bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A prospective registry study of the epidemiology and management of childhood cancer in the Gambia—The first year experience
Authors: Adegoke Samuel , Jallow Cherno , Ogun Olufunmilola , Camara Wuday , Jaiteh Musa , Mendy Peter , Ogun Gabriel , Leigh Ousman , Pizer Barry 
Published: September 2024

AbstractBackground and AimGlobally, over 180,000 children develop cancers yearly, with about 80% residing in low‐ or middle‐income countries where cancer‐associated mortality is also high. In The Gambia, cumulative incidence rate of 27.6 childhood cancers/million population was reported between 2002 and 2011. The current study appraised newly‐established pediatric oncological services in The Gambia.MethodsIn this prospective registry study, children with cancer who presented at the pediatric units, Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital, Banjul, between November 2022 and October 2023 were assessed. Data on sociodemographic variables, mode of admission and presentation, tumor type, diagnostic methods, and challenges such as laboratory support, treatment, use of blood/blood products; and eventual outcome were analyzed.ResultsThe median (interquartile range, IQR) age at presentation of the 44 children was 36.0 (22.3–117.0) months. Wilms tumor was the most common tumor 12 (27.3%); followed by leukemia 11 (25.0%); germ cell tumor 8 (18.2%); lymphoma 6 (13.6%); retinoblastoma 4 (9.1%); rhabdomyosarcoma 2 (4.5%) and one central nervous system tumor (2.3%). The median(IQR) duration of symptoms before presentation was 48 (21–90) days, presentation to diagnosis 7.5 (3–20.8) days, and first symptom to diagnosis 62.5 (32–126.8) days. Treatment refusal and abandonment rates were 20.5% and 13.6%, respectively. Families of 93.8% of children could not procure cytotoxic drugs due to nonavailability, high cost, or both. Adequate laboratory monitoring was only available in 6.8%, and none had platelet concentrate transfusion or radiotherapy. The nine (20.5%) who completed treatment are currently being followed up, 10(22.7%) are still receiving chemotherapy, while 2(4.5%) were referred. Eight (18.2%) died, predominantly from metastasis (75%) and severe drug toxicities (25%).ConclusionLate presentation and diagnosis, poverty, unavailability of drugs, suboptimal or lack of laboratory testing, blood product, adjuvant medications, and psychosocial supports contributed to high treatment refusal, abandonment, and mortality. These daunting challenges can be ameliorated with regular community sensitization, frequent cancer auditing, and strong political will.
Enterprise risk management implementation challenges in medical laboratories in Harare, Zimbabwe
Authors: Vhanda Donald , Chinowaita Kudzai , Chinowaita Frank , Vhanda Reynold , Nherera Brenda , Dzinamarira Tafadzwa , Chitungo Itai James Blessing 
Published: September 2024

AbstractBackgroundMedical laboratories play crucial roles in healthcare, and effective enterprise risk management (ERM) is necessary to ensure business continuity, patient safety, and quality of care. In medical laboratories, ERM is important for enhancing patient safety, regulatory compliance and accreditation, quality management, business continuity, and cyber security. By following ERM principles and approaches, the medical laboratories can proactively manage their risks, improve patient safety, and maintain a high level of quality and reliability of outcomes. However, implementing ERM in medical laboratories faces unique challenges. This study explored the specific challenges and offers practical solutions for overcoming them to ensure successful ERM implementation in Harare, Zimbabwe.MethodologyA cross‐sectional survey was done through 41 self‐administered questionnaires and interviews with medical laboratory staff from the six main medical laboratories in Harare. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 22. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages. Qualitative data were analyzed using mean scores of Likert scale responses.ResultsThe main challenges identified in the study included increased workload, staffing, organizational structures, timeliness of information, inadequate information technology support, and insufficient financial support in ERM. These can be addressed by portfolio management of risks, leveraging on cutting edge technology, restructuring to ensure swift responses to issues and redistributing staff workload, and training personnel to avoid burnouts and ensure maximum efficiency.ConclusionImplementing ERM in medical laboratories requires understanding and addressing these challenges. By following the ERM principles and approaches the medical laboratories can proactively manage their risks, improve patient safety and maintain a high level of quality and reliability of outcomes ERM is still a new approach in the sector and needs further research.
