bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early versus Late Recurrence of Hepatocellular Carcinoma after Microwave Ablation: Patterns, Treatments, and Post-Recurrence Survival
Authors: Zhang Jing , Guo Guanya , Li Tao , Guo Changcun , Han Ying , Zhou Xinmin
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Recurrence after microwave ablation (MWA) has not been extensively studied. We aimed to investigate the patterns, treatments, and survival of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who experienced early and late recurrence after MWA. Methods: This retrospective study included patients with HCC recurrence after MWA as the initial treatment from January 2008 to December 2021. Recurrence patterns, treatments, and outcomes between patients with early and late HCC recurrence were compared. Prognostic factors of post-recurrence survival (PRS) were identified by multivariable Cox regression analyses. Results: Among 222 patients, 128 developed early recurrence (≤2 years after MWA) and 94 had late recurrence (>2 years). Majority of the recurrent HCC were intrahepatic-only recurrence, within the Milan criteria, and received potentially curative treatment. No significant differences in the recurrence patterns, vascular invasion, tumor staging, post-recurrence treatments, or median PRS (35.0 vs. 33.0 months, p = 0.523) were identified between patients with early and late recurrence. Multivariable analyses suggested that multiple tumor number (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.54; 95% CI: 1.03–2.30, p = 0.038), extrahepatic recurrence (HR: 2.14, 95% CI: 1.16–3.92, p = 0.015), vascular invasion (HR: 2.37, 95% CI: 1.18–4.76, p = 0.038), and higher ALBI grade (HR: 2.18, 95% CI: 1.54–3.08, p < 0.001) were independent risk factors of worse PRS, while curative treatment after recurrence (HR: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.38–0.92, p = 0.020) was associated with better PRS. Conclusions: No differences in recurrence patterns, post-recurrence treatments, or PRS were found between HCC patients with early and late recurrence following MWA. Tumor burden and patients’ liver function reserve should be considered to decide the optimal post-recurrence treatment after MWA.
Atuação da equipe de enfermagem frente ao paciente terminal com estomia de eliminação em um serviço público de Estomaterapia
Authors: Paczek Rosaura Soares , Luz Jessica Martins da , Tanaka Ana Karina Silva da Rocha , Duro Carmen Lúcia Mottin , Carvalho Karine Pazzini , Limberger Jordana Jahn , Micheletti Vania Celina Dezoti , Durante Karla
Published: February 2024

Introdução: o câncer colorretal é a causa mais frequente para confecção de estoma de eliminação, o que traz consequências ao espectro biopsicossocial do indivíduo causando impactos em sua autoestima, autoimagem e qualidade de vida relacionados à saúde. Objetivo: relatar a experiência na assistência às pessoas com estomia de eliminação em fase terminal. Método: estudo tipo relato de experiência sobre o atendimento a pessoas com estomia em fase terminal, atendidas em um serviço público de estomaterapia no sul do Brasil em 2023. Resultados:a maioria dos pacientes atendidos necessita de atendimento para troca do equipamento coletor ou tratamento de lesões na pele periestomal. Observou-se um aumento no número de pacientes em fase terminal, onde alguns mesmo enfrentando dificuldades de locomoção , utilizando oxigenoterapia, dor, dispneia, ainda assim demonstravam grande determinação ao comparecerem às consultas para acompanhamento. Conclusão: os pacientes estomizados em fase terminal enfrentam desafios significativos no seu tratamento, experienciando sintomas debilitantes, dor, mudanças corporais e de qualidade de vida, bem como impacto psicossocial profundo e, muitas vezes, dificuldade de aceitação não apenas da situação de estomizado, como também da própria terminalidade, onde a equipe de enfermagem desempenha um papel crucial no processo de orientação e apoio a esses pacientes.
A condição do exílio: a permanência de David Perlov por detrás da imagem em Diary 1973-1983
Authors: Fampa Gabriel
Published: February 2024

O texto propõe pensar a condição do exílio na obra Diary 1973-1983 de David Perlov, cineasta brasileiro radicado em Israel, para além de sua concepção usual (a de um recolhimento do cineasta para dentro de seu próprio apartamento, de onde produziria as primeiras imagens de seu diário fílmico). Tomando como ponto de partida o sentimento de estrangeirismo que o cineasta carregava e seu anunciado desejo de documentar o cotidiano (os fatos e nada mais), apresento um exílio de outra natureza que se caracteriza como um recolhimento para detrás da imagem, ou, ainda, para um espaço-tempo metafísico entre imagem e espectadores.
O incêndio no Museu Nacional em Subterrânea
Authors: Carréra Guilherme
Published: February 2024

O presente artigo trata do incêndio ocorrido na sede do Museu Nacional em 2018 por meio do longa-metragem Subterrânea (2021), ficção científica em diálogo com o documentário, dirigido por Pedro Urano. Além de ser a primeira ficção a explorar o tema, o filme conecta a tragédia a outros acontecimentos que moldaram a paisagem do Rio de Janeiro. Ao fazê-lo, comenta sobre o modo de operar não só da capital fluminense, mas do país como um todo, calcado na lógica da destruição. O artigo examina Subterrânea tanto estética quanto discursivamente, mobilizando, entre outros, Lima Barreto e Hélio Oiticica, referências ao projeto. Para isso, situa a produção no contexto brasileiro dos anos 2010 e no debate contemporâneo sobre a estética da ruína.
Proliferative Angiopathy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Brown Nolan J. , Lien Brian V. , Ehresman Jeff , Rahmani Redi , Catapano Joshua S. , Lawton Michael T.
Published: February 2024

