bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arabic version of the Australian type 2 diabetes risk assessment tool (AUSDRISK): translation and validation
Authors: Farag Hassan Farag Mohamed , Sultan Eman Anwar , Elrewany Ehab , Abdel-Aziz Basem Farouk
Published: September 2022

Objective

The current study aimed to translate the Australian Type 2 Diabetes Risk Assessment tool (AUSDRISK) into the Arabic language and evaluate the reliability and validity of the resultant Arabic version among Egyptians. The AUSDRISK was translated into Arabic language using the World Health Organization (WHO) forward and backward translation protocol. Using the WHO cluster sampling, a sample of 18+ years 719 Egyptians was randomly selected through a population-based household survey. Each participant was interviewed to fill the AUSDRISK Arabic version risk score and undergo confirmatory testing for fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Test-retest reliability and convergent validity were computed.

Results

Most of the study participants were physically active (60.5%) and females (69.3%). The Arabic version of the AUSDRISK reflected statistically significant perfect positive correlation (r = 1 and p < 0.01) for test re-test reliability as well as a significant moderate positive correlation with each of FPG (r = 0.48, p < 0.01) and OGTT (r = 0.52, p < 0.01) for the criterion-related (convergent) validity. The recalibrated noninvasive AUSDRISK Arabic version proved to be a simple, reliable, and valid predictive tool, and thereof, its employment for opportunistic mass public screening is strongly recommended. This can reduce diabetes mellitus Type 2disease burden and health expenditure.
Attributes in stated preference elicitation studies on colorectal cancer screening and their relative importance for decision-making among screenees: a systematic review
Authors: Brinkmann Melanie , Fricke Lara Marleen , Diedrich Leonie , Robra Bernt-Peter , Krauth Christian , Dreier Maren
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The SIGMO study (Sigmoidoscopy as an evidence-based colorectal cancer screening test – a possible option?) examines screening eligible populations’ preferences for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening in Germany using a discrete choice experiment (DCE). Attribute identification and selection are essential for the construction of choice tasks and should be evidence-based. As a part of the SIGMO study this systematic review provides an overview of attributes included in studies eliciting stated preferences for CRC screening tests and their relative importance for decision-making.

Methods

Systematic search (November 2021) for English-language studies published since January 2000 in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Biomedical Reference Collection: Corporate Edition, LIVIVO and PsycINFO. DCEs and conjoint analysis ranking or rating tasks on screening eligible populations’ preferences for stool testing, sigmoidoscopy, and/or colonoscopy were included. Attributes were extracted and their relative importance was calculated and ranked. Risk of bias (RoB) of included studies was assessed using a modified GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) approach. Study selection and RoB rating were carried out independently by two reviewers. Data were extracted by one reviewer and checked by another one.

Results

A total of 23 publications on 22 studies were included. Overall RoB was rated as serious/critical for 21 studies and as moderate for 2 studies. Main reasons for high RoB were non-random sampling, low response rates, lack of non-responder analyses, and, to a lesser extent, weaknesses in the measurement instrument and data analysis. Extracted attributes (n = 120) referred to procedure-related characteristics (n = 42; 35%), structural characteristics of health care (n = 24; 20%), test characteristics (n = 23; 19%), harms (n = 16; 13%), benefits (n = 13; 11%), and level of evidence (n = 2; 2%). Most important attributes were reduction in CRC mortality (and incidence) (n = 7), test sensitivity (n = 7), out-of-pocket costs (n = 4), procedure (n = 3), and frequency (n = 2).

Conclusions

Health preference studies on CRC were found to have a high RoB. The composition of choice tasks revealed a lack of attributes on patient-important outcomes (like incidence reduction), while attributes not considered relevant for individual screening decisions (like sensitivity) were frequently used. Future studies eliciting stated preferences in cancer screening should apply the principles of informed decision-making in attribute identification and selection.
Modeling lung diseases using reversibly immortalized mouse pulmonary alveolar type 2 cells (imPAC2)
Authors: Zhang Linghuan , Luo Wenping , Liu Jiang , Xu Maozhu , Peng Qi , Zou Wenjing , You Jingyi , Shu Yi , Zhao Piao , Wagstaff William , Zhao Guozhi , Qin Kevin , Haydon Rex C. , Luu Hue H. , Reid Russell R. , Bi Yang , Zhao Tianyu , He Tong-Chuan , Fu Zhou
Published: September 2022

Background

A healthy alveolar epithelium is critical to the gas exchange function of the lungs. As the major cell type of alveolar epithelium, alveolar type 2 (AT2) cells play a critical role in maintaining pulmonary homeostasis by serving as alveolar progenitors during lung injury, inflammation, and repair. Dysregulation of AT2 cells may lead to the development of acute and chronic lung diseases and cancer. The lack of clinically relevant AT2 cell models hampers our ability to understand pulmonary diseases. Here, we sought to establish reversibly immortalized mouse pulmonary alveolar type 2 cells (imPAC2) and investigate their potential in forming alveolar organoids to model pulmonary diseases.

Methods

Primary mouse pulmonary alveolar cells (mPACs) were isolated and immortalized with a retroviral expression of SV40 Large T antigen (LTA). Cell proliferation and survival was assessed by crystal violet staining and WST-1 assays. Marker gene expression was assessed by qPCR, Western blotting, and/or immunostaining. Alveolar organoids were generated by using matrigel. Ad-TGF-β1 was used to transiently express TGF-β1. Stable silencing β-catenin or overexpression of mutant KRAS and TP53 was accomplished by using retroviral vectors. Subcutaneous cell implantations were carried out in athymic nude mice. The retrieved tissue masses were subjected to H & E histologic evaluation.

