bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting Human Dermal Drug Concentrations Using PBPK Modeling and Simulation: Clobetasol Propionate Case Study
Authors: van Osdol William W. , Novakovic Jasmina , Le Merdy Maxime , Tsakalozou Eleftheria , Ghosh Priyanka , Spires Jessica , Lukacova Viera
Published: February 2024

Quantitative in silico tools may be leveraged to mechanistically predict the dermato-pharmacokinetics of compounds delivered from topical and transdermal formulations by integrating systems of rate equations that describe permeation through the formulation and layers of skin and pilo-sebaceous unit, and exchange with systemic circulation via local blood flow. Delivery of clobetasol-17 propionate (CP) from DermovateTM cream was simulated using the Transdermal Compartmental Absorption & Transit (TCATTM) Model in GastroPlus®. The cream was treated as an oil-in-water emulsion, with model input parameters estimated from publicly available information and quantitative structure-permeation relationships. From the ranges of values available for model input parameters, a set of parameters was selected by comparing model outputs to CP dermis concentration-time profiles measured by dermal open-flow microperfusion (Bodenlenz et al. Pharm Res. 33(9):2229–38, 2016). Predictions of unbound dermis CP concentrations were reasonably accurate with respect to time and skin depth. Parameter sensitivity analyses revealed considerable dependence of dermis CP concentration profiles on drug solubility in the emulsion, relatively less dependence on dispersed phase volume fraction and CP effective diffusivity in the continuous phase of the emulsion, and negligible dependence on dispersed phase droplet size. Effects of evaporative water loss from the cream and corticosteroid-induced vasoconstriction were also assessed. This work illustrates the applicability of computational modeling to predict sensitivity of dermato-pharmacokinetics to changes in thermodynamic and transport properties of a compound in a topical formulation, particularly in relation to rate-limiting steps in skin permeation. Where these properties can be related to formulation composition and processing, such a computational approach may support the design of topically applied formulations.
Development of Aerosol Dry Powder Chemotherapeutic-Loaded Microparticles for the Treatment of Lung Cancer
Authors: Ivone Ryan , Karabots Ana , Meenach Samantha A.
Published: February 2024

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, resulting in the highest mortality rates among both men and women with respect to all other types of cancer. Difficulties in treating lung cancer arise from late-stage diagnoses and tumor heterogeneity and current treatment involves a combination of chemotherapeutics, surgery, and radiation. Chemotherapeutics administered systemically can lead to undesirable side effects and severe off-site toxicity. For example, chronic administration of the chemotherapeutic doxorubicin (DOX) leads to cardiotoxicity, thereby limiting its long-term use. Systemic administration of the highly lipophilic molecule paclitaxel (PTX) is hindered by its water solubility, necessitating the use of solubilizing agents, which can induce side effects. Thus, in this investigation, formulations consisting of spray-dried microparticles (MP) containing DOX and PTX were produced to be administered as dry powder aerosols directly to the lungs. Acetalated dextran (Ac-Dex) was used as the polymer in these formulations, as it is a biocompatible and biodegradable polymer that exhibits pH-responsive degradation. Solid-state characterization revealed that DOX and PTX remained in solubility favoring amorphous states in the MP formulations and that both drugs remained thermally stable throughout the spray drying process. In vitro release studies demonstrated the pH sensitivity of the formulations due to the use of Ac-Dex, as well as the release of both therapeutics over the course of at least 48 h. In vitro aerosol dispersion studies demonstrated that both formulations exhibited suitable aerosol dispersion properties for deep lung delivery.

Graphical Abstract
Magnesium Depletion Score and Metabolic Syndrome in US Adults: Analysis of NHANES 2003 to 2018
Authors: Wang Xiaohao , Zeng Zhaohao , Wang Xinyu , Zhao Pengfei , Xiong Lijiao , Liao Tingfeng , Yuan Runzhu , Yang Shu , Kang Lin , Liang Zhen
Published: February 2024

Context

The association between magnesium status and metabolic syndrome (MetS) remains unclear.

Objective

This study aimed to examine the relationship between kidney reabsorption-related magnesium depletion score (MDS) and MetS among US adults.

Methods

We analyzed data from 15 565 adults participating in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2003 to 2018. MetS was defined according to the National Cholesterol Education Program's Adult Treatment Panel III report. The MDS is a scoring system developed to predict the status of magnesium deficiency that fully considers the pathophysiological factors influencing the kidneys' reabsorption capability. Weighted univariate and multivariable logistic regression were used to assess the association between MDS and MetS. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis was conducted to characterize dose-response relationships. Stratified analyses by sociodemographic and lifestyle factors were also performed.

Results

In both univariate and multivariable analyses, higher MDS was significantly associated with increased odds of MetS. Each unit increase in MDS was associated with approximately a 30% higher risk for MetS, even after adjusting for confounding factors (odds ratio 1.31; 95% CI, 1.17-1.45). RCS graphs depicted a linear dose-response relationship across the MDS range. This positive correlation remained consistent across various population subgroups and exhibited no significant interaction by age, sex, race, adiposity, smoking status, or alcohol consumption.

