bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
That’s Incorrect and Let Me Tell You Why: A Scalable Assessment to Evaluate Higher Order Thinking Skills
Authors: Maclean Kyle D. S. , Bayley Tiffany
Published: September 2023

We introduce a novel type of assessment that allows for efficient grading of higher order thinking skills. In this assessment, a student reviews and corrects a technical memo that has errors in its formulation or process. To overcome the grading challenges imposed by essay-type responses in large undergraduate courses, we provide a Visual Basic for Applications Excel tool for instructors, ensuring efficient grading of student submissions. We report our experience using this type of assessment in a multisection introductory business analytics course over several years and present survey-based evidence indicating that students perceive it to be clear and beneficial for learning.

Supplemental Material: Data is available at https://www.informs.org/Publications/Subscribe/Access-Restricted-Materials
Do Noisy Customer Reviews Discourage Platform Sellers? Empirical Analysis of an Online Solar Marketplace
Authors: Huang Herbie , Sunar Nur , Swaminathan Jayashankar M. , Roy Rahul
Published: September 2023

Problem definition: Customer reviews are essential to online marketplaces. However, reviews typically vary; ratings of a product or service are rarely the same. In many service marketplaces, including the ones for solar panel installations, supply-side participants are active. That is, a seller must make a proposal to serve each customer. In such marketplaces, it is not clear how (or if) the dispersion in customer reviews affects the seller activity level and number of matches in the marketplace. Our paper examines this by considering both ratings and text reviews. To our knowledge, this is the first paper that empirically studies how the review dispersion affects a seller’s activity level and the number of matches in an online marketplace with active sellers. Distinct from literature, we examine the relationship between the review dispersion and supply-side activities in an online service marketplace. Methodology/results: We collaborated with one of the largest online solar marketplaces in the United States that connects potential solar panel adopters with installers. We obtained a unique data set from the marketplace for 2013 − 2018. We complement this with public data sets. Our analysis uses traditional econometrics methods, a clustering method, and the deep-learning-based natural-language-processing model BERT developed by Google AI. We find that the dispersion in customer reviews has a significant and inverted U-shaped relationship with an installer’s marketplace activity level. Intuitively, a marketplace operator would favor having more sellers with perfect ratings. In contrast, we identify a significant and inverted U-shaped relationship between the market-level review dispersion and transactions. Managerial implications: Our paper provides key insights to marketplace operators and sellers. We find that in contrast to general belief, an operator can improve its market transactions by keeping/promoting sellers with low ratings or avoiding (negative) review filtering. Furthermore, sellers’ implementation of “rating gating” to avoid negative reviews may backfire for them by reducing their matches.

Supplemental Material: The e-companion is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/msom.2021.0104 .
Four weeks versus six weeks of immobilization in a cast following closed reduction for displaced distal radial fractures in adult patients: a multicentre randomized controlled trial
Authors: van Delft Eva A. K. , van Bruggen Suus G. J. , van Stralen Karlijn J. , Bloemers Frank W. , Sosef Nico L. , Schep Niels W. L. , Vermeulen Jefrey
Published: September 2023

Aims

There is no level I evidence dealing with the optimal period of immobilization for patients with a displaced distal radial fracture following closed reduction. A shorter period might lead to a better functional outcome due to less stiffness and pain. The aim of this study was to investigate whether this period could be safely reduced from six to four weeks.

Methods

This multicentre randomized controlled trial (RCT) included adult patients with a displaced distal radial fracture, who were randomized to be treated with immobilization in a cast for four or six weeks following closed reduction. The primary outcome measure was the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) score after follow-up at one year. Secondary outcomes were the abbreviated version of the Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) score after one year, the functional outcome at six weeks, 12 weeks, and six months, range of motion (ROM), the level of pain after removal of the cast, and complications.

Results

A total of 100 patients (15 male, 85 female) were randomized, with 49 being treated with four weeks of immobilization in a cast. A total of 93 completed follow-up. The mean PRWE score after one year was 6.9 (SD 8.3) in the four-week group compared with 11.6 (SD 14.3) in the six-week group. However, this difference of -4.7 (95% confidence interval -9.29 to 0.14) was not clinically relevant as the minimal clinically important difference of 11.5 was not reached. There was no significant difference in the ROM, radiological outcome, level of pain, or complications.

Conclusion

In adult patients with a displaced and adequately reduced distal radial fracture, immobilization in a cast for four weeks is safe, and the results are similar to those after a period of immobilization of six weeks.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(9):993–999.
Time to return to work by occupational class after total hip or knee arthroplasty
Authors: Kamp Tamara , Gademan Maaike G. J. , van Zon Sander K. R. , Nelissen Rob G. H. H. , Vliet Vlieland Thea P. M. , Stevens Martin , Brouwer Sandra
Published: September 2023

Aims

For the increasing number of working-age patients undergoing total hip or total knee arthroplasty (THA/TKA), return to work (RTW) after surgery is crucial. We investigated the association between occupational class and time to RTW after THA or TKA.

