bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“It was really poor prior to the pandemic. It got really bad after”: A qualitative study of the impact of COVID-19 on prison healthcare in England
Authors: Wainwright Lucy , Senker Sarah , Canvin Krysia , Sheard Laura
Published: February 2023

Background

The impact of COVID-19 has been exceptional, particularly on the National Health Service which has juggled COVID affected patients alongside related staff shortages and the existing (and growing) health needs of the population. In prisons too, healthcare teams have been balancing patient needs against staffing shortfalls, but with additional strains unique to the prison population. Such strains include drastic lockdown regimes and prolonged isolation, the need to consider health alongside security, known health inequalities within prisoner groups, and an ageing and ethnically diverse population (both groups disproportionately affected by COVID). The aim of this paper is to contribute to emerging research on the impact of COVID-19 on prison healthcare.

Methods

We conducted 44 in depth interviews (over phone or video) across three groups: prison leavers, healthcare staff and decision makers, between July and December 2021. Framework analysis was undertaken.

Results

Three themes were found. First, we found that Covid-19 had a significant impact on prison healthcare which involved reduced access and changes to how healthcare was delivered. This affected the health of prisoners by exacerbating existing conditions, new conditions being undiagnosed and mental health needs increasing. Second, the pandemic impacted on healthcare staff through creation of stress, frustration and exhaustion due to minimal staffing levels in an already under-resourced system. Third, an emerging conflict was witnessed. People in prison felt neglected regarding their healthcare needs but staff reported doing the best they could in an unprecedented situation. Healthcare staff and decision makers felt that prison healthcare was seen as a poor relation when compared with healthcare in the community, with no extra resource or staffing for Covid-19 testing or vaccinations.

Conclusion

The Covid-19 pandemic has significantly impacted almost all aspects of prison healthcare in the UK. This includes delivery of healthcare by staff, receipt of it by people in prison and the management, planning and commissioning of it by decision makers. These three groups of people were all affected detrimentally but in vastly different ways, with some participants describing a sense of trauma. Health needs that were exacerbated or went unmet during Covid urgently need to be addressed in order to reduce health inequalities. In order for welfare and wellbeing to be maintained, and in some cases repaired, both prisoners and staff need to feel heard and recognised.
Overwintering aggregation patterns of European catfish Silurus glanis
Authors: Westrelin Samuel , Moreau Mathieu , Fourcassié Vincent , Santoul Frédéric
Published: February 2023

Animal aggregation, particularly in large-bodied species, is both a fascinating and intriguing phenomenon. Here we analyzed the overwintering behavior of the European catfish,Silurus glanisLinnaeus, 1758, the largest freshwater fish in Europe. By tracking 47 subadults and adults in a shallow lake in southeastern France, we reported a consistent aggregative behavior across four successive winters. By implementing time series analysis and Cox proportional hazard models, we investigated the dynamics of these aggregations (formation, stability, dislocation), and the factors that govern it, whether external (temperature, time of the day) or specific to the fish (size, key individuals). These aggregations lasted 1.5–2 months and mainly took place in a single small 4 m-deep area whose environmental conditions (temperature, oxygen, substrate) did not differ from other parts of the lake. In some periods during winter, all tagged fish were aggregated, which suggests that a large proportion of the lake population gathered there. Low temperatures (below 9 °C) triggered the formation of aggregations. They became more stable with decreasing temperatures, while individuals more frequently left the aggregation, preferentially at dusk and at night, when temperatures increased. The largest individuals swam more frequently back and forth to the aggregation. Irrespective of their size, some individuals consistently arrived earlier in the aggregation in winter and left later. This predictable seasonal grouping of individuals and, more generally, the knowledge provided by such studies on how species use space have important operational value and are useful for species conservation as well as for species control.
Identification and gene expression profiling of human gonadotrophic pituitary adenoma stem cells
Authors: Yuan Linhao , Li Peiliang , Li Jiang , Peng Jiayi , Zhouwen Jianlong , Ma Shunchang , Jia Guijun , Jia Wang , Kang Peng
Published: February 2023

Background

Gonadotrophic pituitary adenoma is a major subtype of pituitary adenoma in the sellar region, but it is rarely involved in the hypersecretion of hormones into blood; thus, it is commonly regarded as “non-functioning.” Its tumorigenic mechanisms remain unknown. The aim of this study was to identify human gonadotrophic pituitary adenoma stem cells (hPASCs) and explore the underlying gene expression profiles. In addition, the potential candidate genes involved in the invasive properties of pituitary adenoma were examined.

Methods

The hPASCs from 14 human gonadotrophic pituitary adenoma clinical samples were cultured and verified via immunohistochemistry. Genetic profiling of hPASCs and the matched tumor cells was performed through RNA-sequencing and subjected to enrichment analysis. By aligning the results with public databases, the candidate genes were screened and examined in invasive and non-invasive gonadotrophic pituitary adenomas using Real-time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

The hPASCs were successfully isolated and cultured from gonadotrophic pituitary adenoma in vitro, which were identified as positive for generic stem cell markers (Sox2, Oct4, Nestin and CD133) via immunohistochemical staining. The hPASCs could differentiate into the tumor cells expressing follicle-stimulating hormone in the presence of fetal bovine serum in the culture medium. Through RNA-sequencing, 1352 differentially expressed genes were screened and identified significantly enriched in various gene ontologies and important pathways. The expression levels of ANXA2, PMAIP1, SPRY2, C2CD4A, APOD, FGF14 and FKBP10 were significantly upregulated while FNDC5 and MAP3K4 were downregulated in the invasive gonadotrophic pituitary adenomas compared to the non-invasive ones.

