bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Practical guide for preparation, computational reconstruction and analysis of 3D human neuronal networks in control and ischaemic conditions
Authors: Räsänen Noora , Harju Venla , Joki Tiina , Narkilahti Susanna
Published: August 2022

To obtain commensurate numerical data of neuronal network morphology in vitro, network analysis needs to follow consistent guidelines. Important factors in successful analysis are sample uniformity, suitability of the analysis method for extracting relevant data and the use of established metrics. However, for the analysis of 3D neuronal cultures, there is little coherence in the analysis methods and metrics used in different studies. Here, we present a framework for the analysis of neuronal networks in 3D. First, we selected a hydrogel that supported the growth of human pluripotent stem cell-derived cortical neurons. Second, we tested and compared two software programs for tracing multi-neuron images in three dimensions and optimized a workflow for neuronal analysis using software that was considered highly suitable for this purpose. Third, as a proof of concept, we exposed 3D neuronal networks to oxygen-glucose deprivation- and ionomycin-induced damage and showed morphological differences between the damaged networks and control samples utilizing the proposed analysis workflow. With the optimized workflow, we present a protocol for preparing, challenging, imaging and analysing 3D human neuronal cultures.
The role of cellular quiescence in cancer – beyond a quiet passenger
Authors: Tomasin Rebeka , Bruni-Cardoso Alexandre
Published: August 2022

Quiescence, the ability to temporarily halt proliferation, is a conserved process that initially allowed survival of unicellular organisms during inhospitable times and later contributed to the rise of multicellular organisms, becoming key for cell differentiation, size control and tissue homeostasis. In this Review, we explore the concept of cancer as a disease that involves abnormal regulation of cellular quiescence at every step, from malignant transformation to metastatic outgrowth. Indeed, disrupted quiescence regulation can be linked to each of the so-called ‘hallmarks of cancer’. As we argue here, quiescence induction contributes to immune evasion and resistance against cell death. In contrast, loss of quiescence underlies sustained proliferative signalling, evasion of growth suppressors, pro-tumorigenic inflammation, angiogenesis and genomic instability. Finally, both acquisition and loss of quiescence are involved in replicative immortality, metastasis and deregulated cellular energetics. We believe that a viewpoint that considers quiescence abnormalities that occur during oncogenesis might change the way we ask fundamental questions and the experimental approaches we take, potentially contributing to novel discoveries that might help to alter the course of cancer therapy.
Development of dim-light vision in the nocturnal reef fish family Holocentridae. II: Retinal morphology
Authors: Fogg Lily G. , Cortesi Fabio , Lecchini David , Gache Camille , Marshall N. Justin , de Busserolles Fanny
Published: August 2022

Ontogenetic changes in the habitats and lifestyles of animals are often reflected in their visual systems. Coral reef fishes start life in the shallow open ocean but inhabit the reef as juveniles and adults. Alongside this change in habitat, some species also change lifestyles and become nocturnal. However, it is not fully understood how the visual systems of nocturnal reef fishes develop and adapt to these significant ecological shifts over their lives. Therefore, we used a histological approach to examine visual development in the nocturnal coral reef fish family, Holocentridae. We examined 7 representative species spanning both subfamilies, Holocentrinae (squirrelfishes) and Myripristinae (soldierfishes). Pre-settlement larvae showed strong adaptation for photopic vision with high cone densities and had also started to develop a multibank retina (i.e. multiple rod layers), with up to two rod banks present. At reef settlement, holocentrids showed greater adaptation for scotopic vision, with higher rod densities and higher summation of rods onto the ganglion cell layer. By adulthood, they had well-developed scotopic vision with a highly rod-dominated multibank retina comprising 5–17 rod banks and enhanced summation of rods onto the ganglion cell layer. Although the ecological demands of the two subfamilies were similar throughout their lives, their visual systems differed after settlement, with Myripristinae showing more pronounced adaptation for scotopic vision than Holocentrinae. Thus, it is likely that both ecology and phylogeny contribute to the development of the holocentrid visual system.
Stigma-directed services (Stig2Health) to improve ‘linkage to care’ for people living with HIV in rural Tanzania: study protocol for a nested pre-post implementation study within the Kilombero and Ulanga Antiretroviral Cohort
Authors: Magnolini Raphael , Senkoro Elizabeth , Kalinjuma Aneth Vedastus , Kitau Olivia , Kivuma Bernard , Samson Leila , Eichenberger Anna , Mollel Getrud Joseph , Krinke Eileen , Okuma James , Ndege Robert , Glass Tracy , Mapesi Herry , Vanobberghen Fiona , Battegay Manuel , Weisser Maja
Published: August 2022

Background: HIV-related stigma is a major barrier to the timely linkage and retention of patients in HIV care in sub-Saharan Africa, where most people living with HIV/AIDS reside. In this implementation study we aim to evaluate the effect of stigma-directed services on linkage to care and other health outcomes in newly diagnosed HIV-positive patients.

