bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of recurrent aphthous stomatitis, oral submucosal fibrosis and oral leukoplakia in doctor/nurse and police officer population
Authors: Liu Yundong , He Mi , Yin Tao , Zheng Ziran , Fang Changyun , Peng Shifang
Published: August 2022

Background

The doctor/nurse and police officer population have some common typical characteristics of great professional pressure and night shift and past studies indicated oral mucosa lesions were closely associated with psychological factors and health-risking behaviors, however the prevalence of recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) and the two commonly seen oral potentially malignant disorders of oral submucosal fibrosis (OSF) and oral leukoplakia in doctor/nurse and police officer in the Betel quid chewing city of Mainland China is unknown The cross-sectional study was to determine the prevalence differences of RAS, oral leukoplakia and OSF among doctor/nurse, police officer and non-doctor/nurse and non-police officer population aged 20–59 years.

Methods

RAS, OSF and oral leukoplakia were examined in doctor/nurse group (male: 659, female: 2439), police officer group (male: 839, female: 262) and non-doctor/nurse and non-police officer group (male: 7576, female: 8129) from 2020-11-01 to 2021-08-31 in Health Management Center, Xiangya Hospital in Changsha city, Hunan province.

Results

The prevalence rates of RAS, OSF, oral leukoplakia and oral leukoplakia combined with OSF in male and female non-doctor/nurse and non-police officer group are 8.32‰ and 10.83‰, 58.08‰ and 1.23‰, 11.75‰ and 0.25‰, 7.66‰ and 0.12‰ respectively. Compared with the non-doctor/nurse and non-police officer population, prevalence rates of RAS in male (24.27‰) and female (20.50‰) doctor/nurse population were significantly higher. Prevalence rates of OSF (21.24‰) and oral leukoplakia (3.03‰) in male doctor/nurse population were significantly less but prevalence rates of OSF (93.71‰), oral leukoplakia (20.17‰) and oral leukoplakia combined with OSF (15.42‰) for male police officer were significantly greater in comparison with male non-doctor/nurse and non-police officer group. OSF and oral leukoplakia prevalence rates were obvious lower for the female than the counterpart male group, but there were no significant differences of OSF and oral leukoplakia prevalence rates between the female non-doctor/nurse and non-police officer and female doctor/nurse group. Oral leukoplakia was not found in the female police officers.

Conclusions

Doctor/nurse population have higher prevalence of RAS. Male doctors/nurses have lower prevalence of OSF and oral leukoplakia, while male police officers have higher prevalence of OSF, oral leukoplakia and oral leukoplakia combined with OSF.
A qualitative process evaluation of a community conversation intervention to reduce stigma related to lower limb lymphoedema in Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Tora Abebayehu , Kinfe Mersha , Ali Oumer , Mengiste Asrat , Ahimed Abdulkadir , Fekadu Abebaw , Davey Gail , Semrau Maya
Published: August 2022

Background

Lower limb lymphoedema (swelling of the lower leg) due to Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) such as podoconiosis, lymphatic filariasis and leprosy is common in Ethiopia, imposing huge burdens on affected individuals and communities. Stigma significantly increases the disease burden and acts as a major barrier to accessing lymphoedema care services. A multi-component stigma reduction intervention was implemented in Northern Ethiopia. Community Conversation (CC) was one of the components implemented, and aimed to reduce stigma and enhance access to and uptake of integrated lymphoedema care services with the active engagement of community members.

Methods

A cross-sectional qualitative process evaluation was conducted to document lessons focusing on CC’s relevance, outcomes and implementation challenges. Data were collected from a total of 55 purposively selected participants (26 from the CC intervention site and 29 from the control site) through key informant interviews, in-depth individual interviews and focus group discussions.

Results

Community Conversations increased acceptability of health messages about lymphoedema and created peer learning opportunities for unaffected community members. Improvement in the awareness of CC participants about the causes, prevention and treatment of lymphoedema contributed significantly to the reduction of stigmatizing attitudes and discriminatory behaviors, thereby improving access to and utilization of lymphoedema care services provided through primary health care facilities. However, a range of challenges affecting implementation of CC and outcome quality were identified, including perceived complexity of the facilitation guide among facilitators, expectation of incentives among CC participants, inadequate implementation of facilitation principles and procedures, inadequacy of supportive supervision, and low engagement of untrained health workers in CC.

Conclusions

With these challenges addressed, the implementation of CC integrated with other lymphoedema care services shows potential to reduce stigma and promote access to lymphoedema care services.
Translation of the 27-gene immuno-oncology test (IO score) to predict outcomes in immune checkpoint inhibitor treated metastatic urothelial cancer patients
Authors: Seitz Robert S. , Hurwitz Michael E. , Nielsen Tyler J. , Bailey Daniel B. , Varga Matthew G. , Ring Brian Z. , Metts Carrie F. , Schweitzer Brock L. , McGregor Kimberly , Ross Douglas T.
Published: August 2022

Background

The IO Score is a 27-gene immuno-oncology (IO) classifier that has previously predicted benefit to immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It generates both a continuous score and a binary result using a defined threshold that is conserved between breast and lung. Herein, we aimed to evaluate the IO Score’s binary threshold in ICI-naïve TCGA bladder cancer patients (TCGA-BLCA) and assess its clinical utility in metastatic urothelial cancer (mUC) using the IMvigor210 clinical trial treated with the ICI, atezolizumab.

