bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Otsu and an adapted Chan–Vese method to determine thyroid active volume using Monte Carlo generated SPECT images
Authors: Högberg Jonas , Andersén Christoffer , Rydén Tobias , Lagerlöf Jakob H.
Published: January 2024

Background

The Otsu method and the Chan–Vese model are two methods proven to perform well in determining volumes of different organs and specific tissue fractions. This study aimed to compare the performance of the two methods regarding segmentation of active thyroid gland volumes, reflecting different clinical settings by varying the parameters: gland size, gland activity concentration, background activity concentration and gland activity concentration heterogeneity.

Methods

A computed tomography was performed on three playdough thyroid phantoms with volumes 20, 35 and 50 ml. The image data were separated into playdough and water based on Hounsfield values. Sixty single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) projections were simulated by Monte Carlo method with isotope Technetium-99 m ($$^{\text {99m}}$$

99m

Tc). Linear combinations of SPECT images were made, generating 12 different combinations of volume and background: each with both homogeneous thyroid activity concentration and three hotspots of different relative activity concentrations (48 SPECT images in total). The relative background levels chosen were 5 %, 10 %, 15 % and 20 % of the phantom activity concentration and the hotspot activities were 100 % (homogeneous case) 150 %, 200 % and 250 %. Poisson noise, (coefficient of variation of 0.8 at a 20 % background level, scattering excluded), was added before reconstruction was done with the Monte Carlo-based SPECT reconstruction algorithm Sahlgrenska Academy reconstruction code (SARec). Two different segmentation algorithms were applied: Otsu’s threshold selection method and an adaptation of the Chan–Vese model for active contours without edges; the results were evaluated concerning relative volume, mean absolute error and standard deviation per thyroid volume, as well as dice similarity coefficient.

Results

Both methods segment the images well and deviate similarly from the true volumes. They seem to slightly overestimate small volumes and underestimate large ones. Different background levels affect the two methods similarly as well. However, the Chan–Vese model deviates less and paired t-testing showed significant difference between distributions of dice similarity coefficients (p-value $$<0.01$$

<
0.01

).

Conclusions

The investigations indicate that the Chan–Vese model performs better and is slightly more robust, while being more challenging to implement and use clinically. There is a trade-off between performance and user-friendliness.
A case of rapidly progressing sarcomatous intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma with suddenly appearing lymph node metastasis
Authors: Kanemitsu Eisho , Takahashi Rei , Nakanishi Setsuko , Sueyoshi Satoru , Kobayashi Atsushi , Nishimura Takao , Nagata Hiromitsu
Published: January 2024

Background

The sarcomatous variant of carcinoma is relatively rare in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). Sarcomatous ICC (SICC) is associated with a poorer prognosis compared with ICC. SICC is rarely diagnosed before surgery due to non-descriptive findings; it progresses rapidly, resulting in miserable prognosis. Here, we report a case of rapidly progressing SICC that showed a clinically significant tumor growth rate.

Case presentation

A 77-year-old woman who had undergone ileocecal resection for cecal cancer 5 years previously was found to have elevated levels of the tumor marker carbohydrate antigen 19-9. Although an abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan did not detect any liver mass lesions until 3 months before this serum examination, the subsequent CT scan revealed a hypodensity 20 mm mass lesion in the right anterior section. Contrast-enhanced CT and magnetic resonance imaging revealed peripheral enhancement in the arterial-to-equilibrium phase. Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography revealed uptake in the lesion. None of the imaging modalities showed lymph node swelling or distant metastases. She underwent hepatectomy under the diagnosis of ICC or an atypical metastasis from previous cecal cancer. Although preoperative images showed no suspicious lymph node metastasis 3 weeks prior, the hilar lymph node swelled 3 cm and contained adenocarcinoma. Consequently, the patient underwent right anterior sectionectomy and lymph node dissection of the hepatoduodenal ligament. Histopathological examination revealed that the liver tumor was a poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma with sarcomatous pattern. While the patient received adjuvant gemcitabine and S-1 therapy, lymph node metastasis appeared in the mediastinum 13 months after the surgery. She received gemcitabine + cisplatin + S-1 therapy but died 20 months after surgery.

Conclusion

SICC and lymph node metastasis clinically appeared within 3 months and 3 weeks, respectively. Suspected ICC that rapidly progresses should be considered SICC and treated with early resection. SICC is often missed in clinical diagnosis and has a poor prognosis, even after curative resection. While an alternative strategy involving preoperative biopsy and neoadjuvant therapy may be beneficial, it should be approached with discretion due to the potential risks of tumor progression and peritoneal dissemination.
Pulmonary artery sarcoma and severe valvular diseases in late-septuagenarian women: was 2-stage surgery an appropriate strategy? A case report
Authors: Sato Sakiko , Ichimura Hideo , Kobayashi Keisuke , Kawabata Shuntaro , Kawamura Tomoyuki , Suzuki Hisashi , Imai Akito , Matsuzaki Kanji , Sakata Akiko , Matsubara Daisuke , Sato Yukio
Published: January 2024

Background

Pulmonary artery sarcomas (PASs) are rare, and complete tumor resection is often difficult at the time of detection. We encountered a case of PAS that was thought to be resectable; however, the patient had severe symptomatic valvular disease. We faced a difficult decision regarding the surgical strategy.