Emerging chemistry in improving the metabolism or degradability of organic/polymeric conjugated materials for biomedical applications
Authors: Tian Yu , Wu Wenbo , Li Zhong'an 
Published: September 2024

AbstractOrganic/polymeric conjugated materials are playing an increasingly important role in biomedical field. Their special properties such as fluorescence, photosensitization, and photothermal conversion make them promising candidates for disease diagnosis and phototherapy. However, these conjugated materials are usually extremely hydrophobic, so they tend to take a relatively long time to be excreted or metabolized after theranostics, leading to unpredictable side effects, which has made their clinical implementation a daunting task. In this review, we will focus on the safety of organic/polymeric conjugated materials for biomedical applications and discuss in detail the general strategies to improve their metabolism or degradability by rational molecular design, based on representative examples. Finally, the challenges and opportunities are also presented by considering further perspectives.
Adapting Segment Anything Model for 3D Brain Tumor Segmentation With Missing Modalities
Authors: Lei Xiaoliang , Yu Xiaosheng , Bai Maocheng , Zhang Jingsi , Wu Chengdong 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTThe problem of missing or unavailable magnetic resonance imaging modalities challenges clinical diagnosis and medical image analysis technology. Although the development of deep learning and the proposal of large models have improved medical analytics, this problem still needs to be better resolved.The purpose of this study was to efficiently adapt the Segment Anything Model, a two‐dimensional visual foundation model trained on natural images, to address the challenge of brain tumor segmentation with missing modalities. We designed a twin network structure that processes missing and intact magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) modalities separately using shared parameters. It involved comparing the features of two network branches to minimize differences between the feature maps derived from them. We added a multimodal adapter before the image encoder and a spatial–depth adapter before the mask decoder to fine‐tune the Segment Anything Model for brain tumor segmentation. The proposed method was evaluated using datasets provided by the MICCAI BraTS2021 Challenge. In terms of accuracy and robustness, the proposed method is better than existing solutions. The proposed method can segment brain tumors well under the missing modality condition.
Cross‐Layer Connection SegFormer Attention U‐Net for Efficient TRUS Image Segmentation
Authors: Shi Yongtao , Du Wei , Gao Chao , Li Xinzhi 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTAccurately and rapidly segmenting the prostate in transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) images remains challenging due to the complex semantic information in ultrasound images. The paper discusses a cross‐layer connection with SegFormer attention U‐Net for efficient TRUS image segmentation. The SegFormer framework is enhanced by reducing model parameters and complexity without sacrificing accuracy. We introduce layer‐skipping connections for precise positioning and combine local context with global dependency for superior feature recognition. The decoder is improved with Multi‐layer Perceptual Convolutional Block Attention Module (MCBAM) for better upsampling and reduced information loss, leading to increased accuracy. The experimental results show that compared with classic or popular deep learning methods, this method has better segmentation performance, with the dice similarity coefficient (DSC) of 97.55% and the intersection over union (IoU) of 95.23%. This approach balances encoder efficiency, multi‐layer information flow, and parameter reduction.
