bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The efficacy of non-invasive brain stimulation in the treatment of children and adolescents with Anorexia Nervosa: study protocol of a randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Ursumando Luciana , Ponzo Viviana , Monteleone Alessio Maria , Menghini Deny , Fucà Elisa , Lazzaro Giulia , Esposito Romina , Picazio Silvia , Koch Giacomo , Zanna Valeria , Vicari Stefano , Costanzo Floriana
Published: August 2023

Background

Current psychological and pharmacological treatments for Anorexia Nervosa (AN) provide only moderate effective support, and there is an urgent need for research to improve therapies, especially in developing age. Non-invasive brain stimulation has suggested to have the potential to reducing AN symptomatology, via targeting brain alterations, such as hyperactivity of right prefrontal cortex (PFC). We suppose that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to the PFC may be effective in children and adolescents with AN.

Methods

We will conduct a randomized, double blind, add-on, placebo-controlled trial to investigate the efficacy of tDCS treatment on clinical improvement. We will also investigate brain mechanisms and biomarkers changes acting in AN after tDCS treatment. Eighty children or adolescent with AN (age range 10–18 years) will undergo treatment-as-usual including psychiatric, nutritional and psychological support, plus tDCS treatment (active or sham) to PFC (F3 anode/F4 cathode), for six weeks, delivered three times a week. Psychological, neurophysiological and physiological measures will be collected at baseline and at the end of treatment. Participants will be followed-up one, three, six months and one year after the end of treatment. Psychological measures will include parent- and self-report questionnaires on AN symptomatology and other psychopathological symptoms. Neurophysiological measures will include transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) with electroencephalography and paired pulse TMS and repetitive TMS to investigate changes in PFC connectivity, reactivity and plasticity after treatment. Physiological measures will include changes in the functioning of the endogenous stress response system, body mass index (BMI) and nutritional state.

Discussion

We expect that tDCS treatment to improve clinical outcome by reducing the symptoms of AN assessed as changes in Eating Disorder Risk composite score of the Eating Disorder Inventory-3. We also expect that at baseline there will be differences between the right and left hemisphere in some electrophysiological measures and that such differences will be reduced after tDCS treatment. Finally, we expect a reduction of endogenous stress response and an improvement in BMI and nutritional status after tDCS treatment. This project would provide scientific foundation for new treatment perspectives in AN in developmental age, as well as insight into brain mechanisms acting in AN and its recovery.

Trial registration The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT05674266) and ethical approval for the study was granted by the local research ethics committee (process number 763_OPBG_2014).
Survival outcome of patients undergoing salvage surgery for hypopharyngeal cancer after failure of primary curative treatment: a retrospective study
Authors: Chotipanich Adit
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Salvage surgery for hypopharyngeal cancer remains a major challenge, and only a few studies have been conducted. In this study, we review our 10 years of experience in treating patients with hypopharyngeal cancer. The main aim of this study is to analyze survival outcomes in patients who underwent salvage surgery compared with those who had complete remission or inoperable residual tumors.

Methods

Chart reviews were performed for all patients with hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma who underwent curative treatment at a tertiary care hospital between 2009 and 2019. Data on survival, clinical course, and complications were analyzed.

Results

Salvage surgery was performed in 15 of the 34 patients with residual hypopharyngeal cancer. Of these, 10 patients with isolated residual neck disease underwent salvage neck dissection, and five patients with residual primary tumors underwent salvage total or partial laryngopharyngectomy.

The overall 3-year survival rate of patients who underwent salvage surgery was 33.3%. Patients who underwent salvage neck dissection alone had significantly better survival rates than those who received palliative treatment, with median survival times of 21 and 12 months, respectively. The median survival time of patients who underwent laryngopharyngectomy for residual primary tumors was 14 months, which was not significantly different from that of patients who received palliative treatments.

Conclusion

Salvage surgery was associated with improved survival in patients with hypopharyngeal cancer and isolated residual neck disease. Nevertheless, the survival benefit of salvage surgery in patients with residual primary disease remains unclear.
Liquidity and uncertainty: digital adaptation of a complex intervention for people with severe mental illness during the COVID-19 lockdown
Authors: Frost Julia , Hobson-Merrett Charley , Gask Linda , Clark Michael , Pinfold Vanessa , Plappert Humera , Reilly Siobhan , Gibson John , Richards Deborah , Denyer Rebecca , Byng Richard
Published: August 2023

Background

This paper explores the extent to which the implementation and evaluation of a collaborative care model of face-to-face service delivery for people with severe mental illness was viable during the first UK lockdown associated with COVID-19. The PARTNERS2 cluster randomised controlled trial and process evaluation were co-designed with service users and carers. The aim of this paper is to explore whether digital adaptation of the PARTNERS model for people with severe mental illness during the COVID-19 lockdown was equitable, in terms of fostering collaboration and trust in a vulnerable population.

Results

We collected qualitative data from multiple sources during lockdown and subsequently constructed case-studies of participating secondary care workers. We adopted Bauman’s notions of liquid modernity to inform our analysis, and identified that digital adaptation during lockdown was only successful where organisational policies, care partner skills and service users’ existing resources were optimal.

