bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
All-optical high spatial-temporal resolution photography with raster principle at 2 trillion frames per second
Authors: Zhu Yongle , Zeng Xuanke , Cai Yi , Lu Xiaowei , Zhu Qifan , Zeng Liangwei , He Tingchao , Li Junzi , Yang Yang , Zheng Maijie , Xu Shixiang , Li Jingzhen
Published: August 2021

A novel single-shot ultrafast all-optical photography with raster principle (OPR) that can capture real-time imaging of ultrafast phenomena is proposed and demonstrated. It consists of a sequentially timed module (STM), spectral-shaping module (SSM), and raster framing camera (RFC). STM and SSM are used for linearly encoding frequency-time mapping and system calibration, respectively. The function of the RFC is sampling the target by microlens arrays and framing on the basis of frequency-time-spatial positions conversion. We demonstrated the recording of transient scenes with the spatial resolution of ∼90lp/mm, the frame number of 12 and the frame rate of 2 trillion frames per second (Tfps) in single-shot. Thanks to its high spatial-temporal resolution, high frame rate (maximum up to 10 Tfps or more) and sufficient frame number, our OPR can observe the dynamic processes with complex spatial structure at the atomic time scale (10 fs∼1ps), which is promising for application in plasma physics, shock waves in laser-induced damage, and dynamics of condensed matter materials.
Multi-beam and multi-mode orbital angular momentum by utilizing a single metasurface
Authors: Li Jiu-Sheng , Chen Jun-Zhao
Published: August 2021

This paper proposes a novel metasurface that can simultaneously generate orbital angular momentum (OAM) beams with pre-designed different reflection directions, multi-beam and multi-mode under x-(y-) polarized terahertz wave incidence. The configuration of unit cell is made up of a hollow cross of Jesus structure as top layer, a PTFE substrate layer and a gold metal bottom plate. Theory of phase gradient distribution is derived and used to design multifunctional OAM metasurface. The proposed metasurface generates two OAM beams with OAM mode l = 1 and four OAM beams with l = -1 at frequency of 1 THz, respectively. Similarly, at frequency of 1.3 THz, the designed metasurface produces two OAM beams with l = -2 and an OAM beam with l = 2 for x-(y-) polarized wave incidence, respectively. Since each OAM mode can be used as an independent digital information coding channel, the designed multifunctional OAM metasurface has a wide application prospect in future terahertz communication.
Shockley-Queisser analysis of the temperature-efficiency correlation of solar cells in the presence of non-radiative heat transfer
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Chen Kaifeng , Fan Shanhui , Chen Zhen
Published: August 2021

An empirical negative T
cell
 − η correlation has been widely applied, without careful justifications, to evaluate the efficiency (η) increase of solar cells due to their temperature (T
cell
) decrease. Here, a framework is introduced to simultaneously compute T
cell
and η. This model confirms the negative T
cell
 − η correlation if the above-bandgap absorptivity (α
I
) is not suppressed in the optimization of the sub-bandgap reflectivity (ρ
II
) or the infrared emissivity, otherwise it may suggest a positive correlation. It further gives a guideline to enhance η of silicon cells under typical conditions: every 1% increase of α
I
is equivalent to a 57% increase of ρ
II
.
Coexistence of transmission mechanisms for independent multi-parameter sensing in a silica capillary-based cascaded structure
Authors: Yu Yang , Zhang Xiaobei , Wang Kehong , Wang Zijie , Sun Hang , Yang Yong , Deng Chuanlu , Huang Yi , Wang Tingyun
Published: August 2021

The coexistence of transmission mechanisms, including Fabry-Perot (FP), Mach-Zehnder (MZ), and anti-resonant (AR), is demonstrated via a silica capillary-based cascaded structure. The analysis for MZ shows that one pathway is formed by the beam refracted into the silica capillary cladding from the air core, rather than being transmitted into the cladding directly at the splicing interface. Using the ray optics method, the two coexistence conditions are derived for FP and MZ, and for FP, MZ and AR, respectively. The existence percentages of the three mechanisms can be obtained using the fast Fourier transform. Finally, the coexistence of multiple transmission mechanisms is applied for independent multi-parameter sensing with the FP-based temperature sensitivity of 10.0 pm/°C and AR-based strain sensitivity of 1.33 nm/N. The third mechanism MZ interference can assist in verifying changes in both the temperature and axial strain. This shows the possibility to optimize the transmission spectra for independent multi-parameter sensing by tailoring the existence percentages of different mechanisms.
Method for improving the polarization extinction ratio of multifunction integrated optic circuits
Authors: Liu Jiaqi , Zhang Chunxi , Gao Fuyu , Song Jingming , Xu Xiaobin , Guo Zhiyu
Published: August 2021