Results

We immortalized primary mPACs with SV40 LTA to yield the imPACs that were non-tumorigenic and maintained long-term proliferative activity that was reversible by FLP-mediated removal of SV40 LTA. The EpCAM+ AT2-enriched subpopulation (i.e., imPAC2) was sorted out from the imPACs, and was shown to express AT2 markers and form alveolar organoids. Functionally, silencing β-catenin decreased the expression of AT2 markers in imPAC2 cells, while TGF-β1 induced fibrosis-like response by regulating the expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition markers in the imPAC2 cells. Lastly, concurrent expression of oncogenic KRAS and mutant TP53 rendered the imPAC2 cells a tumor-like phenotype and activated lung cancer-associated pathways. Collectively, our results suggest that the imPAC2 cells may faithfully represent AT2 populations that can be further explored to model pulmonary diseases.
The effect of far-field cylindrical scatterers on radio direction finding and beamforming estimated by cylindrical array of dipoles
Authors: Poormohammad Sarah , Farzaneh Forouhar , Banai Ali
Published: September 2022

Direction finding using a cylindrical array of dipoles has been implemented in presence of large cylindrical scatterers. A different number of scatterers in the simulations are used. The effect of the large cylindrical scatterers is considered by cylindrical harmonic expansion of the scattered field. These fields are computed analytically. The direction finding process is verified by a comparison with phase difference direction finding method implemented in HFSS simulator environment. The error induced in the direction finding mechanism by the scattered fields is estimated through Monte-Carlo simulations. Interfering signals are introduced and a beamforming process is implemented to evaluate the corresponding signal to interference ratios. The method alleviates the use of high computational cost simulations for scatterer effect estimation. The method could be used in wireless communication and smart antenna applications.
Hybrid imaging with [68Ga]PSMA-11 PET-CT and PET-MRI in biochemically recurrent prostate cancer
Authors: Glemser P. A. , Rotkopf L. T. , Ziener C. H. , Beuthien-Baumann B. , Weru V. , Kopp-Schneider A. , Schlemmer H. P. , Dimitrakopoulou-Strauss A. , Sachpekidis C.
Published: September 2022

Aim

To compare [68Ga]PSMA-11 PET-CT, [68Ga]PSMA-11 PET-MRI and MRI in a cohort of prostate cancer (PCa) patients in biochemical recurrence after initial curative therapy.

Materials and methods

Fifty-three patients with biochemically recurrent PCa underwent whole-body [68Ga]PSMA-11 PET-CT 1 hour post-injection (p.i.) followed by [68Ga]PSMA-11 PET-MRI 2.5 hours p.i., including a multiparametric MRI pelvic protocol examination. Imaging data analysis consisted of visual (qualitative) evaluation of the PET-CT, PET-MRI and MRI scans, as well as semi-quantitative and quantitative analyses of the PET and MRI data, including calculation of the parameters standardized uptake value (SUV) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) derived from the PCa lesions. Association analysis was performed between imaging and clinical data, including PSA level and Gleason score. The results were considered significant for p-values less than 0.05 (p < 0.05).

Results

The hybrid imaging modalities [68Ga]PSMA-11 PET-CT and PET-MRI were positive in more patients than MRI alone. In particular, PET-CT detected lesions suggestive of PCa relapse in 34/53 (64.2%), PET-MRI in 36/53 (67.9%) and MRI in 23/53 patients (43.4%). While no significant differences in lesion detection rate were observed between PET-CT and PET-MRI, the latter was particularly efficient in detection of local recurrences in the prostate bed mainly due to the contribution of the MRI part of the modality. Association analysis revealed a statistically significant increase in the probability of a positive scan with increasing PSA levels for all imaging modalities. Accordingly, there was no significant association between scan positivity rate and Gleason score for any imaging modality. No significant correlation was observed between SUV and ADC values in lymph node metastases.

Conclusion

[68Ga]PSMA-11 PET-CT and PET-MRI provide equally good detection rates for PCa recurrence, both outperforming stand-alone MRI.
Utility of the deep learning technique for the diagnosis of orbital invasion on CT in patients with a nasal or sinonasal tumor
Authors: Nakagawa Junichi , Fujima Noriyuki , Hirata Kenji , Tang Minghui , Tsuneta Satonori , Suzuki Jun , Harada Taisuke , Ikebe Yohei , Homma Akihiro , Kano Satoshi , Minowa Kazuyuki , Kudo Kohsuke
Published: September 2022

Background

In nasal or sinonasal tumors, orbital invasion beyond periorbita by the tumor is one of the important criteria in the selection of the surgical procedure. We investigated the usefulness of the convolutional neural network (CNN)-based deep learning technique for the diagnosis of orbital invasion, using computed tomography (CT) images.

Methods

A total of 168 lesions with malignant nasal or sinonasal tumors were divided into a training dataset (n = 119) and a test dataset (n = 49). The final diagnosis (invasion-positive or -negative) was determined by experienced radiologists who carefully reviewed all of the CT images. In a CNN-based deep learning analysis, a slice of the square target region that included the orbital bone wall was extracted and fed into a deep-learning training session to create a diagnostic model using transfer learning with the Visual Geometry Group 16 (VGG16) model. The test dataset was subsequently tested in CNN-based diagnostic models and by two other radiologists who were not specialized in head and neck radiology. At approx. 2 months after the first reading session, two radiologists again reviewed all of the images in the test dataset, referring to the diagnoses provided by the trained CNN-based diagnostic model.

