Objective Quality Research Articles

The impacts of public space flagship projects on local communities: evidence from Atigh Square of Isfahan, Iran

The examination of the comprehensive effects of flagship projects on adjacent neighborhoods remains inadequately explored, particularly within developing countries. This scholarly void is expanding despite limited research on public space flagship projects. The current study delves into a problematic case study: Atigh Square, located within the historical center of Isfahan, Iran. This site has undergone substantial efforts to transform into a pedestrian-oriented public space, aimed at recapturing its original configuration fro the eleventh century. The 5 criteria of identity, economy, social, physical, and tourism features and 22 indicators attributed to them were extracted from the theoretical literature. Mixed methods research was pursued, using seminal publications, quantitative data from a questionnaire, and qualitative analysis of interviews conducted with several experts. Furthermore, the integration and connectivity of the area before and after regeneration was compared using Depth map software package. The results of the analysis show that the impact of the project in social, identity-related, infrastructural, and economic sub-criteria was weak, but it achieved relative success in terms of planning and tourism indicators. Besides, the sanitation sub-class received the highest rank whereas facilities and public services had the lowest rank among the sub-classes. As with the subjective and objective quality of life, the project was not a great success. Overall, although the project has considerably enhanced the physical and visual conditions of the area, it has failed to solve the social and economic problems of the surrounding fabric. The findings significantly contribute to the existing body of global literature concerning the impacts of flagship projects on surrounding areas, as the research explores diverse facets of these effects. The results underscore the necessity for flagship projects to be meticulously planned, taking into account not only the specific circumstances and challenges of local communities but also their integration into the broader socio-economic dynamics of the entire city.

Circulating tumour DNA fraction as a predictor of treatment efficacy in a randomized phase 2 trial of [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617 (LuPSMA) versus cabazitaxel in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) progressing after docetaxel (TheraP ANZUP 1603).

5055 Background: The TheraP trial showed that for patients with PSMA-positive, non-FDG-discordant mCRPC progressing after docetaxel, LuPSMA significantly improved biochemical and objective response rates, progression-free survival (PFS), and quality of life compared to cabazitaxel. While subsequent studies nominated high PSMA SUVmean to inform patient prioritization for LuPSMA, limited genomic data exists to guide optimal selection of these two life-prolonging therapies. We present an exploratory analysis of ctDNA fraction (ctDNA%) in baseline samples from the TheraP trial. Methods: We analyzed 180 baseline blood samples from participants who received ≥1 cycle of protocol-assigned treatment. Plasma cell-free DNA and matched white blood cell DNA underwent targeted sequencing to estimate ctDNA%. Prespecified ctDNA% categories (<2%, 2-30%, and >30%) were associated with previously validated imaging thresholds (PSMA SUVmean ≥10 and FDG metabolic tumor volume [MTV] ≥200mL), rate of PSA reduction ≥50% (PSA50-RR), and PFS, using chi-square test, logistic regression and Cox regression, respectively. Results: ctDNA% was evaluable in 178 (99%) participants, with ctDNA ≥2% in 85%. Median ctDNA% was 28% in ctDNA≥2% samples, and balanced across treatment arms. The odds of a PSA50 response to LuPSMA vs cabazitaxel were significantly higher for men with ctDNA <2% (OR infinite, p=0.0067; PSA50-RR 100% vs 58%), with no difference at ctDNA >30% (OR 1.1, p=1.0; PSA50-RR 46% vs 44%). Higher ctDNA% was associated with shorter PFS in LuPSMA- but not cabazitaxel-treated patients (LuPSMA: HR 5.0, p<0.001 for ctDNA <2% vs >30%; cabazitaxel: HR 1.4, p=0.35 for ctDNA <2% vs >30%; interaction p=0.035). The predictive potential of ctDNA% was additive to PSMA SUVmean in LuPSMA-treated patients. Higher ctDNA% categories were enriched for patients with high FDG MTV and low PSMA SUVmean disease (Table). Conclusions: ctDNA% is a candidate predictive and prognostic biomarker for differential response to LuPSMA versus taxane chemotherapy in patients with molecular imaging-selected mCRPC progressing after docetaxel. Clinical trial information: NCT03392428 . [Table: see text]

Tucatinib-trastuzumab-capecitabine for treatment of leptomeningeal metastasis in HER2+ breast cancer: TBCRC049 phase 2 study results.