Conclusion

PARTNERS2 can be delivered digitally by a care partner to support people with severe mental illness to identify and work towards their goals when existing resources are optimal. However, at a time of increased need, we identified that people who are very unwell and living with limited access to resources and opportunities, remained disenfranchised at great cost.

Trial registration

ISRCTN 95702682, registered 26.10.2017
Saccharomyces cerevisiae deficient in the early anaphase release of Cdc14 can traverse anaphase I without ribosomal DNA disjunction and successfully complete meiosis
Authors: Yellman Christopher M.
Published: August 2023

Eukaryotic meiosis is a specialized cell cycle of two nuclear divisions that give rise to haploid gametes. The phosphatase Cdc14 is essential for meiosis in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Cdc14 is sequestered in the nucleolus, a nuclear domain containing the ribosomal DNA, by its binding partner Net1, and released in two distinct waves, first in early anaphase I, then in anaphase II. Current models posit that the meiosis I release is required for ribosomal DNA disjunction, disassembly of the anaphase spindle, spindle pole re-duplication and counteraction of cyclin-dependent kinase, all of which are essential events. We examined Cdc14 release in net1-6cdk mutant cells, which lack six key Net1 CDK phosphorylation sites. Cdc14 release in early anaphase I was partially inhibited and disjunction of the rDNA was fully inhibited. Failure to disjoin the rDNA is lethal in mitosis, and we expected the same to be true for meiosis I. However, the cells reliably completed both meiotic divisions to produce four viable spores. Therefore, segregation of the rDNA into all four meiotic products can be postponed until meiosis II without decreasing the fidelity of chromosome inheritance.
Population-level antagonism between FGF and BMP signaling steers mesoderm differentiation in embryonic stem cells
Authors: Gattiglio Marina , Protzek Michelle , Schröter Christian
Published: August 2023

The mesodermal precursor populations for different internal organ systems are specified during gastrulation by the combined activity of extracellular signaling systems such as BMP, Wnt, Nodal and FGF. The BMP, Wnt and Nodal signaling requirements for the differentiation of specific mesoderm subtypes in mammals have been mapped in detail, but how FGF shapes mesodermal cell type diversity is not precisely known. It is also not clear how FGF signaling integrates with the activity of other signaling systems involved in mesoderm differentiation. Here, we address these questions by analyzing the effects of targeted signaling manipulations in differentiating stem cell populations at single-cell resolution. We identify opposing functions of BMP and FGF, and map FGF-dependent and -independent mesodermal lineages. Stimulation with exogenous FGF boosts the expression of endogenous Fgf genes while repressing Bmp ligand genes. This positive autoregulation of FGF signaling, coupled with the repression of BMP signaling, may contribute to the specification of reproducible and coherent cohorts of cells with the same identity via a community effect, both in the embryo and in synthetic embryo-like systems.
Development of an FeOOH Electrocatalyst for Water Oxidation from the Recycling of Disposable Body Warmers
Authors: Suginaga Taki , Tsunekawa Shun , Harada Kazuki , Tomomune Masahiro , Hasuike Rina , Fujimoto Keika , Wang Ke-Hsuan , Kawai Takeshi , Yoshida Masaaki
Published: August 2023

An electrocatalyst to promote the water oxidation reaction was obtained by the recycling of disposable body warmers with simple treatments. This material catalytically decomposed water molecules to generate oxygen gas. X-ray diffraction and Fe K-edge X-ray absorption spectroscopy analyses indicated that the catalyst was composed of the β-FeOOH structure. The recycling of waste materials was achieved by the application of disposable body warmers as β-FeOOH catalysts for water oxidation.
Redescription of the poorly known Eupaludestrina canariensis (Mousson, 1872) (Caenogastropoda: Cochliopidae) from Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain using an integrative approach
Authors: Miller Jonathan P.
Published: August 2023

The poorly known species Eupaludestrina canariensis was found in Puertito de los Molinos, Fuerteventura, Spain. Described in the XIX century with no other indications than a short description based on the analysis of two specimens, it has remained unstudied since. A population was found in Puertito de los Molinos, Fuerteventura, Spain. Sequences of cytochrome c oxidase subunit I were obtained and compared with available sequences of other European species and other members of the family Cochliopidae. Among all the analysed Eupaludestrina species, low genetic distances have been found, ranging from 0.16% to 8.07%. A total of 12 haplotypes were found for all Eupaludestrina spp. A categorical assignment of a correct name for this taxon is difficult, as the majority of all the species of this genus were described based only on conchological characters, making it impossible to determine whether they are a single or several species. The present work establishes a baseline for future studies as a revision of the genus is needed.
Business and publication model of surgical journals: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Qazi Shurjeel Uddin , Usmani Shajie Ur Rehman , Naveed Naveen , Ansari Huzaifa , Qazi Sana , Altaf Zahabia
Published: August 2023

Background: The research community is increasingly recognizing the significance of understanding journal business models and their influence on the dissemination and readership of scholarly literature. This has sparked discussions on publisher payment models, exemplified by the recent termination of the subscription contract between the University of California and Elsevier.

