bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of educational interventions for healthcare workers on vaccination dialogue with older adults: a systematic review
Authors: Wennekes Manuela Dominique , Almási Tímea , Eilers Renske , Mezei Fruzsina , Petykó Zsuzsanna Ida , Timen Aura , Vokó Zoltán ,   VITAL Consortium
Published: March 2024

Background

Healthcare workers (HCW) significantly influence older adults’ vaccine acceptance. This systematic review aimed to identify effective educational interventions for HCWs that could enhance their ability to engage in a dialogue with older adults on vaccination.

Methods

Medline, Scopus, Cochrane library and grey literature were searched for comparative studies investigating educational interventions concerning older adult vaccinations. The search encompassed all languages and publication years. Analysis was performed on the outcomes ‘vaccines offered or ordered’ and ‘vaccination rates’. Whenever feasible, a sub-analysis on publication year was conducted. Methodological limitations were assessed using the RoB 2 for RCTs and the GRADE checklist for non-randomized studies. Study outcomes were categorized according to the four-level Kirkpatrick model (1996) for effectiveness: reaction, learning, behaviour, and results.

Results

In total, 48 studies met all inclusion criteria. Most studies included reminder systems signalling HCWs on patients due for vaccination. Other interventions included seminars, academic detailing and peer-comparison feedback. Four articles reporting on the reaction-level indicated that most HCWs had a favourable view of the intervention. Two of the six articles reporting on the learning-level observed positive changes in attitude or knowledge due to the intervention. Seventeen studies reported on the behaviour-level. An analysis on eleven out of seventeen studies focusing on vaccines ‘ordered’ or ‘offered’ outcomes suggested that tailored reminders, particularly those implemented before 2000, were the most effective. Out of 34 studies reporting on the result-level, 24 were eligible for analysis on the outcome ‘vaccination rate’, which showed that compared to usual care, multicomponent interventions were the most effective, followed by tailored reminders, especially those predating 2000. Nonetheless, tailored reminders often fell short compared to other interventions like standing orders or patient reminders. In both the behaviour-level and result-level ‘education only’ interventions frequently underperformed relative to other interventions. Seventeen out of the 27 RCTs, and seven of the 21 non-randomized studies presented a low-to-medium risk for bias in the studies’ findings.

Conclusions

Tailored reminders and multicomponent interventions effectively assist HCWs in addressing vaccines with older adults. However, education-only interventions appear to be less effective compared to other interventions.
Univariable and multivariable Mendelian randomization study identified the key role of gut microbiota in immunotherapeutic toxicity
Authors: Liu Baike , Liu Zheran , Jiang Tianxiang , Gu Xiangshuai , Yin Xiaonan , Cai Zhaolun , Zou Xiaoqiao , Dai Lei , Zhang Bo
Published: March 2024

Background

In cancer patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), there is emerging evidence suggesting a correlation between gut microbiota and immune-related adverse events (irAEs). However, the exact roles of gut microbiota and the causal associations are yet to be clarified.

Methods

To investigate this, we first conducted a univariable bi-directional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. Instrumental variables (IVs) for gut microbiota were retrieved from the MiBioGen consortium (18,340 participants). GWAS summary data for irAEs were gathered from an ICIs-treated cohort with 1,751 cancer patients. Various MR analysis methods, including inverse variance weighted (IVW), MR PRESSO, maximum likelihood (ML), weighted median, weighted mode, and cML–MA–BIC, were used. Furthermore, multivariable MR (MVMR) analysis was performed to account for possible influencing instrumental variables.

Results

Our analysis identified fourteen gut bacterial taxa that were causally associated with irAEs. Notably, Lachnospiraceae was strongly associated with an increased risk of both high-grade and all-grade irAEs, even after accounting for the effect of BMI in the MVMR analysis. Akkermansia, Verrucomicrobiaceae, and Anaerostipes were found to exert protective roles in high-grade irAEs. However, Ruminiclostridium6, Coprococcus3, Collinsella, and Eubacterium (fissicatena group) were associated with a higher risk of developing high-grade irAEs. RuminococcaceaeUCG004, and DefluviitaleaceaeUCG011 were protective against all-grade irAEs, whereas Porphyromonadaceae, Roseburia, Eubacterium (brachy group), and Peptococcus were associated with an increased risk of all-grade irAEs.

Conclusions

Our analysis highlights a strong causal association between Lachnospiraceae and irAEs, along with some other gut microbial taxa. These findings provide potential modifiable targets for managing irAEs and warrant further investigation.
Cooling performance measurements of different types of cooling vests using thermal manikin
Authors: Kim Siyeon , Lee Seojin , Shin Sora , Lim Daeyoung
Published: March 2024

