bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Optical payload design for downlink quantum key distribution and keyless communication using CubeSats
Authors: Mendes Pedro Neto , Teixeira Gonçalo Lobato , Pinho David , Rocha Rui , André Paulo , Niehus Manfred , Faleiro Ricardo , Rusca Davide , Zambrini Cruzeiro Emmanuel 
Published: July 2024

AbstractQuantum key distribution is costly and, at the moment, offers low performance in space applications. Other more recent protocols could offer a potential practical solution to this problem. In this work, a preliminary optical payload design using commercial off-the-shelf elements for a quantum communication downlink in a 3U CubeSat is proposed. It is shown that this quantum state emitter allows the establishment of two types of quantum communication between the satellite and the ground station: quantum key distribution and quantum keyless private communication. Numerical simulations are provided that show the feasibility of the scheme for both protocols as well as their performance. For the simplified BB84, a maximum secret key rate of about 80 kHz and minimum QBER of slightly more than 0.07% is found, at the zenith, while for quantum private keyless communication, a 700 MHz private rate is achieved. This design serves as a platform for the implementation of novel quantum communication protocols that can improve the performance of quantum communications in space.
Utilization and Reporting of Patient-Reported Outcome Measures in Randomized Clinical Trials of Acute Stroke (2010–2020)
Authors: Hostnik Joseph S. , Strong Brent , Reeves Mathew J. 
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:
Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) describe health status from the perspective of the patient. There is growing interest in incorporating PROMs into clinical trials, but the extent that such measures are used in contemporary stroke trials is uncertain. We sought to determine how often acute stroke trials included PROMs as outcome measures and assessed the completeness of methodological reporting.

METHODS:
We searched MEDLINE for randomized controlled trials published in 9 high-impact journals between 2010 and 2020. Eligible studies were phase 2 or 3 trials that tested therapeutic interventions within 1 month of stroke onset. Using the trial’s primary publication and protocol, we abstracted key study characteristics including all primary and secondary outcome measures. We defined PROMs as self-reported measures of quality of life, symptoms, or function collected without interpretation of an external party.

RESULTS:
Of 116 trials that met eligibility, 57 (49%) included at least 1 PROM. Of these, 41 trials (35%) included a PROM in its primary publication, while 16 (14%) identified a PROM in its protocol. Only 1 trial used a PROM as a primary outcome. Among the 57 total trials, the most commonly used measures were Euro-QOL (n=41, 72%), Stroke Impact Scale (n=10, 18%), and Short-Form 36 (n=6, 11%). Trials were more likely to include a PROM if they were published after 2016, were phase 3, or included only hemorrhagic stroke. Of the 41 trials that included a PROM in the primary publication, 40 (97%) provided PROM results, but only 9 (22%) found statistically significant differences between treatment groups. Quality of methodological reporting was generally poor.

