bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new gas chromatographic method for quantification of Metformin hydrochloride and Vildagliptin in bulk and pharmaceutical dosage form: development and validation
Authors: Mohite Popat , Bhusal Ramesh , Khandre Yogita , Pandhare Ramdas , Pawar Anil
Published: April 2024

Background

Metformin, an antidiabetic drug, assists in reducing the creation of glucose inside the liver. Vildagliptin, a DPP-4 inhibitor, enhances insulin release from the pancreas and reduces the hormones that elevate blood sugar levels. The combined medications work synergistically to lower blood sugar levels. This study was designed to develop and validate a reliable method of simultaneous assessment of Metformin and Vildagliptin in bulk and pharmaceutical dosage forms. For the chromatographic separation, a Gs-Tek INNOWAX column was utilized. This column has a length of 30 m, an internal diameter of 0.25 mm, and a 1.8 µm film thickness. For the detection, a Flame Ionization Detector was utilized. The ideal conditions included an injection volume of 1 µL with a split mode of 10 to 1 ratio, a flow rate of 1 mL/minute for the nitrogen carrier gas, an injector temperature of 300 °C, a detector temperature of 250 °C, an initial oven temperature of 100 °C that was maintained for seven minutes and then programmed to climb at a rate of 10 °C per minute up to a temperature of 300 °C.

Results

A gas chromatographic method that is simple, precise, accurate, robust, and reliable has been developed and implemented for the simultaneous estimation of Metformin and Vildagliptin in the tablet dosage form. The retention time for Metformin and Vildagliptin was 10.203 and 22.021 min. respectively. Validation studies were performed on the method’s Linearity, detection limit (LOD), and quantitation limit (LOQ), as well as its accuracy, precision, system suitability, and robustness, using the norms established by the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH). The mean recovery value for Metformin and Vildagliptin was 100.31% (% R.S.D. = 0.6743%) and 100.33% (% R.S.D. = 0.6900%). All the results are within the acceptable range.

Conclusion

Validation of the developed method revealed that all the results were within an acceptable range, and techniques can be employed to analyze these two medications in combined dosage forms. It is the first method used for simultaneous estimation of these two drugs.

Graphical abstract
An overview of neuromuscular ultrasound of important small nerves
Authors: Tawfik Eman A.
Published: April 2024

Background

Neuromuscular ultrasound has become an important tool in the diagnostic workup of nerve and muscle disorders. Scanning techniques, sonoanatomy, and sonographic appearance of the pathologies of the main upper and lower limb nerves have been extensively described in the literature. The nerve branches and small nerves have also been addressed but to a much lesser extent.

Main body of the abstract

The aim of the article is to give an overview of neuromuscular ultrasound of important small nerves including nerve branches and other small nerves. The article provides a summary for machine settings and indications of ultrasound scanning of small nerves. It then discusses each nerve as regards the relevant anatomy, detailed scanning techniques, sonoanatomy, and common pathologies.

Conclusion

This article represents a practical guide for scanning important nerve branches and small nerves which can facilitate sonographic assessment of pathologies of such challenging nerves.
Research on high-power and high-efficiency emission of crosswell electromagnetic logging
Authors: Chao Yongsheng , Ji Yongli , Zang Defu , Li Zhiqiang , Wang Huaxiong , Ren Yanmin
Published: April 2024

Crosswell electromagnetic (EM) logging has useful applications in oil, gas, and water monitoring as well as carbon sequestration estimation. Difficulties in the efficient propagation of EM waves through a steel casing inhibit crosswell EM logging at distances greater than 300 m. This study investigates whether high-power transmission and high-efficiency transmitting antennas can resolve the challenges of long-distance crosswell EM logging through steel casings. Theoretical analysis indicates that the emission moment should be at least 12,000 A·m2. By calculating the equivalent relative permeability and selecting the appropriate coil materials and magnetic cores, the maximum emission magnetic moment can create a high-power transmission. Based on series and parallel resonant circuits and the alternating current/direct current cable core multiplexing power supply method, the effective transmission bandwidth is broadened and the transmission efficiency increases by three times. The emission unit is fabricated and tested using single, double, and fiberglass casing. We observe that the crosswell EM technology performs better for nonmetal casing wells than that for metal casing wells. The amplitude and phase curves between two fiberglass casing wells in the range of 425 m are quite smooth. However, the receiving signals in the double-layer steel casing decrease to only a few tenths of the value in the fiberglass casing wells, highlighting the difficulty of long-distance EM wave transmission when using steel casings. Thus, studies on EM transmission through four or more layers of steel casings should be conducted in the future.
A novel immersed boundary approach for irregular topography with acoustic wave equations
Authors: Caunt Edward , Nelson Rhodri , MacArthur Tim , Luporini Fabio , Gorman Gerard
Published: April 2024

Irregular terrain has a pronounced effect on the propagation of seismic and acoustic wavefields but is not straightforwardly reconciled with structured finite-difference (FD) methods used to model such phenomena. Accurate wavefield simulation is paramount in subsurface imaging applications such as reverse time migration and full-waveform inversion, requiring suitable topography handling. Methods currently detailed in the literature generally are limited in scope application-wise or nontrivial to apply to real-world geometries. A general immersed boundary treatment capable of imposing a range of boundary conditions in a relatively equation-agnostic manner has been developed, alongside a framework implementing this approach to complement emerging code-generation paradigms. The approach is distinguished by the use of N-dimensional Taylor-series extrapolants constrained by boundary conditions imposed at some suitably distributed set of surface points. The extrapolation process is encapsulated in modified derivative stencils applied in the vicinity of the boundary, using hyperspherical support regions. This method ensures boundary representation is consistent with the FD discretization. Furthermore, high-dimensional and vector boundary conditions can be applied without approximation prior to discretization. A consistent methodology can thus be applied across free and rigid surfaces with first- and second-order acoustic wave equation formulations. Application to both equations is demonstrated, and numerical examples based on analytic and real-world topography implementing free and rigid surfaces in 2D and 3D are presented. Numerical examples and convergence tests demonstrate the accuracy of boundary treatments devised by the prescribed approach, their suitability to practical applications, and the feasibility of automatically generating treatments to suit each case.
Inversion with stratigraphy-guided deep learning
Authors: Heir Asmund , Aghayev Samir , Tran Chau , Molder Anicka
Published: April 2024