Methods: Scopus was used as the primary database to extract the list of surgery journals and other variables related to journal metrics. SCImago Journal Ranking (SJR) was used to extract information about the journals such as name and type of publisher, language and location model of the journal and publication model. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.

Results: More than half of surgical journals were published by university publishers (54.2%). Similarly more than half of the journals are of European origin (53%). About 1/3 of the surgical journals employ open access publication model. We obserevd a greater number of orthopedic subspeciality journals (19%). SJR was higher for university and commercial type of publishers.

Conclusion: A small number of multinational commercial corporations dominate the publication of surgery journals, leading to significant centralization. Despite the majority of surgery journals being open access, their impact is similar to that of subscription-based journals.
Midiatização e disputa de sentidos na Amazônia: identidade cultural versus securitização
Authors: Machado da Silveira Ada Cristina , Hartmann Camila , Barros Bock Marjorie
Published: August 2023

O artigo decorre de uma investigação da midiatização de processos comunicacionais no âmbito das fronteiras internacionais do Brasil em sua relação com países colindantes. A comunicação midiática é problematizada com a análise da atividade noticiosa realizada por via digital em contexto da Amazônia transfronteiriça. Investigamos as condições de exercício da comunicação de proximidade na mídia da tríplice fronteira Brasil, Colômbia e Peru (BRA-COL-PE). A metodologia consiste em uma revisão bibliográfica sobre o tema. A abordagem teórica considera prescrições de documentos oficiais dos Estados nacionais, além de literatura no tema da midiatização e da comunicação de proximidade. A análise do papel da mídia para a democratização e desenvolvimento da coesão local envolve considerar sua capacidade de superar a concepção de fronteira como espaço de fluxo em favor de um espaço de lugar. Nossa hipótese é a de que a compreensão da comunicação de proximidade exerce o mandato de integração tensionando as dimensões da identidade cultural transfronteiriça em construção com a dimensão securitária. Os resultados consideram que a ecologia midiática local concede suporte à atualização midiatizada da identidade cultural transfronteiriça, ao mesmo tempo em que reitera sentidos securitários, e o faz modalizando o impacto de políticas externas distintas e soberanistas para as fronteiras nacionais, no caso, de três Estados nacionais.
A Two-Step Synthetic Control Approach for Estimating Causal Effects of Marketing Events
Authors: Li Kathleen T. , Shankar Venkatesh
Published: August 2023

Marketing researchers are often interested in estimating causal effects when a randomized experiment is infeasible. The synthetic control (SC) method has emerged as a powerful tool in these quasiexperimental settings. It is important to verify the SC parallel pretrends assumption, the testable part of the identifying assumption, because its violation may lead to biased estimates. However, no formal test exists, so researchers have to rely on visual inspection. Even with a formal test, researchers still need to know how to balance the bias-efficiency trade-off for the estimate. We fill this void and advance the two-step synthetic control (TSSC) approach that comprises a formal test for the SC pretrends assumption in the first step and recommends an appropriate method that balances the dual goal of reducing bias and increasing efficiency in the second step. Simulations show that the TSSC approach performs favorably in the bias-variance (bias-efficiency) trade-off. Applying the TSSC approach, we find that New York State’s repeal of the tampon tax caused a positive and significant (2.08%) increase in weekly tampon sales. Using theory, simulations, and empirics, we demonstrate the importance, validity, and usefulness of the TSSC approach.

This paper was accepted by Matthew Shum, marketing.

Supplemental Material: The data files and online appendix are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2023.4878 .
Dementia Care to be Closer to Home
Authors: Wade Andrew
Published: August 2023

New research and technology hub to look at ways of easing NHS pressure
New Implant to Track Brain Trauma
Authors: Nathan Stuart
Published: August 2023

Glutamate spike measurement could determine if drugs are working
Has Additive Entered the Manufacturing Mainstream?
Authors: Pullin Jeremy
Published: August 2023

head of AM and design to manufacture at Sartorius Stedim, reflects on the technology's widespread use and scope for future use
The uneven and combined development of racial capitalism and South Africa’s changing race-class articulations
Authors: Ashman Sam
Published: August 2023

Surprisingly little uneven and combined development (UCD) work focuses on Africa. This article both widens the geographical scope of UCD literature and attempts to address a major blind spot in this literature: the importance of race and gender in understanding the UCD of world capitalism and global political economy. Helpful in this process, we argue, is an engagement with the work of Black Marxism and Marxist Feminism and the literature on Racial Capitalism. We draw on the work of Stuart Hall on race and class, and the importance of understanding their changing articulations, indeed of the need to look at multiple articulations – of the state and state power with forms of production; racialised ideologies; and systems of reproduction. We use a case study of South Africa to illustrate our argument. South Africa, previously on the periphery of the global system, was changed profoundly by the discovery of vast gold deposits and the construction of a forced labour system to secure its profitable extraction. South Africa’s specific form of racial capitalism challenges not only linear conceptions of development, but also binaries between free and forced labour, and Eurocentric conceptions of social reproduction.
Young People and Collective Trauma in Georgian Fiction about The Abkhazian War and The 2008 Russo-Georgian War
Authors: Chubinidze Ani
Published: August 2023

