bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health locus of control, self-efficacy and dispositional optimism in patients with diabetes mellitus 2 - review of the literature
Authors: Krzemińska Sylwia , Bąk Ewelina
Published: February 2023

In the literature on prevention, health promotion and psychology, much attention is paid to the determinants of health, with particular emphasis on lifestyle and practiced health behaviors [1]. The individual choice of the type of behavior adopted depends on the patient's level of general knowledge, in particular knowledge of health care, as well as experience, motivation, recognized values ​​and set goals. An important element of considerations on this subject is to recognize the beliefs and motives of patients' actions in the area of ​​life that significantly affects health [2]. An important factor modifying activity in the process of maintaining biopsycho-social health or preventing complications of an existing chronic disease is the locus of health control and the sense of self-efficacy, as well as a sense of optimism in life.
The paper analyzes selected psychological resources, health locus of control, self-efficacy and a sense of optimism in patients with type 2 diabetes, which are related to the process of coping with a chronic disease. A chronic disease confronts the patient with many tasks and challenges that change over time. They depend, among others on: type of disease, method of treatment, cognitive characteristics of the sick person, emotional and behavioral reaction as well as socio-cultural conditions in which the person functions. [3]
A Geometric Model of Opinion Polarization
Authors: Hązła Jan , Jin Yan , Mossel Elchanan , Ramnarayan Govind
Published: February 2023

We introduce a simple geometric model of opinion polarization. It is a model of political persuasion as well as marketing and advertising, utilizing social values. It focuses on the interplay between different topics and persuasion efforts. We demonstrate that societal opinion polarization often arises as an unintended by-product of influencers attempting to promote a product or idea. We discuss a number of mechanisms for the emergence of polarization involving one or more influencers, sending messages strategically, heuristically, or randomly. We also examine some computational aspects of choosing the most effective means of influencing agents and the effects of those strategic considerations on polarization.

Funding: J. Hązła was partially supported by the National Science Foundation [Grant DMS-1737944] and later, the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation [African Institute for Mathematical Sciences Rwanda research chair funding] as well as the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) [grant in cooperation with Goethe University in Frankfurt]. Y. Jin was partially supported by the Department of Defense [Grant ARO MURI W911NF1910217]. E. Mossel was partially supported by the Simons Investigator in Mathematics [Award 622132], the National Science Foundation [Awards DMS-1737944 and CCF-1918421] and the Department of Defense [Grant ARO MURI W911NF1910217] and Vannevar Bush [Faculty Fellowship ONR-N00014-20-1-2826]. G. Ramnarayan was partially supported by the National Science Foundation [Grant DMS-1737944] and the Department of Defense [Grant ARO MURI W911NF1910217].
It's not all sunshine and roses
Authors: Greenaway Beth
Published: February 2023

In this month's patient story, Beth Greenaway describes the ups and downs of life with adult congenital heart disease, and how this has helped her to build personal strength and resilience.
The Antioxidant Activity and the Anti-inflammatory Effect of Citrus sinensis L. Fruit on Intestinal Inflammation Induced by Hyperhomocysteinemia in Mice
Authors:   Université des Frères Mentouri-Constantine 1, Département de Biologie Animale, Facultè des Sciences de la Nature et de la Vie, Constantine, Algeria, Khelfi Sara , Zerizer Sakina ,   Université des Frères Mentouri-Constantine 1, Département de Biologie Animale, Facultè des Sciences de la Nature et de la Vie, Constantine, Algeria,   Université des Frères Mentouri-Constantine 1, Laboratoire d’Obtention de Substances Thérapeutiques, 25000 Constantine, Algeria, Tebibel Souraya ,   Université des Frères Mentouri-Constantine 1, Département de Biologie Animale, Facultè des Sciences de la Nature et de la Vie, Constantine, Algeria, Bensouici Chawki ,   Centre de Recherche en Biotechnologie Ali Mendjli Nouvelle Ville UV 03 BP E73 Constantine, Algeria, Kabouche Zahia ,   Université des Frères Mentouri-Constantine 1, Laboratoire d’Obtention de Substances Thérapeutiques, 25000 Constantine, Algeria
Published: February 2023

Abstract Hyperhomocysteinemia is considered to be one of the risk factors for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), it is a chronic, relapsing, and remittent inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract. Citrus sinensis L. has been used traditionally to treat bowel disorders. The present study aims to quantify the phenolic and flavonoid contents of the Citrus sinensis L. fruit (ORF) extract and to evaluate in vitro the antioxidant activity and the anti-inflammatory effect of ORF in vivo on intestinal inflammation induced by hyperhomocysteinemia. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents of the extract were determinated using the spectrophotometric method and the evaluation of antioxidant activity was performed by four methods: DPPH, ABTS, CUPRAC, and reducing power. The inflammatory marker (plasma homocysteine), the reduced glutathione (GSH) content in the liver tissue were measured and the histological sections of the intestines of the mice used were examined to assess the anti-inflammatory activity of ORF. The results of this study showed that the ethanolic extract of ORF possessed high phenolic content and exhibited good antioxidant activity. The use of ORF powder in the in vivo study showed an increase in GSH levels, a decrease in plasma homocysteine levels, and a restoration of the integrity of the intestinal epithelium. Keywords: Hyperhomocysteinemia, Intestinal Inflammation, Citrus sinensis L. fruit, Antioxidant activity, Anti-inflammatory
Species Composition and Distribution of Acetes in Tuyong Canal, Thepha District, Songkhla Province, Thailand
Authors:   Faculty of Science and Technology, Prince of Songkla University, Pattani 94000, Thailand, Saengkaew Supaporn , Rittiboon Kua ,   Faculty of Science and Technology, Prince of Songkla University, Pattani 94000, Thailand, Buatip Somsak ,   Faculty of Science and Technology, Prince of Songkla University, Pattani 94000, Thailand, Chavavongsa Chavapot ,   Faculty of Science and Technology, Prince of Songkla University, Pattani 94000, Thailand, Chuchote Wiraya ,   (student), Faculty of Education, Prince of Songkla University, Pattani 94000, Thailand
Published: February 2023

