bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Highly sensitive soft optical fiber tactile sensor
Authors: Xu Tianzong , Li Lijun , Wang Yi , Ma Qian , Jia Congying , Shao Changsheng
Published: August 2022

A soft highly sensitive tactile sensor based on an in-fiber interferometer embedded in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) structure is studied. Theoretical simulation obtains that the high order sensing modes and PDMS can improve the sensitivity. Experiments show that different order sensing modes, derived by fast Fourier transform (FFT) and inverse FFT methods, present different sensing performance. Corresponding to high order mode, 1.3593 nm/kPa sensitivity and 37 Pa (0.015 N) detection limit is obtained. Meanwhile, it also shows very good stability, reproducibility, and response time. This study not only demonstrates a tactile sensor with high sensitivity but also provides a novel sensing modes analysis method.
Unequally spaced PAM-4 signaling enabled sensitivity enhancement of a simplified coherent receiver applied in a UDWDM-PON
Authors: Zhou Jiajun , Gan Lin , Chen Yizhao , Yang Zheng , Yang Qi , Tang Ming , Liu Deming , Fu Songnian
Published: August 2022

We experimentally demonstrate a 4 × 10 Gb/s cost-effective coherent ultra-dense wavelength division multiplexing passive optical network (UDWDM-PON) by the use of unequally-spaced 4-level pulse-amplitude modulation (UES-PAM-4) signaling. Because of the advantages of simple architecture and low cost, the simplified coherent receiver (SCR) based on the transmitted signal diversity (TS-D) has been reported, but its receiver sensitivity is constrained by the severe noise arising in the higher level of conventional PAM-4 signals. Here, we first experimentally demonstrate the UES-PAM-4 signaling for the SCR based on the TS-D, by altering the PAM-4 level spacing and the decision threshold through the gradient descent algorithm (GDA). Consequently, we can experimentally achieve −30.1 dBm RS for single wavelength at the bit-error ratio (BER) of 3.8 × 10−3. Compared with the conventional equally-spaced PAM-4 (ES-PAM-4) signaling, 1.3 dB RS enhancement can be secured after the 20-km standard single-mode fiber (SSMF) transmission. Meanwhile, the UES-PAM-4 signaling is experimentally verified for 4 × 10 Gb/s UDWDM-PON. An average RS of −29.6 dBm and 32.6 dB power budget are obtained after the 20-km SSMF transmission. The proposed UES-PAM-4 signaling with the RS enhancement is a promising candidate for the UDWDM-PON by utilizing the existing optical distribution network (ODN).
What If…? Pandemic policy-decision-support to guide a cost-benefit-optimised, country-specific response
Authors: Mannarini Giorgio , Posa Francesco , Bossy Thierry , Massemin Lucas , Fernandez-Castanon Javier , Chavdarova Tatjana , Cañas Pablo , Gupta Prakhar , Jaggi Martin , Hartley Mary-Anne
Published: August 2022

Background

After 18 months of responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, there is still no agreement on the optimal combination of mitigation strategies. The efficacy and collateral damage of pandemic policies are dependent on constantly evolving viral epidemiology as well as the volatile distribution of socioeconomic and cultural factors. This study proposes a data-driven approach to quantify the efficacy of the type, duration, and stringency of COVID-19 mitigation policies in terms of transmission control and economic loss, personalised to individual countries.

Methods

We present What If…?, a deep learning pandemic-policy-decision-support algorithm simulating pandemic scenarios to guide and evaluate policy impact in real time. It leverages a uniquely diverse live global data-stream of socioeconomic, demographic, climatic, and epidemic trends on over a year of data (04/2020–06/2021) from 116 countries. The economic damage of the policies is also evaluated on the 29 higher income countries for which data is available. The efficacy and economic damage estimates are derived from two neural networks that infer respectively the daily R-value (RE) and unemployment rate (UER). Reinforcement learning then pits these models against each other to find the optimal policies minimising both RE and UER.

Findings

The models made high accuracy predictions of RE and UER (average mean squared errors of 0.043 [CI95: 0.042–0.044] and 4.473% [CI95: 2.619–6.326] respectively), which allow the computation of country-specific policy efficacy in terms of cost and benefit. In the 29 countries where economic information was available, the reinforcement learning agent suggested a policy mix that is predicted to outperform those implemented in reality by over 10-fold for RE reduction (0.250 versus 0.025) and at 28-fold less cost in terms of UER (1.595% versus 0.057%).

Conclusion

These results show that deep learning has the potential to guide evidence-based understanding and implementation of public health policies.
Genetic evidence that uptake of the fluorescent analog 2NBDG occurs independently of known glucose transporters
Authors: D’Souza Lucas J. , Wright Stephen H. , Bhattacharya Deepta
Published: August 2022

