bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dysregulation of SOX17/NRF2 axis confers chemoradiotherapy resistance and emerges as a novel therapeutic target in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Hsieh Chih-Hsiung , Kuan Wen-Hui , Chang Wei-Lun , Kuo I-Ying , Liu Hsun , Shieh Dar-Bin , Liu Hsuan , Tan Bertrand , Wang Yi-Ching
Published: October 2022

Background

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is the sixth leading cause of cancer-associated death worldwide with a dismal overall 5-year survival rate of less than 20%. The standard first-line therapy for advanced ESCC is concomitant chemo-radiation therapy (CCRT); however, patients usually develop resistance, resulting in unfavorable outcomes. Therefore, it is urgent to identify the mechanisms underlying CCRT resistance and develop effective treatment strategies.

Methods

Patients’ endoscopic biopsy tumor tissues obtained before CCRT treatment were used to perform RNA-seq and GSEA analysis. Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), and promoter reporter analyses were conducted to investigate the relationship between SOX17 and NRF2. Xenograft mouse models were used to study the role of SOX17/NRF2 axis in tumor growth and the efficacy of carboxymethyl cellulose-coated zero-valent-iron (ZVI@CMC).

Results

In this study, a notable gene expression signature associated with NRF2 activation was observed in the poor CCRT responders. Further, IHC staining of endoscopic biopsy of 164 ESCC patients revealed an inverse correlation between NRF2 and SOX17, a tumor-suppressive transcription factor with low expression in ESCC due to promoter hypermethylation. Using ChIP and promoter reporter analyses, we demonstrated that SOX17 was a novel upstream transcriptional suppressor of NRF2. In particular, SOX17low/NRF2high nuclear level significantly correlated with poor CCRT response and poor survival, indicating that the dysregulation of SOX17/NRF2 axis played a pivotal role in CCRT resistance and tumor progression. Notably, the in-house developed nanoparticle ZVI@CMC functioned as an inhibitor of DNA methyltransferases to restore expression of SOX17 that downregulated NRF2, thereby overcoming the resistance in ESCC. Additionally, the combination of ZVI@CMC with radiation treatment significantly augmented anticancer efficacy to inhibit tumor growth in CCRT resistant cancer.

Conclusion

This study identifies a novel SOX17low/NRF2high signature in ESCC patients with poor prognosis, recognizes SOX17 as a transcriptional repressor of NRF2, and provides a promising strategy targeting SOX17/NRF2 axis to overcome resistance.
Economic evaluation of a leprosy innovation project in Northern Nigeria: cost-effectiveness analysis
Authors: Ezenduka Charles C. , Namadi Abudulahi , Tahir Dahiru , Nwosu Uzoma , Musa Shuaibu N.
Published: October 2022

Background

The state of leprosy in Nigeria and the realities of post elimination era underscore the need for evidence- based cost-effective approach to early case detection for enhanced control and elimination of leprosy. This study evaluated the operational cost-effectiveness of a community delivered Legacy Innovative Project implemented to enhance leprosy case detection in northern Nigeria.

Methods

Data were collected from an explorative cross-sectional study, undertaken in a practice setting among endemic communities in three states in northern Nigeria. Primary and secondary data were collected from the project, routine records and programme annual reports. Costs and effects were measured from both providers’ and patients’ perspectives, and outcome expressed as cost per new case detected. Incremental estimates of costs and effects of the project compared to routine practice were used to obtain the cost-effectiveness result, as incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). All costs were converted to the US Dollar at 2018exchange rate (N350 = US$1.00). Univariate sensitivity analysis was performed to evaluate uncertainties around the ICER.

Results

The Project overall detected a total of 347 newly confirmed leprosy cases at a total annual cost of US$49,337.19, averaging US$142.18 per new case detected. Key cost drivers included routine meetings, which accounted for 28% of total expenditure, while Social Mobilization and Training/Workshop accounted for17% respectively. Findings were similar across the states. Overall, the Project dominated routine practice with ICER of US$(-17.73) per additional/new case detected, as a very cost-effective strategy. Sensitivity analysis reinforced the cost-effectiveness result.

Conclusions

The Legacy Innovative Project demonstrated a more efficient and cost-saving approach to leprosy case detection. Findings present important information to policy and programmes for enhanced control and elimination of leprosy in related settings.

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How independent is the international food information council from the food and beverage industry? A content analysis of internal industry documents
Authors: Zaltz Daniel A. , Bisi Lauren E. , Ruskin Gary , Hoe Connie
Published: October 2022

Background

The International Food Information Council (IFIC) and its partner foundation (IFIC Foundation) widely disseminate nutrition information and participate in relevant policymaking processes. Prior research has established a connection between IFIC and large food and beverage companies, representing a potential conflict of interest. The authors reviewed public records documents to investigate the connection between IFIC and industry, and to describe how IFIC communicates policy-relevant information about nutrition science to the public.

Methods

The research team collected communications between IFIC and members of the research and policymaking communities by using state and federal transparency laws. The team analyzed the content of these documents with a commercial determinants of health framework while allowing for new themes to emerge, guided by the broad analytic questions of how and why does IFIC communicate nutrition information to policymakers and the broader public?