The polarization extinction ratio (PER) of the multifunction integrated optic circuit (MIOC) is significant in maintaining polarization reciprocity in the fiber-optic gyroscope (FOG), and a high PER value is required, particularly in high-precision FOGs. Practically, the value of the PER decreases owing to the recoupling of the TM mode to the output port, thereby degrading the performance of the FOG. To improve the PER, the propagation of the leaking TM mode in the substrate is analyzed first. The variation of the PER with the chip structure is simulated based on the overlap integral algorithm of the optical mode. According to the analysis results, a structure of double absorption trenches at the bottom of the MIOC is proposed to block the TM mode from reflecting to the output port. In comparison with the traditional design, the optimized MIOC exhibits a higher PER that increases by approximately 25 dB and the average value of the PER reaches 75 dB. The MIOC design proposed in this study has good potential for application in high-precision FOGs.
High extinction ratio elliptical core Panda-type polarization-maintaining fiber coil
Authors: Li Haoyu , Li Xuyou , Wang Jie , Rochette Martin , Yang Hanrui
Published: August 2021

The polarization-maintaining performance of the traditional Panda-type polarization-maintaining fiber (PMF) coil is significantly affected by winding stress and temperature. Here, we present an elliptical core Panda-type PMF coil based on a fiber that employs both geometric and stress birefringence. The extinction ratio of the elliptical core PMF coil was found to be 20.13 dB at a temperature of 20°C, corresponding to an increase of 3.71 dB compared to the traditional Panda-type PMF coil. In addition, results from distributed polarization cross talk and gyroscope output tests also revealed a low sensitivity of the fiber to stress caused by the winding process and temperature. In summary, the proposed fiber coil has better polarization-maintaining ability compared to conventional coil and is promising for applications in high-precision optical fiber sensors.
Laser cladding of transparent fused silica glass using sub-µm powder
Authors: Maniewski Pawel , Laurell Fredrik , Fokine Michael
Published: August 2021

Fused silica glass is a commonly used high-performance material. However, due to the high temperature necessary for its production, manufacturing can also be challenging and costly. An attractive approach is additive manufacturing through laser cladding. Laser cladding of transparent fused silica was achieved using a CO2-laser to locally melt the substrate while injecting a stream of fumed silica glass powder into the melt-pool. By the described technique, it is possible to manufacture fully sintered silica glass with deposition rate up to 29 mm3/min. In this work we have studied deposition dynamics and influence of different process parameters on the final deposition quality.
A ubiquitin-like protein encoded by the “noncoding” RNA TINCR promotes keratinocyte proliferation and wound healing
Authors: Nita Akihiro , Matsumoto Akinobu , Tang Ronghao , Shiraishi Chisa , Ichihara Kazuya , Saito Daisuke , Suyama Mikita , Yasuda Tomoharu , Tsuji Gaku , Furue Masutaka , Katayama Bumpei , Ozawa Toshiyuki , Murata Teruasa , Dainichi Teruki , Kabashima Kenji , Hatano Atsushi , Matsumoto Masaki , Nakayama Keiichi I.
Published: August 2021

Although long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are transcripts that do not encode proteins by definition, some lncRNAs actually contain small open reading frames that are translated. TINCR (terminal differentiation–induced ncRNA) has been recognized as a lncRNA that contributes to keratinocyte differentiation. However, we here show that TINCR encodes a ubiquitin-like protein that is well conserved among species and whose expression was confirmed by the generation of mice harboring a FLAG epitope tag sequence in the endogenous open reading frame as well as by targeted proteomics. Forced expression of this protein promoted cell cycle progression in normal human epidermal keratinocytes, and mice lacking this protein manifested a delay in skin wound healing associated with attenuated cell cycle progression in keratinocytes. We termed this protein TINCR-encoded ubiquitin-like protein (TUBL), and our results reveal a role for TINCR in the regulation of keratinocyte proliferation and skin regeneration that is dependent on TUBL.
The non-benzodiazepine anxiolytic etifoxine limits mechanical allodynia and anxiety-like symptoms in a mouse model of streptozotocin-induced diabetic neuropathy
Authors: Gazzo Géraldine , Salgado Ferrer Marlene , Poisbeau Pierrick
Published: August 2021

More than 450 million people worldwide suffer from diabetes, or 1 in 11 people. Chronic hyperglycemia degrades patients’ quality of life and the development of neuropathic pain contributes to the burden of this disease. In this study, we used the mouse model of streptozocin-induced diabetic type 1 neuropathy to assess the analgesic potential of etifoxine. Etifoxine is a prescribed anxiolytic that increases GABAAA receptor function through a direct positive allosteric modulation effect and, indirectly, by stimulating the production of endogenous GABAA receptor positive modulators such as allopregnanolone-type neurosteroids. We show that a post-symptomatic or preventive treatment strongly and durably reduces mechanical hyperalgesia and anxiety in diabetic neuropathic mice. This analgesic and neuroprotective effect on painful symptoms and emotional comorbidities is promising and should now be clinically evaluated.
Dynamics of Florida milk production and total phosphate in Lake Okeechobee
Authors: Park Joseph , Saberski Erik , Stabenau Erik , Sugihara George
Published: August 2021

A central tenant of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP) is nutrient reduction to levels supportive of ecosystem health. A particular focus is phosphorus. We examine links between agricultural production and phosphorus concentration in the Everglades headwaters: Kissimmee River basin and Lake Okeechobee, considered an important source of water for restoration efforts. Over a span of 47 years we find strong correspondence between milk production in Florida and total phosphate in the lake, and, over the last decade, evidence that phosphorus concentrations in the lake water column may have initiated a long-anticipated decline.
The importance of water quality in classifying basic water services: The case of Ethiopia, SDG6.1, and safe drinking water
Authors: Gemeda Shibabaw Tadesse , Springer Emily , Gari Sirak Robele , Birhan Solomon Melake , Bedane Hailu Tolasa
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6 aims to coordinate international efforts toward “clean water and sanitation.” However, water contaminated with pathogenic bacteria or thermotolerant coliforms (TTC) will not achieve the SDG target of clean water in the lives of people around the world. The aim of this study is to assess the water quality parameters of basic water services in Amhara and Afar regions of Ethiopia as well as the role and importance of local managerial committees in ensuring basic water functionality.