Conclusion

Genetic profiling of hPASCs may explain the tumorigenesis and invasiveness of gonadotrophic pituitary adenoma. ANXA2 may serve as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of gonadotrophic pituitary adenoma.
Manufacturing of ceramic venus figurine replica from a mold by combining traditional and digital technologies
Authors: Saha Sunita , Tomkowska Anna , Martusewicz Jacek , Sitnik Robert
Published: February 2023

In this paper, we propose a method for creating a ceramic Venus figurine replica from a mold in the Museum of Ceramic Techniques collection in Koło, Poland stored at the museum for many years. Moreover, none of the Venus figurines in this collection have been preserved to the present day. Our process starts with partially degraded mold fragments and ends with an actual copy of the Venus figurine in three forms: faience kilned to bisque, porcelain, and glazed faience. The entire process involves understanding old manufacturing technology, conservation supervision, and state-of-the-art 3D scanning, data processing, and 3D printing technologies. We began with a preservation state evaluation that included a technical analysis of the degradation state of the mold. Then, we applied 3D scanning technology using the structured light method. Later, we integrated all mold fragments into front and back 3D models. These 3D models were optimized for 3D printing technology and were used to manufacture the mold. Finally, the printed fragments were corrected using traditional techniques performed by art conservators. This process took comparatively less time and produced a more realistic result than would have been observed if only 3D software had been used. This process also enabled us to create educational materials for the Koło museum about old manufacturing technologies. From the point of view of museum visitors, the copies are made with sufficient detail that they are indistinguishable from handmade artifacts. Our estimates show that combining both techniques (traditional and digital) saved approximately 25% of the time that would have been used if the individual techniques had been used separately. We also believe that our use case could be transferred to a broader group of objects that use molding in their production processes.
Electroanalytical biosensor based on GOx/FCA/PEG-modified SWCNT electrode for determination of glucose
Authors: Han Do Kyoung , Li Cheng Ai , Song Sung Ho , Cho Kun , Choi Jong-Soon , Son Seong Eun , Seong Gi Hun
Published: February 2023

This paper describes a simple electrochemical sensing platform based on single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) electrodes for glucose detection. The device fabrication using O2-plasma treatment allows precision and uniformity for the construction of three SWCNT electrodes on the flexible plastic substrate. Glucose assay can be simply accomplished by introducing a glucose sample into the fabricated biosensor. The marked electrocatalytic and biocompatible properties of biosensors based on SWCNT electrodes with the incorporation of ferrocenecarboxylic acid and polyethylene glycol enable effective amperometric measurement of glucose at a low oxidation potential (0.3 V) with low interferences from coexisting species. The device shows efficient electroanalytical performances with high sensitivity (5.5 μA·mM−1·cm−2), good reproducibility (CV less than 3%), and long-term stability (over a month). A linear range of response was found from 0 to 10 mM of glucose with a fast response time of 10 s. This attractive electroanalytical device based on GOx/FCA/PEG/SWCNT electrodes offers a promising system to facilitate a new approach for diverse biosensors and electrochemical devices.
Accuracy of keyless vs drill-key implant systems for static computer-assisted implant surgery using two guide-hole designs compared to freehand implant placement: an in vitro study
Authors: Raabe Clemens , Schuetz Tabea S. , Chappuis Vivianne , Yilmaz Burak , Abou-Ayash Samir , Couso-Queiruga Emilio
Published: February 2023

Purpose

This in vitro study aimed at comparing the accuracy of freehand implant placement with static computer-assisted implant surgery (sCAIS), utilizing a keyless and a drill-key implant system and two guide-hole designs.

Methods

A total of 108 implants were placed in 18 partially edentulous maxillary models simulating two different alveolar ridge morphologies. 3D digital deviations between pre-planned and post-operative implant positions were obtained. Guide material reduction was assessed in the keyless implant system for the manufacturer’s sleeve and sleeveless guide-hole designs.

Results

sCAIS using a sleeveless guide-hole design demonstrated smaller mean angular, crestal and apical deviations compared to sCAIS utilizing a manufacturer’s sleeve and the freehand group (2.6 ± 1.6°, vs 3.3 ± 1.9°, vs 4.0 ± 1.9°; 0.5 ± 0.3 mm, vs 0.6 ± 0.3 mm, vs 0.8 ± 0.3 mm; and 1.0 ± 0.5 mm, vs 1.2 ± 0.7 mm, vs 1.5 ± 0.6 mm). Smaller angular and apical mean deviations were observed in the keyless implant system as compared with the drill-key implant system (3.1 ± 1.7°, vs 3.5 ± 1.9°, p = 0.03; and 1.2 ± 0.6 mm, vs 1.4 ± 0.7 mm, p = 0.045). Overall, smaller angular, crestal, and apical deviations (p < 0.0001) were observed in healed alveolar ridges (2.4 ± 1.7°, 0.5 ± 0.3 mm, and 0.9 ± 0.5 mm) than in extraction sockets (4.2 ± 1.6°, 0.8 ± 0.3 mm, and 1.6 ± 0.5 mm). Higher mean volumetric material reduction was observed in sleeveless than in manufacturer’s sleeve guide-holes (− 0.10 ± 0.15 mm3, vs − 0.03 ± 0.03 mm3, p = 0.006).