Results

IFIC employs self-designed research and media outreach to disseminate nutrition information. Communications from IFIC and its affiliates related to nutrition information fell within major themes of manufacturing doubt and preference shaping.

Conclusions

IFIC uses media outlets to preemptively counter information about the negative health impacts of added sugars and ultra-processed foods, and promotes a personal-responsibility narrative about dietary intake and health. IFIC and its affiliates disseminate a narrow subset of nutrition and health information consistent with corporate interests and in opposition to public health policies associated with improved population health.
Association between single-nucleotide polymorphism rs145497186 related to NDUFV2 and lumbar disc degeneration: a pilot case–control study
Authors: Wang Ziyu , Chen Lu , Li Qinghui , Zhang Hengshuo , Shan Yu , Qi Linzeng , Wang Hongliang , Chen Yunzhen
Published: October 2022

Objective

The association between the single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs28742109, rs12955018, rs987850, rs8093805, rs12965084 and rs145497186 related to gene named NADH dehydrogenase [ubiquinone] flavoprotein 2 (NDUFV2) and lumbar disc degeneration (LDD) was preliminary investigated in a small sample size.

Methods

A total of 46 patients with LDD and 45 controls were recruited at Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, and each participant provided 5 mL peripheral venous blood. NA was extracted from the blood of each participant for further genotyping. The frequency of different genotypes in the case group and control group was determined, and analysis of the risk of LDD associated with different SNP genotypes was performed. The visual analogue scale (VAS) scores of the patients’ degree of chronic low back pain were calculated, and the relationship between VAS scores and SNPs was analysed.

Results

After excluding the influence of sex, age, height, and weight on LDD, a significant association between SNP rs145497186 related to NDUFV2 and LDD persisted (P = 0.006). Simultaneously, rs145497186 was found to be associated with chronic low back pain in LDD populations.

Conclusion

NDUFV2 rs145497186 SNP could be associated with susceptibility to LDD and the degree of chronic low back pain.
Patient reported outcomes for phosphomannomutase 2 congenital disorder of glycosylation (PMM2-CDG): listening to what matters for the patients and health professionals
Authors: Pascoal C. , Ferreira I. , Teixeira C. , Almeida E. , Slade A. , Brasil S. , Francisco R. , Ligezka A. N. , Morava E. , Plotkin H. , Jaeken J. , Videira P. A. , Barros L. , dos Reis Ferreira V.
Published: October 2022

Background

Congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDG) are a growing group of rare genetic disorders. The most common CDG is phosphomannomutase 2 (PMM2)-CDG which often has a severe clinical presentation and life-limiting consequences. There are no approved therapies for this condition. Also, there are no validated disease-specific quality of life (QoL) scales to assess the heterogeneous clinical burden of PMM2-CDG which presents a challenge for the assessment of the disease severity and the impact of a certain treatment on the course of the disease.

Aim and methods

This study aimed to identify the most impactful clinical signs and symptoms of PMM2-CDG, and specific patient and observer reported outcome measures (PROMs and ObsROMs, respectively) that can adequately measure such impact on patients’ QoL. The most burdensome signs and symptoms were identified through input from the CDG community using a survey targeting PMM2-CDG families and experts, followed by family interviews to understand the real burden of these symptoms in daily life. The list of signs and symptoms was then verified and refined by patient representatives and medical experts in the field. Finally, a literature search for PROMs and ObsROMs used in other rare or common diseases with similar signs and symptoms to those of PMM2-CDG was performed.

Results

Twenty-four signs/symptoms were identified as the most impactful throughout PMM2-CDG patients’ lifetime. We found 239 articles that included tools to measure those community-selected PMM2-CDG symptoms. Among them, we identified 80 QoL scales that address those signs and symptoms and, subsequently, their psychometric quality was analysed. These scales could be applied directly to the PMM2-CDG population or adapted to create the first PMM2-CDG-specific QoL questionnaire.

Conclusion

Identifying the impactful clinical manifestations of PMM2-CDG, along with the collection of PROMs/ObsROMs assessing QoL using a creative and community-centric methodology are the first step towards the development of a new, tailored, and specific PMM2-CDG QoL questionnaire. These findings can be used to fill a gap in PMM2-CDG clinical development. Importantly, this methodology is transferable to other CDG and rare diseases with multiple signs and symptoms.
Preferential subcortical collateral projections of pedunculopontine nucleus-targeting cortical pyramidal neurons revealed by brain-wide single fiber tracing
Authors: Liu Qiao-Qiong , Cheng Yu-Xiao , Jing Qi , Zhang Ke-Ming , Ding Lu-Feng , Fan Xiao-Wei , Jia Chun-Hui , Xu Fang , Bi Guo-Qiang , Lau Pak-Ming
Published: October 2022