Methods

Data from the prospective multicentre Longitudinal Leiden Orthopaedics Outcomes of Osteoarthritis Study were used. Questionnaires were completed preoperatively and six and 12 months postoperatively. Time to RTW was defined as days from surgery until RTW (full or partial). Occupational class was preoperatively assessed and categorized into four categories according to the International Standard Classification of Occupations 2008 (blue-/white-collar, high-/low-skilled). Cox regression analyses were conducted separately for THA and TKA patients. Low-skilled blue-collar work was used as the reference category.

Results

A total of 360 THA and 276 TKA patients, preoperatively employed, were included. Patients were mainly high-skilled (THA 57%; TKA 41%) or low-skilled (THA 24%; TKA 38%) white-collar workers. Six months post-THA, RTW rates were 78% of low-skilled blue-collar workers compared to 83% to 86% within other occupational classes, increasing after 12 months to 87% to 90% in all occupational classes. Six months post-TKA, RTW rates were 58% of low-skilled and 64% of high-skilled blue-collar workers compared to 80% to 89% of white-collar workers, and after 12 months 79% of low-skilled blue-collar workers compared to 87% to 92% within other occupational classes. High-skilled white-collar workers (THA: hazard ratio (HR) 2.12 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.32 to 3.40); TKA: HR 2.31 (95% CI 1.34 to 4.00)) and low-skilled white-collar workers (TKA: HR 1.82 (95% CI 1.04 to 3.18)) had a higher hazard to RTW within six months postoperatively.

Conclusion

Clear differences existed in time to RTW among both THA and TKA patients in each of the groups studied. These findings may help guide tailored patient-specific information during preoperative consultation and advice postoperatively, as well as to create awareness among workers and their employers.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(9):977–984.
Can CT-based gap and step-off displacement predict outcome after nonoperative treatment of acetabular fractures?
Authors: Trouwborst Neeltje M. , ten Duis Kaj , Banierink Hester , Doornberg Job N. , van Helden Sven H. , Hermans Erik , van Lieshout Esther M. M. , Nijveldt Robert , Tromp Tjarda , Stirler Vincent M. A. , Verhofstad Michael H. J. , de Vries Jean Paul P. M. , Wijffels Mathieu M. E. , Reininga Inge H. F. , IJpma Frank F. A.
Published: September 2023

Aims

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between fracture displacement and survivorship of the native hip joint without conversion to a total hip arthroplasty (THA), and to determine predictors for conversion to THA in patients treated nonoperatively for acetabular fractures.

Methods

A multicentre cross-sectional study was performed in 170 patients who were treated nonoperatively for an acetabular fracture in three level 1 trauma centres. Using the post-injury diagnostic CT scan, the maximum gap and step-off values in the weightbearing dome were digitally measured by two trauma surgeons. Native hip survival was reported using Kaplan-Meier curves. Predictors for conversion to THA were determined using Cox regression analysis.

Results

Of 170 patients, 22 (13%) subsequently received a THA. Native hip survival in patients with a step-off ≤ 2 mm, > 2 to 4 mm, or > 4 mm differed at five-year follow-up (respectively: 94% vs 70% vs 74%). Native hip survival in patients with a gap ≤ 2 mm, > 2 to 4 mm, or > 4 mm differed at five-year follow-up (respectively: 100% vs 84% vs 78%). Step-off displacement > 2 mm (> 2 to 4 mm hazard ratio (HR) 4.9, > 4 mm HR 5.6) and age > 60 years (HR 2.9) were independent predictors for conversion to THA at follow-up.

Conclusion

Patients with minimally displaced acetabular fractures who opt for nonoperative fracture treatment may be informed that fracture displacement (e.g. gap and step-off) up to 2 mm, as measured on CT images, results in limited risk on conversion to THA. Step-off ≥ 2 mm and age > 60 years are predictors for conversion to THA and can be helpful in the shared decision-making process.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(9):1020–1029.
Identifying ASL Compounds: A Functionalist Approach
Authors: Lepic Ryan
Published: September 2023

Abstract: In many descriptions of American Sign Language (ASL), signs like [breakfast] are identified as compounds . These signs were once formed with two separate signs but have since fused into a single unit. This article presents an alternative definition of compound that includes both functional and formal properties. Following this updated definition, examples of ASL compounds are constructions like [name sign] and [sign language], which combine two object-concept words to name an object concept, as well as related constructions like [formal room] 'living room,' which also label object concepts. The updated definition of compound allows for terminological consistency and sets the stage for fuller understanding of the variety of multisign units in ASL.
Frequency-aware optical coherence tomography image super-resolution via conditional generative adversarial neural network
Authors: Li Xueshen , Dong Zhenxing , Liu Hongshan , Kang-Mieler Jennifer J. , Ling Yuye , Gan Yu
Published: September 2023