Abstract This research aimed to study species composition and water characteristics affecting Acetes distribution in Tuyong canal, Thepha district, Songkhla province, Thailand. Based on 790 samples were collected from the five stations located along the canal by using the scoop net during October 2020 to March 2021. The result showed that Acetes erythraeus and Acetes japonicus were found in the Tuyong canal, Thepha district, Songkhla province. A. erythraeus was the dominant species found and had exhibited a peak season in January 2021 which happen to be after the monsoon season. It was found overall station and month, whereas A. japonicus was not found on November and December. Acetes spp. were found in abundance at the stations close to the mouth of the canal, compared to the stations located to inside canal. The Pearson correlation indicated that Acetes distribution was positively related to pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), total dissolved solids concentration (TDS), temperature, conductivity and salinity. The regression model showed a significant relationship between parameter of species, time, station, pH and temperature with Acetes distribution. Acetes had a mean weight of 42.27 ± 32.51 mg and a body length of 15.25 ± 5.31 mm A. erythraeus was found to be larger than A. japonicus. In both species of Acetes, males were larger than females. Acetes-sex ratio was favorite in females. Keywords: Acetes, Distribution, Thepha district, Songkhla
February 2023 Medical Image of the Month: Reversed Halo Sign in the Setting of a Neutropenic Patient with Angioinvasive Pulmonary Zygomycosis
Authors:   Mayo Clinic Arizona, Scottsdale, AZ USA, Jokerst Clinton , Butt Yasmeen , McCullough Ann , Rojas Carlos , Panse Prasad , Cummings Kris , Jensen Eric , Gotway Michael
Published: February 2023

No abstract available. Article truncated after 150 words. A 66-year-old man presented to our emergency department with fever and lethargy. A CBC demonstrated profound neutropenia with an absolute neutrophil count of <0.50x109 cells/L (critically low). The patient was admitted and workup for febrile neutropenia was begun. The patient’s past medical history includes CLL (recently confirmed to be in remission by bone marrow biopsy), hypogammaglobulinemia/capillary leak syndrome (presumably related to obinutuzumab therapy, for which patient receives monthly IVIG), and coccidioidomycosis (for which the patient has been followed by infectious disease at our institution, is on fluconazole). An outpatient chest CT performed 1 week prior to presentation to follow up pulmonary nodules demonstrated a few scattered small, but new, inflammatory-appearing nodules (Figure 1A, 2A). A repeat chest CT was performed at time of admission, 7 days after the initial CT, which demonstrated marked interval increase in size of the small nodules, now represented as large areas of mass-like consolidation including …
La entrevista diagnóstica mediante role-playing como estrategia para desarrollar la comunicación oral
Authors: González-Rodríguez Diego , González-Mayorga Héctor
Published: February 2023

Se presenta una experiencia de innovación educativa realizada en las asignaturas Diagnóstico y Evaluación de Necesidades Educativas Especiales y Diagnóstico y Evaluación en Audición y Lenguaje, ambas pertenecientes a cuarto curso del Grado en Educación Primaria de la Universidad de León. La acción formativa descrita consiste en el desarrollo de entrevistas como estrategia para mejorar la expresión oral, empleando procesos de coevaluación y autoevaluación del aprendizaje. Para la implementación de la actividad se ha seguido un proceso de cinco fases: diseño de la actividad y del instrumento de evaluación, ejecución de la actividad, análisis de los resultados, evaluación de la acción formativa y redefinición de la actividad. Si bien en el presente documento se detallan las diferentes fases, se ha hecho énfasis en la evaluación de la actividad, cuyos datos se han recogido mediante la formulación de preguntas abiertas al alumnado del curso 2021/2022. Para el análisis de las respuestas se empleó el software MAXQDA 2022, contabilizando un total de 73 codificaciones en torno a aspectos como la utilidad y opinión sobre la técnica del role-playing, la idoneidad de la coevaluación, la adecuación de la rúbrica o la valoración global de la actividad. Los resultados mostraron que los estudiantes valoran de forma positiva este tipo de actividades, pues les acerca de una forma simulada a la realidad que se van a encontrar en las aulas de cualquier centro educativo. No obstante, se han tenido en cuenta las propuestas de mejora de los alumnos para hacer ajustes, tanto en el desarrollo de la actividad como en el instrumento para evaluar los aprendizajes. Se concluye que el role-playing mediante entrevistas es una técnica idónea, no solo para el desarrollo de la expresión oral, sino también para otras competencias que como maestros especialistas van a poner en práctica en su futuro profesional.
Dephasing of ultracold cesium 80D5/2-Rydberg electromagnetically induced transparency
Authors: Jiao Yuechun , Hao Liping , Bai Jingxu , Fan Jiabei , Bai Zhengyang , Li Weibin , Zhao Jianming , Jia Suotang
Published: February 2023