The pedunculopontine nucleus (PPN) is a heterogeneous midbrain structure involved in various brain functions, such as motor control, learning, reward, and sleep. Previous studies using conventional tracers have shown that the PPN receives extensive afferent inputs from various cortical areas. To examine how these cortical axons make collateral projections to other subcortical areas, we used a dual-viral injection strategy to sparsely label PPN-targeting cortical pyramidal neurons in CaMKIIα-Cre transgenic mice. Using a high-speed volumetric imaging with on-the-fly-scan and Readout (VISoR) technique, we visualized brain-wide axonal projections of individual PPN-targeting neurons from several cortical areas, including the prelimbic region (PL), anterior cingulate area (ACA) and secondary motor cortex (MOs). We found that each PPN-projecting neuron had a unique profile of collateralization, with some subcortical areas being preferential targets. In particular, PPN-projecting neurons from all three traced cortical areas exhibited common preferential collateralization to several nuclei, with most neurons targeting the striatum (STR), lateral hypothalamic area (LHA) and periaqueductal gray (PAG), and a substantial portion of neurons also targeting the zona incerta (ZI), median raphe nucleus (MRN) and substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr). Meanwhile, very specific collateralization patterns were found for other nuclei, including the intermediate reticular nucleus (IRN), parvicellular reticular nucleus (PARN) and gigantocellular reticular nucleus (GRN), which receive collateral inputs almost exclusively from the MOs. These observations provide potential anatomical mechanisms for cortical neurons to coordinate the PPN with other subcortical areas in performing different physiological functions.
The CLOSED protocol to assess optic nerve sheath diameter using color-Doppler: a comparison study in a cohort of idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus patients
Authors: Aspide Raffaele , Bertolini Giacomo , Belotti Laura Maria Beatrice , Albini Riccioli Luca , Toni Francesco , Mazzatenta Diego , Palandri Giorgio , Vetrugno Luigi , Biasucci Daniele Guerino
Published: October 2022

Background

Sonographic assessment of the optic nerve sheath diameter represents a promising non-invasive technique for estimation of the intracranial pressure. A wide inter-observer variability, along with a lack of a standardized protocol for the optic nerve sheath diameter measurements, could lead to over- or under-estimation. The present study was aimed at evaluating feasibility of color-Doppler for better delineating optic nerve sheath borders, comparing it to B-mode imaging, using the magnetic resonance measurements as a comparison.

Methods

Optic nerve sheath diameters were evaluated using magnetic resonance by an expert radiologist in a cohort of patients with suspected idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus. Magnetic resonance findings were evaluated twice. In the first half of this cohort, optic nerve sheath diameters were measured using B-mode only, in the second half applying color-Doppler. Measurements obtained using these two techniques were compared to magnetic resonance imaging measurements. The Bland–Altman analysis and concordance correlation coefficient were computed to quantify the strength of agreement between the two magnetic resonance assessments. Box plots and average (± SD) were used to compare assessments by sonographic and magnetic resonance methods.

Results

Fifty patients were included. MRI assessment showed a moderate concordance correlation coefficient. Optic nerve sheath diameters measured applying color-Doppler were lower (p < 0.001) and less scattered compared to B-mode assessment, which approached more to magnetic resonance measurements.

Conclusions

In this cohort of patients, magnetic resonance showed high intra-rater variability in optic nerve sheath diameter assessments. Optic nerve sheath diameter assessments using color-Doppler yielded lower and less scattered diameters compared to B-mode only.
Predictability modulates neural response to eye contact in ASD
Authors: Naples Adam J. , Foss-Feig Jennifer H. , Wolf Julie M. , Srihari Vinod H. , McPartland James C.
Published: October 2022

Background

Deficits in establishing and maintaining eye-contact are early and persistent vulnerabilities of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and the neural bases of these deficits remain elusive. A promising hypothesis is that social features of autism may reflect difficulties in making predictions about the social world under conditions of uncertainty. However, no research in ASD has examined how predictability impacts the neural processing of eye-contact in naturalistic interpersonal interactions.

Method

We used eye tracking to facilitate an interactive social simulation wherein onscreen faces would establish eye-contact when the participant looked at them. In Experiment One, receipt of eye-contact was unpredictable; in Experiment Two, receipt of eye-contact was predictable. Neural response to eye-contact was measured via the N170 and P300 event-related potentials (ERPs). Experiment One included 23 ASD and 46 typically developing (TD) adult participants. Experiment Two included 25 ASD and 43 TD adult participants.

Results

When receipt of eye-contact was unpredictable, individuals with ASD showed increased N170 and increased, but non-specific, P300 responses. The magnitude of the N170 responses correlated with measures of sensory and anxiety symptomology, such that increased response to eye-contact was associated with increased symptomology. However, when receipt of eye-contact was predictable, individuals with ASD, relative to controls, exhibited slower N170s and no differences in the amplitude of N170 or P300.

Limitations

Our ASD sample was composed of adults with IQ > 70 and included only four autistic women. Thus, further research is needed to evaluate how these results generalize across the spectrum of age, sex, and cognitive ability. Additionally, as analyses were exploratory, some findings failed to survive false-discovery rate adjustment.

