bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of RGT-61159 on inhibition of oncogene c-MYB synthesis and tumor growth inhibition in a broad range of ACC PDX models, at well tolerated doses in rodents and non-human primates.
Authors: Xi Simon , Soulard Patricia , Li Kai , Gu Xiubin , Kay Ibrahim , Hasson Sam , Yates Chris , Sadlish Heather , Lee Jay , Weng Zhiping , Xu Simon , Wager Travis
Published: July 2024

6107

Background: RGT-61159 is a first in-class oral inhibitor of the oncogenic transcription factor c-MYB via selective alteration of its RNA splicing machinery. RGT-61159 selectively induces the inclusion of the cryptic “poison” exon into the c-MYB RNA transcripts, resulting in the robust elimination of c-MYB canonical mRNA transcript and consequently of its protein in cells. Overactivation of the c-MYB oncogene, primarily due to chromosome rearrangements, is a hallmark of adenoid cystic carcinoma. (ACC). ACC is a rare and aggressive type of cancer for which effective treatment does not exist. By inhibiting oncogenic MYB protein production, RGT-61159 has the potential to efficiently and selectively inhibit proliferation or induce cell death of cancer cells overexpressing MYB protein. Methods: RGT-61159 cell killing activity was measured against a broad panel of cancer cell lines in a CellTiter-Glo assay. MYB RNA and MYB protein levels were assessed after drug treatment by RT-qPCR and JESS assay respectively. Anti-tumor activity of RGT-61159 as single agent or in combination was evaluated in a panel of ACC PDX mouse models harboring different molecular alterations in c-MYB, including ACCX6, ACCX11, ACCx5M1 and ST105B2. Results: Here, we showed that RGT-61159 has potent cancer cell killing activity (EC50 – 100nM -200nM) against a large panel of cancer cell lines overexpressing c-MYB, while sparing normal cells. Robust c-MYB RNA and c-MYB protein depletion (>80%) was observed in treated cells confirming RGT-61159 on-target cell killing effect. In addition, RGT-61159 single agent showed a remarkable anti-tumor activity (up to 90% TGI) at tolerated doses in the four ACC PDX models evaluated: ACCX6, ACCx11, ACCx5M1 and STB105B2. Importantly, we confirmed that RGT-61159 anti-tumor activity correlated with c-MYB target modulation. RGT-61159 efficacious doses reduced c-MYB transcript and c-MYB protein levels (by >80%) in all ACC PDx models evaluated. In addition, RNAseq analysis of ACC tumor after treatment showed that RGT-61159 drug treatment reversed the published ACC overexpression gene signature. Notably, the optimal RGT-61159 regimen was well tolerated, as assessed by changes in animal body weight and clinical signs in rodents and non-human primate. Finally, we showed that the combination of RGT-M001, an analog of RGT-61159, with the NOTCH Inhibitor AL-101 resulted in significant tumor regression at well tolerated doses. Conclusions: Altogether, these data demonstrated that RGT-61159 efficiently and safely targets the undruggable oncogenic transcription factor c-MYB. Down-regulation of c-MYB by the RGT-61159 RNA-targeting small molecule is a very promising therapeutic strategy to treat ACC and other cancers driven by c-MYB dysregulation.
Phase II clinical trial of PLX038 in patients with platinum resistant ovarian, primary peritoneal and fallopian tube cancer.
Authors: Wahner Hendrickson Andrea Elisabeth , Foster Nathan R. , Clasemann Tracy , Grudem Megan , Klampe Carolyn , Block Matthew Stephen , Jatoi Aminah , Weroha Saravut John , Choong Grace Mei Yee , Yadav Siddhartha , Flickinger Lynn M , Ashley Gary W , Langecker Peter J. , Santi Daniel V , Kaufmann Scott H.
Published: July 2024

TPS5630

Background: Platinum-resistant ovarian cancer (PROC) portends a poor prognosis and, although treatments are available, response rates are low. Previous studies have demonstrated that DNA topoisomerase I (TOP1) inhibitors exhibit clinical activity in PROC. Irinotecan also has a 15-25% response rate in some studies of platinum-resistant epithelial ovarian cancer but does not have FDA approval for this indication. Additional studies in preclinical models suggest that TOP1 poisons are more active if administered at low doses on prolonged schedules. PLX038 is a long-acting prodrug of the potent TOP1 inhibitor SN-38. In PLX038, SN-38 is covalently conjugated to circulating polyethylene glycol and is slowly released at a constant rate to provide the active agent with a long half-life, a low Cmax and very high exposure – important facets for optimal safety and efficacy of this drug. Further, in preclinical studies the nanoparticle prodrug accumulates and is retained in tumors, where it slowly releases the SN-38. Methods: This single arm, phase 2 clinical trial is open at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. The primary endpoint is overall response rate and secondary endpoints include progression-free survival and assessment of tolerability of PLX038. Correlative goals include i) measurement of TOP1-DNA covalent complexes in tumor biopsies and circulating tumor cells to assess successful target engagement; ii) assessment of homologous recombination status and SLFN11 expression for correlation with tumor response rate; and iii) pharmacokinetics of SN-38 and SN-38G as well as their association with GI toxicity. Assessment of gut microbiota and association with GI toxicity profile are also being investigated. Eligible patients include women with platinum resistant high grade serous ovarian, primary peritoneal, and fallopian tube cancer who have received fewer than two prior chemotherapy regimens in the platinum-resistant setting. All patients must have an ECOG performance status of 0, 1, or 2 and adequate bone marrow, renal, and hepatic function. As of January 31, 2024, 12 of planned 37 patients have enrolled. Clinical trial information: NCT05465941 .
First Reported Series of Cerebral Angiography Performed at an Outpatient Center: Safety and Satisfaction Results
Authors: Scullen Tyler A. , Lian Ming X. , Jaikumar Vinay , Gay Jennifer L. , Lai Pui Man Rosalind , McPheeters Matthew J. , Housley Steven B. , Raygor Kunal P. , Bouslama Mehdi , Khan Hamid S. , Siddiqui Adnan H. , Davies Jason M. , Moreland Douglas B. , Levy Elad I.
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) are increasingly common venues for same-day neurosurgical procedures, allowing for cost-effective, high-quality patient care. We present the first and largest series of patients undergoing diagnostic cerebral angiography at an ASC to demonstrate the effectiveness, safety, and efficiency of outpatient endovascular care.