Case presentation

A 76-year-old female presented with a history of polysurgery for multiple primary cancers. She was referred to our department with a calcified mass in the right pulmonary artery (PA) and severe symptomatic valvular disease. After a discussion with the cardiovascular surgeon, we decided to perform a two-stage surgery. She underwent valvuloplasty through a median sternotomy, resulting in an improvement in her exertional dyspnea. The tumor was removed three months later with a right upper lobectomy and PA patch reconstruction through a posterolateral thoracotomy. When the PA was opened, the edge of the tumor was entrapped by vascular clamp forceps because of insufficient dissection of the adhesions between the superior vena cava and the right main PA resulting from the first operation. The patient underwent proton therapy twice for chest wall metastases which recurred three months after surgery, and local recurrence in the PA was diagnosed five months after surgery. The patient was alive with stable disease 25 months after surgery.

Conclusion

Two-stage surgery for PAS and valvular disease resulted in incomplete resection of the PAS in the right PA. It is important not to underestimate surgical adhesions due to the initial surgery and to consider and implement measures to prevent adhesions of critical vessels during the second operation.
Usefulness of an intraoperative flipped monitor in laparoscopic surgery with situs inversus totalis: a case report of laparoscopic-assisted ileocecal resection
Authors: Yokoi Ryoma , Tajima Jesse Yu , Kiyama Shigeru , Fukada Masahiro , Asai Ryuichi , Sato Yuta , Yasufuku Itaru , Tanaka Yoshihiro , Okumura Naoki , Murase Katsutoshi , Takahashi Takao , Matsuhashi Nobuhisa
Published: January 2024

Background

Situs inversus totalis (SIT) is a rare congenital condition that involves complete transposition (right to left reversal) of the visceral organs. Laparoscopic surgery can be challenging because of the mirror-image anatomy. We describe a surgical innovation in laparoscopic surgery for SIT.

Case presentation

A 41-year-old man with SIT was diagnosed with an appendiceal tumor and underwent laparoscopic-assisted ileocecal resection. Preoperatively, we evaluated anatomical variations using 3D-computed tomography and simulated mirror images by watching flipped videos of patients with normal anatomy undergoing similar operations. During the operation, port placement and the surgeons’ standing positions were reversed. Additionally, two monitors were placed at the patient’s head, with one monitor showing original images, and the other showing flipped images that looked the same as the normal anatomy. We checked the range of the mobilized region and important anatomical structures by watching the flipped monitor as needed. The patient’s postoperative course was uneventful.

Conclusions

Due to the complexities of laparoscopic surgery for SIT, preoperative preparation and surgical innovation are necessary for safe surgery. Several suggestions have been made to understand anatomical anomalies and improve operability; however, surgeons must focus on the mirror-image anatomy throughout the operation. Therefore, the use of intraoperative flipped monitor will be helpful for surgeons in reducing the risk of anatomical misidentification.
Multidimensional and Longitudinal Approaches in Talent Identification and Development in Racket Sports: A Systematic Review
Authors: Nijenhuis Sebastiaan B. , Koopmann Till , Mulder Jesper , Elferink-Gemser Marije T. , Faber Irene R.
Published: January 2024

Background

Better methods to support talent identification and development processes may contribute to more effective and efficient athlete development programs in racket sports. Both researchers and practitioners recommend multidimensional and longitudinal approaches to better understand the nature of talent (development). However, the added value of these ‘innovative’ approaches has not yet been clarified for racket sports. This systematic review intends to gain further insight into the outcomes of multidimensional and longitudinal approaches for talent identification and development in racket sports and to provide directions for future talent research.

Methods

Electronic searches were conducted in PubMed, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science (January 2000–August 2022). Search terms covered the areas of racket sports and talent in sports. Studies using multidimensional and/or longitudinal talent approaches were included and analyzed regarding the methodology, included performance characteristics (i.e., anthropometrical, physiological, technical, tactical, psychological), and study findings.

Results

A total of thirty-two studies were included using multidimensional (n = 15), unidimensional longitudinal (n = 3) or multidimensional longitudinal designs (n = 14). Most research covered physiological characteristics (n = 28), while fewer articles investigated anthropometrics (n = 21) and technical characteristics (n = 16). Only limited research investigated psychological (n = 4) and tactical characteristics (n = 1). Almost all studies measured physiological characteristics in combination with other characteristics. There was moderate to strong evidence that physiological and technical characteristics have value for athlete development programs in racket sports. Positive but limited evidence was found for psychological and tactical characteristics. Anthropometrical assessments were generally used as controlling variables for maturation. Study designs varied, and many studies used unidimensional statistical models and analyses within multidimensional study designs and datasets.

