bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hybrid PET/Compton-camera imaging: an imager for the next generation
Authors: Llosá Gabriela , Rafecas Magdalena
Published: April 2023

Compton cameras can offer advantages over gamma cameras for some applications, since they are well suited for multitracer imaging and for imaging high-energy radiotracers, such as those employed in radionuclide therapy. While in conventional clinical settings state-of-the-art Compton cameras cannot compete with well-established methods such as PET and SPECT, there are specific scenarios in which they can constitute an advantageous alternative. The combination of PET and Compton imaging can benefit from the improved resolution and sensitivity of current PET technology and, at the same time, overcome PET limitations in the use of multiple radiotracers. Such a system can provide simultaneous assessment of different radiotracers under identical conditions and reduce errors associated with physical factors that can change between acquisitions. Advances are being made both in instrumentation developments combining PET and Compton cameras for multimodal or three-gamma imaging systems, and in image reconstruction, addressing the challenges imposed by the combination of the two modalities or the new techniques. This review article summarizes the advances made in Compton cameras for medical imaging and their combination with PET.
Some Fano manifolds whose Hilbert polynomial is totally reducible over ℚ
Authors: Lanteri Antonio , Tironi Andrea Luigi
Published: April 2023

Let [Formula: see text] be any Fano manifold polarized by a positive multiple of its fundamental divisor [Formula: see text]. The polynomial defining the Hilbert curve of [Formula: see text] reduces to the Hilbert polynomial of [Formula: see text], hence it is totally reducible over [Formula: see text]; moreover, some of the linear factors appearing in the factorization have rational coefficients, e.g. if [Formula: see text] has index [Formula: see text]. It is natural to ask when the same happens for all linear factors. Here the total reducibility over [Formula: see text] of the Hilbert polynomial is investigated for three special kinds of Fano manifolds: Fano manifolds of large index, toric Fano manifolds of low dimension, and projectivized Fano bundles of low coindex.
Semi-quantum bi-signature scheme based on Bell states
Authors: Yang Chun-Wei , Cheng Ching-Lin
Published: April 2023

Currently, quantum signature protocols assume that all participants in the protocol (signers, verifiers, and arbitrators) should exhibit quantum capabilities. If quantum devices are lacking, the quantum signature protocol cannot be implemented. However, quantum devices are not widely used, and not all users can own quantum devices. Boyer et al. first proposed the concept of the semi-quantum environment. Zhao et al. proposed a semi-quantum signature protocol with double signers based on the W state. Yang et al. discovered that in the semi-quantum signature protocol with double signers developed by Zhao et al., an internal attacker could launch an impersonation attack during the verification and signature stages to capture the private key and use it to impersonate the user’s identity. In addition, the eavesdropper can obtain all the secret information of the signers by performing a man-in-the-middle attack. All three attack modes can pass the eavesdropping check. Hence, if these security problems are not solved, the signature of the semi-quantum signature protocol with double signers proposed by Zhao et al. cannot be completed safely. Therefore, based on Bell states, a new semi-quantum signature protocol of double signers was developed in this study. The proposed protocol not only resists impersonation attacks and man-in-the-middle attacks but also resists other common attack modes.
Levinson theorem for discrete Schrödinger operators on the line with matrix potentials having a first moment
Authors: Ballesteros Miguel , Franco Córdova Gerardo , Naumkin Ivan , Schulz-Baldes Hermann
Published: April 2023

This paper proves new results on spectral and scattering theory for matrix-valued Schrödinger operators on the discrete line with non-compactly supported perturbations whose first moments are assumed to exist. In particular, a Levinson theorem is proved, in which a relation between scattering data and spectral properties (bound and half-bound states) of the corresponding Hamiltonians is derived. The proof is based on stationary scattering theory with prominent use of Jost solutions at complex energies that are controlled by Volterra-type integral equations.
Grounded Copilot: How Programmers Interact with Code-Generating Models
Authors: Barke Shraddha , James Michael B. , Polikarpova Nadia
Published: April 2023

Powered by recent advances in code-generating models, AI assistants like Github Copilot promise to change the face of programming forever. But what
is
this new face of programming? We present the first grounded theory analysis of how programmers interact with Copilot, based on observing 20 participants—with a range of prior experience using the assistant—as they solve diverse programming tasks across four languages. Our main finding is that interactions with programming assistants are
bimodal
: in
acceleration mode
, the programmer knows what to do next and uses Copilot to get there faster; in
exploration mode
, the programmer is unsure how to proceed and uses Copilot to explore their options. Based on our theory, we provide recommendations for improving the usability of future AI programming assistants.
Languages with Decidable Learning: A Meta-theorem
Authors: Krogmeier Paul , Madhusudan P.
Published: April 2023

We study expression learning problems with syntactic restrictions and introduce the class of
finite-aspect checkable languages
to characterize symbolic languages that admit decidable learning. The semantics of such languages can be defined using a bounded amount of auxiliary information that is independent of expression size but depends on a fixed structure over which evaluation occurs. We introduce a generic programming language for writing programs that evaluate expression syntax trees, and we give a meta-theorem that connects such programs for finite-aspect checkable languages to finite tree automata, which allows us to derive new decidable learning results and decision procedures for several expression learning problems by writing programs in the programming language.
A Gradual Probabilistic Lambda Calculus
Authors: Ye Wenjia , Toro Matías , Olmedo Federico
Published: April 2023