Background

First described over 4 decades ago as a diffuse form of arteriovenous malformation, cerebral proliferative angiopathy (CPA) is now categorized as a distinct vascular anomaly. Unlike arteriovenous malformation, which typically forms a well‐developed vascular nidus with feeder vessels and distinct venous outflow, CPA is the product of disorganized angiogenesis; thus, it lacks a true nidus. Its characteristic cycle of ischemia, angiogenesis, and aberrant perfusion can lead to abnormal blood flow patterns that characterize the disease. Treatment of CPA has historically relied on conservative management (antiepileptic drugs), and efforts to effectively manage this pathology have been hindered by an incomplete understanding of its natural history.

Methods

A systematic search of 4 databases was performed. The following variables were extracted when present: study sample size, year of publication, age(s) of patient(s), sex, presenting signs and symptoms, neurological deficits (pre‐ and postoperative), type of intervention, average follow‐up time, and patient‐reported as well as functional outcomes at last follow‐up.

Results

Following the search and screen, 48 studies reporting 105 CPA cases remained eligible for inclusion. These studies consisted of 41 case reports, 6 case series, and 1 retrospective cohort study. The most common modality used in treatment of CPA was conservative management (53.4%). The second most common treatment modality was endovascular embolization (36.9%). The least common treatment modality was gamma knife radiosurgery, which was used in only 2 patients. Eleven patients experienced intracranial hemorrhage as a complication of CPA; 10 of the 11 patients underwent decompressive craniectomy. Finally, revascularization surgery was reportedly used in 5 patients (4.9%).

Conclusion

Although there remains a dearth of studies reporting CPA, several clearly defined traits have been identified that characterize this pathology and distinguish it from arteriovenous malformation. Nonetheless, the verdict has not yet been reached regarding the effectiveness of surgical interventions.
Continuity and Change in Norm Translations After the Paris Agreement: From First to Second Nationally Determined Contributions
Authors: Höhne Chris , Kahmann Christian , Lohaus Mathis
Published: February 2024

Following the Paris Agreement, states have submitted nationally determined contributions (NDCs) pledging how they aim to prevent dangerous climate change. These documents reveal how states translate the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change’s (UNFCCC) normative expectations based on their domestic circumstances. We examine continuity and change between first and second NDCs with an inductive method of quantitative text analysis—topic modeling. Overall, these pledges rely on UNFCCC’s norms, indicating the stability of the liberal order. Many norms are translated similarly in first and second NDCs. When states prioritize some norms over others, this continues to align with the annex divide, reflecting differences in domestic circumstances (e.g., vulnerability). Yet, some discourse coalitions also cut across this line. Two innovative translations stand out in the second NDCs: first, the low-carbon economy discourse adds a new spin to “liberal environmentalism,” apparently driven by competition among higher-income countries, and second, interlinkages with the human rights regime point to successful transnational socialization in democratic states. These findings indicate potential directions for global climate politics.
Representational similarity learning reveals a graded multidimensional semantic space in the human anterior temporal cortex
Authors: Cox Christopher R. , Rogers Timothy T. , Shimotake Akihiro , Kikuchi Takayuki , Kunieda Takeharu , Miyamoto Susumu , Takahashi Ryosuke , Matsumoto Riki , Ikeda Akio , Lambon Ralph Matthew A.
Published: February 2024

Neurocognitive models of semantic memory have proposed that the ventral anterior temporal lobes (vATLs) encode a graded and multidimensional semantic space—yet neuroimaging studies seeking brain regions that encode semantic structure rarely identify these areas. In simulations, we show that this discrepancy may arise from a crucial mismatch between theory and analysis approach. Utilizing an analysis recently formulated to investigate graded multidimensional representations, representational similarity learning (RSL), we decoded semantic structure from ECoG data collected from the vATL cortical surface while participants named line drawings of common items. The results reveal a graded, multidimensional semantic space encoded in neural activity across the vATL, which evolves over time and simultaneously expresses both broad and finer-grained semantic structure among animate and inanimate concepts. The work resolves the apparent discrepancy within the semantic cognition literature and, more importantly, suggests a new approach to discovering representational structure in neural data more generally.
Homeostatic Feelings and the Emergence of Consciousness
Authors: Damasio Antonio , Damasio Hanna
Published: February 2024