Conclusions

This review provides an overview of talent research using multidimensional and/or longitudinal approaches within racket sports and gives guidance on what characteristics to include in decision-making and monitoring processes. However, it remains difficult to draw conclusions about the added values of these approaches due to their variety in methodology. Future talent research should include more consistent study designs and conduct multidimensional and longitudinal studies using multivariate statistical approaches that benefit from the data’s multidimensionality.
Realized volatility spillovers between energy and metal markets: a time-varying connectedness approach
Authors: Cunado Juncal , Gabauer David , Gupta Rangan
Published: January 2024

This paper analyzes the degree of dynamic connectedness between energy and metal commodity prices in the pre and post-COVID-19 era, using the time-varying parameter vector autoregressive connectedness approach of Antonakakis et al. (J Risk Financ Manag 13(4):84, 2020). The results suggest that market interconnectedness increased slightly following the outbreak of COVID-19, although this increase was lower and less persistent than that observed after the Global Financial Crisis of 2008. Furthermore, we find that crude oil was the main net transmitter of shocks before COVID-19 while heating oil, gold, and silver were the main net transmitters of shocks during the COVID-19 pandemic. In contrast, natural gas and palladium were the main net receivers of shocks during the entire sample period, making these two commodities attractive hedging and safe haven options for investors during the pandemic. Overall, our results suggest that hedging and diversification opportunities decrease during crises. Furthermore, they indicate that accurate forecasts of the volatility of several commodities, such as natural gas and different metals, can be obtained by exploiting the information content of crude oil. However, they also reveal that crude oil lost its leading position as a net shock transmitter during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Case series of extradigital glomus tumors: imaging findings, differential diagnosis and radiologic–pathologic correlation
Authors: del Carpio Gabriela Serra , Burgos Eva Manuela Pena , Kreilinger José Juan Pozo , Taboada Daniel Bernabeu , Pensado Manuel Peletero , Viñé Mar Tapia
Published: January 2024

Background

Glomus tumors are benign mesenchymal tumors of the neuromyoarterial glomus bodies. They are generally localized at the subungual area of the fingers. Extradigital or non-subungual glomus tumors are less common. Their diagnosis can be challenging because of their lower incidence, nonspecific symptoms, and the fact that they can be missed during the physical examination. The aim of this case series is to provide an overview of non-subungual glomus tumors, including the patients’ epidemiology characteristics, tumor localization and size, their varied imaging manifestations in ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging, differential diagnosis and histopathological features.

Main body of the abstract

Our report included 64 patients with the diagnosis of non-subungual glomus tumor in the Pathology Department at the La Paz University Hospital in Madrid from January 1966 to September 2022. There were 44 men and 20 women (mean age, 55.8 years; range, 8–85 years). The tumors had a mean size of 1 cm and were located in the lower limbs in most cases (59.3%). In 17 cases (27%) a diagnostic imaging test was performed (US, MRI or both). The radiological appearance of a glomus tumor on ultrasound was in most cases a circumscribed hypoechoic oval nodule located in the subcutaneous layer. Spectral Doppler can demonstrate both venous and arterial intralesional flow and in some cases a “Vascular stalk sign,'' seen in 4/9 cases. MRI assists in providing a more detailed characterization of these lesions, which present as T2-weighted hyperintense nodules with avid enhancement.

Short conclusion

Glomus tumors are considered rare neoplasms, accounting for a small percentage of all tumors. Our report brings together the most up-to-date information available regarding the imaging findings and differential diagnosis of this entity. Although ultrasound images are not specific, they are crucial for early diagnosis, provide precise location information, and serve as a guide for tumor excision. MRI study helps to better characterize these tumors. The diagnosis is mostly clinical, with confirmation in the histopathologic study.
The diagnostic performance of ultrasound in the diagnosis of indeterminate adnexal masses based on the O-RADS US scoring system
Authors: Tantawy Heba Fathy Ahmad , Ebrahim Saeed Abdel Monem , Kamal Marwa Rashad Ahmad , Hassan Rania Mostafa
Published: January 2024

Background

One of the most frequent reasons for gynecologic imaging is adnexal masses. The aim of the study is to assess the diagnostic performance of ultrasonography in the identification of ambiguous adnexal masses using the O-RADS US scoring system.

Methods

This study included 108 cases and involved females with indeterminate adnexal masses, with any age group who were sent to the diagnostic ultrasonography department for evaluation of a worrisome adnexal mass lesion. We excluded patients who refused the examination despite informed discussion with the sonographer and patients with a previous history of operated adnexal lesion.

Results

Based on the O-RADS US score, more than half masses (52.8%) were diagnosed as O-RADS 3, which is low-risk malignant, and 47.2% were diagnosed as O-RADS 4, being intermediate-risk malignant. Regarding US O-RADS categorization in relation to the reference results by pathology, 57 lesions were categorized as O-RADS 3 by the US, and 18 of them was diagnosed as malignant according to pathology. Out of 51 lesions categorized as O-RADS 4 by the US, 30 were diagnosed as benign by pathology. At cutoff 4, the O-RADS US score for malignancy gave a sensitivity of 93.13% (95% CI 25.13–80.78), specificity of 66.72% (95% CI 34.49–76.81), PPV of 93.18% (95% CI 26.07–58.16), and NPV of 75.42% (95% CI 52.13–81.17) with an overall accuracy of 92.56% (95% CI 38.10–72.06).

