bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlates of SARS‐CoV‐2 anti‐RBD IgG antibody titers among persons experiencing homelessness in Los Angeles
Authors: Nyamathi Adeline , Shin Sanghyuk S. , Doratt Brianna M. , Jones‐Patten Alexandria , Salem Benissa , Gelberg Lillian , Lee Darlene , Garfin Dana , Yadav Kartik , Chang Alicia H. , White Kathryn , Arce Nicholas , Messaoudi Ilhem
Published: January 2023

Objectives

People experiencing homelessness (PEH) have been especially impacted by the COVID‐19 pandemic, likely due to increased vulnerabilities stemming from chronic diseases, substance use, and mental health conditions.

Design

A case–control study to assess the presence of antibodies against SARS‐CoV‐2 among PEH and associations with key variables.

Sample

A convenience sample of 97 PEH in Skid Row, Los Angeles.

Measurements

A structured questionnaire assessing socio‐demographic, mental health, drug and alcohol use, health care access, pandemic stress, and other COVID‐19‐specific questions.

Results

We found high anti‐receptor binding domain (RBD) IgG titers among five of 15 PEH who reported no prior COVID‐19 diagnosis or being vaccinated, suggesting undiagnosed and/or asymptomatic COVID‐19. While anti‐RBD IgG titers across vaccination categories were not statistically significant (p = .069), participants vaccinated with Janssen had the lowest mean anti‐RBD IgG titers. In multivariable analysis, we found negative associations between level of SARS‐CoV‐2 antibody titers with the Janssen vaccine and depression; thus, a need for integrated care for PEH with depression and COVID‐19.

Conclusions

Further research is warranted to confirm the immune response, initial and over time, to SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and to COVID‐19 vaccinations, particularly among PEH whose immune systems may be impacted by multiple health conditions.
Feature‐driven robust surgery scheduling
Authors: Wang Yu , Zhang Yu , Zhou Minglong , Tang Jiafu
Published: January 2023

Patient features such as gender, age, and underlying disease are crucial to improving the model fidelity of surgery duration. In this paper, we study a robust surgery scheduling problem augmented by patient feature segmentation. We focus on the surgery‐to‐operating room allocations for elective patients and future emergencies. Using feature data, we classify patients into different types using machine learning methods and characterize the uncertain surgery duration via a feature‐based cluster‐wise ambiguity set. We propose a feature‐driven adaptive robust optimization model that minimizes an overtime riskiness index, which helps mitigate both the magnitude and probability of working overtime. The model can be reformulated as a second‐order conic programming problem. From the reformulation, we find that minimizing the overtime riskiness index is equivalent to minimizing a Fano factor. This makes our robust optimization model easily interpretable to healthcare practitioners. To efficiently solve the problem, we develop a branch‐and‐cut algorithm and introduce symmetry‐breaking constraints. Numerical experiments demonstrate that our model outperforms benchmark models in a variety of performance metrics.
The gap between mycorrhizal science and application: existence, origins, and relevance during the United Nation's Decade on Ecosystem Restoration
Authors: Markovchick Lisa M. , Carrasco‐Denney Vanessa , Sharma Jyotsna , Querejeta José Ignacio , Gibson Kara Skye , Swaty Randy , Uhey Derek A. , Belgara‐Andrew Abril , Kovacs Zsuzsi I. , Johnson Nancy C. , Whitham Thomas G. , Gehring Catherine A.
Published: January 2023

During the United Nation's Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, planting material shortages are constraining restoration, while climate change exacerbates the need for restoration and reduces recruitment. Concurrently, research shows that native mycorrhizal fungi (symbiotic with plant roots) appropriate to plant provenance and site conditions significantly accelerate restoration, support crucial ecosystem services, and provide natural climate solutions (sequestering carbon), and nature‐based solutions for climate change (climate adaptation). We reviewed 130 management plans for natural areas in the United States to evaluate whether restoring native mycorrhizal communities has translated into implementation. Although management plans frequently discussed the ecosystem services mycorrhizal fungi provide, nearly one half (46%) viewed fungi solely as pathogens or ignored them altogether. Only 8% of plans mentioned mycorrhizal fungi. Only one plan mentioned that mycorrhizae were potentially helpful to natural regeneration, while one other mentioned utilizing soil as a restoration tool. Our examination of publicly available data and case studies suggests that relatively meager protections for fungi, limited research funding and resulting data, research difficulty, and limited access to mycology experts and training contribute to this gap between science and implementation. A database of literature showcasing mycorrhizal ecosystem services and benefits is provided to highlight when and why mycorrhizae should be considered in management, regeneration, and restoration. Three action items are recommended to safeguard native mycorrhizal fungal communities and accelerate restoration and regeneration. Ten implementation tips based in scientific literature are provided to clarify the need and methods for mycorrhizal restoration.
Validation of a flow‐cytometry‐based red blood cell antigen phenotyping method
Authors: Liwski Robert , Clarke Gwen , Cheng Calvino , Abidi Syed Sibte Raza , Abidi Samina Raza , Quinn Jason George
Published: January 2023

Background and Objectives

Current manual and automated phenotyping methods are based on visual detection of the antigen–antibody interaction. This approach has several limitations including the use of large volumes of patient and reagent red blood cells (RBCs) and antisera to produce a visually detectable reaction. We sought to determine whether the flow cytometry could be developed and validated to perform RBC phenotyping to enable a high‐throughput method of phenotyping using comparatively miniscule reagent volumes via fluorescence‐based detection of antibody binding.

