bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reliability of the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale
Authors: McLoughlin Alison , Olive Philippa , Lightbody Catherine Elizabeth
Published: November 2022

Background:

The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) is widely used to measure stroke deficits and is deemed to be reliable when used by a range of professionals.

Aims:

This study aimed to establish the inter-rater reliability of the NIHSS when completed via telemedicine. Secondary aims were to explore if professional group, length of time since training and/or re-certification, frequency of use and reason for using the NIHSS influenced the inter-rater reliability.

Methods:

A total of 30 video clips, the equivalent of two whole patient assessments for each of the 15 NIHSS items, were analysed by a range of NIHSS-certified clinical participants. Of these, 10 were nurses and five were consultants. Kappa statistics were used to calculate the inter-rater reliability for each item, with additional data on the range of agreement of items. Data across group characteristics were compared to test hypotheses about factors that could impact reliability.

Findings:

Overall, the inter-rater reliability was found to be lower than anticipated, and there was a wide variation in ratings. Consultants tended to score better than nurses, and, counter-intuitively, stroke specialist staff and those who used the NIHSS more frequently tended to have poorer reliability than their counterparts. Total agreement on score was only achieved in five out of the 30 video clips (16.6%), with agreement better at either end of the scoring range (i.e. no deficit or worst deficit). These findings indicate that reliability of the NIHSS may be lower than anticipated.

Conclusion:

Further research is needed to better understand the poor reliability of the NIHSS, as this has implications for care decisions and patient outcomes.
Feeling the impact
Authors: Lisham Richard
Published: November 2022

Richard Lishman weighs the impact the cost-of-living crisis may have on dental practices in the future.
Impact of effective note taking on mental health in dentistry
Authors: Burrow Hannah
Published: November 2022

Hannah Burrow hails the benefits of digital notetaking in within dental teams.
A need for better care
Authors: Bowden Ingrid
Published: November 2022

Ingrid Bowden explores the growing need for embedding good mouth care in adult residential homes.
Empathy and the anxious patient
Authors: Collier Andrew
Published: November 2022

Andrew Collier describes the techniques and advantages of effective communication between patients and team members.
Influence of litter size on the hematologic profile of Awassi ewes during gestation and lactation
Authors:   Department of Animal Production, College of Agriculture, Al-Qasim Green University, Babil 51001, Iraq, Kadhem Ahmed Fadel , Al-Thuwaini Tahreer Mohammed ,   Department of Animal Production, College of Agriculture, Al-Qasim Green University, Babil 51001, Iraq
Published: November 2022

Physiological status and litter size affect ewes' hematological parameters, which serve as health indicators. These parameters reflect changes in an animal's physiological condition. Therefore, this study examined the hematological profiles of Awassi ewes with single and twin pregnancies during pregnancy and postpartum. A total of 232 sexually mature and healthy ewes (123 with single pregnancies and 109 with twin pregnancies) between the ages of 3 and 4 years were included in the current study. The sheep's blood was collected and hematological tests were conducted immediately on the samples. Results revealed variation in hematological parameters between ewes during pregnancy based on litter size. Twin-pregnant ewes had significantly higher amounts of RBC, PCV %, MCH, and MCHC during pregnancy months as compared to single-pregnant ewes. Compared to single pregnancies, Awassi ewes with twin pregnancies had higher leukocytes, lymphocytes, granulocytes, lymphocytes %, and granulocytes % than those with a singleton. Logistic regression confirmed that litter size contributes to the increase in hematological parameters. In conclusion, Awassi ewes with twin pregnancies exhibited an increase in the counts of leukocytes and erythrocytes constituents. This study provided valuable information about the association of twin-pregnant ewes with hematological parameters that could be used in sheep breeding and reproduction to improve diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment in the field.
Procedure for performing a fixed microscopic specimen of the gonads of fish
Authors:   Department of Biology, School of Education, Can Tho University, Can Tho 900000, Vietnam, Dinh Quang Minh , Nguyen Ton Huu Duc ,   Department of Biology, School of Education, Can Tho University, Can Tho 900000, Vietnam
Published: November 2022

This study aims to provide a procedure for performing microscopy in fish gonads. Specimens used in this study were the ovaries and testes of fish collected in the Mekong Delta from April to July 2022. Organs at five different stages for each sex (ovary diameter from 1.16 cm in stage I to 4.04 cm in stage V; testis diameter from 0.42 in stage I to 2.39 in stage V) were studied in this procedure. The results showed that both ovaries and testes needed to be fixed at 4% formol for 24 h and under running water for eight hours. Ovaries and testes were then immersed in 500 ethanol for 24 h to initiate dehydration. Results showed that the time for dehydration and paraffin infiltration was longer in the ovary (26 to 55 h across stages) than in the testis (25 to 26 h across stages). The mean staining time of the ovary was 1.5 min (stage I) to 3.5 min (stage V) in Hematoxylin and 50 s (stage I) to 140 s (stage V) in Eosin. Whereas the staining time of testis was shorter, 1 min (stage I) to 3 min (stage V) in Hematoxylin and 30 s (stage I) to 90 s (stage V) in Eosin. This study provides a reference for further studies on the histological structure of fish gonads. These results could be applied to fish species inside and outside the Mekong Delta.
Antioxidant and in vitro antidiabetic activities of Peperomia pellucida (L.) Kunth extract
Authors:   Department of Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Can Tho University, Can Tho 900000, Vietnam, Men Tran Thanh , Kim Tu La Thi ,   Department of Molecular Biotechnology, Biotechnology Research & Development Institute, Can Tho University, Can Tho 900000, Vietnam, Kim Anh Nguyen Thi ,   Department of Molecular Biotechnology, Biotechnology Research & Development Institute, Can Tho University, Can Tho 900000, Vietnam, Phien Huynh Hong ,   Department of Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Can Tho University, Can Tho 900000, Vietnam, Thi Bich Nhu Nguyen ,   Can Tho Science and Technology Application Center, Can Tho 900000, Vietnam, Thi To Uyen Nguyen ,   Can Tho Science and Technology Application Center, Can Tho 900000, Vietnam, Thi Anh Thu Ngo ,   Department of Molecular Biotechnology, Biotechnology Research & Development Institute, Can Tho University, Can Tho 900000, Vietnam, Ngoc Quy Tran ,   Department of Molecular Biotechnology, Biotechnology Research & Development Institute, Can Tho University, Can Tho 900000, Vietnam, Tan Khang Do ,   Department of Molecular Biotechnology, Biotechnology Research & Development Institute, Can Tho University, Can Tho 900000, Vietnam
Published: November 2022

