bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Host phylogeny and environment shape the diversity of salamander skin bacterial communities
Authors: Ramírez-Barahona S. , González-Serrano F. M. , Martínez-Ugalde E. , Soto-Pozos A. , Parra-Olea G. , Rebollar E. A.
Published: October 2023

The composition and diversity of animal-associated microbial communities are shaped by multiple ecological and evolutionary processes acting at different spatial and temporal scales. Skin microbiomes are thought to be strongly influenced by the environment due to the direct interaction of the host’s skin with the external media. As expected, the diversity of amphibian skin microbiomes is shaped by climate and host sampling habitats, whereas phylogenetic effects appear to be weak. However, the relative strength of phylogenetic and environmental effects on salamander skin microbiomes remains poorly understood. Here, we analysed sequence data from 1164 adult salamanders of 44 species to characterise and compare the diversity and composition of skin bacteria. We assessed the relative contribution of climate, host sampling habitat, and host phylogeny to the observed patterns of bacterial diversity. We found that bacterial alpha diversity was mainly associated with host sampling habitat and climate, but that bacterial beta diversity was more strongly associated with host taxonomy and phylogeny. This phylogenetic effect predominantly occurred at intermediate levels of host divergence (0–50 Mya). Our results support the importance of environmental factors shaping the diversity of salamander skin microbiota, but also support host phylogenetic history as a major factor shaping these bacterial communities.
Antiproliferative and apoptotic activities of tomato bioactive metabolite on MDA-MB-435 cell line: in silico molecular modeling and molecular dynamics investigation
Authors: Elkhawas Yasmin A. , Ewida Menna A. , Ewida Heba A. , Gonaid Mariam , Khalil Noha
Published: October 2023

Background

As an external organ, the skin protects the whole body against hazardous external influences. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is one of these influences which in high amount can cause DNA damage, and even skin cancer. Hence, it is important to promote skin protection with commercially available remedies, and with a healthy diet. Certain vegetables when applied topically or consumed orally may help minimize the effect of UV radiation. The study's goal is to isolate lycopene from tomatoes and evaluate its influence on cell cycle and viability in melanoma cell lines. The cell cycle was examined using flow cytometry, and apoptotic cells were identified using annexin/propidium iodide (PI) markers. Moreover, a molecular modeling and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation were performed to evaluate the stability and dynamics behavior of the compound.

Results

The obtained results revealed that lycopene caused apoptosis and stopped the cell cycle in human skin carcinoma MDA-MB-435 cells with an IC50 value of 12.14 ± 3.37 uM. It demonstrated a noteworthy ability to inhibit cell growth and improve apoptosis. The effect was dose dependent leading to suppression of cell cycle progression in the G2/M phase. In silico molecular docking investigation confirmed these findings, where the tested compound showed hydrophobic binding with key amino acids. ADME/TOPKAT study along with the Swiss ADME online tool revealed that lycopene exhibits good drug-like properties.

Conclusion

According to our results, lycopene may be effective in treating human skin carcinoma.
Impact of Padma Bridge on transportation system: a case study for Barisal Division
Authors: Sourav Md. Mohaimenul Islam , Afnanin Sayma , Islam Mohammed Russedul
Published: October 2023

This study aims to identify Padma Bridge’s impact on Barisal Division’s transportation system. Through an extensive literature analysis, a total of 19 impact factors have been identified. A questionnaire was formed to evaluate public perception by rating these 19 factors using a Likert scale from 1 (very poor) to 5 (very good). A total of 614 responses were collected from the users of different transportation modes like buses, passenger ferries, and aeroplanes. A structural equation (SE) model was developed to evaluate the impact of the Padma Bridge on the transportation system. The relative importance index (RII) technique was also used to verify the SE model by establishing the weights given to each factor. According to the SEM path coefficient value, the impact factors are divided into three zones: red, yellow, and green, based on their significance. Among 19 factors, nine are in the red zone, three are in the yellow zone, and seven factors fall into the green zone. Due to the Padma Bridge, there has been a radical change in the bus sector. Destinations are being reached in less time, new buses are connected, daily bus trips have increased, and goods are transported in less time. On the contrary, passenger ferries are experiencing a sharp decline in passenger numbers, daily trips are reducing, and staff members are losing their jobs. The outcome of this study will help the authorities and stakeholders to establish a sustainable transportation system in Barisal Division.
Chatbot-supported psychoeducation in adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: randomised controlled trial
Authors: Selaskowski Benjamin , Reiland Meike , Schulze Marcel , Aslan Behrem , Kannen Kyra , Wiebe Annika , Wallbaum Torben , Boll Susanne , Lux Silke , Philipsen Alexandra , Braun Niclas
Published: October 2023

Background

Although psychoeducation is generally recommended for the treatment of adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), participation in clinical psychoeducation groups is impeded by waiting times and the constrained number of patients who can simultaneously attend a group. Digital psychoeducation attempts are promising, but the rapidly expanding number of apps lack evidence and are mostly limited to only a few implemented interactive elements.

Aims

To determine the potential of digital, self-guided psychoeducation for adult ADHD, a newly developed interactive chatbot was compared with a previously validated, conventional psychoeducation app.

