bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intimate Partner Violence and its associated factors among pregnant women receiving antenatal care. A Bayesian analysis approach
Authors: Aychiluhm Setognal Birara , Mare Kusse Urmale , Ahmed Kedir Y. , Demissie Mahlet Seifu , Tadesse Abay Woday
Published: July 2024

Background

Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is a major public health problem worldwide. In developing nations, including Ethiopia, the problem is under-reported and under-estimated. Therefore, this study attempts to assess intimate partner violence and its associated factors among pregnant women receiving antenatal care at public hospitals in Amhara region, Ethiopia.

Methods

A health facility-based cross-sectional study design was employed. A sample of 418 pregnant women was selected using random sampling technique from 1st May to 1st June 2021. IPV was measured using the World Health Organization (WHO) Multi-country study of violence against women assessment tool. Data were entered into Epi-data 3.1 and exported into Stata 17 for further analysis. A Bayesian multivariable logistic regression analysis was carried out from the posterior distribution, and an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% credible interval (CrI) was used to declare statistically significant variables.

Results

The prevalence of any IPV among pregnant women was 31.3% [95% CrI 26.6%, 36.1%]. After adjusting a range of covariates, IPV during pregnancy was more likely among women whose husbands used substances [AOR = 4.33: 95% CrI 1.68, 8.95] and household decisions made by husbands only [AOR = 6.45: 95% CI 3.01, 12.64]. Conversely, pregnant women who attended primary [AOR = 0.47: 95% CrI 0.24, 0.81] and secondary [AOR = 0.64: 95% CrI 0.41, 0.92] educational levels, women who had four or more ANC visits antenatal care visits [AOR = 0.43: 95% CrI 0.25, 0.68], and women with no prior history of adverse birth outcomes [AOR = 0.48: 95% CI 0.27, 0.80] were less likely to experience IPV during pregnancy.

Conclusion

The study revealed a relatively high prevalence of any IPV among pregnant women, with factors such as substance use by husbands and limited decision-making autonomy associated with increased IPV likelihood. Conversely, women with higher education levels, four and above antenatal care attendance, and no history of adverse birth outcomes showed a reduced likelihood of experiencing IPV during pregnancy. Therefore, targeted interventions to address substance use, empower women in decision-making, and promote education and healthcare access to mitigate IPV risk during pregnancy are recommended.
Deep learning empowered breast cancer diagnosis: Advancements in detection and classification
Authors: Ahmad Jawad , Akram Sheeraz , Jaffar Arfan , Ali Zulfiqar , Bhatti Sohail Masood , Ahmad Awais , Rehman Shafiq Ur
Published: July 2024

Recent advancements in AI, driven by big data technologies, have reshaped various industries, with a strong focus on data-driven approaches. This has resulted in remarkable progress in fields like computer vision, e-commerce, cybersecurity, and healthcare, primarily fueled by the integration of machine learning and deep learning models. Notably, the intersection of oncology and computer science has given rise to Computer-Aided Diagnosis (CAD) systems, offering vital tools to aid medical professionals in tumor detection, classification, recurrence tracking, and prognosis prediction. Breast cancer, a significant global health concern, is particularly prevalent in Asia due to diverse factors like lifestyle, genetics, environmental exposures, and healthcare accessibility. Early detection through mammography screening is critical, but the accuracy of mammograms can vary due to factors like breast composition and tumor characteristics, leading to potential misdiagnoses. To address this, an innovative CAD system leveraging deep learning and computer vision techniques was introduced. This system enhances breast cancer diagnosis by independently identifying and categorizing breast lesions, segmenting mass lesions, and classifying them based on pathology. Thorough validation using the Curated Breast Imaging Subset of Digital Database for Screening Mammography (CBIS-DDSM) demonstrated the CAD system’s exceptional performance, with a 99% success rate in detecting and classifying breast masses. While the accuracy of detection is 98.5%, when segmenting breast masses into separate groups for examination, the method’s performance was approximately 95.39%. Upon completing all the analysis, the system’s classification phase yielded an overall accuracy of 99.16% for classification. The potential for this integrated framework to outperform current deep learning techniques is proposed, despite potential challenges related to the high number of trainable parameters. Ultimately, this recommended framework offers valuable support to researchers and physicians in breast cancer diagnosis by harnessing cutting-edge AI and image processing technologies, extending recent advances in deep learning to the medical domain.
Continuity of care in general practice in Norway
Authors: Delalic Lamija , Grøsland Mari , Godager Geir , Øien Henning
Published: July 2024

Aims

Maintaining continuity of care between doctors and patients is considered a fundamental aspect of quality in primary healthcare. In this study, we aim to examine continuity in Norway over time by computing two commonly used indicators of continuity: the St Leonard’s Index of Continuity of Care (SLICC) and the Usual Provider of Care Index (UPC).

Method

We employ individual-level data, which covers all primary care consultations. This data includes the identities of each patient and physician, and we can identify each patient’s regular general practitioner (GP). The SLICC is calculated as the share of consultations conducted by the patient’s regular GP annually from 2006 to 2021. Additionally, we identify each patient’s most visited physician and compute the UPC as the share of total consultations conducted by the most visited physician during the same period. Our analysis is conducted at the national level and stratified according to the level of centrality, differentiating between areas of high, moderate, and low centrality.

Results

Our findings reveal that, at the national level, SLICC and UPC exhibit remarkable stability, reaching 64 and 71 percent, respectively, in 2021. However, there is significant geographical variation, with the least central areas experiencing less continuous healthcare (SLICC at 49 percent in 2021) than patients residing in more central areas (SLICC at 68 in 2021).