Property estimation in seismic exploration traditionally relies on seismic inversion, which is an ill-posed problem. However, recent advances in deep learning (DL), specifically supervised neural networks, indicate promise for accuracy improvements. Building upon this, stratigraphy-guided deep learning (SGDL) is a novel method that encodes stratigraphic units as discrete features within the DL model. Our primary objective is to evaluate SGDL in a scenario with available geologic data and field data calibration, such as well tops and horizons. We conduct a case study predicting porosity and acoustic impedance from poststack seismic data. Robustness evaluations demonstrate a 20% average enhancement in the correlation for acoustic impedance across 10 test wells from the Volve data set. We find that SGDL inversion outperforms traditional and other DL methods, reaching a 91% correlation for one benchmark blind well. These results offer compelling evidence that the incorporation of stratigraphic units as features in the DL model contributes to further enhancing the accuracy of property estimation. In summary, SGDL represents a novel approach that integrates DL with geologic data, offering significant enhancements in property estimation accuracy within the field of seismic inversion.
Ukrainian healthcare providers under siege during the first year of war: challenges and adaptations
Authors: Deac Alexandra A. , Zaviryukha Irina , Zeziulin Oleksandr , Peycheva Anna , Solórzano de Souza Renata , Skipper Harry , Abubakar Asmau , Gustilo V. Benjamin , Shenoi Sheela V. , Thornicroft Graham , Rozanova Julia
Published: April 2024

The overlapping COVID-19 crisis and the war starting in 2022 threaten front-line healthcare workers’ mental health, well-being and job retention in Ukraine. This paper provides a synopsis of a panel discussion held by the Global Mental Health Humanitarian Coalition in May 2022 and expert consultations with clinicians between December 2022 and February 2023 on these challenges. The crises created new problems and exacerbated many pre-existing difficulties. We found that healthcare workers had needed to mobilise previously untapped strengths, including portable emergency medical documents and bespoke local psychosocial support services, amid the costs and pressures of ongoing healthcare reforms.
Feasibility, Clinical Potential, and Limitations of Trans-Burr Hole Ultrasound for Postoperative Evaluation of Chronic Subdural Hematoma: A Prospective Pilot Study
Authors: Aspalter Stefan , Gmeiner Matthias , Gasser Stefan , Sonnberger Michael , Stroh Nico , Rauch Philip , Gruber Andreas , Stefanits Harald
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is commonly managed through burr hole surgery. Routine follow-up using computed tomography (CT) imaging is frequently used at many institutions, contributing to significant radiation exposure. This study evaluates the feasibility, safety, and reliability of trans-burr hole sonography as an alternative postoperative imaging modality, aiming to reduce radiation exposure by decreasing the frequency of CT scans.

METHODS:

We conducted a prospective pilot study on 20 patients who underwent burr hole surgery for CSDH. Postoperative imaging included both CT and sonographic examinations through the burr hole. We assessed the ability to measure residual subdural fluid thickness under the burr hole sonographically compared with CT, the occurrence of complications, and the potential factors affecting sonographic image quality. The Pearson correlation coefficient was used to demonstrate relationships between CT and ultrasound and axial and coronal ultrasound.

RESULTS:

Sonography through the burr hole was feasible in 73.5% of cases, providing measurements of residual fluid that closely paralleled CT findings, with an average discrepancy of 1.2 mm for axial and 1.4 mm for coronal sonographic views. A strong positive correlation was found between axial and coronal ultrasound (r = 0.955), CT and axial ultrasound (r = 0.936), and CT and coronal ultrasound (r = 0.920). The primary obstacle for sonographic imaging was the presence of air within the burr hole or the subdural space, which typically resolved over time after surgery.

CONCLUSION:

Trans-burr hole sonography emerges as a promising technique for postoperative monitoring of CSDH, with the potential to safely reduce reliance on CT scans and associated radiation exposure in selected patients. Our results support further investigation into the extended use of sonography during the follow-up phase. Prospective multicenter studies are recommended to establish the method's efficacy and to explore strategies for minimizing air presence postsurgery.
Physical Activity and Obesity Risk in Adults in Colombia: The Prospective Urban Rural Epidemiology (PURE) Study
Authors: O’DONOVAN GARY , MARTÍNEZ DANIEL , LÓPEZ-LÓPEZ JOSE P. , OTERO JOHANNA , URINA MANUEL , VASQUEZ TATIANA , NIÑO MONICA , NARVAEZ CLAUDIA , CAMPO MARÍA CAMILA , PEREZ-MAYORGA MARITZA , RODRÍGUEZ SHISLEM , ARCOS EDGARD , SANCHEZ GREGORIO , GARCÍA HENRY , RANGARAJAN SUMATHY , YUSUF SALIM , LÓPEZ-JARAMILLO PATRICIO
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate longitudinal associations between physical activity levels and obesity in adults in Colombia, where participation in large amounts of light-intensity physical activity is a necessity for many people.