An Automatic Measurement Method of the Tibial Deformity Angle on X‐Ray Films Based on Deep Learning Keypoint Detection Network
Authors: Zhao Ning , Chang Cheng , Liu Yuanyuan , Li Xiao , Song Zicheng , Guo Yue , Chen Jianwen , Sun Hao 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTIn the clinical application of the parallel external fixator, medical practitioners are required to quantify deformity parameters to develop corrective strategies. However, manual measurement of deformity angles is a complex and time‐consuming process that is susceptible to subjective factors, resulting in nonreproducible results. Accordingly, this study proposes an automatic measurement method based on deep learning, comprising three stages: tibial segment localization, tibial contour point detection, and deformity angle calculation. First, the Faster R‐CNN object detection model, combined with ResNet50 and FPN as the backbone, was employed to achieve accurate localization of tibial segments under both occluded and nonoccluded conditions. Subsequently, a relative position constraint loss function was added, and ResNet101 was used as the backbone, resulting in an improved RTMPose keypoint detection model that achieved precise detection of tibial contour points. Ultimately, the bone axes of each tibial segment were determined based on the coordinates of the contour points, and the deformity angles were calculated. The enhanced keypoint detection model, Con_RTMPose, elevated the Percentage of Correct Keypoints (PCK) from 63.94% of the initial model to 87.17%, markedly augmenting keypoint localization precision. Compared to manual measurements conducted by medical professionals, the proposed methodology demonstrates an average error of 0.52°, a maximum error of 1.15°, and a standard deviation of 0.07, thereby satisfying the requisite accuracy standards for orthopedic assessments. The measurement time is approximately 12 s, whereas manual measurement requires about 15 min, greatly reducing the time required. Additionally, the stability of the models was verified through K‐fold cross‐validation experiments. The proposed method meets the accuracy requirements for orthopedic applications, provides objective and reproducible results, significantly reduces the workload of medical professionals, and greatly improves efficiency.
Simulation Design of a Triple Antenna Combination for PET‐MRI Imaging Compatible With 3, 7, and 11.74 T MRI Scanner
Authors: Hernandez Daniel , Nam Taewoo , Lee Eunwoo , Ko Guen Bae , Lee Jae Sung , Kim Kyoung‐Nam 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTThe use of electromagnetism and the design of antennas in the field of medical imaging have played important roles in clinical practice. Specifically, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) utilizes transmission and reception antennas, or coils, that are tuned to specific frequencies depending on the strength of the main magnet. Clinical scanners operating at 3 Teslas (T) function at a frequency of 127 MHz, while research scanners at 7 T operate at 300 MHz. An 11.74 T scanner for human imaging, which is currently under development, will operate at a frequency of 500 MHz. MRI allows for the high‐definition scanning of biological tissues, making it a valuable tool for enhancing images acquired with positron emission tomography (PET). PET is an imaging modality used to evaluate the metabolism of organs or cancers. With recent advancements in the development of portable PET systems that can be integrated into any MRI scanner, we propose the design based on electromagnetic simulations of a triple‐tuned array of dipole antennas to operate at 127, 300, and 500 MHz. This array can be attached to the PET inset and used in 3, 7, or 11.74 T scanners.
Challenges and solutions in FISH for formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tissue: A scoping review
Authors: Lemes Cássia Campanhol , Germano da Silva Andressa , Ribeiro Daniel Araki , Malinverni Andréa Cristina de Moraes 
Published: September 2024

AbstractFluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) has revolutionized molecular cytogenetic analysis since the 1980s, enabling precise localization of DNA sequences in cells and tissues. Despite its relevance, applying FISH to formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) tissue samples encounters significant technical challenges. This review addresses the main issues encountered in this context, such as inadequate fixation, contamination, block and slide age, inadequate pretreatment, and FISH technique. Proposed solutions include optimized pretreatment protocols, monitoring of blockage, careful selection of probes, and thorough analysis of results. Implementing good laboratory practices and quality control strategies are essential to ensure reliable results. Additionally, the use of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and digital pathology offers new perspectives for improving the efficiency and accuracy of FISH in FFPE samples. This review highlights the importance of a careful and personalized approach to overcome the technical challenges associated with FISH in FFPE samples, strengthening its role in research and clinical diagnosis.Research Highlights
Few FISH studies on FFPE: The scarcity of studies specifically addressing FISH applications in FFPE tissues highlights a critical gap in the literature.
Troubleshooting FISH in FFPE tissues: Identifying and addressing common challenges in FISH techniques when applied to FFPE samples, such as signal quality and hybridization efficiency.
Critical aspects of FISH technique: Discuss the main technical considerations crucial for successful FISH in FFPE tissues, including sample preparation, probe selection, and protocol optimization.
