bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kinetic 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging of hepatocellular carcinoma: a dual input four-compartment model
Authors: Wang Tao , Deng Yinglei , Wang Sidan , He Jianfeng , Wang Shaobo
Published: February 2024

Background

The endoplasmic reticulum plays an important role in glucose metabolism and has not been explored in the kinetic estimation of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) via 18F-fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose PET/CT.

Methods

A dual-input four-compartment (4C) model, regarding endoplasmic reticulum was preliminarily used for kinetic estimation to differentiate 28 tumours from background liver tissue from 24 patients with HCC. Moreover, parameter images of the 4C model were generated from one patient with negative findings on conventional metabolic PET/CT.

Results

Compared to the dual-input three-compartment (3C) model, the 4C model has better fitting quality, a close transport rate constant (K1) and a dephosphorylation rate constant (k6/k4), and a different removal rate constant (k2) and phosphorylation rate constant (k3) in HCC and background liver tissue. The K1, k2, k3, and hepatic arterial perfusion index (HPI) from the 4C model and k3, HPI, and volume fraction of blood (Vb) from the 3C model were significantly different between HCC and background liver tissues (all P < 0.05). Meanwhile, the 4C model yielded additional kinetic parameters for differentiating HCC. The diagnostic performance of the top ten genes from the most to least common was HPI(4C), Vb(3C), HPI(3C), SUVmax, k5(4C), k3(3C), k2(4C), v(4C), K1(4C) and Vb(4C). Moreover, a patient who showed negative findings on conventional metabolic PET/CT had positive parameter images in the 4C model.

Conclusions

The 4C model with the endoplasmic reticulum performed better than the 3C model and produced additional useful parameters in kinetic estimation for differentiating HCC from background liver tissue.
Patients with infusion-related reactions on fixed-dose rituximab treatment have higher body surface area than those without infusion-related reactions in adults with frequently relapsing minimal change nephrotic syndrome: a retrospective study
Authors: Nishiura Hironobu , Takahashi Masaya , Mori Katsuhito , Sugimoto Takashi , Emoto Masanori , Nakamura Yasutaka
Published: February 2024

Background

Infusion-related reactions (IRRs) are major side effects of rituximab administration. Male sex, high body weight, body surface area (BSA), and body mass index are predictive markers of rituximab-induced IRRs. However, as rituximab was not administered at a fixed dosage in a previous study, whether a higher dosage or factors associated with a larger physique are more strongly associated with rituximab-induced IRRs is unknown.

Main body

Thirteen adults with frequently relapsing minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS) who received an initial rituximab dose of 500 mg between September 2015 and November 2022 were retrospectively evaluated. Data on IRRs were collected from medical records. The incidence of rituximab-induced IRRs was 38.5% (5/13). The IRR group had a significantly higher BSA than the non-IRR group (median, 1.86 vs. 1.48 m2; p = 0.045). Additionally, rituximab dosage normalized by BSA in the IRR group was significantly lower than that in the non-IRR group (median, 268.8 vs. 337.9 mg/m2; p = 0.045).

Conclusions

Our study revealed that adults with frequently relapsing MCNS who experienced IRRs tend to have a higher BSA, even with fixed-dose rituximab treatment. Therefore, when patients with higher BSA receive rituximab treatment, clinicians should be careful about monitoring patient condition whether the dosage is fixed or not.
Peritoneal dissemination of appendiceal goblet cell adenocarcinoma mimicking white pus caused by peritonitis following appendicitis: an instructive case report
Authors: Nakashima Keigo , Hashimoto Masakazu , Kitamura Yoshihito , Shinohara Makoto , Yamaguchi Mizuki , Hamaoka Michinori , Miguchi Masashi , Misumi Toshihiro , Fujikuni Nobuaki , Ikeda Satoshi , Matsugu Yasuhiro , Nishisaka Takashi , Nakahara Hideki
Published: February 2024

Background

Goblet cell adenocarcinoma is an extremely rare tumor in which the same cells exhibit both mucinous and neuroendocrine differentiation. It is considered more aggressive compared to conventional carcinoids and more likely to cause metastasis.

Case presentation

We report a case of goblet cell adenocarcinoma with peritoneal metastases. A 62-year-old man underwent appendectomy for acute appendicitis. Intraoperatively, inflammatory white pus and a small amount of dirty ascites were observed in the lower abdomen with severely inflamed appendix. Histopathological examination of the specimen collected during appendectomy revealed goblet cell adenocarcinoma with a positive surgical margin. One month later, additional ileal resection was planned. Laparoscopic examination revealed disseminated nodules throughout the abdominal cavity. Therefore, the patient underwent resection of the peritoneal nodules. The peritoneal specimens confirmed the histopathological findings. Thus we diagnosed the patient with peritoneal dissemination of appendiceal goblet cell adenocarcinoma.