CONCLUSIONS:
Half of contemporary acute stroke trials published in high-impact journals listed at least 1 PROM as a secondary outcome, but they played a minor role in the presentation of the final trial results. Inclusion of PROMs in acute stroke trials requires greater attention during both the design and reporting phases of the trial.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/
; Unique identifier: CRD42019128727.
Decode, Move and Speak! Self-supervised Learning of Speech Units, Gestures, and Sound Relationships Using Vocal Imitation
Authors: Georges Marc-Antoine , Lavechin Marvin , Schwartz Jean-Luc , Hueber Thomas 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Speech learning encompasses mastering a complex motor system to produce speech sounds from articulatory gestures while simultaneously uncovering discrete units that provide entry to the linguistic system. Remarkably, children acquire these associations between speech sounds, articulatory gestures, and linguistic units in a weakly supervised manner, without the need for explicit labeling of auditory inputs or access to target articulatory gestures. This study uses self-supervised deep learning to investigate the respective roles of sounds, gestures, and linguistic units in speech acquisition and control. In a first experiment, we analyzed the quantized representations learned by vector-quantized variational autoencoders (VQ-VAE) from ground truth acoustic and articulatory data using ABX tests. We show an interesting complementarity between acoustic and articulatory modalities that may help in the discovery of phonemes. In a second experiment, we introduce a computational agent that repeats auditory speech inputs by controlling a virtual vocal apparatus. This agent integrates an articulatory synthesizer capable of reproducing diverse speech stimuli from interpretable parameters, along with two internal models implementing the articulatory-to-acoustic (forward) and acoustic-to-articulatory (inverse) mapping, respectively. Additionally, two inductive biases are used to regularize the ill-posed acoustic-to-articulatory inverse mapping. In line with the first experiment, we explore the complementarity between the auditory input and the articulatory parameters inferred by the agent. We also evaluate the impact of discretizing auditory inputs using VQ-VAE. While the majority of the agent’s productions are intelligible (according to perceptual evaluations), our analysis highlights inconsistencies in the underlying articulatory trajectories. In particular, we show that the agent’s productions only partially reproduce the complementarity between the auditory and articulatory modalities observed in humans.
SWIRL: The First Australian Operational Radar-Based 3D Wind Analysis System
Authors: Protat Alain , Louf Valentin , Brook Jordan P. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
In this paper, the first Australian operational radar-based three-dimensional (3D) wind analysis system named Synthetic Wind Information from Radar and Lidar (SWIRL) is described and evaluated. SWIRL employs a variational minimization formulation to combine results from four individual wind retrieval techniques of varied complexity to derive 3D winds in single-Doppler and multi-Doppler radar regions: a variational version of the traditional velocity azimuth display (VVAD) and double VAD (DVAD) techniques, a single-Doppler wind retrieval technique using optical flow horizontal wind proxies, and a multi-Doppler 3D wind retrieval technique. The SWIRL 3D wind components are evaluated against wind profiler observations and radar simulations using a very high-resolution (50 m) numerical simulation of a supercell thunderstorm. We find that SWIRL can retrieve very accurate horizontal winds, especially below 2-km height in the multi-Doppler regions, with mean absolute errors on wind speed and direction < 2 m s−1 and 10° on average and <2.5 m s−1 and 15°–20° 90% of the time. These errors do not increase noticeably with wind speed, highlighting the suitability of these retrieved winds to be used for damaging and destructive wind detection and nowcasting. The single-Doppler retrieval using optical flow is also found to provide reasonably accurate winds at these heights. The accurate retrieval of convective-scale updrafts and downdrafts, even using multi-Doppler information, is still a major challenge, with mean absolute errors of vertical velocity of about 50% on average. This can be attributed to the limitations of the current radar technology used operationally, imposing slow antenna speeds.

Significance Statement
Damaging and destructive winds have the potential to inflict significant damage to properties and assets and, tragically, result in loss of life. Efficient direction of emergency services to affected areas is essential for a prompt return to normal conditions. Wind farm operators require precise information on anticipated wind shifts to reduce the risk of energy grid failures. Strong winds also contribute to compound weather events, such as water ingress through hail-damaged roofs or structural damage to buildings caused by hailstones. The purpose of this work was to equip Australia with the first operational wind monitoring system, based on operational radar observations, to serve all these critical applications (and more).
A Novel Taxonomy of Intraoperative Cholangiograms in Suspected Choledocholithiasis: A Tool for Advancing Laparoscopic Common Bile Duct Exploration Outcomes Research
Authors: Wood Elizabeth C. , Gomez Micaela K. , Rauh Jessica L. , Saxena Juhi , Conner Jeffery , Stettler Gregory R. , Westcott Carl , Nunn Andrew M. , Neff Lucas P. , Bosley Maggie E. 
Published: July 2024

