bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison between Hadamard and canonical bases for in situ wavefront correction and the effect of ordering in compressive sensing
Authors: Scheidt Dennis , Quinto-Su Pedro A.
Published: November 2022

In this work we compare the canonical and Hadamard bases for in situ wavefront correction of a focused Gaussian beam using a spatial light modulator (SLM). The beam is perturbed with a transparent optical element (sparse) or a random scatterer (both prevent focusing at a single spot). The phase corrections are implemented with different basis sizes (

N
=
64
,
256
,
1024
,
4096

) and the phase contribution of each basis element is measured with three-step interferometry. The field is reconstructed from the complete

3
N

measurements, and the correction is implemented by projecting the conjugate phase at the SLM. Our experiments show that in general, the Hadamard basis measurements yield better corrections because every element spans the relevant area of the SLM, thus reducing the noise in the interferograms. In contrast, the canonical basis has the fundamental limitation that the area of the elements is proportional to

1

/

N

, and it requires dimensions that are compatible with the spatial period of the grating. In the case of the random scatterer, we only obtain reasonable corrections with the Hadamard basis and the intensity of the corrected spot increases monotonically with

N

, which is consistent with fast random changes in phase over small spatial scales. We also explore compressive sensing with the Hadamard basis and find that the minimum compression ratio needed to achieve corrections with similar quality to those that use the complete measurements depends on the basis ordering. The best results are achieved in the case of the Hadamard–Walsh and cake-cutting orderings. Surprisingly, in the case of the random scatterer we find that moderate compression ratios on the order of 10%–20% (

N
=
4096

) allow us to recover focused spots, although as expected, the maximum intensities increase monotonically with the number of measurements due to the non-sparsity of the signal.
Numerical Analysis of skin layers temperature distribution Process Caused by infrared Laser Action
Authors: Khatmi Gazy , Awad Ola , Ahmed Yathrib , Hamid Mnhal
Published: November 2022

During laser tissue it is big challenging to monitoring the temperature distribution and shape deformation of tissue during the laser exposure. The purpose is to study heat transfer of tissue by mathematical model.
Enhancing the nonreciprocal Goos–Hänchen shift by the Fano resonance of coupled gyromagnetic chains at normal incidence
Authors: Ma Hui , Wu Rui-Xin
Published: November 2022

We report a resonance-enhanced nonreciprocal Goos-Hänchen (GH) shift for the wave reflected from the coupled gyromagnetic chains. We demonstrate that the Fano resonance enhances the GH shift with high reflectivity at normal incidence, and the resonance results from the interference between the leaky guided modes of the coupled chains. Furthermore, we show that the GH shift can be controlled by the number of stacked chains. The Fano resonance-enhanced GH shift offers a new efficiently way to enhance and control the GH shift for reflected wave beam. Such coupled gyromagnetic chains provide an extremely compact way for the devices such as unidirectional couplers and other integration photonic components, paving the way for the applications of nonreciprocal GH shift.
Tunable optical traps over nonreciprocal surfaces
Authors: Paul N. K. , Gomez-Diaz J. S.
Published: November 2022

We propose engineering optical traps over plasmonic surfaces and precisely controlling the trap position with an external bias by inducing in-plane nonreciprocity on the surface. The platform employs an incident Gaussian beam to polarize targeted nanoparticles, and exploits the interplay between nonreciprocal and spin-orbit lateral recoil forces to construct stable optical traps and manipulate their position within the surface. To model this process, we develop a theoretical framework based on the Lorentz force combined with nonreciprocal Green’s functions and apply it to calculate the trapping potential. Rooted on this formalism, we explore the exciting possibilities offered by graphene to engineer stable optical traps using low-power laser beams in the mid-IR and to manipulate the trap position in a continuous manner by applying a longitudinal drift bias. Nonreciprocal metasurfaces may open new possibilities to trap, assemble and manipulate nanoparticles and overcome many challenges faced by conventional optical tweezers while dealing with nanoscale objects.
Development and operation of the Hemispherical Blackbody (HSBB) for the calibration of infrared radiometers with a hemispherical acceptance angle
Authors: Feierabend Moritz , Reiniger Max , Bories Jonas , Adibekyan Albert , Häfner Robert , Müller Chantal , Fehse Dirk , Gröbner Julian , Müller Ingmar , Monte Christian
Published: November 2022

Longwave downward radiation measurements are fundamental for investigating the surface and atmospheric energy budget of the Earth. Such measurements are performed using broadband infrared radiometers that have a hemispherical acceptance angle. A new hemispherical reference blackbody has been developed to provide a new traceability path of longwave downward radiation measurements to the SI. The Hemispherical Blackbody (HSBB) was specifically designed to meet the large opening angle of radiometers used for measuring longwave downward radiation. The first step was to find a suitable design candidate for the HSBB by simulating the effective emissivity using the Monte Carlo ray-tracing software STEEP. The most promising candidate was then realized in two versions with similar coatings and both versions were taken into operation.
Harnessing the plenoptic function for a directionally illuminated autostereoscopic display
Authors: He Yong , Chen Xuehao , Li Xiaoke , Li Zhanhong , Fan Yunjia , Ding Juan , Yan Zhongbo , Liang Haowen , Zhou Jianying
Published: November 2022

