bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two-step calibration method for extrinsic parameters of an airborne camera
Authors: Yuan Dongming , Ding Yalin , Yuan Guoqin , Li Feng , Zhang Jian , Wang Yuanchao , Zhang Lei
Published: January 2021

In order to meet the accuracy requirements of target geo-location of a wide-area reconnaissance camera, it is necessary to calibrate the extrinsic parameters of the camera. A novel calibration method is proposed for the orientation relationship between the camera coordinate system (CCS) and the frame coordinate system (FCS). First, the calibration between the roll axis of the FCS and the CCS is carried out based on the method of the extended Kalman filter. Second, the calibration between the pitch axis of the FCS and the CCS is deduced based on the least mean square combined with the particle swarm optimization method. Then, the calibration accuracy of the proposed method is quantitatively analyzed by numerical simulation. Finally, a calibration experiment is conducted on verifying the effectiveness of the method.
Dynamically tunable narrowband anisotropic total absorption in monolayer black phosphorus based on critical coupling
Authors: Li Yong , Wang Shiyu , Ou Yanghong , He Guoli , Zhai Xiang , Li Hongjian , Wang Lingling
Published: January 2021

A dynamically tunable anisotropic narrowband absorber based on monolayer black phosphorous (BP) is proposed in the terahertz (THz) band. The proposed absorber consists of a monolayer BP and a silicon (Si) grating, which is placed on a silica (SiO2) isolation layer and a gold (Au) substrate. The benefit from the critical coupling mechanism with guided resonance is the efficiency of the absorption can reach 99.9% in the armchair (AC) direction and the natural anisotropy of BP makes it only 87.2% in the zigzag (ZZ) direction. Numerical and theoretical studies show that the absorption efficiency of the structure is operatively controlled by critical coupling conditions, including the geometric parameters of the Si grating, the electron doping of BP and the angle of incident light, etc. More importantly, in the absence of plasmon response, this structure greatly enhances the interaction between light and matter in monolayer BP. In particular, there are several advantages in this structure, such as extremely high-efficiency absorption, excellent tunability, outstanding intrinsic anisotropy and easy manufacturing, which will show unusual and promising potential applications in the design of BP-based tunable high-performance devices.
High-resolution velocimetry technique based on the decaying streaks of phosphor particles
Authors: Fan Luming , Vena Patrizio , Savard Bruno , Xuan Guangtao , Fond Benoît
Published: January 2021

This Letter introduces a new, to the best of our knowledge, particle streak velocimetry technique based on decaying streaks formed by individual phosphor particles following pulsed excitation. Tin-doped phosphor particles are dispersed into flows and excited by a pulsed UV laser light sheet. Emission streaks are recorded as a result of particle motion during the persistence of luminescence (here

∼

27

µ

s

). The two components of the flow velocity are derived from the streaks without directional ambiguity by applying to each streak a two-dimensional fit describing a linearly moving point source with a mono-exponential decaying emission. This technique can achieve high spatial resolution compared to particle image velocimetry (PIV), while also requiring much fewer computational resources than particle tracking velocimetry (PTV) at high seeding densities. The wavelength-shifted luminescence also allows rejection of reflected laser light. The approach was validated in a free jet against simultaneous PTV and PIV and then successfully applied to measure a canonical boundary layer flow.
Long wavelength operation of a dysprosium fiber laser for polymer processing
Authors: Majewski Matthew R. , Bharathan Gayathri , Fuerbach Alex , Jackson Stuart D.
Published: January 2021

We demonstrate operation of a mid-infrared dysprosium-doped fiber laser with emission at 3388 nm, representing the longest wavelength yet achieved from this class of laser, to the best of our knowledge. Oscillation far removed from the

D

y

3
+

gain peak around 3 µm is achieved through the design of a high feedback optical cavity employing a directly inscribed fiber Bragg grating as the output coupler. Laser performance is characterized by a slope efficiency with respect to injected pump power of 38% and maximum output power of 134 mW, an improvement of at least three orders of magnitude over prior attempts at long wavelength

D

y

3
+

fiber laser operation. This wavelength coincides with a maximum in the absorption coefficient of PMMA, which we exploit for preliminary demonstration of the utility of this source in polymer processing.
Branched Flow of Light
Authors: Patsyk Anatoly , Sivan Uri , Segev Mordechai , Bandres Miguel A.
Published: January 2021

Branched flow is a universal wave phenomenon in which waves form channels of enhanced intensity that keep dividing as they propagate, resulting in a beautiful pattern resembling the branches of a tree. First observed for electrons, it can occur for virtually any kind of wave. Recently, we presented the experimental observation of branched flow of light.
Toward Quantum Optics with Free Electrons
Authors: Wang Kangpeng , Dahan Raphael , Nehemia Saar , Reinhardt Ori , Tsesses Shai , Kaminer Ido , Kfir Ofer , Lourenço-Martins Hugo , Feist Armin , Ropers Claus , Kippenberg Tobias J.
Published: January 2021

The weak coupling between free electrons and light remains the limiting factor that has prevented access to versatile electron–photon physics, such as the entanglement of individual photons and electrons. This year, we demonstrated that photonic cavities can increase the coupling strength of electrons and light by more than an order of magnitude.
Wavefront Shaping by Thermo-Optical Engineering
Authors: Berto Pascal , Tessier Gilles , Quidant Romain
Published: January 2021

