bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pediatric push pin aspiration: clinical, radiologic, and pathologic correlation — case report
Authors: Hickey Tyler Bruce Malcolm , Mathews Rohit Zachariah , Pickup Michael James
Published: August 2022

Background

Aspiration of foreign bodies is not uncommon in the pediatric setting, and the consideration and recognition of an aspiration event are vital to prompt management. Pointed and sharp-edged foreign bodies have the potential to lodge in the airway and increase the difficulty of identification and removal. Here, we describe a fatal aspiration of a push pin that was unrecognized prior to death.

Methods

Review of police and medical records was completed prior to postmortem CT imaging and full pediatric autopsy with high resolution photography.

Case presentation

A 15-month-old boy was playing at home when he acutely vomited and then became unresponsive. Paramedic and hospital physicians performed pediatric CPR protocols, including intubation, without success. Postmortem radiographic imaging revealed a metallic foreign body at the level of the larynx. Autopsy demonstrated a push pin fully occluding the trachea at the level of the vocal cords.

Conclusions

The diagnosis of aspirated FBs may be elusive, and clinicians and autopsy pathologists ought to be mindful that children with FBs may have atypical presentations. Use of postmortem radiologic imaging can assist in the diagnosis and allow for a targeted autopsy approach to best visualize the offending foreign body.
Association between single nucleotide polymorphism of human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 gene locus and clinical severity of COVID-19
Authors: Elbadri Shaimaa A. , Abdallah Nermeen M. A. , El-Shokry Mona , Gaber Amr , Elsayed Mahmoud Kh.
Published: August 2022

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a devastating pandemic-causing disease with a variable severity among populations. Genetic studies have pinpointed angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), a key enzyme for viral entry, for its possible linkage to the disease progression. The present study aimed to investigate the potential association between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of human ACE2 gene with the severity and outcomes of COVID-19 for better patient management.

Methods

In this observational cross-sectional study, COVID-19 confirmed patients were classified into moderate and severe cases according to the “Ain Shams University Hospitals Pocket Guide for COVID-19 Diagnosis.” Genetic analysis of ACE2 SNP rs2048683 was carried out using a TaqMan assay with the real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique.

Results

Among 90 confirmed COVID-19 patients, 78.9% (71/90) were classified as severe, and 21.1% (19/90) were classified as moderate. Laboratory biomarkers were significantly (P = 0.000) higher in the severe group than in the moderate group. Similarly, associated comorbidities such as hypertension were significant (P = 0.000) in the severe group, whereas asthma and deep venous thrombosis were significant in the moderate group (P = 0.007 and 0.006, respectively). Elevated serum ferritin level (odds ratio (OR) 162.589, 95% confidence interval (CI) 8.108–3260.293) and ACE2 rs2048683 genotype GG/G (OR 5.852, 95% CI 1.586–21.591) were both considered independent risk factors for severe disease.

Conclusion

The findings of the present study provide preliminary evidence of an association between ACE2 rs2048683 SNPs and COVID-19 severity in the Egyptian population, which may inform the need for targeted management.
Von Hippel–Lindau (VHL) disease and VHL-associated tumors in Indian subjects: VHL gene testing in a resource constraint setting
Authors: Dwivedi Aradhana , Moirangthem Amita , Pandey Himani , Sharma Pankaj , Srivastava Priyanka , Yadav Prabhaker , Saxena Deepti , Phadke Shubha , Dabadghao Preeti , Gupta Neerja , Kabra Madhulika , Goyal Rekha , Biswas Rituparna , Mangaraj Swayamsidha , Bhar Debarati , Chowdhury Subhankar , Agarwal Amit , Mandal Kausik
Published: August 2022

Background

Von Hippel–Lindau (VHL) syndrome is a familial cancer syndrome caused by mutations in VHL gene. It is characterized by the formation of benign and malignant tumors like retinal angioma, cerebellar hemangioblastoma, spinal hemangioblastoma, renal cell carcinoma, pheochromocytoma, pancreatic and renal cysts, and endolymphatic sac tumors. Germline mutations in VHL gene have also been reported in isolated VHL-associated tumors. VHL gene is a small gene with 3 coding exons and can be easily tested even in a resource constraint setting.

Objective

To describe clinical presentation and estimate the diagnostic yield of in VHL and VHL-associated tumors.

Methods

This is a descriptive study in a hospital setting. Here, we describe the clinical and molecular data of 69 patients with suspected VHL or having VHL-associated tumors. Sanger sequencing of coding sequences and conserved splice sites of VHL gene were done in all patients. Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) of VHL gene to detect large deletions/duplications was performed for 18 patients with no pathogenic sequence variations.

