bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optical pulling force on Janus particles via azimuthally-polarized Bessel beams
Authors: Xiu Ziheng , Bongiovanni Domenico , Song Daohong , Morandotti Roberto , Buljan Hrvoje , Tang Liqin , Chen Zhigang
Published: January 2025

Janus particles have aroused a great deal of interest over the years due to their intriguing properties and potential applications, including optical manipulation, biomedical sensing, and imaging. However, controlled manipulation of composite Janus particles with optical fields is still a challenging task. Here, we study optical pulling forces experienced by Janus nanoparticles, specifically polystyrene microspheres that are half-coated with gold, when illuminated by an azimuthally polarized zero-order vector Bessel beam. We demonstrate that the pulling forces generated by such a vector Bessel beam are stronger than those produced by its linearly and radially polarized counterparts. The asymmetric structure of the Janus particles facilitates the generation of optical pulling forces. The size of the Janus particles and the orientation of the gold layer are the key factors regulating the sign and amplitude of the optical forces they experience. Our study illustrates a new possibility for optical manipulation of Janus particles, offering potential insights that could enhance their nanophotonic and biophotonic applications.
Unique thermal characteristics of polarization-insensitive metalenses over traditional refractive and diffractive lenses
Authors: Hou Mingming , Chen Yan , Li Junyu , Tao Xiao , Yi Fei
Published: January 2025

The thermal characteristics of lenses play an essential role in the performance of optical systems, particularly infrared detection systems. Metalenses, composed of sub-wavelength nanostructured surfaces, have recently emerged as a promising technology to realize flat, lightweight, and mass-producible lenses. However, their thermal behavior remains largely unexplored. This study examines the impact of uniform temperature variations (both theoretically and experimentally) and laser heating (theoretically) on the performance of polarization-insensitive metalens (PIM) at a representative wavelength of 10.6 µm. We compare the thermal performance of PIMs with refractive and diffractive lenses, by a comprehensive structural, thermal, and optical performance (STOP) analysis through finite-element analysis (FEA) and finite-difference-time-domain (FDTD) simulations. A comprehensive analysis of various thermal aberration indicators reveals that the PIM exhibits smaller thermal aberrations than both the aspheric lens and the harmonic diffractive lens, and its performance is closer to that of a traditional diffractive optical element (DOE). We also find that the unique nanostructures of PIM make it highly sensitive to the refractive index change induced by temperature variations, allowing the PIM to achieve unique capabilities compared to other lenses. A typical example is that the PIM consistently demonstrates an opposite shift in focal length and depth of focus, contrary to conventional cases. We also experimentally verify the near-athermal properties of 5-centimeter-aperture metalens, confirming the advantages of large-aperture PIMs over refractive lenses in athermal infrared imaging applications. Additionally, our numerical analysis demonstrates that the broadband achromatic metalens notably outperforms the DOE in simultaneously achromatic (8 to 12 µm) and athermal (-60 to 80°C) performance. It is reasonable to speculate that the thermal diffraction efficiency of the achromatic metalens is likely superior to that of the achromatic multi-level diffractive lens (MDL). Our results confirm the strong potential of metalenses in athermal imaging applications.
Exceptional-point-enhanced nanoparticle sensor utilizing a linewidth broadening mechanism
Authors: Long Dan , Zhu Junda , Mao Xuan , Qin Guo-Qing , Wang Min , Li Gui-Qin , Bo Fang , Long Gui-Lu
Published: January 2025

Exceptional points (EPs) in non-Hermitian systems, where eigenvalues and eigenvectors coalesce, offer unique advantages in state transitions, non-reciprocal devices, and sensing, owing to their distinctive and extraordinary properties. Most prior studies for sensing at EPs focused on mode splitting, with limited focus on leveraging the linewidth broadening mechanism. In this study, we construct an EP by embedding two nanoholes within a microdisk cavity. With nanoparticle adsorption at the edge of the microcavity at the EP, the linewidth of two split modes exceeds the frequency splitting, enabling the use of the linewidth broadening mechanism for nanoparticle detection. By calculating the linewidth of the transmission spectra with or without the adsorption of the nanoparticle, an enhanced linewidth broadening based on the EP is achieved compared to that based on the diabolic point (DP). We observe that the linewidth broadening based on the EP varies periodically with the azimuthal position of the nanoparticle along the edge of the cavity. Specifically, the maximum of the linewidth broadening based on the EP is several times larger than that based on the diabolic point. This paper not only deepens our understanding of non-Hermitian physics in microcavities but also lays the groundwork for future research and applications in high-sensitivity sensing.
Continuous-wave second-harmonic generation of green light in periodically poled thin-film lithium tantalate
Authors: Chen Haiwei , Zhang Xinyu , Ye Zhilin , Chen Xin , Huang ChunYu , Zhan Peng , Ou Xin , Zhu Shining , Hu Xiaopeng
Published: January 2025

