bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Timeliness of Breast Cancer Patients' Presentation to Health Care Facilities in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wendimu Debisa Eshatu , Degefa Mosisa Bekele , Achalu Daniel Legese , Mamo Biniyam Tedla , Daba Derese Bekele , Meshesha Solomon Getnet
Published: November 2024

PURPOSE

Low breast cancer survival rates are often linked to late-stage diagnosis. The patient interval, the time between symptom detection and the first health care visit, is a key indicator of early diagnosis. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of patient delay and its associated factors in Ethiopia.

METHODS

This systematic review used a combined approach of meta-analysis and meta-synthesis of quantitative and qualitative data, respectively. We adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guideline.

RESULTS

Eleven studies that satisfied the eligibility criteria were included in the review. More than half (58.48%) of the patients with breast cancer delayed seeking medical help at health facilities, with a median delay time of 120 days. Presence of a painful breast ulcer/wounded mass (odds ratio [OR], 0.23 [95% CI, 0.09 to 0.58]), having swelling or a lump in the armpit (OR, 0.27 [95% CI, 0.15 to 0.46]), residing in urban area (OR, 0.27 [95% CI, 0.15 to 0.49]), and having a secondary school education or higher (OR, 0.28 [95% CI, 0.12 to 0.64]) were less likely to delay in seeking formal health care. However, patients who travel more than 5 km (OR, 6.33 [95% CI, 4.10 to 9.75]) were more likely to delay in our meta-analysis. Moreover, the meta-synthesis showed that the nature and progression of symptoms, symptom disclosure, social support, emotional responses, use of alternative therapies, misconceptions about breast cancer, financial limitations, accessibility issues, and other personal-environmental factors were associated with patient delay.

CONCLUSION

Nearly three fifths of patients with breast cancer delayed seeking health care at health facilities. Inaccessibility, low awareness, cultural beliefs, and socioeconomic factors contributed to these delays. Increasing public awareness, especially in rural areas, and improving health care access could encourage earlier presentation.
Low-Dose Anti-PD(L)1 for the Treatment of Solid Malignancies
Authors: Souza Iza Andrade de A. , Dobbert Beatriz de M. , Sao Jose Barbara G. , Homse-Netto Joao Pedro , Furlan Larissa L. , Abreu Maira S. , Ferrari Camila , Uchoa Bruno , Abdallah Kathia , Lucio Stephano N. , Soler Joao A. , Fernandez Fabio L.C. , Ferreira Luiza , Guedes Joao D. , Fares Aline F. , Araujo Daniel V.
Published: November 2024

PURPOSE

Mounting data suggest that lower doses of anti-PD(L)1 agents can be as efficacious as label-approved doses at a fraction of its cost. We compare the outcomes of patients treated with low-dose (LD) and with conventional-dose (CD) anti-PD(L)1 agents.

METHODS

This observational study evaluates the outcomes of patients with solid malignancies treated with anti-PD(L)1 agents (LD or CD) at Hospital de Base, Brazil. Patients were classified as receiving LD if the dose administered in the first cycle was below the label-approved dose. Efficacy outcomes, including best clinical overall response rate (cORR), clinical progression-free survival (cPFS), and overall survival (OS), were evaluated.

RESULTS

From January 2020 to May 2023, 71 patients were included: 49 (69%) with LD and 22 (31%) with CD agents. The most frequent tumor sites were the lung (41% LD, 22.9% CD) and skin (melanoma; 24.6% LD, 50% CD). Most of the patients were treated with pembrolizumab (65% LD and 72% CD). The mean dose of pembrolizumab was 95.3 mg (1.5 mg/kg) in LD and 168.7 mg (2.12 mg/kg) in CD groups, once a day, q21d (every 21 days). After a median follow-up of 10.9 months, there were no significant differences between LD versus CD in cORR (38.1%
v
35.2%,
P
= .31), cPFS (5.3 m
v
7 m,
P
= .36), and OS (12.8 m
v
not reached,
P
= .17). A subgroup analysis with patients receiving pembrolizumab was performed, and similar results were obtained.

CONCLUSION

Our study found no differences in cORR, cPFS, and OS between patients treated with LD and CD anti-PD(L)1. LD anti-PD(L)1 could be an alternative to promote accessibility, which warrants further investigation in randomized trials.
Matter-antimatter (a)symmetry in de Sitter Universe
Authors: Gazeau Jean-Pierre , Pejhan Hamed
Published: November 2024

We investigate the matter-antimatter properties of elementary systems, modeled as free quantum fields, within the global structure of de Sitter spacetime. By leveraging the distinctive causal and analytic properties of de Sitter spacetime, we propose that matter-antimatter asymmetry could emerge as an observer-dependent effect shaped by time orientation within a local causal patch, rather than as a fundamental property of de Sitter Universe itself. This kinematic perspective complements, rather than replaces, standard dynamical processes —such as baryon number violation,

violation, and nonequilibrium processes— that fulfill Sakharov's criteria. Within this framework, the limited presence of antimatter in our predominantly matter-filled Universe, specifically within the causal patch of de Sitter spacetime under consideration, may arise from these mechanisms, though through pathways distinct from conventional interpretations.
Efficient intraband radiative recombination in Bi-doped Si nanocrystals
Authors: Maksimova G. M. , Fomichev S. A. , Burdov V. A.
Published: November 2024

