bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MRI radiomics and nutritional-inflammatory biomarkers: a powerful combination for predicting progression-free survival in cervical cancer patients undergoing concurrent chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Yan Qi , Wu Menghan- , Zhang Jing , Yang Jiayang- , Lv Guannan- , Qu Baojun- , Zhang Yanping- , Yan Xia , Song Jianbo-
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study aims to develop and validate a predictive model that integrates clinical features, MRI radiomics, and nutritional-inflammatory biomarkers to forecast progression-free survival (PFS) in cervical cancer (CC) patients undergoing concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT). The goal is to identify high-risk patients and guide personalized treatment.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of 188 patients from two centers, divided into training (132) and validation (56) sets. Clinical data, systemic inflammatory markers, and immune-nutritional indices were collected. Radiomic features from three MRI sequences were extracted and selected for predictive value. We developed and evaluated five models incorporating clinical features, nutritional-inflammatory indicators, and radiomics using C-index. The best-performing model was used to create a nomogram, which was validated through ROC curves, calibration plots, and decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

Model 5, which integrates clinical features, Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index (SII), Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI), and MRI radiomics, showed the highest performance. It achieved a C-index of 0.833 (95% CI: 0.792–0.874) in the training set and 0.789 (95% CI: 0.679–0.899) in the validation set. The nomogram derived from Model 5 effectively stratified patients into risk groups, with AUCs of 0.833, 0.941, and 0.973 for 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year PFS in the training set, and 0.812, 0.940, and 0.944 in the validation set.

Conclusions

The integrated model combining clinical features, nutritional-inflammatory biomarkers, and radiomics offers a robust tool for predicting PFS in CC patients undergoing CCRT. The nomogram provides precise predictions, supporting its application in personalized patient management.
The lack of floater perception in eyes with asteroid hyalosis and its direct implications on laser vitreolysis
Authors: Zaher Elie , Blumenthal Yonatan , Blumenthal Eytan Z.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To present a novel optical model explaining why the vast majority of patients with Asteroid Hyalosis (AH) do not perceive any floaters. This changes our understanding of floater perception and undermines the operation mode of YAG laser vitreolysis.

Methods

Relying on a previously published model of floater perception based on astronomical equations of a solar eclipse, and on ultrasound images of the vitreous in three eyes with AH, we explain why such patients do not perceive floaters in spite of opaque bodies filling their entire vitreous, to the point of, in severe cases of AH, obscuring the fundus view during ophthalmoscopy.

Main outcome measures

Developing an optical model of light rays that can quantify the maximal distance upon which a vitreous floater or opacity will cast a shadow on the retina.

Results

Calculations using the proposed model demonstrated that with a 3 mm pupil, for a floater located between 1.5 mm and 2 mm from the retina, its shortest diameter must be > 215 microns and > 286 microns, respectively, to be perceived. Since AH floaters, based on ultrasound imaging, do not exist in the most peripheral 1.5 mm of the vitreous, it becomes understandable why these patients are asymptomatic.

Conclusions

Based on the proposed model and our findings, we deduced that even large, degenerative floaters whose width is usually narrower than a large retinal vein (125 microns), must be located very close to the retina and hence are not the floaters that are aimed at when performing YAG laser vitreolysis. We speculate that in successful cases, YAG vitreolysis works by a different mechanism, most likely a shock wave that displaces floaters further away from the retina. Hence, vitreolysis might not necessarily require the laser be aimed at the floaters, as symptomatic floaters may be located in the outer 1.5–2.0 mm of the vitreous body, a very risky zone for YAG laser shots.
Child and adolescent psychiatric disorders and ICD-11
Authors: Garralda M. Elena
Published: October 2024

An important change in ICD-11 is the lifespan approach, whereby previous child and adolescent disorders have been amalgamated with adult disorders. There have been changes in the definition/descriptions of neurodevelopmental and disruptive disorders, some of which may have an impact on service development.
Characterization and Regulation of the Neonatal Growth Hormone Surge
Authors: Gusmao Daniela O , de Sousa Ligia M M , de Sousa Maria E , Rusew Stephanie J R , List Edward O , Kopchick John J , Gomes Andre F , Campideli-Santana Ana C , Szawka Raphael E , Donato Jose
Published: October 2024

High neonatal growth hormone (GH) secretion has been described in several species. However, the neuroendocrine mechanisms behind this surge remain unknown. Thus, the pattern of postnatal GH secretion was investigated in mice and rats. Blood GH levels were very high on postnatal day (P)1 and progressively decreased until near zero by P17 in C57BL/6 mice without sex differences. This pattern was similar to that observed in rats, except that female rats showed higher GH levels on P1 than males. In comparison, follicle-stimulating hormone exhibited higher secretion in females during the first 3 weeks of life. Hypothalamic Sst mRNA and somatostatin neuroendocrine terminals in the median eminence were higher in P20/P21 mice than in newborns. Knockout mice for GH-releasing hormone (GHRH) receptor showed no GH surge, whereas knockdown mice for the Sst gene displayed increased neonatal GH peak. Leptin deficiency caused only minor effects on early-life GH secretion. GH receptor ablation in neurons or the entire body did not affect neonatal GH secretion, but the subsequent reduction in blood GH levels was attenuated or prevented by these genetic manipulations, respectively. This phenotype was also observed in knockout mice for the insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) receptor in GHRH neurons. Moreover, glucose-induced hyperglycemia overstimulated GH secretion in neonatal mice. In conclusion, GH surge in the first days of life is not regulated by negative feedback loops. However, neonatal GH secretion requires GHRH receptor, and is modulated by somatostatin and blood glucose levels, suggesting that this surge is controlled by hypothalamic-pituitary communication.
The Impact of Exercise Intensity and Sex on Endogenous Ghrelin Levels and Appetite in Healthy Humans
Authors: Anderson Kara C , Mardian Tana , Stephenson Benjamin , Grammer Emily E , Stahl Macy E , Weeldreyer Nathan R , Liu Zhenqi , Love Kaitlin M , Kranz Sibylle , Allen Jason D , Weltman Arthur
Published: October 2024