Conclusions

Higher final implant positional accuracy was observed in sCAIS for the keyless implant system, with a sleeveless guide-hole design, and in healed ridges. Sleeveless guide holes resulted in higher volumetric material reduction compared with the manufacturer’s sleeve.
Report of the online meeting of the 7th Asian Conference on Environmental Mutagens (ACEM), China, November 5-6, 2022
Authors: Zhang Rui , Chen Wen
Published: February 2023

The 7th Asian Conference on Environmental Mutagens (ACEM 2022) was held online from November 5–6, 2022. However, the 19th Chinese Environmental Mutagen Society Meeting was postponed due to the pandemic prevention policies of COVID-19 and the time will be announced later. In total, 467 participants from 8 countries, including China, Japan, Korea, Philippines, etc. participated in the virtual conference. Eight keynote speakers and 16 lecturers in 2 symposia made their speeches online on topics aligned with the theme “The Impact of Global Change on Asian Environment and Genomic Health”. More than 270 abstracts were submitted in this conference. We sincerely appreciate the efforts of all the participants, organizers, and members from Asian Association of Environmental Mutagen Societies (AAEMS). ACEM 2022 was a success and provided an excellent platform for exchanging the latest developments and stimulating scientific collaboration in the Asia-Pacific region as well as other parts of the world.
Automated synthesis and quality control of [68Ga]Ga-PentixaFor using the Gaia/Luna Elysia-Raytest module for CXCR4 PET imaging
Authors: Daniel Thomas , Balouzet Ravinet Clara , Clerc Jérôme , Batista Rui , Mouraeff Yvan
Published: February 2023

Background

[68Ga]Ga-PentixaFor is a promising radiotracer for positron emission tomography imaging of several human tumors overexpressing the chemokine receptor-4 (CXCR4). CXCR4 overexpression has been demonstrated in patients with hematologic malignancies, solid cancers, as well as cardiovascular pathologies of inflammatory origins. However, its radio synthesis is not yet fully developed in France, and existing methods do not use our type of synthesis module. Therefore, we aimed at developing a [68Ga]Ga-PentixaFor synthesis with Gaia/Luna Elysia-Raytest module to use it in clinical purpose.

Results

12 syntheses were carried out by varying the temperature conditions and radiolabeling times, and led to choose specific labelling conditions with the Gaia/Luna Elysia-Raytest module: 97 °C, 4 min. The mean synthesis time of the 3 validation runs under good manufacturing practice (GMP) was 24 min 27 s (± 8 s), and the mean radiochemical yield was 87.0% [standard deviation (SD) 6.67%]. Different quality control parameters were also evaluated in accordance with European Pharmacopeia: radiochemical and radionuclidic purity, pH, sterility, stability and endotoxins levels. The average radiochemical purity was 99.1% (SD 0.25%) assessed by instant thin layer chromatography and 99.8% (SD 0.092%) assessed by high pressure liquid chromatography. average [68Ge] breakthrough was 1.48 × 10–5%, under the recommended level of 0.001%. We assessed the stability of the radiotracer up to 4 h at room temperature (no augmentation of the [68Ga] chloride in the final product, i.e. radiochemical purity (RCP) > 98.5%). The endotoxins levels were < 5 EU/mL, and the pH was 6.5 (same for the three syntheses).

Conclusion

The [68Ga]Ga-PentixaFor synthesis process developed on the Gaia/Luna Elysia-Raytest module has fulfilled all acceptance criteria for injectable radiopharmaceutical products regarding the European Pharmacopeia. The radiochemical purity, stability, efficacy, as well as the microbiological quality of the three GMP batches were found to be good. The robustness of the synthesis process may be suitable for multi-dose application in clinical settings.
The recombination regulator RecX negatively regulates heat-stable antifungal factor (HSAF) biosynthesis in Lysobacter enzymogenes
Authors: Li Kaihuai , Hou Rongxian , Zhou Xue , Xiong Chunlan , Li Cheng , Wang Yong , Liu Fengquan
Published: February 2023

Bacteria often use multiple transcription factors to regulate specific biological processes. Biosynthesis of heat-stable antifungal factor (HSAF) is regulated by multiple factors in Lysobacter enzymogenes. However, the mechanism of HSAF biosynthesis regulation remains largely unknown. In this study, we screened a potential HSAF biosynthesis regulator, RecX, by a DNA pull-down assay. Deletion of recX resulted in a significant increase in the production of HSAF, and overexpression of recX significantly suppressed HSAF production. Importantly, our results showe that RecX directly binds to the promoter region of the lafB gene to inhibit its transcription and thus decreases HSAF production in L. enzymogenes. These findings reveal the novel mechanism of RecX regulation of antifungal antibiotic production in L. enzymogenes.
Biochar-promoted methane production and mitigation of acidification during thermophilic anaerobic co-digestion of food waste with crude glycerol: comparison with re-inoculation
Authors: Li Xiaojue , Shimizu Naoto
Published: February 2023

