bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Class of nonlinear filtering and windowing methods for image processing and reconstruction
Authors: Soldati Tatiana , Thakur Sarvesh A. , de Boer Johannes F. , Hillmann Dierck
Published: November 2024

Linear digital filters are at the core of image reconstruction and processing for many coherent optical imaging techniques, such as digital holography (DH) or optical coherence tomography (OCT). They can also be efficiently implemented using fast Fourier transform (FFT) with appropriate transfer/filter functions that operate in the frequency domain. However, even with optimal filter design, they suffer from side effects such as sidelobe generation or resolution limitations, e.g., when using windowing for apodization. Here, we propose a novel, to the best of our knowledge, nonlinear (NL) filter and apply it to coherent (complex-valued) data. The NL filter preserves correct phase information, reduces sidelobes, and can be implemented indirectly by linear filters, making it almost as performant as linear filters. We demonstrate the usefulness of these filters in OCT data processing, showing the separation of background from signal, and an alternative to classical windowing that retains the full width at half maximum (FWHM) resolution of a rectangular window function, but with sidelobe suppression comparable to other window functions. Contrary to many alternatives, it even performs well in proximity to scattering structures that are subject to speckle noise. Because of its simplicity and advantages, we expect to see widespread applications of the technique beyond the demonstrated applications.
Heuristic absorption calculation in bilayered media from a white Monte Carlo dataset
Authors: Amendola Caterina , Maffeis Giulia , Negretti Fabio , Farina Andrea , Martelli Fabrizio , Spinelli Lorenzo
Published: November 2024

Monte Carlo (MC) simulations can adequately describe photon migration in layered media; however, storing and querying the resulting dataset may be computationally prohibitive when detailed path data are needed for each photon trajectory. A heuristic approach that significantly reduces the stored information to the average path length traveled by the photons detected in each layer is proposed. Its accuracy is evaluated by comparing it with the exact time point spread function (TPSF) for a bilayered medium. This method, almost exact for small variations in absorption, is potentially useful to provide a small dataset for lookup tables to be used in inverse problems.
Sliding-tunable terahertz beam meta-deflector based on a 3D-printed bilayer
Authors: Wu Xudong , Xiong Chenjie , Huang Jianzhou , Liu Weiguang , Zhang Jia , Hu Bin
Published: November 2024

To cope with the rapid preparation and tunable function of terahertz (THz) devices, a kind of THz beam meta-deflector (BMD) based on a bilayer metasurface doublet is proposed to implement tunable beam deflection with additional functions. By superimposing functional phases on one of the layers and sliding the other layer, the BMDs can achieve continuously beam deflection with beam splitting or beam focusing. It is possible to quickly switch between different functions by replacing the functional phase. As a demonstration, two devices are designed and fabricated by 3D printing, including a splitting BMD (s-BMD) and a focusing BMD (f-BMD). The experimental results show that the designed metasurfaces can achieve a deflection of ±26.96° while achieving a splitting angle of 38.94°–44.11° for the s-BMD and a focus deflection of ±30.76° for the f-BMD. The BMD is expected to be applied as a multifunctional and tunable device in THz communication and imaging.
Mode-resolved optical frequency comb fixed point localization via dual-comb interferometry
Authors: Herman Daniel I. , Walsh Mathieu , Genest Jérôme
Published: November 2024

We describe improved methods for locating the fixed point of an optical frequency comb. Two continuous-wave lasers are locked to a reference frequency comb and track the optical phase of a second comb-under-test (CUT) at two points separated by approximately 1.6 THz. Carrier-envelope and optical phase tracking (OPT) yields a precise fixed point measurement across a range of pump modulation frequencies (400 Hz–250 kHz). Sub-nanometer shifts of the fixed point are observed. The fixed point is also determined with high precision using dual-comb interferometry (DCI), and the value closely matches the calculation from the dual-point tracking method.
Phase-coded coherent microwave pulse generation based on an actively mode-locked optoelectronic parametric oscillator
Authors: Xiao Hang , Peng Di , Han Ya , Huang Quandong , Qiu Shuoyang , Li Jianping , Xiang Meng , Fu Songnian , Qin Yuwen
Published: November 2024

An approach for generating phase-coded coherent microwave pulse trains at high frequencies is proposed and demonstrated based on an actively mode-locked optoelectronic parametric oscillator (AML-OEPO), where an electrical mixer is inserted into the cavity of an optoelectronic oscillator (OEO) to achieve both mode locking and parameter oscillation. The driving signal applied to the mixer is a low-frequency sinusoidal signal with voltage polarity coding, where the frequency is the same as the free spectral range (FSR) of the OEO cavity, and the duration of each voltage polarity coding bit is identical to the loop delay. As a result, phase-coded coherent microwave pulse trains can be generated, where the pulse interval is equal to the loop delay due to the active mode locking effect, and the phase coding period is equal to a multiple integer of the loop delay due to parameter oscillation. The enhancement of the signal period and the highly coherent characteristic are beneficial for breaking the contradiction between unambiguous detection range and ranging resolution in pulse radars. In the experiment, phase-coded microwave pulse trains with either 13-bit barker codes or 7-bit M codes are generated at 15.026 GHz. The autocorrelation calculation result of the phase-coded microwave pulse train with 13-bit barker codes shows a high peak-to-sidelobe ratio, verifying high coherence.
Unlocking the intermediate-phase evolution in perovskite crystallization with an operando infrared FEWS sensor
Authors: Liao Mingquan , Zhao Yongkun , Xu Yinsheng , Dong Guoping , Zhang Xianghua , Niu Guangda , Xia Mengling
Published: November 2024