Methods

We identified a list of tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) related genes expressed across the TCGA breast, lung squamous and lung adenocarcinoma cohorts (TCGA-BRCA, TCGA-LUSQ, and TCGA-LUAD, 939 genes total) and then examined the expression of these 939 genes in TCGA-BLCA, to identify patients as having high inflammatory gene expression. Using this as a test of classification, we assessed the previously established threshold of IO Score. We then evaluated the IO Score with this threshold in the IMvigor210 cohort for its association with overall survival (OS).

Results

In TCGA-BLCA, IO Score positive patients had a strong concordance with high inflammatory gene expression (p < 0.0001). Given this concordance, we applied the IO Score to the ICI treated IMvigor210 patients. IO Score positive patients (40%) had a significant Cox proportional hazard ratio (HR) of 0.59 (95% CI 0.45–0.78 p < 0.001) for OS and improved median OS (15.6 versus 7.5 months) compared to IO Score negative patients. The IO Score remained significant in bivariate models combined with all other clinical factors and biomarkers, including PD-L1 protein expression and tumor mutational burden.

Conclusion

The IMvigor210 results demonstrate the potential for the IO Score as a clinically useful biomarker in mUC. As this is the third tumor type assessed using the same algorithm and threshold, the IO Score may be a promising candidate as a tissue agnostic marker of ICI clinical benefit. The concordance between IO Score and inflammatory gene expression suggests that the classifier is capturing common features of the TIME across cancer types.
Operational challenges in the pre-intervention phase of a mental health trial in rural India: reflections from SMART Mental Health
Authors: Mukherjee Ankita , Daniel Mercian , Kaur Amanpreet , Devarapalli Siddhardha , Kallakuri Sudha , Essue Beverley , Raman Usha , Thornicroft Graham , Saxena Shekhar , Peiris David , Maulik Pallab K.
Published: August 2022

Background

Availability of mental health services in low- and middle-income countries is largely concentrated in tertiary care with limited resources and scarcity of trained professionals at the primary care level. SMART Mental Health is a strategy that combines a community anti-stigma campaign with a primary health care workforce strengthening initiative, using electronic decision support with the goal of better identifying and supporting people with common mental disorders in India.

Methods

We describe the challenges faced and lessons learnt during the pre-intervention phase of SMART Mental Health cluster Randomised Controlled Trial. Pre-intervention phase includes preliminary activities for setting-up the trial and research activities prior to delivery of the intervention. Field notes from project site visit, project team meetings and detailed follow-up discussions with members of the project team were used to document operational challenges and strategies adopted to overcome them. The socio-ecological model was used as the analytical framework to organise the findings.

Results

Key challenges included delays in government approvals, addressing community health worker needs, and building trust in the community. These were addressed through continuous communication, leveraging support of relevant stakeholders, and addressing concerns of community health workers and community. Issues related to use of digital platform for data collection were addressed by a dedicated technical support team. The COVID-19 pandemic and political unrest led to significant and unexpected challenges requiring important adaptations to successfully implement the project.

Conclusion

Setting up of this trial has posed challenges at a combination of community, health system and broader socio-political levels. Successful mitigating strategies to overcome these challenges must be innovative, timely and flexibly delivered according to local context. Systematic ongoing documentation of field-level challenges and subsequent adaptations can help optimise implementation processes and support high quality trials.

Trial registration: The trial is registered with Clinical Trials Registry India (CTRI/2018/08/015355). Registered on 16th August 2018. http://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials/showallp.php?mid1=23254&EncHid=&userName=CTRI/2018/08/015355
Fine-scale-mapping of Schistosoma haematobium infections at the school and community levels and intermediate host snail abundance in the north of Pemba Island: baseline cross-sectional survey findings before the onset of a 3-year intervention study
Authors: Trippler Lydia , Ali Said Mohammed , Ame Shaali Makame , Hattendorf Jan , Suleiman Khamis Rashid , Ali Mohammed Nassor , Juma Saleh , Kabole Fatma , Knopp Stefanie
Published: August 2022

Background

Schistosomiasis elimination has gained renewed priority in the WHO guidance documents published in 2020 and 2022. The SchistoBreak project, implemented in Pemba, Tanzania between 2020 and 2024, aims to assess new tools and strategies for shifting from elimination as a public health problem towards interruption of transmission. Here we report our baseline findings and discuss implications for future interventions.

Methods

In 2020, human water contact sites (HWCSs) in the study area were geolocated and snail surveys were conducted. A parasitological and questionnaire cross-sectional baseline survey was implemented in 20 communities and their 16 primary schools between November 2020 and February 2021. Urine samples were collected at the school and household levels from individuals aged ≥ 4 years. Schistosoma haematobium infection was detected by urine filtration microscopy. Snail, parasitological and questionnaire-derived data were analyzed descriptively, spatially and with generalized estimated equation models.