Results

The diagnostic accuracy was 0.92 by the CNN-based diagnostic models, whereas the diagnostic accuracies by the two radiologists at the first reading session were 0.49 and 0.45, respectively. In the second reading session by two radiologists (diagnosing with the assistance by the CNN-based diagnostic model), marked elevations of the diagnostic accuracy were observed (0.94 and 1.00, respectively).

Conclusion

The CNN-based deep learning technique can be a useful support tool in assessing the presence of orbital invasion on CT images, especially for non-specialized radiologists.
Automated harvesting by a dual-arm fruit harvesting robot
Authors: Yoshida Takeshi , Onishi Yuki , Kawahara Takuya , Fukao Takanori
Published: September 2022

In this study, we propose a method to automate fruit harvesting with a fruit harvesting robot equipped with robotic arms. Given the future growth of the world population, food shortages are expected to accelerate. Since much of Japan’s agriculture is dependent on imports, it is expected to be greatly affected by this upcoming food shortage. In recent years, the number of agricultural workers in Japan has been decreasing and the population is aging. As a result, there is a need to automate and reduce labor in agricultural work using agricultural machinery. In particular, fruit cultivation requires a lot of manual labor due to the variety of orchard conditions and tree shapes, causing mechanization and automation to lag behind. In this study, a dual-armed fruit harvesting robot was designed and fabricated to reach most of the fruits on joint V-shaped trellis that was cultivated and adjusted for the robot. To harvest the fruit, the fruit harvesting robot uses sensors and computer vision to detect and estimate the position of the fruit and then inserts end-effectors into the lower part of the fruit. During this process, there is a possibility of collision within the robot itself or with other fruits depending on the position of the fruit to be harvested. In this study, inverse kinematics and a fast path planning method using random sampling is used to harvest fruits with robot arms. This method makes it possible to control the robot arms without interfering with the fruit or the other robot arm by considering them as obstacles. Through experiments, this study showed that these methods can be used to detect pears and apples outdoors and automatically harvest them using the robot arms.
Fibroblast growth factor 23 (Fgf23) levels and their relationship with disease activity, bone mineral density, and radiological damage score in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a single center case–control study
Authors: Çelik Direnç Şerif , Ayar Koray , Ermurat Selime , Üstündağ Yasemin
Published: September 2022

Background

There is limited and conflicting information on Fgf23 levels and their relationship with bone loss and disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The aim of this study was to compare Fgf23 levels in RA patients with a healthy population and to evaluate the relationship between Fgf23 levels in RA with disease activity, bone mineral density (BMD), and radiological damage score.

Results

The median Fgf23 levels in patients with RA and in hospital staff were 20.06 (11.2–51.0) and 26.40 (12.6–49.5) pg/ml (P < 0.001), respectively. RA patients were divided into active (DAS28 > 3.2) and inactive (DAS28 ≤ 3.2) subgroups. The median Fgf23 levels in active and inactive RA patients were 22.12 (13.90–51.02) and 17.71 (11.20–31.19) pg/ml, respectively (P = 0.001). BMD of RA patients was evaluated with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and radiological damage scores were evaluated independently by two investigators using the modified Sharp score (MSS). In RA patients, Fgf23 values correlated with DAS28 and with erosion score of observer-2 (r = 0.297, P = 0.036), but not with erosion score of observer-1 (r = 0.252, P = 0.077). No correlation was found between DAS28 and femur and lumbar vertebra BMD.

Conclusion

In RA, Fgf23 is not associated with BMD but may be associated with local bone loss and disease activity.
National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale Score Less Than 10 at 24 hours After Stroke Onset Is a Strong Predictor of a Favorable Outcome After Mechanical Thrombectomy
Authors: Katano Takehiro , Suzuki Kentaro , Takeuchi Masataka , Morimoto Masafumi , Kanazawa Ryuzaburo , Takayama Yohei , Aoki Junya , Nishiyama Yasuhiro , Otsuka Toshiaki , Matsumaru Yuji , Kimura Kazumi
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND:

There are a few accurate predictors of patient outcomes after mechanical thrombectomy (MT).

OBJECTIVE:

To investigate whether the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score 24 hours after stroke onset could predict favorable outcomes at 90 days in patients with acute stroke treated with MT.

METHODS:

Patients from the SKIP study were enrolled in this study. Using receiver operating characteristic curves, the optimal cut-off NIHSS score 24 hours after stroke onset was calculated to distinguish between favorable (modified Rankin Scale score 0-2) and unfavorable (modified Rankin Scale score 3-6) outcomes at 90 days. These receiver operating characteristic curves were compared with those of previously reported predictors of favorable outcomes, such as the ΔNIHSS score (baseline NIHSS score—NIHSS score at 24 h), percent delta (ΔNIHSS score × 100/baseline NIHSS score), and early neurological improvement indices.

RESULTS:

A total of 177 patients (median age, 72 years; female, 65 [37%]) were enrolled, and 109 (61.9%) had favorable outcomes. The respective sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve values for an NIHSS of 10 were 92.6%, 80.7%, and .906; a ΔNIHSS score of 7 were 70.6%, 76.1%, and .797; and percent delta of 48.3% were 85.3%, 80.7%, and .890.