In this article, we summarize our views on the problem of consciousness and outline the current version of a novel hypothesis for how conscious minds can be generated in mammalian organisms. We propose that a mind can be considered conscious when three processes are in place: the first is a continuous generation of interoceptive feelings, which results in experiencing of the organism's internal operations; the second is the equally continuous production of images, generated according to the organism's sensory perspective relative to its surround; the third combines feeling/experience and perspective resulting in a process of subjectivity relative to the image contents. We also propose a biological basis for these three components: the peripheral and central physiology of interoception and exteroception help explain the implementation of the first two components, whereas the third depends on central nervous system integration, at multiple levels, from spinal cord, brainstem, and diencephalic nuclei, to selected regions of the mesial cerebral cortices.
Two new and endangered species of Paepalanthus sect. Diphyomene (Eriocaulaceae) from the Brazilian Cerrado
Authors: TROVÓ MARCELO , OLIVEIRA RAFAEL SILVA , VERDI MARCIO , FERNANDEZ EDUARDO
Published: February 2024

Two new species of Paepalanthus (Eriocaulaceae) from the Cerrado hotspot in central Brazil are described and illustrated. Paepalanthus avacanoeiro Trovó & R. Silva-Oliveira sp. nov. occurs in the Chapada dos Veadeiros region, growing on quartzite rocky soils. The species is similar to P. urbanianus, distinguished mainly by being a more robust species with pilose and patent leaves with blackish base and ciliated margin, by its reproductive axis covered by remotely disposed bracts with acuminate apex, and by its inflorescence with fewer scapes. It is currently known from two subpopulations occurring just outside of the local conservation units and is assessed as Critically Endangered (CR). Paepalanthus burle-marxii Trovó sp. nov. is distributed in the vicinities of Brasília, Pirenópolis, Luziânia, and Santo Antônio do Descoberto. It is known from many historical and recent collections inhabiting typical open grasslands, usually over argillaceous-rocky soils. It is distinguished from P. linearis, its most similar species, by its glabrous and wider leaves with membranaceous margin, its narrower capitula with few flowers and dark castaneous involucral bracts, and by the pilosity of the pistillate flower sepals. It is assessed as Vulnerable (VU). Line drawings, photos taken in the field, distribution maps, and comments are provided alongside its conservation status and IUCN red list categories.
A new species of the Scinax cruentomma group (Anura: Hylidae) from the Ucayali River basin of Loreto, Peru
Authors: GAGLIARDI-URRUTIA GIUSSEPE , ARAUJO-VIEIRA KATYUSCIA , PADIAL JOSÉ M. , SIMÕES PEDRO IVO , FAIVOVICH JULIÁN , CASTROVIEJO-FISHER SANTIAGO
Published: February 2024

We describe a new species of the Scinax cruentomma species group, with a red streak in the iris and a weakly bilobate vocal sac. It is known from oligotrophic soils in the sedimentary basin of the Ucayali River near Jenaro Herrera (province of Requena, Peru) and Río Blanco (buffer zone of the Matses Indigenous territory and reserve). The new species can be distinguished from the other species of the S. cruentomma group by its small snout-vent length, body and iris color patterns, weakly bilobate vocal sac, myological characters, and the number of notes and pulses of the advertisement call. It is morphologically most similar to S. strussmannae, from which the advertisement call, nostril, canthus rostralis, and loreal region can distinguish it.
A new Drusinae (Trichoptera: Limnephilidae) species from the Zagros Mountains in the Kurdistan Province, Iran
Authors: IBRAHIMI HALIL , MOHAMMADI HABIBOLLAH , GHADERI EDRIS , KARIMIAN ERFAN
Published: February 2024

A new species of the Drusinae subfamily, Drusus chelchamaensis Ibrahimi & Mohammadi sp. nov., is described based on male genital morphology. The male of the new species is most similar to that of Drusus bayburtii Çakin 1983 (known from several places in Anatolia, Turkey), Drusus ketes Oláh & Mey 2017 (in Oláh et al. 2017) (known from the Hamedan Province, Iran), and Drusus kazanciae Çakin 1983 (known from the Hakkari Province, Turkey) and differs in the formation of superior appendages, intermediate appendages, inferior appendages, parameres, spinate area of segment VIII, and segment IX. The species is currently known only from Chel Chama Mountain in the Kurdistan Province of Iran and is the second known species of the Drusus caucasicus Species Complex from Iran. Chel Chama is part of the Zagros Mountains, which is rich in freshwater ecosystems, but currently with only a few reported species of caddisflies.
Global primary care research challenges
Authors: Akhtar Safia , Poppleton Aaron , Caleyachetty Rishi
Published: February 2024

Healthcare needs are changing globally as people live longer, but not necessarily in better health. Increased population migration is leading to culturally diverse patient populations with more diverse health needs and expectations. The provision of accessible and equitable primary care poses workforce, infrastructure and management challenges for high- and lower-middle income countries that transcend national borders. In this special issue, we describe ‘global primary care’ as primary care training, research and service delivery that places a priority on the needs and overall health of individuals and their communities, to advance health equity worldwide. Given this nascent definition, what should ‘global primary care research’ look like? The following case demonstrates the breadth of physical, mental, and social issues a primary care practitioner must consider when faced with a patient from a marginalised group in an inner-city practice and why training and research must have a focus on equity.
Distinct structural variants and repeat landscape shape the genomes of the ancient grapes Aglianico and Falanghina
Authors: Aversano Riccardo , Iovene Marina , Esposito Salvatore , L’Abbate Alberto , Villano Clizia , Di Serio Ermanno , Cardone Maria Francesca , Bergamini Carlo , Cigliano Riccardo Aiese , D’Amelia Vincenzo , Frusciante Luigi , Carputo Domenico
Published: February 2024