Peperomia pellucida (L.) is commonly used as a herbal plant. Its effectiveness in treating inflammatory diseases, digestive disorders, and cancer in tropical and subtropical countries was introduced, especially in field of folk medicine. However, this plant species has not been studied widely in Vietnam, especially for its biological activities. This study was done to determine the antioxidant capacity of P. pellucida by using in vitro and in vivo methods, as well as its inhibitory ability to α-amylase enzyme activity. The total polyphenolic and flavonoid contents of P. pellucida extract were reported to be 359.91±0.77 mg GAE/g and 200.28±1.23 mg QE/g extract, respectively. The results showed the in vitro antioxidant activity of P. pellucida extract in four methods, including DPPH, and ABTS.+, RP and TAC, had EC50 values of 730.34 μg/mL, 84.33 μg/mL, 95.28 μg/mL, respectively, and Abs0.5 value of 114.73 μg/mL. Under H2O2-induced oxidative stress, fruit flies that were raised in the feed medium supplemented with a concentration of 1 mg/mL of P. pellucida extract showed their average survival time, 50% survival time, and 10% survival time at 1.6 times, 1.8 times, and 1.62 times, respectively, higher than those of the control treatment. The ability to inhibit the α-amylase activity in P. pellucida extract was determined with an EC50 value of 115.32±2.65 μg/mL compared with the commercial drug of 18.67±0, 01 μg/mL. The research results showed that P. pellucida is a potential species in the study of natural compounds with antioxidant and antidiabetic activities.
A nationwide study of blood transfusion in hip fracture patients
Authors: Farrow Luke , Brasnic Lorena , Martin Caroline , Ward Kirsty , Adam Karen , Hall Andrew J. , Clement Nick D. , MacLullich Alasdair M. J.
Published: November 2022

Aims

The aim of this study was to examine perioperative blood transfusion practice, and associations with clinical outcomes, in a national cohort of hip fracture patients.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was undertaken using linked data from the Scottish Hip Fracture Audit and the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service between May 2016 and December 2020. All patients aged ≥ 50 years admitted to a Scottish hospital with a hip fracture were included. Assessment of the factors independently associated with red blood cell transfusion (RBCT) during admission was performed, alongside determination of the association between RBCT and hip fracture outcomes.

Results

A total of 23,266 individual patient records from 18 hospitals were included. The overall rate of blood transfusion during admission was 28.7% (n = 6,685). There was inter-hospital variation in transfusion rate, ranging from 16.6% to 37.4%. Independent perioperative factors significantly associated with RBCT included older age (90 to 94 years, odds ratio (OR) 3.04 (95% confidence interval (CI) 2.28 to 4.04); p < 0.001), intramedullary fixation (OR 7.15 (95% CI 6.50 to 7.86); p < 0.001), and sliding hip screw constructs (OR 2.34 (95% CI 2.19 to 2.50); p < 0.001). Blood transfusion during admission was significantly associated with higher rates of 30-day mortality (OR 1.35 (95% CI 1.19 to 1.53); p < 0.001) and 60-day mortality (OR 1.54 (95% CI 1.43 to 1.67); p < 0.001), as well as delays to postoperative mobilization, higher likelihood of not returning to their home, and longer length of stay.

Conclusion

Blood transfusion after hip fracture was common, although practice varied nationally. RBCT is associated with adverse outcomes, which is most likely a reflection of perioperative anaemia, rather than any causal effect. Use of RBCT does not appear to reverse this effect, highlighting the importance of perioperative blood loss reduction. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(11):1266–1272.
A combination of high preoperative pain and low radiological grade of arthritis is associated with a greater intensity of persistent pain 12 months after total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Klasan Antonio , Rice David A. , Kluger Michal T. , Borotkanics Robert , McNair Peter J. , Lewis Gwyn N. , Young Simon W.
Published: November 2022

Aims

Despite new technologies for total knee arthroplasty (TKA), approximately 20% of patients are dissatisfied. A major reason for dissatisfaction and revision surgery after TKA is persistent pain. The radiological grade of osteoarthritis (OA) preoperatively has been investigated as a predictor of the outcome after TKA, with conflicting results. The aim of this study was to determine if there is a difference in the intensity of pain 12 months after TKA in relation to the preoperative radiological grade of OA alone, and the combination of the intensity of preoperative pain and radiological grade of OA.