Conclusions

In cases wherein white pus is observed during surgery for acute appendicitis, considering the possibility of dissemination, collecting samples for histopathological examination, and initiating early treatment are crucial.
Brachytherapy Workflow Practices: Analysis of Different Workflow Scenarios in Patients With Cervical Cancer and Impact on IGBT Implementation—An IAEA Study
Authors: Ndarukwa Sandra , Flores Jerickson Abbie , Rosenblatt Eduardo , Berger Daniel , Akbarov Kamal , Hedden Natasha , Chopra Supriya , Hande Varsha , Rubio Alfredo Polo
Published: February 2024

PURPOSE

The workflow of brachytherapy (BT) is an essential aspect of treatment to consider in image-guided brachytherapy (IGBT). It has an overarching effect influencing patient throughput and the number of cancer treatments that can be performed as it occupies equipment, space, and personnel. There is limited research addressing this issue. Under the International Atomic Energy Agency's Coordinated Research Activity titled IGBT for cervix cancer: An implementation study, our study analyzes various scenarios in the clinical workflow of BT delivery for cervical cancer. It aims to determine the extent to which these scenarios allow the routine implementation of IGBT. With this information, current barriers and individualized adaptations to efficient workflows can be identified to enhance the global application of IGBT, leading to better cervical cancer treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A web-based poll of questions regarding practices in BT workflow was presented to 62 participants from low-, lower middle-, upper middle-, and high-income countries (19 countries).

RESULTS

This study highlighted diversity in BT practices across countries, income levels, and regions. It identified variations in workflow, patient throughput, and resource availability, which can have implications for the efficiency and quality of BT treatments. Scenario A, utilizing multiple locations for the steps of the BT procedure, was the most commonly used. The availability of resources, such as imaging devices and trained personnel, varied among the participating centers and remained challenging for IGBT implementation and sustainability.

CONCLUSION

The design of the BT facility plays a vital role in improving efficiency, with a dedicated BT suite contributing to an efficient workflow but limiting patient throughput, especially for high-volume centers. Although IGBT is effective, its implementation requires consideration of various logistical challenges and should be individualized.
SMART-ESAS: Smartphone Monitoring and Assessment in Real Time of Edmonton Symptom Assessment System Scores for Patients With Cancer
Authors: Nagpal Chitrakshi , Sharma Atul , Bakhshi Sameer , Malik Prabhat Singh , Gupta Hardik , Mittal Chetanya , Gund Sneha , Kumar Akash , Sharma Aparna , Pushpam Deepam , Khurana Sachin , Pramanik Raja , Gupta Nishkarsh , Batra Atul
Published: February 2024

PURPOSE

Serial patient-reported outcome (PRO) measurements in clinical practice are associated with a better quality of life and survival. Recording electronic PROs using smartphones is an efficient way to implement this. We aimed to assess the feasibility of the electronically filled Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (e-ESAS) scale in the lower-middle–income country (LMIC) setting.

METHODS

Baseline clinical features and conventional paper-based ESAS (p-ESAS) were collected in newly diagnosed patients with solid organ tumors. Text message link was sent to these patients for filling e-ESAS. ESAS was categorized into physical, psychological, and total symptom domains. Scores were divided into none to mild (0-3) and moderate to severe (4-10). Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were used to determine the correlation between p-ESAS and e-ESAS. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify independent factors affecting symptom burden.

RESULTS

Of 1,160 participants who filled out p-ESAS, 595 completed both e-ESAS and p-ESAS questionnaires and were included in the final analysis. Moderate to severe physical, psychological, and total symptom scores were seen in 39.8%, 40%, and 39% of participants. Tiredness and anxiety were the most common physical and psychological symptoms, respectively. ICCs between the p-ESAS and e-ESAS varied between 0.75 and 0.9. Total symptom scores were independently predicted by metastatic disease (odds ratio [OR], 1.83; 95% CI, 1.26 to 2.67; P = .001) and a higher level of education (OR, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.25 to 0.72; P = .001).

CONCLUSION

Paper-based and electronically filled ESASs have good intraobserver reliability across individual symptoms and domain scores in a representative cohort at a tertiary care institute in the LMIC. This may help us incorporate e-ESAS in routine clinical care in the real-world setting with financial, infrastructural, and manpower limitations.
Determination of Factors Associated with Upstage in Atypical Ductal Hyperplasia to Identify Low-Risk Patients Where Active Surveillance May be an Alternative
Authors: Greene Alexandra J. E. , Davis Joshua , Moon Jessica , Dubin Iram , Cruz Anastasia , Gupta Megha , Moazzez Ashkan , Ozao-Choy Junko , Gupta Esha , Manchandia Tejas , Kalantari Babak N. , Rahbar Guita , Dauphine Christine
Published: February 2024

Background

Excision is routinely recommended for atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH) found on core biopsy given cancer upstage rates of near 20%. Identifying a cohort at low-risk for upstage may avoid low-value surgery. Objectives were to elucidate factors predictive of upstage in ADH, specifically near-complete core sampling, to potentially define a group at low upstage risk.

Patients and Methods

This retrospective, cross-sectional, multi-institutional study from 2015 to 2019 of 221 ADH lesions in 216 patients who underwent excision or active observation (≥ 12 months imaging surveillance, mean follow-up 32.6 months) evaluated clinical, radiologic, pathologic, and procedural factors for association with upstage. Radiologists prospectively examined imaging for lesional size and sampling proportion.