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has stimulated a wide range of medical image-based diagnosis and treatment in fields such as cardiology and ophthalmology. Such applications can be further facilitated by deep learning-based super-resolution technology, which improves the capability of resolving morphological structures. However, existing deep learning-based method only focuses on spatial distribution and disregards frequency fidelity in image reconstruction, leading to a frequency bias. To overcome this limitation, we propose a frequency-aware super-resolution framework that integrates three critical frequency-based modules (i.e., frequency transformation, frequency skip connection, and frequency alignment) and frequency-based loss function into a conditional generative adversarial network (cGAN). We conducted a large-scale quantitative study from an existing coronary OCT dataset to demonstrate the superiority of our proposed framework over existing deep learning frameworks. In addition, we confirmed the generalizability of our framework by applying it to fish corneal images and rat retinal images, demonstrating its capability to super-resolve morphological details in eye imaging.
Scanning darkfield high-resolution microendoscope for label-free microvascular imaging
Authors: Hou Huayu , Tang Yubo , Coole Jackson B. , Kortum Alex , Schwarz Richard A. , Carns Jennifer , Gillenwater Ann M. , Ramalingam Preetha , Milbourne Andrea , Salcedo Mila P. , Schmeler Kathleen M. , Richards-Kortum Rebecca R.
Published: September 2023

Characterization of microvascular changes during neoplastic progression has the potential to assist in discriminating precancer and early cancer from benign lesions. Here, we introduce a novel high-resolution microendoscope that leverages scanning darkfield reflectance imaging to characterize angiogenesis without exogenous contrast agents. Scanning darkfield imaging is achieved by coupling programmable illumination with a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) camera rolling shutter, eliminating the need for complex optomechanical components and making the system portable, low-cost (<$5,500) and simple to use. Imaging depth is extended by placing a gradient-index (GRIN) lens at the distal end of the imaging fiber to resolve subepithelial microvasculature. We validated the capability of the scanning darkfield microendoscope to visualize microvasculature at different anatomic sites in vivo by imaging the oral cavity of healthy volunteers. Images of cervical specimens resected for suspected neoplasia reveal distinct microvascular patterns in columnar and squamous epithelium with different grades of precancer, indicating the potential of scanning darkfield microendoscopy to aid in efforts to prevent cervical cancer through early diagnosis.
Reliable adaptive edge-cloud collaborative DNN inference acceleration scheme combining computing and communication resources in optical networks
Authors: Yin Shan , Jiao Yurong , You Chenyu , Cai Mengru , Jin Tianyu , Huang Shanguo
Published: September 2023

With the continuous development of the Artificial Intelligence of Things, deep neural network (DNN) models require a larger amount of computing capacity. The emerging edge-cloud collaboration architecture in optical networks is proposed as an effective solution, which combines edge computing with cloud computing to provide faster response and reduce the cloud load for compute-intensive tasks. The multi-layered DNN model can be divided into subtasks that are offloaded to edge and cloud servers for computation in this architecture. In addition, as bearer networks for computing capacity, once a server or link in optical networks fails, a large amount of data can be lost, so the robust reliability of the edge-cloud collaborative optical networks is very important. To solve the above problems, we design a reliable adaptive edge-cloud collaborative DNN inference acceleration scheme (RACAI) combining computing and communication resources. We formulate the RACAI into a mixed integer linear programming model and develop a multi-agent deep reinforcement learning algorithm (MADRL-RACIA) to jointly optimize DNN task partitioning, offloading, and protection. The simulation results show that compared with the benchmark schemes, the proposed MADRL-RACIA can provide a guarantee of reliability for more tasks under latency constraints and reduce the blocking probability.
Self-healing properties of symmetrical power-exponent-phase vortices
Authors: Liu Shuo , Liu Xuejuan , Xiong Yan , Xu Yiping , Tao Shaohua , Yang Wenxing , Cheng Shubo
Published: September 2023

The self-healing properties of symmetrical power-exponent-phase vortices (SPEPVs) are analyzed in this paper. By placing an obstacle in the optical path of SPEPVs, we simulated the propagation of the obstructed SPEPVs and verified the self-healing of the beam theoretically. We also explored the influence of external factors (e.g., obstacle size and position) and internal parameters (topological charge l and power exponent n) on the self-healing effect of obstructed SPEPVs. Furthermore, the energy flow density, similarity coefficient, effective self-healing distance, and diffraction efficiency of the obstructed SPEPVs were also discussed. The results demonstrated that the transverse energy flows around the obstructed region of SPEPVs will recover with the propagation distance increased, and the effective self-healing distance gradually increases linearly with the obstacle size r
x
increased. The self-healing characteristic gives the petal-like SPEPVs the ability to trap microparticles three-dimensionally.
Thermorefractive noise reduction of photonic molecule frequency combs using an all-optical servo loop
Authors: Connor Skehan J. , Nair Karunakaran Anamika , Varming Poul , Helgason Óskar B. , Montague Patrick B. , Schröder Jochen , Pu Minhao , Yvind Kresten , Torres-Company Victor , Andrekson Peter A.
Published: September 2023

Phase and frequency noise originating from thermal fluctuations is commonly a limiting factor in integrated photonic cavities. To reduce this noise, one may drive a secondary “servo/cooling” laser into the blue side of a cavity resonance. Temperature fluctuations which shift the resonance will then change the amount of servo/cooling laser power absorbed by the device as the laser moves relatively out of or into the resonance, and thereby effectively compensate for the fluctuation. In this paper, we use a low noise laser to demonstrate this principle for the first time in a frequency comb generated from a normal dispersion photonic molecule micro-resonator. Significantly, this configuration can be used with the servo/cooling laser power above the usual nonlinearity threshold since resonances with normal dispersion are available. We report a 50 % reduction in frequency noise of the comb lines in the frequency range of 10 kHz to 1 MHz and investigate the effect of the secondary servo/cooling noise on the comb.
Efficient strain-modified improved nonparabolic-band energy dispersion model that considers the effect of conduction band nonparabolicity in mid-infrared quantum cascade lasers
Authors: Kim Sungjun , Kim Jungho
Published: September 2023

