bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A critical role of RUNX1 in governing megakaryocyte-primed hematopoietic stem cell differentiation
Authors: Wang Chen , Tu Zhaowei , Cai Xiongwei , Wang Weinan , Davis Ashely K. , Nattamai Kalpana , Paranjpe Aditi , Dexheimer Philip , Wu Jianqiang , Huang Frank Lei , Geiger Hartmut , Huang Gang , Zheng Yi
Published: January 2023

As a transcription factor in the RUNT domain core-binding factor family, RUNX1 is crucial in multiple stages of hematopoiesis, and its mutation can cause familial platelet disorder with a predisposition to acute myeloid leukemia. Previous work has established that RUNX1 is involved in the maturation of megakaryocytes (MKs) and the production of platelets. Recent studies have shown that there exists a subpopulation of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) with relatively high expression of von Willebrand factor and CD41 at the apex of the HSC hierarchy, termed MK-HSCs, which can give rise to MKs without going through the traditional differentiation trajectory from HSC via MPP (multipotent progenitors) and MEP (megakaryocyte–erythroid progenitor). Here, by using Runx1F/FMx1-Cre mouse model, we discovered that the MK-HSC to MK direct differentiation can occur within 1 cell division, and RUNX1 is an important regulator in the process. Runx1 knockout results in a drastic decrease in platelet counts and a severe defect in the differentiation from MK-HSCs to MKs. Single cell RNA sequencing (RNAseq) analysis shows that MK-HSCs have a distinct gene expression signature compared with non-MK–HSCs, and Runx1 deletion alters the platelet and MK-related gene expression in MK-HSCs. Furthermore, bulk RNAseq and Cut&Run analyses show that RUNX1 binds to multiple essential MK or platelet developmental genes, such as Spi1, Selp, and Itga2b and regulates their expressions in MK-HSCs. Thus, by modulating the expression of MK-related genes, RUNX1 governs the direct differentiation from MK-HSCs to MKs and platelets.
Spatial accuracy of computed tomography perfusion to estimate the follow-up infarct on diffusion-weighted imaging after successful mechanical thrombectomy
Authors: Xu Xiao-Quan , Ma Gao , Shen Guang-Chen , Lu Shan-Shan , Shi Hai-Bin , Zhang Ya-Xi , Zhang Yu , Wu Fei-Yun , Liu Sheng
Published: January 2023

Background

Volumetric accuracy of using computed tomography perfusion (CTP) to estimate the post-treatment infarct in stroke patients with successful recanalization after mechanical thrombectomy (MT) has been studied a lot, however the spatial accuracy and its influence factors has not been fully investigated.

Methods

This retrospective study reviewed the data from consecutive anterior large vessel occlusion (LVO) patients who had baseline CTP, successful recanalization after MT, and post-treatment diffusion-weighed imaging (DWI). Ischemic core on baseline CTP was estimated using relative cerebral blood flood (CBF) of < 30%. The infarct area was outlined manually on post-treatment DWI, and registered to CTP. Spatial agreement was assessed using the Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) and average Hausdorff distance. According to the median DSC, the study population was dichotomized into high and low Dice groups. Univariable and multivariable regression analyses were used to determine the factors independently associated with the spatial agreement.

Results

In 72 included patients, the median DSC was 0.26, and the median average Hausdorff distance was 1.77 mm. High Dice group showed significantly higher median ischemic core volume on baseline CTP (33.90 mL vs 3.40 mL, P < 0.001), lower proportion of moderate or severe leukoaraiosis [27.78% vs 52.78%, P = 0.031], and higher median infarct volume on follow-up DWI (51.17 mL vs 9.42 mL, P < 0.001) than low Dice group. Ischemic core volume on baseline CTP was found to be independently associated with the spatial agreement (OR, 1.092; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

CTP could help to spatially locate the post-treatment infarct in anterior LVO patients who achieving successful recanalization after MT. Ischemic core volume on baseline CTP was independently associated with the spatial agreement.
Validation of the Grobman model for successful vaginal birth after cesarean section in Jordanian women
Authors: Rawashdeh Hasan , Aljalodi Haneen , shamleh Rafeef Abu , Alshorman Sumyah , AboShindi Heba , Awawdeh Shatha
Published: January 2023

Background

To validate both models of Grobman nomogram (The antenatal and the intrapartum model) for predicting successful intended Vaginal Birth After Caesarean delivery (VBAC) in a Jordanian population.

Methods

A retrospective study has identified all live, singleton, term, cephalic pregnancies with a previous lower segment cesarean section who opted for a Trial Of Labour After Caesarean Section (TOLAC) between January 2014 to December 2020. Five variables were used for the antenatal model, while ten variables were used for the intrapartum model. Two sets of patients were created: one for the antenatal model and the other for the intrapartum model. The predicted probability for each woman was calculated and compared with the successful VBAC for each category. The predictive ability was assessed with a receiver operating characteristic, and the area under the curve (AUC) was determined.

