bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Angularly resolved polarization microscopy for birefringent materials with Fourier ptychography
Authors: Baroni Arthur , Bouchama Lyes , Dorizzi Bernadette , Gottesman Yaneck
Published: August 2022

Polarization light microscopy is a very popular approach for structural imaging in optics. So far these methods mainly probe the sample at a fixed angle of illumination. They are consequently only sensitive to the polarization properties along the microscope optical axis. This paper presents a novel method to resolve angularly the polarization properties of birefringent materials, by retrieving quantitatively the spatial variation of their index ellipsoids. Since this method is based on Fourier ptychography microscopy the latter properties are retrieved with a spatial super-resolution factor. An adequate formalism for the Fourier ptychography forward model is introduced to cope with angularly resolved polarization properties. The inverse problem is solved using an unsupervised deep neural network approach that is proven efficient thanks to its performing regularization properties together with its automatic differentiation. Simulated results are reported showing the feasibility of the methods.
Controlling the sidewall verticality of a CVD diamond in Gaussian laser grooving
Authors: Zhang Quanli , Zhai Jianchao , Sun Zhiyuan , Xu Jiuhua
Published: August 2022

For the specific energy distribution of Gaussian laser, the obtained grooves always fall short in the sidewall verticality. To overcome this problem, the improvement of sidewall inclination in laser grooving of a CVD diamond is undertaken by the surface tilting motion control, where the insufficient material removal at the groove sidewall is relieved. Combined with finite element modelling, the influence of laser energy density, scanning speed, scanning times and scanning pitch on the inclination of sidewall are firstly analyzed, which shows that laser energy density is the main factor that dominates the sidewall inclination. The finite element simulation model (FEM) is established to achieve the contour evolution of the machining area under different tilted angles, where the generation mechanism of ‘V’ shape or ‘W’ shape at the bottom of the groove is analyzed. Finally, the inclination degree of the groove sidewall can be effectively controlled by optimizing the relative incident angle under the selected laser energy density.
Fast dual-mode switchable smart window based on the dual-frequency liquid crystal electrohydrodynamic instability
Authors: Lu Hongbo , Ma Chao , Ren Mingyan , Shi Jianzhou , Zhu Jun , Qiu Longzhen , Xu Miao
Published: August 2022

In the past decade, liquid crystals for use in switchable smart windows have become a research hotspot. Dual-frequency liquid crystals (DFLCs), in particular, are now widely studied and applied in fast-response liquid crystal devices. In this work, we determine that a DFLC scatters light when a voltage frequency close to its crossover frequency is applied. The principle behind this phenomenon is then investigated. The experimental results show that the scattering of light is a dynamic process that is caused by ion perturbation. Based on the results of this investigation, a double-layer liquid crystal (LC) shutter is prepared. It is shown that the fabricated device can be quickly switched between transparent, dark, and scattering states solely by changing the voltage frequency; this ability also has a useful application in connection to privacy-protecting smart windows. The DFLC is combined with dynamic scattering to accelerate the response time of the scattering.
Random color filters based on an all-dielectric metasurface for compact hyperspectral imaging
Authors: Wu Zhipeng , Zhang Zhiqing , Xu Yijing , Zhai Yusheng , Zhang Canran , Wang Bozhi , Wang Qilong
Published: August 2022

Metasurface filters are a compact, lightweight, and inexpensive solution for the miniaturized hyperspectral imaging system. However, the emerging applicability of these filters is limited by the trade-off between spatial and spectral resolutions. In this study, we establish and experimentally demonstrate a compact hyperspectral photodetection method using random all-dielectric metasurface filters that are directly integrated on the detectors. Based on compressive sensing algorithms, the compact photodetectors can accurately reconstruct the incident spectrum in the visible range. The minimum full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the spectrum reconstructed is 4.8 nm, which fully satisfies the requirements of hyperspectral imaging. The proposed method may be applied in the design, development, and measurement of compact hyperspectral imaging systems.
Biased belief priors versus biased belief updating: Differential correlates of depression and anxiety
Authors: Gagne Christopher , Agai Sharon , Ramiro Christian , Dayan Peter , Bishop Sonia
Published: August 2022