2018 Background: Treatment options for patients with leptomeningeal metastasis (LM) are limited and prognosis is poor. Tucatinib is a potent, highly selective HER2-targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor. The combination of tucatinib-trastuzumab-capecitabine is approved for patients with metastatic HER2+ breast cancer, with or without brain metastases, who have received ≥ 1 prior HER2-based regimens in the metastatic setting. Patients with LM were excluded from HER2CLIMB (NCT02614794). The aim of this study was to determine the benefit of this regimen in patients with HER2+ breast cancer and LM. We previously reported preliminary efficacy data, with a median OS of 10 months and a median time to CNS progression of 6.9 months. Here, we present additional data on LM objective response, provider-rated neurologic clinical exam, and patient-reported outcomes (PRO). Methods: TBCRC049 (NCT03501979) is an investigator-initiated phase 2 study evaluating a tucatinib-trastuzumab-capecitabine regimen in adults with HER2+ breast cancer and newly diagnosed LM. Eligible patients had a Karnofsky performance status > 50 and untreated LM (defined as positive CSF cytology and/or radiographic evidence of LM plus clinical signs/symptoms). In 21-day cycles, patients received PO tucatinib, PO capecitabine, and IV trastuzumab. The primary endpoint was OS. LM objective response was assessed using a composite of neuroaxis imaging, neurologic clinical exam, and CSF cytology, derived from RANO-LM. The clinical exam incorporated the NANO scoring tool and symptom evaluation using MDASI-BT. Up to 4 provider-rated baseline target neuro deficits were monitored. An imaging scorecard was used. PROs were assessed using the LASA and MDASI-BT tools. Results: Enrollment was planned for 30 patients but closed at 17 patients following FDA approval of tucatinib (April 2020). All patients (median age 53 years) had MRI evidence of LM, 15 (88%) were symptomatic, and 8 (47%) had abnormal CSF cytology. At data cutoff (7/20/21), 5 (38%) of 13 response-eligible patients achieved LM objective response per the composite criteria at first response assessment, and all 13 (100%) achieved clinical benefit (SD, PR, or CR). Notably, 7 (58%) of 12 evaluable patients with target neurologic deficits at baseline experienced improvement of deficits. All 17 completed ≥ 75% of LASA and MDASI-BT PRO questionnaires at pre-specified timepoints. The mean improvement in LASA score was 13.5, indicating improved QOL and the mean improvement in MDASI-BT score was 32, indicating improved symptom burden. Conclusions: This is the first prospective evidence of clinically meaningful benefit including objective responses, symptom improvement, and quality of life, along with extended survival, with a systemic regimen for LM from HER2+ BC. These data support the trend toward using systemic therapy as an initial approach in CNS metastases. Clinical trial information: NCT03501979 .

Subjective and Objective Quality Assessment of Multi-Attribute Retouched Face Images

Subjective and Objective Quality Assessment of Multi-Attribute Retouched Face Images

PERBAIKAN SISTEM OPERASIONAL USAHA TRAVEL SEBAGAI UPAYA PENINGKATAN KUALITAS MANAJEMEN

Activity Aims To Improve The Travel Business Operational System As An Effort To Improve Management Quality Based on the results of assistance for the "Nafis Transport" travel business, it can be concluded that this assistance is specifically focused on improving service SOPs for customers and fleet management. The impact of this assistance shows that there are benefits for "Nafis Transport" management in understanding the systematics and flow of service to customers as well as better travel management. This increased understanding allows companies to provide services to customers more efficiently and manage their transportation fleet in a more structured manner. The evaluation results also reflect the lack of human resources for good administrative preparation. The evaluation suggests that addressing these challenging needs is done through a more advanced approach, perhaps by providing additional training or strengthening the administration team with appropriate resources. Along with improving SOPs, addressing limited human resources is very important to ensure long-term improvements and improvements in operational quality for attenuation objects.

