bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optical truss interferometer for the LISA telescope
Authors: Jersey Kylan , Harley-Trochimczyk Ian , Zhang Yanqi , Guzman Felipe
Published: June 2023

The Laser Interferometer Space Antenna telescopes must exhibit an
optical path length stability of pm/Hz in the mHz observation band to meet
mission requirements. The optical truss interferometer is a proposed
method to aid in the ground testing of the telescopes, as well as a
risk-mitigation plan for flight units. This consists of three
Fabry–Perot cavities mounted to the telescope, which are used to
monitor structural displacements. We have designed and developed a
fiber-based cavity injection system that integrates fiber components,
mode matching optics, and a cavity input mirror into a compact input
stage. The input stages, paired with return mirror stages, can be
mounted to the telescope to form optical truss cavities. We performed
a thorough sensitivity analysis using various simulation methods to
support the fabrication and assembly of three first-generation
prototype cavities, each of which exhibited satisfactory performance
based on our models.
Unsupervised adaptive coded illumination Fourier ptychographic microscopy based on a physical neural network
Authors: Sun Ruiqing , Yang Delong , Hu Yao , Hao Qun , Li Xin , Zhang Shaohui
Published: June 2023

Fourier Ptychographic Microscopy (FPM) is a computational technique that achieves a large space-bandwidth product imaging. It addresses the challenge of balancing a large field of view and high resolution by fusing information from multiple images taken with varying illumination angles. Nevertheless, conventional FPM framework always suffers from long acquisition time and a heavy computational burden. In this paper, we propose a novel physical neural network that generates an adaptive illumination mode by incorporating temporally-encoded illumination modes as a distinct layer, aiming to improve the acquisition and calculation efficiency. Both simulations and experiments have been conducted to validate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method. It is worth mentioning that, unlike previous works that obtain the intensity of a multiplexed illumination by post-combination of each sequentially illuminated and obtained low-resolution images, our experimental data is captured directly by turning on multiple LEDs with a coded illumination pattern. Our method has exhibited state-of-the-art performance in terms of both detail fidelity and imaging velocity when assessed through a multitude of evaluative aspects.
Broadband ptychography using curved wavefront illumination
Authors: Penagos Molina Daniel S. , Loetgering Lars , Eschen Wilhelm , Limpert Jens , Rothhardt Jan
Published: June 2023

We examine the interplay between spectral bandwidth and illumination curvature in ptychography. By tailoring the divergence of the illumination, broader spectral bandwidths can be tolerated without requiring algorithmic modifications to the forward model. In particular, a strong wavefront curvature transitions a far-field diffraction geometry to an effectively near-field one, which is less affected by temporal coherence effects. The relaxed temporal coherence requirements allow for leveraging wider spectral bandwidths and larger illumination spots. Our findings open up new avenues towards utilizing pink and broadband beams for increased flux and throughput at both synchrotron facilities and lab-scale beamlines.
Emission characteristics of bulk aerosols excited by externally focused femtosecond filaments
Authors: Latty K. S. , Burger M. , Borrero J. , Jovanovic I. , Hartig K. C.
Published: June 2023

The bulk aerosol emissions excited by externally focused femtosecond laser filaments are characterized using time-resolved plasma imaging and spectroscopy. Images of N2 and N2+ plasma fluorescence are used to characterize the filament dimensions. Emission profiles from bulk Sr aerosols are studied, showing that several localized emission regions in the filament begin to develop for lower repetition rates and higher pulse energies. Plasma temperature and electron density profiles are determined using particle emissions along the length of short- and long-focused filaments, and results are compared for on-axis and side-collected spectra. The use of on-axis collection enables the sampling of light emitted over the entire length of the filament; however, the necessary back-propagation of light makes on-axis collection susceptible to self-absorption as the optical path is extended through the filament plasma column formed in bulk aerosols.
Methane detection with a near-infrared heterodyne phase-sensitive dispersion spectrometer at a stronger frequency modulation using direct injection-current dithering
Authors: Zhang Haojie , Wu Tao , Wu Qiang , Chen Weidong , Ye Chenwen , Wang Mengyu , Zhu Ming , He Xingdao
Published: June 2023

Heterodyne phase-sensitive dispersion spectrometer (HPSDS) retrieves the concentration of gas samples by measuring the refractive index fluctuations near the molecular resonance. Compared to previous HPSDS studies focusing on pure intensity modulation, it is attractive to investigate the performance of HPSDS sensor based on a distributed feedback (DFB) laser under conditions where frequency modulation is much higher than intensity modulation. In this work, we report the implementation of a near-infrared HPSDS for methane detection based on the direct modulation of a DFB laser. The performance of our HPSDS is assessed using the characteristic absorption peak of methane near 1653.7 nm. Long-time measurements show that our HPSDS has a detection limit (MDL) of 1.22 ppm at standard atmospheric pressure and room temperature. In the same experimental conditions, we have experimentally compared HPSDS to wavelength modulation spectroscopy (WMS) to evaluate the dynamical range, long-term stability, and precision limits of the two methods.
Low polarization-sensitive ultra-broadband anti-reflection coatings with improved reliability
Authors: Yang Yu-Ting , Cai Qing-Yuan , Liu Ding-Quan , Gao Ling-Shan , Zhang Hao-Tian , Peng Lei , Hu Er-Tao , Liu Bao-Jian , Luo Hai-Han , Zhang Rong-Jun , Zheng Yu-Xiang
Published: June 2023

