bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of reduced routine community mental healthcare on people from minority ethnic groups during the COVID-19 pandemic: qualitative study of stakeholder perspectives
Authors: Winsper Catherine , Bhattacharya Rahul , Bhui Kamaldeep , Currie Graeme , Edge Dawn , Ellard David , Franklin Donna , Gill Paramjit , Gilbert Steve , Khan Noreen , Miller Robin , Motala Zahra , Pinfold Vanessa , Sandhu Harbinder , Singh Swaran P. , Weich Scott , Giacco Domenico
Published: February 2024

Background

Enduring ethnic inequalities exist in mental healthcare. The COVID-19 pandemic has widened these.

Aims

To explore stakeholder perspectives on how the COVID-19 pandemic has increased ethnic inequalities in mental healthcare.

Method

A qualitative interview study of four areas in England with 34 patients, 15 carers and 39 mental health professionals from National Health Service (NHS) and community organisations (July 2021 to July 2022). Framework analysis was used to develop a logic model of inter-relationships between pre-pandemic barriers and COVID-19 impacts.

Results

Impacts were largely similar across sites, with some small variations (e.g. positive service impacts of higher ethnic diversity in area 2). Pre-pandemic barriers at individual level included mistrust and thus avoidance of services and at a service level included the dominance of a monocultural model, leading to poor communication, disengagement and alienation. During the pandemic remote service delivery, closure of community organisations and media scapegoating exacerbated existing barriers by worsening alienation and communication barriers, fuelling prejudice and division, and increasing mistrust in services. Some minority ethnic patients reported positive developments, experiencing empowerment through self-determination and creative activities.

Conclusions

During the COVID-19 pandemic some patients showed resilience and developed adaptations that could be nurtured by services. However, there has been a reduction in the availability of group-specific NHS and third-sector services in the community, exacerbating pre-existing barriers. As these developments are likely to have long-term consequences for minority ethnic groups’ engagement with mental healthcare, they need to be addressed as a priority by the NHS and its partners.
Differential Diagnosis of Post Pancreatitis Diabetes Mellitus Based on Pancreatic and Gut Hormone Characteristics
Authors: Lv Yingqi , Lu Xuejia , Liu Gaifang , Qi Liang , Zhong Zihang , Wang Xiaoyuan , Zhang Weizhen , Shi Ruihua , Goodarzi Mark O , Pandol Stephen J , Li Ling
Published: February 2024

Context

Distinguishing different types of diabetes is important in directing optimized treatment strategies and correlated epidemiological studies.

Objective

Through detailed analysis of hormone responses to mixed meal tolerance test (MMTT), we aimed to find representing characteristics of post-acute pancreatitis diabetes mellitus (PPDM-A) and post-chronic pancreatitis diabetes mellitus (PPDM-C).

Methods

Participants with PPDM-A, PPDM-C, type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and normal controls (NCs) underwent MMTT. Fasting and postprandial responses of serum glucose, C-peptide, insulin, glucagon, pancreatic polypeptide (PP), ghrelin, gastric inhibitory peptide (GIP), glucagon like peptide-1 (GLP-1), and peptide YY (PYY) were detected and compared among different groups. Focused analysis on calculated insulin sensitivity and secretion indices were performed to determine major causes of hyperglycemia in different conditions.

Results

Participants with PPDM-A were characterized by increased C-peptide, insulin, glucagon, and PP, but decreased ghrelin, GIP, and PYY compared with NCs. Patients with PPDM-C showed secretion insufficiency of C-peptide, insulin, ghrelin, and PYY, and higher postprandial responses of glucagon and PP than NCs. In particular, both fasting and postprandial levels of ghrelin in PPDM-C were significantly lower than other diabetes groups. PYY responses in patients with PPDM-A and PPDM-C were markedly reduced. Additionally, the insulin sensitivity of PPDM-A was decreased, and the insulin secretion for PPDM-C was decreased.

Conclusion

Along with the continuum from acute to chronic pancreatitis, the pathological mechanism of PPDM changes from insulin resistance to insulin deficiency. Insufficient PYY secretion is a promising diagnostic marker for distinguishing PPDM from type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Absent ghrelin secretion to MMTT may help identify PPDM-C.
EphB1 controls long-range cortical axon guidance through a cell non-autonomous role in GABAergic cells
Authors: Assali Ahlem , Chenaux George , Cho Jennifer Y. , Berto Stefano , Ehrlich Nathan A. , Cowan Christopher W.
Published: February 2024

EphB1 is required for proper guidance of cortical axon projections during brain development, but how EphB1 regulates this process remains unclear. We show here that EphB1 conditional knockout (cKO) in GABAergic cells (Vgat-Cre), but not in cortical excitatory neurons (Emx1-Cre), reproduced the cortical axon guidance defects observed in global EphB1 KO mice. Interestingly, in EphB1 cKOVgat mice, the misguided axon bundles contained co-mingled striatal GABAergic and somatosensory cortical glutamatergic axons. In wild-type mice, somatosensory axons also co-fasciculated with striatal axons, notably in the globus pallidus, suggesting that a subset of glutamatergic cortical axons normally follows long-range GABAergic axons to reach their targets. Surprisingly, the ectopic axons in EphB1 KO mice were juxtaposed to major blood vessels. However, conditional loss of EphB1 in endothelial cells (Tie2-Cre) did not produce the axon guidance defects, suggesting that EphB1 in GABAergic neurons normally promotes avoidance of these ectopic axons from the developing brain vasculature. Together, our data reveal a new role for EphB1 in GABAergic neurons to influence proper cortical glutamatergic axon guidance during brain development.
Cranial suture lineage and contributions to repair of the mouse skull
Authors: Doro Daniel , Liu Annie , Lau Jia Shang , Rajendran Arun Kumar , Healy Christopher , Krstic Marko , Grigoriadis Agamemnon E. , Iseki Sachiko , Liu Karen J.
Published: February 2024