This study compared the effectiveness of five commercially available cooling vests using three distinct thermal manikin test protocols. In addition, the constraints associated with each test protocol were elucidated, facilitating the identification of suitable evaluation methods for the different cooling vests. The cooling performances of the vests were evaluated using three thermal manikin test scenarios, incorporating the adaptations from Ciuha et al. (Ergonomics 64:625–639, 2021) and ASTM F2371-16, along with a modified protocol simulating the hot and humid weather in a South Korean summer. The results revealed substantial variations in the cooling performance across different test protocols, highlighting the importance of carefully selecting thermal manikin test methods. Moreover, the specific cooling vests exhibited immeasurable performance in certain test methods, which presents the limitations inherent in each testing scenario. For example, when evaluated with a non-sweating thermal manikin, the air-cooling vests exhibited the worst cooling performance, showing an average cooling rate of 1.0 W and cooling durations of five minutes. In contrast, the same vests demonstrated superior performance when assessed using the ASTM F2371-16 method, revealing an effective cooling rate of 114.8 W and sustained cooling durations exceeding eight hours. These results emphasize the lack of a one-size-fits-all evaluation method for cooling vests and the need for accessible guidelines to inform decision-makers aiming to enhance workplace safety and comfort.
Machine induced dynamic field responses of group pile with different pile arrangements
Authors: Kumar Sumit , Choudhary Shiva Shankar , Burman Avijit
Published: March 2024

The main objective of the current investigation is to study the dynamic behaviour of a 3-pile group with different loading direction under coupled (horizontal and rocking) excitations. To accomplish this objective, machine-induced field excitation tests are conducted on small-scale hollow steel piles. The 3-pile group is driven into the ground in a triangular arrangement with 3d spacing. Two different soil-pile setups, i.e., Pile Group-I and Pile Group-II, are created based on dynamic force directions. In the case of Pile Group-I, the forces are applied to the direction of the median of the triangle, and for Pile Group-II, the forces are applied to other directional loads. From the test results, it is found that the resonant peaks of horizontal and rocking amplitudes for Pile Group-I are lower than Pile Group-II. In the case of resonant frequencies, the values of Pile Group-I are observed to be the same or a little bit higher as compared to Pile Group-II. It is found that the dynamic soil-pile-soil interaction effect is more prominent for Pile Group-II than for Pile Group-I. For numerical investigation, the continuum approach method is utilised with the inclusion of a dynamic group interaction factor to predict the dynamic coupled responses in terms of frequency and amplitude for these two soil-pile setups. To understand the behaviour of pile groups, boundary zone parameters and variations of impedance parameters (stiffness and damping) with operating frequencies are also measured using this theoretical approach.
Biomechanical analysis of the maxillary sinus floor membrane during internal sinus floor elevation with implants at different angles of the maxillary sinus angles
Authors: Deng Yinxin , Ma Ruihong , He Yilin , Yu Shujia , Cao Shiyu , Gao Kang , Dou Yiping , Ma Pan
Published: March 2024

Objective

This study analyzed and compared the biomechanical properties of maxillary sinus floor mucosa with implants at three different maxillary sinus angles during a modified internal sinus floor elevation procedure.

Methods

3D reconstruction of the implant, maxillary sinus bone, and membrane were performed. The maxillary sinus model was set at three different angles. Two internal maxillary sinus elevation models were established, and finite element analysis was used to simulate the modified maxillary sinus elevation process. The implant was elevated to 10 mm at three maxillary sinus angles when the maxillary sinus floor membrane was separated by 0 and 4 mm. The stress of the maxillary sinus floor membrane was analyzed and compared.

Results

When the maxillary sinus floor membrane was separated by 0 mm and elevated to 10 mm, the peak stress values of the implant on the maxillary sinus floor membrane at three different angles were as follows: maxillary sinus I: 5.14–78.32 MPa; maxillary sinus II: 2.81–73.89 MPa; and maxillary sinus III: 2.82–51.87 MPa. When the maxillary sinus floor membrane was separated by 4 mm and elevated to 10 mm, the corresponding values were as follows: maxillary sinus I: 0.50–7.25 MPa; maxillary sinus II: 0.81–16.55 MPa; and maxillary sinus III: 0.49–22.74 MPa.

Conclusion

The risk of sinus floor membrane rupture is greatly reduced after adequate dissection of the maxillary sinus floor membrane when performing modified internal sinus elevation in a narrow maxillary sinus. In a wide maxillary sinus, the risk of rupture or perforation of the wider maxillary sinus floor is reduced, regardless of whether traditional or modified internal sinus elevation is performed at the same height.
Sight threatening diabetic retinopathy in patients with macular telangiectasia type 2
Authors: Huemer Josef , Heeren Tjebo FC , Olvera-Barrios Abraham , Faes Livia , Casella Antonio M. B. , Hughes Edward , Tufail Adnan , Egan Catherine
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Although diabetes is highly prevalent in patients with macular telangiectasia type 2 (MacTel), progression to severe non-proliferative (NPDR) and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) is rarely reported. We report multimodal imaging features of sight-threatening diabetic retinopathy (STDR) in eyes with MacTel.

Methods

Retrospective case series of seven participants of the MacTel Study at the Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust study site and one patient from the Institute of Retina and Vitreous of Londrina, Brazil. Sight threatening diabetic retinopathy was defined as severe NPDR, PDR or diabetic macular edema.