Mounting evidence recognizes structural variations (SVs) and repetitive DNA sequences as crucial players in shaping the existing grape phenotypic diversity at intra- and inter-species levels. To deepen our understanding on the abundance, diversity, and distribution of SVs and repetitive DNAs, including transposable elements (TEs) and tandemly repeated satellite DNA (satDNAs), we re-sequenced the genomes of the ancient grapes Aglianico and Falanghina. The analysis of large copy number variants (CNVs) detected candidate polymorphic genes that are involved in the enological features of these varieties. In a comparative analysis of Aglianico and Falanghina sequences with 21 publicly available genomes of cultivated grapes, we provided a genome-wide annotation of grape TEs at the lineage level. We disclosed that at least two main clusters of grape cultivars could be identified based on the TEs content. Multiple TEs families appeared either significantly enriched or depleted. In addition, in silico and cytological analyses provided evidence for a diverse chromosomal distribution of several satellite repeats between Aglianico, Falanghina, and other grapes. Overall, our data further improved our understanding of the intricate grape diversity held by two Italian traditional varieties, unveiling a pool of unique candidate genes never so far exploited in breeding for improved fruit quality.
Efficacy and safety analysis of hypofractionated and conventional fractionated radiotherapy in postoperative breast cancer patients
Authors: Lu Yongkai , Hui Beina , Yang Di , Li Yi , Li Binglin , Zhou Luping , Xu Lei , Tang Fengwen , Wang Wei , Chen Ruijuan , Zhao Dongli
Published: February 2024

Objectives

In this meta-analysis, we conducted a comparative analysis of the safety and efficacy of hypofractionated and conventional fractionated radiotherapy in individuals who had undergone surgery for breast cancer.

Methods

This study involved a systematic and independent review of relevant research articles published in reputable databases such as PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. Two investigators conducted the review, which included studies published up to January 3, 2023. The quality of the eligible studies was evaluated and data were extracted using Review Manager software 5.4 (RevMan 5.4) to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

The analysis comprised 35 studies and encompassed a collective sample of 18,246 individuals diagnosed with breast cancer. We did not find a statistically significant disparity in efficacy between conventional fractionated (CF) radiotherapy and hypofractionated (HF) radiotherapy regarding local recurrence (LR; OR = 0.91, 95% CI: 0.76–1.09, P = 0.30), disease-free survival (DFS; OR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.01–1.42, P = 0.03), and overall survival (OS; OR = 1.08, 95% CI: 0.93–1.26, P = 0.28). Concerning safety, there was no significant difference between the HF and CF regimens in terms of breast pain, breast atrophy, lymphedema, pneumonia, pulmonary fibrosis, telangiectasia, and cardiotoxicity. However, the HF regimen resulted in lower skin toxicity (OR = 0.43, 95% CI: 0.33—0.55, P < 0.01) and improved patient fatigue outcomes (OR = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.60 – 0.88, P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Although there is no substantial difference in LR, DFS, OS, or many other side effects between the HF and CF regimens, the HF regimen reduces skin toxicity and relieves patient fatigue. If these two issues need to be addressed in clinical situations, the HF regimen may be a superior alternative to conventional radiotherapy in postoperative breast cancer patients.
Exploring self-care and cervical cancer prevention attitudes and practices among Moroccan and Pakistani immigrant women in Catalonia, Spain: a comparative qualitative study
Authors: Lurgain Jone G. , Ouaarab-Essadek Hakima , Mellouki Khadija , Malik-Hameed Sumaira , Sharif Andleeb , Brotons Maria , Bruni Laia , Peremiquel-Trillas Paula
Published: February 2024

Background

Self-care and preventive health strategies may trigger health inequities when individuals’ cultural values and health beliefs are not fully understood and considered. In the case of cervical cancer (CC) screening programs immigrant women have shown lower attendance compared with native women, which increases the risk of late diagnosis and, consequently, a lower probability of survival. HPV self-sampling for CC screening has been recently added to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) list of self-care interventions as a promising tool to reduce this disparity and improve screening coverage. In Catalonia, Spain, the introduction of HPV self-sampling as a part of the new population-based CC screening program, is a significant step. However, there is a lack of research addressing self-care and prevention among immigrant populations in this region. This study aims to fill this gap exploring self-care and prevention attitudes and practices among Moroccan and Pakistani women.

Methods

We conducted focus groups and individual interviews with 36 Moroccan and 37 Pakistani women in Barcelona, Spain. The topic guide of the focus groups included case vignettes to stimulate the discussion and a semi-structured questionnaire was used for the interviews.

Results

Our findings show that most Moroccan and Pakistani women do not prioritize self-care and prevention. They seek care for symptom treatment rather than disease prevention. In this sense, they reported not having the habit of doing regular check-ups and their self-care and prevention attitudes and practices seemed to be conditioned by cultural values. The implementation of an effective call and recall system could enhance the engagement of these populations with CC screening services.

