bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of the mechanism of action of lanraplenib, a novel spleen tyrosine kinase inhibitor, in models of lupus nephritis
Authors: Pohlmeyer Christopher W. , Shang Ching , Han Pei , Cui Zhi-Hua , Jones Randall M. , Clarke Astrid S. , Murray Bernard P. , Lopez David A. , Newstrom David W. , Inzunza M. David , Matzkies Franziska G. , Currie Kevin S. , Di Paolo Julie A.
Published: March 2021

Background

B cells are critical mediators of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and lupus nephritis (LN), and antinuclear antibodies can be found in the serum of approximately 98% of patients with SLE. Spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK) is a nonreceptor tyrosine kinase that mediates signaling from immunoreceptors, including the B cell receptor. Active, phosphorylated SYK has been observed in tissues from patients with SLE or cutaneous lupus erythematosus, and its inhibition is hypothesized to ameliorate disease pathogenesis. We sought to evaluate the efficacy and characterize the mechanism of action of lanraplenib, a selective oral SYK inhibitor, in the New Zealand black/white (NZB/W) murine model of SLE and LN.

Methods

Lanraplenib was evaluated for inhibition of primary human B cell functions in vitro. Furthermore, the effect of SYK inhibition on ameliorating LN-like disease in vivo was determined by treating NZB/W mice with lanraplenib, cyclophosphamide, or a vehicle control. Glomerulopathy and immunoglobulin G (IgG) deposition were quantified in kidneys. The concentration of proinflammatory cytokines was measured in serum. Splenocytes were analyzed by flow cytometry for B cell maturation and T cell memory maturation, and the presence of T follicular helper and dendritic cells.

Results

In human B cells in vitro, lanraplenib inhibited B cell activating factor-mediated survival as well as activation, maturation, and immunoglobulin M production. Treatment of NZB/W mice with lanraplenib improved overall survival, prevented the development of proteinuria, and reduced blood urea nitrogen concentrations. Kidney morphology was significantly preserved by treatment with lanraplenib as measured by glomerular diameter, protein cast severity, interstitial inflammation, vasculitis, and frequency of glomerular crescents; treatment with lanraplenib reduced glomerular IgG deposition. Mice treated with lanraplenib had reduced concentrations of serum proinflammatory cytokines. Lanraplenib blocked disease-driven B cell maturation and T cell memory maturation in the spleen.

Conclusions

Lanraplenib blocked the progression of LN-like disease in NZB/W mice. Human in vitro and murine in vivo data suggest that lanraplenib may be efficacious in preventing disease progression in patients with LN at least in part by inhibiting B cell maturation. These data provide additional rationale for the use of lanraplenib in the treatment of SLE and LN.
Understanding the apprehension and concern haunting patients before a total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Londhe Sanjay Bhalchandra , Shah Ravi Vinod , Patwardhan Meghana , Doshi Amit Pankaj , Londhe Shubhankar Sanjay , Subhedar Kavita
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The aim of this prospective study was to understand the fear and apprehension factors that play on patient’s mind before total knee arthroplasty.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included 500 consecutive patients (375 females and 125 males) who were scheduled to undergo total knee arthroplasty the next day. The patients were asked to list the most important fear in their mind regarding the operation in descending order of importance. They were given a questionnaire form which contained several capture points, including age, gender, educational background, occupation, and provision of help at home. Preoperative pain was measured by using the visual analog score, and its influence on the patients’ fear and apprehension factors was also measured.

Results

In this study, 58% of patients (50 males, 40%; 240 females, 64%) were fearful of the pain that they would experience after surgery and during the postoperative physiotherapy. The female patients showed more fear of pain than their male counterparts (P < 0.05). 18% of the patients (40 males, 32%; 50 females, 13%) listed whether they will be able to walk and perform activities of daily living after surgery as the most important fear. The male patients had more fear of returning to normal walking (P < 0.05). 20% of the patients (30 males, 24%; 70 females, 19%) were fearful about getting adequate home help after discharge from hospital (P > 0.05). 4% of patients were concerned about withstanding such a major operation. There was no difference between male and female patients (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

The majority of the patients experience apprehension of pain in the perioperative period of TKA. Preoperative counseling benefits pain management by alleviating the patient’s concerns about the fear of postoperative pain and apprehension of returning to normal walking.
Association of genetic variants with prostate cancer in Africa: a concise review
Authors: Acheampong Emmanuel , Adu Evans Asamoah , Obirikorang Christian , Amoah George , Afriyie Osei Owusu , Yorke Joseph , Anto Enoch Odame , Gyamfi Michael Adu , Acheampong Emmanuella Nsenbah , Gyasi-Sarpong Christian Kofi , Yeboah Francis Agyemang
Published: March 2021

Background

Prostate cancer (PCa) has one of the highest heritability of all major cancers, where the genetic contribution has been documented, and knowledge about the molecular genetics of the disease is increasing. However, the extent and aspects to which genetic variants explain PCa heritability in Africa are limited.

