bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current practices of peripheral intravenous catheter fixation in pediatric patients and factors influencing pediatric nurses’ knowledge, attitude and practice concerning peripheral intravenous catheter fixation: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Huang Li-Sha , Huang Yan , Hu Juan
Published: November 2021

Background

Peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) are the most widely used intravenous treatment tools for hospitalized patients. Compared to adult patients, PIVC fixation issues are more likely to occur in pediatric patients and can be more complex. However, research on PIVC fixation in pediatric patients is rare. This study aimed to investigate the pass rate for PIVC fixation in pediatric patients and the factors that influence pediatric nurses’ knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) concerning PIVC fixation.

Methods

An on-site investigation using a self-designed PIVC fixation standard inspection checklist for first insertion and routine maintenance in pediatric patients and a follow-up questionnaire survey investigating pediatric nurses’ KAP concerning PIVC fixation was conducted in a hospital in China between November 1 and December 31, 2019. Data were analyzed using SPSS 21.0.

Results

The pass rate for PIVC fixation in pediatric patients was 52.02%. The pediatric nurses’ knowledge, attitude and practice scores on PIVC fixation were 7.2 ± 1.36, 28.03 ± 2.42, and 31.73 ± 2.94, respectively. The multivariate linear regression analysis results show that department (where nurses are working in) and job position are the factors that influence knowledge score (B > 0, P < 0.05); department is also a factor that influences attitude score (B > 0, P < 0.05); and department and nursing hierarchy are the factors that influence practice score (B > 0, P < 0.05).

Conclusion

PIVC fixation in pediatric patients is affected by multiple factors. The level of pediatric nurses’ KAP on PIVC fixation needs to be improved. It is suggested that guidelines for PIVC fixation in pediatric patients be formulated and that training on PIVC fixation in pediatric patients be provided for pediatric nurses in an effort to raise the pass rate in terms of PIVC fixation in pediatric patients.
Antibody conversion rates to SARS-CoV-2 in saliva from children attending summer schools in Barcelona, Spain
Authors: Dobaño Carlota , Alonso Selena , Fernández de Sevilla Mariona , Vidal Marta , Jiménez Alfons , Pons Tomas Gemma , Jairoce Chenjerai , Melé Casas María , Rubio Rocío , Hernández García María , Ruiz-Olalla Gemma , Girona-Alarcón Mònica , Barrios Diana , Santano Rebeca , Mitchell Robert A. , Puyol Laura , Mayer Leonie , Chi Jordi , Rodrigo Melero Natalia , Carolis Carlo , Garcia-Miquel Aleix , Bonet-Carne Elisenda , Claverol Joana , Cubells Marta , Fortuny Claudia , Fumadó Victoria , Jou Cristina , Muñoz-Almagro Carmen , Izquierdo Luis , Bassat Quique , Gratacós Eduard , Aguilar Ruth , García-García Juan José , Moncunill Gemma , Jordan Iolanda
Published: November 2021

Background

Surveillance tools to estimate viral transmission dynamics in young populations are essential to guide recommendations for school opening and management during viral epidemics. Ideally, sensitive techniques are required to detect low viral load exposures among asymptomatic children. We aimed to estimate SARS-CoV-2 infection rates in children and adult populations in a school-like environment during the initial COVID-19 pandemic waves using an antibody-based field-deployable and non-invasive approach.

Methods

Saliva antibody conversion defined as ≥ 4-fold increase in IgM, IgA, and/or IgG levels to five SARS-CoV-2 antigens including spike and nucleocapsid constructs was evaluated in 1509 children and 396 adults by high-throughput Luminex assays in samples collected weekly in 22 summer schools and 2 pre-schools in 27 venues in Barcelona, Spain, from June 29th to July 31st, 2020.

Results

Saliva antibody conversion between two visits over a 5-week period was 3.22% (49/1518) or 2.36% if accounting for potentially cross-reactive antibodies, six times higher than the cumulative infection rate (0.53%) assessed by weekly saliva RT-PCR screening. IgG conversion was higher in adults (2.94%, 11/374) than children (1.31%, 15/1144) (p=0.035), IgG and IgA levels moderately increased with age, and antibodies were higher in females. Most antibody converters increased both IgG and IgA antibodies but some augmented either IgG or IgA, with a faster decay over time for IgA than IgG. Nucleocapsid rather than spike was the main antigen target. Anti-spike antibodies were significantly higher in individuals not reporting symptoms than symptomatic individuals, suggesting a protective role against COVID-19.