Food waste and crude glycerol were anaerobically co-digested for 100 days at 52 ± 1 °C with an organic loading rate of 1.0 g L−1 d−1. This long-term thermophilic anaerobic digestion (AD) system encountered severe inhibition from volatile fatty acids (VFAs). The study investigated the impacts of re-inoculation (RI) and biochar addition (BA) on this AD process, and monitored the variation of pH, VFAs, total alkalinity and total ammonia nitrogen during treatment. RI treatment was effective in the short term by recovering reactivity after inhibited sludge was mixed 1:1 with active inoculant. In the long term, RI could not reverse process imbalance and finally failed on day 56. Superior performance in methane production and process stability was observed in BA reactors when compared with control and RI reactors. Overall, the biochar contributed to alkalinity and facilitated the activation of methanogenesis and stimulated the conversion of VFAs.
Survival, Durable Tumor Remission, and Long-Term Safety in Patients With Advanced Melanoma Receiving Nivolumab
Authors: Topalian Suzanne L. , Sznol Mario , McDermott David F. , Kluger Harriet M. , Carvajal Richard D. , Sharfman William H. , Brahmer Julie R. , Lawrence Donald P. , Atkins Michael B. , Powderly John D. , Leming Philip D. , Lipson Evan J. , Puzanov Igor , Smith David C. , Taube Janis M. , Wigginton Jon M. , Kollia Georgia D. , Gupta Ashok , Pardoll Drew M. , Sosman Jeffrey A. , Hodi F. Stephen
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) is an inhibitory receptor expressed by activated T cells that downmodulates effector functions and limits the generation of immune memory. PD-1 blockade can mediate tumor regression in a substantial proportion of patients with melanoma, but it is not known whether this is associated with extended survival or maintenance of response after treatment is discontinued.

Patients and Methods

Patients with advanced melanoma (N = 107) enrolled between 2008 and 2012 received intravenous nivolumab in an outpatient setting every 2 weeks for up to 96 weeks and were observed for overall survival, long-term safety, and response duration after treatment discontinuation.

Results

Median overall survival in nivolumab-treated patients (62% with two to five prior systemic therapies) was 16.8 months, and 1- and 2-year survival rates were 62% and 43%, respectively. Among 33 patients with objective tumor regressions (31%), the Kaplan-Meier estimated median response duration was 2 years. Seventeen patients discontinued therapy for reasons other than disease progression, and 12 (71%) of 17 maintained responses off-therapy for at least 16 weeks (range, 16 to 56+ weeks). Objective response and toxicity rates were similar to those reported previously; in an extended analysis of all 306 patients treated on this trial (including those with other cancer types), exposure-adjusted toxicity rates were not cumulative.

Conclusion

Overall survival following nivolumab treatment in patients with advanced treatment–refractory melanoma compares favorably with that in literature studies of similar patient populations. Responses were durable and persisted after drug discontinuation. Long-term safety was acceptable. Ongoing randomized clinical trials will further assess the impact of nivolumab therapy on overall survival in patients with metastatic melanoma.
Two Cases of Adrenal Malignancy With Macroscopic Fat
Authors: Wilkinson Tom , Hunt Penny , McHaffie Alexandra
Published: February 2023

The presence of macroscopic fat on computed tomography (CT) imaging has been traditionally regarded as an indication that an adrenal lesion is likely to be a benign myelolipoma, for which further investigation is not usually required. Two cases are described where an adrenal lesion was eventually found to be malignant on histology (adrenocortical carcinoma in the first case, undifferentiated sarcoma in the second case), despite the presence of macroscopic fat on CT. In both cases there were other clinical and radiological indicators of potential malignant pathology. These cases add to increasing awareness in the literature that malignant adrenal tumors may rarely contain macroscopic fat, emphasizing a need for clinical vigilance.
DESENVOLVIMENTO ORIENTADO POR MISSÕES SOB A ÓTICA DA CONSTITUIÇÃO ECONÔMICA BRASILEIRA
Authors: Fernandes Rodrigo Mineiro , Clark Giovani , Corrêa Leonardo Alves
Published: February 2023

Objetivo: O artigo procura identificar quais seriam os pressupostos institucionais para a construção de um novo modelo de desenvolvimento que seja compatível com o discurso normativo da Constituição Econômica à luz de sua ideologia constitucionalmente adotada.Metodologia: A pesquisa, de natureza documental, seguiu o método analítico substancial a partir do referencial teórico da “ideologia constitucionalmente adotada”, desenvolvida pelo pioneiro do Direito Econômico brasileiro, Professor Washington Peluso Albino de Souza.Resultados: Conclui-se pela possibilidade de compatibilizar o modelo neoestruturalista das missões aos ditames da Constituição Econômica brasileira, dentro de um projeto novo-desenvolvimentista, considerando a pluralidade ideológica do texto constitucional e as alternativas para o desenvolvimento nacional.Contribuições: O modelo neoestruturalista orientado por missões apresenta-se como uma efetiva alternativa ao modelo neoliberal de austeridade para o desenvolvimento nacional, com foco na distribuição de renda e nos investimentos sociais, de forma a melhorar a vida da população brasileira, sendo totalmente compatível com os ditames constitucionais de planejamento, desenvolvimento, pluralismo produtivo e universalização da dignidade humana.
Exploring potential strategies to enhance memory and cognition in aging mice
Authors: Bhat M Shreevatsa , M G Ramesh Babu , Dhanushkodi Anandh , Rai Prof Kiranmai S
Published: February 2023

Background: Aging population is rapidly expanding worldwide, and age-related cognitive impairments prove detrimental for achieving a better productive and quality of life.  Lack of effective therapies for age-related cognitive impairment focuses attention on developing preventive strategies, such as nutritional interventions, cell therapies and environmental manipulations. The objective of the present study was to explore the comparative benefits of potential memory-enhancing strategies like supplementation of choline (Ch) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) or administration of human embryonic kidney stem cell conditioned media (HEK-CM) or exposure to environmental enrichment (EE), that attenuates cognitive impairments in aging mice.