The cranial sutures are proposed to be a stem cell niche, harbouring skeletal stem cells that are directly involved in development, homeostasis and healing. Like the craniofacial bones, the sutures are formed from both mesoderm and neural crest. During cranial bone repair, neural crest cells have been proposed to be key players; however, neural crest contributions to adult sutures are not well defined, and the relative importance of suture proximity is unclear. Here, we use genetic approaches to re-examine the neural crest–mesoderm boundaries in the adult mouse skull. These are combined with calvarial wounding experiments suggesting that suture proximity improves the efficiency of cranial repair. Furthermore, we demonstrate that Gli1+ and Axin2+ skeletal stem cells are present in all calvarial sutures examined. We propose that the position of the defect determines the availability of neural crest-derived progenitors, which appear to be a key element in the repair of calvarial defects.
ETS transcription factors regulate precise matrix metalloproteinase expression and follicle rupture in Drosophila
Authors: Zeng Baosheng , Knapp Elizabeth M. , Skaritanov Ekaterina , Oramas Rebecca , Sun Jianjun
Published: February 2024

Drosophila matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) is specifically expressed in posterior follicle cells of stage-14 egg chambers (mature follicles) and is crucial for the breakdown of the follicular wall during ovulation, a process that is highly conserved from flies to mammals. The factors that regulate spatiotemporal expression of MMP2 in follicle cells remain unknown. Here, we demonstrate crucial roles for the ETS-family transcriptional activator Pointed (Pnt) and its endogenous repressor Yan in the regulation of MMP2 expression. We found that Pnt is expressed in posterior follicle cells and overlaps with MMP2 expression in mature follicles. Genetic analysis demonstrated that pnt is both required and sufficient for MMP2 expression in follicle cells. In addition, Yan was temporally upregulated in stage-13 follicle cells to fine-tune Pnt activity and MMP2 expression. Furthermore, we identified a 1.1 kb core enhancer that is responsible for the spatiotemporal expression of MMP2 and contains multiple pnt/yan binding motifs. Mutation of pnt/yan binding sites significantly impaired the Mmp2 enhancer activity. Our data reveal a mechanism of transcriptional regulation of Mmp2 expression in Drosophila ovulation, which could be conserved in other biological systems.
MUC13 negatively regulates tight junction proteins and intestinal epithelial barrier integrity via protein kinase C
Authors: Segui-Perez Celia , Stapels Daphne A. C. , Ma Ziliang , Su Jinyi , Passchier Elsemieke , Westendorp Bart , Wubbolts Richard W. , Wu Wei , van Putten Jos P. M. , Strijbis Karin
Published: February 2024

Glycosylated mucin proteins contribute to the essential barrier function of the intestinal epithelium. The transmembrane mucin MUC13 is an abundant intestinal glycoprotein with important functions for mucosal maintenance that are not yet completely understood. We demonstrate that in human intestinal epithelial monolayers, MUC13 localized to both the apical surface and the tight junction (TJ) region on the lateral membrane. MUC13 deletion resulted in increased transepithelial resistance (TEER) and reduced translocation of small solutes. TEER buildup in ΔMUC13 cells could be prevented by addition of MLCK, ROCK or protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitors. The levels of TJ proteins including claudins and occludin were highly increased in membrane fractions of MUC13 knockout cells. Removal of the MUC13 cytoplasmic tail (CT) also altered TJ composition but did not affect TEER. The increased buildup of TJ complexes in ΔMUC13 and MUC13-ΔCT cells was dependent on PKC. The responsible PKC member might be PKCδ (or PRKCD) based on elevated protein levels in the absence of full-length MUC13. Our results demonstrate for the first time that a mucin protein can negatively regulate TJ function and stimulate intestinal barrier permeability.
Comparing Multivisceral Resection with Tumor-only Resection of Liposarcoma Using the Win Ratio
Authors: Gorji Leva , Nikahd Melica , Onuma Amblessed , Tsilimigras Diamantis , Madison Hyer J. , Ruff Samantha , Ilyas Farhan Z. , Contreras Carlo , Grignol Valerie P. , Kim Alex , Pollock Raphael , Pawlik Timothy M. , Beane Joal D.
Published: February 2024

Background

Multivisceral resection of retroperitoneal liposarcoma (LPS) is associated with increased morbidity and may not confer a survival benefit compared with tumor-only (TO) resection. We compared both approaches using a novel statistical method called the “win ratio” (WR).

Methods

Patients who underwent resection of LPS from 2004 to 2015 were identified from the National Cancer Database. Multivisceral resection was defined as removal of the primary site in addition to other organs. The WR was calculated based on a hierarchy of postoperative outcomes: 30-day and 90-day mortality, long-term survival, and severe complication.

Results

Among 958 patients (multivisceral 634, TO 324) who underwent resection, the median age was 63 years (interquartile range [IQR] 54–71) with a median follow-up of 51 months (IQR 30–86). There was no difference in the WR among patients who underwent TO versus multivisceral resection in the matched cohort (WR 0.82, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.61–1.10). In patients aged 72–90 years, those who underwent multivisceral resection had 36% lower odds of winning compared with patients undergoing TO resection (WR 0.64, 95% CI 0.40–0.98). A subgroup analysis of patients classified as not having adjacent tumor involvement at the time of surgery revealed that those patients who underwent multivisceral resection had 33% lower odds of winning compared to TO resection (WR 0.67, 95% CI 0.45–0.99).

