bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A survey of statistical methods utilized for analysis of randomized controlled trials of behavioral interventions
Authors: Tutino Rebecca , Schofield Elizabeth , Saracino Rebecca M. , Walsh Leah , Straus Emma , Nelson Christian J. 
Published: June 2023

AbstractObjectivesGiven the many statistical analysis options used for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of behavioral interventions and the lack of clear guidance for analysis selection, the present study aimed to characterize the predominate statistical analyses utilized in RCTs in palliative care and behavioral research and to highlight the relative strengths and weaknesses of each of these methods as guidance for future researchers and reform.MethodsAll RCTs published between 2015 and 2021 were systematically extracted from 4 behavioral medicine journals and analyzed based on prespecified inclusion criteria. Two independent raters classified each of the manuscripts into 1 of 5 RCT analysis strategies.ResultsThere was wide variation in the methods used. The 2 most prevalent analyses for RCTs were longitudinal modeling and analysis of covariance. Application of method varied significantly by sample size.Significance of resultsEach statistical analysis presents its own unique strengths and weaknesses. The information resulting from this research may prove helpful for researchers in palliative care and behavioral medicine in navigating the variety of statistical methods available. Future discussion around best practices in RCT analyses is warranted to compare the relative impact of interventions in a more standardized way.
Increased preparedness for caregiving among family caregivers in specialized home care by using the Carer Support Needs Assessment Tool Intervention
Authors: Norinder Maria , Årestedt Kristofer , Axelsson Lena , Grande Gunn , Ewing Gail , Alvariza Anette 
Published: June 2023

AbstractObjectivesFamily caregivers often feel insufficiently prepared for a caregiving role, experiencing challenges and demands related to care at home that may negatively affect their own quality of life. Supportive interventions have been shown to influence negative effects, but more studies are needed. Therefore, this study aims to explore potential effects of the Carer Support Needs Assessment Tool Intervention on preparedness, caregiver burden, and quality of life among Swedish family caregivers in specialized home care.MethodsThe study had a pre–post intervention design and was conducted at 6 specialized home care services in Sweden. Family caregivers who received the intervention completed a questionnaire, including the Preparedness for caregiving scale, Caregiver Burden Scale, and Quality of Life in Life-Threatening Illness – Family carer version, at 2 time points, baseline and follow up, about 5 weeks later. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Wilcoxon signed-rank test.ResultsAltogether, 33 family caregivers completed the baseline and follow-up assessment. A majority were retired (n = 26, 81%) and women (n = 19, 58%) and two-fifths had a university degree (n = 13, 41%). The family caregivers had significantly increased their preparedness for caregiving between the baseline and follow-up assessment (Mdn = 18 vs. 20,p = 0.002). No significant changes were found on caregiver burden or quality of life.Significance of resultsThe results add to knowledge regarding the Carer Support Needs Assessment Tool Intervention’s potential to improve family caregiver outcomes. Findings suggest that the intervention may be used to improve the preparedness for caregiving and support among family caregivers in specialized home care.
A review of heath economic evaluation practice in the Netherlands: are we moving forward?
Authors: Gabrio Andrea 
Published: June 2023

AbstractEconomic evaluations have been increasingly conducted in different countries to aid national decision-making bodies in resource allocation problems based on current and prospective evidence on costs and effects data for a set of competing health care interventions. In 2016, the Dutch National Health Care Institute issued new guidelines that aggregated and updated previous recommendations on key elements for conducting economic evaluation. However, the impact on standard practice after the introduction of the guidelines in terms of design, methodology and reporting choices, is still uncertain. To assess this impact, we examine and compare key analysis components of economic evaluations conducted in the Netherlands before (2010–2015) and after (2016–2020) the introduction of the recent guidelines. We specifically focus on two aspects of the analysis that are crucial in determining the plausibility of the results: statistical methodology and missing data handling. Our review shows how, over the last period, many components of economic evaluations have changed in accordance with the new recommendations towards more transparent and advanced analytic approaches. However, potential limitations are identified in terms of the use of less advanced statistical software together with rarely satisfactory information to support the choice of missing data methods, especially in sensitivity analysis.
Wideband quasi-reflectionless bandstop filters using open/shorted coupled lines
Authors: Weng Yijun , Feng Wenjie , Xu Sha , Shen Gaungxu , Shi Yongrong , Che Wenquan 
Published: June 2023

