bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Design of GaSb-based monolithic passive photonic devices at wavelengths above 2 µm
Authors: Sumon Md Saiful Islam , Sankar Shrivatch , You Weicheng , Faruque Imad I , Dwivedi Sarvagya , Arafin Shamsul 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
In this paper, we report, for the first time, a theoretical study on passive photonic devices including optical power splitters/combiners and grating couplers (GCs) operating at non-telecom wavelengths above 2 µm in a monolithic GaSb platform. Passive components were designed to operate, in particular, at around 2.6 µm for monolithic integration with active photonic devices on the III–V gallium antimonide material platform. The three popular types of splitters/combiners such as directional couplers, multimode interferometer-, and Y-branch-couplers were theoretically investigated. Based on our optimized design and rigorous analysis, fabrication-compatible 1 × 2 optical power splitters with less than 0.12 dB excess losses, large spectral bandwidth, and a 50:50 splitting ratio are achieved. For fiber-to-chip coupling, we also report the design of GCs with an outcoupling efficiency of ∼29% at 2.56 μm and a 3 dB bandwidth of 80 nm. The results represent a significant step towards developing a complete functional photonic integrated circuits at mid-wave infrared wavelengths.
Wearable facial electromyography: in the face of new opportunities
Authors: Levit Bara , Klorfeld-Auslender Shira , Hanein Yael 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Facial muscles play an important role in a vast range of physiological functions, ranging from mastication to communication. Any disruption in their normal function may lead to serious negative effects on human well-being. A very wide range of medical disorders and conditions in psychology, neurology, psychiatry, and cosmetic surgery are related to facial muscles, and scientific explorations spanning over decades exposed many fascinating phenomena. For example, expansive evidence implicates facial muscle activation with the expression of emotions. Yet, the exact manner by which emotions are expressed is still debated: whether facial expressions are universal, how gender and cultural differences shape facial expressions and if and how facial muscle activation shape the internal emotional state. Surface electromyography (EMG) is one of the best tools for direct investigation of facial muscle activity and can be applied for medical and research purposes. The use of surface EMG has been so far restricted, owing to limited resolution and cumbersome setups. Current technologies are inconvenient, interfere with the subject normal behavior, and require know-how in proper electrode placement. High density electrode arrays based on soft skin technology is a recent development in the realm of surface EMG. It opens the door to perform facial EMG (fEMG) with high signal quality, while maintaining significantly more natural environmental conditions and higher data resolution. Signal analysis of multi-electrode recordings can also reduce crosstalk to achieve single muscle resolution. This perspective paper presents and discusses new opportunities in mapping facial muscle activation, brought about by this technological advancement. The paper briefly reviews some of the main applications of fEMG and presents how these applications can benefit from a more precise and less intrusive technology.
Clinical activities that contributed to the effectiveness of a cardiologist–pharmacist collaborative care model in managing diabetes
Authors: Lum Zheng Kang , Kng Kwee Keng , Goh Cynthia Ee Mei , Sule Ashish Anil , Gallagher Paul John , Lee Joyce Yu-Chia 
Published: July 2023

Abstract

Objectives
The primary objectives of this study were to evaluate the change in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and its association to clinical activities. The secondary objective was to elucidate moderators of the relationship between pharmacist-involved collaborative care (PCC) and change in HbA1c.

Methods
This study was a retrospective cohort study conducted in a tertiary hospital over 12 months. Individuals with Type 2 diabetes, aged ≥21 years with established cardiovascular diseases were included while individuals with incomplete care documentation or missing data related to cardiovascular diseases were excluded. Individuals under the care of PCC were matched 1:1 based on baseline HbA1c with an eligible person who received care from the cardiologists (CC). Changes in mean HbA1c were analysed using linear mixed model. Linear regression was used to determine clinical activities that associated with improvement in HbA1c. Moderation analyses were conducted using the MacArthur framework.

