bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of effective doses to whole-bodies and hands of facilitating staff from radioiodine-131 ablation therapy patients
Authors: Al-Esaei Abdulrahman Mofreh , Saleh Emran Eisa , El Maghraby Sharief , Elsayed Tamer Mahmoud , Kany Amr Mohamed Ismail
Published: March 2024

Background

Workers in the field of radiation therapy are exposed to radiation hazards, and it is necessary to take precautions to limit the radiation dose to nursing staff and physicists.

Objective

To evaluate the external dose rate (EDR), effective whole-body dose (EHD) and hand equivalent dose (HED) for facilitating staff from radioiodine-131 (RAI-131) ablation therapy patients.

Methods

One hundred and eighty patients were selected from two radiotherapy centers in Cairo, Egypt in this study and divided into three groups, Group-A, Group-B and Group-C according to administered activities of (RAI-131) of 3700 MBq, 4440 MBq and 5550 MBq for ablation therapy patients respectively. The EDR, EHD and HED were measured using electronic dosimeters.

Results

The average EDR were 79.1 ± 12.1, 22.7 ± 8.5, 7.0 ± 4.0, 2.9 ± 1.3 and 1.9 ± .9.0 μSv h−1 for group-A, and about 87.8 ± 14.0, 25.6 ± 9.0, 8.1 ± 5.0, 3.4 ± 2.0 and 2.4 ± 1.0 μSv h−1 for group-B and were 93.5 ± 17.0, 31.6 ± 11.0, 10.1 ± 7.0, 4.7 ± 3.0 and 3.4 ± 1.5 μSv h−1 for group-C at 2 h, second, third, fourth and fifth days, respectively after administration of RAI-131. The average annual effective doses were 2.76 ± 0.09 and 1.55 ± 0.05 mSv at center 1, and were about 2.96 ± 0.09 and 1.71 ± 0.06 mSv at center 2 for physicists and nurses, respectively.

Conclusion

The EDR as well as the EHD and the HED received by radiation therapy workers up to the fifth day of administered activity RAI-131 were within the limits of values recommended by the International Commission on Radiation Protection (ICRP).
In vivo regeneration efficiency of enset (
Ensete ventricosum
(Welw.) Cheesman) as affected by age of parent plant and corm proportion
Authors: Bora Fikadu , Haile Bewuketu
Published: March 2024

In cultivation,
E. ventricosum
is propagated clonally with adventitious buds sprouting from callus formed on the cut surfaces of the corm. The present study was conducted to enhance the efficiency of this indigenous enset propagation technique by identifying the optimum age of parent plants and corm types for maximum shoot production. This study was conducted using corms in the range of 12–18, 20–28, 29–38, and 40–50 cm diameter, corresponding to four age classes (1, 2, 3 & 4 years old) and three corm treatments (whole, half and quarter) were arranged in 3 × 4 factorial combination and layout in randomized complete block design with three replications. The statistical program SAS Version 9.3 was used to examine the data. The result of the study showed that all of the parameters considered were significantly affected by the treatments or their interaction effects. The number of shoots produced per corm was significantly (p < 0.01) affected by the interaction of the age of the parent plant and corm treatment. The average number of shoots produced per corm was between 43 and 443 shoots per com. The highest shoot numbers (443 shoots per corm) were recorded on the 3-year plant using quarter corm; whereas the lowest number of shoots (43 shoots per corm) was obtained from whole corms of the 1-year plant. In general, the results of the study showed that the use of quartered corms of 3-year-old parent plants appears to be the efficient technique to regenerate enset in vivo.
Intercropping and environmental seasonality modulate the physiology and growth of
Hancornia speciosa
(Gomes)
Authors: Alves Estenio Moreira , Silva Fabiano Guimarães , Avila Roniel Geraldo , Lourenço Lucas Loram , de Oliveira Thales Caetano , Custódio Aldo Max , Rosa Márcio , Pennacchi João Paulo , do Prado Paim Tiago
Published: March 2024

Background

The recovery process of degraded areas with the implantation of orchards of native species is still little known. Thus, we intend to evaluate the physiological performance of
Hancornia speciosa
during different seasons of the year, cultivated in full sun and in intercropping for recovery of degraded areas.

Methods

Intercropping with
Syagrus oleracea
(double intercropping); with annual crops (double intercropping); and with
S. oleracea
and annual crops (triple intercropping) were completed over two years at the beginning of each season. Crops (experimental plots) were planted using a Nelder wheel design.

Results

Over the two years,
H. speciosa
was observed to experience seasonal regulatory changes, some of which were mitigated by the intercropping. The cultivation arrangement influenced the physiology and consequently the growth of
H. speciosa
.

