bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maze Pattern at Nanometer-Scale in a Mixed Langmuir Monolayer of Fatty Acids
Authors: Ishikawa Takamasa , Noguchi Mika , Kato Kosuke , Kuramori Miyuki , Narita Takayuki , Oishi Yushi
Published: November 2021

We investigated the morphology of binary monolayers of palmitic acid and behenic acid using atomic force microscopic observations. The monolayers exhibited a phase-separated morphology composed of meandering domains with a width of nanometer order, which is probably due to fixation of the monolayer morphology at a stage on the way to phase separation.
Simple and Fast Synthesis of Ni/NiO-loaded Carbon Nanotubes for the Alkaline Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Feng Chuanqi , Xin Bingwei , Li Hongliang , Geng Bijiang
Published: November 2021

At present, there are still challenges in the efficient synthesis of catalysts for water splitting hydrogen evolution. We propose herein a high-efficiency strategy to simply and quickly synthesize composites of Ni/NiO and carbon nanotubes. The Ni/NiO-loaded carbon nanotubes are prepared by oxidative combustion of ethanol over a metal-based catalyst and exhibit excellent catalytic performance for alkaline water splitting hydrogen evolution with 129 mV overpotential to offer a current density of 10 mA cm−2. Meanwhile, the Ni/NiO-loaded carbon nanotubes also exhibit good stability. The Ni/NiO-loaded carbon nanotubes obtained by the simple and fast preparation thus could be a promising electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution rection.
Don’t blink: inattentional blindness in radiology report interpretation
Authors: Kates Malcolm M. , Perche Patrick O. , Beyth Rebecca J. , Winchester David E.
Published: November 2021

Objectives:

Medical errors attributable to inattentional blindness (IAB) may contribute to adverse patient outcomes. IAB has not been studied in the context of reviewing written radiological reports. This cross-sectional, deception-controlled study measures IAB of physicians towards an unexpected stimulus while interpreting written radiological reports.

Methods:

Physicians and residents from multiple fields were asked to interpret four radiology text reports. Embedded in one was an unexpected stimulus (either an abnormally placed medical exam finding or a non-medical quote from the popular television show Doctor Who). Primary outcomes were differences in detection rates for the two stimuli. Secondary outcomes were differences in detection rates based on level of training and specialty.

Results:

The unexpected stimulus was detected by 47.8% (n = 43) of participants; the non-medical stimulus was detected more often than the medical stimulus (75.0% vs  21.7%, odds ratio 10.8, 95% confidence interval 4.1–28.7; p < 0.0001). No differences in outcomes were observed between training levels or specialties.

Conclusion:

Only a minority of physicians successfully detected an unexpected stimulus while interpreting written radiological reports. They were more likely to detect an abnormal non-medical stimulus than a medical stimulus. Findings were independent of the level of training or field of medical practice.

Advances in knowledge:

This study is the first to show that IAB is indeed present among internal medicine, family medicine, and emergency medicine providers when interpreting written radiology reports.
Impact of COVID Pandemic and Hybrid teaching on Final year MBBS students’ End of clerkship Exam performance
Authors: Aaraj Sahira , Farooqui Fareeha , Saeed Nadia , Khan Sabeen
Published: November 2021

Background & Objectives: The novel coronavirus (SAR-CoV-2) pandemic has revolutionized medical education worldwide. Most medical schools have adopted the online teaching and assessments. Students attending modified clerkships and assessments under the stress of the pandemic, perform and score differently when compared to normal clerkships. We aimed to identify the impact of COVID-19 on final year MBBS students’ EOC (End of Clerkship) examination by comparing them with their scores prior to the COVID and with scores of the previous final year.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Shifa College of Medicine. Final year MBBS students’ scores of years 2019 and 2020 were included. Students’ EOC MCQ and OSCE scores were compared in pre-COVID and COVID affected rotations of the same year and with the previous year (2019). Data were analyzed in SPSS version 21, means scores were calculated, and one-way ANOVA was applied. Pearson correlation was calculated for correlation assessment of MCQ and OSCE scores.

Results: There were 118 students. The mean EOC, OSCE, and MCQ scores in rotations one to four were 72.8±6.4, 73.3±8.1, 71.6±7.4, 72.7±6.7 and 44.4±8, 47.2±8.4, 46.1±8.2, 48.8±8.1, respectively. One-way ANOVA results before and after COVID lockdown were statistically insignificant (p=0.3) for OSCE and significant for MCQ in the final year class of 2020 (p=0.001). The Pearson correlation assessment between MCQ and OSCE scores (n=416) had a significant positive correlation (r=0.42, p=0.000). The overall comparison between scores of the final year class of 2019 and 2020 showed significant improvement in Surgery and Obstetrics/Gynae scores in 2020.

Conclusion: During the COVID pandemic, the final year students’ performance in EOC MCQ and OSCE over all remained unaffected.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.1.4645

How to cite this:Aaraj S, Farooqi F, Saeed N, Khan S. Impact of COVID Pandemic and Hybrid teaching on Final year MBBS students’ End of clerkship Exam performance. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(1):113-117. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.1.4645

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Factors affecting prognosis of status epilepticus among patients presenting to a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Jawaid Wajid , Irfan Muhammad , Shafee Sundus Mehtab , Barry Sidra Javed , Mahmood Shah Sayed Mustafa , Shahbaz Naila
Published: November 2021

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the etiology, outcomes and prognostic factors associated with status epilepticus (SE) admissions in Neurology Department of a tertiary care hospital.