Methods

The preoperative data of 300 patients who underwent primary TKA were collected, including clinical information (age, sex, preoperative pain), psychological variables (depression, anxiety, pain catastrophizing, anticipated pain), and quantitative sensory testing (temporal summation, pressure pain thresholds, conditioned pain modulation). The preoperative radiological severity of OA was graded according to the Kellgren-Lawrence (KL) classification. Persistent pain in the knee was recorded 12 months postoperatively. Generalized linear models explored differences in postoperative pain according to the KL grade, and combined preoperative pain and KL grade. Relative risk models explored which preoperative variables were associated with the high preoperative pain/low KL grade group.

Results

Pain 12 months after TKA was not associated with the preoperative KL grade alone. Significantly increased pain 12 months after TKA was found in patients with a combination of high preoperative pain and a low KL grade (p = 0.012). Patients in this group were significantly more likely to be male, younger, and have higher preoperative pain catastrophizing, higher depression, and lower anxiety (all p ≤ 0.05).

Conclusion

Combined high preoperative pain and low radiological grade of OA, but not the radiological grade alone, was associated with a higher intensity of pain 12 months after primary TKA. This group may have a more complex cause of pain that requires additional psychological interventions in order to optimize the outcome of TKA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(11):1202–1208.
Periprosthetic joint infection: what next?
Authors: Rajput Vishal , Meek R. M. D. , Haddad Fares S.
Published: November 2022

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) remains an extremely challenging complication. We have focused on this issue more over the last decade than previously, but there are still many unanswered questions. We now have a workable definition that everyone should align to, but we need to continue to focus on identifying the organisms involved. Surgical strategies are evolving and care is becoming more patient-centred. There are some good studies under way. There are, however, still numerous problems to resolve, and the challenge of PJI remains a major one for the orthopaedic community. This annotation provides some up-to-date thoughts about where we are, and the way forward. There is still scope for plenty of research in this area.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(11):1193–1195.
Pemetaan potensi geothermal Seulawah Agam berdasarkan data DEMNAS dan Landsat 8
Authors: Abdullah Faisal , Yanis Muhammad , Vahreza Anshar , Isa Muhammad , Zaini Nasrullah
Published: November 2022

Seulawah Agam is one of the volcanoes for geothermal energy development with an estimated 150 Mwe. At the exploration stage, thermal and multispectral image analysis is needed for surface temperature calculations, subsurface temperature modeling, and geothermal potential mapping of volcanoes. In this study, we used Landsat 8 and DEMNAS data to analyze the distribution of potential geothermal areas in the Seulawah Agam. Based on analysis of Fault Fracture Density (FFD) from DEMNAS, three classifications reflect the distance of the fault, namely low level (0 - 0.30 km/km2), medium (0.30-0.60 km/km2), and high (0.60-0.90 km/km2), where the distribution of geothermal potential is at medium and high-density levels. Meanwhile, the NDVI, NDWI data analysis shows dense vegetation areas on volcanoes and relatively rare in some manifestations. It can also be confirmed well by the high-temperature distribution in some craters between 34.63 C to 46.59 C. Based on observational data. It shows that DEMNAS and Landsat 8 data are very potential to be used as an initial method of analyzing the distribution of geothermal potential on the Seulawah Agam volcano.
Efisiensi Counter Electrode Dengan Pengurangan Pemakaian Platina Menggunakan Komposit Bahan Ramah Lingkungan Grafin Dan Carbon Nanotubes Untuk Aplikasi Dye Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Fatiatun Fatiatun , Swasti Intan Masruroh
Published: November 2022

Dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) are the most popular solar cells in the third generation. DSSCs have been widely developed as an alternative to silicon-based solar cells because of its easy manufacturing process, high efficiency, easy production costs, and environmental friendliness. Graphene and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are promising materials to reduce the use of platinum (Pt) in counter electrode (CE) due to their excellent properties, such as thermal, electrical conductivity, and high surface area. One of the derivatives of graphene that is often used is reduced graphene oxide (rGO) which is produced from GO solution by a reduction process. GO was synthesized in an electrolyte containing surfactant by the electrochemical exfoliation method. The specially prepared sodium 1,4-bis(neopentyloxy)-3-(neopentyloxycarbonyl)-1,4-dioxobutane-2-silphonate (TC14) surfactant was used in GO synthesis. The CE thin film of TC14-rGO/CNTs/Pt hybrid shows the highest efficiency values (0.0594%) with Jsc, Voc, and FF of 0.176 mA/cm2, 0.622 V, and 0.464, respectively. This was believed due to the conjugated network in CNTs acts as a connecting cable between the TC14-rGO layers and as a vacancy filler, the high electrical conductivity value and the larger surface area also cause faster electron movement, making these properties important in DSSC performance. The FF value which is also the highest in the TC14-rGO/CNTs/Pt hybrid samples as CE is also influenced by its structure. The high surface area of CNTs and TC14-rGO in the TC14-rGO/CNTs/Pt hybrid samples exhibited important properties for generating dye after electron injection and led to a faster route of electron regulation during DSSCs processing. These findings indicate that Pt composited with environmentally friendly and inexpensive materials such as T14-rGO and CNTs can improve CE performance in DSSCs applications. Based on this, this research can be used as a basis for further research on the fabrication of carbon-based CE
Human factors: fallibility
Authors: Brennan Peter
Published: November 2022

Council Member Peter Brennan highlights the importance of human factors in improving surgery.
Making good decisions in an unpredictable environment
Authors: Mortensen Neil
Published: November 2022

Our President explores how crucial good decision making is in periods of heightened unrest and focusing on the greater good.
A tale of two conferences
Authors: Davies Ceri
Published: November 2022

