bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Second-generation extracellular matrix patch for epicardial infarct repair
Authors: Bhatt Arjun , Bates Michael J. , Marcu Constantin B. , Matheny Robert G. , Carabello Blase A. , Yin Kanhua , Boyd Walter Douglas
Published: September 2023

Current myocardial infarction treatments focus on improving hemodynamics rather than addressing the problem of lost myocardium impairing left ventricular function. Epicardial infarct repair with a bioactive patch placed on the ischemic area is an emerging approach to promote endogenous myocardial repair. We report the use of a second-generation CorMatrix-extracellular matrix (ECM) patch as an adjunct to surgical revascularization in treating a young patient with diffuse, multivessel coronary artery disease unamenable to PCI and a large anterior myocardial infarction. The progressive myocardial scar shrinkage and increase in left ventricular ejection fraction from 10 to 51% are generally not observed with surgical revascularization therapy alone, suggesting this new patch has adjunctive potential to current revascularization therapy.
Optimizing data integration in trials that use EHR data: lessons learned from a multi-center randomized clinical trial
Authors: Raman Sudha R. , Qualls Laura G. , Hammill Bradley G. , Nelson Adam J. , Nilles Ester Kim , Marsolo Keith , O’Brien Emily C.
Published: September 2023

Background

Despite great promise, trials that ascertain patient clinical data from electronic health records (EHR), referred to here as “EHR-sourced” trials, are limited by uncertainty about how existing trial sites and infrastructure can be best used to operationalize study goals. Evidence is needed to support the practical use of EHRs in contemporary clinical trial settings.

Main text

We describe a demonstration project that used EHR data to complement data collected for a contemporary multi-center pharmaceutical industry outcomes trial, and how a central coordinating center supported participating sites through the technical, governance, and operational aspects of this type of activity. We discuss operational considerations related to site selection, data extraction, site performance, and data transfer and quality review, and we outline challenges and lessons learned. We surveyed potential sites and used their responses to assess feasibility, determine the potential capabilities of sites and choose an appropriate data extraction strategy. We designed a flexible, multimodal approach for data extraction, enabling each site to either leverage an existing data source, create a new research datamart, or send all data to the central coordinating center to produce the requisite data elements. We evaluated site performance, as reflected by the speed of contracting and IRB approval, total patients enrolled, enrollment yield, data quality, and compared performance by data collection strategy.

Conclusion

While broadening the type of sites able to participate in EHR-sourced trials may lead to greater generalizability and improved enrollment, sites with fewer technical resources may require additional support to participate. Central coordinating center support is essential to facilitate the execution of operational processes. Future work should focus on sharing lessons learned and creating reusable tools to facilitate participation of heterogeneous trial sites.
Clinical prediction models of rheumatoid arthritis and its complications: focus on cardiovascular disease and interstitial lung disease
Authors: Shao Yubo , Zhang Hong , Shi Qi , Wang Yongjun , Liang Qianqian
Published: September 2023

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, systemic, autoimmune disease of unknown etiology with erosive, symmetric polyarthritis as the main clinical manifestations. Its basic pathological changes are the formation of synovitis, and patients gradually develop destruction of articular cartilage destruction and bone erosion, which eventually leads to joint deformity, disability, and various extra-articular manifestations. Clinical prediction models (CPMs), also known as risk prediction models or risk scores, are mathematical formulas used to estimate the probability that a given individual will have a disease or an outcome in the future. The models are mainly divided into two categories: diagnostic models and prognostic models, which can be used to provide information on disease diagnosis or prognosis to help make better medical decisions. Currently, there is no cure for RA, but effective early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for limiting the severity of the disease and preventing the occurrence and development of complications. This paper reviews the CPMs associated with RA and its related complications, including cardiovascular disease (CVD) and interstitial lung disease (ILD), in order to provide reference and evidence for the early diagnosis and treatment of these diseases and personalized medicine for patients. In addition, the possible pathogenesis and risk factors of these comorbidities are summarized, and possible directions for future related research are prospected.
Economic burden of chronic migraine in OECD countries: a systematic review
Authors: Eltrafi Alyaa , Shrestha Sunil , Ahmed Ali , Mistry Hema , Paudyal Vibhu , Khanal Saval
Published: September 2023

Background

Chronic migraine (CM) is a significant neurological condition affecting a substantial portion of the global population. The economic burden of CM includes both direct healthcare costs and indirect costs resulting from productivity losses and intangible impacts on patients’ quality of life. However, there is limited research that comprehensively evaluates all cost components associated with CM, highlighting the need for a systematic review.

Methods

We conducted a systematic literature search in databases including MEDLINE, Embase, and CINAHL to identify studies estimating the cost of illness of chronic migraines. The search was restricted to English language articles published from inception to October 2021, and only findings from Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries were included. Methodology features and key findings were extracted from the studies, and reported costs were converted to GBP for cross-country comparisons.