Methods: A retrospective review was performed on all SE admissions at Dr. Ruth K.M. Pfau Civil Hospital Karachi over a five-year period from July 2015 to June 2020. Demographic, clinical, and etiological factors were investigated for prognostic value. Statistical tests were applied to determine significant prognostic factors. A five percent significance level was used.

Results: A total of 176 patients were included in the study. Mortality was reported in 22 cases (12.5%) and morbidity at six months was observed in 44 cases (25.0%). Male gender, previous history of SE, prolonged seizure duration, and late presentation to hospital were significantly associated with mortality (p<0.05). De novo cases of SE tended to be older (p=0.048) and were associated with morbidity at follow-up (p=0.000). The most common causes of epilepsy in our patients with SE were CNS infections (n=54) and Idiopathic epilepsy (n=34). Non-compliance to medicines/under-dosing was the most common provocative factor (n=68). Acute symptomatic causes of SE were more likely to be associated with greater morbidity (p=0.000). Refractory and super-refractory SE were strongly associated with higher mortality (p=0.000). A longer duration of hospital stay was associated with higher morbidity (p=0.000).

Conclusion: Male gender, poor control of seizures, CNS infections, prolonged seizures, delayed hospital arrival and refractory/super-refractory status epilepticus were key determinants of mortality in our setting. Previous history of status epilepticus, and acute and symptomatic etiologies were associated with higher morbidity.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.1.5195

How to cite this:Jawaid W, Irfan M, Shafee SM, Barry SJ, Shah SMM, Shahbaz N. Factors affecting prognosis of status epilepticus among patients presenting to a tertiary care hospital. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(1):16-22. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.1.5195

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Evaluating user-centered interventions in optimizing utilization of HIV and pregnancy prevention services among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in Kenya: a study protocol
Authors: Mutegi Jane , Mugambi Mary , Were Daniel , Musau Abednego , Kirumburu Aigelgel , Kamau Mercy , Wakhutu Brian , Tenga Soud , Odhyambo Geoffrey , Dotson Manya , Reed Jason , Ong'ewn Patricia
Published: November 2021

Background: Globally, HIV/AIDS is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among adolescents; sub-Saharan Africa contributes more than two-thirds of all HIV-related adolescent deaths. In Kenya, HIV incidence remains high among youth (15–24 years), with women disproportionately affected. Morbidity and mortality are compounded by a high rate of early and unwanted pregnancies. Existing prevention efforts to reduce youth vulnerabilities overwhelmingly focus on HIV alone, with limited efforts made to address concurrent factors that increase vulnerability of adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) to HIV infection and unplanned pregnancies. Jilinde, is a Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation funded large-scale project that supports the provision of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in Kenya. This manuscript presents a protocol for a study that seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of a comprehensive package of user-centered interventions to optimize uptake of HIV and pregnancy prevention services among AGYW in four Kenyan counties.

Methods: The study employed a concurrent mixed-methods design including two parallel before and after population-based cross-sectional surveys, focus group discussions, and in-depth interviews. Study participants included 1,280 AGYW, 1,080 individuals from the general population, 80 health service providers, and 32 county health managers. The study involved a formative, implementation phase and endline assessment. Survey data was collected using Research Electronic Data Capture and analyzed using regression modelling while adjusting for confounders.  Qualitative data will be analyzed using grounded theory techniques using NVivo 12.0.

Discussion: This study will uncover useful insights on the effectiveness of user-centered interventions in increasing concurrent utilization of blended HIV and pregnancy prevention interventions in a routine low resource setting. The findings will be disseminated through technical briefs, manuscripts, conferences, and workshops. The consolidated evidence could inform the scale-up of integrated HIV prevention and sexual and reproductive health interventions targeting AGYW.
Direct laser writing of liquid crystal elastomers oriented by a horizontal electric field
Authors: Carlotti Marco , Tricinci Omar , den Hoed Frank , Palagi Stefano , Mattoli Virgilio
Published: November 2021

Background: The ability to fabricate components capable of performing actuation in a reliable and controlled manner is one of the main research topics in the field of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS). However, the development of these technologies can be limited in many cases by 2D lithographic techniques employed in the fabrication process. Direct Laser Writing (DLW), a 3D microprinting technique based on two-photon polymerization, can offer novel solutions to prepare, both rapidly and reliably, 3D nano- and microstructures of arbitrary complexity. In addition, the use of functional materials in the printing process can result in the fabrication of smart and responsive devices.

Methods: In this study, we present a novel methodology for the printing of 3D actuating microelements comprising Liquid Crystal Elastomers (LCEs) obtained by DLW. The alignment of the mesogens was performed using a static electric field (1.7 V/µm) generated by indium-tin oxide (ITO) electrodes patterned directly on the printing substrates.