Integrating adjustable zoom lenses into mobile phones, miniaturized microscopes or medical endoscopes requires complex optics that can be reshaped electrically within milliseconds. We have recently demonstrated quasi-achromatic, polarization-insensitive electrical components that can apply predetermined, continuous local wavefront shaping with unprecedented degrees of freedom at the microscale, without mechanical movement.
Vortex-Assisted Transient Microlenses
Authors: Edrei Eitan , Scarcelli Giuliano
Published: January 2021

Focusing light beyond the diffraction limit, a significant challenge, would revolutionize many optical technologies from imaging and optical trapping to light delivery and photomedicine. Recently, we introduced a way to achieve a physical focus beyond the diffraction limit without additional optical elements or exogenous labels, using only light–matter interactions.
Ultra-Black Deep-Sea Fishes
Authors: Davis Alexander L. , Thomas Kate N. , Goetz Freya E. , Johnsen Sönke , Robison Bruce H. , Osborn Karen J.
Published: January 2021

This year, our research group reported that a simple pigment-packing mechanism has likely evolved multiple times to produce ultra-black skin in deep-sea fishes, and showed, using finite-difference time-domain modeling, that the melanosomes in ultra-black fishes are optimized in size and shape to minimize reflectance. The work has implications for the creation of robust, easy-to-manufacture ultra-black materials.
Cardiac Sensing with Bio-Integrated Microlasers
Authors: Schubert Marcel , Gather Malte
Published: January 2021

The beating heart, characterized by ultrafast tissue dynamics and severe light scattering, is an exceptionally demanding environment even for advanced microscopy, yet characterizing the contraction of single cardiac cells is of fundamental importance in medicine. To overcome the limitations facing cardiac sensing, we explored the integration of microscopic lasers as novel, ultra-sensitive and remarkably bright probes of heart tissue’s contractility.
Activating Blood Platelets with an Optical Pulse
Authors: Spiryova Darya V. , Vorobev Alexei Yu. , Klimontov Vadim V. , Koroleva Elena A. , Moskalensky Alexander E.
Published: January 2021

Understanding the activation of blood platelets—the cells that stop blood flow and ensure that blood will not leak through small damage in blood vessels—is important, as this process plays a significant role in many pathological conditions. In work published this year, we introduced an optical method that can provide a superior insight into the dynamics of platelet activation.
Super-Resolution Microscopy from Standard Images
Authors: Brinatti Vazquez Guillermo D. , Lacapmesure Axel M. , Toscani Micaela , Martínez Sandra , Martínez Oscar E.
Published: January 2021

Edge detection in images is a key problem in quantitative cell biology, nanophotonics and other areas, but the edge-detection algorithms that have been developed suffer from serious limitations in precision. This year, we presented a computational method for super-resolution edge detection in single standard images that opens the possibility of detecting shapes of objects with features much smaller than the microscope’s point spread function.
Optical Wavefront Sensing with Picometer Sensitivity
Authors: Steeves John , Wallace J. Kent , Kettenbeil Christian , Jewell Jeffrey
Published: January 2021

Precision optical wavefront metrology is crucial in a range of areas, including direct imaging of exoplanets. Although ground-based systems have reached high sensitivities, systems that are suitable for space use using stellar photons for sensing are lacking. In work published this year, we have developed a robust phase reconstruction expression that allows very accurate measurement of small phase changes at the highest spatial frequencies possible, targeting very small signals to demonstrate its applicability for space-based high-contrast missions
Prospective, historically controlled study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a new paediatric formulation of nifurtimox in children aged 0 to 17 years with Chagas disease one year after treatment (CHICO)
Authors: Altcheh Jaime , Castro Luis , Dib Juan C. , Grossmann Ulrike , Huang Erya , Moscatelli Guillermo , Pinto Rocha Jimy José , Ramírez Teresa Estela ,   on behalf of the CHICO Study Group
Published: January 2021

Nifurtimox is a recommended treatment for Chagas disease, but data from treated children are limited. We investigated the efficacy, safety and tolerability of nifurtimox administered as divisible, dispersible 30 mg and 120 mg tablets in children with Chagas disease. In this blinded, controlled study conducted January 2016–July 2018, 330 patients aged <18 years from 25 medical centres across three South American countries were randomised 2:1 to nifurtimox 10–20 mg/kg/day (aged <12 years) or 8–10 mg/kg/day (aged ≥12 years) for 60 days (n = 219), or for 30 days plus placebo for 30 days (n = 111) (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02625974). The primary outcome was anti-Trypanosoma cruzi serological response (negative seroconversion or seroreduction ≥20% in mean optical density from baseline determined by two conventional enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays) at 12 months in the 60-day treatment group versus historical placebo controls. Nifurtimox for 60 days achieved negative seroconversion (n = 10) and seroreduction (n = 62) in 72 patients (serological response 32.9%; 95% confidence interval [CI] 26.4%, 39.3%, of all treated patients), confirming superiority relative to the upper 95% CI of 16% for controls. In patients aged <8 months, 10/12 treated for 60 days (83.3%) and 5/7 treated for 30 days (71.4%) achieved negative seroconversion. Overall serological response was lower for 30-day than for 60-day nifurtimox (between-treatment difference 14.0% [95% CI 3.7%, 24.2%]). The frequency of T. cruzi-positive quantitative polymerase chain reactions decreased substantially from baseline levels (60-day regimen 53.4% versus 1.4%; 30-day regimen 51.4% versus 4.5%). Study drug-related treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs), which were observed in 62 patients (28.3%) treated for 60 days and 29 patients (26.1%) treated for 30 days, were generally mild or moderate and resolved without sequelae; 4.2% of all TEAEs led to nifurtimox discontinuation. Age- and weight-adjusted nifurtimox for 60 days achieved a serological response at 12 months post-treatment that was superior to historical placebo, was well tolerated and had a favourable safety profile in children with Chagas disease. Although, at 1 year serological follow-up, efficacy of the shorter nifurtimox treatment was not comparable to the 60-day treatment regimen for the overall study population, further long-term follow-up of the patients will provide important information about the progress of serological conversion in children treated with nifurtimox, as well as the potential efficacy difference between the two regimens over time.
Two-stage topic modelling of scientific publications: A case study of University of Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Muchene Leacky , Safari Wende
Published: January 2021