Thin-film lithium tantalate (TFLT) is attracting increasing attention in nonlinear generation of visible lasers due to its large second-order nonlinearity and reduced photorefractive effect. In this Letter, we design and fabricate a periodically poled TFLT waveguide for frequency doubling of a near-infrared laser operating at around 1064 nm. Continuous-wave 1.87-mW second-harmonic green light was obtained from the TFLT waveguide, and the nonlinear conversion efficiency is about 11.7%. The periodically poled TFLT waveguide exhibits a narrow wavelength acceptance bandwidth, a large nonlinear coefficient, and a stable output in the visible. The study present in this work will pave the way for the application of TFLT in nonlinear integrated photonics.
Level of completion of maternity continuum of care among ever-married women: An analysis of Somalia’s health and demographic survey 2020
Authors: Mohamed Adam A. , Akın Ays‚e , Mihciokur Sare , Üner Sarp , Gele Abdi
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Somalia is continuing to recover from three decades of underdevelopment, political instability, civil unrest, and protracted humanitarian crises. However, Somalia has one of the lowest maternal health indicators in the world. For instance, the maternal mortality ratio is 621 per 100,000 live births. Extra efforts are needed to improve maternal health. In this study, we aim to investigate the level of completion and coverage along the maternity continuum of care in Somalia.

Method

The study used data from the Somalia Health and Demographic Survey 2020. We restricted our analysis to ever-married women who had a live birth in the five years preceding the survey (n = 2432). Completion of the continuum of maternity care was the outcome variable for this study. It was constructed into a binary variable with complete coded as one and incomplete coded as 0. We categorized it into three models: ANC4+ as the first model, ANC4+ & SBA as the second model, and ANC4+ & SBA & PNC as the third model.

Results

More than half of the women (53.1%) had their most recent births at ≤19 years old. Of all the mothers (n = 2432), only 235 (9.7%) had at least four or more of the recommended antenatal care (ANC4+), and 68 (2.8%) of them utilized skilled birth attendants. Only 14 (0.6%) women received all three maternal healthcare services (ANC4+, SBA, and PNC within 48 hours). About 78.1% of the mothers did not attend any of the three CoC services.

Conclusion

Maternal health care utilization decreases as they progress from ANC4+ to PNC utilization. The government and partners should design and implement strategies to improve maternal healthcare utilization specific to rural and nomads, less educated, not working, low income, and have less power in decision-making.
Congenital Chagas disease: A cohort study to assess molecular diagnostic methods at the Chagas disease national reference center of Argentina
Authors: Lopez-Albizu Constanza , Cura Carolina Inés , Ramirez Juan Carlos , Peyran Pamela , Benchetrit Andrés , Danesi Emmaría , Sosa-Estani Sergio
Published: January 2025

Background

Trypanosoma cruzi is a protozoan parasite which causes Chagas disease. Mother-to-child transmission is the main route of transmission in vector-free areas. Congenital Chagas disease refers specifically to cases arising from this route of transmission. This work evaluates the clinical sensitivity of two qPCR techniques for diagnosis of congenital Chagas disease.

Methods

The study was developed in the National Institute of parasitology (NIP), Argentina, and Pan-American Health Organization/ Word Health Organization Collaborating Center for Chagas Disease. Between July 2014 and May 2018, a prospective cohort study was carried out with 499 children born to seropositive for T. cruzi infection included. The performance of qPCR techniques was compared with the gold standard diagnostic algorithm for Congenital Chagas disease (CCD-GS), which comprises performing more than one parasitological test on children from birth until nine months of age, and serology from ten months of age.

Findings

Of the 961 babies born to women seropositive for Chagas disease who were attended at the NIP laboratory, 462 did not meet the study inclusion criteria; 22 cases were diagnosed with congenital Chagas disease. qPCR showed 100% clinical sensitivity and 98 to 100% clinical specificity for the diagnosis of congenital Chagas disease compared with CCD-GS algorithm.

Interpretation

The results obtained in this study demonstrate the clinical accuracy and effectiveness of qPCR SatDNA and qPCR kDNA for diagnosis of congenital Chagas disease. It could be a powerful tool for chagas test and treat strategies to reduce late complications of the disease.

Funding

This work was financed by the INP Dr. Mario Fatala Chaben, ANLIS Dr. Carlos G. Malbran.
Insect-specific RNA viruses detection in Field-Caught Aedes aegypti mosquitoes from Argentina using NGS technology
Authors: Ripoll Lucas , Iserte Javier , Cerrudo Carolina Susana , Presti Damian , Serrat José Humberto , Poma Ramiro , Mangione Federico Alejandro Javier , Micheloud Gabriela Analía , Gioria Verónica Viviana , Berrón Clara Inés , Zago M. Paola , Borio Cristina , Bilen Marcos
Published: January 2025