Results

Among tumor types at presentation, pheochromocytoma was seen in 49% (34/69), hemangioblastoma was seen in 30% (21/69), and renal cell carcinoma was seen in 7% (5/69). Rest had other tumors like paraganglioma, endolymphatic sac papillary tumors, cerebellar astrocytoma and pancreatic cyst. Seven patients (10%) had more than one tumor at the time of diagnosis. Pathogenic variations in VHL gene were identified in 31probands by Sanger sequencing; 18 were missense, 2 nonsense and 2 small indels. A heterozygous deletion of exon 3 was detected by MLPA in one patient among 18 patients for whom MLPA was done. Overall, the molecular yield was 46% cases (32/69). Family history was present in 7 mutation positive cases (22%). Overall, 11 families (16%) opted for pre-symptomatic mutation testing in the family.

Conclusions

Mutation testing is indicated in VHL and VHL-associated tumors. The testing facility is easy and can be adopted easily in developing countries like India. The yield is good, and with fairly high incidence of familial cases, molecular testing can help in pre-symptomatic testing and surveillance.
Thriving or Simply Surviving? A Qualitative Exploration of STEM Community College Students’ Transition to a Four-Year University
Authors: Gray MacKenzie J. , Gunarathne Sandhya A. , Nguyen Nikki N. , Shortlidge Erin E.
Published: August 2022

Community college transfer students will play a key role in increasing and diversifying the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) workforce, but these students face unique barriers when transferring to a university. This study utilizes Schlossberg’s model for analyzing human adaptation to transition to understand how STEM transfer students adapted to a 4-year university.
Writing and Using Learning Objectives
Authors: Orr Rebecca B. , Csikari Melissa M. , Freeman Scott , Rodriguez Michael C.
Published: August 2022

This essay introduces an evidence-based teaching guide that presents research and resources on the uses and benefits of learning objectives (LOs). It summarizes key articles and includes a checklist, with the goal of encouraging instructors to incorporate LOs into their teaching practice. Ideas for further research are also discussed.
Association between post-traumatic stress disorder severity and death by suicide in US military veterans: retrospective cohort study
Authors: Forehand Jenna A. , Dufort Vincent , Gradus Jaimie L. , Maguen Shira , Watts Bradley V. , Jiang Tammy , Holder Nicholas , Shiner Brian
Published: August 2022

Background

There is mixed evidence regarding the direction of a potential association between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and suicide mortality.

Aims

This is the first population-based study to account for both PTSD diagnosis and PTSD symptom severity simultaneously in the examination of suicide mortality.

Method

Retrospective study that included all US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) patients with a PTSD diagnosis and at least one symptom severity assessment using the PTSD Checklist (PCL) between 1 October 1999 and 31 December 2018 (n= 754 197). We performed multivariable proportional hazards regression models using exposure groups defined by level of PTSD symptom severity to estimate suicide mortality rates. For patients with multiple PCL scores, we performed additional models using exposure groups defined by level of change in PTSD symptom severity. We assessed suicide mortality using the VA/Department of Defense Mortality Data Repository.

Results

Any level of PTSD symptoms above the minimum threshold for symptomatic remission (i.e. PCL score >18) was associated with double the suicide mortality rate at 1 month after assessment. This relationship decreased over time but patients with moderate to high symptoms continued to have elevated suicide rates. Worsening PTSD symptoms were associated with a 25% higher long-term suicide mortality rate. Among patients with improved PTSD symptoms, those with symptomatic remission had a substantial and sustained reduction in the suicide rate compared with those without symptomatic remission (HR = 0.56; 95% CI 0.37–0.88).

Conclusions

Ameliorating PTSD can reduce risk of suicide mortality, but patients must achieve symptomatic remission to attain this benefit.
A potential role of arcadia in conditioned media - umbilical cord derived mesenchymal stem cell on cartilage repair
Authors: Soetjahjo Bintang , Adriansyah Denny , Riawan Wibi
Published: August 2022

Background. Certain conditions can stimulate stem cells to produce secretory factors that differ from each condition, such as hypoxia. Umbilical Cord-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells have been known to have higher proliferation rates, plasticity, and better self-improvement ability than MSCs from other sources. 

The objective was to analyze the secreting proteins in the Conditioned Medium - Umbilical cord-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (CM-UCMSCs) which potentially has a role in the chondrogenesis of cartilage defect. 

Methods. We used SDS PAGE combined with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry using mass spectrometer to perform a proteomic analysis of CM-UCMSCs which conditioned in a state of fasting (without serum albumin). Then, we continue to analyze to identify proteins of interest using Mascot sequence matching software. Then Analyzed using in silico / molecular docking to know the interaction of each protein with the cartilage repair factor. 

Results. SDS PAGE performed on all secreted products in CM-UCMSCs. We found one dominant band, then we used Mass Spectrometry continued Mascot sequencing protein that band, conclude that the protein was a D4A9T1/ RNF-111/ Arkadia Protein. And then using in silico/ molecular docking method analyzed that Arkadia Protein worked synergistically with TGF-β1 Protein through activation of TGF-β1 receptors to induce the chondrogenesis. 