Materials and Methods

RBC phenotyping by flow cytometry was performed using monoclonal direct typing antisera (human IgM): anti‐C, ‐E, ‐c, ‐e, ‐K, ‐Jka, ‐Jkb and indirect typing antisera (human IgG): anti‐k, ‐Fya, ‐Fyb, ‐S, ‐s that are commercially available and currently utilized in our blood transfusion services (BTS) for agglutination‐based phenotyping assays.

Results

Seventy samples were tested using both flow‐cytometry‐based‐phenotyping and a manual tube standard agglutination assay. For all the antigens tested, 100% concordance was achieved. The flow‐cytometry‐based method used minimal reagent volume (0.5–1 μl per antigen) compared with the volumes required for manual tube standard agglutination (50 μl per antigen)

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the successful validation of flow‐cytometry‐based RBC phenotyping. Flow cytometry offers many benefits compared to common conventional RBC phenotyping methods including high degrees of automation, quantitative assessment with automated interpretation of results and extremely low volumes of reagents. This method could be used for high‐throughput, low‐cost phenotyping for both blood suppliers and hospital BTS.
Susceptibility artifact morphology is more conspicuous on susceptibility‐weighted imaging compared to T2* gradient echo sequences in the brains of dogs and cats with suspected intracranial disease
Authors: La Rosa Claudia , Donato Pamela Di , Specchi Swan , Bernardini Marco
Published: January 2023

Susceptibility‐weighted imaging (SWI) has been found to be more reliable in the detection of vessels and blood products than T2*‐weighted gradient echo (GE) in several human brain diseases. In veterinary medicine, published information on the diagnostic usefulness of SWI is lacking. The aim of this retrospective observational study was to investigate the value of SWI compared to T2*‐weighted GE images in a population of dogs and cats with presumed, MRI‐based diagnoses grouped as neoplastic (27), cerebrovascular (14), inflammatory (14), head trauma (5), other pathologies (4), or that were normal (36). Areas of signal void (ASV) were assessed based on shape, distribution, number, and conspicuity. Presence of ASV was found in 31 T2*‐weighted GE and 40 SWI sequences; the conspicuity of lesions increased in 92.5% of cases with SWI. A 44.7% increase in the number of cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) was identified within the population using SWI (110) compared to T2*‐weighted GE (76). Linear ASV presumed to be abnormal vascular structures, as are reported in humans, were identified in 12 T2*‐weighted GE and 19 SWI sequences. In presumed brain tumors, abnormal vascular structures were detected in 11 of 27 (40.7%) cases on T2*‐weighted GE and in 16 of 27 (59.3%) cases on SWI, likely representing tumor neovascularization; amorphous ASV interpreted as presumed hemorrhages on T2*‐weighted GE were diagnosed as vessels on SWI in five of 27 (18.5%) cases. Since SWI shows ASV more conspicuously than T2*‐weighted GE, the authors advocate the use of SWI in veterinary patients.
A Novel Walking Parallel Robot for On-Structure Three-Axis Machining of Large Structures
Authors: Rosyid Abdur , Stefanini Cesare , El-Khasawneh Bashar
Published: January 2023

This paper presents a novel walking hybrid-kinematics robot having three degrees-of-freedom for on-structure machining of large structures. A symmetric 3PRRR parallel mechanism having maximally regular properties is used to provide three-dimensional translational manipulation. Three attachment pads are connected to the base of the parallel mechanism through passive spherical joints, whereas multiple attachment pads are connected to the moving platform of the parallel mechanism. A machining task is performed by using a retractable tool holder attached to the parallel mechanism's moving platform. Two walking patterns, namely rotational and translational walking patterns, are defined for the robot. The kinematics of the manipulation and walking motions was derived and simulated. Several schemes to perform multi-step walking motions were also discussed. Subsequently, using an energy-based approach with the Stribeck friction model, the robot's dynamics was modeled and experimentally verified. Finally, an implementation of the robot to perform an on-structure machining task is discussed.
Sn-modified BaTiO3 thin film with enhanced polarization
Authors: Nunn William , Kumar Abinash , Zu Rui , Nebgen Bailey , Yu Shukai , Kamath Manjeshwar Anusha , Gopalan Venkatraman , LeBeau James M. , James Richard D. , Jalan Bharat
Published: January 2023

Hybrid molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) growth of Sn-modified BaTiO3 films was realized with varying domain structures and crystal symmetries across the entire composition space. Macroscopic and microscopic structures and the crystal symmetry of these thin films were determined using a combination of optical second harmonic generation (SHG) polarimetry and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). SHG polarimetry revealed a variation in the global crystal symmetry of the films from tetragonal (P4mm) to cubic (Pm3¯m) across the composition range, x = 0 to 1 in BaTi1−xSnxO3 (BTSO). STEM imaging shows that the long-range polar order observed when the Sn content is low (x = 0.09) transformed to a short-range polar order as the Sn content increased (x = 0.48). Consistent with atomic displacement measurements from STEM, the largest polarization was obtained at the lowest Sn content of x = 0.09 in Sn-modified BaTiO3 as determined by SHG. These results agree with recent bulk ceramic reports and further identify this material system as a potential replacement for Pb-containing relaxor-based thin film devices.
Memory-card vowel training for child and adult second-language learners: A first report
Authors: Iverson Paul , Herrero Begoña Pericas , Katashima Asano
Published: January 2023