Methods

This mixed methods research, conducted in January-June 2019, sampled 22 districts from food-insecure areas in the Amhara and Afar regions of Ethiopia. From the 22 districts, which represent nearly one third of all districts in each region, 111 water services classified as “basic” were randomly selected. For each selected water service, research included: water quality sample testing, visual observation of water services, interviews and focus group discussions with the associated water managerial committee members. Descriptive statistics frequency, percent, mean, median, standard deviations, normal tables, cross-tables and graphs are used to present the data.

Results

Although the international water standard for thermotolerant coliform (TTC) levels is 0 CFU/100ml, in our sample of 111 water services, the maximum TTC counts were 71 CFU/100 ml and the mean was 4 CFU/100 ml. Thermotolerant coliform counts were above the permissible standard values for nearly 40% (n = 111) of the basic water services. TTC was detected in 44 (39.64%) (n = 111) basic water services. Of these, 38 (34.23%) were operationally functional while 6 (5.41%) were not functional. Approximately one third of the basic water services sampled, deemed “functional” by international standards, do not provide potable water due to thermotolerant coliform (TTC) levels.

Conclusion

Our findings from the Amhara and Afar regions of Ethiopia demonstrate that water quality parameters are not currently considered in classifying basic water services. This suggests that international efforts to address SDG 6 should incorporate water quality as a key parameter to better track international progress toward “clean water and sanitation” efforts. We discuss two potential pathways for stronger inclusion of water quality parameters in international definitions: (1) to mandate water quality within “functional” and “non-functional” definitions or (2) to add a ladder rung titled “safe basic water services” to the international drinking water ladder. Our findings from Ethiopia suggest that additional research should be undertaken in development contexts to assess whether or not “functional” basic water services provide safe drinking water to users.
Coverage of antenatal, intrapartum, and newborn care in 104 districts of Ethiopia: A before and after study four years after the launch of the national Community-Based Newborn Care programme
Authors: Berhanu Della , Allen Elizabeth , Beaumont Emma , Tomlin Keith , Taddesse Nolawi , Dinsa Girmaye , Mekonnen Yirgalem , Hailu Hanna , Balliet Manuela , Lensink Neil , Schellenberg Joanna , Avan Bilal Iqbal
Published: August 2021

Background

Access to health services across the continuum of care improves maternal and newborn health outcomes. Ethiopia launched the Community-Based Newborn Care programme in 2013 to increase the coverage of antenatal care, institutional delivery, postnatal care and newborn care. The programme also introduced gentamicin and amoxicillin treatment by health extension workers for young infants with possible serious bacterial infection when referral was not possible. This study aimed to assess the extent to which the coverage of health services for mothers and their young infants increased after the initiation of the programme.

Methods

A baseline survey was conducted in October-December 2013 and a follow-up survey four years later in November-December 2017. At baseline, 10,224 households and 1,016 women who had a live birth in the 3–15 months prior to the survey were included. In the follow-up survey, 10,270 households and 1,057 women with a recent live birth were included. Women were asked about their experience of care during pregnancy, delivery and postpartum periods, as well as the treatment provided for their child’s illness in the first 59 days of life.

Results

Between baseline and follow-up surveys the proportion of women reporting at least one antenatal care visit increased by 15 percentage points (95% CI: 10,19), four or more antenatal care visits increased by 17 percentage points (95%CI: 13,22), and institutional delivery increased by 40 percentage points (95% CI: 35,44). In contrast, the proportion of newborns with a postnatal care visit within 48 hours of birth decreased by 6 percentage points (95% CI: -10, -3) for home deliveries and by 14 percentage points (95% CI: -21, -7) for facility deliveries. The proportion of mothers reporting that their young infant with possible serious bacterial infection received amoxicillin for seven days increased by 50 percentage points (95% CI: 37,62) and gentamicin for seven days increased by 15 percentage points (95% CI: 5,25). Concurrent use of both antibiotics increased by 12 percentage points (95% CI: 4,19).

