bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficient iterative reconstruction with beam shape compensation for THz computed tomography
Authors: Lumbeeck Lars-Paul , Paramonov Pavel , Sijbers Jan , De Beenhouwer Jan
Published: March 2023

Terahertz (THz) computed tomography is an emerging nondestructive and non-ionizing imaging method. Most THz reconstruction methods rely on the Radon transform, originating from x-ray imaging, in which x rays propagate in straight lines. However, a THz beam has a finite width, and ignoring its shape results in blurred reconstructed images. Moreover, accounting for the THz beam model in a straightforward way in an iterative reconstruction method results in extreme demands in memory and in slow convergence. In this paper, we propose an efficient iterative reconstruction that incorporates the THz beam shape, while avoiding the above disadvantages. Both simulation and real experiments show that our approach results in improved resolution recovery in the reconstructed image. Furthermore, we propose a suitable preconditioner to improve the convergence speed of our reconstruction.
Mid-wave infrared optical receiver based on an InAsSb-nBn photodetector using the barrier doping engineering technique for low-power satellite optical wireless communication
Authors: Shaveisi Maryam , Aliparast Peiman
Published: March 2023

This paper proposes a new nBn photodetector (nBn-PD) based on InAsSb with a barrier doping engineering technique [core–shell doped barrier (CSD-B) nBn-PD] for utilization as a low-power receiver in satellite optical wireless communication (Sat-OWC) systems. In the proposed structure, the absorber layer is selected from an InAs1−xSb
x
(x=0.17) ternary compound semiconductor. The difference between this structure and other nBn structures is the placement of the top and bottom contacts in the form of a PN junction, which increases the efficiency of the proposed device through the creation of a built-in electric field. Also, a barrier layer is placed from the AlSb binary compound. The presence of the CSD-B layer with the high conduction band offset and very low valence band offset improves the performance of the proposed device compared to conventional PN and avalanche photodiode detectors. By applying −0.1V bias at 125 K, the dark current is demonstrated at 4.31×10−5A/cm2 by assuming high-level traps and defect conditions. Examining the figure of merit parameters under back-side illumination with a 50% cutoff wavelength of 4.6 µm shows that at 150 K, the responsivity of the CSD-B nBn-PD device reaches about 1.8 A/W under 0.05W/cm2 light intensity. Regarding the great importance of using low-noise receivers in Sat-OWC systems, the results indicate that the noise, noise equivalent power, and noise equivalent irradiance are calculated as 9.98×10−15AHz−1/2, 9.21×10−15WHz1/2, and 1.02×10−9W/cm2, respectively, at −0.5V bias voltage and 4 µm laser illumination with the influence of shot–thermal noise. Also, D∗ obtains 3.26×1011cmHz1/2/W without using the anti-reflection coating layer. In addition, since the bit error rate (BER) plays an essential role in the Sat-OWC systems, the effect of different modulations on the BER sensitivity of the proposed receiver is investigated. The results represent that the pulse position modulation and return zero on-off keying modulations create the lowest BER. Attenuation is also investigated as a factor that significantly affects BER sensitivity. The results clearly express that the proposed detector provides the knowledge to achieve a high-quality Sat-OWC system.
Modeling nonlinear optical microscopy in scattering media, part I. Propagation from lens to focal volume: tutorial
Authors: Ranasinghesagara Janaka C. , Potma Eric O. , Venugopalan Vasan
Published: March 2023

The development and application of nonlinear optical (NLO) microscopy methods in biomedical research have experienced rapid growth over the past three decades. Despite the compelling power of these methods, optical scattering limits their practical use in biological tissues. This tutorial offers a model-based approach illustrating how analytical methods from classical electromagnetism can be employed to comprehensively model NLO microscopy in scattering media. In Part I, we quantitatively model focused beam propagation in non-scattering and scattering media from the lens to focal volume. In Part II, we model signal generation, radiation, and far-field detection. Moreover, we detail modeling approaches for major optical microscopy modalities including classical fluorescence, multi-photon fluorescence, second harmonic generation, and coherent anti-Stokes Raman microscopy.
Modeling nonlinear optical microscopy in scattering media, part II. Radiation from focal volume to far-field: tutorial
Authors: Ranasinghesagara Janaka C. , Potma Eric O. , Venugopalan Vasan
Published: March 2023

The development and application of nonlinear optical (NLO) microscopy methods in biomedical research has experienced rapid growth over the past three decades. Despite the compelling power of these methods, optical scattering limits their practical use in biological tissues. This tutorial offers a model-based approach illustrating how analytical methods from classical electromagnetism can be employed to comprehensively model NLO microscopy in scattering media. In Part I, we quantitatively model focused beam propagation in non-scattering and scattering media from the lens to focal volume. In Part II, we model signal generation, radiation, and far-field detection. Moreover, we detail modeling approaches for major optical microscopy modalities including classical fluorescence, multi-photon fluorescence, second harmonic generation, and coherent anti-Stokes Raman microscopy.
Platicon stability in hot cavities
Authors: Lobanov Valery E. , Kondratiev Nikita M. , Shitikov Artem E. , Borovkova Olga V. , Cordette Steevy J. , Bilenko Igor A.
Published: March 2023