Conclusions

It is concluded that the double intercropping benefits the growth of
H. speciosa
during the formation of the orchard, and the triple intercropping does not affect growth in relation to full sun. It is recommended the implantation of orchards of
H. speciosa
in recovery areas through intercropping.
Preparation and interaction mechanism analysis of single-chain fragment variables against phenylethanolamine A
Authors: Li Long , Hou Ren , Li Huaming , Han Shiyun , Liang Jixiang , Si Yu , Peng Dapeng
Published: March 2024

This is the first report on the screening, expression, and recognition mechanism analysis of single-chain fragment variable (scFv) against phenylethanolamine A (PEAA), a newly emerged β-adrenergic agonist illegally used as a feed additive for growth promotion. The PEAA-specific scFv scFv, called scFv-32, was screened from hybridoma cell lines by phage display and was found to be optimally expressed in the E. coli system. The ic-ELISA results revealed an IC50 value of 10.34 μg/L for scFv-32 and no cross-reactivity with other β-adrenergic agonists. Homology modeling and molecular docking revealed the key binding sites VAL178, TYP228, and ASP229. One hydrogen bond, two pi-sigma bonds, and one pi-pi bond maintain the formation of the antibody‒drug complex. Alanine scanning mutagenesis of the three predicted key binding sites showed that the mutants completely lost their recognition activity, which confirmed the accuracy of the theoretical analysis. These results are valuable for the preparation of scFvs and the analysis of the molecular recognition mechanism of antigen-antibodies.

Graphical abstract
Development of a lateral flow immunochromatography assay for the detection of fluoroacetamide in blood samples
Authors: Li Qiang , Yang Ling , Duan Changfei , Wang Xiaonan , Yu Xuezhi
Published: March 2024

Fluoroacetamide (FAM) has been employed as a rodenticide for an extended duration, leading to a multitude of incidents involving human ingestion poisoning. Currently, FAMs have been prohibited by nations globally; however, there are still instances of their illegal usage. Conventional instrument methods are characterized by their time-consuming nature and complex operational procedures, rendering them inadequate for meeting urgent diagnostic needs in patients with acute FAM poisoning. Therefore, there is an immediate need to develop a prompt, user-friendly, and precise immunoassay method for the diagnosis of acute poisoning induced by FAM. A lateral flow immunochromatography assay (LFIA) was developed in this study for the visual detection of FAMs in blood samples, representing the first report of such an approach. The method exhibited a cut-off value of 0.5 mg/mL under the optimized conditions, enabling the entire FAM detection process in blood samples to be completed within a mere 8 min without any pretreatment requirements. Notably, the results were easily discernible by visual inspection alone. These results indicate that the developed LFIA holds great promise as a convenient and rapid diagnostic tool for FAM poisoning diagnosis, thereby offering valuable support for subsequent treatment strategies.
Curriculum development in Liberia's first postgraduate psychiatry training programme
Authors: Owusu Micaela B. , Ogundare Temitope , Ghebrehiwet Senait , Sharma Malveeka , Henderson Miles C. , Durham Michelle P. , Borba Christina P. C. , Ojediran Babawale , Henderson David C. , Harris Benjamin L.
Published: March 2024

This paper describes the implementation of curricula for Liberia's first-ever psychiatry training programme in 2019 and the actions of the only two Liberian psychiatrists in the country at the time in developing and executing a first-year postgraduate psychiatry training programme (i.e. residency) with support from international collaborators. It explores cultural differences in training models among collaborators and strategies to synergise them best. It highlights the assessment of trainees’ (residents’) basic knowledge on entry into the programme and how it guided immediate and short-term priority teaching objectives, including integrated training in neuroscience and neurology. The paper describes the strengths and challenges of this approach as well as opportunities for continued growth.
New Reference Values for Thyroid Volume by Ultrasound in German Children and Adolescents From a Population-Based Study
Authors: Hirtz Raphael , Thamm Roma , Kuhnert Ronny , Liesenkötter Klaus-Peter , Thamm Michael , Grasemann Corinna
Published: March 2024

Context

Reliable reference values for thyroid ultrasound measurements are essential to effectively guide individual diagnostics and direct population-level health care measures, such as iodine fortification programs. However, the latest reference values for total thyroid volume (Tvol) provided by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2004 only apply to the 6- to 12-year-old age group and are limited to countries with a long history of iodine sufficiency, which does not reflect the situation in most European countries, including Germany.

Objective

This study aims to derive up-to-date thyroid volume ultrasound reference values in German children and adolescents.

Methods

Data from the baseline assessment of a nationwide study in German children and adolescents (KiGGS) conducted between 2003 and 2006 were used to determine sex-specific reference values for Tvol in thyroid-healthy participants aged 6 to 17 years by age and body surface area according to the lambda-mu-sigma method.

Results

Data from 5559 participants were available for reference chart construction (2509 girls [45.1%]). On average, the 97th percentile is 33.4% and 28.5% higher than the corresponding WHO reference values for boys and girls, respectively. These findings are consistent with most other studies in German and European children and adolescents at a similar time of investigation. Notably, the sample used for this study was iodine-sufficient according to WHO criteria.

Conclusion

The reference values provided by the WHO are overly conservative for this population and could potentially apply to other European countries with a similar history of iodine supply.
Diuretic Use and Serum Phosphate: Rotterdam Study and UK Biobank
Authors: Bosman Ariadne , Campos-Obando Natalia , de Keyser Catherine E , Stricker Bruno H , Zillikens M Carola
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Hypophosphatemia (serum phosphate < 0.80 mmol/L) leads to musculoskeletal complaints. The most common drugs linked to hypophosphatemia are thiazide and loop diuretics, but studies in the general population are lacking. Our aim was to study associations between diuretic use and serum phosphate in the Rotterdam Study (RS), a population-based cohort study, with replication in UK Biobank (UKBB).