Results

Upstage occurred in 37 (16.7%) lesions, 25 (67.6%) to ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and 12 (32.4%) to invasive cancer. Factors independently predictive of upstage were lesion size ≥ 10 mm (OR 5.47, 95% CI 2.03–14.77, p < 0.001), pathologic suspicion for DCIS (OR 12.29, 95% CI 3.24–46.56, p < 0.001), and calcification distribution pattern (OR 8.08, 95% CI 2.04–32.00, p = 0.003, “regional”; OR 19.28, 95% CI 3.47–106.97, p < 0.001, “linear”). Near-complete sampling was not correlated with upstage (p = 0.64). All three significant predictors were absent in 65 (29.4%) cases, with a 1.5% upstage rate.

Conclusions

The upstage rate among 221 ADH lesions was 16.7%, highest in lesions ≥ 10 mm, with pathologic suspicion of DCIS, and linear/regional calcifications on mammography. Conversely, 30% of the cohort exhibited all low-risk factors, with an upstage rate < 2%, suggesting that active surveillance may be permissible in lieu of surgery.
Geophysics for the environment in Indonesia
Authors: Darul Achmad , Irawan Dasapta Erwin , Agustine Eleonora
Published: February 2024

This paper explores the hidden potential of geophysics for the environment, focusing on subsurface mapping activities in Indonesia. Geophysics plays a crucial role in understanding the Earth’s physical characteristics and addressing environmental challenges. It is particularly relevant in water-related environmental problems, such as groundwater contamination and infiltration monitoring. Geophysics is also used to detect metals in fertile soils and plants, providing insights into agricultural practices and potential health risks. However, applying geophysics in urban areas poses challenges due to physical obstructions, cultural noise, limited workspace, permits, and safety concerns. This article emphasizes the integration of geophysics with environmental studies, the need for further research on water-related environmental problems and metal detection, and the development of techniques tailored for urban environments. It suggests focusing on understanding the specific environmental challenges in Indonesia and leveraging advancements in technology for more accurate and efficient geophysical investigations. In the Indonesian context, geophysics has diverse applications, including energy exploration, seismology, and oceanography. However, it has not been properly utilized in the field of environmental studies, particularly in urban areas.
Diabetes mellitus and its skin manifestations - dermatology for diabetologists
Authors: Sambura Maria , Rosołowska-Żak Sara , Pałuchowska Julia , Szymkowicz Anna , Paschke Patrycja , Miczek Igor
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) one of the most common chronic disease in Europe, can affect every part of the body including the skin. Metabolic changes during the progress of diabetes mellitus , influence the occurence of various dermatoses such as Acanthosis nigricans, Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum, bullosis diabeticorum, eruptive xanthomatosis and diabetic dermopathy.  On the other hand, there are allergic skin reactions as a consequence of insulin infusion, diabetic pills treatment and using diabetic devices like insulin pumps and glucose monitors that can improve patiens glycemic control and their quality of life. 
 
Aim of the study: The aim of our study is to present skin manifestations associated with diabetes mellitus patients. The importance of early detection skin changes and its significance are also analysed. 
 
Material and methods: We searched electronic databases, using keywords such as „Diabetes Mellitus” , „ Skin dermatoses assosiated with diabetes mellitus „ and „Acanthosis Nigricans” 
 
Conclusions: Human skin is a reflection of the processes that take place in the body. The characteristc dermatoses that appear on it, can be a clue for the doctor and help him in the diagnostic process and proper control of diabetes. Technological progress has led to the develompent of specialized devices to control the glycemia of patients, however, this is often associated with the deterioration in the well-being of patients and the benefits of treatment ,by reverse allergic skin reactions to contact with the equipment.
Strongly Convergent Homogeneous Approximations to Inhomogeneous Markov Jump Processes and Applications
Authors: Bladt Martin , Peralta Oscar
Published: February 2024

The study of time-inhomogeneous Markov jump processes is a traditional topic within probability theory that has recently attracted substantial attention in various applications. However, their flexibility also incurs a substantial mathematical burden which is usually circumvented by using well-known generic distributional approximations or simulations. This article provides a novel approximation method that tailors the dynamics of a time-homogeneous Markov jump process to meet those of its time-inhomogeneous counterpart on an increasingly fine Poisson grid. Strong convergence of the processes in terms of the Skorokhod J1 metric is established, and convergence rates are provided. Under traditional regularity assumptions, distributional convergence is established for unconditional proxies, to the same limit. Special attention is devoted to the case where the target process has one absorbing state and the remaining ones transient, for which the absorption times also converge. Some applications are outlined, such as univariate hazard-rate density estimation, ruin probabilities, and multivariate phase-type density evaluation.