Stability of platicons in hot cavities with normal group velocity dispersion at the interplay of Kerr and thermal nonlinearities was addressed numerically. The stability analysis was performed for different ranges of pump amplitude, thermal nonlinearity coefficient, and thermal relaxation time. It was revealed that for the positive thermal effect (i.e., the directions of the nonlinear and thermal resonance shifts are the same), the high-energy wide platicons are stable, while the negative thermal coefficient provides the stability of narrow platicons.
Targeting NAD+ regeneration enhances antibiotic susceptibility of Streptococcus pneumoniae during invasive disease
Authors: Im Hansol , Pearson Madison L. , Martinez Eriel , Cichos Kyle H. , Song Xiuhong , Kruckow Katherine L. , Andrews Rachel M. , Ghanem Elie S. , Orihuela Carlos J.
Published: March 2023

Anaerobic bacteria are responsible for half of all pulmonary infections. One such pathogen is Streptococcus pneumoniae (Spn), a leading cause of community-acquired pneumonia, bacteremia/sepsis, and meningitis. Using a panel of isogenic mutants deficient in lactate, acetyl-CoA, and ethanol fermentation, as well as pharmacological inhibition, we observed that NAD(H) redox balance during fermentation was vital for Spn energy generation, capsule production, and in vivo fitness. Redox balance disruption in fermentation pathway-specific fashion substantially enhanced susceptibility to killing in antimicrobial class-specific manner. Blocking of alcohol dehydrogenase activity with 4-methylpyrazole (fomepizole), an FDA-approved drug used as an antidote for toxic alcohol ingestion, enhanced susceptibility of multidrug-resistant Spn to erythromycin and reduced bacterial burden in the lungs of mice with pneumonia and prevented the development of invasive disease. Our results indicate fermentation enzymes are de novo targets for antibiotic development and a novel strategy to combat multidrug-resistant pathogens.
An implementation framework to improve the transparency and reproducibility of computational models of infectious diseases
Authors: Pokutnaya Darya , Childers Bruce , Arcury-Quandt Alice E. , Hochheiser Harry , Van Panhuis Willem G.
Published: March 2023

Computational models of infectious diseases have become valuable tools for research and the public health response against epidemic threats. The reproducibility of computational models has been limited, undermining the scientific process and possibly trust in modeling results and related response strategies, such as vaccination. We translated published reproducibility guidelines from a wide range of scientific disciplines into an implementation framework for improving reproducibility of infectious disease computational models. The framework comprises 22 elements that should be described, grouped into 6 categories: computational environment, analytical software, model description, model implementation, data, and experimental protocol. The framework can be used by scientific communities to develop actionable tools for sharing computational models in a reproducible way.
My Early Relational Trust-Informed Learning (MERTIL) for Parents: A study protocol for a brief, universal, online, preventative parenting program to enhance relational health
Authors: Opie Jessica , Hooker Leesa , Gibson Tanudja , McIntosh Jennifer
Published: March 2023

Background

Early relational health is a key determinant of childhood development, while relational trauma in the parent-infant dyad can instigate a cascading pattern of infant risk. Fortunately, early relational trauma is detectable and modifiable. In 2018, Australian Maternal and Child Health (MCH) nurses participated in MERTIL (My Early RelationalTrauma-Informed Learning), a program to identify and prevent relational trauma. Program evaluations revealed nurses felt competent and confident to identify and respond to relational trauma; however, response capacity was inhibited by inadequate parent referral options. In response, MERTILfor Parents(My Early RelationalTrust-Informed Learning) was developed, which is an online, evidence-based, self-paced parenting program that focuses on enhancing parental knowledge of relational trust and its significance for infant development. This low-cost, accessible prevention resource targets emerging relational concerns to reduce later service system engagement. The potential for universal preventative online programs that target parental and relational wellbeing remains under-explored. This paper reports on a protocol for implementing a MERTILfor Parentspilot study describing practitioners’ and parents’ perspectives on program feasibility and efficacy.

Methods

This study is a mixed methods, parallel armed, uncontrolled, repeated measures design. We aim to recruit 48 Australian MCH practitioners from the states of Victoria and New South Wales. These professionals will in turn recruit 480 parents with a child aged 0–5 years. All parents will receive MERTILfor Parents, which entails a 40-minute video, tipsheets, posters, and support resources. Parent data will be obtained at three periods: pre-program, program exit, and program follow-up. Practitioner data will be collected at two periods: pre-parent recruitment and program follow-up. Data collection will occur through surveys and focus groups. Primary parent outcomes will be socioemotional assessments of program efficacy. Practitioners and parents will each report on program feasibility.