Methods

Associations between thiazide and loop diuretic use and serum phosphate and odds of hypophosphatemia were analyzed with cross-sectional multivariate linear and logistic regression in participants without chronic kidney disease in the RS and UKBB. Analyses were adjusted for age, sex, and body mass index (BMI) and pooled in 3 RS cohorts with further adjustment for cohort and serum potassium, which was not available in UKBB.

Results

Thiazide diuretics were associated with lower serum phosphate in both sexes. This association lost significance in RS females after adjustment for BMI and in males after adjustment for serum potassium. Thiazide diuretics increased odds of hypophosphatemia in females in both cohorts and in males in UKBB only. Loop diuretics were associated with lower serum phosphate in females but not males. Adjustment for BMI attenuated these associations. Associations between loop diuretics and increased odds of hypophosphatemia in females lost significance after BMI adjustment.

Conclusion

Thiazides, but not loop diuretics, and increased BMI and decreased serum potassium should be considered as contributing factors in subjects with hypophosphatemia. Further studies are needed to replicate the findings and elucidate the potential role of hypokalemia as a mediator of this effect.
Cdc48 and its co-factor Ufd1 extract CENP-A from centromeric chromatin and can induce chromosome elimination in the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe
Authors: Nakase Yukiko , Murakami Hiroaki , Suma Michiko , Nagano Kaho , Wakuda Airi , Kitagawa Teppei , Matsumoto Tomohiro
Published: March 2024

CENP-A determines the identity of the centromere. Because the position and size of the centromere and its number per chromosome must be maintained, the distribution of CENP-A is strictly regulated. In this study, we have aimed to understand mechanisms to regulate the distribution of CENP-A (Cnp1SP) in fission yeast. A mutant of the ufd1+ gene (ufd1-73) encoding a cofactor of Cdc48 ATPase is sensitive to Cnp1 expressed at a high level and allows mislocalization of Cnp1. The level of Cnp1 in centromeric chromatin is increased in the ufd1-73 mutant even when Cnp1 is expressed at a normal level. A preexisting mutant of the cdc48+ gene (cdc48-353) phenocopies the ufd1-73 mutant. We have also shown that Cdc48 and Ufd1 proteins physically interact with centromeric chromatin. Finally, Cdc48 ATPase with Ufd1 artificially recruited to the centromere of a mini-chromosome (Ch16) induce a loss of Cnp1 from Ch16, leading to an increased rate of chromosome loss. It appears that Cdc48 ATPase, together with its cofactor Ufd1 remove excess Cnp1 from chromatin, likely in a direct manner. This mechanism may play a role in centromere disassembly, a process to eliminate Cnp1 to inactivate the kinetochore function during development, differentiation, and stress response.
Esophageal cancer patient survival: A retrospective study from a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan
Authors: Sajida Qureshi  , Sumayah Khan  , M.Saeed Quraishy  , Zaheer Sidra
Published: March 2024

Objective: To determine the pattern, tumor characteristics of esophageal cancer (EC) and survival of esophageal carcinoma patients presenting to upper GI Unit at Dr. Ruth K.M. Pfau Civil Hospital Karachi.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of histologically confirmed EC patients from 2016 to 2021 at Upper GI Unit – Dr. Ruth K.M. Pfau Civil Hospital, Karachi. Data were collected using a filled Proforma, medical records, pathology reports and surgical notes, and patients or their family members were contacted for informed consent. Statistical analyses were performed using STATA version 16.0. Time to event was measured from the date of diagnosis to the date of the last follow-up or recorded death. Descriptive statistics and survival analyses, including Kaplan–Meier method and log-rank test, were employed. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were conducted to assess independent predictors of survival.

Results: Total 152 patients with a median age of 45 (range 80-15) years were enrolled in this study. Clinical stages-III, IV-A and IV-B were identified in 35.5% (n = 54), 23.7% (n = 36) and 34.2% (n = 52), respectively. Total of 62% (n=94) had died at median follow up of 9.56 months and three years overall survival rate was 10.0%. Univariate survival analysis revealed that patients with clinical stage-II (p-value 0.002) and patients treated with combined surgery plus chemo-radiotherapy (p-value 0.040) was significantly associated with lower risk of mortality among other stages and treatment modality groups. Conversely, patients having metastasis (p value <0.001) and those with vascular involvement >90 degrees (p value <0.001) showed worse survival outcomes.