The plenoptic function is ideal to describe three-dimensional displays. We propose and demonstrate in this work that plenoptic function is a particularly suitable scenario in the directionally illuminated autostereoscopic display. Guided by this function, backlight structures and functional thin films are designed and applied for wave-vector and amplitude control so that homogeneous viewing is achieved in large viewing volume while display functionality with optical focusing and diverting can be fulfilled. The demonstration of high-quality displays by cloaking various optical defects in an otherwise severely distorted radiance distribution introduced by lens array is presented. We conclude that the scenario adopted in this work is immediately applicable to enhance general performance for autostereoscopy.
Wire-grid polarizer sheet with low reflectance in the visible and near-infrared regions fabricated by a nanoimprinting and electroless plating process
Authors: Hokari Ryohei , Takakuwa Kyohei , Shiomoto Kengo , Kuwano Genki , Kurihara Kazuma
Published: November 2022

In near-infrared systems for optical sensing and imaging technologies, an improved signal-to-noise ratio and more advanced object detection and analysis using polarizers are required. Such polarizers are limited, and broadband wire-grid polarizers are potential candidates. However, their high reflectivity and high cost limit their application. Herein, we fabricated a low-reflectivity wire-grid polarizer sheet that can be used in visible and near-infrared regions by a simple process using only nanoimprinting and nickel electroless plating; further, metal removal steps such as chemical mechanical polishing were not required. The results obtained by optimizing the structural shape of the mold and precisely controlling the thickness of the electroless plating confirmed that the polarizer could be used for visible and near-infrared light. Because the sheets can be manufactured using general-purpose equipment upon mold preparation, they can be employed in wide-ranging applications with small capital investment.
Quantitative Underwater Acoustic Measurements Using Distributed Acoustic Sensing
Authors: Crickmore R I , Minto C , Godfrey A , Ellwood R
Published: November 2022

Detection of surface and underwater targets was carried out using distributed acoustic sensing on the seabed fibre optic cables at a depth of ~180m. The cable’s pressure responsivity was measured and beamforming was demonstrated
Transfer function asymmetry in Fabry–Perot-based optical pressure sensors
Authors: Czuchnowski Jakub , Prevedel Robert
Published: November 2022

Optical resonators are some of the most promising optical devices for manufacturing high-performance pressure sensors for photoacoustic imaging. Among these, Fabry–Perot (FP)-based pressure sensors have been successfully used for a multitude of applications. However, critical performance aspects of FP-based pressure sensors have not been studied extensively, including the effects that system parameters such as beam diameter and cavity misalignment have on transfer function shape. Here, we discuss the possible origins of the transfer function asymmetry, ways to correctly estimate the FP pressure sensitivity under practical experimental conditions, as well as show the importance of proper assessments for real-world applications.
Broadband saturable absorption of indium tin oxide nanocrystals toward mid-infrared regime
Authors: Huang Jing , Liu DongYang , Chen Longlong , Li Ning , Miao Lili , Zhao Chujun
Published: November 2022

We experimentally demonstrate the ultrabroadband optical nonlinearity of indium tin oxide nanocrystals (ITO NCs) in the mid-infrared regime. Especially, the ITO NCs show considerable saturation absorption behavior with large modulation depth covering the spectral range from 2-µm to 10-µm wavelength. We also demonstrate the application of the optical nonlinearity to successfully modulate the erbium-doped fluoride fiber laser to deliver a nanosecond pulse with a signal-to-noise ratio over 43 dB at 2.8-µm wavelength. The results provide a promising platform for the development of ITO-based broadband and robust optoelectronic devices toward the deep mid-infrared spectral range.
New Eyes on the Sun
Authors: Daukantas Patricia
Published: November 2022

Three solar observatories—two in space, one on
Earth-are using advanced optics to study our closest star in greater
detail than ever before.
Tunable Metasurfaces: Controlling Light in Space and Time
Authors: Saha Soham , Shah Deesha , M. Shalaev Vladimir , Boltasseva Alexandra
Published: November 2022

Active control of optical properties could take meta­surface
applications to the next level.
Meet Optica’s 2022 Fellows
Authors: Smith Meredith , Apter Kari , Hornback Samantha
Published: November 2022

Congratulations to the 106 members of the 2022 class of Optica
Fellow Members.
Predictable and stable epimutations induced during clonal plant propagation with embryonic transcription factor
Authors: Wibowo Anjar Tri , Antunez-Sanchez Javier , Dawson Alexander , Price Jonathan , Meehan Cathal , Wrightsman Travis , Collenberg Maximillian , Bezrukov Ilja , Becker Claude , Benhamed Moussa , Weigel Detlef , Gutierrez-Marcos Jose
Published: November 2022

Clonal propagation is frequently used in commercial plant breeding and biotechnology programs because it minimizes genetic variation, yet it is not uncommon to observe clonal plants with stable phenotypic changes, a phenomenon known as somaclonal variation. Several studies have linked epigenetic modifications induced during regeneration with this newly acquired phenotypic variation. However, the factors that determine the extent of somaclonal variation and the molecular changes underpinning this process remain poorly understood. To address this gap in our knowledge, we compared clonally propagatedArabidopsis thalianaplants derived from somatic embryogenesis using two different embryonic transcription factors-RWP-RK DOMAIN-CONTAINING 4 (RKD4)orLEAFY COTYLEDON2 (LEC2)and from two epigenetically distinct founder tissues. We found that both the epi(genetic) status of the explant and the regeneration protocol employed play critical roles in shaping the molecular and phenotypic landscape of clonal plants. Phenotypic variation in regenerated plants can be largely explained by the inheritance of tissue-specific DNA methylation imprints, which are associated with specific transcriptional and metabolic changes in sexual progeny of clonal plants. For instance, regenerants were particularly affected by the inheritance of root-specific epigenetic imprints, which were associated with an increased accumulation of salicylic acid in leaves and accelerated plant senescence. Collectively, our data reveal specific pathways underpinning the phenotypic and molecular variation that arise and accumulate in clonal plant populations.
Determinants of clinician and patient to prescription of antimicrobials: Case of Mulanje, Southern Malawi
Authors: Chalusa Morris , Khuluza Felix , Bandawe Chiwoza
Published: November 2022