Liver transplant recipients have worse metabolic body phenotype compared with matched non‐transplant controls
Authors: Bhati Chandra , Kirkman Danielle , Forsgren Mikael F , Kamal Hiba , Khan Hiba , Boyett Sherry , Leinhard Olof Dahlqvist , Linge Jennifer , Patel Vaishali , Patel Samarth , Wolver Susan , Siddiqui Mohammad S 
Published: September 2024

AbstractBackground and AimQuantification of body compartments, particularly the interaction between adipose tissue and skeletal muscle, is emerging as novel a biomarker of metabolic health. The present study evaluated the impact of liver transplant (LT) on body compartments.MethodsTotally 66 adult LT recipients were enrolled in whom body compartments including visceral adipose tissue (VAT), abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue (ASAT), muscle fat infiltration (MFI), fat‐free muscle volume (FFMV), and liver fat (LF) were quantified via whole body magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). To provide non‐LT comparison, each LT recipient was matched to at least 150 non‐LT controls for same sex, age, and body mass index (BMI) from the UK Biobank registry.ResultsLT recipients (vs matched non‐LT controls) had significantly higher subcutaneous (13.82 ± 5.47 vs 12.10 ± 5.10 L, P < 0.001) and visceral fat (7.59 ± 3.75 vs 6.72 ± 3.06 L, P = 0.003) and lower LF (5.88 ± 7.14 vs 8.75 ± 6.50%, P < 0.001) and muscle volume (11.69 ± 2.95 vs 12.12 ± 2.90 L, P = 0.027). In subgroup analysis, patients transplanted for metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatohepatitis (MASH) cirrhosis (vs non‐MASH cirrhosis) had higher ASAT, VAT, and MFI. A trend toward higher LF content was noted; however, this did not reach statistical significance (6.90 ± 7.35 vs 4.04 ± 6.23%, P = 0.189). Finally, compared with matched non‐LT controls, patients transplanted for MASH cirrhosis had higher ASAT and VAT; however, FFMV and MFI were similar.ConclusionUsing non‐LT controls, the current study established the higher‐than‐expected adiposity burden among LT recipients, which is even higher among patients transplanted for MASH cirrhosis. These findings provide data needed to design future studies developing radiomics‐based risk‐stratification strategies in LT recipients.
An epistemology of empathy and modern methods of social research: Intimations of the mind and early Chicago sociology
Authors: Hermanowicz Joseph C. 
Published: September 2024

AbstractEmpathic qualitative methods have become emblematic of early Chicago sociology. Yet methods were not formalized through the early 20th century and empathy was not in usage as a term. Only at mid‐20th century did methodological formalization in sociology begin to occur, and an additional quarter‐century passed before writing about empathy in sociological methods began to crystallize. Nevertheless, a portion of early Chicago sociologists, assimilating pragmatist thought, established a framework for the deployment of empathic acumen. Because empathy involves understanding others, it is argued that it is central to the study of social life. The article contends that understanding empathy must be as central to the social scientist's knowledge as it is to the effective deployment of research methods: a competent quest to generate knowledge about social life is premised on empathy. To heighten awareness of empathy, an epistemology is necessary. To this end, the article examines empathy as situated by a set of organizational and historical conditions that account for its origin and ascendance as a prescriptive characteristic of sociological work. The author draws attention to the significance of suffering and suggests that its religious precepts are transmuted for the conditions under which sociology develops in turn‐of‐the‐century Chicago.
Synthetic Approaches Toward Imidazo‐Fused Heterocycles: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Kushwaha Pragati , Rashi  , Bhardwaj Ayush , Khan Danish 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTImidazole moiety when fused with other heterocyclic system form numerous compounds with different types of pharmacological and biological activities. In this review, we discussed a comprehensive analysis of the synthetic methodologies and reaction mechanisms for imidazo‐fused heterocyclic molecules. These molecules represent a crucial class of compounds due to their significant applications and versatile chemical reactivity. This article meticulously examined various synthetic routes for the construction of imidazo‐fused heterocycles, ranging from traditional methods to modern approaches such as microwave‐assisted reactions, NPs‐catalyzed reactions, light‐mediated synthesis, electrochemical reactions, and transition metal‐free synthesis routes. By consolidating the current knowledge and highlighting future directions, this review aims to serve as a treasure for research community in the fields of organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, and material science.