Key findings
A total of 420 participants (PCC:210, CC:210) were analysed. The mean age of the participants was 65.6 ± 11.1 years, with the majority being male and Chinese. The mean HbA1c among participants in the PCC group decreased significantly after 6 months (PCC: −0.4% versus CC: −0.1%, P = 0.016), with maintenance of improvement at 12 months (PCC: −0.4% versus CC: −0.2%, P &lt; 0.001). Frequencies of lifestyle counselling, reinforcement of visits to healthcare providers, health education, resolution of drug-related problems, emphasis on medication adherence, dose adjustments and advice on self-care techniques were significantly higher in the intervention group (P &lt; 0.001).

Conclusion
Improvements in HbA1c were associated with the provision of health education and medication adjustments.
Calves severely affected by bovine respiratory disease have reduced protection against histone toxicity and exhibit lower complement activity
Authors: Flores Victor V , Hernandez Gifford Jennifer A , Soto-Navarro Sergio A , Matera Julia , Wilson Blake K , Hartson Steven , Byrum Stephanie D , Gifford Craig A 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) remains the greatest challenge facing the beef industry. Calves affected by BRD can manifest illness ranging from subclinical infection to acute death. In pathologies similar to BRD, extracellular histones have been implicated as major contributors to lung tissue damage. Histones are basic proteins responsible for DNA organization in cell nuclei, however when released extracellularly during cell injury or via neutrophil activation they become cytotoxic. Cattle suffering severe cases of BRD demonstrate reduced capacity to protect against the cytotoxic effects of histones, however, the protective mechanism(s) of serum remain(s) unknown. Therefore, the objective was to identify components within serum that contribute to protection against histone toxicity. Serum proteins from animals considered protective (P; N = 4) and nonprotective (NP; N = 4) against the toxic effects of histones were precipitated by the addition and incubation of exogenous histones. Proteins that interact with histones from both groups were isolated by sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and identified via label free “shotgun” proteomics. Sixteen candidate proteins increased by ≥2-fold change in P vs. NP animals were identified, with several associated with the complement system. A subsequent study was conducted to evaluate complement system activity and serum protective capacity against exogenous histones in feedlot heifers. Serum samples were collected from 118 heifer calves (BW at arrival = 229 ± 2.4 kg) at feedlot arrival. Animals were retrospectively assigned to groups consisting of: calves not requiring treatment with antibiotics for BRD (CONT; N = 80), calves treated once (1TRT; N = 21), calves treated twice (2TRT; N = 5), calves treated thrice (3TRT; N = 3), or calves that died from BRD within 1 wk of entering the feedlot (DA; N = 9). Serum from DA animals was less protective than CONT (P = 0.0005) animals against histone toxicity. Complement activity of DA animals was reduced compared to CONT (P = 0.0044) animals. Additionally, the use of both assays as a ratio resulted in increased ability to detect DA animals. Results suggest that cattle predisposed to severe cases of respiratory disease may have impaired complement activity presumably contributing to reduced protective capacity against histone toxicity.
A Call to Promote Global Surgery and Anesthesia as Essential Curriculum for Uniformed Medical Students
Authors: Kim Sharon , Kim Eungjae , Shields Margaret , Scanlon Michaela , Worlton Tamara J 
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACT
Global surgery and anesthesia is an emerging field in global health and academic medicine. Promoting the education of global surgery and anesthesia among uniformed medical students is imperative and will prepare the next generation of uniformed physicians for global surgical missions through both the DoD and civilian opportunities.
Comparison of Physical Fitness, Self-Assessed Resilience, and Self-Assessed Character Traits between Elite Polish Obstacle Course Racers and Polish Special Operations Force Personnel
Authors: Żuchowski Paweł , Dura Marta , Jeka Daniel , Waszczak-Jeka Marzena 
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Some of the obstacle Course Race (OCR) competitions are co-organized by military units that are seeking candidates for service in special operations forces (SOFs). The aim of the study was to compare psycho-physical characteristics between Polish OCR athletes and SOF soldiers, in order to assess the possibility of recruiting future SOF soldiers from the OCR community.