Conclusion

The Community-Based Newborn Care programme was an ambitious initiative to enhance the access to services for pregnant women and newborns. Major improvements were seen for the number of antenatal care visits and institutional delivery, while postnatal care remained alarmingly low. Antibiotic treatment for young infants with possible serious bacterial infection increased, although most treatment did not follow national guidelines. Improving postnatal care coverage and using a simplified antibiotic regimen following recent World Health Organization guidelines could address gaps in the care provided for sick young infants.
PON1 Q192R is associated with high platelet reactivity with clopidogrel in patients undergoing elective neurointervention: A prospective single-center cohort study
Authors: Tanaka Koji , Matsumoto Shoji , Ainiding Gulibahaer , Nakahara Ichiro , Nishi Hidehisa , Hashimoto Tetsuya , Ohta Tsuyoshi , Sadamasa Nobutake , Ishibashi Ryota , Gomi Masanori , Saka Makoto , Miyata Haruka , Watanabe Sadayoshi , Okata Takuya , Sonoda Kazutaka , Koge Junpei , Iinuma Kyoko M. , Furuta Konosuke , Nagata Izumi , Matsuo Keitaro , Matsushita Takuya , Isobe Noriko , Yamasaki Ryo , Kira Jun-ichi
Published: August 2021

Background and purpose

The impact of the paraoxonase-1 (PON1) polymorphism, Q192R, on platelet inhibition in response to clopidogrel remains controversial. We aimed to investigate the association between carrier status ofPON1Q192R and high platelet reactivity (HPR) with clopidogrel in patients undergoing elective neurointervention.

Methods

Post-clopidogrel platelet reactivity was measured using a VerifyNow®P2Y12 assay in P2Y12 reaction units (PRU) for consecutive patients before the treatment. Genotype testing was performed forPON1Q192R andCYP2C19*2and*3(no function alleles), and*17. PRU was corrected on the basis of hematocrit. We investigated associations between factors including carrying ≥1PON1192R allele and HPR defined as original and corrected PRU ≥208.

Results

Of 475 patients (232 men, median age, 68 years), HPR by original and corrected PRU was observed in 259 and 199 patients (54.5% and 41.9%), respectively. Carriers of ≥1PON1192R allele more frequently had HPR by original and corrected PRU compared with non-carriers (91.5% vs 85.2%, P = 0.031 and 92.5% vs 85.9%, P = 0.026, respectively). In multivariate analyses, carrying ≥1PON1192R allele was associated with HPR by original (odds ratio [OR] 1.96, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03–3.76) and corrected PRU (OR 2.34, 95% CI 1.21–4.74) after adjustment for age, sex, treatment with antihypertensive medications, hematocrit, platelet count, total cholesterol, and carrying ≥1CYP2C19no function allele.

Conclusions

Carrying ≥1PON1192R allele is associated with HPR by original and corrected PRU with clopidogrel in patients undergoing elective neurointervention, although alternative results related to other genetic polymorphisms cannot be excluded.
A new haematocytometric index: Predicting severity and mortality risk value in COVID-19 patients
Authors: Kilercik Meltem , Demirelce Özlem , Serdar Muhittin Abdulkadir , Mikailova Parvana , Serteser Mustafa
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus, is a major public health concern spanning from healthy carriers to patients with life-threatening conditions. Although most of COVID-19 patients have mild-to-moderate clinical symptoms, some patients have severe pneumonia leading to death. Therefore, the early prediction of disease prognosis and severity is crucial in COVID-19 patients. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the haemocytometric parameters and identify severity score associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Methods

Clinical and laboratory records were retrospectively reviewed from 97 cases of COVID-19 admitted to hospitals in Istanbul, Turkey. The patient groups were subdivided into three major groups: Group 1 (Non-critical): 59 patients, Group 2 (Critical-Survivors): 23 patients and Group 3 (Critical-Non-survivors):15 patients. These data was tested for correlation, including with derived haemocytometric parameters. The blood analyses were performed the Sysmex XN-series automated hematology analyser using standard laboratory protocols. All statistical testing was undertaken using Analyse-it software.

Results

97 patients with COVID-19 disease and 935 sequential complete blood count (CBC-Diff) measurements (days 0–30) were included in the final analyses. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that red cell distribution width (RDW) (>13.7), neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) (4.4), Hemoglobin (Hgb) (<11.4 gr/dL) and monocyte to neutrophil ratio (MNR) (0.084) had the highest area under curve (AUC) values, respectively in discrimination critical patients than non-critical patients. In determining Group 3, MNR (<0.095), NLR (>5.2), Plateletcount (PLT) (>142 x103/L) and RDW (>14) were important haemocytometric parameters, and the mortality risk value created by their combination had the highest AUC value (AUC = 0.911, 95% CI, 0886–0.931). Trend analysis of CBC-Diff parameters over 30 days of hospitalization, NLR on day 2, MNR on day 4, RDW on day 6 and PLT on day 7 of admission were found to be the best time related parameters in discrimination non-critical (mild-moderate) patient group from critical (severe and non-survivor) patient group.

Conclusion

NLR is a strong predictor for the prognosis for severe COVID-19 patients when the cut-off chosen was 4.4, the combined mortality risk factor COVID-19 disease generated from RDW-CV, NLR, MNR and PLT is best as a mortality haematocytometric index.
Impact of guideline awareness on the counseling of patients with acute cough among general practitioners and pharmacy personnel
Authors: Kardos Peter , Beeh Kai-Michael , Sent Ulrike , Bissmann Guido
Published: August 2021

Objective

To explore the awareness and knowledge of applicable guidelines on acute cough among general practitioners, pharmacists and pharmacy technicians and to compare their recommendation behavior and clinical decision making to the evidence-based recommendation in the applicable guidelines.