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate a high degree of continuity that has been stable over time. However, large geographical variations suggest that policymakers should strive to reduce geographical disparities in healthcare quality.
Optical coherence tomography of the macular ganglion cell layer in children with neurofibromatosis type 1 is a useful tool in the assessment for optic pathway gliomas
Authors: Arnljots Urszula , Nilsson Maria , Bolzani Roberto , Benassi Mariagrazia , Sandvik Ulrika , Munoz Daniel Martin , Blomgren Klas , Hellgren Kerstin
Published: July 2024

Background

Optic pathway glioma (OPG) is a feared complication to neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) since it can cause visual impairment in young children. The main goal of screening is to detect symptomatic OPGs that require treatment. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has been suggested as a tool for detection of neuro-retinal damage.

Aims

To investigate whether the ganglion cell layer assessed by OCT is a reliable measure to identify and detect relapses of symptomatic OPGs in children with NF1.

Methods

Children (3–6 years) with NF1, with and without known OPG and children with sporadic OPG (S-OPG) resident in the Stockholm area, were invited and followed in a prospective study during a three-year period. Brain magnetic resonance tomography (MRI) had been performed in children with symptoms of OPG. Outcome measures were VA in logMAR, visual field index (VFI), average thicknesses of the ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (GC-IPL), and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL).

Results

There were 25 children with MRI-verified OPG and 52 with NF1 without symptomatic OPG. Eyes from NF1 patients without symptoms of OPG showed significantly better results in all four analyzed parameters compared to eyes with NF1-associated OPG. Mean GC-IPL measurements seemed stable and reliable, significantly correlated to pRNFL (correlation coefficient (r) = 0.662, confidence interval (CI) = .507 to .773 p<0.001), VA (r = -0.661, CI = -7.45 to -.551, p<0.001) and VFI (r = 0.644, CI = .452 to .774, p<0.001). GC-IPL measurements were easy to obtain and acquired at considerably younger age than pRNFL (5.6±1.5 vs 6.8±1.3; p<0.001).

Conclusions

The mean GC-IPL thickness could distinguish well between eyes with OPG and eyes without symptomatic OPG in children with NF1. As thinning of GC-IPL assessed with OCT could indicate underlying OPG, it should be included in the screening protocol of children with questionable VA measurements and in particular in children with NF1.
Therapy effect on hand function after home use of a wearable assistive soft-robotic glove supporting grip strength
Authors: Kottink Anke I. R. , Nikamp Corien D. M. , Bos Foskea P. , Sluis Corry K. van der , Broek Marieke van den , Onneweer Bram , . Stolwijk-Swüste Janneke M. , Brink Sander M. , Voet Nicoline B. M. , Rietman Johan S. , Prange-Lasonder Gerdienke B.
Published: July 2024

Background

Soft-robotic gloves with an assist-as-needed control have the ability to assist daily activities where needed, while stimulating active and highly functional movements within the user’s possibilities. Employment of hand activities with glove support might act as training for unsupported hand function.

Objective

To evaluate the therapeutic effect of a grip-supporting soft-robotic glove as an assistive device at home during daily activities.

Methods

This multicentre intervention trial consisted of 3 pre-assessments (averaged if steady state = PRE), one post-assessment (POST), and one follow-up assessment (FU). Participants with chronic hand function limitations were included. Participants used the Carbonhand glove during six weeks in their home environment on their most affected hand. They were free to choose which activities to use the glove with and for how long. The primary outcome measure was grip strength, secondary outcome measures were pinch strength, hand function and glove use time.

Results

63 patients with limitations in hand function resulting from various disorders were included. Significant improvements (difference PRE-POST) were found for grip strength (+1.9 kg, CI 0.8 to 3.1; p = 0.002) and hand function, as measured by Jebson-Taylor Hand Function Test (-7.7 s, CI -13.4 to -1.9; p = 0.002) and Action Research Arm Test (+1.0 point, IQR 2.0; p≤0.001). Improvements persisted at FU. Pinch strength improved slightly in all fingers over six-week glove use, however these differences didn’t achieve significance. Participants used the soft-robotic glove for a total average of 33.0 hours (SD 35.3), equivalent to 330 min/week (SD 354) or 47 min/day (SD 51). No serious adverse events occurred.

Conclusion

The present findings showed that six weeks use of a grip-supporting soft-robotic glove as an assistive device at home resulted in a therapeutic effect on unsupported grip strength and hand function. The glove use time also showed that this wearable, lightweight glove was able to assist participants with the performance of daily tasks for prolonged periods.
Real-world comparative study of drug retention of Janus kinase inhibitors in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Saito Kenji , Yoshida Shuhei , Ebina Honoka , Miyata Masayuki , Suzuki Eiji , Kanno Takashi , Sumichika Yuya , Matsumoto Haruki , Temmoku Jumpei , Fujita Yuya , Matsuoka Naoki , Asano Tomoyuki , Sato Shuzo , Migita Kiyoshi
Published: July 2024

Background

Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors (JAKis) are effective therapeutic agents against rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, patients having RA with particular risk factors may have a higher incidence of adverse effects (AEs), including major cardiovascular events (MACE) and infections. In this multicenter cohort study, we aimed to clarify the risk factors affecting the drug retention of JAKis in patients with RA.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated patients with RA who received their first JAKi (tofacitinib, baricitinib, upadacitinib, or filgotinib) at our institute. The clinical outcomes, including AEs, were recorded, particularly MACE and serious infections. The drug retention rates were analyzed using the Kaplan–Meier method, and risk factors affecting drug retention rates were determined using a multivariable Cox regression hazards model.