Materials and Methods
The study included 23 OCR competitors, and 17 soldiers from JW Formoza were used as the comparative group. The psychological measure of resilience was assessed using the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale. Participants also completed a survey in which they had to rank character strengths. Physical fitness was assessed on the basis of a 3000-m run and the maximum number of sit-ups and straight pull-ups.

Results
There were significant differences between OCR participants and JW Formoza soldiers: body mass index, 24.1 ± 1.5 vs. 25.9 ± 1.9 (P = .002); 3000-m run, 11:59 ± 0:49 vs. 12:11 ± 0:28 (P = .024); and straight pull-ups, 19 ± 3 vs. 15 ± 3 (P = .001). The most commonly chosen character strengths in both groups were self-control, team worker, and optimism.

Conclusions
OCR competitors show psychophysical characteristics similar to those expected from actual SOF personnel.
Web based research in sexual medicine: a position statement of the European Society for Sexual Medicine
Authors: Kirana Paraskevi-Sofia , Gudeloglu Ahmet , Sansone Andrea , Sokolakis Ioannis 
Published: July 2023

Abstract

Background
Although the use of the Web has brought major advances in every step of the research process, this also comes with several methodological challenges.

Aim
The article presents the European Society for Sexual Medicine's position statements on key methodological concerns relative to Web-based research in sexual medicine.

Methods
The authors conducted a systematic scoping review of articles using Web-based research methods in sexual medicine. For the creation of the statements, the authors processed the data from the methodology of the studies and formulated the final statements reaching 100% agreement in the group.

Outcomes
European Society for Sexual Medicine statements were provided on the following domains: definition of the population of interest, selection of the population of interest, data collection quality, response rate, self-reported questionnaire, consent, and legal obligations.

Results
Researchers should justify the relevance of the Internet population to the population of interest; should clearly describe how they identified study participants; should select and employ specific measures to avoid hoax; should explicitly describe the process of calculation of response and completion rates as well as the relative implications; should validate traditional sexual health questionnaires for online and, if possible, multilingual use; should not ignore consent in Web-based research; and need to be knowledgeable of the technical measures and legal obligations to protect anonymity.

Implications
Researchers are advised to include trained computer scientists in their group, have a good understanding of their legal obligations as to collecting, storing and disseminating personal data, and design their studies by taking into account the challenges of Web-based research.

Strengths and limitations
The heterogeneity of the included studies and methodological low quality of most of them was a limitation, which also shows the importance of this study and the need for guidelines regarding Web-based research.

Conclusion
Large uncontrolled samples could be a threat to the quality of the studies and increase bias if researchers are not mindful of the methodological challenges they would need to account for.
Treatment of COVID-19-Induced Systematic Inflammatory Response and Multiple Organ Failure Using Xuebijing
Authors: Chen Yao , Guo Jianbo , Peng Wei , Xiang Xiangyin , Wang Yifan , Luo Yi , Feng Yibin , Wong Vivian Taam , Chen Haiyong 
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACT
According to clinical studies, patients with severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have a high incidence of cytokine storm and thrombosis. The National Health Commission of China approved Xuebijing (XBJ) as a first-line Chinese medicinal injection for COVID-19 patients with systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and/or multiple organ failure (MOF). We hypothesized that the therapeutic effect of XBJ on SIRS and MOF in COVID-19 occurs via immunothrombosis and employed network pharmacology to evaluate this potential mechanism. The chemical compounds in XBJ were retrieved, and proteins related to thrombotic diseases were screened. Further, Gene Ontology enrichment analysis of the antithrombotic targets of XBJ was conducted. The results highlight the key inter-players (neutrophils, monocytes/macrophages, and platelets) of immunothrombosis in COVID-19 and the potential therapeutic mechanism of XBJ in suppressing oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and platelet aggregation. Severe COVID-19 patients with SIRS and MOF may benefit from XBJ as it exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, inhibits platelet activation, and induces lymphocyte apoptosis.
Using the community of inquiry as a framework to promote online teaching and learning in advanced practice nursing education
Authors: Padilla Blanca Iris 
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACT
As advanced practice nursing education continues to shift toward a distance and hybrid format, it is important that nurse educators engaged in distance learning create and facilitate an online environment that successfully incorporates critical thinking, problem-solving skills, collaboration, and a sense of community. Although many learning theories and frameworks exist, there is a lack of literature on the applicability of these theories and frameworks to online teaching and learning in advanced practice nursing education. The purpose of this article is to describe the Community of Inquiry (CoI) framework and how it can be applied to online teaching and learning activities in advanced practiced nursing courses. This CoI is an effective framework for online learning and has been successful in promoting student engagement, an important factor in and predictor of academic success.
Pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis – an update on pathogenesis and treatment
Authors: Jouenne Fanélie , Benattia Amira , Tazi Abdellatif 
Published: July 2023