Results

The intermediate host snail Bulinus globosus was detected in 19.8% (33/167) of HWCSs. The overall S. haematobium prevalence was 1.2% (26/2196) in school-aged children and 0.8% (31/3893) in community members, with 0.2% (4/2196) and 0.1% (3/3893) heavy-intensity infections, respectively. Children who studied < 1 km away from HWCSs with B. globosus had significantly higher odds for a S. haematobium infection than those attending a school located > 2 km away (odds ratio [OR]: 5.0; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.3–11.1). Individuals living in a house located < 1 km away from HWCSs with B. globosus had higher odds than those residing in > 2 km distance (OR: 18.0; 95% CI: 2.9–111.0). Self-reported praziquantel treatment coverage was 83.2% (2015/2423) in schoolchildren in the mass drug administration (MDA) conducted in August 2020. Coverage among adult community members was 59.9% (574/958), but only 34.8% (333/958) took praziquantel correctly.

Conclusions

While the S. haematobium prevalence is very low in Pemba, there are many HWCSs with B. globosus situated close to schools or houses that pose a considerable risk of recrudescence. To maintain and accelerate the progress towards interruption of transmission, targeted and cost-effective interventions that are accepted by the community are needed; for example, snail control plus focal MDA, or test-and-treat in schools and households near infested waterbodies.

Graphical Abstract
Evidences towards deciphering the mode of action of dimethylpyrazole-based nitrification inhibitors in soil and pure cultures of Nitrosomonas europaea
Authors: Bozal-Leorri Adrián , Corrochano-Monsalve Mario , Vega-Mas Izargi , Aparicio-Tejo Pedro M. , González-Murua Carmen , Marino Daniel
Published: August 2022

Background

Agriculture relies on the intensive use of synthetic nitrogen (N) fertilizers to maximize crop yields, which has led to the transformation of agricultural soils into high-nitrifying environments. Nevertheless, nitrification inhibitors (NIs) have been developed to suppress soil-nitrifier activity and decrease N losses. The NIs 3,4-dimethylpyrazole phosphate (DMPP) and 2-(3,4-dimethyl-1H-pyrazol-1-yl) succinic acid isomeric mixture (DMPSA) are able to reduce N2O emissions and maintain soil NH4+ for a longer time. Although both NIs have been proven to be effective to inhibit soil nitrification, their exact mode of action has not been confirmed. We aimed to provide novel insights to further understand the mode of action of DMP-based NIs. We evaluated the performance of DMPP and DMPSA in soil and pure cultures of nitrifying bacteria Nitrosomonas europaea.

Results

DMPSA did not inhibit nitrification in pure cultures of N. europaea. In the soil, we evidenced that DMPSA needs to be broken into DMP to achieve the inhibition of nitrification, which is mediated by a soil biological process that remains to be identified. Moreover, both DMPP and DMPSA are thought to inhibit nitrification due to their ability to chelate the Cu2+ cations that the ammonia monooxygenase enzyme (AMO) needs to carry on the first step of NH4+ oxidation. However, the efficiency of DMPP was not altered regardless the Cu2+ concentration in the medium. In addition, we also showed that DMPP targets AMO but not hydroxylamine oxidoreductase enzyme (HAO).

Conclusions

The inability of DMPSA to inhibit nitrification in pure cultures together with the high efficiency of DMPP to inhibit nitrification even in presence of toxic Cu2+ concentration in the medium, suggest that the mode of action of DMP-based NIs does not rely on their capacity as metal chelators.

Graphical Abstract
Identification of acidic degradation products of chemical warfare agents by methylation with trimethylsilyldiazomethane and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry
Authors: Kuitunen Marja-Leena , Dutoit Jean-Claude , Siegenthaler Peter , Rapinoja Marja-Leena , Vanninen Paula Sinikka
Published: August 2022

Sensitive and reliable analysis of alkylphosphonic acids (APAs) and 2-(N,N-dialkylamino)ethanesulfonic acids (SAs), the degradation products of chemical warfare agents (CWAs), is one of the most important tasks for verification of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). Unambiguous identification of these chemicals is required in a variety of environmental matrices, including soil and water. These acids with low volatility are very polar, and efficient and reliable methylation methods for their derivatization are needed for analysis with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). In this study, the derivatization conditions for trimethylsilyldiazomethane (TMSDAM) methylation were optimized for rapid GC–MS screening. Optimized methylation of APAs and SAs with TMSDAM was compared with methylation with diazomethane. The TMSDAM methylation of SAs and benzilic acid was further compared with silylation with N-methyl-N-(tert-butyldimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide. The significance and necessity of cation exchange prior to derivatization and analysis were tested on samples with a high inorganic background. A recommendation to use the method for methylation of water samples and aqueous extracts using TMSDAM is given. The robustness of the method was illustrated by the successful identification of APAs and SAs in aqueous samples from proficiency tests organized by the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons.
Control capacity and bimodality in target control
Authors: Wang Wenchu , Cai Defu , Liu Xueming
Published: August 2022