We study Rydberg electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) of a cascade three-level atom involving 80D5/2 state in a strong interaction regime employing a cesium ultracold cloud. In our experiment, a strong coupling laser couples 6P3/2 to 80D5/2 transition, while a weak probe, driving 6S1/2 to 6P3/2 transition, probes the coupling induced EIT signal. At the two-photon resonance, we observe that the EIT transmission decreases slowly with time, which is a signature of interaction induced metastability. The dephasing rate γOD is extracted with optical depth OD = γODt. We find that the optical depth linearly increases with time at onset for a fixed probe incident photon number Rin before saturation. The dephasing rate shows a nonlinear dependence on Rin. The dephasing mechanism is mainly attributed to the strong dipole-dipole interactions, which leads to state transfer from nD5/2 to other Rydberg states. We demonstrate that the typical transfer time τ0(80D) obtained by the state selective field ionization technique is comparable with the decay time of EIT transmission τ0(EIT). The presented experiment provides a useful tool for investigating the strong nonlinear optical effects and metastable state in Rydberg many-body systems.
Robust entanglement and steering in open Dicke models with individual atomic spontaneous emission and dephasing
Authors: Zhou Siyi , Deng Wenwu , Tan Huatang
Published: February 2023

In this paper, we study steady-state quantum entanglement and steering in an open Dicke model where cavity dissipation and individual atomic decoherence are taken into account. Specifically, we consider that each atom is coupled to independent dephasing and squeezed environments, which makes the widely-adopted Holstein-Primakoff approximation invalid. By discovering the features of quantum phase transition in the presence of the decohering environments, we mainly find that (i) in both normal and superradiant phases, the cavity dissipation and individual atomic decoherence can improve the entanglement and steering between the cavity field and atomic ensemble; (ii) the individual atomic spontaneous emission leads to the appearance of the steering between the cavity field and atomic ensemble but the steering in two directions cannot be simultaneously generated; (iii) the maximal achievable steering in normal phase is stronger than that in superradiant phase; (iv) the entanglement and steering between the cavity output field and the atomic ensemble are much stronger than that with the intracavity, and the steerings in two directions can be achieved even with the same parameters. Our findings reveal unique features of quantum correlations in the open Dicke model in the presence of individual atomic decoherence processes.
External-cavity diode laser-based near-infrared broadband laser heterodyne radiometer for remote sensing of atmospheric CO2
Authors: Wang Jingjing , Tu Tan , Zhang Feng , Shen Fengjiao , Xu Jian , Cao Zhensong , Gao Xiaoming , Plus Stéphane , Chen Weidong
Published: February 2023

A near-infrared broadband (1500–1640 nm) laser heterodyne radiometer (LHR) with a tunable external-cavity diode laser as the local oscillator is developed and the relative transmittance, which represents the absolute relationship between the measured spectral signals and the atmospheric transmittance, is derived. High-resolution (0.0087 cm-1) LHR spectra in the spectral region of 6248.5–6256 cm−1 were recorded for the observation of atmospheric CO2. Combined with the relative transmittance, the preprocessed measured LHR spectra, the optimal estimation method, and the Python scripts for computational atmospheric spectroscopy, the column-averaged dry-air mixing ratio of CO2 of 409.09 ± 8 ppmv in Dunkirk, France on February 23, 2019, was retrieved, which is consistent with GOSAT and TCCON data. The near-infrared external-cavity LHR demonstrated in the present work has a high potential for use in developing a robust, broadband, unattended, and all-fiber LHR for spacecraft and ground-based atmospheric sensing that offers more channel selection for inversion.
Simulation of nonlinear propagation of femtosecond laser pulses in air for quantitative prediction of the ablation crater shape
Authors: Yamada Ryohei , Komatsubara Wataru , Sakurai Haruyuki , Konishi Kuniaki , Mio Norikatsu , Yumoto Junji , Kuwata-Gonokami Makoto
Published: February 2023

The utilization of sub-100 fs pulses has attracted attention as an approach to further improve the quality and precision of femtosecond laser microfabrication. However, when using such lasers at pulse energies typical for laser processing, nonlinear propagation effects in air are known to distort the beam’s temporal and spatial intensity profile. Due to this distortion, it has been difficult to quantitatively predict the final processed crater shape of materials ablated by such lasers. In this study, we developed a method to quantitatively predict the ablation crater shape, utilizing nonlinear propagation simulations. Investigations revealed that the ablation crater diameters derived by our method were in excellent quantitative agreement with experimental results for several metals over a two-orders-of-magnitude range in the pulse energy. We also found a good quantitative correlation between the simulated central fluence and the ablation depth. Such methods should improve the controllability of laser processing with sub-100 fs pulses and contribute to furthering their practical application to processes over a wide pulse-energy range, including conditions with nonlinear-propagating pulses.
Temperature measurements in deployed optical fiber networks using single photon optical time domain reflectometry
Authors: Staffas Theodor , Troive Fredrik , Zwiller Val
Published: February 2023