Methods

An anonymous online survey was performed among 303 members of an existing panel of healthcare professionals (HCPs). They were presented with a hypothetical case vignette representative of their daily practice and asked for their treatment recommendations. After being shown an excerpt from the applicable guidelines, these questions were repeated.

Results

Forty-six % of participants reported to seek information on cough and respiratory conditions very often or often. Among 12 non-prescription treatments-commonly used over-the-counter-products for acute cough, HCPs most often recommended various plant extract-based products (phytotherapeutic remedies) for the acute cough case, whereas chemically defined options such as ambroxol or N-acetyl-cysteine were recommended less often. Following presentation of the guidelines excerpt, recommendations of the phytotherapeutic remedies decreased moderately whereas that of the guideline-recommended ambroxol more than doubled. Among stated reasons for the recommendation guideline conformity increased from 5% to 35% among the top-3 reasons.

Conclusions

The recommendations for the treatment of acute cough by professionals involved in primary healthcare deviated considerably from the applicable guideline recommendation but changed after presentation of a guidelines excerpt and knowledge thereof. We conclude that dissemination of applicable guideline knowledge is relevant to improve evidence-based healthcare and clinical decision making.
ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries: Score derivation for prediction based on a large national registry
Authors: Jędrychowska Magdalena , Siudak Zbigniew , Malinowski Krzysztof Piotr , Zandecki Łukasz , Zabojszcz Michał , Kameczura Tomasz , Mika Piotr , Bartuś Krzysztof , Wańha Wojciech , Wojakowski Wojciech , Legutko Jacek , Bartuś Stanisław , Januszek Rafał
Published: August 2021

Background

Acute myocardial infarction with ST-segment elevation (STEMI) and obstructive coronary arteries (MI-CAD) are treated with primary percutaneous coronary interventions (pPCI), while patients with STEMI and non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA), usually require non-invasive therapy. The aim of the study is to design a score for predicting suspected MINOCA among an overall group of STEMI patients.

Materials and methods

Based on the Polish national registry of PCIs, we evaluated patients between 2014 and 2019, and selected 526,490 subjects treated with PCI and 650,728 treated using only coronary angiography. These subjects were chosen out of 1,177,218 patients who underwent coronary angiography. Then, we selected 124,663 individuals treated with pPCI due to STEMI and 5,695 patients with STEMI and MINOCA. The score for suspected MINOCA was created using the regression model, while the coefficients calculated for the final model were used to construct a predictive model in the form of a nomogram.

Results

Patients with MINOCA differ significantly from those in the MI-CAD group; they were significantly younger, less often males and demonstrated smaller burden of concomitant diseases. The model allowed to show that patients who scored more than 600 points had a 19% probability of MINOCA, while for those scoring more than 650 points, the likelihood was 71%. The other end of the MINOCA probability scale was marginal for patients who scored less than 500 points (< .2%).

Conclusions

Based on the created MINOCA score presented in the current publication, we are able to distinguish MINOCA from MI-CAD patients in the STEMI group.
Isolation and identification of microorganisms associated with automated teller machines on Federal Polytechnic Ede campus
Authors: Dawodu O. G. , Akanbi R. B.
Published: August 2021

Automated Teller Machines (ATM) are visited everyday by millions of people. This machine is accessible to the general public irrespective of class, age or race. The contact point of all ATM machines is the hand which on their own are ‘vaults’ of microorganisms. An elaborate survey was taken for complete assessment of possible microbial contamination in the Federal Polytechnic Ede campus. Selected ATM machines on campus were used as case study to characterize, identify and determine the degree of bacterial contamination of microorganisms and their potential as reservoir of microbes. Swabs were collected from each ATM screen, buttons, floor, user’s hand, and exposure of plates. After collection of the samples, they were plated in nutrient agar. The results showed the presence of increased bacterial count subsequently, most pathogens on characterization revealed the genus of the particular organisms E. coli, Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella, Micrococcus, Salmonella and Serratia. The study showed the potential hazard inherent in ATM machine usage and draws attention to our level of hand hygiene compliance.
Treatment of early hypertension among persons living with HIV in Haiti: Protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yan Lily D. , Rouzier Vanessa , Dade Eliezer , Guiteau Collette , Pierre Jean Lookens , St-Preux Stephano , Metz Miranda , Oparil Suzanne , Pape Jean William , McNairy Margaret
Published: August 2021

Background

People living with HIV (PLWH) are at increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and death, with greater burdens of both HIV and CVD in lower-middle income countries. Treating prehypertension in PLWH may reduce progression to hypertension, CVD risk and potentially mortality. However, no trial has evaluated earlier blood pressure treatment for PLWH. We propose a randomized controlled trial to assess the feasibility, benefits, and risks of initiating antihypertensive treatment among PLWH with prehypertension, comparing prehypertension treatment to standard of care following current WHO guidelines.