The intermediate phase produced by the complexation of metal ions and solvent molecules usually occurs in the crystallization process of perovskite single crystal or film. Effective in situ monitoring of intermediate-phase evolution is beneficial to the control of crystal quality. However, it is difficult to realize. In this work, infrared fiber evanescent wave spectroscopy (FEWS) was raised to monitor the intermediate-phase evolution in real time and non-destructively using GeAsSeTe chalcogenide optical fibers. The vibrational and rotational dynamics of specific molecular functional groups was operando captured, reflecting a perovskite precursor of different states. Taking BM2PbBr4 (BM = benzimidazole) perovskite as an example, the shift of the stretching vibration of –C=O groups in DMF (N,N-dimethylformamide) toward low wavenumbers and then recovered toward original position probed the complexion of Pb2+ and carbonyl groups into (DMF)2BMPbBr3 intermediate phase and then decomplexing to precipitate BM2PbBr4 perovskite crystal. Some anomalous emergence of new vibrational bands associating with –C–N and –N–H bonds suggest the variation of DMF–BMBr hydrogen bonds during intermediate-phase evolution. This technique provides new, to the best of our knowledge, insights into the control of perovskite crystallization processes and pushes the development of high-quality perovskite materials for high-performance photovoltaic or optoelectronic devices.
Curvature-assisted high harmonic generation in strongly-driven superconductors
Authors: Niedzielski Björn , Berakdar Jamal
Published: November 2024

The dynamic of the order parameter in superconductors (SCs) under strong driving is inherently nonlinear, but utilization for nonlinear optics and high harmonic generation (HHG) is hindered by the weak coupling of SCs to transverse homogeneous driving fields. When the superconducting coherence length is large enough to allow for curvature modulations without breaking the superconducting phase, the coupling of the order parameter to the driving-field vector potential changes. Here, we show that with the help of full numerical simulations, mesoscopic curvatures or bending of strongly driven type-II SC structures result in highly nonlinear THz superconducting currents, which lead to far-field HHG extending up to the tens harmonics. It is shown that even and odd harmonics can be controllably emitted by a transport current. The driving mechanism is a nonlinear steering of supercurrent by geometric and finite-size effects. At the same time, the SC state remains fully coherent over the whole sample and within the driving time. The phase matching of the emitted harmonics is discussed.
A Theoretical Approach for Diagnosing Keratoconus Using Purkinje Image Geometry: An Accessible Method for Low-Cost and Early Detection
Authors: Sharifzadeh Mohsen
Published: November 2024

Abstract:
Purpose:
To develop and evaluate a theoretical method for diagnosing keratoconus by analyzing the geometric properties of Purkinje images, with a focus on the displacement and distortion of the first Purkinje image (P1).
Methods:
Purkinje images are captured using near-infrared LEDs integrated into attachments for existing fundus cameras or stand-alone devices. Image processing techniques are employed to measure P1 displacement and distortion. A composite scoring system quantifies keratoconus severity, and data augmentation simulates diverse corneal shapes for robust diagnostic comparisons.
Results:
Simulated analysis demonstrated that the method effectively differentiates between healthy and keratoconic corneas by assessing key metrics such as Euclidean distance, eccentricity, area, and perimeter of P1. The scoring system consistently reflected keratoconus severity, with higher scores indicating greater deviation from normal corneal profiles.
Conclusions:
This study presents a promising, low-cost approach to diagnosing keratoconus using Purkinje image analysis. The method's adaptability and potential for early detection make it particularly suitable for low-resource settings.
Translational Relevance:
This method bridges the gap between basic research and clinical care by providing an affordable and accessible diagnostic tool for early keratoconus detection, especially in underserved regions.
Coral larvae increase nitrogen assimilation to stabilize algal symbiosis and combat bleaching under increased temperature
Authors: Huffmyer Ariana S. , Ashey Jill , Strand Emma , Chiles Eric N. , Su Xiaoyang , Putnam Hollie M.
Published: November 2024