Conclusions

In order to distinguish between benign and malignant neoplastic lesions, the US O-RADS classification system is a crucial non-invasive diagnostic tool for suspected ovarian tumors.
Evaluation of serum thioredoxin as a hepatocellular carcinoma diagnostic marker
Authors: Abdelwahab Khaled Mohamed , Ibrahim Wesam Ahmed , Saleh Shereen Abou Bakr , Elbarky Anas Abdelfattah Abdelaziz , Mohamed Ghada Abdelrahman
Published: January 2024

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent and fatal malignancies worldwide. Following an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS), cancer cells enter an oxidative stress state. As a result, these cells experience an increase in antioxidant activity to counteract oxidative stress. The thioredoxin (TRX) system is a ubiquitous mammalian antioxidant system that neutralizes ROS and maintains intracellular reduction oxidation (redox) balance, which is essential for HCC growth. However, the role of TRX protein in HCC remains largely unknown. Hence, we aimed to assess the diagnostic utility of serum TRX in patients with HCC. A total of 50 patients were consecutively recruited in this observational study. They were classified into three groups: an HCC group (25 patients), a cirrhosis group (15 patients with liver cirrhosis on top of chronic HCV infection), and a control group (10 healthy individuals). Serum TRX levels were measured using ELISA.

Results

Higher serum TRX levels were detected in the HCC group than in the cirrhosis and control groups (140.96 ± 12.70 vs 88.33 ± 10.34 vs 73.10 ± 13.22 ng/mL, respectively; P < 0.001). TRX was independently associated with the presence of HCC (P < 0.001). Regarding the detection of HCC, TRX at a cut-off value of 114 ng/mL had superior diagnostic performance to AFP with an AUC of 1.000, sensitivity of 100%, and specificity of 100%, whereas AFP at a cut-off value of 20.5 ng/mL had an AUC of 1.000, sensitivity of 100%, and specificity of 47%.

Conclusion

Thioredoxin has the potential to be an HCC diagnostic marker. The clinical significance of thioredoxin in HCC requires further investigation.
Insulinoma: Metastatic Recurrence 38 Years Following Initial Diagnosis in Pregnancy
Authors: Preston Christopher A , Sachithanandan Nirupa , Sim Ie-Wen , van Heerden Jon , Farrell Stephen
Published: January 2024

A case of recurrent insulinoma spanning 4 decades is described. Following a delayed diagnosis, hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia was confirmed in a 24-year-old woman during early pregnancy. Initial surgery, culminating in subtotal pancreatectomy, was noncurative. A 1-cm insulinoma was subsequently resected from the head of the pancreas postpartum, with postoperative resolution of hypoglycemia. However, 32 years later, the patient experienced a recurrence of hypoglycemic symptoms. Eventually, a subcentimeter extrapancreatic lesion was identified anterior to the pancreatic head on gallium-68 DOTA-Exendin-4 positron emission tomography/computed tomography. In 2022, a third operation was performed, with excision of a 4 × 3 mm tumor adjacent to the pancreatic head, and histology confirming insulinoma. She was again cured of symptoms.
Continuous Instrument Tracking in a Cerebral Corticectomy Ex Vivo Calf Brain Simulation Model: Face and Content Validation
Authors: Almansouri Abdulrahman , Abou Hamdan Nour , Yilmaz Recai , Tee Trisha , Pachchigar Puja , Eskandari Mohammadreza , Agu Chinyelum , Giglio Bianca , Balasubramaniam Neevya , Bierbrier Joshua , Collins D. Louis , Gueziri Houssem-Eddine , Del Maestro Rolando F.
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Subpial corticectomy involving complete lesion resection while preserving pial membranes and avoiding injury to adjacent normal tissues is an essential bimanual task necessary for neurosurgical trainees to master. We sought to develop an ex vivo calf brain corticectomy simulation model with continuous assessment of surgical instrument movement during the simulation. A case series study of skilled participants was performed to assess face and content validity to gain insights into the utility of this training platform, along with determining if skilled and less skilled participants had statistical differences in validity assessment.

METHODS:

An ex vivo calf brain simulation model was developed in which trainees performed a subpial corticectomy of three defined areas. A case series study assessed face and content validity of the model using 7-point Likert scale questionnaires.

RESULTS:

Twelve skilled and 11 less skilled participants were included in this investigation. Overall median scores of 6.0 (range 4.0-6.0) for face validity and 6.0 (range 3.5-7.0) for content validity were determined on the 7-point Likert scale, with no statistical differences between skilled and less skilled groups identified.