Conclusions

Based on win-ratio assessments of a hierarchical composite endpoint, multivisceral resection in patients without adjacent tumor involvement may not confer improved outcomes. This method supports the rationale for less invasive resection of LPS in select patients, especially older patients.
A Prospective Study of Sentinel Node Biopsy Omission in Women Age ≥ 65 Years with ER+ Breast Cancer
Authors: Chung Alice P. , Dang Catherine M. , Karlan Scott R. , Amersi Farin F. , Phillips Edward M. , Boyle Marissa K. , Cui Yujie , Giuliano Armando E.
Published: February 2024

Background

National guidelines recommend omitting SNB in older patients with favorable invasive breast cancer. However, there is a lack of prospective data specifically addressing this issue. This study evaluates recurrence and survival in estrogen receptor-positive/Her2− (ER+) breast cancer patients, aged ≥ 65 years who have breast-conserving surgery (BCS) without SNB.

Methods

This is a prospective, observational study at a single institution where 125 patients aged ≥ 65 years with clinical T1-2N0 ER+ invasive breast cancer undergoing BCS were enrolled. Patients were treated with BCS without SNB. Primary outcome measure was axillary recurrence. Secondary outcome measures include recurrence-free survival (RFS), disease-free survival (DFS), breast cancer-specific survival (BCSS), and overall survival (OS).

Results

From January 2016 to July 2022, 125 patients were enrolled with median follow-up of 36.7 months [95% confidence interval (CI) 35.0–38.0]. Median age was 77.0 years (range 65–93). Median tumor size was 1 cm (range 0.1–5.0). Most tumors were ductal (95/124, 77.0%), intermediate grade (60/116, 51.7%), and PR-positive (117/123, 91.7%). Radiation therapy was performed in 37 of 125 (29.6%). Only 60 of 125 (48.0%) who were recommended hormonal therapy were compliant at 2 years. Chemotherapy was administered to six of 125 (4.8%) patients. There were two of 125 (1.6%) axillary recurrences. Estimated 3-years rates of regional RFS, DFS, and OS were 98.2%, 91.2%, and 94.8%, respectively. Univariate Cox regression identified hormonal therapy noncompliance to be significantly associated with recurrence (p = 0.02).

Conclusions

Axillary recurrence rates were extremely low in this cohort. These results provide prospective data to support omission of SNB in this patient population

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT02564848.
Factors related to university teaching that influence academic success of international medical students in China
Authors: Jiang Qinxu , Horta Hugo , Yuen Mantak
Published: February 2024

Background Academic success is extremely important for international medical students enrolled in Chinese universities, as it affects their performance in their licence exams and future work opportunities. However, insufficient research has been conducted on university academic staff’s awareness of teaching-related factors that affect their students’ academic success. Methods A purposive sampling approach was taken in the study to recruit academics teaching in medical universities in China. The selection of informants was based on the subject they taught and their gender, experience of teaching international medical students, educational background and career stage. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with academics (N = 36) between November 2020 and January 2021 at two medical universities in China. Each interview lasted between 30 and 70 minutes and was audiotaped, transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed. Results The teaching factors that academics perceived to have an important influence on the success of students were (i) pedagogy and content alignment; (ii) language barriers; (iii) resource management and the learning environment; and (iv) educator attributes and guidance. Conclusions University faculties and departments involved in teaching international medical students should ensure that their academic staff are supported in their ongoing professional development and provided with resources to enhance their teaching quality. The four factors (and their sub-factors) listed above should be prioritised in such staff training.
Research on emotional intelligence among Indian teachers: A Systematic Review and meta-analysis of its correlation with health parameters and impact of gender
Authors: Pandey Mamta , Sharma Deepti
Published: February 2024

Background Emotional intelligence is the self-perception related to identification and regulation of emotions. Several studies have been done among Indian teachers evaluating emotional intelligence in relation to demographic, professional and various psychological parameters, but the variety of scales, teacher types, and conflicting results makes it difficult to draw any meaningful conclusions from this heterogeneous data. The present work aims to synthesize the available data by both qualitative and quantitative analysis and is the first such attempt to include only Indian studies in this field. The main objectives were to determine the correlation of emotional intelligence with teachers’ health parameters and to study the gender difference in emotional intelligence. Methods After a thorough literature search in Google, Google scholar, Scopus, Web of science and Pubmed, fifty-five Indian studies were selected which empirically examined teachers’ emotional intelligence, either alone or in association with another parameter evaluating teachers’ psychological health and performance. After qualitative assessment of major findings, quantitative analysis was performed. Three separate meta-analysis were carried out. The first one with fifteen effect sizes among 3291 participants evaluated correlation with personal health parameters. The second with nineteen effect sizes in 4165 participants evaluated correlation with professional health parameters. The third with twenty-six studies involving 6005 participants assessed effect of gender. Results The results show that almost all studies have used a trait measure, teachers’ emotional intelligence is positively correlated with both personal and professional health parameters and gender has no effect on emotional intelligence. Conclusion Major limitations are a very high degree of heterogeneity of the data, incomplete description of the scales, inadequate randomization and small sample sizes in many studies. The results indicate the importance of emotional intelligence in both personal and professional life of teachers and no effect of gender preparing a solid base for future research.
The clinical picture of bipolar affective disorders in children and adolescents hospitalized at the psychiatric ward in Sosnowiec
Authors: Cichoń Lena , Janas-Kozik Małgorzata , Chełmecka Elżbieta , Wilczyński Krzysztof M. , Jelonek Ireneusz , Rybakowski Janusz K.
Published: February 2024

Cel pracy

Określenie obrazu klinicznego zaburzeń afektywnych dwubiegunowych (ZAD) u hospitalizowanych dzieci oraz młodzieży Oddziału Klinicznego Psychiatrii i Psychoterapii Wieku Rozwojowego w Sosnowcu.