Methods

Participation in moderate- and vigorous-intensity physical activity was assessed from 2005 to 2009, and obesity was assessed from 2011 to 2019 in men and women from the Prospective Urban Rural Epidemiology (PURE) study. Total physical activity level was categorized as low (<600 MET·min·wk−1), medium (600–3000 MET·min·wk−1), or high (>3000 MET·min·wk−1; 600 MET·min·wk−1 is equivalent to 150 min of moderate activity or 75 min of vigorous activity per week). Obesity was defined as body mass index ≥30 kg·m−2. Analyses were adjusted for age, sex, smoking, socioeconomic status, diet, alcohol, sedentary time, and sleep.

Results

The main analysis included 3086 men and women aged 51 ± 9 yr at baseline (mean ± SD). Compared with the low physical activity group, the odds ratio (95% confidence interval) for obesity was 0.67 (0.53–0.85) in the medium physical activity group and 0.78 (0.62–0.98) in the high physical activity group after adjustment for potential confounders. Smoking is probably a major confounder, and it is noteworthy that similar associations were observed in participants who reported never smoking.

Conclusions

The PURE study is the only prospective cohort study in Colombia. The present analysis is important because it suggests that even the busy people of Colombia could substantially reduce their risk of obesity by participating in moderate- and vigorous-intensity physical activity.
Intoxicações exógenas por raticidas notificadas no Brasil entre 2008 e 2022
Authors: Barbosa-Lima Ricardo , Silva Isaías Queiroz Soares , Vivian Geissiane Felizardo , Garcia Silas Zambaldi , Pinto Murilo Correzola , Silva Glebson Moura
Published: April 2024

Objetivo: avaliar as notificações de intoxicação exógena por raticida no Brasil entre 2008 e 2022. Métodos: foi realizado um estudo ecológico, do tipo série temporal, avaliando a quantidade anual de notificações nos últimos 15 anos, considerando os casos confirmados pelo Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN). A tendência temporal e as razões de incidência antes e durante a pandemia de COVID-19 foram examinadas com nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: entre 2008 e 2022, 48.448 notificações de intoxicação exógena por raticidas foram registradas. A tendência temporal foi estabelecida como estacionária nos últimos 15 anos (p = 0,285), mas tornou-se, significativamente, crescente ao remover os anos relacionados à pandemia de COVID-19 (p = 0,001; VPA = 5,4% [IC95% = 2,1, 8,6). Além disso, ao comparar com período pré-pandemia, a incidência de notificações foi 34% menor (RI = 0,66 [IC95% = 0,59, 0,73]) no primeiro e 28% menor (RI = 0,72 [IC95% = 0,65, 0,79]) no segundo ano da pandemia de COVID-19. Por fim, observou-se que 82,2% das circunstâncias foram tentativas de suicídio, 89,4% foram exposições do tipo aguda-única e a maioria (91,1%) evoluíram para cura sem sequelas. Conclusão: foi possível concluir que as intoxicações exógenas por raticidas persistem como um problema de Saúde Pública no Brasil.
Διερεύνηση της κατανόησης εννοιών της κινηματικής/δυναμικής από άτομα με αναπηρία όρασης μέσω της έρευνας δράσης
Authors: Μαλεζά Όλγα
Published: April 2024

Οι Φυσικές Επιστήμες (ΦΕ) και συγκεκριμένα η φυσική αποτελεί ένα οργανωμένο σύστημα με βάση το οποίο οι μαθητές/τριες αποκτούν νέα γνώση για τη φύση και τον κόσμο. Η γνώση αυτή προέρχεται από την εφαρμογή συγκεκριμένων διαδικασιών που συγκροτούν τη λεγόμενη επιστημονική μέθοδο και με τη συνεχή έρευνα διαμορφώνουν ένα υπάρχων σώμα γνώσης για τον κόσμο μέσα από την ερευνητική προσπάθεια, η οποία ακολουθεί τις ερευνητικές διαδικασίες συνεχώς εμπλουτίζεται και υφίσταται τις απαραίτητες τροποποιήσεις ώστε να παρέχει πλαίσιο περιγραφής και ερμηνείας των φυσικών φαινομένων (Σταυρίδου, 2011;Papazafiri & Argyropoulos, 2018). Στην περίπτωση των μαθητών/τριών με ειδικές ανάγκες και ειδικότερα μαθητών/τριών με Αναπηρία Όρασης (ΑΟ) μέσα από μια πληθώρα ερευνών (Hofstein & Lunetta, 2004∙ Καράογλου και συν., 2010∙ Κώτσης, 2005∙ Ναούμ & Σταυρίδου, 2010∙ Πανταζή & Τσαπαρλής, 2011∙ Stavroussi et al., 2011∙ Papadopoulos, 2004∙ Σέρογλου & Κουμαράς, 2001∙ Τσιναρέλης, 2005 κ.α), έχει φανεί ότι υπάρχουν πολλές εννοιολογικές παρανοήσεις στις έννοιες της φυσικής και συγκεκριμένα στην κινηματική -δυναμική. Σκοπός της παρούσας έρευνας είναι να διερευνηθεί η κατανόηση των εννοιών της κινηματικής και δυναμικής από μαθητές/τριες Λυκείου και Φοιτητές/τριες με ολική αναπηρία όρασης (ΑΟ) και να μελετηθεί η διαδικασία της κατανόησης των εννοιών αυτών μέσα από την αξιοποίηση της ιστορίας της φυσικής. Για τη συλλογή των ερευνητικών δεδομένων επιλέχθηκε η ποιοτική και η ποσοτική μέθοδος. Ως βασικά μεθοδολογικά εργαλεία επιλέχθηκε η Έρευνα Δράσης για την εμπειρική έρευνα. Στην Έρευνα Δράσης πήραν μέρος 35 άτομα (11 μαθητές/τριες και 24 φοιτητές/τριες με ΑΟ).Από την έρευνα προέκυψε ότι η αδυναμία των μαθητών/τριών και φοιτητών με ΑΟ να κατανοούν έννοιες της φυσικής, έρχεται να καλυφθεί από τη διδασκαλία της φυσικής μέσα από την ιστορία της και τα πειράματα. Κάτι τέτοιο μπορεί να βοηθήσει τους μαθητές/τριες με ΑΟ και στο μαθησιακό κομμάτι, με την καλύτερη κατανόηση των εννοιών της φυσικής αλλά και στο κομμάτι της αυτοεκτίμησής τους. Η ιστορία της φυσικής βοηθά μαθητές/τριες και φοιτητές/τριες με ΑΟ να κατανοήσουν και να ερμηνεύσουν φυσικά φαινόμενα που σχετίζονται με τη δυναμική/κινηματική αλλά και να τροποποιήσουν και να αντικαταστήσουν τις αρχικές εναλλακτικές ιδέες που μπορεί να έχουν με έννοιες επιστημονικά αποδεκτές, διαδικασία που χαρακτηρίζεται ως εννοιολογική αλλαγή. Για να υπάρξει όμως ο μετασχηματισμός αυτός χρειάζονται αρκετές επαναλήψεις των πειραμάτων και η βιωματική εμπλοκή των μαθητών/τριών και φοιτητών με ΑΟ.
Pregnane X receptor and primary biliary cirrhosis
Authors: Κωνσταντίνου Δημήτριος
Published: April 2024