Individuals prone to anxiety and depression often report beliefs and make judgements about themselves that are more negative than those reported by others. We use computational modeling of a richly naturalistic task to disentangle the role of negative priors versus negatively biased belief updating and to investigate their association with different dimensions of Internalizing psychopathology. Undergraduate participants first provided profiles for a hypothetical tech internship. They then viewed pairs of other profiles and selected the individual they would prefer to work alongside out of each pair. In a subsequent phase of the experiment, participants made judgments about their relative popularity as hypothetical internship partners both before any feedback and after each of 20 items of feedback revealing whether or not they had been selected as the preferred teammate from a given pairing. Scores on latent factors of general negative affect, anxiety-specific affect and depression-specific affect were estimated using participants’ self-report scores on standardized measures of anxiety and depression together with factor loadings from a bifactor analysis conducted previously. Higher scores on the depression-specific factor were linked to more negative prior beliefs but were not associated with differences in belief updating. In contrast, higher scores on the anxiety-specific factor were associated with a negative bias in belief updating but no difference in prior beliefs. These findings indicate that, to at least some extent, distinct processes may impact the formation of belief priors and in-the-moment belief updating and that these processes may be differentially disrupted in depression and anxiety. Future directions for enquiry include examination of the possibility that prior beliefs biases in depression might reflect generalization from prior experiences or global schema whereas belief updating biases in anxiety might be more situationally specific.
Health inequities in SARS-CoV-2 infection, seroprevalence, and COVID-19 vaccination: Results from the East Bay COVID-19 study
Authors: Adams Cameron , Horton Mary , Solomon Olivia , Wong Marcus , Wu Sean L. , Fuller Sophia , Shao Xiaorong , Fedrigo Indro , Quach Hong L. , Quach Diana L. , Meas Michelle , Lopez Luis , Broughton Abigail , Barcellos Anna L. , Shim Joan , Seymens Yusef , Hernandez Samantha , Montoya Magelda , Johnson Darrell M. , Beckman Kenneth B. , Busch Michael P. , Coloma Josefina , Lewnard Joseph A. , Harris Eva , Barcellos Lisa F.
Published: August 2022

Comprehensive data on transmission mitigation behaviors and both SARS-CoV-2 infection and serostatus are needed from large, community-based cohorts to identify COVID-19 risk factors and the impact of public health measures. We conducted a longitudinal, population-based study in the East Bay Area of Northern California. From July 2020-March 2021, approximately 5,500 adults were recruited and followed over three data collection rounds to investigate the association between geographic and demographic characteristics and transmission mitigation behavior with SARS-CoV-2 prevalence. We estimated the populated-adjusted prevalence of antibodies from SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 vaccination, and self-reported COVID-19 test positivity. Population-adjusted SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence was low, increasing from 1.03% (95% CI: 0.50–1.96) in Round 1 (July-September 2020), to 1.37% (95% CI: 0.75–2.39) in Round 2 (October-December 2020), to 2.18% (95% CI: 1.48–3.17) in Round 3 (February-March 2021). Population-adjusted seroprevalence of COVID-19 vaccination was 21.64% (95% CI: 19.20–24.34) in Round 3, with White individuals having 4.35% (95% CI: 0.35–8.32) higher COVID-19 vaccine seroprevalence than individuals identifying as African American or Black, American Indian or Alaskan Native, Asian, Hispanic, two or more races, or other. No evidence for an association between transmission mitigation behavior and seroprevalence was observed. Despite >99% of participants reporting wearing masks individuals identifying as African American or Black, American Indian or Alaskan Native, Asian, Hispanic, two or more races, or other, as well as those in lower-income households, and lower-educated individuals had the highest SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence and lowest vaccination seroprevalence. Results demonstrate that more effective policies are needed to address these disparities and inequities.
Ungulate presence and predation risks reduce acorn predation by mice in dehesas
Authors: Morán-López Teresa , Sánchez-Dávila Jesús , Torre Ignasi , Navarro-Castilla Alvaro , Barja Isabel , Díaz Mario
Published: August 2022

Foraging decisions by rodents are key for the long-term maintenance of oak populations in which avian seed dispersers are absent or inefficient. Decisions are determined by the environmental setting in which acorn-rodent encounters occur. In particular, seed value, competition and predation risks have been found to modify rodent foraging decisions in forest and human-modified habitats. Nonetheless, there is little information about their joint effects on rodent behavior, and hence, local acorn dispersal (or predation). In this work, we manipulate and model the mouse-oak interaction in a Spanish dehesa, an anthropogenic savanna system in which nearby areas can show contrasting levels of ungulate densities and antipredatory cover. First, we conducted a large-scale cafeteria field experiment, where we modified ungulate presence and predation risk, and followed mouse foraging decisions under contrasting levels of moonlight and acorn availability. Then, we estimated the net effects of competition and risk by means of a transition probability model that simulated mouse foraging decisions. Our results show that mice are able to adapt their foraging decisions to the environmental context, affecting initial fates of handled acorns. Under high predation risks mice foraged opportunistically carrying away large and small seeds, whereas under safe conditions large acorns tended to be predated in situ. In addition, in the presence of ungulates lack of antipredatory cover around trees reduced mice activity outside tree canopies, and hence, large acorns had a higher probability of survival. Overall, our results point out that inter-specific interactions preventing efficient foraging by scatter-hoarders can reduce acorn predation. This suggests that the maintenance of the full set of seed consumers as well as top predators in dehesas may be key for promoting local dispersal.
A comprehensive analysis of miRNA/isomiRs profile of hydrosalpinx patients with interventional ultrasound sclerotherapy
Authors: Cao Zhengyi , Xu Bo , Wu Yan , Luan Kang , Du Xin
Published: August 2022