Methods

A total of 250 adults 18–65 years and living with HIV (PLWH) with viral suppression in the past 12 months, who have prehypertension will be randomized to prehypertension treatment versus standard of care. Prehypertension is defined as having a systolic blood pressure (SBP) 120–139 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) 80–89 mmHg. In the prehypertension treatment arm, participants will initiate amlodipine 5 mg daily immediately. In the standard of care arm, participants will initiate amlodipine only if they develop hypertension defined as SBP ≥ 140 mmHg or DBP ≥ 90 mmHg. The primary outcome is the difference in mean change of SBP from enrollment to 12 months. Secondary outcomes include feasibility, acceptability, adverse effects, HIV viral suppression, and medication adherence. Qualitative in-depth interviews with providers and participants will explore attitudes about initiating amlodipine, satisfaction, perceived CVD risk, and implementation challenges.

Discussion

PLWH have a higher CVD risk and may benefit from a lower BP threshold for initiation of antihypertensive treatment.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov registration numberNCT04692467, registration date December 15, 2020, protocol ID 20–03021735.
Family planning in Pacific Island Countries and Territories (PICTs): A scoping review
Authors: Harrington Relmah Baritama , Harvey Nichole , Larkins Sarah , Redman-MacLaren Michelle
Published: August 2021

The use of contraceptives for family planning improves women’s lives and may prevent maternal deaths. However, many women in low and middle-income countries, including the Pacific region, still die from pregnancy-related complications. While most health centres offer family planning services with some basic contraceptive methods, many people do not access these services. More than 60% of women who would like to avoid or delay their pregnancies are unable to do so. This scoping review identifies and analyses evidence about family planning service provision in Pacific Island Countries and Territories (PICTs), with the aim of better informing family planning services for improved maternal health outcomes in the Pacific. We used Arksey and O’Malley’s scoping review guidelines, supported by Levac, Colquhoun and O’Brien to identify gaps in family planning service provision. Selected studies included peer-reviewed publications and grey literature that provided information about family planning services from 1994 to 2019. Publication data was charted in MS Excel. Data were thematically analysed and key issues and themes identified. A total of 45 papers (15 peer-reviewed and 30 grey literature publications) were critically reviewed. Five themes were identified: i) family planning services in the Pacific; ii) education, knowledge and attitudes; iii) geographical isolation and access; iv) socio-cultural beliefs, practices and influences; and v) potential enabling factors for improved family planning, such as appropriate family planning awareness by health care providers and services tailored to meet individual needs. While culture and religion were considered as the main barriers to accessing family planning services, evidence showed health services were also responsible for limiting access. Family planning services do not reach everyone. Making relevant and sustainable improvements in service delivery requires generation of local evidence. Further research is needed to understand availability, accessibility and acceptability of current family planning services for different age groups, genders, social and marital status to better inform family planning services in the Pacific.
Non-protected areas demanding equitable conservation strategies as of protected areas in the Central Himalayan region
Authors: Thapa Avantika , Pradhan Pujan Kumar , Joshi Bheem Dutt , Mukherjee Tanoy , Thakur Mukesh , Chandra Kailash , Sharma Lalit Kumar
Published: August 2021

The present study aims to explore the mammalian diversity of Darjeeling district using camera traps along with questionnaire survey in protected area (PA) and non- protected area (Non-PA). We also attempted to understand the influence of habitat variables on mammalian species richness using the generalized linear mixed models (GLMM). A total of 30 mammal species were recorded of which 21 species were detected through camera trapping with the most abundant records of barking deer (Muntiacus muntjak) and least of the elusive Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) and red panda (Ailurus fulgens). Additionally, melanistic forms of four mammals were also recorded. The mammalian species richness, their capture rate and naïve occupancy did not differ significantly among the PA and Non-PA. The GLMM revealed that the proportions of oak and bamboo in the forest, percentage canopy cover and camera trap operational days (wAICc = 0.145,wBIC = 0.603) were significant predictors of species richness in the study. We suggest Non-PA forest of Darjeeling should be given equal conservation importance as to the PA. Landscape based conservation planning will be imperative for achieving long term conservation goals in the study area.
A cross-sectional survey of hard ticks and molecular characterization of Rhipicephalus microplus parasitizing domestic animals of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Authors: Rooman Muhammad , Assad Yasir , Tabassum Sadia , Sultan Samia , Ayaz Sultan , Khan Muhammad Fiaz , Khan Shahid Niaz , Ali Rehman
Published: August 2021

Background

In tropical and subtropical countries, tick infestation causes major public health problems and considerable financial losses to the livestock industry. This study was aimed to assess the species composition of richness and analyze the phylogeny ofRhipicephalus microplusin the District Bannu of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.

Methods

Collected ticks were identified morphologically and DNA extracted fromR.micropluswas amplified and subjected to sequencing.