Methods: In a nested project of the Kilombero and Ulanga Antiretroviral Cohort in rural Tanzania, we conduct a prospective observational pre-post study to assess the impact of a bundle of stigma-directed services for newly diagnosed HIV positive patients. Stigma-directed services, delivered by a lay person living with HIV, are i) post-test counseling, ii) post-test video-assisted teaching, iii) group support therapy and group health education, and iv) mobile health. Patients receiving stigma services (enrolled from 1st February 2020 to 31st August 2021) are compared to a historical control receiving the standard of care (enrolled from 1st July 2017 to 1st February 2019). The primary outcome is ‘linkage to care’. Secondary endpoints are retention in care, viral suppression, death and clinical failure at 6-12 months (up to 31st August 2022). Self-reported stigma and depression are assessed using the Berger Stigma scale and the PHQ-9 questionnaire, respectively. The sample size calculation was based on cohort data from 2018. Assuming a pre-intervention cohort of 511 newly diagnosed adults of whom 346 (68%) were in care and on antiretroviral treatment (ART) at 2 months, a 10% increase in linkage (from 70 to 80%), a two-sided type I error rate of 5%, and 90% power, 321 adults are required for the post-implementation group.

Discussion: We expect that integration of stigma-directed services leads to an increase of proportions of patients in care and on ART. The findings will provide guidance on how to integrate stigma-directed services into routine care in rural sub-Saharan Africa.
Systematic review of immunogenicity and duration of immunity of currently licensed pertussis wP vaccines in children
Authors: Bagattini Angela M. , Quarti Michelle M. , S. Martinez-Silveira Martha , Policena Gabriela , E. Coelho Lara , M. Luz Paula , B. Russell Louise , M. Toscano Cristiana
Published: August 2022

Background: Currently recommended whole cell pertussis (wP) vaccination schedule for children includes a 3-dose primary schedule, and at least one booster dose. When estimating the impact of additional strategies to reduce pertussis burden through modelling, duration of immunity conferred by childhood immunization is among the parameters models are most sensitive to. We aim to assess the duration of immunity of currently available wP vaccines in children and the additional protection conferred by booster doses.

Methods: We conducted a systematic review of published studies of current commercially available vaccines indexed in Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Lilacs, SciELO and Central until September 2021. We included clinical trials, observational longitudinal, and cross-sectional studies. Citation screening, data extraction, and risk of bias and methodological quality assessment were done in duplicate by independent reviewers, following the study protocol registered in PROSPERO. Studies were included if they reported primary data on the protection, immunity, or duration of immunity conferred by ≥3 doses of wP vaccine in healthy children, without restriction to time or location of the study. Outcomes included clinical events or serological evidence of protection.

Results: We included 12 studies conducted from 2007-2020 with heterogeneous methodological quality. Studies report on 5 of the 18 currently available wP vaccines in use. After primary immunization, geometric mean concentration (GMC) of anti-pertussis toxin ranged from 9.1 EU/mL (95% confidence intervals [CI]: 8.1-10.2) to 50.9 (95%CI: 45.9-56.4). Prior to the 1st booster, GMC titers were low ranging from 4.7 to 10 EU/mL, and after the 1st booster averaged around 42 EU/mL.

Conclusions: The limited available evidence on immunogenicity of currently available wP vaccines reinforces the need for booster doses and suggests that the duration of wP immunity is short, probably <5 years. This is important information for vaccination policy makers, investigators and modelers.

PROSPERO registration: CRD42018107309
Improved predictions of phase behaviour of intrinsically disordered proteins by tuning the interaction range
Authors: Tesei Giulio , Lindorff-Larsen Kresten
Published: August 2022

The formation and viscoelastic properties of condensates of intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) is dictated by amino acid sequence and solution conditions. Because of the involvement of biomolecular condensates in cell physiology and disease, advancing our understanding of the relationship between protein sequence and phase separation (PS) may have important implications in the formulation of new therapeutic hypotheses. Here, we present CALVADOS 2, a coarse-grained model of IDPs that accurately predicts conformational properties and propensities to undergo PS for diverse sequences and solution conditions. In particular, we systematically study the effect of varying the range of the nonionic interactions and use our findings to improve the temperature scale of the model. We further optimize the residue-specific model parameters against experimental data on the conformational properties of 55 proteins, while also leveraging 70 hydrophobicity scales from the literature to avoid overfitting the training data. Extensive testing shows that the model accurately predicts chain compaction and PS propensity for sequences of diverse length and charge patterning, as well as at different temperatures and salt concentrations.
Couple Therapists’ States of Mind - thematic analysis of narratives of psychoanalytical couple therapists on experiences of work during the COVID - 19 pandemic
Authors: Małek Karolina , Jurczyk Tomasz
Published: August 2022

Cel pracy

Psychoterapia zdalna stanowiła praktykowaną formę pomocy pacjentom jeszcze przed wybuchem pandemii COVID-19, jednak od marca 2020 roku stała się powszechnym sposobem pracy, stawiając przed wszystkimi uczestnikami procesu poważne wyzwania. Jak wskazują badania, terapeuci pracujący w różnych podejściach i z różnymi grupami pacjentów różnili się w postawach wobec pracy zdalnej, a tym samym gotowością do modyfikowania swojego sposobu pracy. Celem niniejszego badania było zrozumienie subiektywnego doświadczenia terapeutów prowadzenia psychoanalitycznej psychoterapii par podczas pierwszego roku pandemii.

Metoda

Do badania, przeprowadzonego w paradygmacie jakościowym, zaproszono 10 terapeutów par, pracujących w ujęciu psychoanalitycznym, korzystających z superwizji prowadzonych przez specjalistów z Tavistock Relationship w oparciu o opracowany tam model pracy z parami. Zebrano dziesięć narracji, w których badani terapeuci dzielili się swobodnie swoimi doświadczeniami prowadzenia terapii par podczas pierwszego roku pandemii. Następnie otrzymany materiał został poddany analizie tematycznej przez dwoje badaczy.