Conclusion

Saliva antibody profiling including three isotypes and multiplexing antigens is a useful and user-friendlier tool for screening pediatric populations to detect low viral load exposures among children, particularly while they are not vaccinated and vulnerable to highly contagious variants, and to recommend public health policies during pandemics.
dEchorate: a calibrated room impulse response dataset for echo-aware signal processing
Authors: Carlo Diego Di , Tandeitnik Pinchas , Foy Cedrić , Bertin Nancy , Deleforge Antoine , Gannot Sharon
Published: November 2021

This paper presents a new dataset of measured multichannel room impulse responses (RIRs) named dEchorate. It includes annotations of early echo timings and 3D positions of microphones, real sources, and image sources under different wall configurations in a cuboid room. These data provide a tool for benchmarking recent methods in echo-aware speech enhancement, room geometry estimation, RIR estimation, acoustic echo retrieval, microphone calibration, echo labeling, and reflector position estimation. The dataset is provided with software utilities to easily access, manipulate, and visualize the data as well as baseline methods for echo-related tasks.
Peroxiredoxin-6 regulates p38-mediated epithelial–mesenchymal transition in HCT116 colon cancer cells
Authors: Chae Unbin , Kim Bokyung , Kim HanSeop , Park Young-Ho , Lee Seung Hwan , Kim Sun-Uk , Lee Dong-Seok
Published: November 2021

Background

Peroxiredoxins (Prxs) are antioxidant enzymes that protect cells from oxidative stress induced by several factors. They regulate several signaling pathways, such as metabolism, immune response, and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis. Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a transforming process that induces the loss of epithelial features of cancer cells and the gain of the mesenchymal phenotype. The EMT promotes metastasis and cancer cell progression mediated by several pathways, such as mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and epigenetic regulators.

Methods

We used Prx6 overexpressed and downregulated HCT116 cells to study the mechanism between Prx6 and colon cancer. The expression of Prx6, GAPDH, Snail, Twist1, E-cadherin, Vimentin, N-cadherin, ERK, p-ERK, p38, p-p38, JNK, and p-JNK were detected by Western blotting. Additionally, an animal study for xenograft assay was conducted to explore the function of Prx6 on tumorigenesis. Cell proliferation and migration were determined by IncuCyte Cell Proliferation and colony formation assays.

Results

We confirmed that the expression of Prx6 and EMT signaling highly occurs in HCT116 compared with that in other colon cancer cell lines. Prx6 regulates the EMT signaling pathway by modulating EMT-related transcriptional repressors and mesenchymal genes in HCT116 colon cancer cells. Under the Prx6-overexpressed condition, HCT116 cells proliferation increased significantly. Moreover, the HCT116 cells proliferation decreased in the siPrx6-treated cells. Eleven days after HCT116 cell injection, Prx6 was overexpressed in the HCT116-injected mice, and the tumor volume increased significantly compared with that of the control mice. Furthermore, Prx6 regulates EMT signaling through p38 phosphorylation in colon cancer cells.

Conclusion

We suggested that Prx6 regulates EMT signaling pathway through p38 phosphorylation modulation in HCT116 colon cancer cells.
Differentiation syndrome-induced Myopericarditis in the induction therapy of acute Promyelocytic leukemia: a case report
Authors: Shenoy Shabari Mangalore , Di Vitantonio Thomas , Plitt Anna , Perez-Johnston Rocio , Gutierrez Jillian , Knorr David A. , Stein Eytan M. , Liu Jennifer E. , Feldman Stephanie
Published: November 2021

Background

All trans retinoic acid (ATRA) has revolutionized the treatment and outcomes of patients with Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia (APL). Induction therapy with ATRA is associated with the rare but potentially fatal complication of differentiation syndrome. While the presentation of this syndrome is varied, myopericarditis as a manifestation of differentiation syndrome is often fatal and rarely reported in literature. We present a case of myopericarditis as the sole manifestation of differentiation syndrome in a patient on induction therapy with ATRA and arsenic trioxide for APL.

Clinical presentation

A 62 year old woman with remote history of breast and uterine cancer presented to the hospital for expedited work up of easy bruising and expanding hematomas. She was diagnosed with APL with peripheral blood and bone marrow cytogenetics revealing t (15;17) translocation and initiated on induction therapy with ATRA and ATO as well as steroids for differentiation syndrome prophylaxis. Eighteen days into induction therapy, patient developed pleuritic chest pain, elevated cardiac biomarkers, ECG changes suggestive of pericarditis. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging showed patchy multifocal sub-epicardial late gadolinium enhancement and elevated T2 signal consistent with acute myopericarditis. Given the timing of symptom onset and lack of other identifiable cause, patient was diagnosed with differentiation syndrome- induced myopericarditis and promptly initiated on high dose steroids with rapid improvement in symptoms, ECG, and cardiac biomarkers. Patient successfully resumed dose-reduced ATRA and arsenic trioxide without complication.

Conclusion

Myopericarditis can be the sole manifestation of differentiation syndrome and the presentation may be atypical owing to the use of prophylactic steroids as illustrated in our patient’s case. A high index of suspicion for differentiation syndrome, multimodality imaging, and prompt input from multidisciplinary providers is crucial for making the timely diagnosis and initiating life-saving treatment.
Relationships of affective temperament ratings to diagnosis and morbidity measures in major affective disorders
Authors: Miola Alessandro , Baldessarini Ross J. , Pinna Marco , Tondo Leonardo
Published: November 2021

Background

Ratings of affective temperament types show promise in helping to differentiate diagnostic groups among major affective disorders as well as to predict associations with important aspects of morbidity including suicidal risk.

