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Background/Objectives: 3D patient-specific corrective osteotomies are optimized for use with oscillating saws, thereby rendering it incapable of executing curved osteotomies. The aim of this technical note is to introduce and evaluate the Panflute technique, which facilitates curved osteotomies with precise depth control for intra-articular corrective osteotomies in posttraumatic tibial plateau malunions. Methods: A 33-year-old male patient with an intra-articular malunion was treated one year after index surgery of a lateral split-depression tibial plateau fracture with the Panflute technique. The guide design allowed for multiple drill trajectories in a curved path, recreating the original fracture lines. Cylindrical drill tubes in the guide were tailored to match bone trajectory length. This resulted in a patient-specific Panflute-like design enabling precise depth control, safeguarding posterior neurovascular structures. Secondly, the recreated fragment was reduced with a reduction guide, applied to the plate in situ, to facilitate reposition using the plate as tool and reference. Results: The procedure went without technical drawbacks or surgical complications. Postoperative assessment showed that repositioning of the osteotomized articular fragment was performed accurately: pre- to postoperative translational corrections were 5.4 to 0.5 mm posterior displacement for AP deformity (x-axis); 2.9 to 1.0 mm lateral to medial reduction (y-axis); and 5.9 to 0.6 mm cranial-caudal correction (z-axis). Clinically, at 3 months, the fracture united, the patient regained full flexion, and valgus defect-laxity resolved. Conclusions: The presented Panflute-osteotomy guide allows for a pre-planned curved osteotomy. Additionally, for every drill trajectory, the depth could be controlled. The proposed method may expand our surgical armamentarium of patient-specific 3D techniques and solutions for complex intra-articular osteotomies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During HIV-1 virus assembly, the genomic RNA (vRNA) is selected for packaging by the viral protein Gag because it contains a specific packaging signal, Psi. While there have been numerous studies of Gag–Psi interactions, there is almost no information on the kinetic aspects of this interaction. We investigated the kinetics of Gag binding to different RNAs using switchSENSE DRX2 technology. We measured the association rate of Gag binding to monomeric Psi, to a "Multiple Binding Site Mutant" Psi that is inactive for genome packaging in vivo, and to a scrambled Psi. We discovered that Gag binds more rapidly to Psi RNA than to the mutant or scrambled RNAs. Furthermore, rapid Gag association kinetics are retained within sub-regions of Psi: Gag associates more rapidly with RNA containing only the 3′ two of the three Psi stem-loops than with monomeric RNA containing the 5′ two stem-loops or a scrambled RNA. No differences were detectable with individual Psi stem-loops. Interestingly, the rate of binding of Gag molecules to Psi increases with increasing Gag concentration, suggesting cooperativity in binding. The results are consistent with the hypothesis that selectivity in packaging derives from kinetic differences in initiation of particle assembly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Identifying high-risk COVID-19 patients is critical for emergency department decision-making. Our study's primary objective was to identify new independent predictors of mortality and their predictive utility in combination with traditional pneumonia risk assessment scores and new risk scores for COVID-19 developed during the pandemic. Methods: A retrospective study was performed in two Italian University Hospitals. A multivariable logistic model was used to locate independent parameters associated with mortality. Results: Age, PaO2/FiO2, and SpO2/FiO2 ratios were found to be independent parameters associated with mortality. This study found that the Pneumonia Severity Index (PSI) was superior to many of the risk scores developed during the pandemic, for example, the International Severe Acute Respiratory Infection Consortium Coronavirus Clinical Characterisation Consortium (ISARIC 4C) (AUC 0.845 vs. 0.687, p < 0.001), and to many of the risk scores already in use, for example, the National Early Warning Score 2 (NEWS2) (AUC 0.845 vs. 0.589, p < 0.001). Furthermore, our study found that the Pneumonia Severity Index had a similar performance to other risk scores, such as CRB-65 (AUC 0.845 vs. 0.823, p = 0.294). Combining the PaO2/FiO2 or SpO2/FiO2 ratios with the risk scores analyzed improved the prognostic accuracy. Conclusions: Adding the SpO2/FiO2 ratio to the traditional, validated, and already internationally known pre-pandemic prognostic scores seems to be a valid and rapid alternative to the need for developing new prognostic scores. Future research should focus on integrating these markers into existing pneumonia scores to improve their prognostic accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The use of patient-specific instruments (PSIs) for osteotomies is becoming more popular in orthopaedic surgery for correcting mechanical axis and posttraumatic deformities. However, the PSI reduction guides have great potential for intraoperative deformation, which adversely affects the accuracy of the procedure. Purpose: To conduct a finite element analysis (FEA) to analyze different design parameters to improve the intraoperative stability of the reduction guides. Study Design: Descriptive laboratory study. Methods: A reduction guide with a rectangular cross section and four 4-mm K-wire slots was simplified, and the following parameters were modified: width, height, profile design, K-wire thickness, and positions. Bending and torsional moments were applied to the guide construct and guide deformation and equivalent stress were determined using FEA. Results: Increasing the profile height by 25% resulted in a 44% reduction in guide deformation for bending (37% for torsion). A 25% increase in profile width led to an 18% deformation reduction for bending (22% for torsion). Transverse K-wire slots resulted in 51% less deformation in torsion compared with longitudinally oriented slots. Placing the central K-wire slots 25% closer to the osteotomy reduced guide deformation by 20% for bending and 11% for torsion. Conclusion: The most effective methods to increase reduction guide stability are to increase the guide height and reduce the central K-wire distance to the osteotomy. Clinical Relevance: When performing opening or closing wedge osteotomies, which mainly involve bending of the guide, a high-profile guide and longitudinally oriented K-wire slots should be used. When torque is expected as in rotational osteotomies, the K-wire holes in guides should be oriented transversely to reduce intraoperative deformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The porous silicon (PSi) substrate was accurately synthesized using photoelectrochemical etching. A Nanofilm gallium nitride (GaN) was then precisely deposited on this PSi substrate using pulsed laser deposition (PLD). The x-ray diffraction (XRD) investigation revealed the GaN layer's distinct crystalline structure along the (002) plane, with a precise crystallite size of 21.57 nm. This precision in the deposition process enhanced both the surface morphology and film quality. In the atomic force microscope (AFM), oval particles were evenly distributed across the entire surface, and the RMS of the surface was 27 nm with a 20.63 nm surface roughness. A field emission scanning microscope (FESEM) image of the gallium nitride (GaN) films deposited at a wavelength of 532 nm showed that the GaN material had an evenly covered Psi surface. This reflected the presence of a smooth and even spread of round particles. The cross-sectional area of the GaN sheet had a thickness of 2.92 µm, demonstrating the precision of the deposition technique. The resulting GaN nanofilms demonstrate UV photoluminescence (P.L.), characterized by a wavelength peak of 363.7 nanometers, indicative of the GaN material. In addition, they display a red photoluminescence peak at 723 nanometers, corresponding to the PSi substrate. Under UV-visible light and photoluminescence (P.L.), the optical energy gaps of the GaN nanofilm and the PSi substrate were determined. The PSi substrate exhibited an optical energy gap of 2.1 electron volts, whereas the resulting gallium nitride nanofilms displayed multiple energy band gaps of 3.4 electron volts and 1.7 electron volts.