Conclusion

Higher urinary magnesium loss as quantified by MDS may be an independent linear risk factor for MetS in US adults, irrespective of sociodemographic and behavioral factors. Optimizing magnesium nutritional status could potentially confer benefits to patients with MetS.
Serum Prolactin Levels and Mortality in Adults Without Prolactinoma: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Papazoglou Andreas S , Leite Ana Rita , Moysidis Dimitrios V , Anastasiou Vasileios , Daios Stylianos , Borges-Canha Marta , Giannopoulos Georgios , Neves João Sérgio , Ziakas Antonios , Giannakoulas George
Published: February 2024

Context

Prolactin (PRL) is a highly versatile, multifunctional hormone synthesized and secreted by lactotroph cells of the anterior pituitary. Its metabolic role has been extensively studied even in normoprolactinemic populations. Recently, a wealth of observational data have outlined the potential prognostic value of PRL in various clinical settings.

Objective

This systematic review aims to systematically evaluate and quantitatively synthesize the association between serum PRL levels and risk of mortality in adults without prolactinoma.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted up to June 10, 2023, to identify studies reporting the association of serum PRL levels with clinical outcomes of adults without prolactinoma. A random-effects meta-analysis was conducted to quantify the adjusted hazard ratios [(a)HRs] for all-cause and cardiovascular death (CVD) during follow-up.

Results

Twenty-eight studies were deemed eligible reporting the outcomes of adults without prolactinoma, in whom serum PRL levels were measured for risk-stratification. Fourteen studies reported appropriate data for meta-analysis encompassing a total of 23 596 individuals. Each unit of PRL increase was independently associated with increased risk of all-cause (pooled aHR = 1.17 [1.08-1.27]; I2 = 48%) and CV mortality (pooled aHR = 1.54 [1.14-2.09]; I2 = 89%). Individuals belonging to the highest PRL category had significantly higher risk for all-cause (pooled aHR = 1.81 [1.43-2.30]; I2 = 65%) and CV (pooled aHR = 1.59 [1.04-2.42]; I2 = 82%) mortality compared to their lowest-PRL category counterparts. The association between PRL levels and in-hospital death did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusion

PRL levels seem to be an independent predictor for mortality. Further validation is warranted before its role as a risk-stratification tool can be delineated in clinical practice.
Determination of Capillary Blood TSH and Free Thyroxine Levels Using Digital Immunoassay
Authors: Suzuki Nami , Takeuchi Miki , Miyazaki Naoko , Tanaka Katsumasa , Utsunomiya Sosuke , Arai Yoshiyuki , Yoshimura Toru , Sugino Kiminori , Ito Koichi , Noh Jaeduk Yoshimura
Published: February 2024

Background

The remote performance of thyroid function blood tests is complicated because it requires blood collection.

Objective

To compare TSH and free thyroxine (FT4) levels between capillary and venous blood and assess the adequacy of measuring each value in capillary blood.

Methods

This prospective intervention study was conducted at Ito Hospital and was based on the clinical research method. The participants were 5 healthy female volunteers and 50 patients (41 females and 9 males) between the ages of 23 and 81 years. To measure TSH and FT4 levels in capillary and venous blood, a digital immunoassay (d-IA) method capable of measuring trace samples was used. Chemiluminescence measurements were used as controls. Values obtained for each assay system were compared using Spearman's correlation analysis. Capillary blood was collected using an autologous device (TAP II; not approved in Japan).

Results

Capillary plasma volume obtained using TAP II was 125 µL or more in 26 cases, 25 µL to 124 µL in 24 cases, and less than 25 µL in 5 cases. Strong correlations were noted in the TSH and FT4 levels between capillary and venous blood, with correlation coefficients of rs = 0.99 and rs = 0.97, respectively.

Conclusion

Capillary TSH and FT4 levels strongly correlate with venous blood values. Trace samples can be used in high-precision d-IA methods. These results may promote telemedicine in assessing thyroid function.
Patient with Asperger's Syndrome, with episodes of fantasizing and rocking of body, treated with aripiprazole - a case report.
Authors: Dul Maciej , Walczewski Krzysztof
Published: February 2024

W niniejszym artykule zaprezentowaliśmy przypadek dorosłego pacjenta, którego obecnie głównym problemem są epizody fantazjowania i kołysania ciałem trwające do 12h dziennie i całkowicie uniemożliwiające rozwój szkolny. Charakter zaburzenia u pacjenta dotyczy pogrążania się w fantazjach, a nie typowych obsesji jak w OCD. Pacjent leczony był dawniej lekami z grupy SSRI, neuroleptykami (bez aripiprazolu) oraz metylofenidatem. Jedynie metylofenidat przyniósł częściową poprawę, jednak powodował u pacjenta uczucie "sztywności myślenia". Pacjent trafił do szpitala z powodu próby samobójczej, która jak się później okazało była samouszkodzeniem, bez intencji zabicia się. W trakcie hospitalizacji przeprowadzono diagnostykę różnicową i postawiono rozpoznanie zespołu Aspergera, któremu towarzyszyło zanurzanie się w świecie swoich fantazji i zachowania stereotypowe. Pacjentowi podano aripiprazol w dawce 15mg/d po trzech tygodniach uzyskując znaczną poprawę stanu zdrowia redukując czas epizodów z kilku godzin do kilkudziesięciu sekund. Lek jest dobrze tolerowany przez pacjenta. W artykule prezentujemy pojedyncze kazuistyczne opisy, w których osiągnięto podobne spektakularne rezultaty w podobnych przypadkach. Opisujemy także możliwe wyjaśnienie fizjologiczne takiej odpowiedzi na ten lek. Pacjent został wypisany ze szpitala i kontynuuje naukę szkolną.
Acute psychosis in a 35-year-old woman. Could it be related to a previous COVID-19 infection? A case report
Authors: Stokłosa Iga , Bulanda Sylwia , Lau Karolina , Jośko-Ochojska Jadwiga
Published: February 2024