AbstractTwo wideband bandstop filters (BSFs) for single and dual-band are proposed and then extended to reflectionless BSFs based on the analysis from input impedance/admittance perspective. Also, topologies of higher-number-stopband input-reflectionless BSF are provided to broaden the design scope. Open/shorted coupled lines are adopted to obtain multi transmission zeros and desired stopband bandwidth by adjusting the even-/odd-mode impedance of coupled lines. Resistor-loaded coupled lines are connected with Port 1 to absorb unwanted signals and obtain input-reflectionless behavior. For validation of the proposed theory analysis, BSFs with corresponding absorptive prototypes are constructed and measured.
Low-profile wideband miniaturized tag antenna mounted on the human body
Authors: Nguyen Minh-Tan , Lin Yi-Fang , Chen Chien-Hung , Chang Chin-Cheng , Chen Hua-Ming 
Published: June 2023

AbstractIn this study, a novel, cost-effective miniaturized tag antenna was developed for applications on the human body. To achieve impedance matching with the complex conjugate impedance of the Monza-4 tag chip (7.17–j74.22 Ω at 915 MHz), the proposed structure was configured by coarsely tuning the positions of vias and fine-tuning the small gaps of its coupled patches. For further reducing the profile and dimensions of the antenna, a design technique based on the three-dimensional dipole antenna current distribution was used. The proposed antenna configuration was not only miniaturized but also achieved a long stable reading distance (>5.0 m) and a wide impedance bandwidth of 71 MHz or 7.65% (covering the ultrahigh frequency radio frequency identification ranges in most regions), regardless of the location of the tag on the human body. Experiments were conducted to validate the simulated results, and adequate agreement was found between the simulated results and the measured results.
Angle-independent wideband metamaterial microwave absorber for C and X band application
Authors: Barde Chetan , Gupta Neelesh Kumar , Ranjan Prakash , Roy Komal , Sinha Rashmi 
Published: June 2023

AbstractIn this article, an angle-independent wideband metamaterial microwave absorber (MMA) for C (4–8 GHz) and X (8–12 GHz) band frequency is presented. The unit cell of the proposed MMA consists of outer and inner structure associated with lumped resistors. The outer structure consists of rectangular split-ring resonator, whereas the inner structure consists of circular split-ring resonator. The structure is made up of three layers, in which top and bottom layers are made up of copper acting as a conducting material. The middle layer is made up of FR-4 acting as a dielectric substrate. The resonating structure at the top is designed in such a way that wideband absorption is achieved in the range from 6.11 to 13.52 GHz. The wideband absorption within the range approaches almost unity having a bandwidth of 7.41 GHz. Three different peaks are considered in the range of interest having maximum absorption of 0.94, 0.94, and 0.99 at frequencies of 6.76, 11.15, and 13.07 GHz, respectively. The structure is analyzed with respect to the effective parameters, i.e., effective permittivity (${\varepsilon _{{\textrm{eff}}}}$) and effective permeability (${\mu _{{\textrm{eff}}}}$), to prove that the structure acts as a metamaterial. Electric field and current distribution are plotted at three different peaks to prove the mechanism of wideband absorption. Normal and oblique incidence are plotted to determine that the structure is behaving as an angle independent. The simulated structure is fabricated on FR-4 substrate and measured inside an anechoic chamber. Finally, to prove the novelty of the work, the proposed structure is compared with the already reported MMA. The proposed MMA finds practical applications in radar cross section reduction, terrestrial communication, keyless entry system, space communication, radar, and baby monitor.
Photogrammetry and 3D modelling in university teaching. A case study applied to the history degree
Authors: Chapinal-Heras Diego , Díaz-Sánchez Carlos , España-Chamorro Sergio , Gómez-García Natalia , Pagola-Sánchez Lucía , Parada López de Corselas Manuel , Rey-Álvarez Zafiria Manuel Elías 
Published: June 2023