Results

Thirteen cost-of-illness studies on CM from various OECD countries were included in this review. The studies demonstrated substantial variations in monetary estimates, but consistently highlighted the considerable economic burden of CM. Direct costs, particularly hospitalisation and medication expenses, were identified as the highest contributors. However, indirect costs, such as productivity losses due to absenteeism and presenteeism, were often underexplored in the reviewed studies. Additionally, intangible costs related to emotional and social impacts on patients were largely overlooked.

Conclusion

Chronic migraine imposes a significant economic burden on individuals, healthcare systems, and society. Policymakers and healthcare stakeholders should consider both direct and indirect cost components, as well as intangible costs, in developing targeted strategies for effective CM management and resource allocation. Further research focusing on comprehensive cost assessments and sensitivity analyses is needed to enhance the understanding of CM’s economic implications and inform evidence-based healthcare policy decisions. Addressing these research gaps can alleviate the economic burden of CM and improve patient outcomes.
Correction to: On statistical convergence and strong Cesàro convergence by moduli
Authors: León-Saavedra Fernando , Listán-García M. del Carmen , Pérez Fernández Francisco Javier , Romero de la Rosa María del Pilar
Published: September 2023

We correct a logic mistake in our paper “On statistical convergence and strong Cesàro convergence by moduli” (León-Saavedra et al. in J. Inequal. Appl. 23:298, 2019).
Qualitative insights from a randomized clinical trial of a mother–child emotional preparation program for preschool-aged children
Authors: Markowitz Elizabeth S. , Maier Malia C. , Ludwig Robert J. , Austin Judy , Maybach Anna M. , Jaffe Marc E. , Welch Martha G.
Published: September 2023

Background

Early life stress and adversity conveys risk for emotional, behavioral, and developmental disorders. To address this risk in the preschool population, Mother–Child Emotional Preparation (MCEP) was tested as an in-school dyadic intervention for facilitating mother–child emotional connection through mother–child calming cycles. In a computer-generated block randomized controlled trial enrolling preschool-aged children and their mothers, in partnership with an early childhood learning center, we at Columbia University Irving Medical Center tested effects of MCEP across multiple domains. Within this RCT we designed a qualitative sub-study to understand how MCEP aligns with calming cycle theory and its impact on mothers and the mother–child relationship.

Methods

A qualitative researcher observed 14 group MCEP sessions consisting of nurture specialists facilitating reciprocal calming interactions through shared emotional expression between mothers and their preschool-aged children. We conducted two waves of participant interviews in English or Spanish, per participant preference. Participants (n = 8) were majority Hispanic at or below the federal poverty level. Group session observations were coded and analyzed for frequency, co-occurrence, variance by session, and alignment with calming cycle theory, incorporating demographic variables and attendance. Interview transcripts were translated from Spanish to English if needed, then coded and analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

Qualitative analysis revealed mothers’ experiences of MCEP. Data demonstrated that calming position and emotional expression were mutually supportive, and that barriers to connection were calming cycle entry-points, not barriers. At the group level, supported by nurture specialists, fellow participants helped each other progress through calming cycles. Moreover, MCEP adapted to meet individual dyad needs, and mothers described its far-reaching impact.

Conclusions

Qualitative methods show that MCEP helps mother–child dyads emotionally connect through the calming cycle and fills a gap in early childhood education services. This study generated insights for quantitative studies and suggested implications for MCEP dissemination.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03908268, Registered April 9, 2019—Retrospectively registered.
Health-related quality of life and its related factors in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus in southwest Iran: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Hashemi Sakineh , Farahbakhsh Sahar , Aghakhani Zahra , MomayezanMarnani Ali , Hemati Nazi , Hashemi Somayeh
Published: September 2023

Background

Quality of life (QoL) is an important measure in health assessment. It is impacted by unclear factors in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) patients. The study aimed to investigate the factors related to QoL in SLE patients.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was performed on 140 (136 women and four men) Iranian SLE patients of Hafiz Hospital from June 2019 to August 2020. The Lupus Erythematosus Quality of Life Questionnaire (LEQoL) was used to evaluate the quality of life. The patients were evaluated with this questionnaire for four weeks in eight dimensions health, emotional health, body image, pain, planning, intimate relationships, and the burden of others. Related factors of LEQoL were evaluated using multivariable linear regression.

Results

The mean age was 34.09(8.96) years. The total mean QoL Score was 65.5 ± 22.4. The multivariable analysis showed that duration of disease (β:-1.12, 95% CI:-1.44 to -0.79, P:0.001), physical activity(β:-12.99, 95% CI:-19.2 to -6.13, P:0.001), kidney involvement (β:-9.2, 95% CI:-16.61 to -2.79, P:0.03) and skin involvement(β:-8.7, 95% CI:-17.2 to -0.2, P:0.031) were significantly related to the total mean QOL score of SLE patients.