Context

Ghrelin circulates in acylated (AG) and deacylated (DAG) forms, which are known to affect appetite. Although acute exercise has been shown to modulate ghrelin levels, data on the impact of exercise intensity on AG and DAG levels and their effects on appetite are sparse and primarily limited to males.

Objective

To investigate the effect of exercise intensity and sex on ghrelin levels and appetite in untrained humans.

Methods

Eight males (age: 43.1 ± 10.9 years; body mass index [BMI]: 22.2 ± 1.7 kg/m2; peak oxygen consumption [VO2peak]: 36.3 ± 6.4 mL/kg/min) and 6 females (age: 32.2 ± 11.1 years; BMI: 22.7 ± 1.0 kg/m2; VO2peak: 29.2 ± 4.0 mL/kg/min) completed a maximal graded cycle ergometer lactate threshold (LT)/VO2peak test. These data were used to determine the exercise intensity on 3 subsequent randomized control or calorically matched cycle exercise bouts: (1) CON, no exercise; (2) MOD, the power output at LT; (3) HIGH, the power output associated with 75% of the difference between LT and VO2peak. Perception of appetite was analyzed using visual analog scales.

Results

Females had higher levels of total ghrelin (TG) (P = .03) and DAG (P = .01) at baseline than males. Both groups exhibited reduced DAG levels in HIGH compared with MOD and CON (P < .0001-.004); however, only females had significantly reduced AG in HIGH (P < .0001). Hunger scores were higher in MOD than in CON (P < .01).

Conclusion

High-intensity may be superior to moderate-intensity exercise for reducing ghrelin levels and modifying hunger, and sex may impact this response.
Postoperative Morbidity and Factors Predicting the Development of Lymphoceles Following Lateral Pelvic Node Dissection for Rectal Cancer: A Cohort Study
Authors: Mathew Joseph , Kazi Mufaddal , Desouza Ashwin , Saklani Avanish
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Lateral pelvic node dissection (LPLND) is indicated in the surgical management of clinically significant pelvic lymphadenopathy associated with rectal malignancies. However, procedure-related morbidity, including the incidence and predisposing factors for lymphoceles arising in this setting have not been adequately evaluated.

Methods

This retrospective single-institution study included 183 patients with nonmetastatic, lateral node-positive rectal cancer undergoing total mesorectal excision with LPLND between June 2014 and May 2023 to determine the incidence and severity of postoperative complications using the Clavien-Dindo system, with logistic regression performed to model a relationship between lymphocele-development and potentially-predictive variables.

Results

In this cohort, mean age was 45.3 ± 12.81 years, 62.8% were male, and 27.9% had body mass index ≥ 25 kg/m2. Median tumor-distance from the verge was 3.0 (interquartile range [IQR] 1.0–5.0) cm. Following radiotherapy in 86.9%, all patients underwent surgery: 30.1% had open resection and 26.2% had bilateral LPLND. Median nodal-yield was 6 (IQR 4–8) per side. Postoperatively, 45.3% developed complications, with 18% considered clinically significant. Lymphoceles, detected in 21.3%, comprised the single-most common sequelae following LPLND, 46.2% arising within 30 days of surgery and 33.3% requiring intervention. On multivariate analyses, obesity (hazard ratio [HR] 2.496; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.094–5.695), receipt of preoperative radiation (HR 10.026; 95% CI 1.225–82.027), open surgical approach (HR 2.779; 95% CI 1.202–6.425), and number of harvested nodes (HR 1.105; 95% CI 1.026–1.190) were significantly associated with lymphocele-development.

Conclusions

Pelvic lymphoceles and its attendant complications represent the most commonly encountered morbidity following LPLND for rectal cancer, with obesity, neoadjuvant radiotherapy, open surgery, and higher nodal-yield predisposing to their development.
Ta wojna zmieni wszystko… Obraz I wojny światowej w literaturze wspomnieniowej kobiet. Wybór tekstów źródłowych
Authors: Niewęgłowska Aneta , Zaleska Ilona
Published: October 2024