It is shown theoretically that sufficiently strong short-range potential of a donor in combination with the effect of quantum confinement is capable of creating great splitting of the energy levels in the conduction band of small Si nanocrystals with a Bi atom. Consequently, radiative transitions between the split levels can generate photons of the near-infrared and, even, visible ranges. Typical rates of these intraband transitions are of the order of 107 s−1, which allows one to hope for high efficiency of possible luminescence in the system.
GH Therapy in Chronic Heart Failure: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Theodorakis Nikolaos , Feretzakis Georgios , Kreouzi Magdalini , Anagnostou Dimitrios , Hitas Christos , Verykios Vassilios S , Nikolaou Maria
Published: November 2024

Context

Guideline-directed medical therapy of heart failure (HF) primarily targets neurohormonal activation. However, GH has emerged as a potential treatment for the multiple hormonal deficiency syndrome, which is associated with worse outcomes in HF.

Objective

This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of GH therapy in HF.

Data Sources

A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov, according to PRISMA guidelines

Study Selection

Randomized, placebo-controlled trials studying GH therapy in adult HF patients were included. Of the 1184 initially identified records, 17 studies (1.4%) met the inclusion criteria.

Data extraction

Two independent authors conducted the search, with any disagreements resolved by a third author. Study quality was assessed using predefined criteria, including randomization, blinding, and the presence of a placebo group.

Data Synthesis

A random-effects model was applied due to heterogeneity across studies. GH therapy significantly improved left ventricular ejection fraction (+3.34%; 95% CI, 1.09-5.59; P = .0037), peak oxygen consumption (+2.84 mL/kg/min; 95% CI, 1.32-4.36; P = .0002), and New York Heart Association class (−0.44; 95% CI, −0.08 to −0.81; P = .023). GH therapy also reduced the composite of death, worsening HF or ventricular tachycardia by 41% (RR = .59; 95% CI, 0.39-0.90; P = .013). Subgroup analyses indicated that patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy, baseline ejection fraction ≥30%, and longer treatment duration experienced greater benefits.

Conclusion

GH therapy demonstrated improvements in cardiac function, exercise capacity, and HF symptoms, along with a statistically significant trend toward improvements in hard endpoints. Event-driven trials are needed to validate these findings.
Pituitary Gigantism in an Adolescent Girl With Postsurgical Residual Disease Treated With Lanreotide
Authors: Kanley Amissabah M , Bossert Whitney L , Elrokhsi Salaheddin H
Published: November 2024

Pituitary gigantism (PG) is a rare endocrine disorder that may present with multiple pituitary hormone abnormalities in pediatric patients. A hallmark presentation is accelerated growth due to growth hormone (GH) excess. Current treatment modalities include surgery, radiation, and medical therapy. We describe a 14-year-old girl who presented with recurrent slipped capital femoral epiphysis with GH excess and multiple other hormonal abnormalities. A sellar mass was identified on magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and was surgically resected. The pathology report was consistent with pituitary gland adenoma with mammosomatotrophs hyperplasia. Post surgery, serial laboratory results showed persistently elevated growth factor and GH levels, and residual tumor was reported on follow-up imaging. Even though we found limited data on the efficacy and safety of a long-acting somatostatin analogue, lanreotide, in the treatment of PG, a total of 4 doses of lanreotide successfully reduced growth factor and GH levels to normal ranges in our patient. Repeat imaging 5 weeks post discontinuation of lanreotide showed reduction of residual tumor volume. This case reveals that a short course of lanreotide may be used as an effective medical treatment in pediatric patients with PG who have residual disease after surgical intervention.
The Decline of Innovation and the Rise of Contribution
Authors: Berger-Soraruff Amélie
Published: November 2024

This article explores the concept of innovation through the philosophy of Bernard Stiegler. Traditionally understood as the successful commercialization of a technical invention, innovation is considered to be the driving force behind capitalist growth. In recent years, it has been accused of being unsustainable and has been resented by many for causing more harms than benefits for life on the planet. As a result, a new generation of thinkers encourages the exit from innovation as part of a politics of “degrowth.” Although legitimate, these concerns are unfounded, as these thinkers misunderstand innovation in leaving aside the capacity for a technical phenomenon to bring effective change in society. This article turns to Stiegler's work in order to broaden the meaning of innovation. His philosophy allows us to approach innovation as a broader historical and biological drive that concerns the inherent technical character of the human. It shows that the human ability to introduce novelty and change in general can only be pursued through an interaction with technics. In a context where most of the technical resources essential to the introduction of significant change in society are owned by giant industries that only propose products destined for immediate consumption, Stiegler claims that it is politically crucial for individuals to intervene. This must be in developing a working knowledge of their technical environment in order to become again the active producers of their future, instead of being the passive consumers of a lifestyle that is essentially destructive. For these reasons, the article concludes that innovation, understood as a collective practice and a mode of social empowerment, must be revived rather than repressed.
Internship during Certificate Course in Medical Editing by UHS and PAME
Authors: Farasat Nabiha
Published: November 2024

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.11266
How to cite this: Farasat N. Internship during Certificate Course in Medical Editing by UHS and PAME. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(11):2752-2754.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.11266
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
A case of adult ETV6-ASCL6 fusion gene positive chronic myeloproliferative tumor and literature review
Authors: Xu Wei-ge , Wang Pei , Yang Yan-min , Yuan Xian-hua
Published: November 2024