Μία από τις σημαντικότερες χρόνιες παθήσεις του ήπατος, μαζί με την αυτοάνοση ηπατίτιδα και την πρωτοπαθή σκληρυντική χολαγγειίτιδα είναι η πρωτοπαθής χολική κίρρωση. Αυτή η ασθένεια χαρακτηρίζεται από βλάβη ή απώλεια των επιθηλιακών κυττάρων των χοληφόρων που επενδύουν τους μικρούς ενδοηπατικούς χοληφόρους πόρους οδηγώντας τελικά σε κίρρωση του ήπατος. Σκοπός αυτής της μελέτης ήταν να διερευνηθεί ο ρόλος του υποδοχέα pregnane-X στην πρωτοπαθή χολική κίρρωση. Λαμβάνοντας υπόψη ότι αυτή η βλάβη των επιθηλιακών κυττάρων των χοληφόρων είναι υπεύθυνη για την κατακράτηση των τοξικών χολικών οξέων εντός του ήπατος και το γεγονός ότι αυτός ο υποδοχέας μπορεί να προάγει τη μείωση των επιπέδων χολικού οξέος ρυθμίζοντας τα επίπεδα έκφρασης των ενζύμων του κυτοχρώματος P-450, αυτός ο υποδοχέας αποτελεί σημαντικό παράγοντα στη διερεύνηση της πρωτοπαθούς χολικής κίρρωσης. Αυτή η διατριβή έδειξε ότι σε ποντίκια ένας συστατικός ενεργοποιητής υποδοχέα ανδροστάνης, όπως η μετυραπόνη, μπορεί να προκαλέσει έκφραση του CYP3A μόνο όταν ο υποδοχέας pregnane-X είναι ελαττωματικός. Επιπλέον, τα πειράματά μας έδειξαν ότι το pregnenolone-16-carbonitrile δεν επηρεάζει την ηπατοτοξικότητα του τετραχλωράνθρακα σε ένα οξύ μοντέλο, αλλά αυτή η χημική ουσία επηρεάζει το επίπεδο ηπατοτοξικότητας του τετραχλωράνθρακα σε ένα χρόνιο μοντέλο και εξαρτάται από τον υποδοχέα pregnane-X. Επιπλέον, κατά τη διάρκεια αυτού του έργου, προέκυψε μια νέα σειρά στελεχών ποντικού, με διασταύρωση SJL/J και C57BL6-PXR--/-, και ελέγχθηκε για την ανάπτυξη πρωτοπαθούς νόσου που μοιάζει με χολική κίρρωση, όπως η χολαγγειοπάθεια. Τα αποτελέσματά μας έδειξαν ότι μετά τη θεραπεία των ποντικών SJL/J- PXR-/- και SJL/J- PXR+/+ με το πεπτίδιο p163, το επίπεδο της περιπυλαίας φλεγμονής επηρεάζεται εξίσου μεταξύ ποντικών νοκ-άουτ και άγριου τύπου. Επιπλέον, αυτή η διατριβή έδειξε ότι υπάρχει σύνδεση μεταξύ των πολυμορφισμών ενός νουκλεοτιδίου του υποδοχέα πρεγνάνης-Χ και των επιπέδων λιποπρωτεϊνών στους άνδρες. Ειδικότερα, οι πολυμορφισμοί PXR3 και PXR8 έδειξαν την ισχυρότερη συσχέτιση με το λιπιδικό προφίλ, επειδή οι περισσότερες από τις μεταβλητές λιποπρωτεΐνης είχαν τιμή σημαντικότητας μικρότερη από την κρίσιμη τιμή 0,05. Τέλος, τα αποτελέσματά μας έδειξαν ότι τρεις από τους πολυμορφισμούς του ανθρώπινου γονιδίου του υποδοχέα pregnane-X δεν φαίνεται να σχετίζονται με τον κίνδυνο πρωτοπαθούς χολικής κίρρωσης
Artificial Intelligence Model Chatgpt-4: Entrepreneur Candidate and Entrepreneurship Example
Authors: SAYGIN Muhammet , BEKMEZCİ Mustafa , DİNÇER Evren
Published: April 2024