Conclusion

This study provides evidence on how universal concepts of self-care and prevention may not aligned with more collectivist societies, emphasizing the limited applicability and motivation of global self-care interventions guidelines for individuals with different cultural backgrounds and values. Therefore, the successful implementation of CC screening programs or any other self-care intervention requires the adoption of culturally appropriate strategies.
Number of children ever-born and its associated factors among currently married Ethiopian women: evidence from the 2019 EMDHS using negative binomial regression
Authors: Gebre Mamo Nigatu
Published: February 2024

Background

Ethiopia’s population is growing at about 2.7% annually with a fertility rate of 4.1 births per woman. However, as per the knowledge of the researcher, not enough studies have been done in Ethiopia to identify factors associated with women’s fertility levels.

Objective

To assess the number of children ever born and its associated factors among currently married reproductive-age Ethiopian women.

Method

Data of 5613 currently married women were extracted from the 2019 Ethiopian Mini Demographic and Health Survey (EMDHS). Stata version 14 was used for data extraction, processing, and analysis. Descriptive data were summarized using descriptive statistics. A multivariable negative binomial regression was used for the inferential analysis. Incidence rate ratio (IRR) and its 95% CI were respectively used to measure the associations and their statistical significance.

Result

The median number of children ever born per currently married Ethiopian woman was 3 with an iterquarter range of 4 (1–5) children. Age of a woman at her first birth (aIRR = 0.958, 95% CI: 0.954, 0.961), being protestant (aIRR = 1.128, 95%CI: 1.068, 1.193), being Muslim (aIRR = 1.096, 95% CI: 1.043, 1.151), and being from other religious groups than Orthodox Christianity (aIRR = 1.353, 95% CI: 1.036, 1.766) are positively associated with bearing more children. On the other hands, completing primary education (aIRR = 0.664, 95% CI: 0.640,0.689), secondary education(aIRR = 0.541, 95%CI: 0.504,0.582), higher education(aIRR = 0.527, 95%CI: 0.479, 0.580), being from a richest household(aIRR = 0.899, 95%CI: 0.840, 0.962), using modern contraceptive (aIRR = 0.877, 95%CI: 0.847, 0.908), living in the Afar (aIRR = 0.785, 95%CI: 0.718,0.859), Amhara (aIRR = 0.890, 95%CI: 0.718,0.859), Gambella (aIRR = 0.894, 95%CI: 0.820,0.974), and Addid Ababa(0.845, 95%CI: 0.760,0.939) are negatively associated with bearing more children.

Conclusion

Promoting women’s empowerment, encouraging women’s academic advancement, and community-based educational intervention are recommended to have optimal and decreased numbers of children.
A reliable diabetic retinopathy grading via transfer learning and ensemble learning with quadratic weighted kappa metric
Authors: Chilukoti Sai Venkatesh , Shan Liqun , Tida Vijay Srinivas , Maida Anthony S. , Hei Xiali
Published: February 2024

The most common eye infection in people with diabetes is diabetic retinopathy (DR). It might cause blurred vision or even total blindness. Therefore, it is essential to promote early detection to prevent or alleviate the impact of DR. However, due to the possibility that symptoms may not be noticeable in the early stages of DR, it is difficult for doctors to identify them. Therefore, numerous predictive models based on machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) have been developed to determine all stages of DR. However, existing DR classification models cannot classify every DR stage or use a computationally heavy approach. Common metrics such as accuracy, F1 score, precision, recall, and AUC-ROC score are not reliable for assessing DR grading. This is because they do not account for two key factors: the severity of the discrepancy between the assigned and predicted grades and the ordered nature of the DR grading scale. 

This research proposes computationally efficient ensemble methods for the classification of DR. These methods leverage pre-trained model weights, reducing training time and resource requirements. In addition, data augmentation techniques are used to address data limitations, improve features, and improve generalization. This combination offers a promising approach for accurate and robust DR grading. In particular, we take advantage of transfer learning using models trained on DR data and employ CLAHE for image enhancement and Gaussian blur for noise reduction. We propose a three-layer classifier that incorporates dropout and ReLU activation. This design aims to minimize overfitting while effectively extracting features and assigning DR grades. We prioritize the Quadratic Weighted Kappa (QWK) metric due to its sensitivity to label discrepancies, which is crucial for an accurate diagnosis of DR. This combined approach achieves state-of-the-art QWK scores (0.901, 0.967 and 0.944) in the Eyepacs, Aptos, and Messidor datasets.
Is it time for China to prioritize pan-genotypic regimens for treating patients with hepatitis C?
Authors: Tu Yusi , Tang Xiangyan , Zhou Dachuang , Shao Hanqiao , Liang Leyi , Tang Wenxi
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The treatment of hepatitis C has entered the pan-genotypic era, but the effectiveness is not good for the genotype 3b patients who have a large proportion in China. The guidelines for hepatitis C recommend the use of gene-specific regimens when the regional 3b prevalence rate greater than 5%. This study is to explore rationality of this proportion and the cost-effectiveness to implement pan-genotypic regimens in China.