The fluorescent derivative of glucose, 2-Deoxy-2-[(7-nitro-2,1,3-benzoxadiazol-4-yl)-amino]-D-glucose (2NBDG), is a widely used surrogate reagent to visualize glucose uptake in live cells at single cell resolution. Using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing in 5TGM1 myeloma cells, we demonstrate that ablation of the glucose transporter gene Slc2a1 abrogates radioactive glucose uptake but has no effect on the magnitude or kinetics of 2NBDG import. Extracellular 2NBDG, but not NBD-fructose was transported by primary plasma cells into the cytoplasm suggesting a specific mechanism that is unlinked from glucose import and that of chemically similar compounds. Neither excess glucose nor pharmacological inhibition of GLUT1 impacted 2NBDG uptake in myeloma cells or primary splenocytes. Genetic ablation of other expressed hexose transporters individually or in combination with one another also had no impact on 2NBDG uptake. Ablation of the genes in the Slc29 and Slc35 families of nucleoside and nucleoside sugar transporters also failed to impact 2NBDG import. Thus, cellular uptake of 2NBDG is not necessarily a faithful indicator of glucose transport and is promoted by an unknown mechanism.
Does a single exposure to social defeat render rats more vulnerable to chemically induced colitis than brief inescapable foot-shocks?
Authors: Milde Anne Marita , Rød Anne Marie Kinn , Brekke Silvia , Gjøen Hedda , Mesfin Ghenet , Murison Robert
Published: August 2022

All mammals are to different degrees exposed to stressors being physical or social, which may affect health and well-being. Stressful and traumatic situations have direct effects on immune responses that may alter susceptibility to developing somatic illnesses. In animal research, different types of stressors have been investigated in studying the effect on bowel disorders, some stressors being more or less of environmental origin. We aimed, therefore, to explore whether a more natural stressor would differ from a stressor of more unnatural characteristics on dextran sulphate sodium (DSS) induced colitis in adult rats. Specifically, whether social stress within a single social defeat (SD) paradigm would be a more potent stressor than brief inescapable foot-shocks (IFS) in causing elevated faecal granulocyte marker protein (GMP), and crypt- and inflammation scores in colonic tissue. Three groups of male Wistar rats were used; socially defeated rats; inescapable foot-shock rats; and comparison rats. Main findings showed no difference between the groups on GMP levels. However, there was a significant difference on inflammation and crypt scores for the distal part of colon, detected through histology, where socially defeated rats were more susceptible. A single SD seems to be more adverse than inescapable foot-shock on DSS induced colitis, but further studies are recommended to validate a broader range of different outcomes comparing two such different rodent stress models.
Talking Dead. New burials from Tron Bon Lei (Alor Island, Indonesia) inform on the evolution of mortuary practices from the terminal Pleistocene to the Holocene in Southeast Asia
Authors: Samper-Carro Sofia C. , O’Connor Sue , Mahirta  , Kealy Shimona , Shipton Ceri
Published: August 2022

Burial elaborations are a human behaviour that, in recent contexts can inform on social diversification, belief systems, and the introduction of new practices resulting from migration or cultural transmission. The study of mortuary practices in Mainland and Island Southeast Asia has revealed complex and diverse treatments of the deceased. This paper contributes to this topic with the description of three new burials excavated in Tron Bon Lei (Alor Island, Indonesia) dated to 7.5, 10, and 12 kya cal BP. In addition to the bioskeletal profiles and palaeohealth observations, we propose the adoption of archaeothanatological methods to characterise burial types in the region. Through the analysis of skeletal element representation, body position, articulation, and grave associations, we provide an example of a holistic approach to mortuary treatments in the Lesser Sunda Islands. Our results provide significant new data for understanding the evolution and diversification of burial practices in Southeast Asia, contributing to a growing body of literature describing prehistoric socio-cultural behaviour in this region.
A standardized assessment of moldability parameters of thermoplastic materials used in orthotic manufacturing
Authors: Andrade Martinez Rodrigo , Bolzan Agnelli Martinez Luciana , Marcondes Agnelli José Augusto , Meirelles Carril Elui Valéria
Published: August 2022

Objective

To establish parameters for standardized assessment of the moldability of thermoplastic materials used in orthotic manufacturing and to develop tests for quantification of moldability parameters by simulating the demands of clinical practice, in order to enable accurate and controlled analysis of material properties.

Primary outcome measurements

Two commercially available materials were submitted to tests for standardized measurement of moldability. Results were correlated with manufacturer information. Moldability assessment was based on two parameters (conformation and fit), expressed as percentages.

Results

Tests, standardized molding procedures and measurements were described. Quantitative data (conformation and fit expressed in percentages) were derived from a pilot study comparing Aquaplast-T™ and Ezeform™. Findings of that study revealed that Aquaplast-T™ is more moldable than Ezeform™ and support technical information provided by the manufacturer.

Conclusions

The assessment method described enabled objective and repeatable measurement of the moldability of materials used in orthotic manufacturing and represent a significant advancement in comparative analysis of materials, with potential positive impacts on therapeutic procedures and clinical decision-making. Tests developed in this study can be used to quantify data provided by manufacturers in order to allow their use by researchers and professionals in rehabilitation.
Convolutional neural networks to predict brain tumor grades and Alzheimer’s disease with MR spectroscopic imaging data
Authors: Acquarelli Jacopo , van Laarhoven Twan , Postma Geert J. , Jansen Jeroen J. , Rijpma Anne , van Asten Sjaak , Heerschap Arend , Buydens Lutgarde M. C. , Marchiori Elena
Published: August 2022

Purpose

To evaluate the value of convolutional neural network (CNN) in the diagnosis of human brain tumor or Alzheimer’s disease by MR spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) and to compare its Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC) score against that of other machine learning methods and previous evaluation of the same data. We address two challenges: 1) limited number of cases in MRSI datasets and 2) interpretability of results in the form of relevant spectral regions.