Wyniki

W wyniku przeprowadzonej analizy wyłoniono 4 tematy główne (Zmiany powodowane przez pandemię, Praca w warunkach on-line, Przeżycia pacjentów, O terapeucie). Każdy z nich składał się z kilku tematów szczegółowych.

Wnioski

Otrzymane wyniki w pewnym stopniu spójne są z rezultatami wcześniej przeprowadzonych badań jakościowych z udziałem terapeutów innych modalności i pracujących z inną grupą pacjentów, co wskazywać może na uniwersalność doświadczeń osób pracujących w obszarze psychoterapii. Jednocześnie udało się wyodrębnić tematy specyficzne dla badanej grupy, odnoszące się z jednej strony do doświadczeń trudności prowadzenia terapii psychoanalitycznej zapośredniczonej przez narzędzia pracy zdalnej, z drugiej zaś do kontekstu psychoterapeutycznej pracy z parami.
Multiyear Impact of Backorder Delays: A Quasi-Experimental Approach
Authors: Bhan Hyung Sup (Zack) , Anderson Eric T.
Published: August 2022

This paper investigates the impact of experiencing a backorder on customers’ purchase behaviors the next four years.
Pediatri Asistanlarının Astım Tedavisinde Kullanılan İnhaler Tedavi Teknikleri Konusunda Bilgi Düzeylerinin Değerlendirilmesi
Authors: SENGUL EMEKSİZ Zeynep , TEHÇİ Ali Kansu , YİĞİT Metin , ALAN TEHÇİ Başak , DİBEK MISIRLIOĞLU Emine
Published: August 2022

Amaç: İnhaler ilaçların tedavi başarısı ancak doğru bir teknikle uygulanırsa mümkün olmaktadır. Hatalı inhaler teknik; terapötik etkinliği azaltır, tedavi uyumunu bozar ve hastalığın yetersiz kontrolüne yol açar. Çalışmamızda; üçüncü basamak çocuk hastanesinde hem yataklı servis hem de poliklinik hizmetlerinde astımlı çocuk hasta takibinde önemli rol üstlenen pediatri asistan hekimlerinin uygun inhaler teknik konusundaki bilgi düzeylerini değerlendirmek ve kısa süreli bir eğitimin bilgi düzeyine katkısını belirlemek amaçlanmıştır.
Gereç ve Yöntemler: Tüm katılımcılardan demo cihazlar ve manken kullanarak, inhaler cihaz kullanımını göstermeleri istendi. Bu değerlendirme ‘Ön-Test’ olarak adlandırıldı. Daha sonra katılımcılara maksimum 15 kişiden oluşan gruplar halinde, tüm uygulama basamaklarını içeren yüz yüze inhaler cihaz kullanım eğitimi verildi. Eğitim sonunda inhaler cihaz kullanımına ait basamaklar tekrar değerlendirildi.
Bulgular: Ölçülü Doz İnhaler ve Kuru Toz İnhaler cihazlara ait inhaler teknik ile ilgili eğitim öncesi değerlendirme sonucunda 148 katılımcıdan hiçbirinin önceden belirlenmiş zorunlu basamakları eksiksiz tamamlayamadığı görüldü. Eğitim sonrasında tüm katılımcıların önceden belirlenen kontrol listesinin adımlarını tam olarak uygulayabildikleri gözlemlendi.
Sonuç: Tıp fakültesi müfredatı ve uzmanlık eğitim sürecine astım tedavisi için son derece önemli olan inhaler cihazların uygulama eğitiminin dahil edilmesi gerektiğine dikkat çekmek istiyoruz. Sağlık profesyonelleri arasında, inhaler teknik uygulamalarını içeren hizmet içi eğitimlerin düzenli aralıklarla tekrarlanması uygulamadaki hataları gidermekle birlikte astım tedavisinde doğru inhaler tekniğin önemi konusundaki farkındalığı da arttıracaktır.
Perioperative active warming for preventing neonatal hypothermia: the Neohyp trial
Authors: Vilinsky-Redmond Aliona , Brenner Maria , McCaul Conan , McCann Margaret
Published: August 2022

Background

Perioperative hypothermia for women undergoing elective caesarean section is a common comorbidity, which may result in neonatal hypothermia when at-birth skin-to-skin contact is performed. This trial compared the effectiveness of warm intravenous and room temperature fluids among women performing at birth skin-to-skin contact on perioperative neonatal and maternal heat loss.

Methods

A double-blind, randomised controlled trial compared warm and room temperature intravenous fluids in 150 healthy women performing at birth skin-to-skin contact while undergoing elective caesarean section. Analysis was based on intention-to-treat.

Results

Active warming of women significantly reduced neonatal (P=0.02) and maternal (P=0.0027) hypothermia at the end of skin-to-skin contact in the operative theatre, maternal hypothermia on post-anaesthesia care unit admission (P=0.0022) and maternal shivering (P=0.0001).

