bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional orthosis versus cast immobilization for weightbearing stable Weber B ankle fractures with concomitant unstable gravity stress tests
Authors: Gregersen Martin G. , Justad-Berg Ragnhild T. , Gill Nicolaj E. Q. , Saatvedt Ola , Aas Lars K. , Molund Marius
Published: September 2023

Aims

Treatment of Weber B ankle fractures that are stable on weightbearing radiographs but unstable on concomitant stress tests (classified SER4a) is controversial. Recent studies indicate that these fractures should be treated nonoperatively, but no studies have compared alternative nonoperative options. This study aims to evaluate patient-reported outcomes and the safety of fracture treatment using functional orthosis versus cast immobilization.

Methods

A total of 110 patients with Weber B/SER4a ankle fractures will be randomized (1:1 ratio) to receive six weeks of functional orthosis treatment or cast immobilization with a two-year follow-up. The primary outcome is patient-reported ankle function and symptoms measured by the Manchester-Oxford Foot and Ankle Questionnaire (MOxFQ); secondary outcomes include Olerud-Molander Ankle Score, radiological evaluation of ankle congruence in weightbearing and gravity stress tests, and rates of treatment-related adverse events. The Regional Committee for Medical and Health Research (approval number 277693) has granted ethical approval, and the study is funded by South-Eastern Norway Regional Health Authority (grant number 2023014).

Discussion

Randomized controlled trials are needed to evaluate alternative nonoperative treatment options for Weber B/SER4a ankle fractures, as current clinical guidelines are based on biomechanical reasoning. The findings will be shared through publication in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at conferences.

Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(9):713–719.
Application of Artificial Neural Network Base Enhanced MLP Model for Scattering Parameter Prediction of Dual-band Helical Antenna
Authors: Uluslu Ahmet
Published: September 2023

Many design optimization problems have problems that seek fast, efficient and reliable based solutions. In such cases, artificial intelligence-based modeling is used to solve costly and complex problems. This study is based on the modeling of a multiband helical antenna using the Latin hypercube sampling (LHS) method using a reduced data enhanced multilayer perceptron (eMLP). The proposed helical antenna is dual-band and has resonance frequencies of 2.4 GHz and 2.75 GHz. The enhanced structure of the artificial neural network (ANN) was tested using 4 different training algorithms and a maximum of 10 different MLP architectures to determine the most suitable model in a simple and quick way. Then, performance comparison with other ANN networks was made to confirm the success of the model. Considering the high cost of antenna simulations, it is clear that the proposed model will save a lot of time. In addition, thanks to the selected sampling model, a wide range of modeling can be done with minimum data. When the target and prediction data are compared, it is seen that these data overlap to a large extent. As a result of the study, it was seen that the ANN modeling and the 125 samples used, were as accurate as an electromagnetic (EM) simulator for other input parameters in a wide range selected.
The Management of Pyromelic Polymelia in a Low-resource Setting: A Case Report
Authors: Konadu-Yeboah Dominic , Sobotie Johnny , Boadi Samuel Twene , Akomea-Agyin Ebenezer , Davor Anthony , Okrah Helena
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Polymelia is the presence of supernumerary limbs attached to a segment of the body. It occurs in about 6/10,000 live births with 1.1/10,000 cases involving the lower limbs. It has a heterogeneous pathogenesis including incomplete separation of monozygotic twins. Case Report: A 5-month-old baby with polymelia associated with ectopic right kidney, anorectal agenesis with a rectovaginal fistula, and right corneal opacity, delivered through cesarean section at 37 weeks, 3-day gestation to a 38-year-old mother. There were no known predisposing factors. Conclusion: In the management of polymelia, a thorough clinical and radiological assessment to identify additional anomalies is critical, and early surgical intervention is safe and optimizes survival. Keywords: Polymelia, pyromelia, APGAR score.
High quality stealth dicing of sapphire with a picosecond Bessel beam by controlling the polarization direction
Authors: Zhang Decheng , Yang Jianjun , Liu Jiaxuan , Shui Lingling , Pan Xinjian , Li Yuqian
Published: September 2023

Sapphire is an important substrate material in optoelectronic devices, and it is also widely used as a touch screen panel. In order to achieve high quality cutting of sapphire, the stealth dicing of 500 µm thick sapphire by a picosecond Bessel beam is studied in this paper. The influences of laser polarization direction and process parameters on cutting section roughness were studied. By controlling the laser polarization direction, different crack propagation morphologies were obtained. When the polarization direction was vertical to the cutting path, the crack propagation path was straighter, and the sapphire had better cutting quality. The laser processing parameters, including burst mode, hole spacing, and pulse energy, had a significant impact on the cutting section roughness. When the polarization direction was vertical to the cutting path under the optimal process parameters, the cutting section was uniform and flat, with no recondensable particles, no ripples, and no chamfer, and an 89.7 nm average roughness of the cutting section could be obtained.
Modulation transfer function formula for different age ranges
Authors: Sánchez Roberto F. , Puertas Francisco J. , Issolio Luis A.
Published: September 2023