Background Cholangiography for visualization of the biliary tree during laparoscopic cholecystectomy is an important diagnostic roadmap in the context of suspected choledocholithiasis (CDL). The renewed interest in transcystic laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) necessitates a general description of the range of CDL presentations. Our aim was to establish a novel classification system of intraoperative cholangiograms (IOCs) to advance research efforts in this field. Methods A novel cholangiogram classification system, featuring 8 distinct presentations of choledocholithiasis, was applied to a data set of 80 preintervention IOCs for suspected choledocholithiasis. The classification system is as follows: A (no common bile duct stones, duodenal filling present, and concern for air bubbles), B (no common bile duct stones, no duodenal filling, and concern for sludge), C1 (stone(s) < 2x size of cystic duct with duodenal filling), C2 (stone(s) < 2x size of cystic duct without duodenal filling), D1 (stone(s) ≥ 2x size of cystic duct with duodenal filling), D2 (stone(s) ≥ 2x size of cystic duct without duodenal filling), E1 (congenital anatomical variant and/or common duct stricture), and E2 (surgically altered biliary anatomy). Results Cholangiogram review yielded preintervention classifications for 6 of 8 variants (A-E): A (7.5%), B (3.75%), C1 (23.75%), C2 (42.5%), D1 (15%), and D2 (7.5%). Analysis of cystic duct diameter yielded no significant differences among classification groups, indicating no predominant pattern of cystic duct anatomy within a given classification. Discussion An IOC classification system for suspected choledocholithiasis is foundational to answering key clinical questions for transcystic laparoscopic common bile duct exploration.
Early Vasopressor Requirement Among Hypotensive Trauma Patients: Does It Cause More Harm Than Good?
Authors: Anand Tanya , Hejazi Omar , Nelson Adam , Litmanovich Ben , Spencer Audrey L. , Khurshid Muhammad Haris , Ghaedi Arshin , Hosseinpour Hamidreza , Magnotti Louis J. , Joseph Bellal 
Published: July 2024

Background Optimal utilization of vasopressors during early post-injury resuscitation remains unclear. Our study aims to describe the relationship between the timing of vasopressor administration and outcomes among hypotensive trauma patients. Methods This was a retrospective analysis of the 2017-2018 ACS-TQIP database. We included adult (≥18 years) trauma patients presenting with hypotension (lowest SBP <90 mmHg) who received vasopressors within 6 hours of admission. We excluded patients who had a severe head injury (Head-AIS >3) and those with spinal cord injury (Spine-AIS >3). Patients were stratified based on the time to receive vasopressors. Multivariable regression analyses were performed to identify the independent association between timing of vasopressor initiation and outcomes. Results 1049 patients were identified. Mean age was 55 ± 20 years, and 70% of patients were male. The median ISS was 16 [9-24], 80% had a blunt injury, and the mean SBP was 61 ± 24 mmHg. The median time to first vasopressor administration was 319 [68-352] minutes. Overall, 24-hour and in-hospital mortality rates were 19% and 33%, respectively. Every one-hour delay in vasopressor administration beyond the first hour was independently associated with decreased odds of 24-hour mortality (aOR: 0.65, P < 0.001), in-hospital mortality (aOR: 0.65, P < 0.001), major complications (aOR: 0.77, P = 0.003), and increased odds of longer ICU LOS (β + 2.53, P = 0.012). There were no associations between the timing of early vasopressor administration and 24-hour PRBC transfusion requirements ( P > 0.05). Conclusion Earlier vasopressor requirement among hypotensive trauma patients was independently associated with increased mortality and major complications. Further research on the utility and optimal timing of vasopressors during the post-injury resuscitative period is warranted. Level of Evidence III therapeutic/care management
Vocational functioning in young people accessing services for first-episode psychosis and ultra-high risk of psychosis: A longitudinal naturalistic cohort study
Authors: Andersen Naja Kirstine , Smith Catherine L , Gao Caroline X , Filia Kate , Simmons Magenta , Chinnery Gina , Killackey Eoin , Thompson Andrew , Brown Ellie 
Published: July 2024