Background Although artificial intelligence technologies are still in their infancy, it is seen that they can bring together both hope and anxiety for the future. In the research, it is focused on examining the ChatGPT-4 version, which is one of the most well-known artificial intelligence applications and claimed to have self-learning feature, within the scope of business establishment processes. Methods In this direction, the assessment questions in the Entrepreneurship Handbook, published as open access by the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Organization of Turkey, which focuses on guiding the entrepreneurial processes in Turkey and creating the perception of entrepreneurship, were combined with the artificial intelligence model ChatGPT-4 and analysed within three stages. The way of solving the questions of artificial intelligence modelling and the answers it provides have the opportunity to be compared with the entrepreneurship literature. Results It has been seen that the artificial intelligence modelling ChatGPT-4, being an outstanding entrepreneurship example itself, has succeeded in answering the questions posed in the context of 16 modules in the entrepreneurship handbook in an original way by analysing deeply. Conclusion It has also been concluded that it is quite creative in developing new alternatives to the correct answers specified in the entrepreneurship handbook. The original aspect of the research is that it is one of the pioneers of the study on artificial intelligence and entrepreneurship in literature.
Case Report: Post-operative mitral valve replacement complicating with a large cardiac mass and role of TEE in decision making
Authors: Pai D Narasimha , Nayak Chaithra , Kamath Padmanabh , Pasha Syed Waleem , Noronha Deepa
Published: April 2024

Background Postoperative complications are an integral part of valve surgery. Common complications include hematomas, bleeding, valve dehiscence, paravalvular leak, and acute PV thrombosis. With the available data from published articles, the rate of all valve-related complications is 0.7 to 3.5% per patient annually. [1] The pathology involved is multifactorial, often blood vessel injury leading to bleeding and hematoma. Although postoperative complications are evident, incidental diagnosis of a cardiac mass in an asymptomatic and hemodynamically stable patient postoperatively is crucial, requiring non-invasive imaging for immediate surgical action. Case presentation A woman in her 50s presented with chief complaints of worsening dyspnoea with suddenonset and chest pain. Clinical findings showed apex shifted downward and outward, wide split S2, and a mid systolic murmur radiating to the mid axillary line. Twelve-lead ECG showed LA enlargement, that aligned with X-ray findings. 2D Echocardiography revealed MVP with severe MR and a dilated LV. The patient underwent successful mitral valve replacement as per ACC/AHA class I recommendation. However, postoperative TTE showed a remarkably large mass measuring 5.6 cm*4.6 cm in the RA. Reexploration was performed, followed by mass excision. Plenty of organized clots were seen compressing the RA. TEE showed no evidence of mass. Following stabilization,the patient was discharged considering optimal INR values and prosthetic valve function assessed by echocardiography. The patient’s symptoms improved during the first follow-up. Conclusion Although postoperative cardiac complications are common, appropriate diagnosis with TTE and TEE has benefited surgeons. TEE-guided reexploration aids surgeons in decision-making and strategic approaches. Failure to diagnose such complications in asymptomatic patients can ultimately complicate the procedure. Henceforth, sonographers must be skilled in the detection and identification of unusual complications to guide redo interventions. Such an approach minimizes mortality, redo procedures, and avoids CPB hence reducing long-term prognosis and outcomes with valve replacement.
Comprehensive Review of Mastocytosis From Pathophysiology to Management Strategies
Authors: Marchaj Magdalena , Basiaga Bartosz , Żądecka-Kobiałka Klaudia , Putra Anna , Bednarz Karolina , Nowicka-Jasińska Monika , Frączyk Paweł , Bieniek-Zając Sara , Baczkowski Sebastian , Krawiec Klaudia
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Mastocytosis is a rare hematologic neoplasm characterized by the abnormal proliferation and accumulation of mast cells in various tissues. Its clinical manifestations vary widely, ranging from cutaneous lesions to systemic involvement with potentially life-threatening symptoms. Understanding the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of mastocytosis is crucial for improving patient outcomes. 

 

Aim of the Study: The aim of this study was to provide a comprehensive overview of mastocytosis, including its epidemiology, risk factors, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and management strategies. By synthesizing current knowledge on mastocytosis, this study aims to enhance understanding of the disease and guide clinical practice. 

 

Description of the State of Knowledge: Mastocytosis is classified into cutaneous and systemic forms, with various subtypes based on clinical and histopathological features. Diagnosis relies on a combination of clinical suspicion, serum tryptase levels, histological examination of bone marrow biopsies, and genetic testing. Management strategies include symptomatic treatment, avoidance of triggers, and targeted therapies such as monoclonal antibodies and tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Advanced forms may require cytoreductive therapy or allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (alloHSCT). 

 

Conclusions: Despite advancements in diagnosis and treatment, achieving lasting remission in mastocytosis remains challenging, especially in advanced cases. Further research into the molecular mechanisms underlying the disease and the development of novel therapeutic modalities are needed to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
Los MOOC, una herramienta de apoyo a las clases en acceso remoto
Authors: Rivera Rodríguez Hugo Alberto
Published: April 2024

En 2008, fue desarrollado el primer curso en línea masivo y abierto (MOOC), con la finalidad de facilitar la difusión masiva del conocimiento y de romper los límites de la presencialidad. A partir de entonces, esta alternativa de enseñanza hace parte de las principales instituciones de educación en el mundo, con diversidad de temáticas y millones de estudiantes que acceden a estos cursos. Con la llegada de la covid-19, las instituciones de educación ajustaron la manera como se daba la interacción entre estudiantes y profesores. Este capítulo describe la experiencia obtenida con el desarrollo y utilización del MOOC, Estrategias de Transformación ante la Crisis Empresarial, que sirve como herramienta que facilita la formación en la temática de estrategia empresarial en estudiantes de pregrado y posgrado que acceden a la clase en acceso remoto.
COIL UR: un abecé para la internacionalización curricular de las aulas de administración y negocios
Authors: Martínez Pérez Fray Martín , Méndez-Romero Rafael Alberto
Published: April 2024