Results: When exposed to a temperature higher than 50°C, the printed microstructures actuated rapidly and reversibly of about 8% in the direction perpendicular to the director.

Conclusions: A novel methodology was developed that allows the printing of directional actuators comprising LCEs via DLW. To impart the necessary alignment of the mesogens, a static electric field was applied before the printing process by making use of flat ITO electrodes present on the printing substrates. The resulting microelements showed a reversible change in shape when heated higher than 50 °C.
A Characterization of Lexicographic Preferences
Authors: Goswami Mridu Prabal , Mitra Manipushpak , Sen Debapriya
Published: November 2021

This paper characterizes lexicographic preferences over alternatives that are identified by a finite number of attributes. Our characterization is based on two key concepts: a weaker notion of continuity called “mild continuity” (strict preference order between any two alternatives that are different with respect to every attribute is preserved around their small neighborhoods) and an “unhappy set” (any alternative outside such a set is preferred to all alternatives inside). Three key aspects of our characterization are as follows: (i) we use continuity arguments; (ii) we use the stepwise approach of looking at two attributes at a time; and (iii) in contrast with the previous literature, we do not impose noncompensation on the preference and consider an alternative weaker condition.
Morale and Debt Dynamics
Authors: Barron Daniel , Li Jin , Zator Michał
Published: November 2021

This paper shows that debt undermines relational incentives and harms worker morale. We build a dynamic model of a manager who uses limited financial resources to simultaneously repay a creditor and motivate a worker. If the manager can divert or misuse revenue, then debt makes the manager less willing to follow through on promised rewards, leading to low worker effort. In profit-maximizing equilibria, the firm prioritizes repaying its debts, leading to gradual increases in effort and wages. These dynamics can persist even after debts have been fully repaid. Consistent with this analysis, we document that a firm’s financial leverage is negatively related to measures of employee morale, wages, and productivity.

This paper was accepted by Joshua Gans, business strategy.
Estimating Substitution and Basket Effects in Retail Stores: Implications for Assortment Planning
Authors: Mani Vidya , Thomas Douglas J. , Bansal Saurabh
Published: November 2021

Many retailers are reducing store footprint and downsizing their assortments accordingly to improve store productivity. Some of the revenue for items removed from the assortment may be recouped by substitution, but also some of the revenue for items kept in the assortment may be lost due to basket abandonment. For a practical setting where baskets may contain any subset of items from thousands of products, estimating both substitution and basket effects is a challenge. To address this, we develop a demand model that combines a multinomial logit (MNL) model to estimate substitution within a subcategory and a purchase-incidence model to estimate basket retention. Using transaction and product availability data from 12 stores of an office supplies retail chain that were dramatically downsized from large- to small-format stores, we show that (i) storewide basket effects are substantial (our model with basket effects predicts out-of-sample transactions with mean absolute percent error (MAPE) of only 7% compared with 22% for a model with only substitution effects), (ii) poor service level can significantly exacerbate lost profit due to abandoned baskets at these stores, and (iii) consideration of the basket effect in assortment selection for the small stores can significantly improve basket retention and increase profits (by up to 16%) at these stores.

This paper was accepted by Vishal Gaur, operations management.
Cardiovascular disease risk and key anthropometrics: a trend analysis
Authors: Tetteh Ato Kwamena , Yankey Barbara Araba , Okosun Ike Solomon
Published: November 2021

Background/Aims

Cardiovascular disease risk is increased in individuals with various anthropometric measurements and indices. This study estimated linear trends of cardiovascular disease risk and its association with selected anthropometric measurements.

Methods:

Bi-annual data from 2007-16 (n=26 201) was obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Cardiovascular disease risk in this study was assessed as total cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein ratio. We used the multiple linear regression analysis procedures to estimate anthropometric variables that best predict cardiovascular disease risk.

Results

The mean total cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein ratio for the studied population was 4.0 (95% confidence interval: 3.8-4.2). There was a decrease of 0.05 in mean cardiovascular disease risk bi-annually from 4.1 in 2007-8 to 3.9 in 2015-16 (t=-3.27; P=0.0467). The percentage with desirable cardiovascular disease risk decreased by 0.07 bi-annually from 0.42% in 2007-8 to 0.1% in 2015-16 (P=0.0689). Borderline risk increased by 0.8 bi-annually from 90.7% in 2007-8 to 93.8% in 2015-16 (P=0.1176). High cardiovascular disease risk decreased by 0.7 from 8.9% in 2007-8 to 6.2% in 2015-16 (t=-1.95; P=0.1464). Cardiovascular disease risk was consistently higher in males than females for all the cohorts (P<0.0001). The risk was high among the 30-69 years age group but declined after the age of 70 years. Overall, waist circumference, weight and the waist circumference*weight interaction term, adjusted for age, gender, and race/ethnicity, significantly helped to predict cardiovascular disease risk (P<0.0001).