Unsupervised statistical analysis of unstructured data has gained wide acceptance especially in natural language processing and text mining domains. Topic modelling with Latent Dirichlet Allocation is one such statistical tool that has been successfully applied to synthesize collections of legal, biomedical documents and journalistic topics. We applied a novel two-stage topic modelling approach and illustrated the methodology with data from a collection of published abstracts from the University of Nairobi, Kenya. In the first stage, topic modelling with Latent Dirichlet Allocation was applied to derive the per-document topic probabilities. To more succinctly present the topics, in the second stage, hierarchical clustering with Hellinger distance was applied to derive the final clusters of topics. The analysis showed that dominant research themes in the university include: HIV and malaria research, research on agricultural and veterinary services as well as cross-cutting themes in humanities and social sciences. Further, the use of hierarchical clustering in the second stage reduces the discovered latent topics to clusters of homogeneous topics.
A novel cross-validation strategy for artificial neural networks using distributed-lag environmental factors
Authors: Guo Chao-Yu , Liu Tse-Wei , Chen Yi-Hau
Published: January 2021

In recent years, machine learning methods have been applied to various prediction scenarios in time-series data. However, some processing procedures such as cross-validation (CV) that rearrange the order of the longitudinal data might ruin the seriality and lead to a potentially biased outcome. Regarding this issue, a recent study investigated how different types of CV methods influence the predictive errors in conventional time-series data. Here, we examine a more complex distributed lag nonlinear model (DLNM), which has been widely used to assess the cumulative impacts of past exposures on the current health outcome. This research extends the DLNM into an artificial neural network (ANN) and investigates how the ANN model reacts to various CV schemes that result in different predictive biases. We also propose a newly designed permutation ratio to evaluate the performance of the CV in the ANN. This ratio mimics the concept of the R-square in conventional statistical regression models. The results show that as the complexity of the ANN increases, the predicted outcome becomes more stable, and the bias shows a decreasing trend. Among the different settings of hyperparameters, the novel strategy, Leave One Block Out Cross-Validation (LOBO-CV), demonstrated much better results, and the lowest mean square error was observed. The hyperparameters of the ANN trained by the LOBO-CV yielded the minimum number of prediction errors. The newly proposed permutation ratio indicates that LOBO-CV can contribute up to 34% of the prediction accuracy.
The demise of a wonder: Evolutionary history and conservation assessments of the Wonder Gecko Teratoscincus keyserlingii (Gekkota, Sphaerodactylidae) in Arabia
Authors: Tamar Karin , Els Johannes , Kornilios Panagiotis , Soorae Pritpal , Tarroso Pedro , Thanou Evanthia , Pereira John , Shah Junid Nazeer , Elhassan Esmat Elfaki Mohammed , Aguhob Jeruel Cabadonga , Badaam Saoud Faisal , Eltayeb Mohamed Mustafa , Pusey Ricardo , Papenfuss Theodore J. , Macey J. Robert , Carranza Salvador
Published: January 2021

Effective biodiversity conservation planning starts with genetic characterization within and among focal populations, in order to understand the likely impact of threats for ensuring the long-term viability of a species. The Wonder Gecko,Teratoscincus keyserlingii, is one of nine members of the genus. This species is distributed in Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, with a small isolated population in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where it is classified nationally as Critically Endangered. Within its Arabian range, anthropogenic activity is directly linked to the species’ decline, with highly localised and severely fragmented populations. Here we describe the evolutionary history ofTeratoscincus, by reconstructing its phylogenetic relationships and estimating its divergence times and ancestral biogeography. For conservation implications ofT.keyserlingiiwe evaluate the genetic structure of the Arabian population using genomic data. This study supports the monophyly of most species and reveals considerable intraspecific variability inT.microlepisandT.keyserlingii, which necessitate broad systematic revisions. The UAE population ofT.keyserlingiilikely arrived from southern Iran during the Pleistocene and no internal structure was recovered within, implying a single population status. Regional conservation ofT.keyserlingiirequires improved land management and natural habitat restoration in the species’ present distribution, and expansion of current protected areas, or establishment of new areas with suitable habitat for the species, mostly in northern Abu Dhabi Emirate.
Women design their own vaginal microbicide trial: Suggestions on how to improve adherence from former participants of HIV prevention trials
Authors: Miller Lori , Morar Neetha , Kapiga Saidi , Ramjee Gita , Hayes Richard
Published: January 2021