Our Political Editor takes a look at the Labour and Conservative conferences and the current political climate.
Operational challenges in the delivery of effective treatment for pathological gynaecomastia
Authors: Rew DA
Published: November 2022

We look at the challenges that stand in the way of providing effective treatment for pathological gynaecomastia in the UK public sector.
Being part of the solution: How can surgeons use applied human factors approaches for change?
Authors: Hardie J , Jarvis S , Brennan PA
Published: November 2022

How can surgeons use applied human factors approaches for change?
The lasting legacy of Thomas Spencer Wells (1818–1897)
Authors: Simpson Bruce
Published: November 2022

We look at the legacy of Thomas Spencer Wells in abdominal surgery.
Interview: Surviving in Scrubs founders
Authors: Cuming Tamzin
Published: November 2022

Women in Surgery chair Tamzin Cuming interviews the founders of the Surviving in Scrubs website and the stories from surgeons about their experiences in the workplace.
The algorithmic responses to disinformation: a suitable pathway?
Authors: Aguerri Jesús C. , Santisteban Mario
Published: November 2022

Disinformation has been described as a threat to political discourse and public health. Even if this presumption is questionable, instruments such as criminal law or soft law have been utilised to tackle this phenomenon. Recently, technological solutions aiming to detect and remove false information, among other illicit content, have also been developed. These artificial intelligence (AI) tools have been criticised for being incapable of understanding the context in which content is shared on social media, thus causing the removal of posts that are protected by freedom of expression. However, in this short contribution, we argue that further problems arise, mostly in relation to the concepts that developers utilise to programme these systems. The Twitter policy on state-affiliated media labelling is a good example of how social media can use AI to affect accounts by relying on a questionable definition of disinformation.
Rethinking research on social harms in an algorithmic context
Authors: Esko Terhi , Koulu Riikka
Published: November 2022

In this paper we suggest that theoretically and methodologically creative interdisciplinary research can benefit the research on social harms in an algorithmic context. We draw on our research on automated decision making within public authorities and the current on-going legislative reform on the use of such in Finland. The paper suggests combining socio-legal studies with science and technology studies (STS) and highlights an organisational learning perspective. It also points to three challenges for researchers. The first challenge is that the visions and imaginaries of technological expectations oversimplify the benefits of algorithms. Secondly, designing automated systems for public authorities has overlooked the social and collective structures of decision making, and the citizen’s perspective is absent. Thirdly, as social harms are unforeseen from the perspective of citizens, we need comprehensive research on the contexts of those harms as well as transformative activities within public organisations.
Finding point method and re-optimized method for the brightness temperature simulation from Fengyun 4A AGRI in infrared channels
Authors: Zhu Mingwei , Jin Shuanggen , Di Di
Published: November 2022

The correlated

k

-distribution (CKD) is a fast
radiative transfer model and is often used in atmospheric absorption
simulation. In the paper, we apply two automatic CKD methods to
satellite brightness temperature simulations from the Fengyun 4A
Advanced Geostationary Radiation Imager (AGRI) in infrared channels,
namely, the finding point method (FPM) and the re-optimized method
(ROM). In the calculation, we used Radiative Transfer for the
Television Observation Satellite Operational Vertical Sounder (RTTOV)
as the comparison, and we use line-by-line (LBL) integration as the
reference. Compared with LBL in the brightness temperature simulation
of real profiles, the errors of FPM in 7.1 µm and
13.5 µm channels are 0.22 K,

−
0.13

K

for mean error and 0.3128 K,
0.2184 K for root mean square error (RMSE), respectively, which
are larger than that of RTTOV, with 0.16 K, 0.02 K,
0.2144 K, and 0.1226 K, respectively. In the other
channels, the results show that of ROM has the highest accuracy and
RTTOV has the lowest accuracy. In general, FPM and ROM can achieve
very good accuracy in satellite infrared remote sensing.
Influence of RVGA’s height on suppressing the aero-optical effects induced by a supersonic mixing layer
Authors: Xia Zihao , Ding Haolin , Xu Xiwang , Yi Shihe
Published: November 2022

The supersonic mixing layer formed on the surface of hypersonic/supersonic flight vehicles’ optical windows is the main structure that induces aero-optical effects (AOEs), which may cause severe imaging degradation. Previous research has found that the ramp vortex generator array (RVGA) with a height of 1 mm can suppress the AOE of a

M
c
=

0.17

supersonic mixing layer. In this paper, three RVGAs with different heights are considered. The nano-tracer-based planar laser scattering technique and ray tracing method are applied to do the aero-optical analysis. The root mean square of the optical path difference (

O
P
D

r
m
s

), Strehl ratio (SR), imaging displacement (ID), and angle deviation (AD) are taken as evaluation parameters. It is found that a smaller aperture size (

A

D

) corresponds to a better SR in the aperture size range of

5

m
m

∼

100

m
m

. Then a beam with an incident angle

α
=

15

∘

and a 15 mm

A

D

is used to study the influence of RVGA’s height on suppressing the AOE. When the RVGA is applied, the

I
D

¯

and

A
D

¯

(overline means time-averaged results) in different sections of the supersonic mixing layer are significantly normalized, which can simplify the AOE’s correction procedure. The higher the RVGA is, the more the