Background

Antimicrobial resistance is an emerging problem in low- and middle-income countries. The problem is exacerbated by inappropriate prescription of antimicrobials. Factors that lead to overuse or inappropriate prescription of antimicrobials by the cadre of medical assistants, clinical technicians and clinical officers have received limited attention. This study investigated factors that influence prescription behaviours of antimicrobials among clinical officers in various health facilities in Mulanje district, Southern Malawi.

Methods

Qualitative study design exploring determinants of antimicrobial prescription from May to October, 2019, was used. In-depth interviews (n = 18) and focus group discussions (n = 2) were conducted with medical assistant (MA), clinical technicians and clinical officers (CO) from four health facilities in Mulanje district. COs are licensed medical practitioners with an initial three-year training and one-year internship while MAs are licensed medical practitioners with initial two-year training and one year internship. Purposive sampling was done to arrive at a sample size of 30 health cadres.

Results

Participants pointed out that patient preferences, beliefs and clinicians’ inadequate education on this issue were among the factors that contribute to inappropriate antimicrobial prescription. 75% of clinicians showed lack of knowledge on the definition of antibiotic and antimicrobial resistance.

Conclusion

Inappropriate use of antimicrobials is facilitated by prescription decisions made by clinicians who are greatly influenced by their patients. Interventions aimed at improving antimicrobial prescription should target both clinicians and patients.
Challenges and lessons learned from the rapid operationalization of a prospective cohort to study the natural history and neurodevelopmental outcomes of postnatal Zika virus infection among infants and children in rural Guatemala
Authors: Paniagua-Avila Alejandra , Olson Daniel , Connery Amy , Calvimontes D. Mirella , Bolanos Guillermo A. , Lamb Molly M. , Bauer Desiree , Ralda Aida , Rojop Neudy , Barrios Eduardo , Chacon Andrea , Gomez Melissa , Arroyave Paola , Hernandez Sara , Martinez Maria Alejandra , Bunge-Montes Saskia , Colbert Alison , Arias Kareen , Brazeale Garret , Holliday Andrea , Tomashek Kay M. , El Sahly Hana M. , Keitel Wendy , Munoz Flor M. , Asturias Edwin J.
Published: November 2022

During the course of the 2015–2017 outbreak of Zika virus (ZIKV) in the Americas, the emerging virus was recognized as a congenital infection that could damage the developing brain. As the Latin American ZIKV outbreak advanced, the scientific and public health community questioned if this newly recognized neurotropic flavivirus could affect the developing brain of infants and young children infected after birth. We report here the study design, methods and the challenges and lessons learned from the rapid operationalization of a prospective natural history cohort study aimed at evaluating the potential neurological and neurodevelopmental effects of postnatal ZIKV infection in infants and young children, which had become epidemic in Central America. This study enrolled a cohort of 500 mothers and their infants, along with nearly 400 children 1.5–3.5 years of age who were born during the initial phase of the ZIKV epidemic in a rural area of Guatemala. Our solutions and lessons learned while tackling real-life challenges may serve as a guide to other researchers carrying out studies of emerging infectious diseases of public health priority in resource-constrained settings.
Potential economic and clinical implications of improving access to snake antivenom in five ASEAN countries: A cost-effectiveness analysis
Authors: Patikorn Chanthawat , Ismail Ahmad Khaldun , Zainal Abidin Syafiq Asnawi , Othman Iekhsan , Chaiyakunapruk Nathorn , Taychakhoonavudh Suthira
Published: November 2022

Background

Despite domestic production of antivenoms in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries, not all victims with snakebite envenomings indicated for antivenom received the appropriate or adequate effective dose of antivenom due to insufficient supply and inadequate access to antivenoms. We aimed to conduct a cost-effectiveness analysis to project the potential economic and clinical impact of improving access to antivenoms when all snakebite envenomings in ASEAN countries were hypothetically treated with geographically appropriate antivenoms.

Methodology

Using a decision analytic model with input parameters from published literature, local data, and expert opinion, we projected the impact of “full access” (100%) to antivenom, compared to “current access” in five most impacted ASEAN countries, including Indonesia (10%), Philippines (26%), Vietnam (37%), Lao PDR (4%), and Myanmar (64%), from a societal perspective with a lifetime time horizon. Sensitivity analyses were performed.

Principal findings

In base-case analyses, full access compared to current access to snake antivenom in the five countries resulted in a total of 9,362 deaths averted (-59%), 230,075 disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) averted (-59%), and cost savings of 1.3 billion USD (-53%). Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) of improving access to antivenom found higher outcomes but lower costs in all countries. Probabilistic sensitivity analyses of 1,000 iterations found that 98.1–100% of ICERs were cost-saving.