Results

We report imaging features of 16 eyes of eight patients (7/8, 87.5% female) with diagnoses of MacTel and type 2 diabetes mellitus with STDR. Mean (SD) age was 56 (8.3) years. Patients were followed-up for a mean time of 9.1 (4.7) years. A total of 10/16 (62.5%) eyes showed PDR and 2/16 (12.5%) eyes presented a macular epiretinal neovascularization.

Conclusions

People with diabetes mellitus and MacTel may not be protected from STDR as previously reported. Although the two diseases rarely co-exist, regular monitoring for diabetic retinopathy progression is recommended according to baseline retinopathy severity grades in line with established international guidelines. The presence of MacTel may not modify extended screening intervals, but there is no current evidence. The limited case series in the literature support treatment for complications and should follow the standard of care for either condition. Due to dual pathology, reactivation may be difficult to diagnose on standard imaging and multimodal imaging is recommended.
PRO-Angoff method for remote standard setting: establishing clinical thresholds for the upper digestive disease tool
Authors: Lee Minji K. , Abou Chaar Mohamad K , Blackmon Shanda H , Yost Kathleen J
Published: March 2024

Background

The Upper Digestive Disease (UDD) Tool™ is used to monitor symptom frequency, intensity, and interference across nine symptom domains and includes two Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System (PROMIS) domains assessing physical and mental health. This study aimed to establish cut scores for updated symptom domains through standard setting exercises and evaluate the effectiveness and acceptability of virtual standard setting.

Methods

The extended Angoff method was employed to determine cut scores. Subject matter experts refined performance descriptions for symptom control categories and achieved consensus. Domains were categorized into good, moderate, and poor symptom control. Two cut scores were established, differentiating good vs. moderate and moderate vs. poor. Panelists estimated average scores for 100 borderline patients per item. Cut scores were computed based on the sum of the average ratings for individual questions, converted to 0-100 scale.

Results

Performance descriptions were refined. Panelists discussed that interpretation of the scores should take into account the timing of symptoms after surgery and patient populations, and the importance of items asking symptom frequency, severity, and interference with daily life. The good/moderate cut scores ranged from 21.3 to 35.0 (mean 28.6, SD 3.6) across domains, and moderate/poor ranged from 47.5 to 71.3 (mean 54.5, SD 7.0).

Conclusions

Panelists were confident in the virtual standard setting process, expecting valid cut scores. Future studies can further validate the cut scores using patient perspectives and collect patient and physician preferences for displaying contextual items on patient- and physician-facing dashboard.
Multi-b-value DWI to evaluate the synergistic antiproliferation and anti-heterogeneity effects of bufalin plus sorafenib in an orthotopic HCC model
Authors: Guo Ran , Lu Fang , Lin Jiang , Fu Caixia , Liu Mengxiao , Yang Shuohui
Published: March 2024

Background

Multi-b-value diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) with different postprocessing models allows for evaluating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) proliferation, spatial heterogeneity, and feasibility of treatment strategies. We assessed synergistic effects of bufalin+sorafenib in orthotopic HCC-LM3 xenograft nude mice by using intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM), diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI), a stretched exponential model (SEM), and a fractional-order calculus (FROC) model.

Methods

Twenty-four orthotopic HCC-LM3 xenograft mice were divided into bufalin+sorafenib, bufalin, sorafenib treatment groups, and a control group. Multi-b-value DWI was performed using a 3-T scanner after 3 weeks’ treatment to obtain true diffusion coefficient Dt, pseudo-diffusion coefficient Dp, perfusion fraction f, mean diffusivity (MD), mean kurtosis (MK), distributed diffusion coefficient (DDC), heterogeneity index α, diffusion coefficient D, fractional order parameter β, and microstructural quantity μ. Necrotic fraction (NF), standard deviation (SD) of hematoxylin-eosin staining, and microvessel density (MVD) of anti-CD31 staining were evaluated. Correlations of DWI parameters with histopathological results were analyzed, and measurements were compared among four groups.

Results

In the final 22 mice, f positively correlated with MVD (r = 0.679, p = 0.001). Significantly good correlations of MK (r = 0.677), α (r = -0.696), and β (r= -0.639) with SD were observed (all p < 0.010). f, MK, MVD, and SD were much lower, while MD, α, β, and NF were higher in bufalin plus sorafenib group than control group (all p < 0.050).

Conclusion

Evaluated by IVIM, DKI, SEM, and FROC, bufalin+sorafenib was found to inhibit tumor proliferation and angiogenesis and reduce spatial heterogeneity in HCC-LM3 models.

Relevance statement

Multi-b-value DWI provides potential metrics for evaluating the efficacy of treatment in HCC.

Key points

• Bufalin plus sorafenib combination may increase the effectiveness of HCC therapy.

• Multi-b-value DWI depicted HCC proliferation, angiogenesis, and spatial heterogeneity.

• Multi-b-value DWI may be a noninvasive method to assess HCC therapeutic efficacy.

Graphical Abstract
Co-occurrence of delayed language development and autism spectrum disorder in children with metabolic disorders
Authors: Abdel-hakim Azza Samy , Abdel-wareth Lamiaa Mohamed , Ghandoor Hassan Hosny , Shata Mennatallah Osama , Elrefaie Dina Ahmed
Published: March 2024

Background

Children with various metabolic disorders are considered a high-risk group for different developmental delays. Delayed language development (DLD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have a common incidence in children with metabolic disorders which negatively impact their social and academic life. So, early assessment of this high-risk group for the presence of DLD and/or ASD is of great significance and providing better prognosis through starting therapy as early as possible.