Discussion

This protocol describes the feasibility and efficacy of a new online parenting program, MERTILfor Parents, with pilot field studies commencing in March 2023. We anticipate that this resource will be a valuable addition to various child and family services, for use in individual support and group work.
Vomocytosis of Cryptococcus neoformans cells from murine, bone marrow-derived dendritic cells
Authors: Pacifici Noah , Cruz-Acuña Melissa , Diener Agustina , Tu Allen , Senthil Neeraj , Han Hyunsoo , Lewis Jamal S.
Published: March 2023

Cryptococcus neoformans(CN) cells survive within the acidic phagolysosome of macrophages (MΦ) for extended times, then escape without impacting the viability of the host cell via a phenomenon that has been coined ‘vomocytosis’. Through this mechanism, CN disseminate throughout the body, sometimes resulting in a potentially fatal condition—Cryptococcal Meningitis (CM). Justifiably, vomocytosis studies have focused primarily on MΦ, as alveolar MΦ within the lung act as first responders that ultimately expel this fungal pathogen. Herein, we hypothesize that dendritic cells (DCs), an innate immune cell with attributes that include phagocytosis and antigen presentation, can also act as ‘vomocytes’. Presciently, this report shows that vomocytosis of CN indeed occurs from murine, bone marrow-derived DCs. Primarily through time-lapse microscopy imaging, we show that rates of vomocytosis events from DCs are comparable to those seen from MΦ and further, are independent of the presence of the CN capsule and infection ratios. Moreover, the phagosome-altering drug bafilomycin A inhibits this phenomenon from DCs. Although DC immunophenotype does not affect the total number of vomocytic events, we observed differences in the numbers of CN per phagosome and expulsion times. Interestingly, these observations were similar in murine, bone marrow-derived MΦ. This work not only demonstrates the vomocytic ability of DCs, but also investigates the complexity of vomocytosis regulation in this cell type and MΦ under multiple modulatory conditions. Understanding the vomocytic behavior of different phagocytes and their phenotypic subtypes is needed to help elucidate the full picture of the dynamic interplay between CN and the immune system. Critically, deeper insight into vomocytosis could reveal novel approaches to treat CM, as well as other immune-related conditions.
Estimating the effect of anticipated depression treatment-related stigma on depression remission among people with noncommunicable diseases and depressive symptoms in Malawi
Authors: Dussault Josée M. , Zimba Chifundo , Akello Harriet , Stockton Melissa , Hill Sherika , Aiello Allison E. , Keil Alexander , Gaynes Bradley N. , Udedi Michael , Pence Brian W.
Published: March 2023

Purpose

While mental health stigma research is sparse in Malawi, research in other settings suggests that stigma represents a barrier to mental health treatment and recovery. Accordingly, we conducted an analysis to understand the role of treatment-related stigma in depression care in Malawi by estimating the effect of patients’ baseline anticipated treatment-related stigma on their 3-month probability of depression remission when newly identified with depression.

Methods

We conducted depression screening and treatment at 10 noncommunicable disease (NCD) clinics across Malawi from April 2019 through December 2021. Eligible cohort participants were 18–65 years with depressive symptoms indicated by a PHQ-9 score ≥5. Questionnaires at the baseline and 3-month interviews included a vignette-based quantitative stigma instrument that measured treatment-related stigma, i.e., concerns about external stigma because of receiving depression treatment. Using inverse probability weighting to adjust for confounding and multiple imputation to account for missing data, this analysis relates participants’ baseline levels of anticipated treatment stigma to the 3-month probability of achieving depression remission (i.e., PHQ-9 score < 5).

Results

Of 743 included participants, 273 (37%) achieved depression remission by their 3-month interview. The probability of achieving depression remission at the 3-month interview among participants with high anticipated treatment stigma (0.31; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 0.23, 0.39)) was 10 percentage points lower than among the low/neutral stigma group (risk: 0.41; 95% CI: 0.36, 0.45; RD: -0.10; 95% CI: -0.19, -0.003).

Conclusion

In Malawi, a reduction in anticipated depression treatment-related stigma among NCD patients initiating depression treatment could improve depression outcomes. Further investigation is necessary to understand the modes by which stigma can be successfully reduced to improve mental health outcomes and quality of life among people living with depression.
A quadriceps femoris motor pattern for efficient cycling
Authors: Hering Gernot O. , Bertschinger Raphael , Stepan Jens
Published: March 2023

In cycling, propulsion is generated by the muscles of the lower limbs and hips. After the first reports of pedal/crank force measurements in the late 1960s, it has been assumed that highly trained athletes have better power transfer to the pedals than recreational cyclists. However, motor patterns indicating higher levels of performance are unknown. To compare leg muscle activation between trained (3.5–4.2 W/kgbw) and highly trained (4.3–5.1 W/kgbw) athletes we applied electromyography, lactate, and bi-pedal/crank force measurements during a maximal power test, an individual lactate threshold test and a constant power test. We show that specific activation patterns of the rectus femoris (RF) and vastus lateralis (VL) impact on individual performance during high-intensity cycling. In highly trained cyclists, we found a strong activation of the RF during hip flexion. This results in reduced negative force in the fourth quadrant of the pedal cycle. Furthermore, we discovered that pre-activation of the RF during hip flexion reduces force loss at the top dead center (TDC) and can improve force development during subsequent leg extension. Finally, we found that a higher performance level is associated with earlier and more intense coactivation of the RF and VL. This quadriceps femoris recruitment pattern improves force transmission and maintains propulsion at the TDC of the pedal cycle. Our results demonstrate neuromuscular adaptations in cycling that can be utilized to optimize training interventions in sports and rehabilitation.
Evaluation of outcome reporting in clinical trials of physiotherapy in bronchiectasis: The first stage of core outcome set development
Authors: Hamzeh Hayat , Spencer Sally , Kelly Carol , Pilsworth Samantha
Published: March 2023