Methods

A decision Markov model was developed from the health system perspective to evaluate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness between pan-genotypic and gene-specific treatment regimens for hepatitis C patients. Additionally, we set a regional genotype 3b patient proportion of 0–100% to explore at which proportion it is necessary to perform genotype identification and typing therapy on patients. Model parameters were derived from published literature and public databases. Effectiveness was measured by cured patient numbers, newly diagnosed cases of decompensated cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, need for liver transplantation, and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). Cost-effectiveness outcomes included costs and the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). The 1–3 times 2022 Chinese per capita gross domestic product was used as the willingness-to-pay threshold. One-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed to assess the uncertainty of the model parameters.

Results

Compared with gene-specific regimens, pan-genotypic regimens resulted in an additional 0.13 QALYs and an incremental cost of $165, the ICER was $1,268/QALY. From the view of efficacy, the pan-genotypic regimens cured 5,868 more people per 100,000 patients than gene-specific regimens, avoiding 86.5% of DC cases, 64.6% of HCC cases, and 78.2% of liver transplant needs. Identifying 3b patients before treatment was definitely cost-effectiveness when their prevalence was 12% or higher. The results remained robust in sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions

In China, the prioritized recommendation of pan-genotypic therapeutics proves to be both cost-effective and efficacious. But, in regions where the prevalence of genotype 3b exceeds 12%, it is necessary to identify them to provision of more suitable therapies.
Bedside zero-fluoroscopy temporary permanent pacemaker implantation in the electrical storm treatment under the guidance of EnSite 3D system: a case report
Authors: Wang Lei , Li Pengfei , li Jun , Xi Jicheng , Zhang Zhibiao , Yan Fang , Zhang Yanan , Wang Haixiong , Han Huiyuan
Published: February 2024

Background

Electrical storm (ES) is a clinical emergency characterized by multiple malignant ventricular arrhythmias or ICD discharges within 24 h, requiring early rational management.

Case presentation

We report a 55-year-old man who underwent aortic valve replacement experienced recurrent ventricular tachycardia/ventricular fibrillation. A temporary permanent pacemaker with the EnSite system was implanted, and significant inhibition of the electrical storm, attributed to the atrial overdrive pacing, ensued.

Conclusions

In emergency regarding an electrical storm, the bedside temporary permanent pacemaker implantation with the EnSite system is concluded to be feasible and safe.
A note on Lototsky–Bernstein bases
Authors: Xu Xiao-Wei , Yu Xin , Cui Jia-Lin , Cai Qing-Bo , Cheng Wen-Tao
Published: February 2024

In this note, we study some approximation properties on a class of special Lototsky–Bernstein bases. We focus on approximation of $|x|$
|
x
|
on $[-1,1]$
[
−
1
,
1
]
by an approximation process generated from fixed points on Lototsky–Bernstein bases. Our first result shows that the approximation procedure $p_{n}(x)$

p
n

(
x
)
to $|x|$
|
x
|
preserves good shapes on $[-1,1]$
[
−
1
,
1
]
. Moreover, some convergence results and inequalities are derived. Our second main result states that the rate convergence of the approximation is $O(n^{-2})$
O
(

n

−
2

)
.
Exploring entrepreneurial intentions and motivations: a comparative analysis of opportunity-driven and necessity-driven entrepreneurs
Authors: Batz Liñeiro Aglaya , Romero Ochoa Jhon Alexander , Montes de la Barrera Jose
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the impact of entrepreneurial attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral controls on entrepreneurial intention among two distinct groups of entrepreneurs: opportunity-driven and necessity-driven. It also explores the relationship between entrepreneurial motivations, intentions, and the number of ventures undertaken by entrepreneurs. Structural equation modeling and survey data from 201 necessity-driven entrepreneurs and 204 opportunity-driven entrepreneurs were utilized. Drawing on the Theory of Planned Behavior, the findings indicate that attitudes do not positively correlate with entrepreneurial intention for both types of entrepreneurs. Subjective norms significantly influence entrepreneurial intention among entrepreneurs by necessity but not among entrepreneurs by opportunity. Perceived behavioral controls exhibit a partial correlation with entrepreneurial intention, which is not significant for entrepreneurs by opportunity. Both motivations and entrepreneurial intention positively relate to the number of ventures undertaken by entrepreneurs by necessity, whereas motivations alone determine venture creation among entrepreneurs by opportunity. Furthermore, a significant correlation exists between being a female entrepreneur by necessity and entrepreneurial intention, while this relationship is not significant for women entrepreneurs by opportunity. These insights contribute to the literature on entrepreneurial intention and carry important policy and managerial implications in developing countries.
Soundscape in religious historical buildings: a review
Authors: Zhang Dongxu , Shan Yue , Chen Xinyi , Wang Zixia
Published: February 2024

Over the past decade, a substantial body of research exploring soundscapes in religious historical buildings has emerged, yet a comprehensive summary of this work is lacking. This paper selects 74 typical studies of soundscapes in religious historical buildings published between 2011 and 2022 to conduct quantitative statistics and visualization analysis from a bibliometric perspective. The selected literature is categorized based on the type of religious building, Christian, Islamic, or Buddhist. The literature is further segmented according to the research subject, including sound field studies, sound analyses, and evaluations of the acoustic environment. The research methods employed are also differentiated and include sound field measurements, acoustic simulations, questionnaires and auralization procedures. The analysis reveals pronounced disparities in research foci depending on the type of religious historical building. For instance, studies on the soundscape in Christian churches tend to focus on objective sound field attributes and frequently employ sound field simulations to analyse the acoustic parameters of diverse church spaces and materials. Conversely, research on the soundscape in Islamic mosques prioritizes speech intelligibility and acoustic comfort, while studies of the soundscape of Buddhist temples gravitate towards the impact of natural and religious sounds on individuals. This paper anticipates the future direction of soundscape research on religious historical buildings.