CONCLUSION:

NIHSS score <10 at 24 hours after stroke onset is a strong predictor of favorable outcomes at 90 days in patients treated with MT.
Interrelated but Not Time-Aligned Response in Myogenic Regulatory Factors Demethylation and mRNA Expression after Divergent Exercise Bouts
Authors: TELLES GUILHERME DEFANTE , LIBARDI CLEITON AUGUSTO , CONCEIÇÃO MIGUEL SOARES , VECHIN FELIPE CASSARO , LIXANDRÃO MANOEL EMÍLIO , MANGONE FLAVIA REGINA ROTEA , PAVANELLI ANA CAROLINA , NAGAI MARIA APARECIDA , CAMERA DONNY MICHAEL , HAWLEY JOHN A. , UGRINOWITSCH CARLOS
Published: September 2022

Introduction

DNA methylation regulates exercise-induced changes in the skeletal muscle transcriptome. However, the specificity and the time course responses in the myogenic regulatory factors DNA methylation and mRNA expression after divergent exercise modes are unknown.

Purpose

This study aimed to compare the time course changes in DNA methylation and mRNA expression for selected myogenic regulatory factors (MYOD1, MYF5, and MYF6) immediately after, 4 h after, and 8 h after a single bout of resistance exercise (RE), high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE), and concurrent exercise (CE).

Methods

Nine healthy but untrained males (age, 23.9 ± 2.8 yr; body mass, 70.1 ± 14.9 kg; peak oxygen uptake [V̇O2peak], 41.4 ± 5.2 mL·kg−1·min−1; mean ± SD) performed a counterbalanced, randomized order of RE (4 × 8–12 repetition maximum), HIIE (12 × 1 min sprints at V̇O2peak running velocity), and CE (RE followed by HIIE). Skeletal muscle biopsies (vastus lateralis) were taken before (REST) immediately (0 h), 4 h, and 8 h after each exercise bout.

Results

Compared with REST, MYOD1, MYF5, and MYF6, mean methylation across all CpGs analyzed was reduced after 4 and 8 h in response to all exercise protocols (P < 0.05). Reduced levels of MYOD1 methylation were observed after HIIE and CE compared with RE (P < 0.05). Compared with REST, all exercise bouts increased mRNA expression over time (MYOD1 at 4 and 8 h, and MYF6 at 4 h; P < 0.05). MYF5 mRNA expression was lower after 4 h compared with 0 h and higher at 8 h compared with 4 h (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

We observed an interrelated but not time-aligned response between the exercise-induced changes in myogenic regulatory factors demethylation and mRNA expression after divergent exercise modes. Despite divergent contractile stimuli, changes in DNA methylation and mRNA expression in skeletal muscle were largely confined to the late (4–8 h) recovery period and similar between the different exercise challenges.
Pharmacy practitioners’ practice, awareness and knowledge about herbal products and their potential interactions with cardiovascular drugs
Authors: Abudalo Rawan , Abudalo Razan , Alqudah Abdelrahim , Abuqamar Ayman , Abdelaziz Amr , Alshawabkeh Maram , Taha Luma
Published: September 2022

Background:Herbal medicine use is widespread among patients, as community pharmacies may provide such products. Therefore, pharmacy practitioners should be aware of potential herbal products’ adverse effects and herb-drug interactions, particularly with medications for comorbid diseases, such as cardiovascular drugs, in which pharmacy practitioners need to have good knowledge to provide patients with relevant advice to get optimal and safe therapeutic outcomes. Accordingly, the study is designed to assess the knowledge and awareness of pharmacy practitioners regarding herbal product dispensing and cardiovascular drug interaction in Jordan and view their role in patients’ counselling to set up safe and effective drug use.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Jordan using an online formatted questionnaire distributed to pharmacy practitioners working in community pharmacies. Descriptive and analytical statistics were performed for the responses using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software, version 26.

Results:Out of 508 participants, 41.7% had medium knowledge of herbal products pertaining mainly to university education (68.1%); 55.1% of participants dispensed herbal products without prescriptions for obesity and weight reduction (72.8%) and gastrointestinal problems (70.9%); this is because respondents agreed that herbal remedies are safe (28.5%) and effective (38.4%). Whilst the knowledge level of respondents about herbal medicine interaction with cardiovascular medication was medium, with a mean of 1.94, as this interaction may result in potentially serious consequences, 40.7% of respondents strongly agreed to gain more knowledge about the side effects of herbal products and medicine interactions through educational courses.

Conclusions:The pharmacy practitioners had medium knowledge of herbal products; however, more attention should be paid to herb-drug interactions in the pharmacy educational curriculum. Additionally, pharmacy practitioners need to refresh their knowledge by attending periodic educational courses and by using reliable resources for information about herbal products in order to provide effective and competent pharmaceutical care.
The one-humped camel: The animal of future, potential alternative red meat, technological suitability and future perspectives
Authors: Djenane Djamel , Aider Mohammed
Published: September 2022

Camel meat is an ethnic food consumed across the arid regions. For these medicinal and nutritional benefits, it can be a great option for sustainable meat worldwide supply. Consumers can be benefit from the subtle taste of camel meat, flavored with aromatic and medicinal herbs from the arid regions. Research on the camel meat from both an economic and technological aspects is quite recent, which explains the limited information available on this area. Nevertheless, developing new preservation techniques as well the development of various products from camel meat through optimum processing constitute an axis of fu-ture scientific research in order to valorize this product. The camel meat as an alternative source to red meats is also discussed as well as the challenges of its acceptance by consumers. In light of the enthusiasm for this meat, to which many beneficial health effects are attributed, it seemed interesting to conduct this review.
Effect of intraoperative PEEP with recruitment maneuvers on the occurrence of postoperative pulmonary complications during general anesthesia––protocol for Bayesian analysis of three randomized clinical trials of intraoperative ventilation
Authors: Mazzinari Guido , Zampieri Fernando G. , Ball Lorenzo , Campos Niklas S. , Bluth Thomas , Hemmes Sabrine N.T. , Ferrando Carlos , Librero Julian , Soro Marina , Pelosi Paolo , Gama de Abreu Marcelo , Schultz Marcus J. , Serpa Neto Ary ,   PROVHILO investigators,   iPROVE investigators,   PROBESE investigators,   PROVE network investigators
Published: September 2022