Aims: Young people with first-episode psychosis (FEP) or at ultra-high risk (UHR) of psychosis often have lower vocational engagement than their peers. This study examines the effect of treatment in early intervention for psychosis services in Australia on engagement in education and employment. Methods: This is a naturalistic sample of young people aged 12–25 with FEP ( n = 1574) and UHR ( n = 1515), accessing treatment in the headspace Early Psychosis (hEP) programme. Engagement in education and employment was assessed at baseline and every 90 days in treatment. Mixed effects logistic regression were used to analyse changes over time. Results: On entering the hEP programme, approximately 49% of the young people with FEP and 28% of the young people at UHR status identified as Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET). The odds of being NEET were reduced by 27% (95% confidence interval = [14, 39]) for every 6 months treatment for the FEP group, but no change in NEET status was observed in the UHR group. In both groups, absence from daily activities was significantly reduced during time in treatment. Conclusion: While there are methodological challenges analysing real-world non-control group cohort data, the findings indicate positive effects of the hEP programme on vocational and daily activity engagement for young people with FEP and at UHR status. A large proportion of the young people still identified as NEET after receiving treatment services, suggesting further refinement to ensure targeted and consistent vocational support throughout care.
Sudden death in a newborn from cerebral venous sinus thrombosis resulting from meningitis
Authors: Ventura Francesco , Drommi Martina , Barranco Rosario , Vellone Valerio G 
Published: July 2024

Septic cerebral venous sinus thrombosis is a rare but often fatal complication caused by bacterial meningitis and paranasal sinusitis. We report a particular case of the sudden and unexpected death of a six-day-old infant from unrecognised acute meningitis that caused a thrombotic occlusion of the venous sinuses (with the particular involvement of the torcular Herophili at the confluence of sinuses) resulting in subdural haemorrhage. This case report alerts paediatricians and neonatologists to the importance of promptly considering a possible diagnosis of meningitis without delay to avoid the fatal complications described here. As in all cases of sudden infant death our case study underlines the need for a thorough autopsy, accompanied by histological analysis, in order to identify the causes of the underlying pathological mechanisms causing death and to ensure an adequate differential diagnosis.
Effectiveness of vortioxetine in elderly patients with major depressive disorder in real-world clinical practice: Results from the RELIEVE study
Authors: Di Nicola M , Adair M , Rieckmann A , Christensen M Cronquist 
Published: July 2024

Background: Data demonstrating the real-world, long-term effectiveness of vortioxetine in elderly patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) are clinically useful to confirm findings from randomized trials. Methods: RELIEVE was a multinational, 24-week, observational, prospective study in outpatients with MDD initiating vortioxetine treatment in routine care settings (NCT03555136). Here, we report data from a subgroup of 130 patients aged ⩾ 65 years. The primary study outcome was changed from baseline in patient functioning assessed using the Sheehan Disability Scale (SDS). Other clinical outcomes included depression severity (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 [PHQ-9] and Clinical Global Impressions–Severity [CGI-S]), cognitive performance (Digit Symbol Substitution Test [DSST]) and symptoms (Perceived Deficits Questionnaire – Depression-5 item [PDQ-D-5]), and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) (EuroQoL 5 Dimensions 5 Levels [EQ-5D-5L]). Results: Clinically meaningful and statistically significant improvements in patient functioning, depressive symptoms, cognitive function, and HRQoL were observed at week 24. Least squares mean SDS, PHQ-9, CGI-S, PDQ-D-5, DSST, and EQ-5D-5L scores improved from baseline by 6.5, 5.7, 1.2, 3.2, 4.4, and 0.11 points, respectively ( p < 0.01 for all). Adverse events were observed in 23.1% of patients. Conclusions: Consistent with previous clinical studies of vortioxetine, this study supports the effectiveness and safety of vortioxetine in treating elderly patients with MDD in a real-world setting over a 6-month period. Patients showed clinically relevant and sustained improvements in psychosocial functioning, depressive symptoms, and cognitive function after receiving vortioxetine, which was generally well tolerated. Main study limitations include the open-label study design and lack of a placebo or comparator group.
From chaos to kaleidoscope: Exploring factors in psychedelic self-treatment for mental health conditions
Authors: Walker Claire , Piatkowski Timothy , Ferris Jason , Davies Emma , Barratt Monica , Winstock Adam , Puljević Cheneal 
Published: July 2024