Conclusions

The majority of the studied population had either borderline or high risk for cardiovascular diseases based on the total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein ratio. The study findings suggest the need to intensify existing primary prevention efforts to minimise risk and avert cardiovascular disease progression.
Microscopic colitis and the role of the specialist inflammatory bowel disease nurse: a clinical review
Authors: Walsh Cathy
Published: November 2021

Microscopic colitis (MC) is an inflammatory bowel condition similar to but distinct from classical inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Unlike ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, MC is predominately a self-limiting and treatable condition. It is characterised by colonic inflammation and symptoms of watery, non-bloody diarrhoea, alongside abdominal pain and weight loss, causing anxiety, fatigue and reduced quality of life. The prevalence of MC is 119 per 100 000 population and growing. Its aetiology and pathophysiology are poorly understood, but it is likely multifactorial, and possible risk factors include smoking and certain medications and autoimmune conditions. Diagnosis relies on endoscopic biopsy to identify intraepithelial lymphocytosis. Management and treatment begin with excluding possible risk factors and can include anti-diarrhoeal medications, bile acid binders and budesonide, which is highly effective at inducing and maintaining remission. Refractory disease is rare, but it may require biological medications or even surgery. Disease activity is monitored with the Hjortswang criteria and Microscopic Colitis Disease Activity Index. This narrative clinical review draws on recent guidelines and study data to explore the uncertain role of the clinical nurse specialist in caring for these patients.
Mechanical complications and fractures after reverse shoulder arthroplasty related to different design types and their rates: part I
Authors: Nabergoj Marko , Denard Patrick J. , Collin Philippe , Trebše Rihard , Lädermann Alexandre
Published: November 2021

The initial reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA), designed by Paul Grammont, was intended to treat rotator cuff tear arthropathy in elderly patients. In the early experience, high complication rates (up to 24%) and revision rates (up to 50%) were reported. The most common complications reported were scapular notching, whereas clinically more relevant complications such as instability and acromial fractures were less commonly described. Zumstein et al defined a ‘complication’ following RSA as any intraoperative or postoperative event that was likely to have a negative influence on the patient’s final outcome. High rates of complications related to the Grammont RSA design led to development of non-Grammont designs, with 135 or 145 degrees of humeral inclination, multiple options for glenosphere size and eccentricity, improved baseplate fixation which facilitated glenoid-sided lateralization, and the option of humeral-sided lateralization. Improved implant characteristics combined with surgeon experience led to a dramatic fall in the majority of complications. However, we still lack a suitable solution for several complications, such as acromial stress fracture.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2021;6:1097-1108. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.6.210039
An Automated Incubator for Rearing Black Soldier Fly Larvae (Hermetia illucens)
Authors: Erbland Patrick , Alyokhin Andrei , Peterson Michael
Published: November 2021

Highlights

Black soldier fly larvae can be used to convert agricultural wastes into animal feed.

A prototype automated incubation system for producing black soldier fly larvae was designed and tested.

The system was successful in growing larvae to a harvestable size.

The system retained metabolic heat generated by larval and microbial activity.

Abstract. Biological conversion of agricultural wastes into animal feed ingredients using larvae of black soldier fly, (Hermetia illucens) is a promising technology that improves the sustainability of agriculture. We designed and tested a prototype automated incubation system for producing black soldier fly larvae. The system consisted of six 50 L plastic bins enclosed on a ventilated metal rack (178 cm high, 66 cm wide). Water was supplied to maintain a moisture level of about 60% in each bin via soaker hoses connected to sensor-activated solenoid valves. The system was successful in maintaining moisture and temperature suitable for larval development and for growing larvae to harvestable size with minimal labor and energy consumption. Biological activity in the bins generated a considerable amount of metabolic heat, most of which was trapped in the substrate in each bin. This heat may be valuable for rearing black soldier fly larvae in areas with cool climates because this species has low tolerance of cold temperatures but challenging in areas with warm climates. Keywords: Biological conversion, Black soldier fly, Metabolic heat generation, Waste management.
Advanced laser development and plasma-physics studies on the multiterawatt laser
Authors: Begishev I. A. , Bagnoud V. , Bahk S.-W. , Bittle W. A. , Brent G. , Cuffney R. , Dorrer C. , Froula D. H. , Haberberger D. , Mileham C. , Nilson P. M. , Okishev A. V. , Shaw J. L. , Shoup M. J. , Stillman C. R. , Stoeckl C. , Turnbull D. , Wager B. , Zuegel J. D. , Bromage J.
Published: November 2021

The multiterawatt (MTW) laser, built initially as the prototype front end for a petawatt laser system, is a 1053 nm hybrid system with gain from optical parametric chirped-pulse amplification (OPCPA) and Nd:glass. Compressors and target chambers were added, making MTW a complete laser facility (output energy up to 120 J, pulse duration from 20 fs to 2.8 ns) for studying high-energy-density physics and developing short-pulse laser technologies and target diagnostics. Further extensions of the laser support ultrahigh-intensity laser development of an all-OPCPA system and a Raman plasma amplifier. A short summary of the variety of scientific experiments conducted on MTW is also presented.
Dynamic wavefront distortion in resonant scanners
Authors: Akondi Vyas , Kowalski Bartlomiej , Dubra Alfredo
Published: November 2021

Dynamic mirror deformation can substantially degrade the performance of optical instruments using resonant scanners. Here, we evaluate two scanners with resonant frequencies