Broader spectra, lower reflectivity and higher reliability are the performance requirements for broadband antireflective (BBAR) films. In this work, a BBAR film structure was proposed, which maintains extremely low reflectivity, ultra-wide spectra, low polarization sensitivity and practical reliability. The BBAR film consists of a dense multilayer interference stack on the bottom and a nano-grass-like alumina (NGLA) layer with a gradient low refractive index distribution on the top. The film was deposited by atomic layer deposition, while the NGLA layer was formed by means of a hot water bath on Al2O3 layer. The top NGLA layer has extremely high porosity and ultra-low refractive index, along with extremely fragile structure. To surmount the fragility of NGLA layer, a sub-nano layer of SiO2 was grown by atomic layer deposition to solidify its structure and also to adjust the refractive index with different thicknesses of SiO2. Finally, in the wide wavelength range of 400-1100 nm, the average transmittance of the double-sided coated fused quartz reaches 99.2%. The absorption, light scattering, reliability and polarization characteristics of BBAR films were investigated. An optimized BBAR film with low polarization-sensitivity and improved reliability was realized, which should be potentially promising for application in optical systems.
High-sensitivity fiber optic temperature sensor based on CTFBG-FPI and Vernier effect
Authors: Pan Xue-Peng , Sun Cai , Liu Shan-Ren , Wang Bo , Gao Meng-Meng , Guo Qi , Chen Qi-Dai , Sun Hong-Bo , Yu Yong-Sen
Published: June 2023

A novel high-sensitivity temperature sensor based on a chirped thin-core fiber Bragg grating Fabry–Perot interferometer (CTFBG-FPI) and the Vernier effect is proposed and demonstrated. With femtosecond laser direct writing technology, two CTFBG-FPIs with different interferometric cavity lengths are inscribed inside a thin-core fiber to form a Vernier effect system. The two FPIs consist of two pairs of CTFBGs with a full width at half maximum (FWHM) of 66.5 nm staggered in parallel. The interferometric cavity lengths of the two FPIs were designed to be 2 mm and 1.98 mm as the reference arm and sensing arm of the sensor, respectively. The temperature sensitivity of this sensor was measured to be −1.084 nm/°C in a range of 40–90°C. This sensor is expected to play a crucial role in precision temperature measurement applications.
Implementation, feasibility, and acceptability of 99DOTS-based supervision of treatment for drug-susceptible TB in Uganda
Authors: Kiwanuka Noah , Kityamuwesi Alex , Crowder Rebecca , Guzman Kevin , Berger Christopher A. , Lamunu Maureen , Namale Catherine , Kunihira Tinka Lynn , Nakate Agnes Sanyu , Ggita Joseph , Turimumahoro Patricia , Babirye Diana , Oyuku Denis , Patel Devika , Sammann Amanda , Turyahabwe Stavia , Dowdy David W. , Katamba Achilles , Cattamanchi Adithya
Published: June 2023

99DOTS is a low-cost digital adherence technology that allows people with tuberculosis (TB) to self-report treatment adherence. There are limited data on its implementation, feasibility, and acceptability from sub-Saharan Africa. We conducted a longitudinal analysis and cross-sectional surveys nested within a stepped-wedge randomized trial at 18 health facilities in Uganda between December 2018 and January 2020. The longitudinal analysis assessed implementation of key components of a 99DOTS-based intervention, including self-reporting of TB medication adherence via toll-free phone calls, automated text message reminders and support actions by health workers monitoring adherence data. Cross-sectional surveys administered to a subset of people with TB and health workers assessed 99DOTS feasibility and acceptability. Composite scores for capability, opportunity, and motivation to use 99DOTS were estimated as mean Likert scale responses. Among 462 people with pulmonary TB enrolled on 99DOTS, median adherence was 58.4% (inter-quartile range [IQR] 38.7–75.6) as confirmed by self-reporting dosing via phone calls and 99.4% (IQR 96.4–100) when also including doses confirmed by health workers. Phone call-confirmed adherence declined over the treatment period and was lower among people with HIV (median 50.6% vs. 63.7%, p<0.001). People with TB received SMS dosing reminders on 90.5% of treatment days. Health worker support actions were documented for 261/409 (63.8%) people with TB who missed >3 consecutive doses. Surveys were completed by 83 people with TB and 22 health workers. Composite scores for capability, opportunity, and motivation were high; among people with TB, composite scores did not differ by gender or HIV status. Barriers to using 99DOTS included technical issues (phone access, charging, and network connection) and concerns regarding disclosure. 99DOTS was feasible to implement and highly acceptable to people with TB and their health workers. National TB Programs should offer 99DOTS as an option for TB treatment supervision.
Relaxing parametric assumptions for non-linear Mendelian randomization using a doubly-ranked stratification method
Authors: Tian Haodong , Mason Amy M. , Liu Cunhao , Burgess Stephen
Published: June 2023