Background: Using the frequentist approach, a recent meta–analysis of three randomized clinical trials in patients undergoing intraoperative ventilation during general anesthesia for major surgery failed to show the benefit of ventilation that uses high positive end–expiratory pressure with recruitment maneuvers when compared to ventilation that uses low positive end–expiratory pressure without recruitment maneuvers.

Methods: We designed a protocol for a Bayesian analysis using the pooled dataset. The multilevel Bayesian logistic model will use the individual patient data. Prior distributions will be prespecified to represent a varying level of skepticism for the effect estimate. The primary endpoint will be a composite of postoperative pulmonary complications (PPC) within the first seven postoperative days, which reflects the primary endpoint of the original studies. We preset a range of practical equivalence to assess the futility of the intervention with an interval of odds ratio (OR) between 0.9 and 1.1 and assess how much of the 95% of highest density interval (HDI) falls between the region of practical equivalence.

Ethics and dissemination: The used data derive from approved studies that were published in recent years. The findings of this current analysis will be reported in a new manuscript, drafted by the writing committee on behalf of the three research groups. All investigators listed in the original trials will serve as collaborative authors.
Case Report: Sudden death related to unrecognized cardiac hydatid cyst
Authors: Mesrati Med Amin , Mahjoub Yosra , Ben Abdejlil Nouha , Boussaid Marwa , Belhaj Meriem , Limem Hiba , Chadly Ali , Zakhama Abdelfeteh , Aissaoui Abir
Published: September 2022

Echinococcosis, also known as hydatid disease, is a common parasitic human infestation found in sheep-breeding areas. It is caused by the larvae stage of Echinococcus granulosus, and cysts develop mostly in the lungs and the liver. Cardiac involvement is unusual and silent until acute complications or a fatal outcome occurs. Herein, we report an autopsy case of a young healthy adult who died suddenly. The autopsy revealed an external bulging on the right heart ventricle outlet with a fluid-filled cystic cavity discovered on sectioning. Dissection of other organs did not reveal other cyst locations. Histological examination ascertained the diagnosis of hydatid cyst, and death was attributed to cardiac arrhythmias. Pathologists should keep in mind that hydatid cysts can develop anywhere in the body. Solitary cardiac cyst is rare and can simulate a “silent bomb”. Unfortunately, sudden death remains the frequent manner of revelation of this disease in endemic areas.
HR practices and turnover intention; the mediating role of organizational commitment in Tehran: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Hassanpour Mohammaad Kashinejad , Chong Chin Wei , Chong Siong Choy , Ibrahim Okour Mohammad Khaleel , Behrang Samadi , Tan Xin Yee
Published: September 2022

Background: Employees are increasingly being recognised as a valuable source of information, especially in knowledge-based businesses. Businesses, however, suffer financial and organisational memory losses related to re-hiring and training new staff, and lost productivity and intellectual property because of employee turnover. Hence, employee turnover should be considered an essential part of human resource management. Furthermore, employees’ trust in management and human resource (HR) practices substantially impact organisational commitment (OC). Thus, anticipating employee commitment and turnover intentions is crucial, as people are the sole source for knowledge-based firms to maintain their competitive advantage. In the context of selected Tehran Renewable Energy (RE) firms, this study investigated the mediating impact of OC on the relationship between HR practices (recruitment and selection; training and development opportunities; performance appraisal and evaluation; teamwork; compensation and pay; and job security) and employee turnover intention.

Methods: This is a cross-sectional study in Tehran that involved 90 experts and knowledgeable employees from four of Tehran's top RE businesses. A questionnaire was distributed to collect data which was later analysed with correlation, regression and bootstrapping analyses.

Results: All six dimensions of HR practices were discovered to have an indirect impact on turnover intention and a direct impact on OC. OC among employees has an indirect effect on turnover intention. It was also revealed that the training and development opportunity has the most considerable effect on OC and turnover intention. OC was not found as a mediator between HR practices and turnover intention.

Conclusions: The outcomes of this study showed that both training and development opportunities; and pay and compensation structure were found to be two significant components of HR practices in the relationship with OC. RE managers should employ appropriate HR strategies, particularly in these two dimensions, to improve an individual's degree of OC and reduce turnover intention.
Exacerbation of symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in the course of immunotherapy of non-small cell lung cancer - an analysis of medical cases and a review of the literature
Authors: Bargieł Julia , Cabaj Justyna , Chmielewska Izabela , Wójcik-Superczyńska Magdalena , Milanowski Janusz
Published: September 2022