Results

There were seven hundred and fourteen complete cases for the antenatal model and six hundred ninety-seven for the intrapartum model. Our population's overall number of VBAC is 83.89% for the antenatal group and 82.92% for the intrapartum group. The mean predicted probability for a successful intended VBAC using the antenatal and intrapartum models were 79.53 ± 13.47 and 78.64 ± 14.03, respectively. The antenatal and intrapartum predictive models ROC had an AUC of 65% (95% CI: 60%-71%) and 64% (95% CI: 58%-69%), respectively.

Conclusions

Both models are validated in the Jordanian population. Adapting the antenatal model as supporting evidence can lead to a higher rate of TOLAC.
Biomarker analysis for patients with pancreatic cancer treated with nanoliposomal irinotecan plus 5-fluorouracil/leucovorin
Authors: Kawakami Takeshi , Todaka Akiko , Oshima Kotoe , Fushiki Kunihiro , Hamauchi Satoshi , Tsushima Takahiro , Yokota Tomoya , Onozawa Yusuke , Yasui Hirofumi , Yamazaki Kentaro
Published: January 2023

Background

Nanoliposomal irinotecan plus fluorouracil/leucovorin (5-FU/LV) is a standard second-line therapy for patients with pancreatic cancer. Identification of biomarkers is important to determine appropriate treatment strategies. We investigated the clinical practice outcomes and biomarkers associated with the nanoliposomal irinotecan plus 5-FU/LV regimen.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the data of patients treated with nanoliposomal irinotecan plus 5-FU/LV as a second or subsequent treatment after gemcitabine-based therapy between June 2020 and March 2021 at Shizuoka Cancer Center.

Results

We analyzed 55 consecutive patients who met the selection criteria. At a median of 9.4 months, median progression-free survival (PFS) and median overall survival (OS) were 2.3 and 6.6 months, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that Glasgow prognostic score (GPS) was significantly associated with PFS (hazard ratio [HR] 2.16; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.09–4.30; P = 0.028) and OS (0 vs. 1 or 2: HR 2.46; 95% CI 1.15–5.25; P = 0.029). The OS was significantly longer in patients with CA19–9 response than in those without CA19–9 response (12.6 vs. 5.6 months; HR 0.24; 95% CI 0.08–0.75; P = 0.014).

Conclusions

Nanoliposomal irinotecan was efficacious and tolerable in clinical practice. GPS and CA19–9 response were good candidates as predictive biomarkers, whereas GPS was a good candidate prognostic biomarker for the nanoliposomal irinotecan plus 5-FU/LV regimen.
COVID-19 vaccine uptake and vaccine hesitancy in rural-to-urban migrant workers at the first round of COVID-19 vaccination in China
Authors: Hong Liuzhi , Jin Zhou , Xu Kewei , Shen Guanghui , Zou Yang , Li Ran , Xu Lu , Wang Dexuan , Chen Li , Wu Yili , Song Weihong
Published: January 2023

Background

Migration can be linked to the transmission of COVID-19. COVID-19 vaccine uptake and hesitancy among rural-to-urban migrant workers in China, the largest group of internal migrants in the world, has not been characterized.

Objective

To investigate COVID-19 vaccine uptake and identify vaccine hesitancy-associated factors among rural-to-urban migrant workers in the first round of COVID-19 vaccination in China.

Methods

A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted, including 14,917 participants. Socio-demographics, COVID-19 vaccine uptake, vaccine hesitancy and its associated factors based on Vaccine Hesitancy Determinants Matrix (VHDM) were applied for the survey. Data were principally analyzed by logistic regression analysis.

Results

The COVID-19 vaccine uptake and vaccine hesitancy rates were 7.1% and 57.7%, respectively. Vaccine hesitancy was strongly associated with VHDM, including individual factors (female, higher annual income and fewer medical knowledge), group factors (less family support, friend support and public opinion support), COVID-19 epidemic factors (lower fatality, infection and emotional distress) and vaccine factors (less vaccine necessity, vaccine safety, vaccine efficacy, vaccine importance and vaccine reliability).

Conclusion

The VHDM model has the potential utility in efforts to reduce COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. Greater efforts should be put into addressing positive predictors associated with vaccine hesitancy.
Positive effects of neuromuscular exercises on pain and active range of motion in idiopathic frozen shoulder: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wang Lu , Yu Ge , Zhang Ran , Wu Guangyan , He Lei , Chen Yaping
Published: January 2023

Background and objectives

Frozen shoulder (FS) is characterized by pain and significant loss of active and passive shoulder motion. Strengthening exercises are among the standard exercises used for FS. Neuromuscular exercise (NME) effectively improved pain and the range of motion in shoulder. However, no prior research has looked into the effects of NME compared to strengthening exercises in FS rehabilitation. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of NME compared to strengthening exercises on pain and active range of motion (AROM) in individuals with idiopathic frozen shoulder.

Methods

Forty individuals with idiopathic frozen shoulder were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (NME with regular physical therapy, n = 20) or the control group (strengthening exercises with regular physical therapy, n = 20). In both groups, the interventions were performed once a day, 5 days a week for 8 weeks. Pain scores on the visual analogue scale (VAS) and AROM of the shoulder were assessed at baseline and after the 8-week treatment. The primary analysis was the group × time interaction.