Low adherence in vaginal microbicide clinical trials for HIV prevention has impeded interpretation of trial results and hindered evaluation of potentially efficacious HIV prevention gels. Understanding the underlying reasons why women join trials and their barriers to product use can support identification of ways to improve adherence and its reporting. Eight focus group discussion workshops were conducted with 46 former microbicide trial participants in Durban, South Africa and Mwanza, Tanzania. Participants provided feedback on why women join trials, the barriers to using study gel and reporting adherence accurately, and how clinical trial design can be improved to support better adherence and its reporting. Women join microbicide trials for a number of important reasons such as healthcare and financial reimbursement. Fear of adverse effects from the investigational product was the most important reason why participants reported not using the gel. The key reason for inaccurate reporting of gel use was fear of removal from the trial. Participants made concrete suggestions for improving microbicide trial design such as applicator use testing and real time feedback, improving education to participants about how trials answer their research questions, and improving transparency and clarity about study procedures. Participants also gave feedback on an innovative trial design with a non-randomised arm. Identifying HIV prevention products for women requires better understanding of the lives of women asked to join these trials, and application of that understanding to microbicide trial design. This study has demonstrated that participants and research teams can work collaboratively to design clinical trials that meet needs of both the research and of participants.
Galectin-1 and platelet factor 4 (CXCL4) induce complementary platelet responses in vitro
Authors: Dickhout Annemiek , Tullemans Bibian M. E. , Heemskerk Johan W. M. , Thijssen Victor L. J. L. , Kuijpers Marijke J. E. , Koenen Rory R.
Published: January 2021

Galectin-1 (gal-1) is a carbohydrate-binding lectin with important functions in angiogenesis, immune response, hemostasis and inflammation. Comparable functions are exerted by platelet factor 4 (CXCL4), a chemokine stored in the α-granules of platelets. Previously, gal-1 was found to activate platelets through integrin αIIbβ3. Both gal-1 and CXCL4 have high affinities for polysaccharides, and thus may mutually influence their functions. The aim of this study was to investigate a possible synergism of gal-1 and CXCL4 in platelet activation. Platelets were treated with increasing concentrations of gal-1, CXCL4 or both, and aggregation, integrin activation, P-selectin and phosphatidyl serine (PS) exposure were determined by light transmission aggregometry and by flow cytometry. To investigate the influence of cell surface sialic acid, platelets were treated with neuraminidase prior to stimulation. Gal-1 and CXCL4 were found to colocalize on the platelet surface. Stimulation with gal-1 led to integrin αIIbβ3 activation and to robust platelet aggregation, while CXCL4 weakly triggered aggregation and primarily induced P-selectin expression. Co-incubation of gal-1 and CXCL4 potentiated platelet aggregation compared with gal-1 alone. Whereas neither gal-1 and CXCL4 induced PS-exposure on platelets, prior removal of surface sialic acid strongly potentiated PS exposure. In addition, neuraminidase treatment increased the binding of gal-1 to platelets and lowered the activation threshold for gal-1. However, CXCL4 did not affect binding of gal-1 to platelets. Taken together, stimulation of platelets with gal-1 and CXCL4 led to distinct and complementary activation profiles, with additive rather than synergistic effects.
Host-parasitoid associations in marine planktonic time series: Can metabarcoding help reveal them?
Authors: Käse Laura , Metfies Katja , Neuhaus Stefan , Boersma Maarten , Wiltshire Karen Helen , Kraberg Alexandra Claudia
Published: January 2021

In this study, we created a dataset of a continuous three-year 18S metabarcoding survey to identify eukaryotic parasitoids, and potential connections to hosts at the Long-Term Ecological Research station Helgoland Roads. The importance of parasites and parasitoids for food web dynamics has previously been recognized mostly in terrestrial and freshwater systems, while marine planktonic parasitoids have been understudied in comparison to those. Therefore, the occurrence and role of parasites and parasitoids remains mostly unconsidered in the marine environment. We observed high abundances and diversity of parasitoid operational taxonomic units in our dataset all year round. While some parasitoid groups were present throughout the year and merely fluctuated in abundances, we also detected a succession of parasitoid groups with peaks of individual species only during certain seasons. Using co-occurrence and patterns of seasonal occurrence, we were able to identify known host-parasitoid dynamics, however identification of new potential host-parasitoid interactions was not possible due to their high dynamics and variability in the dataset.
Liver stiffness measured by two-dimensional shear-wave elastography predicts hepatic vein pressure gradient at high values in liver transplant candidates with advanced liver cirrhosis
Authors: Frankova Sona , Lunova Mariia , Gottfriedova Halima , Senkerikova Renata , Neroldova Magdalena , Kovac Jozef , Kieslichova Eva , Lanska Vera , Urbanek Petr , Spicak Julius , Jirsa Milan , Sperl Jan
Published: January 2021

