bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of visual function and the neuroretina in subjects diagnosed with congenital anomaly of color vision
Authors: Garcia-Martin Elena , Fuentes-Bernal Juan Luis , Otin Sofia , Monreal Alida , Cordon Beatriz , Vilades Elisa , Fuertes-Lazaro Maria I.
Published: July 2022

This cross-sectional and observational study includes 50 eyes of subjects with color blindness and 50 eyes of control subjects. Visual function (visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and color vision) and neuroretinal structure were assessed in all subjects using optical coherence tomography (OCT). Significant thinning of the retinal nerve fiber layer, ganglion cell layer, and retina were observed in the color blindness group. Significant thinning was also recorded in layers that involve photoreceptor nuclei (between the outer limiting layer and the Bruch membrane and between the outer plexiform layer and the outer limiting membrane). OCT evaluation based on retinal segmentation is a rapid (5–10 minutes) non-invasive technique and seems to be a good biomarker of color blindness.
Reconstruction of weak near-infrared images in methyl red-doped nematic liquid crystals via stochastic resonance
Authors: Ji Wentong , Wang Zhaolu , Huang Nan , Liu Hongjun
Published: July 2022

We propose a near-infrared (NIR) image reconstruction method based on molecular reorientation of nematic liquid crystals (NLCs) doped with the azo-dye methyl red (MR). The signal can be recovered at the expense of noise via stochastic resonance. The numerical results show that image reconstruction based on the molecular reorientation in a magnetic field can be achieved when the input light intensity is 0.9W/cm2, this is due to the strong enhancement of the nonlinear optical response in MR doped-NLCs. The cross-correlation coefficient is increased from 0.26 to 0.54, and the maximum cross-correlation gain is 2.25. The results suggest a potential method in NIR weak optical image processing under noisy environments.
Sequency encoding single pixel spectroscopy based on Hadamard transform
Authors: Zhang Yi , Malik Mohammad O. A. , Kang Jian , Yuen Clement , Liu Quan
Published: July 2022

Single pixel spectroscopy based on Hadamard transform (SPS-HT) has been applied widely because of its capability of wavelength multiplexing and associated advantage in signal-to-noise ratio. In this paper, we propose a sequency encoding single pixel spectroscopy (SESPS) based on two-dimensional (2D) masks for concurrent coding of all Hadamard coefficients instead of one-dimensional (1D) Hadamard masks (only coding one coefficient at a time) widely used in the traditional SPS-HT. Moreover, each Hadamard coefficient is coded along the time dimension with a different sequency value such that the alternating current (AC) measurements of the time-domain signal can be used to reconstruct all Hadamard coefficients simultaneously, which reduces the influence of noise and dramatically speeds up data acquisition. We demonstrate that the SESPS with 32 spectral channels can accelerate spectral measurements from white light sources and fluorescence particles by around 14 times and 70 times, respectively, compared to measurements using a commercial spectrometer when the relative root mean square error (RMSE) is around 3% or smaller. The acceleration factors can be boosted by an extra 4 times when only eight spectral channels are used to achieve a compression ratio of 4:1, in which the relative RMSEs change only marginally. Compared to our previous SPS-HT, this new scheme can increase the speed by three orders of magnitude. This technique is expected to be useful in applications requiring high-speed spectral measurements such as the spectral flow cytometry and on-site medical diagnosis using fluorescence or Raman spectroscopy.
Reversible inter-degree-of-freedom optical-coherence conversion via entropy swapping
Authors: Harling Mitchell , Kelkar Varun , Okoro Chukwuemeka , Diouf Mbaye , Abouraddy Ayman F. , Toussaint Kimani C.
Published: July 2022

The entropy associated with an optical field quantifies the field fluctuations and thus its coherence. Any binary optical degree-of-freedom (DoF) – such as polarization or the field at a pair of points in space – can each carry up to one bit of entropy. We demonstrate here that entropy can be reversibly swapped between different DoFs, such that coherence is converted back and forth between them without loss of energy. Specifically, starting with a spatially coherent but unpolarized field carrying one bit of entropy, we unitarily convert the coherence from the spatial DoF to polarization to produce a spatially incoherent but polarized field by swapping the entropy between the two DoFs. Next, we implement the inverse unitary operator, thus converting the coherence back to yield once again a spatially coherent yet unpolarized field. We exploit the intermediate stage between the two coherence conversions – where the spatial coherence has been converted to the polarization DoF – to verify that the field has become immune to the deleterious impact of spatial phase scrambling. Maximizing the spatial entropy protects the spatial DoF by preventing it from taking on any additional fluctuations. After the second coherence conversion, spatial coherence is readily retrieved, and the effect of spatial phase scrambling circumvented.
Monolithic highly multi-mode XLMA-fiber resonator for high power operation
Authors: Baer Patrick , Klein Sarah , Raguse Marius , Giesberts Martin , Reiter Melina , Hoffmann Dieter
Published: July 2022

