bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of direct therapeutic ultrasound exposure of ovaries on histopathology, inflammatory response, and oxidative stress in dogs
Authors: Rajabi Arian , Mogheiseh Asghar , Nazifi Saeed , Ahrari-Khafi MohammadSaeed , Dehghanian AmirReza , Vesal Nasser , Bigham-Sadegh Amin
Published: July 2023

Background

This research was designed to evaluate the effects of therapeutic ultrasound waves on ovarian germinal tissue and inflammatory cytokines (interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL1β, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)), acute phase proteins (serum amyloid A (SAA), C reactive protein (CRP)) and oxidative stress (total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and malondialdehyde (MDA)) in dogs. Twenty-six clinically healthy adult mix-breed female dogs were aligned into three groups. Laparotomy was performed in control (n = 6) and treatment (T5, n = 10; T10, n = 10) groups. The ultrasonic exposure of ovaries in treatment groups was performed during laparotomy by round motions of the therapeutic ultrasonic transducer on both ovaries (1 MHz frequency, 1.5 W⁄cm2) for 5 min in the T5 group and for 10 min in the T10 group. Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein into a plain glass tube on days 0 (before laparotomy), 3, 6, and 9 after surgery. All control and treatment groups’ dogs were ovariectomized for histological evaluation on day 60 after laparotomy or laparotomy + ultrasound exposure.

Results

Direct exposure of ovaries with therapeutic ultrasound waves induced inflammation and oxidative stress comparison with the control group. Histopathological evaluation of treated ovaries with ultrasound waves indicated a decreased number of primordial follicles (ovarian reserve) and oocyte preservation scores compared with ovaries in the control group.

Conclusions

These changes may cause subfertility in the long term. It seems that inflammatory response and oxidative stress are factors in the permanent damage of ovarian tissue.
The role of community health workers in primary healthcare in the WHO-EU region: a scoping review
Authors: Van Iseghem Tijs , Jacobs Ilka , Vanden Bossche Dorien , Delobelle Peter , Willems Sara , Masquillier Caroline , Decat Peter
Published: July 2023

Background

Existing evidence on the role of community health workers (CHWs) in primary healthcare originates primarily from the United States, Canada and Australia, and from low- and middle-income countries. Little is known about the role of CHWs in primary healthcare in European countries. This scoping review aimed to contribute to filling this gap by providing an overview of literature reporting on the involvement of CHWs in primary healthcare in WHO-EU countries since 2001 with a focus on the role, training, recruitment and remuneration.

Methods

This systematic scoping review followed the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses, extension for Scoping Reviews. All published peer-reviewed literature indexed in PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases from Jan 2001 to Feb 2023 were reviewed for inclusion. Included studies were screened on title, abstract and full text according to predetermined eligibility criteria. Studies were included if they were conducted in the WHO-EU region and provided information regarding the role, training, recruitment or remuneration of CHWs.

Results

Forty studies were included in this review, originating from eight countries. The involvement of CHWs in the WHO-EU regions was usually project-based, except in the United Kingdom. A substantial amount of literature with variability in the terminology used to describe CHWs, the areas of involvement, recruitment, training, and remuneration strategies was found. The included studies reported a trend towards recruitment from within the communities with some form of training and payment of CHWs. A salient finding was the social embeddedness of CHWs in the communities they served. Their roles can be classified into one or a combination of the following: educational; navigational and supportive.

Conclusion

Future research projects involving CHWs should detail their involvement and elaborate on CHWs’ role, training and recruitment procedures. In addition, further research on CHW programmes in the WHO-EU region is necessary to prepare for their integration into the broader national health systems.
Extracellular vesicles: a rising star for therapeutics and drug delivery
Authors: Du Shuang , Guan Yucheng , Xie Aihua , Yan Zhao , Gao Sijia , Li Weirong , Rao Lang , Chen Xiaojia , Chen Tongkai
Published: July 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nano-sized, natural, cell-derived vesicles that contain the same nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids as their source cells. Thus, they can serve as natural carriers for therapeutic agents and drugs, and have many advantages over conventional nanocarriers, including their low immunogenicity, good biocompatibility, natural blood–brain barrier penetration, and capacity for gene delivery. This review first introduces the classification of EVs and then discusses several currently popular methods for isolating and purifying EVs, EVs-mediated drug delivery, and the functionalization of EVs as carriers. Thereby, it provides new avenues for the development of EVs-based therapeutic strategies in different fields of medicine. Finally, it highlights some challenges and future perspectives with regard to the clinical application of EVs.

Graphical Abstract
Core patient-reported outcome measures for chronic pain patients treated with spinal cord stimulation or dorsal root ganglia stimulation
Authors: Huygen Frank , Hagedorn Jonathan M. , Falowski Steven , Schultz David , Vesper Jan , Heros Robert D. , Patterson Denis G. , Dehghan Soroush , Ross Erika , Kyani Anahita , Mansouri Misagh B. , Kallewaard Jan Willem
Published: July 2023

Background

Neurostimulation is a highly effective therapy for the treatment of chronic Intractable pain, however, due to the complexity of pain, measuring a subject’s long-term response to the therapy remains difficult. Frequent measurement of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) to reflect multiple aspects of subjects’ pain is a crucial step in determining therapy outcomes. However, collecting full-length PROs is burdensome for both patients and clinicians. The objective of this work is to identify the reduced set of questions from multiple validated PROs that can accurately characterize chronic pain patients’ responses to neurostimulation therapies.