METHODS:

We retrospectively reviewed data for consecutive patients who underwent diagnostic cerebral angiography at our ASC between January 1, 2024, and May 29, 2024. Data collected included vascular access approach, procedural duration, turnover time, and periprocedural complications. Using a standardized 2-week postprocedural survey, patients were asked to provide comments and rate their subjective satisfaction from a 1 to 5 scale, with “5” being completely satisfied. All cases were performed with a physician team comprising 1 attending neuroendovascular neurosurgery and 1 neuroendovascular fellow present. Fentanyl and midazolam were administered for conscious sedation in all cases.

RESULTS:

Among the 67 patients included in this series, the mean procedural duration was 29.4 ± 8.6 minutes. The mean turnover time was 13.7 ± 3.6 minutes. Between transradial (46 of 67 [68.7%]) and transfemoral (21 of 67 [31.3%]) access site approaches, there were no statistically significant differences in mean procedural duration (29.4 ± 8.0 vs 29.2 ± 9.9 minutes, respectively; P = .72) or turnover time (14.0 ± 3.9 vs 12.9 ± 2.8 minutes, respectively; P = .4). No complications occurred periprocedurally or within the 2-week follow-up period. A total of 48 (71.6%) of 67 patients responded to the postprocedural survey, all of whom unanimously reported a score of “5.”

CONCLUSION:

We found that diagnostic cerebral angiography performed at our ASC was safe and effective for patient care. In addition, all survey respondents (71.6% of those provided the survey) reported highest levels of satisfaction. The integration of neuroendovascular procedures into ASCs potentially offers a cost-effective and highly efficient option in an evolving economic landscape.
Iodine-123-Iomazenil Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography Revealed Recovery of Neuronal Viability in Association With Improvement of Cognitive Dysfunction After Revascularization in Moyamoya Disease
Authors: Yoshioka Hideyuki , Wakai Takuma , Hashimoto Koji , Tateoka Toru , Fukuda Norito , Horiuchi Ryo , Umeda Takako , Onishi Hiroshi , Kinouchi Hiroyuki
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Recent studies indicate that 123I-iomazenil (123I-IMZ) single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) can demonstrate neuronal viability. Although cognitive dysfunction has been recognized as an important issue in adult patients with moyamoya disease (MMD), no standard neuroradiological methods to define such conditions have been established. We examined the relationship between cognitive function and 123I-IMZ SPECT before and after revascularization in patients with MMD.

METHODS:

The study participants were 16 adult patients with MMD whose cerebrovascular reactivities were decreased only on the surgical sides of combined revascularization. Cognitive function was examined using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE; cutoff: 27) and the Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB; cutoff: 16) before and at 3 to 6 months after surgery. 123I-iodoamphetamine (123I-IMP) SPECT with acetazolamide challenge and 123I-IMZ SPECT were performed concurrently while evaluating cognitive function. The radioreactivities of 123I-IMZ SPECT in regions with decreased cerebrovascular reactivities on 123I-IMP SPECT were investigated using affected-to-contralateral side asymmetry ratio (IMZ-ACR).

RESULTS:

Twelve patients showed normal cognitive function (MMSE: 29.8 ± 0.4, FAB: 18 ± 0) before surgery. No evident laterality of 123I-IMZ uptake was seen (IMZ-ACR: 0.98 ± 0.04). Neither cognitive function nor 123I-IMZ SPECT worsened after surgery (MMSE: 29.8 ± 0.3, FAB: 18 ± 0, IMZ-ACR: 1.00 ± 0.04). By contrast, 4 patients presented cognitive dysfunction (MMSE: 24.3 ± 3.9, FAB: 14.8 ± 2.7) before revascularization. Preoperative imaging of these patients showed decreased 123I-IMZ uptake, and their IMZ-ACRs (0.83 ± 0.08) were significantly lower than those of the normal group. After revascularization, cognitive functions and 123I-IMZ uptake tended to ameliorate (MMSE: 27.5 ± 1.7, FAB: 16.3 ± 2.2, IMZ-ACR: 0.94 ± 0.09).