Conclusions

Neural response to eye-contact in ASD ranged from attenuated to hypersensitive depending on the predictability of the social context. These findings suggest that the vulnerabilities in eye-contact during social interactions in ASD may arise from differences in anticipation and expectation of eye-contact in addition to the perception of gaze alone.
Comparison of the short-term effects of lumbar endoscopic and microscopic tubular unilateral laminotomy with bilateral decompression in the treatment of elderly patients with lumbar spinal stenosis
Authors: Zhang Jianing , Liang Dingjie , Xu Mengmeng , Yan Kun , Zhang Dapeng , Qian Weiqing
Published: October 2022

Objective

To compare the clinical efficacy of lumbar endoscopic Delta large channel and microscopic tubular Quadrant channel unilateral laminotomy with bilateral decompression in the treatment of elderly patients with lumbar spinal stenosis.

Methods

A total of 40 patients aged above 75 years with lumbar spinal stenosis admitted from June 2019 to August 2021 were reviewed, in which the observation group was treated with the Delta large channel technique and the control group was treated with Quadrant channel open decompression. The general data, duration of illness, operation time, intraoperative bleeding, VAS score preoperatively, 3 days postoperatively, 3 months postoperatively and 6 months postoperatively, and ODI index of the two groups were recorded in the two groups.

Results

The observation group had significantly shorter operation time (59.93 ± 10.46 min vs 77.66 ± 12.44 min, P < 0.001) and less intraoperative bleeding (21.06 ± 4.59 mL vs 51.00 ± 10.02 mL, P < 0.001) than the control group. There were no significant differences between the two groups in the duration of illness (11.85 ± 5.08 years vs 13.80 ± 7.40 years, P = 0.337), VAS score preoperatively (6.05 ± 1.19 vs 6.40 ± 1.47, P = 0.412), 3 days postoperatively (1.90 ± 0.85 vs 2.00 ± 1.08, P = 0.746), 3 months postoperatively (1.10 ± 0.31 vs 1.20 ± 0.41, P = 0.389) and 6 months postoperatively (1.25 ± 0.44 vs 1.30 ± 0.57, P = 0.759), and ODI index preoperatively (0.78 ± 0.07 vs 0.74 ± 0.07, P = 0.09), 3 months postoperatively (0.28 ± 0.06 vs 0.30 ± 0.05, P = 0.189) and 6 months postoperatively (0.21 ± 0.07 vs 0.22 ± 0.04, P = 0.444) (P > 0.05). The ODI index 3 days postoperatively in the observation group was significantly lower than that in the control group (0.33 ± 0.06 vs 0.37 ± 0.05, P = 0.022).

Conclusion

Both surgical methods had good clinical outcomes for the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis. However, Delta large channel endoscopy had a clearer vision, less trauma and lower incidence of early postoperative back pain than that of Quadrant channel open decompression.
Chemical composition and bioactivity of oilseed cake extracts obtained by subcritical and modified subcritical water
Authors: Švarc-Gajić Jaroslava , Rodrigues Francisca , Moreira Manuela M. , Delerue-Matos Cristina , Morais Simone , Dorosh Olena , Silva Ana Margarida , Bassani Andrea , Dzedik Valentin , Spigno Giorgia
Published: October 2022

Recovery of bioactive compounds from biowaste is gaining more and more interest in circular economy models. The oilseed cakes are usually insufficiently exploited by most technologies since they represent valuable matrices abundant in proteins, minerals, and phytochemicals, but their use is mostly limited to feed ingredients, fertilizers or biofuel production. This study was thus focused on the exploration of new valorization pathways of oilseed cakes by subcritical water, representing a safe and economic alternative in the creation of value chains. Pumpkin, hemp, and flax seed cakes were treated with subcritical water in nitrogen and carbon-dioxide atmospheres, as well as in nitrogen atmosphere with the addition of acid catalyst. The degradation of carbohydrate fraction was studied by quantifying sugars and sugar degradation products in the obtained extracts. The extracts obtained under different conditions were further compared chemically with respect to total phenols and flavonoids, as well as to the content of individual phenolic compounds. Furthermore, the effects of subcritical water treatment conditions on antioxidant, antiradical and cytotoxic properties of thus obtained extracts were defined and discussed.

Graphical Abstract
Occupational radiation exposure assessment during the management of [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TOC
Authors: Riveira-Martin Mercedes , Struelens Lara , Schoonjans Werner , Sánchez-Díaz Isaac , Muñoz Iglesias Jose , Ferreira Dávila Óscar , Salvador Gómez Francisco Javier , Salgado Fernández Manuel , López Medina Antonio
Published: October 2022

Background

Since it was first approved in Europe in 2016, the gallium-68 (68Ga) radiopharmaceutical [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TOC has been widely used for imaging of somatostatin receptor (SSTR) positive tumours using positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET/CT). Significant patient benefits have been reported, so its use is rapidly increasing. However, few studies have been published regarding occupational doses to nuclear medicine personnel handling this radiopharmaceutical, despite its manual usage at low distances from the skin and the beta-emission decay scheme, which may result in an increased absorbed dose to their hands. In this context, this study aims to analyse the occupational exposure during the administration of [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TOC for PET/CT imaging. For this purpose, extremity, eye lens and whole-body dosimetry in terms of Hp(0.07), Hp(3) and Hp(10), respectively, was conducted on six workers with both thermoluminescent dosimeters, and personal electronic dosimeters.