Introduction: This study explores how individuals self-treat psychiatric conditions with psychedelics outside medical guidance bridging the gap in understanding unregulated therapeutic use. Aims: The primary objective was to extract specific factors underlying the effects of psychedelics, exploring their relationship with the need for medication, particularly for mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. Additionally, we aimed to understand how the likelihood of being prescribed pharmacological medication varies based on mental health diagnoses and demographic factors. Methods: This research utilised the Global Drug Survey 2020, an annual online survey focused on substance use patterns and demographics, incorporating modules addressing mental health and psychedelic use. The study employed Exploratory Factor Analysis to discern latent factors underlying the self-reported effects of psychedelics. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regressions were conducted to investigate the association between identified factors and the likelihood of current prescribed medication usage. Results: In all, 2552 respondents reported using psychedelics for self-treatment of mental health conditions. Three significant factors were identified: Improved Mental Health, Improved Self-Awareness and Neuro-Sensory Changes. The majority of the sample reported a history of depression (80%) or anxiety (65.6%), with a significant association observed between reported factors of psychedelics’ effects and current medication usage for mental health, especially notable in cases of depression or comorbid depression and anxiety. Conclusions: Perceived symptom improvement following psychedelic self-treatment may reduce the need for medically supervised pharmacological interventions. These findings highlight the potential of psychedelics to positively influence mental health and self-awareness, paving the way for further research into their therapeutic application.
Modeling Radiologists’ Assessments to Explore Pairing Strategies for Optimized Double Reading of Screening Mammograms
Authors: Gommers Jessie J. J. , Abbey Craig K. , Strand Fredrik , Taylor-Phillips Sian , Jenkinson David J. , Larsen Marthe , Hofvind Solveig , Broeders Mireille J. M. , Sechopoulos Ioannis 
Published: July 2024

Purpose To develop a model that simulates radiologist assessments and use it to explore whether pairing readers based on their individual performance characteristics could optimize screening performance. Methods Logistic regression models were designed and used to model individual radiologist assessments. For model evaluation, model-predicted individual performance metrics and paired disagreement rates were compared against the observed data using Pearson correlation coefficients. The logistic regression models were subsequently used to simulate different screening programs with reader pairing based on individual true-positive rates (TPR) and/or false-positive rates (FPR). For this, retrospective results from breast cancer screening programs employing double reading in Sweden, England, and Norway were used. Outcomes of random pairing were compared against those composed of readers with similar and opposite TPRs/FPRs, with positive assessments defined by either reader flagging an examination as abnormal. Results The analysis data sets consisted of 936,621 (Sweden), 435,281 (England), and 1,820,053 (Norway) examinations. There was good agreement between the model-predicted and observed radiologists’ TPR and FPR ( r ≥ 0.969). Model-predicted negative-case disagreement rates showed high correlations ( r ≥ 0.709), whereas positive-case disagreement rates had lower correlation levels due to sparse data ( r ≥ 0.532). Pairing radiologists with similar FPR characteristics (Sweden: 4.50% [95% confidence interval: 4.46%–4.54%], England: 5.51% [5.47%–5.56%], Norway: 8.03% [7.99%–8.07%]) resulted in significantly lower FPR than with random pairing (Sweden: 4.74% [4.70%–4.78%], England: 5.76% [5.71%–5.80%], Norway: 8.30% [8.26%–8.34%]), reducing examinations sent to consensus/arbitration while the TPR did not change significantly. Other pairing strategies resulted in equal or worse performance than random pairing. Conclusions Logistic regression models accurately predicted screening mammography assessments and helped explore different radiologist pairing strategies. Pairing readers with similar modeled FPR characteristics reduced the number of examinations unnecessarily sent to consensus/arbitration without significantly compromising the TPR. Highlights A logistic-regression model can be derived that accurately predicts individual and paired reader performance during mammography screening reading. Pairing screening mammography radiologists with similar false-positive characteristics reduced false-positive rates with no significant loss in true positives and may reduce the number of examinations unnecessarily sent to consensus/arbitration.