Hydrosalpinx is a chronic inflammatory condition with high recurrence rate, and it is reported among female population having fallopian tubal factor infertility. Previously, we have reported that interventional ultrasound sclerotherapy improves endometrial receptivity and pregnancy rate with negligible adverse effects in patients suffering from hydrosalpinx. During present investigation, we have used next generation sequencing (NGS) to characterize the isomiR profiles from the endometrium of patients suffering from hydrosalpinx before and after interventional ultrasound sclerotherapy. Our results indicated that miRNA arm shift and switch remained unaffected when compared in patients before and after interventional ultrasound sclerotherapy. We observed that isomiRs with trimming at 3’ and isomiRs with canonical sequences were lower in post-treatment than in pre-treatment group. Gene ontology (GO) annotation and KEGG pathway analysis revealed that the expression of mature mir-30 was significantly lower in the pre-treatment as compared to post treatment group while the expression of mir-30 isomiR was 4.26-fold higher in pre-treatment when compared with the post-treatment group. These different expression patterns of mir-30 mature miRNA and mir-30 isomiRs in two groups are affecting the physiological function of the endometrium. Our results suggested that differential isomiR distribution in hydrosalpinx patients before and after treatment plays an important role in hydrosalpinx incidence and can help in designing novel strategy for the treatment of hydrosalpinx in female population.
Drug-related problem characterization and the solved status associated factor analysis in a pharmacist-managed anticoagulation clinic
Authors: Wung Ju-Chieh , Lin Hsin-Chung , Hsu Chia-Chen , Lin Chia-Chieh , Wang Szu-Yu , Chang Shih-Lin , Chang Yuh-Lih
Published: August 2022

Drug-related problems (DRPs) in a pharmacist-managed anticoagulation clinic (AC) have not been extensively studied. We aimed to characterize the DRPs in a pharmacist-managed AC, identify the factors associated with the solved status of DRPs, and analyze the secondary outcomes, including the safety and efficacy of AC service. The patients receiving services at a pharmacist-managed AC in a medical center for the first time from March 2019 to August 2020 were reviewed retrospectively. The DRPs were retrieved from a self-developed Intelligent AC Service System and classified according to the Pharmaceutical Care Network Europe Foundation v9.0 classification system. Logistic regression models were performed to identify the potential factors associated with the solved status of DRPs. A total of 78 direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) and 34 warfarin users were included. The major types of DRPs identified at the initial service were adverse drug events (ADEs) (68.4%) and untreated symptoms or indications (14.8%) in the DOAC group, and ADEs (51.6%) and suboptimal effect of drug treatment (38.7%) in the warfarin group. The rates of totally solved DRPs were 56.8% and 51.6% in the DOAC and warfarin groups, respectively. According to the multivariable analysis, receiving AC services 3 times or more in 180 days (OR 3.11, 95% CI 1.30–7.44) was associated with the totally solved status of DRPs in the DOAC group, but no relevant factor was identified in the warfarin group. The secondary outcomes showed that DOAC users demonstrated fewer thromboembolism events, major bleeding, and bleeding-related hospitalizations after AC services, whereas the warfarin users increased percentage time in therapeutic range (TTR% 55.0% vs. 74.6%, P = 0.006) after AC services. These findings may be utilized to develop DOAC and warfarin AC services.
Characterizing paint technologies and recipes in Levantine and Schematic rock art: El Carche site as a case study (Jalance, Spain)
Authors: Chieli Annalisa , Vendrell Marius , Roldán Clodoaldo , Giráldez Pilar , Domingo Ines
Published: August 2022

This paper contributes to current debates on the technologies and practices of prehistoric artists using the rock art site of el Carche (Jalance, Spain) as a case study. The site preserves both Levantine and Schematic paintings, yet poorly understood from an analytical point of view. In the past, it has even been argued how little differentiation there is between these two post-Paleolithic traditions in terms of paint composition. Our aim with this paper was to identify pigments, paint recipes and technologies and decipher the order of the superimpositions, both between Levantine motifs of different styles, and between these and the Schematic ones. To do so, we adopted a multi-stage and multi-technical analytical strategy, trying to find a balance between sound scientific investigation and impact on the art, considering the irreplaceable nature of this World Heritage rock art. As such, our approach begins with in situ non-invasive investigations using portable EDXRF, to then collect micro-samples for non-destructive analyses by means of Optical Microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy coupled with Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), micro-Raman Spectroscopy and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). One of the key highlights of these paper is the identification of up to four different paint compositions, produced with various hematite-based raw materials and different processing techniques. This variability had not been previously documented. Interestingly though, no direct correlations appear to exist between styles or sub-styles and recipes. Some of these paint mixtures were even shared by both traditions. These results are discussed in cultural terms, challenging previous interpretations suggesting a similar pigment composition between Levantine and Schematic art. Microstratigraphic analysis of the cross-sections only partially clarified the overlapping sequence unveiling the complexity of these analysis. They also revealed several degradation layers and external crusts related to rock alteration processes and biological formations. Their role in rock art conservation is also discussed.
Usage patterns of aromatherapy essential oil among Chinese consumers
Authors: Xiao Jun , Nakai Satoshi
Published: August 2022