Main body

In this review, we summarize studies that highlight how identified genetic variants explain differences in PCa incidence and presentation across ethnic groups. We also present the knowledge gaps in PCa genetics in Africa and why Africa represents an untapped potential ground for genetic studies on PCa. A significant number of genome-wide association studies, linkage, and fine-mapping analyses have been conducted globally, and that explains 30–33% of PCa heritability. The African ancestry has a significant mention in PCa incidence and presentation. To date, the candidate gene approach has replicated 23 polymorphisms including dinucleotide and trinucleotide repeats in 16 genes. CYP17-rs743572, CYP3A4-rs2740574, CYP3A5-rs776746, CYP3A43-rs501275, and haplotype blocks, containing these variants, are significantly associated with PCa among some population groups but not others. With the few existing studies, the extent of genetic diversity in Africa suggests that genetic associations of PCa to African ancestry go beyond nucleotide sequence polymorphisms, to a level of environmental adaptation, which may interpret genetic risk profiles. Also, the shreds of evidence suggest that evolutionary history contributes to the high rates of PCa relative to African ancestry, and genetic associations do not always replicate across populations.

Conclusion

The genetic architecture of PCa in Africa provides important contributions to the global understanding of PCa specifically the African-ancestry hypothesis. There is a need for more prostate cancer consortiums to justify the heritable certainties of PCa among Africans, and emphasis should be placed on the genetic epidemiological model of PCa in Africa.
Post-traumatic stress symptoms among an Egyptian sample of post-remission COVID-19 survivors: prevalence and sociodemographic and clinical correlates
Authors: Abdelghani Mohamed , Hassan Mervat S. , Alsadik Maha E. , Abdelmoaty Ahmed A. , Said Amira , Atwa Samar A.
Published: March 2021

Background

Given its global spread, the COVID-19 virus infection itself may be experienced as a traumatic and stressful event among survivors. The post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) among those surviving the disease were under evaluated. This study aimed to identify and compare PTSS and associated correlates among COVID-19 survivors and control subjects. A cross-sectional design with a convenience sampling included a total of 85 adults who survived COVID-19 virus infection and 85 control subjects (matched for age, sex, education, and socioeconomic level) who were recruited from Zagazig University Hospitals, Sharkia Province, Egypt. The participants were interviewed using a semistructured demographic and clinical checklist, Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 Axis I Disorders (SCID-5), the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R), and the Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale (HADS).

Results

Approximately, 72% of COVID-19 survivors experienced moderate-to-severe PTSS (compared to 53% of control subjects). Individuals who survived the COVID-19 virus infection were more likely to have intensified hyperarousal symptoms (OR: 2.7, 95% CI: 1.7–4.4), with higher total IES-R scoring (OR: 1.03, 95% CI: 1.01–1.05). Among COVID-19 survivors, those who reported moderate-to-severe PTSS were likely to experience severe COVID-19 symptoms during their illness (OR: 4.1, 95% CI: 1.4–11.9).

Conclusions

PTSS was prevalent among COVID-19 survivors in Egypt. The hyperarousal symptoms were the most experienced ones. The symptom severity of COVID-19 virus infection predicted PTSS in COVID-19 survivors.
Current state of communication systems based on electrical power transmission lines
Authors: Ndolo Antony , Çavdar İsmail Hakkı
Published: March 2021

Power line communication technology is a retrofit alternative technology for last mile information technology. Despite several challenges, such as inadequate standards and electromagnetic compatibility, it is maturing. In this review, we have analysed these obstacles and its current application status.
Farmers’ knowledge and perception of finger millet blast disease and its control practices in western Kenya
Authors: Mbinda Wilton , Kavoo Agnes , Maina Fredah , Odeph Margaret , Mweu Cecilia , Nzilani Naomi , Ngugi Mathew
Published: March 2021

Background

Finger millet blast disease, caused by Pyricularia oryzae, is a serious constrain of finger millet production which is threatening global food security especially to the resource poor smallholder farmers in arid and semi-arid regions. The disease adversely affects finger millet production and consumption due to its wide distribution and destruction in all finger millet growing areas of southern Asia and eastern Africa. Here, we present a study that investigated the occurrence, impact, risk factors and farmers’ knowledge and perceptions of finger millet blast in Kenya.

Methods

We surveyed blast disease occurrence and interviewed farmers in Bungoma and Kisii Counties of Kenya during March–April 2019. Data were analysed using SPSS statistical program. Descriptive analysis was done by calculating means, percentages, frequencies, and standard errors. Comparative statistics, chi-square and t-tests, were used to evaluate differences existing among the farm characteristics and socio-demographics and the knowledge and perceptions of blast disease and its management practices.

Results

Our results show that blast disease is prevalent in all surveyed areas and adversely affects the productivity of the crop leading to poor yields. The disease occurrence varied from 92 to 98%, and was significantly higher in the major finger millet growing areas compared to the minor ones. Blast occurrence was associated with rainfall, altitude, planting density, intercropping and other farming practices. In all the surveyed regions, farmers had little knowledge about blast disease identification, its detection and spread. Further, the farmers’ awareness of blast disease control was inconsistent with established practices.