ETV6-ASCL6 fusion gene plays an important role in hematopoiesis and hematological malignancies, but it is rare in hematological diseases. This paper describes a case of etv6-ascl6 fusion gene positive patient who was successively diagnosed as myelofibrosis, eosinophilic leukemia, basophilic leukemia and secondary acute myeloid leukemia. The clinical manifestations and disease evolution have its unique characteristics.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.8556
How to cite this: Xu W, Wang P, Yang Y, Yuan X. A case of adult ETV6-ASCL6 fusion gene positive chronic myeloproliferative tumor and literature review. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(11):2759-2762. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.8556
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Burden of congenital and hereditary anomalies in the population of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan
Authors: Khursheed Filza , Farid Rubbiya , Qureshi Saba Rafique , Malik Sajid
Published: November 2024

Objectives: This study was aimed to elucidate the prevalence-pattern of congenital and hereditary anomalies (CA) in the population of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), which is a logistically difficult area in the north-east of Pakistan and in the foot-hills of Himalayas.
Method: A cross-sectional clinico-epidemiological study was carried out during 2018-2020 in three districts of AJK and individuals/families with CA were recruited from hospitals, public places and through door-to-door surveys. The anomalies were classified with the help of specialized clinicians and their definitions were sought from OMIM and ICD-10 databases. Descriptive statistics was employed.
Results: A total of 1193 independent individuals/families with certain type of CA were included. The CA were categorized into 10 major and 85 minor entities. Among the major categories, neurological disorders had the highest representation (n=403; proportion: 0.338; 95%-CI: 0.311-0.365), followed by limb defects (n=362; prop.: 0.303; 95%-CI: 0.277-0.330), sensorineural defects (n=187; prop.: 0.157; 95%-CI: 0.136-0.177), musculoskeletal disorders (n=64), visual impairments (n=64), ectodermal disorders (n=40), orofacial disorder (n=34), blood disorder (n=11), metabolic disorders (n=8), and others (n=20). The anomalies with sporadic presentations were twice as common as familial cases, and there was remarkably high preponderance of isolated cases compared to syndromic presentations (82% vs. 18%, respectively). The parental consanguinity was observed in 63% cases and was statistically significantly higher in familial cases compared to sporadic.
Conclusions: Majority of the anomalies observed in this cohort are of severe nature rendering high morbidity burden on the population and require early detection, intervention and management.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.8687
How to cite this: Khursheed F, Farid R, Qureshi SR, Malik S. Burden of congenital and hereditary anomalies in the population of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(11):2707-2714. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.8687
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Efficacy of comprehensive nursing intervention on nursing outcomes and prognostic quality of life in elderly patients with chronic heart failure
Authors: Zhang Xuefei , Gao Shan , Wei Shuya
Published: November 2024

Objective: To explore the effect of comprehensive nursing intervention on nursing outcomes, self-efficacy, and quality of life in elderly patients with chronic heart failure (CHF).
Method: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data from 120 elderly patients with CHF admitted to Baoding No.1 Central Hospital from June 2019 to June 2022. Patients were divided into a control group and an observation group based on different nursing methods (n= 60 each group). The clinical data of the two groups were analyzed, comparing changes in heart function, psychological status, and quality of life before and after intervention.
Results: After intervention, both groups exhibited decreased scores on the Hamilton Anxiety Scale and the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale compared to the pre-intervention levels, with the observation group showing a significantly lower degree of decline compared to the control group during the same period (P<0.05, respectively). The overall compliance rate of medical adherence in the observation group was 85.00%, significantly higher than the 70.00% in the control group (P<0.05). After intervention, both groups exhibited improvement in left ventricular ejection fraction, left ventricular end-systolic diameter, and left ventricular end-diastolic diameter compared to the pre-intervention levels, with the observation group showing a more significant improvement than the control group (P < 0.05, respectively).
Conclusion: For elderly patients with CHF, comprehensive nursing intervention may reduce negative emotions, improve sleep quality, self-care ability, and self-efficacy, and enhance patient compliance, quality of life, and heart function.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.9241
How to cite this: Zhang X, Gao S, Wei S. Efficacy of comprehensive nursing intervention on nursing outcomes and prognostic quality of life in elderly patients with chronic heart failure. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(11):-2613-2618. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.9241
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Clinical value of epidermal growth factor receptor mutation testing in peripheral blood of patients with non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Zheng Xiaomeng , Tong Chengbi , Li Xiaodong , Meng Yanan , Liu Xiaodan
Published: November 2024