Controlling large networks is a fundamental problem and a great challenge in network science. Typically, full control is not necessary and infeasible. In many cases, only a preselected subset of nodes is required to be controlled, which is the target control problem. Each node does not participate in controlling the target set with equal probability, prompting us to quantify their contributions for target control. Here we develop a random sampling method to estimate the likelihood of each node participating as a driver node in target control configurations and demonstrate the unbiasedness of sampling. Each node is assigned with a role of critical, intermittent or redundant as it appears in all, some and none of the minimum driver node sets accordingly. We apply the method to Erdős-Rényi (ER) and scale-free (SF) networks and find that the fractions of critical and intermittent nodes increase as the scale of the target set increases. Furthermore, when the size of target node is fixed in SF networks, the fraction of redundant nodes may show a bimodal behavior as the networks become denser, leading to two control modes: centralized control and distributed control. The findings help understand the dynamics of control and offer tools for target control in complex systems.
Volume-Based Radiofrequency Thermocoagulation for Pediatric Insulo-Opercular Epilepsy: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Takayama Yutaro , Kimura Yuiko , Iijima Keiya , Yokosako Suguru , Kosugi Kenzo , Yamamoto Kaoru , Shimizu-Motohashi Yuko , Kaneko Yuu , Yamamoto Tetsuya , Iwasaki Masaki
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND:

Stereotactic ablation surgeries including radiofrequency thermocoagulation (RFTC) and laser interstitial thermal therapy are recent less invasive treatment methods for insular epilepsy. Volume-based RFTC after stereoelectroencephalography was first proposed by a French group as a more effective method for seizure relief in insular epilepsy patients than stereoelectroencephalography-guided RFTC.

OBJECTIVE:

To describe the feasibility and technical details about volume-based RFTC in patients with insulo-opercular epilepsy.

METHODS:

We successfully treated 3- and 6-year-old patients with medically refractory insulo-opercular epilepsy with volume-based RFTC, in which the target volume of coagulation was flexibly designed by combining multiple spherical models of 5-mm diameter which is smaller than reported previously.

RESULTS:

The insula was targeted by oblique trajectory from the frontoparietal area in one case, and the opercular cortex was targeted by perpendicular trajectories from the perisylvian cortex in the other case. The use of the small sphere model required more trajectories and manipulations but enabled more exhaustive coagulation of the epileptogenic zone, with 70% to 78% of the planned target volume coagulated without complications, and daily seizures disappeared after RFTC in both patients.

CONCLUSION:

Volume-based RFTC planned with small multiple sphere models may improve the completeness of lesioning for patients with insulo-opercular epilepsy. Careful planning is necessary to reduce the risks of vascular injuries.
Stand-Alone Large Bore Aspiration Catheter (0.072 Inch) for Both Guide Support and Clot Aspiration in Transradial Posterior Circulation Stroke Thrombectomy: Technical Series
Authors: Sattur Mithun G. , Nelson Ashley M. , Al Kasab Sami , Spiotta Alejandro M.
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND:

The large size of guide catheters in the traditional triaxial configuration can prove limiting during transradial vertebrobasilar thrombectomy. This is especially important for the direct aspiration technique because of the large aspiration catheters that can reach an inner diameter of 0.072 in. A strategy that strikes a balance between stable proximal vessel support and distal navigation for aspiration is conceptually attractive.

OBJECTIVE:

To describe a series of transradial posterior circulation thrombectomy procedures in which the aspiration catheter served a dual role of guide support and clot aspiration in a coaxial configuration, thus obviating a larger guide catheter.

METHODS:

Patients selected in the series underwent radial artery access and direct over-the-wire navigation of the aspiration catheter into the vertebral artery. With coaxial microcatheter navigation, the aspiration catheter reached distal enough to ingest the clot successfully. Along with clinical and angiographic data, imaging features such as angle of vertebral artery origin were calculated.

RESULTS:

Five patients underwent a stand-alone aspiration catheter technique for basilar artery occlusion through transradial access. All procedures resulted in thrombolysis in cerebral infarction 3 recanalization. The mean time to basilar artery recanalization was 10 minutes. No access site complications or vertebral artery dissection were noted. The mean subclavian artery-vertebral origin angle was 84.06° (range 78.2-90.2°).

CONCLUSION:

For patients selected properly based on vascular anatomy and a careful technique, a large bore aspiration catheter can fulfil a stand-alone dual-role, thus obviating the need for a guide catheter. This can potentially improve the technical feasibility and success of transradial vertebrobasilar thrombectomy.
Lamellipodia-like actin networks in cells lacking WAVE regulatory complex
Authors: Kage Frieda , Döring Hermann , Mietkowska Magdalena , Schaks Matthias , Grüner Franziska , Stahnke Stephanie , Steffen Anika , Müsken Mathias , Stradal Theresia E. B. , Rottner Klemens
Published: August 2022