The modulation transfer function (MTF) is one of the most complete tools to study the optical performance of the eye. We present the average radial MTF profiles measured in 68 subjects grouped in six age ranges (from 20 to 80 years) and a general formula to estimate the radial profile of human MTF as a function of pupil size and age. The mean MTF for each age group was fitted to an analytical expression to compute two parameters related to aging. The proposed formula fitted reasonably well to experimental data available in previous works and predicted the average changes with aging of different optical quality parameters obtained from MTF.
Micromotion compensation of trapped ions by qubit transition and direct scanning of dc voltages
Authors: Lee Woojun , Chung Daun , Kang Jiyong , Jeon Honggi , Jung Changhyun , Cho Dong-Il Dan , Kim Taehyun
Published: September 2023

Excess micromotion is detrimental to accurate qubit control of trapped ions, thus measuring and minimizing it is crucial. In this paper, we present a simple approach for measuring and suppressing excess micromotion of trapped ions by leveraging the existing laser-driven qubit transition scheme combined with direct scanning of dc voltages. The compensation voltage is deduced by analyzing the Bessel expansion of a scanned qubit transition rate. The method provides a fair level of sensitivity for practical quantum computing applications, while demanding minimal deviation of trap condition. By accomplishing compensation of excess micromotion in the qubit momentum-excitation direction, the scheme offers an additional avenue for excess micromotion compensation, complementing existing compensation schemes.
Nonreciprocal coupling modulated difference-sideband generation in a double-cavity optomechanical system
Authors: Yang Lin , Mao Mian , Kong Cui , Liu Jibing
Published: September 2023

We theoretically study the difference-sideband generation in a double-cavity optomechanical system with nonreciprocal coupling. Beyond the conventional linearized description of optomechanical interactions, we derive analytical expressions for the efficiency of difference-sideband generation by using a perturbation method. Here we investigate bistable behaviors of the system and show the difference-sideband generation modulated by the nonreciprocal coupling strength between the two cavities. We find that the nonreciprocal coupling strength can not only affect the bistability of the system but also lead to different efficiencies of difference-sideband generation at low power. To achieve high efficiency of difference-sideband generation, we give the optimal matching conditions under different parameter mechanisms. Especially as the power increases, we find new matching conditions with remarkable difference-sideband generation emerging, which is attribute to the strong coherence between the cavity field and the mechanical oscillator. Furthermore, a feasible scheme to obtain difference-sideband generation by employing multiple adjustable variables is proposed. Our results may find applications in nonreciprocal optical frequency combs and communications, and provide a potential method for precision measurements and on-chip manipulation of light transmission.
Nanometer flat blazed x-ray gratings using ion beam figure correction
Authors: Voronov D. L. , Wang T. , Park S. , Huang L. , Gullikson E. M. , Salmassi F. , Austin C. , Padmore H. A. , Idir M.
Published: September 2023

With the development of nanometer accuracy stitching interferometry, ion beam figuring (IBF) of x-ray mirrors can now be achieved with unprecedented performance. However, the process of producing x-ray diffraction gratings on these surfaces may degrade the figure quality due to process errors introduced during the ruling of the grating grooves. To address this challenge, we have investigated the post-production correction of gratings using IBF, where stitching interferometry is used to provide in-process feedback. A concern with ion beam correction in this case is that ions will induce enough surface mobility of atoms to cause smoothing of the grating structure and degradation of diffraction efficiency. In this study we found however that it is possible to achieve a nanometer-level planarity of the global grating surface with IBF, while preserving the grating structure. The preservation was so good, that we could not detect a change in the diffraction efficiency after ion beam correction. This is of major importance in achieving ultra-high spectral resolution, and the preservation of brightness for coherent x-ray beams.
Flexible multicolor biaxial sensor for strain direction identification based on sandwich-structured mechanoluminescent materials
Authors: Niu Quanwang , Yu Junwen , Wang Xiangfu , Yan Xiaohong
Published: September 2023

Strain sensors capable of recognizing the direction of strain are crucial in applications such as robot attitude adjustment and detection of strain states in complex structures. In this study, a sandwich-structured flexible biaxial strain sensor was developed using polydimethylsiloxane as the substrate, mechanoluminescent materials as the luminescent elements, and rubber-ink as the light-blocking layer. By correlating the emitted light color with the stretching state, precise identification of the applied strain direction is achieved. Additionally, the mechanoluminescence of the sensor is collected by a photodiode, generating photocurrent that can be analyzed. This provides a solution for practical applications of sensor.
Distributed and polarimetric pressure sensitivity in spun highly birefringent optical fibers
Authors: Bernaś Marta , Chmielowski Przemysław , Garbacka Małgorzata , Mergo Paweł , Statkiewicz-Barabach Gabriela
Published: September 2023

We examine experimentally the influence of the fiber inelastic twist on polarimetric sensitivity to hydrostatic pressure and pressure sensitivity in a Rayleigh-scattering-based optical frequency-domain reflectometer (OFDR) for highly birefringent side-hole fibers. The fibers were drawn from the same preform with different spin pitches varying from 5 mm to 200 mm. We also demonstrate that the sensitivities of spun fiber can be estimated analytically based on its spin pitch, measured birefringence, and the sensitivity of the corresponding non-twisted fiber, showing good agreement with the experimental results. We proved that polarimetric sensitivity to pressure decreases with the shorter spin pitches, while distributed pressure sensitivity decreases for the one polarization eigenmode and increases for the second polarization eigenmode. Therefore, the spun-fibers can operate well as the polarimetric sensors of other physical parameters inducing circular birefringence even under varying pressure. Moreover, they can be used to obtain the desired difference between sensitivities for both polarization eigenmodes
Simultaneous three-dimensional deformation measurement using tri-wavelength and monochrome camera imaging with a pyramid prism
Authors: Yang Boshuo , Wu Minyang , Ma Yinhang , Jiang Hanyang , Yang Fujun
Published: September 2023

