bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A qualitative analysis of religious coping and participation in patients with head and neck cancer.
Authors: Osazuwa-Peters Nosayaba , Lee Jeehye Rose , Kotelanski Maia , Ballew Leslie , Ortiz Colton , Garcia Madeline , Bennion Alexandra , Jean Barton Sarah , Monroe Kimberly , Lee Walter T. , Bodd Monica Himaani
Published: June 2024

e24093

Background: Head and neck cancer (HNC) and its treatment sequelae result in substantial disfigurement, depression, and isolation. Though up to 7 out of 10 cancer patients lean on prayer or other forms of spirituality for support, little is known about the significance of prayer and religious communities for patients with HNC. There is also a dearth of literature on the role of clergy as spiritual support for patients with HNC. In this qualitative study, we explore religious coping and barriers to community engagement both from a patient and clergy perspective. Methods: We purposively sampled ten patients with HNC from a single, comprehensive cancer center and twelve clergy for interviews. Patients were selected from a larger study of religious engagement and symptomatic distress. Clergy were recruited from a network of churches near the cancer center. Both patients and clergy completed semi-structured interviews, which were then transcribed and analyzed by descriptive content analysis. Results: Four main themes emerged from patient interviews: 1) HNC-related physical symptoms (dysphagia, stoma, impaired speech) hindered relationship-building with others and structured religious groups. 2) Most patients used positive religious coping, citing frequent prayer to God for strength during treatment and peace regardless of disease outcome. Few patients used negative religious coping, describing feelings of doubt and abandonment by God. 3) Patients predominantly found spiritual (prayer) and practical comfort (encouragement, phone calls) outside of religious communities through family, physicians, and support groups. 4) Barriers to religious community involvement included physical disability, satisfaction with individual spirituality, and religious community politics. Among clergy, barriers to patient engagement in religious communities included: lack of health literacy to understand patient needs, resource limitations, insufficient hospital emphasis on holistic health, and little awareness of opportunities for aid apart from psychosocial support. Overall, most clergy and patients believed faith to be an integral part of coping with head and neck cancer. Conclusions: Though patients with HNC experienced some isolation due to physical symptoms, many found spiritual support through private practices of prayer or individual relationships. Patient and clergy views on barriers to religious community involvement diverged; many patients felt satisfied with personal practices, and clergy felt distanced from patients. While future research should focus on clinical elicitation of religious coping strategies, our patients suggest the successful adaptation of such strategies to private contexts when faced with physically debilitating cancer diagnoses.
Prescription drug, healthcare utilization, and lost earnings cost of behavioral interventions for fear of cancer recurrence in breast cancer survivors.
Authors: Yeh Paul , Park Jae Man , Miller Kathy , Lairson David R. , Johns Shelley A.
Published: June 2024

e24095

Background: Breast cancer survivors experience distress due to the fear of cancer recurrence. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can treat the fear of cancer recurrence. However, no study has applied economic evaluation methods to estimate ACT and CBT behavioral intervention costs for breast cancer survivors. Methods: 384 adult stage I-IIIA breast cancer survivors with fear of cancer recurrence were randomly assigned to either the ACT (n = 128), CBT (n = 128), or enhanced usual care (EUC, n = 128) groups. Through micro-costing, we assessed the societal perspective cost of behavioral interventions using 2022 dollars. Per-capita drug costs, healthcare utilization, and lost productivity were calculated using participant survey data. Drug costs were estimated using Micromedex’s Red Book wholesale unit price. The 2022 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule for Indiana estimated healthcare utilization costs from outpatient, inpatient, and emergency visits. Lost productivity costs included work loss, productivity loss, and unpaid work loss, valued by Indiana's mean hourly wage. We assessed the cost differences between baseline (T1) and after the 6-week intervention period (T2). We evaluated between-group differences with Bonferroni's tests for each pairwise group comparison and within-group differences with a paired t-test at a p-value of < 0.05. Results: The mean total per-capita cost change from T1 to T2 in the ACT, CBT, and EUC groups was -$563, -$1622, and -$981, respectively (Table 1). This cost reduction stemmed from drug and healthcare utilization. There was no significant between-group difference in total cost at T1 or T2 and no significant between-group or within-group cost change from T1 to T2. Conclusions: Our cost estimates will be updated at 6 and 12 months of intervention and combined with changes in quality of life and mental health metrics to assess the cost-effectiveness of ACT and CBT for fear of breast cancer recurrence. Clinical trial information: NCT05364450 . [Table: see text]
Impact of semaglutide and tirzepatide administration on weight in women with stage I-III breast cancer.
Authors: Fischbach Neal A. , Zhou Bin , Deng Yanhong , Parsons Kayla , Shelton Amy , Lustberg Maryam B.
Published: June 2024