>

12

k
H
z

with low dynamic distortion. First, we tested an existing galvanometric motor with a novel, to the best of our knowledge, mirror substrate material, silicon carbide, which resonates at 13.8 kHz. This material is stiffer than conventional optical glasses and has lower manufacturing toxicity than beryllium, the stiffest material currently used for this application. Then, we tested a biaxial microelectromechanical (MEMS) scanner with the resonant axis operating at 29.4 kHz. Dynamic deformation measurements show that wavefront aberrations in the galvanometric scanner are dominated by linear oblique astigmatism (90%), while wavefront aberrations in the MEMS scanner are dominated by horizontal coma (30%) and oblique trefoil (27%). In both scanners, distortion amplitude increases linearly with deflection angle, yielding diffraction-limited performance over half of the maximum possible deflection for wavelengths longer than 450 nm and over the full deflection range for wavelengths above 850 nm. Diffraction-limited performance for shorter wavelengths or over larger fractions of the deflection range can be achieved by reducing the beam diameter at the mirror surface. The small dynamic distortion of the MEMS scanner offers a promising alternative to galvanometric resonant scanners with desirable but currently unattainably high resonant frequencies.
Multi-layer longitudinally specular optics for distributing diffuse light
Authors: Whitehead Lorne , Sadlik Bram , Coulter Kent , Green Brian , Tamkin John
Published: November 2021

Multi-layer optical thin films can reflect light to guide it along a hollow tube that they internally line. However, reflecting broadband white light for a range of angles requires many precise thin optical layers, which can be too expensive for large-scale applications such as architectural illumination. Here, we present an alternative configuration that requires only one readily achievable aspect of precision—having a substantially constant cross section, perpendicular to the planned longitudinal propagation direction. This aspect conserves a light ray’s longitudinal directional component, while the ray’s path in the perpendicular direction can be macroscopically chaotic, much like the diffuse reflection characteristic arising from many non-absorbing pigment particles. This macroscopic characteristic is described here as “longitudinally specular” and “transversely diffuse.” This new design overcomes two problems that are found with current prism light guides (PLGs), which are a class of hollow light guides that also have a constant cross section. The PLG has two problems: (1) it requires structured surfaces having near-perfect linear prisms that are much larger than the wavelength of light, wasting optical material and increasing absorption; (2) it only works well with light that has been partially collimated, which limits étendue and requires expensive, inefficient input optics. In this paper, a new, to the best of our knowledge, approach, labeled a “multi-layer prism light guide,” simultaneously addresses both problems. Although the new structure is more complex than a conventional PLG, it may be simpler to manufacture. One potential application is for guiding sunlight into buildings for illumination purposes, without requiring complex sun-tracking solar collection optics.
Ultra-broadband high-resolution microdroplet spectrometers for the near infrared
Authors: Capezzuto M. , D’Ambrosio D. , Avino S. , Giorgini A. , Gagliardi G. , Malara P.
Published: November 2021

By stabilizing the evaporation dynamics of a microliter fluorocarbon
droplet, we demonstrate a fast-scan optofluidic Fourier transform (FT)
spectrometer on the tip of an optical fiber operating in the
1000–2000 nm window with a resolution of 3.5 cm−1 (i.e.,
<1 nm at 1560 nm). Compared with other FT near-infrared (NIR)
small-scale spectrometers reported in the literature, the fluorocarbon
droplet spectrometer shows the largest wavelength span and
span/resolution ratio, allowing spectral analysis of broadband or
narrowband radiation to be easily performed. Our results open the way
for the practical application of droplet spectrometers as advanced
optofluidic NIR analyzers with small size and low cost that are
capable of operating in harsh environments, even in the absence of
electrical power sources.
Metallo-dielectric metasurfaces for thermal emission with controlled spectral bandwidth and angular aperture
Authors: Blanchard Cedric , Wojszvzyk Leo , Jamois Cecile , Leclercq Jean-Louis , Chevalier Celine , Ferrier Lydie , Viktorovitch Pierre , Moldovan-Doyen Ioana , Marquier François , Greffet Jean-Jacques , Letartre Xavier
Published: November 2021

We introduce thermal metallo-dielectric metasurfaces as mid IR sources. The emitter is a lossy metal. The spectral and angular emission is controlled using a periodic array of high refractive dielectric resonators. We introduce a design that allows to control independently the emission bandwidth and the angular aperture while ensuring a large emissivity. To validate the concept, we fabricated and characterized a metasurface, showing a good agreement with the theory.
Outbreak of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis among military personnel in French Guiana, 2020: Clinical, phylogenetic, individual and environmental aspects
Authors: Henry Kim , Mayet Aurélie , Hernandez Miguel , Frechard Guillaume , Blanc Pierre-Antoine , Schmitt Marion , André Nathalie , Loreau Jean-Marie , Ginouves Marine , Prévot Ghislaine , Couppié Pierre , Demar Magalie , Blaizot Romain
Published: November 2021

Background

Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) is endemic in French Guiana but cases are usually sporadic. An outbreak signal was issued on May 15th2020 with 15 suspected cases after a military training course in the rainforest. An outbreak investigation was carried out.