What Is a Visual Stream?

The dual stream model of the human and non-human primate visual systems remains Leslie Ungerleider's (1946-2020) most indelible contribution to visual neuroscience. In this model, a dorsal "where" stream specialized for visuospatial representation extends through occipitoparietal cortex, whereas a ventral "what" stream specialized for representing object qualities extends through occipito-temporal cortex. Over time, this model underwent a number of revisions and expansions. In one of her last scientific contributions, Leslie proposed a third visual stream specialized for representing dynamic signals related to social perception. This alteration invites the question: What is a visual stream, and how are different visual streams individuated? In this article, we first consider and reject a simple answer to this question based on a common idealizing visualization of the model, which conflicts with the complexities of the visual system that the model was intended to capture. Next, we propose a taxonomic answer that takes inspiration from the philosophy of science and Leslie's body of work, which distinguishes between neural mechanisms, pathways, and streams. In this taxonomy, visual streams are superordinate to pathways and mechanisms and provide individuation conditions for determining whether collections of cortical connections delineate different visual streams. Given this characterization, we suggest that the proposed third visual stream does not yet meet these conditions, although the tripartite model still suggests important revisions to how we think about the organization of the human and non-human primate visual systems.

Does overreaching from endurance-based training impair sleep: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Overreaching is often linked to a deterioration in sleep quality, yet a comprehensive review is lacking. The aim of this systemic review and meta-analysis was to synthesise the literature and quantify the effect of overreaching from endurance-based training on sleep quality. The review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. The final search was conducted in May 2023 using four electronic databases (Web of Science Core Collection, MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Database, SPORTDiscus). Studies were included for a qualitative review, while random-effects meta-analyses were conducted for objective and subjective sleep. The search returned 805 articles. Fourteen studies were included in the systematic review; Three and eight articles were eligible for the meta-analyses (objective and subjective, respectively). On average, the overreaching protocols were sixteen days in length (6 to 28 days) and included exercise modalities such as cycling (number of studies [k] = 5), rowing (k = 4), triathlon (k = 3), running (k = 2), and swimming (k = 1). Actigraphy was the only form of objective sleep measurement used across all studies (k = 3), while various instruments were used to capture subjective sleep quality (k = 13). When comparing objective sleep quality following the overreaching intervention to baseline (or a control), there was a significant reduction in sleep efficiency (mean difference = -2.0%; 95% CI -3.2, -0.8%; Glass' Δ = -0.83; p < 0.01). In contrast, when comparing subjective sleep quality following the overreaching intervention to baseline (or a control), there was no effect on subjective sleep quality (Glass' Δ = -0.27; 95% CI -0.79, 0.25; p = 0.08). Importantly, none of the included studies were judged to have a low risk of bias. While acknowledging the need for more high-quality studies, it appears that overreaching from endurance-based training can deteriorate objective sleep without influencing the perception of sleep quality. This protocol was registered in The International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) on 21st November 2022, with the registration number CRD42022373204.

Enhancing quality of ruminant feed through fungal treatment: Usage of bamboo shoot residues.