Conclusions

Administering warm intravenous fluids during caesarean section when skin-to-skin contact is performed at birth is a safe practice with multiple health benefits for both newborns and their mothers. Consideration should be given to incorporating this intervention into clinical practice procedures promoting skin-to-skin contact in women undergoing elective caesarean section.
Learning about compassion during midwifery education: exploring student midwives' perspectives
Authors: Pearson Maria
Published: August 2022

Background

Although compassionate healthcare is not a new neologism in midwifery, formal study about compassion in undergraduate curricula is relatively unexplored. This research offered an opportunity to explore midwifery students' perspectives of learning about compassion during their course.

Methods

A mixed-methods approach was used to collect data in three phases. First, 24 first-year student midwives completed a free writing exercise. Second, 81 self-completion questionnaires were given to students from all three years. Third, semi-structured interviews in focus groups were conducted with six first-year students, four second-year students and six third-year students. Thematic analysis was used to interpret qualitative findings.

Results

The majority of students reported formal study about and for compassion had increased their understanding of the concept. Midwifery practice placements were reported to support students' learning about compassion.

Conclusions

Formal teaching about compassion during undergraduate midwifery education is recommended. Three distinct, interrelated themes emerged and students' brought their pre-professional life experiences to the classroom and clinical practice; they continued to learn about compassion both formally and informally, depending upon the situations they found themselves in.
The changing reproductive landscape
Authors: Winter George F
Published: August 2022

George Winter discusses the changes taking place in reproductive health rights, exploring the healthcare professional's role in advising on moral rights
Composição florística de um fragmento florestal no distrito de Jaguara, Feira de Santana, Bahia
Authors: Anunciação Eliane da Silva , Fernandes Moabe Ferreira , São Paulo Rita de Cássia Alves Menezes , Cardoso Domingos , Queiroz Luciano Paganucci de
Published: August 2022

O município de Feira de Santana está localizado na região do Agreste e, portanto, sua flora apresenta espécies dos domínios fitogeográficos da Mata Atlântica e da Caatinga. A vegetação do município encontra-se bastante fragmentada e os poucos fragmentos remanescentes carecem de estudos florísticos. Com o objetivo de contribuir para o conhecimento da flora do Agreste e do município de Feira de Santana, este trabalho apresenta o levantamento florístico de um fragmento florestal no distrito de Jaguara, compreendendo uma nanofloresta latifoliada estacional semideciduifólia tropical de baixada (caatinga) e uma floresta ripícola (mata ciliar). Foram amostradas 113 espécies de plantas vasculares, sendo 99 na caatinga e 35 na mata ciliar. A composição florística e a fisionomia da vegetação de caatinga são semelhantes às da maioria das áreas do Agreste, sendo Leguminosae (25 espécies), Euphorbiaceae (8), Malvaceae (6), Rubiaceae (5) e Plantaginaceae (4) as famílias mais ricas em espécies. A floresta estudada encontra-se provavelmente em processo de regeneração, havendo a necessidade da adoção de medidas que permitam a sua conservação.
Addressing intimate-partner violence during COVID-19 in the EU: challenges, responses and areas of improvement
Authors: Esposito Eleonora , Szypulska Agata
Published: August 2022

Natural disasters and pandemics bring new risks and dangers to women and their children. In particular, various factors stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, such as economic instability, additional stress and increased control over victims led to an increase in both prevalence and severity of intimate partner violence. Based on the findings of a study conducted by the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE), this article examines the main challenges during the first months of the COVID-19 crisis (March–September 2020) and analyses institutional responses to facilitate access to support services for victims. Relying on a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods, the study highlights the role of European Union (EU) Member States in improving long-term responses to gender-based violence in times of crises. The study also gives particular attention to emerging promising practices and holistic approaches towards the gender-based violence crisis stemming from the pandemic, describing selected examples of initiatives adopted across the EU and identifying main areas of improvement.
Structural and relational oppression of women: the association between open defecation and partner violence in Bangladesh
Authors: Murshid Nadine Shaanta
Published: August 2022

As indicated by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics, 80 per cent of women in Bangladesh experience partner violence (BBS, 2015). Given this prevalence, it is essential to assess factors, transcending the personal, that precipitate such violence. Using the lens of structural violence and supporting studies showing that violence of one form engenders another, we posit that a lack of sanitation that leads to open defecation also contributes to an increased likelihood of partner violence. This study uses data from the Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey 2007 to explicate the association between open defecation and partner violence among women in Bangladesh. Results show that in our sample of 4466 women, almost 9 per cent reported open defecation, 18.4 per cent reported physical violence, and 10.2 per cent reported sexual violence. In the multivariate analyses, the adjusted prevalence ratios indicate that open defecation is significantly associated with sexual violence by partners (APR=1.30, p<0.05) but not physical violence. Implications are discussed.
Effects of fictive temperature on mid-frequency waviness in laser polishing of glass
Authors: Yu Mingjie , Mo Zhili , Yu Xuan , Lei Cheng , Wang Du
Published: August 2022

Laser polishing of glass optical elements is considered to be a promising processing technology. However, mid-frequency waviness (MFW) is an important defect affecting the practical application of laser polishing. The formation mechanism of MFW has been studied in different aspects. Here, the correlation between fictive temperature and MFW caused by laser polishing is studied on fused silica for the first time. We heat the fused silica samples by a