Introduction

The aim of this study is to explore outcomes currently reported in physiotherapy trials for bronchiectasis and investigate the level of consistency in outcome reporting. This mapping of outcomes will be used to inform the development of a core outcome set (COS) for physiotherapy research in bronchiectasis. Outcomes reported in randomised clinical trials (RCTs) and RCT protocols were reviewed and evaluated. We included trials with physiotherapy as the main intervention, including pulmonary rehabilitation, exercise prescription, airway clearance, positive expiratory pressure devices, breathing training, self-management plans, and home exercise program. Medline, CINAHL, Scopus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and the physiotherapy evidence database (PEDro) were searched from inception using a prespecified search strategy. Records including adult patients with bronchiectasis were included. Outcomes were listed verbatim and categorised into domains based on a pre-specified system, frequency of reporting and sources of variation were inspected.

Results

Of 2158 abstracts screened, 37 trials (1202 participants) and 17 trial protocols were identified. Eighteen different physiotherapy techniques were investigated. A total of 331 outcomes were reported. No single outcome was reported by all trials. The most reported outcomes were lung function (27 trials, 50%), health related quality of life (26 trials, 48.1%), and dyspnoea (18 trials, 33.3%). A list of 104 unique outcomes covering 23 domains was created. Trials focus on physiological outcomes, mainly those related to respiratory system functions. Outcomes related to functioning and life impact are often neglected.

Conclusion

Outcome reporting in physiotherapy research for bronchiectasis was found to be inconsistent in terms of choosing and defining outcomes. Developing a core outcome set in this area of research is needed to facilitate aggregation of future trial results in systematic reviews that will in turn inform the strength of evidence for the effectiveness of physiotherapy. Outcome choice should include all stakeholders, including patients.

Trial registration

This study is registered in the PROSPERO registry under the numberCRD42021266247.
Cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the Chinese version of the short-form of the Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI-9) in patients with chronic pain: A single-center study
Authors: Liang Dongfeng , Yu Xiangli , Guo Xiaojie , Zhang Jie , Jiang Ronghuan
Published: March 2023

Chronic pain affects more than 30% of the general population. The 9-item Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI-9) is a shortened version of the CSI-25, which is a patient-reported instrument used to screen people at risk of central sensitization (CS). The aim of this study was to cross-culturally adapt and validate a Chinese version of the CSI-9. The Chinese CSI-9 was generated by translation of the original English version, back-translation, cultural adaptation, and revision using the Delphi method. The Chinese CSI-9 was administered to 235 patients with chronic pain and 55 healthy controls. Structural validity (confirmatory factor analysis), construct validity (correlations with other scales), test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient, ICC), and internal consistency (Cronbach’s α) were evaluated. Confirmatory factor analysis was performed using one factor. The Chinese CSI-9 score was positively correlated with the Pain Catastrophic Scale (PCS) total score (r = 0.463), PCS subscale scores (r = 0.347–0.463), Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) mean item score (r = 0.524), BPI total score (r = 0.773), and the number of painful sites (r = 0.451). The Chinese CSI-9 had excellent test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.958) and excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.902 in the overall sample and 0.828 in the chronic pain population). The optimal cut-off value for the Chinese CSI-9 was 18 points. The Chinese CSI-9 had excellent test-retest reliability and satisfactory structural validity and construct validity. The CSI-9 could potentially be utilized in China as a self-report questionnaire in both clinical practice and research settings.
Microbial diversity and antimicrobial resistance in faecal samples from acute medical patients assessed through metagenomic sequencing
Authors: Yokoyama Maho , Peto Leon , Budgell Eric P. , Jones Nicola , Sheridan Elizabeth , Liu Jane , Walker A. Sarah , Stoesser Nicole , Gweon Hyun S. , Llewelyn Martin J.
Published: March 2023

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a threat to global public health. However, unsatisfactory approaches to directly measuring the AMR burden carried by individuals has hampered efforts to assess interventions aimed at reducing selection for AMR. Metagenomics can provide accurate detection and quantification of AMR genes within an individual person’s faecal flora (their gut “resistome”). Using this approach, we aimed to test the hypothesis that differences in antimicrobial use across different hospitals in the United Kingdom will result in observable differences in the resistome of individual patients. Three National Health Service acute Hospital Trusts with markedly different antibiotic use and Clostridioides difficile infection rates collected faecal samples from anonymous patients which were discarded after C. difficile testing over a period of 9 to 15 months. Metagenomic DNA was extracted from these samples and sequenced using an Illumina NovaSeq 6000 platform. The resulting sequencing reads were analysed for taxonomic composition and for the presence of AMR genes. Among 683 faecal metagenomes we found huge variation between individuals in terms of taxonomic diversity (Shannon Index range 0.10–3.99) and carriage of AMR genes (Median 1.50 genes/cell/sample overall). We found no statistically significant differences in diversity (median Shannon index 2.16 (IQR 1.71–2.56), 2.15 (IQR 1.62–2.50) and 2.26 (IQR 1.55–2.51)) or carriage of AMR genes (median 1.37 genes/cell/sample (IQR 0.70–3.24), 1.70 (IQR 0.70–4.52) and 1.43 (IQR 0.55–3.71)) at the three trusts respectively. This was also the case across the sample collection period within the trusts. While we have not demonstrated differences over place or time using metagenomic sequencing of faecal discards, other sampling frameworks may be more suitable to determine whether organisational level differences in antibiotic use are associated with individual-level differences in burden of AMR carriage.
Clinical outcomes of a short-term family-focused intervention for patients with atrial fibrillation–A randomised clinical trial
Authors: Rosenstrøm Stine , Risom Signe Stelling , Kallemose Thomas , Dixen Ulrik , Hove Jens Dahlgaard , Brødsgaard Anne
Published: March 2023