Method

Forty adults with ADHD were randomised, of whom 17 participants in each group completed self-guided psychoeducation based on either a chatbot or conventional psychoeducation app between October 2020 and July 2021. ADHD core symptoms were assessed before and after the 3-week interventions, using both the blinded observer-rated Integrated Diagnosis of ADHD in Adulthood interview and the self-rated ADHD Self-Assessment Scale (ADHS-SB).

Results

Observer- and patient-rated ADHD symptoms were significantly reduced from pre- to post-intervention (observer-rated: mean difference −6.18, 95% CI −8.06 to −4.29; patient-rated: mean difference −2.82, 95% CI −4.98 to −0.67). However, there were no group × intervention interaction effects that would indicate a stronger therapeutic benefit of one of the interventions. Likewise, administered psychoeducational knowledge quizzes did not show differences between the groups. No adverse events were reported.

Conclusions

Self-guided psychoeducation based on a chatbot or a conventional app appears similarly effective and safe for improving ADHD core symptoms. Future research should compare additional control interventions and examine patient-related outcomes and usability preferences in detail.
Anxiety and Depression in Metastatic Cancer: A Critical Review of Negative Impacts on Advance Care Planning and End-of-Life Decision Making With Practical Recommendations
Authors: Arch Joanna J. , Bright Emma E. , Finkelstein Lauren B. , Fink Regina M. , Mitchell Jill L. , Andorsky David J. , Kutner Jean S.
Published: October 2023

PURPOSE

Providers treating adults with advanced cancer increasingly seek to engage patients and surrogates in advance care planning (ACP) and end-of-life (EOL) decision making; however, anxiety and depression may interfere with engagement. The intersection of these two key phenomena is examined among patients with metastatic cancer and their surrogates: the need to prepare for and engage in ACP and EOL decision making and the high prevalence of anxiety and depression.

METHODS

Using a critical review framework, we examine the specific ways that anxiety and depression are likely to affect both ACP and EOL decision making.

RESULTS

The review indicates that depression is associated with reduced compliance with treatment recommendations, and high anxiety may result in avoidance of difficult discussions involved in ACP and EOL decision making. Depression and anxiety are associated with increased decisional regret in the context of cancer treatment decision making, as well as a preference for passive (not active) decision making in an intensive care unit setting. Anxiety about death in patients with advanced cancer is associated with lower rates of completion of an advance directive or discussion of EOL wishes with the oncologist. Patients with advanced cancer and elevated anxiety report higher discordance between wanted versus received life-sustaining treatments, less trust in their physicians, and less comprehension of the information communicated by their physicians.

CONCLUSION

Anxiety and depression are commonly elevated among adults with advanced cancer and health care surrogates, and can result in less engagement and satisfaction with ACP, cancer treatment, and EOL decisions. We offer practical strategies and sample scripts for oncology care providers to use to reduce the effects of anxiety and depression in these contexts.
Early Voice and Swallowing Disturbance Incidence and Risk Factors After Revision Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion Using a Multidisciplinary Surgical Approach: A Retrospective Cohort Evaluation of a Prospective Database
Authors: Laskay Nicholas M. B. , Yang Lydia C. , Estevez-Ordonez Dagoberto , Warner Jeffrey D. , Trahan Duane , Stone Caitlin , Grayson Jessica W. , Withrow Kirk , Hadley Mark N
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Dysphagia and vocal cord palsy (VCP) are common otolaryngological complications after revision anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (rACDF) procedures. Our objective was to determine the early incidence and risk factors of VCP and dysphagia after rACDF using a 2-team approach.

METHODS:

Single-institution, retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database of patients undergoing rACDF was enrolled from September 2010 to July 2021. Of 222 patients enrolled, 109 patients were included in the final analysis. All patients had prior ACDF surgery with planned revision using a single otolaryngologist and single neurosurgeon. MD Anderson Dysphagia Inventory and fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) were used to assess dysphagia. VCP was assessed using videolaryngostroboscopy.

RESULTS:

Seven patients (6.7%) developed new postoperative VCP after rACDF. Most cases of VCP resolved by 3 months postoperatively (mean time-to-resolution 79 ± 17.6 days). One patient maintained a permanent deficit. Forty-one patients (37.6%) reached minimum clinically important difference (MCID) in their MD Anderson Dysphagia Inventory composite scores at the 2-week follow-up (MCID decline of ≥6), indicating new clinically relevant swallowing disturbance. Forty-nine patients (45.0%) had functional FEES Performance Score decline. On univariate analysis, there was an association between new VCPs and the number of cervical levels treated at revision (P = .020) with long-segment rACDF (≥4 levels) being an independent risk factor (P = .010). On linear regression, there was an association between the number of levels treated previously and at revision for FEES Performance Score decline (P = .045 and P = .002, respectively). However, on univariate analysis, sex, age, body mass index, operative time, alcohol use, smoking, and individual levels revised were not risk factors for reaching FEES Performance Score decline nor MCID at 2 weeks postoperatively.