Rising sea surface temperatures are increasingly causing breakdown in the nutritional relationship between corals and algal endosymbionts (Symbiodiniaceae), threatening the basis of coral reef ecosystems and highlighting the critical role of coral reproduction in reef maintenance. The effects of thermal stress on metabolic exchange (i.e., transfer of fixed carbon photosynthates from symbiont to host) during sensitive early life stages, however, remains understudied. We exposed symbiotic Montipora capitata coral larvae in Hawaiʻi to high temperature (+2.5°C for 3 days), assessed rates of photosynthesis and respiration, and used stable isotope tracing (4 mM 13C sodium bicarbonate; 4.5 h) to quantify metabolite exchange. While larvae did not show any signs of bleaching and did not experience declines in survival and settlement, metabolic depression was significant under high temperature, indicated by a 19% reduction in respiration rates, but with no change in photosynthesis. Larvae exposed to high temperature showed evidence for maintained translocation of a major photosynthate, glucose, from the symbiont, but there was reduced metabolism of glucose through central carbon metabolism (i.e., glycolysis). The larval host invested in nitrogen cycling by increasing ammonium assimilation, urea metabolism, and sequestration of nitrogen into dipeptides, a mechanism that may support the maintenance of glucose translocation under thermal stress. Host nitrogen assimilation via dipeptide synthesis appears to be used for nitrogen limitation to the Symbiodiniaceae, and we hypothesize that nitrogen limitation contributes to retention of fixed carbon by favoring photosynthate translocation to the host. Collectively, our findings indicate that although these larvae are susceptible to metabolic stress under high temperature, diverting energy to nitrogen assimilation to maintain symbiont population density, photosynthesis, and carbon translocation may allow larvae to avoid bleaching and highlights potential life stage specific metabolic responses to stress.
Evolutionarily conserved brainstem architecture enables gravity-guided vertical navigation
Authors: Zhu Yunlu , Gelnaw Hannah , Auer Franziska , Hamling Kyla R. , Ehrlich David E. , Schoppik David
Published: November 2024

The sensation of gravity anchors our perception of the environment and is important for navigation. However, the neural circuits that transform gravity into commands for navigation are undefined. We first determined that larval zebrafish (Danio rerio) navigate vertically by maintaining a consistent heading across a series of upward climb or downward dive bouts. Gravity-blind mutant fish swim with more variable heading and excessive veering, leading to less effective vertical navigation. After targeted photoablation of ascending vestibular neurons and spinal projecting midbrain neurons, but not vestibulospinal neurons, vertical navigation was impaired. These data define a sensorimotor circuit that uses evolutionarily conserved brainstem architecture to transform gravitational signals into persistent heading for vertical navigation. The work lays a foundation to understand how vestibular inputs allow animals to move effectively through their environment.
Deep mutational scanning of H5 hemagglutinin to inform influenza virus surveillance
Authors: Dadonaite Bernadeta , Ahn Jenny J. , Ort Jordan T. , Yu Jin , Furey Colleen , Dosey Annie , Hannon William W. , Vincent Baker Amy L. , Webby Richard J. , King Neil P. , Liu Yan , Hensley Scott E. , Peacock Thomas P. , Moncla Louise H. , Bloom Jesse D.
Published: November 2024

H5 influenza is considered a potential pandemic threat. Recently, H5 viruses belonging to clade 2.3.4.4b have caused large outbreaks in avian and multiple nonhuman mammalian species. Previous studies have identified molecular phenotypes of the viral hemagglutinin (HA) protein that contribute to pandemic potential in humans, including cell entry, receptor preference, HA stability, and reduced neutralization by polyclonal sera. However, prior experimental work has only measured how these phenotypes are affected by a handful of the >10,000 different possible amino-acid mutations to HA. Here, we use pseudovirus deep mutational scanning to measure how all mutations to a 2.3.4.4b H5 HA affect each phenotype. We identify mutations that allow HA to better bind α2-6-linked sialic acids and show that some viruses already carry mutations that stabilize HA. We also measure how all HA mutations affect neutralization by sera from mice and ferrets vaccinated against or infected with 2.3.4.4b H5 viruses. These antigenic maps enable rapid assessment of when new viral strains have acquired mutations that may create mismatches with candidate vaccine virus, and we show that a mutation present in some recent H5 HAs causes a large antigenic change. Overall, the systematic nature of deep mutational scanning combined with the safety of pseudoviruses enables comprehensive measurements of the phenotypic effects of mutations that can inform real-time interpretation of viral variation observed during surveillance of H5 influenza.
An electrodiffusive network model with multicompartmental neurons and synaptic connections
Authors: Sætra Marte J. , Mori Yoichiro
Published: November 2024

Most computational models of neurons assume constant ion concentrations, disregarding the effects of changing ion concentrations on neuronal activity. Among the models that do incorporate ion concentration dynamics, simplifications are often made that sacrifice biophysical consistency, such as neglecting the effects of ionic diffusion on electrical potentials or the effects of electric drift on ion concentrations. A subset of models with ion concentration dynamics, often referred to as electrodiffusive models, account for ion concentration dynamics in a way that ensures a biophysical consistent relationship between ion concentrations, electric charge, and electrical potentials. These models include compartmental single-cell models, geometrically explicit models, and domain-type models, but none that model neuronal network dynamics. To address this gap, we present an electrodiffusive network model with multicompartmental neurons and synaptic connections, which we believe is the first compartmentalized network model to account for intra- and extracellular ion concentration dynamics in a biophysically consistent way. The model comprises an arbitrary number of “units,” each divided into three domains representing a neuron, glia, and extracellular space. Each domain is further subdivided into a somatic and dendritic layer. Unlike conventional models which focus primarily on neuronal spiking patterns, our model predicts intra- and extracellular ion concentrations (Na+, K+, Cl−, and Ca2+), electrical potentials, and volume fractions. A unique feature of the model is that it captures ephaptic effects, both electric and ionic. In this paper, we show how this leads to interesting behavior in the network. First, we demonstrate how changing ion concentrations can affect the synaptic strengths. Then, we show how ionic ephaptic coupling can lead to spontaneous firing in neurons that do not receive any synaptic or external input. Lastly, we explore the effects of having glia in the network and demonstrate how a strongly coupled glial syncytium can prevent neuronal depolarization blocks.
Approximate planning in spatial search
Authors: Kryven Marta , Yu Suhyoun , Kleiman-Weiner Max , Ullman Tomer , Tenenbaum Joshua
Published: November 2024