Results

Overall 184 patients with RA receiving their first use of baricitinib (57.6%), tofacitinib (23.9%), upadacitinib (12.0%), or filgotinib (6.5%) were included in this study. Fifty-six (30.4%) patients discontinued JAKi treatment owing to ineffectiveness (9.2%) or AEs, including infections (21.2%). The overall drug retention rates were significantly lower in patients treated with pan-JAKi than in those treated with JAK1 inhibitors (p = 0.03). In the Cox regression model, the presence of baseline high RA disease activity, use of glucocorticoid and treatments with pan-JAKis were associated with reduced drug retention rates of JAKis (p < 0.001, p = 0.01 and 0.04, respectively). Pan-JAKi treated patients with high disease activity had significantly lower drug retention rates (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

In a real-world setting, the drug retention rates of JAKis were reduced mainly by treatment discontinuation owing to AEs. Treatment with pan-JAKis and high baseline RA disease activity were identified as predictive factors for the discontinuation of JAKis. Lower drug retention rates were found in patients receiving pan-JAKis with high disease activity than in those without high disease activity.
Intersectionality informed and narrative-shifting whole school approaches for LGBTQ+ secondary school student mental health: A UK qualitative study
Authors: Morgan Amy , Cunningham Emily , Dyrud Juliet , Elliott Liberty , Ige Lauren , Knowles Gemma , Konieczka Lukasz , Mascolo Angela , Sabra Ibrahim , Sabra Sara , Singh E. , Rimes Katharine A. , Woodhead Charlotte
Published: July 2024

School is a key site for prevention and early intervention in public mental health, with sexual and gender minority students being a priority group for action. Context is important in understanding how school inclusion of sexual and gender minorities shapes mental health and well-being, with rapidly changing social and political forces necessitating ongoing research. This coproduced UK secondary school-based study aimed to understand (a) key components of mentally, socially and emotionally healthy school environments for LGBTQ+ students considerate of intersecting minoritised identities; (b) staff information, skills and capacity needs and (c) factors influencing uptake and implementation. Online interviews and focus groups were conducted with 63 participants (22 staff, 32 students (aged 13–19 years), and 9 training providers), diverse in relation to gender and sexual identity, ethnicity, religious and social context. Data were analysed thematically. One overarching theme captured the need for an intersectionality-informed, contextually adaptable, whole school approach which ‘shifts the narrative’ away from deficit thinking, challenging prevailing cis/heteronormative and White norms. This underpinned four themes: (1) ‘Feeling safe, seen and celebrated: embedding intersectional signs, signals and symbols’, (2) ‘Everyone’s business: the need for collaboration’, (3) ‘Embedding a culture of change’, and (4) ‘Re-locating the problem: challenging deficit thinking’. Contextually diverse research is needed which critically addresses ways in which social power enacted interpersonally and structurally serves to hinder schools from enacting LGBTQ+ inclusivity. Evidence to inform and develop implementation strategies for institutional changes and to advocate for wider socio-political support is also key to mitigate the potential for widening inequities linked to inequitable school environments.
Z-number network data envelopment analysis approach: A case study on the Iranian insurance industry
Authors: Seyed Esmaeili Fatemeh Sadat , Mohammadi Emran
Published: July 2024

The main aim of this research is to present an innovative method known as fuzzy network data envelopment analysis (FNDEA) in order to assess the performance of network decision-making units (DMUs) that possess a two-stage structure while taking into account the uncertainty of data. To attain this goal, we utilize various methodologies including the non-cooperative game (leader-follower) NDEA method, the concept of Z-number, credibility theory, and chance-constrained programming (CCP) to develop a model for the fuzzy NDEA approach. The FNDEA approach offers several advantages, such as the linearity of the presented FNDEA models, the ability to rank two-stage DMUs in situations of ambiguity, the provision of a unique efficiency decomposition method in an uncertain environment, and the capability to handle Z-information. To demonstrate the applicability and effectiveness of the proposed approach, we implement the Z-number network data envelopment analysis (ZNDEA) approach in assessing the performance of Iranian private insurance companies. The results of this implementation reveal that the proposed ZNDEA method is suitable and effective for measuring and ranking insurance companies in situations where data ambiguity is present.
Quantifying economic vulnerabilities induced by interdependent networks
Authors: Pourshahabi Shokoufeh , Shutters Shade T. , Muneepeerakul Rachata
Published: July 2024