Results

Two-by-two mixed analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed a significant group × time interaction for VAS (F = 29.67; p < 0.01); AROM in flexion (F = 12.05; p < 0.01), internal rotation (F = 6.62; p < 0.05) and external rotation (F = 16.93; p < 0.01) in favor of the experimental group. The two-by-two mixed ANOVA revealed a significant main effect of time for VAS (F = 1648.47; p < 0.01); AROM in flexion (F = 591.70; p < 0.01), extension (F = 114.57; p < 0.01), abduction (F = 1602.04; p < 0.01), internal rotation (F = 664.14; p < 0.01) and external rotation (F = 1096.92; p < 0.01). No other significant differences were found.

Conclusions

NME is superior to strengthening exercises in terms of pain and AROM of shoulder flexion, internal rotation and external rotation in individuals with idiopathic FS. NME could be used to treat individuals with FS.

Trial registration

Trial registration number: ChiCTR2100054453. Registration date: 17/12/2021.
“A cross-sectional study of burnout among Australian general practice registrars”
Authors: Hoffman Rebekah , Mullan Judy , Bonney Andrew
Published: January 2023

Objective(s)

To identify if gender and parenting factors are associated with burnout in Australian general practice (GP) registrars.

Design

Cross sectional study. The main outcome measure was the Maslach Burnout Inventory, included as part of the GPRA (General Practice Registrars Australia) biannual online survey.

Participants: GP registrars, 2019 cohort, undertaking fellowship training in Australia.

Results

In 2019 a total of 366 GP registrars completed the online survey. Over 75% of registrars experienced moderate to high levels of burnout (emotional exhaustion scale). Several demographic factors were associated with an increased risk for reporting higher levels of burnout. Increasing age was associated with lower levels of personal accomplishment (P-value < 0.01), being female was associated with higher levels of emotional exhaustion (p-value < 0.001) and increasing numbers of children were associated with lower levels of burnout, independent of hours worked (p-value < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study suggests that being a parent is associated with a reduced risk of burnout, irrespective of hours worked. However, being female and increased age were associated with increased levels of burnout. With increasing numbers of females entering medical training, and the decreasing desirability of general practice training, this paper reviews the complexities around parenting during training and associations with burnout. There is a need to examine this interaction further to understand the causation for these findings, and to ensure appropriate policies, opportunities and workplace supports are developed to ensure GP training is optimised to attract and support the next generation.
Blocking RAGE expression after injury reduces inflammation in mouse model of acute lung injury
Authors: Johnson Lynne L. , Tekabe Yared , Zelonina Tina , Ma Xinran , Zhang Geping , Goldklang Monica , D’Armiento Jeanine
Published: January 2023

Background

Receptor for Advanced Glycated Endproducts (RAGE) plays a major role in the inflammatory response to infectious and toxin induced acute lung injury. We tested the hypothesis that a RAGE blocking antibody when administered after the onset of injury can reduce lung inflammation compared to control antibody.

Methods

Male and female C57BL/6 (WT) mice were used. Forty-six received lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and 26 PBS by nasal instillation on day one, repeated on day three. On day 2, 36 mice receiving LPS were divided into two groups of 18, one treated with 200 μg of non-immune isotype control IgG and the second group treated with 200 μg of anti-RAGE Ab, each dose divided between IV and IP. Ten of the 46 were not treated. On day 4, before euthanasia, mice were injected with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) labelled albumen. BALF and serum samples were collected as well as lung tissue for immunohistochemistry (IHC). BALF was analyzed for cell (leukocyte) counts, for FITC BALF/serum ratios indicating pulmonary vascular leak, and for cytokines/chemokines using bead based multiplex assays. Quantitative IHC was performed for MPO and RAGE.

Results

Ten LPS mice showed minimal inflammation by all measures indicating poor delivery of LPS and were excluded from analysis leaving n = 11 in the LPS + IgG group and n = 12 in the LPS + anti-RAGE group. BALF cell counts were low in the PBS administered mice (4.9 ± 2.1 × 105/ml) and high in the LPS injured untreated mice (109 ± 34) and in the LPS + IgG mice (91 ± 54) while in comparison, LPS + anti-RAGE ab mice counts were significantly lower (51.3 ± 18 vs. LPS + IgG, P = 0.03). The BALF/serum FITC ratios were lower for the LPS + anti-RAGE mice than for the LPS + IgG mice indicating less capillary leakiness. Quantitative IHC RAGE staining was lower in the LPS + anti-RAGE ab mice than in the LPS + IgG treated mice (P = 0.02).