Wirus SARS-CoV-2 jest przyczyną choroby COVID-19. Zakażenie może przyjmować bardzo zróżnicowane formy od bezobjawowej po ciężką z licznymi powikłaniami, które mogą prowadzić nawet do zgonu. Najczęściej wirus atakuje układ oddechowy, prowadząc do jego niewydolności. Od początku pandemii prowadzone są liczne badania, aby poznać dokładną ekspresję wirusa. Infekcja COVID-19 zwiększa również ryzyko wystąpienia objawów neuropsychiatrycznych, w tym psychozy. Praca przedstawia przypadek 35-letniej kobiety bez wcześniejszego wywiadu psychiatrycznego, u której rozwinęła się ostra psychoza po wcześniej przebytym zakażeniu COVID-19. Leczono ją w sposób standardowy: haloperidolem, lorazepamem i diazepamem. Objawy szybko ustąpiły po wdrożeniu klasycznego leczenia. Na ten moment nie są znane długofalowe konsekwencje zakażenia wirusem SARS-CoV-19, dlatego też konieczna jest dalsza obserwacja i prowadzenie badań w tym kierunku. Leczenie, jak pokazano w tym opisie przypadku, wydaje się być podtrzymujące i oparte na objawach. Optymalne leczenie przeciwwirusowe nie zostało jeszcze jasno określone, wciąż trwają badania nad najlepszym sposobem leczenia samego wirusa.
Health effects of energy drinks, facts and myths - literature review
Authors: Żuber Michał , Dąbrowska Paulina , Bochyński Karol , Dacka Michał , Molenda Katarzyna , Białogłowski Konrad , Ciuba Katarzyna , Borodziuk Filip , Borodziuk Barbara , Giżewska Kamila
Published: February 2024

Energy drinks are carbonated or non-carbonated beverages containing stimulants designed to improve energy and concentration. These drinks are gaining popularity, specifically among teenagers and young adults. However, despite their easy availability on store shelves, there is growing concern about the safety and health effects of consuming energy drinks in particular. Energy drinks appear to have the greatest impact on the cardiovascular system, leading to increased blood pressure and increased heart rate, and on the mental state of consumers, in the long term causing increased levels of anxiety. The paper also addresses the effects of energy drinks on the nervous and gastrointestinal systems. Despite many studies, the health effects of energy drinks have still not been fully investigated, so there is a need for further research on the subject and for age-appropriate regulation of consumers and their education.
Hematologic complications in vascular malformations: A case study of 2 patients
Authors: Matus Iwona , Bator Kaja , Machaj Weronika , Krzemienowska-Cebulla Aleksandra , Dorochowicz Mateusz , Senat Hanna , Korbecki Adrian , Szuba Andrzej , Rabczyński Maciej
Published: February 2024

Vascular malformations are congenital vascular anomalies resulting from a disruption in the vasculogenesis process. (1)  They are congenital changes that enlarge as the child develops and do not undergo spontaneous involution. They can be classified based on the type of vessels involved (capillary, arterial, venous, lymphatic, mixed) and the nature of the vascular flow (low-flow and high-flow). The clinical presentation of vascular malformations is highly diverse, and despite being congenital, they can remain asymptomatic for a long time, complicating the diagnostic process. (1,3)

 

The presence of malformations carries the risk of health-threatening complications. One such complication is Kasabach-Merritt syndrome, characterized by thrombocytopenia, microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, and consumptive coagulopathy in the presence of a rapidly enlarging vascular tumor. (4,5) Another threat is a coagulopathy limited to the vascular anomaly (LIC). It is characterized by elevated D-dimers and fibrin degradation products, low levels of fibrinogen, FV, FVIII, FXIII, and antithrombin, and sometimes mild to moderate thrombocytopenia. (6,7) Early implementation of anticoagulant therapy allows for the avoidance of health-threatening conditions and the development of disseminated intravascular coagulation syndrome (DIC). (8)
Navigating Lung Cancer: Exploring Progress and Obstacles - A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Dorochowicz Mateusz , Krzemienowska-Cebulla Aleksandra , Matus Iwona , Senat Hanna , Madej Aleksandra
Published: February 2024