Abstract Percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD) is increasingly used in patients with lumbar disc herniation due to its less invasive nature and faster recovery. In this study, we aimed to investigate the prognostic factors associated with patient satisfaction index (PSI) in PELD. A retrospective study of 337 patients who underwent PELD between November 2015 and October 2020 in our department was conducted. Preoperative data of the enrolled patients were recorded. A logistic regression model was developed to explore the preoperative factors associated with postoperative PSI. After a mean follow-up of 28.7 ± 3.6 months, 310 patients were satisfied (NASS score of 1 or 2) and 27 patients were dissatisfied (NASS score of 3 or 4), resulting in a patient satisfaction rate of 91.99%. Demographic data, clinical symptom characteristics, and neurological physical examinations (including lower limb hypesthesia, muscle strength, and tendon flex) did not show any significant differences between the four groups (NASS1,2,3,4). The satisfactory group showed a higher rate of positive Lasegue sign (P = 0.010) and higher preoperative VAS (P = 0.002). The dissatisfaction group showed a higher rate of contiguous double-level disc herniation (P = 0.003). Our findings indicated that positive Lasegue sign and high preoperative VAS were prognostic factors for patient-reported satisfaction and PELD might not be the first choice for contiguous double-level disc herniation.

Three-dimensional (3D) planning and Patient Specific Instrumentation (PSI) can help the surgeon to obtain more predictable results in Medial Opening Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy (mOW-HTO) than the conventional techniques. We compared the accuracy of the PSI and standard techniques and measured the learning curve for surgery time and number of fluoroscopic shots.

El presente estudio se enfoca en analizar la calidad fisicoquímica de los efluentes generados por un grupo de Plantas de Tratamiento de Aguas Residuales (PTAR) situadas en el Valle Alto de Cochabamba para determinar su aptitud de reúso agrícola. Los principales parámetros analizados fueron (SO4)-2, (Cl)-1, (Na)+1, (Ca)+2, (Mg)+2, (HCO3)-1 y (NO3)-1. Además, se estimaron los índices relación de adsorción de sodio (RAS) y porcentaje de sodio intercambiable (PSI). En los efluentes evaluados se encontraron las siguientes concentraciones: 132,00 - 252,00 mg/L de (SO4)-2; 3,02 - 9,48 meq/L de (Cl)-1; 11,79 - 17,59 meq/L de (Na)+1; 40,00 - 100,00 mg/L de (Ca)+2; 75,39 - 92,42 mg/L de (Mg)+2; 153,72 - 473,36 mg/L de (HCO₃)-1; y 17,80 - 37,80 mg/L de (NO₃)-1. Las estimaciones del RAS de los efluentes presentaron valores comprendidos entre 5,41 y 8,01. Los resultados de PSI estuvieron comprendidos entre 6,29-9,55. Debido a sus concentraciones moderadas y en base a la clasificación de los efluentes como C3-S2 según la clasificación RIVERSIDE, los efluentes podrían emplearse para el riego de suelos que tengan un drenaje adecuado. Debido a que ninguna de las plantas de tratamiento realiza procesos de desinfección se recomienda limitar la aplicación de los efluentes a cultivos que no se consuman sin procesar, de tallo alto, forrajeros y de moderada tolerancia a la salinidad. Se recomienda además la aplicación de técnicas de riego que alternen el riego con aguas residuales y otras fuentes de suministro de agua para reducir los riesgos asociados a la salinidad.

In the current landscape of higher education, the quality of teaching plays a crucial role in supporting the comprehensive development of students. To ensure the effectiveness of the learning process, evaluating lecturers based on student opinions is an essential means of providing feedback and optimizing the learning experience. This paper focuses on constructing a lecturer ranking system, particularly in the context of a specific course through the evaluation process from students. Four different methods were employed to assess lecturers, including the PSI method, SRP method, RAM method, and PIV method. The evaluation results using these four methods were compared with each other and also with the traditional evaluation approach currently utilized in the educational institution. The achieved results demonstrate that the approach outlined in this paper is highly suitable for determining the rankings of lecturers when teaching individual courses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The STAR GATE archive included an experiment from China of psicho-physical claim reportedly conducted on aqueous object (Wu et al, 1991). Over a time-lapse of approximately 208 seconds, total 7 phases of significant temperature deviation from the baseline temperature of 25 °C may be identified, without an explainable source of thermal generation. Not questioning the genuineness of the experiment, this work analyzes the thermal-energy transfer on the test-object that could have caused the reported temperature changes. A non-adiabatic single-compartment produces first-order low-pass responses between a thermal-input and the object's temperature. Whereas the input determines the steady-state condition, the thermal dissipation dictates the dynamics. Under the assumption of ONLY first-order responses and adjusting the input parameters including DC and AC magnitudes and time-constant of the single-compartment responses, multi-phase temperature changes resembling the reported patterns could be reconstructed. One rising phase and three falling phases with apparent oscillation were reconstructed by considering the thermal input to contain modulatory patterns of 0.4-0.5 Hz in frequency. Such modeled modulation of the thermal inputs would correspond to a correlation coefficient of 0.95 between the DC and AC magnitudes at a varying AC/ DC modulation-depth of ≤94%. The low-frequency may suggest relevance to altered neuro-electro-physiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The author conducted weekly online group psychokinesis (PK) experiments between Aug. 9, 2019 and Feb. 25, 2023, with the goal of experiencing collective PK. Participant observation experiments were designed to uncover variables associated with group PK experiences rather than prove the existence of PK. Early experiments seemed to increase individual propensity for spontaneous anomalous experience. The group began attempting to influence pinwheel turning on June 12, 2020. Direct observation seemed to reduce pinwheel turning. Certain conversational elements, such as emotion and discussion of psychical research, seemed to enhance turning. A motionactivated Blink camera was incorporated into the protocol on November 8, 2021, allowing documentation of 44 pinwheel experiments. Experiences involved ostensible anomalous pinwheel turning, equipment failures, poltergeist-like events, and trickster effects. Quantitative results included: (1) Significantly more pinwheel turning, as measured by camera activations, during group meetings compared to equivalent nongroup periods; (2) Certain discussion topics were associated with rapid turning: occult traditions, psychic readings, psychical research; and (3) Other variables were associated with reduced turning: direct observation, relaxation exercise, miscellaneous discussion topics. Participants felt that the pinwheels exhibited a form of intelligence due to the pinwheel response to group discussion. Trickster effects included turning patterns that changed over time, unusual equipment failures, and 'hiding' behavior thwarting full verification. These features suggest that the replicability of findings may be limited, although a series of methodological guidelines are suggested to increase success. Grounded theory strategies allow theory development, and a new model is proposed to account for the phenomena in question. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines a body of engaged "ritual magic practitioners" to understand their methods and techniques for facilitating putative parapsychological outcomes in everyday life, as well as outcomes on a computerized test of putative psi. We hypothesized that the combination of meditation, visualization, and related mental exercises at the core of magical practice relates to both invoked anomalous phenomena and spontaneouslyoccurring anomalous phenomena, and further that the perceptual-personality variable of transliminality (i.e., loose mental boundary functioning) is integral to this process. Likewise, we also anticipated that these associations would enable ritual magicians to score significantly above-chance on the psi test. A split-sample analysis found a positive and statistically significant series of relationships between transliminality and the majority of measured variables within the sample, and notably those involving questionnaire measures of subjective and objective anomalies as well as daily mental exercises. The ritual magicians also performed significantly below-chance (p < .01 for several conditions) on the psi test, as a function of open testing of ESP or using ritual to influence the test. We discuss these results in terms of significant predictions of trait and practice variables on ESP scoring, as well as the evidence that magical practice may represent techniques in which a transliminal dis-ease model might be better remediated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Solar power is a promising source of energy that is environmentally friendly, sustainable, and renewable. Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels are the most common and mature technology used to harness solar energy. Unfortunately, these panels are prone to dust accumulation, which can have a significant impact on their efficiency. To maintain their effectiveness, solar photovoltaics s must be cleaned regularly. Eight main techniques are used to clean solar panels: natural, manual, mechanical, robotic, drone, coating, electrical, and acoustic. This study aims to identify the best cleaning method using multiple criteria decision-making (MCDM) techniques. Using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), Quality Function Deployment (QFD), Fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarities to Ideal Solution (FTOPSIS), and Preference Selection Index (PSI), this research evaluates all eight cleaning methods based on several criteria that are categorized under cost, performance, resource requirement, and safety in Abu Dhabi. The data are collected from surveys completed by experts in solar and sustainable energy. The AHP, QFD, and PSI results identified natural, manual, and surface coating as the best and most effective cleaning methods. Natural cleaning involves using rainwater primarily to remove dirt and dust; manual cleaning requires cleaning agents and wiping clothes; and surface coatings involve applying a layer of hydrophobic material to the panels to repel dust. Identifying the most effective cleaning method for dust removal from solar panels can ensure optimal efficiency recovery at minimal costs and resources.