CONCLUSION:

A novel ex vivo calf brain simulator was developed to replicate the subpial resection procedure and demonstrated face and content validity.
Marketing Communication and Perceived Health Care Quality: antecedents of Physiotherapists’ Job Satisfaction
Authors: Morcov Mirela , Gheorghe Iuliana Raluca , Gheorghe Consuela Mădălina , Maria Veronica Maria Veronica , Sporea Corina , Ghiță Marian , Purcărea Victor Lorin
Published: January 2024

The performance of a health care organization is impacted by how its management handles problems caused by disruptions in communication and shows concern for the ongoing enhancement of the communication process. Any health care organization’s marketing communication approach is essential since it has an impact on both personnel and consumer satisfaction. From the perspective of physiotherapists, the current study aims to explore the connections between the perceived quality of health care services, marketing communications and job satisfaction. The sample comprised 114 individuals, the majority of whom were women, and whose average age was 39,74 (±9,56). Their average experience in the health care organization was 12,44 years (± 8,95). A self-administered questionnaire that contained socio-demographic items and specific items to collect data about the importance of marketing communication, job satisfaction, and perceived quality, was used as the research instrument. The results revealed that physiotherapists’ job satisfaction is positively influenced by both marketing communication and the perceived quality of care. However, to be more effective, health care managers need to offer specialized trainings to physiotherapists in order to motivate them and strengthen reliability and responsiveness when providing services.
Study on the assessment of cognitive and functional status for a segment of the population during the ageing process
Authors: Vizitiu Elena , Costea Andrei-Ioan , Silişteanu Sînziana-Călina , Constantinescu Mihai
Published: January 2024

Background: The aim of the paper is to assess the cognitive and functional status of a segment of the population for a senescent age group. These assessments can help develop intervention strategies to improve the cognitive and functional status of these individuals as well as promote a healthy and active lifestyle. The assessment of cognitive and functional status in a segment of the population during senescence can identify certain problems and deficiencies in cognitive and physical functioning and can help develop physical activities to optimize the cognitive and functional state of senescent people. Objectives: To identify the cognitive and functional profile of the studied age group; Pointing out risk factors for cognitive and functional deterioration; Suggesting physical activities to improve cognitive and functional status. Methods: The recorded data helps us develop personalized aquatic programs to improve health and physical performance, tailored to the individual needs of participants, to be used over 6 months in 2024. Results: The findings suggested by the collected data, recognises a significant link between subjects' body mass index and their physical test scores. Conclusions: Analysis of the data allows us to identify risk factors, including chronic conditions, adopted lifestyle, genetic influences or other environmental conditioning, that could contribute to cognitive and functional decline in the older population.
Wasted Billboards: τα αντι-μνημεία του αύριο
Authors: Μπότσαρη Αικατερίνη
Published: January 2024

Αν και σήμερα η διαφήμιση ταξιδεύει με γοργούς ρυθμούς μέσω της ψηφιακής τεχνολογίας και του διαδικτύου, η σύγχρονη ελληνική μητρόπολη εξακολουθεί να κατακλύζεται από τα απομεινάρια των μεγαλοπρεπών αναλογικών διαφημιστικών πινακίδων που εμφανίστηκαν τις τελευταίες δεκαετίες στο οδικό δίκτυο εντός και εκτός του αστικού ιστού. Στην παρούσα έρευνα εξετάζονται επτά περιπτώσεις αυτών των εναπομεινασών κατασκευών που υλοποιήθηκαν στην Αττική από τη δεκαετία του 1980 με σκοπό την υποστήριξη διαφημιστικών μηνυμάτων. Ο όρος μνημείο υπογραμμίζει την επικράτηση της μνήμης ως κυρίαρχου σημείου αναφοράς για την ανάδειξη αξιόλογων ανθρώπινων δημιουργημάτων. Η παραμονή των ανενεργών διαφημιστικών πινακίδων, ενεργοποιεί στη μνήμη τη συνθήκη της καταναλωτικής λήθης (Smithson) και τα αποτελέσματα αυτής μετά την έναρξη της Διεθνούς Χρηματοπιστωτικής Κρίσης. Η λανθάνουσα επιλογή του κρατικού μηχανισμού να αδιαφορεί για την ύπαρξή τους, λαμβάνεται σαν μια αθέλητη ανάδειξη της αντιμνημειακότητάς τους. Όταν συγκριθούν με συνθήκες εικαστικού ενδιαφέροντος παρατηρείται ένα αξιοσημείωτο φαινόμενο. Η αναίρεση των ιδεών της ισορροπίας και της αρμονίας που επιτυγχάνεται ακούσια με αυτές τις ιδιότυπες μνημειώδεις κατασκευές είναι ανάλογη με αυτή που εκούσια πρεσβεύουν κινήματα και σύγχρονες καλλιτεχνικές πρακτικές. Για τον Mikel Dufrenne αυτή η μορφή τέχνης ισοδυναμεί με μια στάση διαμαρτυρίας και κατ’ επέκταση κριτικής στην εξουσία. Στόχος της παρούσας διατριβής είναι μέσω των αξιών της αντικουλτούρας να διερευνηθεί αυτός ο αντι-μνημειακός χαρακτήρας των διαφημιστικών πινακίδων που βρίσκονται στη δημόσια σφαίρα και να αξιολογηθεί η παραμονή τους καθώς και οι δυνατότητες που παρέχουν για μελλοντικές καλλιτεχνικές παρεμβάσεις.
Comparison of crestal bone loss and papilla fill after conventional and immediate implant placement: A 12 month clinical and radiographic prospective study
Authors: Raj Akanksha , Pradhan Sweta , Shetty Preetha , Kadakampally David , Shetty Neetha
Published: January 2024