Methods

Validated PROs were used to capture pain, physical function and disability, as well as psychometric, satisfaction, and global health metrics. PROs were collected from 509 patients implanted with Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) or Dorsal Root Ganglia (DRG) neurostimulators enrolled in the prospective, international, post-market REALITY study (NCT03876054, Registration Date: March 15, 2019). A combination of linear regression, Pearson’s correlation, and factor analysis were used to eliminate highly correlated questions and find the minimal meaningful set of questions within the predefined domains of each scale.

Results

The shortened versions of the questionnaires presented almost identical accuracy for classifying the therapy outcomes as compared to the validated full-length versions. In addition, principal component analysis was performed on all the PROs and showed a robust clustering of pain intensity, psychological factors, physical function, and sleep across multiple PROs. A selected set of questions captured from multiple PROs can provide adequate information for measuring neurostimulation therapy outcomes.

Conclusions

PROs are important subjective measures to evaluate the physiological and psychological aspects of pain. However, these measures are cumbersome to collect. These shorter and more targeted PROs could result in better patient engagement, and enhanced and more frequent data collection processes for digital health platforms that minimize patient burden while increasing therapeutic benefits for chronic pain patients.
Perspectives in Immunotherapy: meeting report from Immunotherapy Bridge (Naples, November 30th–December 1st, 2022)
Authors: Ascierto Paolo A. , Avallone Antonio , Bifulco Carlo , Bracarda Sergio , Brody Joshua D. , Emens Leisha A. , Ferris Robert L. , Formenti Silvia C. , Hamid Omid , Johnson Douglas B. , Kirchhoff Tomas , Klebanoff Christopher A. , Lesinski Gregory B. , Monette Anne , Neyns Bart , Odunsi Kunle , Paulos Chrystal M. , Powell Daniel J. , Rezvani Katayoun , Segal Brahm H. , Singh Nathan , Sullivan Ryan J. , Fox Bernard A. , Puzanov Igor
Published: July 2023

The discovery and development of novel treatments that harness the patient’s immune system and prevent immune escape has dramatically improved outcomes for patients across cancer types. However, not all patients respond to immunotherapy, acquired resistance remains a challenge, and responses are poor in certain tumors which are considered to be immunologically cold. This has led to the need for new immunotherapy-based approaches, including adoptive cell transfer (ACT), therapeutic vaccines, and novel immune checkpoint inhibitors. These new approaches are focused on patients with an inadequate response to current treatments, with emerging evidence of improved responses in various cancers with new immunotherapy agents, often in combinations with existing agents. The use of cell therapies, drivers of immune response, and trends in immunotherapy were the focus of the Immunotherapy Bridge (November 30th–December 1st, 2022), organized by the Fondazione Melanoma Onlus, Naples, Italy, in collaboration with the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer.
Spatial heterogeneity of tumor microenvironment influences the prognosis of clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Dawei , Ni Yuanli , Wang Yongquan , Feng Juan , Zhuang Na , Li Jiatao , Liu Limei , Shen Wenhao , Zheng Ji , Zheng Wei , Qian Cheng , Shan Juanjuan , Zhou Zhansong
Published: July 2023

Background

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is an immunologically and histologically diverse tumor. However, how the structural heterogeneity of tumor microenvironment (TME) affects cancer progression and treatment response remains unclear. Hence, we characterized the TME architectures of ccRCC tissues using imaging mass cytometry (IMC) and explored their associations with clinical outcome and therapeutic response.

Methods

Using IMC, we profiled the TME landscape of ccRCC and paracancerous tissue by measuring 17 markers involved in tissue architecture, immune cell and immune activation. In the ccRCC tissue, we identified distinct immune architectures of ccRCC tissue based on the mix score and performed cellular neighborhood (CN) analysis to subdivide TME phenotypes. Moreover, we assessed the relationship between the different TME phenotypes and ccRCC patient survival, clinical features and treatment response.

Results

We found that ccRCC tissues had higher levels of CD8+ T cells, CD163− macrophages, Treg cells, endothelial cells, and fibroblasts than paracancerous tissues. Immune infiltrates in ccRCC tissues distinctly showed clustered and scattered patterns. Within the clustered pattern, we identified two subtypes with different clinical outcomes based on CN analysis. The TLS-like phenotype had cell communities resembling tertiary lymphoid structures, characterized by cell–cell interactions of CD8+ T cells-B cells and GZMB+CD8+ T cells-B cells, which exhibited anti-tumor features and favorable outcomes, while the Macrophage/T-clustered phenotype with macrophage- or T cell-dominated cell communities had a poor prognosis. Patients with scattered immune architecture could be further divided into scattered-CN-hot and scattered-CN-cold phenotypes based on the presence or absence of immune CNs, but both had a better prognosis than the macrophage/T-clustered phenotype. We further analyzed the relationship between the TME phenotypes and treatment response in five metastatic ccRCC patients treated with sunitinib, and found that all three responders were scattered-CN-hot phenotype while both non-responders were macrophage/T-clustered phenotype.