Conclusion

The QoL of Iranian patients with SLE was low. Age and gender can be related to the decrease in the QoL of patients with SLE. Increasing the disease duration, physical activity, kidney involvement, and skin involvement can be related to the decrease in the QOL of Iranian patients with SLE.
Deep features fusion for KCF-based moving object tracking
Authors: Maharani Devira Anggi , Machbub Carmadi , Yulianti Lenni , Rusmin Pranoto Hidaya
Published: September 2023

Real-time object tracking and occlusion handling are critical research areas in computer vision and machine learning. Developing an efficient and accurate object-tracking method that can operate in real-time while handling occlusion is essential for various applications, including surveillance, autonomous driving, and robotics. However, relying solely on a single hand-crafted feature results in less robust tracking. As a hand-crafted feature extraction technique, HOG effectively detects edges and contours, which is essential in localizing objects in images. However, it does not capture fine details in object appearance and is sensitive to changes in lighting conditions. On the other hand, the grayscale feature has computational efficiency and robustness to changes in lighting conditions. The deep feature can extract features that express the image in more detail and discriminate between different objects. By fusing different features, the tracking method can overcome the limitations of individual features and capture a complete representation of the object. The deep features can be generated with transfer learning networks. However, selecting the right network is difficult, even in real-time applications. This study integrated the deep feature architecture and hand-crafted features HOG and grayscale in the KCF method to solve this problem. The object images were obtained through at least three convolution blocks of transfer learning architecture, such as Xception, DenseNet, VGG16, and MobileNet. Once the deep feature was extracted, the HOG and grayscale features were computed and combined into a single stack. In the KCF method, the stacked features acquired the actual object location by conveying a maximum response. The result shows that this proposed method, especially in the combination of Xception, grayscale, and HOG features, can be implemented in real-time applications with a small center location error.
Cancer Patients' Preferences and Perceptions of Advantages and Disadvantages of Telehealth Visits During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Kumar Deepika , Gordon Nancy , Zamani Constanza , Sheehan Tammy , Martin Ernesto , Egorova Olga , Payne Jessica , Kolevska Tatjana , Neeman Elad , Liu Raymond
Published: September 2023

Cancer patients' preferences for telehealth or in-person visit depend on the topic to be discussed.
Dynamic Monitoring of Circulating Tumor DNA in Patients With Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Urbini Milena , Marisi Giorgia , Azzali Irene , Bartolini Giulia , Chiadini Elisa , Capelli Laura , Tedaldi Gianluca , Angeli Davide , Canale Matteo , Molinari Chiara , Rebuzzi Francesca , Virga Alessandra , Prochowski Iamurri Andrea , Matteucci Laura , Sullo Francesco Giulio , Debonis Silvia Angela , Gallio Chiara , Frassineti Giovanni Luca , Martinelli Giovanni , Ulivi Paola , Passardi Alessandro
Published: September 2023

Circulating tumor DNA predicts prognosis of mCRC patients receiving first-line bevacizumab based-chemotherapy
Model selection with baryonic acoustic oscillations in the Lyman-α forest
Authors: Melia F.
Published: September 2023

The recent release of the final, complete survey of Lyman-α baryonic acoustic oscillation measurements provides the most significant and accurate data base for studying cosmic geometry at an effective redshift

, which is inaccessible to other sources. In this paper, we use these data to select among four distinct cosmologies: Planck ΛCDM, the

universe, the Milne universe and the Einstein-de Sitter universe. Given the breadth and depth of the Lyman-α study, this BAO measurement alone provides a strong model comparison, complementary to previous studies that combined Lyman-α data with measurements at lower redshifts. Though both approaches are useful, the latter tends to dilute the disparity between model predictions and the observations. We therefore examine how the models compare to each other strictly based on the BAO scale measured in the Lyman-α forest and background quasars. We find that the Milne universe and the Einstein-de Sitter universe are strongly ruled out by these data. There is also strong evidence disfavoring the standard model. The Lyman-α measurements are completely consistent with the cosmic geometry predicted by

. As such, evidence continues to grow that the zero active mass condition from general relativity ought to be an essential ingredient in ΛCDM.
The Battle for the Border: Notes on Autonomous Migration, Transnational Communities, and the State
Authors: Rodríguez Néstor
Published: September 2023

The chapter adopts an “autonomous international migration” perspective to discuss how workers, their families, and communities organized to move across international borders “outside” of state regulation. They thereby constitute a challenge to the state and inhabit an ambivalent relation to U.S. economic interests.
Spaces of Critique, Spaces of Desire
Authors: Kirk Gwendolyn S.
Published: September 2023

This chapter explores a series of gender transgressive performances in three Pakistani films. While the narratives of all three films serve to essentially restore the heteronormative patriarchal order, gender-bending performances temporarily invoke and make claims on particular kinds of gendered power, refigure norms and practices, and reimagine the limits of filmic desire. These films show the myriad possibilities that gender reversal or play in films open up for cinemagoers. In the Pakistani context specifically, this has ramifications for understanding the ways gender intersects with other identity formations in performance, such as class, caste, ethnolinguistic identity. It also offers insight into how gendered and gender transgressive performance styles, as indices of such identity formations, develop and are enregistered over time.
Queer Desi Formations
Authors: Reddy Gayatri
Published: September 2023