Funding: M. Bladt and O. Peralta would like to acknowledge financial support from the Swiss National Science Foundation Project 200021_191984. O. Peralta acknowledges financial support from NSF Award #1653354 and AXA Research Fund Award on “Mitigating risk in the wake of the pandemic”.
Technical Note—Multimarket Cournot Equilibria with Heterogeneous Resource-Constrained Firms
Authors: Caldentey René , Haugh Martin B.
Published: February 2024

Charactering Cournot equilibria in settings with asymmetric firms is a challenging problem. In their technical note “Multimarket Cournot Equilibria with Heterogeneous Resource-Constrained Firms,” R. Caldentey and M. Haugh consider competition in a multimarket setting where firms are subject to varying budget or capacity constraints. They explicitly characterize the unique equilibrium in this environment by introducing the concepts of augmented and cutoff budgets for firms and markets. In particular, they show that a firm operates in a particular market if only if its augmented budget surpasses the market’s cutoff budget. They also investigate how the equilibrium properties change as the number of firms N varies while maintaining a fixed aggregate budget. They show via a numerical study that increasing N leads to a higher total output across all markets but that this monotonicity need not hold individual at the level of an individual market level. They also show that, although the firms’ cumulative payoff decreases in N, the consumer surplus and social surplus increase in N.
Reflection On Service-Learning Among Universiti Teknologi Malaysia Students
Authors: Hassan Zainudin , Marrimuthu Jayanthi , Lee Vincent Tan Meng , Haridass Latha , Wan Mat Wan Asri
Published: February 2024

The purpose of service learning is to connect theory and practice in a way that gives students a prospect to both take part in a service activity that meets community needs, as well as reflect on the experience in class to enhance their civic engagement and deepen their understanding of course content. A successful service-learning program requires reflective practice. The School of Education at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), Malaysia has been conducting service-learning for many years. Although there is no proper guideline for the students to reflect on their service-learning experiences, students are still expected to do so. The objective in this study are describing service-learning experience. This research study applies case study research method among students’ reflective experiences in service-learning at School of Education in UTM. Data collection was done using qualitative research methodology involving semi structured interviews with UTM postgraduates. Triangulation method used to validate the data and continued with thematic analysis to identify the themes. The findings for every research question have been plotted in diagram. Based on the themes from the findings, a template was proposed for improving service-learning reflection for the students from UTM.
The effects of proprioceptive exercise training on physical fitness and performance of soccer skills in young soccer players
Authors: Lee U-Yeong , Joo Chang-Hwa
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study is to analyze the effect of proprioceptive exercise training on soccer skills and physical fitness in young soccer players. Nineteen young soccer players participated in the study. Participants were divided into proprioceptive exercises training (PT) and control (Cont) groups. The physical fitness and soccer skill performance test assessed at pre- and posttraining. Balance ability and power significantly improved in both groups after 8 weeks of training (P < 0.05). Dribble in the PT group was similar between pre- and posttraining, with a statistically significant difference in the Cont group (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences within and between groups according to training in the left and right feet for juggling. The PT and Cont groups did not differ significantly regarding short passes posttraining. However, a significant improvement in long passes was observed in the PT group after training period (P < 0.05). Shooting was no different between and within the groups. In conclusion, these inconsistent findings are thought to be due to the applied exercise method, training duration, and the specificity of the physical growth period of the young players. Therefore, it is necessary to increase the frequency and time of proprioceptive exercise training and apply factors for cognitive ability improvement to training programs for young soccer players in future studies. These studies could suggest appropriate training methods necessary to improve the performance of young soccer players.
Effects of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation and both sides up ball exercise on pain level, range of motion, muscle function after total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Park Keon-Ju , Seo Tae-Beom , Kim Young-Pyo
Published: February 2024

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease caused tearing and progressive wear of articular cartilage, and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is recommended to patients with OA. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) and both sides up ball (BOSU) exercises on pain, range of motion (ROM), and muscle function in patients following TKA. Ten participants who have limitation of the knee joint from TKA were divided into two groups: the continuous passive motion (CPM)+PNF exercise group (n = 5) and the CPM+BOUS exercise group (n = 5). Exercise rehabilitation program consisted of PNF and BOSU exercises, and both exercises were performed twice a day for 2 weeks. To examine effect of exercise rehabilitation, visual analogue scale (VAS), sit and reach flexibility, knee ROM, and Timed Up and Go test (TUG) were measured before and after exercise intervention. A two-way repeated analysis of variance was used to confirm the main effect. If there was a significant interaction effect, an independent t-test between groups or a paired t-test between times was applied. VAS, sit and reach flexibility, knee ROM and TUG did not show interaction between the PNF and BOSU exercise groups, but all measured variables showed significant differences over time. Present findings provide information that PNF and BOSU exercise rehabilitation after TKA might be an important part of ensuring successful surgical outcomes as they have a positive impact on reducing pain, increasing ROM, improving muscle strength, and enhancing daily life movements.
The value of implementing a nursing and midwifery clinical accreditation programme at two NHS trusts
Authors: Morris Martina , Creedon Katrina
Published: February 2024