Aims

To evaluate a family-focused intervention for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) in addition to conventional care and to establish its effect on health-related quality of life (HRQoL), anxiety, depression, AF symptoms, and family support.

Background

AF is a widespread heart disease affecting the well-being of patients and their family members physically and psychologically. Supporting patients and their family members could potentially facilitate regaining family strength and improve HRQoL.

Methods

Patients with newly diagnosed AF were randomised to standard care or additional family-focused intervention with change in global score of the Atrial Fibrillation Quality of Life Questionnaire (AFEQT) as primary outcome after six months’ follow-up. Secondary outcomes included the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Score, the European Heart Rhythm Association score, the Ice Expressive Family Functioning Questionnaire, and the Ice Family-Perceived Support Questionnaire (ICE-FPSQ).

Results

Sixty-eight patients received standard care (n = 35) or family focused intervention (n = 33). The median change at the six-month follow-up on the global AFEQT score was 4.17 (-1.46–9.17) in the control group and 5.83 (-2.5–30) in the intervention group, yielding a median difference of -1.67 (p = 0.500). Change in ICE-FPSQ showed significant positive scores in favour of intervention (p < 0.001); other secondary outcome changes were non-significant.

Conclusion

The family-focused intervention had a small positive but non-significant effect on HRQoL compared to standard care. To address the impact of AF on the patients and family members seems to improve anxiety and depression scores and perceived family support.
Quality of life and associated factors among Norwegian public health nurse students during the first months of the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Valla Lisbeth , Telle Hjellset Victoria , Cvancarova Småstuen Milada , Sparboe-Nilsen Bente
Published: March 2023

The main objective of this study was to investigate the association between quality of life (QOL) and civil status, self-efficacy, loneliness, and physical and mental health among public health nurse (PHN) students during the COVID-19 pandemic in April 2020. PHN students were recruited from eight universities and university colleges in Norway. A range of potential predictive factors were entered into a model using a stepwise linear regression approach. In general, the PHN students reported a high level of QOL during the first month of the pandemic. The students’ civil status, perceived physical health, self-efficacy and loneliness were all significantly correlated with QOL. Among these, the strongest predictive factors for QOL were found to be perceived loneliness and self-efficacy. Our results provide insight into the QOL of PHN students, which managers in the higher education sector can use to outline specific coping strategies that can help students during a pandemic.
Reconstructions of individual fish trophic geographies using isotopic analysis of eye-lens amino acids
Authors: Wallace Amy A. , Ellis Greg S. , Peebles Ernst B.
Published: March 2023

Fish eye lenses are a proteinaceous structure that grows by accumulating layers in a chronological manner. Each layer becomes metabolically inert, capturing the ratio of heavy/light carbon and nitrogen isotopes at time of formation. Therefore, eye lenses contain chronological isotopic records and can be used to create a temporal isotopic history throughout an individual’s lifetime. We analyzed eye lens amino-acid δ15N to address spatio-temporal baseline variability and to reconstruct trophic histories of 10 individual Red Snapper. Proteins from sequential eye lens laminae were derivatized to measure 10 amino acids, from which glutamic acid (trophic) and phenylalanine (source) were used to estimate trophic positions at different points in life. Best-fitting regressions were generated to represent individual (R2 ≥ 0.89) and generalized (R2 = 0.77) trophic trajectory for Red Snapper. The resulting trophic trajectories indicated an increase in trophic position with increasing length. Until recently, there has not been a lifetime isotopic structure with enough organic nitrogen to recreate geographic histories using compound-specific stable isotope analysis of amino acids (CSIA-AA). This study confirms that eye-lens laminae can be used to reconstruct trophogeographic histories via CSIA-AA.
Co-administration of AYUSH 64 as an adjunct to standard of care in mild and moderate COVID-19: A randomized, controlled, multicentric clinical trial
Authors: Chopra Arvind , Tillu Girish , Chuadhary Kuldeep , Reddy Govind , Srivastava Alok , Lakdawala Muffazal , Gode Dilip , Reddy Himanshu , Tamboli Sanjay , Saluja Manjit , Sarmukaddam Sanjeev , Gundeti Manohar , Raut Ashwini Kumar , Rao B. C. S. , Yadav Babita , Srikanth Narayanam , Patwardhan Bhushan
Published: March 2023

Objective

Evaluate the efficacy of AYUSH 64, a standard polyherbal Ayurvedic drug in COVID-19.