We demonstrate an approach to measure average temperature changes in deployed optical fiber networks using Optical Time Domain Reflectometry, OTDR, at the single photon level. In this article we derive a model relating the change in temperature of an optical fiber to the change in time of flight of reflected photons in the fiber in the range −50 → 400 °C. A setup is constructed to validate this model utilizing a pulsed 1550 nm laser and a Superconducing Nanowire Single Photon Detector, SNSPD. With this setup we show that we can measure temperature changes with 0.08 °C accuracy over km distances and we demonstrate temperature measurements in a dark optical fiber network deployed across the Stockholm metropolitan area. This approach will enable in-situ characterization for both quantum and classical optical fiber networks.
CW coherent detection lidar for micro-Doppler sensing and raster-scan imaging of drones
Authors: Rodrigo Peter John , Larsen Henning Engelbrecht , Pedersen Christian
Published: February 2023

We demonstrate a continuous-wave (CW) coherent detection lidar (CDL) capable of detecting micro-Doppler (propeller) signatures and acquiring raster-scan images of small unmanned aerial systems/vehicles (UAS/UAV). The system uses a narrow-linewidth 1550 nm CW laser and takes advantage of mature and low-cost fiber-optics components from the telecommunications industry. Using either collimated or focused probe beam geometry, lidar based detection of characteristic periodic motions of drone propellers up to a remote distance of 500 m has been achieved. Furthermore, by raster scanning a focused CDL beam with a galvo-resonant mirror beamscanner, two-dimensional images of flying UAVs up to 70 m range were obtained. Each pixel of the raster-scan images provides both lidar return signal amplitude and target radial speed information. The raster-scan images obtained up to 5 frames per second make it possible to discriminate various UAV types based on their profile and even resolve the presence of payloads. With feasible improvements, the anti-drone lidar is a promising alternative to expensive EO/IR and active SWIR cameras used in counter-UAV systems.
Inverse design of a near-infrared metalens with an extended depth of focus based on double-process genetic algorithm optimization
Authors: Xiao Siyang , Zhao Fen , Wang Dongying , Weng Junjie , Wang Yan , He Xin , Chen Huan , Zhang Zhaojian , Yu Yang , Zhang Zhenfu , Zhang Zhenrong , Yang Junbo
Published: February 2023

Metalens with extended depth of focus (EDOF) can extend the mapping area of the image, which leads to novel applications in imaging and microscopy. Since there are still some disadvantages for existing EDOF metalenses based on forward design, such as asymmetric point spread function (PSF) and non-uniformly distributed focal spot, which impair the quality of images, we propose a double-process genetic algorithm (DPGA) optimization to inversely design the EDOF metalens for addressing these drawbacks. By separately adopting different mutation operators in successive two genetic algorithm (GA) processes, DPGA exhibits significant advantages in searching for the ideal solution in the whole parameter space. Here, the 1D and 2D EDOF metalenses operating at 980 nm are separately designed via this method, and both of them exhibit significant depth of focus (DOF) improvement to that of conventional focusing. Furthermore, a uniformly distributed focal spot can be maintained well, which can guarantee stable imaging quality along the longitudinal direction. The proposed EDOF metalenses have considerable potential applications in biological microscopy and imaging, and the scheme of DPGA can be promoted to the inverse design of other nanophotonics devices.
Phase noise mitigation in photonics-based radio frequency multiplication
Authors: Secondini Marco , Bogoni Antonella , Forestieri Enrico , D’Errico Antonio , Bigongiari Alessandra , Malacarne Antonio
Published: February 2023

Two photonics-based radio frequency multiplication schemes for the generation of high-frequency carriers with low phase noise are proposed and experimentally demonstrated. With respect to conventional frequency multiplication schemes, the first scheme induces a selective cancelation of phase noise at periodic frequency-offset values, whereas the second scheme provides a uniform 3-dB mitigation of phase noise. The two schemes are experimentally demonstrated for the generation of a 110-GHz carrier by sixfold multiplication of an 18.3-GHz carrier. In both cases, the experimental results confirm the phase noise reduction predicted by theory.
Multi-sites energy transfer in Fe3+-doped KAl11O17 phosphor toward zero thermal quenching near-infrared luminescence
Authors: Liu Gaochao , Zhang Shuai , Xia Zhiguo
Published: February 2023

Near-infrared (NIR) phosphor-converted light-emitting diodes (pc-LEDs) have demonstrated great potential for optoelectronic and biomedical applications, while the exploration of NIR phosphors with high thermal stability remains a challenge. Herein, we report an NIR phosphor KAl11O17:Fe3+ with zero thermal quenching (TQ) behavior up to 200°C. The asymmetrical broadband NIR emission with three sub-bands centered at 700, 770, and 800 nm is related to the superposition of different Fe3+ emission centers located in Al2O4, Al3O6, and Al4O6 sites of the KAl11O17 host, respectively. Temperature- and Fe3+ concentration-dependent emission spectra verify that the energy transfer (ET) between multiple Fe3+ emitters and the weak electron–phonon coupling (EPC) effect contribute to the thermally stable broadband NIR emission. The fabricated NIR pc-LED using optimized KAl11O17:Fe3+ phosphor exhibits great potential in information encryption applications.
From regular to pseudo-stochastic recurrence of modulation instability in cascaded second-harmonic generation
Authors: Trillo Stefano , Baronio Fabio
Published: February 2023