Methods

The Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, Paris, and San Diego auto-rating (TEMPS-A) questionnaire was completed by 858 unselected, consecutive, consenting adults diagnosed with a DSM-5 major affective disorder (173 bipolar-1 [BD-1]), 250 BD-2, 435 major depressive disorder [MDD]) to score for anxious (anx), cyclothymic (cyc), dysthymic (dys), hyperthymic (hyp), and irritable (irr) affective temperaments. We tested their associations with diagnosis and selected clinical factors, including diagnosis, depression scores, suicidal ideation or acts, substance abuse, episodes/year, and %-time ill.

Results

Scores for cyc ranked: BD-2 > BD-1 > MDD; anx ranked: MDD > BD-2 > BD-1; irr was greater in BD than MDD; dys was greater in MDD than BD; hyp did not differ by diagnosis. We confirmed associations of suicidal risk with higher scores of all temperament types except lower hyp scores. Higher cyc and irr scores and lower anx scores were associated with substance abuse. Several scores were higher with measures of greater affective morbidity: cyc with current depression, episodes/year, and %-time ill; irr with more episodes and depressions/year and greater %-time manic. Some of these associations were selective for BD or MDD.

Conclusions

The findings indicate that TEMPS-A ratings of affective temperament types can contribute to differential diagnoses and predict types and amounts of affective morbidity, as well as detecting suicidal risks.
Performance Analysis of Routing Protocols for Mobile Ad Hoc Networks in Urban Scenarios
Authors:   Hung Yen University of Technology and Education, Hungyen, Vietnam, Anh Dang Van , Tan Nguyen Duy , Truong Cong-Doan , Hau Nguyen Van , Quy Vu Khanh
Published: November 2021

Device-to-Device (D2D) is one of the emerging technologies expected to have significant contributions to the future of the Internet. The combination of personal mobile devices and D2D communications forms the Mobile Ad-hoc Network architecture, called MANETs. Nowadays, due to the flexibility and simplicity of establishing data transmission, MANETs are applied in various areas such as healthcare, intelligent transportation systems, tactical, smart retail, and smart agriculture. In practice, due to the mobility of network nodes, the network structure often changes, and the performance of MANETs is relatively low. Routing is one of the significant challenges of MANETs. In this study, we perform a comprehensive analysis of the traditional routing protocols for MANETs. Based on the analysis results, we obtained a common framework for designing routing protocols for MANETs. To visualize the efficiencies of protocols under variable network traffic, we performed a simulation to compare the performance of typical protocols, including AODV, DSR, and OLSR. The obtained results again demonstrated that on-demand-based routing protocols are suitable for dynamic topology networks. We hope that this work will be an essential guide in researching and proposing energy-saving, secure, and QoS routing protocols for MANETs in the future.
Performance Analysis of 77 GHz mmWave Radar Based Object Behavior
Authors:   Department of Electrical Engineering Universitas Indonesia, Depok 16424, Indonesia, Darlis Arsyad R. , Ibrahim Nur , Kusumoputro Benyamin
Published: November 2021

In this paper, performance analysis of the object behavior using mmwave radar is proposed. The AWR1642 mmwave radar with frequency 77 GHz that has advantages over the other sensors, especially in penetrate materials and high accuracy, is utilized in this research. The paper presents an analysis of object behavior in the experimental method in the indoor environment. The radar will detect an object by sending a chirp signal and receiving it again after it is reflected. The mmwave radar shows the performances in the distance, number of objects, radiation pattern, and velocity. The measurement results show that the object can be detected up to 3 m in the indoor environment with a high level of accuracy and stability. Then, the radar can detect multiple objects in the Line-of-Sight (LOS) condition, where the received power level would be attenuated by about 10 dB after penetrating the first object. The research results showed the beamwidth of the radar is 140 degrees with a directional radiation pattern from 20 degrees to 160 degrees. In this system, radar has been able to identify the velocity of the object accurately. It appears that increasing the speed will affect the Central Processing Unit (CPU) usage on the radar too. The proposed system showed excellent performance in object behavior analysis, and it can be utilized in Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) applications.
Hacia una antropología negativa benjaminiana
Authors: Hincapié García Alexánder , Piñeres Sus Juan David
Published: November 2021

Este trabajo establece una relación crítica entre los conceptos de memoria y experiencia en la obra de Walter Benjamin, como paso previo para exponer la filosofía negativa de la historia del mismo autor –concebida en términos de rememoración y redención–. Este referente conceptual es la base para una antropología negativa benjaminiana que rechaza la universalidad antropológica formal y el esfuerzo por imponer un ideal de ser humano que debe alcanzarse por todos los hombres.
La Educación para la Paz en tiempos de la Covid-19: repensar otras lógicas desde la imaginación, la fantasía, la creatividad y la utopía
Authors: Herrero Rico Sofía
Published: November 2021