Conclusions

Our results show mitigation of finger millet blast disease should aim at improving farmers’ adoption of best practices through development of acceptable blast-resistant finger millet varieties, use of sustainable disease management practices, fostering linkages and creating new partnerships in the production-supply chain and maintaining a functional seed system. Findings from this study provide essential insights for effective decision making and management of the disease. This is fundamental to sustainable and secure food and income for finger millet growing farmers in Kenya.
Microplastic fibers affect dynamics and intensity of CO2 and N2O fluxes from soil differently
Authors: Rillig Matthias C. , Hoffmann Mathias , Lehmann Anika , Liang Yun , Lück Matthias , Augustin Jürgen
Published: March 2021

Microplastics may affect soil ecosystem functioning in critical ways, with previously documented effects including changes in soil structure and water dynamics; this suggests that microbial populations and the processes they mediate could also be affected. Given the importance for global carbon and nitrogen cycle and greenhouse warming potential, we here experimentally examined potential effects of plastic microfiber additions on CO2 and N2O greenhouse gas fluxes. We carried out a fully factorial laboratory experiment with the factors presence of microplastic fibers (0.4% w/w) and addition of urea fertilizer (100 mg N kg− 1) using one target soil. The conditions in an intensively N-fertilized arable soil were simulated by adding biogas digestate at the beginning of the incubation to all samples. We continuously monitored CO2 and N2O emissions from soil before and after urea application using a custom-built flow-through steady-state system, and we assessed soil properties, including soil structure. Microplastics affected soil properties, notably increasing soil aggregate water-stability and pneumatic conductivity, and caused changes in the dynamics and overall level of emission of both gases, but in opposite directions: overall fluxes of CO2 were increased by microplastic presence, whereas N2O emission were decreased, a pattern that was intensified following urea addition. This divergent response is explained by effects of microplastic on soil structure, with the increased air permeability likely improving O2 supply: this will have stimulated CO2 production, since mineralization benefits from better aeration. Increased O2 would at the same time have inhibited denitrification, a process contributing to N2O emissions, thus likely explaining the decrease in the latter. Our results clearly suggest that microplastic consequences for greenhouse gas emissions should become an integral part of future impact assessments, and that to understand such responses, soil structure should be assessed.
Synthetic transfer zone characterization using seismic attributes: An example from the Parihaka fault system in the Taranaki Basin, New Zealand
Authors: Karam Pierre , Mitra Shankar , Marfurt Kurt , Carpenter Brett M.
Published: March 2021

Synthetic transfer zones develop between fault segments that dip in the same direction, with relay ramps connecting the fault blocks separated by the different fault segments. The characteristics of the transfer zones are controlled by the lithology, deformation conditions, and strain magnitude. The Parihaka fault is a northeast–southwest-trending set of three major en echelon faults connected by relay ramps in the Taranaki Basin, New Zealand. The structure in the basin is defined by extension during two episodes of deformation between the late Cretaceous and Paleocene and between the late Miocene and recent. To better understand the evolution of a synthetic transfer zone, we studied the geometry and secondary faulting between the individual fault segments in the Parihaka fault system using structural interpretation of 3D seismic data and seismic attributes. This interpretation allows for a unique application of seismic attributes to better study transfer zones. Seismic attributes, such as coherence, dip, and curvature, are effective tools used to understand the detailed geometry and variation in displacement on the individual faults, the nature of secondary faulting along the transfer zones, and the relationship between the faults and drape folds. The seismic characterization of the fault system of Miocene to Pliocene age horizons highlights variations in the degree of faulting, deformation, and growth mechanism associated with different stages of transfer zone development. The coherence, dip, and curvature attributes indicate a direct correlation with structural parameters such as deformation, folding, and breaching of relay ramps. All three attributes enhance the visualization of the major and associated secondary faults and better constrain their tectonic history. The observed correlation between the seismic attributes and structural characteristics of transfer zones can significantly improve the structural interpretation and exploration workflow.
Characterization of plasma chemistry for an optimized pulse resonance atmospheric-pressure plasma system
Authors: Gulán M. , Milosavljević V.
Published: March 2021

The paper deals with monitoring the plasma chemistry of an atmospheric plasma low-frequency AC power supply. The study is based on optical spectroscopy and electrical measurements as diagnostic methods. The work includes details of developing and operating an in-house made, non-thermal, dielectric-free atmospheric plasma system, built for biological and agriculture applications. The experimental results clearly show the cross-dependence of the measured outputs (O3, O2, N2) and a wide range of process parameters (duty cycle, discharge frequency, voltage, etc.). A design-of-experiment approach is taken for phase-resolved optical emission spectroscopy of oxygen and nitrogen spectral lines/bands. The new plasma system allows an increase in the plasma-surface interaction selectivity and reduces plasma-induced damages to the surface.
Circuit Breakers and Biopolitical Strategies
Authors: Tan Cera Y. J.
Published: March 2021

Taking as a starting point the challenge of containing the spread of epidemics, this article provides an oblique critique of the connections between biopolitics and contact tracing. Aligning the question of biopolitical strategies with epidemiology, the article follows the lines of continuity between containment strategies, contact-tracing technology, and circulations and networks. The uptake of mobile application surveillance by government entities to trace the spread of SARS-CoV-2 has seamlessly supplemented containment measures. Singapore's deployment of TraceTogether, an application developed by the Ministry of Health and Government Technology Agency, circumvents the use of geolocation tracking: formulating a network of infected bodies using proximity data, the population undergoes a topological change. Drawing on a tradition that acknowledges the transformative quality of technology and its implications on information societies, the article frames the enquiry within the parameters of Martin Heidegger's and Gilles Deleuze's deliberations on the ways in which technology is brought to bear on the biopolitical imaginary of a population. The technological rationality that, according to Heidegger, has gripped the entire horizon of thought is opened up for interruption wherever technology fails. In these slippages emerge spaces in which a critique of society's faults may be advanced. This article proposes a critical reading of application surveillance with a view to the biopolitical and philosophical implications of overdetermined network structures against the backdrop of contagion-related phenomena.
On the World of the Virus
Authors: Armitage John
Published: March 2021