C
O

2

laser and quench them in air to simulate different fictive temperatures. Then the changes of the Si–O–Si bond angle are measured by a Fourier infrared spectrometer, which is associated with the density of glass. Combining experimental data and laser polishing temperature field simulation, we could find that, although it is not the main factor of MFW formation, the effect of fictive temperature on MFW cannot be ignored. The result provides a meaningful reference for the process of laser polishing glass optical elements.
Dynamically switching the asymmetric transmission and monodirectional absorption of circularly polarized waves using cascade composite resonator-graphene meta-surfaces
Authors: Wang Yanfei , Yang Rui
Published: August 2022

We propose a reconfigurable hybrid graphene meta-surface for modulating circularly polarized (CP) waves with dual functionalities of asymmetric transmission (AT) and monodirectional absorption. Such a meta-surface consists of three cascade dielectrics covered with identical metallic resonators and different patterned graphene sheets over the front and the back sides, respectively. The left-handed CP incidences will be transformed into right-handed CP counterparts efficiently with an AT-parameter of 0.8, and the state of transmission will be contrary when the incident CP waves are from the opposite direction. On the other hand, the proposed cascade composite resonator-graphene meta-surface can also function as a super monodirectional absorber to trap the forward incident CP waves at the same frequency range when we simply tune the Fermi energy of graphene. The proposed design should pave the way for building up more advanced meta-devices with multiple functionalities to manipulate CP waves.
Reflective metalens with an enhanced off-axis focusing performance
Authors: Alnakhli Zahrah , Lin Ronghui , Liao Che-Hao , Labban Abdulrahman El , Li Xiaohang
Published: August 2022

Metalenses are one of the most promising metasurface applications. However, all-dielectric reflective metalenses are rarely studied, especially regarding their off-axis focusing performance. After experimentally studying the material optical properties in this work, we propose reflective metalens based on titanium dioxide (TiO2) and silicon dioxide (SiO2), which operate at a visible wavelength of 0.633 µm. Unlike conventional reflective metalenses based on metallic mirrors, the proposed device was designed based on a modified parabolic phase profile and was integrated onto a dielectric distributed Bragg reflector periodic structure to achieve high reflectivity with five dielectric pairs. The focusing efficiency characteristics of the metalens were experimentally studied for beam angles of incidence between

0
∘

and

30
∘

. The results reveal that the focusing efficiency for the modified metalens design remains higher than 54%, which is higher than 50%, making it promising for photonic miniaturization and integration.
Graphene-based fine tuning of Fano resonance transmission of quasi-bound states in the continuum
Authors: Kim Myunghwan , Kee Chul-Sik , Kim Soeun
Published: August 2022

Quasi-bound state in the continuum (BIC) has significant potential because it supports an ultra-high quality factor (Q-factor). Here, we propose a graphene-embedded subwavelength grating that supports quasi-BIC for tuning very sharp Fano resonance transmission. The strongly enhanced light-graphene interaction from the quasi-BIC enables fine variation of the transmission at the resonant wavelength. The Q-factor of quasi-BIC significantly decreases as the Fermi level of graphene increases. We also propose a low-energy consumption THz-wave modulator using this scheme. The designed modulator shows approximately 100% modulation depth with a Fermi level shift of only EF = 90 meV.
Group IV THz large area emitter based on GeSn alloy
Authors: Chen Wang-Chien , Chang Chia-Wei , Yang Shang-Hua
Published: August 2022

THz photoconductive emitters based on III–V materials have demonstrated excellent THz radiation properties, enabling many unique applications. However, the incompatibility with the complementary-metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) foundry fabrication process and the challenging growth condition hampers THz photoconductive emitters from large-scale production. To address this limitation, we proposed the GeSn alloy as the photoconductive material candidate through the CMOS-compatible epitaxy instrument. The GeSn photoconductor features a 518 cm2/V-s mobility and a 7187 cm–1 absorption coefficient at the wavelength of 1560 nm, resulting in sufficiently ultrafast photocurrent generation for THz radiation. As a result, the GeSn THz emitter provides over a bandwidth of 2 THz and a 40 dB signal-to-noise ratio, which shows its potential in realizing mass-producible, cost-effective THz integrated systems with CMOS technology.
Compact high-flux X-ray source based on irradiation of solid targets by gigahertz and megahertz bursts of femtosecond laser pulses
Authors: Rimkus Lukas , Stasevičius Ignas , Barkauskas Martynas , Giniūnas Linas , Barkauskas Vytenis , Butkus Simas , Vengris Mikas
Published: August 2022

In this study, we demonstrate the significant increase in the hard X-ray yield (more than 1011 photons/s in 4π solid angle in 6 - 40 keV range) that can be achieved in an ambient air environment when solid targets are irradiated by sequences of high average power (90 W) bursts of femtosecond laser pulses, generated in GHz burst laser amplifier operated at high repetition rate (100 kHz). The combination of the prepulse and ∼ 10 times greater driving pulse not only enhances X-ray generation efficiency (∼ 10−6) by more than two orders of magnitude compared to the single pulse regime but also protects a target allowing continuous operation for 3 hours with only 30% predictable and gradual drop of X-ray yield. In addition, we show that X-ray yield enhancement becomes around 6 times more pronounced at higher repetition rates (100 kHz compared to < 5 kHz). The simplicity and relative cost-effectiveness of the presented X-ray source makes it an attractive solution for future applications in ultrafast X-ray imaging and spectroscopy.
Quantification of hypoxic regions distant from occlusions in cerebral penetrating arteriole trees
Authors: Xue Yidan , Georgakopoulou Theodosia , van der Wijk Anne-Eva , Józsa Tamás I. , van Bavel Ed , Payne Stephen J.
Published: August 2022