Abstract Background In traditional surgical procedures, significant discrepancies are often observed between the pre-planned templated implant sizes and the actual sizes used, particularly in patients with congenital hip dysplasia. These discrepancies arise not only in preoperative planning but also in the precision of implant placement, especially concerning the acetabular component. Our study aims to enhance the accuracy of implant placement during Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA) by integrating AI-enhanced preoperative planning with Patient-Specific Instrumentation (PSI). We also seek to assess the accuracy and clinical outcomes of the AI-PSI (AIPSI) group in comparison to a manual control group. Methods This study included 60 patients diagnosed with congenital hip dysplasia, randomly assigned to either the AIPSI or manual group, with 30 patients in each. No significant demographic differences between were noted the two groups. A direct anterior surgical approach was employed. Postoperative assessments included X-rays and CT scans to measure parameters such as the acetabular cup anteversion angle, acetabular cup inclination angle, femoral stem anteversion angle, femoral offset, and leg length discrepancy. Functional scores were recorded at 3 days, 1 week, 4 weeks, and 12 weeks post-surgery. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 22.0, with the significance level was set at α = 0.05. Results and conclusion The AIPSI group demonstrated greater prosthesis placement accuracy. With the aid of PSI, AI-planned THA surgery provides surgeons with enhanced precision in prosthesis positioning. This approach potentially offers greater insights and guidelines for managing more complex anatomical variations or cases.

AbstractThis study aims to evaluate the patterns by which vloggers influence consumers’ purchase intention for sustainable healthy diet food, to prevent obesity. In this process, a model was developed and validated through a collaboration between the lens of similarity-attraction theory (SAT) and the health belief model (HBM). This emphasized the effect of health behaviour similarity and perceived susceptibility-severity, which increased para-social interaction (PSI) and consumer purchase intention on TikTok social media viewers. Furthermore, the moderating effect of self-openness was examined on health behaviour similarity with PSI and consumers’ purchase intention. The role of gender and marital status was also assessed in supporting the relationship between health behaviour similarity (HBS) and PSI. In this case, a total of 438 validated samples were tested using the Covariance-based SEM approach. Based on the results, HBS and perceived susceptibility severity (PSS) were positively related to PSI and consumers’ purchase intention. PSI was also positively related to consumers’ purchase intention. Additionally, self-openness played a role in moderating the relationship between health behaviour similarity to PSI and purchase intention. These results subsequently considered the effectiveness of digital celebrity support for young people in sustainable healthy diet behaviour, especially married and unmarried women.