Aim of the work

It aims to detect the presence of DLD and ASD among children with metabolic disorders.

Methods

This is an analytical (observational) cross-sectional study. The subjects of this study comprised a convenient sample of 100 children diagnosed as having different metabolic disorders with age range between 24 and 48 months. The Modified Preschool Language Scale, Fourth Edition–Arabic version and the Childhood Autism Rating Scale were applied for all children, to detect the presence of DLD and ASD.

Results

Assessment of 100 children with unequal distribution of 13 types of metabolic disorders found that 86% of cases had DLD and 16% had ASD. Regarding different metabolic disorders, we found both DLD and ASD in nine types and only DLD in four types of metabolic disorders.

Conclusion

Children with metabolic disorders are at a high risk for DLD and ASD. Early detection of these cases provides early intervention and better outcome.
Growth Mindset Messages from Instructors Improve Academic Performance Among First-Generation College Students
Authors: Canning Elizabeth A. , White Makita , Davis William B.
Published: March 2024

In a large-enrollment Introductory Biology course, students received either growth mindset or control emails. Growth mindset messages increased grades among first-generation college students. Performance increased as a function of increased activity on the course website.
Distributed acoustic sensing microseismic reflection imaging for hydraulic fracture and fault lineament characterization
Authors: Ma Yuanyuan , Ajo-Franklin Jonathan , Nayak Avinash , Zhu Xiaoyu , Correa Julia , Kerr Erich
Published: March 2024

This study presents a novel workflow designed for migrating reflected S waves generated by microseismic events, as recorded by downhole distributed acoustic sensing (DAS), to characterize hydraulic fractures in three dimensions. In contrast to existing fracture imaging techniques, which have encountered challenges in accurately representing fracture networks and often rely on simplified models, our imaging technique does not assume that fractures are planar or in a prespecified orientation. DAS seismic measurements benefit from the large aperture and dense spatial sampling enabled by the kilometers-long fiber and, therefore, are able to capture a large number of strong reflections compared with traditional borehole geophones or accelerometers. We treat microseismic events as high-frequency sources and apply prestack Kirchhoff migration to each individual source after wavefield separation. Fracture imaging results for multiple selected events are then stacked to generate a 3D reflectivity volume, revealing the subsurface fracture and fault networks in intricate detail. The high-resolution fracture images generated by the developed reflection migrating process illuminate the heart of the stimulated volume of the reservoir, a zone that is often challenging to access using conventional surface arrays or active sources. To validate the effectiveness of our workflow, our study uses a data set acquired during a multiwell project in the Eagle Ford Shale and Austin Chalk in South Texas. To assess the accuracy and reliability of the results, the reflection imaging output is integrated with the microseismicity distribution and strain measurements from low-frequency DAS for interpretation. The results of reflection imaging improve our understanding of fracture geometry, including distal fractures that are away from the monitoring well, allow the direct estimation of fracture height and length, and potentially signify the presence of preexisting fluid-filled fault lineaments.
Mental health at work: societal, economic and health imperatives align; it's time to act
Authors: Minshall Darren , Tracy Derek K. , Tarn Mark , Greenberg Neil
Published: March 2024

The enormous impact of mental illness on work and productivity is a global challenge, with immense costs to wider society. Now is the time for action, with new international guidelines and an emergent consensus on occupational mental healthcare. Alongside governments, organisations and employers, psychiatrists have a leading role to play.
The Power of Story
Authors: Kaye Erica C.
Published: March 2024

Oncology is a field driven by evidence. But data alone are not enough, we need stories to find our way.
The Global Anesthesia Workforce Survey: Updates and Trends in the Anesthesia Workforce
Authors: Law Tyler J. , Lipnick Michael S. , Morriss Wayne , Gelb Adrian W. , Mellin-Olsen Jannicke , Filipescu Daniela , Rowles Jackie , Rod Pascal , Khan Fauzia , Yazbeck Patrica , Zoumenou Eugene , Ibarra Pedro , Ranatunga Kumudini , Bulamba Fred ,   Collaborators
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND:

There is a large global deficit of anesthesia providers. In 2016, the World Federation of Societies of Anaesthesiologists (WFSA) conducted a survey to count the number of anesthesia providers worldwide. Much work has taken place since then to strengthen the anesthesia health workforce. This study updates the global count of anesthesia providers.

METHODS:

Between 2021 and 2023, an electronic survey was sent to national professional societies of physician anesthesia providers (PAPs), nurse anesthetists, and other nonphysician anesthesia providers (NPAPs). Data included number of providers and trainees, proportion of females, and limited intensive care unit (ICU) capacity data. Descriptive statistics were calculated by country, World Bank income group, and World Health Organization (WHO) region. Provider density is reported as the number of providers per 100,000 population.