How people plan is an active area of research in cognitive science, neuroscience, and artificial intelligence. However, tasks traditionally used to study planning in the laboratory tend to be constrained to artificial environments, such as Chess and bandit problems. To date there is still no agreed-on model of how people plan in realistic contexts, such as navigation and search, where values intuitively derive from interactions between perception and cognition. To address this gap and move towards a more naturalistic study of planning, we present a novel spatial Maze Search Task (MST) where the costs and rewards are physically situated as distances and locations. We used this task in two behavioral experiments to evaluate and contrast multiple distinct computational models of planning, including optimal expected utility planning, several one-step heuristics inspired by studies of information search, and a family of planners that deviate from optimal planning, in which action values are estimated by the interactions between perception and cognition. We found that people’s deviations from optimal expected utility are best explained by planners with a limited horizon, however our results do not exclude the possibility that in human planning action values may be also affected by cognitive mechanisms of numerosity and probability perception. This result makes a novel theoretical contribution in showing that limited planning horizon generalizes to spatial planning, and demonstrates the value of our multi-model approach for understanding cognition.
Comparison of the protein composition of isolated extracellular vesicles from mouse brain and dissociated brain cell culture medium
Authors: Xu Zan , Foster Joshua Brian , Lashley Rashelle , Wang Xueqin , Muhleman Albert John , Masters Christopher Eli , Lin Chien-liang Glenn
Published: November 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a crucial role in intercellular communication. Characterizing EV protein composition is essential to understand EV function(s). Isolating EVs from cell culture medium is a common approach to study EVs, but it remains unclear whether EVs isolated from in vitro conditions accurately reflect physiological conditions of the same source in vivo tissues. Here, we analyzed the protein composition of EVs isolated from freshly dissected mouse forebrain and primary dissociated mouse forebrain culture medium. In total, 3,204 and 3,583 proteins were identified in EVs isolated in vivo and in vitro, respectively. Among the proteins identified from both EV sources, there was substantial overlap (~86%). While the overall proteome compositions were very similar, in vitro EVs were relatively enriched with transmembrane/GPI-anchored membrane and cytosolic proteins (MISEV2023 category 1 and 2) typically associated with EVs. Conversely, while both in vivo and in vitro EVs express likely non-EV proteins (MISEV2023 category 3), the in vivo samples were significantly more enriched with these probable contaminants, specifically ribosomal proteins. Our findings highlight that in vitro EVs may be representative of in vivo EVs when isolated from the same source tissue using similar methodology; however, each population of EVs have differences in both total and, primarily, relative protein expression likely due to differing levels of co-eluting contaminants. Therefore, these points must be considered when interpreting results of EV studies further suggesting that improved methods of isolation to reduce non-EV contaminants should be further investigated.
Ecological cooperative merging control of heterogeneous electric vehicle platoons
Authors: Luo Tian , Liu Xiaobin
Published: November 2024

Vehicle platooning improves energy savings via vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication. Ecological cooperative adaptive cruise control (Eco-CACC) is implemented in platoons for merging task by using regrouped platoon models. The merging positions are selected in the middle and tail of an original platoon with a two-vehicle sub-platoon. The distributed nonlinear model predictive controller based on signal temporal logic (DNMPC-STL) approach is developed to model the Eco-CACC merging strategy. The performance of the Eco-CACC merging strategy is modeled by objective control for a predecessor-leader following (PLF) topology. The results demonstrate that merging positions located in the tail exhibit superior performance and can be used to improve stability, tracking performance, energy consumption efficiency and SOC of battery.
Changes in weight distribution and trends in obesity among children and adolescents in East Asia: Insights from NCD-RisC data
Authors: Hong Yong Hee , Park Sujin , Shin Minsoo , Chung Sochung , Jung Jahye , Sul Ah-Ram , Lee Yoon
Published: November 2024