Este artículo pretende reflexionar sobre los retos de la educación para la paz en la situación de la pandemia global de la Covid-19 desde una mirada positiva, entendida como una nueva oportunidad para que la educación plantee enseñar a hacer las paces desde nuestra cotidianidad; y, de este modo, la humanidad pueda forjar un futuro más pacífico. En este quehacer, se revalorizará el uso de la imaginación, la fantasía y la creatividad como recursos educativos (Rodari 1976, 1995; Lederach 2007; Herrero y Vázquez 2018; Herrero 2019; García-González 2019). Asimismo, se propone la utopía como ese horizonte desconocido, todavía por llegar, que nos mostrará, ante tantas dudas e incertidumbres, esos posibles escenarios que nos motiven a seguir trabajando por las culturas de paz. Esta reflexión parte del enfoque Reconstructivo-Empoderador de Educación para la Paz que vengo proponiendo en mis investigaciones como miembro del Instituto Interuniversitario de Desarrollo Social y Paz.
A forças conservadoras da vida como possibilidade de enfrentamento à dialética opressão/insurgência em face a cultura de paz
Authors: Helfemsteller Coelho Carla Jeane , Silva Oliveira Liziane Paixão
Published: November 2021

This paper is concerned with unhoming secure ideas and practices of knowledge creation, through non-hierarchical, boundary-crossing forms of pedagogy, in order to attend to how processes of enquiry matter, whenever we engage in the struggle to address injustice, and not only for humans. Entrenched assumptions related to age, phase, or education setting, are brought into question, to blur distinctions such as for/with; child/adult; playful/serious and learning/ teaching/research and to explore further possibilities for creative enquiry. Practices of enquiry are theorised through the movement of Philosophy for/ with Children (Haynes, 2018), its community of enquiry pedagogy, (Gregory & Laverty, 2017) and philosophy with picturebooks (Haynes & Murris, 2012, 2016; Murris & Haynes, 2018). What more can happen, when vibrant matter is taken into account, is a driving question. “Thing-power” (Bennett, 2010) and “thinking-through-making” (Ingold, 2013) are activated as part of this exploration. Through accounts of research events from two international projects, the paper draws attention to artists Viviane Schwartz and Paula Rego, their picturebook artworks, and their artistic processes. Each example shows how the artists, artworks and processes came into play through the events, provoking different forms of experimentation. Through exemplification, showing rather than telling, further possibilities for creative enquiry might be inspired.
Learning Markov Models Via Low-Rank Optimization
Authors: Zhu Ziwei , Li Xudong , Wang Mengdi , Zhang Anru
Published: November 2021

Taming high-dimensional Markov models

In “Learning Markov models via low-rank optimization”, Z. Zhu, X. Li, M. Wang, and A. Zhang focus on learning a high-dimensional Markov model with low-dimensional latent structure from a single trajectory of states. To overcome the curse of high dimensions, the authors propose to equip the standard MLE (maximum-likelihood estimation) with either nuclear norm regularization or rank constraint. They show that both approaches can estimate the full transition matrix accurately using a trajectory of length that is merely proportional to the number of states. To solve the rank-constrained MLE, which is a nonconvex problem, the authors develop a new DC (difference) programming algorithm. Finally, they apply the proposed methods to analyze taxi trips on the Manhattan island and partition the island based on the destination preference of customers; this partition can help balance supply and demand of taxi service and optimize the allocation of traffic resources.
Semiotic Analysis of Moral Messages in Animated Film Raya and The Last Dragon
Authors: Tawakkal Afifah Ibna Fatina , Monix Agnes Tasya , Watani Emirson
Published: November 2021

Raya and The Last Dragon is the latest computer-animated film from Walt Disney Pictures and Walt Disney Animation Studio. This animated film, directed by Don Hall and Carlos Lopez, tells the story of the adventures of a woman named Raya in saving the world. This journal article aims to analyze and describe the moral messages contained in the film Raya and The Last Dragon. This research uses qualitative methods, with Roland Barthes semiotics analysis approach, so that ultimately obtained the results of research on what moral messages contained in every dialogue spoken by each character such as moral messages about friendship, cooperation, responsibility, leadership, courage, unity, and most often appears in this film is the power of trust in each other to create unity without division.
Hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia: an overview from an ear, nose and throat perspective
Authors: Green Richard J , Swift Andrew C
Published: November 2021

Patients with hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia can present with a multitude of symptoms caused by telangiectasia and arteriovenous malformations in the nose, brain, gastrointestinal tract, liver and spinal cord. Clinicians should be aware of the potential diagnosis of hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia and how to manage these patients both in the acute and chronic setting. Identifying these patients and optimising their management can help reverse the reduced life expectancy back to that of the normal population.

The management of these patients is complex and often requires a multidisciplinary approach, with difficult discussions to be had around screening for arteriovenous malformations and genetic testing. The stepwise management ladder can be used in both the medical and surgical strategies; there are multiple pharmacological and surgical options available, all with their own side effects and risks.

Patient education is key to help informed decision making. This article outlines the clinical characteristics of the disease and management options available.
Disease-modifying therapies and symptomatic management for primary biliary cholangitis
Authors: Patel Roshni , Portone Greta , Lambert Joshua A , Mak Sau , Alrubaiy Laith
Published: November 2021

Primary biliary cholangitis is a chronic condition characterised by autoimmune destruction of intralobular bile ducts. Publications have shown widespread gaps in the care of patients with primary biliary cholangitis. This article reviews the literature regarding currently licensed first- and second-line therapies and evaluates therapeutic options for symptomatic management of primary biliary cholangitis.