Metoda

Przeprowadzono analizę dokumentacji 288 pacjentów z ZAD poniżej 18 roku życia. Zebrano szczegółowe dane kliniczno-demograficzne oraz oceniono objawy występujące u nich podczas pobytu w szpitalu.

Wyniki

Średni wiek zachorowania wynosił 13,6±1,7 lat. 86,5% badanych miało pierwszą diagnozę inną niż ZAD/epizod manii, a średni czas do postawienia właściwego rozpoznania wynosił 16,9 miesięcy. U 45,5% pierwszym epizodem choroby był epizod depresji o różnym nasileniu, u 29,2% epizod mieszany, a u 25,3% epizod manii/hipomanii. U 48,6 % osób występowały zaburzenia współtowarzyszące. Najczęstszym powodem hospitalizacji był epizod mieszany (47,6%). Wśród objawów chorobowych, drażliwość występowała u ponad 80% chorych z epizodem maniakalnym lub mieszanym, ale również u około 60% pacjentów z epizodem depresji. Myśli samobójcze mieli niemal wszyscy chorzy w epizodzie depresji, 84,7% w epizodzie mieszanym, ale również 52,6% badanych w epizodzie manii/hipomanii. Lęk występował najczęściej w epizodzie depresji (40,7%) i mieszanym (22,6%), natomiast urojenia zgodne z nastrojem w epizodzie depresji oraz manii (około 20 % przypadków). Zachowania agresywne przejawiała około połowa chorych w epizodzie manii i mieszanym.

Wnioski

W badanej populacji dzieci i młodzieży ZAD najczęściej rozpoczynało się epizodem depresji, towarzyszył mu wysoki wskaźnik zaburzeń współtowarzyszących oraz w większości przypadków początkowo było mylnie diagnozowane. Wyniki badania wskazują również na istotną częstość niektórych objawów chorobowych w tej populacji.
Sustainable crypto-currency blockchain defence against security attacks
Authors: Maoneke Pardon , Flowerday Stephen
Published: February 2024

In spite of increasing attacks against crypto-currency platforms, involving staggeringly large amounts of money, there has been surprisingly little research into how the blockchain infrastructure at the core of these platforms could be enhanced to improve security. This study examines security weaknesses in public blockchains in an attempt to gain a clearer view of the vulnerabilities.
Lateral wall thickness is not associated with revision risk of medially stable intertrochanteric fractures fixed with a sliding hip screw
Authors: Chen Bin , Duckworth Andrew D. , Farrow Luke , Xu You J. , Clement Nick D.
Published: February 2024

Aims

This study aimed to determine whether lateral femoral wall thickness (LWT) < 20.5 mm was associated with increased revision risk of intertrochanteric fracture (ITF) of the hip following sliding hip screw (SHS) fixation when the medial calcar was intact. Additionally, the study assessed the association between LWT and patient mortality.

Methods

This retrospective study included ITF patients aged 50 years and over treated with SHS fixation between 2019 and 2021 at a major trauma centre. Demographic information, fracture type, delirium status, American Society of Anesthesiologists grade, and length of stay were collected. LWT and tip apex distance were measured. Revision surgery and mortality were recorded at a mean follow-up of 19.5 months (1.6 to 48). Cox regression was performed to evaluate independent risk factors associated with revision surgery and mortality.

Results

The cohort consisted of 890 patients with a mean age of 82 years (SD 10.2). Mean LWT was 27.0 mm (SD 8.6), and there were 213 patients (23.9%) with LWT < 20.5 mm. Overall, 20 patients (2.2%) underwent a revision surgery following SHS fixation. Adjusting for covariates, LWT < 20.5 mm was not independently associated with an increased revision or mortality risk. However, factors that were significantly more prevalent in LWT < 20.5 mm group, which included residence in care home (hazard ratio (HR) 1.84; p < 0.001) or hospital (HR 1.65; p = 0.005), and delirium (HR 1.32; p = 0.026), were independently associated with an increased mortality risk. The only independent factor associated with increased risk of revision was older age (HR 1.07; p = 0.030).

Conclusion

LWT was not associated with risk of revision surgery in patients with an ITF fixed with a SHS when the calcar was intact, after adjusting for the independent effect of age. Although LWT < 20.5 mm was not an independent risk factor for mortality, patients with LWT < 20.5 mm were more likely to be from care home or hospital and have delirium on admission, which were associated with a higher mortality rate.

Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(2):123–131.
Can sufficiency become the new normal? Exploring consumption patterns of low-income groups in Norway
Authors: Korsnes Marius , Solbu Gisle
Published: February 2024

Sufficiency has gained increased attention within sustainable consumption research in recent years. Often presented in opposition to guiding principles like efficiency, which discuss sustainability issues alongside ideas of economic growth, sufficiency offers alternative sustainability pathways that highlight the need to reduce consumption. This paper discusses the interrelation between sufficiency principles and consumption patterns of low-income groups, exploring how sufficiency could support the needs of vulnerable groups in society. Low-income groups use fewer material resources than high-income groups due to their comparatively limited economic resources. However, low-income groups at risk of relative poverty are also vulnerable to various factors that can significantly impact their health and wellbeing. Studying low-income groups offers possibilities for understanding the work that goes into establishing sufficiency-oriented practices and the potential pitfalls of the sufficiency discourse. Through our qualitative study of low-income groups in Norway based on focus groups and interviews, we identify three different characteristics relating to sufficiency. First, sufficiency as a necessity, pointing to situations where lack of economic resources forces low-income groups to consume frugally; second, sufficiency as opposition, where low-income groups pursue sufficiency goals because they do not identify themselves with mainstream growth narratives and consumption patterns; and, third, sufficiency as reframing sustainability, where sufficiency arguments give value to low-consumption patterns positioned against technology-centred and green consumerist narratives about sustainability.
Towards ultrafast quantitative phase imaging via differentiable microscopy [Invited]
Authors: Haputhanthri Udith , Herath Kithmini , Hettiarachchi Ramith , Kariyawasam Hasindu , Ahmad Azeem , Ahluwalia Balpreet S. , Acharya Ganesh , Edussooriya Chamira U. S. , Wadduwage Dushan N.
Published: February 2024

With applications ranging from metabolomics to histopathology, quantitative phase microscopy (QPM) is a powerful label-free imaging modality. Despite significant advances in fast multiplexed imaging sensors and deep-learning-based inverse solvers, the throughput of QPM is currently limited by the pixel-rate of the image sensors. Complementarily, to improve throughput further, here we propose to acquire images in a compressed form so that more information can be transferred beyond the existing hardware bottleneck of the image sensor. To this end, we present a numerical simulation of a learnable optical compression-decompression framework that learns content-specific features. The proposed differentiable quantitative phase microscopy (∂-QPM) first uses learnable optical processors as image compressors. The intensity representations produced by these optical processors are then captured by the imaging sensor. Finally, a reconstruction network running on a computer decompresses the QPM images post aquisition. In numerical experiments, the proposed system achieves compression of × 64 while maintaining the SSIM of ∼0.90 and PSNR of ∼30 dB on cells. The results demonstrated by our experiments open up a new pathway to QPM systems that may provide unprecedented throughput improvements.
Frequency drift characterization of a laser stabilized to an optical fiber delay line
Authors: Edreira Irene Barbeito , Slavík Radan , Sahu Jayanta K. , Núñez-Velázquez Martín , Wright Louise , Schioppo Marco , Marra Giuseppe
Published: February 2024

Lasers stabilized to optical fiber delay lines have been shown to deliver a comparable short-term (<1 s) frequency noise performance to that achieved by lasers stabilized to ultra-low expansion (ULE) cavities, once the linear frequency drift has been removed. However, for continuous stable laser operations, the drift can be removed only when it can be predicted, e.g., when it is linear over very long timescales. To date, such long-term behaviour of the frequency drift in fiber delay lines has not been, to the best of our knowledge, characterised. In this work we experimentally characterise the frequency drift of a laser stabilised to a 500 m-long optical fiber delay line over the course of several days. We show that the drift still follows the temperature variations even when the spool temperature is maintained constant with fluctuations below tens of mK. Consequently, the drift is not linear over long timescales, preventing a simple feed-forward compensation. However, here we show that the drift can be reduced by exploiting the high level of correlation between laser frequency and the fiber temperature. In our demonstration, by applying a frequency correction proportional to temperature readings, a calculated frequency drift of less than 16 Hz/s over the several days of our test was obtained, corresponding to a 23-fold improvement from uncorrected values.
Ultra-broadband spectroscopy using a 2–11.5 µm IDFG-based supercontinuum source
Authors: Krebbers Roderik , van Kempen Kees , Harren Frans J. M. , Vasilyev Sergey , Peterse Ida F. , Lücker Sebastian , Khodabakhsh Amir , Cristescu Simona M.
Published: February 2024

Supercontinuum sources based on intrapulse difference frequency generation (IDFG) from mode-locked lasers open new opportunities in mid-infrared gas spectroscopy. These sources provide high power and ultra-broadband spectral coverage in the molecular fingerprint region with very low relative intensity noise. Here, we demonstrate the performance of such a light source in combination with a multipass cell and a custom-built Fourier transform spectrometer (FTS) for multispecies trace gas detection. The light source provides a low-noise, ultra-broad spectrum from 2–11.5 µm with ∼3 W output power, outperforming existing mid-infrared supercontinuum sources in terms of noise, spectral coverage, and output power. This translates to an excellent match for spectroscopic applications, establishing (sub-)ppb sensitivity for molecular hydrocarbons (e.g., CH4, C2H4), oxides (e.g., SO2, NOx), and small organic molecules (e.g., acetone, ethyl acetate) over the spectral range of the supercontinuum source with a measurement time varying from seconds to minutes. We demonstrate a practical application by measuring the off-gas composition of a bioreactor containing an acidic ammonia-oxidizing culture with the simultaneous detection of multiple nitrogen oxides (NO, NO2, N2O, etc.). As the different species absorb various parts of the spectrum, these results highlight the functionality of this spectroscopic system for biological and environmental applications.
Sub-gigahertz bandwidth all-optical tunable differentiator with high-energy efficiency based on a micro-ring resonator
Authors: Ye Liao , Zhang Zhaoyang , Ma Haoran , Yu Hui , Wang Yuehai , Yang Jianyi
Published: February 2024