RESULTS:

Responses were obtained for 172 of 193 United Nations (UN) member countries. The global provider density was 8.8 (PAP 6.6 NPAP 2.3). Seventy-six countries had a PAP density <5, whereas 66 countries had a total provider density <5. PAP density increased everywhere except for high- and low-income countries and the African region.

CONCLUSIONS:

The overall size of the global anesthesia workforce has increased over time, although some countries have experienced a decrease. Population growth and differences in which provider types that are counted can have an important impact on provider density. More work is needed to define appropriate metrics for measuring changes in density, to describe anesthesia cadres, and to improve workforce data collection processes. Effort to scale up anesthesia provider training must urgently continue.
Human TP53 gene polymorphisms among patients with Hepatocellular carcinoma and chronic hepatitis B infection in Kenya
Authors: Ochwoto Missiani , Oduma Colins O. , Oyugi Julius , Mwaengo Dufton , Ondigo Bartholomew N. , Kimotho James H. , Maiyo Alex K. , Nyangacha Ruth M. , Chesumbai Gladys , Songok Elijah
Published: March 2024

Background Human TP53 is the gatekeeper for generation of human cells and is highly conserved. Some alteration/mutation in TP53 adversely affects the regulatory function of the protein, potentially resulting in cancer. This study investigated mutations in codons 72 and 249 of TP53, among patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH), Eldoret, Kenya. Methods In total, 33 HBV-positive patients attending MTRH hospital between September 2013 and July 2017 were purposely selected from medical records for the study; those with HCC were confirmed from the cancer registry. The patients were aged between 25-67 years, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.1:1. Blood samples were collected from the patients. DNA was extracted, amplified and sequenced using TP53 forward and reverse primers. Gene mutation detection and analysis was done on exons 4 codon 72 and exon 7 codon 249. Results Of the 33 patients, 75.8% were chronically infected with HBV and had HCC; the rest were HBsAg positive without HCC. Homozygous proline was prevalent (54.5%) at exon 4 codon 72, followed by heterozygous Arg/Pro (33.3%) and lastly homozygous Arg/Arg (12.1%). Pro/Pro allele was frequent in HCC group while Arg/Arg allele was common in patients without HCC. There was no significant association between the HCC and codon polymorphisms (P=0.12). In exon 7, codon 249, 24.2% of patients had an Arg/Ser mutation of which, 75.0% had HCC and 25.0% did not. There was no significant association between HCC patients and codon 249 mutation (P=0.15). Conclusion TP53 is a gene gate keeper, the mutations under study may dependently play a role in HCC development. This study did not find any association between TP53 mutations and presence of HCC. Therefore, TP53 Arg-72 and Ser-249 mutation is not a clear prognosis indicator for hepatocellular carcinoma among HBV infected patients in Kenya.
Correlations between components of the immune system
Authors: Shabat Yehudit , Ilan Yaron
Published: March 2024

Background No evidence of the possibility of altering a constituent of the immune system without directly affecting one of its associated components has yet been shown. Methods A schematic model was developed in which two triggers, fasting and splenectomy, were studied for their ability to affect the expression of cell membrane epitopes and the cytokine secretion of out-of-body autogeneic and syngeneic lymphocytes. Results The effect of fasting and/or splenectomy on promoting correlations between immune systems was studied by determining the alterations in expressions of cell membrane epitopes and in cytokine secretion by out-of-body autogeneic and syngeneic lymphocytes. The effect of fasting as a trigger decreased expression of CD8 and CD25 and increased TNFα levels. The effect of splenectomy as a trigger was investigated in non-fasting mice by comparing splenectomized and non-splenectomized mice. An increase in the CD8 expression and in TNFα, IFNg, and IL10 secretion was noted. The effect of splenectomy as a trigger in fasting mice was determined by comparing splenectomized and non-splenectomized mice. Splenectomy significantly affected the expression of CD25 and CD4 CD25 and on secretion of TNFα, IFNg, and IL10. To determine the effect of keeping the cells in an out-of-body location on the expression of lymphocyte epitopes, tubes kept on top of the cages of the fasting mice were compared with tubes kept on top of empty cages. The results showed a significant change in the CD8 expression was noted. To determine the effect of keeping cells in an out-of-body location on cytokine secretion, tubes kept on cages were tested for cytokine levels significant decrease was noted in the secretion of TNFα and IFNg. Conclusions The study showed that a mouse could affect cells at a distance and alter the expression of surface markers and cytokine secretion following two types of triggers: fasting and/or splenectomy. The data characterized a system for the induction of correlations between two’s immune system components without a transfer of mediators. It suggests that an out-of-body correlation can be induced between two components of the immune system.
The role of nutrition in bipolar disorder
Authors: Winter George
Published: March 2024

In this month's article, George Winter discusses the consideration of mental health conditions as disorders of metabolism, with an increasing focus on the benefits of a ketogenic diet
Prescribing medications for Parkinson's disease
Authors: Robinson Gina
Published: March 2024