This short article deals with the concept of the world, and that concept's ability to engage with the impact of the coronavirus and the remaking of image theory anew. The concept of the world can, it is argued, be utilized to offer a sustained engagement with the influence of COVID-19, particularly as the concept of the world is manifested in the work of the philosopher Martin Heidegger. To understand Heidegger's work on his most important idea of the world, this article briefly looks at image theory, at Heidegger's introduction of the notion of the gigantic, at the author's own engagement with the gigantic in the microscopic image, and finally at how we can develop and revise our appreciation of the world of the virus.
On the Beach
Authors: Beck John
Published: March 2021

The phrase “on the beach” originates as naval slang for being between assignments or unemployed and was used as the title for Nevil Shute's bestselling novel of 1957 about the last remaining survivors of a global nuclear conflict as they await their inevitable demise. The novel is about a certain kind of anxious passivity in the face of incomprehensible catastrophe, but it is also a narrative about work and idleness. As such, the idea of being “on the beach” invites consideration of the shore as a liminal space where often conflicting social and existential issues of meaning and purpose are played out. The waves of so-called beach shaming that occurred during the early months of the global coronavirus pandemic have located, yet again, the beach as a key battleground in contemporary cultural politics.
The Power of Example: Corruption Spurs Corruption
Authors: Ajzenman Nicolás
Published: March 2021

Does political corruption erode civic values and foster dishonest behavior? I test this hypothesis in the context of Mexico by combining data on local government corruption and cheating on school tests. I find that, following revelations of corruption by local officials, secondary students' cheating on cognitive tests increases significantly. The effect is large and robust and persists for over a year after malfeasance is revealed. These findings are validated by evidence from individual survey data, which documents that individuals interviewed right after corruption is revealed report being less honest, less trustworthy, and more prone to thinking that cheating is necessary to succeed, compared to similar individuals interviewed just beforehand. (JEL D72, H70, I21, K42, O17, Z13)
Subsidies and the African Green Revolution: Direct Effects and Social Network Spillovers of Randomized Input Subsidies in Mozambique
Authors: Carter Michael , Laajaj Rachid , Yang Dean
Published: March 2021

The Green Revolution, which bolstered agricultural yields and economic well-being in Asia and Latin America beginning in the 1960s, largely bypassed sub-Saharan Africa. We study the first randomized controlled trial of a government-implemented input subsidy program (ISP) in Africa intended to foment a Green Revolution. We find that this temporary subsidy for Mozambican maize farmers stimulates Green Revolution technology adoption and leads to increased maize yields. Effects of the subsidy persist in later unsubsidized years. In addition, social networks of subsidized farmers benefit from spillovers, experiencing increases in technology adoption, yields, and beliefs about the returns to the technologies. Spillovers account for the vast majority of subsidy-induced gains. ISPs alleviate informational market failures, stimulating learning about new technologies by subsidy recipients and their social networks. (JEL O13, Q12, Q16, Q18)
Hidden Markov models (HMMs) στην βιοπληροφορική
Authors: Ταμπόσης Ιωάννης
Published: March 2021

Στην εποχή της γονιδιωματικής, τα μοντέλα ανάλυσης δεδομένων και οι αλγόριθμοι που παρέχουν τα μέσα για τη μείωση των μεγάλων σύνθετων συνόλων σε σημαντικές πληροφορίες είναι αναπόσπαστα για την περαιτέρω κατανόηση των σύνθετων βιολογικών συστημάτων. Τα κρυφά μαρκοβιανά μοντέλα (Hidden Markov Models) περιλαμβάνουν μια τέτοια τεχνική ανάλυσης δεδομένων που έχει γίνει η βάση πολλών εργαλείων βιοπληροφορικής. Η σχετική επιτυχία οφείλεται κυρίως στην εννοιολογική απλότητά της και στην ισχυρή στατιστική βάση. Παρά το γεγονός ότι είναι μια από τις πιο δημοφιλείς τεχνικές μοντελοποίησης και ανάλυσης δεδομένων για την ταξινόμηση ακολουθιών δεδομένων, οι ερευνητές έχουν λίγες διαθέσιμες επιλογές λογισμικού για να εφαρμόσουν γρήγορα το απαραίτητο πλαίσιο και αλγόριθμους μοντελοποίησης. Τα περισσότερα εργαλεία εξακολουθούν να είναι κωδικοποιημένα στο χέρι, επειδή οι τρέχουσες λύσεις υλοποίησης δεν παρέχουν την απαιτούμενη ευκολία ή ευελιξία που επιτρέπει στους ερευνητές να εφαρμόζουν μοντέλα με μη παραδοσιακούς τρόπους. Στην παρούσα διδακτορική διατριβή, έχουμε αναπτύξει ένα λογισμικό ανοιχτού κώδικα σε Java, που ονομάζεται JUCHMME, το οποίο παρέχει στους ερευνητές την ευελιξία να εφαρμόζουν Hidden Markov Models σε προβλήματα ανάλυσης ακολουθιών. Παρέχει στους ερευνητές τη δυνατότητα να εφαρμόσουν γρήγορα ένα μοντέλο χρησιμοποιώντας ένα απλό αρχείο κειμένου και ταυτόχρονα την ευελιξία να προσαρμόσουν το μοντέλο με μη παραδοσιακούς τρόπους. Επιπλέον, αναπτύξαμε πολλές δυνατότητες/επεκτάσεις που δεν είναι διαθέσιμες σε κανένα τρέχον εργαλείο υλοποίησης HMM, όπως τα Κρυφά Νευρωνικά Δϊκτυα (Hidden Neural Networks – HNNs), μοντέλα που εξαρτώνται από προηγούμενες παρατηρήσεις και μια μέθοδο για ημι-εποπτευόμενη εκμάθηση HMM που ενσωματώνει δεδομένα με επισήμανση, χωρίς σήμανση και μερική επισήμανση και πολλούς τρόπους για την ενσωμάτωση πρόσθετων πηγών δεδομένων μαζί για να κάνουν καλύτερες προβλέψεις. Χρησιμοποιώντας το JUCHMME, καταφέραμε να εφαρμόσουμε HMM μοντέλα σε ένα σημαντικό βιολογικό πρόβλημα της πρόβλεψης τοπολογίας διαμεμβρανικών πρωτεϊνών α-ελίκων και β-βαρελιών λαμβάνοντας ενθαρρυντικά αποτελέσματα.
Tabak und Tabakgenuss in Basel
Authors: Freitag Annina
Published: March 2021