We propose and demonstrate a tunable fractional-order photonic differentiator (DIFF) that can process input pulses with a sub-gigahertz bandwidth. Our scheme utilizes the self-induced optical modulation effect observed in a silicon-on-insulator micro-ring resonator. Gaussian-like pulses with varying pulse widths between 7.5 and 20 ns are employed for differentiation, achieving an energy efficiency over 45%, to the best of our knowledge, which surpasses all previously reported schemes for input pulses with a sub-gigahertz bandwidth. We simulate the temporal dynamics of pulses to gain insight into the physical mechanisms underlying the differentiated outputs and provide a method for differentiation order adjustment, which is experimentally realized using an all-optical pump–probe technique.
On-chip multi-trap optical tweezers based on a guided wave-driven metalens
Authors: Yu Gang , Guo Jiaqi , Shi Jianwei , Mao Xu , Ding Hongsheng , Zheng Houzhi , Shen Chao
Published: February 2024

Optical tweezer arrays (OTAs) have emerged as a powerful tool for quantum simulation, quantum computation, and quantum many-body physics. Conventional OTAs require bulky and costly optical components to generate multiple optical traps, such as spatial light modulators (SLMs). An integrated way to achieve on-chip OTAs is a sought-after goal for compact optical manipulation. In this Letter, we have numerically demonstrated compact on-chip multi-trap optical tweezers based on a guided wave-driven metalens. The presented on-chip optical tweezers are capable of capturing multiple polystyrene nanospheres in parallel. Moreover, we proposed an analytical design method to generate customized focal points from the integrated photonics chip into free space. Different trapping patterns are demonstrated to validate our proposed off-chip emission scheme. Our approach offers a promising solution to realize on-chip optical tweezers and provides a prospective way to realize elaborate emission control of guided waves into free-space beams.
het-B allorecognition in Podospora anserina is determined by pseudo-allelic interaction of genes encoding a HET and lectin fold domain protein and a PII-like protein
Authors: Clavé Corinne , Dheur Sonia , Ament-Velásquez Sandra Lorena , Granger-Farbos Alexandra , Saupe Sven J.
Published: February 2024

Filamentous fungi display allorecognition genes that trigger regulated cell death (RCD) when strains of unlike genotype fuse. Podospora anserina is one of several model species for the study of this allorecognition process termed heterokaryon or vegetative incompatibility. Incompatibility restricts transmission of mycoviruses between isolates. In P. anserina, genetic analyses have identified nine incompatibility loci, termed het loci. Here we set out to clone the genes controlling het-B incompatibility. het-B displays two incompatible alleles, het-B1 and het-B2. We find that the het-B locus encompasses two adjacent genes, Bh and Bp that exist as highly divergent allelic variants (Bh1/Bh2 and Bp1/Bp2) in the incompatible haplotypes. Bh encodes a protein with an N-terminal HET domain, a cell death inducing domain bearing homology to Toll/interleukin-1 receptor (TIR) domains and a C-terminal domain with a predicted lectin fold. The Bp product is homologous to PII-like proteins, a family of small trimeric proteins acting as sensors of adenine nucleotides in bacteria. We show that although the het-B system appears genetically allelic, incompatibility is in fact determined by the non-allelic Bh1/Bp2 interaction while the reciprocal Bh2/Bp1 interaction plays no role in incompatibility. The highly divergent C-terminal lectin fold domain of BH determines recognition specificity. Population studies and genome analyses indicate that het-B is under balancing selection with trans-species polymorphism, highlighting the evolutionary significance of the two incompatible haplotypes. In addition to emphasizing anew the central role of TIR-like HET domains in fungal RCD, this study identifies novel players in fungal allorecognition and completes the characterization of the entire het gene set in that species.
High germline mutation rates, but not extreme population outbreaks, influence genetic diversity in a keystone coral predator
Authors: Popovic Iva , Bergeron Lucie A. , Bozec Yves-Marie , Waldvogel Ann-Marie , Howitt Samantha M. , Damjanovic Katarina , Patel Frances , Cabrera Maria G. , Wörheide Gert , Uthicke Sven , Riginos Cynthia
Published: February 2024

Lewontin’s paradox, the observation that levels of genetic diversity (π) do not scale linearly with census population size (Nc) variation, is an evolutionary conundrum. The most extreme mismatches between π and Nc are found for highly abundant marine invertebrates. Yet, the influences of new mutations on π relative to extrinsic processes such as Nc fluctuations are unknown. Here, we provide the first germline mutation rate (μ) estimate for a marine invertebrate in corallivorous crown-of-thorns sea stars (Acanthaster cf. solaris). We use high-coverage whole-genome sequencing of 14 parent-offspring trios alongside empirical estimates of Nc in Australia’s Great Barrier Reef to jointly examine the determinants of π in populations undergoing extreme Nc fluctuations. The A. cf. solaris mean μ was 9.13 x 10−09 mutations per-site per-generation (95% CI: 6.51 x 10−09 to 1.18 x 10−08), exceeding estimates for other invertebrates and showing greater concordance with vertebrate mutation rates. Lower-than-expected Ne (~70,000–180,000) and low Ne/Nc values (0.0047–0.048) indicated weak influences of population outbreaks on long-term π. Our findings are consistent with elevated μ evolving in response to reduced Ne and generation time length, with important implications for explaining high mutational loads and the determinants of genetic diversity in marine invertebrate taxa.
Consumer and provider perceptions of the specialist unit model of care: A qualitative study
Authors: Long Janet C. , Carrigan Ann , Roberts Natalie , Clay-Williams Robyn , Hibbert Peter D. , Zurynski Yvonne , Maka Katherine , Loy Graeme , Braithwaite Jeffrey
Published: February 2024

Background

Specialist care units cater to targeted cohorts of patients, applying evidence-based practice to people with a specific condition (e.g., dementia) or meeting other specific criteria (e.g., children). This paper aimed to collate perceptions of local consumers and health providers around specialist care units, as a model of care that may be considered for a new local healthcare facility.