Ursodeoxycholic acid is recommended for all patients with primary biliary cholangitis, with obeticholic acid available as second-line therapy, both having demonstrated safety and efficacy. Potential disease-modifying therapies, such as fibrates and budesonide, require further investigation before licensing. Cholestyramine is first-line therapy for pruritus, albeit with limited evidence and common side-effects. There is no licensed therapy for primary biliary cholangitis-related fatigue; treating underlying causes where applicable is recommended.

Disease-modifying and symptomatic therapies must be considered in tandem when managing patients with primary biliary cholangitis. Emerging therapies show initial promise but further randomised trials with long-term follow up are required to evaluate their efficacy as single or combination therapies.
Fan-beam projection for modulation classification in optical wireless communication systems
Authors: Mortada Bidaa , El-Shafai Walid , Nasr Mohamed Safie El-Din , Zahran O. , M. El-Rabaie El-Sayed , Abd El-Samie Fathi E.
Published: November 2021

The focus of most research nowadays in the field of communication technology is on increasing bandwidth in wireless connectivity. Adaptive modulation can be used to enhance efficiency of communication systems. Adaptive modulation requires modulation format identification (MFI) at the receiver side to avoid the overhead required to determine the modulation type at the receiver. We present an MFI algorithm based on fan-beam projection to generate patterns from the constellation diagrams that are more discriminative. The constellation diagrams are obtained as images for eight different modulation formats (2/4/8/16 - PSK and 8/16/32/64 - QAM). Different classifiers such as AlexNet, VGG16, and VGG19 are studied and compared for the task of MFI. Evaluation of this proposed algorithm is performed by estimating the classification accuracy at different optical signal-to-noise ratios (OSNRs) ranging from 5 to 30 dB. The simulation results reveal that the proposed algorithm succeeds in identifying the wireless optical modulation format blindly with a classification accuracy up to 100% even at low OSNR values less than 8 dB compared with the related work.
Optical fiber temperature sensor based on the upconversion fluorescence intensity ratio of NaYF4:Er3+ excited by a 1525-nm laser
Authors: Huang Yantang , Peng Senlin , Liu Jinping , Feng Zhuohong , Huang Wenqi , Liao Tingdi
Published: November 2021

Remote and accurate temperature measurements in severe environments are of great importance. A 1525-nm wavelength located in the C band of optical fiber communication is used as a pumping light source for

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. The proposed optical fiber temperature sensor indicates good hysteresis and repeatability and has potential applications in resisting electromagnetic interference and remote temperature sensing.
Pictorial interpretation of quantum-enhanced measurements with wave functions
Authors: Sano Yuki , Ozeki Yasuyuki
Published: November 2021

Quantum-enhanced measurements using squeezed states of light provide sensitivities beyond the shot noise limit. Although the mechanism of quantum enhancement is well described by quantum mechanics, it is difficult to intuitively understand how squeezed states are exploited. In this paper, we present a pictorial interpretation of quantum-enhanced measurements using wave functions, which provides intuitive pictures of squeezed states in various experimental systems.
Tunable ultra-broadband terahertz perfect absorber based on vanadium oxide metamaterial
Authors: Li Yulian , Gao Wei , Guo Li , Chen Zihao , Li Changjian , Zhang Haiming , Jiao Jiajia , An Bowen
Published: November 2021

A dynamically tunable ultra-broadband terahertz perfect metamaterial absorber based on vanadium oxide (VO2) is proposed and numerically demonstrated. The excellent absorption bandwidth of greater than 90% absorptance is as wide as 5.10 THz from 3.03 to 8.13 THz under normal incidence. By changing the conductivity of VO2 from 200 S/m to 2×105 S/m, the absorption intensity can be dynamically tuned from 1.47% to 100%. The ultrabroad bandwidth and flexibility are dramatically improved compared with previously reported VO2 based absorbers. The physical mechanism of the ultra-wideband absorption is discussed based on the interference cancellation, impedance matching theory, and field distributions. The influences of structure parameters on perfect absorption are also discussed. In addition, the absorber has the advantages of insensitivity to polarization and incident angle. Such a tunable ultra-broadband absorber may have promising potential in the applications of modulating, cloaking, switching, and imaging technology.
Injection-seeded Q-switched laser based on a double corner cube retroreflector ring cavity
Authors: Zhang Zhenguo , Ju Youlun
Published: November 2021