Methodology/Principal findings

Thirty cases were confirmed.Leishmania guyanensiswas the most frequent species (90%). The most frequent presentation was ulcerative (90%). Lesions on the face and hands were frequent (40% each). Eight cases (26%) presented a poor outcome after treatment with pentamidine and required a second line with amphotericin B. Three of them required further treatments with meglumine antimoniate or miltefosine. Two spots within the training area were deemed as likely sites of contamination, due to illegal logging. The isolatedLeishmaniastrains did not form a separate cluster. Participation in Week 13 of year 2020 was associated with infection (OR = 4.59 [1.10–19.83]; p = 0.016) while undergoing only the “Fighting” exercise was protective (OR = 0.1 [0–0.74]; p = 0.021). There was no association between infection and other risk factors at the individual level. The attack rate of Regiment B (14/105 = 13.3%) was significantly higher (OR = 4.22 [1.84–9.53], p = 0.0001) compared to Regiment A (16/507 = 3.2%). The attack rate during this training course (30/858 = 3.5%) was significantly higher (OR 2.29 [1.28–4.13]; p = 0.002) than for other missions in French Guiana during the same period (22/1427 = 1.5%).

Conclusions

This outbreak could be explained by a combination of factors: climatic conditions around week 13, at-risk activities including night trainings, absence of impregnation, a lesser experience of rainforest duties in Regiment B and illegal logging attracting sandflies on military training grounds.
Linkage to TB care: A qualitative study to understand linkage from the patients’ perspective in the Western Cape Province, South Africa
Authors: Vanqa Nosivuyile , Hoddinott Graeme , Mbenyana Baxolele , Osman Muhammad , Meehan Sue-Ann
Published: November 2021

Background

Delayed linkage to tuberculosis (TB) treatment leads to poor patient outcomes and increased onward transmission. Between 12% and 25% of people diagnosed with TB are never linked to a primary health care facility for continued care. The TB health program is for creating processes that promote and facilitates easy access to care. We explored how TB patients experience TB services and how this influenced their choices around linkage to TB care and treatment.

Methods

We enrolled 20 participants routinely diagnosed with TB in hospital or at primary health care facilities (PHC) in a high TB/HIV burdened peri-urban community in South Africa. Using the Western Cape Provincial Health Data centre (PHDC) which consolidates person-level clinical data, we used dates of diagnosis and treatment initiation to select participants who had been linked (immediately, after a delay, or never). Between June 2019 and January 2020, we facilitated in-depth discussions to explore both the participants’ experience of their TB diagnosis and their journey around linking to TB care at a primary health care facility. We analysed the data using case descriptions.

Results

Twelve of twenty (12/20) participants interviewed who experienced a delay linking were diagnosed at the hospital. Participants who experienced delays in linking or never linked explained this as a result of lack of information and support from health care providers. Unpleasant previous TB treatment episodes made it difficult to ‘face’ TB again and being uncertain of their TB diagnosis. In contrast, participants said the main motivator for linking was a personal will to get better.

Conclusion

The health care system, especially in hospitals, should focus on strengthening patient-centred care. Communication and clear messaging on TB processes is key, to prepare patients in transitioning from a hospital setting to PHC facilities for continuation of care. This should not just include a thorough explanation of their TB diagnosis but ensure that patients understand treatment processes. Former TB patients may require additional counselling and support to re-engage in care.
Evaluation of dietary crude protein concentrations, fishmeal, and sorghum inclusions in broiler chickens offered wheat-based diet via Box-Behnken response surface design
Authors: Macelline Shemil P. , Chrystal Peter V. , Greenhalgh Shiva , Toghyani Mehdi , Selle Peter H. , Liu Sonia Y.
Published: November 2021

The objective of this study was to investigate the impacts of dietary crude protein (CP), fishmeal and sorghum on nutrient utilisation, digestibility coefficients and disappearance rates of starch and protein, amino acid concentrations in systemic plasma and their relevance to growth performance of broiler chickens using the Box-Behnken response surface design. The design consisted of three factors at three levels including dietary CP (190, 210, 230 g/kg), fishmeal (0, 50, 100 g/kg), and sorghum (0, 150, 300 g/kg). A total of 390 male, off-sex Ross 308 chicks were offered experimental diets from 14 to 35 days post-hatch. Growth performance, nutrient utilisation, starch and protein digestibilities and plasma free amino acids were determined. Dietary CP had a negative linear impact on weight gain where the transition from 230 to 190 g/kg CP increased weight gain by 9.43% (1835 versus 2008 g/bird, P = 0.006). Moreover, dietary CP linearly depressed feed intake (r = -0.486. P < 0.001). Fishmeal inclusions had negative linear impacts on weight gain (r = -0.751, P < 0.001) and feed intake (r = -0.495, P < 0.001). There was an interaction between dietary CP and fishmeal for FCR. However, growth performance was not influenced by dietary inclusions of sorghum. Total plasma amino acid concentrations were negatively related to weight gain (r = -0.519, P < 0.0001). The dietary transition from 0 to 100 g/kg fishmeal increased total amino acid concentrations in systemic plasma by 35% (771 versus 1037 μg/mL, P < 0.001). It may be deduced that optimal weight gain (2157 g/bird), optimal feed intake (3330 g/bird) and minimal FCR (1.544) were found in birds offered 190 g/kg CP diets without fishmeal inclusion, irrespective of sorghum inclusions. Both fishmeal and sorghum inclusions did not alter protein and starch digestion rate in broiler chickens; however, moderate reductions in dietary CP could advantage broiler growth performance.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Portuguese population: Consumption of alcohol, stimulant drinks, illegal substances, and pharmaceuticals
Authors: Fernandes Sara , Sosa-Napolskij Milaydis , Lobo Graça , Silva Isabel
Published: November 2021