Results

The non-dominant hand is more exposed to radiation than the dominant hand, with the thumb and the index fingertip being the most exposed sites on this hand. Qualitative analysis showed that when no shielding is used during injection, doses increase significantly more in the dominant than in the non-dominant hand, so the use of shielding is strongly recommended. While wrist dosimeters may significantly underestimate doses to the hands, placing a ring dosimeter at the base of the ring or middle finger of the non-dominant hand may give a valuable estimation of maximum doses to the hands if at least a correction factor of 5 is applied. Personal equivalent doses for the eyes did not result in measurable values (i.e., above the lowest detection limit) for almost all workers. The extrapolated annual dose estimations showed that there is compliance with the annual dose limits during management of [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TOC for diagnostics with PET in the hospital included in this study.

Conclusions

Imaging with [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TOC is a safe process for the workers performing the administration of the radiopharmaceutical, including intravenous injection to the patient and the pre- and post-activity control, as it is highly unlikely that annual dose limits will be exceeded if good working practices and shielding are used.
Alternating between active and passive facilitator roles in simulated scenarios: a qualitative study of nursing students’ perceptions
Authors: Solli Hilde , Haukedal Thor Arne , Husebø Sissel Iren Eikeland , Reierson Inger Åse
Published: October 2022

Background

High-fidelity simulation refers to realistic interactivity between students and an advanced simulator. During simulated scenarios, the facilitator often needs to provide guidance to the active students to bridge the gap between their insufficient practical nursing skills and clinical learning needs. Facilitators’ guidance should support students in problem-solving and help them progress in their simulation experiences. The aim of this study was to explore and describe nursing students´ perspectives on the facilitator’s role during simulated scenarios.

Methods

A qualitative design was used. Thirty-two nursing students participated in five focus groups conducted immediately after a 2-day high-fidelity simulation course in the second year of their Bachelor of Nursing in Norway. The analysis used structured text condensation.

Results

One main category, “Alternating between active and passive facilitation,” emerged along with three sub-categories: (1) practical support: the facilitator played an important role in ensuring the flow of the simulated scenarios. Some students sought cues from the facilitator or responses to their actions. Other students wanted to act independently, reassured by the possibility of asking for assistance. (2) Guiding communication: the facilitator was important to students in paving their way to achieve the learning outcomes. The way facilitators supported students influenced students’ understanding and their feelings about how they handled the situation and whether they achieved the learning outcomes. (3) Emotional influence: the facilitator’s presence in the simulation room during the simulated scenarios influenced students’ emotions, for example having a calming or aggravating effect or making them feel distressed. In some cases, students were undisturbed.

Conclusions

The facilitation of simulated scenarios requires special skills in providing individually suitable cues at the right time to students with a variety of learning preferences. It is vital that facilitators have well-developed relational, pedagogical, and emotional competence combined with clinical, technical, and simulation-based learning skills in monitoring different learning preferences. As the facilitator role is challenging and complicated, more research is needed to explore how facilitators could monitor and adjust cues individually in simulated scenarios.
Stethorini (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae: Coccinellinae) of South India: their associated mite species and barcode gap analysis
Authors: Vidya C. V. , Bhaskar Haseena , Chaitanya R. , Mathew Deepu
Published: October 2022

Background

Stethorini are specialized mite predators in the family Coccinellidae, which are small with black body and brown or yellow colored appendages. This study aimed to survey species of Stethorini associated with phytophagous mites of South India and their prey range.

Results

Eight species of Stethorini, viz., Parastethorus sp. Stethorus (Allostethorus) forficatus, S. (A.) pauperculus, S. (A.) tetranychi, S. (A.) sp., S. keralicus, S. (S.) rani and S. (S.) sp., each associated with distinct species of mite were identified in this study and part of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I sequences of seven of these species are provided. Barcode gap analysis and distance summary analysis in the BOLD system as well as phylogenetic analysis of these seven species were given.

Conclusions

This study revealed the species of Stethorini in South India along with their prey range and associated plants. As all the species look similar with black body and yellow appendages, DNA barcodes generated can be used as an effective bio-identification tool for this group.
Image-mode performance characterisation of a positron emission tomography subsystem designed for Biology-guided radiotherapy (BgRT)
Authors: Hu Zhiqiang , Bieniosek Matthew , Ferri Valentina , Iagaru Andrei , Kovalchuk Nataliya , Han Bin , Xing Lei , Vitzthum Lucas , Olcott Peter , Narayanan Manoj , Laurence Thomas , Ren Yulan , Oderinde Oluwaseyi M , Shirvani Shervin M , Chang Daniel , Surucu Murat
Published: November 2022

Objectives:

In this study, we characterise the imaging-mode performance of the positron emission tomography (PET) subsystem of the RefleXion X1 machine using the NEMA NU-2 2018 standard.

Methods:

The X1 machine consists of two symmetrically opposing 900 arcs of PET detectors incorporated into the architecture of a ring-gantry linear accelerator rotating up to 60 RPM. PET emissions from a tumour are detected by the PET detectors and used to guide the delivery of radiation beam. Imaging performance of the PET subsystem on X1 machine was evaluated based on sensitivity of the PET detectors, spatial resolution, count-loss performance, image quality, and daily system performance check.

