multi-center study
Authors: Wittayapun Yuwadee , Summart Ueamporn , Polpanadham Panicha , Direksunthorn Thanyaporn , Paokanha Raweewan , Judabood Naruk , A’la Muhamad Zulfatul
Published: June 2023

The Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21), an introductory scale used to identify common mental disorders (CMDs) among adults, was validated across cultures in Asian populations; nevertheless, its capacity for screening these disorders may be limited for some specified groups, including nursing students. This study attempted to investigate the psychometric scale’s unique features of DASS-21 for Thai nursing students in an online learning environment during the COVID-19 outbreak. A cross-sectional study using the multistage sampling technique recruited 3,705 nursing students from 18 universities located in south and northeast Thailand. The data were gathered using an online web-based survey, and then all respondents were divided into 2 groups (group 1, n = 2,000, group 2, n = 1,705). After using the statistical methods to reduce items, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) using group 1 was performed to investigate the factor structure of the DASS-21. Finally, group 2 used confirmatory factor analysis to verify the modified structure proposed by the EFA and assess the construct validity of the DASS-21. A total of 3,705 Thai nursing students were enrolled. For the factorial construct validity, a three-factor model was initially suggested containing 18 items (DASS-18) spread across 3 components: anxiety (7 items), depression (7 items) and stress (4 items). The internal consistency reliability was acceptable with Cronbach’s alpha in the range of 0.73–0.92for either the total or its subscales. For convergent validity, average variance extracted (AVE) showed that all the DASS-18 subscales achieved convergence effect with AVE in the range of 0.50–0.67. The psychometric features of the DASS-18 will support Thai psychologists and researchers to screen CMDs more easily among undergraduate nursing students in tertiary institutions who enrolled in an online learning environment during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Tracking worldwide interest in sustainable development goals using culturomics
Authors: Correia Ricardo A. , Di Minin Enrico
Published: June 2023

The lack of robust and timely data continues to be a limiting factor in the capacity to monitor progress towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Developing indicators based on big data has been proposed as a suitable approach to overcome this challenge but such developments have largely focused on earth observation data. Digital data representing aspects of human behaviour, such as information-seeking behaviour, hold great potential to monitor interest and engagement with sustainability topics. Using worldwide data from online searches carried out through Google’s search engine, we explore how interest in the seventeen SDGs has changed over time since the goals were first proposed and assess how the COVID-19 pandemic affected these dynamics. Our results suggest a growing trend for searches related to the SDGs since they came into place in 2016. Interest was mostly directed at social and economic-related goals in the first years, but increasing interest in environmental goals has greatly increased in the last years. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic caused significant disruptions in internet searches for the SDGS, but interest has recovered since then and continues to grow. Searches for the different SDGs are also more frequently connected following the pandemic, possibly indicating a growing awareness of the inter-related nature of sustainability goals. While further progress is needed to captivate broader engagement with the SDGs, our analysis suggests some progress has been achieved and highlights the potential of digital data to improve our understanding of public interest and engagement with sustainability topics. To materialize this potential, we outline specific areas where digital data can enhance capacity to monitor and shape sustainability progress.
O Curso Aristotélico Jesuíta Conimbricense. Tomo V: De Caelo – Parte II
Authors: Pinto António Guimarães , Pinho Sebastião Tavares de , Miranda Margarida
Published: June 2023

Volume dedicado ao ‘De Caelo’ de Aristóteles dos Comentários a Aristóteles do Colégio Jesuíta Conimbricense, publicado em Lisboa 1593, da autoria de Manuel de Góis (1543-1597), Parte II, tendo como temas estudados e comentados: as esferas celestes , o seu movimento e o movimento do primeiro móvel, o céu , a luz dos astros e o calor, a terra , o seu tamanho, a sua divisão, onde se encontra colocada e  se permanece imóvel.
Biomechanical Comparison of Multilevel Stand-Alone Lumbar Lateral Interbody Fusion With Posterior Pedicle Screws: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Mok James M. , Lin Ye , Tafur Julio Castillo , Diaz Roberto Leonardo , Amirouche Farid
Published: June 2023

Objective: Lumbar lateral interbody fusion (LLIF) allows placement of large interbody cages while preserving ligamentous structures important for stability. Multiple clinical and biomechanical studies have demonstrated the feasibility of stand-alone LLIF in single-level fusion. We sought to compare the stability of 4-level stand-alone LLIF utilizing wide (26 mm) cages with bilateral pedicle screw and rod fixation.Methods: Eight human cadaveric specimens of L1–5 were included. Specimens were attached to a universal testing machine (MTS 30/G). Flexion, extension, and lateral bending were attained by applying a 200 N load at a rate of 2 mm/sec. Axial rotation of ± 8° of the specimen was performed at 2°/sec. Three-dimensional specimen motion was recorded using an optical motion-tracking device. Specimens were tested in 4 conditions: (1) intact, (2) bilateral pedicle screws and rods, (3) 26-mm stand-alone LLIF, (4) 26-mm LLIF with bilateral pedicle screws and rods.Results: Compared to the stand-alone LLIF, bilateral pedicle screws and rods had 47% less range of motion in flexion-extension (p < 0.001), 21% less in lateral bending (p < 0.05), and 20% less in axial rotation (p = 0.1). The addition of bilateral posterior instrumentation to the stand-alone LLIF resulted in decreases of all 3 planes of motion: 61% in flexion-extension ( p < 0.001), 57% in lateral bending (p < 0.001), 22% in axial rotation (p = 0.002).Conclusion: Despite the biomechanical advantages associated with the lateral approach and 26 mm wide cages, stand-alone LLIF for 4-level fusion is not equivalent to pedicle screws and rods.
Overall Survival of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer With Spinal Metastasis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Tsuang Fon-Yih , Jeon Jin Pyeong , Huang An-Ping , Chai Chung Liang
Published: June 2023