Probabilistic programming languages have recently gained a lot of attention, in particular due to their applications in domains such as machine learning and differential privacy. To establish invariants of interest, many such languages include some form of static checking in the form of type systems. However, adopting such a type discipline can be cumbersome or overly conservative.
Gradual typing addresses this problem by supporting a smooth transition between static and dynamic checking, and has been successfully applied for languages with different constructs and type abstractions. Nevertheless, its benefits have never been explored in the context of probabilistic languages.
In this work, we present and formalize GPLC, a gradual source probabilistic lambda calculus. GPLC includes a binary probabilistic choice operator and allows programmers to gradually introduce/remove static type–and probability–annotations. The static semantics of GPLC heavily relies on the notion of probabilistic couplings, as required for defining several relations, such as consistency, precision, and consistent transitivity. The dynamic semantics of GPLC is given via elaboration to the target language TPLC, which features a distribution-based semantics interpreting programs as probability distributions over final values. Regarding the language metatheory, we establish that TPLC–and therefore also GPLC–is type safe and satisfies two of the so-called refined criteria for gradual languages, namely, that it is a conservative extension of a fully static variant and that it satisfies the gradual guarantee, behaving smoothly with respect to type precision.
Fat Pointers for Temporal Memory Safety of C
Authors: Zhou Jie , Criswell John , Hicks Michael
Published: April 2023

Temporal memory safety bugs, especially use-after-free and double free bugs, pose a major security threat to C programs. Real-world exploits utilizing these bugs enable attackers to read and write arbitrary memory locations, causing disastrous violations of confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Many previous solutions retrofit temporal memory safety to C, but they all either incur high performance overhead and/or miss detecting certain types of temporal memory safety bugs.

In this paper, we propose a temporal memory safety solution that is both efficient and comprehensive. Specifically, we extend Checked C, a spatially-safe extension to C, with temporally-safe pointers. These are implemented by combining two techniques: fat pointers and dynamic key-lock checks. We show that the fat-pointer solution significantly improves running time and memory overhead compared to the disjoint-metadata approach that provides the same level of protection. With empirical program data and hands-on experience porting real-world applications, we also show that our solution is practical in terms of backward compatibility---one of the major complaints about fat pointers.
A Verification Methodology for the Arm® Confidential Computing Architecture: From a Secure Specification to Safe Implementations
Authors: Fox Anthony C. J. , Stockwell Gareth , Xiong Shale , Becker Hanno , Mulligan Dominic P. , Petri Gustavo , Chong Nathan
Published: April 2023

We present Arm's efforts in verifying the specification and prototype reference implementation of the Realm Management Monitor (RMM), an essential firmware component of Arm Confidential Computing Architecture (Arm CCA), the recently-announced Confidential Computing technologies incorporated in the Armv9-A architecture. Arm CCA introduced the Realm Management Extension (RME), an architectural extension for Armv9-A, and a technology that will eventually be deployed in hundreds of millions of devices. Given the security-critical nature of the RMM, and its taxing threat model, we use a combination of interactive theorem proving, model checking, and concurrency-aware testing to validate and verify security and safety properties of both the specification and a prototype implementation of the RMM. Crucially, our verification efforts were, and are still being, developed and refined contemporaneously with active development of both specification and implementation, and have been adopted by Arm's product teams.

We describe our major achievements, realized through the application of formal techniques, as well as challenges that remain for future work. We believe that the work reported in this paper is the most thorough application of formal techniques to the design and implementation of any current commercially-viable Confidential Computing implementation, setting a new high-water mark for work in this area.
Tuning of Structural and Morphological Characteristics of V2O5 Thin Films Using Low Energy 16 keV N + for Optical and Wetting Applications
Authors: Priya Bhanu , Jasrotia Priya , Sulania Indra , Chaudhary Dhirendra K. , Gupta Rajeev , Verma Ajay Singh , Kumar Raj , Kumar Tanuj
Published: April 2023

Effect of nitrogen (N+) ion implantation on the morphological, structural, optical, and compositional properties of vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) thin films grown on glass substrates is studied. Surface morphology shows the formation of grains and the growth dynamics is governed by roughness (α) and growth (β) exponents. X-ray diffraction studies reveal that V2O5 exists in a hybrid form, with properties of both the orthorhombic and tetragonal phases. Ion implantation induces defects and strain in V2O5 thin films causing a reduction in crystalline properties and deformation in the β-phase with a corresponding change in crystallite size. Contact angle wetting properties are found to be co-related with fractal growth of the films under ion implantation. Oxygen vacancies and electron scattering/trapping centres are revealed to have increased after N+ implantation, leading to a smaller bandgap in the thin films. The benefits of decreasing the optical band-gap of V2O5 thin films for optical applications are outlined in the present work.
Ovariectomy aggravates the pathophysiological response to exertional heat stroke in mice
Authors: Rentería Liliana I. , Zheng Xiangyu , Valera Isela , Machin Daniel R. , Garcia Christian K. , Leon Lisa R. , Laitano Orlando
Published: April 2023

Females outperform males in a mouse model of exertional heat stroke (EHS). Here, we show for the first time the impact of ovariectomy (OVX) on EHS pathophysiology. OVX resulted in a shorter exercise capacity in the heat, greater intestinal damage, and lower heat shock response following EHS.
Thermoregulatory responses during road races in hot-humid conditions at the 2019 Athletics World Championships
Authors: Aylwin Polly , Havenith George , Cardinale Marco , Lloyd Alexander , Ihsan Mohammed , Taylor Lee , Adami Paolo Emilio , Alhammoud Marine , Alonso Juan-Manuel , Bouscaren Nicolas , Buitrago Sebastian , Esh Christopher , Gomez-Ezeiza Josu , Garrandes Frederic , Labidi Mariem , Lange Gűnter , Moussay Sébastien , Mtibaa Khouloud , Townsend Nathan , Wilson Mathew , Bermon Stéphane , Racinais Sebastien
Published: April 2023