An injection-seeded Q-switched Er:YAG laser with a double-corner-cube-retroreflector (DCCR) ring cavity has been demonstrated for the first time. The output coupling tuning range of the DCCR ring cavity was calculated to be 2.4% ∼ 97.5%. By tuning the output coupling, the injection-seeded Q-switched Er:YAG laser outputs a 1645 nm single-frequency laser pulse with optimum efficiency at pump powers of 23.2, 24.2, 25.2, and 26.2 W. The corresponding measured output coupling ratios are 1.6, 2.4, 2.4, and 2.4%, respectively. The pulse repetition rate is 143 Hz, and the pulse width varies from 100 ns to 200 ns as the pump power changes. In designing this laser, a new cavity length adjustment configuration of a double optical wedge was employed, achieving a maximum adjustment length of ΔL = 3.62 μm; the procedures for injecting the seed laser and detecting the resonance signal were analyzed, proving the feasibility of applying a DCCR ring cavity to an injection-seeded Q-switched laser.
Quantum key distribution integrating with ultra-high-power classical optical communications based on ultra-low-loss fiber
Authors: Geng Jia-Qi , Fan-Yuan Guan-Jie , Wang Shuang , Zhang Qi-Fa , Chen Wei , Yin Zhen-Qiang , He De-Yong , Guo Guang-Can , Han Zheng-Fu
Published: November 2021

The demand for the integration of quantum key distribution (QKD) and classical optical communication in the same optical fiber medium greatly increases as fiber resources and the flexibility of practical applications are taken into consideration. To satisfy the needs of the mass deployment of ultra-high power required for classical optical networks integrating QKD, we implement the discrete variable quantum key distribution (DV-QKD) under up to 25 dBm launch power from classical channels over 75 km on an ultra-low-loss (ULL) fiber by combining a finite-key security analysis method with the noise model of classical signals. To the best of our knowledge, this is the highest power launched by classical signals on the coexistence of DV-QKD and classical communication. The results exhibit the feasibility and tolerance of our QKD system for use in ultra-high-power classical communications.
Mono-cycle terahertz pulses from intersubband shift currents in asymmetric semiconductor quantum wells
Authors: Runge Matthias , Kang Taehee , Biermann Klaus , Reimann Klaus , Woerner Michael , Elsaesser Thomas
Published: November 2021

Both second-order frequency mixing in nonlinear optical media and photoconductive antennas have provided terahertz (THz) transients in a wide parameter range. Here, we demonstrate a novel type of ultrafast nonlinear optical response in asymmetric semiconductor quantum wells, originating from electron shift currents. Resonant intersubband excitation by a femtosecond mid-infrared pulse induces a transient spatial shift of electronic charge, which leads to the emission of a mono-cycle THz pulse. This mechanism is characterized and separated from conventional difference frequency mixing by nonlinear two-dimensional THz spectroscopy. The amplitude of the THz electric field emitted by the shift current reaches several percent of the mid-infrared driving field, significantly higher than in difference frequency mixing. Changes in time structure of the THz pulse upon nonlinear saturation of intersubband absorption allow for generating tailored THz transients. The present concept can be implemented in highly compact devices driven by mid-infrared pulses at megahertz repetition rates to provide versatile THz pulses for spectroscopy and optoelectronics.
Elastic energy savings and active energy cost in a simple model of running
Authors: Schroeder Ryan T. , Kuo Arthur D.
Published: November 2021

The energetic economy of running benefits from tendon and other tissues that store and return elastic energy, thus saving muscles from costly mechanical work. The classic “Spring-mass” computational model successfully explains the forces, displacements and mechanical power of running, as the outcome of dynamical interactions between the body center of mass and a purely elastic spring for the leg. However, the Spring-mass model does not include active muscles and cannot explain the metabolic energy cost of running, whether on level ground or on a slope. Here we add explicit actuation and dissipation to the Spring-mass model, and show how they explain substantial active (and thus costly) work during human running, and much of the associated energetic cost. Dissipation is modeled as modest energy losses (5% of total mechanical energy for running at 3 m s-1) from hysteresis and foot-ground collisions, that must be restored by active work each step. Even with substantial elastic energy return (59% of positive work, comparable to empirical observations), the active work could account for most of the metabolic cost of human running (about 68%, assuming human-like muscle efficiency). We also introduce a previously unappreciated energetic cost for rapid production of force, that helps explain the relatively smooth ground reaction forces of running, and why muscles might also actively perform negative work. With both work and rapid force costs, the model reproduces the energetics of human running at a range of speeds on level ground and on slopes. Although elastic return is key to energy savings, there are still losses that require restorative muscle work, which can cost substantial energy during running.
Taming active transposons at Drosophila telomeres: The interconnection between HipHop’s roles in capping and transcriptional silencing
Authors: Cui Min , Bai Yaofu , Li Kaili , Rong Yikang S.
Published: November 2021

Drosophila chromosomes are elongated by retrotransposon attachment, a process poorly understood. Here we characterized a mutation affecting the HipHop telomere-capping protein. In mutant ovaries and the embryos that they produce, telomere retrotransposons are activated and transposon RNP accumulates. Genetic results are consistent with that this hiphop mutation weakens the efficacy of HP1-mediated silencing while leaving piRNA-based mechanisms largely intact. Remarkably, mutant females display normal fecundity suggesting that telomere de-silencing is compatible with germline development. Moreover, unlike prior mutants with overactive telomeres, the hiphop stock does not over-accumulate transposons for hundreds of generations. This is likely due to the loss of HipHop’s abilities both to silence transcription and to recruit transposons to telomeres in the mutant. Furthermore, embryos produced by mutant mothers experience a checkpoint activation, and a further loss of maternal HipHop leads to end-to-end fusion and embryonic arrest. Telomeric retroelements fulfill an essential function yet maintain a potentially conflicting relationship with their Drosophila host. Our study thus showcases a possible intermediate in this arm race in which the host is adapting to over-activated transposons while maintaining genome stability. Our results suggest that the collapse of such a relationship might only occur when the selfish element acquires the ability to target non-telomeric regions of the genome. HipHop is likely part of this machinery restricting the elements to the gene-poor region of telomeres. Lastly, our hiphop mutation behaves as a recessive suppressor of PEV that is mediated by centric heterochromatin, suggesting its broader effect on chromatin not limited to telomeres.
Presenting symptoms of leprosy at diagnosis: Clinical evidence from a cross-sectional, population-based study
Authors: Chen Xiaohua , Zha Shun , Shui Tie-Jun
Published: November 2021