The aim of this source study is to present the image of World War I seen through the eyes of women and to show how strongly and on how many levels it interfered in various areas of life. The suggestive title of the study was inspired by Janina Gajewska's Diary from 1914 to 1919. Both Gajewska and other diarists who decided to write down their memories of the Great War provide us with a lot of valuable information, especially regarding wartime everyday life. […] It should be emphasised that the women, with great insight, recorded and described issues resulting from this unusual, strongly marked by war reality. The diarists whose accounts were used in this study can be described as extraordinary individuals (each in their own way), deserving to be remembered and, above all, appreciated because of the source value of the messages they left behind. Excerpt from the Foreword
Czterej pancerni i pies. Wokół fenomenu kulturowego
Authors: Hlebionek Marcin , Moczkodan Rafał
Published: October 2024

The series Czterej pancerni i pies (Four Tank-Men and a Dog) (directed by Konrad Nałęcki), created in 1966–1970, based on the book by Janusz Przymanowski (1964), was, considering the limited access to culture in the times of the Polish People's Republic, a very important, shared experience of several generations of Poles. Conscious recipients are aware that both the book and the film are far from historical realities, and tracking them could become the subject of separate research. And yet, it cannot be denied that the novel, and even more so the series, influenced the consciousness and thinking of subsequent generations of readers and viewers who, from the beginning of the 1960s and for the next quarter of a century, followed the fate of the crew of the tank with side number 102 with fascination. Is it possible to mention here only its influence or shaping historical awareness? Or should it be called a clear cultural stigma? In search of answers to these questions, the authors of the texts published in this book consider to what extent Four Tank-Men and a Dog shaped the way Poles think about the history of World War II and Polish-Soviet relations. How have the novel and the series influenced the form of our historical memory? Are they present in the cultural space today, and if so, how? What has remained after, among others, the Four Tank-Men Clubs, theatre performances, comics, posters, and how recognisable are the commonly known quotes of the series' characters? The volume we present to our readers is a partial outcome of a conference devoted to the novel and the series. It is partial because it does not contain the texts of all the papers presented. However, we hope that, at least to some extent, it will meet the expectations of the readers.
Studia ze słowotwórstwa albańskiego
Authors: Karasiński Artur
Published: October 2024

Studia ze słowotwórstwa albańskiego (Studies in Albanian word formation) is a collection of studies on the word formation of the modern Albanian language and an attempt to show the developmental tendencies of Albanian word formation since the mid-16th century, i.e. the time of the creation and preservation of the first written Albanian texts. The work uses the latest methods and research tools developed in the field of Slavic word formation, especially Polish.
Socjohydrologiczne ujęcie relacji rzeka – człowiek w dnie doliny Wisły
Authors: Witkowski Karol
Published: October 2024

SOCIOHYDROLOGY APPROACH OF MEN -RIVER RELATIONSHIPS AT THE BOTTOM OF THE VISTULA VALLEY
Until the second half of the 19th century, man used the environmental resources of the bottom of the Vistula valley, interfering with them only slightly. From the Stone Age, settlements on the Vistula River intensifi ed, but settlements were erected at a safe distance from the riverbed. Extensive use of the river for fishing and water intake did not disturb the hydromorphological processes. Therefore, the first signifi cant human pressure may have been the felling of trees in the floodplain in 400 BC – 200 CE. These activities accelerated the flow of flood waters on the floodplain while lowering their level. In the research section, the permanent development of the valley bottom began in the 13th century with the location of Spytkowice village. However, the gradual development of settlement up to Łączany was not intense. The densification of the buildings continues until the present day. However, it does not spread beyond the roles occupied in the 18th century. The Vistula was used for rafting. This caused attempts to turn the Vistula into the main transport route. From the time of the first hydrotechnical works, between 1869 and 1875, until the construction of the Smolice barrage in 2002, the Vistula bed was signifi cantly shortened and narrowed. These changes led to the incision of the channel. The construction of levees severed the natural connectivity between the river and its floodplain. Human activities have made the Vistula River even more dangerous due to erosion of the bottom and possible flooding in the event of the embankments breaking.
Rozwój sieci parafialnej w ziemi zatorskiej w okresie od ok. 1326 do ok. 1378 r.
Authors: Rajman Jerzy
Published: October 2024

THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE PARISH NETWORK IN ZATOR LAND IN THE PERIOD FROM CA. 1326 TO CA. 1378
The subject of this sketch is an analysis of changes in the church network in the so-called Zator land, that is, the part of the Zator deanery located south of the Vistula River and east of Skawinka. Around 1326, there were 23 churches in the area. Later sources were analysed, with the final caesura being 1375-1378. The most important development in the period from ca. 1326 to ca. 1378 was the incorporation of the town of Wadowice and the related creation of a separate parish in the town in the second half of the 14th century (initially the Wadowice church was a branch church to the parish in Woźniki). During the period under review, several other parish churches were also established as a result of the colonisation of previously uninhabited areas. The establishment of the parishes in Andrychów and Chocznia, like the earlier one in Inwałd, is linked to the economic boom brought about by the location of the town of Bielsko. The establishment of a parish in Krzeszów indicates a successful attempt to colonise the foothills. In conclusion, it can be stated that no parish disappeared during the period under review, and seven new ones were formed, mostly distributed in the southern part of Zator land. A total of 31 parish churches for the end of the period under study are shown.
Quality Improvement Spillovers: Evidence from the Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program
Authors: Soltani Mohamad , Batt Robert J. , Bavafa Hessam
Published: October 2024