Under economic globalization, countries are linked through trade and investments. This economic interdependence creates vulnerabilities. The indirect vulnerability induced by interdependent networks of trade and investments can put a country’s economy at risk, but this risk has yet to be systematically quantified and investigated. In this paper, we developed the novel Potential Indirect Vulnerability Index (PIVI) to capture how interdependencies between networks of trade and foreign direct investment (FDI) may induce economic vulnerabilities. The model consisted of three main components: a target country (the importer of goods), an investing country (the exporter of FDI), and the intermediary countries that export commodities to the target country and receive FDI from the investing country, serving as conduits of the vulnerabilities caused indirectly by the investing country. The PIVI quantifies the indirect vulnerabilities based on the product of two fractions: 1) the dependency of the target country on commodities from each intermediary country; and 2) the dependency of each intermediary country on FDI from the investing country. We demonstrated the utility of PIVI by examining the US economy’s vulnerability to China using 2019 trade and FDI data. Several Asian countries and a mix of agricultural products and raw materials were identified as conduits through which China could potentially influence the US economy. Vietnam was a sizeable risk because, while it has been a primary source of many US imports, it also received about 30% of its FDI from China. The US policy makers might opt to increase diversity in trade partners or to promote investment in countries such as Vietnam. We also applied the PIVI analysis to critical minerals, identifying cobalt, tungsten, and copper as the most vulnerability-inducing among them. PIVI is a flexible metric than can be aggregated and modified to provide a more nuanced and focused assessment of an economy’s vulnerability.
Variabilidad espacio-temporal de la humedad superficial del suelo en el sur de la llanura pampeana argentina
Authors: Bohn Vanesa Yael
Published: July 2024

El conocimiento de la dinámica de la humedad del suelo es de gran relevancia para su aplicación en estudios hidrológicos y climáticos, así como también es un parámetro que permite analizar procesos relacionados a usos y coberturas del suelo. Debido a esta importancia, se analizó la dinámica espacio-temporal de la humedad superficial del suelo (HSS) en el sur de la llanura pampeana argentina a partir de datos correspondientes a 6 localidades argentinas y en relación a un índice climático que involucra las variables de precipitación y evapotranspiración. La metodología incluyó análisis estadístico de correlación y estadística multivariada sobre bases de datos modelados y de reanálisis. Los resultados obtenidos muestran diferentes respuestas espaciales de la HSS, con máximos valores en el sector de mayor pluviometría del área de estudio, disminuyendo hacia el de mayor aridez y permitiendo inferir la influencia de la homogeneidad topográfica del área y el predominio de procesos verticales en el balance hídrico. A escala espacial, así como también a escala temporal, la dinámica de la HSS mostró una tendencia similar a la del índice climático, comprobada a través del cálculo del coeficiente de Pearson así como también se demostró que la respuesta de la HSS a los parámetros climáticos obtuvo mayor ajuste a una escala temporal de 3 meses. Dicha respuesta, de la HSS a los parámetros climáticos, se observó a nivel interanual así como también a nivel anual, con valores máximos y mínimos durante los años húmedo y seco, respectivamente y disminuciones de la HSS en las épocas de mayor temperatura (estación de verano). Espacialmente, la HSS mostró la misma tendencia de la precipitación, de NE a SO, es decir, con máximos en la región de mayor pluviometría y mínimos en la región más árida. El manuscrito, a partir del análisis de datos de diversas fuentes, clasificación de períodos sobre la base de su pluviometría y aplicación de métodos estadísticos, constituye un aporte acerca de la dinámica de la variable edáfica en un área en la que las actividades agrícola y ganadera constituyen el principal uso del suelo y en la que la alternancia entre períodos húmedos y secos influye sobre el riesgo de inundación o sobre las pérdidas económicas por desarrollo de intensas sequías, respectivamente.
La reciente migración laboral de población extranjera a los municipios con menor población con relación a la diversificación económica: el caso de la Comunidad Valenciana
Authors: López-Jiménez Juan
Published: July 2024

El aumento de la población extranjera en los municipios con menor población de la Comunidad Valenciana se produjo tras un intenso flujo migratorio anterior a la crisis inmobiliaria y financiera. Este proceso albergó la esperanza de frenar la regresión demográfica que sufre el medio rural. Tras un periodo de pérdida de población se está volviendo de nuevo en los últimos años a una recuperación demográfica de ciertos municipios intermedios y pequeños. El objetivo del presente artículo ha sido establecer la analogía entre el aumento de la población de extranjeros y la diversificación económica en estos municipios de destino para favorecer el crecimiento poblacional. A partir de la utilización de una base de datos de población y empleo por sectores de actividad a escala municipal se han hallado indicadores como las tasas evolutivas, el Índice Gibbs-Martin y diferentes diagramas de dispersión para alcanzar los objetivos planteados. La investigación demuestra que se está produciendo un nuevo aumento de la población extranjera en los municipios intermedios, aquellos que poseen entre 2.000 y 10.000 habitantes y que al contrario que en el periodo previo a la crisis, su distribución coincide con la diversificación económica y del mercado laboral local y no en torno a la especialización productiva.
Spatial variations of runoff thresholds associated with changes in land use over the period 1990-2018 in the Mediterranean side of Andalusia
Authors: Álvarez-García Héctor , Sillero-Medina José Antonio , Pérez-González María Eugenia , Ruiz-Sinoga José Damián
Published: July 2024

The runoff threshold is the amount of precipitation that exceeds the infiltration capacity of the soil and from which water begins to flow over the land surface. Its spatial variation will determine the appearance of a series of processes and risks such as soil erosion, sediment transport, water pollution or flooding, all of which are of great interest in the field of land planning and management. This article provides an update of the runoff threshold in the territorial scope of the Demarcación Hidrográfica de las Cuencas Mediterráneas Andaluzas and evaluates the spatial changes occurred between 1990 and 2018 because of land use dynamics. For this purpose, the methodology described in Regulation 5.2-IC related to surface drainage, of the Instrucción de Carreteras (Ministerio de Obras Públicas y Urbanismo [MOPU], 1990; Ministerio de Fomento, 2016, 2019) was used. The results obtained show very contrasting runoff threshold values, with maximums in the western sector and minimums in the eastern sector. On the other hand, the dynamics of land use changes have led to a significant increase in impermeable surfaces and sclerophyllous vegetation, which has generated a clear reduction in runoff threshold values in different areas, mainly in the eastern region. Specifically, the former forest areas, currently occupied by sclerophyllous vegetation, stand out, with a reduction of 17 mm over an area of approximately 229.1 km2. The conversion of agricultural lands into urban areas is also noteworthy, with a decrease in their retention capacity by up to 14 mm of precipitation, covering a total area of 97.1 km2.
Complementariedad entre el patrimonio natural y cultural para impulsar la actividad turística: un caso de estudio en el Parque Natural de Cornalvo, Extremadura
Authors: Guillén-Peñafiel Rebeca , Hernández-Carretero Ana María , Sánchez-Martín José Manuel
Published: July 2024