Abstract: The ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia has brought the attention of Western academic discourses to the long history of Russian colonialism, cultural dominance, and military aggression. Ukraine has not been the only victim of Russian invasions in the last few decades. The following article depicts the voice of Georgia, a small country with a population of 3.7 million people that has also experienced the horror of war from its neighbors. This article focuses on studying the depictions of traumatized adolescents with the use of trauma theory and children's literature studies in two texts about the Abkhazian war (1992–1993) and the 2008 Russo-Georgian war: Nugzar Shataidze's "Journey to Africa" (2004) and Tamta Melashvili's Counting Out (2010). This article showcases that the discussed narratives reflect global trends in children's literature and literary trauma theory. I argue that Georgian fiction fits the pluralistic approach of the literary trauma theory, delineating individual stories intertwined with culturally and socially specific narratives. The examined texts are replete with geographic places, social values, and specific environments that shape Georgian society's collective trauma. Besides, adolescents are the central figures that expose the psychological, physical, and mental suffering that wars bring to society.
Children's War Diaries as Agents of Peace
Authors: Todorova Marija , Ahrens Kathleen
Published: August 2023

Abstract: Literature for children plays an active role in the promotion of a culture of peace. This is particularly true of children's literature in the format of a child-written diary that describes the traumatic events of war. Using the testimonial response method, this article analyses three war diaries written by young girls, two from Bosnia and one from Singapore, published in English language for young readers. By bearing witness to the lived experiences of individuals who have encountered significant hardship, readers can cultivate an empathetic understanding of historical events and the human capacity for resilience. The analysis also explores how first-person literary narratives, while representative of the trauma of war, can also be used to promote and teach about the importance of peace by making sense of history, bearing witness to traumatic emotions, and empowering the youth to seek peace.
Reducing Stigma and HIV-related Disparities through a Peer-led Support Network for Black Gay Men Who are Living with HIV
Authors: Walker Larry , Lewis Lorenzo M. , Reid Malcolm , Bridges Dwain , Carver Lisa , Lesesne Catherine
Published: August 2023

Summary: Undetectables Atlanta (UA), a peer support network for Black gay men living with HIV, conducted an exploratory evaluation to begin identifying outcomes of UA membership. Th is initial evaluation suggested decreased HIV stigma and increased comfort with disclosure, treatment adherence, and other areas of well-being that warrant prospective evaluation.
Using Small Grants to SPARK! Substantial Reach to Reduce HIV-related Stigma
Authors: Reif Susan , Wilson Elena , Cooper Haley , Beckwith Nicole , Ward Dafina
Published: August 2023

Summary: Community-based organizations (CBOs) are well-positioned to address the negative effects of HIV stigma, which is prevalent in the U.S. South. This article describes a Gilead COMPASS-funded small grants and capacity-building program for CBOs to address stigma and describes the broad reach and positive outcomes associated with program implementation.
"We Already Knew What Time It Was:" HIV, COVID19, and Black Transgender Women in the South
Authors: Johnson Austin H. , Bullock Katherine , Hill Ivy
Published: August 2023

Abstract: Black transgender women in the Southeast are at the center of the modern-day HIV crisis in the U.S. This focus group study was aimed at understanding the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the health and well-being of Black transgender women in the U.S. Southeast who are affected by HIV. From April–June 2022, we completed seven focus group interviews with 56 participants. Themes identified across the focus groups show: 1) the challenges that pre-dated COVID-19; 2) the challenges of managing COVID-19 risk; 3) negative consequences for mental health, physical health, and overall well-being; 4) negative trends in coping with pandemic stress; 5) the importance of self-care and social support for managing pandemic stress; and 6) the need for more community-based resources. Findings demonstrate that understanding these social determinants of health is vital to developing support resources in this ongoing health crisis and crises yet to come.
Creating Disability Publics in Postwar Japan (1937–57)
Authors: Bookman Mark
Published: August 2023

Abstract: In this article, I investigate how blind elites, wounded veterans, U.S. policymakers, and other diverse stakeholders helped define the concept of disability in Japan during the postwar period by drafting and implementing the 1949 Law for the Welfare of Physically Disabled Persons. I trace how such stakeholders' personal and professional commitments came to be reflected in state-sponsored welfare projects to explain why individuals with specific physical and cognitive impairments were denied access to social services and financial support in the 1950s. I also frame the rise of disability publics that facilitated the formation of Japan's modern disability movement.
In Defense of Prewar Japan: Promoting the Past in Studies of Crime during the Asia-Pacific War and Allied Occupation
Authors: Matsumura Janice
Published: August 2023