Objective: The long-term survival data of lung cancer patients with spinal metastases are crucial for informed treatment decision-making. However, most studies in this field involve small sample sizes. Moreover, survival benchmarking and an analysis of changes in survival over time are required, but data are unavailable. To meet this need, we performed a metaanalysis of survival data from small studies to obtain a survival function based on largescale data.Methods: We performed a single-arm systematic review of survival function following a published protocol. Data of patients who received surgical, nonsurgical, and mixed modes of treatment were meta-analyzed separately. Survival data were extracted from published figures with a digitizer program and then processed in R. Median survival time was used as an effect size for moderator analysis to explain the heterogeneity.Results: Sixty-two studies with 5,242 participants were included for pooling. The survival functions showed a median survival of 6.72 months for surgery (95% confidence interval [CI], 61.9–7.01; 2,367 participants; 36 studies), 5.99 months for nonsurgery (95% CI, 5.33–6.47; 891 participants; 12 studies), and 5.96 months for mixed (95% CI, 5.67–6.43; 1,984 participants; 18 studies). Patients enrolled since 2010 showed the highest survival rates.Conclusion: This study provides the first large-scale data for lung cancer with spinal metastasis that allows survival benchmarking. Data from patients enrolled since 2010 had the best survival and thus may more accurately reflect current survival. Researchers should focus on this subset in future benchmarking and remain optimistic in the management of these patients.
Moderate to Severe Multifidus Fatty Atrophy is the Risk Factor for Recurrence After Microdiscectomy of Lumbar Disc Herniation
Authors: Zhu Fengzhao , Jia Dongqing , Zhang Yaqing , Ning Ya , Leng Xue , Feng Chencheng , Li Changqing , Zhou Yue , Huang Bo
Published: June 2023

Objective: We attempted to investigate the potential risk factors of recurrent lumbar disc herniation (rLDH) after tubular microdiscectomy.Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the data of patients who underwent tubular microdiscectomy. The clinical and radiological factors were compared between the patients with and without rLDH.Results: This study included 350 patients with lumbar disc herniation (LDH) who underwent tubular microdiscectomy. The overall recurrence rate was 5.7% (20 of 350). The visual analogue scale (VAS) score and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) at the final follow-up significantly improved compared with those preoperatively. There was no significant difference in the preoperative VAS score and ODI between the rLDH and non-rLDH groups, while the leg pain VAS score and ODI of the rLDH group were significantly higher than those of the non-rLDH group at final follow-up. This suggested that rLDH patients had a worse prognosis than non-rLDH patients even after reoperation. There were no significant differences in sex, age, body mass index, diabetes, current smoking and drinking, disc height index, sagittal range of motion, facet orientation, facet tropism, Pfirrmann grade, Modic changes, interdisc kyphosis, and large LDH between the 2 groups. Univariate logistic regression analysis revealed that rLDH was associated with hypertension, multilevel microdiscectomy, and moderate-severe multifidus fatty atrophy (MFA). A multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that MFA was the sole and strongest risk factor for rLDH after tubular microdiscectomy.Conclusion: Moderate-severe MFA was a risk factor for rLDH after tubular microdiscectomy, which can serve as an important reference for surgeons in formulating surgical strategies and the assessment of prognosis.
Floor-Mounted Robotic Pedicle Screw Placement in Lumbar Spine Surgery: An Analysis of 1,050 Screws
Authors: Shahi Pratyush , Maayan Omri , Shinn Daniel , Dalal Sidhant , Song Junho , Araghi Kasra , Melissaridou Dimitra , Vaishnav Avani , Shafi Karim , Pompeu Yuri , Sheha Evan , Dowdell James , Iyer Sravisht , Qureshi Sheeraz A.
Published: June 2023