e24140

Background: Weight gain and obesity are significant problems for women receiving adjuvant therapy for breast cancer and obesity is associated with adverse breast cancer outcomes. In addition, obesity is associated with negative impact on overall physical and mental health. The GLP-1 agonists, semaglutide (S) and tirzepatide (T), are effective in achieving weight loss and have been associated with decreased incidence of diabetes, stroke and overall mortality in the non-diabetic as well as diabetic populations. There are limited data on the efficacy and safety of GLP1 agonists in women with breast cancer. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of the association of S and T use with weight loss in patients with stage I-III breast cancer diagnosed and treated at the Yale Cancer Center/Yale New Haven Health Network between 2017 and 2022. After institutional review board approval, a database including 7149 patients including 92,989 office visits was constructed. Maximal weight loss after S/T prescription as well as mean weight loss were calculated. S and T treated patient’s stage distribution and rates of recurrence were compared to untreated patients. For patients without metastatic disease, repeated measures regression analysis was utilized to evaluate changes in weight and BMI. Results: Of the 5430 evaluable patients with non-metastatic disease, 70 (1.3%) were prescribed S or T. Mean age was 58 (41-78). 74% received endocrine therapy. Mean pretreatment weight was 95.8 kg and BMI was 35.9 kg/m2. Mean weight loss for S/T treated patients was 3.03 kg (3.9-2.13, p < .0001) corresponding to reduction in BMI of 1.1 kg/m2 (0.7-1.5 p < .0001). We also calculated maximal weight loss after S/T prescription. Mean maximal weight loss was 8.89 kg (6.71-10.98 P < .0001) corresponding to a mean maximal reduction in BMI of 3.2 kg/m2 (2.3-4.2 P < .0001). Rates of local, locoregional, and distant breast cancer recurrence were 1.5%, 0%, 1.5% in the S/T treated patients and 1.3%, 4.7% and 3.3% in the untreated patients. None of these differences were statistically significant. Conclusions: In this retrospective analysis, GLP-1 agonist are associated with clinically meaningful weight loss in overweight and obese women with early breast cancer. Recurrence risk did not appear to be preliminarily impacted by treatment. Additional research is needed on long term safety as well as weight loss maintenance with these drugs in breast cancer survivors.
Phase III Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial of Endocrine Therapy ± 1 Year of Everolimus in Patients With High-Risk, Hormone Receptor–Positive, Early-Stage Breast Cancer
Authors: Chavez-MacGregor Mariana , Miao Jieling , Pusztai Lajos , Goetz Matthew P. , Rastogi Priya , Ganz Patricia A. , Mamounas Eleftherios P. , Paik Soonmyung , Bandos Hanna , Razaq Wajeeha , O'Dea Anne , Kaklamani Virginia , Silber Andrea L.M. , Flaum Lisa E. , Andreopoulou Eleni , Wendt Albert G. , Carney Jennifer F. , Sharma Priyanka , Gralow Julie R. , Lew Danika L. , Barlow William E. , Hortobagyi Gabriel N.
Published: June 2024

PURPOSE

Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/AKT-serine threonine kinase/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway abnormalities contribute to endocrine resistance. Everolimus, an mTOR inhibitor, improved progression-free survival in hormone receptor–positive metastatic breast cancer (BC) when combined with endocrine therapy (ET). In this phase III randomized, placebo-controlled trial, we assessed the efficacy of everolimus + ET as adjuvant therapy in high-risk, hormone receptor–positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2–negative BC after adjuvant/neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

METHODS

Patients were randomly assigned 1:1 to physician's choice ET and 1 year of everolimus (10 mg orally once daily) or placebo stratified by risk group. The primary end point was invasive disease-free survival (IDFS) evaluated by a stratified log-rank test with the hazard ratio (HR) estimated by Cox regression. Subset analyses included preplanned evaluation by risk group and exploratory analyses by menopausal status and age. Secondary end points included overall survival (OS) and safety. Everolimus did not improve IDFS/OS when added to ET in patients with early-stage high-risk, hormone receptor–positive BC.

RESULTS

One thousand and nine hundred thirty-nine patients were randomly assigned with 1,792 eligible for analysis. Overall, no benefit of everolimus was seen for IDFS (HR, 0.94 [95% CI, 0.77 to 1.14]) or OS (HR, 0.97 [95% CI, 0.75 to 1.26]). The assumption of proportional hazards was not met suggesting significant variability in the HR over time since the start of treatment. In an unplanned subgroup analysis among postmenopausal patients (N = 1,221), no difference in IDFS (HR, 1.08 [95% CI, 0.86 to 1.36]) or OS (HR, 1.19 [95% CI, 0.89 to 1.60]) was seen. In premenopausal patients (N = 571), everolimus improved both IDFS (HR, 0.64 [95% CI, 0.44 to 0.94]) and OS (HR, 0.49 [95% CI, 0.28 to 0.86]). Treatment completion rates were lower in the everolimus arm compared with placebo (48%
v
73%) with higher grade 3 and 4 adverse events (35%
v
7%).