CONCLUSION:

Preoperative cognitive function was associated with 123I-IMZ uptake in adult patients with MMD. After revascularization, cognitive function could be recovered in the viable areas of the brain, which is consistent with 123I-IMZ SPECT findings.
Improved whole-mount immunofluorescence protocol for consistent and robust labeling of adult Drosophila melanogaster adipose tissue
Authors: Ott Rachael K. , Williams Isaiah H. , Armstrong Alissa R.
Published: July 2024

Energy storage and endocrine functions of the Drosophila fat body make it an excellent model for elucidating mechanisms that underlie physiological and pathophysiological organismal metabolism. Combined with Drosophila's robust genetic and immunofluorescence microscopy toolkits, studies of Drosophila fat body function are ripe for cell biological analysis. Unlike the larval fat body, which is easily removed as a single, cohesive sheet of tissue, isolating intact adult fat body proves to be more challenging, thus hindering consistent immunofluorescence labeling even within a single piece of adipose tissue. Here, we describe an improved approach to handling Drosophila abdomens that ensures full access of the adult fat body to solutions generally used in immunofluorescence labeling protocols. In addition, we assess the quality of fluorescence reporter expression and antibody immunoreactivity in response to variations in fixative type, fixation incubation time, and detergent used for cellular permeabilization. Overall, we provide several recommendations for steps in a whole-mount staining protocol that results in consistent and robust immunofluorescence labeling of the adult Drosophila fat body.
Characteristics and contributing factors of adverse drug reactions: an analytical study of patients with tuberculosis receiving treatment under the National TB Program of India
Authors: Shah Harsh , Yasobant Sandul , Patel Jay , Bhavsar Priya , Saha Somen , Patel Yogesh , Saxena Deepak , Sinha Anish
Published: July 2024

Background Tuberculosis (TB) continues to pose a serious threat to the public health system in India. Although the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP) is providing a wide range of interventions from early diagnosis to complete treatment to reduce morbidity and mortality from TB, adverse drug reactions (ADR) remain a challenge in treatment adherence and completion. Methods An observational cross-sectional study was conducted in selected districts of Gujarat state. A total of 593 reported TB patients were recruited with an adjusted unified distribution based on the type of cases, site of diseases, and service facility through a simple random sampling method. A semi-structured questionnaire tool was used to collect socio-demographic, clinical, and ADR-related data from the TB patients. Data was analyzed for the frequency, percentage, chi-squared, and adjusted odds ratio to find the association between the variables. Results The majority of the study participants were male (87.2%), aged 15 to 60 (57.8%), daily laborers (22.4%), and married (64.2%). Over 75% of individuals had pulmonary TB, with 87% having experienced their first episode, 83% being new cases, and 44.7% having a history of addiction. ADR with mild symptoms was reported by more than a quarter (29%) of TB patients during the intensive phase (77%). The association between ADR experience and drug susceptibility was significant (p<0.005) and drug-resistant TB patients experience two times more ADRs than drug-sensitive TB patients (OR 2.04). Binomial logistic regression was carried out to describe the association between various variables and occurrence of ADRs. Conclusion The study highlighted a need to enhance health care providers’ capacity and program structure for managing ADRs among TB patients. In order to completely eliminate TB across the country, it also emphasized the attention for a holistic and all-encompassing strategy for managing TB patients at the field level.
Role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in evaluating T2-weighted hyperintensities in spinal cord in a tertiary care hospital in central India
Authors: Dhabalia Rishabh , Kashikar Shivali
Published: July 2024

Background Hyperintensities on T2-weighted images in the spinal cord are a complex and diagnostically challenging entity that can present with diverse clinical features. This study protocol outlines a comprehensive investigation to understand the causes, clinical and imaging characteristics, and correlation with pathological findings of hyperintensities on T2-weighted images in the spinal cord. By establishing a systematic assessment approach, this study seeks to provide valuable insights into these abnormalities’ diagnostic and prognostic implications. Methods The study will be conducted as a prospective observational design. Patients with clinically diagnosed or suspected spinal cord lesion presenting with intramedullary T2-weighted hyperintensity and referred for MRI evaluation will be included. Data collection will encompass patient demographics, clinical features, and extensive imaging parameters. Pathological data, when available, will be correlated with imaging findings. Various statistical methods will be employed to analyse the data, including frequency analysis, comparative tests, logistic regression, and survival analysis. Expected Results The study anticipates elucidating the spectrum of etiologies underlying hyperintensities on T2-weighted images in the spinal cord and their clinical and imaging profiles. The systematic approach will offer a structured diagnostic method, while correlations with pathological data will provide an enhanced understanding of these conditions. The results are expected to provide clinicians with valuable insights into diagnosing, treating, and prognosticating patients with spinal cord hyperintensities on T2-weighted images.
Association of maternal and cord vitamin B12 levels with anthropometry in term neonates born to malnourished mothers in coastal South India
Authors: GR Sugapradha , Holla Ramesh , Manjrekar Poornima , Rao Suchetha
Published: July 2024