This chapter reflects fieldwork in Chicago among gay/queer-identified South Asian or desi men in the early 2000s, focusing on their articulated desires for a “community.” As such, it serves as a historical text, contextualizing more contemporary queer desi aspirations, desires, and formations in Chicago. The essay argues that desi gay men's desire for community at the turn of the century in Chicago signaled a social formation whose contours were crystallized largely through engagements with normativity. By heeding Roderick Ferguson's call to place normativity front and center, it explores past productions and regulations of ethnic, racial,gender, sexual, and class normativity – the contours of queer and racial becoming – among desis. And through engagements with other queer orientations in Chicago, captured in this essay by one iconic Pakistani figure, it gestures toward alternative queer futures and the possibilities for crafting a different kind of “brown commons” (Munoz 2020).
Prognostic Impact of Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes, Tertiary Lymphoid Structures, and Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio in Pulmonary Metastases from Uterine Leiomyosarcoma
Authors: Matsuda Naoki , Yamamoto Hiromasa , Habu Tomohiro , Iwata Kazuma , Matsubara Kei , Tanaka Shin , Hashimoto Kohei , Shien Kazuhiko , Suzawa Ken , Miyoshi Kentaroh , Toji Tomohiro , Okazaki Mikio , Sugimoto Seiichiro , Takahashi Katsuhito , Toyooka Shinichi
Published: September 2023

Background

The presence of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs) in tumor tissue has been related to the prognosis in various malignancies. Meanwhile, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) as a systemic inflammation marker also has been associated with the prognosis in them. However, few reports have investigated the relationship between pulmonary metastases from sarcoma and these biomarkers.

Methods

We retrospectively recruited 102 patients undergoing metastasectomy for pulmonary metastases from uterine leiomyosarcoma at Okayama University Hospital from January 2006 to December 2019. TILs and TLSs were evaluated by immunohistochemical staining of surgically resected specimens of pulmonary metastases using anti-CD3/CD8/CD103/Foxp3/CD20 antibodies. NLR was calculated from the blood examination immediately before the most recent pulmonary metastasectomy. We elucidated the relationship between the prognosis and these factors. Because we considered that the status of tumor tissue and systemic inflammation were equally valuable, we also assessed the impact of the combination of TILs or TLSs and NLR on the prognosis.

Results

As for TILs, CD3-positive cells and CD8-positive cells were correlated with the prognosis. The prognosis was significantly better in patients with CD3-high group, CD8-high group, TLSs-high group, and NLR-low group, respectively. The prognosis of CD8-high/NLR-low group and TLSs-high/NLR-low group was significantly better than that of CD8-low/NLR-high group and TLSs-low/NLR-high group, respectively.

Conclusions

CD3-positive TILs, CD8-positive TILs, TLSs, and NLR are correlated with the prognosis, respectively. The combination of CD8-positive TILs or TLSs and NLR may be the indicators to predict the prognosis of patients with pulmonary metastases from uterine leiomyosarcoma.
Making Our Neighborhoods, Making Our Selves: A Review Essay
Authors: Aliprantis Dionissi
Published: September 2023

This essay reviews Making Our Neighborhoods, Making Our Selves, in which George C. Galster provides an overview of the literatures on neighborhood formation and neighborhood effects. I see two clear ways that Making Our Neighborhoods will serve as a reference strengthening these literatures. Given the state of the literature on neighborhood effects, which is often still at the stage of testing the existence and magnitude of such effects, the author’s framework for classifying the types of heterogeneity we might observe in neighborhood effects will be a valuable tool for researchers. And since the literature on neighborhood formation approaches the issues from a disparate set of fields, the author’s presentation of individual actors shaping neighborhood dynamics while using ideas of equilibrium, belief formation, equity and efficiency, and unpriced externalities should help unify understanding of the economic approach to neighborhood formation. While the author certainly does not shy away from race, I argue that several parts of the presentation would be clearer if they were tied more directly to racial segregation. (JEL D62, D83, I31, J15, R23, R31, Z13)
Virtuous Bankers: A Day in the Life of the Eighteenth-Century Bank of England
Authors: Jaremski Matthew
Published: September 2023

Matthew Jaremski of Utah State University reviews “Virtuous Bankers: A Day in the Life of the Eighteenth-Century Bank of England” by Anne L. Murphy. The Econlit abstract of this book begins: “Explores the eighteenth-century Bank of England's ability to command the confidence of a wide public while delivering a set of services that were essential to the English state, explaining how a private organization became the guardian of the public credit upon which the economic and geopolitical success of Britain was based.”
Making Wise Decisions in a Smart World: Responsible Leadership in an Era of Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Gans Joshua
Published: September 2023