Highly multi-mode fiber resonators can be an excellent solution to achieve high output power with homogeneous beam profiles, while nonlinear effects are suppressed due to the high number of modes and high mode-field areas. While highly reflective fiber-Bragg-gratings (HR-FBGs) are a well-developed technology in single-mode fibers, in multi-mode fibers HR-FBGs are under investigation to enable monolithic resonators. Here, we present a monolithic multi-mode fiber resonator in a > 50 µm core diameter XLMA-fiber. We achieve a slope efficiency of up to 50%, stable wavelength operation at 1074 nm and homogeneous beam profiles using an HR-FBG with app. 70% reflectivity.
Multi-layer inverse design of vertical grating couplers for high-density, commercial foundry interconnects
Authors: Hammond Alec M. , Slaby Joel B. , Probst Michael J. , Ralph Stephen E.
Published: July 2022

Density-based topology optimization is used to design large-scale, multi-layer grating couplers that comply with commercial foundry fabrication constraints while simultaneously providing beam profiles that efficiently couple to a single-mode optical fiber without additional optics. Specifically, we describe the design process and experimentally demonstrate both single- and dual-polarization grating couplers that couple at normal incidence (0° from the normal) with low backreflections (-13.7 dB and -15.4 dB at the center wavelength), broad 3 dB bandwidths (75 nm and 89 nm), and standard coupling efficiencies (-4.7 dB and -7.0 dB). The dual-polarization grating couplers exhibit over 30 dB of polarization extinction across the entire band. The devices were fabricated on the GlobalFoundries 45CLO CMOS platform and characterized across three separate wafers. This new design approach produces distinct features for multiple foundry layers and yields emitters with arbitrary, user-specified far-field profiles.
Hybrid interferometric diagnostic for the refractive index measurement across nearly discrete shock waves
Authors: Wang Gwendolyn T. , Peng Yuzhe , Guildenbecher Daniel R. , Lynch Kyle P. , Sun Wenting , Mazumdar Yi C.
Published: July 2022

The measurement of high temperature gas properties is key for characterizing high speed flows. Nearly discrete changes in density across shock waves, in particular, are difficult to resolve through traditional fringe-counting interferometric methods. Existing techniques for estimating large fringe jumps are either resolution limited or require specialized window configurations. In this Letter, we describe a unique hybrid interferometric technique that combines narrowband fringes for high resolution and broadband fringes as an absolute reference to measure changes in refractive index with a resolution of up to 7 × 10−8 across nearly discrete index changes of up to 1.5 × 10−4. By capturing fringes with an ultrahigh-speed camera, the refractive index changes across discrete shock fronts can be estimated inside a shock tube with high accuracy and time resolution. First, a novel hybrid calibration method for tracking finite fringes is discussed. Next, this technique is used to measure the post-initial-shock refractive indices for Mach 2.7 to 4.2 flows (pressures from 90.4 to 228.4 kPa). Results are then compared with theoretical values showing agreement within 2%.
Watt-level 729-nm Pr3+:YLF laser pumped by an InGaN laser diode
Authors: Fang Run , Cai Zhiping , Xu Huiying
Published: July 2022

A CW laser in a Pr3+:YLF crystal at 729 nm is reported for the first time, to the best of our knowledge. Using an InGaN laser diode providing 24 W at ∼444 nm, a tuning range from 728.75 nm to 729.97 nm is obtained. A laser output power of up to 1.90 W at 729.46 nm is demonstrated. The output power fluctuation is stable within ±2% at 729.46 nm, and the beam quality Mx2 and My2 factors are measured to be 1.46 (x) and 1.40 (y).
Modeling scenarios for mitigating outbreaks in congregate settings
Authors: Blumberg Seth , Lu Phoebe , Kwan Ada T. , Hoover Christopher M. , Lloyd-Smith James O. , Sears David , Bertozzi Stefano M. , Worden Lee
Published: July 2022

The explosive outbreaks of COVID-19 seen in congregate settings such as prisons and nursing homes, has highlighted a critical need for effective outbreak prevention and mitigation strategies for these settings. Here we consider how different types of control interventions impact the expected number of symptomatic infections due to outbreaks. Introduction of disease into the resident population from the community is modeled as a stochastic point process coupled to a branching process, while spread between residents is modeled via a deterministic compartmental model that accounts for depletion of susceptible individuals. Control is modeled as a proportional decrease in the number of susceptible residents, the reproduction number, and/or the proportion of symptomatic infections. This permits a range of assumptions about the density dependence of transmission and modes of protection by vaccination, depopulation and other types of control. We find that vaccination or depopulation can have a greater than linear effect on the expected number of cases. For example, assuming a reproduction number of 3.0 with density-dependent transmission, we find that preemptively reducing the size of the susceptible population by 20% reduced overall disease burden by 47%. In some circumstances, it may be possible to reduce the risk and burden of disease outbreaks by optimizing the way a group of residents are apportioned into distinct residential units. The optimal apportionment may be different depending on whether the goal is to reduce the probability of an outbreak occurring, or the expected number of cases from outbreak dynamics. In other circumstances there may be an opportunity to implement reactive disease control measures in which the number of susceptible individuals is rapidly reduced once an outbreak has been detected to occur. Reactive control is most effective when the reproduction number is not too high, and there is minimal delay in implementing control. We highlight the California state prison system as an example for how these findings provide a quantitative framework for understanding disease transmission in congregate settings. Our approach and accompanying interactive website (https://phoebelu.shinyapps.io/DepopulationModels/) provides a quantitative framework to evaluate the potential impact of policy decisions governing infection control in outbreak settings.
Multi-color dSTORM microscopy in Hormad1-/- spermatocytes reveals alterations in meiotic recombination intermediates and synaptonemal complex structure
Authors: Koornneef Lieke , Slotman Johan A. , Sleddens-Linkels Esther , van Cappellen Wiggert A. , Barchi Marco , Tóth Attila , Gribnau Joost , Houtsmuller Adriaan B. , Baarends Willy M.
Published: July 2022