Cell migration frequently involves the formation of lamellipodia induced by Rac GTPases activating WAVE regulatory complex (WRC) to drive Arp2/3 complex-dependent actin assembly. Previous genome editing studies in B16-F1 melanoma cells solidified the view of an essential, linear pathway employing the aforementioned components. Here, disruption of the WRC subunit Nap1 (encoded by Nckap1) and its paralog Hem1 (encoded by Nckap1l) followed by serum and growth factor stimulation, or active GTPase expression, revealed a pathway to formation of Arp2/3 complex-dependent lamellipodia-like structures (LLS) that requires both Rac and Cdc42 GTPases, but not WRC. These phenotypes were independent of the WRC subunit eliminated and coincided with the lack of recruitment of Ena/VASP family actin polymerases. Moreover, aside from Ena/VASP proteins, LLS contained all lamellipodial regulators tested, including cortactin (also known as CTTN), the Ena/VASP ligand lamellipodin (also known as RAPH1) and FMNL subfamily formins. Rac-dependent but WRC-independent actin remodeling could also be triggered in NIH 3T3 fibroblasts by growth factor (HGF) treatment or by gram-positive Listeria monocytogenes usurping HGF receptor signaling for host cell invasion. Taken together, our studies thus establish the existence of a signaling axis to Arp2/3 complex-dependent actin remodeling at the cell periphery that operates without WRC and Ena/VASP.
Ultra-broadband mid-infrared generation in dispersion-engineered thin-film lithium niobate
Authors: Mishra Jatadhari , Jankowski Marc , Hwang Alexander Y. , Stokowski Hubert S. , McKenna Timothy P. , Langrock Carsten , Ng Edwin , Heydari David , Mabuchi Hideo , Safavi-Naeini Amir H. , Fejer M. M.
Published: August 2022

Thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) is an emerging platform for compact, low-power nonlinear-optical devices, and has been used extensively for near-infrared frequency conversion. Recent work has extended these devices to mid-infrared wavelengths, where broadly tunable sources may be used for chemical sensing. To this end, we demonstrate efficient and broadband difference frequency generation between a fixed 1-µm pump and a tunable telecom source in uniformly-poled TFLN-on-sapphire by harnessing the dispersion-engineering available in tightly-confining waveguides. We show a simultaneous 1–2 order-of-magnitude improvement in conversion efficiency and ∼5-fold enhancement of operating bandwidth for mid-infrared generation when compared to equal-length conventional lithium niobate waveguides. We also examine the effects of mid-infrared loss from surface-adsorbed water on the performance of these devices.
Multi-focus autofocusing circular hyperbolic umbilic beams
Authors: Zhang Naichen , Song Jinqi , Li Dongmei , Tong Xiangyu , Li Tong , Sun Mingli , Ma Xiaoxiao , Zhang Xian , Huang Kaikai , Lu Xuanhui
Published: August 2022

We propose and demonstrate a type of multi-focus autofocusing beams, circular hyperbolic umbilic beams (CHUBs), based on the double-active variable caustics in catastrophe theory. The mathematical form is more general compared to circular Airy, Pearcey and swallowtail beams. The CHUBs can generate multi-focus at its optical axis, while the on-axis intensity fluctuates up to two orders of magnitude that of the maximum intensity in the initial plane. Using the concept of topographic prominence, we quantify the autofocusing ability. We construct the criteria for selecting the effective foci, and then explore the influence of related parameters. Our findings suggest that the CHUBs could be a suitable tool for multi-particle manipulation, optical tweezers, optical lattices and related applications.
Line element for the perceptual color space
Authors: Candry Patrick , De Visschere Patrick , Neyts Kristiaan
Published: August 2022

It is generally accepted that the perceptual color space is not Euclidean. A new line element for a 3-dimensional Riemannian color space was developed. This line element is based on the Friele line elements and psychophysical color discrimination models, and comprises both the first and second stage of color vision. The line element is expressed in a contrast space based on the MacLeod-Boynton chromaticities. New equations for the contrast thresholds along the cardinal axes and new metric tensor elements were determined. Visual adaptation effects were incorporated into the model. Color discrimination threshold ellipsoids were calculated with the new line element. Adequate agreement with experimental threshold ellipsoids reported in literature was demonstrated. From a comparison with other color difference metrics a better overall predictability of threshold ellipsoids was found with the new line element.
Tunable kilohertz microwave photonic bandpass filter based on backscattering in a microresonator
Authors: Ren Linhao , Yuan Shixing , Zhu Song , Shi Lei , Zhang Xinliang
Published: August 2022

A tunable microwave photonic bandpass filter (MPBPF) with a kilohertz bandwidth based on the backscattering mode of a silica microsphere resonator is proposed and experimentally demonstrated. In this work, an ultrahigh-quality-factor microsphere resonator is used to generate a radio frequency bandpass response with a bandwidth of 600 kHz. Meanwhile, scattering-induced coupling between the clockwise mode and the counterclockwise mode is introduced to reduce the number of resonance modes, and a single backscattering mode which has a high extinction ratio is obtained. Therefore, an MPBPF with a tuning range of 40 GHz and a rejection ratio of 16.9 dB is realized. This MPBPF possesses advantages such as ultranarrow bandwidth, large tuning range, and compactness, and shows great potential for microwave photonic applications.
Spontaneous Raman spectra analysis and efficient nanosecond pulse Raman laser of a BaTeW2O9 crystal
Authors: Guo Feifei , Yu Pingzhang , Gao Zeliang , Wang Zhengping , Tao Xutang
Published: August 2022