Given the concern over contact allergy risk associated with aromatherapy, information regarding the use of essential oils (EOs) is crucial for consumer dermal exposure assessment. In this study we mainly aim to describe the usage patterns of EOs among Chinese consumers to provide important data for exposure assessment to fragrance allergens in EOs. A web survey was conducted in April 2020 among 1,518 potential Chinese EO consumers to assess consumer usage patterns. The usage patterns of 11 types of EOs were collected among female consumers (N = 457; ages 0–70). For females aged 0–14, they used Lavanda (42.9%) and Tea tree (57.1%) oils only. Among the senior age groups (15–70), Lavanda oil was the most used EO with 46.7%, 51%, 68.1%, and 50% for females aged 15–24, 25–39, 40–59 and 60–70, respectively. The majority of females aged 25–59 used Rose, Lavanda, Sandalwood, Frankincense and Jasmine oil on their whole face more than three times a week at diverse dilution rates. Usage patterns are described for all age groups. In consideration of usage pattern of females aged 25–59, co-exposure to fragrance allergens contained in EOs and cosmetics could make them vulnerable to contact allergy. This study provides valuable information for dermal exposure assessment.
A quantitative analysis of trauma patients having undergone plastic surgery
Authors: Lim Nam Kyu , Yoon Jae Hee
Published: August 2022

Purpose

While plastic surgeons have been historically indispensable in reconstruction of posttraumatic defects, their role in Level I trauma centers around the world has not yet been clearly approved. This study aims to assess the contribution of plastic surgeons in major trauma care by evaluating the characteristics of trauma patients underwent plastic surgery at a Level I trauma center.

Method

From November 2014 to October 2020, we conducted a retrospective review of our hospital’s Trauma Registry System for patients with an Injury Severity Score (ISS) of 9 or higher. Of all of 7174 patients, the plastic surgery (PS) department treated 870 patients; the 6304 patients not treated by the PS were classified as the Non-PS. Then, we performed propensity score matching to reduce the statistical bias, after the death in the emergency room and the missing value were considered exclusion criteria.

Result

The mean ISS showed no significant difference between two groups (16.29 ± 7.04 in the PS vs. 16.68 ± 9.16 in the Non-PS,p= 0.3221). According to investigate the Abbreviated Injury Scale, both head and neck (65.0%) and face (46.4%) categories showed significantly higher in the PS group than the Non-PS group (p< 0.0001), and its contribution ratio was 2.151 and 21.822 times, respectively.

Conclusion

This study revealed the specialty of plastic surgery was face area in trauma care. We thus argue that plastic surgical care is imperative for trauma patients, and expect to be implicated in trauma system planning.
Clients satisfaction at primary healthcare facilities and its association with implementation of client service charter in Tanzania
Authors: Kinyenje Erick S. , Yahya Talhiya A. , Degeh Mbwana M. , German Chrisogone C. , Hokororo Joseph C. , Mohamed Mohamed A. , Nassoro Omary A. , Bahegwa Radenta P. , Msigwa Yohanes S. , Ngowi Ruth R. , Marandu Laura E. , Mwaisengela Syabo M. , Eliakimu Eliudi S.
Published: August 2022

Background

Client service charter (CSC) provides information about what people can expect in a facility’s services; what is expected of clients and service providers. Tanzania implemented Star Rating Assessment (SRA) of primary health care (PHC) facilities in 2015/16 and 2017/18 using SRA tools with 12 service areas. This paper assesses the status of service area 7, namely client focus that checked if client was satisfied with services provided and implementation of CSC through three indicators–if: CSC was displayed; CSC was monitored; client feedback mechanism and complaints handling was in place.

Methods

We extracted and performed a cross-sectional secondary data analysis of data related to clients’ focus that are found in national SRA database of 2017/2018 using STATA version 15. Client satisfaction was regarded as dependent variable while facility characteristics plus three indicators of CSC as independent variables. Multivariate logistic regression with p-value of 5% and 95% confidence interval (CI) were applied.

Results

A total of 4,523 facilities met our inclusion criteria; 3,987 (88.2%) were dispensaries, 408 (9.0%) health centres and 128 (2.8%) hospitals. CSC was displayed in 69.1% facilities, monitored in 32.4% facilities, and 32.5% of the facilities had mechanisms for clients’ feedback and handling complaints. The overall prevalence of clients’ satisfaction was 72.8%. Clients’ satisfaction was strongly associated with all implementation indicators of CSC. Clients from urban-based facilities had 21% increased satisfaction compared rural-based facilities (AOR 1.21; 95%CI: 1.00–1.46); and clients from hospitals had 39% increased satisfaction compared to dispensaries (AOR 1.39; 95%CI: 1.10–1.77).

Conclusion

The implementation of CSC is low among Tanzanian PHC facilities. Clients are more satisfied if received healthcare services from facilities that display the charter, monitor its implementation, have mechanisms to obtain clients feedback and handle complaints. Clients’ satisfaction at PHC could be improved through adoption and implementation of CSC.
Cosmetic makeup enhances facial attractiveness and affective neural responses
Authors: Arai Tomohiro , Nittono Hiroshi
Published: August 2022