This paper provides a kinetic observation of both core and skin temperatures in 108 elite athletes, during various outdoor competition events, adding to the very limited data so far available in the literature taken during elite competitions. The field skin temperature findings contrast previous laboratory findings, likely due to differences in relative air velocity and its impact on the evaporation of sweat. The rapid rise in skin temperature following cessation of exercise highlights the importance of infrared thermography measurements being taken during motion, not during breaks, when being used as a measurement of skin temperature during exercise.
Intense interval exercise induces lactate accumulation and a greater suppression of acylated ghrelin compared with submaximal exercise in middle-aged adults
Authors: McCarthy Seth F. , Bornath Derek P.D. , Jarosz Claudia , Tucker Jessica A.L. , Medeiros Philip J. , Kenno Kenji A. , Hazell Tom J.
Published: April 2023

We explored the effects of submaximal, near maximal, and supramaximal intensity exercise on appetite regulation in middle-aged adults. Our data support the intensity-dependent effect of exercise on acylated ghrelin suppression that is closely related to lactate accumulation, though there appears to be little effect on anorexigenic hormones [active peptide tyrosine tyrosine (PYY), active glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1)], overall appetite, or free-living energy intake. These data support previous results in younger adults where lactate was implicated in the exercise-induced suppression of acylated ghrelin.
ceAF Ameliorates Diabetic Wound Healing by Alleviating Inflammation and Oxidative Stress via TLR4/NF-κB and Nrf2 Pathways
Authors: Li Shiyan , Ding Xiaofeng , Yan Xin , Qian Jin , Tan Qian
Published: April 2023

Background. With the rise in diabetes incidence, diabetic foot ulcers have become the most common clinically chronic refractory wounds. Persistent chronic inflammation is a typical feature of diabetic cutaneous wounds, and diabetic wound healing can be improved by alleviating inflammation and oxidative stress. Chick early amniotic fluids (ceAF) consist of native conglutinant substances with balanced amounts of growth factors, cytokines, and chemokines. However, whether ceAF modulates inflammation and oxidative stress and thus promotes diabetic wound healing remains unknown. Materials and Methods. RAW264.7 cells were categorized into four groups: negative control, LPS, LPS + ceAF, and ceAF. 10% of ceAF was selected to treat different groups of mice with a full-thickness skin defect wound. Then, RT-qPCR, western blot, immunofluorescence, and other assays were carried out to explore the effect of ceAF on wound healing and its molecular mechanism. Results. Topical administration of ceAF improved M2 macrophage polarization and inflammatory response in the wound tissues, thereby ameliorating delayed wound healing. Histological improvement could be observed in the grade of inflammation, collagen deposition, and neovascularization in wound edge tissues. ceAF also increased M2 macrophage-specific markers expression and exogenous ceAF suppressed LPS-induced cellular inflammatory response in vitro high glucose environment. Additionally, ceAF could activate TLR4/NF-κB and Nrf2 signal transductions to promote M2 macrophage polarization in vitro. Conclusions. In summary, ceAF downregulates inflammatory response, regulates M2 macrophage transition via TLR4/NF-κB and Nrf2 signaling pathways, and thus improves diabetic wound healing.
CSP: A Cost-Aware Ship Proportioning Algorithm Based on Operation Process Simulation
Authors: Zhu Weidong , Hu Hanwen , Xu Shenglin , Qian Shiyou , Cao Jian , Yao Yan , Qu Bin , Zhai Diankun
Published: April 2023

Inland waterway dredging is daily maintenance which is undertaken to ensure the safe navigation of ships. Due to the limitations of river width, bridge height, and other conditions, dredging projects usually require different types of ships, namely dredgers, mud-carrying ships, and mud-blowing ships which work in cooperation with each other. The proportion of these three types of ships affects dredging cost and operation efficiency. Most existing algorithms calculate ship proportion according to the operating speeds of ships without considering the influence of navigation locks on waterways. In this paper, we propose a cost-aware ship proportioning (CSP) algorithm based on operation process simulation. The premise is to save dredging cost by making full use of the three types of ships. First, we establish a model to simulate the operation process of the three types of ships considering navigation locks. Furthermore, we utilize the simulation model to obtain the optimal ship proportion that has the lowest cost through loop iterations. In addition, we quantify the relationship between the opening time of navigation locks and the project cost. We evaluate the effectiveness of CSP in terms of the project cost based on real engineering data. The experiment results show that CSP significantly outperforms the baseline.
Analysis of the Capacity of the Fenton Process for the Treatment of Polluted Wastewater from the Leather Dyeing Industry
Authors: Gómez Carlos A. , Gómez-García Miguel-Ángel , Dobrosz-Gómez Izabela
Published: April 2023