El creciente interés por la naturaleza y su conservación ha ocasionado un incremento significativo de las visitas turísticas a los Espacios Naturales Protegidos. Sin embargo, la falta de una planificación coherente y eficaz conlleva riesgos sustanciales. Por tanto, para aprovechar los beneficios del turismo de naturaleza en estos espacios, se requiere una gestión de la actividad basada en criterios de sostenibilidad. Con base en esta premisa, se presenta un estudio de caso con el objetivo de valorar los principales atractivos del Parque Natural de Cornalvo, impulsando su aptitud para promover experiencias ecoturísticas variadas y asociadas a su distintivo ecosistema de dehesas. Para ello, se analizaron las concepciones del personal encargado de la gestión del área protegida mediante el método Delphi. Además, se realizó un análisis DAFO, con la finalidad de aportar información que sirva de base para la toma de decisiones destinadas a revalorizar este espacio. Entre los resultados, se constata la relevancia de establecer circuitos turísticos con la ciudad monumental de Mérida, fomentando el turismo de proximidad. Asimismo, se considera de gran importancia aumentar el diálogo con los propietarios de terrenos dentro de este espacio, con quienes podrían establecerse acuerdos para implementar diversas iniciativas en el Parque.
Farmers’ perception on climate change, soil erosion and adaptation strategies in small rural communities of Mali: case study of the rural municipality of Méguétan
Authors: Katilé Mahamadou Lamine , Bengaly Aboubakar , Traoré Souleymane Sidi , Rodrigo-Comino Jesús
Published: July 2024

The impacts of climate change and soil erosion are significantly affecting agriculture in non-developed countries. In Mali, a country located in Western Africa, there is a drastic reduction in available fertile arable lands and water scarcity, which is damaging rural communities and affecting the development of vital infrastructures, consequently, decreasing people’s incomes. There is a lack of information about the perception of these challenges among the small rural communities and the possible adaptation strategies can be applied. Therefore, the main aim of this study was to determine local farmer perceptions of climate change, soil erosion, and adaptation strategies conducting a survey among 200 farmers in 10 villages within the rural municipality of Méguétan, serving as a representative study case. Our results showed that farmers are aware of the challenges related to climate change and soil erosion and are willing to adopt some measures but conditioned by a range of traditional techniques. The most common strategies are: changing the sowing calendar, diversifying crops, using resistant varieties, having an alternative income, and following weather forecasts on the radio. Stone rows remain the most widely adopted technique to reduce soil erosion, with a knowledge rate of 88% and an application about 29%. The study also highlighted the increasing vulnerability of farmers to climate change and soil erosion due to insufficient material and financial resources. We conclude policies should pay attention to services and partners that invest more funds in technical assistance to strengthen adaptation strategies and teach the population, considering nature-based solutions.
Efectos del cambio de cobertura vegetal en la distribución potencial de la Mosquera (Croton wagneri Müll. arg.) en la cuenca hidrográfica del río Mira, Ecuador
Authors: Jácome-Aguirre Gabriel , Farinango-Guatemal Digna , León-Espinoza Mónica , Rosales-Enríquez Oscar
Published: July 2024

La cuenca hidrográfica del río Mira, ubicada al norte de Ecuador, es considerada un mosaico socio ecológico, sin embargo, las dinámicas productivas y económicas de la zona han sido las principales actividades que han puesto en riesgo su riqueza y endemismo. El presente estudio determina la influencia del cambio de cobertura vegetal en la distribución potencial de Croton wagneri Müll. arg. (Müller, 1872), mediante imágenes satelitales Landsat de los años 2010 y 2018, que fueron usados como insumos dentro de un modelo de máxima entropía (MaxEnt) junto con variables ambientales. Los resultados obtenidos evidenciaron que durante el periodo de estudio existieron pérdidas en la cobertura de bosque (2,26 %), vegetación arbustiva (3,24 %), vegetación xerofítica (1,72 %) y un incremento en los cultivos (3,73 %), pastizales (1,94 %) y zonas urbanas (0,38 %). Es así como los cambios de cobertura influyen significativamente en la distribución potencial de la especie, ya que las áreas con idoneidad muy alta en el periodo (2000-2010) ocupaban 0,80 % de la superficie, cubriendo parroquias como San Miguel de Ibarra, Ambuquí, Salinas, San Vicente de Pusir, Juan Montalvo y la Concepción, mientras que en el periodo (2010-2020) esta se redujo a 0,19 %. Es así como los resultados obtenidos destacan la importancia de implementar medidas de conservación para proteger la biodiversidad local.
The Digital Frontier: 5 Ways Oncology Informatics is Enhancing Cancer Care
Authors: Kaestner Jesse ,   The Cancer Center at BASS Medical Group
Published: July 2024