Conclusion: Our study reveals a three years survival rate of 10.0%, emphasizing the formidable challenge of advanced-stage malignancies. Clinical stage, vascular involvement, and metastasis emerged as significant predictors of mortality. Moreover, integrating surgery with chemo-radiotherapy significantly improved three years survival (36.8% vs. 14.2%). Despite single-center limitations, our findings provide crucial regional insights into esophageal carcinoma outcomes.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.5.7582

How to cite this: Qureshi S, Khan S, Quraishy MS, Zaheer S. Esophageal cancer patient survival: A retrospective study from a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(5):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.5.7582

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Reexamination of a 40Ca(n,α)37Ar cross section measurement from existing literature
Authors: Shah Khiloni , Haas Derek
Published: March 2024

Background 37Ar, produced from the neutron activation of 40Ca in sub-surface rock and soil, is important for nuclear explosion monitoring. Most of the cross section measurements done for the 40Ca(n,α) 37 Ar reaction are in the fast neutron region. A thermal cross section measurement was attempted in 1989, with the assumption that the 4-8 MeV neutrons would be completely thermalized with 8-cm of water. Methods The experimental setup was modeled using Monte Carlo N-Particle code to see if the assumptions for the neutron distribution were accurate. A model of a 3.0 MeV deuteron source was used to recreate the neutron source from the experiment. Additional modeling was done using SCALE to compare the predictions of 37Ar yields when using the measured cross section from 1989 compared to current nuclear data models. Results Modeling showed the neutron distribution was closer to 10% thermal and 90% fast as opposed to entirely thermalized. The additional modeling showed how the overestimation of the thermal cross section would affect the predicted yield of 37Ar. Conclusions Based on the modeling results, the assumption that all the 4-8 MeV neutrons are thermalized with 8-cm of water is not accurate. The high fraction of fast neutrons interacting with the Ca will result in an overestimation of the thermal cross section.
The genome sequence of the common green furrow bee, Lasioglossum morio (Fabricius, 1793)
Authors: Falk Steven ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective, Monks Joseph ,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: March 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Lasioglossum morio (the common green furrow bee; Arthropoda; Insecta; Hymenoptera; Halictidae). The genome sequence is 547 megabases in span. Over half of the assembly (55.79%) is scaffolded into 12 chromosomal pseudomolecules. The mitochondrial genome was also assembled, and is 16.8 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 11,460 protein coding genes.
APPLICATION OF VOSYS-OPTIMA SYSTEM COMPONENTS IN CONSTRUCTION OF HARDWARE LAYOUTS OF MONOLATERAL COMBINATION WITH ANGULAR SUPPORT IN CASES OF TREATMENT OF INTRAARTICULAR KNEE FRACTURES AND DISTAL CIRCUMARTICULAR FRACTURES OF THE FEMUR IN DOGS AND CATS
Authors: Kiselev Igor G. , Yemanov Andrey A. , Rodin Matvei I.
Published: March 2024

For treatment of prearticular and intraarticular fractures including knee joint area in dogs and cats, as a rule, thin pins, serclage, plates, and their combinations are used depending on fracture area and fracture complexity, which fails to fully provide sufficient stability of osteosynthesis.

Purpose of the study was to study the processes taking place in the joints of operated animals at prolonged blockage with hardware constructions for the period of healing of the prearticular and intraarticular fractures.

Scientific novelty. Based on a comprehensive study, the use of monolateral combination arrangements with angular support for the treatment of intra-articular fractures of the stifle joint, as well as distal periarticular femur fractures in dogs and cats, was evaluated. The feasibility of the need to protect the operated area from force during fracture healing was determined.

Methods. To treat fractures in the knee joint area, polyfunctional monoblocks without a push-back rod, transosseous insertion rods of different diameters depending on the size of the animal, and supports of different diameters with a 125-130° bend were used.

A total of 16 operations were performed, 5 dogs and 11 cats. The dogs came in weighing from 4 to 15 kg. The age was from 5 to 38 months old. The cats were 4 to 41 months old, their weights ranging from 1.2 to 5 kg. The supports used were 3, 4, and 5 mm in diameter.

Results. Contracture of the operated limbs in the animals after removal of the hardware constructs in our study was more or less pronounced in the animals with more than 2 weeks of hardware fixation. We did not find the presence of contracture in animals with hardware structures removed after two weeks, while lameness in these animals could be observed from 3 to 12 days, the loss of muscle mass of the thigh in the form of a decrease in its volume was not observed. The picture was similar for both cats and dogs.

Conclusion. The use of monolateral combinations with angular support for treatment of intraarticular fractures of the knee joint as well as distal circumarticular fractures of the femur in dogs and cats is reasonable in terms of the need to protect the operated area from forceful influences during fracture healing.

The most physiological period of blocking the area of the knee joint with the external fixation apparatus in our study was from 2 to 3 weeks regardless of the age of the animal.
Bladder perforation and vesico-haematoma fistula: an uncommon complication of rectus sheath haematoma
Authors: Cheng Novena Lin Sing , Wong Chung Wai , Yu Wen Ming , Tsang Kim Hung
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Rectus sheath haematoma (RSH) has become increasingly common but is often underdiagnosed. Prompt diagnosis will avoid unnecessary investigations and procedures, resulting in early treatment and a better outcome. Case description: We described a case of a spontaneous RSH with intraperitoneal extension and formation of a vesico-haematoma fistula, which was initially misdiagnosed as a urinary tract infection. The diagnosis was made ten days after admission, when a CT scan showed an over-16 cm RSH with intraperitoneal extension, bladder perforation and a vesico-haematoma fistula. The patient was managed conservatively. Discussion: RSH accounts for less than 2% of acute abdomen cases and is often unrecognised. Its presentation can mimic other intra-abdominal pathologies, and the diagnosis is often delayed or missed. Complications can arise from an RSH although it is generally viewed as a self-limiting condition. Conclusion: RSH has become increasingly common, and we would like to highlight the need to include abdominal wall pathologies in the initial differential diagnoses of acute abdomen to avoid delay in diagnosis.
Empirical pyridostigmine in a patient with difficult weaning from mechanical ventilation after traumatic brain injury
Authors: Siddiqui Tariq , Strandvik Gustav , El-Menyar Ayman , Rizoli Sandro , Al-Thani Hassan
Published: March 2024