Conclusion

Our study revealed the structural heterogeneity of TME in ccRCC and its impact on clinical outcome and personalized treatment. These findings highlight the potential of IMC and CN analysis for characterizing TME structural units in cancer research.
Ensemble learning model for identifying the hallmark genes of NFκB/TNF signaling pathway in cancers
Authors: Su Yin-Yuan , Liu Yu-Ling , Huang Hsuan-Cheng , Lin Chen-Ching
Published: July 2023

Background

The nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) regulatory pathways downstream of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) play a critical role in carcinogenesis. However, the widespread influence of NFκB in cells can result in off-target effects, making it a challenging therapeutic target. Ensemble learning is a machine learning technique where multiple models are combined to improve the performance and robustness of the prediction. Accordingly, an ensemble learning model could uncover more precise targets within the NFκB/TNF signaling pathway for cancer therapy.

Methods

In this study, we trained an ensemble learning model on the transcriptome profiles from 16 cancer types in the TCGA database to identify a robust set of genes that are consistently associated with the NFκB/TNF pathway in cancer. Our model uses cancer patients as features to predict the genes involved in the NFκB/TNF signaling pathway and can be adapted to predict the genes for different cancer types by switching the cancer type of patients. We also performed functional analysis, survival analysis, and a case study of triple-negative breast cancer to demonstrate our model's potential in translational cancer medicine.

Results

Our model accurately identified genes regulated by NFκB in response to TNF in cancer patients. The downstream analysis showed that the identified genes are typically involved in the canonical NFκB-regulated pathways, particularly in adaptive immunity, anti-apoptosis, and cellular response to cytokine stimuli. These genes were found to have oncogenic properties and detrimental effects on patient survival. Our model also could distinguish patients with a specific cancer subtype, triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), which is known to be influenced by NFκB-regulated pathways downstream of TNF. Furthermore, a functional module known as mononuclear cell differentiation was identified that accurately predicts TNBC patients and poor short-term survival in non-TNBC patients, providing a potential avenue for developing precision medicine for cancer subtypes.

Conclusions

In conclusion, our approach enables the discovery of genes in NFκB-regulated pathways in response to TNF and their relevance to carcinogenesis. We successfully categorized these genes into functional groups, providing valuable insights for discovering more precise and targeted cancer therapeutics.
Occurrence of Eucoleus aerophilus in wild and domestic animals: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Samorek-Pieróg Małgorzata , Cencek Tomasz , Łabuć Emilia , Pac-Sosińska Małgorzata , Pieróg Mateusz , Korpysa-Dzirba Weronika , Bełcik Aneta , Bilska-Zając Ewa , Karamon Jacek
Published: July 2023

Background

Eucoleus aerophilus (syn. Capillaria aerophila) is a nematode with a worldwide geographical distribution. It causes a disease called lung capillariosis by affecting the respiratory tract of wild and domestic animals, and has also occasionally been described in humans. Despite steady increases in knowledge of the morphology of this neglected parasite, many aspects are still poorly understood. Epidemiological data regarding, for example, geographic distribution, range of hosts, clinical relevance and the actual zoonotic potential of this nematode are scarce and incomplete.

Methods

This article is a systematic review based on the screening of three databases (PubMed, Web of Science and Science Direct) to identify eligible studies published from 1973 to the end of 2022.

Results

From a total of 606 studies describing the occurrence of E. aerophilus, 141 articles from 38 countries worldwide were included in this meta-analysis, all of which presented results obtained mainly with flotation and necropsy. Due to the occurrence of E. aerophilus in many different species and different matrices (lungs and faeces), we decided to conduct the meta-analysis separately for each species with a given matrix. This systematic review confirmed the status of the Red fox as the main reservoir and main transmitter of E. aerophilus (average prevalence of 43% in faeces and 49% in lungs) and provided evidence of a higher prevalence of E. aerophilus in wild animals in comparison to domestic animals, such as dogs (3% in faeces) and cats (2% in faeces and 8% in lungs). Previous studies have investigated many host-related factors (age, sex, environmental/living conditions) in relation to the prevalence of E. aerophilus, but they show wide variations and no simple relationship has been demonstrates. Furthermore, mixed infections with other pulmonary nematodes, such as Crenosoma vulpis and/or Angiostrongylus vasorum, are reported very frequently, which greatly complicates the diagnosis.

Conclusions

This systematic review focused on identifying data gaps and promoting future research directions in this area. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first systematic review that evaluates and summarizes existing knowledge on the occurrence and prevalence of E. aerophilus in wild and domestic animals originating from different geographical locations worldwide.

Graphical Abstract
The impact of medical insurance on family financial support: evidence from CHARLS in China
Authors: Cao Yuan , Chen Hua , Yang Xiaoxu
Published: July 2023

Background

In China, public medical insurance has expanded rapidly in the past 20 years. Many studies have discussed the benefits of medical insurance in improving residents’ health and financial stability, and increasing the utilization of medical services. Less attention is paid to the effect of medical insurance on family support between parents and children. This study focuses on the effect of medical insurance on promoting family financial support in China.