Methods

During the first pandemic wave, 140 consenting and eligible hospitalized adult participants with mild-moderate symptomatic disease (specific standard RT-PCR assay positive) were selected as per a convenience sample, and randomized (1:1 ratio) to an open-label (assessor blind) two-arm multicentric drug trial; standard of care (SOC as per Indian guidelines) versus AYUSH 64 combined with SOC (AYUSH plus). Participants were assessed daily and discharged once clinical recovery (CR, primary efficacy) was achieved which was based on a predetermined set of criteria (resolution of symptoms, normal peripheral oximetry, and negative specific RT-PCR assay). Each participant was followed using an indigenous software program(mobile phone) and completed a 12-week study period. The dose of AYUSH 64 was 2 tablets oral, 500 mg each, bid for 12 weeks (AYUSH plus only). Significant P was <0.05 (two-sided). On randomization, the groups were found well matched.

Results

The mean interval time from randomization to CR was significantly superior in the AYUSH plus group [mean 6.45 days versus 8.26 days, 95% Confidence Interval of the difference -3.02 to -0.59 (P = 0.003, Student’s ‘t test] as per-protocol analysis (134 participants); significant (P = 0.002) on an intention to treat analysis. 70% of the participants in AYUSH plus recovered during the first week (P = 0.046, Chi-square) and showed a significantly better change in physical health, fatigue, and quality of life measures. 48 adverse events, mostly mild and gut related, were reported by each group. There were 20 patient withdrawals (8 in AYUSH plus) but none due to an AE. There were no deaths. Daily assessment (hospitalization) and supervised drug intake ensured robust efficacy data. The open-label design was a concern (study outcome).

Conclusions

AYUSH 64 in combination with SOC hastened recovery, reduced hospitalization, and improved health in COVID-19. It was considered safe and well-tolerated. Further clinical validation (Phase III) is required.

Trial registration

CTRI/2020/06/025557.
Compensation machining of freeform based on fast tool servo system
Authors: Liu Junfeng , Zhao Yuqian , Liu Kexian , Wang Linfeng , Li Fei
Published: March 2023

With the advantages of large field of view, low cost and simple structure, the freeform optical system has extensive requirements in space exploration and other fields. However, the current machining methods for freeform are difficult to meet the requirements of optical use. Based on a developed fast servo tool (FTS) device, this paper proposes an error compensation turning method for freeforms. Firstly, the Zernike polynomial fitting method is used to reconstruct the freeform surface shape error obtained from off-line measurement, and the offset compensation is used to correct the tool path. Then, the compensation processing physical system is built to simulate the off-line compensation processing of the workpiece to verify the feasibility of compensation processing. Finally, the turning compensation processing of convex freeform aluminum mirror is carried out, and the surface accuracy of the workpiece meets the requirements of visible band. The research results have important practical significance for realizing the fast response machining of free-form surface mirror.
A model of integrating convolution and BiGRU dual-channel mechanism for Chinese medical text classifications
Authors: Li Xiaoli , Zhang Yuying , Jin Jiangyong , Sun Fuqi , Li Na , Liang Shengbin
Published: March 2023

Recently, a lot of Chinese patients consult treatment plans through social networking platforms, but the Chinese medical text contains rich information, including a large number of medical nomenclatures and symptom descriptions. How to build an intelligence model to automatically classify the text information consulted by patients and recommend the correct department for patients is very important. In order to address the problem of insufficient feature extraction from Chinese medical text and low accuracy, this paper proposes a dual channel Chinese medical text classification model. The model extracts feature of Chinese medical text at different granularity, comprehensively and accurately obtains effective feature information, and finally recommends departments for patients according to text classification. One channel of the model focuses on medical nomenclatures, symptoms and other words related to hospital departments, gives different weights, calculates corresponding feature vectors with convolution kernels of different sizes, and then obtains local text representation. The other channel uses the BiGRU network and attention mechanism to obtain text representation, highlighting the important information of the whole sentence, that is, global text representation. Finally, the model uses full connection layer to combine the representation vectors of the two channels, and uses Softmax classifier for classification. The experimental results show that the accuracy, recall and F1-score of the model are improved by 10.65%, 8.94% and 11.62% respectively compared with the baseline models in average, which proves that our model has better performance and robustness.
A qualitative study exploring how patient engagement activities were sustained or adapted in Canadian healthcare organizations during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Marcinow Michelle , Sandercock Jane , Cadel Lauren , Singh Harprit , Guilcher Sara J. T. , Dowedoff Penny , Maybee Alies , Law Susan , Fancott Carol , Kuluski Kerry
Published: March 2023

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic caused disruptions across healthcare systems globally exposing the precarious state of patient engagement across all levels of healthcare. While evidence is emerging to describe how engagement was affected across various settings, insights about how some organizations at the policy and practice level of healthcare were able to sustain or adapt patient engagement activities is lacking.

Objective

This paper addresses the following research question: “How were healthcare, government, and patient partner organizations able to sustain or adapt patient engagement activities during the COVID-19 pandemic?”