Abstract: While scholarship on the memories of the Asia-Pacific War is extensive, less information is available on the way individuals defined, imagined, or idealized the prewar period. This article examines studies relating war to civilian crime on the main islands, illustrating the role of the prewar period in assessments of wartime and postwar society. Contributing to positive views of prewar Japan detached from the "undesirable past" of the war, the authors of these studies anticipated some of the concerns, interpretations, and aspirations of postwar political and academic notables as well as postbubble social critics calling for the revival of so-called traditional values.
Optical freeform reflective imaging system design method with manufacturing constraints
Authors: Cai Zhaohan , Li Jinpeng , Yu Jiadong , Huang Cheng , Xie Yongjun , Mao Xianglong
Published: August 2023

With the development of space optics, optical freeform surfaces have gradually been utilized in reflective optical imaging systems in recent years. Freeform surfaces not only bring many benefits to the optical imaging system, but also present many challenges to their manufacture. Regardless of the machining method used, machining errors during the fabrication of freeform surfaces will exist, which limits the accuracy of freeform surface machining. In this paper, the deviation root mean square (RMS) of a freeform surface from the reference aspheric surface is proposed to evaluate the manufacturability of the freeform surface by using single-point diamond turning. Then the deviation RMS of freeform surfaces is added to the design process of the optical system as a manufacturing constraint. Subsequently, an off-axis three-mirror system and an off-axis two-mirror system with and without manufacturing constraints are designed, respectively. Then the imaging quality of these optical systems and the linear interpolation error RMS of freeform mirror are analyzed. It can be concluded that, on the basis of reaching the imaging quality requirements, the machining difficulty of a freeform mirror can be reduced when adding manufacturing constraints to the design process.
All-fiberized 1840-nm femtosecond thulium fiber laser for label-free nonlinear microscopy
Authors: Xu Duanyang , Bourdakos Konstantinos N. , Crisford Anna , Johnson Peter , Abughazaleh Ibrahim , Srisamran Panuwat , Oreffo Richard O. C. , Mahajan Sumeet , Richardson David J. , Xu Lin
Published: August 2023

We report an all-fiberized 1840-nm thulium-fiber-laser source, comprising a dissipative-soliton mode-locked seed laser and a chirped-pulse-amplification system for label-free biological imaging through nonlinear microscopy. The mode-locked thulium fiber laser generated dissipative-soliton pulses with a pre-chirped duration of 7 ps and pulse energy of 1 nJ. A chirped-pulse fiber-amplification system employing an in-house-fabricated, short-length, single-mode, high-absorption, thulium fiber delivered pulses with energies up to 105 nJ. The pulses were capable of being compressed to 416 fs by passing through a grating pair. Imaging of mouse tissue and human bone samples was demonstrated using this source via third-harmonic generation microscopy.
Fabrication of freestanding photonic devices combining polymer films with microfabrication techniques and 3D printing
Authors: Hack Erwin , Shorubalko Ivan , Graf Jil , Zolliker Peter , Mavrona Elena
Published: August 2023

We report a technological concept for freestanding photonic elements based on metamaterials fabricated on polymer films by clean-room processes and framed using 3D printing. A spin-coated cyclic olefin copolymer (TOPAS) of variable thickness down to one micrometer was used as the substrate onto which metamaterials were fabricated using optical lithography. We demonstrate the possibility of applying a second TOPAS layer to protect the device or to allow for stacking another metamaterial layer. To obtain freestanding elements, frames were 3D printed directly on top of the metamaterial before lift-off from the carrier wafer. This ensured maintaining the flatness of the elements. Both the cleanroom process and the 3D printing enabled the design and manufacturing of elements in different sizes and shapes, e.g., to adapt to specific experimental set-ups and holder geometries or to be compatible with standard optical mounts. While TOPAS is transparent for wavelengths from UV to the far infrared, except for a few infrared absorption lines, we illustrate the concept with the simulation and manufacturing of THz band-pass filters. The performance of the fabricated filters was assessed using THz time-domain spectroscopy. The process is scalable to other wavelength ranges and has the potential for upscaling in manufacturing.
Experimental characterization of a silicon nitride photonic crystal light sail: erratum
Authors: Lien Max R. , Meng Deming , Liu Zerui , Sakib Mashnoon A. , Tang Yongkui , Wu Wei , Povinelli Michelle L.
Published: August 2023

This erratum reports a calculation error in the acceleration distance in [Opt. Mater. Express 12, 3032 (2022)10.1364/OME.464430].
Virtual care use among older immigrant adults in Ontario, Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic: A repeated cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Brual Janette , Chu Cherry , Fang Jiming , Fleury Cathleen , Stamenova Vess , Bhattacharyya Onil , Tadrous Mina
Published: August 2023