Quality knowledge spillovers can enhance the overall effectiveness of quality improvement initiatives. We study the presence and moderators of such spillovers in a multitask service setting, specifically in hospital inpatient care. Leveraging a national quality improvement regulation, the Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program (HRRP), which offers partial incentives for hospitals to reduce readmissions, we employ difference-in-differences econometric models on a nationwide database and find positive quality spillovers in the healthcare sector. Our findings indicate that the implementation of HRRP led to a significant decrease in 30-day readmissions among patients with clinical conditions or insurance types that were not targeted by the policy. Additionally, we find that task similarity played a positive role in promoting quality spillovers, while a hospital’s operational focus on target patients (i.e., the proportion of hospital volume targeted by the policy) did not moderate these spillovers. Notably, we observe that hospitals achieved these quality improvements without increasing the intensity of care provided, and that meaningful improvements in quality were associated with up to a 3% reduction in hospitalization costs. This paper contributes novel insights into how regulators and policymakers can design narrow public policies and regulations that achieve broader results by exploiting the beneficial quality improvement spillovers of partial incentives.

This paper was accepted by Ranjani Krishnan, accounting.

Funding: Support for this research was provided by the Alberta School of Business Faculty Seed Grant and the University of Wisconsin-Madison Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Education, with funding from the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2023.01062 .
CINEMAS AFRO-ATLÂNTICOS: Corporeidade, Trabalho e Musicalidade dos Cinemas Negros nas Tessituras das Redes Educativas
Authors: Correa Marco Aurélio
Published: October 2024

O presente texto pretende abordar como a discussão conceitual sobre a diáspora africana se apresenta nas imagens, narrativas e sons dos cinemas negros presentes no decorrer do atlântico negro (GILROY, 2001). Enfocando nas relações entre o corpo (TAVARES, 2016), o trabalho (MOURA, 1995) e a musicalidade (HALL, 2003) da diáspora representadas nos filmes dos cinemas negros, questionaremos monologismos da ciência ocidental (ALVES, 1999) que desencadearam no colonialismo e no racismo contemporâneo (FANON, 2005), através de hierarquização e aprisionamento das identidades e diferenças (CARDOSO JR, 2011; JESUS, 2016). As correntes que prendiam e cerceavam corpos e mentes negras foram sutilmente subvertidas através de constantes movimentos de criações corporais e musicais como forma de manutenção das expressividades de origem africana, até os dias de hoje. A potência criativa e intercessora (DELEUZE; GUATTARI, 1992) presente nestes filmes e nestes movimentos estéticos nos possibilita pensar em suas tessituras nos cotidianos escolares (ALVES, 2011), como tática (CERTEAU,1998) questionadora das hegemonias presentes na educação contemporânea (NOGUERA, 2012).
A PROSCRIÇÃO DA AÇÃO REFLEXIVA DOS SUJEITOS: O experimentalismo didático no filme “A Onda”
Authors: Bezerra Leonardo Mendes
Published: October 2024

O artigo objetivou analisar os aspectos pedagógicos do filme “A onda” como instrumento para desenvolver as capacidades perceptivas, analíticas e argumentativas dos alunos no curso de licenciatura em Letras. A investigação foi norteada pelas seguintes questões: até que ponto os docentes influenciam os comportamentos dos discentes? A argumentação é um instrumento que pode ser utilizado para a massificação e a alienação dos indivíduos? Para se chegar a uma resposta a essas indagações, busca-se observar e refletir sobre as personalidades autoritárias e massificadas/alienadas presentes no filme, além de verificar as aptidões que os docentes têm em influenciar hábitos, pensamentos e comportamentos. Metodologicamente, a pesquisa trata-se de um estudo bibliográfico, exploratório, participativo e qualitativo, com alguns levantamentos quantitativos, originários da pesquisa analítica das percepções ocorridas com estudantes do curso de Letras em uma Universidade, localizada no Sul do Maranhão.  Como resultado, originaram-se três categorias de análise: 1. Do texto ao contexto e as percepções sobre o enredo do filme, 2. Posicionamento composto por elementos psicológicos e emotivos, 3. Aspectos didáticos do processo de ensino-aprendizagem. E como resultado final, destaca-se a importância de uma prática didático-pedagógica (re)planejada, (re)avaliada e re(definida), considerando os casos particulares da turma. A propósito, faz-se necessário expor que os professores não têm o direito de proporcionar ações engessadas e alienadoras nos diversos níveis de ensino.
O QUE PODE UM CURRÍCULO RIZOMÁTICO?
Authors: De Carvalho Santos Igor Alexandre
Published: October 2024

O presente texto pretende abordar as potencialidades do currículo rizomático sem, contudo, obturar sua capacidade criativa e intempestiva. Arriscamos alguns desdobramentos a partir dos princípios rizomáticos e seus deslocamentos e transduções para o campo curricular. Ademais, vislumbramos a materialização da resistência e fabulação que se manifesta em atos de currículo rizomáticos como contraefetuações aos poderes e saberes que pretendem exercer formas de controle.
Apresentação do Dossiê - CURRÍCULOS E IMAGENS E SONS E CHEIROS E MOVIMENTOS
Authors: Alves Nilda , Rangel dos Reis Leonardo
Published: October 2024