Lung cancer persists as a significant global health dilemma, characterized by elevated incidence and mortality rates worldwide. Despite recent strides in diagnostic methodologies, screening approaches, and therapeutic modalities, lung cancer retains its status as the foremost cause of cancer-related fatalities internationally. The disease is predominantly categorized into two primary forms: small-cell carcinomas and the notably more prevalent non-small-cell carcinomas, constituting approximately 85% of cases. While smoking stands as the primary risk factor for lung cancer, accounting for 80-90% of related deaths, other factors such as dietary habits, air pollution, genetic predisposition, and prior lung conditions play substantial roles. Diagnostic procedures encompass a range of techniques, including radiography, sputum cytology, bronchoscopy, biomarker analysis, among others. The imperative for progress and refinement in diagnostic tools, especially for early detection and monitoring in high-risk demographics, underscores the urgency. Continual research and enhancement of surgical, systemic, and localized treatments are indispensable in the battle against lung cancer. Despite advancements, challenges persist in achieving timely diagnoses, particularly in high-risk groups, and augmenting overall survival rates. This comprehensive review delves into current research advancements in lung cancer, with specific focus on classification, patient well-being, risk factors, diagnostic methodologies, and treatment options.
How does the consumption of processed food affect the pathogenesis of various diseases? - literature review
Authors: Smuszkiewicz-Różański Paweł , Różańska-Smuszkiewicz Gabriela , Koszyczarek Karolina , Kotowska Maja , Zamirska Wiktoria , Ziemiański Albin , Zięba Katarzyna , Zygmunt Anna
Published: February 2024

Introduction and purpose:With the development of civilization, the amount of technology enabling food processing increases. Due to the implementation of these procedures, food can gain new properties that will make it more attractive in the eyes of the consumer. The aim of our work is to collect information on the relationship between the consumption of processed and ultra-processed food and the development of various diseases, with particular emphasis on civilization diseases.

State of knowledge:Processed food often contains non-nutritive ingredients, for example, artificial food additives, which have a negative impact on health. Numerous studies demonstrate the correlation between the consumption of ultra-processed food and the development of various diseases. Scientific research suggests that ultra-processed foods may lead to addictive behavioral and biological responses through their reinforcing effects. It also influences the development of various conditions, including obesity, type II diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, depression, and anxiety. Furthermore, its components pass through the placenta.

Summary:In light of the research discussed, we are convinced that we cannot remain indifferent to the role of ultra-processed food in the pathogenesis of many diseases. Its multidirectional negative effects show that it is worth conducting further research to discover more consequences of its mechanisms. At the same time, consumers should become more aware of food composition data to be able to make conscious choices and countries should strive to change the food policies.
From Enlightenment to Enlivenment: Appreciative Inquiry Through a Research Lens
Authors: Waddock Sandra
Published: February 2024

Because of its inherent life-centric orientation, Appreciative Inquiry as a research approach plays vital roles in moving thinking from enlightenment to ‘enlivenment’. This piece identifies how systemic purposes, wholeness, relationality and other lifegiving system properties can be embedded in such research.
Coming Alive as Researchers: A Generative Conversation with Drs Arne Carlsen and Jane Dutton
Authors: Carlsen Arne , Dutton Jane , Godwin Lindsey N.
Published: February 2024

In this article, Lindsey Godwin interviews Arne Carlsen and Jane Dutton in a conversation about what it means to embrace generativity as a researcher, the role Appreciative Inquiry plays in their research methods, and recent writing exploring awe, wonder and transcendence.
Researchers and Communicators and Creators of the Future: A Generative Conversation with Dr Kenneth Gergen
Authors: Gergen Kenneth , Godwin Lindsey N.
Published: February 2024

In this article, Lindsey Godwin interviews Kenneth Gergen in a conversation about what the aims and activities of a social scientist could, and should, aspire to be in today’s world. How can researchers engage in moving the world in a valued direction, and what is the role of relational thinking and Appreciative Inquiry in research in the social sciences?
Qualitative & Quantitative Analysis of Appreciative Stories for Organisation Development Practice
Authors: Vanda Regina , Mohamed Zafirah
Published: February 2024

The synthesis of quantitative and qualitative data as part of an Appreciative Inquiry analysis can offer depth and rigour to the practice of organisation development. What factors would serve the flourishing of our client organisations and ecosystems? We draw on three case studies to illustrate how data analysis highlights the nuances of these factors.
Evaluating the Motivations Driving Fantasy Football Participants in Selecting Fantasy Football Analysts for Information Consumption
Authors: Ratts Tyler , Williams Ramir D. , Byon Kevin K. , Williams Antonio S. , Pedersen Paul M.
Published: February 2024

Abstract: The fantasy sport industry has experienced substantial growth, with a value of $22.3 billion in 2021 (Research and Markets, 2021), which has facilitated an increase in both fantasy sport participation and media-content consumption. With the sustained growth across these two areas, fantasy sport participants are relying on a key stakeholder in the industry for information across a number of communication media: fantasy sport analysts. To date, limited research has investigated the role of these analysts within fantasy sport, especially in the context of the motivations that influence participants to engage with these key stakeholders. Therefore, using the uses and gratifications (U&G) theoretical foundation, the current study examined which participation motivations have a direct effect in driving fantasy football participants to identify fantasy football analysts for information consumption. Through a questionnaire, the results found that competition and financial outcomes had a strong positive relationship with analyst selection, while social interaction yielded a moderate relationship. Entertainment, however, demonstrated no relationship with the reliance on fantasy sport analysts. This research helps advance the understanding of U&G within the fantasy sport context and provides a guidepost for analysts looking to meet the specific needs of participants relying on them for content.
Presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in COVID-19 survivors with post-COVID symptoms: a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Fernández-de-las-Peñas César , Torres-Macho Juan , Macasaet Raymart , Velasco Jacqueline Veronica , Ver Abbygail Therese , Culasino Carandang Timothy Hudson David , Guerrero Jonathan Jaime , Franco-Moreno Ana , Chung William , Notarte Kin Israel
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Viral persistence is one of the main hypotheses explaining the presence of post-COVID symptoms. This systematic review investigated the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in plasma, stool, urine, and nasal/oral swab samples in individuals with post-COVID symptomatology.