In this Letter, the spontaneous Raman spectra of a novel, to the best of our knowledge, crystal α-BaTeW2O9 (α-BTW) are characterized and analyzed. The relative Raman gain coefficient of the α-BTW crystal is calculated to be 0.84 times that of YVO4. With a 35-mm-long crystal, the first-order Raman laser of α-BTW operating at 1178 nm is realized. The simple external resonator setup is employed in the first-order Raman laser of α-BTW. The pump source is a lamp-pumped electric-optical Q switched Nd:YAG laser amplifier system operating at 1064 nm with a pulse width of 10 ns. The Raman laser exhibits a threshold of 14.7 MW/cm2. In our experiments, a maximum pulse energy of 21.5 mJ is obtained with an optical-to-optical conversion efficiency and slope efficiency of 43.6%, 57.9%, respectively. Due to its high laser damage threshold, relative high Raman gain coefficient, and excellent thermal properties, the α-BTW crystal is a potential Raman material.
Intensive behavioural interventions based on applied behaviour analysis (ABA) for young children with autism: A cost-effectiveness analysis
Authors: Hodgson Robert , Biswas Mousumi , Palmer Stephen , Marshall David , Rodgers Mark , Stewart Lesley , Simmonds Mark , Rai Dheeraj , Le Couteur Ann
Published: August 2022

Background

The economic and social costs of autism are significant. This study evaluates the cost-effectiveness of early intensive Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA)-based interventions for autistic pre-school children in the UK.

Methods

A de novo economic analysis was developed in Microsoft Excel comparing early intensive ABA-based interventions compared with treatment as usual (TAU). The analysis used 15.5-year time horizon, with costs and benefits discounted a 3.5%. The model structure was based on cohort structure to capture changes in adaptive behaviour and cognitive ability over time. The analysis was informed by an individual patient data (IPD) meta-analysis of available evidence.

Results

Adopting a public sector perspective, early intensive ABA-based therapies were associated with greater incremental costs and greater benefits. When pessimistic assumptions were made regarding the long-term effects of treatment incremental costs were £46,103 and incremental quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) were 0.24, resulting in an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of £189,122 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY). When optimistic assumptions were made about long-term effects, incremental costs were £39,233 with incremental benefits of 0.84 QALYs. The resulting ICER was £46,768 per QALY. Scenario analyses emphasised the importance of assumptions made regarding adult outcomes and type of school attended, both of which significantly affect the results of the analysis.

Conclusions

The results of this economic analysis suggest that early intensive ABA-based interventions are unlikely to represent value for money, based on a £20,000 to £30,000 per QALY threshold typically adopted to inform UK healthcare funding decisions. However, important gaps in the available evidence, limit the strength of the conclusions that can be drawn from the presented analysis. Further research, focusing on the trajectory of autistic children following intervention is likely to be highly beneficial to resolving some of these uncertainties.
The devil is not as black as he is painted? On the positive relationship between food industry conspiracy beliefs and conscious food choices
Authors: Marchlewska Marta , Szczepańska Dagmara , Karakula Adam , Molenda Zuzanna , Rogoza Marta , Maison Dominika
Published: August 2022

Previous research found that conspiracy beliefs were usually activated when individuals faced different types of psychological threats and that they led mainly to maladaptive individual and societal outcomes. In this research, we assumed that potential harmfulness of conspiracy beliefs may depend on the context, and we focused on the link between food industry conspiracy beliefs and conscious food choices. We hypothesized that food industry conspiracy beliefs may allow for a constructive attempt to protect oneself against real or imagined enemies (i.e., food industry companies) by conscious food choices (e.g., paying attention to how much the food products are processed). We tested this hypothesis among Polish participants (Study 1; N = 608; cross-sectional and Study 2; N = 790; experimental). Study 1 confirmed that context-specific conspiracy beliefs (but not general notions of conspiracy) are associated with adaptive consumer behaviors. Study 2 showed that inducing feelings of threat related to the possibility of purchasing food contaminated by a harmful bacteria (vs. control condition) increased food industry conspiracy beliefs, which were further positively linked to conscious food choices. We discuss the role of threat and conspiracy beliefs in adaptive consumer behaviors related to food choices.
Overexpression of mir-135b and mir-210 in mesenchymal stromal cells for the enrichment of extracellular vesicles with angiogenic factors
Authors: Vieira Juliana Maíra Freitas , Zamproni Laura Nicoleti , Wendt Camila H. C. , Rocha de Miranda Kildare , Lindoso Rafael Soares , Won Han Sang
Published: August 2022