Recombinases RAD51 and its meiosis-specific paralog DMC1 accumulate on single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) of programmed DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) in meiosis. Here we used three-color dSTORM microscopy, and a mouse model with severe defects in meiotic DSB formation and synapsis (Hormad1-/-) to obtain more insight in the recombinase accumulation patterns in relation to repair progression. First, we used the known reduction in meiotic DSB frequency in Hormad1-/- spermatocytes to be able to conclude that the RAD51/DMC1 nanofoci that preferentially localize at distances of ~300 nm form within a single DSB site, whereas a second preferred distance of ~900 nm, observed only in wild type, represents inter-DSB distance. Next, we asked whether the proposed role of HORMAD1 in repair inhibition affects the RAD51/DMC1 accumulation patterns. We observed that the two most frequent recombinase configurations (1 DMC1 and 1 RAD51 nanofocus (D1R1), and D2R1) display coupled frequency dynamics over time in wild type, but were constant in the Hormad1-/- model, indicating that the lifetime of these intermediates was altered. Recombinase nanofoci were also smaller in Hormad1-/- spermatocytes, consistent with changes in ssDNA length or protein accumulation. Furthermore, we established that upon synapsis, recombinase nanofoci localized closer to the synaptonemal complex (SYCP3), in both wild type and Hormad1-/- spermatocytes. Finally, the data also revealed a hitherto unknown function of HORMAD1 in inhibiting coil formation in the synaptonemal complex. SPO11 plays a similar but weaker role in coiling and SYCP1 had the opposite effect. Using this large super-resolution dataset, we propose models with the D1R1 configuration representing one DSB end containing recombinases, and the other end bound by other ssDNA binding proteins, or both ends loaded by the two recombinases, but in below-resolution proximity. This may then often evolve into D2R1, then D1R2, and finally back to D1R1, when DNA synthesis has commenced.
Seroprevalence of Strongyloides stercoralis infection in a South Indian adult population
Authors: Munisankar Saravanan , Rajamanickam Anuradha , Balasubramanian Suganthi , Muthusamy Satishwaran , Dolla Chandra Kumar , Menon Pradeep Aravindan , Chinnayan Ponnuraja , Whalen Christopher , Gumne Paschaline , Kaur Inderdeep , Nadimpalli Varma , Deverakonda Akshay , Chen Zhenhao , David Otto John , Habitegiyorgis Tesfalidet , Kandaswamy Harish , Nutman Thomas B. , Babu Subash
Published: July 2022

Background

The prevalence of Strongyloides stercoralis infection is estimated to be 30–100 million worldwide, although this an underestimate. Most cases remain undiagnosed due to the asymptomatic nature of the infection. We wanted to estimate the seroprevalence of S. stercoralis infection in a South Indian adult population.

Methods

To this end, we performed community-based screening of 2351 individuals (aged 18–65) in Kanchipuram District of Tamil Nadu between 2013 and 2020. Serological testing for S. stercoralis was performed using the NIE ELISA.

Results

Our data shows a seroprevalence of 33% (768/2351) for S. stercoralis infection which had a higher prevalence among males 36% (386/1069) than among females 29.8% (382/1282). Adults aged ≥55 (aOR = 1.65, 95% CI: 1.25–2.18) showed higher adjusted odds of association compared with other age groups. Eosinophil levels (39%) (aOR = 1.43, 95% CI: 1.19–1.74) and hemoglobin levels (24%) (aOR = 1.25, 95% CI: 1.11–1.53) were significantly associated with S. stercoralis infection. In contrast, low BMI (aOR = 1.15, 95% CI: 0.82–1.61) or the presence of diabetes mellitus (OR = 1.18, 95% CI: 0.83–1.69) was not associated with S. stercoralis seropositivity.

Conclusions

Our study provides evidence for a very high baseline prevalence of S. stercoralis infection in South Indian communities and this information could provide realistic and concrete planning of control measures.
Comparing sources of mobility for modelling the epidemic spread of Zika virus in Colombia
Authors: Perrotta Daniela , Frias-Martinez Enrique , Pastore y Piontti Ana , Zhang Qian , Luengo-Oroz Miguel , Paolotti Daniela , Tizzoni Michele , Vespignani Alessandro
Published: July 2022