Intersubband polar-optical-phonon (POP) scattering plays an important role in determining the population inversion and optical gain of mid-infrared (mid-IR) quantum cascade lasers (QCLs). In particular, the nonparabolicity of the conduction band (CB) significantly affects the energy dispersion relation and intersubband POP scattering time. However, the currently used parabolic-band (PB) and nonparabolic-band (NPB) energy dispersion models are not appropriate for mid-IR QCLs because they are unsuitable for high electron wave vectors and do not consider the effect of applied strain on the energy dispersion relation of the CB. The eight-band k·p method can provide a relatively accurate nonparabolic energy dispersion relation for high electron wave vectors but has the disadvantages of high computational complexity and spurious solutions to be discarded. Consequently, we propose a strain-modified improved nonparabolic-band (INPB) energy dispersion model that has no spurious solution and acceptable accuracy, compared to the eight-band k·p method. To demonstrate the accuracy and efficiency of our proposed INPB model compared with those of the PB, NPB, and eight-band k·p models, we calculate the energy dispersion relations and intersubband POP scattering times in a strain-compensated QCL with a lasing wavelength of 3.58 µm. Calculation results reveal that our proposed model is almost as accurate as the eight-band k·p model; however, it enables much faster calculations and is free from spurious solutions.
Optimizing noble gas pressure for enhanced self-compensation in spin-exchange relaxation-free comagnetometers
Authors: Yang Lv , Pang Haoying , Wei Yao , Quan Wei
Published: September 2023

The coupling of electron spin and nuclear spin through spin-exchange collisions compensates for external magnetic field interference in the spin-exchange relaxation-free (SERF) comagnetometer. However, the compensation ability for magnetic field interference along the detection axis is limited due to the presence of nuclear spin relaxation. This paper aims to enhance the self-compensation capability of the system by optimizing the pressure of the noble gas during cell filling. Models are established to describe the relationships between the nuclear spin polarization, the polarizing magnetic field of nuclei, the magnetic field suppression factors, and the pressure of the noble gas in the K-Rb-21Ne atomic ensemble. Experiments are conducted using five cells with different pressure. The results indicate that in the positive pressure area, the nuclear spin polarization decreases while the equivalent magnetic field experienced by the noble gas increases with increasing pressure. The magnetic field suppression factor for transverse fields increases as the pressure increases, leading to a decrease in the ability to suppress low-frequency magnetic field interference. Moreover, at the cell temperature of 180°C and a transverse residual field gradient of 4.012 nT/cm, the system exhibits its strongest capability to suppress transverse magnetic field interference when the pressure of 21Ne is around 0.7 atm.
Highly sensitive and selective detection of nitrite using a fiber optofluidic laser
Authors: Li Dongyang , Xu Qingbo , Zhao Fang , Guo Chengde , Li Jianwei , Pu Xiaoyun , Xia Jing , Lü Yanfei , Zhang Yuanxian
Published: September 2023

Nitrite ion (NO2−) is a common contaminant that can significantly threaten human health and the environment. In this study, we demonstrate a chemical sensing platform to monitor the nitrite concentration using a fiber optofluidic laser (FOFL). An optical fiber, integrated into a microchannel, is used both as an optical micro-cavity and the sensing element. Rhodamine 6 G (Rh6G) in an aqueous micellar solution is used as the laser gain medium. The light intensity change of the lasing spectra is employed as an indicator for the NO2− ion concentration sensing. The lasing properties under different NO2− ion concentrations are experimentally and theoretically investigated to examine the sensing performance of the FOFL. The results show that the limit detection of the FOFL sensor is 0.54 µM, which is 2-order-of-magnitude lower than fluorescence measurement. The sensing mechanism of Rh6G for NO2− detection is studied by using density functional theory (DFT). The calculation results indicate that nitrite influences the electronic distribution of Rh6G based on the heavy atom effect, which leads to the fluorescence quenching of Rh6G in the excited state. In addition, the detection system exhibits favorable selectivity for NO2− ions.
Cutting depth-oriented ductile machining of infrared micro-lens arrays by elliptical vibration cutting
Authors: Zheng Zhengding , Huang Kai , Lin Chuangting , Huang Weiqi , Zhang Jianguo , Chen Xiao , Xiao Junfeng , Xu Jianfeng
Published: September 2023