In this work, the capacity of the Fenton oxidation process for the degradation of color and organic matter contained in the wastewater generated in the leather dyeing stage (WWDS) of an industrial tannery was evaluated. The wastewater characteristics included, among others, high toxicity (lethal concentration for Artemia salina, 24 h test, 50% of population = 93.71 ppm), high dye concentration (36 mg/L, yellow color), high chromium concentration (3.34 mg/L), and low biodegradability index (BOD5/COD ratio = 0.083). From an experimental design, the response surface methodology, and the multiobjective optimization analysis, the following optimal operating conditions were established: initial pH = 3.15, [Fe2+] = 0.981 mM, and [H2O2] = 5.38 mM. After 10 min of oxidation (determined from kinetic studies), it reached approximately 97% decolorization, COD reduction of approximately 82%, and TOC mineralization of approximately 92%. A synergistic effect of Fenton’s reagents for TOC removal (STOC = 0.8) and decolorization (SCN = 0.28) of the WWDS under study was confirmed experimentally. An increase in the biodegradability index, to a value of approximately 0.3, was confirmed. The cost of the treatment was estimated at 0.0112 USD/m3. Thus, the Fenton oxidation process allowed compliance with current Colombian environmental regulations and considerably improved the biodegradability and toxicity characteristics of the studied industrial effluent. It can be considered as an efficient alternative, easy to carry out on an industrial batch scale, and economically viable for the treatment of wastewater from the leather dyeing stage of an industrial tannery.
Security Authentication Protocol for Massive Machine Type Communication in 5G Networks
Authors: Miao Junfeng , Wang Zhaoshun , Wang Mei , Feng Xiao , Xiao Nan , Sun Xiaoxue
Published: April 2023

As one of the three major applications of 5G, massive machine type communication (mMTC) is mainly oriented to network access scenarios for massive devices. mMTC focuses on solving the problem that traditional mobile communication cannot well support the Internet of Things and vertical industry applications. According to the current 3GPP standard, these massive devices still use the traditional authentication process to realize mutual authentication with 5G core network, which brings a lot of communication and computing overhead. In addition, privacy protection will also be threatened in the authentication process. In order to alleviate the signaling congestion during authentication and solve the insecurity in authentication, this paper proposes a group authentication scheme for mMTC. Due to the characteristics of low power consumption and massive connection, the scheme mainly adopts lightweight encryption operation to avoid the computational burden of equipment and server. We verify the security of our scheme by using BAN logic to formally analyze the scheme. Then, through informal analysis, our proposed scheme can not only avoid signaling blocking and provide mutual authentication but also resist various possible attacks. Through performance evaluation, it is proved that our scheme has better efficiency.
Data from Heterogeneity of Circulating Tumor Cell–Associated Genomic Gains in Breast Cancer and Its Association with the Host Immune Response
Authors: Kanwar Nisha , Balde Zaldy , Nair Ranju , Dawe Melanie , Chen Shiyi , Maganti Manjula , Atenafu Eshetu G. , Manolescu Sabrina , Wei Carrie , Mao Amanda , Fu Fred , Wang Dan , Cheung Alison , Yerofeyeva Yulia , Peters Rachel , Liu Kela , Desmedt Christine , Sotiriou Christos , Szekely Borbala , Kulka Janina , McKee Trevor D. , Hirano Naoto , Bartlett John M.S. , Yaffe Martin J. , Bedard Philippe L. , McCready David , Done Susan J.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Tumor cells that preferentially enter circulation include the precursors of metastatic cancer. Previously, we characterized circulating tumor cells (CTC) from patients with breast cancer and identified a signature of genomic regions with recurrent copy-number gains. Through FISH, we now show that these CTC-associated regions are detected within the matched untreated primary tumors of these patients (21% to 69%, median 55.5%, n = 19). Furthermore, they are more prevalent in the metastases of patients who died from breast cancer after multiple rounds of treatment (70% to 100%, median 93%, samples n = 41). Diversity indices revealed that higher spatial heterogeneity for these regions within primary tumors is associated with increased dissemination and metastasis. An identified subclone with multiple regions gained (MRG clone) was enriched in a posttreatment primary breast carcinoma as well as multiple metastatic tumors and local breast recurrences obtained at autopsy, indicative of a distinct early subclone with the capability to resist multiple lines of treatment and eventually cause death. In addition, multiplex immunofluorescence revealed that tumor heterogeneity is significantly associated with the degree of infiltration of B lymphocytes in triple-negative breast cancer, a subtype with a large immune component. Collectively, these data reveal the functional potential of genetic subclones that comprise heterogeneous primary breast carcinomas and are selected for in CTCs and posttreatment breast cancer metastases. In addition, they uncover a relationship between tumor heterogeneity and host immune response in the tumor microenvironment.
Significance:
As breast cancers progress, they become more heterogeneous for multiple regions amplified in circulating tumor cells, and intratumoral spatial heterogeneity is associated with the immune landscape.
Effects of olive oil on lipid profiles and blood glucose in type2 diabetic patients
Authors: Al Jamal Abdul Rahim , Ibrahim Abdallah
Published: April 2023

Diabetes is often associated with dyslipidemia. Olive oil is known to improve several cardiovascular risk factors. We studied the changes produced in the lipid profile after consumption of olive oil in type 2 diabetic subjects. We studied 45 individuals of both sexes with type 2 diabetes and 15 healthy subject of age 40 years or older. Only subjects not taking medicine for other health conditions and whose fasting blood glucose levels were in the range of 160- 320mg/dl and with high lipids level were included in the study. The study was conducted for 4 weeks. The subjects were allowed to take their routine diet and usual diabetic medicine. They were told to take 30 ml of olive oil per day. Diabetics showed marked dyslipidemia. Four weeks of consumption of olive oil significantly lowered the levels of fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and low density lipoproteins in both groups. Reduction was more profound in diabetics than in healthy controls. Meanwhile, high density lipoproteins increased in both groups. Olive oil improved lipid profiles and blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetics.
Candesartan-Induced Enteropathy That Mimics Celiac Disease in a 90-Year-Old Patient
Authors: Holtgrewe Lydia ML , Dippel Harald , Weckauf Helgard , Linnemüller Stephan , Schuppert Frank
Published: April 2023