Liver stiffness is a reliable non-invasive predictor of Hepatic Venous Pressure Gradient (HVPG) above 10 mm Hg. However, it failed to predict higher thresholds of HVPG. Our aim was to investigate whether liver stiffness and selected previously published non-invasive blood biomarkers could predict higher HVPG thresholds in liver transplant candidates without ongoing alcohol use. One hundred and nine liver transplant candidates with liver cirrhosis of various aetiologies underwent direct HVPG measurement, liver stiffness measurement by 2D shear-wave elastography (Aixplorer Multiwave, Supersonic Imagine, France) and assessment of blood HVPG biomarkers (osteopontin, VCAM-1, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1ra/IL-1F3 and ELF score). The correlation between liver stiffness and HVPG was linear up to 30 mm Hg of HVPG (r = 0.765, p < 0.0001). The regression lines had similar slopes for HVPG values below and above 16 mm Hg (p > 0.05) and the correlation in patients with HVPG <16 mm Hg (r = 0.456, p = 0.01) was similar to patients with HVPG ≥ 16 mm Hg (r = 0.499, p < 0.0001). The correlation was similar in the subgroup patients with alcoholic (r = 0.718, p < 0.0001), NASH (r = 0.740, p = 0.008), cryptogenic (r = 0.648, p = 0,0377), cholestatic and autoimmune (r = 0.706, p < 0.0001) and viral cirrhosis (r = 0.756, p < 0.0001). Liver stiffness distinguished patients with HVPG above 16, and 20 mm Hg with AUROCs 0.90243, and 0.86824, sensitivity 0.7656, and 0.7027, and specificity 0.9333, and 0.8750. All studied blood biomarkers correlated better with liver stiffness than with HVPG and their AUROCs did not exceed 0.8 at both HVPG thresholds. Therefore, a composite predictor superior to liver stiffness could not be established. We conclude that liver stiffness is a clinically reliable predictor of higher HVPG thresholds in non-drinking subjects with advanced liver cirrhosis.
Age-related differences in stair descent balance control: Are women more prone to falls than men?
Authors: Kováčiková Zuzana , Sarvestan Javad , Zemková Erika
Published: January 2021

Stair descent is one of the most common forms of daily locomotion and concurrently one of the most challenging and hazardous daily activities performed by older adults. Thus, sufficient attention should be devoted to this locomotion and to the factors that affect it. This study investigates gender and age-related differences in balance control during and after stair descent on a foam mat. Forty-seven older adults (70% women) and 38 young adults (58% women) performed a descent from one step onto a foam mat. Anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML) centre of pressure velocity (CoP) and standard deviation of the CoP sway were investigated during stair descent and restabilization. A two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed the main effects of age for the first 5 s of restabilization. Older women exhibited significantly higher values of CoP sway and velocity in both directions compared to the younger individuals (CoP SDAP5, 55%; CoP SDML5, 30%; CoP VAP5, 106%; CoP VML5, 75%). Men achieved significantly higher values of CoP sway and velocity only in the AP direction compared to their younger counterparts (CoP SDAP5, 50% and CoP VAP5, 79%). These findings suggest that with advancing age, men are at higher risk of forward falls, whereas women are at higher risk of forward and sideways falls.
Twelve-month surgical outcome and prognostic factors of stand-alone ab interno trabeculotomy in Japanese patients with open-angle glaucoma
Authors: Omoto Takashi , Sugiura Aya , Fujishiro Takashi , Asano-Shimizu Kimiko , Sugimoto Koichiro , Sakata Rei , Murata Hiroshi , Asaoka Ryo , Honjo Megumi , Aihara Makoto
Published: January 2021

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the 12-month surgical outcome and prognostic factors of stand-alone ab interno trabeculotomy. The changes in the intraocular pressure (IOP) and medication score and the success rate of the surgery were analyzed. Thirty-four eyes of 29 patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG; n = 16) or pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (PEG; n = 18) with a 12-month follow-up period were included in the study. The decreases in IOP and medication score from the baseline to the all-time-point were statistically significant (P < 0.001). The surgical success rates were 97.1%, 76.5%, and 44.0% at 3 months (90 days), 6 months (180 days), and 12 months (365 days), respectively. A mixed effect Cox model revealed that the type of glaucoma (POAG) was significantly associated with surgical failure (P = 0.044). Furthermore, the surgical success rate was significantly higher in eyes with PEG than it was in those with POAG (P = 0.019). Stand-alone ab interno trabeculotomy significantly lowered both the IOP and the medication score in patients with glaucoma, although almost one quarter of the cases needed additional glaucoma surgeries. The surgical success rate was significantly higher in eyes with PEG than it was in those with POAG.
The value of TI-RADS combined with superb microvascular imaging in distinguishing thyroid nodules: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Cong , Lin Mingxin , Zhong Lin , Tian Congliang
Published: January 2021

Background

As a novel ultrasonic technique, superb microvascular imaging (SMI) can quickly, simply and noninvasively observe the microvascular distribution in a tumor and evaluate the microvascular perfusion. Previous studies have shown that SMI can detect the blood flow signals of neovascularization in tumors and increase the sensitivity for detecting thyroid cancer. However, the results of these studies have been contradictory, and the sample sizes were too small. Therefore, the present meta-analysis will aim at evaluating the value of a thyroid imaging report and data system (TI-RADS) combined with SMI in distinguishing between benign and malignant thyroid nodules.

Methods

We will search PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and Chinese biomedical databases from their inceptions to the June 31, 2020. Two authors will independently carry out searching literature records; scanning titles, abstracts, and full texts; collecting data; and assessing risk of bias. Review Manager 5.2 and Stata14.0 software will be used for data analysis.

Results

This systematic review will evaluate the value of TI-RADS combined with SMI in distinguishing between benign and malignant thyroid nodules.