Unit/ward accreditation programmes have been widely implemented by nursing and midwifery teams across healthcare providers in the UK over the recent years and have many associated benefits. These include promoting quality improvement on a wider scale across the organisation, strengthening oversight and accountability of quality and safety from ward to board and vice versa, promoting shared learning, and providing opportunities for sharing and celebrating excellence. The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust and Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust have recognised the value of this approach, launching a clinical accreditation programme in April 2023. This initially focused on nursing and midwifery, with plans to widen the approach to other disciplines and specialist teams. Up to the time of writing, 56 visits had been undertaken with 30 clinical areas accredited. The remaining visited areas are awaiting their accreditation outcome. The approach has positively contributed to improvements in patient outcomes, such as more patient observations being completed on time, a reduction in patient falls and improvements in pressure ulcers. Colleagues participating in the programme and frontline staff working in the clinical areas assessed have reported how positive the approach has been, providing opportunities for shared learning and celebrating excellence.
Introduction to the Special Issue on Centering the Voices of People With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in the Process and Outcomes of Science
Authors: Shogren Karrie A. , Dean Evan E.
Published: February 2024

This article introduces a Special Issue focused on centering the voices of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the process and outcomes of science. The article provides an overview of the right to science and how inclusive research can advance that right for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. An overview of the articles that are part of the Special Issue are provided, as is a framework for approaching inclusive research from a social-ecological perspective.
All-dielectric high-NA achromatic metalenses in the mid-infrared band based on subregions
Authors: Wang Zhiheng , Liu Weiguo , Zhu Yechuan , Zhou Shun
Published: February 2024

For conventional refractive lenses, chromatic aberration inevitably occurs due to the refractive index variation of the lens material with the incident wavelength, leading to axial aberrations and lower imaging system quality. Achromatic metalenses have demonstrated a great capability to solve this problem and been extensively investigated. However, the metalens achromatic method involves construction of a unit structure satisfying a phase distribution greater than 0−2π or phase compensation. Although this design method can obtain a good achromatic effect, finding a unit that satisfies a linear distribution during design is difficult. In this paper, we use subregion discrete wavelength modulation to achieve broadband achromatism. The total number of structural units in each region is optimized for different incident wavelengths, and the internal and external ring unit structures are also optimized. This achromatic metalens exhibits a large aperture and a high numerical aperture in the 4.2–4.7 µm mid-infrared band (NA = 0.83). Our research has strong potential and application prospects in ultracompact imaging and laser beam shaping.
Entanglement-based quantum information technology: a tutorial
Authors: Zhang Zheshen , You Chenglong , Magaña-Loaiza Omar S. , Fickler Robert , León-Montiel Roberto de J. , Torres Juan P. , Humble Travis S. , Liu Shuai , Xia Yi , Zhuang Quntao
Published: February 2024

Entanglement is a quintessential quantum mechanical phenomenon with no
classical equivalent. First discussed by Einstein, Podolsky, and Rosen
and formally introduced by Schrödinger in 1935, entanglement has grown
from a scientific debate to a radically new resource that sparks a
technological revolution. This review focuses on fundamentals and
recent advances in entanglement-based quantum information technology
(QIT), specifically in photonic systems. Photons are unique quantum
information carriers with several advantages, such as their ability to
operate at room temperature, their compatibility with existing
communication and sensing infrastructures, and the availability of
readily accessible optical components. Photons also interface well
with other solid-state quantum platforms. We first provide an overview
on entanglement, starting with an introduction to its development from
a historical perspective followed by the theory for entanglement
generation and the associated representative experiments. We then dive
into the applications of entanglement-based QIT for sensing, imaging,
spectroscopy, data processing, and communication. Before closing, we
present an outlook for the architecture of the next-generation
entanglement-based QIT and its prospective applications.
Next-generation endoscopic probe for detection of esophageal dysplasia using combined OCT and angle-resolved low-coherence interferometry
Authors: Jelly Evan T. , Steelman Zachary A. , Zhang Haoran , Chu Kengyeh K. , Cotton Cary C. , Eluri Swathi , Shaheen Nicholas J. , Wax Adam
Published: February 2024

Angle-resolved low-coherence interferometry (a/LCI) is an optical technique that enables depth-specific measurements of nuclear morphology, with applications to detecting epithelial cancers in various organs. Previous a/LCI setups have been limited by costly fiber-optic components and large footprints. Here, we present a novel a/LCI instrument incorporating a channel for optical coherence tomography (OCT) to provide real-time image guidance. We showcase the system's capabilities by acquiring imaging data from in vivo Barrett's esophagus patients. The main innovation in this geometry lies in implementing a pathlength-matched single-mode fiber array, offering substantial cost savings while preserving signal fidelity. A further innovation is the introduction of a specialized side-viewing probe tailored for esophageal imaging, featuring miniature optics housed in a custom 3D-printed enclosure attached to the tip of the endoscope. The integration of OCT guidance enhances the precision of tissue targeting by providing real-time morphology imaging. This novel device represents a significant advancement in clinical translation of an enhanced screening approach for esophageal precancer, paving the way for more effective early-stage detection and intervention strategies.
Electromagnetic field quantization in the presence of a moving nanoparticle
Authors: Ameri Vahid , Askari Alidad , Rafiee Morteza , Eghbali-Arani Mohammad
Published: February 2024