Sprue-like enteropathy (SLE) is a clinical syndrome similar to celiac disease and has been associated with the use of various angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), a class of medications frequently used in the management of hypertension. Currently, there has only been one documented case report which has observed this occurrence with the use of the ARB candesartan. A 90-year-old female patient presented with chronic diarrhea and weight loss of unclear etiology. Diagnostic esophagogastroduodenoscopy and ileocolonoscopy were macroscopically unremarkable, but histological samples revealed complete villous atrophy, chronic mucosal inflammation, and intraepithelial T-lymphocytic infiltration. However, serological studies could not confirm celiac disease as a cause for the patient’s symptoms of malabsorption. After exclusion of other intestinal inflammation etiologies with noted ongoing candesartan use, the diagnosis of SLE was made, and candesartan therapy was discontinued. Additionally, we decided to initiate a lactose-free diet. Clinical remission was achieved without any recurrences. Candesartan is a commonly prescribed therapeutic agent in the treatment of hypertension. Our case underlines the importance of considering it as a potential cause for unexplained symptoms of malabsorption.
Isolated Internal Ophthalmoplegia from Posterior Cerebral Artery Neurovascular Conflict
Authors: Chronopoulos Argyrios , Consigli Andrea , Heim Julia , Schutz James S , Becker Minerva , Krastel Hermann , Hattenbach Lars-Olof
Published: April 2023

We report a rare case of recurrent isolated internal ophthalmoplegia attributed to oculomotor nerve (CN III) compression by the posterior cerebral artery (PCA). A 30-year-old female patient presented with recurrent right-sided headaches, right periorbital pain, and slight anisocoria. Slit-lamp examination revealed normal anterior and posterior segments except for vermiform movements of the right pupil with a temporal hyporeactive flat area. Tonic pupils were ruled out with pilocarpine 0.1% testing. Suspecting an internal ophthalmoplegia, magnetic resonance imaging was ordered which demonstrated the right CN III indented by the PCA, fulfilling the criteria of a neurovascular conflict. The evaluation of unilateral mydriasis from internal ophthalmoplegia should prompt neuroimaging with exclusion of aneurysmal or compressive lesions. CN III palsy can rarely be caused by vascular anatomical variants because of the proximity of the posterior intracranial circulation and CN III. Newer, more precise imaging techniques will better help characterize neurovascular conflicts presenting as cranial nerve palsies.
Unilateral Axillary Lymphadenopathy in Cancer Patients Post-COVID-19 Vaccination: Review and Case Series
Authors: Zoughbor Sumaya Hasan , AlRasbi Zakeya , Yousif Ali , Al Ameri Mouza , Hussein Mawada Mohamed , Hourani Mohammad Saeed , Khamis Shima Mohamed , Ansari Hidayath , Syed Iram , Balaraj Khalid , Azribi Fathi , Bin Sumaida Abdul Rahman , Dawoud Emad , Ansari Jawaher
Published: April 2023

Novel coronavirus-19 (COVID-19) variants continue to spread worldwide with the development of highly transmissible strains. Several guidelines addressing management of cancer patients during the COVID-19 pandemic have been published, primarily based upon expert opinion. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected all aspects of breast cancer care including screening, diagnosis, treatment, and long-term follow-up. Recent reports indicate that mRNA COVID-19 vaccines can provoke lymphadenopathy in both cancer patients and healthy individuals. Unilateral axillary lymphadenopathy (UAL) post-COVID-19 vaccination is a challenging presentation for cancer patients because of the potential for misinterpretation as malignancy. The World Health Organization’s target to vaccinate 70% of the world’s population by mid-2023 is likely to increase the incidence of post-COVID-19 vaccination UAL. In this article, we review the published evidence regarding UAL post-COVID-19 vaccination and present diverse cases of breast cancer patients where false-positive UAL post-COVID-19 vaccination proved to be a therapeutic challenge. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) vaccination program is well ahead of other countries in the world, having accomplished the target of 100% vaccination of the population with at least one dose. Therefore, an increasing number of recently vaccinated patients are likely to present with UAL, detected by surveillance imaging, post-vaccination. We have therefore made recommendations regarding the management of cancer patients with UAL post-COVID-19 vaccination in order to avoid misdiagnosis and unnecessary imaging or invasive biopsy procedures.
Spezialisten aus Klinik und Praxis sollten sich bei der Versorgung der IMID-Patienten austauschen
Authors: Adler Sabine
Published: April 2023