Non-linear Mendelian randomization is an extension to standard Mendelian randomization to explore the shape of the causal relationship between an exposure and outcome using an instrumental variable. A stratification approach to non-linear Mendelian randomization divides the population into strata and calculates separate instrumental variable estimates in each stratum. However, the standard implementation of stratification, referred to as the residual method, relies on strong parametric assumptions of linearity and homogeneity between the instrument and the exposure to form the strata. If these stratification assumptions are violated, the instrumental variable assumptions may be violated in the strata even if they are satisfied in the population, resulting in misleading estimates. We propose a new stratification method, referred to as the doubly-ranked method, that does not require strict parametric assumptions to create strata with different average levels of the exposure such that the instrumental variable assumptions are satisfied within the strata. Our simulation study indicates that the doubly-ranked method can obtain unbiased stratum-specific estimates and appropriate coverage rates even when the effect of the instrument on the exposure is non-linear or heterogeneous. Moreover, it can also provide unbiased estimates when the exposure is coarsened (that is, rounded, binned into categories, or truncated), a scenario that is common in applied practice and leads to substantial bias in the residual method. We applied the proposed doubly-ranked method to investigate the effect of alcohol intake on systolic blood pressure, and found evidence of a positive effect of alcohol intake, particularly at higher levels of alcohol consumption.
Poria cocos compounds targeting neuropeptide Y1 receptor (Y1R) for weight management: A computational ligand- and structure-based study with molecular dynamics simulations identified beta-amyrin acetate as a putative Y1R inhibitor
Authors: Wong Ann Rann , Hung Andrew , Yang Angela Wei Hong , Gill Harsharn , Lenon George Binh
Published: June 2023

Poria cocos(PC) is a medicinal herb frequently used in weight-loss clinical trials, however the mechanisms by which its compounds target orexigenic receptors including the neuropeptide Y1receptor (Y1R) remain largely unknown. This study aimed to screen PC compounds for favourable pharmacokinetics profiles and examine their molecular mechanisms targeting Y1R. Forty-three PC compounds were systematically sought from pharmacological databases and docked with Y1R (PDB: 5ZBQ). By comparing the relative binding affinities, pharmacokinetics and toxicity profiles, we hypothesised that compounds designatedPC13,4-Dihydroxybenzoic acid,PC8Vanillic acid,PC401-(alpha-L-Ribofuranosyl)uracil, could be potential antagonists as they contact major residues Asn283 and Asp287, similar to various potent Y1R antagonists. In addition,PC21Poricoic acid B,PC22Poricoic acid G andPC4316alpha,25-Dihydroxy-24-methylene-3,4-secolanosta-4(28),7,9(11)-triene-3,21-dioic acid, contacting Asn299, Asp104 and Asp200 proximal to the extracellular surface could also interfere with agonist binding by stabilising the extracellular loop (ECL) 2 of Y1R in a closed position. Owing to their selective interaction with Phe302, an important residue in binding of selective Y1R antagonists,PC12beta-Amyrin acetate,PC263-Epidehydrotumulosic acid andPC27Cerevisterol were proposed as putative antagonists. Following the consensus approach,PC12beta-Amyrin acetate,PC263-Epidehydrotumulosic acid andPC27Cerevisterol were identified as candidate compounds due to their high affinities (-12.2, -11.0 and -10.8 kcal, respectively), high drug-likeness and low toxicity profiles. Trajectory analyses and energy contributions ofPC12-Y1R complex further confirmed their structural stability and favourable binding free energies, highlighting the feasibility and possible development ofPC12beta-Amyrin acetate as a future Y1R inhibitor.
Facilitators and barriers of routine psychosocial distress assessment within a stepped and collaborative care model in a Swiss hospital setting
Authors: Aebi Nicola Julia , Baenteli Iris , Fink Günther , Meinlschmidt Gunther , Schaefert Rainer , Schwenkglenks Matthias , Studer Anja , Trost Sarah , Tschudin Sibil , Wyss Kaspar ,   the SomPsyNet Consortium
Published: June 2023

Background

Stepped and Collaborative Care Models (SCCMs) have shown potential for improving mental health care. Most SCCMs have been used in primary care settings. At the core of such models are initial psychosocial distress assessments commonly in form of patient screening. We aimed to assess the feasibility of such assessments in a general hospital setting in Switzerland.

Methods

We conducted and analyzed eighteen semi-structured interviews with nurses and physicians involved in a recent introduction of a SCCM model in a hospital setting, as part of the SomPsyNet project in Basel-Stadt. Following an implementation research approach, we used the Tailored Implementation for Chronic Diseases (TICD) framework for analysis. The TICD distinguishes seven domains: guideline factors, individual healthcare professional factors, patient factors, professional interactions, incentives and resources, capacity for organizational change, and social, political, and legal factors. Domains were split into themes and subthemes, which were used for line-by-line coding.

Results

Nurses and physicians reported factors belonging to all seven TICD domains. An appropriate integration of the psychosocial distress assessment into preexisting hospital processes and information technology systems was the most important facilitator. Subjectivity of the assessment, lack of awareness about the assessment, and time constraints, particularly among physicians, were factors undermining and limiting the implementation of the psychosocial distress assessment.