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are known as molecular carriers involved in cell communication and the regulation of (patho)physiological processes. miRNAs and growth factors are the main contents of EVs which make them a good candidate for the treatment of diseases caused by ischemia, but the low production of EVs by a cell producer and a significant variation of the molecular contents in EVs according to the cell source are the main limitations of their widespread use. Here, we show how to improve the therapeutic properties of mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC)-derived EVs (MSC-EVs) by modifying MSCs to enrich these EVs with specific angiomiRs (miR-135b or miR-210) using lentiviral vectors carrying miR-135b or miR-210. MSCs were obtained from the mouse bone marrow and transduced with a corresponding lentivector to overexpress miR-135b or miR-210. The EVs were then isolated by ultracentrifugation and characterized using a flow cytometer and a nanoparticle tracking analyzer. The levels of 20 genes in the MSCs and 12 microRNAs in both MSCs and EVs were assessed by RT‒qPCR. The proangiogenic activity of EVs was subsequently assessed in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The results confirmed the overexpression of the respective microRNA in modified MSCs. Moreover, miR-135b overexpression upregulated miR-210-5p and follistatin, whereas the overexpression of miR-210 downregulated miR-221 and upregulated miR-296. The tube formation assay showed that EVs from MSCs overexpressing miR-210-5p (EVmiR210) significantly promoted tubular structure formation in HUVECs. A significant increase in angiogenic proteins (PGF, endothelin 1, and artemin) and genes (VEGF, activin A, and IGFBP1) in HUVECs treated with VEmiR210 justifies the better tubular structure formation of these cells compared with that of EVmiR135b-treated HUVECs, which showed upregulated expression of only artemin. Collectively, our results show that the EV cargo can be modified by lentiviral vectors to enrich specific miRNAs to achieve a specific angiogenic potential.
Non-destructive fluorescence sensing for assessing microclimate, site and defoliation effects on flavonol dynamics and sugar prediction in Pinot blanc grapes
Authors: Tomada Selena , Agati Giovanni , Serni Enrico , Michelini Samanta , Lazazzara Valentina , Pedri Ulrich , Sanoll Christof , Matteazzi Aldo , Robatscher Peter , Haas Florian
Published: August 2022

In an era of growing international competition in modern viticulture, the study and implementation of innovative technologies to increase the production of high-quality grapes and wines are of critical importance. In this study, the non-destructive portable sensor Multiplex, based on fluorescence sensing technique, was applied to evaluate grape maturity parameters and flavonol content of the understudied Pinot blanc variety. The effects of environmental and agronomical factors on flavonol content of Pinot blanc grapes were investigated in eight vineyards characterised by different microclimatic and agronomic conditions. Furthermore, the direct impact of canopy management treatment on the flavonol dynamics of the grapes oriented in the four cardinal directions was assessed. Results highlight the positive role of moderate temperatures and direct sunlight exposure on Pinot blanc flavonol content; however, no direct vineyard-elevation effect was observed. The ability to modulate and evaluate the flavonol content in field represent crucial factors because of their potential effect on flavonoids-dependent wine characteristics, such as stability and ageing. In the present study, for the first time, two calibration curves were reported for pre- and post-veraison periods between flavonol indices and the berry skin flavonol content and a good correlation was observed between Multiplex measurement and the total polyphenolic content of grape juice. Moreover, the strong correlation between the chlorophyll index with grape juice sugar content and titratable acidity revealed the practical application of non-destructive sensors to predict the optimal harvest time for Pinot blanc grapes. In conclusion, the non-destructive fluorescence sensor Multiplex is a high-potential tool for innovative viticulture, for evaluating grape skin composition variables in white grape varieties.
Venous thromboembolic and hemorrhagic events after meningioma surgery: A single-center retrospective cohort study of risk factors
Authors: Lasica Nebojsa , Djilvesi Djula , Papic Vladimir , Karan Mladen , Jelaca Bojan , Golubovic Jagos , Pajicic Filip , Medic-Stojanoska Milica , Vulekovic Petar , Rasulic Lukas
Published: August 2022

Microsurgical resection of meningiomas in a majority of cases leads to a favorable outcome. Therefore, severe postoperative adverse events are less acceptable. The main purpose of this study was to investigate the incidence of symptomatic venous thromboembolism (VTE) and hemorrhagic complications in patients after operative treatment of intracranial meningiomas and to identify the risk factors in this patient subgroup. Of 106 patients undergoing elective craniotomy for meningioma overall incidence of symptomatic VTE was noted in 5.7% (six patients). For the risk-factor analysis older age (57.20 ± 11.60 vs. 71.00 ± 0.90 years, p < 0.001), higher body mass index (27.60 ± 4.80 vs. 33.16 ± 0.60 kg/m2, p < 0.001), WHO grade II (3.00% vs. 33.33%, p = 0.02), lower intraoperative blood loss (466.00 ± 383.70 vs. 216.70 ± 68.30 mL, p < 0.001), bedridden status and neurologic deficit (0.00% vs. 33.33%, p = 0.003 and 38.00% vs. 100.00%, p = 0.004) were associated with greater VTE risk. No risk factors for hemorrhagic complications were identified on univariate analysis. In conclusion, the incidence of VTE in meningioma patients is not negligible. Identified risk factors should be taken into account in the decision-making process for chemoprophylaxis when the risk of bleeding decreases.
Preparation and characterization of biopolymeric microparticles for surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy and fluorescent microscopy imaging
Authors: Al-Lami Malik Hadi Mahmood
Published: August 2022