Methods

A shallow CNN with only one hidden layer and an ad-hoc loss function was constructed involving two branches for processing spectral and image features of a brain voxel respectively. Each branch consists of a single convolutional hidden layer. The output of the two convolutional layers is merged and fed to a classification layer that outputs class predictions for the given brain voxel.

Results

Our CNN method separated glioma grades 3 and 4 and identified Alzheimer’s disease patients using MRSI and complementary MRI data with high MCC score (Area Under the Curve were 0.87 and 0.91 respectively). The results demonstrated superior effectiveness over other popular methods as Partial Least Squares or Support Vector Machines. Also, our method automatically identified the spectral regions most important in the diagnosis process and we show that these are in good agreement with existing biomarkers from the literature.

Conclusion

Shallow CNNs models integrating image and spectral features improved quantitative and exploration and diagnosis of brain diseases for research and clinical purposes. Software is available athttps://bitbucket.org/TeslaH2O/cnn_mrsi.
Predicting the northward expansion of tropical lineage Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato ticks in the United States and its implications for medical and veterinary health
Authors: Pascoe Emily L. , Nava Santiago , Labruna Marcelo B. , Paddock Christopher D. , Levin Michael L. , Marcantonio Matteo , Foley Janet E.
Published: August 2022

The tropical lineage within the Rhipicephalus sanguineus species complex is cause for growing concern in the U.S. based on its prominent role in creating and perpetuating multiple recently identified outbreaks of Rocky Mountain spotted fever in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. This lineage is undergoing a northward range expansion in the United States, necessitating the need for enhanced surveillance for Rh. sanguineus. To inform more focused surveillance efforts we use species distribution models (SDMs) to predict current (2015–2019) and future (2021–2040) habitat for the tropical lineage. Models using the MaxEnt algorithm were informed using geolocations of ticks genetically confirmed to be of the tropical lineage, for which data on 23 climatic and ecological variables were extracted. Models predicted that suitability was optimal where temperatures are relatively warm and stable, and there is minimal precipitation. This translated into habitat being predicted along much of the coast of southern states including California, Texas, Louisiana, and Florida. Although the endophilic nature of tropical Rh. sanguineus somewhat violates the assumptions of SDMs, our models correctly predicted known locations of this tick and provide a starting point for increased surveillance efforts. Furthermore, we highlight the importance of using molecular methods to distinguish between ticks in the Rh. sanguineus species complex.
A latent class analysis to identify socio-economic and health risk profiles among mothers of young children predicting longitudinal risk of food insecurity
Authors: Daundasekara Sajeevika Saumali , Schuler Brittany R. , Hernandez Daphne C.
Published: August 2022

Background

The purpose of the current study was to use a social determinants of health (SDOH) framework and latent class analysis (LCA) to identify risk classes among mothers with young children. The risk classes were then used to predict food insecurity severity and stability/change of food insecurity over time.

Method

The secondary data from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study (n = 2,368; oversampled for non-marital births) was used in this study. Household food insecurity was assessed using the 18-items USDA Food Security Survey. A seventeen-item inventory of educational, economic stability, incarceration (i.e. social context), neighborhood safety (i.e. neighborhood and built environment), health and health care, and substance use behaviors at baseline/Year-1 were included to identify SDOH risk indicators in the LCA. Covariate-adjusted multinomial logistic regression models were used to examine the relation between risk classes at Year-1 and the severity of food insecurity at Year-3 and stability/change of food insecurity between Year-3 and Year -5.

Results

LCA identified five risk classes: High utility and medical hardship (Class 1), high housing and employment hardship, high substance use, and incarceration (Class 2), high housing and medical hardship, poor health, and health care (Class 3), high employment hardship and low-income (Class 4) and low-risk (Class 5). The Class 1, Class 2 and Class 3 had greater odds of low food security and very low food security at Year-3 compared to Class 4. In addition, compared to Class 4, Class 1, Class 2 and Class 3 had greater odds unstable food insecurity and persistent food insecurity over time.

Conclusions

LCA could be used to identify distinctive family system risk profiles predictive of food insecurity. The generated risk profiles could be used by health care providers as an additional tool to identify families in need for resources to ensure household food security.
Creation of a Global Vaccine Risk Index
Authors: Nuzhath Tasmiah , Hotez Peter J. , Damania Ashish , Liu P. Shuling , Colwell Brian
Published: August 2022