Conclusions

Awareness raising through regular training of new employees, feedback on performance and patient benefits, and working with champions and opinion leaders can likely support a successful implementation of routine psychosocial distress assessments. Additionally, aligning psychosocial distress assessments with workflows is essential to assure the sustainability of the procedure in a working context with commonly limited time.
Development and validation of a prediction tool to support engagement in HIV care among young people ages 10–24 years in Kenya
Authors: Wilson Kate , Agot Kawango , Dyer Jessica , Badia Jacinta , Kibugi James , Bosire Risper , Neary Jillian , Inwani Irene , Beima-Sofie Kristin , Shah Seema , Chakhtoura Nahida , John-Stewart Grace , Kohler Pamela
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Loss to follow-up (LTFU) among adolescents and young adults living with HIV (AYALWH) is a barrier to optimal health and HIV services. We developed and validated a clinical prediction tool to identify AYALWH at risk of LTFU.

Methods

We used electronic medical records (EMR) of AYALWH ages 10 to 24 in HIV care at 6 facilities in Kenya and surveys from a subset of participants. Early LTFU was defined as >30 days late for a scheduled visit in the last 6 months, which accounts for clients with multi-month refills. We developed a tool combining surveys with EMR (‘survey-plus-EMR tool’), and an ‘EMR-alone’ tool to predict high, medium, and low risk of LTFU. The survey-plus-EMR tool included candidate sociodemographics, partnership status, mental health, peer support, any unmet clinic needs, WHO stage, and time in care variables for tool development, while the EMR-alone included clinical and time in care variables only. Tools were developed in a 50% random sample of the data and internally validated using 10-fold cross-validation of the full sample. Tool performance was evaluated using Hazard Ratios (HR), 95% Confidence Intervals (CI), and area under the curve (AUC) ≥ 0.7 for good performance and ≥0.60 for modest performance.

Results

Data from 865 AYALWH were included in the survey-plus-EMR tool and early LTFU was (19.2%, 166/865). The survey-plus-EMR tool ranged from 0 to 4, including PHQ-9 ≥5, lack of peer support group attendance, and any unmet clinical need. High (3 or 4) and medium (2) prediction scores were associated with greater risk of LTFU (high, 29.0%, HR 2.16, 95%CI: 1.25–3.73; medium, 21.4%, HR 1.52, 95%CI: 0.93–2.49, global p-value = 0.02) in the validation dataset. The 10-fold cross validation AUC was 0.66 (95%CI: 0.63–0.72). Data from 2,696 AYALWH were included in the EMR-alone tool and early LTFU was 28.6% (770/2,696). In the validation dataset, high (score = 2, LTFU = 38.5%, HR 2.40, 95%CI: 1.17–4.96) and medium scores (1, 29.6%, HR 1.65, 95%CI: 1.00–2.72) predicted significantly higher LTFU than low-risk scores (0, 22.0%, global p-value = 0.03). Ten-fold cross-validation AUC was 0.61 (95%CI: 0.59–0.64).

Conclusions

Clinical prediction of LTFU was modest using the surveys-plus-EMR tool and the EMR-alone tool, suggesting limited use in routine care. However, findings may inform future prediction tools and intervention targets to reduce LTFU among AYALWH.
The impact of African swine fever news sentiment on the Korean meat market
Authors: Soon Byung Min , Kim Wonseong
Published: June 2023

Our study analyzed the impact of African swine fever (ASF) news on the Korean meat market using sentiment analysis. We applied a neural network language model (NNLM) to generate a sentiment index indicating whether the news had a positive or negative impact on consumer expectations. We analyzed 24,143 news articles to estimate the impulse responses of meat price variables to sentiment shocks. Our study contributes significantly to agricultural economics as it applies NNLM to generate a sentiment index. The empirical results indicated that ASF news sentiment has a substantial impact on meat prices in Korea, and there is evidence of substitution effects among different types of meat. ASF news has a positive impact on the price of pork, negative effects on beef and chicken prices, and a greater impact on the price of chicken than beef. The findings imply that the effect of ASF news on demand outweighs its impact on supply in the pork market, whereas the effect on supply surpasses the effect on demand in the beef and chicken market. We believe our methods and results will inspire discussions among applied economists studying consumer behavior in this specific market and could encourage the application of big data analysis to the agricultural economy.
A regional comparative study on the mismatch between population urbanization and land urbanization in China
Authors: Wang Xingfen , Zhang Xindi
Published: June 2023

By taking 31 provinces (municipalities/autonomous regions) in Mainland China as the object of research, and using the data on urban population and built-up area of each region from 2005 to 2019, this paper measures the dispersion coefficient of population urbanization and land urbanization in each region through models and visually expresses the level and type of imbalance between them to reveal the temporal and spatial characteristics of imbalance. The results of the research show that since China’s state-owned land was sold through bidding, auction, and listing, the overall urbanization of the population and land development have become unbalanced. There is obvious regional and category difference in imbalance between population urbanization and land urbanization. The degree of imbalance increases from the central, eastern, northeastern to western regions. The remaining 29 regions are generally lagging in population urbanization except for Beijing and Hebei province. This imbalance is mainly caused by China’s dual household registration system, dual land system and the asymmetrical tax distribution system between financial rights and administrative rights.
Introducing a new type of alternative laryngeal mucosa model
Authors: Grossmann Tanja , Kirsch Andrijana , Grill Magdalena , Steffan Barbara , Karbiener Michael , Brcic Luka , Darnhofer Barbara , Birner-Gruenberger Ruth , Gugatschka Markus
Published: June 2023