O dossiê CURRÍCULOS E IMAGENS E SONS E CHEIROS E MOVIMENTOS, que agora apresentamos, tem como foco pesquisas que tratam de repertórios culturais diversos que estão sempre em diálogo em todo processo educativo, mobilizando distintos sentidos e movimentos, mas que muitas vezes se encontram invisibilizados pelos códigos característicos das linguagens dominantes. Não obstante, sempre emergem, como insistência insubordinada, nas tantas e complexas redes educativas que formamos e que nos formam, forjando acontecimentos momentâneos e/ou duradouros nos múltiplos processos curriculares desenvolvidos nos cotidianos escolares, produzindo imagens, cheiros, saberes, sabores etc. Em tempos tão duros de retirada de direitos e ataque à democracia, proclamamos o direito ao livre pensamento, e ao fazer ciência(s) comprometida(s) com as populações subalternizadas, com os historicamente excluídos, com as mulheres e homens ‘praticantespensantes’ nos/dos/com cotidianos, inventores de sonhos e movimentos, e esperanças e imagens e odores e saberes, que afirmam sua presença através da inelidível criação das multiplicidades curriculares, ou dos múltiplos currículos, fazendo Educação, em sua dimensão tanto ética quanto estética, a partir da pluralidade de linguagens, abarcando projetos participativos, criativos e de resistências.
Atopic dermatitis: new insights into a common condition
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: October 2024

Atopic dermatitis is one of the most common conditions managed in the community world-wide. Atopic dermatitis is under intense scrutiny by academic researchers, not to mention drug companies, enabling regular research in the area. Dermatologists have a growing appreciation of the complex causes of this common condition.
Physics-guided deep learning-based real-time image reconstruction of Fourier-domain optical coherence tomography
Authors: Wang Mengyuan , Mao Jianing , Su Hang , Ling Yuye , Zhou Chuanqing , Su Yikai
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we introduce a physics-guided deep learning approach for high-quality, real-time Fourier-domain optical coherence tomography (FD-OCT) image reconstruction. Unlike traditional supervised deep learning methods, the proposed method employs unsupervised learning. It leverages the underlying OCT imaging physics to guide the neural networks, which could thus generate high-quality images and provide a physically sound solution to the original problem. Evaluations on synthetic and experimental datasets demonstrate the superior performance of our proposed physics-guided deep learning approach. The method achieves the highest image quality metrics compared to the inverse discrete Fourier transform (IDFT), the optimization-based methods, and several state-of-the-art methods based on deep learning. Our method enables real-time frame rates of 232 fps for synthetic images and 87 fps for experimental images, which represents significant improvements over existing techniques. Our physics-guided deep learning-based approach could offer a promising solution for FD-OCT image reconstruction, which potentially paves the way for leveraging the power of deep learning in real-world OCT imaging applications.
Label-free classification of atherosclerosis plaque via OCT and ultraviolet autofluorescence spectroscopy
Authors: Zhou Wangting , Li Kezhou , Yan Baoyun , Liu Chao , Wang Nan , Cao Yihui , Li Jianan , Zhu Rui , Guo Jianming , Chen Xueli
Published: October 2024

We proposed a label-free method for the identification and classification of atherosclerosis plaques by combining optical coherence tomography (OCT) with ultraviolet autofluorescence spectroscopy (uFLS). By aligning the OCT source and the FLS excitation beams, we were able to illuminate the same spot on plaques fixed to the integrated probe, which underwent rotational scanning. This setup enabled the detection of both OCT images and uFLS spectra of the plaques in a co-localized manner. In our approach, a 1300 nm centered swept laser source was utilized for OCT imaging, while a 355 nm laser source, along with a lensed multimode fiber, served as the fluorescence probe for uFLS. The successful acquisition of OCT-uFLS images provided complementary information regarding the tomographic internal structure and biochemical components within the vessels, allowing for comprehensive identification and classification of atherosclerosis plaques. Furthermore, we achieved quantitative measurements and analysis of fluorescence spectra from three main component channels, corresponding to collagen, elastin, and lipid. This enabled us to differentiate atherosclerosis from normal vessel walls and determine the specific types. With the implementation of this dual-modal OCT-uFLS technique, it is possible to facilitate the label-free classification of various histopathological types of atherosclerosis plaques, which holds the potential for both diagnosis and image-guided ablation therapy applications.
High-efficiency broadband out-of-plane fiber-to-polymer waveguide grating coupler
Authors: Nambiar Siddharth , P Venkatachalam , Singh Radhakant , Rawat Pravin , Kumar Selvaraja Shankar
Published: October 2024

Polymer photonics is receiving significant attention due to its potential for a wide range of integrated photonic applications and wide wavelength transparency. Wafer-scale testing is challenging due to low-index contrast in polymer waveguides. In this Letter, we demonstrate an amorphous silicon based out-of-plane polymer waveguide grating coupler. Simulations predict a maximum efficiency of −1.13 dB, with a 1 dB bandwidth of 95 nm over the C–L-band. Experimentally measured peak coupling efficiency between a single-mode optical fiber and polymer waveguide is −2.15 dB per coupler with a 1 and 3 dB bandwidth of 49 and 89 nm, respectively.
Individualistic reward-seeking strategies that predict response to nicotine emerge among isogenic male mice living in a micro-society
Authors: Fayad Sophie L. , Reynolds Lauren M. , Torquet Nicolas , Tolu Stefania , Mondoloni Sarah , Nguyen Claire , Siriphanh Amy , Justo Robin , Didienne Steve , Debray Nicolas , Viollet Cécile , Raynaud Louis , Layadi Yasmine , Fouquet Coralie , Hannesse Bernadette , Capaz Ana-Marta , Topilko Thomas , Renier Nicolas , Mourot Alexandre , Marti Fabio , Faure Philippe
Published: October 2024