CONCLUSION

One year of adjuvant everolimus + ET did not improve overall outcomes. Subset analysis suggests mTOR inhibition as a possible target for patients who remain premenopausal after chemotherapy.
De novo TANGLED1 recruitment from the phragmoplast to aberrant cell plate fusion sites in maize
Authors: Uyehara Aimee N. , Diep Beatrice N. , Allsman Lindy A. , Gayer Sarah G. , Martinez Stephanie E. , Kim Janice J. , Agarwal Shreya , Rasmussen Carolyn G.
Published: June 2024

Division plane positioning is crucial for proper growth and development in many organisms. In plants, the division plane is established before mitosis, by accumulation of a cytoskeletal structure called the preprophase band (PPB). The PPB is thought to be essential for recruitment of division site-localized proteins, which remain at the division site after the PPB disassembles. Here, we show that the division site-localized protein TANGLED1 (TAN1) is recruited independently of the PPB to the cell cortex by the plant cytokinetic machinery, the phragmoplast, from experiments using both the PPB-defective mutant discordia1 (dcd1) and chemical treatments that disrupt the phragmoplast in maize. TAN1 recruitment to de novo sites on the cortex is partially dependent on intact actin filaments and the myosin XI motor protein OPAQUE1 (O1). These data imply a yet unknown role for TAN1 and possibly other division site-localized proteins during the last stages of cell division when the phragmoplast touches the cell cortex to complete cytokinesis.
Combinatorial Auctions in Practice
Authors: Palacios-Huerta Ignacio , Parkes David C. , Steinberg Richard
Published: June 2024

We survey the uses of combinatorial auctions that have been deployed in practice, giving emphasis to their key representational and economic aspects. In addition, we discuss behavioral economics considerations on both the bidder and auctioneer sides of the market, and the interrelated topics of simplicity and trust, highlighting key opportunities for future work. (JEL D44, D91)
Management of blood thinning medications in elderly populations presenting with rectal bleeding: Are we doing right?
Authors: Bavikatte Akshay , Sebastian Boby , Uwaoma sade
Published: June 2024

Introduction Rectal bleeding commonly occurs in elderly patients using blood thinners, posing management challenges due to limited guidance on reversal agents and medication restart criteria. This study aims to review the demographics and management of elderly patients with rectal bleeding while on blood thinners. Methods A retrospective analysis of patients aged 60 or older presenting with rectal bleeding at West Suffolk Hospital’s emergency department was conducted from January 2018 to December 2020. Data were extracted from electronic records, focusing on patients using blood thinners and adhering to British Society of Gastroenterology guidelines. All patients ceased blood-thinning medications upon admission. The hospital’s ethics committee approved the study, which focused on demographics, diagnosis, and management, particularly regarding re-initiation of blood-thinning medicines. Results During the study period, 170 patients were admitted to the emergency department of West Suffolk Hospital. 93 (54.71%) patients were included in the study. The average age of the participants was 82 years, and 62.3% were male. All patients were followed up for three months. Atrial fibrillation accounted for 52% of patients, while previous strokes accounted for 20%. The most typical pathology was diverticulosis. Regarding restarting of anticoagulants, Among patients on DOAC (Direct oral anticoagulant), 39% were restarted on discharge, 23% were switched to warfarin, and another 23% were not restarted; 15% planned to restart after seven days. For those on Warfarin, 62% were restarted on discharge, 22% stopped the medication, and the rest were switched to Dual Oral Anticoagulant. Among aspirin patients, 60% were restarted at discharge, while the remaining discontinued. All patients receiving clopidogrel and dual antiplatelet therapy were started at discharge. None of the patients were readmitted during the follow-up period of 3 months. Conclusion Restarting of blood-thinning drugs in patients with rectal bleeding is subject to individual patient variation. Necessitates more extensive trials to achieve greater standardization.
Green synthesis of gold nanoparticles using Pelargonium Graveolens leaf extract: characterization and anti-microbial properties (An in-vitro study)
Authors: Asker Ahmed Yousif Mahdi , Al Haidar Aseel Haidar M.J.
Published: June 2024

Background In recent years, there has been a notable increase in the level of attention devoted to exploring capabilities of nanoparticles, specifically gold nanoparticles AuNPs, within context of modern times. AuNPs possess distinct biophysical properties, as a novel avenue as an antibacterial agent targeting Streptococcus Mutans and Candida Albicans. The aim of this study to create a nano-platform that has the potential to be environmentally sustainable, in addition to exhibiting exceptional antimicrobial properties against Streptococcus Mutans as well as Candida Albicans. Methods this study involved utilization of Pelargonium Graveolens leaves extract as a cost effective and environmentally sustainable approach for the green synthesis of AuNPs. Subsequently, physicochemical characteristics were assessed employing a variety of analytical methods, including as transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope, Zeta potential, Ultraviolet visible absorption spectroscopy, and Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The antimicrobial efficacy against Streptococcus Mutans and Candida Albicans was evaluated. Nanoparticles of various shapes, including hexagonal, spherical, semi-spherical, and triangular, were synthesized. These nanoparticles exhibited a mean particle size of 294nm and demonstrated low degree of aggregation. These nanoparticles exhibited long-term stability and were capable of facilely combining with diverse bioactive compounds. Results The study demonstrated that AuNPs which is synthesized by green methods display potent antimicrobial properties. Conclusion Utilization of Pelargonium Graveolens AuNPs may exhibit a promising potential as an antibacterial agent against Streptococcus Mutans and Candida Albicans. Nanoparticles (NPs) have the potential to serve as a novel approach for addressing pathogen infections as well as for biomedical, dental and pharmaceutical purposes in the future.
Accessing Anonymised Data from Ireland’s Maternal and Newborn Clinical Management System for Research Purposes
Authors: Maher Gillian M. , Khashan Ali S. , McKernan Joye , McCarthy Fergus P. , Greene Richard A.
Published: June 2024