What we believe to be a new electronic speckle pattern interferometry (ESPI) configuration is being developed for simultaneous three-dimensional deformation measurements. In this ESPI system, two pairs of symmetrical illuminating arrangement with dual-wavelength lights were used to independently sense two in-plane deformation components, one Michelson interferometer-based set illuminating with the other wavelength light was utilized to measure out-of-plane deformation. The color speckle interferogram was split into four sub-patterns by a prism, three of them were filtered by three different bandpass dichroic filters and recorded by one monochrome camera. Micro-rotation testing work firstly verifies the validation of the proposed phase-shifting device. Three-dimensional deformation information was simultaneous obtained by using temporal phase-shift method. All strain components related to the specimen surface deformation were further determined by numerical differential. The experimental results of a tested specimen were excellently consistent with those of FEM simulation, which verified the validation and feasibility of the proposed ESPI system for measuring 3D deformation.
Temperature-insensitive FDL-stabilized laser using a PMF-based dual interferometer
Authors: Huang Yafeng , Fang Su , Wang Lingke , Hu Di , Li Ming , Ye Meifeng , Wang Yating , Chen Yinnan , Liu Liang , Li Tang
Published: September 2023

We demonstrate a temperature-insensitive fiber-delay-line-stabilized (FDL-stabilized) laser based on a dual Mach–Zehnder interferometer (MZI) by using polarization maintaining fibers (PMFs). Two orthogonal polarization components of a beam are simultaneously transmitted in the interferometer. Each polarization component exhibits a unique phase shift in response to the changes in temperature, forming a dual MZI. One of the heterodyne signals is used to lock the laser frequency, while the other one is used to compensate the frequency change induced by the temperature fluctuation. The experiment shows that the laser frequency fluctuation has been suppressed at least 25 times. This is an effective method to reduce the laser frequency noise induced by the temperature fluctuation of the FDL. In this way, a compact system with less thermal shields can be realized, and the thermal equilibrium time could be decreased dramatically.
Open source, heterogeneous, nonlinear optics simulation
Authors: Karpowicz Nicholas
Published: September 2023

The spatio-temporal evolution of a laser field taking part in a nonlinear optical interaction can be challenging to simulate, yet forms the basis for many experiments in ultrafast optics. To allow better insight into these phenomena, a program for nonlinear optics simulations is described, which can run on multiple hardware platforms, and is performant and open source. It was designed to deal with a number of complex problems in light-matter interaction accurately and reproducibly. The open source code allows for extensive cross-checking of its results by other researchers and growth of its capabilities over time, as well as serving to make the simulations associated with ultrafast experiments more broadly reproducible.
Vaccination against microbiota motility protects mice from the detrimental impact of dietary emulsifier consumption
Authors: Kordahi Melissa C. , Delaroque Clara , Bredèche Marie-Florence , Gewirtz Andrew T. , Chassaing Benoit
Published: September 2023

Dietary emulsifiers, including carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) and polysorbate 80 (P80), perturb gut microbiota composition and gene expression, resulting in a microbiota with enhanced capacity to activate host pro-inflammatory gene expression and invade the intestine’s inner mucus layer. Such microbiota alterations promote intestinal inflammation, which can have a variety of phenotypic consequences including increased adiposity. Bacterial flagellin is a key mediator of emulsifiers’ impact in that this molecule enables motility and is itself a pro-inflammatory agonist. Hence, we reasoned that training the adaptive mucosal immune system to exclude microbes that express flagellin might protect against emulsifiers. Investigating this notion found that immunizing mice with flagellin elicited an increase in mucosal anti-flagellin IgA and IgA-coated microbiota that would have otherwise developed in response to CMC and P80 consumption. Yet, eliciting these responses in advance via flagellin immunization prevented CMC/P80-induced increases in microbiota expression of pro-inflammatory agonists including LPS and flagellin. Furthermore, such immunization prevented CMC/P80-induced microbiota encroachment and deleterious pro-inflammatory consequences associated therewith, including colon shortening and increased adiposity. Hence, eliciting mucosal immune responses to pathobiont surface components, including flagellin, may be a means of combatting the array of inflammatory diseases that are promoted by emulsifiers and perhaps other modern microbiota stressors.
Phylogenetic relationships of the woodlouse flies (Diptera: Rhinophorinae) and the cluster flies (Diptera: Polleniidae)
Authors: Gisondi Silvia , Buenaventura Eliana , Jensen Arn Rytter , Stireman John O. , Nihei Silvio S. , Pape Thomas , Cerretti Pierfilippo
Published: September 2023