Around 10 million people worldwide have Parkinson's disease and in the UK the estimated figure is 153000. The condition is characterised by motor symptoms including tremors, stiffness, slowness, balance problems and/or gait disorders, but sufferers can develop a wide range of associated psychological and physical problems. Treatment includes a combination of pharmacological and supportive physical therapies, supplied by a multidisciplinary team. As the condition progresses, medication regimens expand to include a combination of drug therapies. For those who do not benefit from pharmacological therapy deep brain stimulation surgery can be considered. Some people find that alternative therapies such as homeopathy, music and massage are useful additions to standard medical treatments. This article will give an overview of Parkinson's disease, including symptoms and diagnosis, and explore issues for consideration when prescribing common first-line Parkinson's medications.
Effect of Water Temperature and Salinity on the Jet Erosion Test (JET) Discharge Coefficient
Authors: Quiah Joanna , Bolinaga Celso Castro , Hall Steven G. , Fox Garey A. , Stark Nina
Published: March 2024

Highlights

The JET discharge coefficient Cd
was negatively correlated to water temperature and positively correlated to salinity.

The impact of water temperature was more significant than that of salinity, especially at lower temperatures.

Increasing water temperatures reduced Cd
by as much as 20% per 10°C increment.

Low levels of salinity initially increased Cd
, but its magnitude remained relatively constant for levels greater than 5 ppt.

Abstract. The discharge coefficient (Cd) of the Jet Erosion Test (JET) directly affects the calculation of applied shear stresses (to) during testing and, therefore, of JET-derived erodibility parameters, namely, the soil’s critical shear stress (tc) and erodibility coefficient (kd). Typically, Cd is assumed to be constant for a given combination of JET device (e.g., original vs. mini) and setup (e.g., head tank vs. pressure gage), disregarding the effects of varying environmental conditions. The objective of this study was to quantify the impact of changing water temperature and salinity on the Cd of a mini-JET device fed by a pressure head tank. Laboratory experiments were conducted to determine the variability in Cd for ranges of water temperature between 10 and 30°C and salinity between 0 and 35 ppt. Results showed that Cd was sensitive to changes in both variables, with water temperature generating a more significant impact. Cd was negatively correlated to water temperature, decreasing by as much as 20% when temperature increased from 10 to 20°C, and positively correlated to salinity, increasing at low levels but remaining relatively constant for levels greater than 5 ppt. When extrapolated to erosion curves and JET-derived erodibility parameters, the variability in Cd significantly impacted the calculation of to and the magnitude of tc and kd, highlighting the degree of uncertainty that could be associated with these variables because of an uncalibrated Cd. Lastly, results from the laboratory experiments were used to develop a normalized predictive model and associated curves for application to other mini-JET devices with similar setups. Keywords: Discharge Coefficient, Erodibility, Jet Erosion Test, Salinity, Temperature.
Conversions of Jacob Hodges: Religion, Race, and Labor in Prison Reform Literature
Authors: Smith Caleb
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Born to a free Black family, Jack Hodges (ca. 1763–1842) was arrested for the murder of a white man in 1819 and served a term at New York's Auburn State Prison, the world-famous prototype of industrial prison discipline, where he experienced a life-altering Christian conversion. Also known as Jacob Hodges, he became one of the nineteenth century's most famous incarcerated African Americans, appearing in popular crime writing, children's books, reform society reports, and spiritual biographies. Today, however, Hodges is unacknowledged, even among scholars of race and prison studies. My interdisciplinary essay advances both historical and interpretive claims. I reconstruct Hodges's life in the crucible of evangelical Protestantism, racial assimilation, and industrial market capitalism, which worked together, I argue, to shape the ideology of the modern prison system. I also analyze the vivid fantasies about Hodges that circulated in reformist literature. Unlike the majority of captives, whose struggles left only faint traces in the archives, Hodges was neither the object of dehumanizing violence nor the subject of coldly rational surveillance; he was listened to, admired, and treated with sympathy. As a case study in evangelical reformism's sentimental, possessive style of love, the literature about Hodges poses special challenges and opportunities for abolitionist reading.
Algorithm and software for field distortion correction in a commercial SD-OCT for corneal curvature assessment
Authors: Dolling Maron , Buhl Lara , Birngruber Reginald , Hüttmann Gereon , Schulz-Hildebrandt Hinnerk
Published: March 2024

Accurate assessment of corneal curvatures using frequency domain optical coherence
tomography (OCT) with galvanometer scanners remains challenging due to
the well-known scan field distortion. This paper presents an algorithm
and software for correcting the distortion using only two simple
measurements in which a readily available standard sphere is
positioned in different depths in front of the OCT scanner. This
offers a highly accessible and easily reproducible method for the
field distortion correction (FDC). The correction was validated by
measuring different spherical phantoms and conducting corneal
curvature measurements of ex vivo
porcine corneas using a commercial spectral-domain OCT system and a
clinically approved swept-source OCT as a reference instrument. Thus,
the error in radius measurements of spherical phantoms was reduced by >90% and astigmatism by >80% using FDC. In explanted porcine eyes,
the error in astigmatism measurements with the Telesto was reduced by
75% for power and 70% for angle. The best fitting sphere radius was
determined up to a deviation of 0.4% from the Anterion. This paper
describes a correction algorithm for OCT immanent distortion that is
applicable to any scanning OCT setup and enables precise corneal
curvature measurements. The MATLAB software for the FDC is publicly
available on GitHub.
Polarization-sensitive optical coherence tomography for birefringence measurement of calcite nonlinear uniaxial crystal
Authors: Kasmaee Kosar , Dehshiri Mohammad , Khorsandi Alireza
Published: March 2024