Joshua Gans of University of Toronto reviews “Making Wise Decisions in a Smart World: Responsible Leadership in an Era of Artificial Intelligence” by Peter Verhezen. The Econlit abstract of this book begins: “Considers the importance of sound decision-making in the uncertain and turbulent era of artificial intelligence (AI), discussing how organizations can create sustainable value and thrive without harming others.”
EncephalApp Stroop Test for covert hepatic encephalopathy screening in Tunisian cirrhotic patients
Authors: Hamzaoui Lamine , Mahmoudi Moufida , Mohamed Ghanem , Elloumi Hanene , Laabidi Asma , Boubaker Jalel , Boudabbous Mona , Tahri Nabil , Jemni Imen , Safer Leila , Jomni Taieb , Douggui Hedi , Trad Dorra , Gargouri Dalila , Ayadi Shema , Debbeche Radhouane , Belhouchet Sami , Marouani Ridha , Cheikh Imed , Abdelli Mohamed Nabil
Published: September 2023

Background: Covert hepatic encephalopathy (CHE) is underdiagnosed and is difficult to detect. The EncephalApp Stroop test is validated for its screening. The aim of the study was to define Tunisian norms for the test based on healthy controls norms and to estimate the prevalence of CHE in cirrhotic Tunisian patients.

Methods: A prospective, multicenter, cross‐sectional study was conducted. Ambulatory or hospitalized cirrhotic patients aged 40 years and over were recruited at 11 centers. Healthy subjects aged 40 years and over were recruited at 8 centers. We used a translated Arabic version of the streamlined EncephalApp Stroop test. The task has two components: “Off” and “On” state depending on the discordance or concordance of the stimuli.

Results: 142 patients were included. The mean age was 57.26 years [40–86]. 40 (28.17%) of cirrhotic patients who were included were diagnosed as having a minimal hepatic encephalopathy or CHE. Among the ineligible patients, 22 had overt hepatic encephalopathy. If we consider these patients, the overall prevalence rate of CHE was around 24.39% in cirrhotic patients. It was more frequent in women (34.21% vs 25.96%), and in patients whose level of school education is between 6 and 13 years. Its prevalence does not appear to be affected by gender, MELD score, etiology of cirrhosis and age group of patients, as these variables were independent with respective p according to the chi-square test 0.413; 0.736; 0.663 and 0.1. The stroop times (On / Off and On + Off) correlated significantly with each other, are associated significantly and positively with age (respective Pearson coefficients: 0.578; 0.567 and 0.6). The more the age increases, the more the stroop response times increases (p > 10-3).

Conclusions: EncephalApp Stroop test was an efficient screening tool for CHE in Tunisian cirrhotic patients.
Comparative Evaluation of Mechanical Properties and Bond Strength of Glass Ionomer Cement reinforced with three different concentrations of Silver Nanoparticles as against Conventional Glass Ionomer Cement in Primary Teeth.
Authors: Kanani Harikishan , Khubchandani Monika
Published: September 2023

Introduction:

Restorative dental materials are defined as substances that are used to repair, replace, or enhance a patient's teeth. Various materials used in paediatric dentistry are zinc oxide eugenol, glass ionomer cement, resin composite, calcium hydroxide, silver amalgam, giomers etc. GIC is a biocompatible material having a low thermal expansion coefficient and fluoride release property. There are still a few drawbacks of GIC due of their poor mechanical properties therefore addition of Silver Nanoparticles demonstrated improved mechanical and bactericidal capabilities. There hasn't been much study on the quality of the bond contact between silver nanoparticles and dentin, as well as the color's durability.

Aim: To evaluate and compare the mechanical properties and bond strength of Glass ionomer cement reinforced with three different concentrations of silver nanoparticle as against conventional glass ionomer cement in primary Teeth.

Materials and Method:

Silver nanoparticles will be prepared using three chemicals namely, silver nitrate, sodium citrate and tannic acid. Traditional GIC (GC Fuji II, GC Corporation, Tokyo, Japan) will be purchased. Three different concentrations of silver nanoparticles will be prepared i.e., 0.2, 0.4, and 0.6%. The GIC specimens will then be divided into 4 groups: GIC without silver nanoparticles (AgNPs),0.2%,0.4% and 0.6% AgNPs. Mechanical properties will be checked such as compressive, tensile, and bond strength using Universal Testing Machine.

Expected Results:

GIC reinforced with silver nano particles is expected to have better mechanical strength, less microleakage and wear resistance, greater fracture resistance and adhesive bond strength.

Conclusion:

GIC reinforced with silver nano particles will be expected to have better mechanical and physical properties than conventional Type II GICs and is expected to be a promising material for restoration in primary teeth.
Lessons learned: overcoming common challenges in reconstructing the SARS-CoV-2 genome from short-read sequencing data via CoVpipe2
Authors: Lataretu Marie , Drechsel Oliver , Kmiecinski René , Trappe Kathrin , Hölzer Martin , Fuchs Stephan
Published: September 2023

Background: Accurate genome sequences form the basis for genomic surveillance programs, the added value of which was impressively demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic by tracing transmission chains, discovering new viral lineages and mutations, and assessing them for infectiousness and resistance to available treatments. Amplicon strategies employing Illumina sequencing have become widely established for variant detection and reference-based reconstruction of SARS-CoV-2 genomes, and are routine bioinformatics tasks. Yet, specific challenges arise when analyzing amplicon data, for example, when crucial and even lineage-determining mutations occur near primer sites. 