Nach einem Überblick über die Geschichte des Tabaks in Basel wird der Fokus auf eine Auswahl von Pfeifenfragmente aus den Grabungen auf dem Areal Basel- Gasfabrik gelegt. Dieses Gebiet war vor dem 19. Jahrhundert noch landwirtschaftliche Nutzfläche, weshalb der Fund von über 1000 Pfeifenfragmenten hier etwas Besonderes darstellt. Die Auswertung der Fundstücke von Basel-Gasfabrik sowie einiger zusätzlicher Exemplare aus Stadtgrabungen, ergänzt durch einen Fundkatalog und Fundtafeln, ermöglicht eine Übersicht über die Herkunft der Tabakpfeifen.
The clinical impact of bacterial co-infection among moderate, severe and critically ill COVID-19 patients in the second referral hospital in Surabaya
Authors: Asmarawati Tri Pudy , Rosyid Alfian Nur , Suryantoro Satriyo Dwi , Mahdi Bagus Aulia , Windradi Choirina , Wulaningrum Prastuti Asta , Arifijanto Muhammad Vitanata , Bramantono Bramantono , Triyono Erwin Astha , Rusli Musofa , Rachman Brian Eka , Marfiani Erika , Endraswari Pepy Dwi , Hadi Usman , Kuntaman Kuntaman , Nasronudin Nasronudin
Published: March 2021

Background: Data on the prevalence of bacterial co-infections among COVID-19 patients are limited, especially in our country, Indonesia. We aimed to assess the rate of bacterial co-infections in hospitalized COVID-19 patients and report the most common microorganisms involved and the antibiotic use in these patients.

Methods: This study is a retrospective cohort study, among COVID-19 adult patients admitted to Universitas Airlangga Hospital Surabaya from 14 March-30 September 2020. The bacterial infection is defined based on clinical assessment, laboratory parameters, and microbiology results.

Results: A total of 218 patients with moderate to critical illness and confirmed COVID-19 were included in this study. Bacterial infection was confirmed in 43 patients (19.7%). COVID-19 patients with bacterial infections had longer hospital length of stay (17.6 ± 6.62 vs 13.31±7.12), a higher proportion of respiratory failure, intensive care treatment, and ventilator use. COVID-19 patients with bacterial infection had a worse prognosis than those without bacterial infection (p<0.04). The empirical antibiotic was given to 75.2% of the patients. Gram-negative bacteria were commonly found as causative agents in this study (n = 39; 70.37%).

Conclusion: COVID-19 patients with bacterial infection have a longer length of stay and worse outcomes. Healthcare-associated infections during intensive care treatment for COVID-19 patients must be carefully prevented.
Comparison of 1480 nm and 980 nm-pumped Gallium-Erbium fiber amplifier
Authors: Ibrahim Siti Azlida , Mansoor Amilia , Tuan Mohd Marzuki Tuan Ainin Sofea , Omar Nasr Y. M. , Abdul Rashid Hairul Azhar
Published: March 2021

Background: One way to reduce the length of the gain medium in Erbium-Doped Fiber Amplifier (EDFA) is by doping the fiber core with a high concentration of Erbium. However, this method caused ion clustering effects, which limits the EDFA’s efficiency.  In this research, the use of Gallium as a new co-dopant in erbium-doped silica fiber is explored.

Methods: The new fiber, namely Gallium co-doped Erbium fiber (Ga-EDF), is used as a gain medium in an optical fiber amplifier setup. A 2-meter length of the Ga-EDF fiber was used in a single pass configuration with a forward pumping scheme at 150 mW pump power. The Ga-EDF amplifier's gain and noise figure while pumping at 980 nm and 1480 nm were compared. The amplifier's performance was evaluated as the input signal power varied between -30 dBm to 3 dB, over the wavelength range of 1520 nm to 1580 nm.