Individual animals differ in their traits and preferences, which shape their social interactions, survival, and susceptibility to disease, including addiction. Nicotine use is highly heterogenous and has been linked to the expression of personality traits. Although these relationships are well documented, we have limited understanding of the neurophysiological mechanisms that give rise to distinct behavioral profiles and their connection to nicotine susceptibility. To address this question, we conducted a study using a semi-natural and social environment called “Souris-City” to observe the long-term behavior of individual male mice. Souris-City provided both a communal living area and a separate test area where mice engaged in a reward-seeking task isolated from their peers. Mice developed individualistic reward-seeking strategies when choosing between water and sucrose in the test compartment, which, in turn, predicted how they adapted to the introduction of nicotine as a reinforcer. Moreover, the profiles mice developed while isolated in the test area correlated with their behavior within the social environment, linking decision-making strategies to the expression of behavioral traits. Neurophysiological markers of adaptability within the dopamine system were apparent upon nicotine challenge and were associated with specific profiles. Our findings suggest that environmental adaptations influence behavioral traits and sensitivity to nicotine by acting on dopaminergic reactivity in the face of nicotine exposure, potentially contributing to addiction susceptibility. These results further emphasize the importance of understanding interindividual variability in behavior to gain insight into the mechanisms of decision-making and addiction.
Sickle cell disease in Cameroon: Taking out the “neglect” and highlighting key opportunities for sustainable control
Authors: Saidu Yauba , Masong Makia Christine , Francoise Nwabufo , Ngenge Budzi Michael , Ndansi Elvis , Foma Munoh Kenne
Published: October 2024

Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a serious genetic disorder with astounding regional differences in childhood survival. Alarmingly, over 90% of children with SCD in SSA die before their fifth birthday. In Cameroon, approximately 7,000 children are born with SCD annually; however, most of them go undiagnosed until their fourth birthday, resulting into untold pain and suffering. Despite this, little is known about the barriers to optimal care and treatment for SCD in Cameroon. Here, we assess these barriers, and consider opportunities that could be leveraged, for a sustainable control of SCD in Cameroon. We conducted a qualitative study, with documentary analysis of key national and international policy documents related to SCD management in Cameroon; semi-structured interviews; and focus group discussions, used for data collection. Key informants were selected purposively, and met at the central level of the health system (in Yaoundé) and the operational level (Mfou health district). These were policy makers, health workers, parents with SCD children and teenagers with SCD. Several critical gaps exist which hinder SCD control in Cameroon. These include lack of a national sickle cell disease strategy, no proportional allocation of funds for SCD in the national budget, and gaps in service delivery. These are translated into healthcare providers having little knowledge on SCD, absence of SCD-specific indicators in the health information system, challenges accessing essential medicines, and limited awareness raising in communities on SCD. Still, several opportunities exist which could be leveraged for improving SCD care in Cameroon. These include the possibility of integrating SCD screening and care into well-established primary healthcare services like vaccination, antenatal care, and non-communicable disease clinics. In the light of such limited resource settings, considering opportunities for integration in existing health programs could go a long way to reduce morbidities and mortalities from SCD over the coming years.
New versions of maps and connected spaces via supra soft sd-operators
Authors: Abd El-latif Alaa M. , Azzam A. A. , Abu-Gdairi Radwan , Aldawood M. , Alqahtani Mesfer H.
Published: October 2024

In this manuscript we use novel types of soft operators to define new approaches of soft maps in the frame of supra soft topologies (or SSTSs), namely supra soft somewhere dens continuous (or SS-sd-continuous), SS-sd-open and SS-sd-closed maps. With the help of SS-closure (interior) operators and SS-sd-closure (interior) operators we succeed to introduce many equivalent conditions and several important properties to these notions. To name a few: We prove that there is an one to one between the SS-sd-open and SS-sd-closed maps under a bijective soft map, supported by counterexample to confirm the necessity of the bijectivity condition. Furthermore, we present the concept of SS-sd-separated sets with intersected characterizations, as a prelude to studying the connectedness in a supra soft topological space (or SSTS). Moreover, we show that, there is no priori relationship between supra soft-sd-connectedness in an SSTS and its parametric supra topological spaces in general, supported by concrete counterexamples. Finally, we prove that the image of an SS-sd-connected set under an SS-sd-irresolute map is an SS-sd-connected.
Morphological characterization, molecular identification, and metabolic profiles of two novel isolated bamboo mushrooms (Phallus sp.) from Thailand
Authors: Chumkiew Sirilak , Jamklang Mantana , Wangboon Chompunoot , Penkhrue Watsana , Mangmee Napaporn , Sakheatkarn Kanyapak , Martviset Pongsakorn , Chantree Pathanin , Chaimon Salisa , Sanannam Bumpenporn , Thanee Malinee , Suksawat Manida , Phetcharaburanin Jutarop
Published: October 2024