Conclusion/Significance

Improving access to snake antivenom will result in cost-saving for ASEAN countries. Our findings emphasized the importance of further strengthening regional cooperation, investment, and funding to improve the situation of snakebite victims in ASEAN countries.
Diagnostic testing of chronic wasting disease in white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) by RT-QuIC using multiple tissues
Authors: Burgener Kate R. , Lichtenberg Stuart S. , Lomax Aaron , Storm Daniel J. , Walsh Daniel P. , Pedersen Joel A.
Published: November 2022

Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a fatal prion disease affecting cervids (deer, elk, moose). Current methods to monitor individual disease state include highly invasive antemortem rectal biopsy or postmortem brain biopsy. Efficient, sensitive, and selective antemortem and postmortem testing of populations would increase knowledge of the dynamics of CWD epizootics as well as provide a means to track CWD progression into previously unaffected areas. Here, we analyzed the presence of CWD prions in skin samples from two easily accessed locations (ear and belly) from 30 deceased white-tailed deer (Odocoileus viginianus). The skin samples were enzymatically digested and analyzed by real-time quaking-induced conversion (RT-QuIC). The diagnostic sensitivity of the ear and belly skin samples were both 95%, and the diagnostic specificity of the ear and belly skin were both 100%. Additionally, the location of the skin biopsy on the ear does not affect specificity or sensitivity. These results demonstrate the efficacy of CWD diagnosis with skin biopsies using RT-QuIC. This method could be useful for large scale antemortem population testing.
Predicting sustainable food consumption across borders based on the theory of planned behavior: A meta-analytic structural equation model
Authors: Shen Xin , Xu Qianhui , Liu Qiao
Published: November 2022

Interest in sustainable food consumption has gradually increased over the previous third decades. Despite substantial studies addressing various topics connected to sustainable food consumption, little research systematically evaluates which factors influence consumers’ purchase of sustainable food. We aim to integrate preliminary findings, compare four original and extended models of the theory of planned behavior (TPB) in the context of sustainable food consumption, and identify measurement and situational moderators using a meta-analytic structural equation modeling approach. The results show that attitude (ATT), subjective norms (SN), and perceived behavioral control (PBC) were most strongly positively correlated with a purchase intention (PI) of sustainable food. Furthermore, the analysis of the moderating effects revealed significant differences in the relationship between PBC and purchase behavior (PB) and between SN and PI in developing and developed countries. In addition, by comparing four original and extended TPB models, this study proposes a theoretical framework to affect customers’ PI of sustainable food. The findings of this study can be used as a foundation for company marketing and government environmental protection promotion.
Caregiver perceptions and experiences of paediatric emergency department attendance during the COVID-19 pandemic: A mixed-methods study
Authors: Appleby Gayle , Papageorgiou Vasiliki , Horter Shona , Wharton-Smith Alexandra , Sajjanhar Tina , Hemeson Anthony , Singogo Emmanuel , Cahill Benjamin , Keers Sophie , Wicksey Lorraine , Emedo Marylyn , Yim Alastair , Nyirenda-Nyang’wa Maggie
Published: November 2022

Background

During the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, concerns were raised about reduced attendance at hospitals, particularly in paediatric emergency departments, which could result in preventable poorer outcomes and late presentations among children requiring emergency care. We aimed to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on health-seeking behaviour and decision-making processes of caregivers presenting to paediatric emergency services at a National Health Service (NHS) Trust in London.

Materials and methods

We conducted a mixed-methods study (survey and semi-structured interviews) across two hospital sites between November-December 2020. Data from each study were collected concurrently followed by data comparison.

Results

Overall, 100 caregivers participated in our study; 80 completed the survey only, two completed the interview only and 18 completed both. Our quantitative study found that almost two-thirds (63%, n = 62) of caregivers attended the department within two days of their child becoming ill. Our qualitative study identified three major themes which were underpinned by concepts of trust, safety and uncertainty and were assessed in relation to the temporal nature of the pandemic and the caregivers’ journey to care. We found most caregivers balanced their concerns of COVID-19 and a perceived “overwhelmed” NHS by speaking to trusted sources, predominantly general practitioners (GPs).

Conclusion

Caregivers have adapted their health-seeking behaviour throughout the pandemic as new information and guidance have been released. We identified several factors affecting decisions to attend; some existed before the pandemic (e.g., concerns for child’s health) whilst others were due to the pandemic (e.g., perceived risks of transmission when accessing healthcare services). We recommend trusted medical professionals, particularly GPs, continue to provide reassurance to caregivers to seek emergency paediatric care when required. Communicating the hospital safety procedures and the importance of early intervention to caregivers could additionally provide reassurance to those concerned about the risks of accessing the hospital environment.
Elf3 deficiency during zebrafish development alters extracellular matrix organization and disrupts tissue morphogenesis
Authors: Sarmah Swapnalee , Hawkins Matthew R. , Manikandan Priyadharshini , Farrell Mark , Marrs James A.
Published: November 2022