Hintergrund: Chronische Entzündungserkrankungen (engl. «immune-mediated inflammatory diseases» [IMID]) sind mit einer erheblichen Krankheitslast verbunden. Diese ist umso ausgeprägter, sofern diese gleichzeitig bei Patienten auftreten oder z. B. weitere Komorbiditäten bestehen. Die Versorgung der IMID ist komplex und involviert diverse medizinische Fachdisziplinen. Ziel der Arbeit: Die Beschreibung der Krankheitslast und der aktuellen Arzneimittelversorgung der Patienten mit IMID. Material und Methoden: Die retrospektive Querschnittanalyse erfolgte unter Nutzung von Abrechnungsdaten der gesetzlichen Krankenversicherung der InGef-Datenbank. Unter 3.988.695 Versicherten wurden im Jahr 2018 anhand dokumentierter Diagnosen (ICD-10-GM) prävalente Patienten mit Psoriasis (Pso), Psoriasisarthritis (PsA), Spondyloarthritiden (SpA), rheumatoider Arthritis (RA), Morbus Crohn (MC), Colitis ulcerosa (CU) oder Kollagenosen identifiziert. Das gemeinsame Auftreten verschiedener IMID sowie weiterer Begleiterkrankungen wurde im Vergleich zur Referenzpopulation untersucht. Die medikamentöse Versorgung wurde basierend auf vordefinierten Therapieformen beschrieben. Ergebnisse: Im Jahr 2018 wurden 188.440 Patienten mit IMID (4,7%) identifiziert. Im Vergleich zur Referenzpopulation war die Prävalenz von depressiven Episoden und kardiovaskulären Risikoerkrankungen bei Patienten mit IMID höher. Bei MC, CU, RA, und PsA wurden DMARDs (engl. «disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs») und klassische systemische Therapien am häufigsten eingesetzt. Bei Pso, SpA und Kollagenosen waren NSAR (nichtsteroidale Antirheumatika) die häufigsten Therapieformen oft in Kombination mit anderen Wirkstoffen. Diskussion: Ein beträchtlicher Anteil der Patienten mit IMIDs (16,9–27,5%) leidet an unterschiedlichen Erkrankungen des IMID-Formenkreises. Sie sind häufig von Begleiterkrankungen betroffen und bedürfen einer interdisziplinären medizinischen Versorgung.
Antibiotic Sensitivity of Group B Streptococcus from Pregnant Mothers and Its Association with Resistance Genes
Authors: Dilrukshi Niluka , Kottahachchi Jananie , Dissanayake Thushari , Fernando Neluka
Published: April 2023

Objective: This study assessed the antibiotic susceptibility and characterized antibiotic resistance genes of group B Streptococcus (GBS) isolates from selected tertiary care hospitals in Western Province, Sri Lanka. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out to determine antibiotic sensitivity of GBS among 175 pregnant women of >35 weeks of gestation attending antenatal clinics in four teaching hospitals. Low vaginal and rectal swabs were collected separately, and GBS was identified by standard microbiological methods. Antibiotic sensitivity and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) were performed according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. DNA was extracted from culture isolates, and antibiotic-resistant genes were identified by polymerase chain reaction using ermB, ermTR, mefA, and linB genes. Results: GBS colonization in the study sample was 25.7% (45/175) with detection rate of 22.9% (40/175) and 2.9% (5/175) in vaginal and rectal samples, respectively. All isolates were susceptible to penicillin with an MIC range of 0.03–0.12 μg/mL. Six isolates (13.3%) were intermediate, and 11 isolates (24.4%) were resistant to erythromycin. There were 5 intermediately resistant isolates (11.1%) and 10 resistant isolates (22.2%) for clindamycin. Of them, seven had inducible clindamycin resistance (iMLSB). MIC range of erythromycin was 0.03–0.32 μg/mL and that of clindamycin was 0.06–0.32 μg/mL. ermB gene was detected in 7 (15.5%). ermTR gene was found in 16 (35.6%) and was significantly associated with iMLSB phenotype (p = 0.005). mefA gene was detected in two (4.4%) isolates, while linB gene was not detected in tested isolates. Conclusion: All isolates were sensitive to penicillin, and the most prevalent resistance genotype was ermTR in the study population.
Transtorno do espectro autista na Atenção Primária à Saúde: desafios para assistência multidisciplinar
Authors: Costa Bruna , Oliveira Fernanda , Cordeiro Gisele , Brugger Érika , Silva Adriana Dias , Peters Angela
Published: April 2023

Objetivo: analisar a assistência aos usuários com transtornodo espectro autista em Unidade de Atenção Primária à Saúde.Método: pesquisa descritiva com abordagem qualitativa. Osdados foram coletados por meio de entrevista semiestruturadacom profissionais da equipe multiprofissional em quatroUnidades de Atenção Primária à Saúde e subsidiados pelaanálise de conteúdo de Bardin. Resultados: as evidênciasrevelaram que o contato com crianças autistas ocorria apenasem momentos como a vacinação, medicação, consultas eexames de rotina, além da falta de estrutura para a assistência.Desconhecimento e falta de capacitação para o diálogo com oespectro autista na atenção primária à saúde apresentaram-secomo dificuldades. Conclusão: identificar o espectro autistapara intervir precocemente promove melhoria da cognição,afetividade, motricidade e comportamento da criança, porém,a falta de conhecimento, de capacitação e de suporte dosdemais serviços da rede para o cuidado psicossocial implicouem desafios para o trabalho da equipe multiprofissional naatenção primária. Assim, este estudo contribui para o avançodo conhecimento ao identificar essas lacunas que necessitamde intervenção dos gestores para fortalecer a educaçãocontinuada desses profissionais e traçar estratégias paragarantir a articulação entre os serviços a fim de qualificar ocuidado as pessoas com autismo.
Consumo de álcool por profissionais de saúde em um hospital referência no atendimento da COVID-19
Authors: Rigo Felipe Leonardo , Reis Andréia Resende dos , Rodrigues Caroline Soares , Silva Cassidy Tavares , Silva Mércia Beatriz Martins , Souza Thaís Pereira Lopes de
Published: April 2023