The microvasculature plays a key role in oxygen transport in the mammalian brain. Despite the close coupling between cerebral vascular geometry and local oxygen demand, recent experiments have reported that microvascular occlusions can lead to unexpected distant tissue hypoxia and infarction. To better understand the spatial correlation between the hypoxic regions and the occlusion sites, we used both in vivo experiments and in silico simulations to investigate the effects of occlusions in cerebral penetrating arteriole trees on tissue hypoxia. In a rat model of microembolisation, 25 μm microspheres were injected through the carotid artery to occlude penetrating arterioles. In representative models of human cortical columns, the penetrating arterioles were occluded by simulating the transport of microspheres of the same size and the oxygen transport was simulated using a Green’s function method. The locations of microspheres and hypoxic regions were segmented, and two novel distance analyses were implemented to study their spatial correlation. The distant hypoxic regions were found to be present in both experiments and simulations, and mainly due to the hypoperfusion in the region downstream of the occlusion site. Furthermore, a reasonable agreement for the spatial correlation between hypoxic regions and occlusion sites is shown between experiments and simulations, which indicates the good applicability of in silico models in understanding the response of cerebral blood flow and oxygen transport to microemboli.
FXR deficiency in hepatocytes disrupts the bile acid homeostasis and inhibits autophagy to promote liver injury in Schistosoma japonicum-infected mice
Authors: Zhang Beibei , Li Jing , Zong Xianlong , Wang Jianling , Xin Lianlian , Song Haiyao , Zhang Wenxue , Koda Stephane , Hua Hui , Zhang Bo , Yu Qian , Zheng Kui-Yang , Yan Chao
Published: August 2022

Background

Schistosomiasis, with 250 million people affected, is characterized by its serious hepatic inflammatory response and fibrosis formation, which could lead to dangerous complications, such as portal hypertension, splenomegaly and even ascites. But until now, the pathogenesis of schistosomiasis remains largely unknown. Farnesoid X Receptor (FXR), a bile acid-activated nuclear transcription factor mainly expresses in hepatocytes in the liver, can regulate liver diseases by controlling bile acid metabolism.

Methodology/Principal findings

In this study, we found that the expression of FXR was decreased in the liver of infected mice as shown by western blot and RT-qPCR assays. Furthermore, hepatocyte-specific FXR-deficient mice (FXRflox/floxAlbCre, FXR-HKO) were generated and infected with ~16 cercariae of S. japonicum for five weeks. We found that FXR deficiency in hepatocytes promoted the progression of liver injury, aggravated weight loss and death caused by infection, and promoted inflammatory cytokines production, such as IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-4, IL-10, and IL-13. Surprisingly, hepatic granulomas and fibrosis were not affected. In addition, using UPLC-MS/MS spectrometry, it was found that S. japonicum infection resulted in elevated bile acids in the liver of mice, which was more obvious in FXR-deficient mice. Meanwhile, autophagy was induced in littermate control mice due to the infection, but it was significantly decreased in FXR-HKO mice.

Conclusions/Significance

All these findings suggest that FXR deficiency in hepatocytes disrupts bile acid homeostasis and inhibits autophagy, which may aggravate the damages of hepatocytes caused by S. japonicum infection. It highlights that FXR in hepatocytes plays a regulatory role in the progression of schistosomiasis.
Prevalence of central obesity and its associated risk factors among adults in Southeast Ethiopia: A community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Tekalegn Yohannes , Solomon Damtew , Sahiledengle Biniyam , Assefa Tesfaye , Negash Wogene , Tahir Anwar , Regassa Tadele , Mamo Ayele , Gezahegn Habtamu , Bekele Kebebe , Zenbaba Demisu , Tasew Alelign , Desta Fikreab , Atlaw Daniel , Regassa Zegeye , Nugusu Fikadu , Engida Zinash Teferu , Tesfaye Degefa Gomora , Kene Chala , Nigussie Wondu Shiferaw , Chala Dereje , Abdi Adisu Gemechu , Beressa Girma , Woldeyohannes Demelash , Rogers Heather L. , Mwanri Lillian
Published: August 2022

Background

Obesity and overweight are known public health problems that affect populations across the world. These conditions have been associated with a wide range of chronic diseases including type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and cancers. In Ethiopia, the literature regarding the burden of central (abdominal) obesity is scarce. This study aimed to fill this gap by assessing the prevalence and risk factors associated with central obesity among adults in Ethiopia.

Methods

From May to July 2021, a community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted on a sample of 694 adults aged ≥18 years in administrative towns of Bale zone, Southeast Ethiopia. Multi-stage sampling followed by systematic random sampling was employed to identify study participants. Waist and hip circumferences were measured using standard protocols. The World Health Organization STEPS wise tool was used to assess risk factors associated with central obesity. Bi-variable and multi-variable binary logistic regression were used to identify factors associated with central obesity. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) have been reported to estimate the strength of associations.