Methods: 12-month-old CF1 male mice were subdivided [n=6/group] into normal aging control (NAC), saline vehicle control (SVC), Ch-DHA, EE, heat-inactivated HEK-CM (HIHEK-CM) and HEK-CM mice. Spatial working and reference memory were assessed using an eight-arm radial maze test and cognition using a novel object recognition test (NORT).

Results: Spatial memory and cognition were decreased in normal aging mice. Aged mice exposed to dietary Ch-DHA or HEK-CM showed significant enhancement in spatial learning tasks, memory and cognition compared to the same in age-matched NAC mice. Ch-DHA and HEK-CM treated mice committed significantly lesser reference memory errors and attained a higher percentage of correct choices in spatial learning and memory tasks. Moreover, on testing for cognition in NORT, significantly higher number of visits to the novel object was observed in Ch-DHA supplemented and HEK-CM administered aging mice whereas HEK-CM and EE mice groups showed significantly greater number of visits to familiar object, when compared to same in age-matched NAC and HIHEK-CM groups, respectively.

Conclusion: Supplementation of Ch-DHA and HEK-CM treatment strategies have a higher potential [~ 20—30%] for enhancing spatial learning, memory and cognition in normal aged mice, whereas exposure to EE seems to enhance only their short-term memory.
New uses for vitamin C, and its versatile, pleiotropic antioxidant action. - Treatment of neoplasms, skin diseases, bone diseases and stimulation of the immune system
Authors: Adamus Justyna , Abram Kamila , Banaś Patryk , Pierzchała Jakub Rafał , Bednarz Katarzyna , Sobańska Natalia , Banasiak Aleksandra Paulina , Teichman Rafał , Kasprowicz Jakub , Hyjek Michał
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Vitamin C (Vit C) is an organic chemical compound from the group of unsaturated polyhydroxy alcohols. It influences physiological processes such as the facilitation of iron absorption, hormone and carnitine synthesis, and is also involved in epigenetic processes. It is a vitamin, which means that it must be provided in food. It is also an antioxidant used as a food additive. In recent times, its pleiotropic use has been proven in the treatment of immune deficiencies, the treatment of skin diseases, bone diseases and may also be used in new cancer treatment regimens.
 
Aim of the study: To review the current literature on the use of vitamin C in various fields of health and science.
 
 Materials and Methods: We reviewed the literature available in PubMed, using the key words: "vitamin C"; "ascorbid acid"; "cancer treatment"; "vitamin C immune function".
 
Results: Vitamin C has pleiotropic effects on the human body, both through its effects on cells and tissues and through its antioxidant mechanisms and regulation of gene expression. It has been shown to be a key antioxidant with anti-inflammatory and immune system supportive effects. Its effect of slowing down skin photo-ageing by reducing the amount of metalloproteinases induced by reactive oxygen species has been noted in the literature. Vitamin C has been shown in studies to reduce the risk of osteoporosis due to its osteoclast inhibitory properties. Beneficial effects of high-dose intravenous infusions have also been demonstrated in the treatment of cancer, as well as about reducing organ failure and vascular damage in patients with ARDS and sepsis.
 
Summary: The versatile action of vitamin C has made it the subject of intense research. However, the reports in the literature to date on its use require further studies on larger groups of people to confirm its effects.
A rare case of nerve compression caused by a connected lipoma of the wrist
Authors: Kim DoWon , Yoon JungSoo , Eo SuRak , Han YeaSik , Lim SooA
Published: February 2023

A variety of benign and malignant neoplasms can develop in the hand, originating from skin, adipose tissue, tendons, muscles, nerves, and bones. However, most cases are benign; therefore, observation is recommended if they are small, painless and do not cause limitation of motion. When symptoms are present or a lesion is larger than 5 cm in the long axis, an excisional biopsy is required to relieve symptoms and exclude malignancy. Lipomas of the hand are quite rare and do not generally cause symptoms. Lipomas of the hand that do present with symptoms are usually giant (larger than 5 cm in diameter) or located in a deeper layer, compressing the nearby nerves and vessels. We report a rare case of a non-giant superficial lipoma of the wrist that resembled two separate masses and caused pain, limitation of motion, and neurological symptoms.
Organização do cuidado às pessoas com sobrepeso e obesidade no Estado do Rio de Janeiro: o olhar de profissionais da Atenção Primária à Saúde
Authors: Belo Camilla Ezequiel da Cunha , Gomes Rosa Livia Cardoso , Damião Jorginete De Jesus , Lobato Evelyne , Burlandy Luciene , Castro Luciana Maria Cerqueira
Published: February 2023