Results: The 980 nm-pumped Ga-EDF amplifier achieved the maximum small-signal gain of 22.45 dB and the corresponding noise figure of 5.71 dB at the input signal wavelength of 1535 nm. Meanwhile, the 1480 nm-pumped Ga-EDF amplifier attained the maximum small-signal gain of 20.83 dB and the corresponding noise figure of 5.09 dB at the input signal wavelength of 1550 nm. At the input signal power below -20 dBm and the wavelength range 1520 nm to 1547 nm, the Ga-EDF performs better when pumped at 980 nm. Their performance is comparable at the input signal wavelength range between 1547 nm to 1580 nm. At the input signal power above -20 dBm, the 1480 nm-pumped Ga-EDF outperformed the 980 nm-pumped amplifier.

Conclusions: The overall performance indicates that the gain saturation point of the 1480 nm-pumped amplifier is higher than the 980 nm-pumped.
Does the speed of sternal retraction during coronary artery bypass graft surgery affect postoperative pain outcomes? A randomized controlled trial protocol
Authors: Petsikas Dimitri , Stewart Craig , Phelan Rachel , Allard Rene , Cummings Michael , DuMerton Deborah , Parlow Joel , Payne Darrin , Tanzola Robert , Wang Louie , Saha Tarit
Published: March 2021

Background: Chronic pain is a serious health issue impacting both the quality of life and productivity of patients.Chronic post-sternotomy pain (CPSP) is characterized by numbness, severe tenderness on palpation, allodynia, as well as constant pain across the anterior chest wall that can persist for months to years after sternotomy. All patients experience early post-operative pain following coronary artery bypass graft (CABG); unfortunately, approximately 30-40% of CABG patients subsequently develop CPSP. 

Methods: The current study is a prospective, double-blinded, randomized controlled trial. A sample size of 316 randomly assigned patients (n=158 per group) will provide an 80% power at a 2-sided α of 0.05 to detect a 40% decrease in CPSP incidence at 6 months. Eligible patients scheduled for elective, primary coronary artery bypass graft surgery will be randomly assigned to the CONTROL group, in which sternal retraction is conducted over 30 seconds (as per standard practice); or the SLOW group, in which sternal retraction is achieved over 15 minutes. Surgical and perioperative anesthesia protocols between the two groups are otherwise the same. Our primary outcome is the incidence of CPSP at 6 months. Secondary outcomes are: CPSP incidence at 3 and 12 months, daily sternal incision pain intensity (numeric rating scale (NRS)) at rest and while coughing, and daily analgesic consumption while in hospital and at 7 days postoperatively; pain quality, quality of life, and pain interference with daily function at 3, 6, and 12 months post-operatively.

Discussion: Our randomized controlled trial will determine whether retracting the sternum more slowly for exposure of the heart during CABG surgery will decrease the incidence and/or severity of CPSP.

ClinicalTrials.gov registration:NCT02697812 (03/03/2016
Development and application of a hybrid implementation research framework to understand success in reducing under-5 mortality in Rwanda
Authors: Hirschhorn Lisa R. , Frisch Miriam , Ntawukuriryayo Jovial Thomas , VanderZanden Amelia , Donahoe Kateri , Mathewos Kedest , Sayinzoga Felix , Binagwaho Agnes
Published: March 2021

Background: We describe the development and testing of a hybrid implementation research (IR) framework to understand the pathways, successes, and challenges in addressing amenable under-5 mortality (U5M) – deaths preventable through health system-delivered evidence-based interventions (EBIs) – in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Methods: We reviewed existing IR frameworks to develop a hybrid framework designed to better understand U5M reduction in LMICs from identification of leading causes of amenable U5M, to EBI choice, identification and testing of strategies, work to achieve sustainability at scale and key contextual factors. We then conducted a mixed-methods case study of Rwanda using the framework to explore its utility in understanding the steps the country took in EBI-related decision-making and implementation between 2000-2015, key contextual factors which hindered or facilitated success, and extract actionable knowledge for other countries working to reduce U5M.

Results: While relevant frameworks were identified, none individually covered the scope needed to understand Rwanda’s actions and success. Building on these frameworks, we combined and adapted relevant frameworks to capture exploration, planning, implementation, contextual factors in LMICs such as Rwanda, and outcomes beyond effectiveness and coverage. Utilizing our hybrid framework in Rwanda, we studied multiple EBIs and identified a common pathway and cross-cutting strategies and contextual factors that supported the country’s success in reducing U5M through the health system EBIs. Using these findings, we identified transferable lessons for other countries working to accelerate reduction in U5M.

Conclusions: We found that a hybrid framework building on and adapting existing frameworks was successful in guiding data collection and interpretation of results, emerging new insights into how and why Rwanda achieved equitable introduction and implementation of health system EBIs that contributed to the decline in U5M, and generated lessons for countries working to drop U5M.
luox: novel open-access and open-source web platform for calculating and sharing physiologically relevant quantities for light and lighting
Authors: Spitschan Manuel , Mead James , Roos Chris , Lowis Chris , Griffiths Ben , Mucur Paul , Herf Michael
Published: March 2021