The World Health Organization has identified vaccine hesitancy as one of its top ten global health threats for 2019. Efforts are underway to define the factors responsible for reductions in vaccine confidence. However, as global measles cases accelerated beginning in 2018, it became evident that additional factors were promoting measles re-emergence, including war, political and socio-economic collapse, shifting poverty, and vulnerability to weather events and climate change. Accordingly, we propose a Global Vaccine Risk Index (VRI) to consider these variables as a more comprehensive means to identify vulnerable nations where we might expect measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases to emerge or re-emerge. In Sub-Saharan African and Middle Eastern nations, conflict and political instability predominated as the basis for high vaccine risk scores, whereas in Southeast Asian countries, the major reasons included climate variability, current levels of measles vaccination coverage, and economic and educational disparities. In Europe, low vaccine confidence and refugee movements predominated, while in the Americas, economic disparities and vaccine confidence were important. The VRI may serve as a useful indicator and predictor for international agencies committed to childhood immunizations and might find relevance for accelerating future COVID19 vaccination programs.
The Key Driver Implementation Scale (KDIS) for practice facilitators: Psychometric testing in the “Southeastern collaboration to improve blood pressure control” trial
Authors: Stover Angela M. , Wang Mian , Shea Christopher M. , Richman Erica , Rees Jennifer , Cherrington Andrea L. , Cummings Doyle M. , Nicholson Liza , Peaden Shannon , Craft Macie , Mackey Monique , Safford Monika M. , Halladay Jacqueline R.
Published: August 2022

Background

Practice facilitators (PFs) provide tailored support to primary care practices to improve the quality of care delivery. Often used by PFs, the “Key Driver Implementation Scale” (KDIS) measures the degree to which a practice implements quality improvement activities from the Chronic Care Model, but the scale’s psychometric properties have not been investigated. We examined construct validity, reliability, floor and ceiling effects, and a longitudinal trend test of the KDIS items in the Southeastern Collaboration to Improve Blood Pressure Control trial.

Methods

The KDIS items assess a practice’s progress toward implementing: a clinical information system (using their own data to drive change); standardized care processes; optimized team care; patient self-management support; and leadership support. We assessed construct validity and estimated reliability with a multilevel confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). A trend test examined whether the KDIS items increased over time and estimated the expected number of months needed to move a practice to the highest response options.

Results

PFs completed monthly KDIS ratings over 12 months for 32 primary care practices, yielding a total of 384 observations. Data was fitted to a unidimensional CFA model; however, parameter fit was modest and could be improved. Reliability was 0.70. Practices started scoring at the highest levels beginning in month 5, indicating low variability. The KDIS items did show an upward trend over 12 months (all p < .001), indicating that practices were increasingly implementing key activities. The expected time to move a practice to the highest response category was 9.1 months for standardized care processes, 10.2 for clinical information system, 12.6 for self-management support, 13.1 for leadership, and 14.3 months for optimized team care.

Conclusions

The KDIS items showed acceptable reliability, but work is needed in larger sample sizes to determine if two or more groups of implementation activities are being measured rather than one.
A simple surgical mask modification to pass N95 respirator-equivalent fit testing standards during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Dardas Agnes Z. , Serra Lopez Viviana M. , Boden Lauren M. , Gittings Daniel J. , Heym Kevin , Koerber Emily , Grosh Taras , Ahn Jaimo
Published: August 2022

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has infected hundreds of millions of people resulting in millions of deaths worldwide. While N95 respirators remain the gold standard as personal protective equipment, they are resource-intensive to produce and obtain. Surgical masks, easier to produce and obtain, filter ≥95% submicron particles but are less protective due to a lack of seal around a user’s face. This study tested the ability of a simple surgical mask modification using rubber bands to create a seal against particle exposure that would pass N95 standards.

Methods and findings

Forty healthcare workers underwent TSI PortaCount mask fit testing using an ASTM Level 1 surgical mask modified with rubber bands. Fit Factor was determined after testing four standard OSHA N95 fit testing scenarios. Performance of the properly-modified surgical mask was compared to that of a poorly-modified surgical mask, an unmodified standard surgical mask, and an N95 respirator. Thirty-one of forty (78%) healthcare workers passed Fit Factor testing using a properly-modified mask. The Fit Factor success rate significantly improved by subsequent test date (p = 0.043), but was not associated with any other participant characteristics. The average Fit Factor score for the properly-modified mask was 151 (SD 65.2), a significantly better fit than the unmodified mask score of 3.8 (SD 3.1, p<0.001) and the poorly-modified mask score of 24.6 (SD 48.4, p<0.001) but significantly lower than a properly fitted N95 score of 199 (SD 4.5, p<0.001).do.

Conclusions

Rubber bands, a low-cost and easily-accessible modification, can improve the seal and protective ability of a standard surgical mask to the level of an N95 respirator. This could mitigate N95 respirator shortages worldwide and provide individuals in under-resourced regions a practical means for increased personal respiratory protection.
A study of UK household wealth through empirical analysis and a non-linear Kesten process
Authors: Forbes Samuel , Grosskinsky Stefan
Published: August 2022

We study the wealth distribution of UK households through a detailed analysis of data from wealth surveys and rich lists, and propose a non-linear Kesten process to model the dynamics of household wealth. The main features of our model are that we focus on wealth growth and disregard exchange, and that the rate of return on wealth is increasing with wealth. The linear case with wealth-independent return rate has been well studied, leading to a log-normal wealth distribution in the long time limit which is essentially independent of initial conditions. We find through theoretical analysis and simulations that the non-linearity in our model leads to more realistic power-law tails, and can explain an apparent two-tailed structure in the empirical wealth distribution of the UK and other countries. Other realistic features of our model include an increase in inequality over time, and a stronger dependence on initial conditions compared to linear models.
Impacts on air dose rates after the Fukushima accident over the North Pacific from 19 March 2011 to 2 September 2015
Authors: Wang Kuo-Ying , Nedelec Philippe , Clark Hannah , Harris Neil , Kajino Mizuo , Igarashi Yasuhito
Published: August 2022