Conclusions. Our results show that the fasting state on CM-UCMSCs promoted secreted Arkadia protein. From in silico model prediction, this protein suspects to have an important role in the process of repairing cartilage defects. However, further research is needed before feasible and safe for the clinical application of CM-UCMSCs in cartilage repair.
Assessment of medication-related burden among a sample of Iraqi patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and its relationship with disease activity: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kadhim Abbas Hawraa , Jabbar Kadhim Dheyaa , Isho Gorial Faiq , Shareef Laith G.
Published: August 2022

Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease with high morbidity and disability. The routines involved in taking medications, side effects, the nature of medicines, difficulties with the healthcare system, and disruptions to social activities all contribute to patients frequently experiencing medication-related burdens (MRB). The current study aimed to assess the perceived MRB among a sample of SLE patients from Iraq and to look for any possible relationship between MRB and disease activity.

Methods: The current study was cross-sectional on diagnosed SLE patients who arrived at Baghdad Teaching Hospital/Medical City/Rheumatology department from September 2021 to January 2022. MRB was measured using the Living with Medicines Questionnaire (LMQ).

Results: The study recruited 156 SLE patients. The patients were 35.8 ±11.7 years old on average. Great majority of them were women (96.8 %). The average LMQ score was 117.30± 18.37. The results showed that most patients (69.87%) experienced a moderate level of burden, followed by a low level (19.87%), high level (7.69%), and no burden at all (2.56%). No patients experienced an extremely high level of burden (0.0%). The mean burden scores for two LMQ domains—relationships with health care professionals (HCPs) and effectiveness of prescription medications—were the lowest (below average).

Conclusions: Many of the SLE patients in this study reported experiencing MRB. Healthcare professionals should implement strategies to reduce this burden, particularly for low-income patients.
FEATURES OF BUSINESS MANAGEMENT IN CONDITIONS OF UNCERTAINTY AT THE PRESENT STAGE
Authors: DAVYDOVA T
Published: August 2022

This article discusses the main prerequisites for the formation of business uncertainty associated with the spread of COVID-19 coronavirus infection. Modern methods of business support by the government of the country have been identified. Based on the conducted research, the main recommendations are proposed, which it is advisable to take into account in management practice at the present stage.
FACTORS OF COMPETITIVENESS OF PUBLIC CATERING ENTERPRISES
Authors: MIRKINA O
Published: August 2022

The competitiveness of public catering enterprises is a necessary condition for their successful operation. Competitiveness factors are divided into external and internal. It is necessary to pay special attention to internal factors, especially those that are highly amenable to guiding influence. This is manifested in the impact in such areas as the management of the enterprise, its staff and the menu.
SMART TECHNOLOGY “SMART CITY” (LITERATURE REVIEW)
Authors: DEMIROVA V , VAZINA M
Published: August 2022

The article analyzes the current concept of the development of urban areas “Smart City”, which involves the integration of various information and communication technologies for the management of urban infrastructure. The article analyzes the concept of smart technologies and the prospects of their use for the development of urban infrastructure of the future.
THE IMPACT OF THE PANDEMIC ON LOGISTICS ACTIVITIES
Authors: DAVYDOVA T
Published: August 2022

This article discusses current trends in the logistics services market related to the impact of coronavirus infection. The main logistical problems in Russia are outlined. The losses of Russian trucking companies that have arisen due to the introduction of restrictions on the world market are presented. The main trends and future trends in the development of logistics and supply chain management have been identified.
PROBLEMS OF PRODUCTION AND USE OF SHEALING SLEEVES IN THE USSR BEFORE AND DURING THE GREAT PATRIOTIC WAR
Authors: BALYSH A , CHIRICOVA O
Published: August 2022

The aim of the article. One of the most interesting and topical problems in the USSR military industry development is the establishment and development of the USSR ammunition industry. The article is devoted to the study of one of the reasons for the poor supply of the Red Army by ammunition in the initial period of the war of 1941 - a lack of sleeves, which limited the production of artillery shells. The author sets the purpose of revealing the reasons for the unsatisfactory state of affairs in the field of manufacture by the industrial enterprises of the USSR industrial enterprises before the war, as well as the influence of this factor on the production and use of the sleeves during the war years. Methodology. General principles of historism and objectivity are the theoretical-methodological base of this work. Author also uses special historical methods: logic, systematic, chronological, actualisation and periodizing. Results. This article is based on documents storing in the Russian State Archive and Russian State Economical Archive. With the help of this documents and materials the author make the following decision: in 30th years of XX century in the USSR under forcing of industrial development the governmental bodies were not able to perform the efficient planning policy in the field of enterprises control especially in the defense branches. High-level personnel purposively disturbed technological process. It spoiled enterprises operation and it was the reason of defect production manufacturing. Practical application. Practical significance of this work is as follows: the archive data, which are for the first time used for scientific investigation and also the conclusions formulated in this article can be used for further scientific research of the USSR military industry in the industrialization period and on military production lend-lease during the Great Patriotic War and also in Soviet history in general.
CORRUPTION IN THE SOCIO-PHILOSOPHICAL DIMENSION
Authors: RYABKOVA S
Published: August 2022