Background The problem of missing teeth persists in all age groups. The main objective of implants in dentistry is to provide a restoration that reconstructs the shape and restores esthetics and functions of edentulous areas. The objectives of this study are to compare the crestal bone level changes and papillary fill after placement of implants in fresh extraction socket, i.e. immediate implant placement, and healed extraction socket, i.e. delayed or conventional implant placement, and to assess other clinical parameters such as modified plaque index (mPI), modified gingival index (mGI) and gingival biotype in between the groups and within the groups. Methods 18 patients were recruited in the study out of which 9 patients received implants as per immediate implant placement protocol (group 1) and 9 patients received implants as per conventional implant placement protocol (group 2). All patients were evaluated for gingival biotype, mPI and mGI and papillary fill was assessed as per Jemt’s papilla score as clinical parameters. Implant site was assessed for radiographic bone loss using Image J software. Statistical analysis was performed using independent t test, paired t test and chi square test. Results At the end of 1 year, results showed that crestal bone loss was seen more in the immediate group than the conventional group. Conventional implants showed better papillary fill than implants placed in fresh extraction sockets. Plaque scores were assessed as per modified plaque index, which showed better results in the conventional group. Modified gingival index was used to assess gingival status which showed better results in the immediate group one year later. Conclusions Findings from the study suggest that crestal bone loss was found to be increased in the immediate group than the conventional group and papillary fill was better in the conventional group than the immediate group. Registration: CTRI (CTRI/2019/09/021340).
Nutritional status, macronutrient and micronutrient intake in relation with dementia among older adults in Surabaya, Indonesia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Rachmah Qonita , Setyaningtyas Stefania Widya , Mahmudiono Trias , Ambar Chatarina Anugrah , Muchlis Dilalatul Urfiah , Haliman Chika Dewi , Kriengsinyos Wantanee
Published: January 2024

Background Older adults are prone to dementia due to poor nutrients intake and malnutrition. The purpose of this study was to determine the correlation between body mass index (BMI), macronutrient and micronutrient intake with dementia. Methods This was a cross-sectional study including 400 older adults randomly recruited from the study site. Dementia was measured using the mini-mental state exam questionnairefig while nutrient intake was retrieved from three non-consecutive days 24h food recall. Socio-economic data were retrieved from a structured questionnaire. Data was then analyzed statistically using chi-squared and ANOVA with Bonferonni correction. Results The result reveals that age, sex, present disease and socio-economic measures were correlated with dementia (p < 0.05). Post-hoc analysis found that there was a significant difference in BMI, daily intake of carbohydrate, saturated fat, and sodium intake between older adults with and without dementia. Conclusions This study offers an important insight to improve older adults’ daily intake related to BMI, carbohydrate, saturated fat, and sodium intake in minimizing the risk of dementia. More health promotion on older adults’ balanced diet should be encouraged to achieve better quality of life.
Synthesis of cellulose nanofibers from jute fiber by using chemomechanical method
Authors: N. Siti Syazwani , M.N. Ervina Efzan , C.K. Kok , M.J. Nurhidayatullaili
Published: January 2024

Background Jute fiber is one of the most versatile natural fibers that is widely used as a raw material for packaging, textiles, and construction; and as a reinforcement in composite materials for heavy-duty applications. In the past, acid hydrolysis and mechanical treatment via the ball milling method were common in the extraction of cellulose nanofiber (CNFs) from natural plant fibers. However, there are some drawbacks of using those methods where there will be a huge quantity of acidic wastewater generated when the acid hydrolysis method is performed. Method This study investigated the potential use of a combination of chemical and mechanical methods in the extraction of jute CNFs. Through this method, the jute fibers were first chemically treated using sodium hydroxide (NaOH), sodium chlorite (NaClO2) and sulphuric acid (H2SO4) to remove the non-cellulosic elements followed by mechanical milling by using a planetary ball mill. Results The shape and size of the obtained CNFs were observed under a field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM). This study revealed that jute CNFs were successfully extracted through the combination of chemical and mechanical treatment methods where the obtained CNFs reveal themselves in smooth fibrous morphology with a diameter of 23 nm and 150-200nm in length. Conclusions Jute cellulose nanofibers were successfully drawn out from raw jute fibers by means of a combination of chemical and mechanical treatment. The results obtained confirmed that the chemomechanical method is an effective technique for isolating the CNFs and its potential use as reinforcement material was explained.
Building Your Dream Team: How Indie Teams Can Form, and Thrive Together
Authors: Fahme Minhaz-Us-Salakeen , Adiba Afia
Published: January 2024

The majority of indie game development teams are driven by the desire to produce a blockbuster game. But there are many obstacles on the way to realizing this desire, especially in the beginning. It is possible to create a game alone, but more often than not, something genuinely amazing involves a group of talented people working together toward a similar objective.