Objective: To investigate the clinical value of EGFR mutation testing in peripheral blood of patients with non-small cell lung cancer.
Method: This was a retrospective study. A total of 89 patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) admitted to Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University between June 2019 and May 2023 were selected, and divided into the wild-type group and the mutant group according to the results of EGFR mutation testing in peripheral blood. Clinic pathological data of patients were collected and compared between the two groups, the correlation between EGFR mutation and the prognosis was analyzed.
Result: No statistically significant difference in the mutation rate of EGFR gene was observed between peripheral blood ctDNA and tumor tissue (p=0.879). EGFR mutation in peripheral blood ctDNA was not significantly correlated with sex, age, ethnicity and ECOG score (p>0.05). The EGFR mutation rate was increased in patients with adenocarcinoma compared with that in patient with squamous carcinoma, and in non-smoking patients compared with that in smoking patients, and the differences were statistically significant (p<0.05). The 1-, 2-, and 3-year disease-free survival (DFS) rates were significantly increased in the mutant group compared with those in the wild-type group, respectively (p<0.05).
Conclusion: EGFR mutation in peripheral blood and tumor tissues is highly consistent in NSCLC patients. The EGFR mutation rate is higher in adenocarcinoma and non-smoking patients, and the prognosis is better in patients with EGFR mutations.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.9564
How to cite this: Zheng X, Tong C, Li X, Meng Y, Liu X. Clinical value of epidermal growth factor receptor mutation testing in peripheral blood of patients with non-small cell lung cancer. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(11):2626-2630. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.9564
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Ραδιολογικός χαρακτηρισμός ραδιενεργών καταλοίπων
Authors: Μαυρίκης Δημήτριος
Published: November 2024

Η παρούσα Διδακτορική Διατριβή ασχολείται με τον ραδιολογικό χαρακτηρισμό ραδιενεργών καταλοίπων που η διαχείρισή τους αποτελεί πρόκληση (challenging waste). Αποτελείται από δύο σκέλη, το πρώτο σκέλος αφορά στον ραδιολογικό χαρακτηρισμό εξασθενημένων πηγών Co-57 και Ge-68/ Ga-68 που χρησιμοποιούνται για την βαθμονόμηση ιατρικών οργάνων και δεν έχουν πιστοποιητικά όταν αποσύρονται, με αποτέλεσμα να μην μπορεί να εκτιμηθεί η ενεργότητά τους. Το δεύτερο σκέλος ασχολείται με τον ραδιολογικό χαρακτηρισμό μεταλλικών καταλοίπων χαμηλής ενεργότητας που προέρχονται από την αποξήλωση ερευνητικών πυρηνικών αντιδραστήρων. Κατά την αποξήλωση των πυρηνικών αντιδραστήρων, παράγεται μεγάλη ποσότητα μεταλλικών καταλοίπων (δεκάδες έως εκατοντάδες τόνοι), τα οποία ανήκουν στις κατηγορίες VLLW, EW. Για τις εξασθενημένες πηγές, απαιτείται ο χαρακτηρισμός για να προσδιοριστεί ο χρόνος που χρειάζεται να φυλαχθεί η πηγή έως ότου ικανοποιηθεί το κριτήριο αποδέσμευσης ώστε να απελευθερωθεί από τον ρυθμιστικό έλεγχο. Στην περίπτωση των μεταλλικών καταλοίπων χαμηλής ενεργότητας, ο χαρακτηρισμός χρειάζεται για να επιλεγεί η οδός διαχείρισής των καταλοίπων (δηλ. άμεση αποδέσμευση από τον ρυθμιστικό έλεγχο, επιλογή των μεθόδων απορρύπανσης και των διαδικασιών αποδέσμευσης και διαχείριση ως ραδιενεργών καταλοίπων όσων δεν μπορούν να αποδεσμευθούν). Στα πλαίσια αυτής της διατριβής αναπτύχθηκε μια τεχνική για τον ραδιολογικό χαρακτηρισμό και την καταγραφή γραμμικών (line) πηγών Ge-68/ Ga-68 και επίπεδων (flood) πηγών Co-57. Η τεχνική βασίζεται στον συνδυασμό μη - καταστροφικής μέτρησης γ – φασματοσκοπίας και προσομοιώσεων Monte Carlo χρησιμοποιώντας τον κώδικα MCNPX. Οι πηγές προσομοιώθηκαν ως πηγές γάμα ακτινοβολίας. Επιπρόσθετα, η πηγή Ge-68/ Ga-68 προσομοιώθηκε και ως πηγή ποζιτρονίων. Προκειμένου να επαληθευτεί η τεχνική, χρησιμοποιήθηκαν μια γραμμική πηγή Co-57 και μια επίπεδη πηγή Ge-68/ Ga-68 για τις οποίες υπήρχαν τα πιστοποιητικά βαθμονόμησης τους. Όσο αφορά στον χαρακτηρισμό των μεταλλικών καταλοίπων προτάθηκε μια διάταξη για την μέτρηση και αναπτύχθηκε η τεχνική με σκοπό την μείωση της αβεβαιότητας της μέτρησης κάτω από 30% και παράλληλα την επίτευξη επαρκούς ευαισθησίας για τα βασικά ραδιονουκλίδια (Cs-137 και Co-60) σε χρόνο μέτρησης μερικών λεπτών. Στόχος ήταν να επιτυγχάνεται μέσω της μέτρησης η βέλτιστη επιλογή της οδού διαχείρισης των καταλοίπων για εξοικονόμηση χρόνου και πόρων. Για την μη καταστροφική διάταξη γ – φασματοσκοπίας, καθορίστηκαν οι παράμετροι της μέτρησης και εκτιμήθηκαν, με προσομοιώσεις που πραγματοποιήθηκαν με την βοήθεια του κώδικα MCNPX, οι αποδόσεις της μέτρησης για διάφορες γεωμετρίες πηγών (π.χ. ευθύγραμμοι και κυρτοί σωλήνες, μεταλλικές πλάκες). Προσδιορίστηκε επίσης η απόκλιση της απόδοσης από την ομοιογενή περίπτωση ρύπανσης, στην περίπτωση ανομοιογένειας της ενεργότητας για τις γεωμετρίες των μεταλλικών τμημάτων που εξετάστηκαν. Τα μοντέλα επαληθευτήκαν χρησιμοποιώντας πρότυπες πηγές Cs-137 που παρασκευάστηκαν στο εργαστήριο.
Developing a framework for understanding policy decision-making behaviors in the transition of an HIV prevention program towards sustainability: a case study from Zambia’s voluntary medical male circumcision program
Authors: Gantayat Nishan , Baer James , Gangaramany Alok , Kretschmer Steve , Surana Rasi , Samona Alick , Mukamba Njekwa , Jere Bright , Chinsenga Tina , Prasad Ram , Goetschius Stephen , Sharma Saransh
Published: November 2024