Japanese adults and Spanish-Catalan children received auditory phonetic training for English vowels using a novel paradigm, a version of the common children's card game Concentration. Individuals played a computer-based game in which they turned over pairs of cards to match spoken words, drawn from sets of vowel minimal pairs. The training was effective for adults, improving vowel recognition in a game that did not explicitly require identification. Children likewise improved over time on the memory card game, but not on the present generalisation task. This gamified training method can serve as a platform for examining development and perceptual learning.
Individual Variability Is More Important Than Analytical Methods When Calculating Relative Speed of Beverage Bioavailability
Authors: Balog Edward M. , Golloshi Mateo , Suh HyunGyu , Millard-Stafford Melinda
Published: January 2023

Deuterium oxide (D2O) appearance in blood is a marker of fluid bioavailability. However, whether biomarker robustness (e.g., relative fluid delivery speed) is consistent across analytical methods (e.g., cavity ring-down spectroscopy) remains unclear. Fourteen men ingested fluid (6 ml/kg body mass) containing 0.15 g/kg D2O followed by 45 min blood sampling. Plasma (D2O) was detected (n = 8) by the following: isotope-ratio mass spectrometry after vapor equilibration (IRMS-equilibrated water) or distillation (IRMS-plasma) and cavity ring-down spectroscopy. Two models calculated D2O halftime to peak (t1/2max): sigmoid curve fit versus asymmetric triangle (TRI). Background (D2O) differed (p < .001, η2 = .98) among IRMS-equilibrated water, IRMS-plasma, and cavity ring-down spectroscopy (152.2 ± 0.8, 147.2 ± 1.5, and 137.7 ± 2.2 ppm), but did not influence (p > .05) D2O appearance (Δppm), time to peak, or t1/2max. Stratifying participants based on mean t1/2max (12 min) into “slow” versus “fast” subgroups resulted in a 5.8 min difference (p < .001, η2 = .73). Significant t1/2max model (p = .01, η2 = .44) and Model × Speed Subgroup interaction (p = .005, η2 = .50) effects were observed. Bias between TRI and sigmoid curve fit increased with t1/2max speed: no difference (p = .75) for fast (9.0 min vs. 9.2 min, respectively) but greater t1/2max (p = .001) with TRI for the slow subgroup (16.1 min vs. 13.7 min). Fluid bioavailability markers are less influenced by which laboratory method is used to measure D2O as compared with the individual variability effects that influence models for calculating t1/2max. Thus, TRI model may not be appropriate for individuals with slow fluid delivery speeds.
Long-term memory and synapse-like dynamics in two-dimensional nanofluidic channels
Authors: Robin P. , Emmerich T. , Ismail A. , Niguès A. , You Y. , Nam G.-H. , Keerthi A. , Siria A. , Geim A. K. , Radha B. , Bocquet L.
Published: January 2023

Fine-tuned ion transport across nanoscale pores is key to many biological processes, including neurotransmission. Recent advances have enabled the confinement of water and ions to two dimensions, unveiling transport properties inaccessible at larger scales and triggering hopes of reproducing the ionic machinery of biological systems. Here we report experiments demonstrating the emergence of memory in the transport of aqueous electrolytes across (sub)nanoscale channels. We unveil two types of nanofluidic memristors depending on channel material and confinement, with memory ranging from minutes to hours. We explain how large time scales could emerge from interfacial processes such as ionic self-assembly or surface adsorption. Such behavior allowed us to implement Hebbian learning with nanofluidic systems. This result lays the foundation for biomimetic computations on aqueous electrolytic chips.
ApoE isoform– and microbiota-dependent progression of neurodegeneration in a mouse model of tauopathy
Authors: Seo Dong-oh , O’Donnell David , Jain Nimansha , Ulrich Jason D. , Herz Jasmin , Li Yuhao , Lemieux Mackenzie , Cheng Jiye , Hu Hao , Serrano Javier R. , Bao Xin , Franke Emily , Karlsson Maria , Meier Martin , Deng Su , Desai Chandani , Dodiya Hemraj , Lelwala-Guruge Janaki , Handley Scott A. , Kipnis Jonathan , Sisodia Sangram S. , Gordon Jeffrey I. , Holtzman David M.
Published: January 2023

Tau-mediated neurodegeneration is a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease. Primary tauopathies are characterized by pathological tau accumulation and neuronal and synaptic loss. Apolipoprotein E (ApoE)–mediated neuroinflammation is involved in the progression of tau-mediated neurodegeneration, and emerging evidence suggests that the gut microbiota regulates neuroinflammation in an APOE genotype–dependent manner. However, evidence of a causal link between the microbiota and tau-mediated neurodegeneration is lacking. In this study, we characterized a genetically engineered mouse model of tauopathy expressing human ApoE isoforms reared under germ-free conditions or after perturbation of their gut microbiota with antibiotics. Both of these manipulations reduced gliosis, tau pathology, and neurodegeneration in a sex- and ApoE isoform–dependent manner. The findings reveal mechanistic and translationally relevant interrelationships between the microbiota, neuroinflammation, and tau-mediated neurodegeneration.
Unveiling facet-dependent degradation and facet engineering for stable perovskite solar cells
Authors: Ma Chunqing , Eickemeyer Felix T. , Lee Sun-Ho , Kang Dong-Ho , Kwon Seok Joon , Grätzel Michael , Park Nam-Gyu
Published: January 2023