Pediatric obesity is a serious global health challenge. In East Asia, rapid socioeconomic changes have increased obesity rates. This study examines weight distribution and obesity trends in East Asian children using WHO criteria. Data from the Non-Communicable Disease Risk Factor Collaboration was used to analyze weight categories (thinness, normal weight, overweight, and obesity) among children aged 5 to 19 in China, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. Data were collected through probabilistic sampling and national surveys and classified using WHO BMI standards. Age standardized prevalence rate enabled cross-country comparisons for boys and girls from 2010 to 2022. Statistical methods included arithmetic statistics, linear regression, and time series analysis using the ARIMA model, with SAS 9.4 and SPSS for analysis. Significant trends were found (p for trend < 0.05). Taiwan and South Korea showed increased thinness, while China and Japan showed decreases. Normal weight prevalence declined, notably among South Korean boys. Overweight and obesity rates rose, especially among South Korean boys and Chinese girls. Japan’s rates remained stable, while Taiwan showed minor fluctuations. Boys had higher overweight and obesity rates than girls in all countries. The highest rates were among children aged 10 to 11 years. East Asia, particularly South Korea and China, has seen rising obesity rates. Increasing thinness in South Korea and Taiwan also requires attention. The decline in healthy-weight children is concerning. Interventions should target children before ages 10 to 11. Urgent, tailored public health interventions are needed.
From time-inconsistency to time-consistency for optimal stopping problems
Authors: Hu Sang , Zhou Zihan
Published: November 2024

For optimal stopping problems with time-inconsistent preference, we measure the inherent level of time-inconsistency by taking the time required to turn the naive strategies into the sophisticated ones. In particular, when in a repeated experiment, the naive agent can observe her actual sequence of actions that is inconsistent with what she has planned at the initial time, and she would then choose her immediate action based on the observations of her later actual behavior. The procedure is repeated until her actual sequence of actions is consistent with her plan at any time. We show that for the preference value of cumulative prospect theory, in which the time-inconsistency is due to the probability distortion, the higher the degree of probability distortion, the more severe the level of time-inconsistency, and the more time required to turn the naive strategies into the sophisticated ones.
Impact of remote social interaction during the COVID-19 pandemic on the cognitive and psychological status of older adults with and without cognitive impairment: A randomized controlled study
Authors: Vives-Rodriguez Ana L. , Marin Anna , Schiloski Kylie A. , Hajos Gabor P. , Di Crosta Adolfo , Ceccato Irene , La Malva Pasquale , Anderson Diana C. , Lahdo Naheer , Donnelly Kaleigh , Dong Jiali , Kasha Sabrina , Rooney Colleen , Dayaw Judith , Marton Gabrielle , Wack Audrey , Hanger Vanessa , DeCaro Renée , Di Domenico Alberto , Turk Katherine W. , Palumbo Rocco , Budson Andrew E.
Published: November 2024

Background

Social isolation and loneliness have both been associated with psychological health and cognitive decline in older adults. This study investigated the impact of social interaction through remote communication technologies during the COVID-19 pandemic on the cognitive and psychological status of older adults with and without cognitive impairment.

Methods

Participants were recruited from Boston (USA) and Chieti (Italy). The study used a randomized single-blinded controlled crossover design with an intervention (remote social conversations with research staff over 20-minute video or telephone calls three times per week) and a passive control condition, each one of 4-weeks duration. The primary outcome was a composite cognitive score change from baseline to week 4. Secondary outcomes included scales for mood, anxiety, and loneliness.

Results

Out of 196 participants recruited from April 2020 to April 2021, 17% dropped out. Based on the blind MoCA, 52% had cognitive impairment, and 25% were at risk of social isolation according to the Lubben social network scale. We observed that larger social networks were linked to better cognitive status and lower depression and anxiety levels, while loneliness was directly associated to depression severity. Older adults with cognitive impairment exhibited higher levels of depression and anxiety and were at greater risk for social isolation. In terms of the intervention, 91% preferred telephone over video calls. The intervention did not lead to improvements in cognitive or psychological scores.

Conclusions

More work is needed to assess the utility of this intervention for the support of a heterogenous cross-cultural sample of older adults at-risk for social isolation, including individuals with cognitive impairment. Future research should explore longer intervention periods, categorize participants by call type, and target those meeting social isolation criteria.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04480112.
Moral character and competence judgments of sexual harassers and fraudsters in academic and business contexts
Authors: Miazek Katarzyna , Bocian Konrad , Myslinska-Szarek Katarzyna
Published: November 2024

Fraud and sexual harassment have been haunting academia for years. While the scientific community proposed strategies to overcome misconduct in research, the problem of sexual harassment seems unresolved. One reason for this might be a difference between men and women in the perception of the moral character and competence of sexual harassers. Across four studies (N = 3776), in the UK and the US, men judged the sexual harasser as less immoral than women (Studies 1, 2, and 3a), even though sexual harassment was considered more harmful than fraud (Study 2). Consequently, men demanded less punishment for sexual harassers than women (Studies 1 and 2). This gender difference was not explained by moral rationalization (Study 3a). Further, a sexual harasser was judged as more competent than a fraudster but in an academic, not business, context (Studies 1 and 2). This effect was driven by the moral decoupling process, which participants used to separate competence judgments from moral judgments (Study 3b). Overall, these results suggest that in the academic context, gender interests most likely shape moral and punishment judgments towards sexual harassers, while the decoupling process allows both genders to perceive them as competent and immoral at the same time.
Enhancing daily oral PrEP adherence with digital communications: Protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Brisson Julien , Castro-Arteaga Mariangela , Apedaile Dorothy , Perez-Brumer Amaya
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) stands as an effective tool in preventing HIV transmission among individuals at risk of HIV infection. However, the effectiveness of daily oral PrEP is contingent on the adherence of its users, which can pose a challenge for many individuals. Various studies have explored different interventions aimed at bolstering PrEP adherence. One recurring type of intervention revolves around digital communication (e.g., SMS, mobile applications) to send reminders for PrEP usage. The objective of our systematic review and meta-analysis is to address the following research question: What is the effectiveness of digital communication interventions in enhancing daily oral PrEP adherence among individuals at a heightened risk of HIV infection? This paper presents our study protocol.