Infrared micro-lens arrays (MLAs) are widely used in advanced optical systems due to their advantages such as low focusing depth and high sensitivity. Elliptical vibration cutting (EVC) is a promising approach for the fabrication of MLAs on infrared brittle materials. However, the mechanism of ductile machining of MLAs prepared by EVC has not been fully elucidated so far. In this paper, based on the vibration intermittent cutting characteristics and the transient material removal state, a ductile machining model of MLAs on brittle material by EVC was established. This model effectively calculates the subsurface damage of the machined surface and realizes the prediction of the critical depth for ductile machining of MLAs. Furthermore, the concave micro-lenses were prepared on single crystal silicon by EVC and ordinary cutting (OC) to verify this model. The results demonstrated that EVC could significantly enhance the critical depth by approximately 4.3 times compared to OC. Microstructural surface damage predominantly occurs at the exit side of the tool cutting. This proposed model accurately predicts the actual critical depth, with an average error of about 7.5%. Additionally, elevating the amplitude in the depth of cut direction could increase the critical depth, but a larger amplitude would inhibit the increase of the critical depth. This study contributes to a better understanding of ductile machining of microstructure on brittle materials and facilitates the process optimization of MLAs fabrication using EVC.
Ultra-compact on-chip spectrometer based on thermally tuned topological miniaturized bound states in the continuum cavity
Authors: Zhou Xinyi , Zhang Xiaoyu , Zuo Yi , Chen Zihao , Qian Zhiyuan , Zhang Zixuan , Peng Chao , Li Hongbin
Published: September 2023

On-chip spectrometers are key components in many spectral sensing applications owing to their unique advantages in size and in situ detection. In this work, we propose and demonstrate a class of thermally tunable spectrometers by utilizing topological miniaturized bound states in the continuum (mini-BIC) cavities in a photonic crystal (PhC) slab combined with a metal micro-ring heater. We achieve a resolution of 0.19 nm in a spectral range of ∼6 nm, while the device’s footprint is only 42×42μm2. The mini-BIC spectrometer works in nearly vertical incidence and is compatible with array operation. Our work sheds light on the new possibilities of high-performance on-chip spectrometers for applications ranging from bio-sensing to medicine.
Multi-material heterogeneous integration on a 3-D photonic-CMOS platform
Authors: Ranno Luigi , Sia Jia Xu Brian , Dao Khoi Phuong , Hu Juejun
Published: September 2023

Photonics has been one of the primary beneficiaries of advanced silicon manufacturing. By leveraging mature complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) process nodes, unprecedented device uniformity and scalability have been achieved at low costs. However, some functionalities, such as optical memory, Pockels modulation, and magnetooptical activity, are challenging or impossible to acquire on group-IV materials alone. Heterogeneous integration promises to expand the range of capabilities within silicon photonics. Existing heterogeneous integration protocols are nonetheless not compatible with active silicon processes offered at most photonic foundries. In this work, we propose a novel heterogeneous integration platform that will enable wafer-scale, multi-material integration with active silicon-based photonics, requiring zero change to the existing foundry process. Furthermore, the platform will also pave the way for a class of high-performance devices. We propose a grating coupler design with peak coupling efficiency reaching 93%, an antenna with peak diffraction efficiency in excess of 97%, and a broadband adiabatic polarization rotator with conversion efficiency exceeding 99%.
Self-loops in evolutionary graph theory: Friends or foes?
Authors: Sharma Nikhil , Yagoobi Sedigheh , Traulsen Arne
Published: September 2023

Evolutionary dynamics in spatially structured populations has been studied for a long time. More recently, the focus has been to construct structures that amplify selection by fixing beneficial mutations with higher probability than the well-mixed population and lower probability of fixation for deleterious mutations. It has been shown that for a structure to substantially amplify selection, self-loops are necessary when mutants appear predominately in nodes that change often. As a result, for low mutation rates, self-looped amplifiers attain higher steady-state average fitness in the mutation-selection balance than well-mixed populations. But what happens when the mutation rate increases such that fixation probabilities alone no longer describe the dynamics? We show that self-loops effects are detrimental outside the low mutation rate regime. In the intermediate and high mutation rate regime, amplifiers of selection attain lower steady-state average fitness than the complete graph and suppressors of selection. We also provide an estimate of the mutation rate beyond which the mutation-selection dynamics on a graph deviates from the weak mutation rate approximation. It involves computing average fixation time scaling with respect to the population sizes for several graphs.
Bayesian inference for spatio-temporal stochastic transmission of plant disease in the presence of roguing: A case study to characterise the dispersal of Flavescence dorée
Authors: Adrakey Hola K. , Gibson Gavin J. , Eveillard Sandrine , Malembic-Maher Sylvie , Fabre Frederic
Published: September 2023

Estimating the distance at which pathogens disperse from one season to the next is crucial for designing efficient control strategies for invasive plant pathogens and a major milestone in the reduction of pesticide use in agriculture. However, we still lack such estimates for many diseases, especially for insect-vectored pathogens, such as Flavescence dorée (FD). FD is a quarantine disease threatening European vineyards. Its management is based on mandatory insecticide treatments and the removal of infected plants identified during annual surveys. This paper introduces a general statistical framework to model the epidemiological dynamics of FD in a mechanistic manner that can take into account missing hosts in surveyed fields (resulting from infected plant removals). We parameterized the model using Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) and data augmentation from surveillance data gathered in Bordeaux vineyards. The data mainly consist of two snapshot maps of the infectious status of all the plants in three adjacent fields during two consecutive years. We demonstrate that heavy-tailed dispersal kernels best fit the spread of FD and that on average, 50% (resp. 80%) of new infection occurs within 10.5 m (resp. 22.2 m) of the source plant. These values are in agreement with estimates of the flying capacity ofScaphoideus titanus, the leafhopper vector of FD, reported in the literature using mark–capture techniques. Simulations of simple removal scenarios using the fitted model suggest that cryptic infection hampered FD management. Future efforts should explore whether strategies relying on reactive host removal can improve FD management.
Evaluating the impact of test-trace-isolate for COVID-19 management and alternative strategies
Authors: Zhang Kun , Xia Zhichu , Huang Shudong , Sun Gui-Quan , Lv Jiancheng , Ajelli Marco , Ejima Keisuke , Liu Quan-Hui
Published: September 2023