Results:

PET subsystem sensitivity was measured as 0.183 and 0.161 cps/kBq at the center and off-center positions, respectively. Spatial resolution: average FWHM values of 4.3, 5.1, and 6.7 mm for the point sources at 1, 10, and 20 cm off center, respectively were recorded. For count loss, max NECR: 2.63 kcps, max true coincidence rate: 5.56 kcps, and scatter fraction: 39.8%. The 10 mm sphere was not visible. Image-quality contrast values were: 29.6%, 64.9%, 66.5%, 81.8%, 81.2%, and background variability: 14.8%, 12.4%, 10.3%, 8.8%, 8.3%, for the 13, 17, 22, 28, 37 mm sphere sizes, respectively.

Conclusions:

When operating in an imaging mode, the spatial resolution and image contrast of the X1 PET subsystem were comparable to those of typical diagnostic imaging systems for large spheres, while the sensitivity and count rate were lower due to the significantly smaller PET detector area in the X1 system. Clinical efficacy when used in BgRT remains to be validated.

Advances in knowledge:

This is the first performance evaluation of the PET subsystem on the novel BgRT machine. The dual arcs rotating PET subsystem on RefleXion X1 machine performance is comparable to those of the typical diagnostic PET system based on the spatial resolution and image contrast for larger spheres.
BUILDING THE FUTURE VISION IN THE ADOLESCENTS WITH DIABETES MELLITUS
Authors: Ralnikova Irina A. , Shamardina Marina V. , Kislykh Anna A.
Published: October 2022

The paper aims to examine the peculiarities of the vision of the future of adolescents with diabetes mellitus. The research methods include (1) comparative analysis, (2) questionnaire, (3) psychodiagnostic testing, and (4) mathematical and statistical processing (Mann-Whitney U-criterion, factor analysis). The research relevance is due to the fact that the number of adolescents with diabetes mellitus is growing. There is also an escalating need to study the phenomenon of the disease and its representation in the individual aspects of the person and further psychological support of the target audience. In adolescence, the first ideas about life prospects are formed, and a future vision is constructed. Adolescence is an unsteady period in the development and evolution of the personality, which can be complicated by chronic illness. Adolescents may require help and professional support from adults. The scientific novelty of the research lies in obtaining new knowledge about the future vision among adolescents with diabetes mellitus. The way adolescents see their future determines their responses in the present time. Differences in the future vision from healthy peers were displayed. Life perspectives of adolescents with diabetes mellitus have peculiarities because of this chronic disease. Differences in the value-meaning, cognitive, and emotional-evaluation dimensions of adolescents’ life prospects were reported. The study of the cognitive dimension of the life perspective system revealed the events that adolescents with diabetes mellitus fill their future with (health-related situations in their future were mentioned). The study of the emotional dimension indicated that adolescents with diabetes see their future as more distant than adolescents without chronic diseases. The values “health,” “friends,” and “love and family relationships” were significant for adolescents with diabetes. The future seems to be valuable for ill adolescents. Adolescents with diabetes have a more responsible approach to planning and constructing a vision of their future, which may be due to the priority value of “health.” The study revealed differences in the values of adolescents with different periods of illness. Adolescents with five or more years of illness have a higher value of “health” than ill adolescents with a shorter period of illness. Diabetes mellitus affects the construction of adolescents’ life prospects and the formation of the vision of their future. The obtained data can be applied in individual counseling, group work, and work with parents of ill adolescents.
THE ANALYSIS OF THE EMISSION INFLUENCE ON THE HUMAN’S GENERAL CONDITION
Authors: Podberezko Natalya A. , Kuznetsova Elena D. , Dedlovskaya Marina V.
Published: October 2022

Currently, the problem of air pollution is topical. In this study, we described the question of environmental influence on human health. Sickness statistics over the past years (in compliance with the Health Ministry of the Russian Federation) were analyzed. National health deterioration and an increase in sicknesses are observed. During the last few years, respiratory diseases account for up to 46% of all cases. We studied the components of harmful substances of gasoline and diesel engine emissions and analyzed some of the chemical compounds of the exhaust (which cause a negative influence on the human respiratory system). The study aims to determine the impact of exhaust pollution on citizens’ health conditions. Barnaul citizens participated in this research. The questionnaire was conducted with the help of Google Forms. The received data illustrate that 90% of the respondents use motor transport. Moreover, 76%–79% of motor service users experience the reduced general condition, dizziness, and nausea caused by exhaustion. Around 90% of participants understood the negative influence of exhaust on their health (in places with less concentration of cars, they feel better). To improve the situation of air pollution in cities, we suggest a multi methodology focused on a preventive approach: (1) restrict the usage of personal autos; (2) promote a healthy way of life; use of alternative eco gasoline (including electric cars); (3) develop infrastructure for pedestrians and bicycles; and (4) carry out vast landscaping of cities.
STRUCTURING THE ECONOMIC SPACE FOR SMALL BUSINESS IN THE AGRO-INDUSTRIAL COMPLEX
Authors: Dudukalov Egor V. , Zolochevskaya Elena Yu. , Sorokina Marina Yu. , Mangusheva Lyaylya S.
Published: October 2022

Objective. The article is devoted to the disclosure of theoretical issues, the development of guidelines for the structuring of the economic space of small businesses in the agro-industrial complex.