In this investigation, we explore the harnessing of bamboo shoot residues (BSR) as a viable source for ruminant feed through fungal treatment, with the overarching objective of elevating feed quality and optimizing bamboo shoot utilization. The white-rot fungi (Wr.fungi), Aspergillus niger (A.niger), and its co-cultures (A.niger&Wr.fungi) were employed to ferment BSR. And the impact of different fermentation methods and culture time on the chemical composition (Crude protein Ash, neutral detergent fibre and acid detergent fibers), enzyme activity (Cellulase, Laccase, Filter paperase and Lignin peroxidase activities), and rumen digestibility in vitro were assessed. The findings reveal a nota ble 30.39% increase in crude protein in fermented BSR, accompanied by respective decreases of 13.02% and 17.31% in acid detergent fiber and neutral detergent fibre content. Enzyme activities experienced augmentation post-fermentation with A.niger&Wr.fungi. Specifically, the peak Cellulase, Laccase, and Lignin peroxidase activities for BSR with Wr.fungi treatment reached 748.4 U/g, 156.92 U/g, and 291.61 U/g, respectively, on the sixth day of fermentation. Concurrently, NH3-N concentration exhibited an upward trend with prolonged fermentation time. Total volatile fatty acids registered a decline, and the Acetate/Propionate ratio reached its nadir after 6 days of fermentation under the A.niger&Wr.fungi treatment. These outcomes furnish a theoretical foundation for the development of ruminant feeds treated via fungal co-culture.

[Translated article] Comparing the Use of Topical Therapy Along with Anti-IL-17 and Anti-IL-23 to Treat Moderate-to-Severe Psoriasis in the Routine Clinical Practice

BackgroundCombinations of topical (TT) and biological therapies (BT) are a common thing in the routine clinical practice. However, the scientific medical literature on how TT is, actually, used after the initiation of BT is scarce, particularly in combination with anti-IL17, or anti-IL23. ObjectivesTo describe the frequency of the concomitant use of TT + BT at baseline and after a 6-month course of several drugs (anti-IL17, ustekinumab, and anti-IL23). Our secondary endpoints are to describe the type of topical therapy used, compare the frequency of use of TT among the different groups of BT, describe the survival of topical therapy in these patients, and identify the factors that can impact the use or discontinuation of topical therapy in these patients (clinical response, quality of life, type of drug, etc.). Materials and methodsThis was a retrospective, observational, and single-center study of patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis treated with anti-IL17 (secukinumab, ixekizumab), anti-IL17R (brodalumab), ustekinumab, and guselkumab from January 2015 through December 2020. ResultsWe included a total of 138 patients. When treatment started, 82.7% were on TT (55% daily), and after 6 months, 86.6% had discontinued TT. Regarding the analysis by type of drug, at 6 months, we found that 100% of the patients with BRO had discontinued topical treatment. We did not find any significant differences in the frequency of use of TT based on the BT used during the 6-month course of treatment. The estimated mean course of TT was 4.3 months (SD, 6.7). Also, the estimated mean course of TT was significantly shorter in the group of patients who achieved PASI100 (2.8 months vs. 8.1 months). ConclusionsIn our cohort, we saw a significant decrease in the frequency of use of TT at 6 months after starting BT in the routine clinical practice. This reduction occurred earlier in patients who improved their objective clinical response and quality of life.

Use of optical see-through head-mounted devices in dentistry - a scoping review.

The aim of this scoping review was to identify the scientific evidence related to the utilization of Optical See- Through Head-Mounted Display (OST-HMD) in dentistry, and to determine future research needs. The research question was formulated using the "Population" (P), "Concept" (Cpt), and "Context" (Cxt) framework for scoping reviews. Existing literature was designated as P, OST-HMD as Cpt, and Dentistry as Cxt. An electronic search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and CENTRAL. Two authors independently screened titles and abstracts and performed the full-text analysis. The search identified 286 titles after removing duplicates. Nine studies, involving 138 participants and 1760 performed tests were included in this scoping review. Seven of the articles were preclinical studies, one was a survey, and one was a clinical trial. The included manuscripts covered various dental fields: three studies in orthodontics, two in oral surgery, two in conservative dentistry, one in general dentistry, and the remaining one in prosthodontics. Five articles focused on educational purposes. Two brands of OST-HMD were used: in eight studies HoloLens Microsoft was used, while Google Glass was utilized in one article. The overall number of included studies was low; therefore, the available data from this review cannot yet support an evidence-based recommendation for the clinical use of OST-HMDs. However, the existing preclinical data indicate a significant capacity for clinical and educational implementation. Further adoption of these devices will facilitate more reliable and objective quality and performance assessments, as well as more direct comparisons with conventional workflows. More clinical studies must be conducted to substantiate the potential benefits and reliability for patients and clinicians.