There are many contrasting results concerning the effectiveness of Test-Trace-Isolate (TTI) strategies in mitigating SARS-CoV-2 spread. To shed light on this debate, we developed a novel static-temporal multiplex network characterizing both the regular (static) and random (temporal) contact patterns of individuals and a SARS-CoV-2 transmission model calibrated with historical COVID-19 epidemiological data. We estimated that the TTI strategy alone could not control the disease spread: assumingR0= 2.5, the infection attack rate would be reduced by 24.5%. Increased test capacity and improved contact trace efficiency only slightly improved the effectiveness of the TTI. We thus investigated the effectiveness of the TTI strategy when coupled with reactive social distancing policies. Limiting contacts on the temporal contact layer would be insufficient to control an epidemic and contacts on both layers would need to be limited simultaneously. For example, the infection attack rate would be reduced by 68.1% when the reactive distancing policy disconnects 30% and 50% of contacts on static and temporal layers, respectively. Our findings highlight that, to reduce the overall transmission, it is important to limit contacts regardless of their types in addition to identifying infected individuals through contact tracing, given the substantial proportion of asymptomatic and pre-symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 transmission.
A multi-layer mean-field model of the cerebellum embedding microstructure and population-specific dynamics
Authors: Lorenzi Roberta Maria , Geminiani Alice , Zerlaut Yann , De Grazia Marialaura , Destexhe Alain , Gandini Wheeler-Kingshott Claudia A. M. , Palesi Fulvia , Casellato Claudia , D’Angelo Egidio
Published: September 2023

Mean-field (MF) models are computational formalism used to summarize in a few statistical parameters the salient biophysical properties of an inter-wired neuronal network. Their formalism normally incorporates different types of neurons and synapses along with their topological organization. MFs are crucial to efficiently implement the computational modules of large-scale models of brain function, maintaining the specificity of local cortical microcircuits. While MFs have been generated for the isocortex, they are still missing for other parts of the brain. Here we have designed and simulated a multi-layer MF of the cerebellar microcircuit (including Granule Cells, Golgi Cells, Molecular Layer Interneurons, and Purkinje Cells) and validated it against experimental data and the corresponding spiking neural network (SNN) microcircuit model. The cerebellar MF was built using a system of equations, where properties of neuronal populations and topological parameters are embedded in inter-dependent transfer functions. The model time constant was optimised using local field potentials recorded experimentally from acute mouse cerebellar slices as a template. The MF reproduced the average dynamics of different neuronal populations in response to various input patterns and predicted the modulation of the Purkinje Cells firing depending on cortical plasticity, which drives learning in associative tasks, and the level of feedforward inhibition. The cerebellar MF provides a computationally efficient tool for future investigations of the causal relationship between microscopic neuronal properties and ensemble brain activity in virtual brain models addressing both physiological and pathological conditions.
Digital exposure notification tools: A global landscape analysis
Authors: Nebeker Camille , Kareem Daniah , Yong Aidan , Kunowski Rachel , Malekinejad Mohsen , Aronoff-Spencer Eliah
Published: September 2023

Background

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, digital exposure notification systems are increasingly used to support traditional contact tracing and other preventive strategies. Likewise, a plethora of COVID-19 mobile applications have emerged. Objective: To characterize the global landscape of pandemic related mobile applications, including digital exposure notification and contact tracing tools.

Data Sources and Methods

The following queries were entered into the Google search engine: “(*country name* COVID app) OR (COVID app *country name*) OR (COVID app *country name*+) OR (*country name*+ COVID app)”. The App Store, Google Play, and official government websites were then accessed to collect descriptive data for each application. Descriptive data were qualified and quantified using standard methods. COVID-19 Exposure Notification Systems (ENS) and non-Exposure Notification products were categorized and summarized to provide a global landscape review.

Results

Our search resulted in a global count of 224 COVID-19 mobile applications, in 127 countries. Of these 224 apps, 128 supported exposure notification, with 75 employing the Google Apple Exposure Notification (GAEN) application programming interface (API). Of the 75 apps using the GAEN API, 15 apps were developed using Exposure Notification Express, a GAEN turnkey solution. COVID-19 applications that did not include exposure notifications (n = 96) focused on COVID-19 Self-Assessment (35·4%), COVID-19 Statistics and Information (32·3%), and COVID-19 Health Advice (29·2%).