O
P

D

r
m
s

¯

is reduced and the weaker the AOE is. RVGA1 (

h
=

1.2

m
m

) has the best performance in suppression of the AOE because it introduces much more disturbance than RVGA2 (

h
=

1.0

m
m

) and RVGA3 (

h
=

0.5

m
m

) and achieves better inhibition of the formation and development of the K-H vortices and more reduction of the whole thickness of the supersonic mixing layer.
Material removal mechanism and MR fluid for magnetorheological finishing of an RSA-6061 aluminum alloy mirror
Authors: Guo Jie , Yang Chao , Xue Changxi , Song Peng
Published: November 2022

We sought to improve the surface quality and the removal rate of aluminum alloy mirrors
in magnetorheological finishing (MRF). Based on dense granular flow
theory, we investigated the removal of magnetorheological (MR) fluid
in the polishing area and adopted a new removal model to express the
removal rate of MRF. Then, according to the composition and physical
properties of RAS-6061 aluminum alloy, we analyzed the reaction state
of it in an acidic and alkaline environment. At the same time, we gave
a reasonable range of the content of MR fluid by single-factor
experiment and explained the influence of MR fluid on surface quality
and removal rate. Lastly, we carried out the MRF experiment on an
aluminum alloy mirror and got a high surface quality. The surface
roughness reached

R
a

=

2.715

n
m

, and the tool marks formed by turning
were removed, which verified the reliability of the removal model.
Light localization in defective periodic photonic moiré-like lattices
Authors: Wen Zhixi , Wan Xin , He Yundong , Wang Yuandan , Wen ZengRun , Gao Yuanmei , Zhang Wenjing , Qi Xinyuan
Published: November 2022

Photonic moiré-like lattices, a readily accessible platform for realizing the spatial localization of light, attract intensive attention due to their unique flatband characteristics. In this paper, a periodic moiré-like lattice with embedded defects is proposed theoretically, and the linear propagation of the probe beam in such a system is investigated intensively. The results show that the positions of defects in periodic moiré-like lattices depend on the sublattice rotation angle. Further studies show that the localization of light could be improved by adjusting the apodization function of defects. In addition, the experimental observation of the moiré-like lattice with apodized defects also confirms the theoretical analysis. Our study enriches the physical connotation of photonic moiré lattices and guides the design of novel photonic crystal fibers.
Stable secure key distribution scheme via orthogonal polarizations and a joint source-channel model
Authors: Shao Weidong , Qiu Taihang , Deng Lei , Yang Qi , Dai Xiaoxiao , Liu Deming , Cheng Mengfan
Published: November 2022

Optical secure key distribution (SKD) based on reciprocity has been the subject of increasing discussion, for its inherent information-theoretic safety and because there is less occupation of fiber channels. The combination of reciprocal polarization and broadband entropy sources has proven effective in increasing the rate of SKD. However, the stabilization of such systems suffers from the limited span of polarization states and inconsistent polarization detection. The specific causes are analyzed in principle. To solve this issue, we propose a strategy for extracting secure keys from orthogonal polarizations. Optical carriers with orthogonal polarizations at interactive parties are modulated by external random signals using polarization division multiplexing dual-parallel Mach–Zehnder modulators. After bidirectional transmission through a 10-km fiber channel, error-free SKD with a rate of 2.07 Gbit/s is experimentally realized. The high correlation coefficient of the extracted analog vectors can be maintained for over 30 min. The proposed method is a step toward the development of secure communication with high speed and feasibility.
Hybrid quantum nanophotonic devices with color centers in nanodiamonds [Invited]
Authors: Sahoo Swetapadma , Davydov Valery A. , Agafonov Viatcheslav N. , Bogdanov Simeon I.
Published: November 2022

Optically active color centers in nanodiamonds offer unique opportunities for generating and manipulating quantum states of light. These mechanically, chemically, and optically robust emitters can be produced in mass quantities, deterministically manipulated, and integrated with a variety of quantum device geometries and photonic material platforms. Nanodiamonds with deeply sub-wavelength sizes coupled to nanophotonic structures feature a giant enhancement of light-matter interaction, promising high bitrates in quantum photonic systems. We review the recent advances in controlled techniques for synthesizing, selecting, and manipulating nanodiamond-based color centers for their integration with quantum nanophotonic devices.
Mesoscopic oblique plane microscopy with a diffractive light-sheet for large-scale 4D cellular resolution imaging
Authors: Shao Wenjun , Chang Minzi , Emmerich Kevin , Kanold Patrick O. , Mumm Jeff S. , Yi Ji
Published: November 2022

Fundamental understanding of large-scale dynamic connectivity within a living organism requires volumetric imaging over a large field of view (FOV) at biologically relevant speed and resolution. However, most microscopy methods make trade-offs between FOV and axial resolution, making it challenging to observe highly dynamic processes at cellular resolution in 3D across mesoscopic scales (e.g., whole zebrafish larva). To overcome this limitation, we have developed mesoscopic oblique plane microscopy (Meso-OPM) with a diffractive light sheet. By augmenting the illumination angle of the light sheet with a transmission grating, we improved the axial resolution approximately sixfold over existing methods and approximately twofold beyond the diffraction limitation of the primary objective lens. We demonstrated a FOV up to

5.4

m
m

×

3.3

m
m

with resolution of

2.5

µ

m

×

3

µ

m

×

6

µ

m

, allowing volumetric imaging of 3D cellular structures with a single scan. Applying Meso-OPM for in vivo imaging of zebrafish larvae, we report here in toto whole-body volumetric recordings of neuronal activity at 2 Hz volume rate and whole-body volumetric recordings of blood flow dynamics at 5 Hz with 3D cellular resolution.
Moiré meta-device for flexibly controlled Bessel beam generation
Authors: Wang Guocui , Zhou Tian , Huang Jianzhou , Wang Xinke , Hu Bin , Zhang Yan
Published: November 2022