AbstractThe aim of this contribution is to provide a new methodology regarding the use of photogrammetry and 3D modelling in the classroom. By means of a practicum taught at Complutense University of Madrid and a survey conducted afterwards, we show the different steps of the activity, as well as the reception of the students, who learnt to elaborate 3D figures.
On the Variation of Column Density Ratio ΣO/N2 in the Upper Atmosphere Using Principal Component Analysis in 2‐Dimensional Images
Authors: Goel Divyam , Wu Yen‐Jung J. , Harding Brian J. , Triplett Colin C. , Immel Thomas J. , Cullens Chihoko , England Scott 
Published: June 2023

AbstractThe variability of the thermosphere on a daily basis is influenced by a variety of factors, including solar, geomagnetic, and meteorological drivers. The column density ratio of atomic oxygen to molecular nitrogen (ΣO/N2) is a useful parameter for quantifying this variability, and has been shown to closely correspond to F‐region electron density, total electron content, and upper atmospheric transport. Despite the significance of the ΣO/N2, the relative contributions of these drivers to thermospheric variability are not well understood. In order to shed light on this issue, principal component analysis was performed in this study to distinguish and rank the various sources of variability in the ΣO/N2. The analysis was based on the ΣO/N2 data from the Global‐scale Observations of the Limb and Disk mission from days 81–135 of 2020. The resulting two‐dimensional eigen spatial patterns reveal the dominant variabilities during the specified period. The first six principal components are reported and associated with the major drivers through their spatial and temporal features. Geomagnetic storms, interhemispheric transport, atmospheric tides, and planetary waves were identified as the drivers of the first, second, third, and fifth components, respectively. The order of these components highlights that geomagnetic activity is the dominant source of daily variability in the ΣO/N2, followed by interhemispheric transport and meteorological drivers from the lower atmosphere.
Hypocenter‐Based 3D Imaging of Active Faults: Method and Applications in the Southwestern Swiss Alps
Authors: Truttmann Sandro , Diehl Tobias , Herwegh Marco 
Published: June 2023

AbstractDespite the fact that earthquake occurrence can be strongly influenced by the architecture of pre‐existing faults, it remains challenging to obtain information about the detailed subsurface geometries of active fault systems. Current geophysical methods for studying such systems often fail to resolve geometrical complexities at sufficiently high spatial resolutions. In this work, we present a novel method for imaging the detailed 3D architectures of seismically active faults based on high‐precision hypocenter catalogs, using nearest neighbor learning and principal component analysis. The proposed approach enables to assess variations in fault instabilities and kinematics. We apply the method to the relatively relocated St. Léonard (max.ML = 3.2) and Anzère (max.ML = 3.3) microearthquake sequences in the Southwestern Swiss Alps, revealing strike‐slip fault systems with interconnecting stepovers at depths of 3–7 km and lengths ranging from 0.5 to 2 km. In combination with additional information about fault instabilities and kinematics, we observe significantly reduced earthquake migration velocities and fault locking processes within the stepovers. Understanding such processes and their role in the propagation of strain across stepovers is of great relevance, as these structures can potentially limit earthquake ruptures but also represent possible locations for the nucleation of larger ruptures. Our proposed method is expected to be broadly useful for further applications such as monitoring hydraulic fracture stimulations or geothermal exploration of natural, fluid‐bearing faults. Conducting similar high‐resolution spatiotemporal analyses of microseismic sequences has the potential to greatly enhance our comprehension of how the 3D fault architecture impacts seismogenic fault reactivation.
Save our Sight (SOS): a collective call-to-action for enhanced retinal care across health systems in high income countries
Authors: Loewenstein Anat , Berger Alan , Daly Avril , Creuzot-Garcher Catherine , Gale Richard , Ricci Federico , Zarranz-Ventura Javier , Guymer Robyn 
Published: June 2023