Materials and methods. Based on the systemic, integrated and cluster approaches, theories of spatial distribution of production, institutionalism and state regulation, the systemic prerequisites for the need to structure the economic space are identified, taking into account the number of economic entities of small forms of agricultural production and its natural resource potential, the status of households, based on their role in the consumer market.

Results. An organizational mechanism for the consolidation of small forms of economic management in the agricultural sector has been developed, based on an assessment of the potential of the resource base of the region’s macrodistricts, the specialization of peasant (farm) and personal subsidiary farms, the level of filling of the relevant food markets in the region and their potential capacity.

Conclusion. Theoretical issues of developing methodological recommendations for structuring the economic space of small forms of doing business in the agro-industrial complex are disclosed.
LIVER REGENERATION IN RADIOTHERAPY
Authors: Galchenko Ludmila I. , Kaliagin Alexey N.
Published: October 2022

Aim – to establish the morphological manifestations of radiation damage to the liver after exposure to ionizing radiation during irradiation with a betatron 25 MeV, depending on the magnitude of its irradiation, and to study the regenerative capacity of the liver.

Methods. Examined in 83 patients undergoing treatment for cancer of the proximal stomach. In terms of preoperative irradiation on a 25 MeV betatron, a part of the left lobe of the liver fell into the irradiation zone in patients, the total focal dose to it ranged from 8 to 60 Gy. To study the state of the liver after radiation exposure, in addition to monitoring the biochemical parameters of blood, we used radionuclide diagnostic methods – hepatography, hepatoscanning, which were carried out before and after irradiation. The data of hepatoskenograms were compared with histological studies of liver tissues during biopsy at surgery, autopsy.

Results. Depending on the doses received on a part of the left lobe of the liver, there were changes in hepatoscanograms characteristic of radiation hepatitis, up to radiation fibrosis. After irradiation of a part of the left lobe of the liver at a dose of 30 Gy, the changes were reversible and ended in reparation. Changes in the liver at a dose of more than 30 Gy were irreplaceable and ended in radiation fibrosis. According to the data of radionuclide diagnostics, the size of the non-irradiated part of the liver increases, its function compensates for the functional losses associated with dysfunction of the irradiated lobe of the liver.

Conclusion. Irradiation of a part of the liver in doses leading to the development of even radiation fibrosis should not be considered as a contraindication when planning a course of radiation therapy.
SOMATOMETRIC FEATURES OF THE PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT OF YAKUT MEN ACCORDING TO THE REES-EISENCK INDEX
Authors: Alekseeva Vilyuya A. , Guryeva Alla B.
Published: October 2022

Background. Physical development is one of the generally recognized indicators of health. Scientific research aimed at studying the constitution and composition of the body of the male population using various techniques is an urgent task of modern medicine and human biology.

The aim of the study was to determine the somatotypological features of the physical development of yakut men according to the Rees-Eisenck index.

Materials and methods. An anthropometric and bioimpedance examination of 55 men of yakut nationality, the first and second periods of adulthood was conducted. The anthropometric part of the study included the measurement of body length and weight, waist and hip circumference, pelvic diameter and transverse chest diameter. Somatometric indices were calculated: BMI, Rohrer index, the ratio of waist circumference to buttocks. The definition of body types was carried out according to the Rees-Eisenck index. Bioimpedance measurement was carried out using the analyzer of body composition and balance of water sectors of the body ABC – 01 “Medass”. The amounts of relative and absolute fat mass, musculoskeletal mass, lean mass, active cell mass were determined. Statistical processing of the obtained material was carried out by parametric and nonparametric methods using the SPSS 17,0 application software package.

Results. The predominant body type was the picnic type (76,6%). Comparison of the indicators revealed significantly large values of body weight, BMI, waist and buttock circumference, transverse chest diameter, pelvic diameter and relative fat mass in persons with a picnic body type. Parameters of musculoskeletal mass, lean mass and total hydration of the body in picnics were significantly lower than those of normostenics. Overweight and obesity were significantly more often registered in persons with picnic somatotype.

Conclusion. Thus, the obtained anthropometric and bioimpedance data allow us to classify men with a picnical type of physique into a risk group for the development of pathology of different body systems.
Spondylodiscitis in adults: diagnosis and management
Authors: Baryeh Kwaku , Anazor Fitzgerald , Iyer Shabnam , Rajagopal Trichy
Published: October 2022

Spondylodiscitis is often diagnosed late in its course because its symptoms are vague. The incidence in adults increases with age, being seen most commonly in men in their 50s and 60s, so the presence of other medical conditions or infections can make it more difficult to identify spondylodiscitis. Diagnosis is made based on clinical suspicion, raised levels of inflammatory markers, a positive blood or tissue biopsy culture and radiological findings. Once a diagnosis is confirmed, treatment must be started promptly. The mainstay of treatment is medical management, with antibiotics tailored to the relevant organism, as well as immobilisation. Where surgery is indicated, the aims are debridement of infected tissue, tissue sampling, neural decompression and stabilisation. Spondylodiscitis is associated with high rates of mortality and morbidity and should be treated promptly to ensure the best outcome.
Common peripheral nerve entrapments in the upper limb
Authors: Raut Pramin , Jones Neil , Raad Marjan , Kieffer Will
Published: October 2022