Solar power is a promising source of energy that is environmentally friendly, sustainable, and renewable. Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels are the most common and mature technology used to harness solar energy. Unfortunately, these panels are prone to dust accumulation, which can have a significant impact on their efficiency. To maintain their effectiveness, solar photovoltaics s must be cleaned regularly. Eight main techniques are used to clean solar panels: natural, manual, mechanical, robotic, drone, coating, electrical, and acoustic. This study aims to identify the best cleaning method using multiple criteria decision-making (MCDM) techniques. Using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), Quality Function Deployment (QFD), Fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarities to Ideal Solution (FTOPSIS), and Preference Selection Index (PSI), this research evaluates all eight cleaning methods based on several criteria that are categorized under cost, performance, resource requirement, and safety in Abu Dhabi. The data are collected from surveys completed by experts in solar and sustainable energy. The AHP, QFD, and PSI results identified natural, manual, and surface coating as the best and most effective cleaning methods. Natural cleaning involves using rainwater primarily to remove dirt and dust; manual cleaning requires cleaning agents and wiping clothes; and surface coatings involve applying a layer of hydrophobic material to the panels to repel dust. Identifying the most effective cleaning method for dust removal from solar panels can ensure optimal efficiency recovery at minimal costs and resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate the occurrence of surface displacements in the Canto do Amaro (CAM) onshore oil field, situated in Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, using Sentinel-1 data. The persistent scatterer interferometry (PSI) technique was used to perform the analysis based on 42 Sentinel-1 images, acquired from 23 July 2020 to 21 December 2021. Moreover, information regarding the structural geology of the study area was collected by referencing existing literature datasets. Additionally, a study of the water, gas, and oil production dynamics in the research site was conducted, employing statistical analysis of publicly available well production data. The PSI points results were geospatially correlated with the closest oil well production data and the structural geology information. The PSI results indicate displacement rates from −20.93 mm/year up to 14.63 mm/year in the CAM region. However, approximately 90% of the deformation remained in the range of −5.50 mm/year to 4.95 mm/year, indicating low levels of ground displacement in the designated research area. No geospatial correlation was found between the oil production data and the zones of maximum deformation. In turn, ground displacement demonstrates geospatial correlation with geological structures such as strike-slip and rift faults, suggesting a tectonic movement processes. The PSI results provided a comprehensive overview of ground displacement in the Canto do Amaro field, with millimeter-level accuracy and highlighting its potential as a complementary tool to field investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In traditional surgical procedures, significant discrepancies are often observed between the pre-planned templated implant sizes and the actual sizes used, particularly in patients with congenital hip dysplasia. These discrepancies arise not only in preoperative planning but also in the precision of implant placement, especially concerning the acetabular component. Our study aims to enhance the accuracy of implant placement during Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA) by integrating AI-enhanced preoperative planning with Patient-Specific Instrumentation (PSI). We also seek to assess the accuracy and clinical outcomes of the AI-PSI (AIPSI) group in comparison to a manual control group. Methods: This study included 60 patients diagnosed with congenital hip dysplasia, randomly assigned to either the AIPSI or manual group, with 30 patients in each. No significant demographic differences between were noted the two groups. A direct anterior surgical approach was employed. Postoperative assessments included X-rays and CT scans to measure parameters such as the acetabular cup anteversion angle, acetabular cup inclination angle, femoral stem anteversion angle, femoral offset, and leg length discrepancy. Functional scores were recorded at 3 days, 1 week, 4 weeks, and 12 weeks post-surgery. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 22.0, with the significance level was set at α = 0.05. Results and conclusion: The AIPSI group demonstrated greater prosthesis placement accuracy. With the aid of PSI, AI-planned THA surgery provides surgeons with enhanced precision in prosthesis positioning. This approach potentially offers greater insights and guidelines for managing more complex anatomical variations or cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a city undergoes large-scale construction and expansion, there is an urgent need to monitor the stability of the ground and infrastructure. The time-series InSAR technique is an effective tool for measuring surface displacements. However, interpreting these displacements in a built environment, where observed displacements consist of mixed signals, poses a challenge. This study uses principal component analysis (PCA) and the k-means clustering method for exploring deformation series within an unsupervised learning context. The PCA method extracts the dominant components in deformation series, whereas the clustering method identifies similar deformation series. This method was tested on Kunming City (KMC) using C-band Sentinel-1, X-band TerraSAR-X, and L-band ALOS-2 PALSAR-2 data acquired between 2017 to 2022. The experiment demonstrated that the suggested unsupervised learning approach can group PS points with similar kinematic characteristics. Five types of deformation kinematic characteristics were discovered in the three SAR datasets: upward, slight upward, stability, slight downward, and downward. According to the results, less than 20% of points exhibit significant motion trends, whereas 50% show small velocity values but still demonstrate movement trends. The remaining 30% are relatively stable. Similar clustering results were obtained from the three datasets using unsupervised methods, highlighting the effectiveness of identifying spatial–temporal patterns over the study area. Moreover, It was found that clustering based on kinematic characteristics enhances the interpretation of InSAR deformation, particularly for points with small deformation velocities. Finally, the significance of PCA decomposition in interpreting InSAR deformation was discussed, as it can better represent series with noise, enabling their accurate identification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work discusses landslide velocity mapping in the Swiss Alps using ALOS-2 PALSAR-2 ScanSAR differential interferometry and interferometric time series analyses based on small data stacks of about 10 images over eight years. A wide area coverage is possible due to the 350km swath width of the ScanSAR data. In our processing sequence we resampled the sub-swath SLCs to a common spatial grid. The co-registered sub-swath SLCs were mosaiced into large co-registered mosaic SLCs. We then applied normal procedures also used for stripmap mode data to generate differential interferograms and conduct a Persistent Scatterer Interferometry (PSI) processing. The results obtained over the Swiss Alps provide a good spatial coverage, with line-of-sight displacement velocities also extracted for some landslides in forested areas. The future applicability of the technique is very promising with upcoming L-band SAR missions (NISAR, ROSE-L and PALSAR-3) that provide data of even better suitability – higher spatial resolution, shorter revisit time intervals, and free and open data access. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a comparative analysis of Multi-Temporal Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (MT-InSAR) algorithms in a corner reflector located in Lisbon, Portugal. The reflector was monitored using daily observations from the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technique with submillimeter precision. The study focuses on comparing the performance and accuracy of different MT-InSAR approaches i) the Persistent Scatterer Interferometry (PSI) method using the open-source software StaMPS, ii) the PSI method using the commercial software SARPROZ, iii) the Quasi-PS method implemented with the SARPROZ software, as well as iv) a hybrid method Persistent scatterer – Distributed Scatterer (PS-DS) obtained from the European Ground Motion Service (EGMS) with SqueeSAR algorithm. The study period assumed was from October 2017 to January 2019, by considering the same initial information (ascending orbit Sentinel images). Statistical analysis of the time series was also performed, and the density of points in the vicinity was evaluated. To provide a comprehensive evaluation of accuracy, the uncertainties associated with both the GNSS and InSAR techniques were assessed. The findings of this comparative analysis offer valuable insights into the strengths and limitations of various MT-InSAR algorithms by using a more precise technique as a benchmark. The results improve the understanding of deformation monitoring in geodetic applications and highlight the potential for enhanced accuracy in such assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spaceborne SAR Interferometry techniques namely Differential SAR Interferometry (DInSAR) and Persistent Scatterer Interferometry (PSI) are remote sensing-based techniques used to measure and monitor terrain deformations. In the present study, advances in PSI since its inception, considering three important parameters (pixel selection criteria, baseline configuration, and deformation model) is discussed in detail. Further, in view of the research heading towards the pixel selection criteria and phase optimization of Distributed Scatterers (DSs) pixels, detailed discussion is made over its advancement also. In addition, the statistical homogenous pixel (SHP) and the similar time-series interferometric phase (STIP) pixel-based PSCs selection are the latest development. In view of this, the connection and difference of major and latest SHP and STIP pixel-based PSCs selection methods in term of the mathematic model of phase optimization for conventional DS and DS with multiple scattering mechanism (DS-MSM), types of pixel selection capability, computational efficiency are characterized. Further, in this study, a novel Bayesian methodology and its details are proposed for the phase optimization of DS pixels, which will provide a much better idea of the characteristics of the parameter of interest than latest one based on complex least square mathematic model for phase optimization of DS pixels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The trickster concept has been proposed as a useful description of paranormal phenomena in response to nine decades of inconsistent experimental results and the inability to develop sustained practical applications of psi. However, the trickster of mythology is too diverse and ambiguous for scientific research. The term 'psi-trickster' is used here to refer to an active factor that makes psi effects inconsistent and unsustainable but can be investigated scientifically. My transition from optimism about psi experiments to reluctantly accepting the psi-trickster is described. The primary purpose of this essay is to describe strategies and options for research given the apparent psi-trickster. Strategies for dealing with the psi-trickster include: (a) hope that continued experimental research will overcome it; (b) accept the far-reaching implications of the usual assumptions for psi experiments and develop models of unconscious conflicting psi influences by many different people; (c) investigate the possibility that reliable psi effects occur in rare conditions, such as after many years of intense meditation practice; (d) propose physics-based models; and (e) consider that factors other than the motivations of living persons may be involved. Experimental psi research has the ultimate goal of converting psi to technology. Like other technologies, the most advanced development will be for military uses and for corporate profits. Spontaneous psi experiences tend to inspire a sense of meaning in life and a belief that the person's life is watched over, similar to mystical and near-death experiences. The psi-trickster characteristics prevent psi from being converted to technology and preserve its mysterious, mystical aspects. An indepth investigation is needed to understand how paranormal beliefs and experiences affect a person's life and society as a whole. This is the first step in investigating the psitrickster characteristics and should include the distribution of beliefs in the population for the full spectrum from skeptics to proponents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The use of 3D-printed Patient-Specific Instruments (PSI) has been investigated to enhance the postoperative functional results in total hip arthroplasty (THA) and has been recognized as an innovative approach for the optimal alignment of hip implant components. Point-of-care production is gradually becoming the norm for PSI manufacturing. The purpose of this article is to assess the accuracy and safety of PSI for total hip arthroplasty performed at the point-of-care in Vietnam. Methods 34 THA cases were assessed in this prospective study. A template for the size and orientation of the implant and the design of the PSI was generated using data from preoperative 3D computed tomography (CT) scanning of the lower limb. The principal surgeon determined the implants’ position and PSI design directly using the software. The PSI is then produced using a 3D-compatible resin printer in our manufacturing hospital. The PSI, consisting of an acetabulum and a femoral component placed press-fit on the bony surface, guided surgeons to precisely ream the acetabulum and cut the femoral neck according to the pre-planned plane. Postoperative CT scanning was obtained and superimposed onto the 3D model of the implant to evaluate the accuracy of the procedure by comparing the orientation values of the cup and the alignment of the stem between the planned and the actual results. Intra- and postoperative clinical parameters of surgery, including surgical time, intra-operative blood loss, complications, and the first ambulation, were also recorded to evaluate the safety of the surgery. Results The preparation for PSI required an average of 3 days. 94% of cup size and 91% of stem size were correctly selected. The mean values of postoperative inclination and anteversion were 44.2° ± 4.1° and 19.2° ± 5.6°, respectively. 64.7% of cases deviated from planned within the ± 50 range and 94.1% within the ± 10° range. There was no significant statistical difference between the planned and the achieved values of stem anteversion, osteotomy height, and leg length discrepancy (p > 0.05). The average surgical time was 82.5° ± 10.8 min, and the intraoperative blood loss was estimated at 317.7° ± 57.6 ml. 64.7% of patients could walk on the day of surgery. There were no complications reported. Conclusions The point-of-care manufactured PSI is a useful solution for improving the accuracy of total hip arthroplasty surgery, especially in restoring implant orientation and reducing leg length discrepancy. However, long-term clinical follow-up evaluation is needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of this approach.