Methods

This was a qualitative study using two-hour workshops and interviews to collect data. Participants were consumers and health providers in the planned facility’s catchment: 49 suburbs in metropolitan Australia. Consumers and health providers were recruited through advertisements and emails. An initial survey collected demographic details. Consumers and health providers participated in separate two-hour workshops in which a scenario around the specialist unit model was presented and discussion on benefits, barriers and enablers of the model was led by researchers. Detailed notes were taken for analysis.

Results

Five consumer workshops (n = 22 participants) and five health provider workshops (n = 42) were conducted. Participants were representative of this culturally diverse region. Factors identified by participants as relevant to the specialist unit model of care included: accessibility; a perceived narrow scope of practice; coordination with other services; resources and infrastructure; and awareness and expectations of the units. Some factors identified as risks or barriers when absent were identified as strengths and enablers when present by both groups of participants.

Conclusions

Positive views of the model centred on the higher perceived quality of care received in the units. Negative views centred on a perceived narrow scope of care and lack of flexibility. Consumers hinted, and providers stated explicitly, that the model needed to be complemented by an integrated model of care model to enable continuity of care and easy transfer of patients into and out of the specialist unit.
Rotavirus and adenovirus infections in children with acute gastroenteritis after introducing the Rotasiil® vaccine in Kisangani, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Manzemu Didier Gbebangi , Opara Jean Pierre Alworong’a , Kasai Emmanuel Tebandite , Mumbere Mupenzi , Kampunzu Véronique Muyobela , Likele Bibi Batoko , Uvoya Naura Apio , Vanzwa Hortense Malikidogo , Bukaka Gaspard Mande , Dady Falay Sadiki , Dauly Nestor Ngbonda , Belec Laurent , Tonen-Wolyec Serge
Published: February 2024

Background

Although rotavirus vaccination has reduced the global burden of the virus, morbidity and mortality from rotavirus infection remain high in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of rotavirus and adenovirus infections in children under five years with acute gastroenteritis and to identify factors associated with rotavirus infection after the introduction of the Rotasiil® vaccine in 2019 in Kisangani, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Methods

This study consisted of a cross-sectional hospital-based survey conducted from May 2022 to April 2023 in four health facilities in Kisangani, using a fecal-based test (rapid antigenic immuno-chromatographic diagnostic test, BYOSYNEX adenovirus/rotavirus BSS, Biosynex SA, Illkirch-Graffenstaden, France) of rotavirus and adenovirus infections among children under five years of age with acute gastroenteritis.

Results

A total of 320 children under five years of age with acute gastroenteritis were included. The prevalence of rotavirus infection was 34.4%, that of adenovirus was 6.3%, and that of both rotavirus and adenovirus coinfection was 1.3%. The prevalence of rotavirus was significantly higher in unvaccinated children than in vaccinated children (55.4% versus 23.1%; P < 0.001). This difference was observed only in children who received all three vaccine doses. Multivariate logistic regression analysis shows that the rate of rotavirus infection was significantly reduced in vaccinated children (adjusted OR: 0.31 [95% confidence intervals (CI): 0.19–0.56]; P < 0.001) and those whose mothers had an average (adjusted OR: 0.51 [95% CI: 0.25–0.91]; P = 0.018) or high level (adjusted OR: 0.34 [95% CI: 0.20–0.64]; P < 0.001) of knowledge about the rotavirus vaccine.

Conclusions

The prevalence of rotavirus infection remains high in Kisangani despite vaccination. However, the prevalence of adenovirus infections was low in our series. Complete vaccination with three doses and mothers’ average and high level of knowledge about the rotavirus vaccine significantly reduces the rate of rotavirus infection. It is, therefore, essential to strengthen the mothers’ health education, continue with the Rotasiil® vaccine, and ensure epidemiological surveillance of rotavirus infection.
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antibiotic use in Bangladesh: Findings from a cross-sectional study
Authors: Raihan Md. Abu , Islam Md. Saiful , Islam Shariful , Islam A. F. M. Mahmudul , Ahmed Khandaker Tanveer , Ahmed Tania , Islam Md. Nahidul , Ahmed Shamsunnahar , Chowdhury Mysha Samiha , Sarker Dipto Kumar , Lamisa Anika Bushra
Published: February 2024

Background

Escalating antibiotic resistance presents a notable worldwide dilemma, pointing a large involvement of general population. The objective of this study was to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the utilization of antibiotics among Bangladeshi residents.

Methods

A cross-sectional study, conducted from January 01 to April 25, 2022, included 1,947 Bangladeshi adults with a history of antibiotic use, via online surveys and face-to-face interviews using a pretested semi-structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and multivariate linear regression models were employed.