Method and analysis

We will conduct searches across four health-related databases: Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, and PsycINFO. We will also explore other sources, including clinical trials registries and grey literature. Our search will be restricted to original randomized controlled trials published in English, French, and Spanish conducted since 2012, when PrEP was approved, to today. To ensure rigor, three reviewers will perform the systematic review and meta-analysis. This systematic review will adhere to the guidelines outlined in the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Our primary outcome of interest is proper daily oral PrEP adherence, which we will measure using association metrics (e.g., odds ratios).

Discussion

This review will offer insights into the effectiveness of utilizing digital communication methods to assist individuals at risk of HIV in improving their PrEP adherence.

Protocol registration number

International Prospective Register for Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) number CRD42023471269.
Recognising and responding to the community needs of gay and bisexual men around mpox
Authors: Gilmore John , Comer David , Field David J. , Parlour Randal , Shanley Adam , Noone Chris
Published: November 2024

Background

In May 2022, a global surge in mpox cases, typically endemic to Western and Central Africa, particularly affected gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM). This study examines gbMSM communities’ experiences and perceptions around Ireland’s public health response to the outbreak.

Methods

A cross-sectional mixed-methods online survey was conducted. Qualitative data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis informed by critical realism.

Findings

A total of 163 gay and bisexual men took part in the survey. Participants accessed information from diverse sources, reporting varying levels of trustworthiness. Overall, participants were well-informed. Four themes were developed from the qualitative data: (1) Perceptions of the mpox response: divergence in urgency, priority, and care; (2) The mpox outbreak as a sign of otherness for gbMSM; (3) The potential for othering through mpox prevention practices; and (4) mpox, memory and fear.

Discussion

While community-led initiatives were effective, significant challenges included stigmatisation, discrimination, and mistrust towards public health institutions, influenced by institutionalised homophobia. The study underscores the need for inclusive, culturally sensitive, and transparent public health strategies.

Conclusion

The mpox outbreak highlights the importance of robust community collaboration in public health interventions. Future strategies must ensure equitable access to information, vaccination, and care, and address broader structural inequalities to foster trust and engagement within affected communities.
Whole blood gene expression analysis of spontaneous hypertriglyceridemia in dogs suggests an underlying pro-thrombotic process
Authors: Baker Lauren A. , Minor Katie M. , Tate Nicole , Furrow Eva
Published: November 2024

Hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) is influenced by multiple genetic and environmental factors. Spontaneous, idiopathic HTG is common in the Miniature Schnauzer dog and presumed to have a strong genetic influence in this breed. To define genes that are differentially expressed in dogs with HTG, we performed RNA sequencing on peripheral blood of 13 Miniature Schnauzers with HTG and 18 controls. We identified 110 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Pathway analysis suggests an ongoing pro-thrombotic, endothelial activation process in dogs with HTG. The gene with the largest fold change (5.4 ± 1.4, Padj = 4.4E-04), SERPINE1, encodes plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1), a known risk factor for atherosclerosis and thrombosis. Other top DEGs, including SHANK3, MMRN1, and FZD7, are involved in endothelial activation. Two of the top DEGs, ARHGAP29 and ARHGAP21, inhibit pro-thrombotic pathways and are potentially protective of disease sequelae. Top DEGs, including SERPINE1 and ARHGAP21, have also been linked to metabolic syndrome or its features (e.g. insulin resistance) in humans and animal models. Our findings indicate that HTG in the Miniature Schnauzer dog has similar features to HTG and metabolic syndrome in humans, highlighting the potential use of the dog as a spontaneous model for further research into the etiology and effects of HTG.
An experimental study on the diagnostic advantage of dual-energy computed tomography over single-energy scan to evaluate the treatment effect following transcatheter arterial chemoembolization
Authors: Yamane Aya , Yasui Daisuke , Itoh Hiroshi , Kobayashi Masayuki , Kumita Shin-Ichiro
Published: November 2024

Objectives

We assessed the diagnostic advantage of dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) over single-energy computed tomography (SECT) to evaluate lipiodol accumulation in target lesions following transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE).

Methods

TACE was performed in 10 rabbits in whom the VX2 tumor was implanted in their left liver lobes. The miriplatin-lipiodol mixture was injected into the common hepatic artery. All rabbits were sacrificed 2 days after TACE, and the liver was harvested. CT was performed using both single-energy and dual-energy scan modes. The specimen was stained with Oil Red O to evaluate lipiodol accumulation; this was considered the reference standard. Mutual information (MI) was used to evaluate the significance of radiological-pathological correlation. Estimated iodine content values on iodine material density images were compared with actual values obtained using mass spectroscopy.