In this study, Differential Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar Interferometry (DInSAR) of artificial Corner Reflectors (CRs) were validated in the area of fast and nonlinear deformation gradient caused by active coal longwall exploitation. Three Sentinel-1 datasets were processed using conventional DInSAR, Persistent Scatterer Interferometry (PSI), and Small BAseline Subset methods implemented in ENVI SARscape™. For evaluation, leveling and Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurements were used. Considering the challenge of snow cover, the removal of all winter images was not a successful strategy due to the long temporal baseline and strong movement, which cause phase unwrapping problems and underestimate the real deformation. The results indicate that only conventional DInSAR and SBAS with low network redundancy allow us to capture maximal deformation gradient and the root mean square error calculated between the CRs and the ground truth is on the level of 2–3 cm for the vertical and easting deformation component, respectively. For the small deformation gradient represented by the permanent GNSS station (4 cm/year), all SBAS techniques appeared to be more accurate than DInSAR, which corresponds to higher redundancy and better removal of the atmospheric signal. In contrast, DInSAR results allowed to capture information about two subsidence basins, which was not possible with SBAS and PSI approaches.

During HIV-1 virus assembly, the genomic RNA (vRNA) is selected for packaging by the viral protein Gag because it contains a specific packaging signal, Psi. While there have been numerous studies of Gag–Psi interactions, there is almost no information on the kinetic aspects of this interaction. We investigated the kinetics of Gag binding to different RNAs using switchSENSE DRX2 technology. We measured the association rate of Gag binding to monomeric Psi, to a “Multiple Binding Site Mutant” Psi that is inactive for genome packaging in vivo, and to a scrambled Psi. We discovered that Gag binds more rapidly to Psi RNA than to the mutant or scrambled RNAs. Furthermore, rapid Gag association kinetics are retained within sub-regions of Psi: Gag associates more rapidly with RNA containing only the 3′ two of the three Psi stem-loops than with monomeric RNA containing the 5′ two stem-loops or a scrambled RNA. No differences were detectable with individual Psi stem-loops. Interestingly, the rate of binding of Gag molecules to Psi increases with increasing Gag concentration, suggesting cooperativity in binding. The results are consistent with the hypothesis that selectivity in packaging derives from kinetic differences in initiation of particle assembly.

Introduction: Interest in 3D printing for orthopedic surgery has been increasing since its progressive adoption in most of the hospitals around the world. The aim of the study is to describe all the current applications of 3D printing in patients undergoing hip surgery of any type at the present time. Materials and Methods: We conducted a systematic narrative review of publications indexed in MedLine through the search engine PubMed, with the following parameters: 3D printing AND (orthopedics OR traumatology) NOT tissue engineering NOT scaffold NOT in vitro and deadline 31 July 2023. After reading the abstracts of the articles, papers were selected according to the following criteria: full text in English or Spanish and content related to hip surgery. Those publications involving experimental studies (in vitro or with anatomical specimens) or 3D printing outside of hospital facilities as well as 3D-printed commercial implants were excluded. Results are presented as a reference guide classified by disease, including the used software and the steps required for the development of the idea. Results: We found a total of 27 indications for in-house 3D printing for hip surgery, which are described in the article. Conclusions: There are many surgical applications of 3D printing in hip surgery, most of them based on CT images. Most of the publications lack evidence, and further randomized studies should be encouraged to assess the advantages of these indications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Private Set Intersection Cardinality (PSI-CA) and Private Set Union Cardinality (PSU-CA) are two cryptographic primitives whereby two or more parties are able to obtain the cardinalities of the intersection and the union of their respective private sets, and the privacy of their sets is preserved. In this paper, we propose a new privacy protection intersection cardinality protocol, which can quickly deal with set inequality and asymmetry problems and can obtain 100% correct results, and, in terms of efficiency, we are much faster than using the polynomial method. Our protocol adopts the Paillier addition homomorphic encryption scheme and applies the identifier guidance technology, using identifier determination, to the semi-homomorphic encryption ciphertext environment, excluding a large number of different options and quickly finding the base of the intersection of two sides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