Method

Fifty-five thousand sixty-two individual samples were obtained from four waves of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS): 2011, 2013, 2015 and 2018. Linear-regression model and propensity score matching are used to determine the relationship between medical insurance and family financial support. Then, mediation model is introduced to identify the mediation mechanisms. Also, moderation model is used to estimate the moderation effect of parental education and health.

Results

Medical insurance has significantly increased family financial support between the insured parents and their children. Moreover, this positive effect is heterogeneous since only families living in rural areas were affected, and the direction of family financial support changed with the aging of the parents. The welfare of medical insurance on financial status have also been proven in this paper. The results indicate that medical insurance reduces the out-of-pocket ratio of medical expenses and increases health investment, which can perform as as two mediation mechanisms to affect family financial support. Besides, the education and health status of the insured parents play a role in moderating the effect of medical insurance.
TurboID screening of ApxI toxin interactants identifies host proteins involved in Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae-induced apoptosis of immortalized porcine alveolar macrophages
Authors: Hu Yaofang , Jiang Changsheng , Zhao Yueqiao , Cao Hua , Ren Jingping , Zeng Wei , Zhang Mengjia , Li Yongtao , He Qigai , Li Wentao
Published: July 2023

Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (APP) is a gram-negative pathogenic bacterium responsible for porcine contagious pleuropneumonia (PCP), which can cause porcine necrotizing and hemorrhagic pleuropneumonia. Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae-RTX-toxin (Apx) is an APP virulence factor. APP secretes a total of four Apx toxins, among which, ApxI demonstrates strong hemolytic activity and cytotoxicity, causing lysis of porcine erythrocytes and apoptosis of porcine alveolar macrophages. However, the protein interaction network between this toxin and host cells is still poorly understood. TurboID mediates the biotinylation of endogenous proteins, thereby targeting specific proteins and local proteomes through gene fusion. We applied the TurboID enzyme-catalyzed proximity tagging method to identify and study host proteins in immortalized porcine alveolar macrophage (iPAM) cells that interact with the exotoxin ApxI of APP. His-tagged TurboID-ApxIA and TurboID recombinant proteins were expressed and purified. By mass spectrometry, 318 unique interacting proteins were identified in the TurboID ApxIA-treated group. Among them, only one membrane protein, caveolin-1 (CAV1), was identified. A co-immunoprecipitation assay confirmed that CAV1 can interact with ApxIA. In addition, overexpression and RNA interference experiments revealed that CAV1 was involved in ApxI toxin-induced apoptosis of iPAM cells. This study provided first-hand information about the proteome of iPAM cells interacting with the ApxI toxin of APP through the TurboID proximity labeling system, and identified a new host membrane protein involved in this interaction. These results lay a theoretical foundation for the clinical treatment of PCP.
A qualitative interview study of patient experiences of receiving motivational enhancement therapy in a Swedish addiction specialist treatment setting
Authors: Ingesson Hammarberg Stina , Sundbye Jennie , Tingvall Rebecca , Hammarberg Anders , Nehlin Christina
Published: July 2023

Background

Motivational enhancement therapy (MET) has shown to be efficacious as treatment of alcohol use disorder (AUD), in reducing alcohol consumption and related consequences. However, qualitative research on how patients perceive this treatment is lacking. The aim of this study was to explore how patients experience MET as a treatment for AUD.

Methods

Fifteen patients (8/7 female/male) participated in semi-structured interviews after receiving MET at a specialized addiction outpatient clinic in Sweden. Data were analyzed by thematic analysis.

Results

Five themes were identified: the therapist conveyed the MI-spirit, the therapist did not guide on how to reach the goal, participants were committed to change before starting treatment, participants were uncertain if treatment was enough to maintain change, and significant others were not wanted in sessions. Participants appreciated the supportive relationship with their therapist, but some experienced therapy as overly positive, with no room to talk about failure. Further, they experienced a low level of guidance in goal-setting. For some, this was empowering, while others requested more direction and advice. Participants perceived their motivational process to have started before treatment. MET was considered to be too brief. None of the participants brought a significant other to a session.

Conclusions

Therapist behaviors in line with MI spirit were emphasized as key to the development of a positive therapeutic relationship. More specific advice on goal-setting may be effective for supporting change in some patients. Longer treatment is requested among patients to support the patient’s self-efficacy for change. Significant others can support change without necessarily being present in sessions.