An appropriate Lagrangian is considered for a system comprising a moving nanoparticle in a semi-infinite space, and the electromagnetic and matter fields are quantized. Through an analysis of the absorbed power radiation, it is demonstrated that the quantum friction experienced by high-velocity nanoparticles can be identified as a dissipative term in the radiation power of the nanoparticle. The absorbed power radiation for a moving nanoparticle is derived and compared with that of a static one. By considering two different temperature scenarios, it is explicitly shown that the absorbed power radiation for a moving nanoparticle always contains a negative term in its power spectrum, which can be attributed to the power lost due to non-contact quantum friction.
Mapping factors influencing initiation of antiretroviral treatment among adolescents living with HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa: A scoping review protocol
Authors: Likoti Palesa Grace , Kuupiel Desmond , Khuzwayo Nelisiwe
Published: February 2024

Background

Since the Start Free, Stay Free, and AIDS-Free launch, UNAIDS targets intended to promote interventions to prevent HIV transmission and promote access to ART among adolescents and children, of which none were achieved in 2020. In the sub-Saharan African region, the number of adolescents initiated on ART drugs remained consistently low, with approximately100 000 adolescents succumbing to AIDS-related causes in 2022. Although HIV prevalence among adolescents had been reduced, several HIV- positive adolescents died without being initiated on ART drugs. Therefore, this scoping review protocol aims to map factors influencing the initiation of ART drugs among adolescents living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods

The methodological framework for scoping reviews will guide this scoping protocol. A search strategy will be used to search literature in electronic databases, including EBSCOhost (PubMed/MEDLINE), Google Scholar, Science Direct, Scopus, BioMed Central, and the World Health Organization library for citations and literature using keywords and the Medical Subjects Heading (MeSH). The electronic databases will be supplemented by hand-searching references on the included studies. The search will be from Jan 01, 2012, to Dec 31, 2022. Articles will be searched and assessed for eligibility by two screeners uploaded on the Endnote software, and duplicates will be identified and removed before the abstract screening. The two screeners will assess the eligibility of the abstracts and the complete articles of the selected studies using the inclusion and exclusion criteria. A third screener will intervene when there is a lack of consensus between the two screeners. The selection process will be documented by following and using the PRISMA flow diagram (Fig 1). A thematic content analysis will present a narrative account of the extracted data.

Discussion

The results of this review will identify and describe factors influencing the initiation of Antiretroviral treatment among adolescents living with HIV in the Sub-Saharan African region. The findings will guide future research and inform tailored interventions and strategies for initiating ART among adolescents.

Trial registration

Open Science Framework. https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/RNF2T.
Evaluation of purine-nucleoside degrading ability and in vivo uric acid lowering of Streptococcus thermophilus IDCC 2201, a novel antiuricemia strain
Authors: Kim Dayoung , Moon Jin Seok , Kim Ji Eun , Jang Ye-Ji , Choi Han Sol , Oh Ikhoon
Published: February 2024

This study evaluated 15 lactic acid bacteria with a focus on their ability to degrade inosine and hypo-xanthine—which are the intermediates in purine metabolism—for the management of hyperuricemia and gout. After a preliminary screening based on HPLC, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CR1 and Lactiplantibacillus pentosus GZ1 were found to have the highest nucleoside degrading rates, and they were therefore selected for further characterization. S. thermophilus IDCC 2201, which possessed the hpt gene encoding hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HGPRT) and exhibited purine degradation, was also selected for further characterization. These three selected strains were examined in terms of their probiotic effect on lowering serum uric acid in a Sprague-Dawley (SD) rat model of potassium oxonate (PO)-induced hyperuricemia. Among these three strains, the level of serum uric acid was most reduced by S. thermophilus IDCC 2201 (p < 0.05). Further, analysis of the microbiome showed that administration of S. thermophlilus IDCC 2201 led to a significant difference in gut microbiota composition compared to that in the group administered with PO-induced hyperuricemia. Moreover, intestinal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) were found to be significantly increased. Altogether, the results of this work indicate that S. thermophilus IDCC 2201 lowers uric acid levels by degrading purine-nucleosides and also restores intestinal flora and SCFAs, ultimately suggesting that S. thermophilus IDCC 2201 is a promising candidate for use as an adjuvant treatment in patients with hyperuricemia.
Relationships between physical fitness characteristics, technical skill attributes, and sports injury in female Australian football players
Authors: Farley Jessica B. , O’Hara Miranda , Keogh Justin W. L. , Woods Carl T. , Rathbone Evelyne , Milne Nikki
Published: February 2024

Objectives

To explore the relationships between physical fitness and i) technical skills and ii) time-loss from Australian football injury in female players across the talent and participation pathways.

Methods

This study uses a subset of data from two cross-sectional and one prospective cohort studies. A total of 223 female Australian football players across five competition levels (elite/non-elite senior, high-level junior, and non-elite junior (14–17 years)/(10–13 years)) were included in this study. Comprehensive physical fitness assessments and modified Australian football kicking and handballing tests were conducted in the 2018/19 pre-seasons. During the respective competitive in-season, time-loss injuries were recorded by team personnel. Stepwise multiple linear regressions were performed to determine the relationship between physical fitness and kicking and handballing scores. Cox proportional regressions were conducted to identify physical fitness factors associated with injury.