Conclusions

The digital response to COVID-19 generated diverse and novel solutions to support non-pharmacologic public health interventions. More research is needed to evaluate the extent to which these services and strategies were useful in reducing viral transmission.
Purging due to self-fertilization does not prevent accumulation of expansion load
Authors: Zeitler Leo , Parisod Christian , Gilbert Kimberly J.
Published: September 2023

As species expand their geographic ranges, colonizing populations face novel ecological conditions, such as new environments and limited mates, and suffer from evolutionary consequences of demographic change through bottlenecks and mutation load accumulation. Self-fertilization is often observed at species range edges and, in addition to countering the lack of mates, is hypothesized as an evolutionary advantage against load accumulation through increased homozygosity and purging. We study how selfing impacts the accumulation of genetic load during range expansion via purging and/or speed of colonization. Using simulations, we disentangle inbreeding effects due to demography versus due to selfing and find that selfers expand faster, but still accumulate load, regardless of mating system. The severity of variants contributing to this load, however, differs across mating system: higher selfing rates purge large-effect recessive variants leaving a burden of smaller-effect alleles. We compare these predictions to the mixed-mating plant Arabis alpina, using whole-genome sequences from refugial outcrossing populations versus expanded selfing populations. Empirical results indicate accumulation of expansion load along with evidence of purging in selfing populations, concordant with our simulations, suggesting that while purging is a benefit of selfing evolving during range expansions, it is not sufficient to prevent load accumulation due to range expansion.
Comparison of collection methods for Phlebotomus argentipes sand flies to use in a molecular xenomonitoring system for the surveillance of visceral leishmaniasis
Authors: McIntyre-Nolan Shannon , Kumar Vijay , Mark-Carew Miguella , Kumar Kundan , Nightingale Emily S. , Dalla Libera Marchiori Giorgia , Rogers Matthew E. , Kristan Mojca , Campino Susana , Medley Graham F. , Das Pradeep , Cameron Mary M.
Published: September 2023

Background

The kala-azar elimination programme has resulted in a significant reduction in visceral leishmaniasis (VL) cases across the Indian Subcontinent. To detect any resurgence of transmission, a sensitive cost-effective surveillance system is required. Molecular xenomonitoring (MX), detection of pathogen DNA/RNA in vectors, provides a proxy of human infection in the lymphatic filariasis elimination programme. To determine whether MX can be used for VL surveillance in a low transmission setting, large numbers of the sand fly vector Phlebotomus argentipes are required. This study will determine the best method for capturing P. argentipes females for MX.

Methodology/Principal findings

The field study was performed in two programmatic and two non-programmatic villages in Bihar, India. A total of 48 households (12/village) were recruited. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention light traps (CDC-LTs) were compared with Improved Prokopack (PKP) and mechanical vacuum aspirators (MVA) using standardised methods. Four 12x12 Latin squares, 576 collections, were attempted (12/house, 144/village,192/method). Molecular analyses of collections were conducted to confirm identification of P. argentipes and to detect human and Leishmania DNA. Operational factors, such as time burden, acceptance to householders and RNA preservation, were also considered. A total of 562 collections (97.7%) were completed with 6,809 sand flies captured. Females comprised 49.0% of captures, of which 1,934 (57.9%) were identified as P. argentipes. CDC-LTs collected 4.04 times more P. argentipes females than MVA and 3.62 times more than PKP (p<0.0001 for each). Of 21,735 mosquitoes in the same collections, no significant differences between collection methods were observed. CDC-LTs took less time to install and collect than to perform aspirations and their greater yield compensated for increased sorting time. No significant differences in Leishmania RNA detection and quantitation between methods were observed in experimentally infected sand flies maintained in conditions simulating field conditions. CDC-LTs were favoured by householders.

Conclusions/Significance

CDC-LTs are the most useful collection tool of those tested for MX surveillance since they collected higher numbers of P. argentipes females without compromising mosquito captures or the preservation of RNA. However, capture rates are still low.
Direct mosquito feedings on dengue-2 virus-infected people reveal dynamics of human infectiousness
Authors: Lambrechts Louis , Reiner Robert C. , Briesemeister M. Veronica , Barrera Patricia , Long Kanya C. , Elson William H. , Vizcarra Alfonso , Astete Helvio , Bazan Isabel , Siles Crystyan , Vilcarromero Stalin , Leguia Mariana , Kawiecki Anna B. , Perkins T. Alex , Lloyd Alun L. , Waller Lance A. , Kitron Uriel , Jenkins Sarah A. , Hontz Robert D. , Campbell Wesley R. , Carrington Lauren B. , Simmons Cameron P. , Ampuero J. Sonia , Vasquez Gisella , Elder John P. , Paz-Soldan Valerie A. , Vazquez-Prokopec Gonzalo M. , Rothman Alan L. , Barker Christopher M. , Scott Thomas W. , Morrison Amy C.
Published: September 2023