Informatics has become a transformative force in cancer care, addressing many of the challenges posed by the complex care required to treat this devastating disease. Clinicians and their teams grapple with issues ranging from delayed treatment times to a lack of accessibility to patient documents and other clinical information. Coordinating multidisciplinary care among diverse specialists adds another layer of complexity to the equation.
A menedzsment és a nemzetek gazdagsága
Authors: Szabó Dorottya
Published: July 2024

A World Management Survey (WMS) egy már több mint 20 éve zajló projekt, melynek célja, hogy lehetővé tegye a széleskörű, standardizált és szisztematikus adatgyűjtést a különböző országokban és szektorokban megfigyelhető menedzsment gyakorlatokról. A módszertanhoz köthető első publikált tanulmány négy ország (Egyesült Államok, Egyesült Királyság, Franciaország, Németország) 732, feldolgozóiparban működő középvállalatára terjedt ki. Az elmúlt 22 évben a módszertan széles körben elterjedt, aminek eredményeképp mára 35 különböző országban működő, 20215 megkérdezett vállalat adatait regisztrálták különböző kutatócsoportok. A projekt előrehaladtával a feldolgozóiparon túl egészségügyi és oktatási intézményeket is bevontak az elemzésekbe, a felmérés kérdéseit az adott szektorra szabva.
Primary Hepatic Neuroendocrine Carcinoma: A Rare Entity
Authors: Tidwell Jasmine , Thakkar Bianca , Nguyen Minh Thu T. , Parker Susan , Schoenfeld Adam
Published: July 2024

Neuroendocrine tumors are typically low-malignancy growths arising from neuroectodermal cells of neural crest origin. Neuroendocrine carcinoma, on the other hand, represents a high-malignancy form of these tumors. While rare in the liver, they often indicate metastasis when present. We present a unique case of incidentally discovered primary hepatic neuroendocrine carcinoma. Initially, the patient's management was based on misleading radiological findings. However, histopathology confirmed the diagnosis, with subsequent imaging ruling out an extrahepatic source. Despite this, the patient opted against surgical intervention, resulting in a fatal outcome. This case underscores the critical importance of prompt diagnosis and intervention to avert adverse outcomes.
Novel Use of AXIOS Stent for Concurrent Management of Achalasia and Esophageal Varices in a Cirrhotic Patient
Authors: Tawfik Mark , Chain Stephanie , Elfiky Ahmed , Abureesh Mohammad , Gurala Dhineshreddy , Andrawes Sherif , El Douaihy Youssef
Published: July 2024

AXIOS stents create an anastomotic connection between 2 lumens, facilitating bypass of blockages and strictures as well as drainage of large fluid collections. Historically, AXIOS stents have primarily been used for draining pancreatic fluid collections, with no documented cases of their use within the esophagus until now. In this article, we present a case of a 65-year-old man with cirrhosis admitted for dysphagia. On evaluation, he was diagnosed with type 1 achalasia and concurrent esophageal varices. A novel approach was used, utilizing an AXIOS stent, to provide both symptomatic relief and targeted treatment for his varices.
Necrotizing Sarcoid Granulomatosis With Hepatic Involvement and Reversible Noncirrhotic Portal Hypertension
Authors: Jasti Vivek V. , Hanje Adam J.
Published: July 2024

Necrotizing sarcoid granulomatosis falls within the spectrum of sarcoidosis and is characterized by features of necrosis and granulomatous vasculitis. Like classical sarcoidosis, it can affect numerous organ systems, and there is a wide range of disease activity. Few cases of necrotizing sarcoid granulomatosis have been reported in the liver. We present a case of necrotizing sarcoid granulomatosis associated with noncirrhotic portal hypertension.
The Comfort of Knitted Materials for Sportswear: A Focus on Air and Water Vapour Permeability
Authors: Salopek Čubrić Ivana , Pavko Čuden Alenka , Čubrić Goran , Potočić Matković Vesna Marija
Published: July 2024

Factors such as the growing popularity of sports, changing lifestyles and the increasing number of sporting events contribute significantly to the popularity of sports textiles. Sports textiles play an important role in the performance of athletes, as they need to provide freedom of movement and comfort to the wearer during activity. In this paper, seven conventional and high-performance polyamide and polyester yarns were selected for the development of knitted fabrics for sportswear. The fabrics were manufactured as single jersey and double jersey structures, both with and without incorporated elastane yarn. The fabrics manufactured were tested for mass per unit area, fabric thickness, fabric density, porosity, air permeability and water vapour permeability. The results of the study indicate that the air permeability of all four fabric groups shows a strong correlation with the measured porosity. The average water vapour permeability of single jersey fabrics is significantly higher than that of double jersey fabrics, and the addition of elastane leads to a further reduction. The correlation between the water vapour permeability and the thickness of single jersey, elastane-plated single jersey and double jersey fabrics is negative.
¿Derecho penal de un estado de derecho? Sobre la extrema decadencia del Derecho penal desde la perspectiva del Estado de Derecho
Authors: Pedreira González Félix María
Published: July 2024

Con diferentes argumentos y pretextos, fundamentalmente utilitaristas e ideológicos, el Derecho penal ha sido objeto de una constante, progresiva y preocupante degradación desde el punto de vista del Estado de Derecho, entendido en sentido amplio. En el presente artículo se analiza y valora esta situación a diferentes niveles (legislativo, aplicativo y doctrinal) ofreciendo ejemplos que reflejan la evolución de esta tendencia y que, con mayor o menor intensidad, han contribuido a la situación actual de extrema decadencia del Derecho penal desde la perspectiva del Estado de Derecho.
La apreciación de la insuperabilidad del miedo, una posible impostura
Authors: Arregui Montoya Rocío
Published: July 2024