Trial registration: The current trial was retrospectively registered at isrtcn.com (14539251).
Risk factors for postoperative cognitive dysfunction in elderly patients undergoing surgery for oral malignancies
Authors: Wu Yujia , Yu Cong , Gao Feng
Published: July 2023

We aimed to analyse postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) incidence and risk factors in elderly adults who underwent surgery for oral malignancies. A total of 112 elderly patients (aged ≥ 55 years) were selected for expanded resection of oral malignancy and cervical lymphatic dissection at our institution from December 2020 to December 2021. Participants were cognitively evaluated using the neuropsychological test scale 1 day before and 7 days after surgery to determine whether they had developed POCD. Based on whether POCD occurred 7 days after surgery, patients were classified into the POCD and non-POCD groups. Logistic regression was applied to perioperative factors to analyse the risk factors for POCD onset. Seven days after surgery for oral malignancy, there were 37 (33.1%) POCD morbidities. Multiple factor logistic regression analysis revealed that venerable age (odds ratio [OR] = 1.269, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.056–1.525, P < 0.05), low education levels (OR = 0.792, 95% CI 0.644–0.974, P < 0.05), hypertension (OR = 4.153, 95% CI 1.335–12.732, P < 0.05), dyssomnia (OR = 1.272, 95% CI 1.001–1.617, P < 0.05), prolonged anaesthesia (OR = 1.009, 95% CI 1.001–1.018, P < 0.05), and intraoperative hypotension (OR = 5.512, 95% CI 1.240–24.506, P < 0.05) increased the POCD risk in elderly patients who underwent surgery for oral malignancies. Venerable age, low knowledge reserve, hypertension, dyssomnia, prolonged anaesthesia, and intraoperative hypotension are independent risk factors for POCD in elderly patients with oral malignancies.
Characterizing the polygenic architecture of complex traits in populations of East Asian and European descent
Authors: De Lillo Antonella , Wendt Frank R. , Pathak Gita A. , Polimanti Renato
Published: July 2023

To investigate the polygenicity of complex traits in populations of East Asian (EAS) and European (EUR) descents, we leveraged genome-wide data from Biobank Japan, UK Biobank, and FinnGen cohorts. Specifically, we analyzed up to 215 outcomes related to 18 health domains, assessing their polygenic architecture via descriptive statistics, such as the proportion of susceptibility SNPs per trait (πc). While we did not observe EAS–EUR differences in the overall distribution of polygenicity parameters across the phenotypes investigated, there were ancestry-specific patterns in the polygenicity differences between health domains. In EAS, pairwise comparisons across health domains showed enrichment for πc differences related to hematological and metabolic traits (hematological fold-enrichment = 4.45, p = 2.15 × 10–7; metabolic fold-enrichment = 4.05, p = 4.01 × 10–6). For both categories, the proportion of susceptibility SNPs was lower than that observed for several other health domains (EAS-hematological median πc = 0.15%, EAS-metabolic median πc = 0.18%) with the strongest πc difference with respect to respiratory traits (EAS-respiratory median πc = 0.50%; hematological-p = 2.26 × 10–3; metabolic-p = 3.48 × 10–3). In EUR, pairwise comparisons showed multiple πc differences related to the endocrine category (fold-enrichment = 5.83, p = 4.76 × 10–6), where these traits showed a low proportion of susceptibility SNPs (EUR-endocrine median πc = 0.01%) with the strongest difference with respect to psychiatric phenotypes (EUR-psychiatric median πc = 0.50%; p = 1.19 × 10–4). Simulating sample sizes of 1,000,000 and 5,000,000 individuals, we also showed that ancestry-specific polygenicity patterns translate into differences across health domains in the genetic variance explained by susceptibility SNPs projected to be genome-wide significant (e.g., EAS hematological-neoplasm p = 2.18 × 10–4; EUR endocrine-gastrointestinal p = 6.80 × 10–4). These findings highlight that traits related to the same health domains may present ancestry-specific variability in their polygenicity.
Impedance and voltammetry detection of bromate in food samples using NiPcMWCNTs modified glassy carbon electrode
Authors: Balogun Sheriff Aweda , Fayemi Omolola Esther
Published: July 2023

A sensitive bromate sensor was developed using nickel phthalocyanine multi-walled carbon nanotubes nanocomposite modified on a glassy carbon electrode. The NiPcMWCNTs nanocomposite was prepared from nickel nanoparticles, phthalocyanine, and functionalized MWCNTs via ultrasonication. UV–visible spectroscopy, SEM, XRD, TEM, and EDX techniques were used to verify the successful fabrication of the nanomaterials. The results of the EIS and CV experiments conducted in 5 mM K3(Fe(CN)6/K4(Fe(CN)6 made in 0.1 M of PBS (pH 7) revealed that the NiPcMWCNTs/GCE exhibited higher current response, faster electron transfer, and high specific capacitance compared to other electrodes. The electrochemical reduction of bromate was actualized in 0.1 M H2SO4 (pH 1) using EIS and SWV techniques. Using the EIS technique, an LoD of 6.72 μM was obtained with a sensitivity of 483.7 μA μM−1 over a linear dynamic range (LDR) of 24–100 μM. Whereas, with the SWV technique, a lower LoD (1.47 μM) was obtained with a higher sensitivity (1293 μA μM−1) over an LDR of 12–56 μM. The developed sensor was characterized by good selectivity, high stability (95.5%), and good reproducibility (% RSD; 3.5%). The fabricated sensor was effectively used to detect bromate in bread samples with a good recovery rate, demonstrating the practical application of the sensor to detect bromate in real samples (bread).
Development of a magneto-optical Kerr microscope using a 3D printer
Authors: Uebo Koki , Shiokawa Yuto , Takahashi Ryunosuke , Nakata Suguru , Wadati Hiroki
Published: July 2023

Background: Magneto-optical Kerr effect (MOKE) microscopes are powerful experimental tools to observe magnetic domains in magnetic materials. These devices are, however, typically large, unportable, and expensive (∼ several million yen), and therefore prevent many researchers in the field of materials science from easy access to study real-space images of magnetic domains.