Methods: We present CoVpipe2, a bioinformatics workflow developed at the Public Health Institute of Germany to reconstruct SARS-CoV-2 genomes based on short-read sequencing data accurately. The decisive factor here is the reliable, accurate, and rapid reconstruction of genomes, considering the specifics of the used sequencing protocol. Besides fundamental tasks like quality control, mapping, variant calling, and consensus generation, we also implemented additional features to ease the detection of mixed samples and recombinants.

Results: Here, we highlight common pitfalls in primer clipping, detecting heterozygote variants, and dealing with low-coverage regions and deletions. We introduce CoVpipe2 to address the above challenges and have compared and successfully validated the pipeline against selected publicly available benchmark datasets. CoVpipe2 features high usability, reproducibility, and a modular design that specifically addresses the characteristics of short-read amplicon protocols but can also be used for whole-genome short-read sequencing data.

Conclusions: CoVpipe2 has seen multiple improvement cycles and is continuously maintained alongside frequently updated primer schemes and new developments in the scientific community. Our pipeline is easy to set up and use and can serve as a blueprint for other pathogens in the future due to its flexibility and modularity, providing a long-term perspective for continuous support. CoVpipe2 is written in Nextflow and is freely accessible from https://github.com/rki-mf1/CoVpipe2 under the GPL3 license.
In silico molecular docking, ADME study and synthesis of new 1,3-diazetidin-2-one derivatives with high anti-proliferative activity
Authors: Abdulredha Farah Haidar , Mahdi Monther Faisal , Khan Ayad Kareem
Published: September 2023

Background: Cancer and inflammation are strongly connected; tumor growth and spread are also greatly influenced by inflammation. Nitrogen-based heterocycle analogs are excellent suppliers of pharmaceuticals. Quaternary rings play a bigger role in drug development as bioactive scaffolds. For improved tolerance and synergistic benefits, heterocyclic nitrogen rings are present in many anticancer medications. Understanding how to bind to the EGFR and its prospective impacts on cancer cells, expect to construct new heterocyclic compounds that may help produce potent anticancer medicines with a high safety profile.

Methods: Novel 1,3-diazetidin-2-one derivatives were designed, synthesized from mefenamic acid, and their cytotoxic activity against a lung cancer cell line (A549) was initially tested in vitro. These compounds were anchored to the crystal structure of the epidermal growth factor receptor (PDB code 1M17) in a molecular docking study to determine their binding affinity at the active site. The newly synthesized derivatives were verified and confirmed by elemental analysis and spectroscopic data (FT-IR, 1H-NMR, and 13C-NMR). In addition, physicochemical, drug-like, and toxicological predictions were performed for these derivatives.

Results: Based on a molecular docking study, all compounds (M4a-e) demonstrated superior PLPfitness (84.70, 85.89, 91.90, 88.61, and 92.77, respectively) to erlotinib (76.20). The anti-proliferation evaluation of the A549 cell line revealed that compounds M4c and M4e had exceptional and promising anti-proliferative activity on this cell line to treat lung cancer, with IC50 values of 1.75 µm and 2.05 µm at 72 hours, respectively, making them significantly more active than the reference erlotinib, which had an IC50 value of 11.5 µm at 72 hours.

Conclusions: The cytotoxicity investigation and the molecular docking study showed a robust association with the novel compounds (M4a-e). Suggest a comprehensive pharmacological survey to understand how these newly created chemicals combat cancer fully.
Illuminating the English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teaching odyssey: unveiling the professional identities of pre-service teachers
Authors: Le Thanh-Thao , Phuong Hoang-Yen , Nguyen Anh-Thi , Pham Trut-Thuy , Huynh Thi Anh-Thu , Nguyen Huong-Tra
Published: September 2023

Background: This study delves into the self-perceived professional identities of pre-service English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers within a Vietnamese context. The objective of this study was to augment the understanding of the evolution of teacher identity, which would subsequently provide valuable insights for the formulation of bespoke teacher education programs.

Methods: This research was anchored in grounded theory, adhering to a qualitative research design. Reflective writing was the primary instrument for data collection, with 238 pre-service teachers, enrolled in an English Teacher Education training program. Data collection took place in the academic year 2022-2023 at a university in Can Tho city, Vietnam from February 1st until May 31st, 2023. Pre-service teachers were tasked with writing an 80-word reflection on their perceived professional identity. Participants were chosen through convenience sampling. Data analysis encompassed open coding and a constant comparative method, culminating in the construction of a theoretical framework.

Results: The findings of this study revealed a continuum of self-perceived professional identities among 238 pre-service teachers (28 identities in total), encompassing flexible teachers (n=24), student-cantered teachers (n=21), reflective teachers (n=16), growth-oriented teachers (n=13), engaging teachers (n=12), supportive teachers (n=11), enthusiastic teachers (n=10), disciplinarian teachers (n=9), subject-matter expert teachers (n=9), resourceful teachers (n=8), balanced teachers (n=8), pragmatic teachers (n=7), relationship-builder teachers (n=7), sociable teachers (n=7), attentive teachers (n=7), real-world connector teachers (n=7), professional boundaries teachers (n=7), interactive teachers (n=6), traditional teachers (n=6), holistic teachers (n=6), contextually aware teachers (n=5), cheerful teachers (n=5), authentic teachers (n=5), appreciated teachers (n=5), compassionate communicator teachers (n=5), guided teachers (n=4), feedback-driven teachers (n=4), and consistent identity teachers (n=4).