A myriad of studies and strategies have already been devoted to improving the stability of perovskite films; however, the role of the different perovskite crystal facets in stability is still unknown. Here, we reveal the underlying mechanisms of facet-dependent degradation of formamidinium lead iodide (FAPbI
3
) films. We show that the (100) facet is substantially more vulnerable to moisture-induced degradation than the (111) facet. With combined experimental and theoretical studies, the degradation mechanisms are revealed; a strong water adhesion following an elongated lead-iodine (Pb-I) bond distance is observed, which leads to a δ-phase transition on the (100) facet. Through engineering, a higher surface fraction of the (111) facet can be achieved, and the (111)-dominated crystalline FAPbI
3
films show exceptional stability against moisture. Our findings elucidate unknown facet-dependent degradation mechanisms and kinetics.
Nanofluidic computing makes a splash
Authors: Noy Aleksandr , Darling Seth B.
Published: January 2023

Ionic computing raises the possibility of devices that operate similarly to the human brain
Mechanosensation and joint deformities
Authors: Müller Ulrich
Published: January 2023

Dysfunction of a mechanosensor in sensory neurons causes joint contracture
Alzheimer’s drug approval gets a mixed reception
Authors: Couzin-Frankel Jennifer
Published: January 2023

FDA allows use of antibody despite ongoing debates over its benefits and dangers
Impact of Reinfection with SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Variants in Previously Infected Hamsters
Authors: Shiwa-Sudo Nozomi , Sakai Yusuke , Iwata-Yoshikawa Naoko , Watanabe Shinji , Yamada Souichi , Kuroda Yudai , Yamamoto Tsukasa , Shirakura Masayuki , Fujisaki Seiichiro , Miyazaki Kaya , Miura Hideka , Nagata Shiho , Fukushi Shuetsu , Maeda Ken , Hasegawa Hideki , Suzuki Tadaki , Nagata Noriyo
Published: January 2023

The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants and the widespread use of COVID-19 vaccines has resulted in individual differences in immune status against SARS-CoV-2. A decay in immunity over time and the emergence of variants that partially evade the immune response can also lead to reinfection.
Multiple Regulations of Parasitic Protozoan Viruses: A Double-Edged Sword for Protozoa
Authors: Zhao Zhiteng , Li Xin , Zhang Nan , Li Jianhua , Zhao Na , Gao Mengyao , Zhang Xichen , Wang Xiaocen , Zhao Panpan , Li Lu , Sun Min , Cao Lili , Gong Pengtao
Published: January 2023

PPVs-based regulation of parasitic protozoa can provide a theoretical basis and direction for PPD prevention and control, although PPVs and PPV regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. In this review, we investigated the differences between PPVs and the unique properties of each virus regarding virus discovery, structures, and life cycles, focused on the
Trichomonas vaginalis
virus,
Giardia lamblia
virus,
Leishmania
RNA virus, and the
Cryptosporidium parvum
virus 1.
Erratum to: Several Articles in JETP Letters
Authors: Kotikov A. V. , Krivokhizhin V. G. , Shaikhatdenov B. G. , Hopersky A. N. , Nadolinsky A. M. , Totmeninov E. M. , Konev V. Yu. , Klimov A. I. , Pegel I. V. , Volovik G. E. , Bogdanov Yu. I. , Bogdanova N. A. , Fastovets D. V. , Lukichev V. F.
Published: January 2023

An Erratum to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1134/S0021364022350028
Erratum to: Several Articles in JETP Letters
Authors: Bondarenko S. G. , Kalinovskaya L. V. , Rumyantsev L. A. , Yermolchyk V. L. , Afanasiev A. E. , Bykova D. V. , Skakunenko P. I. , Balykin V. I. , Khokhlov V. A. , Zhakhovsky V. V. , Inogamov N. A. , Ashitkov S. I. , Sitnikov D. S. , Khishchenko K. V. , Petrov Yu. V. , Manokhin S. S. , Nelasov I. V. , Shepelev V. V. , Kolobov Yu. R. , Shchepetilnikov A. V. , Khisameeva A. R. , Dremin A. A. , Kukushkin I. V.
Published: January 2023

An Erratum to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1134/S002136402235003X
Severe thrombocytopaenia induced by systemic lupus erythematosus presenting as haemorrhagic oral bullae in a paediatric patient
Authors: Giakas Alec , Holder Katherine , Galvan Bernardo , Stallworth James
Published: January 2023

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease with varying dermatological findings. We review a unique presentation of SLE with a literature review. A previously healthy early adolescent female presented with painful, oral mucosal bullae filled with sanguineous fluid. She endorsed a tender right knee, but examination revealed no additional abnormalities. CBC demonstrated severe pancytopaenia. Further workup, including Coombs positive RBCs and positive ANA, anti-Smith, and anti-dsDNA antibodies, confirmed Lupus as the aetiology of this patient’s presentation. A form of blistering SLE and resultant thrombocytopaenia was likely responsible for the patient’s oral manifestations. After receiving 60 g intravenous immunoglobulin and 3 days high-dose pulse corticosteroids, her dermatological symptoms resolved. Although cases of blistering SLE with mucosal bullae have been described in the literature, this is the first documented case of haemorrhagic mucosal bullae as the presenting symptom of thrombocytopaenia in SLE in a paediatric patient.
Intravitreal aflibercept for idiopathic choroidal neovascularisation in paediatric age
Authors: Viana Ana Rita , Lemos José , Oliveira Mariana Almeida , Teixeira Carla
Published: January 2023