Conclusions

These results describe a four-day LPS protocol to sustain lung injury and allow for treatment and suggests that treatment aimed at blocking RAGE when given after onset of injury can reduce lung inflammation.
The efficacy of vitamin D supplementation for irritable bowel syndrome: narrow scope and GRADE miss-interpretation
Authors: Abuelazm Mohamed , Abdelazeem Basel
Published: January 2023

We read the article by Haung et al. that pooled the effects of vitamin D on irritable bowel syndrome symptoms and associated quality of life. However, the current review suffers from some methodological errors: inadequate search strategy; the grading of recommendations assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE) miss-assessment; and miss-interpretation. Accordingly, addressing the emphasized limitations will lead to more robust findings and conclusions.
A label-free fluorescent biosensor based on specific aptamer-templated silver nanoclusters for the detection of tetracycline
Authors: Yang Si , Li Chenxi , Zhan Hongyan , Liu Rong , Chen Wenliang , Wang Xiaoli , Xu Kexin
Published: January 2023

Tetracycline (TET) is a broad-spectrum antibiotic commonly used in the treatment of animals. TET residues in food inevitably threaten human health. High-performance analytical techniques for TET detection are required in food quality assessment. The objective of this study was to establish a label-free fluorescent biosensor for TET detection using specific aptamer-templated silver nanoclusters (AgNCs). An aptamer with a high specific binding ability to TET was used to synthesize a novel DNA-templated AgNCs (DNA-AgNCs). When TET is present, the aptamer’s conformation switched from an antiparallel G-quadruplex to a hairpin structure, altering the connection between AgNCs and the aptamer. Following the transformation of AgNCs into large sized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), a fluorescence decrease was detected. When used to detect TET in milk, the proposed biosensor displayed high sensitivity and selectivity, with a limit of detection of 11.46 ng/mL, a linear range of 20 ng/mL−10 g/mL, and good recoveries of 97.7–114.6% under optimized conditions. These results demonstrate that the proposed biosensor was successfully used to determine TET quantitatively in food samples, suggesting that our method provides an efficient and novel reference for detecting antibiotics in food while expanding the application of DNA-AgNCs in related fields.
Use of KIDSCREEN health-related quality of life instruments in the general population of children and adolescents: a scoping review
Authors: Befus Eva-Grethe , Helseth Sølvi , Mølland Eirin , Westergren Thomas , Fegran Liv , Haraldstad Kristin
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Subjectively assessing health related quality of life (HRQoL) in children and adolescents is increasingly important in the public health field. One valid and widely used generic HRQoL instrument is the KIDSCREEN questionnaire. The aim of this study was to map all studies using KIDSCREEN instruments in the general population of children and adolescents aged 6–18 years.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted. The search strategy was formulated according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Scoping Reviews guidelines. The databases Cinahl, socINDEX, Medline, Embase, APA Psychinfo, Scopus, and Eric were searched in October 2021.

Results

In total, 1365 papers were eligible for screening, 1031 were excluded and 334 reports were read in full. 252 reports were included. KIDSCREEN studies in the general population was predominantly conducted in Europe (n = 211). Most studies (n = 179) had a cross sectional design, while few experimental studies (n = 24) were found. The three KIDSCREEN versions comprising of 10, 27 and 52 items, were equally distributed between studies. The self-reported version (n = 225) of the KIDSCREEN instrument was more prevalent than the proxy version, while few studies discussed a cut point. Study contexts reflected international trends of public health challenges, commonly including mental- and psychosocial health, physical activity, socioeconomic status, and obesity.

Conclusion

KIDSCREEN is widely used in cross sectional studies assessing common public health challenges. Experimental and longitudinal assessments, possibly including relevant cut offs remain mainly unexplored and are recommended for future research.
The influence of resection margin width in patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: a meta-analysis
Authors: Dai Yu-Shi , Hu Hai-Jie , Lv Tian-run , Hu Ya-Fei , Zou Rui-Qi , Li Fu-Yu
Published: January 2023

Background

Some studies have pointed out that a wide resection margin can improve the prognosis of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, but some researchers disagree and believe that a wide margin may increase complications. The optimal margin length of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma is controversial.

Method

The literature was searched in PubMed, MedLine, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science until December 31, 2021, to evaluate the postoperative outcomes of patients with different margin width after resection. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals were used to determine the effect size.

Result

A total of 11 articles were included in this meta-analysis, including 3007 patients. The narrow group had significantly lower 1-, 3-, and 5-year overall survival rates and recurrence-free survival rates than the wide group. Postoperative morbidity and prognostic factors were also evaluated.

Conclusion

A resection margin width of over 10 mm is recommended in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma patients, especially in patients with negative lymph node and early tumor stage. When the resection margin width cannot be greater than 10 mm, we should ensure that the resection margin width is greater than 5 mm.
Tanshinone IIA ameliorates Aβ transendothelial transportation through SIRT1-mediated endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Wan Can , Liu Xiao-Qi , Chen Mei , Ma Hui-Han , Wu Guang-Liang , Qiao Li-Jun , Cai Ye-Feng , Zhang Shi-Jie
Published: January 2023

Background

The disruption of blood-brain barrier (BBB), predominantly made up by brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs), is one of the characteristics of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Thus, improving BMEC function may be beneficial for AD treatment. Tanshinone IIA (Tan IIA) has been proved to ameliorate the cognitive dysfunction of AD. Herein, we explored how Tan IIA affected the function of BMECs in AD.

Methods

Aβ1–42-treated brain-derived endothelium cells.3 (bEnd.3 cells) was employed for in vitro experiments. And we performed molecular docking and qPCR to determine the targeting molecule of Tan IIA on Sirtuins family. The APPswe/PSdE9 (APP/PS1) mice were applied to perform the in vivo experiments. Following the behavioral tests, protein expression was determined through western blot and immunofluorescence. The activities of oxidative stress-related enzymes were analyzed by biochemically kits. Nissl staining and thioflavin T staining were conducted to reflect the neurodegeneration and Aβ deposition respectively.