Background

Leprosy is associated with different dermatologic and neurologic manifestations within a wide clinical spectrum, causing a great diagnostic challenge. Therefore, we aimed to examine associations between common presenting symptoms of leprosy and stage at diagnosis.

Methodology/Principal findings

In this cross-sectional study, we analyzed population-level data from the Leprosy Management Information System (LEPMIS) in Yunnan, China, from 2010–2020 and enrolled patients with newly detected leprosy. The data of 2125 newly detected leprosy patients, with 5000 symptoms, were analyzed. Numbness (828/5000, 16.56%), erythema (802/5000, 16.04%), Painless nor pruritic skin lesions (651/5000, 13.02%), eyebrow hair loss (467/5000, 9.34%), and tubercles (442/5000, 8.84%) were common symptoms of leprosy. The symptoms related to skin (1935/2533, 76.39%) and leprosy reaction (279/297, 93.94%) were mainly existed in MB group. While the symptoms related to disability (263/316, 83.49%), clinical feature (38/56, 69.09%), and facial features (19/23, 82.61%) were predominantly presented in delayed diagnostic group. Despite low proportions, formic sensation (99/5000, 1.98%), pain (92/5000, 1.84%), pruritus (56/5000, 1.12%), finger contracture (109/5000, 2.18%), muscle atrophy (71/5000, 1.42%), and motor dysfunction (18/5000, 0.36%) were reported during the diagnosis of leprosy. The proportions of skin, skin and nerve, and nerve symptoms as initial symptoms were 33.25%, 44.95%, and 21.80% and as only symptoms were 28.66%, 57.81%, and 13.91%, respectively. In those with physical disability, nerve symptoms were the most frequent symptoms (57.65% and 65.36% for the initial and only symptoms, respectively) compared with skin and skin and nerve symptoms. In the delayed diagnosis group, nerve symptoms were the most frequent symptoms (15.73% and 17.25%) and were associated with the longest diagnostic intervals (mean±SD: 38.88±46.02 and 40.35±49.36 months for initial and only symptoms, respectively) when compared with skin and skin and nerve symptoms.

Conclusions

Understanding the nature of presenting symptoms and developing symptom awareness campaigns would improve the level of leprosy awareness in the community. As nerve symptoms were related to a higher proportion of physical disability and longer diagnosis interval, we should increase awareness about nerve symptoms. Individuals with nerve symptoms should be considered the target group. Neurology outpatient visits may provide potential screening opportunities, and holding focused training for specialized neurology medical staff would enhance the capacity of the health system to recognize leprosy early.
Utilizing digital pathology to quantify stromal caveolin-1 expression in malignant and benign ovarian tumors: Associations with clinicopathological parameters and clinical outcomes
Authors: Saeed-Vafa Daryoush , Marchion Douglas C. , McCarthy Susan M. , Hakam Ardeshir , Lopez Alexis , Wenham Robert M. , Apte Sachin M. , Chen Dung-Tsa , Magliocco Anthony M. , Lancaster Johnathan M. , Reid Brett M. , Permuth Jennifer B.
Published: November 2021

Loss of stromal caveolin-1 (Cav-1) is a biomarker of a cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) phenotype and is related to progression, metastasis, and poor outcomes in several cancers. The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical significance of Cav-1 expression in invasive epithelial ovarian cancer (OvCa). Epithelial and stromal Cav-1 expression were quantified in serous OvCa and benign ovarian tissue in two, independent cohorts–one quantified expression using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and the other using multiplex immunofluorescence (IF) with digital image analysis designed to target CAF-specific expression. Cav-1 expression was significantly downregulated in OvCa stroma compared to non-neoplastic stroma using both the IHC (p = 0.002) and IF (p = 1.8x10-13) assays. OvCa stroma showed Cav-1 downregulation compared to tumor epithelium with IHC (p = 1.2x10-24). Conversely, Cav-1 expression was higher in OvCa stroma compared to tumor epithelium with IF (p = 0.002). There was moderate correlation between IHC and IF methods for stromal Cav-1 expression (r2 = 0.69, p = 0.006) whereas there was no correlation for epithelial expression (r2 = 0.006, p = 0.98). Irrespective of the staining assay, neither response to therapy or overall survival correlated with the expression level of Cav-1 in the stroma or tumor epithelium. Our findings demonstrate a loss of stromal Cav-1 expression in ovarian serous carcinomas. Studies are needed to replicate these findings and explore therapeutic implications, particularly for immunotherapy response.
Changes to telehealth practices in primary care in New Brunswick (Canada): A comparative study pre and during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Johnson Claire , Dupuis Jérémie B. , Goguen Pierre , Grenier Gabrielle
Published: November 2021

Background

During the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth technologies were used in the primary health care setting in New Brunswick as a means to continue providing care to patients while following public health guidelines. This study aimed to measure these changes and examine if they improved timely access to primary care. A secondary goal was to identify which telehealth technologies were deemed sustainable by primary care providers.