Timely, accurate, and comparative data on human mobility is of paramount importance for epidemic preparedness and response, but generally not available or easily accessible. Mobile phone metadata, typically in the form of Call Detail Records (CDRs), represents a powerful source of information on human movements at an unprecedented scale. In this work, we investigate the potential benefits of harnessing aggregated CDR-derived mobility to predict the 2015-2016 Zika virus (ZIKV) outbreak in Colombia, when compared to other traditional data sources. To simulate the spread of ZIKV at sub-national level in Colombia, we employ a stochastic metapopulation epidemic model for vector-borne diseases. Our model integrates detailed data on the key drivers of ZIKV spread, including the spatial heterogeneity of the mosquito abundance, and the exposure of the population to the virus due to environmental and socio-economic factors. Given the same modelling settings (i.e. initial conditions and epidemiological parameters), we perform in-silico simulations for each mobility network and assess their ability in reproducing the local outbreak as reported by the official surveillance data. We assess the performance of our epidemic modelling approach in capturing the ZIKV outbreak both nationally and sub-nationally. Our model estimates are strongly correlated with the surveillance data at the country level (Pearson’s r = 0.92 for the CDR-informed network). Moreover, we found strong performance of the model estimates generated by the CDR-informed mobility networks in reproducing the local outbreak observed at the sub-national level. Compared to the CDR-informed networks, the performance of the other mobility networks is either comparatively similar or substantially lower, with no added value in predicting the local epidemic. This suggests that mobile phone data captures a better picture of human mobility patterns. This work contributes to the ongoing discussion on the value of aggregated mobility estimates from CDRs data that, with appropriate data protection and privacy safeguards, can be used for social impact applications and humanitarian action.
Toxoplasma infection in male mice alters dopamine-sensitive behaviors and host gene expression patterns associated with neuropsychiatric disease
Authors: Cromar Graham L. , Epp Jonathan R. , Popovic Ana , Gu Yusing , Ha Violet , Walters Brandon J. , St. Pierre James , Xiong Xuejian , Howland John G. , Josselyn Sheena A. , Frankland Paul W. , Parkinson John
Published: July 2022

During chronic infection, the single celled parasite, Toxoplasma gondii, can migrate to the brain where it has been associated with altered dopamine function and the capacity to modulate host behavior, increasing risk of neurocognitive disorders. Here we explore alterations in dopamine-related behavior in a new mouse model based on stimulant (cocaine)-induced hyperactivity. In combination with cocaine, infection resulted in heightened sensorimotor deficits and impairment in prepulse inhibition response, which are commonly disrupted in neuropsychiatric conditions. To identify molecular pathways in the brain affected by chronic T. gondii infection, we investigated patterns of gene expression. As expected, infection was associated with an enrichment of genes associated with general immune response pathways, that otherwise limits statistical power to identify more informative pathways. To overcome this limitation and focus on pathways of neurological relevance, we developed a novel context enrichment approach that relies on a customized ontology. Applying this approach, we identified genes that exhibited unexpected patterns of expression arising from the combination of cocaine exposure and infection. These include sets of genes which exhibited dampened response to cocaine in infected mice, suggesting a possible mechanism for some observed behaviors and a neuroprotective effect that may be advantageous to parasite persistence. This model offers a powerful new approach to dissect the molecular pathways by which T. gondii infection contributes to neurocognitive disorders.
Synthesis and preclinical application of a Prussian blue-based dual fluorescent and magnetic contrast agent (CA)
Authors: Hegedűs Nikolett , Forgách László , Kiss Bálint , Varga Zoltán , Jezsó Bálint , Horváth Ildikó , Kovács Noémi , Hajdrik Polett , Padmanabhan Parasuraman , Gulyás Balázs , Szigeti Krisztián , Máthé Domokos
Published: July 2022

The aim of this study was to develop and characterize a Prussian Blue based biocompatible and chemically stable T1 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent with near infrared (NIR) optical contrast for preclinical application. The physical properties of the Prussian blue nanoparticles (PBNPs) (iron (II); iron (III);octadecacyanide) were characterized with dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential measurement, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In vitro contrast enhancement properties of PBNPs were determined by MRI. In vivo T1-weighted contrast of the prepared PBNPs was investigated by MRI and optical imaging modality after intravenous administration into NMRI-Foxn1 nu/nu mice. The biodistribution studies showed the presence of PBNPs predominantly in the cardiovascular system. Briefly, in this paper we show a novel approach for the synthesis of PBNPs with enhanced iron content for T1 MRI contrast. This newly synthetized PBNP platform could lead to a new diagnostic agent, replacing the currently used Gadolinium based substances.
School and community drivers of child diets in two Arab cities: The SCALE protocol and innovative tools to assess children’s food environments
Authors: Ghattas Hala , Jamaluddine Zeina , Semaan Aline , El-Helou Nehmat , Safadi Gloria , Elghossain Tatiana , Akl Christelle , Elbassuoni Shady , Chalak Ali , El Ati Jalila ,   the SCALE Research Group
Published: July 2022

Background

In the context of the rapid nutrition transition experienced by middle-income countries of the Arab region, children and adolescent’s food choices and dietary behaviors are early risk factors for the development of non-communicable diseases. Assessment of factors influencing food choices among this age group is challenging and is usually based on self-reported data, which are prone to information and recall bias. As the popularity of technologies and video gaming platforms increases, opportunities arise to use these tools to collect data on variables that affect food choice, dietary intake, and associated outcomes. This protocol paper describes the SCALE study (School and community drivers of child diets in Arab cities; identifying levers for intervention) which aims to explore the environments at the level of households, schools and communities in which children’s food choices are made and consequently identify barriers and enablers to healthy food choices within these environments.