Mosquitoes are the primary vectors of arthropod-borne pathogens. Aedes aegypti is one of the most widespread mosquito species worldwide, responsible for transmitting diseases such as Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya, among other medically significant viruses. Characterizing the array of viruses circulating in mosquitoes, particularly in Aedes aegypti, is a crucial tool for detecting and developing novel strategies to prevent arbovirus outbreaks. In this study, we address the implementation of a sequencing and analysis pipeline based on the Oxford Nanopore Technologies MinION Mk1b system, for arboviral detection in field-caught mosquitoes from Argentina. Full genome of Humaita Tubiacanga Virus (HTV), Phasi Charoen-like Phasivirus (PCLV), Aedes aegypti totivirus (AaeTV) has been sequenced in three distinct regions of Argentina comprising Buenos Aires province, Santa Fe province and the northern province of Salta. Viral sequences enriched by SISPA and coupled with Nanopore sequencing can be a useful tool for viral surveillance, not only for detecting viruses that have a high impact on human and animal health, but also for detecting insect-specific viruses that could promote the transmission of arboviruses.
Altering the intracellular trafficking of Necator americanus GST-1 antigen yields novel hookworm mRNA vaccine candidates
Authors: De Oliveira Athos Silva , Versteeg Leroy , Briggs Neima , Adhikari Rakesh , Villar Maria Jose , Redd JeAnna R. , Hotez Peter , Bottazzi Maria Elena , Pollet Jeroen
Published: January 2025

Background

The antigen Na-GST-1, expressed by the hookworm Necator americanus, plays crucial biochemical roles in parasite survival. This study explores the development of mRNA vaccine candidates based on Na-GST-1, building on the success of recombinant Na-GST-1 (rNa-GST-1) protein, currently assessed as a subunit vaccine candidate, which has shown promise in preclinical and clinical studies.

Methodology/findings

By leveraging the flexible design of RNA vaccines and protein intracellular trafficking signal sequences, we developed three variants of Na-GST-1 as native (cytosolic), secretory, and plasma membrane-anchored (PM) antigens. After one immunization in mice, mRNA vaccines induced an earlier onset of antigen-specific antibodies compared to rNa-GST-1. Following two immunizations, mRNA vaccines induced similar or superior levels of antigen-specific antibodies compared to rNa-GST-1. Secretory Na-GST-1 was comparable to rNa-GST1 in producing neutralizing antibodies against Na-GST-1’s thiol transferase activity, while native Na-GST-1 induced a more robust CD8+ T cell response due to its intracellular accumulation. Although PM Na-GST-1 elicited one of highest titers of antigen-specific antibody and a diverse set of memory T-cell populations, it resulted in a lower ratio of neutralizing antibodies after IgG purification compared to the other vaccine candidates.

Conclusions/significance

These findings emphasize the importance of antigen localization in tailoring immune responses and suggest that extracellular antigens are more effective for inducing humoral responses, whereas cytosolic antigen accumulation enhances MHC-1 peptide presentation. Future studies will determine if these in vitro and immunogenicity findings translate to in vivo efficacy. Altogether, mRNA vaccines offer numerous possibilities in the development of multivalent vaccines with single or multiple antigens.
Dengue severity by serotype and immune status in 19 years of pediatric clinical studies in Nicaragua
Authors: Narvaez Federico , Montenegro Carlos , Juarez Jose G. , Zambrana José Victor , Gonzalez Karla , Videa Elsa , Arguello Sonia , Barrios Fanny , Ojeda Sergio , Plazaola Miguel , Sanchez Nery , Camprubí-Ferrer Daniel , Kuan Guillermina , Paz Bailey Gabriela , Harris Eva , Balmaseda Angel
Published: January 2025

Background

Dengue virus, a major global health threat, consists of four serotypes (DENV1-4) that cause a range of clinical manifestations from mild to severe and potentially fatal disease.

Methods

This study, based on 19 years of data from the Pediatric Dengue Cohort Study and Pediatric Dengue Hospital-based Study in Managua, Nicaragua, investigates the relationship of serotype and immune status with dengue severity. Dengue cases were confirmed by molecular, serological, and/or virological methods, and study participants 6 months to 17 years old were followed during their hospital stay or as ambulatory patients.

Results

We enrolled a total of 15,833 participants, of whom 3,308 (21%) were positive for DENV infection. Of 2,644 cases with serotype result by RT-PCR, 559 corresponded to DENV1, 1,002 to DENV2, 760 to DENV3 and 323 to DENV4. Severe disease was more prevalent among secondary DENV2 and DENV4 cases, while similar disease severity was observed in both primary and secondary DENV1 and DENV3 cases. According to the 1997 World Health Organization (WHO) severity classification, both DENV2 and DENV3 caused a higher proportion of severe disease compared to other serotypes, whereas DENV3 caused the greatest percentage of severity according to the WHO-2009 classification. DENV2 was associated with increased odds of pleural effusion and low platelet count, while DENV3 was associated with both hypotensive and compensated shock.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate differences in dengue severity by serotype and immune status and emphasize the critical need for a dengue vaccine with balanced effectiveness against all four serotypes, particularly as existing vaccines show variable efficacy by serotype and serostatus.
Genome-wide association mapping of bruchid resistance loci in soybean
Authors: Mukuze Clever , Msiska Ulemu M. , Badji Afang , Obua Tonny , Kweyu Sharon V. , Nghituwamhata Selma N. , Rono Evalyne C. , Maphosa Mcebisi , Kasule Faizo , Tukamuhabwa Phinehas
Published: January 2025