Results

A total of 3,600 animals were examined among them 1,494 animals were found to be infested with ticks, including 669 cows, 476 buffaloes, 163 goats, and 186 sheep (p= 0.001). Tick infestation was significantly high (43.58%) in animals of age group (<1 year) (p-value = 0.027). Female animals were more (44.05%) infested with ticks than males (34.43%) (p= 0.001). The intensity of infestation was significantly higher in summer (77.49%) (p= 0.001). A total of 5,557 ticks were collected comprising three genera and six species.R.micropluswas predominantly prevalent (n = 1,474; 26.52%), followed byRhipicephalus annulatus (n = 1,215; 21.86%),Hyalomma anatolicum(n = 1,139; 20.49%),Hyalomma marginatum(n = 1,086; 19.54%), andRhipicephalus turanicus(n = 761; 13.69%), while the least common wasHaemaphysalis aciculifer(n = 80; 1.43%) (p= 0.001). Morphologically identifiedR.microplusspecies were also analyzed genetically by using two genetic markers 16S ribosomal RNA (16S rRNA) and internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) genes. The phylogenetic study revealed thatR.microplusis genetically diversified and clustered in clade B withR.microplusspecies from China, India, and Pakistan.

Conclusion

Ticks infestation was significantly correlated with various factors including age, sex, season, and animal type.R.microplusgenetically resembled species reported from India and China. However, major knowledge gaps concerning various species of ticks exist and many areas are still unexplored in Pakistan. Therefore, it is necessary to explore the epidemiological and molecular aspects of various tick species in other regions of southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Absence of a bilingual cognitive flexibility advantage: A replication study in preschoolers
Authors: Shokrkon Anahita , Nicoladis Elena
Published: August 2021

Some studies have found a bilingual advantage in children’s executive function and some failed to find a bilingual advantage. For example, the results of a previous study by Bialystok & Martin (2004) indicated that Chinese-English bilingual preschool children outperformed English monolingual children in solving the dimensional change card sort (DCCS). The goal of our study was to replicate this study using the same dimensional change card sort task. We also tested our participants on vocabulary and digit span. Our participants were 40 English monolingual and 40 Mandarin-English bilingual children and were within the same age range as the children in Bialystok & Martin’s (2004) study. Our results showed no difference between bilinguals and monolinguals. Both groups of children in the present study performed better than those in Bialystok and Martin (2004), but the bigger difference was between the two groups of monolinguals. These results suggest that it could be important to attend to monolingual children’s performance, in addition to bilinguals’, when testing for a bilingual advantage. Our replication study is important because it helps with clarifying the validity of studies finding a bilingual advantage and to help future researchers know whether to build on their findings or not.
Effect of seed hydro-priming durations on germination and seedling growth of bitter gourd (Momordica charantia)
Authors: Adhikari Binod , Dhital Pankaj Raj , Ranabhat Sambat , Poudel Hari
Published: August 2021

The yield and quality of an annual crop are highly dependent on uniform and rapid germination of the seeds. In case of bitter gourd (Momordica charantia), the germination and field emergence is always a problem as seeds have thick and hard seed coat. Pre-sowing hydro-priming is one of the most suitable, affordable, easily available, and cost-effective techniques in breaking down seed dormancy to enhance germination. Hence, a field experiment was conducted in Surkhet district of Nepal 2020 to assess the effect of different hydro-priming duration on germination and seedling growth of bitter gourd. The experiment was laid out in single factor Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications and seven treatments including different hydro-priming durations (T0: control, T1: 6 hours, T2: 12 hours, T3: 18 hours, T4: 24 hours, T5: 36 hours and T6: 48 hours) of bitter gourd seeds of Palee variety, the most popular variety among the farmers. The highest water uptake and germination were found in 48 hours of seed hydro-primed seeds whereas the lowest water uptake and germination were observed on non-primed seeds. Similarly, the tallest seedling, most vigorous seedling in terms of seedling vigour index I and II was observed in 48 hours hydro-primed seeds followed by 36 hours of seed hydro-priming and shortest seedling and the least vigorous seedling in control. Thus 48 hours of seed hydro-priming was found to be effective for increasing germination and seedling growth in bitter gourd, which needs to be further investigated under large, open-field conditions with different varieties.
Brain activations associated with anticipation and delivery of monetary reward: A systematic review and meta-analysis of fMRI studies
Authors: Jauhar S. , Fortea L. , Solanes A. , Albajes-Eizagirre A. , McKenna P. J. , Radua J.
Published: August 2021

Background

While multiple studies have examined the brain functional correlates of reward, meta-analyses have either focused on studies using the monetary incentive delay (MID) task, or have adopted a broad strategy, combining data from studies using both monetary and non-monetary reward, as probed using a wide range of tasks.

Objective

To meta-analyze fMRI studies that used monetary reward and in which there was a definable cue-reward contingency. Studies were limited to those using monetary reward in order to avoid potential heterogeneity from use of other rewards, especially social rewards. Studies using gambling or delay discounting tasks were excluded on the grounds that reward anticipation is not easily quantifiable.

Study eligibility

English-language fMRI studies (i) that reported fMRI findings on healthy adults; (ii) that used monetary reward; and (iii) in which a cue that was predictive of reward was compared to a no win (or lesser win) condition. Only voxel-based studies were included; those where brain coverage was incomplete were excluded.

Data sources

Ovid, Medline and PsycInfo, from 2000 to 2020, plus checking of review articles and meta-analyses.

Data synthesis

Data were pooled using Seed-based d Mapping with Permutation of Subject Images (SDM-PSI). Heterogeneity among studies was examined using theI2statistic. Publication bias was examined using funnel plots and statistical examination of asymmetries. Moderator variables including whether the task was pre-learnt, sex distribution, amount of money won and width of smoothing kernel were examined.