Results

The overall prevalence of central obesity using waist circumference was 39.01% [(95% CI: 35.36–42.76; 15.44% for men and 53.12% for women)]. Multi-variable binary logistic regression analysis revealed that female sex (AOR = 12.93, 95% CI: 6.74–24.79), Age groups: 30–39 years old (AOR = 2.8, 95% CI: 1.59–4.94), 40–49 years (AOR = 7.66, 95% CI: 3.87–15.15), 50–59 years (AOR = 4.65, 95% CI: 2.19–9.89), ≥60 years (AOR = 12.67, 95% CI: 5.46–29.39), occupational status like: housewives (AOR = 5.21, 95% CI: 1.85–14.62), self-employed workers (AOR = 4.63, 95% CI: 1.62–13.24), government/private/non-government employees (AOR = 4.68, 95% CI: 1.47–14.88), and skipping breakfast (AOR = 0.46, 95% CI: 0.23–0.9) were significantly associated with central obesity.

Conclusions

Abdominal obesity has become an epidemic in Bale Zone’s towns in Southeastern Ethiopia. Female sex, age, being employed were positively associated with central obesity, while skipping breakfast was a protective factor.
Prevalence, risk factors, and cardiovascular disease outcomes associated with persistent blood pressure control: The Jackson Heart Study
Authors: Tajeu Gabriel S. , Colvin Calvin L. , Hardy Shakia T. , Bress Adam P. , Gaye Bamba , Jaeger Byron C. , Ogedegbe Gbenga , Sakhuja Swati , Sims Mario , Shimbo Daichi , O’Brien Emily C. , Spruill Tanya M. , Muntner Paul
Published: August 2022

Background

Maintaining blood pressure (BP) control over time may contribute to lower risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) among individuals who are taking antihypertensive medication.

Methods

The Jackson Heart Study (JHS) enrolled 5,306 African-American adults ≥21 years of age and was used to determine the proportion of African Americans that maintain persistent BP control, identify factors associated with persistent BP control, and determine the association of persistent BP control with CVD events. This analysis included 1,604 participants who were taking antihypertensive medication at Visit 1 and had BP data at Visits 1 (2000–2004), 2 (2005–2008), and 3 (2009–2013). Persistent BP control was defined as systolic BP <140 mm Hg and diastolic BP <90 mm Hg at all three visits. CVD events were assessed from Visit 3 through December 31, 2016. Hazard ratios (HR) for the association of persistent BP control with CVD outcomes were adjusted for age, sex, systolic BP, smoking, diabetes, and total and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol at Visit 3.

Results

At Visit 1, 1,226 of 1,604 participants (76.4%) with hypertension had controlled BP. Overall, 48.9% of participants taking antihypertensive medication at Visit 1 had persistent BP control. After multivariable adjustment for demographic, socioeconomic, clinical, behavioral, and psychosocial factors, and access-to-care, participants were more likely to have persistent BP control if they were <65 years of age, women, had family income ≥$25,000 at each visit, and visited a health professional in the year prior to each visit. The multivariable adjusted HR (95% confidence interval) comparing participants with versus without persistent BP control was 0.71 (0.46–1.10) for CVD, 0.68 (0.34–1.34) for coronary heart disease, 0.65 (0.27–1.52) for stroke, and 0.55 (0.33–0.90) for heart failure.

Conclusion

Less than half of JHS participants taking antihypertensive medication had persistent BP control, putting them at increased risk for heart failure.
Psychological and financial impacts of COVID-19-related travel measures: An international cross-sectional study
Authors: McDermid Pippa , Sooppiyaragath Soumya , Craig Adam , Sheel Meru , Blazek Katrina , Talty Siobhan , Seale Holly
Published: August 2022

Background

The impact of COVID-19 international travel restrictions has to date, not been fully explored, and with the ongoing threat that new variants could potentially restrict movement further, it is important to consider the impacts that travel restrictions have on community members. This study aimed to evaluate the psychological and financial impact of COVID-19 travel restrictions on those separated from their partners or immediate families, as well as temporary visa holders who were unable to migrate.

Methods

Between 4 November 2021 to 1 December 2021, we executed a cross-sectional online survey targeting three specific groups; (1) those stranded from their partners; (2) those stranded from immediate families; and (3) temporary visa holders unable to migrate or cross international borders. We collected data on respondents’ demographic profile; the nature of COVID-19-related travel impacts; depression, anxiety, and stress levels (using the validated DASS-21); and finally, data on respondents financial, employment and accommodation situation.

Results

1363 respondents located globally completed the survey. 71.2% reported financial stress, 76.8% (x¯=11.57, SD = 5.94) reported moderate-to-extremely severe depression, 51.6% (x¯=6.80, SD = 5.49) moderate-to-extremely severe anxiety, and 62.6% (x¯=11.52, SD = 5.55) moderate-to-extremely severe stress levels. Statistically significant factors associated with moderate-to-extremely severe depression, anxiety, and stress included being female, chronic illness, and experiencing financial stress. Employment during COVID-19 –specifically essential services workers or unemployed—was associated with higher levels of anxiety and stress, with only essential workers being a predictor of higher stress severity. Factors that provided psychological protection included being older and having children.