The critical role of virtual care during the COVID-19 pandemic has raised concerns about the widening disparities to access by vulnerable populations including older immigrants. This paper aims to describe virtual care use in older immigrant populations residing in Ontario, Canada. In this population-based, repeated cross-sectional study, we used linked administrative data to describe virtual care and healthcare utilization among immigrants aged 65 years and older before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Visits were identified weekly from January 2018 to March 2021 among various older adult immigrant populations. Among older immigrants, over 75% were high users of virtual care (had two or more virtual visits) during the pandemic. Rates of virtual care use was low (weekly average <2 visits per 1000) prior to the pandemic, but increased for both older adult immigrant and non-immigrant populations. At the start of the pandemic, virtual care use was lower among immigrants compared to non-immigrants (weekly average of 77 vs 86 visits per 1000). As the pandemic progressed, the rates between these groups became similar (80 vs 79 visits per 1000). Virtual care use was consistently lower among immigrants in the family class (75 visits per 1000) compared to the economic (82 visits per 1000) or refugee (89 visits per 1000) classes, and was lower among those who only spoke French (69 visits per 1000) or neither French nor English (73 visits per 1000) compared to those who were fluent in English (81 visits per 1000). This study found that use of virtual care was comparable between older immigrants and non-immigrants overall, though there may have been barriers to access for older immigrants early on in the pandemic. However, within older immigrant populations, immigration category and language ability were consistent differentiators in the rates of virtual care use throughout the pandemic.
Beyond ingredients: Supramolecular structure of lipid droplets in infant formula affects metabolic and brain function in mouse models
Authors: Oosting Annemarie , Harvey Louise , Ringler Silvia , van Dijk Gertjan , Schipper Lidewij
Published: August 2023

Human milk beneficially affects infant growth and brain development. The supramolecular structure of lipid globules in human milk i.e., large lipid globules covered by the milk fat globule membrane, is believed to contribute to this effect, in addition to the supply of functional ingredients. Three preclinical (mouse) experiments were performed to study the effects of infant formula mimicking the supramolecular structure of human milk lipid globules on brain and metabolic health outcomes. From postnatal day 16 to 42, mouse offspring were exposed to a diet containing infant formula with large, phospholipid-coated lipid droplets (structure, STR) or infant formula with the same ingredients but lacking the unique structural properties as observed in human milk (ingredient, ING). Subsequently, in Study 1, the fatty acid composition in liver and brain membranes was measured, and expression of hippocampal molecular markers were analyzed. In Study 2 and 3 adult (Western-style diet-induced) body fat accumulation and cognitive function were evaluated. Animals exposed to STR compared to ING showed improved omega-3 fatty acid accumulation in liver and brain, and higher expression of brain myelin-associated glycoprotein. Early exposure to STR reduced fat mass accumulation in adulthood; the effect was more pronounced in animals exposed to a Western-style diet. Additionally, mice exposed to STR demonstrated better memory performance later in life. In conclusion, early life exposure to infant formula containing large, phospholipid-coated lipid droplets, that are closer to the supramolecular structure of lipid globules in human milk, positively affects adult brain and metabolic health outcomes in pre-clinical animal models.
Warning: Humans cannot reliably detect speech deepfakes
Authors: Mai Kimberly T. , Bray Sergi , Davies Toby , Griffin Lewis D.
Published: August 2023

Speech deepfakes are artificial voices generated by machine learning models. Previous literature has highlighted deepfakes as one of the biggest security threats arising from progress in artificial intelligence due to their potential for misuse. However, studies investigating human detection capabilities are limited. We presented genuine and deepfake audio to n = 529 individuals and asked them to identify the deepfakes. We ran our experiments in English and Mandarin to understand if language affects detection performance and decision-making rationale. We found that detection capability is unreliable. Listeners only correctly spotted the deepfakes 73% of the time, and there was no difference in detectability between the two languages. Increasing listener awareness by providing examples of speech deepfakes only improves results slightly. As speech synthesis algorithms improve and become more realistic, we can expect the detection task to become harder. The difficulty of detecting speech deepfakes confirms their potential for misuse and signals that defenses against this threat are needed.
Inter-rating reliability of the Swiss easy-read integrated palliative care outcome scale for people with dementia
Authors: Spichiger Frank , Volken Thomas , Larkin Philip , Meichtry André Anton , Koppitz Andrea
Published: August 2023

Background

The Integrated Palliative Care Outcome Scale for People with Dementia is a promising instrument for nursing home quality improvement and research in dementia care. It enables frontline staff in nursing homes to understand and rate the needs and concerns of people with dementia. We recently adapted the measure to include easy language for users from various educational backgrounds.

Objectives

In this study, we examine the inter-rating reliability of the Integrated Palliative Care Outcome Scale for People with Dementia for frontline staff in nursing homes.

Methods

In this secondary analysis of an experimental study, 317 frontline staff members in 23 Swiss nursing homes assessed 240 people with dementia from a convenience sample. Reliability for individual items was computed using Fleiss Kappa. Because of the nested nature of the primary data, a generalisability and dependability study was performed for an experimental IPOS-Dem sum score.

Results

The individual Integrated Palliative Care Outcome Scale for People with Dementia items showed kappa values between .38 (95% CI .3–.48) and .15 (95% CI .08–.22). For the experimental IPOS-Dem sum score, a dependability index of .57 was found. The different ratings and time between ratings explain less than 2% of the variance in the sum score. The different nursing homes make up 12% and the people with dementia make up 43% of the sum score variance. The dependability study indicates that an experimental IPOS-Dem sum score could be acceptable for research by averaging two ratings.