Phylogenetic relationships within the oestroid subclades Rhinophorinae (Calliphoridae) and Polleniidae were reconstructed for the first time, applying a Sanger sequencing approach using the two protein-coding nuclear markers CAD (carbamoyl-phosphate synthetase 2, aspartate transcarbamylase, and dihydroorotase; 1794 bp) and MCS (molybdenum cofactor sulfurase; 2078 bp). Three genera of Polleniidae and nineteen genera of Rhinophorinae were analyzed together with a selection of taxa representing the major lineages of Oestroidea (non-rhinophorine Calliphoridae, Oestridae, Sarcophagidae, Tachinidae). The selected markers provide good resolution and moderate to strong support of the distal branches, but weak support for several deeper nodes. Polleniidae (cluster flies) emerge as monophyletic and their sister-group relationship to Tachinidae is confirmed.MoriniaRobineau-Desvoidy as currently circumscribed emerges as paraphyletic with regard toMelanodexiaWilliston, andPolleniaRobineau-Desvoidy is the sister taxon of theMorinia–Melanodexiaclade. We propose a classification with two subfamilies, Moriniinae Townsend (includingMorinia,Melanodexia, andAlvamajaRognes), and Polleniinae Brauer & Bergenstamm (includingPollenia,DexopolleniaTownsend, andXanthotryxusAldrich).AnthracomyzaMalloch andNesodexiaVilleneuve are considered as Oestroideaincertae sedispending further study. Rhinophorinae (woodlouse flies) emerge as monophyletic and sister to a clade composed of (Ameniinae + (Ameniinae + Phumosiinae)), and a tribal classification is proposed with the subfamily divided into Rhinophorini Robineau-Desvoidy, 1863 and Phytonini Robineau-Desvoidy, 1863 (theStevenia-group and thePhyto-group of authors, respectively).OxytachinaBrauer & Bergenstamm, 1891,stat. rev.is resurrected to contain nine Afrotropical rhinophorine species currently assigned to genusRhinomoriniaBrauer & Bergenstamm, 1891:Oxytachina approximata(Crosskey, 1977)comb. nov.,O.atra(Bischof, 1904)comb. nov.,O.bisetosa(Crosskey, 1977)comb. nov.,O.capensis(Brauer & Bergenstamm, 1893)comb. nov.,O.scutellata(Crosskey, 1977)comb. nov.,O.setitibia(Crosskey, 1977)comb. nov.,O.verticalis(Crosskey, 1977)comb. nov.,O.vittataBrauer & Bergenstamm, 1891, andO.xanthocephala(Bezzi, 1908)comb. nov.
National screening for developmental delays and their determinants among Egyptian school age children: A step towards implementing life skills programs
Authors: Metwally Ammal M. , Nassar Maysa S. , Salah El-Din Ebtissam M. , Abdallah Ali M. , Khadr Zeinab , Abouelnaga Marwa W. , Ashaat Engy A. , El-Saied Mostafa M. , Elwan Ahmed M. , Bassiouni Randa I. , Monir Zeinab M. , Badawy Hala Y. , Dewdar Eman M. , El-Hariri Hazem M. , Aboulghate Ahmed , Hanna Carine , Rabah Thanaa M. , Mohsen Amira , Elabd Mona A.
Published: September 2023

Aim

This study aimed to estimate the national prevalence of developmental delays (DDs) and their determinants among Egyptian children aged 6 to 12 years. Such estimation is a prerequisite step toward the application of Life Skill Education (LSE) programs that will potentiate children’s future capabilities.

Methods

Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales” was used as a reliable and diagnostic test for DDs screening during this national cross sectional study. Gross motor (GM), fine motor (FM), daily living skills, communication, and socialization skills were assessed. The multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with DDs. The Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with a 95% Confidence Interval was estimated to indicate the strength of association. A p-value of <0.05 was used to declare statistical significance.

Results

Out of the 20324 surveyed school-aged children, 7.4% were found to have at least one delay. Communication deficits were the most common (6.4%) followed by delay in daily living skills (2.0%). The final model of logistic regression had a good fit for seven variables out of the sociodemographic, epidemiological characteristics, maternal and perinatal problems that were associated with a higher likelihood of at least one DD: Children suffering from any convulsions (AOR = 4.32; 95% CI: 3.18–5.88), male gender (AOR = 1.86; 95% CI: 1.65–2.09), birth weight less than 2.5 kg (AOR = 1.77; 95% CI: 1.40–2.24), history of maternal health problem during pregnancy (AOR = 1.64; 95% CI:1.34–2.01), children staying in an incubator for more than two days (AOR = 1.57, 95% CI: 1.29–1.91), having less educated fathers (AOR = 1.55, 95% CI: 1.24–1.95) and belonging to the middle social class (AOR = 1.40, 95% CI: 1.24–1.58).