The well-characterized edible and medicinal bamboo mushroom is Phallus indusiatus, a Chinese bamboo mushroom with long white indusium (skirt). To date, scientists have found more than five species of bamboo mushrooms in Thailand, containing bamboo mushrooms with long white, short white, and several colored skirts. Still, most of them are unidentified species and lack metabolic profile data. Hence, this study aims to evaluate the species of the long white-skirt Chinese bamboo mushroom-like (CH-isolate) and short white-skirt (TH-isolate) bamboo mushrooms isolated from a local farm in northern Thailand. External morphology and molecular identification were used to identify the species. Nutritional and metabolic studies were conducted to determine the nutrients and metabolites from both isolates. Our morphological and evolutionary phylogenetic analyses suggested that CH- and TH-isolates were different species. Interestingly, the CH-isolate, which has a similar morphology to P. indusiatus, clearly demonstrated the difference in species. In addition, the nutritional and metabolomic analysis revealed that CH- and TH-isolate contain different nutritional constituents and metabolic profiles. Our study reports the two new species of bamboo mushrooms that were suspected to be found in Thailand and their metabolic profiles that could be beneficially used in further studies. However, definitive confirmation of the novel species will be made in the future.
Ischemic mitral regurgitation: To repair or replace? A single center experience
Authors: Sweeney Joseph C. , Alotaibi Amal , Porter Gene D. , Avula Divya , Trivedi Jaimin R. , Slaughter Mark S. , Ganzel Brian L. , Pahwa Siddharth V.
Published: October 2024

Objective

Recent reports on ischemic mitral valve (MV) regurgitation surgical strategies have suggested better hemodynamic performance with MV replacement (MVR) than MV repair (MVr) with no survival difference at 2 years. We evaluated the difference between MVR and MVr outcomes in patients with ischemic MR, including hemodynamic MV performance at 1 and 2 years postoperatively.

Methods

A single center cardiac surgery database was queried for patients (aged >/ = 18 years) requiring mitral valve surgery with concomitant CABG or PCI between January 2010 and June 2018. Patients were separated into two groups: mitral valve repair using ring annuloplasty (MVr) and mitral valve replacement (MVR).

Results

A total of 111 patients (median age 66 years, 76% male) underwent an operation for ischemic mitral regurgitation during the study period. (44%) had MVr and 62 (56%) had MVR. Both groups had > 80% concomitant CABG. The MVr group had lower EF (40% vs. 55%, p < 0.01), shorter cardiopulmonary bypass time (117 vs. 164 minutes, p < .01) and shorter aortic cross-clamp time (80 vs. 116 minutes, p < .01). The in-hospital mortality (6% vs. 10%, p = 1.00) and 1-year mortality (14% vs. 18%, p = 0.17) were similar between the groups. Pre-operative left ventricular internal diameter at end-diastole was greater in the MVr group (5.6cm vs. 4.6cm, p < .01). At 1-year, more patients in the MVR group had no or trace regurgitation (29% vs. 61%, p = 0.01), however, the number of patients with moderate or greater mitral regurgitation was similar (6% vs. 12%, p = 0.69). At 2-years, the MVr and MVR groups had no difference in moderate or severe mitral regurgitation (7% vs. 13%, p = 0.68).

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate similar early mortality and mid-term mitral valve performance, suggesting that MV repair could be a good surgical option in patients with ischemic MR requiring surgical revascularization.
Mind your pain: A single-arm feasibility study to assess a smartphone-based interoceptive attention training for patients with chronic low back pain
Authors: Mehling Wolf E. , Strigo Irina A. , Goldman Veronica , Hartogensis Wendy , Adler Shelley R. , Lotz Jeffrey , Hecht Frederick M.
Published: October 2024

Objective

People commonly cope with chronic low back pain (cLBP) by ignoring and distraction. Can mindful interoceptive exposure to the pain sensation itself and its phenomenological components be an alternative approach?

Methods

Single-arm feasibility study in patients with cLBP using a 2-minute attention exercise guided by a smartphone app several times per day over 8 weeks. We assessed feasibility, pre/post pain, function, and psychological parameters using mixed methods: standard questionnaires, ecological momentary assessment, and exit interviews that included micro-phenomenology technique and subsequent reflexive thematic qualitative analysis.

Results

We enrolled 31 participants, mostly female, mean age 48, the majority had pain for >5 years; 29 completed. Mean pain intensity [0–10] improved from 4.8 ±1.7 to 3.1 ±1.9 (p < .0001); mean PEG scores (intensity and interference with daily life; range 0–30) improved from 13.7 ±6.2 to 8.4 ±6.6 (p < .0001); pain impact (9 items incl physical function) 22.3 ±8.7 to 19.7 ±8.1 (p = .0010). Twenty-one of 29 improved PEG score ≥30%. There were significant improvements in PCS Rumination and MAIA Not-Worrying. Participants became aware of their usual habit of avoidance and the challenge of and resistance to focusing on pain. They were surprised how pain sensations varied over time, and that pain intensity and the threat value of pain could diminish by focusing on it. They described a variety of 3D pain shapes (e.g., football, pool ball, rod, nail, brick, stars) with a range of colors, transparency, temperature, and density that for some changed with mindful attention. Most struggled to find appropriate words for sensory awareness and attention regulation and found that the threat value of their pain diminished.