El collaborative online international learning (COIL) es una metodología innovadora de enseñanza y aprendizaje que aprovecha las tecnologías para ofrecer conocimientos globales y experiencias interculturales en el aula y que involucra el trabajo conjunto con dos o más instituciones en otros países. Es un ejercicio que crea un puente de formación y colaboración intercultural, tanto para estudiantes como para profesores en el que, al mismo tiempo en que se comparten perspectivas disciplinares diversas, se refuerzan las competencias de ciudadanía global y de interculturalidad. La Universidad del Rosario concibe este tipo de intercambios como una práctica cuyo propósito es la comunicación e interacción constructiva entre individuos o grupos que, si bien están separados geográficamente y pertenecen a diferentes orígenes culturales, cuentan con intereses comunes de formación y reciben el apoyo de educadores. Así, aprovechar el escenario de intercambio de ideas resulta más enriquecedor que una sesión de clases regular; de ahí que sea muy valioso tener en cuenta que la comunicación, como protagonista en estas sesiones de trabajo colaborativo, requiere paciencia y habilidades interculturales, y de ahí que sea necesario involucrar a los estudiantes en una participación activa tanto como sea posible.
El análisis de caso como estrategia de aprendizaje en los proyectos de tipo aprendizaje internacional colaborativo en línea (COIL): caso Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara-Universidad del Rosario
Authors: Amado Mateus Marelby
Published: April 2024

El trabajo con los estudiantes, tanto en el aula de clase presencial o por acceso remoto, presenta desafíos en términos de las metodologías de enseñanza-aprendizaje, ya que hoy más que nunca se requieren estrategias pedagógicas que los motiven, que los hagan trabajar activamente en pro de un objetivo y que promuevan la competitividad y el reconocimiento en sus propuestas. Dichas estrategias deben brindar espacios de experiencias únicas y de valor para el estudiante que lo ayuden a mejorar su pensamiento crítico, así como sus habilidades de gestión y de análisis, en diferentes espacios que acerquen al estudiante al sector real y permitan intercambios culturales. Con este objetivo en mente, se llevó a cabo una estrategia de aprendizaje llamada collaborative online international learning (COIL), en conjunto con la Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara (México) y la Universidad del Rosario (Colombia), donde los estudiantes de ambas universidades, reunidos en grupos de trabajo, analizaban un caso empresarial y generaban soluciones para responder a los desafíos propuestos. El propósito de este capítulo es mostrar el proceso que se llevó a cabo mediante la implementación de dos estrategias: COIL y análisis de caso.
Commentary on “Frontiers: Breaking the Glass Ceiling: Empowering Female Entrepreneurs Through Female Mentors”
Authors: Zhang Ting
Published: April 2024

Mentoring is vital to developing talent. A critical puzzle in designing mentorship programs involves how mentors are matched to mentees: Would mentees benefit more from mentors with a similar or different demographic background? The article [Germann F, Andersen S, Chintagunta P, Vilcassim N (2024) Frontiers: Breaking the glass ceiling: Empowering female entrepreneurs through female mentors. Marketing Sci., 43(2):239–468] highlights that women entrepreneurs benefit more from having women as mentors relative to men as mentors. In this commentary, I highlight how the implications of this paper depend in part on our understanding of the potential mechanisms underlying the benefits of same-gender mentoring relationships for women. I posit that these benefits stem from differences not only in mentors’ provision of psychosocial support but also in their coaching and sponsorship behaviors. By considering these different mechanisms, I propose an alternative implication that involves training mentors to engage in more appropriate coaching and sponsorship behaviors. Thus, I expand the implications of this article from mentor matching to mentor training. I propose that, by learning how effective mentors coach and sponsor women, mentors in cross-gender relationships can be better equipped to help their mentees.

History: Catherine Tucker served as the senior editor for this article.
A case of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis due to pulmonary infarction, mimicking cryptogenic organising pneumonia
Authors: Yanoma Saki , Ugajin Motoi , Kani Hiasanori
Published: April 2024

A patient initially treated with corticosteroids for cryptogenic organising pneumonia following pulmonary infarction, developed a worsening condition with progressive cavitary formations in both lower lung lobes. Contrast-enhanced chest computed tomography revealed a pulmonary embolism, and serum anti-Aspergillus IgG antibody analysis yielded a strong positive result. Consequently, the patient was diagnosed with pulmonary infarction with Aspergillus infection; organising pneumonia in surrounding areas reflected the repair process. Following treatment with anticoagulants and antifungal agents, the patient was successfully discharged. Hence, pulmonary infarction should be considered in cases of refractory lung lesions.
Recurrent infective endocarditis of the mitral valve after orthotopic heart transplantation
Authors: Snopek Peter , Hasilla Jozef , Patrovič Lukáš , Juskanič Dominik , Benko Jakub , Péč Martin Jozef , Samoš Matej
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Orthotopic heart transplantation is the gold standard for the treatment of advanced heart failure in the absence of contraindications. Infective endocarditis is a rare complication in patients after heart transplantation. The treatment of endocarditis after heart transplantation is challenging since there is a need for ongoing immunosuppression. Case description: We present the case of a 51-year-old orthotopic heart transplant recipient enrolled in a chronic dialysis program, in whom we diagnosed and successfully treated recurrent infective endocarditis of the mitral valve caused by Enterococcus and Enterobacter species. Despite the complicated course of the disease, the treatment was successful. Conclusions: Recurrent infective endocarditis after heart transplantation can be treated successfully with a multidisciplinary approach and robust antimicrobial therapy.
A Comparative Study of Gifted Music Programs in Malaysia: The Impact on Tertiary Music Education and Talent Development
Authors:   Nikolay Demerdzhiev, Faculty of Academy of Music, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Demerdzhiev Nikolay
Published: April 2024