Conclusion

The identified types and determinants for each DD are allowing for the implementation of tailored programs for school children’s life skills promotion for achieving the most sustainable effects on children’s biological and psychological health and well-being.
Development of a novel in vitro model to study the modulatory role of the respiratory complex I in macrophage effector functions
Authors: Serrano-Lorenzo Pablo , Gobelli Dino , Garrido-Moraga Rocío , Esteban-Amo María J. , López-López José R. , Orduña Antonio , de la Fuente Miguel A. , Martín Miguel A. , Simarro María
Published: September 2023

Increasing evidence demonstrate that the electron transfer chain plays a critical role in controlling the effector functions of macrophages. In this work, we have generated a Ndufs4−/− murine macrophage cell lines. The Ndufs4 gene, which encodes a supernumerary subunit of complex I, is a mutational hotspot in Leigh syndrome patients. Ndufs4−/− macrophages showed decreased complex I activity, altered complex I assembly, and lower levels of maximal respiration and ATP production. These mitochondrial respiration alterations were associated with a shift towards a pro-inflammatory cytokine profile after lipopolysaccharide challenge and improved ability to phagocytose Gram-negative bacteria.
Prevalence and risk factors of possible sarcopenia in patients with subacute stroke
Authors: Kim Yeo Hyung , Choi Young-Ah
Published: September 2023

Possible sarcopenia, the loss of handgrip strength in the older population, can lead to poor functional prognosis after stroke. In this retrospective study, we aimed to elucidate the clinical risk factors for possible sarcopenia at discharge in 152 hospitalized patients with subacute stroke. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the risk factors associated with possible sarcopenia. At the time of discharge, the prevalence of possible sarcopenia was 68.4%. After adjusting for all potential covariates, older age (odds ratio [OR], 1.10; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.00–1.21; p = 0.04), tube-dependent feeding (OR, 6.66; 95% CI, 1.11–39.84; p = 0.04), and high National Institute of Health Stroke Scale scores (OR, 1.20; 95% CI, 1.00–1.44; p = 0.04) were associated with a higher likelihood of possible sarcopenia at discharge. Higher nonhemiplegic calf circumference (OR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.67–0.96; p = 0.02) was associated with a lower likelihood of possible sarcopenia. We conclude that tube feeding, high stroke severity, decreased nonhemiplegic calf circumference, and older age are independent risk factors for possible sarcopenia in patients with subacute stroke.
Shotgun metagenomics captures more microbial diversity than targeted 16S rRNA gene sequencing for field specimens and preserved museum specimens
Authors: Madison Joseph D. , LaBumbard Brandon C. , Woodhams Douglas C.
Published: September 2023

The use of museum specimens for research in microbial evolutionary ecology remains an under-utilized investigative dimension with important potential. Despite this potential, there remain barriers in methodology and analysis to the wide-spread adoption of museum specimens for such studies. Here, we hypothesized that there would be significant differences in taxonomic prediction and related diversity among sample type (museum or fresh) and sequencing strategy (medium-depth shotgun metagenomic or 16S rRNA gene). We found dramatically higher predicted diversity from shotgun metagenomics when compared to 16S rRNA gene sequencing in museum and fresh samples, with this differential being larger in museum specimens. Broadly confirming these hypotheses, the highest diversity found in fresh samples was with shotgun sequencing using the Rep200 reference inclusive of viruses and microeukaryotes, followed by the WoL reference database. In museum-specimens, community diversity metrics also differed significantly between sequencing strategies, with the alpha-diversity ACE differential being significantly greater than the same comparisons made for fresh specimens. Beta diversity results were more variable, with significance dependent on reference databases used. Taken together, these findings demonstrate important differences in diversity results and prompt important considerations for future experiments and downstream analyses aiming to incorporate microbiome datasets from museum specimens.
EquiPrEP: An implementation science protocol for promoting equitable access and uptake of long-acting injectable HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (LAI-PrEP)
Authors: Kaul Christina M. , Moore Brandi E. , Kaplan-Lewis Emma , Casey Eunice , Pitts Robert A. , Pagan Pirallo Patricia , Lim Sahnah , Kapadia Farzana , Cohen Gabriel M. , Khan Maria , Mgbako Ofole
Published: September 2023

Background

Long-acting injectable HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (LAI-PrEP) was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in December 2021. This initial phase of implementation represents a prime opportunity to ensure equitable LAI-PrEP provision to communities often underrepresented in PrEP care before disparities in access and uptake emerge. Herein, we describe the EquiPrEP Project which utilizes an equity-oriented implementation science framework to optimize LAI-PrEP rollout in an urban safety-net clinic in New York City.

Methods

The primary objectives of this project are to: (1) increase LAI-PrEP initiation overall; (2) increase uptake among groups disproportionately impacted by the HIV epidemic; (3) preserve high PrEP retention while expanding use; and (4) identify barriers and facilitators to LAI-PrEP use. EquiPrEP will enroll 210 PrEP-eligible participants into LAI-PrEP care with planned follow-up for one year. We will recruit from the following priority populations: Black and/or Latine men who have sex with men, Black and/or Latine cisgender women, and transgender women and nonbinary individuals. To evaluate implementation of LAI-PrEP, we will utilize equity-focused iterations of the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework and the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), in addition to longitudinal surveys and qualitative interviews.