Introdução: A obesidade e outras doenças crônicas não transmissíveis têm sido responsáveis por 63% das mortes no mundo e demandam um sistema de saúde organizado para o cuidado a essas pessoas. Objetivo: Este estudo tem como objetivo analisar a organização do cuidado às pessoas com sobrepeso e obesidade em municípios do Estado do Rio de Janeiro na perspectiva de profissionais da Atenção Primária à Saúde. Métodos: Participaram 265 profissionais de 26 municípios que realizaram um curso de formação nesta temática. Os profissionais foram indicados por gestores e realizaram inscrição via questionário eletrônico, com informações relativas ao seu perfil pessoal e profissional e à organização do cuidado às pessoas com obesidade, com perguntas objetivas e discursivas. As questões abertas foram analisadas por exploração, categorização e interpretação do material. Resultados: Foram identificadas fragilidades em termos de estratégias, instrumentos, sistemas e processos que são fundamentais para a organização do cuidado na perspectiva da atenção integral à saúde, dentre elas a escassez de recursos financeiros, equipe insuficiente, mudança de gestão, rotatividade de profissionais e a (in)compreensão do papel de cada profissional para o cuidado da obesidade. Considerações finais: Os achados ratificam a necessidade de investir em estratégias e ações para qualificar a oferta de serviços de saúde e o cuidado às pessoas com sobrepeso e obesidade.
Eating behavior in outpatients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and/or systemic arterial hypertension: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Araujo Eymael Diana , Rota Borges Lúcia , Pandolfo Feoli Ana Maria , Farias Martins Filho Antonio Orlando , Kilpp Débora , Santos Leal Caroline , Y Castro Marques Anne , Torres Abib Bertacco Renata
Published: February 2023

Objetivo: Avaliar o comportamento alimentar de pacientes com diabetes e/ou hipertensão assistidos em um ambulatório de nutrição, e associar este comportamento a fatores sociodemográficos, clínicos e nutricionais. Métodos: Este é um estudo transversal retrospectivo, que utilizou dados de indivíduos com diabetes tipo 2 e/ou hipertensão, adultos e idosos, de ambos os sexos, em primeira consulta ambulatorial com a Nutrição. Para a obtenção de dados sobre o comportamento alimentar, foram utilizados o Three Factor Eating Questionnaire, versão reduzida em 21 itens, e anamnese nutricional para obtenção das variáveis independentes, tais como sociodemográficas, clínicas e nutricionais. Os dados foram analisados de forma descritiva e analítica. Resultados: Foram avaliados 55 pacientes, sendo a maioria mulheres e idosos com excesso de peso, com o diagnóstico de diabetes e hipertensão concomitantemente. O comportamento alimentar referente à restrição cognitiva apresentou maior mediana dentre os domínios avaliados. A alimentação emocional apresentou associação significativa com o gênero feminino (p=0,0079); já o descontrole alimentar apresentou associação com o uso de medicamentos antidepressivos (p=0,0403). Conclusão: Sugere-se que sejam realizadas pesquisas futuras que explorem o comportamento alimentar a longo prazo.
Medical leadership: time for a renewal of the structure and composition of senior management
Authors: Zuchowski Matthias , Henzler Dennis
Published: February 2023

Matthias Zuchowski and Dennis Henzler argue that healthcare leadership needs to adapt to modern demands, highlighting how the involvement of medically-trained individuals in senior leadership could help to balance clinical and financial needs.
The therapeutic process: the success of intermittent self-catheterisation of people with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Whitehouse Tracy
Published: February 2023

The Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society estimates that there are over 130 000 people with MS in the UK, with 7000 people newly diagnosed each year. Bladder dysfunction occurs in approximately 80% of people with MS, and clean intermittent self-catheterisation (CISC) is recommended as the gold standard for treatment. However, when teaching CISC, the nurse needs to be aware that the nature of MS is multi-faceted, and patients experience complex issues affecting their ability to perform and master the technique of CISC. This article presents a case study of a person newly diagnosed with MS and the approach to CISC.
3D spatial distortion model based on the Lagrange difference in a binocular visual system
Authors: Xia Zhongyuan , Xia Renbo , Zhao Jibin
Published: February 2023

The accuracy of binocular visual system calibration using the traditional method is poor in the depth direction. To enlarge the high-accuracy field of view (FOV) of a binocular visual system, a 3D spatial distortion model (3DSDM) based on the 3D Lagrange difference is proposed to minimize 3D space distortion. In addition, a global binocular visual model (GBVM) is proposed that contains the 3DSDM and a binocular visual system. The GBVM calibration method and 3D reconstruction method are based on the Levenberg–Marquardt method. Experiments were carried out to verify the accuracy of our proposed method by measuring the length of the calibration gauge in a 3D space. Experiments show that compared to traditional methods our method can improve the calibration accuracy of a binocular visual system. Our GBVM has a lower reprojection error, higher accuracy, and a larger working field.
Optofluidic adaptive optics in multi-photon microscopy
Authors: Sohmen Maximilian , Muñoz-Bolaños Juan D. , Rajaeipour Pouya , Ritsch-Marte Monika , Ataman Çağlar , Jesacher Alexander
Published: February 2023