CONCLUSION:

VCP is more likely to occur in long-segment rACDF but is often temporary. Clinically relevant and functional rates of dysphagia approach 37% and 45%, respectively, at 2 weeks postoperatively after rACDF.
Accurate staging of chick embryonic tissues via deep learning of salient features
Authors: Groves Ian , Holmshaw Jacob , Furley David , Manning Elizabeth , Chinnaiya Kavitha , Towers Matthew , Evans Benjamin D. , Placzek Marysia , Fletcher Alexander G.
Published: October 2023

Recent work shows that the developmental potential of progenitor cells in the HH10 chick brain changes rapidly, accompanied by subtle changes in morphology. This demands increased temporal resolution for studies of the brain at this stage, necessitating precise and unbiased staging. Here, we investigated whether we could train a deep convolutional neural network to sub-stage HH10 chick brains using a small dataset of 151 expertly labelled images. By augmenting our images with biologically informed transformations and data-driven preprocessing steps, we successfully trained a classifier to sub-stage HH10 brains to 87.1% test accuracy. To determine whether our classifier could be generally applied, we re-trained it using images (269) of randomised control and experimental chick wings, and obtained similarly high test accuracy (86.1%). Saliency analyses revealed that biologically relevant features are used for classification. Our strategy enables training of image classifiers for various applications in developmental biology with limited microscopy data.
A Drosophila model targets Eiger/TNFα to alleviate obesity-related insulin resistance and macrophage infiltration
Authors: Mirzoyan Zhasmine , Valenza Alice , Zola Sheri , Bonfanti Carola , Arnaboldi Lorenzo , Ferrari Nicholas , Pollard John , Lupi Valeria , Cassinelli Matteo , Frattaroli Matteo , Sahin Mehtap , Pasini Maria Enrica , Bellosta Paola
Published: October 2023

Obesity is associated with various metabolic disorders, such as insulin resistance and adipose tissue inflammation (ATM), characterized by macrophage infiltration into adipose cells. This study presents a new Drosophila model to investigate the mechanisms underlying these obesity-related pathologies. We employed genetic manipulation to reduce ecdysone levels to prolong the larval stage. These animals are hyperphagic and exhibit features resembling obesity in mammals, including increased lipid storage, adipocyte hypertrophy and high circulating glucose levels. Moreover, we observed significant infiltration of immune cells (hemocytes) into the fat bodies, accompanied by insulin resistance. We found that attenuation of Eiger/TNFα signaling reduced ATM and improved insulin sensitivity. Furthermore, using metformin and the antioxidants anthocyanins, we ameliorated both phenotypes. Our data highlight evolutionarily conserved mechanisms allowing the development of Drosophila models for discovering therapeutic pathways in adipose tissue immune cell infiltration and insulin resistance. Our model can also provide a platform to perform genetic screens or test the efficacy of therapeutic interventions for diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Sublimable Surfactant for Carbon Nanotube Dispersion: Effect of the Length of 10-n-Alkyl Side Chains of Flavin on Sublimation
Authors: Kato Yuichi , Sugino Takushi
Published: October 2023

We investigated the sublimation properties of 10-n-alkyl side chain flavins (n = 4–9, and 12) to address the issue of surfactant residue in single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs). Thermogravimetric analysis under vacuum indicated that the 10-octyl-alkyl side chain flavin sublimated at a lower temperature than the other flavins, with a saturation vapor pressure of 0.1 Pa at 200 °C. This allowed sublimation without the competing thermal reaction. Therefore, the 10-octyl-alkyl side chain flavin is a surfactant that can separate and disperse semiconducting SWNTs for the effective utilization of their electrical properties. Moreover, it can be subsequently removed via sublimation.
Peak Oxygen Consumption (V̇O2peak) Recovery Delay in a Pediatric Fontan Population
Authors: KRZYWDA KAROLINE , TESON KELLI M. , WATSON JESSICA S. , GOUDAR SUMA , FORSHA DANIEL , WAGNER JONATHAN B. , WHITE DAVID A.
Published: October 2023

Patients with single ventricle heart disease after Fontan palliation are subject to progressive cardiovascular deterioration during adolescence. In this population, a peak oxygen consumption (V̇O2peak) less than 50% of predicted is an independent predictor of Fontan-related morbidity and mortality. A greater delay in postexercise V̇O2 recovery (VO2RD) is associated with worse outcomes in adults with heart failure, however, VO2RD has not been extensively studied in youth with Fontan (single ventricle) physiology.

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to identify predictors and correlates of VO2RD in youth with Fontan.

Methods

Cardiopulmonary exercise test data was used from a single center, cross-sectional study of children and adolescents (age, 8–21 yr) with Fontan physiology. The VO2RD was determined using time (s) to <90% of V̇O2peak and categorized as “low” (≤10 s) or “high” (≥10 s). t Tests and χ2 analysis were used to compare continuous and categorical variables, respectively.

Results

The analysis sample included 30 adolescents with Fontan physiology (age, 14.2 ± 2.4 yr; 67% male) with either right ventricular (RV) dominant (40%) or co/left ventricular (Co/LV) dominant (60%) systemic ventricular morphology. There were no differences in V̇O2peak between the high and low VO2RD groups (high = 1.3 ± 0.4 L·min−1; low = 1.3 ± 0.3 L·min−1; P = 0.97). VO2RD in participants with RV dominance was significantly greater than in patients with Co/LV dominance (RV = 23.8 ± 15.8 s; Co/LV = 11.8 ± 16.1 s; P = 0.03).