Finding the correct stakeholders is one of the biggest problems with starting an independent game development team. People with the required technical talents, such as programmers and artists, as well as those with business acumen, like marketing and finance experts, are included in this. Success depends on being able to locate these people and manage them. But after the correct individuals have been identified, it is crucial to develop open lines of communication and a common comprehension of the project's objectives and expectations.

Finding the perfect people to join their team is a problem that independent game development teams frequently encounter. Attracting talented individuals to a brand-new, unproven initiative might be difficult. The attention of skilled people interested in working on cutting-edge and intriguing initiatives might be attracted through networking.

There are other things to consider as well since forming a team comes with the type of game one is making, finding skilled teammates, team chemistry, conflict resolution, communication, long-term relation maintenance and leadership aspects.

In general, creating and leading an independent game team is a difficult process. There is no specific method for doing this, but with a little help from others' expertise, it is possible to assemble a team of creative people who can collaborate to produce a game that is genuinely enjoyable.
The impact of cyberbullying on loneliness and well-being among Malaysian adolescents: The mediation role of psychological distress
Authors: Samsudin Nadia , Chan Nee Nee , Salarzadeh Jenatabadi Hashem
Published: January 2024

Background: Cyberbullying is a distinct phenomenon characterised by the rapid dissemination of information, the permanence of content, and the availability of victims. Yet, there is a scarcity of studies in this field, and few studies have looked at the elements that contribute to cyberbullying behaviour. The aim of this study is to examine the relationship of cyberbullying with loneliness and well-being through psychological distress among adolescents in Malaysia.

Methods: 386 teenagers with ages ranging from 12 to 18 were chosen using multistage cluster random sampling. To analyse the data, structural equation modeling was applied.

Results: According to the study, cyberbullying has a positive relationship with psychological discomfort but a negative relationship with loneliness and general well-being. Additionally, psychological distress (depression, anxiety, and stress) mediates the relationship between cyberbullying and feelings of wellbeing and loneliness.

Conclusions: The results ought to spark discussion about potential treatments to enhance teenage wellbeing and prevent emotional and mental health issues caused by social isolation.
Case Series: Management and outcomes of two cases of colonic perforation following colonoscopy
Authors: Belhadj Anis , Touati Med Dheker , Ben Othmane Mohamed Raouf , Jaouad Firas , Zayati Mohamed Ridha , Khefacha Fahd , Saidani Ahmed , Chebbi Faouzi
Published: January 2024

Background Colonoscopy is a commonly utilized procedure in gastroenterology, but it carries risks of complications, with perforation being the most dreaded. The management of colonic perforation remains a topic of debate, as it can be effectively treated through surgical or non-surgical approaches. Our objective is to detail clinical presentations, diagnostic methods, and potential therapeutic options. Cases For this study, we gathered clinical and radiological data from two cases of colonic perforation following colonoscopy. We examined clinical presentations, diagnostic methods employed, and the different therapeutic approaches used for each case. In both cases, patients exhibited symptoms of colonic perforation following colonoscopy. The first case was managed conservatively, with progressive clinical improvement. The second case showed signs of pneumoperitoneum, but no perforation was found during laparoscopic intervention. Both patients recovered well and experienced no complications during follow-up. Conclusions Our study highlights the importance of understanding the risks associated with colonoscopy, particularly in patients with risk factors. It also underscores the diversity of available treatment approaches for iatrogenic colonic perforation, emphasizing the significance of a multidisciplinary approach in determining the optimal therapeutic strategy.
The emerging role of a Stroke Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) in Early Supported Discharged: Developing a pathway for stroke nursing for secondary prevention in the community. A scoping review protocol.
Authors: Byrne Sarah-Jane , Williams David J. , Patton Declan , Murphy Paul J. , Horgan Frances
Published: January 2024

Background Stroke represents a major source of mortality and morbidity globally. The role of a stroke Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) as an expert team member in early supported discharge (ESD) for stroke, is not well defined or described although it is well established in other models of after-hospital and out-reach specialist care in the community. A greater focus has been on patients receiving rehabilitation post-stroke, however there is a need for a more holistic approach to care which clinical nurse specialists can offer to patients as part of ESD. Nurses are often the cohesive point of contact for other after-hospital services, managing many aspects of secondary prevention. Objective The aim of this scoping review is to explore the evidence in relation to the role of the stroke nurse providing secondary prevention interventions to stroke patients in a community setting. Methods We will conduct a scoping review in accordance with the Arksey and O’Malley, 2005 1 scoping review framework and the PRISMA-ScR guidelines to map available literature on the role of the stroke nurse in post-stroke care of patients in the community. The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Systematic literature searches including databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, google scholar and grey literature will be searched using keyword searches. Data will be charted and synthesised and a narrative synthesis will be conducted. Conclusions This scoping review will be used to identify gaps in the current literature and identify areas for future research in the role of the stroke nurse in ESD in relation to secondary prevention for stroke patients and inform the development of a pathway for stroke nursing in ESD.
Multi-repeat sequences identification using genome mining techniques for developing highly sensitive molecular diagnostic assay for the detection of Chlamydia trachomatis
Authors: Shiluli Clement , Kamath Shwetha , N. Kanoi Bernard , Kimani Racheal , Maina Michael , Waweru Harrison , Kamita Moses , Ndirangu Ibrahim , M. Abkallo Hussein , Oduor Bernard , Pamme Nicole , Dupaty Joshua , M. Klapperich Catherine , Raju Lolabattu Srinivasa , Gitaka Jesse
Published: January 2024