Faced with declining donor funding for HIV, low- and middle-income countries must identify efficient and cost-effective ways to integrate HIV prevention programs into public health systems for long-term sustainability. In Zambia, donor support to the voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) program, which previously funded non-governmental organizations as implementing partners, is increasingly being directed through government structures instead. We developed a framework to understand how the behaviors of individual decision-makers within the government could be barriers to this transition. We interviewed key stakeholders from the national, provincial, and district levels of the Ministry of Health, and from donors and partners funding and implementing Zambia’s VMMC program, exploring the decisions required to attain a sustainable VMMC program and the behavioral dynamics involved at personal and institutional levels. Using pattern identification and theme matching to analyze the content of the responses, we derived three core decision-making phases in the transition to a sustainable VMMC program: 1) developing an alternative funding strategy, 2) developing a policy for early-infant (0–2 months) and early-adolescent (15–17 years) male circumcision, which is crucial to sustainable HIV prevention; and 3) identifying integrated and efficient implementation models. We formulated a framework showing how, in each phase, a range of behavioral dynamics can form barriers that hinder effective decision-making among stakeholders at the same level (e.g., national ministries and donors) or across levels (e.g., national, provincial and district). Our research methodology and the resulting framework offer a systematic approach for in-depth investigations into organizational decision-making in public health programs, as well as development programs beyond VMMC and HIV prevention. It provides the insights necessary to map organizational development and policy-making transition plans to sustainability, by explaining tangible factors such as organizational processes and systems, as well as intangibles such as the behaviors of policymakers and institutional actors.
Russia - Europe in a polycentric world: the imperative of new approaches to constructive dialogue
Authors: Mizin V.
Published: November 2024

The objective of this article is to try to outline ways to further strengthen the country's role and contribution to the process of building a renewed architecture of European security and multilateral cooperation on the continent on the basis of Russia's historically integral membership in Greater Europe in political, economic, socio–cultural and socio-psychological dimensions. For centuries, Russia has undoubtedly been the leading European power, largely determining the course of history and the development of processes in the region, laying the foundations for the still existing system of relations between European states. At the same time, the problem of Russian identity/uniqueness remains at the center of acute debates in the political and academic environment and the intellectual development of the country. In this regard, the article analyzes possible approaches to strengthening Russia's role in the region and possible options for a constructive contribution to European security in the future. Based on traditional political science methods (analysis and synthesis, comparative studies), an attempt is made to present scenarios and possible solutions to strengthen Russia's position in the European region as a leading power in the development of the strategy of national "Europeanism". This is also a new theoretical contribution to the development and understanding of the Russian concept and the elaboration of the future strategy of "Europeanism". A number of specific initiatives in this regard are also proposed, which could, in principle, be used by Russian foreign policy establishment and other institutions. The practical significance of the study is seen precisely in this provision of a whole set of specific proposals for building the future of Russian foreign policy and setting guidelines for organizing the activities of our diplomacy. The author comes to the conclusion that it is imperative for Russia in the current extremely convoluted international situation to take an active, positive and offensive diplomatic line with a determined imposition of our negotiating agenda on partners in order to constructively overcome the current profound crisis in relations with the "collective West", including its European segment. Naturally, in strict observance of the vital interests of national security in all its aspects.
Desigualdades relacionadas à participação em aulas de Educação Física entre adolescentes sul-americanos: uma análise com 173.288 participantes
Authors: Araujo Raphael Henrique de Oliveira , Werneck André Oliveira , Matias Thiago Sousa , Tassitano Rafael Miranda , Martins Clarice Maria de Lucena , Aguilar-Farias Nicolas , Jesus Gilmar Mercês de , Ramírez-Vélez Robinson , Baldew Se-Sergio , Anza-Ramirez Cecilia , Álvarez-Álvarez Mario Germán , Brazo-Sayavera Javier , Silva Danilo Rodrigues Pereira da
Published: November 2024