Background Malnourished pregnant women are at increased risk of micronutrient deficiency. We assessed the vitamin B12 status in both malnourished and normally nourished pregnant women and their neonates. Additionally, we studied the association between maternal B12 levels, cord B12 levels and neonatal anthropometry. Methods This cross-sectional study enrolled 63 malnourished and 63 normally nourished mothers and neonates. Maternal and cord blood samples were collected at the time of delivery for estimation of vitamin B12 levels. Maternal and cord vitamin B12 levels were compared using the Mann–Whitney U test. Neonatal anthropometry was correlated with maternal and cord B12 levels using Spearman’s correlation. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Results Mean maternal age was 26.58 yrs. The median cord B12 levels were lower than the maternal B12 levels. Maternal B12 levels showed a strong positive correlation with cord B12 levels (rho = 0.879; p < 0.001). Maternal (p < 0.001) and cord (p < 0.001) vitamin B12 levels were significantly lower in the malnourished group than in the normally nourished group. In malnourished group, 66.8% mothers and 95.2% neonates were Vitamin B12 deficient, whereas 1.5% mothers and 4.7% neonates were vitamin B12 deficient in normally nourished group. In the malnourished group, maternal B12 levels were positively correlated with birth weight (rho 0.363, p = 0.003) and length (rho 0.330, p =0.008), whereas cord B12 levels were positively correlated with birth weight in the normally nourished group. (rho 0.277 p= 0.028) Conclusion High rates of vitamin B12 deficiency were observed in malnourished mothers and neonates. There was a positive correlation between birth weight, length, and maternal vitamin B12 levels in malnourished mothers. These findings emphasize the need to address maternal malnutrition and vitamin B12 deficiency to improve neonatal health.
Influence of diet on the course and activity of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis - a review of available literature
Authors: Dębińska Julia , Bentkowska Zuzanna , Golemo Jagna , Szpyra Justyna , Kałuża Izabela , Górska Magdalena , Dziuba Gabriela , Bogoń Aleksandra , Ostojska Magdalena , Miazga Małgorzata
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the digestive tract. It is a clinical entity that includes: Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). Food intake is an important environmental factor that influences the development of IBD. This article reviews studies on different dietary options and their effects on the course and activity of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. 
Materials and methods: A review of the literature available in the PubMed database was carried out, using the key words: ”inflammatory bowel disease”; ”Crohn disease”; ”diet”; “nutrition”; „colitis ulcerosa”.
Results: Appropriate diet selection is important in the course of inflammation in the intestines. It influences disease activity. It turns out that the diet improves inflammation parameters, clinical symptoms, and quality of life. In patients with inflammatory bowel disease, one should also remember about deficiencies such as iron, vitamin D or protein deficiency, the demand of which is increased in sick patients compared to the general population.
Conclusions: An individualized approach to nutritional therapy may be one of the main branches of treatment for patients with inflammatory bowel diseases. However, there is a need for further research on larger groups of patients in order to effectively implement it into treatment standards.
SYSTEMATIC AND MULTI-CRITERIA OPTIMISATION OF SUBCRITICAL THERMALLY INTEGRATED CARNOT BATTERIES (TI-PTES) IN AN EXTENDED DOMAIN
Authors: Laterre Antoine , Dumont Olivier , Lemort Vincent , Contino Francesco
Published: July 2024

Thermally integrated pumped thermal energy storage (TI-PTES) is a flexibility option to recover lowgrade heat (i.e. < 100°C) and to provide overnight storage. Common criteria when optimising such system are the power-to-power efficiency (i.e. electricity recovery), the total exergy efficiency (i.e. combined heat and electricity recovery) and the energy density (i.e. storage size). However, these objectives are generally conflicting and multi-criteria optimisation is therefore required to discuss the trade-offs. Design guidelines have been proposed for some specific case studies but are still lacking for the remaining wide range of possible integration scenarios. This work therefore presents a systematic multi-criteria analysis of a TI-PTES consisting of a high temperature vapor compression heat pump, a sensible heat thermal storage and an organic Rankine cycle, in an extended integration domain (i.e. heat source from −25 to 100°C, sink from −25 to 50°C). The single objective optimisation reveals that the design trends are not uniform and that the tipping points are located where the difference between the source and sink temperatures is less than 30 K. The multi-criteria analysis shows that there is a region of the domain where the criteria do not conflict. The results also highlight that density and exergy efficiency are much less conflicting with each other than they are with power-to-power efficiency.
Pareto front analysis for the design and the working fluid selection in ORC-based pumped thermal energy storage technology in both pure electric and cogenerative applications
Authors: Astolfi Marco , Alfani Dario , Giostri Andrea
Published: July 2024

Carnot Batteries are a sub-technology of Pumped Thermal Energy Storage concept where closed cycles are used in both charging and discharging phase. In charging mode, cheap off-peak electricity from the grid is used to store heat at a temperature different than the ambient one (generally higher) while in discharging mode the stored heat is exploited for power production. Carnot Batteries can be designed with different thermodynamic cycles (Brayton cycle, Steam Rankine cycle, Organic Rankine cycle) and can adopt different types of thermal energy storage technologies. For low duration storage (daily or weekly cycling) sensible or latent energy storage with phase change materials can be adopted, while for long duration storage (months, seasonal) the use of thermochemical reactions could be a valid option, as proposed by H2020 RESTORE project. Performance of Carnot Batteries is highly affected by the thermal storage temperature, the condensation temperature in discharging mode and the availability of residual heat at a temperature higher than the ambient one for boosting the heat pump coefficient of performance in charging cycle. This paper focuses on the optimal design of a reversible thermodynamic system working as a heat pump (HP) cycle in charging mode and as an organic Rankine cycle (ORC) in discharging mode. A dedicated numerical model developed in Python is employed to compare the techno-economic performances of different working fluids and select the most promising candidates. Main difficulty is related to the use of reversible heat exchangers which design impacts both on the charging and discharging operation, strongly affecting the system round trip efficiency, and requiring a discretized off-design modelling. A Pareto front of optimal round trip efficiency against total area of heat exchangers is obtained by varying the main design parameters, such as heat transfer temperature differences and heat exchangers pressure drops. Results show that for a given overall heat transfer area low critical temperature fluid are mainly penalized by poor HP performance due to high compressor specific work, while high critical temperature fluids are mostly penalized by high pressure drops caused by the low fluid density. The most eaching a RTE close to 35% for the pure electric configuration at its maximum RTE over total heat transfer area parameter
Basic design of an ORC demonstrator system for implementation in an Iron & Steel plant through the DECAGONE project
Authors: Windfeldt Magnus , Deng Han , Andresen Trond , Schifflechner Christopher
Published: July 2024