Research of human vocal fold (VF) biology is hampered by several factors. The sensitive microstructure of the VF mucosa is one of them and limits the in vivo research, as biopsies carry a very high risk of scarring. A laryngeal organotypic model consisting of VF epithelial cells and VF fibroblasts (VFF) may overcome some of these limitations. In contrast to human VFF, which are available in several forms, availability of VF epithelial cells is scarce. Buccal mucosa might be a good alternative source for epithelial cells, as it is easily accessible, and biopsies heal without scarring. For this project, we thus generated alternative constructs consisting of immortalized human VF fibroblasts and primary human buccal epithelial cells. The constructs (n = 3) were compared to native laryngeal mucosa at the histological and proteomic level. The engineered constructs reassembled into a mucosa-like structure after a cultivation period of 35 days. Immunohistochemical staining confirmed a multi-layered stratified epithelium, a collagen type IV positive barrier-like structure resembling the basement membrane, and an underlying layer containing VFF. Proteomic analysis resulted in a total number of 1961 identified and quantified proteins. Of these, 83.8% were detected in both native VF and constructs, with only 53 proteins having significantly different abundance. 15.3% of detected proteins were identified in native VF mucosa only, most likely due to endothelial, immune and muscle cells within the VF samples, while 0.9% were found only in the constructs. Based on easily available cell sources, we demonstrate that our laryngeal mucosa model shares many characteristics with native VF mucosa. It provides an alternative and reproducible in vitro model and offers many research opportunities ranging from the study of VF biology to the testing of interventions (e.g. drug testing).
The impact of socioeconomic status on changes in cancer prevention behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Elsaid Mohamed I. , Zhang Xiaochen , Schuster Anne L. R. , Plascak Jesse J. , DeGraffinreid Cecilia , Paskett Electra D.
Published: June 2023

Background

The impacts of socioeconomic status (SES) on COVID-19-related changes in cancer prevention behavior have not been thoroughly investigated. We conducted a cohort study to examine the effects of SES on changes in cancer prevention behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

We invited adult participants from previous studies conducted at Ohio State University to participate in a study assessing the impact of COVID-19 on various behaviors. Post-COVID-19 cancer prevention behaviors, including physical activity, daily intake of fruits and vegetables, alcohol and tobacco consumption, and qualitative changes in post-COVID-19 behaviors relative to pre-COVID levels, were used to construct a prevention behavior change index that captures the adherence status and COVID-related changes in each behavior, with higher index scores indicating desirable changes in prevention behaviors. Participants were classified into low, middle, or high SES based on household income, education, and employment status. Adjusted regression models were used to examine the effects of SES on changes in cancer prevention behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results

The study included 6,136 eligible participants. The average age was 57 years, 67% were women, 89% were non-Hispanic Whites, and 33% lived in non-metro counties. Relative to participants with high SES, those with low SES had a 24% [adjusted relative ratio, aRR = 0.76 (95%CI 0.72–0.80)], 11% [aRR = 0.89 (95%CI 0.86–0.92)], and 5% [aRR = 0.95 (95%CI 0.93–0.96)], lower desirable changes in prevention behaviors for physical activity, fruit and vegetable intake, and tobacco use, respectively. Low SES had a higher desirable change in alcohol consumption prevention behaviors, 16% [aRR = 1.16 (95%CI 1.13–1.19)] relative to high SES. The adjusted odds of an overall poor change in prevention behavior were adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.55 (95%CI 1.27 to 1.89) and aOR 1.40 (95%CI 1.19 to 1.66), respectively, higher for those with low and middle SES relative to those with high SES.

Conclusion

The adverse impacts of COVID-19 on cancer prevention behaviors were seen most in those with lower SES. Public health efforts are currently needed to promote cancer prevention behaviors, especially amongst lower SES adults.
Design and implementation of single switch integrated boost and flyback converter for renewable and sustainable energy
Authors: Sathiya R. , Arun Noyal Doss M.
Published: June 2023