O objetivo do presente estudo foi descrever a prevalência de participação em aulas de Educação Física (EF) entre adolescentes sul americanos de acordo com correlatos sociodemográficos. Foram utilizados dados de 11 países sul-americanos, compreendendo 173.288 adolescentes (>11 a 19 anos). A participação em aulas de EF foi autorrelatada (0, 1, 2 e ≥3 dias/semana). Os correlatos sociodemográficos foram gênero, faixa etária e status de segurança alimentar. Modelos de regressão de Poisson foram usados para estimar as razões de prevalência. Cerca de 16% dos adolescentes sul-americanos não participaram de aulas de EF, enquanto 27% participaram ≥3 dias/semana em aulas de EF. Meninos tiveram maior probabilidade de participar de aulas de aulas de EF ≥3 dias/semana do que meninas [1,10 (1,03; 1,19)], não havendo diferença de gênero na categoria 0 dia/semana [1,03 (0,91; 1,16)]. Adolescentes mais velhos (≥16 anos) apresentaram maior prevalência de 0 [1,50 (1,11; 2,02)] e 1 dia/semana [1,18 (1,05; 1,33)], e menor prevalência de 2 [0,70 (0,58; 0,85)] e ≥3 dias/semana de aulas de EF [0,73 (0,60; 0,89)] em comparação aos adolescentes mais jovens (12-13 anos). Adolescentes que relataram insegurança alimentar apresentaram maior prevalência de 0 [1,20 (1,06; 1,36)] e ≥3 dias/semana de aulas de EF [1,07 (1,02; 1,12)]. Assim, aproximadamente 16% dos adolescentes sul-americanos não participam de aulas de educação física, sendo observadas diferenças de gênero, entre faixas etárias e entre status de segurança alimentar.
Grupo de Trabalho em Políticas Públicas e Atividade Física da SBAFS: concepção, atividades e perspectivas
Authors: Sandreschi Paula Fabricio , Petreça Daniel Rogério , Alecrim Joao Victor da Costa , Silva Debora Bernardo , Silva Paulo Sergio Cardoso da , Reis Rodrigo Siqueira , Andrade Douglas Roque
Published: November 2024

A Sociedade Brasileira de Atividade Física e Saúde (SBAFS), desde a sua criação em 2007, exerce importante papel na congregação de estudantes, profissionais e pesquisadores com o objetivo de fortalecer a área no Brasil. Entre as diversas ações da SBAFS, em setembro de 2018 foi criado o Grupo de Trabalho de Políticas Públicas e Atividade Física, que tem como missão posicionar a SBAFS no desenvolvimento de políticas públicas relacionadas à atividade física no Brasil, articular com outros atores em prol do desenvolvimento destas e estimular a discussão, sistematização e divulgação de conhecimentos e práticas em políticas públicas nessa área. Neste contexto, o presente artigo descreve a criação, atividades e ações do grupo de trabalho dede a criação até o ano de 2024, assim como apresentar desafios e perspectivas futuras para a temática.
Building a partnership experience
Authors: White Emma
Published: November 2024

Emma White explores Continental Eyewear’s strong relationships between teams and partners that helped it scoop the Frames Supplier of the Year Optician Award 2021
Waterside 50 not out
Authors: Hale Mike
Published: November 2024

Mike Hale speaks to Chris Smith, managing director at Waterside Laboratories, about the path the business has taken to celebrating its 50th anniversary this year
CPD: Our mind’s eye: Fantasy, mental imagery and aphantasia
Authors: Tooth Cirta
Published: November 2024

Cirta Tooth reviews a condition that can significantly impact upon vision and presents a case study by way of illustration (C103107, suitable for logging as one provider-led distance learning CPD point for optometrists and dispensing opticians)
Raising our profile
Authors: Morris Paul
Published: November 2024

Paul Morris highlights how ECPs need to self-promote and self-develop to advance the world of optics
Diary of a Spectacle Designer
Authors: Davies Tom
Published: November 2024

Tom Davies finds himself blindsided by the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
pH-Sensitive Biodegradability of Poly(Maleic acid-co-Malic acid-coButane-1,4-diol-co-Adipic acid) for Smart Release of Fertilizers
Authors: Mahmud Abu , Khatun Anjuman Ara , Matin M. Abdul , Chowdhury Monishita Nuzhat , Hoque M. Asadul
Published: November 2024

Poly(Maleic acid-co-Malic acid-co-Butane-1,4-diol-co-Adipic acid) was synthesized in xylene medium using Dean-Stark apparatus. Corresponding monomers were taken in stoichiometric ratios. A trace amount of anhydrous ferric chloride was added as catalyst. The reaction temperature and time were 135-140°C and 5 hours respectively. The synthesized co-polyester was characterized by its solubility test in common organic solvents, molecular weight, FTIR-spectrum, TGA, hydrolytic test and soil burial biodegradability tests. The end group analysis and viscosity methods were used for molecular weight determination. From the hydrolytic degradation study it was found that the polyester sample remained almost intact in the acid medium but gradually degraded in the basic medium. Soil burial test reveals that the co-polyester is almost mixed with the soil within two months which indicates its biodegradability in the soil. Because of these special characteristics this co-polyester could be a future endeavor for smart release of fertilizers.
Review of the tribe Cephenniini Reitter (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Scydmaeninae) in Korea
Authors: NA DAUM , BYEON UI-JOUNG , PARK JONG-SEOK
Published: November 2024

The ant-like stone beetle tribe Cephenniini Reitter (Staphylinidae: Scydmaeninae) is distributed worldwide and includes 714 species within 23 genera. One of those genera, Cephennodes Reitter, contains more than 220 species, three of which have been recorded in Korea. In this study, two additional Cephenniini species, Cephennodes (Fusionodes) ussuricus (Kurvatov) and Cephennomicrus tanakai Hoshina, are recorded for the first time in Korea. Illustrations of habitus, aedeagus, and a key to Korean species of the tribe Cephenniini are also provided.
Outbreaks of streptococcosis associated with Streptococcus agalactiae in farmed climbing perch (Anabas testudineus) in Vietnam
Authors:   College of Aquaculture and Fisheries, Cantho University, Cantho City 90000, Vietnam, Dung Tu Thanh , Cao Thi Quach Van ,   Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Vinh Long University of Technology Education, Vinh Long City 89000, Vietnam, Trung Nguyen Bao ,   College of Aquaculture and Fisheries, Cantho University, Cantho City 90000, Vietnam
Published: November 2024