Waste heat recovery (WHR) technologies offer great opportunities for improving energy efficiency and reducing CO2 emissions for energy intensive industrial processes. The DECAGONE project is developing an innovative ORC-based WHR system to be demonstrated in an iron & steel plant located in the Czech Republic. The design of the ORC system considers the practical site-specific conditions and limitations, such as variations in heat source conditions, heat sink availability, and size and space limitations for the ORC components. Various cycle configurations are compared with a thermodynamic optimization model for maximizing the net power output subject to the process constraints, including (1) recuperative vs. non-recuperative designs, (2) air vs. water as heat sink and (3) direct vs. indirect evaporation. The recuperative cycle with indirect evaporation and direct air condensation is deemed the most suitable solution for the project site conditions. The results provide recommendations for performance improvement and indications for performance subject to practical plant operating conditions, such as large range of temperature and flow rate of waste heat source. Analyses in this work provide the basis for detailed component design and decision processes towards finalizing the design of the demonstrator.
FIXING THE PERIPROSTHETIC FEMUR FRACTURE PROBLEM: ARE WE ABLE TO PROVIDE SAFE, EFFECTIVE, AND TIMELY CARE IN NORTH WALES? A PAN BETSI COLLABORATIVE STUDY
Authors: Kandhari V. , Shetty S. , Nugur A. , Ghosh S. , Azam A. , Bhaskar D. , Malek I.
Published: July 2024

The recruitment drive, investment and collaboration within Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) sites providing specialist lower limb arthroplasty and trauma service has evolved over last few years with aims to improve patient care and reduce reliance on tertiary referral centres. Through our service-evaluation project, we reviewed the results of treatment provided for periprosthetic femur fractures (PPFFs) presenting to BCUHB sites over last 4 years.

We retrospectively reviewed consecutive PPFFs admitted at three BCUHB sites from January’20 to June’23 with mean follow-up of 20.8 ± 13.2 (8–49) months [n=161; Mean age: 82.2 ± 8.5 (59–101) years, Females:107]. Over the review period we noted a 23% increase in service demand for care of PPFFs. Majority were managed surgically [132/161] [38 revision arthroplasties; 94 ORIFs] at BCUHB sites and two patients were referred to tertiary centre. Average time to surgery was 3.5 days. 90% of the PPFFs were managed successfully with 10% (16/159) having orthopaedic complications needing further intervention. 6.3 (10/159) had medical complications and did not need orthopaedic re-intervention. In our series, 12-month re-operation rate was 6.1% (8/132) and 1-month, 3-month and 1-year mortality rate was 6.3%, 11.3% and 21.4% respectively. These results are comparable to the published results of PPFF management at tertiary centres. Potential cost savings compared to transfer to tertiary centre for PPFF management was £2.31 million. Thus, it is possible to successfully provide adequate care for PPFFs at DGHs and efforts should be made to appropriately equip and adequately staff DGHs, to provide service for local PPFF care.
PATELLAR HEIGHT IN CHILDREN: ARE THE INDICES USED IN ADULTS APPROPRIATE IN THE PAEDIATRIC POPULATION?
Authors: Lal A. K. , Nugur A. , Santhanam S.
Published: July 2024

Abnormal patella height has been found to be one of the main reasons for abnormal contact between patella and trochlear groove leading to patellar instability in children. Many methods have been described to diagnose patellar instability but most of them are justified only in adults. The reason being incomplete ossification in the paediatric population. These methods have been divided into direct and indirect methods. We analysed the MRI scan of knee of 57 children between 12–14 years of age with no previous diagnosis of patellar instability. Patients with a diagnosis of patellar instability, previous surgery on the knee or trauma and poor MRI scan were excluded from the study. We used Insall -Salvati Index (ISI), Caton-Deschamp Index (CDI) and Patella-Trochlear Index (PTI) and compared the results. We found that 40% of measurements by CDI and 41% by ISI showed patella alta in patients with normal patella height. 10% of patients in PTI readings had value suggestive of abnormal patella height.