Content

MEDLINE, CINAHL, PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science databases, as well as medRxiv/bioRxiv preprint servers were searched up to November 25th, 2023. Articles investigating the persistence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in plasma, stool, urine or nasal/oral swab samples in patients with post-COVID symptoms were included. Methodological quality was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale or Cochrane’s Risk of Bias (Rob) tool.

From 322 studies identified, six studies met all inclusion criteria. The sample included 678 COVID-19 survivors (52 % female, aged from 29 to 66 years). The methodological quality was moderate in 88 % of the studies (n=5/6). Three papers investigated the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in plasma, three studies in nasal/oral swabs, two studies in stool samples, one in urine and one in saliva. The follow-up was shorter than two months (<60 days after) in 66 % of the studies (n=4/6). The prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA ranged from 5 to 59 % in patients with post-COVID symptoms the first two months after infection, depending on the sample tested, however, SARS-CoV-2 RNA was also identified in COVID-19 survivors without post-COVID symptoms (one study).

Outlook

Available evidence can suggest the presence of persistent SARS-CoV-2 RNA in post-COVID patients in the short term, although the biases within the studies do not permit us to make firm assumptions. The association between post-COVID symptoms and SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the samples tested is also conflicting. The lack of comparative group without post-COVID symptoms limits the generalizability of viral persistence in post-COVID-19 condition.
Language transfer in tense acquisition: new evidence from English learning Chinese adolescents
Authors: Huang Haiquan , Qian Lina , Chen Yixiong
Published: February 2024

Distinct from English, Mandarin verbs are not inflected to encode Past Tense, but perfective aspect is typically marked by aspectual markers -le and -guo. Moreover, resultative verb compounds are often viewed as accomplishment verbs, denoting telicity of an event. This study attempts to examine whether such linguistic properties transfer to the acquisition of English. We tested 22 English learning Chinese adolescents in two experiments, respectively using a Story Restatements Task and an Elicited Production Task. Overall, the experiments generated three major findings. First, the participants marked irregular verbs 13 % higher than regular ones. Second, the participants used bare verbs to express English Past Tense 12 % of the situations. Third, the participants adopted Mandarin-like RVCs to denote English Past Tense 10 % of the cases. Taken together, the findings indicate that besides morphophonological transfer, English learning Chinese adolescents adopt Mandarin word-formation rules to encode English Past Tense, which is new evidence of cross-linguistic transfer. We discuss the implications of our findings.
Development and validation of Questionnaire for Self-regulated Learning Writing Strategies (QSRLWS) for EFL learners
Authors: Shen Bin , Wang Lu
Published: February 2024

Drawing on a proposed theoretical framework that integrates a social cognitive perspective of self-regulation and a process genre approach to L2 writing, this research describes the development and validation process of a new instrument, Questionnaire for Self-regulated Learning Writing Strategies (QSRLWS). QSRLWS was validated with satisfactory psychometric qualities. Nine hundred eighty Chinese university EFL learners participated in the study (N = 960 after data screening). The study first described the questionnaire development process and adopted exploratory factor analysis to validate the factorial structure with half of the sample (n = 480). It further confirmed the structure with confirmatory factor analysis with another half of the sample (n = 480). Model comparisons confirmed a four-factor second-order structure in which QSRLWS comprised 12 SRL writing strategy types into four dimensions of strategy groups, i.e., metacognitive, cognitive, social, and motivational/affective regulation. Predictive validity of these strategies on students’ English writing performance was also reported. Theoretical and pedagogical implications are discussed.
Thyroid volume in Turkish school-age children living in an iodine-sufficient region
Authors: Deveci Sevim Reyhan , Gök Mustafa , Öztürk Sercan , Çevik Özge , Erdoğan Ömer , Güneş Sebla , Ünüvar Tolga , Anık Ahmet
Published: February 2024

Objectives

We aimed to obtain local normative data on thyroid volume evaluated by ultrasonography and iodine status by measuring urine iodine levels in school-age children living in Aydın province.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, a sample comprising 1,553 cases was meticulously selected from a total cohort of 170,461 children aged 6–17, drawn from 21 distinct educational institutions located within the Aydın region, as participants in the investigation. Those with a known chronic disease or thyroid disease were excluded from the study. The children underwent physical examinations and ultrasonography imaging of the thyroid gland, and urine samples were collected to measure urinary iodine concentration (UIC).

Results

The median UIC was 189.5 (IQR=134.4) μg/L, which was optimal according to WHO criteria. Thyroid volume was found to be 4.6 (IQR=3.5) mL in girls and 4.2 (IQR=4.0) mL in boys (p=0.883). The thyroid volumes in our study were found to be smaller when compared to the WHO. According to WHO age and body surface area criteria, thyroid volume was over 97 % in 0.9 % (n=15) of cases. Thyroid volume was found to have a positive correlation with age, height, weight, body mass index (BMI), and body surface area (BSA) in both genders (p<0.001). However, there was no significant correlation between thyroid volume and UIC.