Renewable resources are being explored to meet the increasing energy demand in the world. The development of RES and their integration into the grid necessitate a voltage conversion to match with the grid voltage. This conversion can be implemented using DC-DC converters. A high-gain DC-DC Converter with low loss is proposed in this article. Thus, the proposed integrated converter is obtained by incorporating a boost converter at the primary side of the flyback converter (FLC) and a VM cell at the secondary side to perform a elevated voltage gain at a lower duty ratio. The Switched Capacitor network is implemented to elevate the voltage gain. The dynamic performance of a controller can be enhanced using an FOPID controller. A comparison analysis has been done using the most recent topologies in order to confirm the superiority of the Proposed converter. A 100W experimental prototype model has been constructed in order to further validate the simulation results. The efficiency of this converter is demonstrably significantly higher than the current topology, according to measured performance. Therefore, it can be said that this topology can be used for applications involving renewable and sustainable energy.
Immunoregulatory properties of erythroid nucleated cells induced from CD34+ progenitors from bone marrow
Authors: Shevchenko Julia A. , Perik-Zavodskii Roman Yu , Nazarov Kirill V. , Denisova Vera V. , Perik-Zavodskaya Olga Yu. , Philippova Yulia G. , Alsalloum Alaa , Sennikov Sergey V.
Published: June 2023

CD 71+ erythroid nucleated cells have pronounced immunoregulatory properties in normal and pathological conditions. Many populations of cells with immunoregulatory properties are considered candidates for cellular immunotherapy for various pathologies. This study characterized the immunoregulatory properties of CD71+ erythroid cells derived from CD34-positive bone marrow cells under the influence of growth factors that stimulate differentiation into erythroid cells. CD34-negative bone marrow cells were used to isolate CD71+ erythroid nuclear cells. The resulting cells were used to assess the phenotype, determine the mRNA spectrum of the genes responsible for the main pathways and processes of the immune response, and obtain culture supernatants for the analysis of immunoregulatory factors. It was found that CD71+ erythroid cells derived from CD34+ cells carry the main markers of erythroid cells, but differ markedly from natural bone marrow CD71+ erythroid cells. The main differences are in the presence of the CD45+ subpopulation, distribution of terminal differentiation stages, transcriptional profile, secretion of certain cytokines, and immunosuppressive activity. The properties of induced CD71+ erythroid cells are closer to the cells of extramedullary erythropoiesis foci than to natural bone marrow CD71+ erythroid cells. Thus, when cultivating CD71+ erythroid cells for clinical experimental studies, it is necessary to take into account their pronounced immunoregulatory activity.
Autism trends in a medium size coastal town of England
Authors: Fleet Benjamin G. , Elliott Alicia , Orwin Margaret , Spencer Mark , Sedda Luigi
Published: June 2023

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex set of neurodevelopmental conditions which affects just under 1% of the global population. This study aims to investigate the trends in ASD diagnoses in a typical English deprived coastal community over the last two decades. ASD information for patients registered at Fleetwood GP practices were provided for the period between July 1952 to March 2022. The incidence and prevalence were calculated and Poisson regression modelling was employed to estimate the effects of age and sex on the number of ASD diagnoses over time. The study shows that there has been an upward trend in the number of ASD diagnoses over the past two decades. Model’s results showed that sex differences in ASD diagnoses are less pronounced when accounting for time trends. The study findings show that Fleetwood has experienced a similar rise in ASD cases as the rest of the UK, most likely due to increased awareness that may explain the time effects over gender differences. However, due to the small sample size of the study, confirmation of the gender results and identification of the factors determining the temporal trends are needed in order to determine the gender effects in ASD diagnosis.
Access, acceptability, and uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine among global migrants: A rapid review
Authors: Fernández-Sánchez Higinio , Zahoui Ziad , Jones Jennifer , Marfo Emmanuel Akwasi
Published: June 2023

Objective

To conduct a rapid review and determine the acceptability, access, and uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine among global migrants.

Materials and methods

A rapid review was conducted May 2022 capturing data collected from April 2020 to May 2022. Eight databases were searched: PubMed, Ovid Medline, EMBase, CINAHL, SCOPUS, Google Scholar, LILACS, and the Web of Science. The keywords “migrants” AND COVID-19” AND “vaccine” were matched with terms in MeSH. Peer-reviewed articles in English, French, Portuguese, or French were included if they focused on COVID-19 immunization acceptability, access, or uptake among global migrants. Two independent reviewers selected and extracted data. Extracted data was synthesized in a table of key characteristics and summarized using descriptive statistics.

Results

The search returned 1,186 articles. Ten articles met inclusion criteria. All authors reported data on the acceptability of the COVID-19 vaccine, two on access, and one on uptake. Eight articles used quantitative designs and two studies were qualitative. Overall, global migrants had low acceptability and uptake, and faced challenges in accessing the COVID-19 vaccine, including technological issues.

Conclusions

This rapid review provides a global overview of the access, acceptability, and uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine among global migrants. Recommendations for practice, policy, and future research to increase access, acceptability, and uptake of vaccinations are discussed.
Differential effects of intra-modal and cross-modal reward value on perception: ERP evidence
Authors: Vakhrushev Roman , Cheng Felicia Pei-Hsin , Schacht Anne , Pooresmaeili Arezoo
Published: June 2023