A fleet of thirteen in-service global container ships continuously measured the air dose rates over the North Pacific after the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station (FDNPS) accident. The results showed that the elevated air dose rates over the Port of Tokyo and the FDNPS emissions are significantly correlated (log(emission fluxes) = 54.98 x (air dose rates) (R = 0.95, P-value<0.01), and they are also significantly correlated with the Tsukuba deposition fluxes (log(deposition fluxes) = 0.47 + 30.98 (air dose rates) (R = 0.91, P-value<0.01). These results demonstrate the direct impact of the FDNPS emissions on the depositions of radionuclides and the air dose rates over the Port of Tokyo. Over the North Pacific, the correlation equations are log(emission fluxes) = -2.72 + 202.36 x (air dose rates over the northwestern Pacific) (R = 0.40, P-value<0.01), and log(emission fluxes) = -0.55 + 80.19 x (air dose rates over the northeastern Pacific) (R = 0.29, P-value = 0.0424). These results indicate that the resuspension of the deposited radionuclides have become a dominant source in the transport of radionuclides across the North Pacific. Model simulations show underestimated air dose rates during the periods of 22-25 March 2011 and 27-30 March 2011 indicating the lack of mechanisms, such as the resuspension of radionuclides, in the model.
Additions to the genus Anthinus occurring in Minas Gerais and Goiás regions, Brazil, with description of five new species, one of them in the new related genus Catracca (Gastropoda, Eupulmonata, Strophocheilidae)
Authors: Simone Luiz Ricardo L.
Published: August 2022

Four new species of the strophocheilid genusAnthinusare described from Brazil, beingA.synchondrusfrom region of Unaí, Minas Gerais;A.vailantifrom the region of Brasilândia de Minas, Minas Gerais;A.morenusfrom Paracatu region, Minas Gerais; andA.savanicusfrom Formosa region, Goiás. Another similar snail from Itacarambi, Minas Gerais, is described as a new genus and species:Catracca uhlei. All species are described conchologically and anatomically, with distinctions explored in almost all structures. For comparative purposes, a similar anatomical investigation on theAnthinustype species,A.multicolor, from Rio de Janeiro, is also performed. A detailed comparative analysis and discussion is provided, including taxonomic and initial phylogenetic inferences. The preliminary phylogenetic analysis is based on anatomically known species in the literature and in the presently study. A bulimulid, a simpulopsid and two dorcasiids are outgroups. The preliminary cladogram already shows a monophyletic Strophocheilidae (14 synapomorphies), divided into two also monophyletic subfamilies: Megalobuliminae (14 synapomorphies) and Strophocheilinae (5 synapomorphies). The newCatraccaresulted as the most basal strophocheilid branch.MirinabaandAnthinuswere also supported as monophyletic (3 and 6 synapomorphies respectively. Register ZooBank: urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:FC4DD323-EF6A-404B-9755-F124F9DBB6D4.
A new outlier detection method for spherical data
Authors: Rambli Adzhar , Mohamed Ibrahim Bin , Hussin Abdul Ghapor
Published: August 2022

In this study, we propose a new method to detect outlying observations in spherical data. The method is based on the k-nearest neighbours distance theory. The proposed method is a good alternative to the existing tests of discordancy for detecting outliers in spherical data. In addition, the new method can be generalized to identify a patch of outliers in the data. We obtain the cut-off points and investigate the performance of the test statistic via simulation. The proposed test performs well in detecting a single and a patch of outliers in spherical data. As an illustration, we apply the method on an eye data set.
The Hungarian hubris syndrome
Authors: Magyari Lilla , Pléh Csaba , Forgács Bálint
Published: August 2022

Powerful figures, such as politicians, who show a behavioural pattern of exuberant self-confidence, recklessness, and contempt for others may be the subject of the acquired personality disorder, thehubris syndrome, which has been demonstrated to leave its mark on speech patterns. Our study explores characteristic language patterns of Hungarian prime ministers (PMs) with a special emphasis on one of the key indicators of hubris, the shift from the first person “I” to “we” in spontaneous speech. We analyzed the ratio of the first-person singular (“I”) and plural (“we”) pronouns and verbal inflections in the spontaneous parliamentary speeches of four Hungarian PMs between 1998–2018. We found that Viktor Orbán during his second premiership (2010–2014) used first person plural relative to singular inflections more often than the other three PMs during their terms. Orbán and another Hungarian PM, Ferenc Gyurcsány, who were re-elected at some point showed an increased ratio of first-person plural vs. singular inflections and personal pronouns by their second term, likely reflecting increasing hubristic tendencies. The results show that the ratio of “I” and “we” usually studied in English texts also show changes in a structurally different language, Hungarian. This finding suggests that it is extended periods of premiership that may increase hubristic behaviour in political leaders, not only experiencing excessive power. The results are particularly elucidating regarding the role of re-elections in political leaders’ hubristic speech–and behaviour.
Electro dialysis reversal (EDR) performance for reject brine treatment of reverse osmosis desalination system
Authors: Ataei Far Hossein , Hassani Amir Hessam , Taghavi Lobat , Fazeli Mojtaba , Rashidi Mehrabadi Abdollah
Published: August 2022