Methods: To overcome these issues, we utilize data from ”The OpenFlexure Project” developed by the University of Bath and the University of Cambridge. The purpose of this project is to make high-precision mechanical positioning of the studied sample available to anyone with a 3D printer, especially for use in microscopes. We built a low-cost and portable MOKE microscope device by a 3D printer. We redesigned the 3D modeling data of an ordinary optical microscope provided by The OpenFlexure project and incorporated additional elements such as optical polarizers and an electro-magnetic coil into the primarily designed microscope that did not originally have these

elements.

Results: We successfully observed magnetic domains and their real-space motions induced by magnetic fields using the palm-sized low-cost MOKE microscope, which costs approximately 20,000 yen in raw materials to construct.

Conclusions: Our methodology to assemble a low-cost MOKE microscope will enable researchers working in the field of materials science to more easily observe magnetic domains without commercial equipment.
Comparative evaluation and correlation of variations in articular disc morphology as assessed by automated segmentation using deep learning on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images in Class II (vertical) TMD cases, Class II (horizontal) TMD cases and Class I non-TMD cases
Authors: Surendran Aathira , Shrivastav Sunita , Srivastav Gaurav
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) encompasses several clinical manifestations, which are characterized by temporomandibular joint and masticatory muscle discomfort and dysfunction (TMJ). The best imaging technique for evaluating TMJ is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which makes it possible to see the anatomical and pathological characteristics of every joint component. In recent years, convolutional neural networks -based deep learning algorithms have been favoured because of their outstanding capability in recognizing objects in medical images. The objective of this study is to assess, compare and co-relate articular disc morphology by automated segmentation using deep learning on MRI images in skeletal Class II (vertical growth pattern) TMD cases as compared to skeletal Class II (horizontal growth pattern) TMD cases and Class I non-TMD cases

Methods: Grading of skeletal Class II (vertical growth pattern) cases and skeletal Class II (horizontal growth pattern) cases based on severity of TMD will be carried out using diagnostic criteria for temporomandibular disorders. Bilateral sagittal as well as coronal MRI images will be obtained. A convolutional neural network (CNN) encoder-decoder named U-Net will be used to segment the articular disc on MRI. Understanding the nature of variations between Class I and both types of Class IIs will help orthodontists to better predict the potential risk for the development of TMDs and accordingly take precautions while doing treatment in such cases. Moreover, it can be used to automate TMD diagnosis and other smart applications.

Conclusions: This study will aid in identifying articular disc morphology on MRI. The deep learning algorithms with effective data augmentation may perform better in MRI readings than human clinicians when using the same data, which will be advantageous for TMD diagnosis.
Case Report: Abdominal variant of Lemierre’s syndrome
Authors: Pollard Ryan , Patel Vashistha , Patel Shreya , Murray Kenny
Published: July 2023

Lemierre's syndrome is a rare condition characterized by Fusobacterium bacteremia from an oropharyngeal source with septic emboli causing internal jugular vein (IVJ) thrombophlebitis in an otherwise young and healthy host. Rare variants of this rare disease have been described impacting the gastrointestinal, pulmonary, neurologic, musculoskeletal, soft tissue, and genitourinary systems. We discuss a case of an abdominal variant of Lemierre's syndrome. An otherwise young and healthy male presented with two pyogenic hepatic abscesses, Fusobacterium necrophorum bacteremia, and local hepatic venous thrombosis. The hepatic abscesses were percutaneously drained, he received broad-spectrum antibiotics and therapeutic-level anticoagulation, and he showed marked clinical improvement over a six-day hospital course. He was discharged with four weeks of daily oral and intravenous (IV) antibiotics, six months of direct oral anticoagulation, and close follow up. Clinicians should consider thrombophlebitis in more anatomical locations than the IVJ which is found classically in Lemierre’s syndrome in the setting of Fusobacterium bacteremia.
Hearing aid through skin sensory for profound deaf people
Authors: Suppiah Yasothei , Maruthan M Chandran , Abas Fazly Salleh
Published: July 2023

An individual with profound deafness or total hearing loss has a hearing threshold of 80dB or more. The ineffectiveness of hearing aids, surging costs and complex surgeries for cochlear implants have discouraged many to opt for these types of treatments. Hence, this research aims to provide an alternative hearing aid that stimulates “hearing” through the skin sensory, which is more affordable and accessible for the profoundly deaf or total hearing loss community. We have developed four initial vibrating transducers with single spectrum, which are strapped to a belt. The transducers pick up audible sounds through a microphone, amplifies the sound to a high-level signal, stimulating a vibration pattern on the human skin sensory. The belt was tested on 30 random people who identified as normal, partial, and profoundly deaf. When the belt was strapped to the individual’s waist, audible sound was played (stimulus) and the individual was asked whether   he/she can feel a stimulation or vibration on their skin, and if so, state the sound source direction. Based on the test, all individuals were able to feel the vibrating stimulation on their skin, and they were also able to state the directions accurately. The various vibrating pattern that stimulates the human sensory system for the profoundly deaf can be learned over time, which could serve as useful information. However, interpreting and identifying the different types of vibrating pattern perceived through the skin remains a huge challenge for profoundly deaf people. As hearing through skin sensory is a very new area of research, there are very limited research articles published in this field. Thus far, this is the first study to evaluate the method of audio spectrum to develop hearing aid through skin sensory.
Introduction of non-symmetric inserts into a symmetric split-ring resonator: design of a bifunctional metasurface for linear polarization conversion and circular dichroism
Authors: Zhang Xinzhi , Sun Aihui , Jiang Zhilong , Liu Cheng , Wang Shouyu , Kong Yan
Published: July 2023