Although it is well established that cosmetic makeup enhances perceived facial attractiveness, few studies have examined whether facial makeup modulates neural responses to face images. This study investigated behavioral and attractiveness-related brain responses to self-applied makeup, focusing on the N170, early posterior negativity, P300, and late positive potential components of event-related brain potentials. A total of 77 Japanese women participated in two experiments (N = 34 and 43 for Experiments 1 and 2, respectively). Experiment 1 assessed the effects of self-applied makeup on attractiveness-related event-related potential amplitudes using facial images during a makeup identification task in which makeup was directly relevant to task demands. Experiment 2 examined the effects of self-applied makeup using images of one’s own face and another female’s face when performing a gender classification task, where the presence of makeup had no explicit connection to facial gender classification. In both experiments, faces with makeup were rated as more attractive and elicited more negative early posterior negativity and more positive late positive potential components, regardless of the participant’s own face or another person’s face. These findings suggest that people are spontaneously motivated to pay visual attention to faces with makeup, which supports the idea that makeup adds reward value to the facial appearance of the human. Moreover, neural evidence empirically confirmed that the benefits of makeup are not just limited to how others see your face but also extend to how you see your own face.
Utility of automated data-adaptive propensity score method for confounding by indication in comparative effectiveness study in real world Medicare and registry data
Authors: Kumamaru Hiraku , Jalbert Jessica J. , Nguyen Louis L. , Williams Lauren A. , Miyata Hiroaki , Setoguchi Soko
Published: August 2022

Background

Confounding by indication is a serious threat to comparative studies using real world data. We assessed the utility of automated data-adaptive analytic approach for confounding adjustment when both claims and clinical registry data are available.

Methods

We used a comparative study example of carotid artery stenting (CAS) vs. carotid endarterectomy (CEA) in 2005–2008 when CAS was only indicated for patients with high surgical risk. We included Medicare beneficiaries linked to the Society for Vascular Surgery’s Vascular Registry >65 years old undergoing CAS/CEA. We compared hazard ratios (HRs) for death while adjusting for confounding by combining various 1) Propensity score (PS) modeling strategies (investigator-specified [IS-PS] vs. automated data-adaptive [ada-PS]); 2) data sources (claims-only, registry-only and claims-plus-registry); and 3) PS adjustment approaches (matching vs. quintiles-adjustment with/without trimming). An HR of 1.0 was used as a benchmark effect estimate based on CREST trial.

Results

The cohort included 1,999 CAS and 3,255 CEA patients (mean age 76). CAS patients were more likely symptomatic and at high surgical risk, and experienced higher mortality (crude HR = 1.82 for CAS vs. CEA). HRs from PS-quintile adjustment without trimming were 1.48 and 1.52 for claims-only IS-PS and ada-PS, 1.51 and 1.42 for registry-only IS-PS and ada-PS, and 1.34 and 1.23 for claims-plus-registry IS-PS and ada-PS, respectively. Estimates from other PS adjustment approaches showed similar patterns.

Conclusions

In a comparative effectiveness study of CAS vs. CEA with strong confounding by indication, ada-PS performed better than IS-PS in general, but both claims and registry data were needed to adequately control for bias.
A pilot cost-benefit analysis of a children’s spectacle reimbursement scheme: Evidence for Including children’s spectacles in Mongolia’s Social Health Insurance
Authors: Yong Ai Chee , Chuluunkhuu Chimgee , Chan Ving Fai , Stephan Tai , Congdon Nathan , O’Neill Ciaran
Published: August 2022

Background and aim

Globally, 12.8 million children have vision impairment due to uncorrected refractive error (URE). In Mongolia, one in five children needs but do not have access to spectacles. This pilot cost-benefit analysis aims to estimate the net benefits of a children’s spectacles reimbursement scheme in Mongolia.

Methods

A willingness-to-pay (WTP) survey using the contingent valuation method was administered to rural and urban Mongolia respondents. The survey assessed WTP in additional annual taxes for any child with refractive error to be provided government-subsidised spectacles. Net benefits were then calculated based on mean WTP (i.e. benefit) and cost of spectacles.

Results

The survey recruited 50 respondents (mean age 40.2 ± 9.86 years; 78.0% women; 100% response rate) from rural and urban Mongolia. Mean WTP was US$24.00 ± 5.15 (95% CI US$22.55 to 25.35). The average cost of a pair of spectacles in Mongolia is US$15.00. Subtracting the average cost of spectacles from mean WTP yielded a mean positive net benefit of US$9.00.

Conclusion

A spectacle reimbursement scheme is potentially a cost-effective intervention to address childhood vision impairment due to URE in Mongolia. These preliminary findings support the proposal of the inclusion of children’s spectacles into existing Social Health Insurance. A much larger random sample could be employed in future research to increase the precision and generalisability of findings.
Early and mid-gestation Zika virus (ZIKV) infection in the olive baboon (Papio anubis) leads to fetal CNS pathology by term gestation
Authors: Gurung Sunam , Reuter Darlene , Norris Abby , Dubois Molly , Maxted Marta , Singleton Krista , Castillo-Castrejon Marisol , Papin James F. , Myers Dean A.
Published: August 2022