InSAR capabilities allow us to understand ground deformations in large metropolitan areas, this is key to assessing site conditions in areas in an inherently expanding context. The multi-temporal interferometry of SAR data records ground surface displacement velocities over large metropolitan areas, identifying anomalous and potential geological hazards. The metropolitan city of Concepción, Chile, is an alluvial basin in one of the world's most seismically active subduction zones, where many subduction earthquakes have occurred throughout history. In this study, we monitored the deformations of the ground surface in the metropolitan area of Concepción using two interferometric techniques, the first being Persistent Scatterer Interferometry (PSI) and the second, the Small Baseline Subset (SBAS) technique. To do this, we have used the same Sentinel-1 dataset, obtaining ground movement rates between 2019 and 2021. The velocities were aligned with the GNSS station available in the area. Ground deformation patterns show local deformations depending on factors such as soil type and heterogeneity, and regional deformations due to geographical location in the subduction area. Our results highlight the similarity of the deformation rates obtained with different processing techniques and have also allowed us to identify areas of deformation and compare them to site conditions. These results are essential to evaluate ground conditions and contribute to urban planning and risk management in highly seismic areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The use of 3D-printed Patient-Specific Instruments (PSI) has been investigated to enhance the postoperative functional results in total hip arthroplasty (THA) and has been recognized as an innovative approach for the optimal alignment of hip implant components. Point-of-care production is gradually becoming the norm for PSI manufacturing. The purpose of this article is to assess the accuracy and safety of PSI for total hip arthroplasty performed at the point-of-care in Vietnam. Methods: 34 THA cases were assessed in this prospective study. A template for the size and orientation of the implant and the design of the PSI was generated using data from preoperative 3D computed tomography (CT) scanning of the lower limb. The principal surgeon determined the implants' position and PSI design directly using the software. The PSI is then produced using a 3D-compatible resin printer in our manufacturing hospital. The PSI, consisting of an acetabulum and a femoral component placed press-fit on the bony surface, guided surgeons to precisely ream the acetabulum and cut the femoral neck according to the pre-planned plane. Postoperative CT scanning was obtained and superimposed onto the 3D model of the implant to evaluate the accuracy of the procedure by comparing the orientation values of the cup and the alignment of the stem between the planned and the actual results. Intra- and postoperative clinical parameters of surgery, including surgical time, intra-operative blood loss, complications, and the first ambulation, were also recorded to evaluate the safety of the surgery. Results: The preparation for PSI required an average of 3 days. 94% of cup size and 91% of stem size were correctly selected. The mean values of postoperative inclination and anteversion were 44.2° ± 4.1° and 19.2° ± 5.6°, respectively. 64.7% of cases deviated from planned within the ± 50 range and 94.1% within the ± 10° range. There was no significant statistical difference between the planned and the achieved values of stem anteversion, osteotomy height, and leg length discrepancy (p > 0.05). The average surgical time was 82.5° ± 10.8 min, and the intraoperative blood loss was estimated at 317.7° ± 57.6 ml. 64.7% of patients could walk on the day of surgery. There were no complications reported. Conclusions: The point-of-care manufactured PSI is a useful solution for improving the accuracy of total hip arthroplasty surgery, especially in restoring implant orientation and reducing leg length discrepancy. However, long-term clinical follow-up evaluation is needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of this approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the phenomenology of the Trickster (its 'darker' side) is explored. The archetypal Trickster is shown to manifest as psychosociological aberrations and bizarre physical effects often associated with unique individuals during certain emotionally charged states. Though the Trickster and its many variants have mythological roots, the modern-day equivalent (free, for example, from anthropomorphization) can be seen as an activated psychological proneness to err in thinking when a liminal phase is entered into--that borderland between doubt and certainty. Mainstream academia considers the field of parapsychology to be controversial--it is marginalized because the phenomena it studies (the paranormal) is mostly illusive, usually weak even when proved to be statistically anomalous, and the psi process itself has not been theoretically explained. This state of affairs propagates uncertainty which can trigger 'tricksterish' (spurious) interpretations of parapsychological data and findings: Long-term experimenter psi and chronological decline effects are cases in point. Due caution and bias-free analysis of the data and findings may help ameliorate, perhaps even dissolve, the problem of the Trickster. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this study was to compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes of treatment of symptomatic mal- and/or nonunion of midshaft clavicle fractures using radiographically based free-hand open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) or computer-assisted 3D-planned, personalized corrective osteotomies performed using patient-specific instrumentation (PSI) and ORIF. The hypotheses were that (1) patients treated with computer-assisted planning and PSI would have a better clinical outcome, and (2) computer-assisted surgical planning would achieve a more accurate restoration of anatomy compared to the free-hand technique. Methods: Between 1998 and 2020, 13 patients underwent PSI, and 34 patients underwent free-hand ORIF and/or corrective osteotomy. After application of exclusion criteria, 12/13 and 11/34 patients were included in the study. The clinical examination included measurement of the active range of motion and assessment of the absolute and relative Constant–Murley Scores and the subjective shoulder value. Subjective satisfaction with the cosmetic result was assessed on a Likert scale from 0 to 100 (subjective aesthetic value). 11/13 and 6/11 patients underwent postoperative computed tomography evaluation of both clavicles. Computed tomography scans were segmented to generate 3D surface models. After projection onto the mirrored contralateral side, displacement analysis was performed. Finally, bony union was documented. The average follow-up time was 43 months in the PSI and 50 months in the free-hand cohort. Results: The clinical outcomes of both groups did not differ significantly. Median subjective shoulder value was 97.5% (70; 100) in the PSI group vs. 90% (0; 100) in the free-hand group; subjective aesthetic value was 86.4% (±10.7) vs. 75% (±18.7); aCS was 82.3 (±10.3) points vs. 74.9 (±26) points; and rCS was 86.7 (±11.3) points vs. 81.9 (±28.1) points. In the free-hand group, 2/11 patients had a postoperative neurological complication. In the PSI cohort, the 3D angle deviation was significantly smaller (PSI/planned vs. free-hand/contralateral: 10.8° (3.1; 23.8) vs. 17.4° (11.6; 42.4); P = .020)). There was also a trend toward a smaller 3D shift, which was not statistically significant (PSI/planned vs. free-hand/contralateral: 6 mm (3.4; 18.3) vs. 9.3 mm (5.1; 18.1); P = .342). There were no other significant differences. A bony union was achieved in all cases. Conclusion: Surgical treatment of nonunion and malunions of the clavicle was associated with very good clinical results and a 100% union rate. This study, albeit in a relatively small cohort with a follow-up of 4 years, could not document any clinically relevant advantage of 3D planning and personalized operative templating over conventional radiographic planning and free-hand surgical fixation performed by experienced surgeons.

Abstract Introduction Cranioplasty is the surgical correction of a cranial defect. Three-dimensional software designs have allowed patient-specific single-step cranial reconstruction for neuroprotection and cosmesis. Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene for partial or total bone replacement has been recently introduced as a promising material for cranioplasty. The objectives of this study are to evaluate the complications and esthetic results concerning the use of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene patient-specific implants in craniectomy patients. Methods We report a series of nine patients with cranial defects from a previous craniectomy, or patients eligible for simultaneous craniectomy and cranioplasty via computer designed ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene patient-specific implants. We have analyzed the complications and cosmetic outcomes over a course of six months. Results None of the cases developed infection, extra/subdural hematoma, cerebrospinal fluid leak, or implant failure. Three cases had postoperative sequalae: The first patient had mild postoperative seroma which subsided after medical therapy and compression, the second showed wound breakdown due to tumor metastasis and recurrence but did not necessitate implant removal, while the third sequela was a subgaleal hematoma which was aspirated, and the patient healed uneventfully afterward. Esthetic results were highly satisfactory in 75% of the patients (good patient acceptance without touch-ups). Conclusion Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene is in all respects suitable for primary and secondary cranioplasty, combined with computer-aided manufacturing–computer-aided design techniques, excellent esthetic and functional results were achieved. However, proper preoperative planning is important, and we recommend further prospective studies with larger number of patients followed up for longer periods for better assessment.

The rise of construction projects and population growth, followed by the expansion of industry and any other sectors such as housing estate, offices, and transportation, can lead to not only economic growth but also negative impacts such as air pollution, including nitrogen dioxide (NO2) pollutants. According to KEP-45/MENLH/10/1997, air pollution can be determined by The Pollutant Standards Index (PSI). The statistical analysis result employing the multivariate ANOVA test with the Anderson-Darling method showed the impact of NO2 concentrations on four location points over two years. Meanwhile, the data result of PSI revealed a high level of ambient air NO2 in Lampung Barat Regency, particularly at the monitoring point of offices. On the other hand, in Way Kanan Regency, the level of ambient air NO2 tends to be safe and secure at the monitoring point of industry and transportation. The factor of sampling location and technique (stage 1: dry season, stage 2: rainy season) did not give a significant effect on the NO2 level due to a p-value ≥ 0,05. However, the sampling point (of monitoring) influenced the NO2 level for p-value ≤ 0,05 in Lampung Barat and Way Kanan Regency in 2019-2020 which was still claimed as safe and secure based on PP No. 41 in the Year 1999, which sets the required limit at 100 g/m3.