We report on the new application, to the best of our knowledge, of a time-domain
optical coherence tomography (TD-OCT) device used to measure the
ordinary n
o
and extraordinary n
e
indices of calcite birefringence
crystal at room temperature. A 1.25±0.05mm thick slab of calcite crystal is cut,
polished, and used as a sample in the OCT arm. While the calcite slab
is axially scanned, the raw carrier ordinary signals that came from
its front and rear facets are received and denoised with a set of
digital filters. The extraordinary signals are generated by the change
of beam polarization using a 90°-rotating polarizer plate. It is found
that the wavelet transform is capable of reaching the highest
signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of about 24.50 and 23.91 for denoising the
ordinary and extraordinary signals, respectively. Quantitative
measurement of n
o
and n
e
is carried out by extracting a
desired envelope from the denoised signals using standard methods.
Average values of 1.660 and 1.444 are obtained for n
o
and n
e
, respectively, using the
wavelet-denoised signals. The weights of the results are finally
searched with ones obtained from two sets of dispersion equations. We
found a very good agreement between the wavelet-denoised OCT- and
dispersion equation-based values with a very low relative differences
of 0.04% and 2.8% for n
o
and n
e
, respectively, when the Ghosh
equation is used and averaged ones of 1.3% and 4.2% for n
o
and n
e
, respectively, when the Zhao et al. equation is applied.
Free-space coupled, large-active-area superconducting microstrip single-photon detector for photon-counting time-of-flight imaging
Authors: Wang Yu-Ze , Zhang Wei-Jun , Zhang Xing-Yu , Xu Guang-Zhao , Xiong Jia-Min , Chen Zhi-Gang , Hong Yi-Yu , Liu Xiao-Yu , Yuan Pu-Sheng , Wu Ling , Wang Zhen , You Li-Xing
Published: March 2024

Numerous applications at the photon-starved regime require a free-space coupling single-photon detector with a large active area, low dark count rate (DCR), and superior time resolutions. Here, we developed a superconducting microstrip single-photon detector (SMSPD), with a large active area of 260 µm in diameter, a DCR of ∼5kcps, and a low time jitter of ∼171ps, operated at a near-infrared of 1550 nm and a temperature of ∼2.0K. As a demonstration, we applied the detector to a single-pixel galvanometer scanning system and successfully reconstructed the object information in depth and intensity using a time-correlated photon counting technology.
Depth of focus and intensity distribution of a lensacon illuminated by a partially coherent Gaussian Schell vortex beam
Authors: Qusailah Mohammad S. , Alkelly Abdu A. , Al-Nadary H. O. , Kaid Shukri A. M. , AL-Ahsab Hassan T.
Published: March 2024

Using the extended Huygens–Fresnel principle, a cross-spectral density formula was developed for a Gaussian Schell model vortex (PCGSMV) beam diffracted through a lensacon (lens with an axicon). The intensity and depth of focus (DOF) shaped by the lensacon were calculated. Our numerical results show the relationship between the intensity distribution and depth of focus with the beam waist width as well as the spatial correlation of the coherence length. Furthermore, the relationship between the beam spot size and propagation distance was investigated. In the case of the lensacon tandem, the maximum intensity was greater than that attained by the axicon alone for the same beam parameters, and the DOF was smaller than that of the axicon alone. The vortex structure canceled out the low value of the spatial degree of coherence length. Our numerical model exhibited high-intensity values and high-quality Bessel rings along the DOF, which are critical for various applications.
Generation of elliptical perfect optical vortex beams and their propagation in free-space
Authors: Kumar Das Bikash , Granados C. , Ciappina M. F.
Published: March 2024

We investigate the generation of an elliptical perfect optical vortex (EPOV) beam through the optical Fourier transformation of an elliptical Bessel-Gaussian beam and derive an analytical expression for its complex field amplitude. Our analysis includes the examination of the beam’s propagation in free-space and the influence of topological charge on its transmission. The EPOV beam’s propagation in free-space can be categorized into non-diffracting and diffracting stages. During the non-diffracting stage, the beam intensity and profile size are effectively preserved over a short transmission distance. Subsequently, in the diffracting stage, the beam profile initially contracts and then expands with a change in the beam intensity. Notably, the impact of topological charge on the beam intensity and profile size varies across different stages of propagation. We compare our results with those of the circular perfect optical vortex beam propagating in free-space, observing that the EPOV beam exhibits non-diffracting behavior for short propagation distances compared to its circular counterpart. The signature of the focusing behavior of the EPOV beam is observed at a relatively small propagation distance compared to the circular case.
Removing crosstalk signals in neuron activity by time multiplexed excitations in a two-photon all-optical physiology system
Authors: Liu Chi , Hao Yuejun , Lei Bo , Zhong Yi , Kong Lingjie
Published: March 2024