Conclusions

V̇O2peak was not correlated with VO2RD when analyzed as high/low VO2RD groups. However, morphology of the systemic single ventricle (RV vs Co/LV) may be related to rate of recovery in V̇O2 after a peak cardiopulmonary exercise test.
Development of a Japanese version of the Awe Experience Scale (AWE-S): A structural topic modeling approach
Authors: Takano Ryota , Matsuo Akiko , Kawano Kazuaki
Published: October 2023

Background: Awe, a complex emotion, arises in response to perceptually and conceptually vast stimuli that transcend one’s current frames of reference, which is associated with subjective psychological phenomena, such as a sense of self and consciousness. This study aimed to develop a Japanese version of the Awe Experience Scale (AWE-S), a widely used questionnaire that robustly measured the state of awe, and simultaneously investigated how the multiple facets of awe related to the narrative representations of awe experiences. Methods: The Japanese AWE-S was created via back-translation and its factor structure and validity was investigated through an online survey in Japan. Results: The results revealed that the Japanese AWE-S consisted of the same six factors as the original (i.e., time, self-loss, connectedness, vastness, physiological, and accommodation) and had sufficient internal consistency, test-retest reliability, construct validity, and also Japan-specific characteristics. The structured topic modeling generated seven potential topics of the descriptions of awe experiences, which were differently associated with each factor of the Japanese AWE-S. Conclusions: Our findings contribute to a deeper understanding of awe and reveal the constructs of awe in Japan through cross-cultural comparisons. Furthermore, this study provides conceptual and methodological implications regarding studies on awe.
Occupational risk factors associated with Covid-19 among Health Workers in a tertiary referral Hospital, Nairobi Kenya: A case control study
Authors: Kiragu John Macharia , Ayah Richard
Published: October 2023

Background: Covid-19 disease disproportionately affected health workers (HWs) by worsening the preexisting shortage of HWs in developing countries , thus overwhelming health systems and disrupting health delivery. However, evidence on the predominant sources of Covid-19 exposure among HWs in sub-Saharan Africa remains scarce. This study sought to identify the occupational risk factors associated with Covid-19 disease among HWs in a tertiary hospital in Kenya. Methods: An unmatched case-control study design was used to assess exposure differences between 39 randomly sampled PCR Covid-19 positive HWs (cases) and 108 conveniently sampled PCR Covid-19 negative and asymptomatic HWs(controls). An adapted WHO risk assessment questionnaire was administered via phone interviews to measure occupational exposure in the last two weeks before each participant’s PCR Covid-19 test between November 2021 and December 2021. Multivariable logistic regression was applied to identify the statistically significant risk factors and the results on adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) were reported at 95% Confidence Intervals (P<0.05). Results: Controlling for the sex and the clinical status, sub-optimal adherence to face shields ((aOR 4,p<0.05), suboptimal infection prevention control (IPC) adherence in common staff dining rooms (aOR 8,p<0.05), working in medium risk departments (aOR 7,p<0.05) in the last 2 weeks before PCR Covid-19 testing were the significant occupational risk factors to Covid-19 disease among HWs. Conclusions: Reinforcing adherence to facial protective gears together with other personal protective equipment and promoting adherence to infection prevention protocols among HWs in occupational areas with perceived lower risk of infectious disease such as common hospital rooms can reduce the spread of Covid-19 among HWs. Future validation of occupational exposure risk assessment tool across different hospital and health delivery settings can improve comparability and generalizability of findings to inform policies for optimal protection of HWs during SARSCoV2 and similar infectious disease pandemics.
A New Dynamic Programming Approach for Spanning Trees with Chain Constraints and Beyond
Authors: Nägele Martin , Zenklusen Rico
Published: October 2023

Short spanning trees subject to additional constraints are important building blocks in various approximation algorithms, and moreover, they capture interesting problem settings on their own. Especially in the context of the traveling salesman problem (TSP), new techniques for finding spanning trees with well-defined properties have been crucial in recent progress. We consider the problem of finding a spanning tree subject to constraints on the edges in a family of cuts forming a laminar family of small width. Our main contribution is a new dynamic programming approach in which the value of a table entry does not only depend on the values of previous table entries, as is usually the case, but also on a specific representative solution saved together with each table entry. This allows for handling a broad range of constraint types. In combination with other techniques—including negatively correlated rounding and a polyhedral approach that, in the problems we consider, allows for avoiding potential losses in the objective through the randomized rounding—we obtain several new results. We first present a quasi-polynomial time algorithm for the minimum chain-constrained spanning tree problem with an essentially optimal guarantee. More precisely, each chain constraint is violated by a factor of at most [Formula: see text], and the cost is no larger than that of an optimal solution not violating any chain constraint. The best previous procedure is a bicriteria approximation violating each chain constraint by up to a constant factor and losing another factor in the objective. Moreover, our approach can naturally handle lower bounds on the chain constraints, and it can be extended to constraints on cuts forming a laminar family of constant width. Furthermore, we show how our approach can also handle parity constraints (or, more precisely, a proxy thereof) as used in the context of (path) TSP and one of its generalizations and discuss implications in this context.