Sacsin levels in PBMCs: A diagnostic assay for SACS variants in peripheral blood cells – A PROSPAX study
Authors: Tunca Ceren , İşlek Camadan Eylül Ece , Smolina Natalia , Palvadeau Robin J. , Öztop Çakmak Özgür , Vural Atay , Traschütz Andreas , Santorelli Filippo M. , Brais Bernard , Schüle Rebecca , Synofzik Matthis , Başak A. Nazlı 
Published: September 2024

AbstractBackgroundAutosomal recessive spastic ataxia of Charlevoix‐Saguenay (ARSACS) is a common recessive ataxia that is still underdiagnosed worldwide. An easily accessible diagnostic biomarker might help to diagnostically confirm patients presenting SACS variants of unknown significance (VUS) or atypical phenotypes.ObjectivesTo detect sacsin in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and to validate its diagnostic biomarker quality to discriminate biallelic SACS patients (including patients with VUS and/or atypical phenotypes) against healthy controls, non‐ARSACS spastic ataxia patients, and heterozygous SACS carriers.MethodsSacsin protein levels in PBMCs were assessed in patients versus controls and validated in skin‐derived fibroblasts.ResultsPatients with biallelic SACS variants – including patients with VUS and/or atypical phenotypes – showed loss of sacsin in PBMCs, with discriminative performance against healthy, heterozygous, and non‐ARSACS controls. This included all investigated SACS missense variants. Also, C‐terminal variants escaping nonsense‐mediated decay, while not differing from controls in expression level, showed lower molecular weight in this assay.ConclusionsAssessing sacsin levels using PBMCs offers an easy, peripherally accessible diagnostic biomarker for ARSACS, with PBMCs being much less invasive and easier to handle than fibroblasts. Additionally, this might be a potential target‐engagement blood biomarker for sacsin‐increasing therapies.
The status of professional autonomy and its predictors in clinical nurses in Iran
Authors: Balasi Leila Rouhi , Hazrati Maryam , Ashouri Asieh , Ebadi Abbas , Elahi Nasrin 
Published: September 2024

AbstractAimThe present study aimed to assess professional autonomy among clinical nurses and identify its predictors using a native and contemporary tool, which is in line with the recent advancement in nursing professionalism in Iran.DesignThe study used an analytical cross‐sectional design.MethodsA total of 1601 nurses working in medical centres nationwide under the Ministry of Health participated in the study. The research instrument consisted of two parts, including individual and organizational characteristics and a questionnaire on clinical nurses' professional autonomy. Data analysis involved descriptive and inferential statistics as well as multiple logistic regression analysis using SPSS software.ResultsThe results indicated that the total professional autonomy score among clinical nurses was 75.86 ± 12.03, with the majority (n = 1262, 78.9%) reporting high professional autonomy. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that nurses with 5–15 years of experience had 1.82 times higher odds (95% confidence interval: 2.47–1.35) of having high professional autonomy compared to those with less than 5 years of experience. Similarly, nurses with over 15 years of experience had 2.25 times higher odds (95% confidence interval: 1.56–3.26). Head nurses had 4.56 times higher odds (95% confidence interval: 2.60–7.99) of having high professional autonomy compared to clinical nurses.ConclusionEducational interventions to enhance the professional autonomy of less experienced nurses, with more experienced nurses serving as role models, are recommended. Additionally, measures such as supporting nurses, providing effective communication training and empowering nurses are essential to promote professional mutual respect among nurses.No Patient or Public ContributionThis study explored professional autonomy in clinical nurses in Iran. No patient or public contribution was investigated.