Conclusions

Mindful interoceptive exposure to the sensations of their cLBP using a 2-minute attention exercise with a phone app—rather than ignoring and distracting from it—may be a beneficial intervention for cLBP.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov #NCT06186193.
Cultural adaptation and transitions within international higher education: University students’ experiences of studying abroad during the 2020 Coronavirus pandemic
Authors: Ellis Teneisha , Jola Corinne , Cameron Andrea
Published: October 2024

This qualitative study explored students’ lived experiences of higher education study abroad programs during the Covid-19 pandemic. Studying individual experiences in extraordinary circumstances like a pandemic can reveal personal, organisational and process-related resilience relevant to understanding and planning future events. Online semi-structured interviews with thirteen international students from four continents (North America, South America, Europe and Asia) were conducted amidst the pandemic in the Spring of 2021. Transition Theory underpinned the study. Interviews with students were used to explore personal strategies adopted to support the transition to virtual platforms during the pandemic. Through Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, four response categories were identified: Functioning in Ambiguity, The Importance of Language and Culture, Reshaping Community, and Alternative Experiences in Intercultural Connectivity. Participants’ responses delved into aspects of acculturation, culture shock and resiliency amidst the disruption. These findings may inform future practices for international professionals supporting students studying abroad.
Epigenetic aging differentially impacts breast cancer risk by self-reported race
Authors: Wu Yanning , Miller Megan E. , Gilmore Hannah L. , Thompson Cheryl L. , Schumacher Fredrick R.
Published: October 2024

Background

Breast cancer (BrCa) is the most common cancer for women globally. BrCa incidence varies by age and differs between racial groups, with Black women having an earlier age of onset and higher mortality compared to White women. The underlying biological mechanisms of this disparity remain uncertain. Here, we address this knowledge gap by examining the association between overall epigenetic age acceleration and BrCa initiation as well as the mediating role of race.

Results

We measured whole-genome methylation (866,238 CpGs) using the Illumina EPIC array in blood DNA extracted from 209 women recruited from University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center. Overall and intrinsic epigenetic age acceleration was calculated–accounting for the estimated white blood cell distribution–using the second-generation biological clock GrimAge. After quality control, 149 BrCa patients and 42 disease-free controls remained. The overall chronological mean age at BrCa diagnosis was 57.4 ± 11.4 years and nearly one-third of BrCa cases were self-reported Black women (29.5%). When comparing BrCa cases to disease-free controls, GrimAge acceleration was 2.48 years greater (p-value = 0.0056), while intrinsic epigenetic age acceleration was 1.72 years higher (p-value = 0.026) for cases compared to controls. After adjusting for known BrCa risk factors, we observed BrCa risk increased by 14% [odds ratio (OR) = 1.14; 95% CI: 1.05, 1.25] for a one-year increase in GrimAge acceleration. The stratified analysis by self-reported race revealed differing ORs for GrimAge acceleration: White women (OR = 1.17; 95% CI: 1.03, 1.36), and Black women (OR = 1.08; 95% CI: 0.96, 1.23). However, our limited sample size failed to detect a statistically significant interaction for self-reported race (p-value >0.05) when examining GrimAge acceleration with BrCa risk.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that epigenetic age acceleration is associated with BrCa risk, and the association suggests variation by self-reported race. Although our sample size is limited, these results highlight a potential biological mechanism for BrCa risk and identifies a novel research area of BrCa health disparities requiring further inquiry.
Accuracy of ankle-brachial index in screening for peripheral arterial disease in people with diabetes
Authors: Cerqueira Monique Magnavita Borba da Fonseca , Bastos Neiva Sueli Santana Gonçalves , Silva Dandara Almeida Reis da , Gregori Dario , Magalhães Lucélia Batista Neves Cunha , Pimentel Magno Merces Weyll
Published: October 2024

Although the ankle-brachial index (ABI) presents overall satisfactory accuracy, its sensitivity in the context of screening strategies does not ensure the detection of all individuals with peripheral arterial disease (PAD), especially in clinical situations where there is calcification of the arterial media layer. This study evaluated the accuracy of ABI in screening PAD among individuals with diabetes mellitus (DM) in a community setting. An observational study included only individuals with DM. ABI measurement was performed, and the lower limb duplex ultrasound (DU) was used as the reference standard for PAD diagnosis. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values (PPV and NPV), and positive and negative likelihood ratios (LR+ and LR-) of ABI were assessed. The analysis included 194 limbs from 99 participants, with a PAD prevalence identified by DU of 15.98%. ABI demonstrated an accuracy of 87.63%, with a sensitivity of 35.48%, specificity of 97.55%, PPV of 73.33%, NPV of 89.83%, LR+ of 14.46, and LR- of 0.66. ABI showed high specificity but limited sensitivity in detecting PAD among individuals with DM in a community setting. An LR- of 0.66 suggests that a normal ABI result reduces but does not eliminate the possibility of PAD, highlighting the importance of complementary diagnostic approaches to enhance accuracy in identifying PAD in high-risk patients, such as those with DM. Incorporating additional diagnostic methods may be necessary to improve the effectiveness of PAD screening in this group.