Funding: This project received funding through the Swiss National Science Foundation [Grants 200021_184622 and P500PT_206742], the European Research Council under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program [Grant 817750], and the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation) under Germany’s Excellence Strategy – EXC 2047/1 [Grant 390685813].
Risk factors for urinary tract infections associated with lower quality of life among intermittent catheter users
Authors: Averbeck Marcio Augusto , Kennelly Michael , Thiruchelvam Nikesh , Konstantinidis Charalampos , Chartier-Kastler Emmanuel , Krassioukov Andrei , Landauro Malene , Jacobsen Lotte , Vaabengaard Rikke , Islamoska Sabrina
Published: October 2023

Background:

Evidence shows that intermittent catheterisation (IC) for bladder emptying is linked to urinary tract infections (UTIs) and poor quality of life (QoL).

Aim:

To investigate the association between UTI risk factors and QoL and patient-reported UTIs respectively.

Methods:

A survey was distributed to IC users from 13 countries.

Findings:

Among 3464 respondents, a significantly poorer QoL was observed when experiencing blood in the urine, residual urine, bowel dysfunction, recurrent UTIs, being female, and applying withdrawal techniques. A lower UTI risk was found when blood was not apparent in urine (RR: 0.63; 95% CI: 0.55–0.71), the bladder was perceived empty (RR: 0.83; 95% CI: 0.72-0.96), not having bowel dysfunction (RR: 0.86; 95% CI: 0.76–0.98), and being male (RR: 0.70; 95% CI: 0.62–0.79).

Conclusion:

This study underlines the importance of risk factors and their link to QoL and UTIs, highlighting the need for addressing symptoms before UTIs become problematic.
The Lindsay Leg Club® Well Leg Regime: an evidence review
Authors: McIntyre Neil , Finlayson Kathleen , Galazka Anna , Lindsay Ellie , Renyi Roland
Published: October 2023

This article aims to review the scarce available evidence on the effectiveness of the Well Leg Programme within the Lindsay Leg Clubs in terms of preventing wound recurrence and improving members' wellbeing. It collates the numerical data on members' wounds and healing rates from the Lindsay Leg Club relational database and members' narratives from a qualitative service evaluation of the Lindsay Leg Clubs. Findings of the review suggest that remaining within the Well Leg regime for several months (or longer) after having had a healed ulcer seems to provide further opportunity to prevent recurrence, and may also provide non-clinical benefits, such as improved wellbeing. Based on the review of available published evidence into the effectiveness of the Well Leg regime, we conclude that there is scope for further studies, including a comparison with other existing treatment and prevention protocols.
The risk and prevalence of pressure injuries in older people in the home care service: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Bottega Michela , Tempesta Marco , Piovesan Cinzia , Rigo Francesca , Bordignon Johnny , Vedelago Dalmazio , Calo Luca , Marchet Paola , Dorigo Mara , Scarpa Giovanna , Barba Livio Dalla , Coppe Alberto
Published: October 2023

Objective:

This study aimed to understand the risk of developing pressure injuries (PIs) and their prevalence rate in older adults in Italy who received public funded home care services and who were often living alone.

Method:

In May 2019, a cross-sectional study was performed according to the STROBE (STrengthening the Reporting of OBservational studies in Epidemiology) guidelines. The data collection included demographic variables, a PI risk assessment using the Braden Scale score, the type of mobility devices available, the wound description detailing the PI category, body location and ongoing treatment. Data analysis was conducted using non-parametric descriptive statistics.

Results:

Of the 2223 patients who participated in the study, the risk of developing a PI as measured with the Braden Scale sore was: ‘absent’ for 37.7%; ‘mild’ for 25.8%; ‘moderate’ for 13.8%; ‘high’ for 15.5%; and ‘severe’ for 7.1% of patients. The PI prevalence in the sample of home care service patients was 26%, of which 46% were inpatients with a Braden Scale score of <14. Of the PIs that developed during the study, 65% of these developed in patients in home care and of these, 81% had a Braden Scale score of ≤9.

Conclusion:

PIs developed not only during hospitalisation but at home. Assessing the commitment of patients and caregivers to PI prevention and treatment strategies in home care services could be key to reducing PI prevalence, hospital admissions for PIs, related complications for older people living at home, and the severity of the PI category.
Unusual presentation of penile giant condyloma acuminatum with spontaneous prepuce perforation: A case report
Authors: Hsu Fu-Chieh , Yu Dah-Shyong , Pu Ta-Wei , Wu Min-Jui , Meng En
Published: October 2023