Background Since 2016, maternity units across Ireland have been switching from paper clinical notes to an electronic health record called the Maternal and Newborn Clinical Management System (MN-CMS). Currently, four units have implemented the MN-CMS: Cork University Maternity Hospital (CUMH), University Hospital Kerry (UHK), Rotunda Hospital and National Maternity Hospital (NMH). The MN-CMS provides opportunity for new data-driven discovery to answer important research questions on maternal and child health. Aim Provide detailed information on how a request can be made to access anonymised MN-CMS data for research purposes, as well as current timelines involved from initial request to data access. Methods A request to collaborate should be made to the clinical lead within each maternity unit where data is being requested in the first instance. A detailed protocol and data collection sheet should be drafted and forwarded to the National Information Governance Group for approval. A Data Protection Impact Assessment should be completed, and permission to access data from each maternity unit must be applied for separately from each unit’s local Ethics Committee. Upon receipt of ethical approval, an application to the Local Information Governance Group must be submitted if requesting data from CUMH and/or UHK. Data can then be extracted and anonymised by the data manager at the respective unit and transferred securely to relevant project personnel. Results The timeline from initial request to data access can range from approximately 6-12 months, depending on number of maternity units from which data is being requested and number of variables being requested from each unit. Conclusions Accessing MN-CMS data for research can be a complex process. A national standardised process for managing the data is needed. This would allow a clear pathway to be developed for accessing data to facilitate new data-driven discovery in the area of maternal and child health.
Predictors of teachers’ perceived assessment skills and assessment practices in public universities of Ethiopia
Authors: Wolde Million , Agago Menna , Zinabu Samuel
Published: June 2024

Background Assessment is an integral component of learning at higher education institutions of Ethiopia. It plays a critical role of ensuring quality education and student learning and development. In this respect, teachers’ capabilities to conduct effective assessment and use assessment evidence are central to quality assessment practices. These capabilities are related to different attributes such as their academic levels, teaching experience, assessment training received and specializations. Therefore, this study aimed to examine predictors of teachers’ perceived assessment skills and assessment practices in public universities of Ethiopia. Methods Assessment Practices Inventory was adopted and distributed to a sample of 380 randomly selected teachers from four randomly selected public universities of Ethiopia. 355 properly completed questionnaires were used for analysis. Teachers’ academic level, teaching experience, field of specialization and assessment training were included in two separate multiple regression analyses. Results Academic level (p < 0.001), teaching experience (p < 0.001), and assessment training (p < 0.001), were significantly positively related to both teachers’ perceived assessment skills and assessment practices. Teachers’ perceived assessment skill was also strongly correlated with their assessment practices. Field of specialization was not significantly correlated to both teachers’ perceived assessment skills and assessment practices. Conclusions The study concluded that academic level of teachers, their teaching experience, and assessment training they received predict their perceived assessment skills and assessment practices. Appropriate assessment training and professional development programs should be devised based on the higher education curriculum needs and teachers’ actual gaps in assessment. Teacher education programs would benefit from the findings of this study to carefully devise their programs to fulfill the growing needs of learning and assessment.
Demographic and socioeconomic predictors of religious/spiritual beliefs and behaviours in a prospective cohort study (ALSPAC) in Southwest England: Results from the offspring generation
Authors: Major-Smith Daniel , Morgan Jimmy , Halstead Isaac , Tohidinik Hamid Reza , Goulding Neil , Iles-Caven Yasmin , Golding Jean , Northstone Kate
Published: June 2024

Background We explored associations between possible demographic and socioeconomic causes of religious/spiritual beliefs and behaviours (RSBB) in the offspring generation of the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC). Methods We examined approximately 4,450 offspring aged 28 years with RSBB data from a prospective birth cohort study (ALSPAC) in Southwest England. Three RSBB outcome measures were assessed: religious belief (belief in God/a divine power; yes/not sure/no), religious affiliation (Christian/none/other) and religious attendance (frequency of attendance at a place of worship). We explored age- and sex-adjusted associations between 35 demographic and socioeconomic exposures and each of the three RSBB outcomes using multinomial regression. Exposure-sex interactions were also examined. Results Some sociodemographic factors were associated with RSBB in this cohort; for instance, being female and from an ethnicity other than White were associated with increased religiosity across all domains. For many other exposures, however, associations were frequently null or inconsistent, often depending on the specific exposure and outcome combination. As an example, higher educational attainment was associated with higher rates of religious attendance, but not with religious belief or affiliation; in contrast, higher income was associated with lower levels of religiosity. No consistent interactions between sex and the exposures on RSBB were found. Effect sizes were also rather weak, with most pseudo-R 2 values below 0.5% and a maximum of 1.2%. Conclusions The results highlight that several demographic and socioeconomic factors are associated with RSBB in this cohort. However, the number of these associations, and their magnitude, is smaller than comparable results from the parental generation of these offspring, suggesting that patterns of sociodemographic factors associated with RSBB differ between these generations. In addition to describing these associations, this paper will help inform future studies using these data, particularly regarding the choice of potential sociodemographic confounders.
Utility of MALDI-TOF MS for determination of species identity and blood meal sources of primary malaria vectors on the Kenyan coast
Authors: Karisa Jonathan , Ominde Kelly , Tuwei Mercy , Bartilol Brian , Ondieki Zedekiah , Musani Harun , Wanjiku Caroline , Mwikali Kioko , Babu Lawrence , Rono Martin , Eminov Mumin , Mbogo Charles , Bejon Philip , Mwangangi Joseph , Laroche Maureen , Maia Marta
Published: June 2024