Systematic review registration

INPLASY202070113.
Reduction of hyperoxic acute lung injury in mice by Formononetin
Authors: Chen Yin , Wei Dong , Zhao Jin , Xu Xiangnan , Chen Jingyu
Published: January 2021

Background

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory features of Formononetin, an isoflavone constituent extracted from traditional Chinese medicine, have been reported. The present study investigated that whether Formononetin plays a benefit on hyperoxic ALI.

Methods

C57BL/6 mice were exposed to hyperoxia for 72 h to produce experimental hyperoxic ALI model. Formononetin or vehicle was administrated intraperitoneally. Samples from the lung were collected at 72 h post hyperoxia exposure for further study. Pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells isolated from the lung of C57BL/6 mice were used for in vitro study.

Results

Formononetin pretreatment notably attenuated hyperoxia-induced elevating pulmonary water content, upregulation of proinflammatory cytokine levels and increasing infiltration of neutrophil in the lung. Western blot analyses showed that Formononetin enhanced the expression of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) which is a key transcription factor regulating the expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). Formononetin increased HO-1 expression and activity compared with vehicle-treated animals. Moreover, Formononetin reversed hyperoxia-caused the reduction of M2 macrophage polarization. However, pretreatment of a HO-1 inhibitor reduced the protective effect of Formononetin on hyperoxic ALI. Cell study showed that the Formononetin-induced upregulation of HO-1 was abolished when the Nrf2 was silenced.

Conclusions

Formononetin pretreatment reduces hyperoxia-induced ALI via Nrf2/HO-1-mediated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
How using brain-machine interfaces influences the human sense of agency
Authors: Caspar Emilie A. , De Beir Albert , Lauwers Gil , Cleeremans Axel , Vanderborght Bram
Published: January 2021

Brain-machine interfaces (BMI) allows individuals to control an external device by controlling their own brain activity, without requiring bodily or muscle movements. Performing voluntary movements is associated with the experience of agency (“sense of agency”) over those movements and their outcomes. When people voluntarily control a BMI, they should likewise experience a sense of agency. However, using a BMI to act presents several differences compared to normal movements. In particular, BMIs lack sensorimotor feedback, afford lower controllability and are associated with increased cognitive fatigue. Here, we explored how these different factors influence the sense of agency across two studies in which participants learned to control a robotic hand through motor imagery decoded online through electroencephalography. We observed that the lack of sensorimotor information when using a BMI did not appear to influence the sense of agency. We further observed that experiencing lower control over the BMI reduced the sense of agency. Finally, we observed that the better participants controlled the BMI, the greater was the appropriation of the robotic hand, as measured by body-ownership and agency scores. Results are discussed based on existing theories on the sense of agency in light of the importance of BMI technology for patients using prosthetic limbs.
Health behavior patterns of sugar-sweetened beverage consumption among Brazilian adolescents in a nationally representative school-based study
Authors: Rocha Luana Lara , Pessoa Milene Cristine , Gratão Lucia Helena Almeida , Carmo Ariene Silva do , Cunha Cristiane de Freitas , Oliveira Tatiana Rezende Prado Rangel de , Mendes Larissa Loures
Published: January 2021

Studies on sugar-sweetened beverage consumption patterns can help in the individual and population level management of chronic non-communicable diseases and other conditions. This study aimed to identify the association between health behavior patterns and the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages among Brazilian adolescents from a nationally representative school-based study. A cross-sectional study analyzed data from 71,553 adolescents aged 12–17 years who attended public and private schools in Brazilian cities, from the Study of Cardiovascular Risk in Adolescents. Principal component analysis was performed to identify health behavior patterns, and ordered logistic regression was performed to identify the association between health behavior patterns and sugar-sweetened beverage consumption. Sugar-sweetened beverage consumption (mL/day) was used as the dependent variable. The analyses were performed using Stata software version 14.0 with a significance level of 0.05. Patterns 2 (alcoholic beverage and smoking habit) and 3 (ultra-processed food and screen time) of health behaviors and regularly purchasing snacks in the school cafeteria increased the odds of sugar-sweetened beverage consumption, while pattern 1 (water, unprocessed and minimally processed food and physical activity) decreased these odds. The adoption of healthy habits can indirectly stimulate the adoption of other habits beneficial to health. These results indicate the importance of adopting a set of regulatory measures to reduce sugar-sweetened beverage consumption.
Role of microorganisms isolated from cows with mastitis in Moscow region in biofilm formation
Authors: Rudenko Pavel , Sachivkina Nadezhda , Vatnikov Yury , Shabunin Sergey , Engashev Sergey , Kontsevaya Svetlana , Karamyan Arfenia , Bokov Dmitry , Kuznetsova Olga , Vasilieva Elena
Published: January 2021

Background and Aim: Mastitis is one of the most important diseases of cows and the most expensive pathology for the dairy industry. Therefore, this study was conducted to explore the role of microorganisms isolated from cows with mastitis in the formation of biofilms under the conditions of farm biogeocenosis in the Moscow region.

Materials and Methods: Periodic visits to 12 farms in the Moscow region were conducted to explore the microbial profile of the udder of cows with mastitis. During the visits, 103 milk samples from sick animals were collected and examined. Through microbiological analyses, 486 cultures of microorganisms were identified, which are assigned to 11 genera. Mastitis in cows is caused not only by a single pathogen but also by microbial associations, which included two to seven microbial isolates.