Objective: To analyze the usage of floor-mounted robot in minimally invasive lumbar fusion.Methods: Patients who underwent minimally invasive lumbar fusion for degenerative pathology using floor-mounted robot (ExcelsiusGPS) were included. Pedicle screw accuracy, proximal level violation rate, pedicle screw size, screw-related complications, and robot abandonment rate were analyzed.Results: Two hundred twenty-nine patients were included. Most surgeries were primary single-level fusion. Sixty-five percent of surgeries had intraoperative computed tomography (CT) workflow, 35% had preoperative CT workflow. Sixty-six percent were transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion, 16% were lateral, 8% were anterior, and 10% were a combined approach. A total of 1,050 screws were placed with robotic assistance (85% in prone position, 15% in lateral position). Postoperative CT scan was available for 80 patients (419 screws). Overall pedicle screw accuracy rate was 96.4% (prone, 96.7%; lateral, 94.2%; primary, 96.7%; revision, 95.3%). Overall poor screw placement rate was 2.8% (prone, 2.7%; lateral, 3.8%; primary, 2.7%; revision, 3.5%). Overall proximal facet and endplate violation rates were 0.4% and 0.9%. Average diameter and length of pedicle screws were 7.1 mm and 47.7 mm. Screw revision had to be done for 1 screw (0.1%). Use of the robot had to be aborted in 2 cases (0.8%).Conclusion: Usage of floor-mounted robotics for the placement of lumbar pedicle screws leads to excellent accuracy, large screw size, and negligible screw-related complications. It does so for screw placement in prone/lateral position and primary/revision surgery alike with negligible robot abandonment rates.
Detection of Glioma-Related Hotspot Mutations Through Sequencing of Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)-Derived Circulating Tumor DNA: A Pilot Study on CSF-Based Liquid Biopsy for Primary Spinal Cord Astrocytoma
Authors: Cheng Lei , Duan Wanru , Guan Jian , Wang Kai , Liu Zhenlei , Wang Xingwen , Wang Zuowei , Wu Hao , Chen Zan , Jian Fengzeng
Published: June 2023

Objective: Although cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-based liquid biopsy was proved to be practical in molecular analysis of intracranial gliomas, liquid biopsy of primary intramedullary astrocytoma was rarely reported. Given the distinct genomic profiles between primary intramedullary glioma and intracranial astrocytoma, whether the feasibility of CSF-based molecular analysis of intracranial gliomas can be replicated in primary spinal cord astrocytoma needs to be investigated. The aim of this pilot study is to evaluate the feasibility of molecular analysis of primary intramedullary astrocytoma through sequencing CSF-derived circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA).Methods: Two grade IV diffuse midline gliomas, 1 grade II, and 1 grade I astrocytoma were included. Intraoperative collection of peripheral blood and CSF samples was conducted, along with postoperative collection of matched tumor tissues. A panel covering the 1,021 most common driver genes of solid tumors was used for targeted DNA sequencing.Results: CSF-derived ctDNA was detected in 3 CSF samples (2 grade IV diffuse midline gliomas and 1 grade I astrocytoma), 5 mutations were found in both tumor tissues and CSF samples, while 11 mutations and 20 mutations were detected exclusively in tumor tissues and CSF samples, respectively. Importantly, hotspot genetic alterations, including H3F3A K28M, TP53, and ATRX, were identified in CSF and the average mutant allele frequency was often higher in CSF than in tumor tissues.Conclusion: CSF-based liquid biopsy showed potential feasibility for molecular analysis of primary intramedullary astrocytoma through sequencing of ctDNA. This approach may assist in diagnosis and prognostic evaluation of this rare spinal cord tumor.
The Role and Clinical Outcomes of Endoscopic Spine Surgery of Treating Spinal Metastases; Outcomes of 29 Cases From 8 Countries
Authors: Suvithayasiri Siravich , Kim Young-Jin , Liu Yanting , Trathitephun Warayos , Asawasaksaku Akarawit , Quillo-Olvera Javier , Kotheeranurak Vit , Chagas Haroldo , Valencia Cristian Correa , Serra Marcus Vinicius , Isseldyk Facundo Van , Lee Lung-Hsing , Chen Chien-Min , Lokhande Pramod , Park Sang-Min , Jitpakdee Khanathip , Patel Kandarpkumar K. , Kim Jung-Hoon , Mahatthanatrakul Akaworn , Luksanapruksa Panya , Wilartratsami Sirichai , Kim Jin-Sung
Published: June 2023

Objective: We aim to report the outcomes and feasibility of endoscopic spine surgery used to treat symptomatic spinal metastases patients. This is the most extensive series of spinal metastases patients who underwent endoscopic spine surgery.Methods: A worldwide collaborative network group of endoscopic spine surgeons, named ‘ESSSORG,’ was established. Patients diagnosed with spinal metastases who underwent endoscopic spine surgery from 2012 to 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. All related patient data and clinical outcomes were gathered and analyzed before the surgery and the followtime period of 2 weeks, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months.Results: A total of 29 patients from South Korea, Thailand, Taiwan, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, and India, were included. The mean age was 59.59 years, and 11 of them were female. The total number of decompressed levels was 40. The technique was relatively equal (15 uniportal; 14 biportal). The average length of admission was 4.41 days. Of all patients with an American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale of D or lower before surgery, 62.06% reported having at least one recovery grade after the surgery. Almost all clinical outcomes parameters statistically significantly improved and maintained from 2 weeks to 6 months after the surgery. Few surgical-related complications (4 cases) were reported.Conclusion: Endoscopic spine surgery is a valid option for treating spinal metastases patients as it could yield comparable results to other minimally invasive spine surgery techniques. As the aim is to improve the quality of life, this procedure is valuable and holds value in palliative oncologic spine surgery.