Objetivo: avaliar o padrão de consumo do álcool entre osprofissionais de saúde. Método: estudo transversal, descritivo,quantitativo, realizado em um hospital público no estado deMinas Gerais. Resultados: entrevistados 129 profissionaisde saúde, sendo 83,5% mulheres, com idade entre 30 e 49anos (80,2%), pós-graduação (39%), alocadas no centrode terapia intensiva (34,4%) e carga horária maior que 44horas (42%). O consumo de álcool foi de 59,7% entre osparticipantes e a cerveja a bebida mais consumida (49,4%).Entre os que começaram a beber após a pandemia, houveaumento do consumo (11,5%). Na pontuação do AUDIT, oconsumo de risco foi mais frequente entre os profissionaisque possuem familiares com o hábito de consumir álcool(p<0,005) e nos que bebiam anteriormente à pandemia daCOVID-19 (p<0,001). Conclusão: o consumo de álcool éfrequente entre os profissionais de saúde e houve aumento daingestão de álcool devido ao cenário da pandemia. O rastreiodo consumo de bebidas alcóolicas permite ações educativase visa a promoção de hábitos saudáveis.
Etilismo entre hipertensos e suas implicações: apontamentos ao cuidado na Atenção Primária de Saúde
Authors: Melo Laércio Deleon de , Brandão Juliana de Lima , Silva Loiane Aparecida de Freitas , Rodrigues Josilene Sobreira , Rosendo Agnes Alvarenga , Silva Paulo Henrique Bezerra
Published: April 2023

Objetivo: descrever o perfil de etilismo e suas implicações àsaúde de hipertensos usuários da Atenção Primária à Saúde.Metodologia: investigação descritiva, qualitativa, realizadanum serviço de Atenção Básica de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Foramcoletados dados de caracterização, sendo realizada entrevistaindividual em profundidade com roteiro semiestruturado com40 hipertensos com idade ≥18 anos. Analisaram-se os dadoscom apoio dos softwares SPSS versão-26 e IRaMuTeQ. Foramrespeitados todos os aspectos éticos e legais da pesquisa.Resultados: as participantes eram em sua maioria pessoasidosas, casadas, com filhos, etilistas leves, sendo a bebidamais consumida a cerveja. A análise de conteúdo evidenciouseis categorias discursivas que retrataram o etilismo, suasinfluências sobre a vida e saúde das participantes, bemcomo as justificativas para esse hábito social. Conclusão:o etilismo, ainda que leve, interfere na vida das pessoas deinúmeras formas, não se limitando à saúde, no entanto, porimpactá-la consideravelmente, merece atenção redobrada,principalmente no âmbito do planejamento do cuidado.
Perfil dos pesquisadores bolsistas de produtividade na área de Saúde Mental
Authors: Moreira Joselina Rodrigues , Marcelino Larissa Alves , Braga Poliana Franco , Freitas Daniel Antunes , Soares Wellington Danilo
Published: April 2023

Objetivo: analisar o perfil dos bolsistas de produtividade empesquisa na área de Saúde Mental, do Conselho Nacional deDesenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq), representadospela Psiquiatria e pela Enfermagem em Saúde Mental.Metodologia: estudo quantitativo, transversal, descritivo ecorrelacional cujos bolsistas de produtividade da Psiquiatriae Enfermagem em Saúde Mental foram avaliados a partir daslistas das bolsas em vigor no CNPq no primeiro semestre de2020. A busca na Plataforma Lattes apontou 85 bolsistas nasáreas citadas, sendo que 71 deles pertenciam à Psiquiatriae 14 à Enfermagem em Saúde Mental. Resultados: naEnfermagem em Saúde Mental, há maior representatividadefeminina. Ao contrário, em Psiquiatria, o gênero masculinoconstitui maioria. As regiões Sudeste e Sul detêm 93% dospesquisadores da Psiquiatria e 71,5% da Enfermagem em SaúdeMental. Em Psiquiatria, 30% dos pesquisadores não orientamnenhum estudante de Iniciação Científica e, na Enfermagemem Saúde Mental, apenas 7% não orientam alunos dessamodalidade. Conclusão: houve maior prevalência do sexomasculino na Psiquiatria em oposição à maioria feminina naEnfermagem em Saúde Mental. Evidenciou-se uma concentraçãode pesquisadores e publicações na região Sudeste. Apesardo aumento na produtividade na área de Saúde Mental, énecessário maior investimento na área.
Exposição fetal ao álcool por meio dos biomarcadores ésteres etílicos de ácidos graxos em mecônio
Authors: Prado Pillar Campos , Simões Humberto de Oliveira , Santos Fabiana Spineti dos , Furtado Erikson Felipe
Published: April 2023

Objetivo: identificar as evidências, na literatura, sobremétodos que quantifiquem os biomarcadores da exposiçãofetal ao álcool presentes na matriz biológica mecônio: ésteresetílicos de ácidos graxos (FAEEs). Metodologia: buscarealizada em três bases de dados utilizando as expressões fixas“fatty acid ethylester AND meconium”. Foram selecionadosartigos publicados até julho de 2018 que tinham comoparticipantes gestantes que fizeram ou não o uso de álcoole que tiveram amostras de mecônio coletadas de seus recémnascidos.Resultados: dentre as 201 referências encontradas,27 artigos preencheram os critérios de inclusão. Os dadosextraídos dos artigos selecionados foram método de ensaio(análise), método de extração, biomarcadores analisados,ponto de corte (cut-off), padrão interno e quantidade demecônio utilizados. Conclusão: dentro da variabilidade dosbiomarcadores FAEEs, linoleato de etila, palmitato de etila,estearato de etila e oleato de etila foram os mais prevalentese em maiores concentrações. A somatória de FAEEs é maisadequada e confiável do que a análise individual.
Perfil epidemiológico dos casos de tentativa de suicídio: revisão integrativa
Authors: Braun Bruna Flegler , Anjos Gabriela Oliveira , Fonseca Thaís  Moura Avelar , Trevisan Erika Renata , Castro Sybelle de Souza
Published: April 2023