This article uses data generated from interviews with three music education practitioners in Malaysia to compare two music education institutions: the Muzik Permata Seni and the Sekolah Seni Malaysia. In so doing, it aims to evaluate the impact of these programs on tertiary music education within Malaysia. Grounded Theory was employed to develop a preliminary theory based on previous research conducted on gifted music students at Sultan Idris Education University in Perak, Malaysia. By employing a similar case sampling approach, this project extends the theory’s transferability to other locations in Malaysia. This article focuses on both understanding the environment in which young musicians in Malaysia grow and identifying factors crucial for their talent development. Additionally, it explores the professional developmental paths available to young musicians in the country. The findings contribute to the ongoing discourse on nurturing musical talent and can serve as a valuable resource for stakeholders seeking to improve the standards of music education in Malaysia.
CINEMA BRASILEIRO, POLÍTICA E CIRCUITOS COMUNICACIONAIS: uma análise midiática de Bacurau, Marighella e Medida Provisória
Authors: Barba Marcela , Rios Fernanda , Vaz Aline
Published: April 2024

O presente estudo objetiva analisar de que forma os filmes Bacurau, Marighella e Medida Provisória foram noticiados pela imprensa, transbordando da tela do cinema para circuitos comunicacionais. Com base na análise de conteúdo e um corpus de 485 notícias, atentamos às variáveis entrevista, divulgação, participação em festivais/premiações, elenco e questões políticas. Como resultado, observamos destaques à divulgação, bem como um crescimento de associações políticas à medida em que o governo Bolsonaro findava. Sintoma da adversidade de produzir e veicular arte em meio a uma gestão hostil à produção cultural.
Graphene-integrated microring cavity for electronically controlled molecular fingerprinting
Authors: Du Dazhi , Zhang Qing , Zhang Zhihong
Published: April 2024

Microring cavities supporting whispering-gallery modes (WGMs) have an exceptionally high quality factor (Q) and a small mode volume, greatly improving the interaction between light and matter, which has attracted great attention in various microscale/nanoscale photonic devices and potential applications. Recently, two-dimensional van der Waals (vdW) materials such as graphene have emerged as a potential platform for next-generation biosensing by enabling the confinement of light fields at the nanoscale. Here, we propose what we believe to be a novel approach to achieve molecular fingerprint retrieval by integrating graphene into a microring cavity and conducting numerical simulations using the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method. The hybrid cavity exhibits high-quality WGMs with a high Q factor of up to 800. Moreover, the resonant wavelength can be electronically controlled through modulation of graphene’s Fermi level, enabling coverage of the entire free spectral range at infrared frequencies. By depositing a thin layer of biomolecular material (e.g., CBP) onto the surface of our hybrid cavity, we are able to accurately read out the absorption spectrum at multiple spectral points, thereby achieving broadband fingerprint retrieval for the targeted biomolecule. Our results pave the way for highly sensitive, chip-integrated, miniaturized, and electrically modulated infrared spectroscopy biosensing.
Efficient fiber coupling system for simultaneous beam shaping and wavelength combining based on misaligned stepped prism multiplexing
Authors: Liu Chang , Xue Lirui , Yan Ziyi , Qian Qinyu , Chen Haitao , Cheng Liwen
Published: April 2024

Due to the substantial contrast in the output beam quality between the two directions
of the semiconductor laser, efficiently coupling the beam directly
into the fiber is difficult. In this study, an efficient shaping
method based on step multiplexing of misaligned step prisms is
proposed and investigated systematically. First, multiple laser stacks
eliminate dark areas to improve the beam quality through the full
utilization of the transmission and reflection surfaces of the
misaligned stepped prisms, which also improves the efficiency of the
stepped prisms. It also simultaneously realizes laser wavelength
combining based on reflective surface multiplexing without affecting
the quality of the beam on the premise of improving the output power.
Finally, the whole beam shaping system is completed without using
cut-transform-rearranging prisms. The method couples four groups of
laser stacks into a single fiber with a fiber diameter of
400 µm and a numerical aperture of 0.22. It can be seen from
the computer-simulated model outputs that the final fiber output power
can reach 2255.4 W and that the system as a whole has a
light-to-light translation rate of 88.1%.
MEMO: dataset and methods for robust multimodal retinal image registration with large or small vessel density differences
Authors: Wang Chiao-Yi , Sadrieh Faranguisse Kakhi , Shen Yi-Ting , Chen Shih-En , Kim Sarah , Chen Victoria , Raghavendra Achyut , Wang Dongyi , Saeedi Osamah , Tao Yang
Published: April 2024

The measurement of retinal blood flow (RBF) in capillaries can provide a powerful biomarker for the early diagnosis and treatment of ocular diseases. However, no single modality can determine capillary flowrates with high precision. Combining erythrocyte-mediated angiography (EMA) with optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) has the potential to achieve this goal, as EMA can measure the absolute RBF of retinal microvasculature and OCTA can provide the structural images of capillaries. However, multimodal retinal image registration between these two modalities remains largely unexplored. To fill this gap, we establish MEMO, the first public multimodal EMA and OCTA retinal image dataset. A unique challenge in multimodal retinal image registration between these modalities is the relatively large difference in vessel density (VD). To address this challenge, we propose a segmentation-based deep-learning framework (VDD-Reg), which provides robust results despite differences in vessel density. VDD-Reg consists of a vessel segmentation module and a registration module. To train the vessel segmentation module, we further designed a two-stage semi-supervised learning framework (LVD-Seg) combining supervised and unsupervised losses. We demonstrate that VDD-Reg outperforms existing methods quantitatively and qualitatively for cases of both small VD differences (using the CF-FA dataset) and large VD differences (using our MEMO dataset). Moreover, VDD-Reg requires as few as three annotated vessel segmentation masks to maintain its accuracy, demonstrating its feasibility.
Fiber optic-based integrated system for in vivo multiscale pharmacokinetic monitoring
Authors: Li Yiran , Yang Yamin , Li Weitao , Chen Chaofan , Lin Qiao , Huang Haipeng , Gu Yueqing , Jin Xiaofei , Qian Zhiyu
Published: April 2024