Adaptive optics, in combination with multi-photon techniques, is a powerful approach to image deep into a specimen. Remarkably, virtually all adaptive optics schemes today rely on wavefront modulators that are reflective, diffractive or both. This, however, can pose a severe limitation for applications. Here, we present a fast and robust sensorless adaptive optics scheme adapted for transmissive wavefront modulators. We study our scheme in numerical simulations and in experiments with a novel, optofluidic wavefront shaping device that is transmissive, refractive, polarisation-independent, and broadband. We demonstrate scatter correction of two-photon-excited fluorescence images of microbeads as well as brain cells and benchmark our device against a liquid-crystal spatial light modulator. Our method and technology could open new routes for adaptive optics in scenarios where previously, the restriction to reflective and diffractive devices may have staggered innovation and progress.
Optical characteristics of a monolayer of identical spherical particles in an absorbing host medium
Authors: Loiko Natalia A. , Miskevich Alexander A. , Loiko Valery A.
Published: February 2023

The problem of light interaction with a 2D ensemble of homogeneous spherical particles embedded into an unbounded homogeneous absorbing host medium is considered. Based on the statistical approach, the equations are derived to characterize optical response of such a system with taking into account multiple scattering of light. Numerical data are presented for the spectral behavior of coherent transmission and reflection, incoherent scattering, and absorption coefficients of thin dielectric, semiconductor, and metal films containing a monolayer of particles with various spatial organization. The results are compared with the characteristics of the inverse structure: particles consist of the host medium material and vice versa. Data for the redshift of the surface plasmon resonance of the monolayer of gold (Au) nanoparticles in the fullerene (C60) matrix are presented as a function of the monolayer filling factor. They are in qualitative agreement with the known experimental results. The findings have potential applications in the development of new electro-optical and photonic devices.
Stimulated Raman scattering of H2 in hollow-core photonics crystal fibers pumped by high-power narrow-linewidth fiber oscillators
Authors: Cui Yulong , Tian Xin , Rao Binyu , Huang Wei , Li Hao , Pei Wenxi , Wang Meng , Chen Zilun , Wang Zefeng
Published: February 2023

The stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) process in gas-filled hollow-core fiber is mostly used to realize the wavelength conversion, which has the potential to produce narrow-linewidth and high-power fiber laser output. However, limited by the coupling technology, the current research is still at a few watts power level. Here, through the fusion splicing between the end-cap and the hollow-core photonics crystal fiber, several hundred watts pump power can be coupled into the hollow core. Homemade narrow-linewidth continuous wave (CW) fiber oscillators with different 3 dB linewidths are used as the pump sources, then the influences of the pump linewidth and the hollow-core fiber length are studied experimentally and theoretically. As the hollow-core fiber length is 5 m the H2 pressure is 30 bar, 109 W 1st Raman power is obtained with a Raman conversion efficiency 48.5%. This study is significant for the development of high-power gas SRS in hollow-core fibers.
Parametric amplification based on intermodal four-wave mixing between different supermodes in coupled-core fibers
Authors: Shi Minji , Ribeiro Vitor , Perego Auro M.
Published: February 2023

Parametric amplifiers relying on the nonlinear four-wave mixing process are known for their signature symmetric gain spectrum, where signal and idler sidebands are generated on both sides of a powerful pump wave frequency. In this article we show analytically and numerically that parametric amplification in two identically coupled nonlinear waveguides can be designed in such a way that signals and idlers are naturally separated into two different supermodes, hence providing idler-free amplification for the supermode carrying signals. This phenomenon is based on the coupled-core fibers analogue of intermodal four wave-mixing occurring in a multimode fiber. The control parameter is the pump power asymmetry between the two waveguides, which leverages the frequency dependency of the coupling strength. Our findings pave the way for a novel class of parametric amplifiers and wavelength converters, based on coupled waveguides and dual-core fibers.
Optical registration of a coherent magnon state outside of the excitation region
Authors: Petrov P. E. , Kapralov P. O. , Knyazev G. A. , Kuzmichev A. N. , Vetoshko P. M. , Belotelov V. I. , Bunkov Yu. M.
Published: February 2023

Magnons have demonstrated enormous potential for the next generation of information technology and quantum computing. In particular, the coherent state of magnons resulting from their Bose-Einstein condensation (mBEC) is of great interest. Typically, mBEC is formed in the magnon excitation region. Here we demonstrate for the first time by optical methods the permanent existence of mBEC at large distances from the magnon excitation region. The homogeneity of the mBEC phase is also demonstrated. The experiments were carried out on films of yttrium iron garnet magnetized perpendicular to the surface and at room temperature. We use the method described in this article to develop coherent magnonics and quantum logic devices.
Effect of nonlinear lensing on the coupling of ultrafast laser pulses to hollow-core waveguides
Authors: Brahms Christian
Published: February 2023