We address the recurrent regime of depleted two-color modulational instability in second-harmonic generation in the cascading limit. We validate a description based on simple algebraic formulas, based on asymptotic matching, establishing quantitatively the limit of validity of this approach. In the low mismatch regime, where such description breaks down, the system is found to undergo pseudo-stochastic alterations between two types of deterministic recurrence.
Beyond 300-Gbps/λ photonics-aided THz-over-fiber transmission employing MIMO single-carrier frequency-domain equalizer
Authors: Wang Chen , Yu Jianjun , Zhang Jiao , Zhu Min , Tan Yuxuan , Wang Kaihui , Ding Junjie , Zhou Wen , Xie Tangyao , Yu Jianguo , Zhao Feng
Published: February 2023

We experimentally realized a 320-GHz 320-Gbps/λ terahertz (THz) radio-over-fiber (RoF) system based on a photonics-aided scheme with the help of polarization-division multiplexing (PDM) technology and multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO) transmission. In this system, the low-complexity MIMO single-carrier frequency-domain equalizer (SCFDE) is implemented to compensate for the polarization-related impairments of the PDM signal, and the demultiplexing performances between SCFDE and the commonly used constant modulus algorithm (CMA) are also compared in this proposed system. After 20-km standard single-mode fiber (SSMF) and 3-m 2 × 2 MIMO wireless link transmission, the bit error rate (BER) of the received 46-GBaud PDM 16-ary quadrature amplitude modulation (16QAM) signal satisfies the soft-decision forward error correction (SD-FEC) threshold with 15% overhead, which corresponds to a record-breaking net bit rate of 320 Gbit/s.
Picosecond laser-induced damage of HfO2-Al2O3 mixture-based mirror coatings in atmosphere and vacuum environments
Authors: Shi Jun , Zhu Meiping , Du Wenyun , Liu Tianbao , Zhou Li , Jiang Youen , Sun Jian , Li Jingping , Shao Jianda
Published: February 2023

The performance of a mixture-based picosecond laser mirror (MPLM)
coating, particularly the picosecond (ps) laser-induced damage
threshold (LIDT), is investigated. Two types of 1053 nm ps
laser mirror coatings are deposited using electron-beam evaporation:
an MPLM coating consists of alternating layers of the
HfO2-Al2O3 mixture and
SiO2, and a traditional picosecond laser mirror (TPLM)
coating consists of alternating layers of HfO2 and
SiO2. Comparative studies on the optical, microstructural
and mechanical properties, and LIDT are carried out. For an
s-polarized 8 ps laser pulse at a wavelength of 1053 nm, the
ps-LIDT of the MPLM coating is approximately 1.2 times higher than
that of the TPLM coating in both atmosphere and vacuum test
environments. Typical damage morphologies and laser-induced
temperature simulations by finite element modeling suggest that the
enhanced LIDT of the MPLM coating may be attributed to the lower
laser-induced temperature rise in the MPLM coating.
Optical characterization of the psychophysical surface gloss space in the presence of surface haze
Authors: Beuckels Stijn , Audenaert Jan , Leloup Frédéric B.
Published: February 2023

An unanimous framework for surface gloss perception does not exist yet, although an orthogonal two-dimensional gloss space (distinctness-of-image and contrast gloss) has already been proposed. Haze, a rarely studied attribute of glossiness, is considered in this study and introduced into this existing space. A set of samples with surface haziness is psychophysically and optically characterized. The perceived glossiness correlates with the visual dimension of contrast gloss, and with metrics based on “contrast” - between the specular highlight and sample background – obtained from measurements with different optical instruments. The suitability and advantages of the image-based gloss meter (iGM), introduced earlier by the authors [J Coat Technol Res. 19, 1567 (2022)10.1007/s11998-022-00630-0OCPOBG2770-0208], are thereby illustrated in comparison to the conventional gloss meter standards.
Funneling modulatory peptide design with generative models: Discovery and characterization of disruptors of calcineurin protein-protein interactions
Authors: Tubiana Jérôme , Adriana-Lifshits Lucia , Nissan Michael , Gabay Matan , Sher Inbal , Sova Marina , Wolfson Haim J. , Gal Maayan
Published: February 2023

Design of peptide binders is an attractive strategy for targeting “undruggable” protein-protein interfaces. Current design protocols rely on the extraction of an initial sequence from one known protein interactor of the target protein, followed by in-silico or in-vitro mutagenesis-based optimization of its binding affinity. Wet lab protocols can explore only a minor portion of the vast sequence space and cannot efficiently screen for other desirable properties such as high specificity and low toxicity, while in-silico design requires intensive computational resources and often relies on simplified binding models. Yet, for a multivalent protein target, dozens to hundreds of natural protein partners already exist in the cellular environment. Here, we describe a peptide design protocol that harnesses this diversity via a machine learning generative model. After identifying putative natural binding fragments by literature and homology search, a compositional Restricted Boltzmann Machine is trained and sampled to yield hundreds of diverse candidate peptides. The latter are further filtered via flexible molecular docking and an in-vitro microchip-based binding assay. We validate and test our protocol on calcineurin, a calcium-dependent protein phosphatase involved in various cellular pathways in health and disease. In a single screening round, we identified multiple 16-length peptides with up to six mutations from their closest natural sequence that successfully interfere with the binding of calcineurin to its substrates. In summary, integrating protein interaction and sequence databases, generative modeling, molecular docking and interaction assays enables the discovery of novel protein-protein interaction modulators.
A genetic strategy to measure insulin signaling regulation and physiology in Drosophila
Authors: Tsao Deborah D. , Chang Kathleen R. , Kockel Lutz , Park Sangbin , Kim Seung K.
Published: February 2023