AbstractWith a growing aging population, the prevalence of age-related eye disease and associated eye care is expected to increase. The anticipated growth in demand, coupled with recent medical advances that have transformed eye care for people living with retinal diseases, particularly neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) and diabetic eye disease, has presented an opportunity for health systems to proactively manage the expected burden of these diseases. To do so, we must take collective action to address existing and anticipated capacity limitations by designing and implementing sustainable strategies that enable health systems to provide an optimal standard of care. Sufficient capacity will enable us to streamline and personalize the patient experience, reduce treatment burden, enable more equitable access to care and ensure optimal health outcomes. Through a multi-modal approach that gathered unbiased perspectives from clinical experts and patient advocates from eight high-income countries, substantiated perspectives with evidence from the published literature and validated findings with the broader eye care community, we have exposed capacity challenges that are motivating the community to take action and advocate for change. Herein, we propose a collective call-to-action for the future management of retinal diseases and potential strategies to achieve better health outcomes for individuals at-risk of, or living with, retinal disease.
A novel HECW2 variant in an infant with congenital long QT syndrome
Authors: Imanishi Rina , Nakau Kouichi , Shimada Sorachi , Oka Hideharu , Takeguchi Ryo , Tanaka Ryosuke , Sugiyama Tatsutoshi , Nii Mitsumaro , Okamoto Toshio , Nagaya Ken , Makita Yoshio , Yanagi Kumiko , Kaname Tadashi , Takahashi Satoru 
Published: June 2023

AbstractPathogenic variants of HECW2 have been reported in cases of neurodevelopmental disorder with hypotonia, seizures, and absent language (NDHSAL; OMIM #617268). A novel HECW2 variant (NM_001348768.2:c.4343 T > C,p.Leu1448Ser) was identified in an NDHSAL infant with severe cardiac comorbidities. The patient presented with fetal tachyarrhythmia and hydrops and was postnatally diagnosed with long QT syndrome. This study provides evidence that HECW2 pathogenic variants can cause long QT syndrome along with neurodevelopmental disorders.
In-vivo programmable acoustic manipulation of genetically engineered bacteria
Authors: Yang Ye , Yang Yaozhang , Liu Dingyuan , Wang Yuanyuan , Lu Minqiao , Zhang Qi , Huang Jiqing , Li Yongchuan , Ma Teng , Yan Fei , Zheng Hairong 
Published: June 2023

AbstractAcoustic tweezers can control target movement through the momentum interaction between an acoustic wave and an object. This technology has advantages over optical tweezers for in-vivo cell manipulation due to its high tissue penetrability and strong acoustic radiation force. However, normal cells are difficult to acoustically manipulate because of their small size and the similarity between their acoustic impedance and that of the medium. In this study, we use the heterologous expression of gene clusters to generate genetically engineered bacteria that can produce numerous sub-micron gas vesicles in the bacterial cytoplasm. We show that the presence of the gas vesicles significantly enhances the acoustic sensitivity of the engineering bacteria, which can be manipulated by ultrasound. We find that by employing phased-array-based acoustic tweezers, the engineering bacteria can be trapped into clusters and manipulated in vitro and in vivo via electronically steered acoustic beams, enabling the counter flow or on-demand flow of these bacteria in the vasculature of live mice. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the aggregation efficiency of engineering bacteria in a tumour is improved by utilizing this technology. This study provides a platform for the in-vivo manipulation of live cells, which will promote the progress of cell-based biomedical applications.
Native American ataxia medicines rescue ataxia-linked mutant potassium channel activity via binding to the voltage sensing domain
Authors: Manville Rían W. , Alfredo Freites J. , Sidlow Richard , Tobias Douglas J. , Abbott Geoffrey W. 
Published: June 2023