Discussion

Novel LAI-PrEP formulations carry tremendous potential to revolutionize the field of HIV prevention. Implementation strategies rooted in equity are needed to ensure that marginalized populations have access to LAI-PrEP and to address the structural factors that hinder initiation and retention in care.
Assessing social needs among patients with cardiovascular and psychiatric comorbidities in free community health clinics
Authors: Haddad David , Jasty Venkata Sai , Ref Jacob , Hsu Paul , Lebensohn Patricia , Tan Tze-Woei
Published: September 2023

Background

Community-related health assessments have been shown to improve several outcomes in socioeconomically disadvantaged populations with comorbid chronic health conditions. However, while it is recognized that modifiable social determinant of health (SDH) factors might be responsible for up to 60% of preventable deaths, it is not yet standard of care to routinely screen and address these at preventive health appointments. The objective of this study was to identify the social needs of socioeconomically disadvantaged patients.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of the socioeconomic screening questionnaires distributed to under- and uninsured patients seen at a medical student-run free primary care-based community clinic. This study included participants of all ages (0 and up), genders, languages, and ethnicities who filled out the social screening questionnaire. Socioeconomic screening questionnaires assessed the need for critical resources such as food, housing, utilities, finances, transportation, childcare, employment, education, legal support, companionship, health literacy, and community assistance. The primary study outcome was to identify unmet social needs of our medical student-run free clinic patients. We secondarily sought to identify associations between these needs and chronic health conditions. We hypothesized that patients with multiple chronic health problems and financial stressors would have the highest requests for resources.

Results

Our retrospective review identified 264 uninsured participants who were evaluated for social needs using a screening questionnaire. Participants who reported unmet social needs had significantly more cardiovascular risk factors than those who did not. Cardiovascular comorbidities and a history of psychiatric illness were the two most common medical problems significantly associated with several unmet social needs.

Conclusion

This study provides support for the preemptive identification and appropriate management of physical, mental, and social care to improve disproportionate disparities in long-term health outcomes.
Comprehensive transcriptomic analysis of long non-coding RNAs in bovine ovarian follicles and early embryos
Authors: Wang Pengmin , Paquet Éric R. , Robert Claude
Published: September 2023

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been the subject of numerous studies over the past decade. First thought to come from aberrant transcriptional events, lncRNAs are now considered a crucial component of the genome with roles in multiple cellular functions. However, the functional annotation and characterization of bovine lncRNAs during early development remain limited. In this comprehensive analysis, we review lncRNAs expression in bovine ovarian follicles and early embryos, based on a unique database comprising 468 microarray hybridizations from a single platform designed to target 7,724 lncRNA transcripts, of which 5,272 are intergenic (lincRNA), 958 are intronic, and 1,524 are antisense (lncNAT). Compared to translated mRNA, lncRNAs have been shown to be more tissue-specific and expressed in low copy numbers. This analysis revealed that protein-coding genes and lncRNAs are both expressed more in oocytes. Differences between the oocyte and the 2-cell embryo are also more apparent in terms of lncRNAs than mRNAs. Co-expression network analysis using WGCNA generated 25 modules with differing proportions of lncRNAs. The modules exhibiting a higher proportion of lncRNAs were found to be associated with fewer annotated mRNAs and housekeeping functions. Functional annotation of co-expressed mRNAs allowed attribution of lncRNAs to a wide array of key cellular events such as meiosis, translation initiation, immune response, and mitochondrial related functions. We thus provide evidence that lncRNAs play diverse physiological roles that are tissue-specific and associated with key cellular functions alongside mRNAs in bovine ovarian follicles and early embryos. This contributes to add lncRNAs as active molecules in the complex regulatory networks driving folliculogenesis, oogenesis and early embryogenesis all of which are necessary for reproductive success.
A hypernetwork-based urn model for explaining collective dynamics
Authors: Lu Jiali , Du Haifeng , He Xiaochen
Published: September 2023

The topological characterization of complex systems has significantly contributed to our understanding of the principles of collective dynamics. However, the representation of general complex networks is not enough for explaining certain problems, such as collective actions. Considering the effectiveness of hypernetworks on modeling real-world complex networks, in this paper, we proposed a hypernetwork-based Pólya urn model that considers the effect of group identity. The mathematical deduction and simulation experiments show that social influence provides a strong imitation environment for individuals, which can prevent the dynamics from being self-correcting. Additionally, the unpredictability of the social system increases with growing social influence, and the effect of group identity can moderate market inequality caused by individual preference and social influence. The present work provides a modeling basis for a better understanding of the logic of collective dynamics.
Formação de professores de inglês em contexto extensionista
Authors: Mandarino Silva Nayara Stefanie , Nascimento Ana Karina de Oliveira
Published: September 2023

Estudantes de licenciatura no Brasil têm focado, em seus cursos, nas disciplinas da graduação. Alguns desenvolvem pesquisas, outros participam em atividades de extensão ofertadas. Porém, poucos atuam na extensão preparando e desenvolvendo a sua oferta para a comunidade externa. Poucos também são os trabalhos que registram práticas de pesquisa nesse contexto extensionista. Levando em conta essa lacuna é que o presente artigo, cujo foco está em cursos de formação de professores de inglês, objetiva discutir alguns dos efeitos da formação docente que se dá em contexto extensionista. Trata-se de um trabalho autoetnográfico de pesquisa no qual as duas autoras refletem sobre aprendizados proporcionados pela experiência extensionista, a partir de olhares decoloniais em diálogo com os estudos de letramentos. Os resultados apontam para uma formação de professores de inglês mais ampla e conectada com o fazer docente, quando atividades extensionistas são parte da formação docente.
PERLINDUNGAN PEMEGANG SAHAM MINORITAS PADA PENGECUALIAN PENAWARAN TENDER WAJIB PT BANK AGRIS TBK
Authors: Kaplan Herbert
Published: September 2023