Insulin regulation is a hallmark of health, and impaired insulin signaling promotes metabolic diseases like diabetes mellitus. However, current assays for measuring insulin signaling in all animals remain semi-quantitative and lack the sensitivity, tissue-specificity or temporal resolution needed to quantify in vivo physiological signaling dynamics. Insulin signal transduction is remarkably conserved across metazoans, including insulin-dependent phosphorylation and regulation of Akt/Protein kinase B. Here, we generated transgenic fruit flies permitting tissue-specific expression of an immunoepitope-labelled Akt (AktHF). We developed enzyme-linked immunosorption assays (ELISA) to quantify picomolar levels of phosphorylated (pAktHF) and total AktHF in single flies, revealing dynamic tissue-specific physiological regulation of pAktHF in response to fasting and re-feeding, exogenous insulin, or targeted genetic suppression of established insulin signaling regulators. Genetic screening revealed Pp1-87B as an unrecognized regulator of Akt and insulin signaling. Tools and concepts here provide opportunities to discover tissue-specific regulators of in vivo insulin signaling responses.
A scoping review of patient-centred tuberculosis care interventions: Gaps and opportunities
Authors: Myburgh Hanlie , Baloyi Dzunisani , Loveday Marian , Meehan Sue-Ann , Osman Muhammad , Wademan Dillon , Hesseling Anneke , Hoddinott Graeme
Published: February 2023

Tuberculosis (TB) is a leading cause of death globally. In 2015, the World Health Organization hailed patient-centred care as the first of three pillars in the End TB strategy. Few examples of how to deliver patient-centred care in TB programmes exist in practice; TB control efforts have historically prioritised health systems structures and processes, with little consideration for the experiences of people affected by TB. We aimed to describe how patient-centred care interventions have been implemented for TB, highlighting gaps and opportunities. We conducted a scoping review of the published peer-reviewed research literature and grey literature on patient-centred TB care interventions between January 2005 and March 2020. We found limited information on implementing patient-centred care for TB programmes (13 research articles, 7 project reports, and 19 conference abstracts). Patient-centred TB care was implemented primarily as a means to improve adherence, reduce loss to follow-up, and improve treatment outcomes. Interventions focused on education and information for people affected by TB, and psychosocial, and socioeconomic support. Few patient-centred TB care interventions focused on screening, diagnosis, or treatment initiation. Patient-centred TB care has to go beyond programmatic improvements and requires recognition of the diverse needs of people affected by TB to provide holistic care in all aspects of TB prevention, care, and treatment.
Features of the urban environment associated with Aedes aegypti abundance in high-rise public apartments in Singapore: An environmental case-control study
Authors: Fernandez Stephanie A. , Sun Haoyang , Dickens Borame L. , Ng Lee Ching , Cook Alex R. , Lim Jue Tao
Published: February 2023

Aedes aegypti abundance in residential estates is hypothesized to contribute to localised outbreaks of dengue in Singapore. Knowing the factors in the urban environment underlying high Ae. aegypti abundance could guide intervention efforts to reduce Ae. aegypti breeding and the incidence of dengue. In this study, objective data on Ae. aegypti abundance in public apartment blocks estimated by Singapore’s nationally representative Gravitrap surveillance system was obtained from the National Environmental Agency. Low and high abundance status public apartment blocks were classified based on the Gravitrap Aegypti Index, corresponding to the lowest and highest quartiles respectively. An environmental case-control study was conducted, wherein a blinded assessment of urban features hypothesised to form breeding habitats was conducted in 50 randomly sampled public apartment blocks with low and high abundance statuses each. Logistic regression was performed to identify features that correlated with abundance status. A multivariable logistic model was created to determine key urban features found in corridors and void decks which were predictive of the Ae. aegypti abundance status of the public apartment block. At a statistical level of significance of 0.20, the presence of gully traps [Odds Ratio (OR): 1.34, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.10, 1.66], age of the public apartment block [OR: 2.23, 95% CI: 1.48, 3.60], housing price [OR: 0.33, 95% CI: 0.16, 0.61] and corridor cleanliness [OR: 0.67, 95% CI: 0.40, 1.07] were identified as important predictors of abundance status. To reduce Ae. aegypti abundance around public apartment blocks and potential onward dengue transmission, gully traps could be remodelled or replaced by other drainage types. Routine inspections of Ae. aegypti breeding should be targeted at older and low-income neighbourhoods. Campaigns for cleaner corridors should be promoted.
Adherence to prophylaxis and bleeding outcome: A multicenter Nigerian study
Authors: Nwagha Theresa Ukamaka , Okoye Helen Chioma , Yuguda Saleh , Udo Christiana Enefiok , Ogunfemi Mutiat Kehinde , Gwarzo Dalhat Haliru , Osuji Nnamdi Joel
Published: February 2023