Methods

A qualitative descriptive study was conducted to understand how patient engagement activities were maintained or adapted in a variety of healthcare, government, and patient partner organizations in Canada throughout the pandemic. This analysis was part of a larger qualitative, multiple case study where one-to-one interviews were conducted with organizational leaders, managers and patient partners.

Results

The following themes were identified as key aspects of maintaining or adapting patient engagement activities: 1) having an embedded organizational culture of patient engagement; 2) adapting patient engagement activities to focus on COVID-19 response efforts; 3) having patient partners who exercised leadership and advocacy to support patient care and experiences during the pandemic; and 4) leveraging virtual technology as a communication tool to engage patient partners.

Conclusion

This paper highlights important insights that may be useful to other health care organizations on how to sustain or adapt patient engagement activities during a healthcare crisis. Having patient engagement embedded within an organization’s culture supported by, but not limited to, infrastructure, resources, investments in dedicated staff and patient partner leadership, and communication strategies and tools enabled continued patient engagement activities during the pandemic.
Trend and associated factors of cesarean section rate in Ethiopia: Evidence from 2000–2019 Ethiopia demographic and health survey data
Authors: Mezemir Rahel , Olayemi Oladapo , Dessie Yadeta
Published: March 2023

Background

The world health organization considers cesarean section (CS) prevalence of less than 5% suggests an unmet need. On the other hand, a prevalence of more than 15% may pose to risk to mother and child, however, access to CS in a resource-limited country like Ethiopia was much lower than the aforementioned level, Therefore, this was the first study to determine the trend of CS, and factors that influence it.

Methods

This was done based on the five Ethiopia Demographic and Health Surveys. Trend analysis was done separately for rural and urban. The significance of the trend was assessed using the Extended Mantel-Haenszel chi-square test. The factors on CS delivery were identified based on DHS 2016 data. A multi-level logistic regression analysis technique was used to identify the factors associated with cesarean section delivery. The analysis was adjusted for the different individual- and community-level factors affecting cesarean section delivery. Data analysis was conducted using STATA 14.1 software.

Result

The rate of cesarean section increased from 5.1% in 1995 to 16% in 2019 in an urban area and 0.001 in 1995 to 3% in a rural area, the overall increment of CS rate was 0.7% in 1995 to 2019 at 6%. The odds of cesarean section were higher among 25–34 years (AOR = 2.79; 95% CI: 1.92, 4.07) and 34–49 years (AOR = 5.23;95% CI: 2.85,9.59), among those educated at primary school level (AOR = 1.94; 95% CI: 1.23,3.11), secondary education (AOR = 2.01; 95% CI: 1.17, 3.56) and higher education (AOR = 4.12; 95% CI: 2.33–7.29)with multiple pregnancies (AOR = 11.12; 95% CI: 5.37, 23.), with obesity (AOR = 1.73; 95% CI: 1.22, 2.45), living in an urban area (AOR = 2.28; /95% CI: 1.35–3.88), and increased with the number of ANC visit of 1–3 and 4th(AOR = 2.26; 95% CI: 1.12, 4.58), (AOR = 3.34; 95% CI: 1.12, 4.58), respectively. The odds of cesarean section are lower among parity of 2–4 children (AOR = 0.54; 95% CI: 0 .37, 0.80) and greater than four birth order (AOR = 0.42;95% CI: 0.21,0.84).

Conclusion

In Ethiopia, the CS rate is below the WHO recommended level in both urban and rural areas, thus, intervention efforts need to be prioritized for women living in a rural area, empowering women’s education, encouraging co-services such as ANC usage could all help to address the current problem.
Potential causal association between leisure sedentary behaviors, physical activity and musculoskeletal health: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhao Xiaoyan , Yang Yan , Yue Rensong , Su Chengguo
Published: March 2023

Background

Increasing evidence shows that leisure sedentary behaviors (LSB) and physical activity (PA) are associated with various musculoskeletal disorders. However, the causality between LSB/PA and musculoskeletal health remained unknown. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the causal relationships between LSB/PA and lower back pain (LBP), intervertebral disc disorder (IVDD), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and bone mineral density (BMD) by using a two-sample Mendelian randomization method.

Methods

The exposure data were obtained from large-scale genome-wide association studies (GWAS), including the PA dataset (self-reported PA, n  =  377,234; accelerometer-assessed PA, n  = 91,084) and LSB dataset (n  =  422,218). The outcome data were derived from the FinnGen LBP dataset (n  =  248,528), FinnGen IVDD dataset (n  =  256,896), BMD GWAS dataset (n  =  56,284), and RA GWAS dataset (n  =  58,284). The causal relationships were estimated with inverse variance weighted (IVW), MR-Egger, and weighted median methods. Sensitivity analyses were performed with Cochran’s Q test, MR-Egger intercept test, and leave-one-out analysis to estimate the robustness of our findings.