Zika virus (ZIKV) infection in pregnancy can produce catastrophic teratogenic damage to the developing fetus including microcephaly and congenital Zika syndrome (CZS). We previously described fetal CNS pathology occurring by three weeks post-ZIKV inoculation in Olive baboons at mid-gestation, including neuroinflammation, loss of radial glia (RG), RG fibers, neuroprogenitor cells (NPCs) resulting in disrupted NPC migration. In the present study, we explored fetal brain pathologies at term gestation resulting from ZIKV exposure during either first or second trimester in the Olive baboon. In all dams, vRNA in whole blood resolved after 7 days post inoculation (dpi). One first trimester infected dam aborted at 5 dpi. All dams developed IgM and IgG response to ZIKV with ZIKV IgG detected in fetal serum. Placental pathology and inflammation were observed including disruption of syncytiotrophoblast layers, delayed villous maturation, partially or fully thrombosed vessels, calcium mineralization and fibrin deposits. In the uterus, ZIKV was detected in ¾ first trimester but not in second trimester infected dams. While ZIKV was not detected in any fetal tissue at term, all fetuses exhibited varying degrees of neuropathology. Fetal brains from ZIKV inoculated dams exhibited a range of gross brain pathologies including irregularities of the major gyri and sulci of the cerebral cortex and cerebellar pathology. Frontal cortices of ZIKV fetuses showed a general disorganization of the six-layered cortex with degree of disorganization varying among the fetuses from the two groups. Frontal cortices from ZIKV inoculation in the first but not second trimester exhibited increased microglia, and in both trimester ZIKV inoculation, increased astrocyte numbers (white matter). In the cerebellum, increased microglia were observed in fetuses from both first and second trimester inoculation. In first trimester ZIKV inoculation, decreased oligodendrocyte precursor cell populations were observed in fetal cerebellar white matter. In general, our observations are in accordance with those described in human ZIKV infected fetuses.
Healthy dynamics of CD4 T cells may drive HIV resurgence in perinatally-infected infants on antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Morris Sinead E. , Strehlau Renate , Shiau Stephanie , Abrams Elaine J. , Tiemessen Caroline T. , Kuhn Louise , Yates Andrew J. ,   on behalf of the EPIICAL Consortium and the LEOPARD study team
Published: August 2022

In 2019 there were 490,000 children under five living with HIV. Understanding the dynamics of HIV suppression and rebound in this age group is crucial to optimizing treatment strategies and increasing the likelihood of infants achieving and sustaining viral suppression. Here we studied data from a cohort of 122 perinatally-infected infants who initiated antiretroviral treatment (ART) early after birth and were followed for up to four years. These data included longitudinal measurements of viral load (VL) and CD4 T cell numbers, together with information regarding treatment adherence. We previously showed that the dynamics of HIV decline in 53 of these infants who suppressed VL within one year were similar to those in adults. However, in extending our analysis to all 122 infants, we find that a deterministic model of HIV infection in adults cannot explain the full diversity in infant trajectories. We therefore adapt this model to include imperfect ART adherence and natural CD4 T cell decline and reconstitution processes in infants. We find that individual variation in both processes must be included to obtain the best fits. We also find that infants with faster rates of CD4 reconstitution on ART were more likely to experience resurgences in VL. Overall, our findings highlight the importance of combining mathematical modeling with clinical data to disentangle the role of natural immune processes and viral dynamics during HIV infection.
Periodic solutions for an impulsive system of integro-differential equations with maxima
Authors: Yuldashev Tursun Kamaldinovich
Published: August 2022

Исследуется краевая задача для системы обыкновенных интегро-дифференциальных уравнений первого порядка с импульсными эффектами и максимумами. Получена система нелинейных функционально-интегральных уравнений и, таким образом, существование и единственность решения периодической краевой задачи сводятся к разрешимости системы нелинейных функционально-интегральных уравнений. Метод последовательных приближений в сочетании с методом сжимающих отображений используется при доказательстве однозначной разрешимости нелинейных функционально-интегральных уравнений. Определим способ, с помощью которого можно будет доказать существование периодических решений данной периодической краевой задачи.
Chemically modified Teucrium polium (Lamiaceae) plant act as an effective adsorbent tool for potassium permanganate (KMnO4) in wastewater remediation
Authors: AL-Aoh Hatem A. , Alamrani Nasser A.
Published: August 2022

Powdered Teucrium polium leaves (S1) were modified with zinc chloride (ZnCl2) (S2), a mixture of copper sulfide (CuS) and ZnCl2 (S3), and oxalic acid (H2C2O4) (S4). The porosity, surface area, and functional groups of these four samples, along with their ability to uptake KMnO4 from solutions, were inspected to identify the optimal adsorbent. For KMnO4 adsorption by the ideal adsorbent (S2), the pHZPC (pH value at which the adsorbent surface is uncharged), influences of experimental circumstances, and dynamic, isotherm, and thermodynamic parameters were examined. According to the results, the surface area, pore size, pore volume, and pHZPC of the optimum adsorbent (S2) are 3.689 m2/g, 570.20 Å, 0.01776 cm3/g, and 6.4, respectively. The optimal S2 dose, the ideal value of pH solution, and equilibrium time are 0.05 g, 5.5, and 192 min, respectively. The Langmuir and second-order models are appropriate for modeling this adsorption. Furthermore, increasing the temperature from 27 to 57°C increases the maximum adsorption capacity (q
max) from 833.33 to 1000.00 mg/g. According to the thermodynamic data, this adsorption is both endothermic and spontaneous.
Almost-complex invariants of families of six-dimensional solvmanifolds
Authors: Tardini Nicoletta , Tomassini Adriano
Published: August 2022