A boy in early adolescence presented with a 1-week history of visual acuity impairment in his right eye (RE). Fundus examination of the RE revealed an elevated yellow-greyish lesion in the inferior temporal juxtafoveolar area. Findings on optical coherence tomography, fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography angiography were compatible with active choroidal neovascularisation (CNV). In the absence of a primary ocular pathology and a potential systemic secondary cause, it was assumed an idiopathic aetiology of CNV. The child was treated with intravitreal injections of aflibercept, showing good anatomical and functional responses. No complications were recorded after the injections. CNV in children is a rare ocular condition that can lead to permanent visual acuity impairment. Although the therapeutic approach remains controversial, anti-vascular endothelial growth factor intravitreal injections represent a safe and effective therapeutic option for CNV in children.
Chronic abductor lesion after total hip arthroplasty in a sitting proud stem: direct repair by osteotomy of the greater trochanter
Authors: Tassinari Leonardo , Geraci Giuseppe , Di Martino Alberto , Faldini Cesare
Published: January 2023

A woman in her late 70s with bilateral total hip arthroplasty (THA) presented with left hip pain arising immediately after the last THA procedure, progressively worsening. Clinically, a severe abductor insufficiency with Trendelenburg limp was observed. Moreover, symptomatic leg length discrepancy required a contralateral heel lift of 0.5 cm. She was previously managed conservatively without any clinical benefit. Radiographs showed a well-fixed uncemented straight, sitting proud stem. MRI showed a large abductor tear. A minimally invasive proximal advancement of the greater trochanter was planned to allow direct surgical repair of the abductor lesion. The patient made a good recovery, and 12 months after surgery, wire removal was performed. The patient gained significant improvements in hip function (Harris Hip Score from 52 to 89), full limp recovery and complete pain relief at 13 months follow-up from primary surgery.
Identification and characterization of novel carboxyl ester lipase gene variants in patients with different subtypes of diabetes
Authors: Wu Huixiao , Shu Meng , Liu Changmei , Zhao Wanyi , Li Qiu , Song Yuling , Zhang Ting , Chen Xinyu , Shi Yingzhou , Shi Ping , Fang Li , Wang Runbo , Xu Chao
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Mutations ofCELgene were first reported to cause a new type of maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) denoted as MODY8 and then were also found in patients with type 1 (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, its genotype-phenotype relationship has not been fully determined and how carboxyl ester lipase (CEL) variants result in diabetes remains unclear. The aim of our study was to identify pathogenic variants ofCELin patients with diabetes and confirm their pathogenicity.

Research design and methods

All five patients enrolled in our study were admitted to Shandong Provincial Hospital and diagnosed with diabetes in the past year. Whole-exome sequencing was performed to identify pathogenic variants in three patients with MODY-like diabetes, one newborn baby with T1D and one patient with atypical T2D, as well as their immediate family members. Then the consequences of the identified variants were predicted by bioinformatic analysis. Furthermore, pathogenic effects of two novelCELvariants were evaluated in HEK293 cells transfected with wild-type and mutant plasmids. Finally, we summarized allCELgene variants recorded in Human Gene Mutation Database and analyzed the mutation distribution of CEL.

Results

Five novel heterozygous variants were identified inCELgene and they were predicted to be pathogenic by bioinformatic analysis. Moreover, in vitro studies indicated that the expression of CELR540Cwas remarkably increased, while p.G729_T739del variant did not significantly affect the expression of CEL. Both novel variants obviously abrogated the secretion of CEL. Furthermore, we summarized all reportedCELvariants and found that 74.3% of missense mutations were located in exons 1, 3, 4, 10 and 11 and most missense variants clustered near catalytic triad, Arg-83 and Arg-443.

Conclusion

Our study identified five novelCELvariants in patients with different subtypes of diabetes, expanding the gene mutation spectrum ofCELand confirmed the pathogenicity of several novel variants.
Healthcare usage and expenditure among people with type 2 diabetes and/or hypertension in Cambodia: results from a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Chhim Srean , Te Vannarath , Buffel Veerle , van Olmen Josefien , Chham Savina , Long Sereyraksmey , Yem Sokunthea , Van Damme Wim , Wouters Edwin , Por Ir
Published: January 2023

Objective

To assess usage of public and private healthcare, related healthcare expenditure, and associated factors for people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and/or hypertension (HTN) and for people without those conditions in Cambodia.

Methods

A cross-sectional household survey.

Settings

Five operational districts (ODs) in Cambodia.

Participants

Data were from 2360 participants aged ≥40 years who had used healthcare services at least once in the 3 months preceding the survey.

Primary and secondary outcome

The main variables of interest were the number of healthcare visits and healthcare expenditure in the last 3 months.

Results

The majority of healthcare visits took place in the private sector. Only 22.0% of healthcare visits took place in public healthcare facilities: 21.7% in people with HTN, 37.2% in people with T2D, 34.7% in people with T2D plus HTN and 18.9% in people without the two conditions (p value <0.01). For people with T2D and/or HTN, increased public healthcare use was significantly associated with Health Equity Fund (HEF) membership and living in ODs withcommunity-based care. Furthermore, significant healthcare expenditure reduction was associated with HEF membership and using public healthcare facilities in these populations.