Light exposure has a profound impact on human physiology and behaviour. For example, light exposure at the wrong time can disrupt our circadian rhythms and acutely suppress the production of melatonin. In turn, appropriately timed light exposure can support circadian photoentrainment. Beginning with the discovery that melatonin production is acutely suppressed by bright light more than 40 years ago, understanding which aspects of light drive the 'non-visual' responses to light remains a highly active research area, with an important translational dimension and implications for "human-centric" or physiologically inspired architectural lighting design. In 2018, the International Commission on Illumination (CIE) standardised the spectral sensitivities for predicting the non-visual effects of a given spectrum of light with respect to the activation of the five photoreceptor classes in the human retina: the L, M and S cones, the rods, and the melanopsin-containing intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs). Here, we described a novel, lean, user-friendly, open-access and open-source platform for calculating quantities related to light. The platform, called luox, enables researchers and research users in chronobiology, sleep research and adjacent field to turn spectral measurements into reportable quantities. The luox code base, released under the GPL-3.0 License, is modular and therefore extendable to other spectrum-derived quantities.
Probing the peripheral immune response in mouse models of oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy highlights their limited translatability
Authors: Hore Zoe Lee , Villa-Hernandez Sara , Denk Franziska
Published: March 2021

Background: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a disabling side effect of various chemotherapeutic agents, including oxaliplatin. It is highly prevalent amongst cancer patients, causing sensory abnormalities and pain. Unfortunately, as the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood, effective therapeutics are lacking. Neuro-immune interactions have been highlighted as potential contributors to the development and maintenance of CIPN, however, whether this is the case in oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy (OIPN) is yet to be fully established.

Methods: In this study we used flow cytometry to examine the peripheral immune response of male C57BL/6 mice following both single and repeated oxaliplatin administration. In animals exposed to repeated dosing, we also undertook mechanical and thermal behavioural assays to investigate how oxaliplatin alters phenotype, and conducted RT-qPCR experiments on bone marrow derived macrophages in order to further inspect the effects of oxaliplatin on immune cells.

Results: In contrast to other reports, we failed to observe substantial changes in overall leukocyte, lymphocyte or myeloid cell numbers in dorsal root ganglia, sciatic nerves or inguinal lymph nodes. We did however note subtle, tissue-dependant alterations in several myeloid subpopulations following repeated dosing. These included a significant reduction in MHCII antigen presenting cells in the sciatic nerve and an increase in infiltrating cell types into the inguinal lymph nodes. Though repeated oxaliplatin administration had a systemic effect, we were unable to detect a pain-like behavioural phenotype in response to either cold or mechanical stimuli. Consequently, we cannot comment on whether the observed myeloid changes are associated with OIPN.

Conclusions: Our discussion puts these results into the wider context of the field, advocating for greater transparency in reporting, alignment in experimental design and the introduction of more clinically relevant models. Only through joint concerted effort can we hope to increase our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of CIPN, including any immune contributions.
LIBRARY: EXPERIENCE OF WORKING IN REMOTE MODE
Authors: Bolitik Diana
Published: March 2021

The article discusses the experience of working with libraries in remote mode. The analysis of information posted on the websites of federal and central regional libraries showed that, having stopped accepting users in their premises, libraries continued to serve them remotely, through their official websites, social network accounts, and Internet platform channels
Subjectlessness in «Solitary Thoughts» by V.V. Rozanov as a Means of Expressing the Subjective
Authors: Demidova E. , Martynenko Yu.
Published: March 2021

The article examines the expression of subjectlessness in « Solitary Thoughts» by V.V. Rozanov, a work of an innovative language and genre form. The genre peculiarities of the work determine a significant number of one-part sentences that are used by the writer in the traditional language function. At the same time, the author's style is most characterized by the combination of different types of these sentences in one paragraph.

A very important function of these structures in the text is the stylistic function. The reception of anaphora is based on one-part sentences; expressive antonymy in their structure; on the basis of these constructions, a rhetorical question and a language game are built; an original and unexpected metaphor; examples of the author's word creation are also noted on the basis of one-part structures. This type of sentences is also used to create an ironic effect.

The methods of using one-piece structures reflect the uniqueness and originality of the artistic world of V.V. Rozanov. Subjectlessness acts as a means of expressing the intimate author's principle, deep personal experience, which has a mystical, metaphysical nature of «truly Russian, Russian element». On the basis of the explication of the leading compositional-speech dominants and the specifics of their linguistic embodiment at the syntactic level of the language, innovative fiction is represented in the work. This allows us to consider the work of V.V. Rozanov as a high example, which reflected the richest intellectual and emotional world of the author himself.
Health Management Mechanisms through Physical Culture: The Role of Learning and Human Behavior
Authors: Laamarti Yuliya
Published: March 2021

Physical health is the property of the body to provide a person's motor activity at a level adequate for the tasks of behavior and activity, in general. Health cannot be perceived by itself, it has meaning, significance, value, including measurable ones, only in relation to objective activity. And if we know the subject of activity, understand our place in its structure, have studied the requirement for the level of functional readiness, the nature of behavioral reactions, then the effectiveness of management is ensured.
Epatage as a Characteristic Feature of Digital Media
Authors: Zavadskaya Anastasiya
Published: March 2021

The article discusses the features of modern digital communication, which the author understands as social interaction of communicants aimed at informing the addressee and influencing him/her. Digital media genres have a set of features that allow them to be distinguished from many other media genres (intertextuality, hypertextuality, creolization). Competing with each other, the creators of digital texts try to make their texts more vivid, interesting, and memorable. It is for this purpose that many of them turn to such a phenomenon as outrage. After analyzing the texts of digital media (tweet reports, instagram texts and texts posted on the social network Facebook), the author concludes about the ways to create epatage at the lexical level. They included the use of reduced vocabulary, the use of words in a figurative meaning that is not fixed by explanatory dictionaries, the use of occasional and emotive vocabulary.
Studying the small-scale structure of a polarization jet during the April 20, 2018 geomagnetic storm
Authors: Sinevich Aleksandr , Chernyshov Aleksandr , Chugunin Dmitriy , Miloch W. , Mogilevsky Michael
Published: March 2021