Graphical Abstract
Using mask R-CNN to rapidly detect the gold foil shedding of stone cultural heritage in images
Authors: Hou Miaole , Huo Dongxu , Yang Yue , Yang Su , Chen Huiwen
Published: February 2024

As immovable stone cultural heritage is kept in the open air, they are more susceptible to damage, and damage detection is very important for the protection and restoration of cultural heritage. This is especially true for gold-overlaid stone cultural heritage, which is usually more complicated than ordinary stone carvings. However, the detection of cultural heritage damages is mainly based on expert visual inspection, which is often subjective, time-consuming, and laborious. This paper uses the Mask R-CNN algorithm to rapidly and accurately detect the gold foil shedding of stone cultural heritage through two-dimensional images. The research data are from the high-precision images of the Dazu Thousand-Hand Bodhisattva Statue (World Heritage, UNESCO) in Chongqing, China. After cleaning and augmentation, 1900 images are input into Mask R-CNN model for training. Finally, the average precision value (AP) for detecting gold foil shedding is found to be 0.967. In order to test the performance of the model, the new images that do not participate in the training period are used, and it is found that the model can still accurately detect the gold foil shedding even if there are interference factors. This is the first attempt to detect the damages of gold-overlaid stone cultural heritage based on a deep learning algorithm, and it has achieved good results.
Southeast Asian consumer acceptance of 3D virtual fitting technologies in cross-border online shopping
Authors: Yang Heesoon , Kim Yunjeong
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study is to investigate Thai, Vietnamese and Indonesian consumers’ responses to cross-border online shopping for Korean fashion products using 3D virtual fitting technology. In order to examine the factors affecting a consumer’s attitude toward virtual fitting technology and the purchase intention of Korean fashion products, technology acceptance model, which represents cross-border site characteristics, and technology readiness, which represents a consumer's belief in technology, were used in combination with technology readiness and acceptance model. An online survey was conducted with male and female consumers in their 20 s and 30 s residing in Vietnam, Indonesia, and Thailand. A structural equation model analysis was performed using smart PLS to verify the research model. Among the dimensions of technological readiness, optimism and innovativeness had a positive effect on consumers' perceptions of the cross-border site, and discomfort had a negative effect. Perceived usefulness, enjoyment, and perceived fit had a significant effect on the attitude toward virtual fitting technology, and the effect of enjoyment was the greatest. This study highlighted the role of each dimension of technology readiness by verifying consumer acceptance of virtual fitting technology in cross-border online transactions. It also emphasized the role of perceived enjoyment in technology acceptance.
Role of serum micro-RNA 486-5p in Egyptian cirrhotic hepatitis C patients with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Abbasy Amany N. , Saeed Rasha , Shafei Mohamed M. El , Aziz Mohamed A. Abdel
Published: February 2024

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the prevailing primary liver tumor. To pick HCC at the initial stages is quite strenuous, despite the advent of serum biomarkers, mainly alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), to predict the development and progression of HCC. One proposed biomarker for the diagnosis of HCC is micro-RNA 486-5p (miRNA 486-5p). Hence, the current study was conducted to interrogate the role of miRNA 486-5p in the diagnosis of HCC in a cohort of Egyptian patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) related liver cirrhosis (LC). This case–control study included twenty-five patients with HCC as studied cases and twenty-five patients with LC as controls. Patients in both groups were classified according to the Child–Pugh score. HCC patients were further classified according to the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) classification.

Results

MiRNA 486-5p was found to be statistically notably elevated in patients with HCC than in those with LC. It was found to significantly correlate with portal vein invasion.

Conclusions

Serum miRNA 486-5p could be a particularly sensitive biomarker in the diagnosis of HCC as well as prediction of portal vein invasion, as firmly advocated by this study.
Correlation between lymphopenia and other hematological parameters with duration of hospital stay as a measure of severity in Covid-19: a retrospective study
Authors: Singh Ila , Kotasthane Vaishali D. , Kotasthane Dhananjay S.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The SARS-CoV-2 (corona) virus is evolving fast because of the scale at which it has infected people around the world. Updated data is needed to manage Covid-19 efficiently with limited resources. After thorough literature review, there were very few studies that correlated variation of hematological parameters with duration of hospital stay.

Here, the aim of the study was to determine correlation between variation in hematological parameters and duration of hospital stay as a predictor of severity of disease.

Methodology

The study was conducted at central laboratory of HIMS, Varanasi. The present study was an observational study done retrospectively. The study duration was from 1st July, 2020 to 30th October, 2020. RT-PCR-positive confirmed cases admitted in the institute whose CBC data was available over a period of multiple days were included in the study to find out the correlation.