Penulisan ini akan membahas mengenai perlindungan pemegang saham minoritas PT Bank Agris Tbk dengan adanya pengecualian penawaran tender wajib yang wajib dilakukan oleh Industrial Bank of Korea selaku pihak yang mengambil alih perusahaan terbuka. Keberadaan pengecualian dilakukannya penawaran tender wajib menghilangkan kesempatan pemegang saham minoritas PT Bank Agris Tbk agar saham yang mereka miliki dibeli oleh pengendali baru dengan harga yang sama dengan harga pengambilalihan atau harga yang lebih tinggi. Atas dasar tersebut, bagaimana perlindungan hukum pemegang saham minoritas PT Bank Agris Tbk atas adanya pengecualian penawaran tender wajib dan bagaimana langkah yang dapat diambil oleh pemegang saham minoritas PT Bank Agris Tbk agar dapat menjual sahamnya dengan harga yang sama dengan harga pengambilalihan akan dibahas lebih lanjut dalam Penulisan ini. Penulisan ini menggunakan penelitian doktrinal dengan tujuan untuk meneliti dan menganalisis bagaimana perlindungan hukum dan langkah yang dapat diambil oleh pemegang saham minoritas PT Bank Agris Tbk atas pengecualian penawaran tender wajib. Dengan adanya pengecualian penawaran tender wajib, pemegang saham minoritas PT Bank Agris Tbk tidak memperoleh perlindungan hukum yang timbul dari kewajiban penawaran tender wajib. Pemegang saham minoritas PT Bank Agris Tbk dapat menjual saham yang mereka miliki melalui pasar sekunder di PT Bursa Efek Indonesia atau melalui mekanisme pembelian kembali saham.
A sex-specific association of leukocyte telomere length with thigh muscle mass
Authors: Hassler Eva Maria , Almer Gunter , Reishofer Gernot , Deutschmann Hannes , Mangge Harald , Herrmann Markus , Leber Stefan L. , Gunzer Felix , Langsenlehner Tanja , Renner Wilfried
Published: September 2023

Objectives

Telomeres are DNA–protein complexes at the ends of linear chromosomes that protect against DNA degradation. Telomeres shorten during normal cell divisions and therefore, telomere length is an indicator of mitotic-cell age. In humans, telomere shortening is a potential biomarker for disease risk, progression and premature death. Physical activity has been associated with longer leukocyte telomere length (LTL) in some studies. In the current study the relationship between LTL, thigh muscle mass and adipose tissue distribution was explored.

Methods

We performed anthropometric measurements and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measurements of the thigh in 149 healthy subjects (77 male, 72 female). LTL was measured using qPCR. Additionally, the subjects answered a questionnaire concerning their training behaviour.

Results

In male subjects, LTL was significantly associated with thigh muscle mass, independent of age and body mass index (p=0.006). In addition, a slight association of LTL with weekly endurance units in the male group was found. These relations could not be observed in females.

Conclusions

In conclusion, we observed a sex-specific association of LTL and thigh muscle mass in healthy males. The reason of this sex-specific association is currently unclear, but could be related to different training effects and/or hormonal pathways in men and women.
Antioxidant, antidiabetic, antiglaucoma, and anticholinergic effects of Tayfi grape (Vitis vinifera): A phytochemical screening by LC-MS/MS analysis
Authors: Karageçili Hasan , İzol Ebubekir , Kireçci Ekrem , Gülçin İlhami
Published: September 2023

Grapes (Vitis vinifera), grape extracts, and grape products are known to possess beneficial effects. Antioxidant activity and enzyme inhibition activities of Tayfi grape (Vitis vinifera) extracts were studied and compared to standards. The IC50 values of the ethanol extract of the Tayfi grape’s scavenging abilities for ABTS˙+ and DPPH˙ radicals were found to be 5.9 and 16.1 μg/mL, respectively, higher than those of positive controls. Also, the phenolic and flavonoid ingredients of the Tayfi grape seed ethanol extract were measured to be 82.8 mg GAE/g and 91 mg QE/g. The Tayfi grape seed water and ethanol extracts exhibited IC50 values of 5.3 and 5.8 μg/mL toward α-glycosidase, respectively; 385.2 and 567.6 μg/mL toward α-amylase; 27.1 and 13.8 μg/mL toward acetylcholinesterase (AChE); and 54.7 and 12.6 μg/mL toward CA II. Twenty-two biomolecules were detected by LC-MS/MS. The four types of conventional antibiotics utilized by hospitals proved ineffective against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli bacteria. The Tayfi grape ethanol and water extracts had high AChE, α-glycosidase, and CA II inhibitions in addition to having antioxidant activity. The use of Tayfi grape extracts for pharmacological purposes in individuals with the diseases mentioned above can be sustained by clinical pharmacology studies.
An improved method for monitoring the junction temperature of 1200V / 50A IGBT modules used in power conversion systems
Authors: Lamuadni Badredine , Ouabida Elhoussaine , Malki Mounia , Zejli Driss , El Bouayadi Rachid
Published: September 2023

Insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) is one of the most used devices for high-power-density and high-voltage applications such as wind turbines, electric vehicles, and smart grids. However, the field of IGBT research is still in its infancy owing to the failures that can happen to the module due to its temperature rise. Hence, the junction temperature T
j measurement of the active region is essential for analyzing and predicting the degradation state of the IGBT device. In this paper, an overall study, including uses of the governing thermal equation to estimate the junction temperature T
j, experimental analysis of the IGBT component during operation, and a numerical finite element (FE) study, was conducted. The thermal management FE model is conducted to predict temperature variation along time and heat spreading inside the IGBT layers. To investigate the material’s properties and structure change during operation impacting the junction temperature, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy X-ray dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) were performed on the IGBT power module. Results were used to interpret the difference between the experimental and the predicted temperature values. For effectiveness validation purposes, results obtained from the proposed FE model are compared with the results of the experimental thermo-sensitive electrical parameters (TSEP) method. Good agreement was found between the experiment and the proposed FE model.
The effect of collaborative prewriting on L2 collaborative writing production and individual L2 writing development
Authors: Hsu Hsiu-Chen
Published: September 2023

This study investigates the effect of collaborative prewriting on L2 collaborative writing production and individual L2 writing development. The participants were 51 university EFL students from two English composition classes. One class (n = 26) was the collaborative prewriting (CP) group, and the other was the non-collaborative prewriting (NCP) group (n = 25). Both groups participated in individual pre- and post-test writing and two collaborative expository essay writing tasks via Google Docs. The CP group engaged in collaborative prewriting before the collaborative writing tasks, whereas the NCP group did not. Learners’ pre- and post-test writing was evaluated for content quality, organization, linguistic complexity, and accuracy. Learner collaboration was analyzed for reflective versus non-reflective content-, organization-, and language-related episodes (CREs, OREs, LREs). LREs were further analyzed for resolution. The results showed that the learners who were engaged in collaborative prewriting produced collaborative expository essays with better content quality and organization, and made greater improvement in the content quality and organization of individual L2 writing. The findings were discussed in relation to the CREs, OREs, and LREs produced during collaborative prewriting and writing processes.
Enrichment of nano delivery platforms for mRNA-based nanotherapeutics
Authors: Liu Xiao , Zhang Xu , Li Jiulong , Meng Huan
Published: September 2023

Lipid-based nanoparticles (LNP) have shown significant progress in delivering mRNA for therapeutics, particularly with the success of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines. However, there are still challenges, such as organ-specific targeting, sustained protein expression, immunogenicity, and storage that need to be addressed. Therefore, there is interest in developing additional nano drug delivery systems (DDS) to complement LNP technology. Some of these include polymer, lipid-polymer hybrid, organic/inorganic hybrid nanostructure, and inorganic nanoparticle. In our opinion, LNP technology may not be suitable for every disease scenario in categories such as infection disease, cancer, pulmonary disease, autoimmune disorders and genetic rare disease (among others). This is because different diseases may require distinct administration routes, doses, and treatment durations, as well as considerations for biological barriers that may lower the efficacy and/or exert safety concern. In this perspective, we will highlight the need and potential for enhancing the diversity of nano delivery platforms for mRNA-based nanotherapeutics.
Iron oxide nanoparticles in magnetic drug targeting and ferroptosis-based cancer therapy
Authors: Shubhra Quazi T. H.
Published: September 2023

Iron oxide (IO) nanoparticles (NPs) have gained significant attention in the field of biomedicine, particularly in drug targeting and cancer therapy. Their potential in magnetic drug targeting (MDT) and ferroptosis-based cancer therapy is highly promising. IO NPs serve as an effective drug delivery system (DDS), utilizing external magnetic fields (EMFs) to target cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy organs. Additionally, IO NPs can generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) and induce ferroptosis, resulting in cytotoxic effects on cancer cells. This article explores how IO NPs can potentially revolutionize cancer research, focusing on their applications in MDT and ferroptosis-based therapy.
Comparison between laser and TIG welding of electron beam melted Ti6Al4V parts
Authors: Sen Murat , Kurt Mustafa
Published: September 2023

A large number of metal parts specific to the aviation, energy, and biomedical industries are produced by the electron beam melting (EBM) method, which is one of the powder bed additive manufacturing techniques. The limited build volume of EBM machines does not allow the production of parts in the desired dimensions. One way to overcome this limitation is to weld small size additive manufactured parts. In this study, EBMed Ti6Al4V tensile specimens were joined by laser (LBW) and tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding. Welding morphologies, microstructures, and mechanical properties of joints were investigated. The main defects in the samples are pore formation and insufficient penetration. The weld zones of TIG samples contain a higher amount of pores than laser samples, and these pores are distributed over the entire area of the weld. The pores are less than 200 µm in diameter. TIG welded samples exhibited higher mechanical properties than laser welded samples. The highest microhardness was measured in the weld zone. Microhardness of laser welded samples are higher than TIG welded samples. While the welding regions of TIG welded samples consist of coarse and acicular α and α + β structures, laser welded samples consist of thin and acicular α′ structure.