Dengue virus (DENV) transmission from humans to mosquitoes is a poorly documented, but critical component of DENV epidemiology. Magnitude of viremia is the primary determinant of successful human-to-mosquito DENV transmission. People with the same level of viremia, however, can vary in their infectiousness to mosquitoes as a function of other factors that remain to be elucidated. Here, we report on a field-based study in the city of Iquitos, Peru, where we conducted direct mosquito feedings on people naturally infected with DENV and that experienced mild illness. We also enrolled people naturally infected with Zika virus (ZIKV) after the introduction of ZIKV in Iquitos during the study period. Of the 54 study participants involved in direct mosquito feedings, 43 were infected with DENV-2, two with DENV-3, and nine with ZIKV. Our analysis excluded participants whose viremia was detectable at enrollment but undetectable at the time of mosquito feeding, which was the case for all participants with DENV-3 and ZIKV infections. We analyzed the probability of onward transmission during 50 feeding events involving 27 participants infected with DENV-2 based on the presence of infectious virus in mosquito saliva 7–16 days post blood meal. Transmission probability was positively associated with the level of viremia and duration of extrinsic incubation in the mosquito. In addition, transmission probability was influenced by the day of illness in a non-monotonic fashion; i.e., transmission probability increased until 2 days after symptom onset and decreased thereafter. We conclude that mildly ill DENV-infected humans with similar levels of viremia during the first two days after symptom onset will be most infectious to mosquitoes on the second day of their illness. Quantifying variation within and between people in their contribution to DENV transmission is essential to better understand the biological determinants of human infectiousness, parametrize epidemiological models, and improve disease surveillance and prevention strategies.
The fracture resistance of 3D-printed versus milled provisional crowns: An in vitro study
Authors: Othman Ahmed , Sandmair Maximillian , Alevizakos Vasilios , von See Constantin
Published: September 2023

Background

CAD/CAM has considerably transformed the clinical practice of dentistry. In particular, advanced dental materials produced via digital technologies offer unquestionable benefits, such as ideal mechanical stability, outstanding aesthetics and reliable high precision. Additive manufacturing (AM) technology has promoted new innovations, especially in the field of biomedicine.

Aims

The aim of this study is to analyze the fracture resistance of implant-supported 3D-printed temporary crowns relative to milled crowns by compression testing.

Methods

The study sample included 32 specimens of temporary crowns, which were divided into 16 specimens per group. Each group consisted of eight maxillary central incisor crowns (tooth 11) and eight maxillary molar crowns (tooth 16). The first group (16 specimens) was 3D printed by a mask printer (Varseo, BEGO, Bremen, Germany) with a temporary material (VarseoSmile Temp A3, BEGO, Bremen, Germany). The second group was milled with a millable temporary material (VitaCAD Temp mono-color, Vita, Bad Säckingen, Germany). The two groups were compression tested until failure to estimate their fracture resistance. The loading forces and travel distance until failure were measured. The statistical analysis was performed using SPSS Version 24.0. We performed multiple t tests and considered a significance level of p <0.05.

Results

The mean fracture force of the printed molars was 1189.50 N (±250.85) with a deformation of 1.75 mm (±0.25). The milled molars reached a mean fracture force of 1817.50 N (±258.22) with a deformation of 1.750 mm (±0.20). The printed incisors fractured at 321.63 N (±145.90) with a deformation of 1.94 mm (±0.40), while the milled incisors fractured at 443.38 N (±113.63) with a deformation of 2.26 mm (±0.40). The milled molar group revealed significantly higher mechanical fracture strength than the 3D-printed molar group (P<0.001). However, no significant differences between the 3D-printed incisors and the milled incisors were found (p = 0.084). There was no significant difference in the travel distance until fracture for both the molar group (p = 1.000) and the incisor group (p = 0.129).

Conclusion

Within the limits of this in vitro investigation, printed and milled temporary crowns withstood masticatory forces and were safe for clinical use.
Radiological appearance and lung function six months after invasive ventilation in ICU for COVID-19 pneumonia: An observational follow-up study
Authors: Konsberg Ylva , Szaro Pawel , Aneman Anders , Kjellberg Sanna , Solidakis Nektarios , Svedlund Sara , Nellgård Bengt , Dalla Keti
Published: September 2023

Background

Respiratory functional sequelae in COVID-19 patients admitted to the intensive care unit for invasive ventilation are sparsely reported. The aim of this study was to investigate the radiological lung appearance, lung function and their association at 6 months after hospital discharge. It was hypothesized that the degree of pathological morphology on CT scans would correlate with lung function at the time of follow-up.

Methods and findings

In this single-centre prospective observational study, 86 from 154 patients admitted to ICU due to COVID-19 between March 2020 and May 2021 were followed up at 6 months post discharge with computed tomography (CT) of the chest and pulmonary function tests (PFTs). The PFT results were expressed as z-scores calculated as the difference between the measured and predicted values divided by the standard deviation obtained from a reference population. Correlations were evaluated by Spearman’s rho including the 95% confidence interval. Pathological changes on CT were found in 78/85 participants with fibrous parenchymal bands being the most prevalent finding (91%) followed by traction bronchiectasis (64%) and ground glass opacities (41%). Sixty-five participants performed PFTs, and a restrictive pattern was the most prevalent abnormality (34%). Diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO) was reduced in 66% of participants. The CT severity score weakly correlated with forced vital capacity (FVC) z-score (0.295, p = 0.006), DLCO z-score (-0.231, p = 0.032) and alveolar volume (VA) z-score (0.253, p = 0.019).

Conclusions

Most patients showed persistent radiological abnormalities on CT and reduced lung volumes, impaired diffusion capacity and patterns of restrictive lung function at 6 months post discharge from the ICU. The correlations between abnormalities on CT and lung function tests were weak. Further, studies with a long-term follow-up of lung function in this group of patients are needed.