El presente trabajo analiza la eximente del miedo insuperable, su naturaleza, requisitos y aspectos a considerar para su apreciación, planteando asimismo el verdadero efecto de tal figura en la más reciente jurisprudencia del Tribunal Supremo y exponiendo la problemática actual y posibles soluciones a la misma.
Rola crowdfundingu udziałowego w finansowaniu przedsiębiorstw w Polsce
Authors: Kozioł-Nadolna Katarzyna
Published: July 2024

Dostęp do kapitału jest jednym z problemów, z jakim mają do czynienia właściciele przedsiębiorstw z sektora małych i średnich przedsiębiorstw (MŚP) w Polsce. Brak kapitału może przełożyć się na pogorszenie pozycji konkurencyjnej przedsiębiorstwa. Crowdfunding udziałowy jest w miarę nowym źródłem finansowania dla przedsiębiorstw. Celem artykułu jest przedstawienie crowdfundingu w modelu udziałowym Polsce w okresie 2012–2022 i możliwości jego wykorzystania przez przedsiębiorstwa jako źródła finansowania. Badaniem objęto platformy crowdfundingowe w modelu udziałowym. W zarysie przedstawiono także rynek crowdfundingu donacyjnego. W artykule posłużono się analizą porównawczą na podstawie analizy literatury przedmiotu, wnioskowaniem indukcyjno-dedukcyjnym i analizą desk research. Na podstawie przeprowadzonych badań można stwierdzić, że w okresie 2012–2016 crowdfunding udziałowy nie był źródłem pozyskiwania kapitału dla przedsiębiorstw. Sytuacja zaczęła zmieniać się w kolejnych latach. Szybki wzrost crowfundingu udziałowego (więcej platform, więcej spółek, więcej emisji) zaobserwowano w latach 2019–2021. Zmieniły się także perspektywy rozwoju crowdfundingu udziałowego, weszły w życie przepisy prawne, które nadały crowdfundingowi ramy formalne i instytucjonalne, co ma przełożyć się w znacznym stopniu na jego rozwój.
Evaluating anemia in HIV-infected patients using chest CT
Authors: Zhang Le , Bi Yan , Qi Min , Fu Xu-Wen , Wei Jia-Lu , Gan Wei , Zhu Long , Li Xiang , Bai Jin-Song
Published: July 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the role of the Hounsfield unit value of chest CT non-contrast enhanced scan in evaluating the severity of anemia in HIV-infected patients.

Methods

Patients with HIV infection combined with anemia admitted to the Kunming Third People’s Hospital were retrospectively collected and divided into mild anemia, moderate anemia, and severe anemia groups by peripheral hemoglobin (HB) content and calculated the ratio of ventricular septum density (VSD) to left ventricular density (LVD) and VSD to right ventricular density (RVD); then, the above patients were divided into the critical value group and the non-critical value group according to HB and compared the differences of LVD, RVD, VSD/LVD, and VSD/RVD in the two groups of patients.

Results

A total of 126 patients were included, with a mean age of 47.9 ± 11.1 years; 43 cases were in the mild anemia group, 59 cases were in the moderate anemia group, and 24 cases were in the severe anemia group; the differences in LVD, RVD, VSD/LVD, and VSD/RVD were significant in the three groups; VSD/LVD was an independent predictor for the diagnosis of anemia critical value in the non-critical value group vs critical value group by multifactorial binary logistic regression analysis, and the ROC was plotted using VSD/LVD with an area under the curve of 0.731.

Conclusions

The measurement of cardiac cavity density and ventricular septal density under CT plain film scan has a high accuracy in evaluating the severity of anemia in patients with HIV infection and can quickly determine the severity of HIV infection in the early stage and treat it as soon as possible.
A review of gallium phosphide nanophotonics towards omnipotent nonlinear devices
Authors: Wang Yifan , Pan Ziyu , Yan Yongxian , Yang Yatao , Zhao Wenhua , Ding Ning , Tang Xingyu , Wu Pengzhuo , Zhao Qiancheng , Li Yi
Published: July 2024

Gallium phosphide (GaP) has been increasingly prioritized, fueled by the enormous demands in visible light applications such as biomedical and quantum technologies. GaP has garnered tremendous attention in nanophotonics thanks to its high refractive index, indirect bandgap width of 2.26 eV, lattice perfectly matched with silicon, and omnipotent and competitive nonlinear optical properties. Herein, we review the progress and application of GaP in nanoscale devices over the past two decades. The material properties of bulk GaP are first listed, followed by a summary of the methodologies for fabricating nanoscale devices and related integration techniques. Then, we digest the operational mechanisms across different GaP-based devices on their optical linear responses. Following this, we categorize the GaP nonlinear optical effects into multiple aspects including second-harmonic generation, four-wave mixing, Kerr optical frequency combs, etc. Ultimately, we present a perspective on GaP nanophotonics in the context of coexisting and competing modes of various nonlinear effects. We believe that a comprehensive overview of unique GaP will propel these nanophotonic devices toward a mature state, underpinning foundational understanding and leveraging practical innovations.
Second harmonic generation in monolithic gallium phosphide metasurfaces
Authors: Yang Muyi , Weissflog Maximilian A. , Fedorova Zlata , Barreda Angela I. , Börner Stefan , Eilenberger Falk , Pertsch Thomas , Staude Isabelle
Published: July 2024