Soybean is a globally important industrial, food, and cash crop. Despite its importance in present and future economies, its production is severely hampered by bruchids (Callosobruchus chinensis), a destructive storage insect pest, causing considerable yield losses. Therefore, the identification of genomic regions and candidate genes associated with bruchid resistance in soybean is crucial as it helps breeders to develop new soybean varieties with improved resistance and quality. In this study, 6 multi-locus methods of the mrMLM model for genome-wide association study were used to dissect the genetic architecture of bruchid resistance on 4traits: percentage adult bruchid emergence (PBE), percentage weight loss (PWL), median development period (MDP), and Dobie susceptibility index (DSI) on 100 diverse soybean genotypes, genotyped with 14,469 single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. Using the best linear unbiased predictors (BLUPs), 13 quantitative trait nucleotides (QTNs) were identified by the mrMLM model, of which rs16_14976250 was associated with more than 1 bruchid resistance traits. As a result, the identified QTNs linked with resistance traits can be employed in marker-assisted breeding for the accurate and rapid screening of soybean genotypes for resistance to bruchids. Moreover, a gene search on the Phytozome soybean reference genome identified 27 potential candidate genes located within a window of 478.45 kb upstream and downstream of the most reliable QTNs. These candidate genes exhibit molecular and biological functionalities associated with various soybean resistance mechanisms and, therefore, could be incorporated into the farmers’ preferred soybean varieties that are susceptible to bruchids.
Quantifying spectral information about source separation in multisource odour plumes
Authors: Tootoonian Sina , True Aaron C. , Stark Elle , Crimaldi John P. , Schaefer Andreas T.
Published: January 2025

Odours released by objects in natural environments can contain information about their spatial locations. In particular, the correlation of odour concentration timeseries produced by two spatially separated sources contains information about the distance between the sources. For example, mice are able to distinguish correlated and anti-correlated odour fluctuations at frequencies up to 40 Hz, while insect olfactory receptor neurons can resolve fluctuations exceeding 100 Hz. Can this high-frequency acuity support odour source localization? Here we answer this question by quantifying the spatial information about source separation contained in the spectral constituents of correlations. We used computational fluid dynamics simulations of multisource plumes in two-dimensional chaotic flow environments to generate temporally complex, covarying odour concentration fields. By relating the correlation of these fields to the spectral decompositions of the associated odour concentration timeseries, and making simplifying assumptions about the statistics of these decompositions, we derived analytic expressions for the Fisher information contained in the spectral components of the correlations about source separation. We computed the Fisher information for a broad range of frequencies and source separations for three different source arrangements and found that high frequencies were more informative than low frequencies when sources were close relative to the sizes of the large eddies in the flow. We observed a qualitatively similar effect in an independent set of simulations with different geometry, but not for surrogate data with a similar power spectrum to our simulations but in which all frequencies were a priori equally informative. Our work suggests that the high-frequency acuity of olfactory systems may support high-resolution spatial localization of odour sources. We also provide a model of the distribution of the spectral components of correlations that is accurate over a broad range of frequencies and source separations. More broadly, our work establishes an approach for the quantification of the spatial information in odour concentration timeseries.
Exploring associations between the FTO rs9939609 genotype and plasma concentrations of appetite-related hormones in adults with obesity
Authors: de Soysa Ann Kristin Hjelle , Langaas Mette , Grill Valdemar , Martins Catia , Løvold Mostad Ingrid
Published: January 2025

Associations between variants in the FTO locus and plasma concentrations of appetite related hormones are inconsistent, and might not work in a dose dependent fashion in people with obesity. Moreover, it is relevant to report meal related plasma concentrations of these hormones in persons with obesity given the growing interest in their pharmacological potential in obesity therapy. We find it clinically relevant to examine associations between the SNP rs9939609 genotypes and homeostatic appetite regulation in individuals with BMI ≥35 kg/m2. This study explored associations of the rs9939609 genotypes to plasma concentrations of acylated ghrelin, active glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), and total peptide YY (PYY), and moderating effects of fat mass (FM), in 96 adults (69% female) with BMI ≥35 kg/m2, using a cross sectional observation study designed to have 1/3 of participants each with genotypes TT, AT and AA, respectively. Participants were median (25th, 75th percentile) 42.5 (32, 50) years of age, weighed 120.9 (109.6, 142.4) kg, and had a BMI of 42.8 (39.5, 46.4) kg/m2. Acylated ghrelin, active GLP-1, and total PYY were measured in the fasted state and half-hourly for 2.5h after a standardized meal. We evaluated associations between genotype and appetite hormones in regression analysis controlling for FM and sex. Genotype did not associate with fasting or postprandial (area under curve, AUC) GLP-1 or PYY. Genotype did not associate with fasting acylated ghrelin, but in females with genotype AA, increased FM was associated with higher fasting and postprandial (AUC) acylated ghrelin concentrations relative to genotypes TT (fasting p = 0.025; AUC p = 0.004) and AT (fasting p = 0.002; AUC p < 0.001). This novel finding warrants further investigation.
Hydrological prediction in ungauged basins based on spatiotemporal characteristics
Authors: Zhao Qun , Zhu Yuelong , Shi Yanfeng , Li Rui , Zheng Xiangtian , Zhou Xudong
Published: January 2025