Background Protein analysis using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation time-of-flight mass-spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) represents a promising tool for entomological surveillance. In this study we tested the discriminative power of this tool for measuring species and blood meal source of main Afrotropical malaria vectors on the Kenyan coast. Methods Mosquito collections were conducted along the coastal region of Kenya. MALDI-TOF MS spectra were obtained from each individual mosquito’s cephalothorax as well as the abdomens of blood-engorged mosquitoes. The same mosquitoes were also processed using gold standard tests: polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for species identification and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for blood meal source identification. Results Of the 2,332 mosquitoes subjected to MALDI-TOF MS, 85% (1,971/2,332) were considered for database creation and validation. There was an overall accuracy of 97.5% in the identification of members of the An. gambiae (An. gambiae, 100%; An. arabiensis, 91.9%; An. merus, 97.5%; and An. quadriannulatus, 90.2%) and An. funestus (An. funestus, 94.2%; An. rivulorum, 99.4%; and An. leesoni, 94.1%) complexes. Furthermore, MALDI-TOF MS also provided accurate (94.5% accuracy) identification of blood host sources across all mosquito species. Conclusions This study provides further evidence of the discriminative power of MALDI-TOF MS to identify sibling species and blood meal source of Afrotropical malaria vectors, further supporting its utility in entomological surveillance. The low cost per sample (<0.2USD) and high throughput nature of the method represents a cost-effective alternative to molecular methods and could enable programs to increase the number of samples analysed and therefore improve the data generated from surveillance activities.
Projeto "Conta, Manas": Relato de Experiência com Livros-Mulheres no Norte do Brasil
Authors: Leitão Consuelena Lopes , Alves Rosemary Amanda Lima , Silva Karolayne Rodrigues , Ferreira Nicole Tavares , Torres Marck de Souza , Ferreira Breno de Oliveira , Silva Iolete Ribeiro
Published: June 2024

O projeto "Conta, Manas: Livros-Mulheres" se caracteriza como uma iniciativa que envolve o encontro de narrativas de mulheres da comunidade com as mulheres da universidade no formato de livros humanos, que contam histórias de vida transformadoras para os leitores. Por meio de uma metodologia que combina atividades de estágio e extensão, a iniciativa propôs a união de um campo epistemológico e político - os feminismos - na promoção de ações de equidade de gênero dentro da universidade. O impacto do projeto vai além das fronteiras da academia, visando fortalecer as vozes e o poder de mulheres tanto na comunidade quanto no âmbito acadêmico. A proposta representa um exemplo concreto de como a adesão de esforços entre a comunidade e a universidade pode gerar transformações sociais significativas. A iniciativa demonstra que o diálogo e a interação entre mulheres de diferentes contextos podem impulsionar o protagonismo feminino para o desenvolvimento de relações mais equitativas. Isso reforça a importância da equidade de gênero como um princípio importante para redução das relações desiguais de poder entre homens e mulheres.
Revolutionizing disease diagnosis and management: Open-access magnetic resonance imaging datasets a challenge for artificial intelligence driven liver iron quantification
Authors: Jaradat Jaber H , Nashwan Abdulqadir J
Published: June 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI), particularly machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) techniques, such as convolutional neural networks (CNNs), have emerged as transformative technologies with vast potential in healthcare. Body iron load is usually assessed using slightly invasive blood tests (serum ferritin, serum iron, and serum transferrin). Serum ferritin is widely used to assess body iron and drive medical management; however, it is an acute phase reactant protein offering wrong interpretation in the setting of inflammation and distressed patients. Magnetic resonance imaging is a non-invasive technique that can be used to assess liver iron. The ML and DL algorithms can be used to enhance the detection of minor changes. However, a lack of open-access datasets may delay the advancement of medical research in this field. In this letter, we highlight the importance of standardized datasets for advancing AI and CNNs in medical imaging. Despite the current limitations, embracing AI and CNNs holds promise in revolutionizing disease diagnosis and treatment.
Mental health in the virtual world: Challenges and opportunities in the metaverse era
Authors: López del Hoyo Yolanda , Elices Matilde , Garcia-Campayo Javier
Published: June 2024