Conclusions: The study offers invaluable perspectives into the genesis of professional identities in the domain of teacher education within the Vietnamese EFL context and holds significant implications for the enhancement of teacher training methodologies and pedagogical development.
The emotional burden of living with ischaemic heart disease: an artistic approach
Authors: O'Keefe-McCarthy Sheila , Mussie Isaac , Taplay Karyn , Michaelson Hannah , Faleiro Rosaleen
Published: September 2023

Background/Aims

A diagnosis of ischaemic heart disease may cause the individual to enter a state of emotional uncertainty. The authors aimed to provide an arts-based account of the emotional burden experienced by people with ischaemic heart disease.

Methods

A secondary qualitative analysis of 35 interview with individuals with ischaemic heart disease was conducted. The results from the interview transcripts were analysed and depicted using an arts-based approach, in the form of poetry, musical lyrics and visual art.

Results

Participants described an overwhelming sense of loss following a diagnosis of ischaemic heart disease, including feeling a loss of control in their lives, loss of self, loss of agency in managing the illness and a loss of hope for the future. The emotional burden that patients carried was likened to going through a grieving process. Three poems, one song and two visual art pieces were created by the authors to depict the emotional burden experienced by the participants.

Conclusions

Supportive interventions that apply arts-based approaches to practice could be beneficial to target the psychological needs and emotional burden of patients following diagnosis of ischaemic heart disease.
Understanding cardiac rehabilitation delivery in Scotland during the COVID-19 pandemic: lessons for the future
Authors: McHale Sheona , Neubeck Lis , Rowat Anne , Dawkes Susan , Hanson Coral L
Published: September 2023

Background/Aims

Cardiac rehabilitation services were disrupted during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic because of limitations on interpersonal contact, exercise facility closures and clinical service reorganisation. This necessitated urgent service redesign. The authors aimed to understand the changes to cardiac rehabilitation service delivery in Scotland, the impacts on staff and participant experiences, and implications for future delivery.

Methods

A concurrent mixed-methods study was conducted between April and December 2021. A quantitative online survey compared service provision before the pandemic (21 March 2019 to 20 November 2019) with provision after the onset of the pandemic (21 March 2020–20 November 2020). Quantitative data were analysed descriptively. Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with cardiac rehabilitation professionals and participants. These qualitative data were thematically analysed using the framework approach.

Results

Representatives (n=11) from 11 services completed the survey, while 11 staff and 17 patients completed the interviews. Services reported staffing reductions, delayed initial patient contact, replacement of face-to-face rehabilitation with telephone and online support, compromised initial assessments and reduced exit assessments. Patients relied more heavily on cardiac rehabilitation staff as a result of reduced access to other health professionals, and experienced issues with continuity of care. Technology presented remote service opportunities, but challenges around poor access to systems and technological literacy issues created barriers to service delivery. Service evaluation data were inaccessible.

Conclusions

Scottish cardiac rehabilitation services were adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and responded by developing remote options. These can be enhanced by screening patients to assess their access to technology and identify any literacy issues, as well as developing online educational videos and downloadable resources. Staff education is needed to encourage use of technology, including exercise monitoring via wearables. A national audit is required to assess delivery and outcomes.
What are the factors influencing the uptake of non-surgical facial aesthetic treatments in adults? A systematic review
Authors: Mackenzie Kirsty Anne
Published: September 2023

Awareness of the patient motivational factors that predispose them to an emotionally healthy treatment outcome is a critical part of the patient assessment. However, this area is lacking in research and poorly understood. The growing popularity, availability and acceptance of facial aesthetics procedures amongst the general population highlight the need for clinicians to understand the patient motivational factors to improve treatment overall, particularly on a psychological level. The aim of this paper is therefore to identify the characteristics and motivational factors of patients seeking non-surgical facial aesthetics treatments; while not all patients seeking treatments are at psychological risk, how this knowledge benefits clinical practice on an emotional level is also discussed. To conduct this study, medical literature was searched and 39 studies were assessed for eligibility. Based on given criteria, six studies were selected for review. The included studies revealed that interested patients were mostly educated women over the age of 30 with a history of receiving facial aesthetics treatments, seeking improved self-confidence as their main treatment outcome. These patients were more likely to have a satisfactory post-treatment result with lower tendencies of psychological risk.
Aesthetics across cultures: implications for practitioners in multicultural Britain
Authors: Lee Yan-Yi
Published: September 2023

From rhinoplasties to tanning, and from buttock augmentation to eyelids, this comment piece looks at aesthetics perspectives across cultures and what they may imply for cosmetic practitioners in multicultural Britain
Patient-related risk factors associated with poorer outcomes following total ankle arthroplasty
Authors: Arshad Zaki , Haq Ibrahim I. , Bhatia Maneesh
Published: September 2023

Aims

This scoping review aims to identify patient-related factors associated with a poorer outcome following total ankle arthroplasty (TAA).