Conclusions

This cross-sectional study provides normative data on thyroid volume and iodine status in school-age children in iodine-sufficient population, revealing a low prevalence of goiter and correlations between thyroid volume and anthropometric measures.
Electrical polarization switching of perovskite polariton laser
Authors: Łempicka-Mirek Karolina , Król Mateusz , De Marco Luisa , Coriolano Annalisa , Polimeno Laura , Viola Ilenia , Kędziora Mateusz , Muszyński Marcin , Morawiak Przemysław , Mazur Rafał , Kula Przemysław , Piecek Wiktor , Fita Piotr , Sanvitto Daniele , Szczytko Jacek , Piętka Barbara
Published: February 2024

Optoelectronic and spinoptronic technologies benefit from flexible and tunable coherent light sources combining the best properties of nano- and material-engineering to achieve favorable properties such as chiral lasing and low threshold nonlinearities. In this work we demonstrate an electrically wavelength- and polarization-tunable room temperature polariton laser due to emerging photonic spin–orbit coupling. For this purpose, we design an optical cavity filled with both birefringent nematic liquid crystal and an inorganic perovskite. Our versatile growth method of single CsPbBr3 inorganic perovskite crystals in polymer templates allows us to reach strong light–matter coupling and pump-induced condensation of exciton–polaritons resulting in coherent emission of light. The sensitivity of the liquid crystal to external voltage permits electrical tuning of the condensate energy across 7 nm; its threshold power, allowing us to electrically switch it on and off; and its state of polarization sweeping from linear to locally tilted circularly polarized emission.
Towards large-scale programmable silicon photonic chip for signal processing
Authors: Xie Yiwei , Wu Jiachen , Hong Shihan , Wang Cong , Liu Shujun , Li Huan , Ju Xinyan , Ke Xiyuan , Liu Dajian , Dai Daoxin
Published: February 2024

Optical signal processing has been playing a crucial part as powerful engine for various information systems in the practical applications. In particular, achieving large-scale programmable chips for signal processing are highly desirable for high flexibility, low cost and powerful processing. Silicon photonics, which has been developed successfully in the past decade, provides a promising option due to its unique advantages. Here, recent progress of large-scale programmable silicon photonic chip for signal processing in microwave photonics, optical communications, optical computing, quantum photonics as well as dispersion controlling are reviewed. Particularly, we give a discussion about the realization of high-performance building-blocks, including ultra-low-loss silicon photonic waveguides, 2 × 2 Mach–Zehnder switches and microring resonator switches. The methods for configuring large-scale programmable silicon photonic chips are also discussed. The representative examples are summarized for the applications of beam steering, optical switching, optical computing, quantum photonic processing as well as optical dispersion controlling. Finally, we give an outlook for the challenges of further developing large-scale programmable silicon photonic chips.
Electrochemical sensing and detection of phosgene and thiophosgene chemical warfare agents (CWAs) by all-boron B38 fullerene analogue: a DFT insight
Authors: Idrees Munazza , Khan Muhammad Usman , Yaqoob Junaid , Mustafa Ghulam , Anwar Abida , Khan Muhammad Umar , Hassan Abrar Ul , Ahamad Tansir
Published: February 2024

Chemical warfare agents (CWAs) are very toxic and dangerous to all forms of life. With the purpose of protecting environment and human health, it is essential to identify and eliminate these threats quickly and effectively. B38 nanocage as a sensor is rarely discussed therefore the detection of harmful CWAs (phosgene and thiophosgene) by using the B38 nanocage has been examined using density functional theory (DFT) parameters. Optimized geometries, adsorption energies, NCI, NBO, FMO and QTAIM studies have been used to analyze the interactions between CWAs and the B38 nanocage. The adsorption energy values indicate that CWAs are adsorbed on the B38 nanocage in a stable manner and the reaction is exothermic. The complex T-S@B38-B have the greatest conductivity, lowest stability and maximum sensitivity due to its narrow energy gap of 1.9648 eV while complex T-S@B38-6r, with the highest energy gap of 1.9988 eV is the most stable. The global reactivity parameters indicate that the complex T-S@B38-B has the highest electrophilicity index, the lowest chemical hardness and the highest chemical softness and resultantly leads to highest sensitivity. Van der Waals forces are present between the B38 nanocage and CWAs as shown by NCI and QTAIM studies. The formation of new energy level in PDOS of B38 results into the interaction of CWAs with the surface of B38. Nanocage sensing capacity is evaluated by measuring E
g value, sensitivity and recovery time of the complex. B38 has the highest sensitivity and shortest recovery time for T-S@B38-B and P-Cl@B38-B complex with 5.90 × 10−3 and 2.78259 × 10−12 s values which results the B38 nanocage is more effective sensor for detecting CWAs. Consequently, B38 nanocage is recommended as fine future sensor for the sensing of phosgene and thiophosgene.
A Method for Identifying Sports Behaviors in Sports Adversarial Project Training Based on Image Block Classification under the Internet of Things
Authors: Tan Li
Published: February 2024