Conclusion

Limited research has been conducted on the measurement error and reliability of patient-centred outcome measures for people with dementia who are living in nursing homes. The Swiss Easy-Read IPOS-Dem is a promising instrument but requires further improvement to be reliable for research or decision making. Future studies may look at its measurement properties for different rater populations or at different stages of dementia. Furthermore, there is a need to establish the construct validity and internal consistency of the easy-read IPOS-Dem.
Mild cognitive impairment identification based on motor and cognitive dual-task pooled indices
Authors: Mancioppi Gianmaria , Rovini Erika , Fiorini Laura , Zeghari Radia , Gros Auriane , Manera Valeria , Robert Philippe , Cavallo Filippo
Published: August 2023

Objective

This study investigates the possibility of adopting motor and cognitive dual-task (MCDT) approaches to identify subjects with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and subjective cognitive impairment (SCI).

Methods

The upper and lower motor performances of 44 older adults were assessed using the SensHand and SensFoot wearable system during three MCDTs: forefinger tapping (FTAP), toe-tapping heel pin (TTHP), and walking 10 m (GAIT). We developed five pooled indices (PIs) based on these MCDTs, and we included them, along with demographic data (age) and clinical scores (Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB) scores), in five logistic regression models.

Results

Models which consider cognitively normal adult (CNA) vs MCI subjects have accuracies that range from 67% to 78%. The addition of clinical scores stabilised the accuracies, which ranged from 85% to 89%. For models which consider CNA vs SCI vs MCI subjects, there are great benefits to considering all three regressors (age, FAB score, and PIs); the overall accuracies of the three-class models range between 50% and 59% when just PIs and age are considered, whereas the overall accuracy increases by 18% when all three regressors are utilised.

Conclusion

Logistic regression models that consider MCDT PIs and age have been effective in distinguishing between CNA and MCI subjects. The inclusion of clinical scores increased the models’ accuracy. Particularly high performances in distinguishing among CNA, SCI, and MCI subjects were obtained by the TTHP PI. This study suggests that a broader framework for MCDTs, which should encompass a greater selection of motor tasks, could provide clinicians with new appropriate tools.
Estimating the allocation of land to business
Authors: Daams Michiel N.
Published: August 2023

This paper is uniquely focused on mapping business land in satellite imagery, with the aim to introduce a standardized approach to estimating how much land in an observed area is allocated to business. Business land and control categories of land are defined and operationalized in a straightforward setting of pixel-based classification. The resultant map as well as information from a sample-based quantification of the map’s accuracy are used jointly to estimate business land’s total area more precisely. In particular, areas where so-called errors of omission are possibly concentrated are accounted for by post-stratifying the map in an extension of recent advances in remote sensing. In specific, a post-stratum is designed to enclose areas where business activity is co-located. This then enhances the area estimation in a spatially explicit way that is informed by urban and regional economic thought and observation. In demonstrating the methodology, a map for the San Francisco Bay Area metropolitan area is obtained at a producer’s accuracy of 0.89 (F1-score = 0.84) or 0.82 to 0.94 when sub-selecting reference sample pixels by confidence in class assignment. Overall, the methodological approach is able to infer the allocation of land to business (in km2 ± 95% C.I.) on a timely and accurate basis. This inter-disciplinary study may offer some fundamental ground for a potentially more refined assessment and understanding of the spatial distribution of production factors as well as the related structure and implications of land use.
Within-subject variation of HbA1c: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Gough Alex , Sitch Alice , Ferris Erica , Marshall Tom
Published: August 2023

Background

Glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) measurement is used to diagnose and to guide treatment of diabetes mellitus. Within-subject variability in measured HbA1c affects its clinical utility and interpretation, but no comprehensive systematic review has described within-subject variability.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed of within-subject variability of HbA1c. Multiple databases were searched from inception to November 2022 for follow-up studies of any design in adults or children, with repeated measures of HbA1c or glycosylated haemoglobin. Title and abstract screening was performed in duplicate, full text screening and data extraction by one reviewer and verified by a second. Risk of bias of included papers was assessed using a modified consensus-based standards for the selection of health measurement Instruments (COSMIN) tool. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) results were pooled with a meta-analysis and coefficient of variation (CV) results were described by median and range.

Results

Of 2675 studies identified, 111 met the inclusion criteria. Twenty-five studies reported variability data in healthy patients, 19 in patients with type 1 diabetes and 59 in patients with type 2 diabetes. Median within-subject coefficient of variation (CV) was 0.070 (IQR 0.034 to .09). For healthy subjects the median CV for HbA1c % was 0.017 (IQR 0.013 to 0.022), for patients with type 1 diabetes 0.084 (IQR 0.067 to 0.89) and for type 2 diabetes 0.083 (IQR 0.06 to 0.10). CV increased with mean population HbA1c.

Limitations

Assessment of variability was not the main aim of many of the included studies and some relevant papers may have been missed. Many included papers had few participants or few repeated measurements.