Hydrological prediction in ungauged basins often relies on the parameter transplant method, which incurs high labor costs due to its dependence on expert input. To address these issues, we propose a novel hydrological prediction model named STH-Trans, which leverages multiple spatiotemporal views to enhance its predictive capabilities. Firstly, we utilize existing geographic and topographic indicators to identify and select watersheds that exhibit similarities. Subsequently, we establish an initial regression model using the TrAdaBoost algorithm based on the hydrologic data from the selected watershed stations. Finally, we refine the initial model by incorporating multiple spatiotemporal views, employing semi-supervised learning to create the STH-Trans model. The results of our experiments underscore the efficiency of the STH-Trans model in predicting runoff for ungauged basins. This innovation leads to a substantial increase in model accuracy ranging from 7.9% to 30% compared to various conventional methods. The model not only offers data support for water resource management, flood mitigation, and disaster relief efforts, but also provides decision support for hydrologists.
Perceptual link between inadequate water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) stressors and common mental symptoms in Ethiopian health workers: A qualitative study
Authors: Habtu Yitagesu , Kumie Abera , Selamu Medhine , Harada Hidenori , Kaneko Morie , Kaba Mirgissa , Girma Eshetu
Published: January 2025

Background

Despite the rising prevalence of common mental symptoms, information is scarce on how health workers make sense of symptoms of mental disorders and perceive a link with inadequate water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) as work stressors to understand causation and produce useful knowledge for policy and professionals. Therefore, this study aimed to explore how health workers perceive the link between inadequate WASH and common mental symptoms (CMSs) at hospitals in central and southern Ethiopian regions.

Methods

We used an interpretive and descriptive phenomenological design guided by theoretical frameworks. Three focus group discussions (FGDs) and 10 in-depth interviews with health workers were conducted. We explored the perceived link with inadequate WASH after assessing health workers’ conceptualization of common mental health symptoms. The interviews and FGDs were audio recorded, transcribed, and translated into English. Coding and categorizing were supported by MaxQDA software 2020. Thematic analysis was performed and themes were supported by participants’ quotes when necessary.

Results

Four themes emerged from the data based on the guiding theoretical models relevant to the research questions. Most health workers believed and frequently suggested that inadequate water supply, functional hand hygiene, environmental cleaning, and waste management services at the points of care increased the risk of occupational stress, job anxiety, and occupational depression symptoms. Many participants believed that inadequate WASH would cause them to experience negative professional quality of life including burnout, compassion dissatisfaction, and compassion fatigue at work despite believing that WASH problems cannot be solved at the individual level. Participants recurrently listed many individual, organizational, and system-level barriers to reducing and coping with inadequate WASH as stressors.

Conclusions

Healthcare workers perceived inadequate WASH components as contributing to symptoms of common mental disorders and negatively impacting their professional quality of life. They faced multiple barriers at individual, organizational, and health system levels, which hindered their ability to manage work-related stress and seek mental health support. The findings suggest the implementation of integrated WASH and mental health services for healthcare workers, ranging from establishing individual-level interventions to increasing access to WASH around care areas through collaborative efforts with healthcare administration, broader health systems, water supplies, and sewerage services.
Enhancing air quality predictions in Chile: Integrating ARIMA and Artificial Neural Network models for Quintero and Coyhaique cities
Authors: Vallejo Fidel , Yánez Diana , Viñán-Guerrero Patricia , Díaz-Robles Luis A. , Oyaneder Marcelo , Reinoso Nicolás , Billartello Luna , Espinoza-Pérez Andrea , Espinoza-Pérez Lorena , Pino-Cortés Ernesto
Published: January 2025

In this comprehensive analysis of Chile’s air quality dynamics spanning 2016 to 2021, the utilization of data from the National Air Quality Information System (SINCA) and its network of monitoring stations was undertaken. Quintero, Puchuncaví, and Coyhaique were the focal points of this study, with the primary objective being the construction of predictive models for sulfur dioxide (SO2), fine particulate matter (PM2.5), and coarse particulate matter (PM10). A hybrid forecasting strategy was employed, integrating Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) models with Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), incorporating external covariates such as wind speed and direction to enhance prediction accuracy. Vital monitoring stations, including Quintero, Ventanas, Coyhaique I, and Coyhaique II, played a pivotal role in data collection and model development. Emphasis on industrial and residential zones highlighted the significance of discerning pollutant origins and the influence of wind direction on concentration measurements. Geographical and climatic factors, notably in Coyhaique, revealed a seasonal stagnation effect due to topography and low winter temperatures, contributing to heightened pollution levels. Model performance underwent meticulous evaluation, utilizing metrics such as the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), Ljung-Box statistical tests, and diverse statistical indicators. The hybrid ARIMA-ANN models demonstrated strong predictive capabilities, boasting an R2 exceeding 0.90. The outcomes underscored the imperative for tailored strategies in air quality management, recognizing the intricate interplay of environmental factors. Additionally, the adaptability and precision of neural network models were highlighted, showcasing the potential of advanced technologies in refining air quality forecasts. The findings reveal that geographical and climatic factors, especially in Coyhaique, contribute to elevated pollution levels due to seasonal stagnation and low winter temperatures. These results underscore the need for tailored air quality management strategies and highlight the potential of advanced modeling techniques to improve future air quality forecasts and deepen the understanding of environmental challenges in Chile.
Investigations on segmentation-based fractal texture for texture classification in the presence of Gaussian noise
Authors: Tiwari Shamik , Sharma Akhilesh Kumar , Abdul Aziz Izzatdin , Gupta Deepak , Jain Antima , Mahdin Hairulnizam , Athithan Senthil , Hidayat Rahmat
Published: January 2025