In this study, the performance of bench-scale EDR was evaluated using the samples taken from the 1st and the 2nd stage RO from the Brackish Water Reverse Osmosis (BWRO) plant in Eshtehard, Iran. The measurements indicated that original TDS of the aquifer brackish water was equal to 3,229–3,664 mg/L, whereas TDS of the 1st stage RO brine was between 5,500 and 7,700 mg/L, that TDS of the 2nd stage RO brine was in the range of 9,500–10,600 mg/L. A batch bench-scale EDR system of 12 l/h was used with a direct electric current at three different scenarios. In the first, the brine was fed at 20°C (as a reference regulated point). In the second, temperature (14, 20, 26.5°C), and in the third, voltage were changed (6, 12, 18, 24 V) to investigate their influences on performance of the EDR process, while the other operational parameters (feed flow rate, recovery ratio, quality of feed brine)were kept constant. Based on the data analysis using the ANOVA and DUNCAN tests for the second and third scenarios, it was observed that the optimum TDS removal efficiency of the EDR process can be at temperature of 26.5°C and voltage of 18 V. On the other hand, the successful performance of the bench-scale EDR in reducing the 29,000 mg/L TDS and the 45,000 μmhos/cm EC of the 2nd stage brine to 1,716 mg/L (TDS) and 2,640 μmhos/cm (EC) (at 26.5°C and 24V) could be considered as the main achievement of this research. Overall, the hybrid process RO-EDR-RO can be considered as the best technical, environmental and economical scenario for the development of Eshtehard Desalination Plant phase 2 at full scale.
The splenic T cell receptor repertoire during an immune response against a complex antigen: Expanding private clones accumulate in the high and low copy number region
Authors: Meinhardt Martin , Tune Cornelia , Schierloh Lisa-Kristin , Schampel Andrea , Pagel René , Westermann Jürgen
Published: August 2022

Large cellular antigens comprise a variety of different epitopes leading to a T cell response of extreme diversity. Therefore, tracking such a response by next generation sequencing of the T cell receptor (TCR) in order to identify common TCR properties among the expanding T cells represents an enormous challenge. In the present study we adapted a set of established indices to elucidate alterations in the TCR repertoire regarding sequence similarities between TCRs including VJ segment usage and diversity of nucleotide coding of a single TCR. We combined the usage of these indices with a new systematic splitting strategy regarding the copy number of the extracted clones to divide the repertoire into multiple fractions for separate analysis. We implemented this new analytic approach using the splenic TCR repertoire following immunization with sheep red blood cells (SRBC) in mice. As expected, early after immunization presumably antigen-specific clones accumulated in high copy number fractions, but at later time points similar accumulation of specific clones occurred within the repertoire fractions of lowest copy number. For both repertoire regions immunized animals could reliably be distinguished from control in a classification approach, demonstrating the robustness of the two effects at the individual level. The direction in which the indices shifted after immunization revealed that for both the early and the late effect alterations in repertoire parameters were caused by antigen-specific private clones displacing non-specific public clones. Taken together, tracking antigen-specific clones by their displacement of average TCR repertoire characteristics in standardized repertoire fractions ensures that our analytical approach is fairly independent from the antigen in question and thus allows the in-depth characterization of a variety of immune responses.
Hearing impairment among adult foreign-born and Swedish-born individuals: A national Swedish study
Authors: Wändell Per , Li Xinjun , Carlsson Axel , Sundquist Jan , Sundquist Kristina
Published: August 2022

Objectives

To analyze the risk of hearing impairment in adult first-generation immigrants, i.e., foreign-born individuals as compared to Swedish-born individuals.

Study design

A register-based study follow-up study.

Methods

A nationwide study of individuals 25 years of age and older (N = 5 464 245; 2 627 364 men and 2 836 881 women) in Sweden. Hearing impairment was defined as at least one registered diagnosis in the National Patient Register between January 1st, 1998 and December 31st, 2015. Cox regression analysis was used to estimate the relative risk (hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI)) of incident hearing impairment in foreign-born compared to Swedish-born individuals. Cox regression models were stratified by sex and adjusted for age, comorbidities, and socioeconomic status.

Results

A total of 244 171 cases (124 349 men and 119 822 women) of hearing impairment were registered. Hearing impairment risk expressed as fully adjusted HRs (99% CI) was somewhat lower among immigrant men 0.95 (0.92–97) but not among immigrant women 0.97 (0.95–1.00), with significantly higher fully adjusted HRs among men and women from Asia, and Eastern Europe, and women from Africa.

Conclusions

We observed a somewhat lower risk of hearing impairment among foreign-born men, but there was a higher risk among men and women from some regions.
Longitudinal changes and correlates of meeting WHO recommended levels of physical activity in the UK during the COVID-19 pandemic: Findings from the HEBECO study
Authors: Mitchell John J. , Dicken Samuel J. , Kale Dimitra , Herbec Aleksandra , Beard Emma , Shahab Lion
Published: August 2022

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has seen repeated government enforced restrictions on movement. This study aimed to evaluate longitudinal trends in physical activity (PA) in a self-selected UK-based sample and identify the key correlates of these trends.