In natural environments objects comprise multiple features from the same or different sensory modalities but it is not known how perception of an object is affected by the value associations of its constituent parts. The present study compares intra- and cross-modal value-driven effects on behavioral and electrophysiological correlates of perception. Human participants first learned the reward associations of visual and auditory cues. Subsequently, they performed a visual discrimination task in the presence of previously rewarded, task-irrelevant visual or auditory cues (intra- and cross-modal cues, respectively). During the conditioning phase, when reward associations were learned and reward cues were the target of the task, high value stimuli of both modalities enhanced the electrophysiological correlates of sensory processing in posterior electrodes. During the post-conditioning phase, when reward delivery was halted and previously rewarded stimuli were task-irrelevant, cross-modal value significantly enhanced the behavioral measures of visual sensitivity, whereas intra-modal value produced only an insignificant decrement. Analysis of the simultaneously recorded event-related potentials (ERPs) of posterior electrodes revealed similar findings. We found an early (90–120 ms) suppression of ERPs evoked by high-value, intra-modal stimuli. Cross-modal stimuli led to a later value-driven modulation, with an enhancement of response positivity for high- compared to low-value stimuli starting at the N1 window (180–250 ms) and extending to the P3 (300–600 ms) responses. These results indicate that sensory processing of a compound stimulus comprising a visual target and task-irrelevant visual or auditory cues is modulated by the reward value of both sensory modalities, but such modulations rely on distinct underlying mechanisms.
COVID-19 and its impact on the national examination for pharmacists in Japan: An SNS text analysis
Authors: Kitayama Tomoya
Published: June 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has created an extraordinary situation for undergraduate students. The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the national examination for pharmacists in Japan. In this study, we analyzed the content of Twitter to assess the impact of COVID-19 on the national exam, including psychological aspects. Tweets including the words "national examinations" and "pharmacists" were compiled from December 2020 to March 2021. ML-Ask, a python library, was used to evaluate the emotional register of the tweets on the basis of ten elements: Joy, Fondness, Relief, Gloom, Dislike, Anger, Fear, Shame, Excitement, and Surprise. The presence of COVID-19-related terms was clearly visible in tweets about the national examination of pharmacists between December 1st–and 15th, 2020. It was precisely during this period that the government had announced a strategy regarding national examinations, in the light of COVID-19. The analysis found that post December 16th, words associated with negative emotions were mainly related to the examination, but not to COVID-19. As a result of analyzing only infected areas, a relationship between employment and negative feeling was detected.
Predictive role of pretreatment skeletal muscle mass index for long-term survival of bladder cancer patients: A meta-analysis
Authors: Yuan Qian , Hu Jianrong , Yuan Feng , An Jingjing
Published: June 2023

Purpose

To identify the predictive role of pretreatment skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) for long-term survival of bladder cancer patients.

Methods

Several databases were searched for studies investigating the relationship between pretreatment SMI and prognosis in bladder cancer. The overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) were defined as primary and secondary outcomes, respectively. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were combined.

Results

Nine studies involving 1476 cases were included. The results demonstrated that a lower pretreatment SMI was significantly related to poorer OS (HR = 1.56, 95% CI: 1.33–1.82, P<0.001) and subgroup analysis based on thresholds of SMI revealed similar results. Besides, pretreatment SMI was also obviously related to CSS (HR = 1.75, 95% CI: 1.36–2.25, P<0.001).

Conclusion

Lower pretreatment SMI was associated with worse long-term survival of bladder cancer patients.
Desire-as-belief and evidence sensitivity
Authors: McCormack Kael
Published: June 2023

Alex Gregory (2017a; 2017b; 2018; 2021) provides an ingenious, systematic defence of the view that desires are a species of belief about normative reasons. This view explains how desires make actions rationally intelligible. Its main rival, which is attractive for the same reason, says that desires involve a quasi-perceptual appearance of value. Gregory (2017a; 2018; 2021) has argued that his view provides the superior explanation of how desires are sensitive to evidence. Here, I show that the quasi-perceptual view fairs better in this regard. Negatively, I argue that Gregory’s view overestimates the evidence-sensitivity of desires and implies that we are systematically mistaken in having different attitudes about desires and beliefs. Positively, I argue that quasi-perceptual appearances of value are brought into the scope of rational control through their dependence on prior representational states. I also provide a novel explanation of why some kinds of desires are resistant to rational control. I propose that desires are produced through exercises of an affective capacity to discriminate value. Variations in the way this capacity is exercised, and its links to prior representational states, can produce systematic insensitivity to evidence in certain kinds of desires. This paper advances the debate around desire on two fronts: first, it performs the neglected task of showing how the quasi-perceptual view can simultaneously explain both the sensitivity and insensitivity to evidence exhibited by desires and, second, it shows how the explanation offered is superior to one of its closest rivals, the view that desires are a species of normative belief.
Mini-Open Intercostal Retroperitoneal Approach for Upper Lumbar Spine Lateral Interbody Fusion
Authors: Lee Su Hun , Son Dong Wuk , Bae Sung Hyun , Lee Jun Seok , Kim Young Ha , Sung Soon Ki , Lee Sang Weon , Song Geun Sung
Published: June 2023