Results

Pooled data from 45 studies of reward anticipation revealed activations in the ventral striatum, the middle cingulate cortex/supplementary motor area and the insula. Pooled data from 28 studies of reward delivery again revealed ventral striatal activation, plus cortical activations in the anterior and posterior cingulate cortex. There was relatively little evidence of publication bias. Among moderating variables, only whether the task was pre-learnt exerted an influence.

Conclusions

According to this meta-analysis monetary reward anticipation and delivery both activate the ventral but not the dorsal striatum, and are associated with different patterns of cortical activation.
Analysis of big data job requirements based on K-means text clustering in China
Authors: Debao Dai , Yinxia Ma , Min Zhao
Published: August 2021

This paper aims to understand the characteristics of domestic big data jobs requirements through k-means text clustering, help enterprises, and employees to identify big data talents, and promote the further development of big data-related research. Firstly, the crawler software is used to crawl the recruitment information about "big data" on the zhaopin.com recruitment website. Then, Jieba word segmentation and K-means text clustering are used to cluster big data recruitment positions, and the number of clustering was determined by the average sum of squares within the group. Finally, big data jobs are divided into 10 categories, and the urban distribution, salary level, education requirements, and experience requirements of big data jobs are discussed and analyzed from the perspectives of the overall data set and clustering results, to clarify the characteristics of big data job demands. The analysis results show that the job demands of big data are mainly distributed in first-tier cities and new first-tier cities. Enterprises are more inclined to job seekers with a college degree or bachelor’s degree and more than one year’s relevant experience. There are wage differences among different types of jobs. The higher the position, the higher the requirement for education and experience will be.
Parietal alpha tACS shows inconsistent effects on visuospatial attention
Authors: Coldea Andra , Morand Stephanie , Veniero Domenica , Harvey Monika , Thut Gregor
Published: August 2021

Transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) is a popular technique that has been used for manipulating brain oscillations and inferring causality regarding the brain-behaviour relationship. Although it is a promising tool, the variability of tACS results has raised questions regarding the robustness and reproducibility of its effects. Building on recent research using tACS to modulate visuospatial attention, we here attempted to replicate findings of lateralized parietal tACS at alpha frequency to induce a change in attention bias away from the contra- towards the ipsilateral visual hemifield. 40 healthy participants underwent tACS in two separate sessions where either 10 Hz tACS or sham was applied via a high-density montage over the left parietal cortex at 1.5 mA for 20 min, while performance was assessed in an endogenous attention task. Task and tACS parameters were chosen to match those of previous studies reporting positive effects. Unlike these studies, we did not observe lateralized parietal alpha tACS to affect attention deployment or visual processing across the hemifields as compared to sham. Likewise, additional resting electroencephalography immediately offline to tACS did not reveal any notable effects on individual alpha power or frequency. Our study emphasizes the need for more replication studies and systematic investigations of the factors that drive tACS effects.
Improving information retrieval from electronic health records using dynamic and multi-collaborative filtering
Authors: Ning Xia , Fan Ziwei , Burgun Evan , Ren Zhiyun , Schleyer Titus
Published: August 2021

Due to the rapid growth of information available about individual patients, most physicians suffer from information overload and inefficiencies when they review patient information in health information technology systems. In this paper, we present a novel hybrid dynamic and multi-collaborative filtering method to improve information retrieval from electronic health records. This method recommends relevant information from electronic health records to physicians during patient visits. It models information search dynamics using a Markov model. It also leverages the key idea of collaborative filtering, originating from Recommender Systems, for prioritizing information based on various similarities among physicians, patients and information items. We tested this new method using electronic health record data from the Indiana Network for Patient Care, a large, inter-organizational clinical data repository maintained by the Indiana Health Information Exchange. Our experimental results demonstrated that, for top-5 recommendations, our method was able to correctly predict the information in which physicians were interested in 46.7% of all test cases. For top-1 recommendations, the corresponding figure was 24.7%. In addition, the new method was 22.3% better than the conventional Markov model for top-1 recommendations.
Incorporating inter-individual variability in experimental design improves the quality of results of animal experiments
Authors: van der Goot Marloes H. , Kooij Marieke , Stolte Suzanne , Baars Annemarie , Arndt Saskia S. , van Lith Hein A.
Published: August 2021

Inter-individual variability in quantitative traits is believed to potentially inflate the quality of results in animal experimentation. Yet, to our knowledge this effect has not been empirically tested. Here we test whether inter-individual variability in emotional response within mouse inbred strains affects the outcome of a pharmacological experiment. Three mouse inbred strains (BALB/c, C57BL/6 and 129S2) were behaviorally characterized through repeated exposure to a mild aversive stimulus (modified Hole Board, five consecutive trials). A multivariate clustering procedure yielded two multidimensional response types which were displayed by individuals of all three strains. We show that systematic incorporation of these individual response types in the design of a pharmacological experiment produces different results from an experimental pool in which this variation was not accounted for. To our knowledge, this is the first study that empirically confirms that inter-individual variability affects the interpretation of behavioral phenotypes and may obscure experimental results in a pharmacological experiment.