Entrapment of peripheral nerves can occur as they travel through restrictive spaces. This nerve compression can result in a constellation of signs and symptoms, which are often called syndromes. Patients initially report pain, paraesthesia and numbness, followed by weakness and clumsiness and, ultimately, muscle wasting. The specific region of paraesthesia and pain and the specific muscle weakness is determined by the peripheral nerve involved and the location of the entrapment. Diagnosis is mainly based on history and examination. Further investigations are available for atypical presentations. Each syndrome has its own set of risk factors, but repetitive action and muscle overuse are commonly associated with most syndromes. The treatment is activity modification followed by steroid injection and finally surgical decompression for ongoing persistent symptoms or severe initial presentation. This article outlines the history, examination, possible investigations and management for common peripheral nerve entrapments of the median, ulnar and radial nerves.
Author Meets Critics: A Strategic Nature: Public Relations and the Politics of American Environmentalism
Authors: Aronczyk Melissa , Li Xinghua , Luo Rosalie , McGuigan Lee , Timke Edward
Published: October 2022

Abstract: This Author Meets Critics conversation focuses on A Strategic Nature: Public Relations and the Politics of American Environmentalism (Oxford University Press, 2021) by Melissa Aronczyk and Maria I. Espinoza. Aronczyk met with marketing and advertising specialists from various disciplines to discuss the following topics: the history of the relationship among strategic communication professionals, corporations, and public interest leaders and organizations; how public relations practitioners form an epistemic community shaping how clients and publics understand particular topics; the relationship between public relations and the environment; comparing approaches to environmentalism in China and the United States (coercion vs. consensus); the role of data in discussions around the environment and actions to address environmental and climate problems; public relations professionals’ seeking to benefit their self-interests in carrying out their work and choosing clients; powerful interests’ use of tools of persuasion and public relations over more coercive measures; the effectiveness of environmentalists’ strategies; concerns about overusing the language of “climate emergency”; and advice for students on how to navigate the complexities of working on environmental issues.
Branding Exclusion in White Hot: The Rise and Fall of Abercrombie & Fitch
Authors: Boulton Christopher , Burden Raegan L. , Jenkins Joanna L. , Pearl Sharrona , Timke Edward
Published: October 2022

Abstract: The clothing and lifestyle brand Abercrombie & Fitch (A&F) quickly rose to prominence in the 1990s by recrafting a brand based on elitism, exclusion, and bodily perfection. This Advertising in Popular Culture discussion brings together diversity, equity, and inclusion experts to discuss A&F’s history of discrimination as it is detailed in the 2022 Netflix documentary White Hot: The Rise and Fall of Abercrombie & Fitch . In addition to covering the general details of A&F’s meteoric rise and sudden fall, the panelists focus on the following topics: A&F’s branding strategy and why it worked at a particular moment in American history; the racism, sexism, homophobia, and classism built into A&F’s business model and casting/hiring choices; A&F’s failed attempts to correct its diversity, equity, and inclusion problems; how diversity can be used to sell products; and how the documentary could be used in the classroom.
Market-Driven Voice Profiling: A Framework for Understanding
Authors: Couldry Nick , Turow Joseph
Published: October 2022

Abstract: This article creates a framework for understanding the philosophical and social implications of an emerging marketing driven business that “robs” people of autonomy over their voice. The focus is on the “voice intelligence industry” whose goal is to analyze people’s voices to draw conclusions about their emotions and personalities and, long-term, and to use biometric features that leak from “voice” as the basis for target marketing and influence. These new practices, in effect, turn voice against itself by inferring from a person’s sounds and syntax feelings, ideas, or beliefs that have perhaps not actually been expressed, and which that person might not want to acknowledge. We use the concepts of quaternary relationships, seductive surveillance, and habituation to explain how this new industry’s influence and power emerged and, on that basis, argue that its outcome is to disrupt the very basis on which voice might be valued in social and democratic life.
A Story of Transition and Transformation: Making the Career Switch from Corporate America to Higher Education
Authors: Griffin Sharon D.
Published: October 2022

Abstract: In recent years, the purpose and function of the university has been highly debated: what should be the balance between theory and practice? Higher education has been seen to provide radical new ways of thinking, but there have been calls to place much more emphasis on tangible, applied professional skills to provide students with more returns on their investment. Knowledgeable and experienced faculty contribute to a more open-minded culture with greater productivity, which is also connected to higher levels of personal accomplishment, confidence, and engagement. This reflective essay explores the experiences of an HBCU alumna who transitioned from a career in corporate America to higher education. The first in a new series for Advertising & Society Quarterly , our objective is to share experiences about this transition from practitioner to professor for those who may want to forge similar paths. Just as Advertising & Society Quarterly seeks to build bridges between higher education and industry in order to better understand advertising’s place in society, culture, history, and the economy, similar efforts can be made to envision pathways for faculty with scholarly and applied backgrounds.