We present a 30-year-old male who sustained a mild traumatic brain injury and then was intubated due to deterioration of consciousness. A head CT scan revealed mild brain oedema, a fractured nasal bone and mild left thoracic wall haematoma. Despite complete clinical and radiological normalisation within 36 hours, he failed to wean off the ventilator. The patient was found to have subtle bulbar manifestations including dysphonia, dysarthria, and dysphagia, with recurrent left lung collapse. He responded to an empirical pyridostigmine trial despite negative biochemical tests for myasthenia gravis (MG). The patient was weaned successfully from the ventilator, transferred to a long-term care facility, and then discharged home. Classic symptoms and signs of a disease may be absent, but the presence of dysarthria, dysphagia, transient vocal cord palsy, nasal speech, absent gag reflex and respiratory failure in difficult-to-wean patients, with no definitive diagnosis, may warrant an empirical trial of therapy for suspected MG and for the benefit of any doubt.
“Uma pessoa direita entra em todo lugar”: interações sociais e econômicas de Ciganos Calons no sul do Maranhão
Authors: Conceição Wellington da Silva , Cavalcante Janeide da Silva
Published: March 2024

O presente artigo traz os resultados de uma pesquisa sobre as interações sociais e econômicas desenvolvidas por ciganos Calons na cidade de São João do Paraíso, que se torna um fator ativo para a compreensão do processo de permanência dos mesmos no local, além de relações mais amistosas com os citadinos. A partir de uma etnografia realizada na região sul do estado do Maranhão, analisamos como os ciganos, em um contexto que fora marcado por estereótipos e estigmas, conseguem reverter tal quadro e hoje manter interações mais próximas com os não ciganos, construindo relações de compadrio com os citadinos e recebendo homenagens, como o título de cidadão concedido pelas contribuições à cidade. O movimento de compra e venda de casas, automóveis (os “negócios”), assim como o recurso às representações morais do trabalho contribuíram para a mudança no olhar sobre estes, fazendo com que desenvolvessem relações mais próximas com os não ciganos. Objetiva-se, assim, discutir como essas relações, em seus processos de constante negociação, conseguiram construir uma perspectiva moral positiva nessa cidade.
Upadacitinib for refractory ulcerative colitis with primary nonresponse to infliximab and vedolizumab: A case report
Authors: Xu Xuan , Jiang Jing-Wen , Lu Bing-Yun , Li Xia-Xi
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Many patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) do not respond well to, or tolerate conventional and biological therapies. There is currently no consensus on the treatment of refractory UC. Studies have demonstrated that the selective Janus kinase 1 inhibitor upadacitinib, a small-molecule drug, is effective and safe for treating UC. However, no studies have revealed that upadacitinib is effective in treating refractory UC with primary nonresponse to infliximab and vedolizumab.

CASE SUMMARY

We report the case of a 44-year-old male patient with a chief complaint of bloody diarrhoea with mucus and pus, in addition to dizziness. The patient had recurrent disease after receiving mesalazine, prednisone, azathioprine, infliximab and vedolizumab over four years. Based on the endoscopic findings and pathological biopsy, the patient was diagnosed with refractory UC. In particular, the patient showed primary nonresponse to infliximab and vedolizumab. Based on the patient’s history and recurrent disease, we decided to administer upadacitinib. During hospitalisation, the patient was received upadacitinib under our guidance. Eight weeks after the initiation of upadacitinib treatment, the patient’s symptoms and endoscopic findings improved significantly. No notable adverse reactions have been reported to date.

CONCLUSION

Our case report suggests that upadacitinib may represent a valuable strategy for treating refractory UC with primary nonresponse.
Exogenous insulin autoimmune syndrome: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Xu Ling-Ling , Chen Jia-Xin , Cheng Jing-Ping , Luo Ni
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Insulin autoimmune syndrome (IAS) is a severe manifestation of spontaneous hypoglycemia. It is characterized by elevated levels of immune-reactive insulin and highly potent insulin autoantibodies (IAAs), which are induced by endogenous insulin circulating in the bloodstream. It is distinguished by recurring instances of spontaneous hypoglycemia, the presence of IAA within the body, a substantial elevation in serum insulin levels, and an absence of prior exogenous insulin administration. Nevertheless, recent studies show that both conventional insulin and its analogs can induce IAS episodes, giving rise to the notion of non-classical IAS. Therefore, more attention should be paid to these diseases.

CASE SUMMARY

In this case report, we present a rare case of non-classical IAS in an 83-year-old male patient who present with symptoms of a psychiatric disorder. Upon symptom onset, the patient exhibited Whipple's triad (including hypoglycemia, blood glucose level less than 2.8 mmol/L during onset, and rapid relief of hypoglycemic symptoms after glucose administration). Concurrently, his serum insulin level was significantly elevated, which contradicted his C-peptide levels. After a comprehensive examination, the patient was diagnosed with exogenous insulin autoimmune syndrome. Considering that the patient had type 2 diabetes mellitus and a history of exogenous insulin use before disease onset, it was presumed that non classical IAS was induced by this condition. The PubMed database was used to search for previous cases of IAS and non-classical IAS to analyze their characteristics and treatment approaches.