Objective: Conventional oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) approach is possible from the L2/3 to L4/5 levels. However, obstruction of the lower ribs (10th–12th) makes it difficult to maintain disc parallel maneuvers or orthogonal maneuvers. To overcome these limitations, we proposed an intercostal retroperitoneal (ICRP) approach to access the upper lumbar spine. This method does not expose the parietal pleura or require rib resection and employs a small incision.Methods: We enrolled patients who underwent a lateral interbody procedure on the upper lumbar spine (L1/2/3). We compared the incidence of endplate injury between conventional OLIF and ICRP approaches. In addition, by measuring the rib line, the difference in endplate injury according to rib location and approach was analyzed. We also analyzed the previous period (2018–2021) and the year 2022, when the ICRP has been actively applied.Results: A total of 121 patients underwent lateral interbody fusion to the upper lumbar spine (OLIF approach, 99 patients; ICRP approach, 22 patients). Endplate injuries occurred in 34 of 99 (34.3%) and 2 of 22 patients (9.1%) during the conventional and ICRP approaches, respectively (p = 0.037; odds ratio, 5.23). When the rib line was located at the L2/3 disc or L3 body, the endplate injury rate was 52.6% (20 of 38) for the OLIF approach but 15.4% (2 of 13) for the ICRP approach. Since 2022, the proportion of OLIF including L1/2/3 levels has increased 2.9-fold.Conclusion: The ICRP approach is effective in reducing the incidence of endplate injury in patients with a relatively lower rib line, without pleural exposure or rib resection.
Incidence, Risk Factors, and Management of Postoperative Hematoma Following Anterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion for Degenerative Cervical Diseases
Authors: Wang Hongwei , Yu Hailong , Zhang Ning , Xiang Liangbi
Published: June 2023

Objective: Studies discussed few risk factors for specific patients, such as duration of disease; or surgical factors, such as duration and time of surgery; or C3 or C7 involvement, which could have led to the formation of hematomas (HTs). To investigate the incidence, risk factors especially the factors mentioned above, and management of postoperative HTs following anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACF) for degenerative cervical diseases.Methods: Medical records of 1,150 patients who underwent ACF for degenerative cervical diseases at our hospital between 2013 and 2019 were identified and reviewed. Patients were categorized into the HT group (HT group) or normal group (no-HT group). Demographic, surgical and radiographic data were recorded prospectively to identify risk factors for HT.Results: Postoperative HT was identified in 11 patients, with an incidence rate of 1.0% (11 of 1,150). HT occurred within 24 hours postoperatively in 5 patients (45.5%), while it occurred at an average of 4 days postoperatively in 6 patients (54.5%). Eight patients (72.7%) underwent HT evacuation; all patients were successfully treated and discharged. Smoking history (odds ratio [OR], 5.193; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.058–25.493; p = 0.042), preoperative thrombin time (TT) value (OR, 1.643; 95% CI, 1.104–2.446; p = 0.014) and antiplatelet therapy (OR, 15.070; 95% CI, 2.663–85.274; p = 0.002) were independent risk factors for HT. Patients with postoperative HT had longer days of first-degree/intensive nursing (p < 0.001) and greater hospitalization costs (p = 0.038).Conclusion: Smoking history, preoperative TT value and antiplatelet therapy were independent risk factors for postoperative HT following ACF. High-risk patients should be closely monitored through the perioperative period. Postoperative HT in ACF was associated with longer days of first-degree/intensive nursing and more hospitalization costs.
Outcomes of Intramedullary Spinal Cord Tumor Surgery in Older Versus Younger Adults: A Multicenter Subanalysis Study by the Neurospinal Society of Japan
Authors: Kageyama Hiroto , Tatebayashi Kotaro , Yoshimura Shinichi , Endo Toshiki , Hida Kazutoshi , Mizuno Masaki ,   for the Investigators of Intramedullary Spinal Cord Tumors in the Neurospinal Society of Japan
Published: June 2023

Objective: Intramedullary spinal cord tumors (IMSCTs) are uncommon and difficult to treat. Studies examining the efficacy of rare IMSCT surgery in the elderly are limited. We conducted a subanalysis using multicenter retrospective-historical data provided by the Japan Neurospinal Society to compare surgical outcomes between older and younger adults with IMSCTs.Methods: We classified patients with IMSCTs into younger (aged 18–64 years) or older ( ≥ 65 years) groups. The primary outcomes of “improved” or “worsened” from the preoperative period to 6 months after surgery were evaluated using the modified McCormick scale (mMCs). A favorable outcome was defined as an mMCs grade of I/II at 6 months.Results: Among 841 patients registered, there were 658 younger (78.2%) and 183 older patients (21.8%) evaluated using mMCs at 6 months. Median preoperative mMCs grades were significantly worse in older patients than in younger patients. Neither the “improved” nor “worsened” rate differed significantly between the groups (28.1% vs. 25.1%; crude odds ratio [cOR], 0.86; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.59–1.25; adjusted OR [aOR], 0.84; 95% CI, 0.55–1.28; 16.9% vs. 23.0%; cOR, 1.47; 95% CI, 0.98–2.20; aOR, 1.28; 95% CI, 0.83–1.97). Favorable outcomes were significantly less common among older adults in the univariate analysis but were not significant in the multivariate analysis (66.4% vs. 53.0%; cOR, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.41–0.80; aOR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.50–1.19). In both younger and older patients, preoperative mMCs accurately predicted favorable outcomes.Conclusion: Age alone is not a sufficient reason to prohibit surgery for IMSCTs.