Abstract Background The Bispectral Index (BIS) and the Patient State Index (PSI) are commonly used measures to assess intraoperative sedation depth. However, model differences lead to different results, which in turn interferes with clinicians’ judgment on the depth of anesthesia. Remimazolam tosilate (RT) for injection is a new benzodiazepine used in sedation. In its clinical application, there are few effective indicators for sedation depth monitoring. To close this gap, this study aims to compare BIS and PSI in measuring the sensitivity and specificity of intraoperative RT and to explore the safety of RT for intraspinal anesthesia in elderly patients. Methods This study included 40 patients undergoing elective electro-prostatectomy with intraspinal anesthesia, who were monitored by BIS and PSI simultaneously during operation. Remimazolam tosylate 0.1 mg/kg was intravenously administered after the intraspinal anesthesia when patients were in a completely painless status. Then BIS, PSI, the Modified Observer’s Assessment of Alertness and Sedation (MOAA/S) scores and vital signs were observed and recorded per minute for 10 min. Pearson’s correlation analysis and linear regression model were used to compare BIS and PSI sedation scores, and to test their associations with the MOAA/S score, respectively. ROC curves were drawn to compare the sensitivity and specificity of BIS and PSI. Changes of vital signs were presented as mean ± standard deviation. Perioperative liver and kidney function indicators were analyzed using a paired t-test to evaluate the safety of RT for intraspinal anesthesia in the elderly patients. Results According to Pearson’s correlation analysis, a significant (P

Introduction: Cranioplasty is the surgical correction of a cranial defect. Three-dimensional software designs have allowed patient-specific single-step cranial reconstruction for neuroprotection and cosmesis. Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene for partial or total bone replacement has been recently introduced as a promising material for cranioplasty. The objectives of this study are to evaluate the complications and esthetic results concerning the use of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene patient-specific implants in craniectomy patients. Methods: We report a series of nine patients with cranial defects from a previous craniectomy, or patients eligible for simultaneous craniectomy and cranioplasty via computer designed ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene patient-specific implants. We have analyzed the complications and cosmetic outcomes over a course of six months. Results: None of the cases developed infection, extra/subdural hematoma, cerebrospinal fluid leak, or implant failure. Three cases had postoperative sequalae: The first patient had mild postoperative seroma which subsided after medical therapy and compression, the second showed wound breakdown due to tumor metastasis and recurrence but did not necessitate implant removal, while the third sequela was a subgaleal hematoma which was aspirated, and the patient healed uneventfully afterward. Esthetic results were highly satisfactory in 75% of the patients (good patient acceptance without touch-ups). Conclusion: Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene is in all respects suitable for primary and secondary cranioplasty, combined with computer-aided manufacturing–computer-aided design techniques, excellent esthetic and functional results were achieved. However, proper preoperative planning is important, and we recommend further prospective studies with larger number of patients followed up for longer periods for better assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Chilling injury is one of the most common meteorological disasters affecting cucumber production. For implementing remedial measures as soon as possible to minimize production loss, a timely and precise assessment of chilling injury is crucial. Methods: To evaluate the possibility of detecting cucumber chilling injury using chlorophyll fluorescence (ChlF) technology, we investigated the continuous changes in ChlF parameters under various low-temperature conditions and created the criteria for evaluating chilling injury. The ChlF induction curves were first collected before low-temperature as unstressed samples and daily 1 to 5 days after low-temperature as chilling injury samples. Principal component analysis was employed to investigate the public information on ChlF parameters and evaluate the differences between samples with different degrees of chilling injury. The parameters (Fv/Fm, Y(NO), qP, and Fo) accounted for a large proportion in the principal components and could characterize chilling injury. Uniform manifold approximation and projection method was employed to extract new features (Feature 1, Feature 2, Feature 3, and Feature 4) from ChlF parameters for subsequent classification model. Taking four features as input, a classification model based on the Fuzzy C-means clustering algorithm was constructed in order to identify the chilling injury classes of cucumber seedlings. The cucumber seedlings with different chilling injury classes were analyzed for ChlF images, rapid light curves, and malondialdehyde content. Results and discussion: The results demonstrated that the variations in these indicators among the different chilling injury classes supported the validity of the classification model. Our findings provide a better understanding of the relationship between ChlF parameters and the impact of low-temperature treatment on cucumber seedlings. This finding offers an additional perspective that can be used to evaluate the responses and damage that plants experience under stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In previous studies, problem solving appraisal has been identified as playing a key role in promoting positive psychological well-being. The Problem Solving Inventory is the most widely used measure of problem solving appraisal and consists of 32 items. The length of the instrument, however, may limit its applicability to large-scale surveys consisting of several instruments. This study investigated the possibility of reducing the number of items in the inventory using item response theory. We used the automated item selection procedure in Mokken analysis which identified 12 items as unscalable or loading on a separate scale or violating invariant item ordering. Rasch analysis, Mokken analysis, and classical test theory were then used to investigate the psychometric properties of the shorter version of the instrument. The results supported the reliability, validity, and dimensionality of the three subscales in the shortened version. The shortened version of the Problem Solving Inventory (PSI-20) and its subscales had very strong relationships with the original scale and its subscales, and the correlation of the total scale and the subscales of the shortened version with related variables was very similar to the relationships that the original scale and the subscales had with those same variables. The PSI-20 is thus beneficial in identifying changes in metacognition related to problem solving ability and can provide a basis for further intervention. Plain Language Summary: We used three different statistical methods to derive a shorter version of the three dimensions of the Problem Solving Inventory, namely problem solving confidence, approach-avoidance style, and personal control. We derived a 20-item version and the three methods confirmed that the three dimensions have sound psychometric properties that compared favorably to the original 32-item version. The results suggest that the proposed short form (PSI-20) is user-friendly, easy to administer and score, and consists of three parsimonious dimensions. The shortened version makes self-reporting less arduous and can provide potentially useful information to inform interventions for common mental health disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forest fires are a seasonal phenomenon in Greece, reoccurring annually and causing adverse impacts on both human-made and natural environments. Our case study focuses on the devastating fire that took place in July 2018 in the second-housing area of Mati, East Attica. In this research, we propose a simple and effective approach that combines the deformation trend obtained from the Permanent Scatterer Interferometry (PSI) analysis with the burn severity assessment aiming to identify and classify potential ground-burn hazard zones. To maximize the number of measuring points, we employ a weighted full-graph PSI approach. Additionally, we calculate the burn severity by comparing Sentinel-2 satellite images captured before and after the event. The resulting datasets are reclassified on a scale from 1 to 5, and the proposed equation yields the final product. Numerous high and very high hazard zones have been identified using this methodology. The research findings reveal the proximity between these hazard zones and the stream network. Overall, the proposed method offers valuable insights for the post-fire monitoring and management of urban and peri-urban landscapes in the affected areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This commentary considers the fields of extrasensory perception (ESP) research and cognitive neuroscience, discussing points of conflict and domains where they may be complementary. ESP research challenges the assumption in cognitive neuroscience that the mind is the product of known physical processes in the brain. Cognitive neuroscience methods and tools applied to ESP research could benefit and bridge the gap between the two fields. Firstly, concurrently studying subjective experiences and neural activity during ESP tasks would allow us to better characterize subjective states typically associated with ESP. Secondly, similarities between mind-wandering and free-response ESP experimental designs allow us to speculate on the potential implication of the default-mode network during the percipient’s experience. Finally, tools developed in computational neurolinguistics and natural language processing may become valuable to automatize judging procedures in free-response ESP paradigms such as remote viewing. Despite potentially incompatible assumptions about the mind and the brain, ESP research can gain new insights from cognitive neuroscience methods and approaches and can contribute in its own way to the study of human subjective experiences and cognition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This meta-analysis is an update of Storm, Tressoldi, and Di Risio (2012); a meta-analysis on forced-choice ESP studies (1987 to 2010), which use targets such as card symbols, pictures, and letters. We formed two datasets: New Studies #1 (studies that included actual hit rates) and New Studies #2 (Reaction Time [‘RT’] Studies; which are studies that measured only reaction time, not hits, as indicators of psi responses). New Studies #1: For the period 2011 to 2022, a homogeneous dataset of 38 studies yielded a mean effect size (ES) of 0.02 (Stouffer Z = 5.55, p = 1.43 × 10–8). New Studies #2 (‘RT’ Studies): For the same period, a homogeneous dataset of 23 studies yielded a weaker mean ES of 0.01 (Stouffer Z = 5.50, p = 1.90 × 10–8). The two databases were combined. In this dataset, telepathy, clairvoyance, and precognition studies were not significantly different from each other. Nor were target types. We updated the forced-choice database by combining our revised original database with the new studies to form a homogeneous database (N = 141): mean effect size (ES) of 0.02 (Stouffer Z = 8.52, p < 10-16). Effects did not vary between investigators or laboratories, and we found a near-significant incline in ES values over a 36-year period (i.e., no evidence of a decline). These results confirm that the forced-choice design adequately tests extra-sensory perception (ESP). We compare the overall results with those obtained in other domains, focusing on ‘selected’ participants (meditators, psychics, psi-test experienced) and ‘unselected’ (i.e., untrained, naïve) participants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A single-blind experiment was conducted on free-responsive spatially non-local perception of free-selective simple photographic targets. One author (the tasker) chose a photographic target not subjected to a priori compiling, and the other author (the perceiver) attempted to unconventionally perceive the target. Feedback was expected prior to a new target being selected. A hundred trials were completed over 11 months. Thirteen judges offered gradings that collectively projected an apparent information requisition yield (AIRY). The AIRY refers to two aspects of the matching of a taskette (a target’s counterpart) with respect to the target based on fuzzy scales from 0% to 100%, graded with an increment of 10%. The type-I or “tangibility” aspect of matching assessed the extent of the resemblance of a taskette to the target in terms of the shape or structural details of the primary physical entity/event. The type-II or “intangibility” aspect of the matching assessed the degree of the reconstruction of a taskette to the target in terms of the feature or functionality of the predominant physical entity/ event. A total of 6 taskettes received >50% grades in both type-I and type-II aspects of matching with their respective targets. This outcome may correspond to an effect size of 1.47 if the chance-expectation may give a benchmark proportion of 3 out of 100 trials producing >50% grades in both type-I and type-II aspects of matching. Patterns indicating target interference associated with two trials entail further investigation. The approaches offer new insights to quantifying the band-limited information throughputs of spatially non-local perception. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A model for consciousness is proposed based on Nisargadatta Maharaj ‘s interpretation of Jnana Yoga/Advaita Vedanta. Concepts from modern physics, neuroscience, and information science are integrated into that framework. A novel understanding of information in the context of a system with consciousness is proposed. Information generated in the neurophysiology of a brain’s unique “wiring structure” is hypothesized to become dissociated from the neurophysiology and transformed into a universal format within a nonphysical domain in which consciousness is assumed to occur. Sharing features with Bohm’s Implicate Order, the nonphysical domain has nonlocal properties which support instant correlation of information throughout. The energy of a carrier is not needed to transport information in the nonphysical domain. This allows for low-energy neurological systems to transfer information associated with thought across large distances, as observed in telepathic psi phenomena. An experiment to test for the existence of a nonphysical dimension that supports instant telepathic information transfer is discussed. It is argued that three is the minimum number of aspects necessary to model a practical framework for consciousness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