Methods

Field studies are being conducted in primary schools, among children aged 9–12 years, in Greater Beirut, Lebanon and Greater Tunis, Tunisia. A stratified random sample of 50 primary schools (public and private) are selected and 50 children are randomly selected from grades 4-5-6 in each school. The study includes surveys with children, parents/caregivers, school directors, teachers, and nutrition/health educators to assess individual diets and the contextual factors that influence children’s food choices. Innovative locally adapted tools and methods such as game-based choice experiments, wearable cameras and neighborhood mapping are used to describe the environments in which children’s food choices are made.

Discussion

The SCALE study will generate contextual knowledge on factors in school and neighborhood environments that influence child dietary behaviors and will inform multi-level interventions and policies to address childhood malnutrition (under-and over-nutrition). By integrating methods from various disciplines, including economics, data science, nutrition, and public health and by considering factors at various levels (home, school, and neighborhood), the study will identify levers for intervention with the potential to improve children’s dietary behaviors. This will help fill existing gaps in research on food systems and consequently guide positive change in Lebanon and Tunisia, with the potential for replicability in other contexts.
Diagnose earlier, live longer? The impact of cervical and breast cancer screening on life span
Authors: Yang Zhenjie , Liu Juan , Wang Qing
Published: July 2022

Cancer has become a leading cause of death and aroused the cancer scare. Breast and cervical cancer are two main health threats for women. In order to reduce mortality through early detection and early treatment, cancer screening has been widely recommended and applied for breast and cervical cancer detection and prevention. However, the benefit of cancer screening has been a controversial issue for the recent decades. The Chinese government has launched a free screening program on breast and cervical cancer for women since 2009. There is lack of strong data and sufficient information, however, to examine the effect of breast and cervical cancer screening. A Difference-in-Difference model estimated by Cox proportional hazard estimation was applied to evaluate the effects of breast and cervical cancer screening using data from Nown County Cancer Registry between the year 2009 and 2013. Based on the case study in a county of central China, this study found that the screening program reduced the risk of death, but found the lion’s share for the benefit has been mainly due to the cervical cancer screening rather breast cancer screening, which may be related to the difference between early detection screening and preventive screening. Our results suggest sufficient funding and better education of related cancer knowledge will be meaningful measures for the prevention and treatment of breast and cervical cancer.
The Zoom solution: Promoting effective cross-ideological communication online
Authors: Binnquist Ashley L. , Dolbier Stephanie Y. , Dieffenbach Macrina C. , Lieberman Matthew D.
Published: July 2022

The rise of ideological polarization in the U.S. over the past few decades has come with an increase in hostility on both sides of the political aisle. Although communication and compromise are hallmarks of a functioning society, research has shown that people overestimate the negative affect they will experience when viewing oppositional media, and it is likely that negative forecasts lead many to avoid cross-ideological communication (CIC) altogether. Additionally, a growing ideological geographic divide and online extremism fueled by social media audiences make engaging in CIC more difficult than ever. Here, we demonstrate that online video-chat platforms (i.e., Zoom) can be used to promote effective CIC among ideologically polarized individuals, as well as to better study CIC in a controlled setting. Participants (n = 122) had a face-to-face CIC over Zoom, either privately or publicly with a silent ingroup audience present. Participant forecasts about the interaction were largely inaccurate, with the actual conversation experience found to be more positive than anticipated. Additionally, the presence of an ingroup audience was associated with increased conflict. In both conditions, participants showed preliminary signs of attitude moderation, felt more favorable toward the outgroup, and felt more informed about the issue after the CIC. These results suggest that face-to-face CIC’s are generally positive and beneficial for polarized individuals, and that greater effects may be achieved through private conversations, as opposed to more public social media-like interactions. Future researchers studying ideological conflict may find success using similar Zoom paradigms to bring together ideologically diverse individuals in controlled lab settings.
Knowledge and determinants of infection prevention and control compliance among nurses in Yendi municipality, Ghana
Authors: Mutaru Abdul-Manaf , Balegha Augustine Ngmenemandel , Kunsu Raymond , Gbeti Collins
Published: July 2022

Background

Knowledge of and compliance to infection prevention and control (IPC) guidelines are crucial to curbing hospital acquired infections (HAIs). Globally, about 7–10% of patients suffer HAIs. However, there is limited evidence on nurses’ knowledge and adherence to IPC guidelines. Therefore, this study assessed the knowledge and determinants of IPC compliance among nurses in Yendi Municipality, Northern Ghana.

Methods

We conducted a quantitative cross-sectional study among 209 nurses of the Yendi Municipal hospital, using an adapted questionnaire. We collected and analysed data using SPSS version 26. Socio-demographics, knowledge level and compliance to IPC guidelines were assessed using descriptive statistics. The minimum scores for knowledge and compliance were 0 each with maximum scores being 10 and 8 respectively. Using binary multivariate logistic regression, the determinants of IPC compliance were analysed and odds ratios reported at 95% confidence intervals.

Results

The nurses had high mean and standard deviation scores for knowledge (7.26 ± 1.4) and compliance to IPC guidelines (5.41 ± 1.5). Females (aOR: 0.33; 95%CI: 0.17–0.64; p = 0.001) were significantly less likely to comply to IPC guidelines. Nurses working in Maternity/Labour wards (aOR: 8.31; 95%CI: 2.46–28.15; p = 0.001) and Outpatient Department (OPD)/Psychiatry (aOR: 5.00; 95%CI: 1.42–17.62; p = 0.012) were associated with higher odds of complying to IPC guidelines. Availability of IPC guidelines (aOR: 3.48; 95%CI: 1.13–10.72; p = 0.030) in a working department influenced compliance to IPC measures.