Results

Increased running vertical jump height, greater hip abduction strength, and faster timed 6 m hop speed demonstrated a relationship with kicking accuracy when adjusted for years of Australian football playing experience (adjusted R2 = 0.522, p < 0.001). Faster agility time and increased lean mass were associated with better handballing accuracy (adjusted R2 = 0.221, p < 0.001). Multivariate Cox regression revealed an increased risk for sustaining a time-loss injury in less agile players (adjusted HR 2.41, 95% CI 1.23, 4.73, p = 0.010). However, this relationship no longer remained when adjusted for age and years of Australian football experience (adjusted HR 1.68, 95% CI 0.81, 3.50, p = 0.166).

Conclusions

Physical fitness may be a significant factor contributing to development of Australian football technical skills in female players. However, its role is unclear in protecting against injury risk in this athlete population. Further research is needed to explore the multifactorial and complex phenomenon of talent development and injury risk reduction in female Australian football players.
Multi-modal analysis of inflammation as a potential mediator of depressive symptoms in young people with HIV: The GOLD depression study
Authors: Mudra Rakshasa-Loots Arish , Naidoo Shalena , Hamana Thandi , Fanqa Busiswa , van Wyhe Kaylee S. , Lindani Filicity , van der Kouwe Andre J. W. , Glashoff Richard , Kruger Sharon , Robertson Frances , Cox Simon R. , Meintjes Ernesta M. , Laughton Barbara
Published: February 2024

People living with HIV are at three times greater risk for depressive symptoms. Inflammation is a notable predictor of depression, and people with HIV exhibit chronic inflammation despite antiretroviral therapy. We hypothesised that inflammatory biomarkers may mediate the association between HIV status and depressive symptoms. Participants (N = 60, 53% girls, median [interquartile range (IQR)] age 15.5 [15.0, 16.0] years, 70% living with HIV, of whom 90.5% were virally-suppressed) completed the nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). We measured choline and myo-inositol in basal ganglia, midfrontal gray matter, and peritrigonal white matter using magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and 16 inflammatory proteins in blood serum using ELISA and Luminex™ multiplex immunoassays. Using structural equation mediation modelling, we calculated standardised indirect effect estimates with 95% confidence intervals. Median [IQR] total PHQ-9 score was 3 [0, 7]. HIV status was significantly associated with total PHQ-9 score (B = 3.32, p = 0.022). Participants with HIV showed a higher choline-to-creatine ratio in the basal ganglia than those without HIV (β = 0.86, pFDR = 0.035). In blood serum, participants with HIV showed higher monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1, β = 0.59, pFDR = 0.040), higher chitinase-3 like-1 (YKL-40, β = 0.73, pFDR = 0.032), and lower interleukin-1beta (IL-1β, β = -0.67, pFDR = 0.047) than those without HIV. There were no significant associations of any biomarkers with total PHQ-9 score. None of the indirect effects were significant, mediating <13.1% of the association. Findings remained consistent when accounting for age, gender, and time between neuroimaging and PHQ-9 administration. Using a robust analytical approach in a community-based sample, we have shown that participants living with HIV reported greater depressive symptoms than those without HIV, but we did not find that neuroimaging and blood biomarkers of inflammation significantly mediated this association. Further studies with participants experiencing severe depression may help to elucidate the links between HIV, inflammation, and depression.
Genetic changes and testing associated with childhood glaucoma: A systematic review
Authors: Kumar Anika , Han Ying , Oatts Julius T.
Published: February 2024

Many forms of childhood glaucoma have been associated with underlying genetic changes, and variants in many genes have been described. Currently, testing is variable as there are no widely accepted guidelines for testing. This systematic review aimed to summarize the literature describing genetic changes and testing practices in childhood glaucoma. This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines and registered with Prospero (ID CRD42023400467). A comprehensive review of Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane databases was performed from inception through March 2, 2023 using the search terms: (glaucoma) AND (pediatric OR childhood OR congenital OR child OR infant OR infantile) AND (gene OR genetic OR genotype OR locus OR genomic OR mutation OR variant OR test OR screen OR panel). Information was extracted regarding genetic variants including genotype-phenotype correlation. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Of 1,916 records screened, 196 studies met inclusion criteria and 53 genes were discussed. Among study populations, mean age±SD at glaucoma diagnosis was 8.94±9.54 years and 50.4% were male. The most common gene discussed wasCYP1B1, evaluated in 109 (55.6%) studies.CYP1B1variants were associated with region and population-specific prevalence ranging from 5% to 86% among those with primary congenital glaucoma.MYOCvariants were discussed in 31 (15.8%) studies with prevalence up to 36% among patients with juvenile open angle glaucoma.FOXC1variants were discussed in 25 (12.8%) studies, which demonstrated phenotypic severity dependent on degree of gene expression and type of mutation. Overall risk of bias was low; the most common domains of bias were selection and comparability. Numerous genes and genetic changes have been associated with childhood glaucoma. Understanding the most common genes as well as potential genotype-phenotype correlation has the potential to improve diagnostic and prognostic outcomes for children with glaucoma.
prova do caso fortuito (ou força maior) no contexto da pandemia do covid-19
Authors: Reina Katia Vilhena
Published: February 2024