The article carries out a historical and philosophical reconstruction of the concept of «corruption» as a phenomenon of social reality. Corruption is considered as a system of informal social relations, which are characterized by non-standard properties. The conclusion is made about the need to fully utilize the potential of philosophy in the study of corruption, which will allow linking various methodological approaches and giving integrity to the study.
FORMATION OF THE FOUNDATIONS OF THE CONTEXTUAL APPROACH IN HIGHER DOMESTIC FOREIGN LANGUAGE EDUCATION IN THE 1970-1980S OF THE XX CENTURY
Authors: PARSHUTKINA T , BERKU O , KALENTSOVA T
Published: August 2022

The article is devoted to the problem of the formation of the foundations of the contextual approach in foreign language education as the most important scientific foundation of modern pedagogy. In the historical path of development of this approach, the authors distinguish the 1970-1980s of the XX century, since its main structural characteristics were formed during this period. The article concludes that the structuring of the contextual approach in teaching foreign languages in higher education was caused by the need to create a professional context in the conditions of educational activity. To this end, researchers and methodologists used the pedagogical and methodological tools of the contextual approach.
Perceptual geography and its significance in the conditions of decentralization for polyethnic regions of Ukraine
Authors: Kostashchuk Ivan , Zakharchuk Ivan
Published: August 2022

This article is devoted to highlighting the importance of perceptual geography as a socio-geographical science in the research of public perception of various geographical places, territories and spaces. Today, the process of decentralization continues in Ukraine, as a result of which a new administrative and territorial system has been formed in Ukraine since January 1, 2021. It is perceptual and geographical research that can reveal the mental peculiarities of the population’s perception of the unification of settlements into territorial communities, which form a system of consolidated districts. Therefore, the study of such features of the development of perceptual geography in Ukraine is quite relevant and especially significant for polyethnic regions, among which ethno-contact Chernivtsi oblast is a vivid example.
Mechanical acne - a review of contributing factors and diagnostic-therapeutic approach
Authors: Gorajek Anna , Kudan Małgorzata , Osiejewska Aleksandra , Grądzik Anna , Mikut Karolina , Wojtachnio Dominika , Nowakowska Izabela , Bartoszewicz Jakub
Published: August 2022

Introduction and purpose: Acne is a diverse, multifactorial disease. A specific subtype of acne is mechanical acne, which is recurrent acne that occurs at the site of physical trauma to the skin due to repeated mechanical or frictional obstruction of the pilosebaceous outlet. The aim of the article is to present the available information on the pathophysiology, clinical picture, diagnosis, and treatment of mechanical acne.

Description of the state of knowledge: Mechanical acne may be a complication of preexisting acne or can occur independently in a patient with no previous history of acne. Inflammatory acneiform papules and pustules result from friction from repetitive rubbing, stretching, squeezing, pressure, tension, pinching, or pulling of the skin accompanied by heat, pressure, moisture, and occlusion. Mechanical stress on the skin can be triggered by any pressure or friction inducing physical factors, such as tight clothing, sports gear, accessories, medical equipment, seat backs or hands. Mechanical acne most commonly occurs in athletes and develops from wearing tight-fitting clothing, accessories, or equipment. The severity of lesions increases with excessive sweating and overheating of the skin. In the era of the COVID-19 pandemic, the incidence of mechanical acne caused by prolonged wearing of protective masks ("maskne") has also increased.

Summary: The most important aspect of mechanical acne treatment and preventions is the identification and elimination (or at least minimization) of the inciting factors. Supporting activities include maintaining cleanliness, proper skin care and applying topical acne treatments. Some patients require oral pharmacotherapy. Preventing recurrence of mechanical acne is important as it can leave unsightly scars and skin discoloration.
A Branch-and-Price Algorithm for the Multiple Knapsack Problem
Authors: Lalonde Olivier , Côté Jean-François , Gendron Bernard
Published: August 2022

The multiple knapsack problem is a well-studied combinatorial optimization problem with several practical and theoretical applications. It consists of packing some subset of n items into m knapsacks such that the total profit of the chosen items is maximum. A new formulation of the problem is presented, where a Lagrangian relaxation is derived, and we prove that it dominates the commonly used relaxations for this problem. We also present a Dantzig-Wolfe decomposition of the new formulation that we solve to optimality using a branch-and-price algorithm, where its main advantage comes from the fact that it is possible to control whether an item is included in some knapsack or not. An improved algorithm for solving the resulting packing subproblems is also introduced. Computational experiments then show that the new approach achieves state-of-the-art results.

History: Accepted by Andrea Lodi, Area Editor for Design & Analysis of Algorithms–Discrete.