Methods

From 23 April 2020 to 30 January 2021, measures of PA engagement were collected in a sample of 1,947 UK-based adults. Generalised estimating equations (GEE) explored trends in PA engagement over time, and how sociodemographic, health and contextual factors impacted participant’s attainment of World Health Organization (WHO) recommended levels of PA (constituting muscle strengthening activity (MSA), and moderate or vigorous PA (MVPA)).

Results

While one in five achieved the recommended levels of PA in the first UK lockdown in April-June 2020 (19.5%, 95%CI: 17.8–21.3%) and a similar proportion in June-July 2020 (17.7%, 95%CI: 16.1–19.5%), this reduced during the period of eased restrictions in August-September 2020 (15.2%, 95%CI: 13.7–16.9%) and the second UK lockdown in November 2020-January 2021 (14.1%, 95%CI: 12.6–15.9%). Similar trends were observed for MSA and MVPA individually. Better quality of life, higher socioeconomic position and pre-COVID-19 PA levels were associated with meeting the WHO recommended levels of PA, while those living with overweight or obesity, a limiting health condition, or isolating showed the inverse associations. Time-specific associations with MSA or MVPA were observed for gender and age.

Conclusion

Reductions in PA levels throughout the first strict lockdown continued without reversal during the ensuing period. The association of negative change with socioeconomic and health-related indices points towards deepening health inequities during the pandemic.
Two-minute walk distance reference equations for middle-aged and elderly Chinese individuals with obesity
Authors: Zhang Jia , Zou Yingying , Wang Zibin , Chen Xiaoshu , Pan Jingye , Yu Haizhu , Li Enci , Zou He
Published: August 2022

Background and objective

While the six-minute walk test (6MWT) is often used to assess exercise capacity, the less well-known two-minute walk test (2MWT) is more feasible for some patients. In previous studies, we developed reference equations for the two-minute walk distance (2MWD) for healthy Chinese adults. However, our study did not recruit people with obesity, and the reference equations did not apply to participants with a body mass index (BMI) > 30 kg/m2. The main objective of this study was to establish reference equations for the 2MWD among middle-aged and elderly Chinese individuals with obesity.

Methods

A total of 295 individuals were recruited. The participants underwent two 2MWTs, with the longer of the two 2MWDs used for further analyses. The reference equations for the 2MWD were developed using stepwise multiple regression analysis. The newly established equations for the 2MWD were then compared with the existing equations.

Results

The mean 2MWD of the participants was 176±20 m. Age and BMI were identified as independent factors that influenced the 2MWD and explained 28% and 32% of the variance in walking distance for the male and female groups, respectively. The reference equations for the 2MWD were as follows:

Male:2MWD(m)=443.058−[age(yr)x6.782]+[BMI(kg/m2)x0.847];r2=0.283Female:2MWD(m)=300.160−[age(yr)x0.841]−[BMI(kg/m2)x2.541];r2=0.315

Conclusion

This study resulted in the development of reference equations for predicting 2MWD among middle-aged and elderly Chinese people with obesity. These equations will be a clinically valuable tool for evaluating functional capacity, determining prognoses and monitoring treatment in middle-aged and elderly Chinese people with obesity.
Determinants of Childhood Overweight and Obesity among Children 2 – 6 Years of Age Attending Anganwadi Centres in a Block of North Bengal
Authors: Rupayan Kundu  , Nivedita Sarkar  , Tirthankar Guha Thakurta
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND

Childhood obesity, a precursor of obesity in adulthood, is an important risk factor for adverse health outcomes and is showing a rising trend in India. Duration of exclusive breastfeeding, early introduction of complementary feeding, overweight or obesity in the mother, and maternal diabetes are important risk factors. The study was conducted to determine the proportion of overweight and obesity and its determinants among children in a block of North Bengal.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted among children aged 2 – 6 years attending Anganwadi Centres in Tufanganj I Block, District Cooch Behar, West Bengal. 221 children aged between 2 and 6 years, were selected by 2 stage sampling technique, from 5 AWCs by simple random sampling, after taking informed consent from their mothers. Proportions, 95% CI for prevalence, and adjusted odds ratio for risk factors were calculated.

RESULTS

Proportions of overweight and obesity were 22.2% and 11.3% respectively. The proportion of combined overweight and obesity was significantly higher when the duration of exclusive breastfeeding was for less than 6 months compared to more than 6 months [AOR=8.069, 95% CI = 1.778-36.624, P=0.007] and the duration of continued breastfeeding was for less than 6 months compared to more than 6 months [AOR=12.586, 95% CI = 5.196-30.486, P=<0.001].

CONCLUSIONS

The proportion of overweight and obesity was observed to be higher compared to other studies. Increased duration of breastfeeding appears to be a protective factor for the prevention of childhood overweight and obesity.
Heterogeneous polymers degradation – microplastic
Authors: Mucha Maria , Mucha Jaroslaw
Published: August 2022

The process of semicrystalline polymers thermo-oxidative degradation was analyzed on the example of isotactic polypropylene (iPP). Oxygen degradation takes place mainly in the amorphous phase into which oxygen diffuses. This leads to oxidation (formation of hydroperoxides) and next the chains scission. The polymer becomes brittle and breaks down into small pieces (e.g. microplastics). The crystalline phase is more difficult to access for oxygen that initiates the thermo-oxidation process. An increase in the crystallinity degree and a decrease in the viscosity of the solutions diluted in p-xylene as a function of the degradation time were observed. The number of iPP chain scission (change in molecular weight) as a function of degradation time was also calculated. These values depend on the polymer initial crystallinity degree and its supermolecular structure.
A New Design Approach for a Compact Microstrip Diplexer with Good Passband Characteristics
Authors: Rezaei Abbas , Yahya Salah I.
Published: August 2022