Conclusion

Overall public healthcare usage was relatively low; however, it was higher in people with chronic conditions. HEF membership andcommunity-based carecontributed to higher public healthcare usage among people with chronic conditions. Using public healthcare services, regardless of HEF status reduced healthcare expenditure, but the reduction in spending was more noticeable in people with HEF membership. To protect people with T2D and/or HTN from financial risk and move towards the direction of universal health coverage, the public healthcare system should further improve care quality and expand social health protection. Future research should link healthcare use and expenditure across different healthcare models to actual treatment outcomes to denote areas for further investment.
Rates of breast feeding and associated factors for First Nations infants in a hospital with a culturally specific caseload midwifery model in Victoria, Australia: a cohort study
Authors: Springall Tanisha , Forster Della Anne , McLachlan Helen L , McCalman Pamela , Shafiei Touran
Published: January 2023

Objectives

There is an urgent need to improve breast feeding rates for Australian First Nations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) infants. We explored breast feeding outcomes of women having a First Nations infant at three sites that introduced a culturally specific continuity of midwife care model.

Design

Women having a First Nations infant booking for pregnancy care between March 2017 and November 2020 were invited to participate. Surveys at recruitment and 3 months post partum were developed with input from the First Nations Advisory Committee. We explored breast feeding intention, initiation, maintenance and reasons for stopping and factors associated with breast feeding.

Setting

Three tertiary maternity services in Melbourne, Australia.

Participants

Of 479/926 eligible women approached, 343 (72%) completed the recruitment survey, and 213/343 (62%) the postnatal survey.

Outcomes

Primary: breast feeding initiation and maintenance. Secondary: breast feeding intention and reasons for stopping breast feeding.

Results

Most women (298, 87%) received the culturally specific model. Breast feeding initiation (96%, 95% CI 0.93 to 0.98) was high. At 3 months, 71% were giving ‘any’ (95% CI 0.65 to 0.78) and 48% were giving ‘only’ breast milk (95% CI 0.41 to 0.55). Intending to breast feed 6 months (Adj OR ‘any’: 2.69, 95% CI 1.29 to 5.60; ‘only’: 2.22, 95% CI 1.20 to 4.12), and not smoking in pregnancy (Adj OR ‘any’: 2.48, 95% CI 1.05 to 5.86; ‘only’: 4.05, 95% CI 1.54 to 10.69) were associated with higher odds. Lower education (Adj OR ‘any’: 0.36, 95% CI 0.13 to 0.98; ‘only’: 0.50, 95% CI 0.26 to 0.96) and government benefits as the main household income (Adj OR ‘any’: 0.26, 95% CI 0.11 to 0.58) with lower odds.

Conclusions

Breast feeding rates were high in the context of service-wide change. Our findings strengthen the evidence that culturally specific continuity models improve breast feeding outcomes for First Nations women and infants. We recommend implementing and upscaling First Nations specific midwifery continuity models within mainstream hospitals in Australia as a strategy to improve breast feeding.
Associations between HIV status and self-reported hypertension in a high HIV prevalence sub-Saharan African population: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Davis Katherine , Moorhouse Louisa , Maswera Rufurwokuda , Mandizvidza Phyllis , Dadirai Tawanda , Museka Tafadzwa , Nyamukapa Constance , Smit Mikaela , Gregson Simon
Published: January 2023

Objectives

This study examined whether HIV status and antiretroviral therapy (ART) exposure were associated with self-reported hypertension in Zimbabwe.

Design

Study data were taken from a cross-sectional, general population survey, which included HIV testing (July 2018–December 2019).

Setting

The data were collected in Manicaland Province, Zimbabwe.

Participants

9780 people aged 15 years and above were included.

Outcome measure

Self-reported hypertension was the outcome measure. This was defined as reporting a previous diagnosis of hypertension by a doctor or nurse. After weighting of survey responses by age and sex using household census data, χ2tests and logistic regression were used to explore whether HIV status and ART exposure were associated with self-reported hypertension.

Results

The weighted prevalence of self-reported hypertension was 13.6% (95% CI 12.9% to 14.2%) and the weighted prevalence of HIV was 11.1% (10.4% to 11.7%). In univariable analyses, there was no evidence of a difference in the weighted prevalence of self-reported hypertension between people living with HIV (PLHIV) and HIV-negative people (14.1%, 11.9% to 16.3% vs 13.3%, 12.6% to 14.0%; p=0.503) or between ART-exposed and ART-naive PLHIV (14.8%, 12.0% to 17.7% vs 12.8%, 9.1% to 16.4%,p=0.388). Adjusting for socio-demographic variables in logistic regression did not alter this finding (ORs:HIV status:0.88, 0.70 to 1.10, p=0.261; ART exposure:0.83, 0.53 to 1.30, p=0.411).