Results

Molecular docking and qPCR results showed that Tan IIA mainly acted on Sirtuin1 (SIRT1) in Sirtuins family. The inhibitor of SIRT1 (EX527) was employed to further substantiate that Tan IIA could attenuate SIRT1-mediated endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER stress) in BMECs. Behavioral tests suggested that Tan IIA could improve the cognitive deficits in APP/PS1 mice. Tan IIA administration increased SIRT1 expression and alleviated ER stress in APP/PS1 mice. In addition, LRP1 expression was increased and RAGE expression was decreased after Tan IIA administration in both animals and cells.

Conclusion

Tan IIA could promote Aβ transportation by alleviating SIRT1-mediated ER stress in BMECs, which ameliorated cognitive deficits in APP/PS1 mice.
The poorly understood yet potent risk of pulmonary artery thrombosis in-situ in Post-Acute COVID-19 syndrome
Authors: Payus Alvin Oliver , Lin Constance Liew Sat , Ibrahim Azliza
Published: January 2023

Pulmonary artery thrombosis in-situ is a term used to describe a pulmonary embolism occurs in the absence of deep vein thrombosis in the lower extremities. Most cases occur in a patient who had a recent traumatic injury to the chest. Other risk factors include the presence of hypercoagulable conditions, including inflammatory state, hypoxia and vascular endothelial injury. Although it has been discussed extensively in the acute COVID-19 disease, pulmonary artery thrombosis in-situ that occur in the setting of Post-Acute COVID-19 syndrome is not commonly reported and poorly understood.
Long COVID-19/post-COVID condition in children: do we all speak the same language?
Authors: Garazzino Silvia , Denina Marco , Pruccoli Giulia , Funiciello Elisa , Ramenghi Ugo , Fagioli Franca
Published: January 2023

Post-COVID condition is a new and highly debated entity that is still to be outlined in its complexity, especially in the pediatric population. In response to the article by Trapani and colleagues, we report the results of a long-term follow-up conducted in the outpatient clinic of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Unit on children admitted to our hospital with SARS-CoV-2 infection.
An updated “norepinephrine equivalent” score in intensive care as a marker of shock severity
Authors: Kotani Yuki , Di Gioia Annamaria , Landoni Giovanni , Belletti Alessandro , Khanna Ashish K.
Published: January 2023

Vasopressors and fluids are the cornerstones for the treatment of shock. The current international guidelines on shock recommend norepinephrine as the first-line vasopressor and vasopressin as the second-line vasopressor. In clinical practice, due to drug availability, local practice variations, special settings, and ongoing research, several alternative vasoconstrictors and adjuncts are used in the absence of precise equivalent doses. Norepinephrine equivalence (NEE) is frequently used in clinical trials to overcome this heterogeneity and describe vasopressor support in a standardized manner. NEE quantifies the total amount of vasopressors, considering the potency of each such agent, which typically includes catecholamines, derivatives, and vasopressin. Intensive care studies use NEE as an eligibility criterion and also an outcome measure. On the other hand, NEE has several pitfalls which clinicians should know, important the lack of conversion of novel vasopressors such as angiotensin II and also adjuncts such as methylene blue, including a lack of high-quality data to support the equation and validate its predictive performance in all types of critical care practice. This review describes the history of NEE and suggests an updated formula incorporating novel vasopressors and adjuncts.
Sound event triage: detecting sound events considering priority of classes
Authors: Tonami Noriyuki , Imoto Keisuke
Published: January 2023

We propose a new task for sound event detection (SED): sound event triage (SET). The goal of SET is to detect an arbitrary number of high-priority event classes while allowing misdetections of low-priority event classes where the priority is given for each event class. In conventional methods of SED for targeting a specific sound event class, it is only possible to give priority to a single event class. Moreover, the level of priority is not adjustable, i.e, the conventional methods can use only types of target event class such as one-hot vector, as inputs. To flexibly control much information on the target event, the proposed SET exploits not only types of target sound but also the extent to which each target sound is detected with priority. To implement the detection of events with priority, we propose class-weighted training, in which loss functions and the network are stochastically weighted by the priority parameter of each class. As this is the first paper on SET, we particularly introduce an implementation of single target SET, which is a subtask of SET. The results of the experiments using the URBAN–SED dataset show that the proposed method of single target SET outperforms the conventional SED method by 8.70, 6.66, and 6.09 percentage points for “air_conditioner,” “car_horn,” and “street_music,” respectively, in terms of the intersection-based F-score. For the average score of classes, the proposed methods increase the intersection-based F-score by up to 3.37 percentage points compared with the conventional SED and other target-class-conditioned models.
A systematic review of real-time detection and classification of power quality disturbances
Authors: Caicedo Joaquín E. , Agudelo-Martínez Daniel , Rivas-Trujillo Edwin , Meyer Jan
Published: January 2023