We compute almost-complex invariants

h

∂
¯

p
,
o

h_{\bar \partial }^{p,o}

,

h

D
o
l

p
,
o

h_{Dol}^{p,o}

and almost-Hermitian invariants

h

δ
¯

p
,
o

h_{\bar \delta }^{p,o}

on families of almost-Kähler and almost-Hermitian 6-dimensional solvmanifolds. Finally, as a consequence of almost-Kähler identities we provide an obstruction to the existence of a compatible symplectic structure on a given compact almost-complex manifold. Notice that, when (X, J, g, ω) is a compact almost Hermitian manifold of real dimension greater than four, not much is known concerning the numbers

h

∂
¯

p
,
q

h_{\bar \partial }^{p,q}

.
Synthesis of enhanced lipid solubility of indomethacin derivatives for topical formulations
Authors: Abualhasan Murad , Jaradat Nidal , Maslamani Raghad , Nofal Dana , Omar Linda
Published: August 2022

Indomethacin is a nonselective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug with serious side effects such as depression, hallucination, and gastrointestinal irritation. This study aims to enhance indomethacin lipid solubility of indomethacin derivative to use it for the topical formulation since topical formulation may lower the unwanted side effects. The lipid solubility was achieved by adding various alkyl groups (methyl, ethyl, propyl, and isopropyl) to the drug via an ester linkage. The measured log p of these compounds was higher compared to the underivatized indomethacin. Furthermore, an ointment of each ester was formulated and was tested on mice skin using Franz diffusion. The best absorption was observed for methyl indomethacin with threefold increase in permeability compared to indomethacin. This study approves using derivatized indomethacin as a topical formulation with improved efficacy compared to the present gel formulation in the market.
Geopolitical Risk and the LNG-LPG Trade
Authors: Michail Nektarios A. , Melas Konstantinos D.
Published: August 2022

We explore the relationship between Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) and Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) carrier freight rates and global geopolitical risk, while also controlling for the macro environment. Our results show that a shock in geopolitical risk significantly increases the cost of the spot charter rates for both LNG and LPG carriers, with the impact reaching around 25% for the former and 18% for the latter. Our results bear significant implications for both the companies and the countries involved in the liquefied gas trade, with its importance growing as the use of this energy source is likely to continue substituting other fossil fuels in the future.
Constricted migration is associated with stable 3D genome structure differences in cancer cells
Authors: Golloshi Rosela , Playter Christopher , Freeman Trevor F , Das Priyojit , Raines Thomas Isaac , Garretson Joshua H , Thurston Delaney , McCord Rachel Patton
Published: August 2022

To spread from a localized tumor, metastatic cancer cells must squeeze through constrictions that cause major nuclear deformations. Since chromosome structure affects nucleus stiffness, gene regulation, and DNA repair, here, we investigate the relationship between 3D genome structure and constricted migration in cancer cells. Using melanoma (A375) cells, we identify phenotypic differences in cells that have undergone multiple rounds of constricted migration. These cells display a stably higher migration efficiency, elongated morphology, and differences in the distribution of Lamin A/C and heterochromatin. Hi‐C experiments reveal differences in chromosome spatial compartmentalization specific to cells that have passed through constrictions and related alterations in expression of genes associated with migration and metastasis. Certain features of the 3D genome structure changes, such as a loss of B compartment interaction strength, are consistently observed after constricted migration in clonal populations of A375 cells and in MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cells. Our observations suggest that consistent types of chromosome structure changes are induced or selected by passage through constrictions and that these may epigenetically encode stable differences in gene expression and cellular migration phenotype.
The effect of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation on ovarian reserve via PTEN pathway
Authors: Sezginer Perihan , Elmas Cigdem , Yıldız Fatma
Published: August 2022

Graphical abstract

This study was carried out to investigate whether repeated controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) affects ovarian reserve. For this reason, we aimed to show possible changes in the expression of PTEN and FOXO3, which are involved in preserving the over-reserve, after applying the COH protocol methods. For this purpose, 18 young Wistar albino female rats (8 weeks old) were randomly assigned as group 1 (control), group 2, and group 3 as 6 subjects in each group. Experimental groups were treated with 10 IU/0.1 mL pregnant mare’s serum gonadotropin and a COH protocol consisting of 10 IU/0.1 mL human chorionic gonadotropin injection after 48 h. This procedure was applied three and five times to group 2 and group 3, respectively. For the control groups, the same procedures were performed with 0.1 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride solution. At the end of the experiment, the ovarium tissues were placed in a 10% neutral formaldehyde solution for light microscopic examinations. In histological sections stained with hematoxylin and eosin, the number of ovarian follicles was determined using the physical dissector method. However, the expression of PTEN, FOXO3, and LH-R molecules was evaluated by immunohistochemical methods. As a result of our study, it was concluded that COH administration reduces the expression levels of PTEN and FOXO3 proteins and LH-R, which are among the essential components of the PIK3 intracellular signaling pathway and also increased the levels of hormones such as follicle-stimulating hormone, estradiol, and luteinizing hormone, which are over-reserve markers, and causes adverse effects on the histological structure, oocyte morphology, and number of ovaries.