Background

The measures implemented by governments worldwide to control and prevent the spread of the COVID-19 have impacted the populations and directly influenced individuals’ quality of life and consumption habits.

Objective

This work investigates the Portuguese population’s changes in alcohol, stimulants drinks, illegal substances, and pharmaceutical consumptions habits during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

An online questionnaire comprising seven groups of questions–with one group referring to alcohol, stimulant drinks, illegal substances, and pharmaceuticals consumption habits–was made available to the general adult population of mainland Portugal from the 26th January through the 31st of March 2021. After applying the inclusion criteria, 1666 questionnaires were selected and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results

Our results show that 48.9% of the participants have alcohol drinking habits and increased their alcohol consumption by 16% after the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown. Furthermore, 8.7% of the respondents felt the need to increase their consumption of stimulant drinks, especially coffee, the most consumed stimulant drink (77.9%). We also observed that of the 3.1% of respondents who are usual consumers of illegal substances, 26.9% increased their consumption of these substances during the COVID-19 pandemic. Concerning pharmaceuticals, 23.2% of the respondents expressed their need to take a therapeutic drug after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The profile of common consumers of alcohol, stimulant drinks, illegal substances, and pharmaceuticals in the COVID-19 pandemic context is contrasting and varies according to gender, age, and employment status.

Conclusions

The COVID-19 pandemic led to an increase in the consumption of alcohol, stimulant drinks, illegal substances, and pharmaceuticals prescribed to treat anxiety, depression, and sleep changes in the Portuguese population. These new consumption patterns have probably aggravated domestic violence, mental diseases, and impairment of family quality of life in the Portuguese population.
A GNSS-based method to define athlete manoeuvrability in field-based team sports
Authors: Duthie Grant Malcolm , Robertson Sam , Thornton Heidi Rose
Published: November 2021

This study presented a method of quantifying the manoeuvrability of two field-based team sport athletes and investigated its relationship with running velocity during competition. Across a season, 10 Hz Global navigation satellite system (GNSS) devices were worn during matches by 62 athletes (Australian Football League [AFL]; n = 36, 17 matches, National Rugby League [NRL]; n = 26, 21 matches). To quantify manoeuvrability, tortuosity was calculated from the X and Y coordinates from match GNSS files (converted from latitude and longitude). Tortuosity was calculated as 100 x natural logarithm of the chord distance (distance travelled between X and Y coordinates), divided by the straight-line distance. The maximal tortuosity was then quantified for each 0.5 m∙s-1speed increment, ranging from 0 to the highest value for each game file. A quadratic model was fitted for each match file, controlling for the curvilinear relationship between tortuosity and velocity. A comparison of the quadratic coefficients between sports, and within sport between positions was investigated using linear mixed models. Resulting standard deviations (SDs) and mean differences were then assessed to establish standardized effect sizes (ES) and 90% confidence intervals (CI). A curvilinear relationship exists between maximal tortuosity and running speed, reflecting that as speed increases, athletes’ ability to deviate from a linear path is compromised (i.e., run in a more linear path). Compared to AFL, NRL had a greater negative quadratic coefficient (a) (ES = 0.70; 0.47 to 0.93) for the 5 second analysis, meaning that as speed increased, NRL athletes’ manoeuvrability reduced at a faster rate than when compared to AFL. There were no positional differences within each sport. GNSS derived information can be used to provide a measure of manoeuvrability tortuosity during NRL and AFL matches. The curvilinear relationship between tortuosity and speed demonstrated that as speed increased, manoeuvrability was compromised.
Speculative pedagogies: Envisioning change in teacher education
Authors: Tomin Brittany
Published: November 2021

This article reports on a project that asked pre-service teachers to use science fictional and speculative storytelling to imagine the future of education. I explore the importance of making space for narrativizing and imagining educational and societal change with pre-service teachers, who are forming their pedagogical identities and perspectives, within the context of the current COVID-19 global pandemic. Various narrative approaches to future educational and pedagogical possibility are examined through thematic analysis of pre-service teachers’ future-based stories. This article signals the importance of using speculative storytelling to dismantle singular notions of what education might look like and the role that education might play in a changing society, particularly in the context of citizenship, community, and collective responsibility.
Aperçu du champ intellectuel sud-vietnamien postcolonial
Authors: Pham Van Quang
Published: November 2021