Conclusion

The study revealed high knowledge and high compliance regarding IPC among nurses in the Yendi Municipal Hospital. A person’s working department and the availability of IPC guidelines were key determinants for high compliance to IPC measures. However, knowledge of IPC did not influence compliance to IPC guidelines. The Municipal and Regional Health directorates, should therefore ensure adequate logistic flow, provision of IPC guidelines and proper supervision to ensure maximum compliance with IPC guidelines, particularly among paediatric, medical and surgical wards nurses as well as degree holding nurses.
A proposal of a new automated method for SfM/MVS 3D reconstruction through comparisons of 3D data by SfM/MVS and handheld laser scanners
Authors: Kaneda Akihiro , Nakagawa Tomomi , Tamura Kohei , Noshita Koji , Nakao Hisashi
Published: July 2022

SfM/MVS photogrammetry has received increasing attention due to its convenience, broadening the range of its applications into archaeology and anthropology. Because the accuracy of SfM/MVS depends on photography, one important issue is that incorrect or low-density point clouds are found in 3D models due to poor overlapping between images. A systematic way of taking photographs solve these problems, though it has not been well established and the accuracy has not been examined either, with some exceptions. The present study aims to (i) develop an efficient method for recording pottery using an automated turntable and (ii) assess its accuracy through a comparison with 3D models made by laser scanning. We recorded relatively simple pottery manufactured by prehistoric farmers in the Japanese archipelago using SfM/MVS photogrammetry and laser scanning. Further, by measuring the Hausdorff distance between 3D models made using these two methods, we show that their difference is negligibly small, suggesting that our method is sufficiently accurate to record pottery.
Pregnancy outcomes after SARS-CoV-2 infection by trimester: A large, population-based cohort study
Authors: Fallach Noga , Segal Yaakov , Agassy Jeny , Perez Galit , Peretz Asaf , Chodick Gabriel , Gazit Sivan , Patalon Tal , Ben Tov Amir , Goldshtein Inbal
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Data regarding women infected with SARS-CoV-2 during early trimesters are scarce. We aimed to assess preterm birth (PTB) and small-for-gestational-age (SGA) rates in a large and unselected cohort by trimester at infection and overall.

Design

A retrospective cohort study including all women with a positive SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR test during a non-ectopic singleton pregnancy between February 21st 2020 and July 2nd 2021 (N = 2753). Each infected woman was matched to a non-infected pregnant woman by age, last menstruation date, sector, and socioeconomic status.

Methods

Logistic regression was conducted to assess the risks of PTB and SGA including an interaction between group and trimester of infection. Multivariable models included underlying diseases, previous abortions and null parity. Subgroup analyses were conducted on symptomatic infected women and matched non-infected women.

Results

A total of 2753 /2789 (98.7%) eligible women that were infected during pregnancy could be matched, among them, 17.4% and 48.4% were infected during the first and third trimesters, respectively. While first and second trimester infections were not associated with PTB (p>0.8), third trimester infections and in particular after 34 weeks of gestation had a greater risk of PTB with adjusted ORs of 2.76 (95% CI 1.63–4.67) and 7.10 (95% CI 2.44–20.61), respectively. PTB risk was further heightened in symptomatic third trimester infections (OR = 4.28, 95% CI 1.94–9.25). SGA risk was comparable between study groups across all trimesters of infection. Pregnancy loss incidence was similar in both groups (adjusted OR = 1.16; 95% CI 0.90–1.50).

Conclusion

SARS-CoV-2 infection was associated with increased risk of PTB only among women infected during late pregnancy, particularly among symptomatic women.
Genetic diversity and population structure of pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan [L.] Millspaugh) landraces grown in Benin revealed by Genotyping-By-Sequencing
Authors: Kinhoégbè Géofroy , Djèdatin Gustave , Saxena Rachit Kumar , Chitikineni Anu , Bajaj Prasad , Molla Johiruddin , Agbangla Clément , Dansi Alexandre , Varshney Rajeev Kumar
Published: July 2022

Genetic diversity studies provide important details on target trait availability and its variability, for the success of breeding programs. In this study, GBS approach was used to reveal a new structuration of genetic diversity and population structure of pigeonpea in Benin. We used a total of 688 high-quality Single Nucleotide Polymorphism markers for a total of 44 pigeonpea genotypes. The distribution of SNP markers on the 11 chromosomes ranged from 14 on chromosome 5 to 133 on chromosome 2. The Polymorphism Information Content and gene diversity values were 0.30 and 0.34 respectively. The analysis of population structure revealed four clear subpopulations. The Weighted Neighbor Joining tree agreed with structure analyses by grouping the 44 genotypes into four clusters. The PCoA revealed that genotypes from subpopulations 1, 2 and 3 intermixed among themselves. The Analysis of Molecular Variance showed 7% of the total variation among genotypes while the rest of variation (93%) was within genotypes from subpopulations indicating a high gene exchange (Nm = 7.13) and low genetic differentiation (PhiPT = 0.07) between subpopulations. Subpopulation 2 presented the highest mean values of number of different alleles (Na = 1.57), number of loci with private alleles (Pa = 0.11) and the percentage of polymorphic loci (P = 57.12%). We discuss our findings and demonstrate how the genetic diversity and the population structure of this specie can be used through the Genome Wide Association Studies and Marker-Assisted Selection to enhance genetic gain in pigeonpea breeding programs in Benin.
The public’s attitude to and acceptance of periodic doses of the COVID-19 vaccine: A survey from Jordan
Authors: Abuhammad Sawsan , Khabour Omar F. , Alzoubi Karem H. , Hamaideh Shaher , Alzoubi Baker A. , Telfah Waed S. , El-zubi Farah K.
Published: July 2022