In Nigeria, low-dose prophylaxis is the standard of care as it reduces bleeding, development of target joints, arthropathy, and improvement of quality of life. Non-adherence or poor adherence can prevent the achievement of these outcomes. The levels and determinants of (non-)adherence among persons with haaemophilia (PWH) in Sub-Saharan Africa have not been evidenced. We aimed to evaluate self-reported adherence among PWH, provide evidence of determinants/predictors of adherence, and establish the associations between nonadherence and presence of target joints and annualized bleed rate. A cross-sectional survey of 42 participants on low-dose prophylaxis recruited during outpatient appointments in 5 haemophilia treatment centers in Nigeria. We used the validated Haemophilia Regimen Treatment Adherence Scale- Prophylaxis (VERITAS -Pro), 24 questions on six subscales (time, dose, plan, remember, skip, and communicate) questionnaire. The options of VERITAS -Pro were represented in a 5 Likert scale and the possible subscale ranged from 4 points (most adherent) to 20 points (least adherent) and the possible total score ranged from 24 (most adherent) to 120 (least adherent) the cutoff for overall adherence put at > 61 to indicate nonadherence. Information on the presence of target joints, the number of target joints, and annualized bleeding rates were collected from medical files. The mean age of the participants was 9.79 (6.29) years, with 96.6% having hemophilia A and 79.3% having target joints. Overall adherence to the prophylaxis regimen was 81.0%. The mean total VERITAS-Pro for the adherent group and the non-adherent group was 37.35 ±9.08 and 63.0± 6.37, respectively. The mean subscale scores for the adherent group ranged from 0.67 (communication) to 8.68 (planning), while the mean subscale scores range from 1.0 communication to 13.88 (planning) for the nonadherent group. The mean difference of all except the dosing subscale was statistically significant with p<0.05. Only the skipping subscale showed a statistically significant positive correlation with ABR in the non-adherent group p = 0.02. The findings indicate that adherence was very good, and most were in communication with their treatment centers. The skipping subscale was significantly associated with ABR for the nonadherent group. Interventions aimed at improving adherence are the key to better treatment outcomes. A multicenter study was needed to assess the reason for poor adherence.
Comparison of compensatory shoulder movements, functionality and satisfaction in transradial amputees fitted with two prosthetic myoelectric hooks
Authors: Touillet Amélie , Billon-Grumillier Constance , Pierret Jonathan , Herbe Pierrick , Martinet Noël , Loiret Isabelle , Paysant Jean
Published: February 2023

The functionalities of myoelectric hooks, such as whether they allow wrist movements, as well as the volume and design of the devices, may impact how fitted transradial amputees use their upper limbs. The aim of the current study was to compare two prosthetic myoelectric hooks in terms of compensatory shoulder movements, functionality and user satisfaction. This monocentric, randomized, controlled, cross-over trial evaluated eight transradial amputees fitted with two prosthetic myoelectric hooks, the Greifer and the Axon-Hook, during two consecutive periods. At the end of each period, shoulder abduction (mean and percentage of time with shoulder abduction > 60°) and manual dexterity were assessed using the Box and Blocks Test (BBT) on both sides, and satisfaction was assessed with the Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology questionnaire. For each patient, data obtained with the BBT on the amputated side were compared with those obtained on the non-amputated side. Shoulder abduction was significantly higher with the Greifer (60.9°± 20.3°, p = 0.03) than with the Axon-Hook (39.8°± 16.9°) and also than with the NA side (37.6 ± 19.4°, p = 0.02). Shoulder abduction on the NA side (37.6 ± 19.4°) was close to that of the Axon-Hook (39.8°± 16.9°). The percentage of time spent with shoulder abduction > 60° during the BBT was higher with the Greifer than with the Axon-Hook or with the NA side (53.3 ± 34.4%, 17.6 ± 27.0% and 18.4 ± 34.9%, respectively), but the differences were not significant (p = 0.15). A significant strong negative correlation was found between shoulder abduction and wrist position with the Axon-Hook (r = -0.86; p < 0.01), but not with the Greifer. Manual dexterity and satisfaction did not differ significantly between the two devices. These results revealed compensatory movements, such as shoulder abduction in transradial amputees equipped with hooks, themselves influenced by the prosthetic device settings.
Fit for purpose of on-the-road driving and simulated driving: A randomised crossover study using the effect of sleep deprivation
Authors: Koopmans Ingrid , Doll Robert-Jan , van der Wall Hein , de Kam Marieke , Groeneveld Geert Jan , Cohen Adam , Zuiker Rob
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Drivers should be aware of possible impairing effects of alcohol, medicinal substance, or fatigue on driving performance. Such effects are assessed in clinical trials, including a driving task or related psychomotor tasks. However, a choice between predicting tasks must be made. Here, we compare driving performance with on-the-road driving, simulator driving, and psychomotor tasks using the effect of sleep deprivation.

Method

This two-way cross over study included 24 healthy men with a minimum driving experience of 3000km per year. Psychomotor tasks, simulated driving, and on-the-road driving were assessed in the morning and the afternoon after a well-rested night and in the morning after a sleep-deprived night. Driving behaviour was examined by calculating the Standard Deviation of Lateral Position (SDLP).

Results

SDLP increased after sleep deprivation for simulated (10cm, 95%CI:6.7–13.3) and on-the-road driving (2.8cm, 95%CI:1.9–3.7). The psychomotor test battery detected effects of sleep deprivation in almost all tasks. Correlation between on-the-road tests and simulator SDLP after a well-rested night (0.63, p < .001) was not present after a night of sleep deprivation (0.31, p = .18). Regarding the effect of sleep deprivation on the psychomotor test battery, only adaptive tracking correlated with the SDLP of the driving simulator (-0.50, p = .02). Other significant correlations were related to subjective VAS scores.