We concluded that PTI is a more reliable index to be used in children as it uses the length of articular surface and does not rely on bony landmarks. Studies done show PTI is a more reliable and accurate method of measuring patella height.
Realising systemic justice-oriented reform in education in postcolonial contexts
Authors: Tikly Leon
Published: July 2024

Drawing on and responding to the articles in this special collection, this provocation makes the case that realising justice in education requires a focus on the processes and politics of justice-oriented reform in postcolonial, low- and middle-income counties (LMICs). In implementing reform, it is argued that it is crucial to take account of similarities and differences in context between LMICs. At the heart of reform must be a holistic, coherent and systemic approach at the level of the education system of the institution. Key priorities include reforming the curriculum, investing in educators as agents of change and developing endogenous system leadership that can drive justice-oriented reform. Here, however, it is necessary to engage with the politics of justice-oriented reform, including challenging global, neoliberal agendas, democratising the governance of education and engaging with popular struggles for social, epistemic, transitional and environmental justice.
Queering Ecology and the Embodiment of Diversity: The Underflows of Uýra Sodoma's Performative Art
Authors: Bishop-Sanchez Kathryn
Published: July 2024

Abstract: This article provides a theoretical introduction to the performances of Brazilian artist and activist Emerson Pontes as their stage persona Uýra Sodoma in the context of water preservation and a longstanding and ardent concern with pollution, the destruction of nature, and the mismanagement of waterways. I read Uýra Sodoma's performances as emblematic of what can be referred to as queer eco-artivism: queer performance art that has a clear ecological activist message. To discuss this fascinating body of work, I engage in particular with the writings of Cleo Wölfle Hazard whose insightful Underflows: Queer Trans Ecologies and River Justice unites trans and queer-of-colour theory with environmental politics and justice thought, and thus provides an appropriate framework through which to access Uýra Sodoma's performative art. Resumo: Este artigo propõe uma introdução teórica às performances do artista e ativista Emerson Munduruku (também Emerson Pontes) e a sua personagem artística Uýra Sodoma no contexto da preservação de água e uma preocupação ardente já de longa data com a poluição, a destruição da natureza, e a má gestão das vias fluviais. Abordo as performances de Uýra Sodoma como sendo emblemáticas daquilo que podemos chamar eco-ativismo queer: isto é, performance queer com uma clara mensagem ecológica ativista. Para discutir a obra performática de Uýra Sodoma, dialogo em particular com a obra de Cleo Wölfle Hazard cujo livro Underflows: Queer Trans Ecologies and River Justice junta a teoria queer de pessoas Negras ou Indígenas e trans com a política ambiental e o pensamento de justiça, e propõe um quadro apropriado para abordar a obra performática de Uýra Sodoma.
Improved echo signal detection for pseudo-random single-photon counting laser ranging
Authors: Qu Shihan , Li Guobing , Li Jie , Zhang Guomei
Published: July 2024

In this paper, a new echo signal detection method, to the best of our knowledge, for pseudo-random single-photon counting ranging (PSPCR) LiDAR systems is proposed, which is applied for long distances, low repetition rates, and system cost reduction. First, in order to achieve a comparable temporal resolution as that in time-correlated single-photon counting (TCSPC) systems, we extend the pseudo-random code to discriminate the minimal time slot in time correlation. Second, we use the full width at half maxima (FWHM) in the duration of each pseudo-random code for correlation to reduce the impact of pulse width variation and timing jitters on ranging accuracy. Third, we study the bias and errors caused by using synchronous signals as the “START” signal, and propose to use the time of flight (ToF) at half energy to reduce the walk error. Simulation results show that, compared with existing PSPCR methods, the proposed method improves ranging accuracy with a lower repetition rate and lower peak and average power—centimeter-level ranging accuracy over tens of kilometers can be achieved using a laser with a repetition rate of 400 kHz, peak power of up to 1 kW, and average power of up to 1 W.
Fluorescence diffuse optical monitoring of bioreactors: a hybrid deep learning and model-based approach for tomography
Authors: Cao Jiaming , Gorecki Jon , Dale Robin , Redwood-Sawyerr Chileab , Kontoravdi Cleo , Polizzi Karen , Rowlands Christopher J. , Dehghani Hamid
Published: July 2024

Biosynthesis in bioreactors plays a vital role in many applications, but tools for accurate in situ monitoring of the cells are still lacking. By engineering the cells such that their conditions are reported through fluorescence, it is possible to fill in the gap using fluorescence diffuse optical tomography (fDOT). However, the spatial accuracy of the reconstruction can still be limited, due to e.g. undersampling and inaccurate estimation of the optical properties. Utilizing controlled phantom studies, we use a two-step hybrid approach, where a preliminary fDOT result is first obtained using the classic model-based optimization, and then enhanced using a neural network. We show in this paper using both simulated and phantom experiments that the proposed method can lead to a 8-fold improvement (Intersection over Union) of fluorescence inclusion reconstruction in noisy conditions, at the same speed of conventional neural network-based methods. This is an important step towards our ultimate goal of fDOT monitoring of bioreactors.
Optical shaping self-mixing interferometry with a neural network for displacement measurement
Authors: Chen Junbao , Wang Xinmeng , He Cheng , Wang Ming
Published: July 2024

Based on the characteristics of optical shaping self-mixing interference (SMI) and its perfect alignment with the input requirements of neural networks (NNs) for phase extraction, a novel, to our knowledge, displacement measurement method is proposed in this work. Optical shaping involves using a static Fabry–Perot cavity to map the periodic variations of optical frequency generated by SMI, achieving fringe multiplication, signal normalization, and enhancement for SMI optically. A NN trained on simulated data is used to directly extract the phase from the spectrum-mapped SMI signal. This measurement technology achieves a relative accuracy of 10-3 and advances the development of SMI.
Optically powered FiWi system for B5G hybrid VLC/RF access networks
Authors: Pinto Felipe B. F. , Souza Leticia C. , Andrade Tomás P. V. , Lima Eduardo S. , Anderson Evandro L. , Portelinha Jr. Francisco M. , Cerqueira S. Jr. Arismar
Published: July 2024