Methods

This was a comparative study on the use of telehealth technology before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Between April 2020 and November 2020, 114 active primary care providers (family physicians or nurse practitioners) responded to the online survey.

Results

The findings illustrated an increase in the use of telehealth technologies. The use of phone consultations increased by 122%, from 43.9% pre-pandemic to 97.6% during the pandemic (p < 0.001). The use of virtual consultation (19.3% pre-pandemic vs. 41.2% during the pandemic, p < 0.001), emails and texts also increased during the pandemic. Whereas the more structural organizational tools (electronic medical charts and reservation systems) remained stable. However, those changes did not coincide with a significant improvement to timely access to care during the pandemic. Many participants (40.1%) wanted to keep phone consultations, and 21.9% of participants wanted to keep virtual consultations as part of their long-term practice.

Interpretation

The observed increase in the use of telehealth technologies may be sustainable, but it has not significantly improved timely access to primary care in New Brunswick.
Effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal inoculation on the growth, photosynthesis and antioxidant enzymatic activity of Euonymus maackii Rupr. under gradient water deficit levels
Authors: Wu Na , Li Zhen , Meng Sen , Wu Fei
Published: November 2021

The role of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungus (Rhizophagus intraradices) in the amelioration of the water deficit-mediated negative influence on the growth, photosynthesis, and antioxidant system in Euonymus maackii Rupr. was examined. E. maackii seedlings were subjected to 5 water deficit levels, soil water contents of 20%, 40%, 60%, 80% and 100% field capacity (FC), and 2 inoculation treatments, with and without AM inoculation. The water deficit increasingly limited the seedling height, biomass accumulation in shoots and roots, chlorophyll content, gas exchange and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters with an increasing water deficit level. In addition, water deficit stimulated the activities of antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT), in both shoots and roots, except under 20% FC conditions. E. maackii seedlings under all water deficit conditions formed symbiosis well with AM fungi, which significantly ameliorated the drought-mediated negative effect, especially under 40% and 60% FC conditions. Under 40% to 80% FC conditions, AM formation improved seedling growth and photosynthesis by significantly enhancing the biomass accumulation, chlorophyll content and assimilation. Mycorrhizal seedlings showed better tolerance and less sensitivity to a water deficit, reflected in the lower SOD activities of shoots and roots and CAT activity of shoots under 40% and 60% FC conditions. Downregulation of the antioxidant system in mycorrhizal seedlings suggested better maintenance of redox homeostasis and protection of metabolism, including biomass accumulation and assimilation. All the results advocated the positive role of R. intraradices inoculation in E. maackii against a water deficit, especially under 40% FC, which suggested the distinct AM performance in drought tolerance and the potential role of the combination of E. maackii-AM fungi in ecological restoration in arid regions.
Modeling SARS-CoV-2 propagation using rat coronavirus-associated shedding and transmission
Authors: Zeiss Caroline J. , Asher Jennifer L. , Vander Wyk Brent , Allore Heather G. , Compton Susan R.
Published: November 2021

At present, global immunity to SARS-CoV-2 resides within a heterogeneous combination of susceptible, naturally infected and vaccinated individuals. The extent to which viral shedding and transmission occurs on re-exposure to SARS-CoV-2 is an important determinant of the rate at which COVID-19 achieves endemic stability. We used Sialodacryoadenitis Virus (SDAV) in rats to model the extent to which immune protection afforded by prior natural infection via high risk (inoculation; direct contact) or low risk (fomite) exposure, or by vaccination, influenced viral shedding and transmission on re-exposure. On initial infection, we confirmed that amount, duration and consistency of viral shedding, and seroconversion rates were correlated with exposure risk. Animals were reinfected after 3.7–5.5 months using the same exposure paradigm. 59% of seropositive animals shed virus, although at lower amounts. Previously exposed seropositive reinfected animals were able to transmit virus to 25% of naive recipient rats after 24-hour exposure by direct contact. Rats vaccinated intranasally with a related virus (Parker’s Rat Coronavirus) were able to transmit SDAV to only 4.7% of naive animals after a 7-day direct contact exposure, despite comparable viral shedding. Cycle threshold values associated with transmission in both groups ranged from 29–36 cycles. Observed shedding was not a prerequisite for transmission. Results indicate that low-level shedding in both naturally infected and vaccinated seropositive animals can propagate infection in susceptible individuals. Extrapolated to COVID-19, our results suggest that continued propagation of SARS-CoV-2 by seropositive previously infected or vaccinated individuals is possible.