This paper offers a systematic literature review of real-time detection and classification of Power Quality Disturbances (PQDs). A particular focus is given to voltage sags and notches, as voltage sags cause huge economic losses while research on voltage notches is still very incipient. A systematic method based on scientometrics, text similarity and the analytic hierarchy process is proposed to structure the review and select the most relevant literature. A bibliometric analysis is then performed on the bibliographic data of the literature to identify relevant statistics such as the evolution of publications over time, top publishing countries, and the distribution by relevant topics. A set of articles is subsequently selected to be critically analyzed. The critical review is structured in steps for real-time detection and classification of PQDs, namely, input data preparation, preprocessing, transformation, feature extraction, feature selection, detection, classification, and characterization. Aspects associated with the type of disturbance(s) addressed in the literature are also explored throughout the review, including the perspectives of those studies aimed at multiple PQDs, or specifically focused on voltage sags or voltage notches. The real-time performance of the reviewed tools is also examined. Finally, unsolved issues are discussed, and prospects are highlighted.
The inverse Q filtering method based on a novel variable stability factor
Authors: Tian Guang , Zhao Yan , Zhang Wei , Yang Chengzeng
Published: January 2023

The inverse Q filtering method with a stabilization factor solves the noise amplification problem caused by the exponential growth of the amplitude compensation operator in traditional inverse Q filtering to a certain extent, but it is not ideal for reducing noise and amplitude compensation of deep seismic records. The inverse Q filtering method with a variable stabilization factor is superior to the inverse Q filtering method with a constant stable factor in reducing noise, but the amplitude compensation for the deep seismic record is still not ideal, especially when the quality factor Q value is small. In addition, because its compensation function changing with time and frequency is fixed, its amplitude compensation cannot be flexibly carried out according to the characteristic of seismic records. We have developed a novel inverse Q filtering method with a new variable stabilization factor under the constraint of signal-to-noise ratio (S/N). The S/N of seismic data is taken as prior information, and the stabilization factor is a function of the S/N and the quality factor. The amplitude compensation operator changes dynamically with time, frequency, S/N, and the quality factor, which can accurately compensate for the effective amplitude while avoiding enhancing the noise energy. Theoretical synthetic seismic data and real seismic data using the new method find significant improvements in amplitude compensation and suppression of noise energy. The new method has the strongest comprehensive ability of amplitude compensation and noise suppression. The resolution and S/N of seismic data processed by the new method have been improved.
Perceived ethnic discrimination, suicidal ideation and mastery in a multi-ethnic cohort: the HELIUS study
Authors: Willemen Fabienne E. M. , Heuschen Caroline B. B. C. M. , Zantvoord Jasper B. , Galenkamp Henrike , de Wit Matty A. S. , Zwinderman Aeilko H. , Denys Damiaan A. J. P. , Bockting Claudi L. H. , Stronks Karien , Lok Anja
Published: January 2023

Background

The association between perceived ethnic discrimination (PED) and mental health conditions is well studied. However, less is known about the association between PED and suicidal ideation, or the role of positive psychosocial factors in this association.

Aims

To examine the association between PED and suicidal ideation among ethnic minority groups in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, and investigate whether ethnicity and mastery (people's extent of feeling in control of their lives and environment) moderate this association.

Method

Cross-sectional data from the multi-ethnic HELIUS study were analysed (n = 17 053) for participants of South-Asian Surinamese, African Surinamese, Ghanaian, Turkish and Moroccan origin. PED was measured using the Everyday Discrimination Scale, suicidal ideation using item 9 of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and mastery using the Pearlin–Schooler Mastery Scale.

Results

Logistic regression analyses demonstrated a small positive association between PED and suicidal ideation (OR = 1.068, 95% CI 1.059–1.077), which did not differ among ethnic minority groups. Mastery did not moderate the association between PED and suicidal ideation among the ethnic minority groups.

Conclusions

Our findings support the hypothesis that PED is associated with suicidal ideation and this association does not significantly vary between ethnic minority groups. Although higher levels of mastery were associated with lower suicidal ideation, mastery did not moderate the relationship between PED and suicidal ideation. Besides targeting ethnic discrimination as a societal problem, future longitudinal research is needed to investigate whether interventions aimed at improving mastery could reduce suicidal ideation in ethnic minority groups.
Ultrasound-Guided Zygomaticotemporal Nerve Block for Refractory Temporal Headaches: A Case Series
Authors: Mahajan Rajesh , Gupta Kulbhushan , Jain Kajal , Jamwal Anju , Bloria Summit , Kalsotra Gopika , Bhadrala Naine
Published: January 2023

Landmark-guided zygomaticotemporal nerve blocks are a well-described modality to manage headaches in the temporal region. We report 3 cases in which ultrasound-guided zygomaticotemporal nerve blocks were performed for severe unilateral temporal headaches that failed to respond to standard treatment in the outpatient pain clinic. All the patients reported substantial and durable pain relief with no complications.
Reimagining Classroom Participation in the Era of Disability Justice and COVID-19
Authors: Mullaney Clare
Published: January 2023