Texture is a significant component used for several applications in content-based image retrieval. Any texture classification method aims to map an anonymously textured input image to one of the existing texture classes. Extensive ranges of methods for labeling image texture were proposed earlier. However, computing the performance of these methods in the presence of various degradations is always an open area of discussion. Image noise is always a dominant factor among various image degradation factors, affecting the performance of these methods and making texture classification challenging. Therefore, it is essential to investigate the interpretation of these methods in the presence of prominent degradation factors such as noise. Applications for Segmentation-Based Fractal Texture Features (SFTF) include image classification, texture generation, and medical image analysis. They are beneficial for examining textures with intricate, erratic patterns that are difficult to characterize using conventional statistical techniques accurately. This paper assesses two texture feature extraction methods based on SFTF and statistical moment-based texture features in the presence and absence of Gaussian noise. The SFTF and statistical moments-based handcrafted features are passed to a multilayer feed-forward neural network for classification. These models are evaluated on natural textures from Kylberg Texture Dataset 1.0. The results show the superiority of segmentation-based fractal analysis over other approaches. The average accuracy rates using the SFTF are 99% and 97% in the absence and presence of Gaussian noise, respectively.
First report of a major management target species, chironomid Paratanytarsus grimmii (Diptera: Chironomidae) larvae, in drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs) in South Korea
Authors: Park Jae-Won , Park Kiyun , Kwak Ihn-Sil
Published: January 2025

Ensuring the supply of safe and high-quality drinking water can be compromised by the presence of chironomid larvae in drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs), which may contaminate municipal water systems through freshwater resources. Chironomids are dominant species known for their resilience to a broad range of extreme aquatic environments. This study aimed to identify the morphological characteristics and obtain genetic information of the chironomid Paratanytarsus grimmii found in the water intake source and freshwater resource of DWTPs in Korea, highlighting the potential possibility of a parthenogenetic chironomid outbreak within DWTP networks. The distribution of chironomid larvae at the water intake source site (DY) of the Danyang DWTP and the freshwater resource (ND) of the Nakdong River was investigated. A total of 180 chironomid individuals, encompassing three subfamilies and six species from six 6 genera were identified at the DY site, with Procladius nigriventris being the dominant species. At the ND site, fifty chironomid individuals, encompassing two subfamilies and six species from six genera, were identified, with Cricotopus sylvestris being the dominant species. The morphological characteristics of the head capsule, mentum, mandible, and antennae of six P. grimmii larvae collected from the DY and ND sites were characterized. DNA barcoding and phylogenetic analysis revealed distinct mitochondrial diversities between the P. grimmii larvae from DY and those from ND. These results provide crucial information for the morphological identification and DNA barcoding of the key management target chironomid P. grimmii larvae, which can be used to detect the occurrence of this chironomid species in DWTPs.
Ultrasound pupillometry for the detection of a relative afferent pupillary defect (RAPD): Systematic evaluation in patients with optic neuritis and comparison with infrared video pupillometry
Authors: Siebald Franziska , Grittner Ulrike , Otto Carolin , Bereuter Charlotte , Zimmermann Hanna G. , Harms Lutz , Klonner Jan , Schreiber Stephan J. , Paul Friedemann , Ruprecht Klemens , Schmidt Felix A.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

A relative afferent pupillary defect (RAPD) is a characteristic clinical sign of optic neuritis (ON). Here, we systematically evaluated ultrasound pupillometry (UP) for the detection of an RAPD in patients with ON, including a comparison with infrared video pupillometry (IVP), the gold standard for objective pupillometry.

Materials and methods

We enrolled 40 patients with acute (n = 9) or past (n = 31) ON (ON+), 31 patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) without prior ON, and 50 healthy controls (HC) in a cross-sectional observational study. Examinations comprised the swinging flashlight test, B-mode UP, IVP, autorefraction to assess the best-corrected visual acuity, optical coherence tomography to determine peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness, and the 51-item National Eye Institute-Visual Function Questionnaire to determine the vision-related quality of life.

Results

While UP and IVP measurements of pupil diameter (PD) at rest correlated in ON+ eyes (n = 52, r = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.35; 0.72) and in HC eyes (n = 100, r = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.47; 0.72), PD at rest was smaller in UP than in IVP measurements (difference, mean (SD) ON+ eyes: 0.44 (0.87) mm, HC eyes: 0.69 (0.80) mm). RAPD assessment by UP sharply discriminated acute ON eyes (n = 9) and HC eyes (n = 100, AUC = 1, 95%CI: 1; 1). UP detected an RAPD in 5/31 (16%) patients with MS without prior ON who had not exhibited an RAPD during the swinging flashlight test. In ON+ eyes (n = 52), UP showed stronger correlations with visual acuity (r = 0.66, 95% CI: 0.50; 0.78) and vision-related quality of life (r = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.24; 0.66) than IVP (r = 0.52, 95% CI: 0.36; 0.67 and r = 0.27, 95% CI: 0.03; 0.51).