Time series analysis is a valuable tool in epidemiology that complements the classical epidemiological models in two different ways: Prediction and forecast. Prediction is related to explaining past and current data based on various internal and external influences that may or may not have a causative role. Forecasting is an exploration of the possible future values based on the predictive ability of the model and hypothesized future values of the external and/or internal influences. The time series analysis approach has the advantage of being easier to use (in the cases of more straightforward and linear models such as Auto-Regressive Integrated Moving Average). Still, it is limited in forecasting time, unlike the classical models such as Susceptible-Exposed-Infectious-Removed. Its applicability in forecasting comes from its better accuracy for short-term prediction. In its basic form, it does not assume much theoretical knowledge of the mechanisms of spreading and mutating pathogens or the reaction of people and regulatory structures (governments, companies, etc. ). Instead, it estimates from the data directly. Its predictive ability allows testing hypotheses for different factors that positively or negatively contribute to the pandemic spread; be it school closures, emerging variants, etc. It can be used in mortality or hospital risk estimation from new cases, seroprevalence studies, assessing properties of emerging variants, and estimating excess mortality and its relationship with a pandemic.
Congenital leukemia: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Yang Chun-Xia , Yang Ying , Zhang Fen-Li , Wang Ding-Huan , Bian Qiu-Han , Zhou Man , Zhou Ming-Xiang , Yang Xiao-Yan
Published: October 2023

Time series analysis is a valuable tool in epidemiology that complements the classical epidemiological models in two different ways: Prediction and forecast. Prediction is related to explaining past and current data based on various internal and external influences that may or may not have a causative role. Forecasting is an exploration of the possible future values based on the predictive ability of the model and hypothesized future values of the external and/or internal influences. The time series analysis approach has the advantage of being easier to use (in the cases of more straightforward and linear models such as Auto-Regressive Integrated Moving Average). Still, it is limited in forecasting time, unlike the classical models such as Susceptible-Exposed-Infectious-Removed. Its applicability in forecasting comes from its better accuracy for short-term prediction. In its basic form, it does not assume much theoretical knowledge of the mechanisms of spreading and mutating pathogens or the reaction of people and regulatory structures (governments, companies, etc. ). Instead, it estimates from the data directly. Its predictive ability allows testing hypotheses for different factors that positively or negatively contribute to the pandemic spread; be it school closures, emerging variants, etc. It can be used in mortality or hospital risk estimation from new cases, seroprevalence studies, assessing properties of emerging variants, and estimating excess mortality and its relationship with a pandemic.
This is Not Us/This is Us: Dissensus Politics in the Wake of the Christchurch Terror Attacks
Authors: Miller Sarah , Beausoleil Emily
Published: October 2023

Abstract: On March 15th, 2019, a terrorist targeted two mosques in Christchurch, resulting in 51 deaths and many more injured. In the wake of these events, the Aotearoa New Zealand community struggled to make sense of what they meant for who “we” are. This article traces developments and tensions within the discourse that emerged in the two weeks following the attacks, identifying three significant framings: discourses of unity, innocence, and responsibility. Analyzing these discourses via Jacques Rancière’s theory of politics, we explore whether this marked a truly political moment wherein “the part that has no part”—the Muslim community of Aotearoa New Zealand—was actually heard.
Laser air plasma expansion by microwaves
Authors: Ikeda Yuji , Soriano Joey Kim , Ohba Hironori , Wakaida Ikuo
Published: October 2023

Utilizing microlasers and microwaves, our study examined the impact of microwaves on the expansion of air plasma. We applied microwaves to the air plasma generated by a microlaser, visualized its growth using a phone camera, and recorded plasma emissions using a high-resolution spectrometer. Software tools were then used to analyze these emissions for temperature changes and electron density. Notably, we noticed a 400-fold increase in plasma volume due to microwave enhancement, even though the microlaser operated at a modest energy level of 1 mJ. Simultaneously, we recorded an increase in temperature and a decrease in electron density when the plasma was subjected to microwaves, indicative of nonequilibrium plasmas. Further, a minor shift in electron temperature during microwave exposure pointed toward the ability of microwaves to sustain plasma characteristics over time. These findings suggest that the microwave application potentially improves the analytical performance of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy.
Recovering fetal signals transabdominally through interferometric near-infrared spectroscopy (iNIRS)
Authors: Liu Shing-Jiuan , Lee Su Yeon , Pivetti Christopher , Kulubya Edwin , Wang Aijun , Farmer Diana L. , Ghiasi Soheil , Yang Weijian
Published: October 2023

Noninvasive transabdominal fetal pulse oximetry can provide clinicians critical assessment of fetal health and potentially contribute to improved management of childbirth. Conventional pulse oximetry through continuous wave (CW) light has challenges measuring the signals from deep tissue and separating the weak fetal signal from the strong maternal signal. Here, we propose a new approach for transabdominal fetal pulse oximetry through interferometric near-infrared spectroscopy (iNIRS). This approach provides pathlengths of photons traversing the tissue, which facilitates the extraction of fetal signals by rejecting the very strong maternal signal from superficial layers. We use a multimode fiber combined with a mode-field converter at the detection arm to boost the signal of iNIRS. Together, we can detect signals from deep tissue (>∼1.6 cm in sheep abdomen and in human forearm) at merely 1.1 cm distance from the source. Using a pregnant sheep model, we experimentally measured and extracted the fetal heartbeat signals originating from deep tissue. This validated a key step towards transabdominal fetal pulse oximetry through iNIRS and set a foundation for further development of this method to measure the fetal oxygen saturation.
Refractive index tomography with a physics-based optical neural network
Authors: Yang Delong , Zhang Shaohui , Zheng Chuanjian , Zhou Guocheng , Hu Yao , Hao Qun
Published: October 2023