This essay argues that the emphasis on spoken contributions in English and other humanities courses can exclude disabled students. The COVID-19 pandemic's necessitation of online learning has forced instructors to offer students multiple entry points for conversation—not only through spoken dialogue but also text threads, anonymous polls, and communal annotation assignments. Instructors’ shifts in participation guidelines both before and at the height of the pandemic reveal faculty members’ adoption of a disability justice pedagogy that privileges flexibility. Drawing on these transformations, the author offers pragmatic suggestions for how to value course contributions beyond students’ capacity to voice their reflections aloud. The relinquishment of rigid academic expectations for participation makes space not just for students with disabilities but also for other minority populations, including women students, nonbinary students, first-generation students, and students of color who contribute their expertise in more capacious ways than the standard, discussion-based classroom allows. To conclude, the author considers how instructors might replicate accessible online tools—from Zoom chats to asynchronous platforms—in the return to face-to-face teaching. These new and primarily virtual forms of engagement reframe participation not as individual contributions to conversation, but as ongoing work intended for the purpose of community growth and collective care.
Is "Authentic Tourism" a means of preserving living cultural heritage?
Authors: Shelley-Anne Peleg
Published: January 2023

The goal of this paper is to question the idea of authenticity in the tourist industry, using the Old City of Akko (north Israel) as a case study. It will question the ability of tourism to serve as a tool for preserving living-cultural- heritage. Is there "authenticity" in tourism? Is cultural-based-tourism a means of preserving intangible heritage? Does cultural-based-heritage recreate heritage, invent heritage or is it just a means of creating experiences? Situated on a peninsula in North Israel, the old city of Akko is a vertical of many historical layers, from 5000 years ago till date. Imprints of tangible heritage from all periods and living intangible cultural heritage entwine with each other in the ancient allies of the city. Intensive excavations uncovered massive Middle-aged Crusader remains dated to the 12th and 13th century. They lie beneath the existing Ottoman fortified city, constructed in the 18th and 19th centuries. Akko of today is a vibrant city. Residents reside within these Ottoman buildings constructed 300 years ago. Updated research indicates that the cultural heritage of Akko includes many additional values. These include intangible heritage values that are practiced by these residents in the historic allies. This ‘Living Heritage’ is linked to the current community of the city and represents the ‘continuity’ of traditions and practices that comprise living dimensions and the continuity of traditions, skills, and craftspeople. Successful scientific research methods, documentation and safeguarding procedures of these intangible values are still developing. This paper will present examples of intangible heritage in the Historical Urban Landscapes of Akko and will question the ability of new touristic initiatives as a means of preserving this heritage and the spirit of the city. Some of these examples are led by the locals but most of the new initiatives are belong to entrepreneurs new to the city. They all offer an authentic experience in the city. They suggest a combination of visits to the main tourist attractions developed by the authorities and an opportunity to encounter living-traditional-culture aspects in the city. They include tours with local guides, living-in local houses, participating-in local traditional meals with the residents, meeting and watching various craftsmen or joining traditional community events. For tourists, these are unique opportunities that could be called "authentic experiences". For tourist experts these experiences are often regarded as means to present rare cultural heritage aspects. For the authorities, these experiences are regarded as new development resources and tools. For the locals these are new economic opportunities. So, is this a win-win-win-win situation? Are these initiatives means to preserve and safeguard the authentic intangible heritage values and the unique spirit of the city?
Rebranding the World with SPHINX
Authors: Paraskeva Dimitra
Published: January 2023

At the conference will be presented the results of a part of the researcher's postdoctoral work, which extends the results of the doctoral dissertation by creating a digital database (SPHINX). This database will function as a website showcasing (projecting) the existing tangible and intangible networks of the landscape so that the user understands and experiences it holistically. The adopted methodology will be prepared and implemented as a pilot in the area of Boeotia. The main purpose is to reconstituting and highlighting the cultural identity of the field of application but also of any other area -various spatial/urban global scale- where the digital system SPHINX will be applied.Crystallizing the above, it becomes clear that the present adopted methodology aims to highlight the cultural identity of an area with a field of research in Boeotia. The landscape, with any cultural production that emerges from it -as an element of its definition- constitutes an anthropological structure (anthropology of space). At the same time the landscape constitutes the expression of its inner meaning through a strong symbolic system.It is worth noting that in support of the author's doctoral dissertation, the seven-member examination committee considered the sphinx system to be innovative. In this article the term innovative will be adopted based on the critique of this committee.
Improved Resilience and Sustainable Reconstruction of Cultural Heritage Areas to cope with Climate Change and Other Hazards based on Innovative Algorithms and Modelling Tools
Authors: Labropoulos Kyriakos , Zafeiropoulos Charalampos , Zafeiropoulos Charalampos , Rallis Ioannis , Doulamis Anastasios , Doulamis Nikolaos , Moropoulou Antonia
Published: January 2023