AbstractThere are currently no drugs known to rescue the function of Kv1.1 voltage-gated potassium channels carrying loss-of-function sequence variants underlying the inherited movement disorder, Episodic Ataxia 1 (EA1). The Kwakwaka’wakw First Nations of the Pacific Northwest Coast used Fucus gardneri (bladderwrack kelp), Physocarpus capitatus (Pacific ninebark) and Urtica dioica (common nettle) to treat locomotor ataxia. Here, we show that extracts of these plants enhance wild-type Kv1.1 current, especially at subthreshold potentials. Screening of their constituents revealed that gallic acid and tannic acid similarly augment wild-type Kv1.1 current, with submicromolar potency. Crucially, the extracts and their constituents also enhance activity of Kv1.1 channels containing EA1-linked sequence variants. Molecular dynamics simulations reveal that gallic acid augments Kv1.1 activity via a small-molecule binding site in the extracellular S1-S2 linker. Thus, traditional Native American ataxia treatments utilize a molecular mechanistic foundation that can inform small-molecule approaches to therapeutically correcting EA1 and potentially other Kv1.1-linked channelopathies.
Underlying factors determining grain morphologies in high-strength titanium alloys processed by additive manufacturing
Authors: Nartu Mohan S. K. K. Y. , Welk Brian A. , Mantri Srinivas A. , Taylor Nevin L. , Viswanathan Gopal B. , Dahotre Narendra B. , Banerjee Rajarshi , Fraser Hamish L. 
Published: June 2023

AbstractIn recent research, additions of solute to Ti and some Ti-based alloys have been employed to produce equiaxed microstructures when processing these materials using additive manufacturing. The present study develops a computational scheme for guiding the selection of such alloying additions, and the minimum amounts required, to effect the columnar to equiaxed microstructural transition. We put forward two physical mechanisms that may produce this transition; the first and more commonly discussed is based on growth restriction factors, and the second on the increased freezing range effected by the alloying addition coupled with the imposed rapid cooling rates associated with AM techniques. We show in the research described here, involving a number of model binary as well as complex multi-component Ti alloys, and the use of two different AM approaches, that the latter mechanism is more reliable regarding prediction of the grain morphology resulting from given solute additions.
Mapping human norovirus antigens during infection reveals the breadth of the humoral immune response
Authors: Su Lynn , Huang Wanzhi , Neill Frederick H. , Estes Mary K. , Atmar Robert L. , Palzkill Timothy 
Published: June 2023

AbstractHuman noroviruses (HuNoV) are the leading cause of acute gastroenteritis worldwide. The humoral immune response plays an important role in clearing HuNoV infections and elucidating the antigenic landscape of HuNoV during an infection can shed light on antibody targets to inform vaccine design. Here, we utilized Jun-Fos-assisted phage display of a HuNoV genogroup GI.1 genomic library and deep sequencing to simultaneously map the epitopes of serum antibodies of six individuals infected with GI.1 HuNoV. We found both unique and common epitopes that were widely distributed among both nonstructural proteins and the major capsid protein. Recurring epitope profiles suggest immunodominant antibody footprints among these individuals. Analysis of sera collected longitudinally from three individuals showed the presence of existing epitopes in the pre-infection sera, suggesting these individuals had prior HuNoV infections. Nevertheless, newly recognized epitopes surfaced seven days post-infection. These new epitope signals persisted by 180 days post-infection along with the pre-infection epitopes, suggesting a persistent production of antibodies recognizing epitopes from previous and new infections. Lastly, analysis of a GII.4 genotype genomic phage display library with sera of three persons infected with GII.4 virus revealed epitopes that overlapped with those identified in GI.1 affinity selections, suggesting the presence of GI.1/GII.4 cross-reactive antibodies. The results demonstrate that genomic phage display coupled with deep sequencing can characterize HuNoV antigenic landscapes from complex polyclonal human sera to reveal the timing and breadth of the human humoral immune response to infection.