The non-interference three-dimensional refractive index (RI) tomography has attracted extensive attention in the life science field for its simple system implementation and robust imaging performance. However, the complexity inherent in the physical propagation process poses significant challenges when the sample under study deviates from the weak scattering approximation. Such conditions complicate the task of achieving global optimization with conventional algorithms, rendering the reconstruction process both time-consuming and potentially ineffective. To address such limitations, this paper proposes an untrained multi-slice neural network (MSNN) with an optical structure, in which each layer has a clear corresponding physical meaning according to the beam propagation model. The network does not require pre-training and performs good generalization and can be recovered through the optimization of a set of intensity images. Concurrently, MSNN can calibrate the intensity of different illumination by learnable parameters, and the multiple backscattering effects have also been taken into consideration by integrating a "scattering attenuation layer" between adjacent "RI" layers in the MSNN. Both simulations and experiments have been conducted carefully to demonstrate the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed method. Experimental results reveal that MSNN can enhance clarity with increased efficiency in RI tomography. The implementation of MSNN introduces a novel paradigm for RI tomography.
OCT-angiography based artificial intelligence-inferred fluorescein angiography for leakage detection in retina [Invited]
Authors: Murata Toshinori , Hirano Takao , Mizobe Hideaki , Toba Shuhei
Published: October 2023

Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) covers most functions of fluorescein angiography (FA) when imaging the retina but lacks the ability to depict vascular leakage. Based on OCTA, we developed artificial intelligence-inferred-FA (AI-FA) to delineate leakage in eyes with diabetic retinopathy (DR). Training data of 19,648 still FA images were prepared from FA-photo and videos of 43 DR eyes. AI-FA images were generated using a convolutional neural network. AI-FA images achieved a structural similarity index of 0.91 with corresponding real FA images in DR. The AI-FA generated from OCTA correctly depicted vascular occlusion and associated leakage with enough quality, enabling precise DR diagnosis and treatment planning. A combination of OCT, OCTA, and AI-FA yields more information than real FA with reduced acquisition time without risk of allergic reactions.
Camera calibration using the dual double-contact property of circles
Authors: Zeng Rong , Zhao Yue , Chen Yuyang
Published: October 2023

To mitigate the influence of the relative positional relationship between circles on camera calibration, this study explores the double contact of dual circles with dual circular points. We demonstrate that one of the generalized eigenvectors of two dual circles corresponds to the line passing through their respective centers. Moreover, we establish a methodology to identify this line from the three generalized eigenvectors and show that, regardless of the positional arrangement of the three co-planar circles, the image of the circular points can be constructed by calculating the image of this line. Consequently, the applicability of circles as calibration templates is expanded, enabling the development of a novel optimization technique for fitting circular images with enhanced calibration precision.
Stimulated emission double depletion nanoscopy with background correction at the single-pixel level
Authors: Sedeh Amirhossein Barati , Kobitski Andrei , Dai Siqing , Eroğlu-Kayıkçı Süheyla , Nienhaus Karin , Hilbert Lennart , Nienhaus G. Ulrich
Published: October 2023

Fluorescence microscopy images are inevitably tainted by background contributions including emission from out-of-focus planes, scattered light, and detector noise. In stimulated emission depletion (STED) nanoscopy, an additional, method-specific background arises from incomplete depletion and re-excitation by the depletion beam. Various approaches have been proposed to remove the background from a STED image, some of which rely on the acquisition of a separate background image that is subtracted from the STED image with a weighting factor. Using stimulated emission double depletion (STEDD) nanoscopy, we observed that the weighting factor varies locally in densely labeled samples, so that background removal with a single (global) weighting factor generates local image artifacts due to incorrect background subtraction. Here we present an algorithm that computes the optimal weighting factor at the single-pixel level, yielding a difference image with excellent suppression of low-frequency background.
Dual-channel dynamic modulation for polarization-dependent absorption by gating ultrathin TiN films in the near-infrared region
Authors: Wang Yetian , Jiang Huan , Dong Huafeng , Zhao Weiren
Published: October 2023

Ultrathin titanium nitride (TiN) is a novel material flatform for constructing active metasurfaces in the near-infrared region (NIR). In this paper, we numerically achieved the dual-channel dynamic modulation for polarization-dependent absorption by adjusting incident angles and gating ultrathin TiN films. To enhance the active modulation effect of ultrathin TiN film, the “卍” shaped gold resonator is integrated with ultrathin TiN film for constructing a metasurface Salisbury screen (MSS). By electrical reducing TiN carrier concentration by 12%, the absorption peak of TE wave blueshifts 100 nm. The magnitude and the frequency of the polarization-dependent absorption are independently tuned by changing incident angles or the carrier concentration in TiN film. The ultrathin TiN film based polarization-dependent metasurface enabling versatile dual-channel modulation has great potentials in the applications of optical communication, information encryption, real-time imaging etc.
Optical and thermal properties of Ge2Sb2Te5, Sb2Se3, and Sb2S3 for reconfigurable photonic devices [Invited]
Authors: Aryana Kiumars , Kim Hyun Jung , Islam Md. Rafiqul , Hong Nina , Popescu Cosmin-Constantin , Makarem Sara , Gu Tian , Hu Juejun , Hopkins Patrick E.
Published: October 2023