Background: Lung cancer has been at the forefront of cancers with the highest incidence and mortality rates. Nowadays, there are available more effective forms of treatment such as immunotherapy. In the case of cancer cells expressing the PD-L1 receptor, pembrolizumab, atezolizumab and nivolmab are of particular use. While these drugs have the great benefit of stabilizing the disease, they are not without side effects, especially inflammatory changes in the joints. The aim of the study is to show the risk of immunotherapy in the form of exacerbation of inflammatory symptoms in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) as a concomitant disease. Case report: Lung cancer (PD-L1 +) was diagnosed in three patients with a history of RA. After meeting the criteria of the drug program, the patients started molecularly targeted therapy with pembrolizumab and atezolizumab. The applied treatment brought a great benefit in the form of stabilization the neoplastic disease. Over time an exacerbation of inflammatory changes within the joints was noted, which significantly impeded everyday functioning in two patients. Due to this situation, immunotherapy was discontinued. Conlusions: Studies show that as many as 1/4 of patients treated with PD-L1 inhibitors experience side effects related to the autoimmune system. In the case of people suffering from RA, the use of immunotherapy may intensify inflammatory changes and increase pain, which significantly reduce the quality of life. Therefore, the risk of RA exacerbation as a side effect of biological therapy for lung cancer treatment should be popularized. This awareness will enable quick intervention and minimize the number of interrupted immunotherapies.
The role of dietary education and vitamin supplementation in the treatment of Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Kaczynska Agnieszka , Gorecka Adrianna , Osial Natalia , Klosinska Martyna , Chmiel Paulina
Published: September 2022

Introduction and purpose

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a widely prevalent condition which affects mainly children. The disease is not as severe as other allergic disorders; however, its symptoms significantly impact the patient's quality of life. The therapeutic options have limited effectiveness and they are burdened with numerous side effects. In addition, AR’s underlying causes are not fully elucidated; thus, there is an urgent need to conduct more large sample studies on this topic.

State of knowledge

In recent years, research concerning the role of vitamin deficiency in AR pathogenesis gathered pace. Some studies report that children with vitamin A, C and D deficiencies more often suffer from allergic diseases, especially AR and asthma. Furthermore, they are more likely to have severe infections and other disorders caused by immune imbalance. The crucial aspect of vitamins' role in AR is their significant ability to modulate the immune response, especially adaptive, by restoring Th1/Th2 balance. Recent publications reported that vitamin supplementation in AR patients results in an improved clinical course of the disease and restored immune balance. Moreover, vitamins added to the typical treatment improve its effects.

Conclusions

This review aims to summarize the state of knowledge about the role of vitamin A, C and D deficiency in the pathogenesis of AR. Moreover, we point out the values of education in the field of proper dietary habits among AR patients. In addition, the effects of vitamin supplementation in AR patients are also emphasized.
Fatores preditivos para a cicatrização de úlceras da perna em pessoas com doença falciforme: coorte retrospectivo
Authors: Borges Eline Lima , Spira Josimare Aparecida Otoni , Andrade Paula Gabriela Ribeiro , Amorim Gilmara Lopes , Abreu Mery Natali Silva
Published: September 2022

Objetivo: identificar a taxa de cicatrização e os fatores preditivos para cura das úlceras da perna em pessoas com doença falciforme. Método: coorte retrospectivo, realizado de junho a agosto de 2020, em um serviço especializado de tratamento de pessoas com feridas, contemplando um período de nove anos, com amostra de 52 úlceras que atenderam os critérios de elegibilidade. Protocolo de pesquisa aprovado pelo comitê de ética. Resultados: a taxa de cicatrização foi 76,9%. Os fatores que contribuíram para cura em um menor tempo foram a não recidiva (HR= 3,03; IC 95%: 1,07-8,60) e extensão abaixo da mediana 7,25 cm2 (HR= 2,25; IC 95%: 1,19-4,27). Fatores para a não cicatrização foram: coberturas de alginato de cálcio (HR=0,29; IC 95%: 0,13-0,62), carvão com prata (HR=0,06; IC 95%: 0,02-0,21) e outras (HR=0,35; IC 95%: 0,15-0,80). Conclusão: a taxa de cicatrização da úlcera foi elevada. Recidiva, área da úlcera e determinadas coberturas podem influenciar no processo de cura.
Transfusão de sangue e hemocomponentes para as Testemunhas de Jeová: revisão de escopo
Authors: Rodrigues Quitéria Pires da Silva , Lins Silvia Maria De Sá Basílio , Peres Ellen Marcia , De Andrade Priscila Cristina Da Silva Thiengo , Moraes Érica Brandão de , Campos Tatiane Da Silva
Published: September 2022

Objetivo: mapear os estudos que abordam a não transfusão de sangue e hemocomponentes ao paciente Testemunha de Jeová. Método: revisão de escopo, seguindo o método proposto pelo Instituto Joanna Briggs. Foram realizadas buscas em doze bases de dados nacionais e internacionais, em outubro de 2020. Não foi utilizado recorte temporal. Resultados: dos 1435 artigos encontrados nas bases de dados pesquisadas, 21 foram incluídos neste estudo, seus conteúdos foram sintetizados em três categorias: 1) Estratégias alternativas ao uso de hemocomponentes; 2) Abordagem jurídica na recusa do paciente Testemunha de Jeová; 3) Abordagem bioética na recusa do paciente Testemunha de Jeová. Conclusão: a presente revisão de escopo permitiu mapear a literatura e conhecer as inquietações e as estratégias usadas na assistência ao paciente TJ que por questões religiosas recusa transfusão de sangue e hemocomponentes. A compreensão dessas alternativas será fundamental para a garantia de uma assistência segura e na preservação da autonomia do indivíduo.
Associação entre resiliência, sintomas depressivos e qualidade de vida de pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca crônica
Authors: Rocha Tânia Pavão Oliveira , Neto José Albuquerque Figueiredo , Santos Elton , Pereira Marília , Deus Kátia Maria Sousa de , Mourilhe-Rocha Ricardo
Published: September 2022