Chlamydia trachomatis (C. trachomatis) is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI). In 2019, the World Health Organization reported about 131 million infections. The majority of infected patients are asymptomatic with cases remaining undetected. It is likely that missed C. trachomatis infections contribute to preventable adverse health outcomes in women and children. Consequently, there is an urgent need of developing efficient diagnostic methods. In this study, genome-mining approaches to identify identical multi-repeat sequences (IMRS) distributed throughout the C. trachomatis genome were used to design a primer pair that would target regions in the genome. Genomic DNA was 10-fold serially diluted (100pg/mL to 1×10-3pg/mL) and used as DNA template for PCR reactions. The gold standard PCR using 16S rRNA primers was also run as a comparative test, and products were resolved on agarose gel. The novel assay, C. trachomatis IMRS-PCR, had an analytical sensitivity of 4.31 pg/µL, representing better sensitivity compared with 16S rRNA PCR (9.5 fg/µL). Our experimental data demonstrate the successful development of lateral flow and isothermal assays for detecting C. trachomatis DNA with potential use in field settings. There is a potential to implement this concept in miniaturized, isothermal, microfluidic platforms, and laboratory-on-a-chip diagnostic devices for reliable point-of-care testing.
Regulatory Implications for considering flexible resources in network expansion planning: main lessons from regional cases in the H2020 FlexPlan project
Authors: Morch Andrei , Migliavacca Gianluigi , Egorov Aleksandr , Ergun Hakan , Siface Dario , Lattanzio Giorgia , Sperstad Iver Bakken
Published: January 2024

The FlexPlan Horizon2020 project aimed at establishing a new grid planning methodology which considers the opportunity to introduce new storage and flexibility resources in electricity transmission and distribution grids as an alternative to building new grid elements, in accordance with the intentions of the European Commission regulatory package "Clean Energy for all Europeans". FlexPlan creates a new innovative grid planning tool which is intended to go beyond the state of the art of planning methodologies by including the following innovative features: assessment of best planning strategy by analysing in one shot a high number of candidate expansion options provided by a pre-processor tool, simultaneous mid- and long-term planning assessment over three grid years (2030-2040-2050), incorporation of full range of cost benefit analysis criteria into the target function, integrated transmission distribution planning, embedded environmental analysis (air quality, carbon footprint, landscape constraints), probabilistic contingency methodologies in replacement of the traditional N-1 criterion, application of numerical decomposition techniques to reduce calculation efforts and analysis of variability of yearly RES and load time series through a Monte Carlo process. Six regional cases covering nearly the whole European continent are developed in order to cast a view on grid planning in Europe till 2050. The final step in FlexPlan was formulating guidelines for regulators and planning offices of system operators, by indicating to what extent system flexibility can contribute to reduce overall system costs (operational and investment) yet maintaining current system security levels and which regulatory provisions could foster such process. This paper focuses on the regulatory issues, which were uncovered during the initiation phase and of the project and refined in throughout six regional cases. In order to substantiate this, the paper explains in brief the developed and applied FlexPlan methodology and its testing in six regional cases.
Strategies for evaluation of a multi-phased complex arts-and-health project
Authors: Biglino Giovanni , Ledgard Anna , Blackburn Emily , Layton Sofie , Petto Nicky , Hall Susannah , Wray Jo
Published: January 2024

Background: Different approaches and frameworks are available for those evaluating arts-and-health projects. We share our experience in devising, implementing and reflecting on the evaluation strategy of a complex arts-and-health project rooted in a deep participatory phase and culminating in an immersive nationally touring exhibition.

Methods: The evaluation focused on different stakeholders (i.e. workshop participants, clinicians involved in the participatory phase, public audiences, the project team itself) using different approaches (i.e. group reflections, email feedback, 1:1 interviews, feedback cards with creative invitations, online journals).

Results: Rich and nuanced observations indicate that a mix of methodologies can produce knowledge about team dynamics, participants’ experiences and audiences’ responses. This strategy, designed at the onset of the project and carried out collaboratively by the interdisciplinary core project team, was responsive to the evolution of the project, resulting in a well-defined, transparent but also reactive evaluation plan to maximise the capture of stakeholder feedback.

Conclusion: A clear, collaborative evaluation plan should be devised at the onset of arts-and-health participatory projects.