Purpose of review
Pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis (PLCH) is a rare diffuse cystic lung disease that affects young to middle-aged smoking adults of both genders. The identification of molecular alterations in the canonical mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling pathway in most specific lesions has demonstrated the clonal/neoplastic nature of PLCH. We will summarize the progress made in the understanding of the pathogenesis of adult PLCH, and briefly highlight the recent findings useful for the management of the patients.

Recent findings
The MAPK pathway is constantly activated in PLCH lesions. Apart from the BRAF
V600E mutation, other driver somatic genomic alterations in this pathway (mainly MAP2K1 mutations/deletions and BRAF deletions) have been identified in the lesions, paving the way for targeted treatment. Smoking appears to promote the recruitment of MAPK-activated circulating myeloid precursors to the lung. The long-term survival of PLCH is more favourable with a 10-year survival >90%. Lung cancer and chronic respiratory failure are the main causes of death. Few patients develop severe pulmonary complications within the 5 years after diagnosis, justifying a close longitudinal follow-up of the patients.

Summary
PLCH is a MAPK driven neoplasia with inflammatory properties. The place of targeted therapies in severe forms of PLCH warrants further evaluation.
Prevalence and correlates of androgen dependence: a meta-analysis, meta-regression analysis and qualitative synthesis
Authors: Skauen Jenny Eriksrød , Pallesen Ståle , Bjørnebekk Astrid , Chegeni Razieh , Syvertsen André , Petróczi Andrea , Sagoe Dominic 
Published: July 2023

Purpose of review
To investigate the prevalence and correlates of androgen dependence among users. A meta-analysis, meta-regression analysis, and qualitative synthesis were conducted based on a systematic literature search in Google Scholar, ISO Web of Science, PsycNET, and PubMed.

Recent findings
Twenty-six studies were included in the review and 18 studies (N = 1782) in the statistical analysis. The overall lifetime androgen dependence prevalence was 34.4% [95% confidence interval (CI): 27.8–41.7, Q = 113.1, I
2 = 85.0, P < 0.001]. Although males (36.1%, P < 0.001) and females (37.0%, P = 0.188) did not differ (Q = 0.0, P = 0.930) in dependence prevalence, controlling for other study characteristics, higher study male sample proportion was related to higher dependence prevalence. Combined interview and questionnaire assessments showed higher prevalence compared to interviews only. Publications from 1990–1999 generated higher prevalence compared to 2000–2009 and 2010–2023 publications. Dependents were associated with a wide array of demographic inequalities, and biophysical, cognitive, emotional, and psychosocial problems.

Summary
One of three persons who initiate androgen use experiences dependence along with various serious disorders. Androgen use and dependence should be considered an important public health issue requiring targeted health interventions.
Recent advances in anaplastic thyroid cancer management
Authors: Hamidi Sarah , Maniakas Anastasios 
Published: July 2023

Purpose of review
To summarize recent developments in the diagnosis and management of patients with anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC).