The two-photon all-optical physiology system has attracted great interest in deciphering neuronal circuits in vivo, benefiting from its advantages in recording and modulating neuronal activities at single neuron resolutions. However, the interference, or crosstalk, between the imaging and photostimulation beams introduces a significant challenge and may impede the future application of voltage indicators in two-photon all-optical physiology system. Here, we propose the time multiplexed excitation method to distinguish signals from neuronal activities and crosstalks from photostimulation. In our system, the laser pulses of the imaging beam and photostimulation beam are synchronized, and a time delay is introduced into these pulses to separate the fluorescence signal generated by these two beams. We demonstrate the efficacy of our system in eliminating crosstalk signals from photostimulation and evaluate its influence on both genetically encoded calcium indicators (GECIs) and genetically encoded voltage indicators (GEVIs) through in vivo experiments.
Realization of an integrated coherent photonic platform for scalable matrix operations
Authors: Rahimi Kari Sadra , Nobile Nicholas A. , Pantin Dominique , Shah Vivswan , Youngblood Nathan
Published: March 2024

Optical processing of information holds great promise for addressing many challenges facing the field of computing. However, integrated photonic processors are typically limited by the physical size of the processing units and the energy consumption of high-speed analog-to-digital conversion. In this paper, we demonstrate an integrated, coherent approach to processing temporally multiplexed optical signals using a modular dot-product unit cell to address these challenges. We use these unit cells to demonstrate multiply-accumulate operations on real- and complex-valued inputs using coherent detection and temporal integration. We then extend this to computing the covariance between stochastic bit streams, which can be used to estimate correlation between data streams in the optical domain. Finally, we demonstrate a path to scaling up our platform to enable general matrix-matrix operations. Our approach has the potential to enable highly efficient and scalable optical computing on-chip for a broad variety of AI applications.
It is theoretically possible to avoid misfolding into non-covalent lasso entanglements using small molecule drugs
Authors: Jiang Yang , Deane Charlotte M. , Morris Garrett M. , O’Brien Edward P.
Published: March 2024

A novel class of protein misfolding characterized by either the formation of non-native noncovalent lasso entanglements in the misfolded structure or loss of native entanglements has been predicted to exist and found circumstantial support through biochemical assays and limited-proteolysis mass spectrometry data. Here, we examine whether it is possible to design small molecule compounds that can bind to specific folding intermediates and thereby avoid these misfolded states in computer simulations under idealized conditions (perfect drug-binding specificity, zero promiscuity, and a smooth energy landscape). Studying two proteins, type III chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT-III) and D-alanyl-D-alanine ligase B (DDLB), that were previously suggested to form soluble misfolded states through a mechanism involving a failure-to-form of native entanglements, we explore two different drug design strategies using coarse-grained structure-based models. The first strategy, in which the native entanglement is stabilized by drug binding, failed to decrease misfolding because it formed an alternative entanglement at a nearby region. The second strategy, in which a small molecule was designed to bind to a non-native tertiary structure and thereby destabilize the native entanglement, succeeded in decreasing misfolding and increasing the native state population. This strategy worked because destabilizing the entanglement loop provided more time for the threading segment to position itself correctly to be wrapped by the loop to form the native entanglement. Further, we computationally identified several FDA-approved drugs with the potential to bind these intermediate states and rescue misfolding in these proteins. This study suggests it is possible for small molecule drugs to prevent protein misfolding of this type.
The epidemiological and economic burden of diabetes in Ghana: A scoping review to inform health technology assessment
Authors: Kazibwe Joseph , Gad Mohamed , Abassah-Konadu Emmanuella , Amankwah Ivy , Owusu Richmond , Gulbi Godwin , Torres-Rueda Sergio , Asare Brian , Vassall Anna , Ruiz Francis
Published: March 2024

Diabetes remains one of the four major causes of morbidity and mortality globally among non-communicable diseases (NCDs. It is predicted to increase in sub–Saharan Africa by over 50% by 2045. The aim of this study is to identify, map and estimate the burden of diabetes in Ghana, which is essential for optimising NCD country policy and understanding existing knowledge gaps to guide future research in this area. We followed the Arksey and O’Malley framework for scoping reviews. We searched electronic databases including Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane and African Index Medicus following a systematic search strategy. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews was followed when reporting the results. A total of 36 studies were found to fulfil the inclusion criteria. The reported prevalence of diabetes at national level in Ghana ranged between 2.80%– 3.95%. At the regional level, the Western region reported the highest prevalence of diabetes: 39.80%, followed by Ashanti region (25.20%) and Central region at 24.60%. The prevalence of diabetes was generally higher in women in comparison to men. Urban areas were found to have a higher prevalence of diabetes than rural areas. The mean annual financial cost of managing one diabetic case at the outpatient clinic was estimated at GHS 540.35 (2021 US $194.09). There was a paucity of evidence on the overall economic burden and the regional prevalence burden. Ghana is faced with a considerable burden of diabetes which varies by region and setting (urban/rural). There is an urgent need for effective and efficient interventions to prevent the anticipated elevation in burden of disease through the utilisation of existing evidence and proven priority-setting tools like Health Technology Assessment (HTA).