High-order Bessel beams are of great interest for most stable long-range optical quantum communications due to their unique nondiffraction, self-healing, and orbital angular-momentum-carrying capabilities. Until now, metasurfaces based on Bessel beam generators are mostly static and focused on generating zero-order Bessel beams. A moiré meta-device made of two cascaded metasurfaces is a simple, effective strategy to dynamically manipulate the wavefront of electromagnetic (EM) waves by mutual rotation between the two metasurfaces. Here, an all-dielectric moiré meta-device integrated with the functions of an axicon and a spiral phase plate to generate terahertz Bessel beams is designed. Not only the order, but also the nondiffraction length of the generated Bessel beam can be continuously tuned. As a proof of concept of the feasibility of the platform, the case of tuning order is experimentally demonstrated. The experimental results are in good agreement with the theoretical expectations. In addition, we also numerically proved that the nondiffraction length of the Bessel beam can be adjusted with the same approach. The moiré meta-device platform is powerful in dynamically manipulating the wavefront of EM waves and provides an effective strategy for continuously controlling the properties of the Bessel beam, which may find applications in optical communications, particle manipulation, and super-resolution imaging.
Mycn regulates intestinal development through ribosomal biogenesis in a zebrafish model of Feingold syndrome 1
Authors: Li Yun-Fei , Cheng Tao , Zhang Ying-Jie , Fu Xin-Xin , Mo Jing , Zhao Guo-Qin , Xue Mao-Guang , Zhuo Ding-Hao , Xing Yan-Yi , Huang Ying , Sun Xiao-Zhi , Wang Dan , Liu Xiang , Dong Yang , Zhu Xiao-Sheng , He Feng , Ma Jun , Chen Dong , Jin Xi , Xu Peng-Fei
Published: November 2022

Feingold syndrome type 1, caused by loss-of-function of MYCN, is characterized by varied phenotypes including esophageal and duodenal atresia. However, no adequate model exists for studying the syndrome’s pathological or molecular mechanisms, nor is there a treatment strategy. Here, we developed a zebrafish Feingold syndrome type 1 model with nonfunctional mycn, which had severe intestinal atresia. Single-cell RNA-seq identified a subcluster of intestinal cells that were highly sensitive to Mycn, and impaired cell proliferation decreased the overall number of intestinal cells in the mycn mutant fish. Bulk RNA-seq and metabolomic analysis showed that expression of ribosomal genes was down-regulated and that amino acid metabolism was abnormal. Northern blot and ribosomal profiling analysis showed abnormal rRNA processing and decreases in free 40S, 60S, and 80S ribosome particles, which led to impaired translation in the mutant. Besides, both Ribo-seq and western blot analysis showed that mTOR pathway was impaired in mycn mutant, and blocking mTOR pathway by rapamycin treatment can mimic the intestinal defect, and both L-leucine and Rheb, which can elevate translation via activating TOR pathway, could rescue the intestinal phenotype of mycn mutant. In summary, by this zebrafish Feingold syndrome type 1 model, we found that disturbance of ribosomal biogenesis and blockage of protein synthesis during development are primary causes of the intestinal defect in Feingold syndrome type 1. Importantly, our work suggests that leucine supplementation may be a feasible and easy treatment option for this disease.
Selective sweeps on different pigmentation genes mediate convergent evolution of island melanism in two incipient bird species
Authors: Campagna Leonardo , Mo Ziyi , Siepel Adam , Uy J. Albert C.
Published: November 2022

Insular organisms often evolve predictable phenotypes, like flightlessness, extreme body sizes, or increased melanin deposition. The evolutionary forces and molecular targets mediating these patterns remain mostly unknown. Here we study the Chestnut-bellied Monarch (Monarcha castaneiventris) from the Solomon Islands, a complex of closely related subspecies in the early stages of speciation. On the large island of Makira M. c. megarhynchus has a chestnut belly, whereas on the small satellite islands of Ugi, and Santa Ana and Santa Catalina (SA/SC) M. c. ugiensis is entirely iridescent blue-black (i.e., melanic). Melanism has likely evolved twice, as the Ugi and SA/SC populations were established independently. To investigate the genetic basis of melanism on each island we generated whole genome sequence data from all three populations. Non-synonymous mutations at the MC1R pigmentation gene are associated with melanism on SA/SC, while ASIP, an antagonistic ligand of MC1R, is associated with melanism on Ugi. Both genes show evidence of selective sweeps in traditional summary statistics and statistics derived from the ancestral recombination graph (ARG). Using the ARG in combination with machine learning, we inferred selection strength, timing of onset and allele frequency trajectories. MC1R shows evidence of a recent, strong, soft selective sweep. The region including ASIP shows more complex signatures; however, we find evidence for sweeps in mutations near ASIP, which are comparatively older than those on MC1R and have been under relatively strong selection. Overall, our study shows convergent melanism results from selective sweeps at independent molecular targets, evolving in taxa where coloration likely mediates reproductive isolation with the neighboring chestnut-bellied subspecies.
Immune checkpoint inhibitor monotherapy is associated with less cardiac toxicity than combination therapy
Authors: Cone Eugene B. , Haeuser Lorine , Reese Stephen W. , Marchese Maya , Nguyen David-Dan , Nabi Junaid , Chou Wesley H. , Noldus Joachim , McKay Rana R. , Kilbridge Kerry Laing , Trinh Quoc-Dien
Published: November 2022

Background

Treatment options for many cancers include immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) monotherapy and combination therapy with impressive clinical benefit across cancers. We sought to define the comparative cardiac risks of ICI combination and monotherapy.