Results: It was observed that 309 isolates (63.6%) from the total number of isolated microorganisms could form a biofilm. The ability to form biofilms was most frequently observed in Staphylococcus aureus (18.8%), Escherichia coli (11.9%), and Staphylococcus uberis (11.7%) cultures from the total number of biofilm-forming microbial cultures. Low biofilm-forming ability among the isolated microorganisms was found in lactobacilli, wherein only 20 (22.5%) Lactobacillus strains had the ability to form biofilms. The isolated microorganisms exhibited different sensitivities to antimicrobial agents, which cause difficulty in selecting an antimicrobial agent that would act on all aspects of the parasitocenosis.

Conclusion: A high proportion of microorganisms isolated from cows with mastitis have the ability to form biofilms. The isolated microorganisms exhibited different and highly heterogeneous sensitivity to the action of antimicrobial drugs. This causes difficulty in using these tools for the effective control of mastitis in cows, which is frequently caused by pathogenic associations of microbial biofilms. Therefore, it is important to explore novel and more effective methods to combat this disease.
Demographic and clinical characteristics of dogs with centroblastic lymphoma
Authors: Kliczkowska-Klarowicz Katarzyna , Jagielski Dariusz , Czopowicz Michał , Sapierzyński Rafał A.
Published: January 2021

Background and Aim: Centroblastic lymphoma (CBL) is the most common morphological type of lymphoma found in dogs; it is usually identified through cytology in veterinary clinical practice. This study aimed to identify the demographic and clinical characteristics of dogs with CBL that was diagnosed with cytology and immunocytochemistry. Materials and Methods: Dogs with a suspicion of lymphoma were diagnosed by cytology supported by immunocytochemistry with the use of the updated Kiel classification adapted for dogs. During the analyzed time period, 336 lymphomas were diagnosed in dogs, including 171 cases of CBL. Epidemiological and clinical data from the dogs with CBL were provisionally collected. Results: The epidemiology analysis revealed an increased risk of CBL in Rottweilers, golden retrievers, and Bernese mountain dogs. At admission, most of the dogs displayed generalized lymphadenopathy with spleen and liver enlargement. The most common hematological abnormality was leukocytosis due to neutrophilia. The most common biochemical abnormality was elevated alanine aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase activities and selective hypoproteinemia due to hypoalbuminemia. Conclusion: Rottweilers, Bernese mountain dogs, and golden retrievers appear to be overrepresented among dogs with CBL. CBL is usually diagnosed at an advanced clinical stage according to the World Health Organization; however, it is usually accompanied by only minor hematological and biochemical abnormalities.
Synthesis And Characterization Of Alginate-Cellulose Xanthate Beads From Corn Stalk With NaCL As Porogen
Authors: Rohmatullah Wahyu Adhi Putra , Yulianti Eny , Khoiroh Lilik Miftahul , Mahmudah Rif'atul
Published: January 2021

In this study, the synthesis of porous beads from corn stalks was carried out. The cellulose extracted from corn stalks was converted into cellulose xanthate and combined with alginate to form porous alginate-cellulose xanthate beads by the ionic gelation method. This study attempted to use sodium chloride (NaCl) as a porogen and zinc acetate as a crosslinker. Beads were characterized to determine the porosity, swelling properties, and functional groups using Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR). The geometry of beads was analyzed by optical microscopy, and its surface morphology was analyzed by Scanning Electron Microscopy-Energy Dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX). The results showed that corn stalks as agricultural waste material could be used to synthesize porous beads material. The swelling and porosity of beads increased with increasing concentration of NaCl. The presence of porogen has increased beads formation. The results demonstrate the crosslinks between zinc acetate and alginate were successfully characterized using FTIR. NaCl concentration of 9.5% resulted in the highest swelling properties (52.80%) and porosity (81.4%) of the beads.
Kultúraközi szolgáltatásélmények vizsgálata a megalapozott elmélet módszerével
Authors: Kenesei Zsófia , Stier Zsófia
Published: January 2021

A cikk fókuszában az interkulturális szolgáltatással való találkozás áll. A téma jelentősége kétségen kívül áll, hiszen a szolgáltatások egyre növekvő térhódítása, valamint a globalizáció terjedése fontossá teszi annak ismeretét, hogy a különböző nemzeti kultúrából érkező szolgáltató és fogyasztó számára hogyan érhető el a legfőbb cél, az elégedettség. A szerzők jelen kutatásukban annak megértését helyezték a középpontba, hogy melyek azok a tényezők, amelyek befolyásolják a felek erőfeszítéseit a találkozás során fellépő problémák megoldásában. Kutatásuk során mélyinterjúkat folytattak mind a szolgáltatói, mind a fogyasztói oldallal, majd a megalapozott elmélet (grounded theory) konstruktivista irányzatának segítségével elemezték ezen interjúkat, és azonosították azokat a tényezőket, amelyek fontossá válhatnak egy kultúraközi szolgáltatásélmény során. A kutatás eredményei rámutatnak, hogy melyek azok a kommunikációs és kulturális korlátok, amelyek problémát okozhatnak, s hogy az e problémák megoldására tett erőfeszítések visszavezethetők az interakció résztvevőinek személyes jellemzőire, tapasztalataira, kulturális nyitottságára és ismereteire. A kutatás eredményeinek egyik fontos menedzseri következtetése, hogy a szállodákban a probléma jelentősége ellenére nem helyeznek elegendő hangsúlyt a kommunikációs és kulturális korlátok leküzdésére irányuló képzésekre, tréningekre. _____ This paper presents an attempt to analyse the possible solutions to problems that can occur during intercultural service encounters (ICSE). Using grounded theory the authors provide a theoretical framework that identifies the factors that lead to ICSE barriers. Based on in-depth interviews with service providers and clients they have defined the relevant characteristics that influence intercultural competence. Intercultural competence with communication and cultural differences lead to problems during ICSE that can be handled by both parties: the service provider and the client, as well. An important finding is that service companies should provide adequate training that concentrates not only on the cultural knowledge but it should create capability in understanding and adapting to cultural differences.
Biztonsági készletek megállapítása előrejelzés alapján - Esettanulmány
Authors: Dobos Imre , Gelei Andrea
Published: January 2021