Metasurfaces have shown their versatile capabilities in light-field shaping. To further pursue dense integration and miniaturization in photonics, a combination of multiple diversified functionalities into a metasurface is a promising solution. Recent bifunctional metasurfaces have relied on meta-atom superposition and tunable material introduction. The former supports simultaneous multi-functions, while the latter provides flexible adjustment. To achieve simultaneous and tunable multi-functions using a simple structure, based on a split-ring resonator metasurface with the linear polarization modulation function, here, we additionally introduced resonance to induce anti-symmetric polarization absorption for circular polarization modulation. As a proof-of-concept, we propose a bifunctional THz metasurface that combines linear polarization conversion and circular dichroism for polarization control and detection applications. Moreover, by changing the Fermi levels of graphene, both the frequency ranges of linear polarization conversion and circular dichroism can be adjusted. This work provides a reference to photonics integration related to polarization engineering and other distinct functionalities.
Physical layer encryption for coherent PDM system based on polarization perturbations using a digital optical polarization scrambler
Authors: Tang Xianfeng , Xu Zeyu , Gao Chuanwei , Xiao Yang , Liu Le , Zhang Xiaoguang , Xi Lixia , Xu Hengying , Bai Chenglin
Published: July 2023

In this paper, a security enhanced physical layer encryption scheme is proposed for coherent optical polarization division multiplexing (PDM) systems. The concept of a digital optical polarization scrambler (DOPS) is introduced to apply high speed rotation of state of polarization (RSOP) to the transmitted signal, which enables encryption based on polarization perturbations and offers superior flexibility in polarization management. By utilizing different combinations of digital polarization device matrices and adjusting their key parameters, four encryption modes are designed. The proposed encryption scheme is successfully implemented in a PDM-QPSK system at the data rate of 32 Gbps. Experimental results demonstrate that authorized users can successfully decrypt the received signal, while the eavesdroppers cannot derive useful information with a bit error rate (BER) at approximately 0.5. To enhance system security, a 5-D chaotic system is introduced with superior properties of high sensitivity to initial values and improved uniform distribution, which guarantees the large entropy and further the system’s security. This scheme can effectively prevent against brute attacks with the expanded key space of 1060.
Intense electric field optical sensor based on Fabry-Perot interferometer utilizing LiNbO3 crystal
Authors: Wang Yongguang , Wang Guochen , Gao Wei , Zhao Yuxin
Published: July 2023

A novel intense electric field optical sensor based on Fabry-Perot interferometer utilizing LiNbO3 crystal is proposed and demonstrated. Compared to the traditional bulk-type electric field optical sensors, this sensor unit requires only a LiNbO3 and two collimators, eliminating the need for quarter wave-plate and allowing for measurement of electric field without limitation by half wave voltage. The Vernier effect, generated by birefringence of LiNbO3, is utilized to enhance the sensitivity of electric field measurement, which does not require additional reference cavity. Both theoretical and experimental results illustrate that the wavelength shift of the sensor is linear function of the measured electric field. In the range of 0∼1010 kV/m, the sensor’s measurement sensitivity is 2.22 nm/E (V/µm) with detection limit of 1.27 × 10−2 E. Additionally, an MZI is proposed for temperature compensation, resulting in a standard deviation of spectrum variation after compensation of only 5.01 × 10−3. Applications using this sensor confirmed that it is expected to find widespread use in measurements of intense transient electric fields.
Network feature-based phenotyping of leaf venation robustly reconstructs the latent space
Authors: Iwamasa Kohei , Noshita Koji
Published: July 2023

Despite substantial variation in leaf vein architectures among angiosperms, a typical hierarchical network pattern is shared within clades. Functional demands (e.g., hydraulic conductivity, transpiration efficiency, and tolerance to damage and blockage) constrain the network structure of leaf venation, generating a biased distribution in the morphospace. Although network structures and their diversity are crucial for understanding angiosperm venation, previous studies have relied on simple morphological measurements (e.g., length, diameter, branching angles, and areole area) and their derived statistics to quantify phenotypes. To better understand the morphological diversities and constraints on leaf vein networks, we developed a simple, high-throughput phenotyping workflow for the quantification of vein networks and identified leaf venation-specific morphospace patterns. The proposed method involves four processes: leaf image acquisition using a feasible system, leaf vein segmentation based on a deep neural network model, network extraction as an undirected graph, and network feature calculation. To demonstrate the proposed method, we applied it to images of non-chemically treated leaves of five species for classification based on network features alone, with an accuracy of 90.6%. By dimensionality reduction, a one-dimensional morphospace, along which venation shows variation in loopiness, was identified for both untreated and cleared leaf images. Because the one-dimensional distribution patterns align with the Pareto front that optimizes transport efficiency, construction cost, and robustness to damage, as predicted by the earlier theoretical study, our findings suggested that venation patterns are determined by a functional trade-off. The proposed network feature-based method is a useful morphological descriptor, providing a quantitative representation of the topological aspects of venation and enabling inverse mapping to leaf vein structures. Accordingly, our approach is promising for analyses of the functional and structural properties of veins.
Risk averse reproduction numbers improve resurgence detection
Authors: Parag Kris V. , Obolski Uri
Published: July 2023