Conclusion

This study is one of the first to explore the impact COVID-19-related international travel restrictions have had on the financial status and psychological health of affected individuals. It highlights the significant human cost associated with the restrictions and identifies psychologically vulnerable populations. These results will help the design of targeted health and social policy responses.
Enhancing performance with multisensory cues in a realistic target discrimination task
Authors: Cinel Caterina , Fernandez-Vargas Jacobo , Tremmel Christoph , Citi Luca , Poli Riccardo
Published: August 2022

Making decisions is an important aspect of people’s lives. Decisions can be highly critical in nature, with mistakes possibly resulting in extremely adverse consequences. Yet, such decisions have often to be made within a very short period of time and with limited information. This can result in decreased accuracy and efficiency. In this paper, we explore the possibility of increasing speed and accuracy of users engaged in the discrimination of realistic targets presented for a very short time, in the presence of unimodal or bimodal cues. More specifically, we present results from an experiment where users were asked to discriminate between targets rapidly appearing in an indoor environment. Unimodal (auditory) or bimodal (audio-visual) cues could shortly precede the target stimulus, warning the users about its location. Our findings show that, when used to facilitate perceptual decision under time pressure, and in condition of limited information in real-world scenarios, spoken cues can be effective in boosting performance (accuracy, reaction times or both), and even more so when presented in bimodal form. However, we also found that cue timing plays a critical role and, if the cue-stimulus interval is too short, cues may offer no advantage. In a post-hoc analysis of our data, we also show that congruency between the response location and both the target location and the cues, can interfere with the speed and accuracy in the task. These effects should be taken in consideration, particularly when investigating performance in realistic tasks.
Pregnancy and delivery after spine fracture or surgery: A nationwide population-based register study in Finland
Authors: Vaajala Matias , Kuitunen Ilari , Nyrhi Lauri , Ponkilainen Ville , Kekki Maiju , Huttunen Tuomas , Mäntymäki Heikki , Mattila Ville
Published: August 2022

Background

The incidences of spine fractures and fusion surgeries have increased. A few studies have reported an increased rate of caesarean sections (CS) in women who have undergone spine surgery but have not reported on the health of neonates.

Objective

We report the incidence of spine fractures, spine fracture surgeries and fusion surgery for other reasons and the effect of these injuries and procedures on later pregnancy outcomes in Finland.

Methods

Data on all fertile-aged women (1998–2018) who had undergone spine fracture or spine fusion surgery were retrieved from the Care Register for Healthcare and combined with data from the National Medical Birth Register. Women with spine fracture or spine surgery before pregnancy were compared with women without previous spine fracture or surgery. We calculated incidences of spine fracture, spine fracture surgery and fusion surgery for other reasons with 95% confidence intervals (CI). We used multivariable logistic regression to evaluate CS and neonatal health. Results are reported as adjusted odds ratios (AOR).

Results

The main finding of our study was the increasing incidence (156%) of spine fusion surgeries for other reasons in fertile-aged women. A total CS rate (including elective and unplanned CS) in the spine fracture group was 19.7% (AOR 1.26, CI 1.17–1.34), in fusion surgery for other reasons group 25.3% (AOR 1.37, CI 1.30–1.49) and 15.9% in the control group. The rate for neonates requiring intensive care in the spine fracture group was 12.2% (AOR 1.18, CI 1.08–1.29), in fusion surgery for other reasons group 13.6% (AOR 1.12, CI 1.02–1.23) and 10.0% in the control group.

Conclusions

The incidence of fusion surgery for other reasons increased during our study period. The rate of CS was higher in women with preceding spine fracture or fusion surgery. Our results suggest that vaginal delivery after fractures of the spine is both possible and safe for mother and neonate.
Patient-reported factors associated with avoidance of in-person care during the COVID-19 pandemic: Results from a national survey
Authors: Arnetz Bengt B. , Goetz Courtney , vanSchagen John , Baer William , Smith Stacy , Arnetz Judith E.
Published: August 2022

Background

There has been a substantial decline in in-person care in inpatient and outpatient settings during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Avoidance of needed in-person care may contribute to an avoidable decline in patient health and an increase in mortality. While several systems and behavioral theories have been put forward to explain the decline, there is a lack of studies informed by patients’ own experiences. The current study applied a socio-ecological model encompassing patient, environmental, and institutional-related variables to examine patient-reported factors associated with avoidance of in-person care.

Methods

Between October and December 2020, a total of 3840 persons responded to a nationwide online questionnaire that was administered using ResearchMatch and Facebook. Self-reported avoidance of in-person care among those who needed it was the main outcome. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with avoidance of needed care.

Findings

Out of a total of 3372 respondents who reported that they needed in-person care during the early phase of the pandemic, 257 (7.6%) avoided it. Patient-related variables associated with avoiding needed care included younger age (odds ratio (OR), 1.46, 95% CI 1.11 to 1.94, p<0.01; <45 y/o vs 45+), inability to afford care (OR = 1.65, 95% CI 1.17 to 2.34, p<0.01), and greater COVID-related stress (OR = 1.36, CI 1.01 to 1.83, p<0.05). More frequent discussions about COVID with family and friends was the only significant environment-related avoidance of care variable (OR = 1.39, 95% CI 1.01–1.91, p < .05). Institution-related care avoidance variables included a negative patient healthcare experience rating (OR 1.83, 95% CI 1.38 to 2.42, p<0.001), poor awareness of the institution’s safety protocol (OR = 1.79, 95% CI 1.28 to 2.51, p<0.01), and low ratings of the institution’s effectiveness in communicating their safety protocol (OR = 3.45, 95% CI 1.94 to 6.12, p<0.001). The final model predicted 11.9% of the variance in care avoidance.

Conclusions

These results suggest that care avoidance of in-person care during the initial phase of the pandemic was influenced by a patient’s demographics as well as environmental and healthcare institutional factors. Patients’ previous experiences and their awareness of healthcare systems’ safety protocols are important factors in care avoidance.