Results

Mean scores for knowledge, attitudes, and practices were 6.59±1.20, 8.34±1.19, and 12.74±2.59, with correct rates of 73.22%, 92.67%, and 57.91%. Positive predictors for knowledge included being unmarried (β = 0.10, p = 0.001), higher education (College: β = 0.09, p = 0.025; Bachelor: β = 0.22, p<0.001; Master or above: β = 0.14, p<0.001), various professions (student: β = 0.57, p<0.001; housewife: β = 0.33, p<0.001; employee: β = 0.53, p<0.001; businessman: β = 0.31, p<0.001; unemployed: β = 0.15, p<0.001), and residing in semi-urban (β = 0.32, p<0.001) or urban areas (β = 0.15, p<0.001). Positive predictors for attitudes included being married (β = 0.18, p<0.001), specific professions (student: β = 1.06, p<0.001; housewife: β = 0.33, p<0.001; employee: β = 0.86, p<0.001; businessman: β = 0.37, p<0.001; unemployed: β = 0.47, p<0.001), higher SES (Lower-middle: β = 0.22, p<0.001; Middle: β = 0.26, p<0.001), and residing in semi-urban areas (β = 0.18, p<0.001); negative predictors included higher education (College: β = -0.12, p = 0.001; Master or above: β = -0.09, p = 0.008) and being rich (β = -0.13, p<0.001). Positive predictors for practices included being married (β = 0.18, p<0.001), specific professions (student: β = 0.32, p<0.001; employee: β = 0.43, p<0.001; businessman: β = 10, p = 0.034; unemployed: β = 0.11, p = 0.009), and higher SES (Lower-middle: β = 0.14, p = 0.009; Middle: β = 0.38, p<0.001; Higher-middle: β = 0.15, p = 0.008); negative predictors included higher education (College: β = -0.21, p<0.001), being rich (β = -0.12, p<0.001), residing in semi-urban (β = -0.14, p<0.001) or urban areas (β = -0.16, p<0.001).

Conclusions

Participants exhibited adequate knowledge and positive attitudes but lagged behind in proper practice of antibiotic use. Proper initiatives should be tailored to enhance prudent antibiotic use and mitigate the risk of antimicrobial resistance.
Hepatitis E virus infections among patients with acute febrile jaundice in two regions of Cameroon: First molecular characterization of hepatitis E virus genotype 4
Authors: Modiyinji Abdou Fatawou , Tankeu Lange Tchamba Amorgathe , Monamele Chavely Gwladys , Yifomnjou Moumbeket Moise Henri , Tagnouokam Ngoupo Paul Alain , Tchetgna Simo Huguette , Njei Ngu Abanda , Mirdad Kazanji , Njouom Richard
Published: February 2024

Background

Febrile jaundice is a common indicator of certain infectious diseases, including hepatitis E. In Cameroon, the yellow fever virus is the only pathogen that is monitored in patients who present with this symptom. However, more than 90% of the samples received as part of this surveillance are negative for yellow fever. This study aimed to describe the prevalence and hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotype among yellow fever-negative patients in the Far North and West regions of Cameroon.

Methods

In a cross-sectional study, yellow fever surveillance-negative samples collected between January 2021 and January 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. Anti-HEV IgM and IgG antibodies were tested using commercially available ELISA kits. Anti-HEV IgM and/or IgG positive samples were tested for HEV RNA by real-time RT-PCR, followed by nested RT-PCR, sequencing and phylogenetic analysis.

Results

Overall, 121 of the 543 samples (22.3%, 95% CI: 19.0% - 26.0%) were positive for at least one anti-HEV marker. Amongst these, 8.1% (44/543) were positive for anti-HEV IgM, 5.9% (32/543) for anti-HEV IgG, and 8.3% (45/544) for both markers. A total of 15.2% (12/79) samples were positive for HEV RNA real-time RT-PCR and 8 samples were positive for HEV RNA by nested RT-PCR. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the retrieved sequences clustered within HEV genotypes/subtypes 1/1e, 3/3f and 4/4b.

Conclusion

Our results showed that HEV is one of the causes of acute febrile jaundice in patients enrolled in the yellow fever surveillance program in two regions of Cameroon. We described the circulation of three HEV genotypes, including two zoonotic genotypes. Further studies will be important to elucidate the transmission routes of these zoonotic HEV genotypes to humans in Cameroon.
Enhancing discharge estimation from SWOT satellite data in a tropical tidal river environment
Authors: Rodrigues do Amaral Francisco , Pellarin Thierry , Trung Tin Nguyen , Anh Tu Tran , Gratiot Nicolas
Published: February 2024

The Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) mission aims to provide essential data on river width, height and slope in order to estimate worldwide river discharge accurately. This mission offers a powerful tool for monitoring river discharge in dynamic coastal areas, like the Saigon-Dongnai estuary in Southern Vietnam. However, estimating discharge of tidally-influenced rivers using SWOT measurements can be challenging when hydraulic variables have the same order of magnitude as SWOT measurement errors. In this paper we present a methodology to enhance discharge estimation accuracy from SWOT measurements based on simulated SWOT products at the 200 meter node resolution and varying river reach size. We assess measurement error variability and its impact on discharge estimation by employing a Monte Carlo analysis. Our approach significantly improved discharge estimation in the Saigon tidal river, reducing RMSE from 1400 m3/s to 180 m3/s and increasing R² from 0.31 to 0.95. Notably, the percentage of Monte Carlo particles meeting the 30% rRMSE threshold rose from 0% to 79%. This study underscores the feasibility of obtaining reliable discharge estimates from SWOT data in complex coastal areas where hydraulic variables are of the same order of magnitude as SWOT errors. Additionally, the proposed methodology to improve discharge estimation from SWOT measurements is widely adaptable as it can be applied to similar regions and can be combined with any discharge estimation method.