Funding: This work was supported by the Canadian Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) [Grants 2017-06054 and 2021-04037]. This support is gratefully acknowledged.
New Features Free of Charge? Intertemporal Product Versions and Pricing in the Software Market
Authors: Brecko Kristina
Published: August 2022

An empirical study of a firm’s intertemporal product versioning and upgrade pricing decisions in the software industry.
Troponin testing in primary care: can it improve diagnosis and prevent admission?
Authors: Bond Reiss
Published: August 2022

Introduction:

With the growing demand on emergency departments, expanses in the clinical capabilities of prehospital healthcare facilities have become a hot topic. The use of point-of-care troponin testing (POCTT) has been greatly debated due to the sensitivity limitations of the current testing machines. The current systematic review will collate the current research and attempt to confirm whether troponin testing in primary care can improve diagnostic capabilities and prevent onward admission where appropriate.

Methods:

The literature search was carried out using PubMed and Embase databases with MeSH terms derived from the US National Library of Medicine. Key data points were extracted pertaining to areas such as cost, unnecessary admission, incorrect diagnosis and mortality, with a descriptive analysis completed.

Results:

Cost – An overall improvement in cost of patient care was noted. Unnecessary admission – A reduction in unnecessary admission was reported. Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) exclusion – Improved ACS exclusion was assumed due to improved admission rates. Mortality – No POCTT-associated mortality was reported. Incorrect diagnosis – Misdiagnosis rates between 1.02–5.2% with some associated morbidity.

Conclusion:

POCTT could be safely used when combined with current risk-stratification tools and delayed testing to mitigate the limitations with low-sensitivity testing.
Efficacy of metacognitive strategy training on reducing disability of post-stroke survivor: A pilot study
Authors:   Occupational Therapy, MOT (Rehabilitation), Department of Occupational Therapy, Swami Vivekanand National Institute Rehabilitation Training and Research, Cuttack-754010, Odisha, India., Mohakud Kshanaprava , Sahu Samir ,   Department of Medicine, IMS & SUM Hospital, Siksha O Anusandhan (deemed to be) University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India., Das Sakti Prasad ,   Swami Vivekanand National Institute Rehabilitation Training and Research, Cuttack, Odisha, India., Sahoo Surjeet ,   Department of Psychiatry, IMS & SUM Hospital, Siksha O Anusandhan (deemed to be) University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.
Published: August 2022

Background: Post-stroke survivors experience significant challenges with their functional health. Despite advances in neuro-rehabilitation, they cannot participate in meaningful daily life activities, leading to disability. Many intervention approaches are applied in stroke rehabilitation to make them independent and lead a quality life. Objectives: The objective of this pilot study was to investigate the effect of the Metacognitive Strategy Training (MCST) on Conventional Occupational Rehabilitation Therapy on improving independence and reducing the disability of post-stroke survivors. Materials and methods: Thirty subjects with post-stroke syndrome participated in an exploratory, double-blind, randomized controlled trial with pre-post and follow-up studies. Subjects were randomized over two intervention groups. Group-1 received MCST with conventional therapy (n=15), and Group-2 conventional therapy only (n=15). The Functional Independence Measure (FIM) measures independence at baseline (Time1), post-intervention (Time2), and after six months (Time3). Results: Changes in Functional Independence Measure scores for the two groups over six months showed significant effects of group (F(1,24)=9.422, p<0.005), time (F(1.160, 27.848)=21.449, p<0.0001) but time and group interaction was not significantly affected (F(1.160, 27.848)=0.172, p=0.719). Post hoc analysis with a Bonferroni adjustment revealed that FIM was statistically significantly increased from pre-intervention to post-intervention (22.597 (95% CI, 34.511 to 10.683), p<0.0001), and from pre-intervention to six month follow up. (24.203 (95% CI,37.554 to 10.853), p=0.0001), but not from post-intervention to six months (1.606 (95% CI, -5.988 to 2.776), p=1.000). Conclusion: MCST has better efficiency in reducing disability and improving the independence of post-stroke survivors in the long term.
Correlation between cardio ankle vascular index, body mass index and pressure parameters in normal and overweight/obesity subjects
Authors:   Department of Cardio-Thoracic Technology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences at Naresuan University, Phitsanulok Province, Thailand., Chotimol Phatiwat , Demeekul Kanokwan ,   Department of Cardio-Thoracic Technology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences at Naresuan University, Phitsanulok Province, Thailand.
Published: August 2022

Background: Obesity and overweight are a risk factors and related to the arteriosclerosis mechanism. However, it has not been fully elucidated whether cardio ankle vascular index (CAVI) is closely associated with body mass index (BMI) and pressure parameters. Objectives: This study aimed to compare CAVI and BMI with normal weight and overweight/obesity group, and to investigate the correlation between CAVI, ankle brachial index (ABI), BMI and pressure parameters. Materials and methods: One hundred and twenty-four participants were divided into normal weight group (n=52), aged 47±12 years and overweight/obesity group (n=72), aged 48.50±13 years. Both CAVI and ABI were measured with a VaSera VS-1500N®; blood pressures were measured with an Omron M7®. Results: Average ABI and mean arterial pressure (MAP) of overweight/obesity group was higher than the normal weight group. In the univariable analysis, there was a significant negative correlation between BMI and the average CAVI (r=-0.194; p=0.031), and the association between the average CAVI and ABI were positively significant (r=0.225, p=0.012). Using a multivariate regression analysis, the average CAVI was negatively associated with BMI (β=-0.217, p=0.014), while the association between the average CAVI and ABI was positively correlated (β=0.246, p=0.005). Conclusion: The average CAVI and BMI were negatively correlated, while the average CAVI and average ABI were positively related. Using a multivariate regression analysis, the average CAVI is strongly associated with the average ABI and BMI.
Dose deviations induced by fractional image guidance system errors in intensity-modulated radiotherapy for brain tumor treatment
Authors:   Department of Radiologic Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand., Somboon Siriprapa
Published: August 2022