This paper presents the development of a fiber-optic-based fluorescence detection system for multi-scale monitoring of drug distribution in living animals. The integrated system utilized dual laser sources at the wavelengths of 488 nm and 650 nm and three photomultiplier channels for multi-color fluorescence detection. The emission spectra of fluorescent substances were tracked using the time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy module to continuously monitor their blood kinetics. The fiber bundle, consisting of 30,000 optic filaments, was designed for wide-field mesoscopic imaging of the drug’s interactions within organs. The inclusion of a gradient refractive index (GRIN) lens within the setup enabled fluorescence confocal laser scanning microscopy to visualize the drug distribution at the cellular level. The system performance was verified by imaging hepatic and renal tissues in mice using cadmium telluride quantum dots (CdTe QDs) and R3. By acquiring multi-level images and real-time data, our integrated system underscores its potential as a potent tool for drug assessment, specifically within the realms of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic investigations.
Ptychographic lensless coherent endomicroscopy through a flexible fiber bundle
Authors: Weinberg Gil , Kang Munkyu , Choi Wonjun , Choi Wonshik , Katz Ori
Published: April 2024

Conventional fiber-bundle-based endoscopes allow minimally invasive imaging through flexible multi-core fiber (MCF) bundles by placing a miniature lens at the distal tip and using each core as an imaging pixel. In recent years, lensless imaging through MCFs was made possible by correcting the core-to-core phase distortions pre-measured in a calibration procedure. However, temporally varying wavefront distortions, for instance, due to dynamic fiber bending, pose a challenge for such approaches. Here, we demonstrate a coherent lensless imaging technique based on intensity-only measurements insensitive to core-to-core phase distortions. We leverage a ptychographic reconstruction algorithm to retrieve the phase and amplitude profiles of reflective objects placed at a distance from the fiber tip, using as input a set of diffracted intensity patterns reflected from the object when the illumination is scanned over the MCF cores. Our approach thus utilizes an acquisition process equivalent to confocal microendoscopy, only replacing the single detector with a camera.
Spectral recovery of broadband waveforms via cross-phase modulation based tunable Talbot amplifier
Authors: Li Zijian , Xie Qijie , Zhang Yuanfei , Zhang Honghui , Shu Chester
Published: April 2024

Physical processes in the Fourier domain play a crucial role in various applications such as spectroscopy, quantum technology, ranging, radio-astronomy, and telecommunications. However, the presence of stochastic noise poses a significant challenge in the detection of broadband spectral waveforms, especially those with limited power. In this study, we propose and experimentally demonstrate a cross-phase modulation (XPM) based spectral Talbot amplifier to recover the broadband spectral waveforms in high fidelity. Through the combination of spectral phase filtering and XPM nonlinear effect in an all-fiber configuration, we demonstrate spectral purification of THz-bandwidth spectral waveforms submerged in strong noise. The proposed spectral Talbot amplifier provides tunable amplification factors from 3 to 10, achieved by flexible control on the temporal waveform of the pump and the net dispersion. We demonstrate up to 10-dB remarkable improvement on optical signal-to-noise ratio (OSNR) while preserving the spectral envelope. Furthermore, our system allows frequency-selective reconstruction of noisy input spectra, introducing a new level of flexibility for spectral recovery and information extraction. We also evaluate numerically the impact of pump intensity deviation on the reconstructed spectral waveforms. Our all-optical approach presents a powerful means for effective recovery of broadband spectral waveforms, enabling information extraction from a noise-buried background.
Femtosecond laser direct writing large-area fiber Bragg grating based on diaphragm shaping
Authors: Gao Chenhui , Zhao Rong , Wu Baiyi , Li Hao , Ye Xinyu , Wang Meng , Xu Xiaojun , Wang Zefeng
Published: April 2024

We propose and demonstrate a new method of direct writing large-area fiber Bragg grating by femtosecond laser through the coating. By adding an adjustable diaphragm before the focusing objective, we can precisely control the length of the refractive index modulation line along the femtosecond laser incident direction up to 29.1 µm. In combination with femtosecond laser scanning fabrication technology, a uniform refractive index modulation plane can be inscribed in the fiber in a single scanning. Based on the plane-by-plane inscription method, we have fabricated a high-quality high-reflectivity fiber Bragg grating and a chirped fiber Bragg grating on 20/400 double-clad fiber core. The reflectivity of both gratings is greater than 99%, and the insertion loss is as low as 0.165 dB and 0.162 dB, respectively. The thermal slope of chirped fiber Bragg grating without any refrigeration is 0.088 °C/W and there is no obvious temperature increase when using the water cooling. Therefore, the fabrication method of large-area fiber Bragg grating based on diaphragm shaping can efficiently fabricate high-quality fiber Bragg grating in the large core diameter fiber, which has an important application prospect in high-power all-fiber oscillators, especially all-fiber oscillators in special wavebands.
Topological oscillated edge states in trimer lattices
Authors: Jiang Tao , Zhang Jin , Xin Guoguo , Dang Yu , Xiang Anli , Qi Xinyuan , Zhang Wenjing , Yang Zhanying
Published: April 2024

We investigate a 1D trimer optical lattice model. Two kinds of topological oscillating optical transmission phenomena at edges are shown. The exact and the approximate solutions of the system’s edge states are obtained with and without the inversion symmetry for this system respectively. Based on the solutions, the existence and the periods of the oscillations can be controlled arbitrarily. Moreover, in a system without inversion symmetry, controlling the incident beam can eliminate both types of oscillations, resulting in a more stable edge state compared to the one with inversion symmetry. This prompts us to reconsider topological systems under symmetry protection.