Conclusions

Approximately one in seven PLHIV self-reported having hypertension, highlighting an important burden of disease. However, no associations were found between HIV status or ART exposure and self-reported hypertension, suggesting that it will be valuable to focus on managing other risk factors for hypertension in this population. These findings should be fully accounted for as Zimbabwe reorients its health system towards non-communicable disease control and management.
Protocol of HOTFy: randomised clinical trial to hyperbaric oxygen therapy in fibromyalgia
Authors: Mota Neto José , Mendes Adriano Fernando , Martins Anita Fernanda Magalhães , Landa Aline Teixeira de , Fraga Rafael de Oliveira , Souza Viviane Angelina de , Raposo Nádia Rezende Barbosa
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Fibromyalgia is a polysymptomatic syndrome with a prevalence between 0.2% and 13% of the population and causes work disabilities in approximately half of affected patients. Several treatments to fibromyalgia have been proposed with partial improvement. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and when it should be introduced to fibromyalgia.

Methods and analysis

This is a protocol for an open-label, crossover, randomised clinical trial comparing treatment with hyperbaric oxygen therapy and standardised treatment to fibromyalgia. In the proposed study, 56 individuals with fibromyalgia will be randomised in a 1:1 ratio into a single, fixed, random block, in which one group will receive hyperbaric oxygen therapy and another will receive standard treatment. Subsequently, the groups will be crossed. Participants will be evaluated at baseline, eight and 16 weeks based on functional impairment assessed with the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire—Brazilian Portuguese version, psychopathological symptoms questionnaire and short-form quality of life questionnaire. The improvement of symptoms concerning the moment of therapy used will be compared between groups. For sample size calculation, a moderate effect size, 80% power and 95% CI will be estimated, in a total of 46 patients. Considering a dropout of 20%, 56 patients should be recruited.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by the Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora Teaching Hospital ethics committee and assigned the number 53058421.9.0000.5133 (version 3). The results will be disseminated via publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations in medical meetings.

Trial registration number

RBR-6prps8g)/UTN U1111-1278-3224.
Pain in autoimmune inflammatory myopathies: a scoping review
Authors: Leclair Valérie , Tsui Harmony , Hudson Marie
Published: January 2023

Background

Pain is considered a priority for research by adult patients with autoimmune inflammatory myopathy (AIM) and their families. Our aim was to review the literature for studies reporting on pain in adult AIM and to summarise their findings.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted searching for studies in PubMed and MEDLINE including more than five adult patients with AIM and assessing pain using a patient-reported outcome measure. Study population characteristics, pain measurement and clinical correlates of pain were extracted using a standardised protocol.

Results

The search strategy identified 2831 studies with 33 meeting inclusion criteria. Most studies used visual analogue scales (n=14) and/or the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form Bodily Pain Scale (n=17). Frequency of pain and/or myalgias ranged from 64% to 100%. Subjects with AIM had significantly more pain than the general population and comparable pain to other chronic rheumatic diseases. Insufficient results were available to identify significant clinical correlates of pain in AIM.

Conclusion

This review suggests that the burden of pain in AIM is considerable. Still, due to the heterogeneity and low quality of the evidence, significant knowledge gaps persist. Studies are needed to characterise pain trajectories of patients with AIM.
Clear-water and live-bed scour depth modelling around bridge pier using support vector machine
Authors: Nil  , Baranwal Anubhav , Das B.S.
Published: January 2023

In recent history, local scour around the bridge piers has been a major cause of bridge failure; therefore, it is important to precisely predict the equilibrium scour depth. When the flow of water interacts with the bridge pier in the mobile bed, it usually results in local scour. In this paper, a total of 442 clear-water scouring (CWS) data and 300 live-bed scouring (LBS) data are collected from literature to model scour depth using a support vector machine. A sensitivity study was also carried out to assess the reliability of the model, and the strength of the proposed model is tested via an error analysis. The coefficient of determination ( R2) value was found to be greater than 0.90 for both CWS and LBS. The present model is compared with more than 10 popular existing models and it has been discovered to be more reliable and efficient in estimating scour depth around bridge piers.
An Efficient Multi-Objective Evolutionary Zero-Shot Neural Architecture Search Framework for Image Classification
Authors: Zhang Jianwei , Zhang Lei , Wang Yan , Wang Junyou , Wei Xin , Liu Wenjie
Published: January 2023

Neural Architecture Search (NAS) has recently shown a powerful ability to engineer networks automatically on various tasks. Most current approaches navigate the search direction with the validation performance-based architecture evaluation methodology, which estimates an architecture’s quality by training and validating on a specific large dataset. However, for small-scale datasets, the model’s performance on the validation set cannot precisely estimate that on the test set. The imprecise architecture evaluation can mislead the search to sub-optima. To address the above problem, we propose an efficient multi-objective evolutionary zero-shot NAS framework by evaluating architectures with zero-cost metrics, which can be calculated with randomly initialized models in a training-free manner. Specifically, a general zero-cost metric design principle is proposed to unify the current metrics and help develop several new metrics. Then, we offer an efficient computational method for multi-zero-cost metrics by calculating them in one forward and backward pass. Finally, comprehensive experiments have been conducted on NAS-Bench-201 and MedMNIST. The results have shown that the proposed method can achieve sufficiently accurate, high-throughput performance on MedMNIST and 20[Formula: see text]faster than the previous best method.
Assessing Functional Brain Network Dynamics in Dyslexia from fNIRS Data
Authors: Gallego-Molina Nicolás J. , Ortiz Andrés , Martínez-Murcia Francisco J. , Rodríguez-Rodríguez Ignacio , Luque Juan L.
Published: January 2023