Background: Intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) techniques have a steep dose distribution, leading to large dosimetric errors caused by incorrect daily patient setup. Image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT) is an essential technique to verify accurate patient setup. The accuracy of verifying a patient’s position depends on many factors including the image guidance system and image registration software. Objectives: This study investigated the dosimetric and geometric differences between the original plan and simulated plans with setup errors associated with kilovoltage cone-beam computed tomography (kV-CBCT), kV, kV planar image, and electronic portal imaging detector (EPID) for brain tumor treatment using IMRT. Materials and methods: A PIXY Anthropomorphic Training/Teaching Phantom was used in this study. IMRT treatment plans with five co-planar fields from a 6 MV Elekta Versa HD linear accelerator were generated using the RayStation computer treatment planning system. Three image guidance systems, including kV-CBCT, kV planar imager, and EPID were used to perform image registration. To evaluate the efficiency of each image guidance system, a simulated setup error by couch was shifted 0, ±2, and ±4 mm in the lateral, longitudinal, and vertical planes. Errors in the image registration from the actual couch shift were collected. Measured errors were used to generate the treatment plans of 25 fractions using the IMRT technique by random shifts of the isocenter of each fraction while maintaining other planning parameters of the original plan. The dose deviation in planning target volume (PTV) and geometric deviation compared to original plan were recalculated and analyzed. Results: Accuracy of image registration in all image guidance systems indicated that the registration errors were less than 1.7, 2.0, and 1.0 mm for the kV-CBCT, kV planar, and EPID, respectively. The average PTV dosimetric deviation induced by the setup error ranged from -2 to 2 mm per fraction; this study showed dosimetric deviation at D98% approximately -6%, D95% approximately -4% and D2% below -1%, while the average of isodose distribution shift of -5% inside the PTV of the isocenter region were -1.58±0.67, -1.28±0.52 and -1.30±0.80 mm in the cerebella, parasagittal, and convex areas, respectively. An isodose shift of -10% was <1 mm in all PTV locations. Conclusion: The efficiency of image guidance resulted in small errors within ±2 mm using kV-CBCT, kV planar, and EPID. The setup error influenced daily dose distribution, while the PTV recorded underdose of about 4% in the brain IMRT technique.
Hybrid multi-user access scheme for a visible light communication system
Authors: Fan Kai , Wang Jianping , Chen Danyang , Lu Huimin
Published: August 2022

A hybrid multi-user access scheme based on orthogonal frequency-division multiple access and non-orthogonal multiple access (OFDMA-NOMA) is proposed for visible light communication (VLC) systems with a bandwidth-constrained channel. In the scheme, a novel user resource allocation method is used, to the best of our knowledge, to reduce the unfairness among different users caused by the high-frequency fading characteristic of VLC systems. Furthermore, the particle swarm optimization (PSO) is introduced to satisfy the transmitting power requirements of each user and to improve system performance. Simulation results show that, under the same VLC system conditions, the OFDMA-NOMA scheme with PSO has significant improvements in terms of user capacity and transmission rates compared to the purely NOMA scheme and the OFDMA scheme.
Stigmatic optical system with corrected third-order spherical aberration for an arbitrary position of the object
Authors: Mikš Antonín , Novák Pavel
Published: August 2022

Our paper is focused on a problem of analysis and design of a stigmatic optical system that has corrected third-order spherical aberration for an arbitrary position of the object. The relations for Seidel aberration coefficients of the system for an object at infinity that must be satisfied to ensure that the third-order spherical aberration does not depend on the position of the object are given. The method for obtaining design parameters of the initial optical system that can serve as a good starting point for further refinement using numerical optimization methods is proposed. Based on the use of modified formulas for third-order aberration coefficients, this method enables one to decide if the individual members of the optical system can be simple lenses or if these should be more complex elements (cemented doublets, triplets, etc.). As a final result, one obtains the design parameters of the above-mentioned optical system (radii of curvature, optical materials, axial separations between individual elements). The analysis is performed for a thin-lens representation of the system. The transition to the thick-lens optical system then can be done by mathematical methods of numerical optimization using commercially available optical design software. The proposed method is shown on a practical example of calculation of parameters of such an optical system.
Pulse-quality metric for nonstationary partially coherent
fields
Authors: Hyde Milo W. , Korotkova Olga , Spencer Mark F.
Published: August 2022