La planicie del río San Pedro, que tiene una formación fluvio-deltaica, es una de las superficies costeras que fueron afectadas por la intrusión marina durante la última glaciación. En esta zona, la agricultura es la principal actividad económica, sin embargo, las actividades agrícolas intensivas, su pasado geo-morfológico, la actual interdependencia con el sistema marino y el transporte de sales a través de los sedimentos y aguas, hacen que esta región sea susceptible a la acumulación de sales en los suelos. Con el objetivo de caracterizar la salinidad de la superficie agrícola de la planicie del río San Pedro, se hicieron dos muestreos de suelos en 91 sitios en un periodo de dos años. Se tomaron muestras de 0.0 a 0.3 m y de 0.0 a cada 0.1 m hasta profundidades de 1 m y 3 m. Se recolectaron 50 muestras de agua freática, además se obtuvieron extractos de saturación (1: θsat) de las distintas muestras de suelos. A los extractos de suelo y aguas freáticas, se les determinó el pH, CE, cationes y aniones mayoritarios, se calculó el parámetro relación de adsorción de sodio en su formulación original y ajustada (RASor, RASaj) y el porciento de sodio intercambiable (PSI). El pH, CE y RASor del agua freática estuvieron dentro de los intervalos de 6.94-8.37, 199-4660 µS cm-1 y 0.16-32.30 (mmolc L-1)1/2, mientras que en los extractos de saturación entre 4.81-8.58, 0.08-72.4 dS m-1 y 0.11-33.09 (mmolc L-1)1/2 respectivamente. Los problemas de salinidad en la zona de estudio están estrechamente relacionados con la intrusión de sales provenientes del sistema marino.

This study aims to investigate the occurrence of surface displacements in the Canto do Amaro (CAM) onshore oil field, situated in Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, using Sentinel-1 data. The persistent scatterer interferometry (PSI) technique was used to perform the analysis based on 42 Sentinel-1 images, acquired from 23 July 2020 to 21 December 2021. Moreover, information regarding the structural geology of the study area was collected by referencing existing literature datasets. Additionally, a study of the water, gas, and oil production dynamics in the research site was conducted, employing statistical analysis of publicly available well production data. The PSI points results were geospatially correlated with the closest oil well production data and the structural geology information. The PSI results indicate displacement rates from −20.93 mm/year up to 14.63 mm/year in the CAM region. However, approximately 90% of the deformation remained in the range of −5.50 mm/year to 4.95 mm/year, indicating low levels of ground displacement in the designated research area. No geospatial correlation was found between the oil production data and the zones of maximum deformation. In turn, ground displacement demonstrates geospatial correlation with geological structures such as strike-slip and rift faults, suggesting a tectonic movement processes. The PSI results provided a comprehensive overview of ground displacement in the Canto do Amaro field, with millimeter-level accuracy and highlighting its potential as a complementary tool to field investigations.