Streptococcus agalactiae causes serious economic damage to fish cultivation worldwide. The goal of this work was to isolate, identify, and evaluate the pathogenicity and susceptibility of the streptococci isolates to antibiotics recovered from climbing perch (A. testudineus) farmed in the southern part of Vietnam. Moribund and healthy fish were taken differently from intensive climbing perch farms. The diseased fish’s clinical signs were observed, including darkened body color, ascites, hepatomegaly, an enlarged kidney, and splenomegaly. Based on the conventional method, the API 20 Strep test, and 16S rRNA gene partial sequencing, S. agalactiae was associated with disease. They have non β-hemolytic activity, gram-positive cocci, catalase, and oxidase-negative enzymes. The LD50 trial performance of S. agalactiae showed the virulence of this bacteria in climbing perch and fulfilled Koch’s postulates with a value of 8.71 x 104 CFU/mL at day 7. Most of the challenged fish presented the same clinical signs as the natural infection. Hence, S. agalactiae were confirmed as the causative agents of the "dark body" disease. Antibiogram results demonstrated that S. agalactiae strains were completely susceptible to cefotaxime, doxycycline, and florfenicol. Interestingly, the results of this study found that S. agalactiae isolates are 100% resistant to sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of S. agalactiae as a pathogen of climbing perch.
A Case report of reproductive failure and dermatitis occurred by PCV3 and Mycoplasma suis in sows at a breeding farm
Authors:   Faculty of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Nong Lam University HCMC, Thu Duc City, Ho Chi Minh City 713000, Vietnam, Thuy Do Dung Thi , Ngoc Ngo Tram Thi ,   Faculty of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Nong Lam University HCMC, Thu Duc City, Ho Chi Minh City 713000, Vietnam, Nguyen Nam Minh ,   Center for Genetics and Reproductive Health (CGRH), School of Medicine, National University HCMC, Thu Duc City, Ho Chi Minh City 713000, Vietnam, Bui Nga Thi To ,   College of Veterinary Medicine, Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Hanoi 12400, Vietnam, Do Duy Tien ,   Faculty of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Nong Lam University HCMC, Thu Duc City, Ho Chi Minh City 713000, Vietnam
Published: November 2024

Reproductive disorders in sows pose significant economic challenges to the swine industry worldwide. In this study, we investigated the presence of porcine circovirus type 3 (PCV3) and Mycoplasma suis (M. suis) in cases of reproductive failure at a breeding sow farm in Vietnam. PCR and RT-PCR assays were performed to detect related pathogens on samples collected from sows with reproductive disorders, and phylogenetic analysis was conducted to characterize the PCV3 strains. Additionally, the incidence and shedding patterns of PCV3 were assessed. Results revealed a high frequency of PCV3 and M. suis infections in sows with reproductive disorders (54.5% and 45.4% respectively), while other pathogens were not detected. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the PCV3 strains belonged to the PCV3b subtype. The findings suggest that PCV3 may play a significant role in causing reproductive problems in sows and highlight the potential impact of early PCV3 infection on piglets during later production stages.
The effects of sappanwood (Caesalpinia sappan) addition on in vitro methane mitigation, gas production, and ruminal fermentation parameters
Authors:   Graduate School of Animal Science, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Jl. Fauna No. 3 Bulaksumur, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia, Ammar Hilmy Abdurrasyid , Hanim Chusnul ,   Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Jl. Fauna No. 3 Bulaksumur, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia, Kurniawati Asih ,   Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Jl. Fauna No. 3 Bulaksumur, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia, - Muhlisin ,   Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Jl. Fauna No. 3 Bulaksumur, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia, Astuti Andriyani ,   Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Jl. Fauna No. 3 Bulaksumur, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia
Published: November 2024

This research was designed to examine the methane-mitigating properties of sappanwood and its effects on ruminal fermentation parameters using the in vitro gas production method from Menke and Steingass (1988). The sappanwood was dried and pulverised to obtain the sappanwood powder, which was added to 300 mg of forage:concentrate substrate (70:30) at three different levels (2, 4, and 6% DM basis). The in vitro incubation followed a randomised block design and was incubated for 48 hours. The continuous data was then analysed using mixed models of the mixed procedure in SAS on Demand (SAS Institute, Inc. Carry). The results showed that all treatment levels did not affect total gas production, the gas fractions, NH3 levels, microbial proteins, and protozoal counts (P>0.05). The total CH4 and CO2 productions, CH4 and CO2 productions per mg dry matter (DM) and organic matter (OM) degraded, digested dry matter (DDM), digested organic matter (DOM), pH values, total VFAs, acetic, propionic, and butyric acid productions differed significantly (P<0.05). The results emphasizing the 6% addition of sappanwood showed the best methane mitigating properties without hindering ruminal fermentation processes and ruminal microbes.
Ollivier Ricci-flow on weighted graphs
Authors: Bai Shuliang , Lin Yong , Lu Linyuan , Wang Zhiyu , Yau Shing-Tung
Published: November 2024