There is a need to devise intelligent methods for motion-based image classification to produce accurate results for correct judgment. Existing methods cannot use the image block classification method to recognize the motion behavior of antagonistic sports training, and it is the need of the hour to devise newer methods. The recognition result is not ideal when using the traditional methods. This paper proposes an image block classification method for antagonistic sports training behavior recognition. It classifies the noise sources, quantifies the influence degree of each noise source effectively, and adjusts the noise factor in the denoising method for different noise sources and the specific weight of different noise sources. The adaptive denoising of different noise types of antagonistic sports training image sequences is realized. By using the combination of key frame template selection method and image segmentation method for behavior representation, the features are extracted well. The feature extraction is done on an image region according to the proportion of the number of foreground pixels in each block of the template to the number of pixels in the block. The feature vector is used to form the template. Aiming at the behavior representation and feature extraction based on the features of skeleton joint points, image block classification is used to extract the coordinates of skeleton joint points during human movement. K-means clustering is used to transform them into symbol sequences to represent behavior features that are used for antagonistic sports training behavior recognition. Simulation results show that the proposed method can obtain ideal recognition results and outperforms the existing methods.
Application of Nanomaterials in the Repair of Sports Ligament Injury of Athletes under the Background of IOT
Authors: Zhu Rongjun
Published: February 2024

The phenomenon of nonstandard or hyperextended human movement leads to the sports injury of human ligaments, which affects the normal life of the human body. Therefore, this paper proposes to use nanomaterials to prepare an artificial ligament to repair ligament injury. First of all, through the analysis of the causes of high incidence of human sports ligament injury, as well as the human ligament structure, according to the structure of human ligaments, nanomaterials and instruments are determined, and nanomaterial artificial ligaments are prepared; on this basis, through the use of nanospinning materials, an artificial nanomaterial ligament was prepared, and its surface was modified. Finally, the objective function was constructed to evaluate the toughness and material density of nanomaterials, and the application effect of nanomaterials in the repair of sports ligament injury was determined. The experimental results show that the nanomaterials can effectively repair sports ligament injury, and the toughness and tensile strength of the materials are within a reasonable range.
A Synchronous Localization Method for Multiple Mobile Robots Based on Visual SLAM Algorithm in the Context of the Internet of Things
Authors: Jiang Donglin
Published: February 2024

Aiming at the problem that traditional methods cannot meet the problem of synchronous positioning of multi-mobile robots in different motion states, a synchronous positioning method of multi-mobile robots based on visual simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) algorithm is proposed. Analyze the general model of SLAM problem, realize visual SLAM feature detection through scale invariant feature transform algorithm, and match image features based on active vision. A multi-mobile robot motion state estimation model is constructed, an octree model is used to construct a multi-robot synchronous localization map, and the camera pose tracking is realized by using the oriented fast accelerated segment test and rotated binary robust independent elementary features points that are not in the target bounding box. The three-dimensional points in the environment recovered by visual SLAM separate the background target and the moving target, and match the corresponding target in the previous frame through the feature to realize the synchronous positioning of the multi-mobile robot. The experimental results show that the method can realize the synchronous positioning of multi-robots under the state of multi-robot linear motion, curvilinear motion and mixed motion, and the positioning accuracy is high.
Overview of Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) for General Cardiologists
Authors: Nassereddin Ali , Kramer Ethan , Fedorowski Artur , Ruzieh Mohammed
Published: February 2024

Postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a chronic autonomic disorder characterized by excessive heart rate elevation upon standing or head-up tilt, in the absence of orthostatic hypotension. This debilitating condition affects primarily young to middle-aged individuals, particularly women, and substantially influences quality of life. The main presenting symptoms are lightheadedness, palpitations, exercise intolerance, and cognitive impairment. POTS is of particular importance to cardiologists, given its prominent cardiovascular symptoms. The diagnostic criteria for POTS include a sustained heart rate increase of more than 30 beats per minute upon standing or head-up tilt; symptoms of orthostatic intolerance lasting at least 3 months; and exclusion of other causes. The exact etiology of POTS is unknown, but multiple possible etiologies leading to a similar clinical phenotype have been proposed. Early intervention and appropriate management can improve symptoms. Treatment strategies include lifestyle modifications, pharmacotherapy, and tailored conditioning programs. Non-pharmacologic options are the first line treatment. Prognosis varies widely: POTS can be a temporary condition for some individuals but a chronic and debilitating condition for others. Further research is necessary to elucidate the pathophysiology and optimize treatment strategies for this condition.
Prognostic Value of Optical Flow Ratio among Patients with Coronary Artery Disease after Percutaneous Coronary Treatment: A Hospital-Based Retrospective Cohort Investigation
Authors: Hong Chuliang , Chen Sicheng , Hu Tianyu , Lin Zehuo , Chen Pengyuan , Lin Zijing , Xie Lixin , Liu Yuanhui , He Pengcheng
Published: February 2024

Objective: The goal of this study was to examine the prognostic performance of optical flow ratio (OFR) among patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods: We recruited patients with CAD undergoing optical coherence tomography (OCT)-directed PCI between January 2019 and June 2021 for our single-center, hospital-based, retrospective cohort investigation. We assessed the link between post-PCI OFR and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) via multivariate Cox regression analysis.