E26 transformation specific (ETS) family transcription factors are expressed during embryogenesis and are involved in various cellular processes such as proliferation, migration, differentiation, angiogenesis, apoptosis, and survival of cellular lineages to ensure appropriate development. Dysregulated expression of many of the ETS family members is detected in different cancers. The human ELF3, a member of the ETS family of transcription factors, plays a role in the induction and progression of human cancers is well studied. However, little is known about the role of ELF3 in early development. Here, the zebrafish elf3 was cloned, and its expression was analyzed during zebrafish development. Zebrafish elf3 is maternally deposited. At different developmental stages, elf3 expression was detected in different tissue, mainly neural tissues, endoderm-derived tissues, cartilage, heart, pronephric duct, blood vessels, and notochord. The expression levels were high at the tissue boundaries. Elf3 loss-of-function consequences were examined by using translation blocking antisense morpholino oligonucleotides, and effects were validated using CRISPR/Cas9 knockdown. Elf3-knockdown produced short and bent larvae with notochord, craniofacial cartilage, and fin defects. The extracellular matrix (ECM) in the fin and notochord was disorganized. Neural defects were also observed. Optic nerve fasciculation (bundling) and arborization in the optic tectum were defective in Elf3-morphants, and fragmentation of spinal motor neurons were evident. Dysregulation of genes encoding ECM proteins and matrix metalloprotease (MMP) and disorganization of ECM may play a role in the observed defects in Elf3 morphants. We conclude that zebrafish Elf3 is required for epidermal, mesenchymal, and neural tissue development.
Regression discontinuity threshold optimization
Authors: Marinescu Ioana , Triantafillou Sofia , Kording Konrad
Published: November 2022

Treatments often come with thresholds, e.g. we are given statins if our cholesterol is above a certain threshold. But which statin administration threshold maximizes our quality of life adjusted years? More generally, which threshold would optimize the average expected outcome? Regression discontinuity approaches are used to measure the local average treatment effect (LATE) and more recently also the Marginal Threshold Treatment Effect (MTTE), which shows how marginal changes in the threshold can affect the LATE. We extend this idea to define the problem of optimizing a policy threshold, i.e. selecting a threshold that optimizes the cumulative effect of the treatment on the treated. We present an estimator of the optimal threshold based on a constrained optimization framework. We show how to use machine learning (Gaussian process regression) for non-linear estimation. We also extend the estimation to a conservative threshold that is unlikely to produce harm, and we show how to include policy cost constraints. We apply these results to estimate an optimal tip-maximizing threshold for tip suggestions in taxi cabs Haggag (2014).
The association between physical activity and erectile dysfunction: A cross-sectional study in 20,789 Brazilian men
Authors: Pitta Rafael Mathias , Kaufmann Oskar , Louzada Andressa Cristina Sposato , Astolfi Rafael Haddad , de Lima Queiroga Luana , Ritti Dias Raphael Mendes , Wolosker Nelson
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Erectile dysfunction, defined as the inability to achieve and/or maintain a penile erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse is associated with impaired quality of life and cardiovascular diseases in men older than 40 years.

Objective

To evaluate the association between erectile dysfunction and physical activity levels in a large cohort of men.

Methods

Data from 20,789 males aged 40 years and over who participated in the check-up screening between January of 2008 and December of 2018 were included in this study. In this sample, data about erectile dysfunction, physical activity levels, clinical profile and laboratory exams were obtained. Logistic regression models were performed.

Results

Individuals with erectile dysfunction were older (49.1 ±6.9 vs. 54.8±8.8 years old, p<0.001), had a higher body mass index (27.6 ±3.9 vs. 28.5 ± 4.3 kg/m2, p<0,001), and presented with a higher prevalence of physical inactivity (25 vs. 19%, p<0.001) than individuals without erectile dysfunction. The multivariate model revealed that age (p<0.001), hypertension (p = 0.001), diabetes mellitus (p<0.001), high body mass index (p<0.001), lower urinary tract symptoms and depressive symptoms (p<0.001) were independent risk factors for erectile dysfunction. Low or high physical activity levels (OR = 0.77; CI95%: 0.68–0.87, p<0.001 and OR = 0.85; CI95%: 0.72–0.99, p = 0.04 respectively) were protective factors against erectile dysfunction.

Conclusion

Low and high physical activity levels were associated with more than 20% reduction in the risk of erectile dysfunction in men aged 40 years or older.
How do children adapt their fairness norm? Evidence from computational modeling
Authors: Morasse Frédérick , Beauchamp Miriam H. , Désilets Élise , Hétu Sébastien
Published: November 2022

Adequate social functioning during childhood requires context-appropriate social decision-making. To make such decisions, children rely on their social norms, conceptualized as cognitive models of shared expectations. Since social norms are dynamic, children must adapt their models of shared expectations and modify their behavior in line with their social environment. This study aimed to investigate children’s abilities to use social information to adapt their fairness norm and to identify the computational mechanism governing this process. Thirty children (7–11 years, M = 7.9 SD = 0.85, 11 girls) played the role of Responder in a modified version of the Ultimatum Game–a two-player game based on the fairness norm–in which they had to choose to accept or reject offers from different Proposers. Norm adaptation was assessed by comparing rejection rates before and after a conditioning block in which children received several low offers. Computational models were compared to test which best explains children’s behavior during the game. Mean rejection rate decreased significantly after receiving several low offers suggesting that children have the ability to dynamically update their fairness norm and adapt to changing social environments. Model-based analyses suggest that this process involves the computation of norm-prediction errors. This is the first study on norm adaptation capacities in school-aged children that uses a computational approach. Children use implicit social information to adapt their fairness norm to changing environments and this process appears to be supported by a computational mechanism in which norm-prediction errors are used to update norms.
Structure-from-motion photogrammetry demonstrates variability in coral growth within colonies and across habitats
Authors: Lange Ines D. , Molina-Hernández Ana , Medellín-Maldonado Francisco , Perry Chris T. , Álvarez-Filip Lorenzo
Published: November 2022