Methods

A scoping review was performed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. A computer-based literature search was performed in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane trials, and Web of Science. Two reviewers independently performed title/abstract and full-text screening according to predetermined selection criteria. English-language original research studies reporting patient-related factors associated with a poorer outcome following TAA were included. Outcomes were defined as patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), perioperative complications, and failure.

Results

A total of 94 studies reporting 101,552 cases of TAA in 101,177 patients were included. The most common patient-related risk factor associated with poorer outcomes were younger age (21 studies), rheumatoid arthritis (17 studies), and diabetes (16 studies). Of the studies using multivariable regression specifically, the most frequently described risk factors were younger age (12 studies), rheumatoid arthritis (eight studies), diabetes (eight studies), and high BMI (eight studies).

Conclusion

When controlling for confounding factors, the most commonly reported risk factors for poor outcome are younger age, rheumatoid arthritis, and comorbidities such as diabetes and increased BMI. These patient-related risk factors reported may be used to facilitate the refinement of patient selection criteria for TAA and inform patient expectations.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(9):985–992.
Dispersive perfectly matched layers and high-order absorbing boundary conditions for electromagnetic quasinormal modes
Authors: Demésy Guillaume , Wu Tong , Brûlé Yoann , Zolla Frédéric , Nicolet André , Lalanne Philippe , Gralak Boris
Published: September 2023

Resonances, also known as quasinormal modes (QNMs) in the non-Hermitian case, play a ubiquitous role in all domains of physics ruled by wave phenomena, notably in continuum mechanics, acoustics, electrodynamics, and quantum theory. The non-Hermiticity arises from the system losses, whether they are material (Joule losses in electromagnetism) or linked to the openness of the problem (radiation losses). In this paper, we focus on the latter delicate matter when considering bounded computational domains mandatory when using, e.g., finite elements. We address the important question of whether dispersive perfectly matched layer (PML) and high-order absorbing boundary conditions offer advantages in QNM computation and modal expansion of the optical responses compared with nondispersive PMLs.
Rydberg-atom-based measurements of microwave electric fields with cavity quantum electrodynamics
Authors: Wang Yingfan , Jia Zhengmao , Yu You , Chen Bing , Peng Yandong
Published: September 2023

A scheme for enhancing the measurement of microwave electric (MW E) fields based on a cavity-quantum-electrodynamics (CQED) system consisting of an optical resonator coupled with four-level cold Rydberg atoms is analyzed in the paper. The strong collective coupling of the CQED cavity compresses the linewidth of the electromagnetically induced transparency signal substantially, which can be used to enhance the measurement. Our simulation results show that the minimum detectable strength of MW E-field can be enhanced by 196.7 and 26.2 times smaller than the separate atomic medium scheme and the weak coupling scheme, respectively. The detectable minimum strength in the present work can reach as low as 396.5nVcm−1. In addition, compared with the other two schemes, our work can increase the spectrum resolution respectively by about 216 and 10 times. The proposed scheme shows a broadband tunability and can be used in a broad detection range.
Numerical modelling for retrieval of the coating thickness variations from wavefront errors measurements
Authors: Baron M. , Sassolas B. , Pinard L. , Ealet A.
Published: September 2023

Multilayers coating are needed for large optical components performances, but the thickness non-uniformities over the useful aperture can generate spatial and chromatic variations of the reflectance, the transmittance and the wavefront errors. Although these dependences can be measured, they are difficult to anticipate if the underlying thickness variations are unknown. We present a model to retrieve these variations from wavefront error measurements that enables the computation of any optical properties over the useful aperture at any wavelength, angle of incidence or polarization.
High power single-frequency 1112 nm laser by an insertable Nd:YAG/YAG bonded monolithic planar ring oscillator
Authors: Liu Hua-Yu , Bian Qi , Bo Yong , Kou Yang , Yuan Lei , Liu Yang , Cui Da-Fu , Peng Qin-Jun
Published: September 2023

A high power single-frequency operation at 1112 nm with novel insertable monolithic planar ring oscillator based on a Nd:YAG/YAG bonded crystal is proposed. In a proof-of-principle experiment, a finely designed coating on the output surface is carried out to ensure single-wavelength oscillation at 1112 nm, together with a half-wave plate and a Tb3Ga5O12 crystal inserted in the open space of the bonded block to realize the unidirectional operation with power scalability. Consequently, the single-frequency laser delivers an output power of 3.9 W at 1112.3 nm with a slope efficiency of 58.6% and an optical-to-optical efficiency of 17.7%. The power fluctuation is measured to be within ± 0.26% over 20 min, and the laser linewidth is estimated to be 4.15 MHz (Δλ = 0.017 pm).