Spectroscopy is an interesting research field because of its wide applications areas. Therefore, in my doctoral thesis, I was centering on the preparation and laser spectroscopic characterization of polymeric microparticles for different applications. Firstly, I prepared microparticles and estimated their optimal preparation conditions, then developed them to fabricate fluorescent microparticles to be used in imaging. Secondly, I obtained a new composite of polymer microparticles covered with gold nanoparticles to be used in surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopic applications to detect certain biomolecules. The first step of my doctoral research work was to study the reaction kinetics of DEGDMA monomer in different solvents upon gamma irradiation with different doses and to determine the dose dependence of the degree of conversion with Raman spectroscopy and mass difference measurements. Both methods showed good agreement in the DC, therefore, the Raman method was found to be an excellent method of choice to determine the conversion rate of the polymer by a non-contact, non-destructive and, in terms of realization, simple manner, having the potential for real-time remote monitoring in the irradiation chamber. The results were fitted using the Avrami equation, and the observed variations in reaction rate were attributed to the fact that the DEGDMA polymerization process behaves differently in alcohols and other solvents, as determined by their solubility values. In the second phase, I synthesized polymeric microparticles of DEGDMA monomer with ethyl propionate solvent by gamma radiation-initiated precipitation polymerization firstly, then FITC dye was incorporated into the polymer matrix to form luminescent FITC/DEGDMA microparticles. The morphology, size, bonding configuration, and emission properties of the microparticles were investigated by using SEM, Raman, PL spectroscopy, and LSFM, respectively. It was found that the structure of the FITC was preserved after the irradiation and the obtained microparticles have good emission properties. In the last part of my study, I have developed the method to synthesize SERS enhanced substrate by attaching gold nanoparticles to polymeric microparticles prepared by gamma radiation-initiated polymerization. Firstly, I fabricated poly(DEGDMA)/AuNPs composite and investigated their enhancement efficiency as a SERS substrate using R6G the common fluorescent probe dye. Secondly, the practical applications of proposed SERS substrates were tested by DNA strand-specific to the parasite Giardia lamblia (the β-giardin gene).
Heritage Dynamics: Understanding and adapting to change in diverse heritage contexts
Authors: Fouseki Kalliopi
Published: August 2022

How does heritage emerge, change, stagnate, disappear and/or revive over time? Should heritage be approached as a ‘non-renewable resource’ that needs to be sustained for eternity, or as a ‘renewable resource’ that adapts to change and transformation? Heritage Dynamics deconstructs the dynamic nature of heritage. Heritage as a socio-cultural practice goes through non-linear, continuous lifecycles, where certain factors will be the catalyst for the ending of one lifecycle and the revival for another. Kalliopi Fouseki develops a theoretical and methodological framework of ‘heritage dynamics’, which is used as the analytical thread of six heritage contexts: heritage-led transformation in historic urban places; decision-making on energy efficiency and heritage conservation in ‘everyday heritage’ residential buildings; lifecycles of heritage collections; exhibition dynamics and the impact of participation with emphasis of ‘difficult heritage’; dynamics of dissonance on contested museums and the dynamics of ‘intangible heritage’ with emphasis on flamenco. The book offers a new theoretical and methodological framework that will enable heritage scholars and practitioners to unpack the ways and conditions under which heritage changes. The new theoretical framework will re-orientate current thinking of heritage as a thing, a process or discourse towards a new, more systemic thinking that captures the complexity of heritage. Methodologically, Heritage Dynamics introduces the potential of systemic methods, such as system dynamics, in capturing the dynamic nature of heritage. The new theory and method not only opens up new avenues for theoretical explorations, but also offers a significant tool for heritage managers and policymakers.
El pathos divino en la filosofía judía
Authors: Sevilla Godínez Héctor
Published: August 2022

En el presente artículo se pretende clarificar el significado del pathos de lo divino como atributo de la emocionalidad en Dios. Son señalados algunos aspectos esenciales de la tradición judía, refiriendo los vínculos y controversias temáticas entre Heschel, Maimónides y Spinoza en torno a los atributos de Dios y su relación con los hombres. También se alude la crítica que Spinoza dirigió a la tradición judía y las consecuencias de esa actitud para el pensador holandés, incluyendo el rechazo de otros eruditos del judaísmo. Por último, se explican algunas de las confrontaciones recientes hacia la concepción antropomórfica de lo divino y las implicaciones de asumir que Dios tiene emociones.
Specialty Rice (Oryza sativa L.) for Health in Indonesia
Authors: Indrasari Siti Dewi
Published: August 2022

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is the most nutritious staple food for most Indonesian people. The Ministry of Agriculture through the Agricultural Research and Development Agency has released about 300 rice varieties. Some of these varieties have advantages that are beneficial for health. The purpose of this article was to review literature describing the specialty rice varieties from Indonesia, with a particular focus on low Glycemic Index, high antioxidant and high mineral content. Low GI rice is one way of coping with diabetes mellitus (DM). Hyperlipidemia, diabetic syndrome, and cancer diseases could be prevented by consuming pigmented rice which is rich in antioxidants. Fortified rice could be used to overcome iron nutritional anemia and stunting problems. In order to to overcome nutritional and health problems in Indonesia, it is hoped that specialty rice could be used as a complementary program in the food diversification program that has been developed by the government. Specialty rice available in the market still has to pay attention to the quality class of the rice. Socialization about specialty rice needs to be conducted, and the availability of specialty rice opens up export opportunities.