This paper presents an efficient theoretical design approach of a very compact microstrip diplexer for modern wireless communication system applications. The proposed basic resonator is made of coupled lines, simple transmission line and a shunt stub. The coupled lines and transmission line make a U-shape resonator while the shunt stub is loaded inside the U-shape cell to save the size significantly, where the overall size of the presented diplexer is only 0.008 λg2 . The configuration of this resonator is analyzed to increase intuitive understanding of the structure and easier optimization. The first and second resonance frequencies are f o1 = 895 MHz and f o2 = 2.2 GHz. Both channels have good properties so that the best simulated insertion loss at the first channel (0.075 dB) and the best simulated common port return losses at both channels (40.3 dB and 31.77 dB) are achieved. The presented diplexer can suppress the harmonics acceptably up to 3 GHz (3.3 fo1 ). Another feature is having 31% fractional bandwidth at the first channel.
Oscillation of Second-Order Half-linear Retarded Difference Equations via a Canonical Transform
Authors: Srinivasan R. , Saravanan S. , Graef John R. , Thandapani E.
Published: August 2022

The aim of this paper is to investigate the second order half-linear retarded difference equationΔ(μ(n)(Δη(n))α)+δ(n)ηα(σ(n))=0\Delta \left( {\mu \left( n \right){{\left( {\Delta \eta \left( n \right)} \right)}^\alpha }} \right) + \delta \left( n \right){\eta ^\alpha }\left( {\sigma \left( n \right)} \right) = 0under the condition∑n=n0∞μ−1α(n)<∞ \sum\limits_{n = {n_0}}^\infty {{\mu ^{ - {1 \over \alpha }}}} \left( n \right) < \infty \,(i.e., nonconanical form). Unlike most existing results, the oscillatory behavior of solutions of this equation is attained by transforming it into an equation in canonical form. Particular examples are provided to show the significance of our main results.
Calidad de vida relacionada con la salud en adolescentes de tres instituciones educativas del Valle de Aburrá
Authors: Álvarez Damián , Yarce Metrio Emanuel , Correa Marlon Steven , Montoya Grisales Noelva Eliana , González Palacio Enoc Valentín
Published: August 2022

Indagar por la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud de los adolescentes se hace relevante cuando se desea entender sus percepciones y opiniones, pero sobre todo a la hora de pensar en estrategias de atención, sobre todo en el entorno escolar. El objetivo de la presente investigación cuantitativa, no experimental, fue describir la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud de un grupo de adolescentes de tres Instituciones Educativas del Valle de Aburrá, de los grados octavo y noveno, a partir de la aplicación del cuestionario KIDSCREEN -27. El estudio se realizó con una muestra de 430 adolescentes con una mediana de edad de 14 años (CV=0.07). Se encontró que los adolescentes percibieron su calidad de vida relacionada con la salud de manera muy positiva, en especial en la dimensión de amigos y apoyo social, además se encontraron diferencias significativas con respecto al género, favoreciendo la población masculina y de los adolescentes físicamente activos.
Comprensiones alrededor del concepto de tránsito a la vida adulta y su relación con la autonomía desde el paradigma sistémico
Authors: Fonseca Gutiérrez Verónica
Published: August 2022

El presente artículo parte de la importancia que el tránsito a la vida adulta ha adquirido a lo largo del tiempo, por ser un tema de reflexión y de múltiples estudios para conocer cómo las condiciones de hoy en día permiten este proceso en los jóvenes. Este artículo es un estudio cualitativo de revisión sistemática y tuvo como objetivo describir el tránsito a la adultez desde dos perspectivas. La primera, una construcción por medio de investigaciones realizadas por varios autores, los cuales encontraron que la transición a la adultez está mediada por aspectos como la autonomía, los nuevos roles, las expectativas individuales, las demandas, entre otras. Y la segunda, una visión anclada a paradigmas emergentes y el enfoque sistémico, que plantean que el tránsito a la vida adulta se ve permeado por elementos como la desvinculación, la individuación y las dinámicas familiares. La revisión permitió concluir que las condiciones familiares y sociales en las que se desarrolla el individuo son determinantes en su tránsito a la vida adulta, favoreciendo o dificultando este proceso.
Una invitación a la teoría (contable)
Authors: Jinghong Liang Pierre , Rico Bonilla Carlos Orlando
Published: August 2022

Con este ensayo se busca animar a los jóvenes académicos a aprender, utilizar y contribuir con la teoría de la contabilidad. En esta invitación se argumenta que ella tiene tradición, es importante y puede ser divertida. Su linaje proviene de la revolución científica en educación e investigación sobre gestión, posterior a la Segunda Guerra Mundial. Es relevante porque su interacción exitosa con el trabajo empírico es lo que en definitiva hace avanzar a una disciplina. Además, puede ser una actividad agradable para todos los académicos, ya sea como consumidores o como productores de esta.