Current rates of mental illness are worrisome. Mental illness mainly affects females and younger age groups. The use of the internet to deliver mental health care has been growing since 2020 and includes the implementation of novel mental health treatments using virtual reality, augmented reality, and artificial intelligence. A new three dimensional digital environment, known as the metaverse, has emerged as the next version of the Internet. Artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and virtual reality will create fully immersive, experiential, and interactive online environments in the metaverse. People will use a unique avatar to do anything they do in their “real” lives, including seeking and receiving mental health care. In this opinion review, we reflect on how the metaverse could reshape how we deliver mental health treatment, its opportunities, and its challenges.
CLINICAL AND RADIOLOGICAL OUTCOMES OF REVISION TOTAL ANKLE ARTHROPLASTY USING THE INBONE II PROSTHESIS
Authors: Jamjoom B. , Siddiqui B. , Salem H. , Raglan M. , Dhar S.
Published: June 2024

Background

The literature on the outcome of revision total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) remains limited. We aim to report the clinical and radiological outcomes of revision TAA at a high-volume centre in the UK.

Methods

Retrospective review of 28 patients that underwent 29 revision TAA procedures using INBONE II prosthesis. Demographic, radiological, and patient reported outcome measures data were analysed.

Results

The mean (range) duration from primary TAA to revision was 87.5 (16–223) months. The main indication for the revision was aseptic loosening of the primary TAA (82.8%). Additional procedures were required in 75.9% of patients. At mean (range) follow-up of 40 (24- 60) months, the infection, re-operation, and implant survival rates were 6.9%, 6.9% and 96.5% respectively. A significant postoperative improvement in the component alignment radiographic measures was observed. Osteolysis, subsidence, loosening and heterotopic ossification rates were comparable to other reports and did not influence the clinical outcome. A significant improvement was observed in the MOXFQ (all domains) and the EQ-5D (three domains) at 24 months postoperatively.

Conclusions

Revision TAA using INBONE II was associated with good short-term survival and improvement in the postoperative scores at 2 years. Maintenance of the postoperatively improved alignment was documented at follow up. The relatively high survival rate in this series supports the notion that revision TAA is a satisfactory option for failed primary TAA.
Photonic device programmability in support of autonomous optical networks
Authors: Casellas Ramon , Nadal Laia , Martinez Ricardo , Vilalta Ricard , Muñoz Raul , Svaluto Moreolo Michela
Published: June 2024

The emergence and consolidation of increasingly programmable optical devices such as transceivers, amplifiers, multiplexers, or ROADMs—which allow their remote configuration and control by adopting software-defined networking principles such as model-driven development—is enabling the evolution toward gradually more autonomous networks. Such networks leverage device programmability and are able to adapt and react to traffic and network condition changes, e.g., changing modes of operation or reconfiguring the network state, paving the way for the increased adoption of AI/ML models in support of enhanced network operation. In this paper, after a short review of some key elements in the control and orchestration systems of optical networks in support of autonomous networking, we present in detail a proof-of-concept validation of autonomous, closed-loop dynamic adaptation of transceiver operational modes. This includes (i) the design and development of an SDN agent of a multi-band sliceable bandwidth variable transceiver, based on extended OpenConfig terminal device data models; (ii) an SDN controller that performs discovery and management of transceivers’ operational modes and maps to transport API (TAPI) profiles enabling efficient physical layer impairment-aware path computation; (iii) a dedicated externalized path computation element/digital twin that performs adaptation recommendations; and (iv) an MQTT-based telemetry platform for publisher/subscriber based state synchronization between the control plane functional entities to avoid systematic polling.
Joint-learning-based coded aperture compressive temporal imaging
Authors: Ge Youran , Qu Gangrong , Paoletti Mercedes E. , Han Lirong , Haut Juan M. , Huang Yuhao
Published: June 2024

Coded aperture compressive temporal imaging (CACTI) is a recently developed imaging technique based on the theory of compressed sensing. It uses an optical imaging system to sample a high-speed dynamic scene (a set of consecutive video frames), integrates the sampled data in time according to masks (sensing matrix), and thus obtains compressive measurements. Considerable effort has been devoted to the sampling strategy and the ill-posed inverse process of reconstructing a three-dimensional (3D) high-speed dynamic scene from two-dimensional (2D) compressive measurements. The importance of the reconstruction algorithm and the optimization mask is evident. In this paper, a flexible, efficient, and superior quality Landweber iterative method is proposed for video reconstruction through jointly learning the optimal binary mask strategy, relaxation strategy, and regularization strategy. To solve the sparse representation problem in iteration, multiple denoisers are introduced to obtain more regularization prior information. By combining the mathematical structure of the Landweber iterative reconstruction method with deep learning, the challenging parameter selection procedure is successfully tackled. Extensive experimental results demonstrate the superiority of the proposed method.
Orthogonal waveform-based backscattering interference suppression technique for underwater optical wireless communication
Authors: Zhang Xinren , Liu Weijie , Huang Nuo , Xu Zhengyuan
Published: June 2024