CONCLUSION

The occurrence of non-classical IAS is associated with exogenous insulin or its analogs, as well as with sulfhydryl drugs. Symptoms can be effectively alleviated through the discontinuation of relevant medications, administration of hormones or immunosuppressants, plasma exchange, and lifestyle adjustments.
Channelized multi-frequency measurement system based on asymmetric double sideband detection
Authors: Jiang Yuzheng , Li Jing , Yan Miaoxia , Tian Cheng , Pei Li , Ning TiGang
Published: March 2024

A channelized multi-frequency measurement system based on asymmetric double sideband detection is proposed. In this scheme, the sub-modulators of the dual-parallel Mach–Zehnder modulator are utilized for optical frequency comb (OFC) generation and under-test signal modulation. Subsequently, a sawtooth wave voltage is applied to the main modulator to introduce frequency shift to the modulated signals, breaking the symmetry between the RF signals and the OFC. The coupled signal is then divided into upper and lower sidebands for frequency down-conversion. By calibrating the measurement results of the two sidebands with each other, the frequency of the signal can be accurately measured. Simulation is preformed to realize multi-frequency measurement of microwave signals with measurement error less than 2 MHz in the range of 2.2–20 GHz. It is also found that the proposal can solve the problem of frequency ambiguity.
Infrared-based temperature measurement in three dimensions
Authors: Sumriddetchkajorn Sarun , Rayanasukha Sirajit , Somboonkaew Armote , Wannason Uayphorn
Published: March 2024

A highly accurate and low-cost mobile platform for multiple object temperature measurement in 3D coordinate positions is introduced. The key idea relies on not only a combination of a 3D optical depth sensor and the 2D infrared thermal imager but also a determined distant-dependent compensation model. As a result, a cost-effective yet wider (>100.0∘C) temperature measurement range under the fluctuation of working distant shift is realized with a low standard deviation of 0.16°C at the working distance of 1.0 m. Accurate temperature measurement at different positions of objects along the suitable working distance is also demonstrated.
Simulation and implementation of photonic integrated circuits for the filtering and optical heterodyning of mode-locked comb-lines
Authors: Ng W. , Thiessen T.
Published: March 2024

We present the simulation
and implementation of a
photonic integrated circuit (PIC) designed for the filtering and
optical heterodyning of comb-lines generated by a 20.97 GHz
mode-locked fiber ring laser emitting at the optical C-band. We
compare simulations obtained for the coupling junction of the
microrings in the PIC with the use of an analytic approach and the
finite difference time-domain (FDTD) method. A PIC designed for
fabrication with the Triplex asymmetric double-stripe (ADS) waveguides
was demonstrated. Using the PIC, we demonstrated the optical
heterodyning of pairs of comb-lines filtered by tunable microrings.
The phase noise of beat signals located at 20.97 and 41.94 GHz
was characterized. We provide a discussion on enhancing the RF power
of the beat signals with the use of optical injection locking.
Adaptive focus stacking for large depth-of-field microscopic structured-light 3D imaging
Authors: Chen Liming , Ding Rachel , Zhang Song
Published: March 2024

This paper presents an adaptive focus stacking method for large
depth-of-field (DOF) 3D microscopic structured-light imaging systems.
Conventional focus stacking methods typically capture images under a
series of pre-defined focus settings without considering the
attributes of the measured object. Therefore, it is inefficient since
some of the focus settings might be redundant. To address this
problem, we first employ the focal sweep technique to reconstruct an
initial rough 3D shape of the measured objects. Then, we leverage the
initial 3D data to determine effective focus settings that focus the
camera on the valid areas of the measured objects. Finally, we
reconstruct a high-quality 3D point cloud using fringe images obtained
from these effective focus settings by focus stacking. Experimental
results demonstrate the success of the proposed method.
Efficient statistical QoT-aware resource allocation in EONs over the C+L-band: a multi-period and low-margin perspective
Authors: Mehrabi Mahdieh , Beyranvand Hamzeh , Emadi Mohammad Javad , Arpanaei Farhad
Published: March 2024