Results: Receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed that the best post-PCI OFR threshold for MACE was 0.91, and introduction of OFR into the baseline profile and OCT results markedly enhanced MACE identification after PCI. On the basis of survival curves, patients with OFR ≤0.91 (P < 0.001) and thin-cap fibroatheroma (TCFA) (P = 0.007) exhibited higher MACE incidence, and myocardial infarction (MI) incidence was considerably greater among patients with OFR ≤0.91 (P < 0.001), compared with OFR >0.91. Multivariate Cox regression analysis suggested that OFR ≤0.91 (hazard ratio [HR]: 3.60; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.24–10.44; P = 0.019), and TCFA (HR: 3.63; 95% CI: 1.42–9.20; P = 0.007) were independent risk factors for MACE, and OFR ≤0.91 was independently associated with MI (HR: 14.64; 95% CI: 3.27–65.54; P < 0.001).

Conclusion: OFR after PCI is an independent MACE bio-indicator among patients with CAD. Adding OFR to post-PCI OCT results may potentially enhance MACE prediction.
Scrub Typhus Diagnostics: The Present and the Future
Authors: Cheryl Lynnette S. , Bora Trishna , Perumalla Susmitha , Karthick G. , Jee Babban , Batra Gaurav , Biswal M. , Khan S. A. , Prakash J. A. J.
Published: February 2024

Scrub typhus, caused byOrientia tsutsugamushi, is a vector-borne, zoonotic disease commonly occurring in a geographic region known as the ‘tsutsugamushi triangle’. Scrub typhus causes acute undifferentiated febrile illness (AUFI) with non-specific clinical features and is difficult to diagnose when a highly characteristic but not pathognomonic eschar is absent. Because the eschar is not always present, laboratory tests are required for diagnosis. Serological assays have been the mainstay of laboratory diagnosis of scrub typhus to date. Here, we present the major clinical features and clinical algorithms suggestive of this disease, to aid in better selection of diagnostic methods. The advantages and disadvantages of various scrub typhus assays are also discussed. Furthermore, we describe diagnostics, including serological and molecular assays, that may be available in the near future.
Occupational Prestige: The Status Component of Socioeconomic Status
Authors: Hughes Bradley T. , Srivastava Sanjay , Leszko Magdalena , Condon David M.
Published: February 2024

The relationship between life outcomes and an individual’s standing in the social and economic hierarchy of society is an important topic across the social sciences. Foundational to this work is assessing an individual’s standing in this hierarchy, often referred to as socioeconomic status (SES). One component of an individual’s SES, often overlooked in the psychological literature, is occupational prestige – the amount of status accorded to them based on their occupational role. In this research, we collected and validated a new index of occupational prestige for 1029 specific occupations, including all jobs in the US Department of Labor’s O*NET database, and 22 broader occupational families. In Study 1, we collected a comprehensive set of occupational prestige ratings from an online convenience sample, and demonstrated their high reliability. In Study 2, we developed a crosswalk between the ratings collected in Study 1 and prior ratings of occupations listed in the US Census and show convergent validity with previous indices. In Studies 3 and 4 we used additional data to evaluate the construct validity of occupational prestige more broadly. In Study 3, we established convergent and discriminant validity with other indicators of SES: income and educational attainment. In Study 4, we use the O*NET database to identify the characteristics of occupations most strongly associated with prestige. These results support the validity of the index and suggest occupations with high prestige require skills traditionally emphasized in liberal arts education (e.g., critical thinking, reading comprehension).
Computational Design of Fibre Network by Discrete Element Method
Authors:   Department of Chemical Engineering and FSCN, Mid Sweden University, Sundsvall, Sweden, Hossain Shakhawath , Bergström Per ,   Department of Chemical Engineering and FSCN, Mid Sweden University, Sundsvall, Sweden, Sarangi Sohan ,   Department of Chemical Engineering and FSCN, Mid Sweden University, Sundsvall, Sweden, Uesaka Tetsu ,   Department of Chemical Engineering and FSCN, Mid Sweden University, Sundsvall, Sweden
Published: February 2024

Soft fibre networks, typically seen in bathroom tissues, kitchen towels, and personal-care products, have properties that are intricately affected by the details of fibre geometry, 3D-network structures, and processing conditions. Designing such materials and products for better performance, while controlling cost, is especially a challenge in today’s fast paced product development. This paper concerns the development of a new, robust computational design platform for the design of soft fibre networks. We have used particle-based methods, particularly, Discrete Element Method (DEM), to model fibres, fibre networks, their properties and performance, and also unit processes for manufacturing. Unlike other computational methods, this method has advantages to model discrete and non-homogeneous materials, complex geometries, and highly non-linear dynamic problems, such as large deformation (flow), contact/non/contact, fracture, and fragmentation. With this approach, fibres are represented by a series of connected spherical particles in different lengths and geometries (curl, kinks, twists). Fiber networks are created by the deposition of those fibres under gravity, followed by the subsequent consolidation under pressure. here processes have shown an interesting transition phenomenon from a highly fluidic granular system to a fragile soft solid. The network is then subjected to a creping process, a critical process of tissue-making. The model was able, not only to reproduce unique crepe frequencies, but also unprecedented details of the destruction of fibre network structures and fibre failure (dusting) during creping. Typical tensile tests, thickness-direction compression tests, and softness tests have been also performed to demonstrate unique deformation characteristics of low-density, low-basis weight fibre networks. This computational design system based on DEM provides a promising platform for exploring large parameter space of new material/product design.