Aims

This study surveyed people regarding their acceptance of periodic doses (i.e., annual boosters) of the COVID-19 vaccine. Moreover, factors that correlate with attitudes toward periodic COVID-19 vaccines were assessed and identified.

Method

The study employed a cross-sectional methodology. The study questionnaire was distributed using Google Forms. Data were collected during the last quarter of 2021, and 1,416 adults (18 years old and over) from Jordan responded. Acceptance of COVID-19 periodic vaccine doses was calculated as a percentage of the total number of study participants, and their attitudes were scored. A multiple regression model was used to determine the predictors of public attitudes toward the annual dose of COVID-19 vaccines.

Results

The acceptance rate for receiving periodic doses of the COVID-19 vaccine was low (19.3%). Additionally, 26% of participants were unsure about receiving additional doses of the vaccine. However, 54.7% had a negative attitude toward getting periodic doses. The mean score for attitudes toward periodic doses was 47.9 (range: 29–66). Among the identified factors leading to decisions not to receive periodic doses were side effects (49.1%), waiting for further clinical studies (38.8%), and perceived no risk of contracting COVID-19 (17.7%). Regression analysis showed that income, educational attainment, and following the news about COVID-19 were predictors of participants’ attitudes toward the periodic COVID-19 vaccine.

Conclusion

Acceptance of periodic doses of the COVID-19 vaccine in Jordan is low, and the public’s attitude is generally negative. Health programs and educational interventions are needed to promote vaccine acceptance and positive attitudes.
Interaction effect: Are you doing the right thing?
Authors: Garofalo Sara , Giovagnoli Sara , Orsoni Matteo , Starita Francesca , Benassi Mariagrazia
Published: July 2022

How to correctly interpret interaction effects has been largely discussed in scientific literature. Nevertheless, misinterpretations are still frequently observed, and neuroscience is not exempt from this trend. We reviewed 645 papers published from 2019 to 2020 and found that, in the 93.2% of studies reporting a statistically significant interaction effect (N = 221), post-hoc pairwise comparisons were the designated method adopted to interpret its results. Given the widespread use of this approach, we aim to: (1) highlight its limitations and how it can lead to misinterpretations of the interaction effect; (2) discuss more effective and powerful ways to correctly interpret interaction effects, including both explorative and model selection procedures. The paper provides practical examples and freely accessible online materials to reproduce all analyses.
Association between life events and later depression in the population-based Heinz Nixdorf Recall study—The role of sex and optimism
Authors: Gronewold Janine , Duman Ela-Emsal , Engel Miriam , Engels Miriam , Siegrist Johannes , Erbel Raimund , Jöckel K-H. , Hermann Dirk M.
Published: July 2022

Background

The association between life event stress and depressive symptoms has not been analyzed in the general population before.

Methods

In the population-based Heinz Nixdorf Recall study, we assessed the association of 1.) the presence of important life events and 2.) life event stress, with the amount of depressive symptoms in univariable linear regressions and in multivariable regressions adjusted for age and sex (model 1) and age, sex and optimism as important determinants of coping with life events (model 2). Presence of life events and life event stress were assessed with the Social Readjustment Rating Scale (SRRS), optimism with the Life Orientation Test-Revised (LOT-R), and depressive symptoms with the 15-item Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D).

Results

Of the total cohort of 4,814 participants, 1,120 had experienced important life events during the previous 6 months. Presence of important life events was significantly associated with higher CES-D scores (B = 2.6, 95%CI = 2.2 to 3.0, p < .001; model 2) compared to absence of life events. Associations were stronger for women than for men and for pessimists than for optimists. Among the participants with important life events, median (Q1; Q3) stress-score was 45.0 (39.0; 63.0). Stress-scores >Q3 were significantly associated with higher CES-D scores (2.2, 1.1 to 3.3, < .001) with a stronger association in pessimists than in optimists.