Coral growth is an important metric of coral health and underpins reef-scale functional attributes such as structural complexity and calcium carbonate production. There persists, however, a paucity of growth data for most reef-building regions, especially for coral species whose skeletal architecture prevents the use of traditional methods such as coring and Alizarin staining. We used structure-from-motion photogrammetry to quantify a range of colony-scale growth metrics for six coral species in the Mexican Caribbean and present a newly developed workflow to measure colony volume change over time. Our results provide the first growth metrics for two species that are now major space occupiers on Caribbean reefs,Agaricia agaricitesandAgaricia tenuifolia. We also document higher linear extension, volume increase and calcification rates within back reef compared to fore reef environments for four other common species:Orbicella faveolata,Porites astreoides,Siderastrea sidereaandPseudodiploria strigosa. Linear extension rates in our study were lower than those obtained via computed tomography (CT) scans of coral cores from the same sites, as the photogrammetry method averages growth in all dimensions, while the CT method depicts growth only along the main growth axis (upwards). The comparison of direct volume change versus potential volume increase calculated from linear extension emphasizes the importance of assessing whole colony growth to improve calcification estimates. The method presented here provides an approach that can generate accurate calcification estimates alongside a range of other whole-colony growth metrics in a non-invasive way.
Cost-consequence of abatacept as first-line therapy in Japanese rheumatoid arthritis patients using IORRA real-world data
Authors: Tanaka Eiichi , Inoue Eisuke , Shoji Ayako , Nilsson Jonas , Papagiannopoulos Christos , Dhanda Devender , Yoshizawa Yuri , Abe Mai , Saka Kumiko , Sugano Eri , Sugitani Naohiro , Ochiai Moeko , Yamaguchi Rei , Ikari Katsunori , Yamanaka Hisashi , Harigai Masayoshi
Published: November 2022

Objectives

To investigate the cost-effectiveness of abatacept (ABA) as first-line (1L) therapy in Japanese rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients using data from the Institute of Rheumatology, Rheumatoid Arthritis database.

Methods

A decision-analytic model was used to estimate the cost per American College of Rheumatology response of at least 50% improvement (ACR50) responder and per patient in Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI) and Simplified Disease Activity Index (SDAI) remission from a Japanese healthcare payers’ perspective over a 2-year time horizon. Clinical characteristics of patients on ABA-1L were matched with those of patients on ABA second or later line (2L+) or tumour necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi)-1L directly or using propensity scores. Resource utilisation and medical costs were calculated from the Japan Medical Data Center claims database. Parameter uncertainty was addressed by sensitivity and subgroup analyses (age, treatment duration, Japanese version of Health Assessment Questionnaire [J-HAQ] score).

Results

Incremental costs per member per month (ΔPMPM) for ABA-1L versus TNFi-1L and ABA-2L+ were -1,571 Japanese Yen (JPY) and 81 JPY, respectively. For ABA-1L versus TNFi-1L, ΔPMPM by ACR50 response was -11,715 JPY and by CDAI and SDAI remission 11,602 JPY and 47,003 JPY, respectively. Corresponding costs for ABA-1L were lower for all outcome parameters versus those for ABA-2L+. Scenario analyses showed that ABA-1L was cost-effective over TNFi-1L in patients <65 years for any outcome. Furthermore, ABA-1L was cost-effective over ABA-2L+ for all outcomes in patients with age <65 years, disease duration <5 years and J-HAQ ≥1.5.

Conclusions

ABA-1L demonstrated a favourable cost-effectiveness profile in RA patients, accruing savings for the Japanese healthcare payers.
Predictors of large cell transformation in patients with Sezary Syndrome—A retrospective analysis
Authors: Jairath Neil K. , Bardhi Redina , Runge John S. , Bledea Ramona , Jairath Ruple , Wang Yang , Patrick Matthew , Wilcox Ryan A. , Hristov Alexandra C. , Tsoi Lam C. , Tejasvi Trilokraj
Published: November 2022

Background

Large cell transformation (LCT) of Sezary Syndrome (SS) is a rare phenomenon. To date, there are no rigorous studies identifying risk factors for its development.

Objectives

Here, we seek to characterize the clinicopathologic risk factors that predispose patients with SS to develop LCT.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated all SS patient records available in the Michigan Medicine Cancer Registry from 2010–2021. Clinical and pathologic variables were compared between groups. The Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test were used to assess overall survival.

Results

Of 28 SS patients identified, eight patients experienced LCT, and 20 did not (NLCT). Peak lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) before LCT (p = 0.0012), maximum total body surface area (TBSA) involvement before LCT (p = 0.0114), absolute CD8+ cell count measured on flow cytometry at diagnosis of SS (p = 0.0455) and at the most recent blood draw (p = 0.00736), and ulceration on biopsy (p = 0.0034) were significant clinicopathologic variables identified between the SS patients that developed LCT versus those that did not.