Conclusions

B-mode UP allows for objective detection and quantification of an RAPD with performance characteristics similar to IVP. RAPD assessment by UP may detect subclinical optic nerve damage in patients with MS. We propose a standardized protocol for RAPD detection by UP that can be used in routine clinical evaluation of patients with ON or other optic neuropathies.
Cerebral blood flow and histological analysis for the accurate differentiation of infiltrating tumor and vasogenic edema in glioblastoma
Authors: Kuroda Hideki , Okita Yoshiko , Arisawa Atsuko , Utsugi Reina , Murakami Koki , Hirayama Ryuichi , Kijima Noriyuki , Arita Hideyuki , Kinoshita Manabu , Fujimoto Yasunori , Nakamura Hajime , Kagawa Naoki , Tomiyama Noriyuki , Kishima Haruhiko
Published: January 2025

Background

Glioblastoma is characterized by neovascularization and diffuse infiltration into the adjacent tissue. T2*-based dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC) MR perfusion images provide useful measurements of the biomarkers associated with tumor perfusion. This study aimed to distinguish infiltrating tumors from vasogenic edema in glioblastomas using DSC-MR perfusion images.

Methods

Data were retrospectively collected from 48 patients with primary IDH-wild-type glioblastoma and 24 patients with meningiomas (Edemas-M). First, we attempted histological verification of cell density, Ki-67 index, and microvessel areas to distinguish between non-contrast-enhancing tumors (NETs) and edema (Edemas) which were obtained from stereotactically fused T2-weighted and perfusion images. This was performed for evaluating enhancing tumors (ETs), NETs, and Edemas. Second, we also performed radiological verification to distinguish NETs from Edemas. Two neurosurgeons manually assigned the regions of interests (ROIs) to ETs, NETs, and Edemas. The DSC-MR perfusion imaging-derived parameters calculated for each ROI included the cerebral blood volume (CBV), cerebral blood flow (CBF), and mean transit time (MTT).

Results

Cell density and microvessel area were significantly higher in NETs than those in Edemas (p<0.01 and p<0.05, respectively). Regarding radiological analysis, the mean CBF ratio for Edemas was significantly lower than that for NETs (p<0.01). The mean MTT ratio for Edemas was significantly higher than that for NETs. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis showed that CBF (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.890) could effectively distinguish between NETs and Edemas. The ROC analysis also showed that MTT (AUC = 0.946) could effectively distinguish between NETs and Edemas.

Conclusions

DSC-MR perfusion images may prove useful in differentiating NETs from Edemas in non-contrast T2 hyperintensity regions of glioblastoma.
Effectiveness of oral health promotion in children and adolescents through behaviour change interventions: A scoping review
Authors: Peerbhay Fathima , Mash Robert , Khan Saadika
Published: January 2025

Objective

To explore the interventions for change in oral health behaviour that are effective in improving oral health behaviours in 8 to 18-year-old children during oral health promotion.

Methods

The Joanna Briggs Institute framework of evidence synthesis for conducting a scoping review was implemented for the methodology. Included studies related to the objective, measured clinical or non-clinical outcomes, were in English, 2011–2023, and were experimental, observational or reviews. PUBMED, Science-Direct, Scopus and Sabinet were systematically searched with predetermined search strings. Studies were selected by appraisal of the title, abstract and full text. Data were extracted using a standardised template and the key questions were addressed via a qualitative analysis.

Results

Searches yielded 407 articles from electronic databases. Of these, 290 articles were excluded, and 47 full-text studies were assessed for eligibility, with 23 studies and two systematic reviews finalised for inclusion. In addition, a PEARL search was conducted from the reference lists of other studies. Most studies (91.3%) focused on educating children directly; 8.7% indirectly influenced parents, guardians, and teachers. Interventions focused largely on traditional oral health education presented in diverse forms and via different platforms. Studies differentiated clinical outcomes (indices) from non-clinical outcomes (knowledge, behaviour). All included RCTs were of different quality regarding selection, performance and detection bias. But all studies indicated a low risk of bias in attrition and Reporting bias. Seventeen of the 25 studies (68%) were not based on any behaviour change theory.