Results

Mean MI values were 0.69, 0.32, 0.83, 0.72, 0.65, and 0.58 for single-energy scan; iodine density images; and virtual monoenergetic images for energy levels of 40, 60, 80, and 100 keV, respectively. The MI value of the monochromatic image (40 keV) was the highest among all sequences. However, this was not significant compared with the single-energy scan (p = 0.81). A significant correlation was observed between the estimated and actual values of iodine content (Pearson’s product moment coefficient = 0.70, p = 0.023).

Conclusion

More accurate and quantitative lipiodol evaluation in targeted tumors after TACE can be achieved by applying DECT rather than SECT.
Mycoplasma bovis 5′-nucleotidase is a virulence factor conferring mammary fitness in bovine mastitis
Authors: Gelgie Aga E. , Schneider Peleg , Citti Christine , Dordet-Frisoni Emilie , Gillespie Barbara E. , Almeida Raúl A. , Agga Getahun E. , Amoah Yaa Serwaah , Shpigel Nahum Y. , Kerro Dego Oudessa , Lysnyansky Inna
Published: November 2024

Nucleases and 5′ nucleotidase (5′-NT) play essential roles in cell biology and are often associated with bacterial virulence. In Mycoplasma spp., which have limited metabolic capacities and rely on nutrient availability, these enzymes are of significant importance for nucleotide salvage. This study explores the potential role of 2 membrane-associated lipoproteins, the major nuclease MnuA and 5′-NT, in Mycoplasma bovis mastitis. Mutants deficient in MnuA (mnuA::Tn) and in 5’-NT (0690::Tn) were identified through genome-wide transposon mutagenesis of M. bovis PG45 type strain and their fitness and virulence were assessed both in vitro, in axenic medium, and in vivo, using murine and cow mastitis models. The mnuA::Tn mutant demonstrated reduced nuclease activity, while 0690::Tn exhibited slow log-phase growth and impaired hydrolase activity towards nucleotides as well as deoxynucleotides (dAMP and dGMP). In comparison to the parent strain, the 0690::Tn mutant displayed markedly reduced fitness, as evidenced by a significant decrease or even absence in post-challenge mycoplasma counts in murine and cow mammary tissues, respectively. Moreover, the 0690::Tn mutant failed to induce mastitis in both experimental models. Conversely, the mnuA::Tn mutant induced inflammation in murine mammary glands, characterized by neutrophil infiltration and increased expression of major inflammatory genes. In cows, the mnuA::Tn was able to cause an increase in somatic cell counts in a manner comparable to the wild type, recruit neutrophils, and induce mastitis. Collectively, these findings provide complementary insights, revealing that disruption of 5′-NT significantly attenuated M. bovis pathogenicity, whereas a MnuA-deficient mutant retained the ability to cause mastitis.
Albumin for Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis: Care Variation, Disparities, and Outcomes
Authors: Serper Marina , Pulaski Marya E. , Zhang Siqi , Taddei Tamar H. , Kaplan David E. , Mahmud Nadim
Published: November 2024

INTRODUCTION:

Intravenous albumin reduces mortality in spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP). We sought to characterize albumin use for SBP over time and investigate patient-level and hospital-level factors associated with use.

METHODS:

A retrospective cohort study in the Veterans Health Administration between 2008 and 2021 evaluated trends and patient-level, practice-level, and facility-level factors associated with use among patients with cirrhosis hospitalized for SBP confirmed with ascitic fluid criteria.

RESULTS:

Among 3,871 veterans with SBP, 803 (20.7%) did not receive albumin, 1,119 (28.9%) received albumin but not per guidelines, and 1,949 (50.3%) received albumin per guidelines; use increased from 66% in 2008 to 88% in 2022. Veterans who identified as Black compared with White were less likely to receive guideline-recommended albumin (Odds ratio [OR] 0.76, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.59–0.98) in all analyses. Guideline-recommended albumin was more likely to be administered to veterans with Child-Turcotte-Pugh class B (OR 1.39, 95% CI 1.17–1.64) and C (OR 2.21, 95% CI 1.61–3.04) compared with Child-Turcotte-Pugh A; and acute kidney injury Stage 1 (OR 1.48, 95% CI 1.22–1.79), Stage 2 (OR 2.17, 95% CI 1.62–2.91), and Stage 3 (OR 1.68, 95% CI 1.18–2.40) compared with no acute kidney injury. gastroenterology/hepatology consultation (OR 1.60, 95% CI 1.29–1.99), nephrology consultation (OR 1.60, 95% CI 1.23–2.07), and having both gastroenterology/hepatology and nephrology consultations (OR 2.17, 95% CI 1.60–2.96) were associated with higher albumin administration. In exploratory analyses accounting for interactions between model for end-stage liver disease sodium and albumin, guideline-recommended albumin was associated with lower in-hospital mortality (HR 0.90, 95% CI 0.85–0.96).