Conclusions

Maximum TBSA involvement, peak LDH, presence of ulceration, and decreased levels of CD8+ cells in the peripheral blood may predict the development of LCT in patients with SS.
Systematic cascade screening in the Danish Fabry Disease Centre: 20 years of a national single-centre experience
Authors: Effraimidis Grigoris , Rasmussen Åse Krogh , Dunoe Morten , Hasholt Lis F. , Wibrand Flemming , Sorensen Soren S. , Lund Allan M. , Kober Lars , Bundgaard Henning , Yazdanfard Puriya D. W. , Oturai Peter , Larsen Vibeke A. , de Abreu Vitor Hugo Fraga , Enevoldsen Lotte Hahn , Kristensen Tatiana , Svenstrup Kirsten , Bille Margrethe Bastholm , Arif Farah , Mogensen Mette , Klokker Mads , Backer Vibeke , Kistorp Caroline , Feldt-Rasmussen Ulla
Published: November 2022

The lysosomal storage disorder Fabry disease is caused by deficient or absent activity of the GLA gene enzyme α-galactosidase A. In the present study we present the molecular and biochemical data of the Danish Fabry cohort and report 20 years’ (2001–2020) experience in cascade genetic screening at the Danish National Fabry Disease Center. The Danish Fabry cohort consisted of 26 families, 18 index patients (9 males and 9 females, no available data for 8 index-patients) and 97 family members with a pathogenic GLA variant identified by cascade genetic testing (30 males and 67 females). Fourteen patients (5 males and 9 females; mean age of death 47.0 and 64.8 years respectively) died during follow-up. The completeness of the Fabry patient identification in the country has resulted in a cohort of balanced genotypes according to gender (twice number of females compared to males), indicating that the cohort was not biased by referral, and further resulted in earlier diagnosis of the disease by a lower age at diagnosis in family members compared to index-patients (mean age at diagnosis: index-patients 42.2 vs. family members 26.0 years). Six previously unreported disease-causing variants in the GLA gene were discovered. The nationwide screening and registration of Fabry disease families provide a unique possibility to establish a complete cohort of Fabry patients and to advance current knowledge of this inherited rare lysosomal storage disorder.
Admission lactate level and the GRACE 2.0 score are independent and additive predictors of 30-day mortality of STEMI patients treated with primary PCI—Results of a real-world registry
Authors: Szabo Dominika , Szabo Andras , Magyar Levente , Banhegyi Gyongyver , Kugler Szilvia , Pinter Anita , Juhasz Vencel , Ruppert Mihaly , Olah Attila , Ruzsa Zoltan , Edes Istvan Ferenc , Szekely Andrea , Becker David , Merkely Bela , Hizoh Istvan
Published: November 2022

Background

In many of the risk estimation algorithms for patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), heart rate and systolic blood pressure are key predictors. Yet, these parameters may also be altered by the applied medical treatment / circulatory support without concomitant improvement in microcirculation. Therefore, we aimed to investigate whether venous lactate level, a well-known marker of microcirculatory failure, may have an added prognostic value on top of the conventional variables of the “Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events” (GRACE) 2.0 model for predicting 30-day all-cause mortality of STEMI patients treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods

In a prospective single-center registry study conducted from May 2020 through April 2021, we analyzed data of 323 cases. Venous blood gas analysis was performed in all patients at admission. Nested logistic regression models were built using the GRACE 2.0 score alone (base model) and with the addition of venous lactate level (expanded model) with 30-day all-cause mortality as primary outcome measure. Difference in model performance was analyzed by the likelihood ratio (LR) test and the integrated discrimination improvement (IDI). Independence of the predictors was evaluated by the variance inflation factor (VIF). Discrimination and calibration was characterized by the c-statistic and calibration intercept / slope, respectively.

Results

Addition of lactate level to the GRACE 2.0 score improved the predictions of 30-day mortality significantly as assessed by both LR test (LR Chi-square = 8.7967, p = 0.0030) and IDI (IDI = 0.0685, p = 0.0402), suggesting that the expanded model may have better predictive ability than the GRACE 2.0 score. Furthermore, the VIF was 1.1203, indicating that the measured lactate values were independent of the calculated GRACE 2.0 scores.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that admission venous lactate level and the GRACE 2.0 score may be independent and additive predictors of 30-day all-cause mortality of STEMI patients treated with primary PCI.
The machines are learning: How artificial intelligence is already affecting journalism education
Authors: Sparrow Jeff
Published: November 2022

Recent developments in artificial intelligence (AI) pose considerable challenges to journalism educators. Sophisticated natural language processing systems have shown that the completion of academic assessment tasks does not necessarily require human-like artificial general intelligence. Already, AI can be deployed to assist with or independently complete assessment tasks for students or to provide an unacknowledged context for students completing assessment tasks. Educators teaching in journalism studies must rethink assessment, particularly as the journalism industry increasingly embraces AI technology.
Exploring small newspaper attitudes to a collaborative approach with Australia’s primary public broadcaster (ABC)
Authors: Hess Kristy , Ross Angela
Published: November 2022

Collaborative approaches to news production are increasingly being trialled across the globe in an attempt to alleviate a well-documented crisis in local news. Of particular interest to Australian policy-makers is the BBC Local Democracy Reporting project which funds journalists to be based in local news outlets to provide local government reporting, as well as data journalism initiatives. There is political will that such an approach could be adopted by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation to support the nation’s rural and regional news provisions. This article draws on data from six interpretive focus groups involving 50 news workers from independent Australian local news publishers to consider whether smaller publishers would welcome a collaborative approach with the ABC. It finds that a one-size-fits-all collaborative approach is unlikely to be suitable for the Australian regional media landscape and that more work is needed developing an understanding of an appropriate framework that may be tailored to best meet the needs of different local news outlets.
Not Exactly Lying: Fake News and Fake Journalism in American History, Andie Tucher (2022)
Authors: Biggins Felicity
Published: November 2022