Methods

We used VigiBase, the World Health Organization pharmacovigilance database, to identify cardiac ADRs (cADRs), such as carditis, heart failure, arrhythmia, myocardial infarction, and valvular dysfunction, related to ICI therapy. To explore possible relationships, we used the reporting odds ratio (ROR) as a proxy of relative risk. A lower bound of a 95% confidence interval of ROR > 1 reflects a disproportionality signal that more ADRs are observed than expected due to chance.

Results

We found 2278 cADR for ICI monotherapy and 353 for ICI combination therapy. Combination therapy was associated with significantly higher odds of carditis (ROR 6.9, 95% CI: 5.6–8.3) versus ICI monotherapy (ROR 5.0, 95% CI: 4.6–5.4). Carditis in ICI combination therapy was fatal in 23.4% of reported ADRs, compared to 15.8% for ICI monotherapy (P = 0.058).

Conclusions

Using validated pharmacovigilance methodology, we found increased odds of carditis for all ICI therapies, with the highest odds for combination therapy. Given the substantial risk of severe ADR and death, clinicians should consider these findings when prescribing checkpoint inhibitors.
Hypoglycemia prevention practice and associated factors among diabetes mellitus patients in Ethiopia: Systematic review and meta-analyssis
Authors: Lankrew Ayalew Tadele , Gelaw Wale Belete , Tefera Zewudie Bitew
Published: November 2022

Background

Hypoglycemia is an urgent, life-threatening condition that requires prompt recognition and treatment for diabetes mellitus patients to prevent organ and brain damage. Hypoglycemia is one of the most important complications of diabetes mellitus patients around the globe. Hypoglycemia may increase vascular events and even death, in addition to other possible detrimental effects. In spite of the absence of other risk factors, patients receiving intensive insulin therapy are more likely to experience hypoglycemia. To reduce the risk of hypoglycemia and calculate the combined prevalence of hypoglycemia prevention practices among diabetes mellitus patients, recognition of hypoglycemia is critical.

Objective

The main aim of this review was to evaluate the available data on Ethiopian diabetes mellitus patients’ practices for preventing hypoglycemia and related factors.

Methods and materials

This review was searched using PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Google, Google Scholar, and the Web of Sciences. Microsoft Excel was used to extract the data. All statistical analyses were done using STATA Version 14 software with a random-effects model. The funnel plot and heterogeneity of the studies were checked. Subgroup analysis was done with the study area and authors’ names.

Results

In this systematic review, 12 studies totaling 3,639 participants were included. The estimated overall practice for preventing hypoglycemia among diabetic patients in Ethiopia were 48.33% (95% CI (28.21%, 68.46%, I2 = 99.7%, p ≤ 0.001). According to the subgroup analysis based on region, the highest estimated prevalence of the prevention practice of hypoglycemia among diabetes patients in Addis Ababa was 90%, followed by SNNRP at 76.18% and in the Amhara region at 68.31% respectively. The least prevalent was observed in the Oromia region 6.10%. In this meta-analysis, diagnoses with type II diabetes (AOR = 2.53, 95%CI: 1.05, 4.04), duration (AOR = 5.49, 95%CI:3.27,7.70), taking insulin for a long time(AOR = 4.31,95%CI:2.60,6.02), having good prevention knowledge (AOR = 2.89, 95%CI: 1.15,4.23), and occupation (AOR = 4.17, 95%CI: 2.20, 6.15) were significantly associated with hypoglycemia prevention practice.

Conclusions

This systematic review revealed that diabetic patients in Ethiopia had poor hypoglycemia prevention practices. Being an employee, taking insulin for a long time, having a good prevention practice, and having a type of diabetes mellitus were strongly correlated with practicing hypoglycemia prevention. This review implied the subsequent need for educational interventions for an individualized patient.
Vertical distributions of dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus) in the Eastern Pacific Ocean suggest variability in potential associations with floating objects
Authors: Ortega-Garcia Sofia , Perle Christopher R. , Whitney Nicholas M. , Rodriguez-Sanchez Ruben , O’Sullivan John , Koch Stephanie Snyder
Published: November 2022

Floating objects play a pivotal role in pelagic ecosystems by serving as shelters, meeting points, cleaning stations, nurseries, and feeding grounds. The abundance of these objects is increasing globally in the form of flotsam, plastics, discarded or lost fishing gear, and fish aggregating devices (FADs) deployed by commercial fisheries. However, it is difficult to measure how often and in what ways fish interact with floating objects in pelagic environments. Dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus) is prevalent among the fish species that associate with floating objects, but the extent to which dolphinfish utilize them is unclear. This study applies existing knowledge of FAD-associated dolphinfish diving behavior to identify periods of potential association with floating objects in a remote telemetry dataset of 23 fish with a total of 678 days at liberty spanning two distinct regions within the Eastern Pacific Ocean. Fish inhabiting waters off the western coast of Baja California Sur, Mexico spent significantly more time exhibiting behavior indicative of association with floating objects than those off the coast of Oaxaca, Mexico. When not exhibiting this behavior, dolphinfish in both regions occupied similar vertical habitats, with western Baja fish utilizing more of the water column than Oaxaca fish. Observed regional differences in behavior were coincident with regional differences in size (Oaxaca fish fork lengths ranged from 103 to 118 cm (mean = 110 cm), while Baja fish ranged from 85 to 106 cm (mean = 93 cm)). Although larger fish in the Baja region displayed behavior consistent with smaller Baja fish, future studies should investigate whether the observed regional differences are due to (i) size, (ii) sex, (iii) oceanography, or (iv) availability of floating objects. Dolphinfish are an important mid-trophic level predator and potentially sustainable fishery resource. Understanding their behavior and use of floating objects is of both ecological and economic importance–particularly in the context of expanding international FAD-based fisheries. Our study suggests dolphinfish spend a large amount of their time exhibiting potential floating object associated behavior, and this could influence their population structure and growth.
RNase L activation in the cytoplasm induces aberrant processing of mRNAs in the nucleus
Authors: Burke James M. , Ripin Nina , Ferretti Max B. , St Clair Laura A. , Worden-Sapper Emma R. , Salgado Fernando , Sawyer Sara L. , Perera Rushika , Lynch Kristen W. , Parker Roy
Published: November 2022