Objetivo: analisar o perfil epidemiológico dos casos de tentativade suicídio, por meio de estudos publicados nas bases de dadoscientíficas. Metodologia: trata-se de uma revisão integrativa.Foram selecionados 31 artigos em inglês, português e espanhol.Realizou-se análise de estudos publicados nas bases de dadosBiblioteca Virtual em Saúde, Scientific Electronic Library Onlinee Public Medical. Resultados: observou-se predomínio dosexo feminino. Os dados se apresentaram dispersos quantoà faixa etária, que variou entre 12 e 64 anos, os idosos eadolescentes foram populações vulneráveis. Mulheres utilizarammeios menos letais, como intoxicação exógena, enquantohomens preferiram meios letais, como enforcamento e armasde fogo. O ato foi cometido no domicílio predominantemente. Adepressão e outros transtornos psiquiátricos foram preditores,assim como o desemprego, problemas conjugais, financeiros oupessoais, variáveis essas que são também fatores relacionadosà reincidência. Ao passo que ter relacionamento estável podeser um fator protetor. Conclusão: o reconhecimento do perfilepidemiológico das pessoas que tentam suicídio pode contribuirpara os gestores da área da saúde atuarem nas especificidadesencontradas por meio de estratégias preventivas nas redes deatenção à saúde e psicossocial.
Uso de álcool e outras drogas: interfaces com vulnerabilidades de pessoas em situação de rua
Authors: Guimarães Andrea Noeremberg , Brum Maria Luiza Bevilaqua , Ferraz Lucimare , Kolhs Marta , Dos Santos Kérigan Emili , Dos Santos Eduardo Antunes
Published: April 2023

Objetivo: conhecer as interfaces do uso de álcool e outrasdrogas nas vulnerabilidades de pessoas em situação de rua.Metodologia: estudo qualitativo, exploratório-descritivo,desenvolvido em Santa Catarina, Brasil. Participaram 15pessoas em situação de rua. As informações foram coletadaspor meio de entrevistas e interpretadas a partir da análise deconteúdo temática. Resultados: diversas vulnerabilidadesforam evidenciadas nas falas dos entrevistados, como o usode substâncias psicoativas e estar em situação de rua. Algunsparticipantes já usavam drogas e, sobretudo bebida alcoólicaantes de estar em situação de rua. Referiram o rompimentode laços com a família e que se sentem sem apoio. Forammencionados os meios para obtenção de álcool e outrasdrogas para minimização de sintomas de abstinência e fissura.Externaram sobre a violência que por vezes enfrentam. Foiapontada a dificuldade dessa população na reabilitaçãopsicossocial. Conclusão: o estudo demonstra que as pessoasem situação de rua estão expostas às vulnerabilidades deâmbito individual, social e programático. Esta condiçãoestá imbricada pelo uso de álcool e outras drogas, além dequestões sociais que permeiam essa população.
Corrupção: ética ou política
Authors: Ferraz Junior Tercio Sampaio
Published: April 2023

This paper discusses corruption as a political myth, from the idea of micro-politics as a tool for exploiting informal spaces in the search for influence (sex, status, prestige, recognition), not as political power. That gives rise to the figure of the political politician, different from the businessman. In the modern market-based society, money becomes the hegemonic medium. Gain and accumulation require efficiency, which requires a strong functional differentiation between public and private; and brings under suspicion the confusion of papers (the professional politician, the businessman, public administration). With the introduction of a new actor − the masses and the integration between public opinion and the press − corruption acquires a new logic: on the one hand, a violation of moral micro-political loyalties; and on the other hand, the negotiation of fundamental values such as one’s freedom and the calculation of survival, measured by price
A futura atividade político-partidária e a responsabilidade ética do magistrado
Authors: Falcão Joaquim , Osório Laura
Published: April 2023

The Brazilian Federal Constitution and the Code of Judicial Ethics establish that judges are forbidden to take part in party political activities in order to preserve their judicial integrity. That is an ethical responsibility their profession entails.  But what does party political activity really mean? Which activities are actually barred? Through real and illustrative cases taken from the practice and agenda of Brazilian constitutionalism, we aim to demonstrate that party affiliation is not the only form of party political activity prohibited to magistrates
Construção de modelo lógico da linha de cuidado da pessoa com doença renal crônica
Authors: Nakata Liliane Cristina , Feltrin Aline Fiori dos Santos , Ferreira Janise Braga Barros
Published: April 2023

OBJETIVO Construir e validar um modelo lógico da linha de cuidado da pessoa com doença renal crônica. MÉTODOS Trata-se de um estudo de caráter descritivo e com abordagem qualitativa, sendo feitas pesquisa documental e análise de dados primários coletados em entrevistas com informantes-chave, realizadas de maio a setembro de 2019, na Região de Saúde do Aquífero Guarani, pertencente ao Departamento Regional de Saúde 13. A partir do referencial teórico proposto por McLaughlin e Jordan, foram seguidas cinco etapas: a coleta de informações relevantes; a descrição do problema e do contexto; a definição dos elementos do modelo lógico; e a construção e validação. RESULTADOS O modelo lógico foi organizado em três dimensões assistenciais – atenção primária à saúde, atenção especializada e atenção de alta complexidade – compostas pelos componentes de estrutura, processo e resultado. CONCLUSÃO O modelo lógico construído tem potencial para contribuir com a avaliação da linha de cuidado da pessoa com doença renal crônica, ao visar o alcance de melhores resultados no manejo dessa doença, o que favorece tanto o seu portador quanto o sistema de saúde.