Gallium phosphide (GaP) offers unique opportunities for nonlinear and quantum nanophotonics due to its wide optical transparency range, high second-order nonlinear susceptibility, and the possibility to tailor the nonlinear response by a suitable choice of crystal orientation. However, the availability of single crystalline thin films of GaP on low index substrates, as typically required for nonlinear dielectric metasurfaces, is limited. Here we designed and experimentally realized monolithic GaP metasurfaces for enhanced and tailored second harmonic generation (SHG). We fabricated the metasurfaces from bulk (110) GaP wafers using electron-beam lithography and an optimized inductively coupled plasma etching process without a hard mask. SHG measurements showed a high NIR-to-visible conversion efficiency reaching up to 10−5, at the same level as typical values for thin-film-based metasurface designs based on III–V semiconductors. Furthermore, using nonlinear back-focal plane imaging, we showed that a significant fraction of the second harmonic was emitted into the zeroth diffraction order along the optical axis. Our results demonstrate that monolithic GaP metasurfaces are a simple and broadly accessible alternative to corresponding thin film designs for many applications in nonlinear nanophotonics.
Free electrons spin-dependent Kapitza–Dirac effect in two-dimensional triangular optical lattice
Authors: Tian Jiahao , Liu Fang , Xiong Xiaotong , Huang Yidong
Published: July 2024

The free electron spin dynamics in Kapitza–Dirac (KD) effect had been studied theoretically in one-dimensional standing wave of EUV to X-ray laser with extremely high intensity, which is far beyond experimental realization. Here, we propose to achieve the free electron spin-dependent KD effect in two-dimensional triangular optical lattice with spatial inversion symmetry breaking, and the theoretical results reveal that laser with wavelength in visible or near-IR and five orders of magnitude decreased intensity could lead to obvious spin-dependent KD effect. This work provides the way to realize the free electron spin-dependent KD effect experimentally.
X-chromosome linked genes associated with myeloid cell CNS trafficking contributes to female–male differences in the disease outcome for neuroinflammatory diseases
Authors: Darchiashvili Sopiko , Kulkarni Ratuja , Tandon Ritesh , Deak Peter , Nguyen Kayla L. , Jain Pooja
Published: July 2024

Certain diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a chronic demyelinating disease, affect more women than men, despite males appearing to be predisposed to infections and malignancies. X-linked genes contribute to increased MS susceptibility. Currently, an immense body of research exists that explores the complexity surrounding underlying risk factors for MS development including X-chromosome-linked inflammatory processes. Female–male disparities in disease susceptibility have been found at both the gene and chromosomal level. Genes such as CXORF21 and DDX3X can escape X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) and contribute to various disease pathogenesis. Additionally, blocking immune cell entry to the central nervous system (CNS) can have a major impact on MS. Prior research on MS has shown that immune cells such as T cells and dendritic cells (DCs) infiltrate the CNS. Due to persistent tissue stress, these cells may induce local inflammation and autoimmunity, subsequent neurodegeneration, and both the onset and progression of MS. Chemokines are signaling proteins which regulate leukocyte trafficking to the site of injury, contributing to cell recruitment, CNS inflammation, and disease severity. Some chemokine receptors (CXCR3) are X-linked and may escape XCI. This review provides an account of the contribution of x-linked genes in MS in relation to the chemotaxis of myeloid cells into CNS and subsequent neuroinflammation. The impact of the X-chromosome on autoimmunity, including XCI and the expression of X-linked genes is evaluated. Collectively, the analyses from this review seek to advance both our understanding of MS and advocate for more patient-specific therapies.
Redefining a new frontier in alkaptonuria therapy with AI-driven drug candidate design via in-
silico innovation
Authors: Naveed Muhammad , Javed Khushbakht , Aziz Tariq , Zafar Ali , Fatima Mahnoor , Ali Imran , Khan Ayaz Ali , Albekairi Thamer H.
Published: July 2024

A rare metabolic condition called alkaptonuria (AKU) is caused by a decrease in homogentisate 1,2 dioxygenase (HGO) activity due to a mutation in homogentisate dioxygenase (HGD) gene. Homogentisic acid is a byproduct of the catabolism of tyrosine and phenylalanine that darkens the urine and accumulates in connective tissues which causes an agonizing arthritis. Employing the use of deep learning artificial intelligence (AI) drug design, this study aims to alleviate the current toxicity of the AKU drugs currently in use, particularly nitisinone, by utilizing the natural flavanol kaempferol molecule as a 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase inhibitor. Kaempferol was employed to generate three effective de novo drug candidates targeting the enzyme 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase using an AI drug design tool. We present novel AIK formulations in the present study. The AIK’s (Artificial Intelligence Kaempferol) examination of drug-likeliness among the three led to its choice as a possible target. The toxicity assessment research of AIK demonstrates that it is not only safer to use than other treatments, but also more efficient. The docking of the AIGT with 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase, which revealed a binding affinity of around −9.099 kcal/mol, highlights the AIK’s potential as a therapeutic candidate. An innovative approach to deal with challenging circumstances is thus presented in this study by new formulations kaempferol that have been meticulously designed by AI. The results of the in vitro tests must be confirmed in vivo, even though AI-designed AIK is effective and sufficiently safe as computed.