A vállalati készletgazdálkodás és a kereslet-előrejelzés két olyan egymással összefüggő gazdálkodási terület, mely közvetlenül és jelentős mértékben képes befolyásolni a működés hatékonyságát és gazdaságosságát. A szerzők cikkükben elméleti jelleggel, de egy konkrét gyógyszeripari vállalat esettanulmányán keresztül a gyakorlatban is bemutatják e két terület összefüggésrendszerét, egymásra hatását. Ennek során kiemelik a kereslet sporadicitásának problémáját. A kereslet sporadikussága annak időbeni szórtságát jelenti. Az ilyen termékekre a klasszikus előrejelzési módszerek nem adnak jó előrejelzést. Ezért cikkükben röviden bemutatják a sporadikus termékek keresletének előrejelzéséhez ajánlott módszereket. A kereslet sporadicitása a nemzetközi szakirodalomban is viszonylag új témakör, ezzel kapcsolatos magyar nyelvű publikáció pedig tudomásuk szerint eddig még nem született. Ezért különösen fontosnak tartják, hogy a hazai vállalati szakemberek számára magyar nyelven is elérhető legyen ez az ismeretanyag.
Volunteering in Health Care Context: A Concept Analysis Using Rodger’s Evolutionary Approach
Authors: A'la Muhamad Zulfatul , Nuntaboot Khanitta , Rungreangkulkij Somporn
Published: January 2021

Background: Volunteering is a common concept used in various disciplines including in the health care context. Nursing plays a role in volunteering concept development. However, the use of volunteering concept is still interchangeable. The clear definition concept about volunteering will promote the improvement in healthcare system quality.Purpose: This study aimed to clarify the volunteering concept in the health care context using Rodger’s evolutionary concept analysis.Methods: This study used a literature review for collecting the exemplars. Researchers used articles published in 2010-2020 in ScienceDirect, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Articles were searched using OR and AND. The keywords and MeSH used were “Volunteering OR Volunteerism OR volunteers AND Health OR Care OR Nursing” in the title, abstract, and keyword articles. Inclusion criteria were full articles in English. Rodger’s evolutionary concept analysis was implemented in this study with six steps.Results: This study used 39 eligible articles analyzed by providing codes of each article and then classified them in attributes, antecedents, and consequences of concept. Five attributes of volunteering, namely, giving help freely, as long-term planned, as giving a benefit to another individual, group, or organization, as working at a formal organization, and as a long-life activity were found. Antecedents of volunteering include motivation, social demographic, and philanthropic behavior. The consequences of volunteering were consequences for volunteers, patients, and the health care system.Conclusion: Volunteering is a complex concept and many surrogate concepts have similar definitions. The attributes are still debatable and need to be explored. Also, the consequences of volunteering are still rarely discussed in a particular health care system context. Further studies need to analyze the measurement of volunteering development based on the nursing theory framework and explore the consequences of volunteering in the health care system related to the nursing care context.
Preparedness among Family Caregivers of Patients with Non-Communicable Diseases in Indonesia
Authors: Sari Ike Wuri Winahyu , Nirmalasari Novita
Published: January 2021

Background: Family caregivers spend 24 hours a day looking after and assisting patients. However, they are not always adequately prepared for all the problems they face. There is a lack of evidence exploring caregivers’ preparedness among family caregivers of patients with non-communicable diseases in Indonesia.Purpose: This study aimed to identify caregivers’ preparedness among family caregivers of patients with non-communicable diseases.Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted on 120 Indonesian family caregivers for patients with non-communicable diseases, who were selected using a purposive sampling technique. Data were collected using the Indonesian version of the Preparedness for Caregiving Scale (PCS) which had been validated before its use. The possible scores of this tool ranged from 0.00 to 4.00. The higher the score, the more prepared the family caregivers were. Data were analyzed using one way ANOVA .Results: Family caregivers reported feeling of moderately prepared for caregiving. The score of family caregiver preparedness for patients with diabetes, cancer, and chronic kidney disease were 2.97±0.42; 2.83±0.40; 2.89±0.49, respectively with possible range from 0.00 to 4.00. There were no differences on the caregivers’ preparedness among family caregivers of patients with non-communicable diseases (p=0.387).Conclusion: Caregivers’ preparedness is an essential element of patient care. Nurses have to be proactive in assessing each family caregiver’s preparedness to enhance the quality of life of both the family caregivers and the patients themselves, so that they can be empowered as a source of nursing care.