This paper proposes the concept and reports the demonstrator of an optically powered fiber/wireless (FiWi) system based on a hybrid visible light communication (VLC) and RF access network for beyond 5G (B5G) indoor applications. The power-over-fiber (PoF) technology is properly applied to simultaneously energize two components from the remote site, namely: a radio-over-fiber (RoF) module, which contains a photodetector and an RF amplifier; a red laser from the VLC system. The proposed PoF system is composed of a 500 m conventional multimode optical fiber (MMF) with a 62.5 μm core diameter, which enables the transmission of up to 12 W optical power with a power transmission efficiency (PTE) of 14%. In the proof of concept, 8.1 W optical power is generated to feed the 5G system components. Regarding the communication setup, a 5G new radio (5G NR) signal is initially transported through a RoF fronthaul, composed of 10 km of single-mode fiber (SMF), followed by the hybrid VLC/RF access network. The performance investigation of the B5G communication system is based on an analysis of the root mean square error vector magnitude (EVMRMS) parameter. Experimental results indicate 1.2 Gbps throughput in the VLC link using a 200 MHz bandwidth and 64-quadrature amplitude modulation (64-QAM), resulting in approximately 4.02% of EVMRMS. Moreover, the RF link at 3.5 GHz provides 360 Mbps with an EVMRMS of 2.67%. Finally, a comparison between the PoF system and conventional power supply validates the proposed approach's applicability for B5G wireless communications.
Time varying flat field correction of X-ray microtomography with an improved deep-learning method
Authors: Du Kang , Xu Mingwei , Xue Yanling , Du Guohao , Deng Biao , Xie Honglan , Xiao Tiqiao
Published: July 2024

In X-ray microtomography, the flat field image is usually needed to normalize the collected sample projections. Owing to the high brightness of the synchrotron radiation facility, dynamic CT imaging of in-situ or in-operando processes is broadly employed for the investigation of three-dimensional microstructure evolution. However, the fast, continuous data acquisition and the heavy, bulky in-situ devices usually prevent the easy collection of accurate flat field images, which means that conventional flat field correction is hard to efficiently correct the artefacts of X-ray microtomography. We report a deep-learning-based artefact correction method for X-ray microtomography, which uses flat field generated from each CT projection by an improved pix2pixHD model. Experimental results demonstrated that the proposed method has a significant advantage over the conventional method and available deep-learning-based flat field correction method for the flat field correction of projection images. The CT imaging results show that the proposed method efficiently reduces the systematic error during the intensity normalization process, and the CT reconstruction is improved significantly. Therefore, the method developed in this paper is applicable for the flat field correction of dynamic CT. Furthermore, experiments with a set of low Z material samples verified the generalization of the deep-learning-based method for a variety of samples never used for network training. In conclusion, the method developed in this paper is practicable for the flat field correction of in-situ CT imaging of dynamic processes and is also applicable to new samples as long as the neural network model is effectively trained.
Efficient generation of polarization-entangled photons in metal-organic framework waveguides
Authors: Paiva Simón , Fritz Rubén A. , Raj Sanoj , Colón Yamil J. , Herrera Felipe
Published: July 2024

Parametric nonlinear optical processes are instrumental in optical quantum technology for generating entangled light. However, the range of materials conventionally used for producing entangled photons is limited. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as a novel class of optical materials with customizable nonlinear properties and proven chemical and optical stability. The large number of combinations of metal atoms and organic ligand from which bulk MOF crystals are known to form, facilitates the search of promising candidates for nonlinear optics. To accelerate the discovery of next-generation quantum light sources, we employ a multi-scale modeling approach to study phase-matching conditions for collinear degenerate type-II spontaneous parametric down conversion (SPDC) with MOF-based one dimensional waveguides. Using periodic-density-functional theory calculations to compute the nonlinear optical properties of selected zinc-based MOF crystals, we predict polarization-entangled pair generation rates of order 104 − 107 s−1mW−1 at 1064 nm for 10 mm crystals, improving the brightness of industry materials such as PPKTP and BBO in some cases. This work underscores the great potential of MOF single crystals as entangled light sources for applications in quantum communication and sensing.
Efficient multiphoton microscopy with picosecond laser pulses
Authors: Kunio Katarzyna , Bogusławski Jakub , Soboń Grzegorz
Published: July 2024

Multiphoton microscopes employ femtosecond lasers as light sources
because the high peak power of the ultrashort pulse allows for
multiphoton excitation of fluorescence in the examined sample.
However, such short pulses are susceptible to broadening in a
microscope’s highly dispersive optical elements and require
careful dispersion management, otherwise decreasing excitation
efficiency. Here, we have developed a 10 nJ Yb:fiber picosecond laser
with an integrated pulse picker unit and evaluated its performance in
multiphoton microscopy. Our results show that performance comparable
to femtosecond pulses can be obtained with picosecond pulses only by
reducing the pulse repetition rate and that such pulses are
significantly less prone to the effect of chromatic dispersion. These
findings proved that the temporal pulse compression is not always
efficient, and it can be omitted by using a smaller and easier-to-use
all-fiber setup.
Ultra-efficient surface grating couplers for chip-to-fiber and chip-to-free-space coupling based on single-beam radiation
Authors: Sánchez-Postigo Alejandro , Ginel Pablo , Schmid Jens , Hadij-ElHouati Abdelfettah , Ortega-Moñux Alejandro , Wangüemert-Pérez J. Gonzalo , Halir Robert , Cheben Pavel , Molina-Fernandez Inigo
Published: July 2024