This paper generalizes a pulse-quality metric referred to as

P
2

, i.e., the time analogue of Siegman’s
beam quality factor

M
2

, to include pulsed (nonstationary)
random fields of any state of coherence. The analysis begins with the
derivation of a general

P
2

relation, which we then specialize to
the important cases of coherent and Schell-model pulsed beams. As
examples, we derive the

P
2

for two stochastic sources: (1) a
cosine Gaussian-correlated Schell-model pulsed beam and (2) a
nonuniformly correlated pulsed beam. For both of these sources, we
generate (in simulation) random instances of each and compare the
simulated (Monte Carlo)

P
2

, i.e., computed directly from its
definition, to the theoretical quantity. The agreement is excellent,
thereby validating our

P
2

analysis.
Reservoir computing based on an external-cavity semiconductor laser with optical feedback modulation
Authors: Kanno Kazutaka , Haya Afeeqah Amalina , Uchida Atsushi
Published: August 2022

We numerically and experimentally investigate reservoir computing based on a single semiconductor laser with optical feedback modulation. In this scheme, an input signal is injected into a semiconductor laser via intensity or phase modulation of the optical feedback signal. We perform a chaotic time-series prediction task using the reservoir and compare the performances of intensity and phase modulation schemes. Our results indicate that the feedback signal of the phase modulation scheme outperforms that of the intensity modulation scheme. Further, we investigate the performance dependence of reservoir computing on parameter values and observe that the prediction error improves for large injection currents, unlike the results in a semiconductor laser with an optical injection input. The physical origin of the superior performance of the phase modulation scheme is analyzed using external cavity modes obtained from steady-state analysis in the phase space. The analysis indicates that high-dimensional mapping can be achieved from the input signal to the trajectory of the response laser output by using phase modulation of the feedback signal.
Analog transmission of time-frequency signal in atmospheric turbulence environment
Authors: Guo Zhenfeng , Lu Zehui , Meng Sensen , Lin Wei , Zhang Hao , Liu Bo , Liu Haifeng , Yao Yuan
Published: August 2022

The high-precision time-frequency transfer of the optical atomic clock signals over ground-to-satellite and terrestrial free-space laser paths is of great significance in the fields of fundamental and applied sciences. However, the phase noises caused by atmospheric turbulence severely degrade the measurement precision. In this paper, a new method to simulate the transmission of time-frequency signal propagating through atmospheric turbulence is investigated. An analog transmission system comparable to the practical out-field link has been demonstrated, which can provide a deep insight into the phase distortion of time-frequency signal of free-space optical communication links.
Repetition frequency tunability and stability of BH InAs/InP QD and InGaAsP/InP QW two-section mode-locked laser diodes
Authors: Cherniak Vladyslav , Zander Marlene , Moehrle Martin , Rehbein Wolfgang , Balzer Jan C.
Published: August 2022

Ultra-high repetition rate (UHRR) mode-locked laser diodes (MLLD) have shown promising results for applications based on optical sampling such as asynchronous optical sampling (ASOPS), optical sampling by repetition-rate tuning (OSBERT), and optical ranging. Important metrics to consider are the repetition frequency (RF) and the RF linewidth. Here, we compare two monolithically integrated MLLDs. A quantum dot (QD) MLLD with an RF of approx. 50.1 GHz and a quantum well (QW) MLLD with an RF of approx. 51.4 GHz. The tunability of the RF is characterized by sweeping the lasers pump current, temperature, and saturable absorber (SA) reverse voltage. The QW MLLD has a tuning range of 31 MHz with an average RF linewidth of 53 kHz, while the QD MLLD has a smaller tuning range of 26 MHz with a higher average RF linewidth of 172 kHz.
Miniature magneto-optic angular position sensor
Authors: Budinski Vedran , Pevec Simon , Čampelj Stanislav , Mertelj Alenka , Lisjak Darja , Donlagic Denis
Published: August 2022

This Letter describes a miniature Fabry–Perot, contactless, magneto-optic sensor for angular position measurement. The sensor utilizes a magneto-optic fluid comprising barium hexaferrite nanoplatelets that become birefringent in the presence of an external magnetic field and a compact fiber-optic sensor system for tracking the liquid’s optical axis direction. An efficient temperature compensation system is provided which allows the use of otherwise highly temperature-sensitive magneto-optic liquids. An unambiguous measurement range of 90° and a resolution of better than 0.05° are demonstrated experimentally.
Adaptations to HIV services delivery amidst the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions in Kampala, Uganda: A qualitative study
Authors: Izudi Jonathan , Kiragga Agnes N. , Okoboi Stephen , Bajunirwe Francis , Castelnuovo Barbara
Published: August 2022