Lay summary

Today, approximately 10–15% of couples experience fertility problems. However, assisted reproductive techniques help people with fertility problems to get pregnant. The main purpose of these techniques is to put the sperm and egg together outside the woman’s body where the eggs are fertilized and then to return the fertilized eggs (embryos) to the womb. During a woman’s menstrual cycle, several hormones influence the growth of the eggs. This process can be mimicked by using various medications. Medication is given to increase the number of eggs that develop. However, this method is not the same as normal ovulation. Therefore, in our study, we wanted to examine the effect that developing multiple follicles has on the number and quality of eggs remaining for the future.
The Philosophical Paradigm of Russian Civil Law: Problems of Choice
Authors:   Volgograd Academy of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, Fedoseev Pyotr
Published: August 2022

Introduction: the paper discusses the main conceptual approaches to understanding the philosophical and legal essence of civil law, conducts a critical analysis of the most common methodological approaches to epistemological and ontological problems of civil law. Purpose: to prove the groundlessness of a complete rejection of the materialistic understanding of law based on historical and logical methods of studying its nature in favor of phenomenology, which involves the study of law, including civil law, as a pure, logical-semantic phenomenon that exists separately from society. Methods: the predominant research methods used in the paper are historical and logical methods that ensure the reproduction in the mental sphere of the complex process of the formation and development of civil law as a branch of humanitarian knowledge. Results: the author investigates the problem of competition of scientific paradigms in the modern science of civil law, and suggests a solution to the scientific contradictions that have arisen by thoroughly rethinking the dialectical methods of studying legal phenomena. Conclusions: as a result of the research, a point of view has been developed on the need, when analyzing the conceptual foundations of civil law as a scientific branch, not to ignore the axiomatic concepts of understanding law, considering it as a result of the development of society. In relation to civil law it is the reflection of the state of property relations in the chronological section of social development taken at the time of the study.
Legal Problems of the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare
Authors:   Volgograd State University, Baltutite Iolanta
Published: August 2022

Introduction: the digitalization of domestic healthcare is one of the strategic tasks facing the digitalization of the Russian economy. The solution of this task is not possible without the creation of a proper legal basis. Without removing legal barriers, there can be no chance of introducing the latest information and communication technologies that provide significant advantages in achieving the highest level of health. Purpose: to investigate the legal aspects of the use of artificial intelligence in medicine. Methods: the methodological framework for the study is the methods of scientific cognition, among which the main ones are the methods of systemacity, analysis and comparative law. Results: the paper highlights the directions of digitalization of Russian healthcare, the possibilities of using artificial intelligence technologies in medicine, and the main problems of using these technologies in healthcare. Conclusions: artificial intelligence technologies are actively developing in modern healthcare due to the widespread appearance of big data, increased computing power, the development of cloud services, as well as numerous examples of the effectiveness and prospects of applied solutions and their ability to respond to modern challenges and problems in healthcare. The Russian Federation already has a sufficient legal framework regulating the relations in the digitalization of healthcare and the use of artificial intelligence. The main task in the course of the upcoming work is to improve the existing legal tools, identify and eliminate the legal barriers that hinder further digitalization. It is necessary to consolidate the provision whereunder a wide range of specialists, including medical professionals, representatives of the legal community, representatives of software development firms, should be involved in the discussion of introducing artificial intelligence in healthcare, so that they can fully share their analysis of the impact and possible consequences of the introduction of applications based on artificial intelligence into the healthcare system, as well as to develop the necessary ethical framework in which they should act.
The Evolution of the Institution of Public Prosecution in Russia’s Criminal Procedure Law
Authors:   Kutafin Moscow State University of Law, Pershin Alexander , Bondareva Marina ,   Omsk Academy of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation, Solovieva Natalia ,   Volgograd State University
Published: August 2022

Introduction: in the modern criminal procedure of Russia, by virtue of the principle of adversarial parties, the court only performs the function of resolving the case, and the function of prosecuting is assigned to the public prosecutor, which is carried out by the prosecutor’s office. Despite the fact that the prosecutor’s office, as a supervisory authority, has existed in Russia for three centuries, however, there are gaps in the legal regulation of the institution of public prosecution, whose elimination is often facilitated by the study of historical experience. In this regard the authors set a goal to investigate the evolution of the institution of public prosecution in criminal procedure law of Russia. Methods: during the research, such methods as historical-legal, comparative-legal and the method of analysis are used. Results: in the paper, the authors, relying on the modern legislation and monuments of law, and the opinions expressed by competent scientists, have conducted a study of the emergence and development of the institution of public prosecution, showing that handling public prosecution is one of the guarantees of a lawful and reasonable sentence. Conclusions: as a result of the study, it is found that the emergence of the institution of public prosecution has been a natural result of the development of Russian criminal procedure legislation, the separation of the function of resolving the case and that of prosecuting allows the court to objectively evaluate the evidence presented by the parties, without being associated with the position of the prosecution.