The backscattering effects degrade the detection performance in a full-duplex underwater optical wireless communication (UOWC) system when the power of received backscattering interference is comparable to that of a target signal. In this paper, the orthogonal waveforms with the Hermite–Gaussian function and prolate spheroidal wave function are first introduced for a pulse position modulation based dynamic UOWC system to alleviate the backscattering effects. Then, a joint maximum likelihood detection scheme is proposed accordingly. Experimental results verify the superiority of the proposed method with orthogonal waveforms over the scheme without orthogonal pulse shaping in a dynamic underwater bubbly channel.
Role of the Hall effect on THz output power enhancement in plasmonic photoconductive antennas
Authors: Kashfi Seyedpouriya , Ghattan Kashani Zahra , Prajapati Jitendra , Lou Yijie
Published: June 2024

This study proposes a new, to our knowledge, type of photoconductive antenna that incorporates magnetic biasing and plasmonic layers to increase light absorption in the substrate and enhance the terahertz (THz) output power. The top grating layers are coated with a silicon nitride layer (Si3N4) to enhance optical transmission to the photoconductive region, resulting in increased carrier generation. Using plasmonic electrodes in photoconductive THz sources eliminates the need for short-carrier lifetime semiconductors. Application of the Hall effect enables the use of a lower-power laser and a lower voltage bias while generating increased THz power at the output. The performance of the magnetic-biased plasmonic photoconductive antenna is compared to that of a plasmonic photoconductive antenna without external magnetic bias, and the results evince a promising outcome significantly more extensive than both.
Enhancing laser temperature stability by passive self-injection locking to a microring resonator
Authors: Sun Yonghang , Salamy James , Murray Caitlin E. , Little Brent E. , Chu Sai T. , Morandotti Roberto , Mitchell Arnan , Moss David J. , Corcoran Bill
Published: June 2024

We show a thermally stable self-injection DFB laser lock to a microring resonator system, increasing the range of temperature for which a laser stays within 100 MHz of the target frequency by a factor of 100. By including amplification in the feedback loop, the per-laser power dedicated to this locking was reduced. We further added a 2.2 km fiber spool to explore the remote locking performance of the system.
Interfacing high numerical aperture metalenses with thermally expanded core fibers via 3D nanoprinting for advanced meta-fiber operation
Authors: Khosravi Mohammadhossein , Qi Xue , Schmidt Markus A.
Published: June 2024

This study introduces a novel meta-fiber design that combines single-mode fibers with thermally expanded cores and nano-printed high numerical aperture metalenses. These advanced meta-fibers feature enlarged mode field diameters, offering improved mechanical stability, reduced environmental sensitivity and simplified metalens design by minimizing wavefront curvature. The concept’s validity is confirmed through high numerical aperture metalenses, nanoprinted onto thermally expanded core fibers, demonstrating diffraction-limited focusing up to a numerical aperture of 0.9 in air and water. This innovative approach has potential applications in optical trapping, life science imaging, environmental sensing, and fiber-chip coupling in integrated photonics.
Reducing penumbral blur in computed tomography by learning the inverse finite focal spot model
Authors: Yu HaiJun , Liu ChuanJiang , Thies Mareike , Wagner Fabian , Wang Ao , Zhang GenYuan , Huang YiXing , Liu FengLin , Maier Andreas
Published: June 2024

Penumbral blur is one of the major limitations of the high spatial resolution micro-CT, due to a nonideal large focal spot. Penumbral blur hinders the ability to resolve small features that may only be a few pixels in size. Reducing the focal spot size by decreasing the x-ray tube power is a straightforward solution, but it leads to prolonged scan durations. In this paper, we propose to mitigate the penumbral blur by learning the inverse finite focal spot model. First, we derived the finite focal spot model that builds a relationship from the ideal point source projection to the finite focal spot projection. Based on the derived model, we numerically compute a paired projection dataset. Second, we utilized two neural networks—U-net, and convolution modulation-based U-net (CMU-net) —to learn the inverse finite focal spot model. The goal is to estimate the ideal point source projection from the actual finite focal spot projection. CMU-net, which introduces convolution modulation blocks into the contracting path of the U-net, is proposed to boost the robustness of the U-net. Finally, the standard filtered back-projection (FBP) is employed for reconstruction using the estimated ideal point projection. The experiments show that both U-net and CMU-net can effectively reduce the penumbral blur, whereas CMU-net demonstrates better performance on the real data. Experiments on real measured data demonstrate that CMU-net is more robust than U-net and can effectively resolve fine details. This method has great potential in improving the efficiency of micro-CT acquisition. It allows increasing the tube power since our method can computationally compensate for the blur caused by an increased focal spot size.
Study on the lower limit of gas detection based on the snapshot infrared multispectral imaging system
Authors: Wang Pengyu , Tang Guoliang , Liu Shijie , Yang Yang , Zhu Shouzheng , Wang Senyuan , Liu Xinze , Lu Jiawei , Wang Jianyu , Li Chunlai , Yuan Liyin
Published: June 2024