Recent findings
An updated edition of the Classification of Endocrine and Neuroendocrine Tumors was released by the World Health Organization (WHO), in which squamous cell carcinoma of the thyroid are now a subtype of ATC. Broader access to next generation sequencing has allowed better understanding of the molecular mechanisms driving ATC and improved prognostication. BRAF-targeted therapies revolutionized the treatment of advanced/metastatic BRAFV600E-mutated ATC, offering significant clinical benefit and allowing better locoregional control of disease through the neoadjuvant approach. However, inevitable development of resistance mechanisms represents a major challenge. Addition of immunotherapy to BRAF/MEK inhibition has shown very promising results and significant improvement in survival outcomes.

Summary
Major advancements took place in the characterization and management of ATC in recent years, especially in patients with a BRAF V600E mutation. Still, no curative treatment is available, and options are limited once resistance to currently available BRAF-targeted therapies develops. Additionally, there is still a need for more effective treatments for patients without a BRAF mutation.
Noninvasive brain stimulation for motor dysfunction after incomplete spinal cord injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Li Fang , Wei Changkun , Huo Su , Liu Xiuzhen , Du Jubao 
Published: July 2023

Abstract

Objective
We aimed to examine the effectiveness of noninvasive brain stimulation (NIBS) on motor dysfunction after incomplete spinal cord injury (iSCI).

Methods
The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library were searched from the inception dates to April 30, 2022. Randomized controlled trials comparing the effects of NIBS and sham stimulation on motor dysfunction in patients with iSCI were included. Two reviewers performed the data extraction and assessed study quality using Cochrane Collaboration’s Tool. The primary outcomes involved upper limb function, lower limb function, spasticity, and activities of daily living. They were analyzed using meta-analysis method and the results were reported as SMD with 95% CI.

Results
14 studies involving 225 patients were included. NIBS reduced spasticity at the end of intervention (SMD = -0.68, 95% CI = -1.32 to -0.03, P = 0.04) and one-week follow-up (SMD = -0.82, 95% CI = -1.48 to -0.16, P = 0.02), but no beneficial effect at one-month follow-up (SMD = -0.32, 95% CI = -1.06 to 0.42, P = 0.39). Additionally, NIBS also increased lower limb muscle strength at one-month follow-up (SMD = 0.69, 95% CI = 0.11 to 1.28, P = 0.02). Other main outcomes were similar between groups.

Conclusion
NIBS can reduce spasticity, and the favorable effect can sustain for one week after intervention. Also, NIBS can increase lower limb muscle strength at one-month follow-up.
The Effect of Climate on the Dose Requirements of Botulinum Toxin A in Cosmetic Interventions
Authors: Borsky Kim L. , Rodrigues Jeremy N. , Rodrigues Raina 
Published: July 2023

Background:
Botulinum toxin A to the glabella is a popular cosmetic intervention. Functional musculature differences may arise from chronic behavioral adjustment to high sun exposure levels, requiring greater doses. This could affect clinical practice globally. This study investigated the effect of climate on real-world doses.

Methods:
The authors conducted a comparative cohort study using data from a registry from a single provider practicing across two centers: the United Kingdom and Malta. They classified one center as low sun exposure (United Kingdom winter month treatment) and the other as high sun exposure (Malta summer months). Patients were followed up once every 3 weeks and received top-up doses until full clinical paralysis was achieved. To standardize the comparison, the study included only women aged 35 to 60 years undergoing glabellar botulinum toxin treatment by experienced clinicians following standard procedures from 2012 to 2019. Smokers, those not seeking maximal paralysis, those documented as not compliant with posttreatment advice, those with colds or fevers, and those with broken cold supply chains were excluded. Univariable and multivariable analyses were undertaken.

Results:
A total of 523 patients were included: 292 “high-sun” patients and 231 “low-sun” patients. Mean total doses were significantly higher in the high-sun group (29.2 units versus 27.3 units; P = 0.0031). When correcting for age in multivariable analysis, the low-sun group still had lower total dose requirements (P = 0.00574).

Conclusion:
Patients injected with glabellar botulinum toxin in high-sun climates may have significantly increased dose requirements to achieve maximal paralysis.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:
Therapeutic, III.