Conclusions

Oral health interventions based on motivational interviewing and the social cognitive theory have been shown to be to be effective. Interventions could also include practical tooth brushing activities, gamification, audio-visual components, as well as reinforcement and repetition in the longer term. Future oral health promotion in children should be designed to include these elements. There is a need for higher quality studies in this field, with future research being urged to provide detailed intervention descriptions and incorporate longer follow-up periods.
How are brands associated by users in short videos—A study on the mechanism of user associations with brand placements in short videos based on signal theory
Authors: Yang Zhang , Dongqi Sun
Published: January 2025

The emergence of short video platforms has opened new avenues and opportunities for brand marketing. This paper investigates the mechanisms of brand dissemination in short videos, examining strategies for fostering brand associations to fulfill communication objectives. Drawing on signal theory, the study identifies the perceived value of short videos as the source of signals, with brand value and transparency serving as mediating factors, and brand association as the outcome. The research employs hypothesis testing and model building, supplemented by analysis of 560 valid questionnaires from research platforms, to scrutinize these mechanisms. Findings suggest that brand transparency and value effectively mediate the relationship between the perceived value and brand association, with brand transparency also mediating between perceived personality, utility, and brand association. Finally, this paper outlines management implications and acknowledges limitations based on the results.
Effects of recombinant human growth hormone in severe neurosurgical patients: A single center, retrospective study
Authors: Liao Xixian , Huang Haorun , Qiu Binghui , Chen Jiaping , Zhang An , Liang Haoxin , Huang Chuanping , Mei Fen , Mao Jian , Liu Fan , Jin Ming , Peng Xiaojie , Ma Haidie , Ding Wenjie , Qi Songtao , Bao Yun
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To explore the effects of recombinant human growth hormone (r-hGH) on inflammatory mediators, immune cells and prognosis in severe neurosurgical patients.

Methods

From August 2020 to June 2021, a total of 236 patients who admitted to the neurosurgical intensive care unit (NSICU) were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into GH group (97 cases) and nGH group (139 cases) according to whether they received r-hGH treatment. Parameters including CD4+ T cell counts, inflammatory mediators and prognosis were recorded and assessed.

Results

The results showed that the cure time of pneumonia and intracranial infection in GH group patients was significantly shorter than in the nGH group (24.25 ± 4.89 days and 21.33 ± 1.53 days versus 29.13 ± 7.43 days and 25.17 ± 2.32 days, respectively). However, there was no significant difference in GOS scores between two groups (31.96% ≤ 3 and 68.04% > 3 vs 39.57% ≤ 3 and 60.43% > 3) (P = 0.232). Furthermore, the number of CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells in the GH group showed a significant upward trend. Last but not least, significant differences were also observed in IL-6 and IL-10 levels between two groups at days 1, 3, and 7.

Conclusion

The application of r-hGH in severe neurosurgical patients was effective in increasing the number of CD4+ T cells, down-regulating inflammatory mediators, shortening the cure time of pneumonia, intracranial infections and urinary tract infections, and improving patients’ prognosis.
Shifting temporal trends and disparities in sarcoidosis mortality in the United States: A retrospective analysis from 1999 to 2020
Authors: Raza Fatima Ali , Kumar Sumeet , Mohammad Ayesha , Amin Areej , Ahmad Farooq , Tousif Sohaib , Kamran Urwah , Sahab Lamea Bint , Ali Sajjad , Changez Mah I. Kan , Goyal Aman
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease characterized by granulomas, the etiology of which remains unclear. This study examines sarcoidosis-related mortality trends in the United States from 1999 to 2020, with a focus on disparities pertaining to patient sex, geographical location, and urbanization status.

Methods

We analyzed death certificate data from the CDC WONDER database, using ICD-10 code D86. Age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMR) per 1,000,000 people were calculated. Trends were analyzed using Joinpoint regression models to determine annual percentage changes (APC).

Results

A total of 37,956 Sarcoidosis-related deaths were documented from 1999 to 2020 in the United States. The AAMR increased from 3.9 in 1999 to 6.4 in 2020. Significant mortality increases were observed from 1999–2001 and again from 2018–2020. Mortality rates were consistently higher among women compared to men. A significant difference in AAMR was observed across states, with highest mortality in the South region and lowest in the West region. Urbanization trends shifted from higher AAMR rates in metropolitan to non-metropolitan areas post-2018. Non-Hispanic Black individuals experienced the highest mortality rates throughout the study period.

Conclusions

This study highlights significant racial and geographic disparities in sarcoidosis-related mortality. Women, Black patients, and those residing in non-metropolitan areas are at the highest risk for Sarcoidosis associated mortality. Targeted public health interventions are required to address these prevalent disparities.
El potencial del binomio de las industrias creativas y el turismo: un estudio exploratorio de la puesta en valor turística de las industrias del diseño, la música y el cine en las Ciudades Creativas de la UNESCO
Authors: Salvador-Almela Marta , Arcos-Pumarola Jordi , Osácar Marzal Eugeni
Published: January 2025

La ampliación del relato turístico de los destinos a partir del binomio turismo e industrias creativas se alinea con los objetivos de sostenibilidad y competitividad, ya que permite desarrollar estrategias de reposicionamiento y redistribución turística. Sin embargo, conlleva una serie de retos dada la dificultad de poner en valor una actividad creativa-cultural con sus propias dinámicas. El artículo presenta un estudio exploratorio con el objetivo de identificar iniciativas que potencien el vínculo entre turismo e industrias creativas. A este fin, se toma como marco de estudio la red de ciudades creativas de la UNESCO, focalizando en el diseño, la música y el cine. Se realiza un análisis de contenido de las memorias presentadas por las ciudades creativas para identificar y categorizar las acciones realizadas relacionadas con el sector turístico. Así, se pretende destacar buenas prácticas para redefinir la actividad turística en territorios urbanos y ampliar la noción de turismo cultural.