abstract: We study the existence of solutions of Ricci flow equations of Ollivier-Lin-Lu-Yau curvature defined on weighted graphs. Our work is motivated by the work of Ni-Lin-Luo-Gao in which the discrete time Ricci flow algorithm has been applied successfully as a discrete geometric approach in detecting communities. Our main result is the existence and uniqueness theorem for solutions to a continuous time normalized Ricci flow. We also display possible solutions to the Ricci flow on path graph and prove the Ricci flow on finite star graph with at least three leaves converges to constant-weighted star.
A Jacobian criterion for nonsingularity in mixed characteristic
Authors: Hochster Melvin , Jeffries Jack
Published: November 2024

abstract: We give a version of the usual Jacobian characterization of the defining ideal of the singular locus in the equal characteristic case: the new theorem is valid for essentially affine algebras over a complete local algebra over a mixed characteristic discrete valuation ring. The result makes use of the minors of a matrix that includes a row coming from the values of a $p$-derivation. To study the analogue of modules of differentials associated with the mixed Jacobian matrices that arise in our context, we introduce and investigate the notion of a {\it perivation}, which may be thought of, roughly, as a linearization of the notion of $p$-derivation. We also develop a mixed characteristic analogue of the positive characteristic $\Gamma$-construction, and apply this to give additional nonsingularity criteria.
Ambition and the Bleak Legacy of Liberal Thought in Benito Pérez Galdós’ La Fontana de Oro: Novela histórica (1871)
Authors: Cameron Bryan
Published: November 2024

Abstract: Re-reading Benito Pérez Galdós’ La Fontana de Oro as an archive of resentments directed at Church and monarchic hegemony in nineteenth-century Spain, I analyze the defeat of the protagonist’s political ambitions during the Liberal Triennium (1820-1823). This essay moves away from previous scholarship that interprets the text as a lesson in moderation by focusing on Lázaro’s expulsion from the world of politics and the negative affects that surface due to his defeat in either of the novel’s conclusions. I also place La Fontana de Oro within a Western tradition of “literary liberalism” that acknowledges the contradictions between progressive politics and a “bleak” vision of a society unable to assimilate them fully (Anderson 48). Examining ambition as a nascent experience for young men such as Lázaro, who dream of toppling the pillars of the Ancien Régime , I point to the ambivalence underpinning the novel and its ambiguous take on the present and future of liberal thought in modern Spain.
Characterization of crystal quartz for QPM wavelength-conversion device
Authors: Ishizuki Hideki , Taira Takunori
Published: November 2024

Crystal quartz can be expected for material of intense-laser pumped wavelength conversion, by construction of periodically inverted structure for quasi phase matching. Transmission characteristics in VUV and MIR were measured for comparison of various quartz. Also, QPM-structured quartz constructed by multi stacking method was evaluated in ultraviolet 266 nm generation scheme. QPM quartz by multi stacking method is expected for intense-laser pumped THz-wave generation.
Diode-pumped broadly tunable self-seeded single-frequency Cr:ZnSe laser
Authors: Liu Yan , Wang Qing , Yang Fan , Zhang Hengli , Li Wenlong , Zhang Jinwei , Gao Chunqing
Published: November 2024

We demonstrate a diode-pumped, broadly tunable single-frequency Cr:ZnSe laser. This system utilizes a 5 mm Cr:ZnSe crystal, pumped by laser diodes (LDs) with a central wavelength of 1710 nm. To achieve unidirectional operation, a retro-reflecting device is used to reflect the self-seeded beam back into the resonator. Single-frequency operation is achieved by finely adjusting three birefringent filters (BRFs) in the resonator, and the linewidth is maintained at less than 29 MHz throughout this tuning range. This compact diode-pumped, broadly tunable single-frequency Cr:ZnSe laser has significant potential applications for detecting various gas molecules.
Compact high-repetition-rate Yb:YAG thin-disk regenerative amplifier with fundamental transverse mode laser output
Authors: Yao Zhihuan , Yu Jinghua , Chen Yi , Sun Junjie , Zhang Yiwen , Fan Jiaoyu , Han Renjie , Zhang Xin , Chen Fei
Published: November 2024

A compact thin-disk regenerative amplifier with a resonator length of less than 2.3 m operating at the edge of the stability zone, which provides the laser with high beam quality is reported. The resonator delivers the continuous wave output power of 80.03 W, beam quality Mx2 = 1.64, My2 = 1.5, and slope efficiency of 45.01% at a resonator length of 2067 mm. When the resonator length is 2297 mm, the output power of 58.97 W (1.18 mJ) at a 50 kHz repetition rate with a slope efficiency of 17.71% is achieved. At this condition, when the output power is 34.3 W at a 50 kHz repetition rate, a laser with beam quality Mx2 < 1.1, My2 < 1.1 is realized. When the resonator length is 2297 mm, an output power of 11.45 W (11.45 mJ) at 1 kHz repetition rate with beam quality Mx2 = 1.15, My2 = 1.22 and slope efficiency 5.35% is achieved. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that a Yb:YAG thin-disk regenerative amplifier has been reported to achieve a fundamental transverse mode laser output of more than 10 mJ with a resonator length of less than 2.3 m. Both theoretical analysis and preliminary experiments suggested that the thin-disk regenerative amplifier has the potential to achieve laser with more than 100 mJ with 1 kHz and good beam quality.