DISCUSSION:

Future studies should investigate optimizing albumin use for SBP to reduce the variability and mitigate healthcare disparities.
An analysis of multicultural acceptance research trends in Korea
Authors: Kim Mee Jean , Kim Kyoungeun
Published: November 2024

This study investigated the research trends of multicultural acceptance studies in Korea. One hundred and twenty one papers published in the KCI journals from 2000 to 2017 were analyzed in terms of related variables and research methods (research subjects, research design, data collection, and scale) and the findings were as follows. First, the number of papers is gradually increasing. The most popular research theme was the relationship between the individual characteristics and multicultural acceptance. The majority of participants in multicultural acceptance research were children and adolescents. Questionnaire methodology, cross-sectional research design and quantitative research were the most frequently used in multicultural acceptance studies. Regarding the scale, valid and reliable scale should be developed in the future study. Second, research theme and research methods varied according to period. Third, the trends of multicultural acceptance differed by subjects. The present study suggests that it is necessary to expand the range of research themes and to utilize various research methods in multicultural acceptance studies in the future.
Observations from the World of Kafka, Schweik and Havel: Christians and the War in Gaza (Editorial)
Authors: Morée Peter
Published: November 2024

Editorial
Assessment of Combining Ability and Heterosis for Seed Yield and its Attributes in Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)
Authors: Sharron B K , Sasikala R , Kalaiyarasi R , Harish S , Vanitha K
Published: November 2024

The present study employed three lines and fifteen testers to assess the combining ability and standard heterosis of forty-five hybrids developed through a line × tester mating design. The analysis of variance for combining ability revealed significant variation in the mean sum of squares of parents, testers and the interaction between lines and testers regarding seed yield per plant and its related traits. Among the parents, testers GMU 498 and RHA 378 exhibited superior performance for seed yield/plant. In the hybrids, COSF 6A×CSFI 1862, HA 89A×GMU 1000 and HA 89A×RHA 378 demonstrated significantly better seed yield per plant compared to the checks. The variance for specific combining ability (SCA) exceeded that for general combining ability (GCA), indicating that all traits were governed by non-additive gene action. Among the lines, COSF 12A was identified as a good general combiner for yield-contributing traits, while the testers CSFI 1862, GMU 1000 and GMU 498 were recognized as good general combiners for seed yield per plant. Five hybrids, namely HA 89A × RHA 378, HA 89A × GMU 1000, COSF 12A × CSFI 1855, COSF 6A × CSFI 1862 and COSF 12A × GMU 311, exhibited significantly positive SCA for seed yield per plant. Heterosis over the standard checks (DRSH 1, COH 3 and GK 2002) was estimated and the hybrids HA 89A × GMU 1000 and COSF 6A × CSFI 1862 showed positive significant heterosis for seed yield per plant and related traits. The promising hybrids HA 89A × GMU 1000, HA 89A × RHA 378 and COSF 6A × CSFI 1862 were selected based on their mean performance, SCA effects and standard heterosis for seed yield per plant and its attributes.
Cream Skimming and Technological Innovations in Automobile Insurance Market
Authors: Fujii Yoichiro , Nishizawa Shuhei
Published: November 2024

This study examines the effect of telematics devices on the automobile insurance market. Automobile insurance using these devices is marketed as pay-how-you-drive (PHYD) automobile insurance. Insurers can directly monitor the insured’s vehicle for risky driving behaviors such as speeding. Some of insureds receive discounts on their premiums for driving more cautiously. On the other hand, accumulating the insured’s driving skills, insurers may be able to only sign up insureds with low accident rates, widely known as cream skimming. By applying Hodgson (2014. “Adverse Selection in Health Insurance Markets: A Classroom Experiment.” The Journal of Economic Education 45 (2): 90–100), we tested whether PHYD programs makes it easier for insurers to contract with low-risk drivers. Repeated cream skimming suggests that only high-risk drivers remain in the market and a residual market cannot be established, which could lead to adverse selection and market failure in the absence of any regulations. However, the experiment revealed that low-risk but highly risk-averse subjects tend to dislike the fluctuation in premiums by enrolling in PHYD programs. The results could be effective in future regulatory construction.
Ant lion based optimization for performance improvement of methanol production
Authors: Mohd Ariff Mohd Azahar , Alwi Sharifah Rafidah Wan , Muhammad Dinie , Murat Muhamad Nazri , Azmi Ashraf , Abdul Rashid Zulkifli , Rohman Fakhrony Sholahudin
Published: November 2024

Methanol (CH3OH) is a versatile compound used in various industries. Catalytic reactors used in CH3OH production are expensive due to high energy and raw material costs. Multi-objective optimization (MOO) is used to optimize CH3OH production, but it is still lacking. Researchers use alternative strategies or modify existing ones to achieve better results. This study applied model-based optimization using an ASPEN Plus simulator and Multi-objective Ant Lion Optimization (MOALO) to address the issue. The results revealed the highest conversion and product rate, with the lowest energy cost, side product, and bare module cost, CBM. The decision variable plots indicate that the reactor’s pressure significantly affects the optimal solution. This study provides valuable insight into optimizing CH3OH production.