Conclusions

Experiencing life-changing events is associated with depression. Women and individuals with pessimistic personality are especially vulnerable which should be considered in prevention strategies.
Bent pinkies: Quantifying fifth finger clinodactyly in a sample of U.S. adults
Authors: Lee Myoung Keun , Dahl Zelda T. , Anderton Joel , Maurer Jennifer L. , Marazita Mary L. , Shaffer John R. , Weinberg Seth M.
Published: July 2022

Mild curvature of the fifth finger (or clinodactyly) is a relatively common trait. While severe forms can cause functional impairment and are a feature of certain congenital syndromes, mild clinodactyly is considered a minor morphological variant. Despite exhibiting continuous variation, clinodactyly is rarely treated as a quantitative trait. Consequently, the degree of fifth finger curvature in the general population and the factors that impact this curvature are not well understood. In the present study, we measured fifth finger curvature in a sample of 1,295 U.S. adults and investigated the role of sex, age and body size. We found that clinodactyly exhibited a non-normal distribution. All participants displayed some degree of curvature, but it tended to be slight with an overall mean of 3.68 degrees (median: 3.58 degrees). In only 0.8% of cases did the curvature exceed the nominal 10-degree threshold for clinically meaningful clinodactyly. We did not find statically significant sex differences. Further, there was no meaningful relationship with height and only a weak positive relationship with age. We found that clinodactyly showed asymmetry; the curvature was greater on the left than on the right fifth finger (p < 2.2e-16), but this was not influenced by sex, age, or height. These results suggest the possibility that the kind of ubiquitous mild clinodactyly observed in the general population may be etiologically distinct from more rare and severe forms of the condition.
Curatorial reflections in North American university fashion collections: Challenging the canon
Authors: Green Denise Nicole , Reddy-Best Kelly L.
Published: July 2022

Once-embodied garments take on new life through curation, where they have the potential to reveal histories, pose questions, inspire creativity, and challenge oppressive systems by bringing attention to inequalities and injustices through the lens of fashion. While the garment does this work materially, it is the curator and their team who conceptualize an exhibition, conduct in-depth research, design the display and author interpretive text, all of which empowers artefacts to convey a narrative. However, the very ‘elevation’ of fashion within major museums has been tethered to an ideological fabrication of fashion as a Euromodern phenomenon, which has created, produced, performed and sensationalized an exclusionary narrative of fashion history. At the same time, this narrative is being challenged through curation, especially in smaller institutions like community archives, tribal museums and university fashion collections. The contributors to this Special Issue reflect on the latter within the context of the United States. They write about the challenges of producing curated displays while offering insights into, and evidence of, the possibilities that curatorial practice offers institutions of higher education and the communities they serve. University collections in the United States create a space of learning that offers possibility for rethinking, reimagining and critiquing fashion. Education is the premise of the university collection and therefore world-building becomes possible through curation. While the university fashion collection is not without colonial baggage, corporate and industry connections, ideological interests and neo-liberal pressures, it is ideally a space premised on scholarly pursuit. This Special Issue grapples with the complexities of curating fashion in North American universities, and the potential of this work to agitate, challenge and resist dominant narratives.
An exhibition: One American Family: A Tale of North and South
Authors: Welters Linda , Kelly Rebecca , Jerome Susan J.
Published: July 2022

The exhibition One American Family: A Tale of North and South was the culmination of a multi-year project that began with a graduate student’s examination of three quilt tops that once belonged to a family that had donated over 500 objects to the University of Rhode Island’s Historic Textile and Costume Collection. This family, which had deep roots in New England, became intertwined through marriage with a family from Charleston, South Carolina. The student, Rachel May, a doctoral candidate in English, became so enamoured of the quilt tops, two related swatch books and the story behind the artefacts that she continued her research for several years, finally publishing a book in 2018 titled An American Quilt: Unfolding a Story of Family and Slavery. The book is based on documentary research, but imagines the lives of the quiltmaker, her family and the enslaved people she came to own during the antebellum period. To commemorate the publication of the book, the university sponsored an exhibition and several educational events. A graduate-level class ‘Exhibition and storage of historic textiles’ tackled the problem of how to separate the documentary evidence from the book’s fictionalized narrative, and to visualize that evidence using the artefacts in the Historic Textile and Costume Collection.
The fashion and textiles collection matrix: A proposed self-assessment tool
Authors: Marcketti Sara B. , Gordon Jennifer Farley
Published: July 2022

University fashion and textiles collections add value and opportunities for teaching, research and community outreach. Collections within the United States are housed within private and public, large and small colleges and universities, with foci reflecting the greater institutional and departmental mission, history and geographic setting. Professionals often wear multiple hats within their collection and serve in additional roles in the larger units they represent. This conceptual article aims to present a fashion and textiles collection matrix (FTCM) as a means of self-study, particularly in areas where collection professionals are typically not trained. It is a tool for self-assessment within the domains of organizational structure, resource allocation and outreach and impact. Using the FTCM, faculty, staff and administrators can identify areas within their structure that they are optimal, proficient or under development, in order to celebrate accomplishments and recognize growth opportunities. We present a sample FCTM, highlighting how collection personnel might take the next steps to prioritize goals and create action steps appropriate for their local context.
Editorial
Authors: Prior Ross W.
Published: July 2022

The editorial briefly discusses the Russian invasion of the Ukraine and the need for art-based disaster relief for those most affected. With reference to a previous Special Issue of the Journal of Applied Arts & Health (JAAH 9:2), the role of art, no matter the form, is discussed as an active agent of learning, resilience and of healing. Art-based psychosocial work aims to support individuals, families and groups affected by crisis, provide psychosocial well-being and prevent mental health crisis in times of trauma. Further the importance of self-care for those working in this field is highlighted. The editorial introduces the current journal issue’s content which covers a range of research projects.