The enforcement of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic restrictions disrupted health services delivery and currently, there is a limited understanding regarding measures employed by health facilities to ensure delivery of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) services amidst the interruptions. We, therefore, designed a qualitative study to explore the measures for continuity of HIV services during the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions in Kampala, Uganda. This study was conducted at six large primary health care facilities in the Kampala Metropolitan area. Qualitative data were collected from anti-retroviral therapy (ART) focal persons and lay health workers namely linkage facilitators and peer mothers through key informant interviews (KIIs). Overall, 14 KIIs were performed, 10 with lay health workers and 4 with ART focal persons. Data were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using the content approach, and the results were presented as themes along with participant quotations. Five themes emerged to describe measures for continuity of HIV services. The measures included: 1) leveraging the use of mobile phone technology to support ART adherence counseling, psychosocial care, and reminders concerning clinic appointments and referrals; 2) adoption of novel differentiated service delivery models for ART like the use of motorcycle taxis and introduction of an individualized ART delivery model for patients with non-disclosed HIV status; 3) scale-up of existing differentiated service delivery models for ART, namely multi-month dispensing of antiretroviral drugs (ARVs), fast-track ARV refill, home-based ARV refill, peer ART delivery, use of community pharmacy model, and community client-led ART delivery model; and, 4) reorientation of health facility functioning to the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions characterized by the use of nearby health facilities for ARV refill and viral load monitoring, transportation of healthcare providers and flexible work schedules and reliance on shift work. We found several measures were adopted to deliver HIV care, treatment, and support services during the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions in Kampala, Uganda. We recommend the scale-up of the new measures for service continuity in the post-COVID-19 period.
Understanding barriers and facilitators to clinic attendance and medication adherence among adults with hypertensive urgency in Tanzania
Authors: Kisigo Godfrey A. , Mcharo Onike C. , Robert John L. , Peck Robert N. , Sundararajan Radhika , Okello Elialilia S.
Published: August 2022

Hypertensive urgency is a major risk factor for cardiovascular events and premature deaths. Lack of medication adherence is associated with poor health outcomes among patients with hypertensive urgency in resource-limited settings. To inform the development of tailored interventions to improve health outcomes in this population, this study aimed at understanding facilitators and barriers to clinic attendance and medication adherence among Tanzanian adults with hypertensive urgency. We conducted in-depth interviews with 38 purposively selected participants from three groups: 1) patients with hypertension attending hypertension clinic, 2) patients with hypertension not attending hypertension clinic, and 3) clinic health workers. Interviews were conducted using a semi-structured guide which included open-ended questions with prompts to encourage detailed responses. In their narrative, patients and healthcare workers discussed 21 types of barriers/facilitators to clinic attendance and medication adherence: 12 common to both behaviors (traditional medicine, knowledge and awareness, stigma, social support, insurance, reminder cues, symptoms, self-efficacy, peer support, specialized care, social services, religious beliefs); 6 distinct to clinic attendance (transport, clinic location, appointment, patient-provider interaction, service fragmentation, quality of care); and 3 distinct to medication adherence (drug stock, side effects, medicine beliefs). The majority of identified barriers/facilitators overlap between clinic attendance and medication adherence. The identified barriers may be surmountable using tailored supportive intervention approaches, such as peer counselors, to help patients overcome social challenges of clinic attendance and medication adherence.
Psychosocial factors associated with mental health and quality of life during the COVID-19 pandemic among low-income urban dwellers in Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Min Fui Wong , Abdul Majid Hazreen , Ismail Rozmi , Su Tin Tin , Maw Pin Tan , Said Mas Ayu
Published: August 2022

Background and aims

Mental well-being among low-income urban populations is arguably challenged more than any other population amid the COVID-19 pandemic. This study investigates factors associated with depression and anxiety symptoms and quality of life among Malaysia’s multi-ethnic urban lower-income communities.

Methods

This is a community-based house-to-house survey conducted from September to November 2020 at the Petaling district in Selangor, Malaysia. Five hundred and four households were identified using random sampling, and heads of eligible households were recruited. Inclusion criteria were age ≥18 years with a monthly household income ≤RM6960 (estimated $1600) without acute psychiatric illness. The PHQ-9, GAD-7 and EQ-5D were used for depression, anxiety, and quality of life, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression was performed for the final analysis.

Results

A total of 432 (85.7%) respondents with a mean age of 43.1 years completed the survey. Mild to severe depression was detected in 29.6%, mild to severe anxiety in 14.7%, and problematic quality of life in 27.8% of respondents. Factors associated with mild to severe depression were younger age, chronic health conditions, past stressful events, lack of communication gadgets and lack of assets or commercial property. While respiratory diseases, marital status, workplace issues, financial constraints, absence of investments, substance use and lack of rental income were associated with mild to severe anxiety. Attributing poverty to structural issues, help-seeking from professionals, and self-stigma were barriers, while resiliency facilitated good psychological health. Problematic quality of life was associated with depression, older age, unemployment, cash shortage, hypertension, diabetes, stressful life events and low health literacy.

Conclusions

A high proportion of the sampled urban poor population reported mild to severe anxiety and depression symptoms. The psychosocial determinants should inform policymakers and shape future work within this underserved population.