Discussion

The lack of apparent correlations and difference in sensitivity of performance of the psychomotor tasks, simulated driving and, on-the-road driving indicates that the tasks may not be interchangeable and may assess different aspects of driving behaviour.
Is babesiosis a rare zoonosis in Spain? Its impact on the Spanish Health System over 23 years
Authors: Almeida Hugo , López-Bernús Amparo , Rodríguez-Alonso Beatriz , Alonso-Sardón Montserrat , Romero-Alegría Ángela , Velasco-Tirado Virginia , Pardo-Lledías Javier , Muro Antonio , Belhassen-García Moncef
Published: February 2023

Background

Babesiosis is a zoonosis caused by an intraerythrocytic protozoan of the genus Babesia and transmitted mainly by ticks of the Ixodes spp. complex. There is no comprehensive global incidence in the literature, although the United States, Europe and Asia are considered to be endemic areas. In Europe, the percentage of ticks infected with Babesia spp. ranges from 0.78% to 51.78%. The incidence of babesiosis in hospitalized patients in Spain is 2.35 cases per 10,000,000 inhabitants/year. The mortality rate is estimated to be approximately 9% in hospitalized patients but can reach 20% if the disease is transmitted by transfusion.

Objective

To analyze the epidemiological impact of inpatients diagnosed with babesiosis on the National Health System (NHS) of Spain between 1997 and 2019.

Methodology

A retrospective longitudinal descriptive study that included inpatients diagnosed with babesiosis [ICD-9-CM code 088.82, ICD-10 code B60.0, cases ap2016-2019] in public Spanish NHS hospitals between 1 January 1997 and 31 December 2019 was developed. Data were obtained from the minimum basic dataset (CMBD in Spanish), which was provided by the Ministerio de Sanidad, Servicios Sociales e Igualdad after the receipt of a duly substantiated request and the signing of a confidentiality agreement.

Main findings

Twenty-nine inpatients diagnosed with babesiosis were identified in Spain between 1997 and 2019 (IR: 0.28 cases/10,000,000 person-years). A total of 82.8% of the cases were men from urban areas who were approximately 46 years old. The rate of primary diagnoses was 55.2% and the number of readmissions was 79.3%. The mean hospital stay was 20.3±19.2 days, with an estimated cost of €186,925.66. Two patients, both with secondary diagnoses of babesiosis, died in our study.

Conclusions

Human babesiosis is still a rare zoonosis in Spain, with an incidence rate that has been increasing over the years. Most cases occurred in middle-aged men from urban areas between summer and autumn. The Castilla-La-Mancha and Extremadura regions recorded the highest number of cases. Given the low rate of primary diagnoses (55.2%) and the high number of readmissions (79.3%), a low clinical suspicion is likely. There was a 6.9% mortality in our study. Both patients who died were patients with secondary diagnoses of the disease.
Inter e intra-variability of the best ranked teams: A network analysis in male high-level volleyball
Authors: Rocha Augusto Cezar Rodrigues , Laporta Lorenzo , Rodrigues Geovana Pires , Guimarães Juracy da Silva , do Nascimento Marcos Henrique , Rodrigues Marcelo Couto Jorge , Leonardi Thiago José , de Lira Claudio Andre Barbosa , Castro Henrique de Oliveira , Costa Gustavo De Conti Teixeira
Published: February 2023

The present research objective was to analyze the offensive phase from Complex I in high-level male volleyball teams in a macro- and micro-level view, through the inter e intra-team variability analysis of eight best teams of the 2018 Men’s Volleyball World Championship over the social network analysis and eigenvector centrality. The sample consisted of 22 matches and 2,743 offensive actions, resulting in 8 sub-networks with 368 nodes and 6221 edges. The results showed from macro view the variables that presented highest centrality values were Attack Zone 4 (range 0.56–0.90), Attack Tempo 2 (0.65–0.87), Power Attack (0.62–0.94), No Touch Block (0.61–1), Attack Effect Continuity (0.59–0.94), and Middle Blocker Centralized (0.60–0.95). In a micro view, Reception Effect, Play Position, Reception Zone, and Block Composition showed high variability in each sub-network. The intra- and inter-team variability presented the importance of to respect each team idiosyncrasies and to consider the different approaches to the game and success.
Soccer clubs as avenues for gender transformative socialization of adolescent boys in Cape Town and Mthatha, South Africa: A qualitative study
Authors: Sikweyiya Yandisa Msimelelo , Leon Natalie , Lurie Mark N. , Majola Mandla , Colvin Christopher J.
Published: February 2023

In this paper, we explore the gender socialization of adolescent boys in soccer clubs, and ask whether there are opportunities for integrating gender transformative elements into that socialization. This qualitative study involved 11 in-depth interviews and informal conversations with male soccer coaches from Gugulethu township and Mthatha town in the Western Cape and Eastern Cape provinces of South Africa, respectively. Data were analyzed using a thematic analysis approach. We found that the coaches felt that the adolescent boys in their soccer clubs faced serious social and emotional challenges, with the boys’ poor socio-economic backgrounds and fragmented family structures being major contributors to these challenges. Most coaches also gave themselves the responsibility to try to address some of the challenges faced by their club members. To do this, they employed specific strategies, including creating an alliance with parents and professionals. In the process, the coaches engaged the boys on topics around respect, sexual and reproductive health, and avoiding alcohol, drugs, and involvement in criminal gangs. Some coaches also played a social fathering role to club members as a way of helping them to think differently about their lives, redirect risky practices, and reduce the chance for poor health outcomes. These findings highlight the role of soccer clubs and coaches as potential avenues for health- and equity-promoting gender socialization of adolescent boys.