Phase change materials (PCMs) are one of the most promising materials
candidates for reconfigurable optics owing to their two solid-state
atomic structures that render distinct optical properties. Recently,
there have been growing interests in integrating these materials into
photonic devices for achieving reconfigurable optical properties. In
this paper, we focus on examining the optical and thermal properties
of three essential phase change materials:
Ge2Sb2Te5,
Sb2Se3, and Sb2S3. The
latter two have been specifically tailored for photonic applications,
with minimal absorption losses in the near-infrared spectrum. In
particular, we report the optical constants, refractive index (n) and
extinction coefficient (k), for 300 nm thick
Ge2Sb2Te5,
Sb2Se3, and Sb2S3 on
CaF2 substrate across a wide spectral range of 0.3
μm to 40 μm in
amorphous and crystalline states. We observe that while
Ge2Sb2Te5 exhibits a larger contrast
in the index of refraction upon phase transformation compared to the
other two compositions, Sb2Se3 and
Sb2S3 demonstrate a substantial reduction in
their extinction coefficients within the infrared spectrum. In
addition, using time-domain thermoreflectance (TDTR), we report their
thermal conductivity as a function of temperature up to 320°C.
According to our observation, the room temperature thermal
conductivity of Sb2Se3 and
Sb2S3 increases by almost a factor of four upon
phase transformation from amorphous to crystalline. The findings of
this study provides necessary parameters for modeling PCM based
photonic devices and emphasize the strong potential of
Sb2Se3 and Sb2S3 as
promising material candidates for reconfigurable optics due to their
low-loss transmission in infrared spectrum, paving the way for their
practical implementation in future photonic devices.
Controllable and abundant soliton states from an all-fiber laser based on a ZrGeTe4 saturable absorber
Authors: Fan Weiyu , Han Yunao , He Yutian , Wang Lezheng , Wang Guomei , Bai Caixun , Zhang Wenfei , Lu Cheng , Qu Wei , Fu Shenggui , Zhang Huanian
Published: October 2023

With many applications increasing expectations for the tunability of
coherent pulses, the demand for tunable soliton fiber lasers (TSFLs)
is growing. Two-dimensional ternary zirconium germanium telluride
(ZrGeTe4) nanomaterials provide an opportunity to obtain
high-performance TSFLs. In this research, we developed a TSFL with
ZrGeTe4-based saturable absorber (SA). Employing a strategy
of constant pump power, tunable soliton states were acquired. The 1st
to 5th order harmonic mode-locking were obtained sequentially. The
shortest pulse able to obtain was 1.05 ps. Furthermore, the soliton
molecule was also obtained. The results suggest that
ZrGeTe4-SA may provide an effective route for photonics
research.
Hybrid meta/refractive lens design with inverse design using physical optics
Authors: Renshaw Christopher , Shih Ko-Han
Published: October 2023

Metasurface optics and refractive optics are combined to form hybrid lenses, where the refractive elements provide the optical power but metasurfaces are used to correct optical aberrations. We introduce an algorithm to optimize metasurface nanostructures in a hybrid lens with the freedom to arbitrarily interleave metasurface optics with refractive optics in the optical train. A scalar field, ray-wave hybrid propagation method is developed to propagate incident and derived adjoint fields through optical elements, enabling efficient metasurface nanostructure optimization under the framework of adjoint gradient optimization. Several numerical examples of lens configurations are provided to show the versatility of the algorithm.
Why do women still give birth at home; perceptions of Pakistani women and decision-makers from marginalized communities
Authors: Khalid Ayesha , Haider Kaniz Amna , Ahmer Hareem , Noorani Sahir , Hoodbhoy Zahra
Published: October 2023

In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), maternal and newborn mortality is high due to the high prevalence of home births. Understanding the reasons behind this behavior is essential for improving maternal and newborn outcomes. Therefore, a qualitative exploratory study was conducted in a peri-urban community in Karachi, Pakistan to understand the perceptions of pregnant women who delivered at home despite receiving antenatal care and the perceptions of their decision-makers regarding this behavior. In-depth interviews were conducted with 15 randomly sampled women who chose to deliver at home after receiving antenatal care at a health facility, as well as 15 family members who were purposively identified as decision-makers by the women themselves. Thematic analysis was performed to explore the perceptions, myths, and cultural beliefs about homebirths as well as women’s decision-making power related to childbirth. The three main themes identified showed that traditional beliefs and practices, poverty and gender inequality, and poor healthcare systems significantly influence the preference for childbirth. Traditional beliefs and practices, including religious and cultural beliefs, played a role in perceiving childbirth as a natural process best managed at home. The presence of traditional birth attendants who provide personalized care and emotional support further reinforced this preference. Gender inequalities, including limited access to mobile phones and women’s caregiving roles, were identified as barriers to seeking formal healthcare at the time of delivery. Additionally, poor experiences with the formal healthcare system, such as the poor attitude of formal healthcare workers and fear of medical interventions, also contributed to the decision to deliver at home. The study highlighted the complex interplay between traditional/religious beliefs, gender inequalities, and healthcare experiences in shaping the decision to deliver at home despite receiving ANC services in marginalized settings. Addressing these factors is necessary for promoting facility-based delivery and improving maternal and neonatal outcomes in LMICs.