Review of: Not Exactly Lying: Fake News and Fake Journalism in American History, Andie Tucher (2022)

New York: Columbia University Press, 384 pp.,

ISBN 978-0-23118-634-6, h/bk, USD 115.00/GBP 90.00,

ISBN 978-0-23118-635-3, p/bk, USD 28.00/GBP 22.00,

ISBN 978-0-23154-659-1, e-book, USD 27.99/GBP 22.00
ANTOLOGIA. Francofonias em Diálogo: Dos anos 80 à atualidade
Authors: Cordeiro Cristina Robalo
Published: November 2022

Dar a conhecer ao público lusófono, através de uma ampla escolha de textos traduzidos em português e sucintamente apresentados, o pensamento que, desde há 40 anos, se elabora e se exprime em língua francesa, é o principal objectivo desta obra colectiva.
Partindo de um conjunto de reflexões que clarificam o conceito e o devir da francofonia, o leitor poderá, segundo os seus próprios interesses, avaliar o lugar ocupado pelos estudos relativos à ecologia, ao vivente, à sociedade, ao pós­ colonial, às identidades, à literatura e às outras artes, num universo de investigadores e de ensaístas que se preocupam com as questões do mundo de hoje, preservando a sua independência intelectual e linguística. A diversidade das abordagens propostas é já em si mesma um convite ao diálogo entre os textos e às interpretações que suscitarão.
Durante muito tempo ocultada em Portugal, esta produção original, subtraída às pressões do pensamento dominante e da língua franca, abre perspectivas e liberta o espírito.
Chylous Ascites: Reassessment of Diagnostic Criteria in Patients With Portal Hypertension
Authors: Matchett Caroline L. , Rattan Puru , McConnell Joseph P. , Donato Leslie J. , Simonetto Douglas A. , Kamath Patrick S.
Published: November 2022

INTRODUCTION:

The triglyceride (TG) threshold for diagnosis of chylous ascites in patients with portal hypertension remains uncertain.

METHODS:

Retrospective analysis of lipoprotein electrophoresis was conducted in 286 consecutive ascites samples.

RESULTS:

Ascitic TG ≥ 81 mg/dL is 95.4% sensitive and 94.6% specific for chylous ascites diagnosed by the presence of significant chylomicron population.

DISCUSSION:

The cutoff for chylous ascites diagnosis should be TG ≥ 81 mg/dL.
Nacionalismo de recursos no Oriente Médio e na América Latina (1945-2014): uma revisão da bibliografia
Authors: Machado João Victor , Martins da Rocha Marco Antônio
Published: November 2022

O objetivo do artigo é fazer uma revisão da literatura, a partir de uma síntese da evolução histórica do setor petrolífero, dos principais movimentos relacionados ao Nacionalismo dos Recursos (NR) no Oriente Médio e na América Latina, a luz do processo de desenvolvimento da indústria mundial do petróleo. Metodologicamente, o trabalho foi dividido em quatro períodos, compreendidos entre 1945-2014. Entre 1945-1973, o NR esteve ligado a emergência da soberania sobre os recursos naturais. Entre 1973-1985, o NR assume um caráter radical. Entre 1985-2000 o NR retrocede com as reformas neoliberais. Posteriormente, novas perspectivas surgem para o avanço do NR na América Latina.
O debate sobre a distribuição de renda em 1970: trajetórias e a dinâmica da produção do conhecimento em Economia
Authors: Lucas Ferreira Ender
Published: November 2022

O objetivo do artigo é reexaminar o debate sobre a distribuição de renda no Brasil no início de 1970. Na metodologia do trabalho, procura-se articular o caráter conflitivo do debate, levando em consideração as redes formadas entre os economistas, suas trajetórias, os argumentos levantados em artigos acadêmicos e na imprensa escrita. De um lado estão os economistas próximos ao governo, como Carlos Geraldo Langoni. Por outro, houve também outras interpretações, como as de Albert Fishlow, Maria da Conceição Tavares, José Serra, Paul Singer, Edmar Lisboa Bacha, John Wells, Pedro Malan e Rodolfo Hoffmann.
Crise da industrialização e a “ilusão do desenvolvimento econômico”: uma revisão crítica do Plano Trienal e do Programa de Ação Econômica do Governo (PAEG)
Authors: Gusmão Franca Acson , Figueiredo Silva Vinícius
Published: November 2022

O presente trabalho propõe-se a apresentar uma síntese acerca da política econômica brasileira na primeira metade dos anos de 1960, tendo como espectro a atuação do Estado brasileiro na execução do Plano Trienal (1963 – 1965) e do Programa de Ação Econômica do Governo (1964 – 1966). Para tanto, revisitamos os processos de elaboração e execução dessas duas políticas econômicas de matrizes ideológicas distintas com o objetivo de compreendermos o papel do Estado neste período. Os resultados obtidos com este estudo sugerem que para além dos possíveis avanços da política econômica pró-industrialização, ocorreram mudanças significativas na própria concepção de planejamento perseguida ao longo deste período.