Conclusions

Within-subject variability of HbA1c is higher for patients with than without diabetes and increases with mean population HbA1c. This may confound observed relationships between HbA1c variability and health outcomes. Because of its importance in clinical decision-making there is a need for better estimates and understanding of factors associated with of HbA1c variability.
Dynamics of TERT regulation via alternative splicing in stem cells and cancer cells
Authors: Kim Jeongjin J. , Sayed Mohammed E. , Ahn Alexander , Slusher Aaron L. , Ying Jeffrey Y. , Ludlow Andrew T.
Published: August 2023

Part of the regulation of telomerase activity includes the alternative splicing (AS) of the catalytic subunit telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT). Although a therapeutic window for telomerase/TERT inhibition exists between cancer cells and somatic cells, stem cells express TERT and rely on telomerase activity for physiological replacement of cells. Therefore, identifying differences in TERT regulation between stem cells and cancer cells is essential for developing telomerase inhibition-based cancer therapies that reduce damage to stem cells. In this study, we measured TERT splice variant expression and telomerase activity in induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), neural progenitor cells (NPCs), and non-small cell lung cancer cells (NSCLC, Calu-6 cells). We observed that a NOVA1-PTBP1-PTBP2 axis regulates TERT alternative splicing (AS) in iPSCs and their differentiation into NPCs. We also found that splice-switching of TERT, which regulates telomerase activity, is induced by different cell densities in stem cells but not cancer cells. Lastly, we identified cell type-specific splicing factors that regulate TERT AS. Overall, our findings represent an important step forward in understanding the regulation of TERT AS in stem cells and cancer cells.
Broadly neutralizing humanized SARS-CoV-2 antibody binds to a conserved epitope on Spike and provides antiviral protection through inhalation-based delivery in non-human primates
Authors: Hermet Paule , Delache Benoît , Herate Cecile , Wolf Esther , Kivi Gaily , Juronen Erkki , Mumm Karl , Žusinaite Eva , Kainov Denis , Sankovski Eve , Virumäe Kai , Planken Anu , Merits Andres , Besaw Jessica E. , Yee Ai Woon , Morizumi Takefumi , Kim Kyumhyuk , Kuo Anling , Berriche Asma , Dereuddre-Bosquet Nathalie , Sconosciuti Quentin , Naninck Thibaut , Relouzat Francis , Cavarelli Mariangela , Ustav Mart , Wilson Derek , Ernst Oliver P. , Männik Andres , LeGrand Roger , Ustav Mart
Published: August 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic represents a global challenge that has impacted and is expected to continue to impact the lives and health of people across the world for the foreseeable future. The rollout of vaccines has provided highly anticipated relief, but effective therapeutics are required to further reduce the risk and severity of infections. Monoclonal antibodies have been shown to be effective as therapeutics for SARS-CoV-2, but as new variants of concern (VoC) continue to emerge, their utility and use have waned due to limited or no efficacy against these variants. Furthermore, cumbersome systemic administration limits easy and broad access to such drugs. As well, concentrations of systemically administered antibodies in the mucosal epithelium, a primary site of initial infection, are dependent on neonatal Fc receptor mediated transport and require high drug concentrations. To reduce the viral load more effectively in the lung, we developed an inhalable formulation of a SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibody binding to a conserved epitope on the Spike protein, ensuring pan-neutralizing properties. Administration of this antibody via a vibrating mesh nebulization device retained antibody integrity and resulted in effective distribution of the antibody in the upper and lower respiratory tract of non-human primates (NHP). In comparison with intravenous administration, significantly higher antibody concentrations can be obtained in the lung, resulting in highly effective reduction in viral load post SARS-CoV-2 challenge. This approach may reduce the barriers of access and uptake of antibody therapeutics in real-world clinical settings and provide a more effective blueprint for targeting existing and potentially emerging respiratory tract viruses.
Information Activism: A Queer History of Lesbian Media Technologies, C. McKinney (2020)
Authors: Rayner Sarah
Published: August 2023

Review of: Information Activism: A Queer History of Lesbian Media Technologies C. McKinney (2020)

Durham, NC: Duke University Press, 290 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-47800-828-6, p/bk, $27.95

ISBN 978-1-47800-782-1, h/bk, $104.95
Paul Takes the Form of a Mortal Girl, Andrea Lawlor (2017)
Authors: Hammes Aaron Phillips
Published: August 2023

Review of: Paul Takes the Form of a Mortal Girl, Andrea Lawlor (2017)

Milwaukee, WI: Rescue Press, 240 pp.,

ISBN 978-0-98608-699-1, p/bk, $17.99
Distancing Representations in Transgender Film: Identification, Affect, and the Audience, Lucy J. Miller (2023)
Authors: Burger Alissa
Published: August 2023

Review of: Distancing Representations in Transgender Film: Identification, Affect, and the Audience, Lucy J. Miller (2023)

Albany, NY: State University of New York Press, 230 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-43849-199-8, h/bk, $95.00