Gas-filled hollow-core fibers are a flexible platform for the manipulation of ultrafast laser pulses through a variety of nonlinear optical effects. Efficient high-fidelity coupling of the initial pulses is very important for system performance. Here we study the effect of self-focusing in gas-cell windows on the coupling of ultrafast laser pulses into hollow-core fibers using (2+1)-dimensional numerical simulations. As expected, we find that the coupling efficiency is degraded and the duration of the coupled pulses changed when the entrance window is too close to the fiber entrance. The interplay of nonlinear spatio-temporal reshaping and the linear dispersion of the window create different results depending on the window material, pulse duration, and pulse wavelength, with longer-wavelength beams more tolerant of high intensity in the window. While shifting the nominal focus to compensate can restore some of the lost coupling efficiency, it improves the pulse duration only marginally. From our simulations we derive a simple expression for the minimum distance between the window and the HCF entrance facet. Our results have implications for the often space-constrained design of hollow-core-fiber systems, especially where the input energy is not constant.
Silicon MMI-based power splitter for multi-band operation at the 1.55 and 2 µm wave bands
Authors: Yi Qiyuan , Cheng Guanglian , Yan Zhiwei , Li Qiyuan , Xu Fanglu , Zou Yongchao , Li Ting , Sun Yuhan , Zou Yi , Yu Yu , Shen Li
Published: February 2023

Multimode interference (MMI)-based power splitters are fundamental building blocks for integrated photonic devices consisting of an interferometer structure. In order to forestall the ‘capacity crunch’ in optical communications, integrated devices capable of operating in multiple spectral bands (e.g., the conventional telecom window and the emerging 2 µm wave band) have been proposed and are attracting increasing interest. Here, we demonstrate for the first time, to the best of our knowledge, the realization of a dual-band MMI-based 3 dB power splitter operating at the 1.55 and 2 µm wave bands. The fabricated power splitter exhibits low excess losses of 0.21 dB and 0.32 dB with 1 dB bandwidths for 1500–1600 nm and 1979–2050 nm, respectively.
Three-dimensional flower-like MoS2 strung by multi-wall carbon nanotubes: a versatile alternative for high performance optical limiters
Authors: Li Wei , Zhang Zhixin , Yu Jinhui , Zheng Chan
Published: February 2023

Heterostructures based on transition-metal dichalcogenide layered materials show great potential for various applications in nonlinear photonic devices such as optical switches, mode-locking lasers, and optical limiters. Herein, we report the design and synthesis of a hierarchical heterostructure of multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) decorated by three-dimensional molybdenum disulfide (MoS2). The unique MoS2/MWCNT heterostructure was successfully synthesized by a simple one-pot hydrothermal method, as confirmed by field emission scanning and transmission electron microscopies, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectrum, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The nonlinear optical (NLO) and optical limiting (OL) responses of the heterostructured MoS2/MWCNT and those of its individual components were investigated by the Z-scan technique at 532-nm with nano- and picosecond pulsed-laser sources. The NLO and OL properties of the MoS2/MWCNT heterostructure were improved compared with those of MoS2 and MWCNTs individually. The OL threshold of the heterostructured MoS2/MWCNT was 0.53 J/cm2, which is lower than or comparable to those of either common transition-metal dichalcogenides or graphene-like compounds. The NLO mechanisms are attributed to nonlinear absorption and nonlinear refraction at a picosecond timescale combined with nonlinear scattering induced by the MWCNTs at a nanosecond timescale. The improvements in NLO and OL performance are also attributed to photo-induced interfacial charge transfer between MoS2 and MWCNTs in the unique heterostructured MoS2/MWCNT. We report an efficient method of fabricating novel heterostructures with controllable NLO response. The unique morphology and excellent NLO properties obtained from these MoS2/MWCNT heterostructures show great potential for future optical and photonic applications.
Voltage-Tunable Q Factor in Photonic Crystal Microcavity
Authors: Pankin Pavel , Krasnov Aleksey , Buzin Daniil , Romanenko Gavriil , Sutormin Vitaly , Zelenov Fyodor , Masyugin Albert , Volochaev Mikhail , Vetrov Stepan , Timofeev Ivan
Published: February 2023

A photonic crystal microcavity with the tunable Q factor has been implemented on the basis of a bound state in the continuum using the advanced liquid crystal cell technology platform. It has been shown that the Q factor of the microcavity changes from 100 to 360 in the voltage range of 0.6 V.
Mapping Pu’er tea plantations from GF-1 images using Object-Oriented Image Analysis (OOIA) and Support Vector Machine (SVM)
Authors: Liang Lei , Wang Jinliang , Deng Fei , Kong Deyang
Published: February 2023

Tea is the most popular drink worldwide, and China is the largest producer of tea. Therefore, tea is an important commercial crop in China, playing a significant role in domestic and foreign markets. It is necessary to make accurate and timely maps of the distribution of tea plantation areas for plantation management and decision making. In the present study, we propose a novel mapping method to map tea plantation. The town of Menghai in the Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China, was chosen as the study area, andgg GF-1 remotely sensed data from 2014–2017 were chosen as the data source. Image texture, spectral and geometrical features were integrated, while feature space was built by SEparability and THresholds algorithms (SEaTH) with decorrelation. Object-Oriented Image Analysis (OOIA) with a Support Vector Machine (SVM) algorithm was utilized to map tea plantation areas. The overall accuracy and Kappa coefficient ofh the proposed method were 93.14% and 0.81, respectively, 3.61% and 0.05, 6.99% and 0.14, 6.44% and 0.16 better than the results of CART method, Maximum likelihood method and CNN based method. The tea plantation area increased by 4,095.36 acre from 2014 to 2017, while the fastest-growing period is 2015 to 2016.