Developmental dyslexia is characterized by a deficit of phonological awareness whose origin is related to atypical neural processing of speech streams. This can lead to differences in the neural networks that encode audio information for dyslexics. In this work, we investigate whether such differences exist using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) and complex network analysis. We have explored functional brain networks derived from low-level auditory processing of nonspeech stimuli related to speech units such as stress, syllables or phonemes of skilled and dyslexic seven-year-old readers. A complex network analysis was performed to examine the properties of functional brain networks and their temporal evolution. We characterized aspects of brain connectivity such as functional segregation, functional integration or small-worldness. These properties are used as features to extract differential patterns in controls and dyslexic subjects. The results corroborate the presence of discrepancies in the topological organizations of functional brain networks and their dynamics that differentiate between control and dyslexic subjects, reaching an Area Under ROC Curve (AUC) up to 0.89 in classification experiments.
Majorana fermions in multiband quantum wires: A semiclassical analysis
Authors: Samokhin K. V.
Published: January 2023

In this paper, we calculate the Andreev bound state spectrum in a half-infinite superconducting wire with an arbitrary number of bands crossing the chemical potential. Electrons in the wire are affected by the asymmetric (Rashba) spin–orbit coupling due to the presence of a substrate. The normal state of the wire is assumed to have an antiunitary symmetry (time reversal or its combination with a point group operation), which may be broken by the superconducting order parameter and/or the boundary. The bound state spectrum is calculated without relying on any particular microscopic model, using the semiclassical approach with the boundary conditions described by a phenomenological scattering matrix.
Estimation of structural and optical properties of transparent PS/ZnO nanocomposite foils for UV shielding and photonic applications
Authors: Barala Monika , Mohan Devendra , Sanghi Sujata , Siwach Bulkesh , Poonam
Published: January 2023

The structural and optical characteristics of polystyrene (PS) and ZnO nanoparticles embedded in polystyrene as polymeric nanocomposite foils (PS/ZnO) were examined. The sol–gel process was utilized to make ZnO nanoparticles with a diameter of less than 50 nm. The solution casting process was used to prepare pure PS and PS/ZnO nanocomposite foils. The PS/ZnO nanocomposite foils were very transparent in the visible region as-synthesized, but due to substantial absorption in the UV area, absorbent peaks were formed at 264 nm and 364 nm, and these foils serve as UV absorbers. X-ray diffractometer (XRD) of ZnO embedded polystyrene nanocomposite foils studied the crystal structure of the flexible foils. Optical properties and optical constants including band gap were studied by transmittance, absorbance, and reflectance spectra that are obtained by UV–Vis spectrophotometer. The Wemple DiDomenico single oscillator model was used to estimate the dispersion energy parameters ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], optical moments ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], the density of states ([Formula: see text]/[Formula: see text]), dispersion of refractive index ([Formula: see text], and plasma frequency ([Formula: see text] of the investigated foils. Semi-empirical relations were used to estimate the nonlinear index of refraction ([Formula: see text] and third-order optical nonlinear susceptibility ([Formula: see text]. PS/ZnO nanocomposite foils operate as UV absorbents and are a promising preference for photonic applications due to their optical characteristics.
Ionic Liquids: Promisingly Functional Mediators in Electrocatalysts for Water Splitting
Authors: Zhang Chenyun , Bai Te , Cao Tianyi , Wang Fang , Peng Qingyue , Gao Wei
Published: January 2023

A drastic demand for green energy has stimulated the development of H2 production from water electrolysis. So, the exploration of electrocatalysts for water splitting has become an intensive concerned issue. For decades, utilization of ionic liquids (ILs) in the research of electrocatalysts has gradually evolved to an important branch in the field of energy storage and conversion. The participation of ILs offers the catalyst with almost the highest catalytic activity for water splitting so far. In this review, we describe in detail the application of ILs as media and templates in the preparation of catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction and oxygen evolution reaction. Different from ordinary organic solvents, ILs have the ability to control the growth direction of nanomaterials, adjust phases, morphologies, electronic structures, mass transfer process, etc. so they can enhance the performance of electrocatalysts. In summarizing the function of ILs in the preparation of nanomaterials, the relationship among reaction media, material structures and catalytic efficiencies of catalysts is paid intensive attention. We expect that this review will guide the readers to have a more systematic understanding on preparing electrocatalysts assisted by ILs, while stimulating new thoughts on the reasonable design and controllable preparation of IL-mediated catalysts for water electrolysis.
Cytotoxicity and First-principles Calculations of ZnS:6.25%Br Quantum Dots and Their Effect on the Growth of Aspergillus oryzae
Authors: Huang Xian , Li Xiaoxia , Yao Yitong , Liu Na , Chen Zhong , Yu Quanmao
Published: January 2023

ZnS:6.25%Br quantum dots (QDs) were fabricated by a low temperature solid phase way. The impacts of zinc vacancies ([Formula: see text]) and Br on the energetic and electronic properties of ZnS QDs were discussed by the first-principles calculations combined with the experimental results. Moreover, the cytotoxicity of ZnS:Br QDs and their influences on the growth of Aspergillus oryzae (A. oryzae) were researched. The theoretical results showed that ZnS:6.25%Br and ZnS:3.125%[Formula: see text] were n-type and p-type semiconductor, respectively, while ZnS:6.25%Br,3.125%[Formula: see text] was a neutral semiconductor. It was found that ZnS:6.25%Br QDs were not only nontoxic for HeLa cells but also promoted the growth of A. oryzae. This work will provide a new method for improving the growth of A. oryzae.