Objetivo: determinar os níveis de resiliência de pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca e sua associação com a qualidade de vida e sintomas depressivos. Método: estudo transversal envolvendo 102 pacientes. O período da coleta foi de janeiro a dezembro de 2019. Foram aplicados os seguintes instrumentos: o Minnesota Living With Heart Failure Questionnaire, o World Health Organization Quality of Life - WHOQOL-Bref, o instrumento Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale na subescala depressão e a Escala de Resiliência de Wagnild e Young. Para avaliar correlação dos escores das escalas foram utilizados os testes coeficiente de Correlação de Pearson ou Coeficiente de Correlação de Spearman. Resultados: ao associar a escala de resiliência com qualidade de vida e sintomas depressivos, apenas o HADS-D foi significante com a escala de resiliência. Conclusão: nesse estudo observou-se que os indivíduos mais resilientes não possuíam sintomas depressivos.
Aplicativo móvel Nursing Alert® para apoio ao enfermeiro na identificação da deterioração clínica do paciente
Authors: Andrade Lidiane Soares de , Da Silva Renata Flavia Abreu , Tonini Teresa
Published: September 2022

Objetivo: descrever o desenvolvimento de um aplicativo móvel híbrido multiplataforma para auxiliar o enfermeiro na sistematização de sua assistência diante do risco de deterioração clínica do paciente internado no espaço hospitalar. Método: estudo descritivo para elaboração de aplicativo móvel híbrido multiplataforma baseado no processo de engenharia de software Rational Unified Process, por meio das fases de concepção, elaboração e construção. Resultados: o nome e a logo do aplicativo Nursing Alert ® associa-o à sua função como aplicativo móvel, versão para Android® e iOS® e registrado no Instituto Nacional de Propriedade Industrial. O enfermeiro, usuário-alvo, necessita inserir o seu registro profissional e as informações referentes ao paciente a ser analisado. Não necessita de rede de internet após o seu download. Conclusão: o aplicativo móvel Nursing Alert pode ser uma ferramenta dinâmica e precisa para auxiliar o enfermeiro em seu julgamento clínico e definição de prioridades para seus pacientes.
Does body condition scoring portray an accurate representation of a horse's condition when compared to other morphological techniques?
Authors: Turner Alicia , Chapman Stella
Published: September 2022

Background:

The assessment of a horse's condition is generally carried out using body condition scoring, cresty neck scoring or weigh taping.

Aim:

The objective of this study was to investigate the accuracy of body condition scoring in comparison to other commonly used morphological condition assessment techniques.

Methods:

A recognised and well-established body condition scale adapted from Henneke et al (1983) was used, and the subsequent scores from this were compared to cresty neck scores, rump width measurements and belly and heart girth measurements. The study was carried out using seven horses and seven volunteers, who assessed each horse identifying any differences or similarities in each assessor's condition assessment.

Results:

The rump width measurements were the most accurately assessed condition assessment; however, using rump width measurements alone, a whole-body condition assessment cannot be made.

Conclusion:

It is therefore recommended that it should be combined with other condition assessments to create a whole-body assessment, with detailed localised adiposity information.
Avascular Necrosis of the Hip Triggered by COVID-19 Infection in a Patient with Sickle Cell Disease: A Case Report
Authors: Ergün Selim , Adiyaman Can , Sensöz Ersin , Eceviz Engin
Published: September 2022

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has affected many people around the world with its primary and secondary consequences. The use of high-dose steroids in its treatment brought along steroid-related femoral head avascular necrosis (AVN) complication. Case Presentation: We present a case of bilaterally developed femoral head AVN following COVID-19 infection in a patient with sickle cell disease (SCD), without the history of steroid use. Conclusion: With this case report, we aimed to raise awareness that COVID-19 infection may trigger AVN of the hip joint in SCD patients.
Gelatin Sponge-induced Early Onset Quadriparesis after the Posterior Decompression for Cervical Myelopathy Due to Ossification of a Posterior Longitudinal Ligament - A Case Report
Authors: Nallakumarasamy Arulkumar , Jain Mantu , Panigraghi Sibasish , Sahoo Auroshish , Naik Suprava
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Gelatin foam has been regularly used the complex neuro and spinal surgeries for a long time. Apart from their hemostatic properties, these are inert and provide form an inert membrane that prevents scar adhesions o vital structures such as the brain or spinal cord. Case Presentation: We present a case of cervical myelopathy due to an ossified posterior longitudinal ligament that underwent the instrumented posterior decompression and had neurological worsening 48 h after the index surgery. An magnetic resonance imaging showed a hematoma compressing the spinal cord which on exploration was confirmed to be a gelatin sponge. It represents the rare phenomenon of mass effect due to their osmotic properties, especially in a closed space causing neurologic deterioration. Conclusion: We emphasize the rare cause of early onset quadriparesis after the posterior decompression due to the swollen gelatin sponge over the neural elements. The patient recovered with timely intervention.
Chemically selective 2D and 3D mid-infrared imaging at high speeds and definition
Authors: Potma Eric O. , Knez Dave , Fishman Dmitry A.
Published: September 2022

We demonstrate novel concept for detection of IR light utilizing intrinsic nonlinearity of wide-bandgap semiconductors. It enables high-speed 2D and 3D visualizations with chemical contrast.
Display Applications for Grating Angle Magnification Accelerated Angular Scanner
Authors: Valdes Daniel , Sun Ke-Xun
Published: September 2022