O artigo foi elaborado no contexto da Pandemia do COVID-19 e tem como objetivo provocar debates acerca do ônus da prova dos impactos da pandemia nas relações comerciais, a fim de verificar a ocorrência, ou não, de excludentes de responsabilidade.
O PROJETO ESPORTIVO SOCIAL JOGA AURORA NA PERSPECTIVA DAS CRIANÇAS EGRESSAS E FAMÍLIAS
Authors: Santos Lucas Ressler dos , Schaab Diego Matheus , Berlese Denise Bolzan , Konrath Magale
Published: February 2024

Resumo: O esporte, aliado a outras intervenções, tem se apresentado uma ferramenta de grande importância, auxiliando e mostrando para os jovens em vulnerabilidade social uma perspectiva de futuro com inúmeras possibilidades (CASTRO; SOUZA, 2011). Este estudo teve por objetivo identificar a importância do Projeto Joga Aurora para as crianças e suas famílias finda a participação. A pesquisa, de abordagem qualitativa, utilizou a entrevista narrativa, da qual participaram seis crianças que frequentaram o Projeto Joga Aurora e seus respectivos familiares, selecionados por conveniência. A partir das categorias de análise “Experiências das crianças com o projeto” e “Percepções dos familiares sobre o projeto” podemos identificar a importância que o projeto esportivo social teve para as crianças e suas famílias, impactando positivamente em suas vidas e exercendo influência para além de sua participação.
O DIREITO À EDUCAÇÃO DE CRIANÇAS MIGRANTES
Authors: Pintos da Rocha Stéfani Rafaela , Mendonça Lunardi Mendes Geovana
Published: February 2024

As políticas de Educação Inclusiva, nos últimos 30 anos, têm avançado muito no mundo. No entanto, muitas crianças ainda têm seu direito à educação negligenciado, em especial, as crianças migrantes. Este estudo objetiva refletir acerca das diferenças conceituais entre incluir e integrar e seus impactos na garantia do direito à educação de crianças migrantes. Trata-se de uma pesquisa com análise bibliográfica e documental. Com base nas análises da literatura da área da educação e das políticas educacionais, constatamos que não há um consenso e entendimento universal sobre qual perspectiva é mais apropriada para garantir o acesso à educação das crianças migrantes. Percebemos o entendimento dúbio dos conceitos, e isso pode repercutir diferentes interpretações no modo como se organiza o processo de ensino e aprendizagem desse público, refletindo no seu acesso e permanência nas instituições educativas. Vemos, portanto, que o direito à educação está condicionado à minimização dos desafios e barreiras resultantes do processo migratório. Todavia, salientamos que a garantia da matrícula não significa acesso à educação, assim como foi possível identificar a necessidade de formação docente para que as diferenças sejam acolhidas nas suas singularidades à luz da perspectiva inclusiva.
Una mirada interpretativa del habitar mocoví
Authors: Druetto Valentina , Gorbik Agostina , Turtula Camila
Published: February 2024

La presente investigación analiza desde una mirada disciplinar arquitectónica la situación del paisaje, el territorio y los equipamientos comunitarios de la comunidad mocoví Com Caia, a partir de la consideración de sus particularidades culturales e históricas y de la reinterpretación de sus modos de habitar.

El caso de estudio aborda a la comunidad asentada en Campo San José, en la zona rural de Recreo. Las tierras que lo conforman fueron entregadas a la comunidad por parte del Estado provincial como objeto de reparación histórica en el año 2008. Estas tierras no son parte de los territorios ancestrales que eran habitados por el pueblo mocoví, lo que, sumado a las históricas persecuciones, a los distintos procesos de invisibilización y traslados a los cuales los pueblos originarios fueron sometidos, se refleja en la dificultad de apropiación territorial y por consecuencia en el paisaje, así como en la calidad de los equipamientos y espacios comunitarios, entendidos estos como los escenarios de manifestación cultural y de expresión de los modos de habitar.

Esta situación provoca que las prácticas culturales vean limitadas su reproducción, ya que la comunidad debe adaptar sus deseos y necesidades a las posibilidades existentes, complicando así el proceso de reivindicación cultural e impidiendo que se imprima el patrimonio inmaterial en el material.
Designing a Tool to Support Online Physical Education
Authors: Castle James
Published: February 2024

This design case details a seven-year iterative design process to create an app for use in online physical education classes. Each iteration addresses the shortcomings of the previous version. The most recent iteration of the app allows students to use Fitbit™ devices to record heart rate data, which each student sees as progress toward course goals on the homepage of the course. The current version of the app has evolved to provide a seamless student experience using a web application programming interface (API) and data standards such as learning tools interoperability (LTI). The student experience of using the app is thoroughly documented, as are design processes and principles for engaging in similar design processes.