Study design

Patients were categorized into two study groups. Group I (A and B): duration of hospital stay from 2 to 10 days and Group II (A, B, and C): duration of hospital stay more than 11 days. Chi-square test was applied to both the groups to see whether correlation between variation in hematological parameters and duration of hospital stay was significant or not.

Result

A total of 276 Covid-19 patients were included in the study. Patients were divided into groups and subgroups according to the duration of hospital stay. A total of 50% (103) of patients in Group I (hospital stay from 2 to 10 days) had lymphopenia as compared to 72.86% (51) of patients with lymphopenia in Group II (hospital stay from 11 to 40 days). Similarly, 44.17% (91) of patients in Group I had leukocytosis as compared to 72.86% (51) of patients with leukocytosis in Group II. The percentage increase in lymphopenia and leukocytosis in Group II was same, and this increase was found to be statistically significant (p-value < 0.05). Both these variables were increasing with increase in days of hospital stay.

Conclusion

Hence, to conclude, complete blood count parameters especially lymphopenia and leukocytosis are most significant and economical in guiding the management protocol of Covid-19 patients as well as in predicting the number of days of hospital stay.
Study of the prevalence and predictive factors of sleep-disordered breathing in patients with interstitial lung diseases
Authors: Laz Nabila Ibrahim , Mohammad Mohammad Farouk , Srour Mona Mahmoud , Arafat Waleed Ramadan
Published: February 2024

Background

Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) are parenchymal lung conditions that are chronic, progressive, and have a high morbidity and mortality rate. Due to restrictions in their gas exchange and ventilatory dysfunction, ILD patients are probably at risk for sleep-disordered breathing (SDB).

Methodology

Sixty-nine patients with diffuse parenchymal lung diseases identified by high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) chest were included in the study. All patients were assessed by the STOP-BANG questionnaire (SBQ), Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS), and full-night polysomnography (PSG) for diagnosis and classification of SDB. The aim of the study is to examine the prevalence and risk factors for SDB in ILD.

Results

Among the study group hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) was the most prevalent ILD, accounting for 63.8% of cases. Out of 69 individuals, 42 (60.9%) had SDB, 57.1% of those with SDB had obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and the majority of those with OSA had mild degrees (21.7%, n = 15).

Conclusion

OSA is significantly common in ILD patients. Higher left atrium diameter and oxygen desaturation index (ODI) are predictive factors of SDB. To facilitate early diagnosis and therapy, PSG should be performed on ILD patients at high risk (such as males, individuals with high ESS scores, SBQ scores, and left atrium diameter).

Trial registration

Retrospectively registered, registration number is NCT06012526, date of registration August 25, 2023.
Association of Historical Housing Discrimination and Colon Cancer Treatment and Outcomes in the United States
Authors: Hussaini S.M. Qasim , Fan Qinjin , Barrow Lauren C.J. , Yabroff K. Robin , Pollack Craig E. , Nogueira Leticia M.
Published: February 2024

PURPOSE

In the 1930s, the federally sponsored Home Owners' Loan Corporation (HOLC) used racial composition in its assessment of areas worthy of receiving loans. Neighborhoods with large proportions of Black residents were mapped in red (ie, redlining) and flagged as hazardous for mortgage financing. Redlining created a platform for systemic disinvestment in these neighborhoods, leading to barriers in access to resources that persist today. We investigated the association between residing in areas with different HOLC ratings and receipt of quality cancer care and outcomes among individuals diagnosed with colon cancer—a leading cause of cancer deaths amenable to early detection and treatment.

METHODS

Individuals who resided in zip code tabulation areas in 196 cities with HOLC rating and were diagnosed with colon cancer from 2007 to 2017 were identified from the National Cancer Database and assigned a HOLC grade (A, best; B, still desirable; C, definitely declining; and D, hazardous and mapped in red). Multivariable logistic regression models investigated association of area-level HOLC grade and late stage at diagnosis and receipt of guideline-concordant care. The product-limit method evaluated differences in time to adjuvant chemotherapy. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard models investigated differences in overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

There were 149,917 patients newly diagnosed with colon cancer with a median age of 68 years. Compared with people living in HOLC A areas, people living in HOLC D areas were more likely to be diagnosed with late-stage disease (adjusted odds ratio, 1.06 [95% CI, 1.00 to 1.12]). In addition, people living in HOLC B, C, and D areas had 8%, 16%, and 24% higher odds of not receiving guideline-concordant care, including lower receipt of surgery, evaluation of ≥12 lymph nodes, and chemotherapy. People residing in HOLC B, C, or D areas also experienced delays in initiation of adjuvant chemotherapy after surgery. People residing in HOLC C (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.09 [95% CI, 1.05 to 1.13]) and D (aHR, 1.13 [95% CI, 1.09 to 1.18]) areas had worse OS, including 13% and 20% excess risk of death for individuals diagnosed with early- and 6% and 8% for late-stage disease for HOLC C and D, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Historical housing discrimination is associated with worse contemporary access to colon cancer care and outcomes.