Theeffective reproduction number Ris a prominent statistic for inferring the transmissibility of infectious diseases and effectiveness of interventions.Rpurportedly provides an easy-to-interpret threshold for deducing whether an epidemic will grow (R>1) or decline (R<1). We posit that this interpretation can be misleading and statistically overconfident when applied to infections accumulated from groups featuring heterogeneous dynamics. These groups may be delineated by geography, infectiousness or sociodemographic factors. In these settings,Rimplicitly weights the dynamics of the groups by their number of circulating infections. We find that this weighting can cause delayed detection of outbreak resurgence and premature signalling of epidemic control because it underrepresents the risks from highly transmissible groups. ApplyingE-optimalexperimental design theory, we develop a weighting algorithm to minimise these issues, yielding therisk averse reproduction number E. Using simulations, analytic approaches and real-world COVID-19 data stratified at the city and district level, we show thatEmeaningfully summarises transmission dynamics across groups, balancing bias from the averaging underlyingRwith variance from directly using local group estimates. AnE>1generates timely resurgence signals (upweighting risky groups), while anE<1ensures local outbreaks are under control. We proposeEas an alternative toRfor informing policy and assessing transmissibility at large scales (e.g., state-wide or nationally), whereRis commonly computed but well-mixed or homogeneity assumptions break down.
The burden of visual impairment among Ethiopian adult population: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Fentie Dilnessa , Solomon Yonatan , Menberu Tameru
Published: July 2023

Background

Visual impairment is a public health problem in both developing and developed countries, especially, in developing countries where most visually impaired communities are found. Knowledge of the pooled prevalence of visual impairment among adults is useful in planning, preventive programs and the provision of eye-care services for communities.

Methods

Original observational studies published in English were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Eleven studies with a total sample size of 8,161 study participants were included. PubMed/Medline, HINARI, Google Scholar, Cochrane library, Web of Science, and African Journals Online databases were used to search for published articles. Data were extracted on a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and analyzed using Revman 5.4.1 Software. Meta-analysis of further pooled prevalence estimates using the inverse variance heterogeneity model. The pooled estimate of visual impairment in the current review was estimated using a random-effects model. Forest plots were used to illustrate heterogeneity and to quantify the pooled prevalence of visual impairment. Publication bias was assessed using funnel plots. Visual impairment was defined as a presenting visual acuity of less than 6/18 in the betting-seen eye.

Results

A total of 538 studies were identified from several Databases and digital libraries, of which eleven articles were selected for the final meta-analysis. Significant heterogeneity was observed across studies, suggesting a random-effects model to estimate the pooled prevalence of visual impairment. The prevalence of visual impairment in Ethiopia ranges from 10.3% in Addis Ababa central Ethiopia to 37.58% in the Northern Ethiopia. The pooled prevalence of visual impairment in the current review was 22% (95% CI: 17%–27%; I2 = 97%) using a random-effects model. There was also evidence of symmetry in the funnel plots.

Conclusion

This systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrated a greater burden of visual impairment among Ethiopians in various study populations. Further, intervention strategies are required to reduce the burden of visual impairment and improve quality of life.
Assessment of landscape visual fragility in the Natural Protected Area Sierra de las Nieves (southern Spain)
Authors: Menjíbar-Romero Mario , Remond Ricardo , Martínez-Murillo Juan Francisco
Published: July 2023

Visual fragility is a fundamental analysis of landscape quality, especially for protected natural areas highly valued for their biodiversity, geodiversity and cultural heritage. This is the case of the Sierra de las Nieves Protected Natural Area, located in southern Spain, declared a national park in 2021 and which brings together outstanding natural systems. Its aesthetic character is a key point for both the local population and visitors, so phenomena such as fire pose a territorial threat. This study analyses which are the most fragile landscapes from a visual point of view. Thus, using spatial analysis techniques in GIS, the landscape units were delimited and their visual fragility was evaluated considering a 5x5m DEM of spatial resolution and defining visual basins from geolocated points along the road network, which included paved roads, unpaved roads and official trails of the study area. The results indicate a broad spatial variability in visual fragility depending on the observation point, throughout the natural area, although the landscapes with the highly valued forests of Abies pinsapo Boiss. and Quercus alpestris showed the greatest fragility, especially those located in the central, southern and eastern sectors over 900 m above sea level. These results contribute to managing the areas most exposed to threats with a visual impact, such as fire, which can negatively influence the aesthetic character of the landscapes of the Sierra de las Nieves.