Our proposed framework aims to efficiently train a network of fellows on the field of the resilience of Cultural Heritage (CH) areas and historic cities against Climate Change (CC) and other types of hazards. Towards this direction, the proposed framework aims to introduce a research framework for downscaling the created climate and atmospheric composition as well as associated risk maps down to the 1x1 km (historic area) scale, and specific damage functions for CH ma-terials. Applying atmospheric modelling for specific CC scenarios at such refined spatial and time scales allows for an accurate quantitative and qualitative impact as-sessment of the estimated micro-climatic and atmospheric stressors. Our proposed framework will perform combined structural/geotechnical analysis of the CH sites and damage assessment under normal and changed conditions, based on the cli-matic zone, the micro-climate conditions, the petrographic and textural features of building materials, historic data for the structures, the effect of previous restoration processes and the environmental/physical characteristics of the surrounding envi-ronment. The data coming from installed monitoring system will be coupled with simulated data and will be further analysed through our data management system, while supporting communities’ participation and public awareness. The data from the monitoring system will feed the Decision- Support-System (DSS) so as to pro-vide proper adaptation and mitigation strategies. The produced vulnerability map will be used by the local authorities to assess the threats of CC (and other natural hazards), visualize the built heritage and cultural landscape under future climate scenarios, model the effects of different adaptation strategies, and ultimately prior-itize any rehabilitation actions to best allocate funds in both pre- and post-event en-vironments. To train the fellows, our approach will make use of extensive workshop and training sessions, as well organise summer schools.
Health system responsiveness to the mental health needs of Syrian refugees: mixed-methods rapid appraisals in eight host countries in Europe and the Middle East
Authors: Woodward Aniek , Fuhr Daniela C. , Barry Alexandra S. , Balabanova Dina , Sondorp Egbert , Dieleman Marjolein A. , Pratley Pierre , Schoenberger Samantha F. , McKee Martin , Ilkkursun Zeynep , Acarturk Ceren , Burchert Sebastian , Knaevelsrud Christine , Brown Felicity L. , Steen Frederik , Spaaij Julia , Morina Naser , de Graaff Anne M. , Sijbrandij Marit , Cuijpers Pim , Roberts Bayard ,   STRENGTHS consortium
Published: January 2023

Background: Syrian refugees have a high burden of mental health symptoms and face challenges in accessing mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS). This study assesses health system responsiveness (HSR) to the MHPSS needs of Syrian refugees, comparing countries in Europe and the Middle East to inform recommendations for strengthening MHPSS systems.

Methods: A mixed-methods rapid appraisal methodology guided by an adapted WHO Health System Framework was used to assess HSR in eight countries (Egypt, Germany, Jordan, Lebanon, Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, and Türkiye). Quantitative and qualitative analysis of primary and secondary data was used. Data collection and analysis were performed iteratively by multiple researchers. Country reports were used for comparative analysis and synthesis.

Results: We found numerous constraints in HSR: i) Too few appropriate mental health providers and services; ii) Travel-related barriers impeding access to services, widening rural-urban inequalities in the distribution of mental health workers; iii) Cultural, language, and knowledge-related barriers to timely care likely caused by insufficient numbers of culturally sensitive providers, costs of professional interpreters, somatic presentations of distress by Syrian refugees, limited mental health awareness, and stigma associated to mental illness; iv) High out-of-pocket costs for psychological treatment and transportation to services reducing affordability, particularly in middle-income countries; v) Long waiting times for specialist mental health services; vi) Information gaps on the mental health needs of refugees and responsiveness of MHPSS systems in all countries. Six recommendations are provided.

Conclusions: All eight host countries struggle to provide responsive MHPSS to Syrian refugees. Strengthening the mental health workforce (in terms of quantity, quality, diversity, and distribution) is urgently needed to enable Syrian refugees to receive culturally appropriate and timely care and improve mental health outcomes. Increased financial investment in mental health and improved health information systems are crucial.
Detection of a SARS-CoV-2 Beta-like variant in coastal Kenya after more than a year of disappearance
Authors: Lambisia Arnold W. , U. Nyiro Joyce , M. Morobe John , Makori Timothy N. , Mburu Maureen W. , Ndwiga Leonard , Moraa Edidah O. , Musyoki Jennifer , Murunga Nickson , Bejon Philip , Ochola-Oyier Lynette Isabella , Nokes D. James , Agoti Charles N. , Githinji George
Published: January 2023

Continuous genomic surveillance is necessary and important to inform emergence of new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants and resurgence of previous circulating variants. In this study, we provide genomic characterisation of a Beta variant sequence identified through out genomic surveillance platform more than a year since the last reported case of Beta. This variant contained additional mutations associated with immune escape that have been observed in other newer variants such as Delta and Omicron implying ongoing convergent evolution of this variant in the community or in an immunocompromised patient.
Anthropogenic transformation of the population structure of terrestrial vertebrates in the South Minusinsk Basin
Authors:   V. B. Sochava Institute of Geography  SB RAS, Prelovskiy Vladimir A.
Published: January 2023

The paper summarizes the results of many years of research on the fauna of terrestrial vertebrates of the South Minusinsk Basin. Its modern appearance is the result of long historical processes that take place in the unique natural and climatic conditions of the basin and are subject to significant changes due to long-term human economic activity. On the example of agriculture, logging, forest and steppe fires, technogenic pollution and adventization of fauna, the issues of transformation and restoration of the population structure, features of fluorine accumulation in living organisms, historical aspects of the penetration of alien species into the basin are considered. The book may be of interest to a wide range of specialists in the field of biogeography, zoology, ecology and nature conservation.