Recently, multi-band elastic optical networks (MB-EONs) have been considered a viable solution to increase the transmission bandwidth in optical networks. To improve spectral efficiency and reduce the blocking ratio, the general signal-to-noise ratio (GSNR) as a quality-of-transmission (QoT) metric must be accurately calculated in the routing, modulation level, and spectrum assignment algorithms used in elastic optical networks (EONs). The interference prediction methods commonly used for single-band EONs are not efficient in the case of MB-EONs because of the inter-channel stimulated Raman scattering impact and their wide spectrum. In this paper, we propose a statistical method to predict the interference noise in C+L-band EONs considering multi-period planning. The proposed algorithm, which utilizes the predicted total number of channels (PTNC) on each link for given requests, is a low-margin, fast, and cost-effective method. Additionally, the proposed PTNC algorithm can also be used for single-period planning. Our simulation results indicate that the proposed PTNC algorithm combines the advantages of both studied benchmark algorithms. It has a low complexity order and execution time that are comparable to those of the fully loaded algorithm, which is currently employed by the network operators. However, this benchmark does not achieve the best spectral efficiency. Furthermore, the PTNC method and the other benchmark that determines margin through an exhaustive search, referred to as margin exhaustive search (MES), achieve remarkable spectral efficiency and residual capacity with fewer transceivers, resulting in lower capital expenditure requirements. Nevertheless, the MES algorithm may not be practical due to the requirement of reconfiguring established lightpaths and its high complexity order, particularly in multi-period planning.
Quaternion fast and accurate polar harmonic Fourier moments for color image analysis and object recognition
Authors: Yang Siyu , Deng Ansheng
Published: March 2024

Image moments, as a kind of global feature descriptor of images, have become a valuable tool for pattern recognition and image analysis. However, traditional methods are mainly used to deal with grayscale images. In this paper, we apply quaternions to fast and accurate polar harmonic Fourier moments, proposing a kind of quaternion fast and accurate polar harmonic Fourier moment (QFAPHFM) capable of handling color images. Furthermore, this paper provides a detailed analysis of the invariance of QFAPHFMs under rotation, scaling, and translation transformations. The experimental results show that QFAPHFMs exhibit excellent performance in both image reconstruction and object recognition tasks. QFAPHFMs achieve accurate image reconstruction under noiseless and noisy conditions, and demonstrate excellent recognition performance in the color-based object recognition tasks.
Sub-nanosecond Raman fiber amplifier based red-orange light source
Authors: Papernyi S. , Kim Y. , Snejko D. , de Villers P. , Clements W.
Published: March 2024

We introduce a fully-integrated two-color sub-nanosecond fiber laser system that incorporates a backward-pumped polarization-maintaining (PM) Raman phosphosilicate fiber amplifier (RFA) followed by two fully-integrated fiber-coupled second harmonic generator (SHG) modules. The RFA is pumped by a continuous-wave (CW) Yb laser operating at 1116 nm. The pulsed signals are generated by gain-switched distributed feedback (DFB) laser diodes at 1178 nm and 1310 nm, respectively. The output pulsed DFB signals are independently or simultaneously amplified in the RFA. This amplification is achieved using both the broad SiO2 (∼13.2 THz) and relatively narrow P2O5 (39.9 THz) Stokes shifts. The laser system produces sub-nanosecond pulses at 589 and 655 nm, featuring repetition rates ranging from 40 to 100 MHz and an average power of up to 3 W (limited by the SHG crystal damage threshold) at each wavelength. The diffraction-limited output beams maintain an M2 value of < 1.05 across the entire range of output powers and repetition rates for both wavelengths.
Low phase noise K-band signal generation using polarization diverse single-soliton integrated microcombs
Authors: Aldhafeeri Alwaleed , Chin Hsiao-Hsuan , Melton Tristan , Lee Dong IL , Chu Allen , Wang Wenting , Yu Mingbin , Lo Patrick Guo-Qiang , Kwong Dim-Lee , Wong Chee Wei
Published: March 2024

Frequency microcombs with microwave and millimeter-wave repetition rates provide a compact solution for coherent communication and information processing. The implementation of these microcombs using a CMOS-compatible platform further paves the way for large-scale photonic integration and modularity. Here, we demonstrate free-running soliton microcombs with K-band repetition rates with very low phase noise over a 4 GHz pump detuning range reaching −117  (−123)  dBc/Hz at 10 kHz offset for a 19.7 (10) GHz carrier without active pump stabilization, exceeding commercial electronic microwave oscillators at frequency offsets above 40 kHz. The minimum laser noise to soliton microwave signal transduction factor observed is −73  dB. This noise performance is achieved using a hybridized dual-mode for soliton generation to achieve passive thermal stabilization and minimal soliton spectrum shift from prior Raman scattering and dispersive wave formation. We further examine the locking of the repetition rate to an external ultrastable photonic oscillator to illustrate the feasibility of phase noise suppression below the thermorefractive noise limits of microresonator frequency combs.
Smart distribution network voltage estimation using PMU technology considering zero injection constraints
Authors: Tangi Swathi , Gaonkar D. N. , Nuvvula Ramakrishna S. S. , Kumar Polamarasetty P. , Colak Ilhami , Tazay Ahmad F. , Mosaad Mohamed I.
Published: March 2024

To properly control the network of the power system and ensure its protection, Phasor measurement units (PMUs) must be used to monitor the network’s operation. PMUs can provide synchronized real-time measurements. These measurements can be used for state estimation, fault detection and diagnosis, and other grid control applications. Conventional state estimation methods use weighting factors to balance the different types of measurements, and zero injection measurements can lead to large weighting factors that can introduce computational errors. The offered methods are designed to ensure that these zero injection criteria can be strictly satisfied while calculating the voltage profile and observability of the various distribution networks without sacrificing computing efficiency. The proposed method’s viability is assessed using standard IEEE distribution networks. MATLAB coding is used to simulate the case analyses. Overall, the study provides a valuable contribution to the field of power distribution system monitoring and control by simplifying the process of determining the optimal locations for PMUs in a distribution network and assessing the impact of ZI buses on the voltage profile of the system.
Prevalence and associated factors of refractive error among adults in South Ethiopia, a community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Abebe Marshet Gete , Alemayehu Abiy Maru , Munaw Minychil Bantihun , Tilahun Mikias Mered , Alemayehu Henok Biruk
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The increasing prevalence of refractive error has become a serious health issue that needs serious attention. However, there are few studies regarding the prevalence and associated factors of refractive error at the community level in Ethiopia as well as in the study area. Therefore, providing updated data is crucial to reduce the burdens of refractive error in the community.