Snapshot multispectral imaging system is extensively utilized in the petrochemical industry for gas monitoring due to its intuitive imaging, traceability, and ability to monitor a wide range of gases. Determining the detection capability of the different bands of the multispectral camera for the gases to be monitored is a crucial prerequisite for the operationalization of the camera. The current evaluation methods of detection capability are mainly for single-spectrum cameras, which require constructing complex experimental environments and have poor applicability to different gases. This paper proposes a radiation full-link simulation model, which can accurately calculate the degree of response and detection capability of each channel of the multispectral system for different types and concentrations of gases under various conditions. The gas detection capability of the self-developed uncooled multispectral gas cloud imaging camera was tested in the laboratory. Eleven industrial gases of different concentrations were detected, and the response error between the actual test results and the model simulation results was about 8.7%. This study is of great significance for the detection methods and applications of hazardous gases in chemical parks.
Coherent beam combining of optical vortices
Authors: Fathi Hossein , Närhi Mikko , Barros Rafael , Gumenyuk Regina
Published: June 2024

We experimentally demonstrate the power scaling of optical vortices using the coherent beam combining technique, encompassing topological charges ranging from ℓ = 1 to ℓ = 5 realized on the basis of a Yb-doped fiber short-pulsed laser system. The combining efficiency varies from 83.2 to 96.9% depending on the topological charge and beam pattern quality generated by the spatial light modulators. This work is a proof of concept for using a coherent beam combining technique to surpass the physical power/energy limitation of any single source of optical vortices, regardless of the generation methods employed. These results open a pathway to power scaling of optical vortices with diverse applications in science and industry by utilizing advances in light–matter interactions.
Experimental study of the influence of variable external optical feedback on visible laser diode speckle
Authors: Evered Christopher , Li Kang , Fan Yuanlong
Published: June 2024

This study employs an experimental setup with a variable feedback fraction (fext), external cavity length (ECL), and pump current (J) to investigate their relationships with optical linewidth and external optical feedback-induced speckle contrast (SC) reduction in a visible laser diode. In total, speckle contrast and optical linewidth data for seven feedback fractions, two pump currents, and three external cavity lengths were collected. Achieving optical linewidths up to 3.90 nm (1/e2 width) and a reduction in speckle contrast of up to 41.6%, we also revealed negative correlations between speckle contrast and optical linewidth, and speckle contrast and feedback fraction, and a positive correlation between optical linewidth and feedback fraction.
Generation of multiple user-defined dispersive waves in a silicon nitride waveguide
Authors: Yang Yijun , Turpaud Victor , Lafforgue Christian , Melati Daniele , Wilmart Quentin , Faugier-Tovar Jonathan , Gianini Linda , Edmond Samson , Cassan Eric , Marris-Morini Delphine , Alonso-Ramos Carlos , Vivien Laurent
Published: June 2024

The quest for a wide and bright supercontinuum source has received
significant attention, addressing pivotal challenges in ultra-fast
spectroscopy, imaging, and frequency metrology. Among the diverse
optical nonlinear mechanisms steering supercontinuum generation,
dispersive waves emerge as crucial contributors, providing heightened
spectral intensity, wavelength tunability, and superior temporal
coherence. Nevertheless, their generation is tightly bound by
waveguide geometry, limiting both their numbers and the wavelengths at
which they manifest. In this paper, we demonstrate the controlled
generation of multiple dispersive waves in fundamental optical
transverse mode by leveraging quasi phase-matching in an integrated
silicon nitride (Si3N4) waveguide. This approach involves
modulating the group velocity dispersion through varying the width of
the Si3N4 waveguide crossing anomalous and
normal dispersion, which facilitates the creation of diverse
dispersive waves in fundamental transverse electromagnetic (TE)
polarization at multiple phase-matched wavelengths. A wide nonlinear
optical spectral broadening surpassing conventional approaches is
achieved with good temporal and spatial coherence. Remarkably, the
generation of the multiple dispersive waves and the supercontinuum is
achieved by a 190-fs pulse duration pump with peak power as low as
110 W (24 pJ). This work offers flexibility to
manipulate dispersive waves in an integrated platform beyond current
dispersion engineering. It represents a significant step forward in
developing an integrated broadband source with a user-defined spectral
shape, accomplished with minimal pump power requirements.
Full-Range Displacement Sensor with Dual FBGs Combined Cantilever Beam Based on Magnetic Grating
Authors: Lu Lidan , jianxin Liu , chen guang , Zhu Lianqing , Weiqiang Chen , Chunhua An , Daping chu
Published: June 2024

We propose a full-range displacement sensor system based on double fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs) with a cantilever beam. This sensor adopts a magnetic scale as a new transmission mechanism. By combining a simple and low-cost cantilever beam structure makes the sensing probe very easy to realize. The optimal magnetic gap was explored through multiple sets of numerical simulations. The experiment proved the sine relationship between the center wavelength shifts of FBGs and the linear displacement, proving the feasibility of this method. Results indicate that the amplitude of the tensile compression load of FBGs are 169.76 με and 296.12 με. The fitting linearity based on sinusoidal function at an air gap of 3.5 mm is 0.9663 and 0.9566. The direction of motion can be determined by the phase difference between two FBGs. Moreover, the difference of double FBGs can realize the effect of temperature compensation. Thus, this sensor can achieve non-contact, temperature-independent, and full-range measurements. It can also be exploited to measure other parameters such as angular velocity, acceleration, and magnetic field strength.