Surface grating couplers, such as fiber-chip grating couplers and optical antennas, are fundamental devices in photonic integrated circuits, as they enable the coupling of light between the chip and an external medium. An important metric of surface grating couplers is the coupling efficiency, and high values, greater than -1 dB, are required for applications in quantum technology, light detection and ranging, and optical interconnects. Surface grating couplers typically suffer from radiation loss to the substrate, which significantly limits their coupling efficiency. Here we propose a novel grating-coupling concept that utilizes a high-refractive-index upper cladding to frustrate radiation orders to the substrate by operating in a single-beam diffraction regime. To illustrate this concept, we report the design of an easily fabricable silicon surface grating coupler with an unprecedented coupling efficiency of -0.2 dB to a single-mode optical fiber. Furthermore, the proposed strategy allows us to design an evanescently coupled millimeter-long optical antenna with a coupling efficiency of -0.1 dB to free space. Additionally, an ultra-fast wavelength-tunable beam steering of 0.37 degree/nm is achieved, which corresponds to more than a 2.5-fold enhancement over comparable silicon antennas. These results represent a pathway for a new set of photonic integrated interfaces for applications in which high-efficiency chip-to-fiber and chip-to-free-space coupling is critical.
Capturing the spectrotemporal structure of a biphoton wave packet with delay-line-anode single-photon imagers
Authors: Iso Ozora , Miyajima Kensuke , Shimizu Ryosuke
Published: July 2024

Distinguishing photon-arrival time and position is crucial for advancing quantum technology. However, capturing spatial and temporal information efficiently remains challenging. Here, we present a novel photon-detection technique to achieve a significantly more efficient measurement of frequency-entangled biphoton than conventional photon detectors. We utilize a delay-line-anode single-photon detector (DLD), which consists of a position-sensitive delay line anode sensor behind a microchannel plate. Biphotons are obtained from the decay of biexcitons in the copper chloride semiconductor crystal. Two DLDs are coupled with a grating spectrometer exit to measure the joint spectral distributions of the biphoton. The resulting non-scanning process requires only a few minutes to obtain a temporally and spectrally resolved image, which is much quicker than the conventional biphoton frequency measurement. Our technique paves the way for all experiments in multi-mode quantum science requiring coincidence measurement.
Broadband continuous-wave mid-infrared wavelength conversion in high-Q silicon microring resonators
Authors: Yan Zhiwei , Yi Qiyuan , Li Qiyuan , Cheng Guanglian , Cui Shuai , Xia Lipeng , Xu Fanglu , Xiong Xinzhe , Shen Zengfan , Zheng Shuang , Yu Yuan , Zou Yi , Shen Li
Published: July 2024

The four-wave mixing (FWM) effect offers promise to generate or amplify light at wavelengths where achieving substantial gain is challenging, particularly within the mid-infrared (MIR) spectral range. Here, based on the commonly used 340 nm silicon-on-insulator (SOI) platform, we experimentally demonstrate high-efficiency and broadband wavelength conversion using the FWM effect in a high-Q silicon microring resonator pumped by a continuous-wave (CW) laser in the 2 μm waveband. The microring resonator parameters are carefully optimized for effective phase-matching to obtain high conversion efficiency (CE) with broad bandwidth. The loaded quality (Q
l
) factor of the fabricated microring resonator is measured to be 1.11×105, at a resonance wavelength of 1999.3 nm, indicating low propagation losses of 1.68 dB/cm. A maximum CE of −15.57  dB is achieved with a low input pump power of only 4.42 dBm, representing, to our knowledge, the highest on-chip CE demonstrated to date under the CW pump in the MIR range. Furthermore, broadband wavelength conversion can be observed across a 140.4 nm wavelength range with a CE of −19.32  dB, and simulations indicate that the conversion bandwidth is over 400 nm. This work opens great potential in exploiting widely tunable on-chip sources using high-efficiency wavelength conversion, particularly leveraging the advantages of the SOI platform in integrated photonics across the 2 μm MIR range.
Anisotropic impedance holographic metasurface for near-field imaging
Authors: Meng Xiangshuai , Zhang Haoyu , Wu Tao , Li Yu , Zhang Anxue , Ran Lei , Chen Xiaoming
Published: July 2024

In this paper, the concept of anisotropic impedance holographic metasurface is proposed and validated by realizing holographic imaging with multipoint focusing techniques in near-field areas at the radio frequency domain. Combining the microwave holographic leaky-wave theory and near-field focusing principle, the mapped geometrical patterns can be constructed based on the correspondence between meta-atom structural parameters and equivalent scalar impedances in this modulated metasurface. Different from conventional space-wave modulated holographic imaging metasurfaces, this surface-wave-based holographic metasurface fed by monopole antenna embedded back on metal ground enables elimination of the misalignment error between the air feeding and space-wave-based metasurface and increase of the integration performance, which characterizes ultra-low profile, low cost, and easy integration. The core innovation of this paper is to use the classical anisotropic equivalent surface impedance method to achieve the near-field imaging effect for the first time. Based on this emerging technique, a surface-wave meta-hologram is designed and verified through simulations and experimental measurements, which offers a promising choice for microwave imaging, information processing, and holographic data storage.