The antiviral endoribonuclease, RNase L, is activated by the mammalian innate immune response to destroy host and viral RNA to ultimately reduce viral gene expression. Herein, we show that RNase L and RNase L-mediated mRNA decay are primarily localized to the cytoplasm. Consequently, RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) translocate from the cytoplasm to the nucleus upon RNase L activation due to the presence of intact nuclear RNA. The re-localization of RBPs to the nucleus coincides with global alterations to RNA processing in the nucleus. While affecting many host mRNAs, these alterations are pronounced in mRNAs encoding type I and type III interferons and correlate with their retention in the nucleus and reduction in interferon protein production. Similar RNA processing defects also occur during infection with either dengue virus or SARS-CoV-2 when RNase L is activated. These findings reveal that the distribution of RBPs between the nucleus and cytosol is dictated by the availability of RNA in each compartment. Thus, viral infections that trigger RNase L-mediated cytoplasmic RNA in the cytoplasm also alter RNA processing in the nucleus, resulting in an ingenious multi-step immune block to protein biogenesis.
The rise of sound girls: Expect, empower, energize, educate
Authors: DeVincentis Patrice
Published: November 2022

The fact that fields of music production and recording arts have been noticeably male-dominated has not gone unnoticed. Progress for women in these fields has been slow and difficult at best. Current statistics demonstrate that the change in gender percentages over the past decade has been insignificant. The lack of female professionals in the music and audio fields has been the subject of studies for over 40 years. Females interested in the audio industry have often faced with adversity and challenges. This article examines real-world experiences of females in the audio industry and considers what educators can do to foster greater gender equality.
Pola Aktivitas Fisik Anak Usia 10 Sampai 14 Tahun pada Masa Pandemi Covid-19 di Indonesia dan Faktor-Faktor yang Berhubungan
Authors: Rizkita Salindri Dara , Sekartini Rini , Friska Dewi
Published: November 2022

Latar belakang. Kondisi pandemi global Covid-19 membuat pemerintah Indonesia membuat kebijakan untuk membatasi segala kegiatan sosial, termasuk perubahan metode kegiatan bersekolah. Tujuan. Mengetahui pola aktivitas fisik anak 10-14 tahun saat pandemi Covid-19 di Indonesia.Metode. Pengumpulan data dengan kuesioner daring. Jenis penelitian observasional, desain studi cross-sectional. Diolah dengan analisis deskriptif. Dilanjutkan analisis analitik bivariat, uji statistik chi-square dan analisis multivariat, uji regresi logistikHasil. Diperoleh sebaran subjek berdasarkan usia, 10-12 tahun 71,2% dan >12-14 tahun 28,8%. Jenis kelamin perempuan 62,7% dan laki-laki 37,3%. Tingkat ketaatan protokol kesehatan yaitu 75,7% tidak taat dan taat 24,3%, Durasi kegiatan pembelajaran jarak jauh 0-3jam/hari 63,8%, >3-6jam/hari 32,8%, dan >6jam/hari 3,4%. Klasifikasi daerah, rural 36,2% dan urban 63,8%. Tingkat aktivitas fisik tinggi 51,4% dan rendah 48.6%. Tingkat aktivitas fisik berhubungan bermakna dengan usia (p=0,017), durasi PJJ (p=0.005), tingkat ketaatan terhadap protokol kesehatan (p=0,013), tidak berhubungan bermakna dengan jenis kelamin (p=0,059), dan daerah tempat tinggal (p=0,363). Uji multivariat didapatkan hubungan dengan tingkat ketaatan (p=0,005;OR=2,870) dan durasi PJJ (p=0,002; OR=2,768).Kesimpulan. Prevalensi tingkat aktivitas fisik tinggi 51,4%. Faktor yang berhubungan dengan aktivitas fisik anak selama pandemi adalah usia. Faktor yang berhubungan kuat adalah durasi pembelajaran jarak jauh dalam sehari serta tingkat ketaatan anak terhadap protokol kesehatan.
A case of primary central nervous system lymphoma diagnosed with cerebrospinal fluid analysis: replacement brain biopsy with cerebrospinal fluid immunohistochemistry and immunoglobulin gene rearrangement
Authors: Lee Jun Ho , Yu Shinae , Lee Ja Young , Kim Yeon Mee , Lee Dong Ah , Kim Sung Eun
Published: November 2022

Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma confined to the central nervous system. Its diagnosis requires a stereotactic biopsy, which is an invasive procedure. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis is less invasive and easier to perform than a stereotactic biopsy. We hereby report a PCNSL case diagnosed using CSF analysis and treated with systemic chemotherapy.