This article aims to present the South Vietnamese intellectual field in the aftermath of decolonization. It is a question of examining the agents and instances in a postcolonial social space from a chronological and relational point of view: philosophers, professors, journals, universities… These sets often consist of a system of sharing and relationships in ‘position raking’ and construction of symbolic capital. We will particularly observe the ways in which South Vietnamese intellectuals treat western philosophical thoughts as a privileged object to structure the intellectual field and to establish their power and vision in this space. This questioning thus aims to reregister the Vietnamese intellectual field in a perspective of western cultural transfers.
Chronic Orofacial Pain and Systemic Disorders - A Prospective Study from Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Authors: Manivasagam Deepigaa , Muthukrishnan Arvind
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND Orofacial pain conditions occur due to complex pathophysiology and are often associated with psychosocial comorbidities. The purpose of the study was to assess the association between orofacial pain and systemic disorders. METHODS The study was conducted in a university dental hospital setting covering patients visiting for the management of various orofacial pain conditions from October 2020 to February 2021. A total of 50 patients clinically diagnosed with chronic orofacial pain (> 3 months) were involved in the study. RESULTS In this prospective study, 50 orofacial pain patients were involved in the study and consisted of burning mouth syndrome [BMS (12 %)], orofacial neuralgia (26 %), temporomandibular disorder [TMDS (54 %)] and atypical facial pain (8 %). Chronic orofacial pain patients were more common in 21 - 30 years (30 %) with a female predilection (56 %). The most common systemic disorders were gastritis (28 %) followed by depression (17 %), diabetes mellitus (13 %). CONCLUSIONS Chronic orofacial pain has a significant impact on quality of life and daily functioning. Chronic orofacial pain is associated with systemic diseases like gastritis, depression and diabetes mellitus. A biopsychosocial approach for the diagnosis and management may address the multifactorial aetiology of orofacial pain conditions whilst limiting the economic and health-related burden. KEY WORDS Orofacial Pain, Neuropathic Pain, TMD, Gastritis, Depression, Diabetes
DIETARY FACTORS AND COGNITIVE DECLINE
Authors: Smith P.J. , Blumenthal J.A.
Published: November 2021

Cognitive decline is an increasingly important public health problem, with more than 100 million adults worldwide projected to develop dementia by 2050. Accordingly, there has been an increased interest in preventive strategies that diminish this risk. It has been recognized that lifestyle factors including dietary patterns, may be important in the prevention of cognitive decline and dementia in later life. Several dietary components have been examined, including antioxidants, fatty acids, and B vitamins. In addition, whole dietary eating plans, including the Mediterranean diet (MeDi), and the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, with and without weight loss, have become areas of increasing interest. Although prospective epidemiological studies have observed that antioxidants, fatty acids, and B vitamins are associated with better cognitive functioning, randomized clinical trials have generally failed to confirm the value of any specific dietary component in improving neurocognition. Several randomized trials have examined the impact of changing ‘whole’ diets on cognitive outcomes. The MeDi and DASH diets offer promising preliminary results, but data are limited and more research in this area is needed.
história social dos cemitérios em Alfenas entre 1902 e 1921
Authors: Eugênio Alisson
Published: November 2021

Ao longo deste artigo será apresentado uma pesquisa, baseada nos registros de óbitos do município de Alfenas, sul de Minas Gerais, na qual foram confrontadas as causas das mortes e os perfis sociais dos mortos para compreender as condições de saúde pública do referido município. Assim, procurou-se investigar quais eram os problemas de saúde mais mortíferos e quais as parcelas da população eles mais afetavam. Partindo dessas questões, com base na documentação e na historiografia especializada no campo de estudos da história das doenças, da medicina e da saúde, observou-se que grande parte da mortalidade está relacionada com a pobreza, a carência de uma política de saúde pública preventiva e às dificuldades dos saberes médico e farmacêutico para solucionar problemas para os quais eles ainda não estavam preparados.
Hobsbawm: uma vida na história e a história de uma vida
Authors: Masseroni Vinícius de Oliveira
Published: November 2021

Resenha do livro: EVANS, Richard J. Eric Hobsbawm: uma vida na história. São Paula: Planeta, 2021.
Venezuela 1936 – 2021:
Authors: Alvarez Emilio Osorio , Phélan Mauricio , Viso Carlos
Published: November 2021

Revisar la movilidad internacional de Venezuela desde 1936 hasta 2021 es un desafío y una tarea compleja. Durante ese tiempo, ocurrieron importantes eventos políticos, económicos y sociales, una época en la que los extranjeros ayudaron a construir un país tal como lo conocíamos años atrás. El objetivo fundamental de este artículo es mostrar que el ascenso y la caída de Venezuela podrían ser examinados y explicados por los ingresos petroleros y las instituciones nacionales. Esas variables explican los cambios en el patrón migratorio de un país que recibió una importante cantidad de inmigrantes, a un país que años después expulsa a su población sitiada por una situación de crisis política, económica, y humanitaria. El uso de la migración, los ingresos petroleros y las instituciones nacionales permiten la construcción de tres contextos significativos y seis momentos migratorios. Los contextos se crean como un recurso metodológico que ayuda a visualizar la larga historia de un país rico que pierde su fortuna, su trayectoria y su gente. La naturaleza de este trabajo es documental.