Objective

To assess the prevalence and associated factors of refractive error among adults in Hawassa City, South Ethiopia, 2023.

Method

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 951 adults using a multistage sampling technique from May 8 to June 8, 2023, in Hawassa City, South Ethiopia. A pretested, structured questionnaire combined with an ocular examination and a refraction procedure was used to collect data. The collected data from the Kobo Toolbox was exported to a statistical package for social sciences for analysis. Binary and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed. A P-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant in the multivariable analysis.

Result

A total of 894 study participants were involved in this study with a 94.1% response rate. The prevalence of refractive error was 12.3% (95% CI: 10.2, 14.5%). Regular use of electronic devices (adjusted odds ratio = 3.64, 95% CI: 2.25, 5.91), being diabetic (adjusted odds ratio = 4.02, 95% CI: 2.16, 7.48), positive family history of refractive error (adjusted odds ratio = 2.71, 95% CI 1.59, 4.61) and positive history of cataract surgery (adjusted odds ratio = 5.17, 95% CI 2.19, 12.4) were significantly associated with refractive error.

Conclusion and recommendation

The overall magnitude of refractive error in our study area was high. Regular use of electronic devices, being diabetic, positive family history of refractive error, and a positive history of cataract surgery were associated with refractive error.
Assessing malnutrition in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma: Diagnostic protocol for the development and validation of a new nutritional assessment tool
Authors: Wang Pengpeng , Soh Kim Lam , Japar Salimah Binti , Khazaai Huzwah binti , Liao Jinlian , Ying Yanping , Ning Chuanyi , Xue Li , Pan Xiao
Published: March 2024

Introduction

There is currently no gold standard or specific nutritional assessment tool to assess malnutrition in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Our study aims to develop a new nutritional assessment tool for NPC patients.

Methods and analysis

NPC patients will be required to complete a risk factor questionnaire after obtaining their informed consent. The risk factor questionnaire will be used to collect potential risk factors for malnutrition. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses will be used to identify risk factors for malnutrition. A new nutritional assessment tool will be developed based on risk factors. The new tool’s performance will be assessed by calibration and discrimination. The bootstrapping will be used for internal validation of the new tool. In addition, external validation will be performed by recruiting NPC patients from another hospital.

Discussion

If the new tool is validated to be effective, it will potentially save medical staff time in assessing malnutrition and improve their work efficiency. Additionally, it may reduce the incidence of malnutrition and its adverse consequences.

Strengths and limitations of this study

The study will comprehensively analyze demographic data, disease status, physical examination, and blood sampling to identify risk factors for malnutrition. Furthermore, the new tool will be systematically evaluated, and validated to determine their effectiveness. However, the restricted geographical range may limit the generalizability of the results to other ethnicities. Additionally, the study does not analyze subjective indicators such as psychology.

Ethics and dissemination

The ethical approval was granted by the Ethical Committee of the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University (NO. 2022-KT-GUI WEI-005) and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University (NO. 2022-KY-0752).

Clinical trial registration number

ChiCTR2300071550.
Firefighters’ medical use and Korean Medicine experience in Korea: A qualitative study protocol
Authors: Ha Jisu , Youn Inae , Han Yuri , Kim Jinwon , Kim Sunjoong , Jin Hanbit , Kang Jung Won , Leem Jungtae
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Firefighters, compared to other occupational groups, are exposed more frequently in their working environment not only to physical issues, such as musculoskeletal disease, respiratory disease, and burns but also to mental health issues, such as PTSD and depression. Specifically, Korean firefighters experience significantly higher rates of work-related injuries compared to those in other countries. Recent statistics from the Korea National Fire Agency indicate a steady increase in the number of firefighting work-related injuries. However, there is a shortage of measures in place to address these issues. This study aims to investigate the health needs, overall healthcare usage, and unmet needs of firefighters in Korea. We also aim to investigate, through in-depth interviews, perceptions and hindering factors for integrative medicine approaches to fulfilling unmet needs.

Method

This study was conducted in accordance with the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research. Convenience and snowball sampling methods will be used to recruit firefighters to participate in the study, and interviews will be conducted using a semi-structured interview guide. The data will be analyzed in four stages using the qualitative analysis method of Krippendorff.

Discussion

In this study, we examine the state of health issues and healthcare usage among Korean firefighters and investigate their perceptions of and needs for integrative medicine. In this way, we aim to explore how integrative medicine and Korean medicine approaches could improve and assist healthcare services for firefighters. Furthermore, our findings will provide policymakers and healthcare providers with the necessary basic information to develop integrative medicine systems suited to firefighters.