An optical system using a monochromatic light source and diffraction grating has proven speed advantage over a flat mirror reflection by mechanical control. High-speed accelerated scanners will lead to advancements in high throughput 3D displays.
Manipulation of the Parallax Values for Depth Perception Flexibility from Multifocus Stacks
Authors: Alonso Julia R.
Published: September 2022

The proposed method allows to set convergence at different depths from a multifocus stack by means of modifying the zero parallax plane and hence changing the depth-perception of a 3D scene.
Computational Imaging Using Deterministic Optical Fields and Non-linear Reconstruction
Authors: Arockiaraj Francis Gracy , Selva Shakina Jothi , Inbanathan Stephen Rajkumar , Kamalam Manueldoss Beaula Ruby , Rajeswary Aravind Simon John Francis , Anand Vijayakumar , Rosen Joseph
Published: September 2022

Computational imaging techniques are indirect ones consisting of two steps: optical recording and computational reconstruction. In this study, deterministic optical fields such as Bessel, Airy, Gaussian and Laguerre-Gaussian were studied in this indirect imaging framework.
Overview of optical signal detection in turbid water using multidimensional integral imaging with deep learning
Authors: Krishnan Gokul , Joshi Rakesh , O’Connor Timothy , Javidi Bahram
Published: September 2022

We overview deep learning based optical signal detection in turbid water using multidimensional integral imaging. Overviewed method substantially improves the performance of optical signal detection in comparison to other imaging modalities under degraded environments.
Efficient 3D Iterative Deconvolution Method for Image Resolution Recovery: Application for Small-Animal PET/CT Imaging Studies
Authors: Slavine Nikolai V
Published: September 2022

An application of rapidly converging, efficient 3D iterative deconvolution method with novel resolution subsets-based approach for quantitative PET/CT small-animal image resolution recovery is demonstrated. The enhanced images proved to have lower noise and higher resolution.
Improving the precision of semiconductor overlay measurements using dark-field digital holographic microscopy
Authors: Adhikary M. , Cromwijk T. , Messinis C. , de Wit J. , Konijnenberg S. , Witte S. , de Boer J. , den Boef A. J.
Published: September 2022

We present dark-field digital holographic microscopy for diffraction-based overlay metrology in semiconductor layers with feature size of a few nanometers. We aim for higher accuracy and precision by calibrating the illumination profile on the targets.
Design and Characterization of a Low-Cost Photoacoustic Sensor for NO2 Using Lateral Illumination and Background Suppression
Authors: Escher Lukas , Rück Thomas , Jobst Simon , König Martin , Bierl Rudolf
Published: September 2022

We introduce a low-cost photoacoustic NO2 sensor based on lateral LED illumination and optical background signal compensation. The 3σ limit of detection (LOD) was identified to be 24 ppbV.
Precise Recognition of Synaptic Weight Modulation Under Ultra-low Light Illumination Using Bilayer Oxide Thin-film Transistors
Authors: Yang Ji Sook , Jung Sung Hyeon , Cho Hyung Koun
Published: September 2022

We built photonic synapse thin-film transistor (TFT) devices consisting of a-IGZO bottom with low conductivity and a-IZO top with rapid carrier transport. This device showed a very low initial post-synaptic current by achieving a full depletion at a low negative VG and improved synaptic current amplitude for memory retention.
Beam-Angle-Scanning Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensor
Authors: Seki K. , Koresawa H. , Hase E. , Tokizane Y. , Minamikawa T. , Yano T. , Kajisa T. , Yasui T.
Published: September 2022

We demonstrate a beam-angle-scanning SPR using a combined galvanometer mirror and relay lens optics. RI resolution of 2.306×10-5 RIU and RI accuracy of 8.984×10-5 RIU were achieved at a data acquisition rate of 100 Hz.
GPU Acceleration of Weighted Additive Light Field Displays
Authors: Gao Chen , Liu Xu , Li Haifeng
Published: September 2022

We implement a graphic processing unit acceleration program of weighted simultaneous algebra reconstruction technique solver for additive light field synthesis. The factorized results are verified by comparing them with a MATLAB implementation.
Optical compensation of beveled structures in a geometrical waveguide for near-eye displays by using index matching cover layers
Authors: Yeom Jiwoon , Son Yeseul , Choi Kwang-Soon
Published: September 2022

In a fabrication of geometrical waveguides for near-eye displays, edges of elemental prisms forming an out-coupler are beveled unavoidably. The beveled edges distort the light propagation in the transmission path, and degrade the see-through property of the waveguide. In this paper, we analyze the effect of the beveled edges in the geometrical waveguides, and present an optical compensation method by using index matching cover layers. The experimental results validate the proposed method via the clear see-through images.
DHC sensor for the study of rhythmic processes of autochthonous plankton
Authors: Dyomin V.V. , Polovtsev I.G. , Kirillov N.S. , Davydova A.Yu. , Olshukov A.S.
Published: September 2022

The paper presents a sensor complex based on the digital holographic camera used to study the rhythmic processes in plankton ecosystems through the example of summer natural testing on the Lake Baikal.
A Fiber Tip Refractive Index Sensor Featuring a Dynamic Micromirror
Authors: Williams Jeremiah C. , Chandrahalim Hengky
Published: September 2022

This work presents a Fabry–Pérot cavity refractive index sensor that is built on an optical fiber tip and enhanced by a monolithically integrated multipositional micromirror. The device is fabricated using a two-photon lithography process.