Results

Genetically predicted leisure television watching increased the risk of LBP (OR = 1.68, 95% CI 1.41 to 2.01; P = 8.23×10−9) and IVDD (OR  =  1.62, 95% CI 1.37 to 1.91; P  =  2.13 × 10−8). In addition, this study revealed a potential causal relationship between computer use and a reduced risk of IVDD (OR  = 0.60, 95% CI 0.42 to 0.86; P  =  0.005) and RA (OR  = 0.28, 95% CI 0.13 to 0.60; P  =  0.001).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that leisure television watching is a risk factor for LBP and IVDD, whereas leisure computer use may act as a protective factor against IVDD and RA. These findings emphasized the importance of distinguishing between different sedentary behaviors in musculoskeletal disease studies.
A robust variable-structure LQI controller for under-actuated systems via flexible online adaptation of performance-index weights
Authors: Saleem Omer , Iqbal Jamshed , Afzal Muhammad Shahzad
Published: March 2023

This article presents flexible online adaptation strategies for the performance-index weights to constitute a variable structure Linear-Quadratic-Integral (LQI) controller for an under-actuated rotary pendulum system. The proposed control procedure undertakes to improve the controller’s adaptability, allowing it to flexibly manipulate the control stiffness which aids in efficiently rejecting the bounded exogenous disturbances while preserving the system’s closed-loop stability and economizing the overall control energy expenditure. The proposed scheme is realized by augmenting the ubiquitous LQI controller with an innovative online weight adaptation law that adaptively modulates the state-weighting factors of the internal performance index. The weight adaptation law is formulated as a pre-calibrated function of dissipative terms, anti-dissipative terms, and model-reference tracking terms to achieve the desired flexibility in the controller design. The adjusted state weighting factors are used by the Riccati equation to yield the time-varying state-compensator gains.
Survey mode and nonresponse bias: A meta-analysis based on the data from the international social survey programme waves 1996–2018 and the European social survey rounds 1 to 9
Authors: Rybak Adam
Published: March 2023

The constant increase in survey nonresponse and fieldwork costs are the reality of survey research. Together with other unpredictable events occurring in the world today, this increase poses a challenge: the necessity to accelerate a switch from face-to-face data collection to different modes, that have usually been considered to result in lower response rates. However, recent research has established that the simple response rate is a feeble measure of study quality. Therefore, this article aims to analyze the effect of survey characteristics, especially the survey mode, on the nonresponse bias. The bias measure used is the internal criteria first proposed by Sodeur and first applied by Kohler. The analysis is based on the survey documentation and results from the International Social Survey Programme waves 1996–2018 and the European Social Survey rounds 1 to 9. Random-effects three-level meta-regression models, based on data from countries from each inhabited continent, were created in order to estimate the impact of the survey mode or modes, sampling design, fieldwork experience, year of data collection, and response rate on the nonresponse bias indicator. Several ways of nesting observations within clusters were also proposed. The results suggest that using mail and some types of mixed-mode surveys were connected to lower nonresponse bias than using face-to-face mode surveys.
Effects of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium formula fertilization on the yield and berry quality of blueberry
Authors: Zhang Xinyu , Li Shuangshuang , An Xiaoli , Song Zejun , Zhu Yunzheng , Tan Yi , Guo Xiaolan , Wang Delu
Published: March 2023

Through the application ratio of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) in the field, L9 (33) orthogonal experimental design was used to study the effects of different N, P and K ratios on the yield and quality of blueberry fruit, aiming to optimize the amount of supplied fertilizers. The results showed that N, P and K fertilizer had different effects on fruit yield and quality, among which K fertilizer was the most important factor. Fertilization could significantly improve the yield and fruit quality of blueberry, and the average yield of fertilization treatment was 37.78% higher than that of the control group (CK). Even the treatment with the worst results F6 (N2P3K1), its single fruit weight, anthocyanins, total phenols, soluble solids and soluble protein content were 1.09, 1.32, 1.23, 1.08 and 1.21 times higher than the control (CK), respectively. Based on the comprehensive evaluation of principal component analysis and multi factor analysis of variance, the best fertilization combination for high-yield and good-quality blueberries was N1P2K2 (F2), that is, the best fertilization effect was that including N 100 g/plant, P2O5 25 g/plant, K2O 25 g/plant, applied in the form of ammonium sulfate (472 g/plant), superphosphate (41 g/plant) and potassium sulfate (40 g/plant), respectively.
Ankle dorsiflexion range of motion and landing postures during a soccer-specific task
Authors: Akbari Hadi , Shimokochi Yohei , Sheikhi Bahram
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (DF-ROM) has been shown to be associated with poor landing posture. However, previously used tasks have been controlled, and it is unclear whether clinical measurements of the ankle DF-ROM, are associated with landing positions during sport-specific task. This study sought to determine the relationship between ankle DF-ROM and landing positions.

Methods

Thirty male soccer players participated in this study. The ankle DF-ROM was measured by the weight bearing lunge test in degrees using a cell phone app (TiltMeter). Landing patterns were assessed during a soccer-specific task using landing error scoring system items using Kinovea software. Simple correlations were used to evaluate the relationships between ankle DF-ROM and landing error scores.

Results

Significant correlations were found between ankle DF-ROM and landing errors (r = -0.450, P = 0.006). A decreased ankle DF-ROM was associated with greater landing errors in a soccer specific situation.

Conclusion

These results suggest that ankle DF-ROM may serve a useful clinical measure for identifying poor landing posture in the real-world environment. Therefore, assessment of ankle DF-ROM could be included in the screening process, which could help identify the cause of the faulty motion.