In this work, we study the small-scale structure of a polarization jet in the subauroral region during the April 20, 2018 geomagnetic storm. We report measurement results of plasma parameters inside the polarization jet with a maximum sampling rate of up to 1 kHz, obtained with Langmuir probes installed on the NorSat-1 microsatellite. The study establishes the presence of temperature and electron density inhomogeneities inside the polarization jet with spatial dimensions of tens to hundreds of meters. The previously known features of the polarization jet evolution have been confirmed. We have also found that the distribution of the electron temperature inside the jet forms two separate peaks as the geomagnetic activity develops during the storm.
Statistical properties of auroral kilometer radiation: based on ERG (ARASE) satellite data
Authors: Kolpak Valeria , Mogilevsky Michael , Chugunin Dmitriy , Chernyshov Aleksandr , Moiseenko Irina , Kumamoto A. , Tsuchiya F. , Kasahara E. , Shoji M. , Mieshi E. , Shinohara I.
Published: March 2021

In this work, we have studied the signals of auroral kilometer radiation (AKR) from sources in the auroral regions of the Northern and Southern hemispheres simultaneously recorded by one satellite. We have carried out a detailed statistical analysis of more than 20 months of continuous AKR measurements made by the ERG satellite (also known as Arase). This made it possible to confirm the previously obtained results on the location of AKR sources and seasonal changes in the radiation intensity. Open questions about the processes in the AKR source can be solved using data on the radiation pattern under various geomagnetic conditions. To answer these questions, we have estimated the cone angle of directional diagrams in the dusk and dawn sectors of Earth’s magnetosphere.
Variation in COVID‐19 Mortality Across 117 US Hospitals in High‐ and Low‐Burden Settings
Authors: Block Brian L , Martin Thomas M , Boscardin W John , Covinsky Kenneth E , Mourad Michele , Hu Lissy L , Smith Alexander K
Published: March 2021

Some hospitals have faced a surge of patients with COVID‐19, while others have not. We assessed whether COVID‐19 burden (number of patients with COVID‐19 admitted during April 2020 divided by hospital certified bed count) was associated with mortality in a large sample of US hospitals. Our study population included 14,226 patients with COVID‐19 (median age 66 years, 45.2% women) at 117 hospitals, of whom 20.9% had died at 5 weeks of follow‐up. At the hospital level, the observed mortality ranged from 0% to 44.4%. After adjustment for age, sex, and comorbidities, the adjusted odds ratio for in‐hospital death in the highest quintile of burden was 1.46 (95% CI, 1.07‐2.00) compared to all other quintiles. Still, there was large variability in outcomes, even among hospitals with a similar level of COVID‐19 burden and after adjusting for age, sex, and comorbidities.
Phase retrieval using bidirectional interference
Authors: Pedrini Giancarlo , Claus Daniel
Published: March 2021

In this paper we describe a phase retrieval algorithm using constraints given by diffraction patterns and phase difference obtained from bidirectional interference. Wave propagation and linear phase ramps are used to connect the recordings. At least three patterns are recorded and processed (two diffraction patterns and one interference pattern). The quality of the results can be improved when recording and processing more patterns. The method works well with non-sparse samples and short (few millimeter) recording distances. Simulations, comparisons with other methods, and experimental validations are presented.
Coating-relevant properties of high-index optical polymers for automotive applications
Authors: Schulz Ulrike , Gratzke Nancy , Rickelt Friedrich , Hahmann Caroline , Seifert Tina , Gärtner Anne
Published: March 2021

High-transparent polymers exhibiting a refractive index beyond 1.6 enhance the available range of optical plastics. The aim of this study is to evaluate optical polyesters (OKP-1 and OKP-4) and special new polycarbonates (PCs) (EP-6000 and EP-8000) in comparison with the widely used poly-bisphenol-A-based PC. The work is focused on optical properties as well as other properties that are important for the deposition of optical coatings. Plasma ion-assisted deposition is used for the deposition of an abrasion resistant antireflective coating (AR-hard).
Complex process of image color correction: a test of a target-based framework
Authors: Simone Gabriele , Gaiani Marco , Ballabeni Andrea , Rizzi Alessandro
Published: March 2021

This paper aims at presenting the complexity of the process of image target-based color correction (CC). We present issues encountered from acquisition to rendering using colorimetric traditional tools. Target-based CC can be seen as an optimization problem. We have tested SAT and HUE adaptive fine tuning (SHAFT) an automated framework for target-based CC. A key element of SHAFT is an iterative CIEDE2000 variation comparison between a reference and target image. In this work we replace the standard CIEDE2000 with the Euclidean color-difference formula for small–medium color differences in log-compressed Optical Society of America’s Committee on Uniform Color Scales (OSA-UCS) space. Results are presented using both formulae. A discussion on the complexity of scene color departures and correction performances concludes the paper. The effect of real scene complexity is shown and how colors are subject to disordered shifts in the color space. Because of this complexity, the role of the CC method as a different color error minimizer emerges.