Point Cloud Quality Assessment Using a One-Dimensional Model Based on the Convolutional Neural Network.

Recent advancements in 3D modeling have revolutionized various fields, including virtual reality, computer-aided diagnosis, and architectural design, emphasizing the importance of accurate quality assessment for 3D point clouds. As these models undergo operations such as simplification and compression, introducing distortions can significantly impact their visual quality. There is a growing need for reliable and efficient objective quality evaluation methods to address this challenge. In this context, this paper introduces a novel methodology to assess the quality of 3D point clouds using a deep learning-based no-reference (NR) method. First, it extracts geometric and perceptual attributes from distorted point clouds and represent them as a set of 1D vectors. Then, transfer learning is applied to obtain high-level features using a 1D convolutional neural network (1D CNN) adapted from 2D CNN models through weight conversion from ImageNet. Finally, quality scores are predicted through regression utilizing fully connected layers. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is evaluated across diverse datasets, including the Colored Point Cloud Quality Assessment Database (SJTU_PCQA), the Waterloo Point Cloud Assessment Database (WPC), and the Colored Point Cloud Quality Assessment Database featured at ICIP2020. The outcomes reveal superior performance compared to several competing methodologies, as evidenced by enhanced correlation with average opinion scores.

Complex Emulsions as an Innovative Pharmaceutical Dosage form in Addressing the Issues of Multi-Drug Therapy and Polypharmacy Challenges.

This review explores the intersection of microfluidic technology and complex emulsion development as a promising solution to the challenges of formulations in multi-drug therapy (MDT) and polypharmacy. The convergence of microfluidic technology and complex emulsion fabrication could herald a transformative era in multi-drug delivery systems, directly confronting the prevalent challenges of polypharmacy. Microfluidics, with its unparalleled precision in droplet formation, empowers the encapsulation of multiple drugs within singular emulsion particles. The ability to engineer emulsions with tailored properties-such as size, composition, and release kinetics-enables the creation of highly efficient drug delivery vehicles. Thus, this innovative approach not only simplifies medication regimens by significantly reducing the number of necessary doses but also minimizes the pill burden and associated treatment termination-issues associated with polypharmacy. It is important to bring forth the opportunities and challenges of this synergy between microfluidic-driven complex emulsions and multi-drug therapy poses. Together, they not only offer a sophisticated method for addressing the intricacies of delivering multiple drugs but also align with broader healthcare objectives of enhancing treatment outcomes, patient safety, and quality of life, underscoring the importance of dosage form innovations in tackling the multifaceted challenges of modern pharmacotherapy.

Antimicrobial stewardship programs in acute-care hospitals: A multicenter assessment of structure, process, and outcome indicators in Italy and Spain

BackgroundAntimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs have been differently implemented across Europe. This study primarily aimed to compare AMS in two European regions. Secondarily, the study explored the COVID-19 pandemic impact on surrogate outcome indicators of AMS. MethodsA retrospective observational study was conducted in Piedmont (Italy) and Catalonia (Spain). AMS programs were compared through structure and process indicators in 2021. Changes in surrogate outcome indicators (antimicrobial usage; alcohol-based sanitizer consumption; antimicrobial resistance, AMR) from 2017 to 2021 described the pandemic impact. ResultsSeventy-eight facilities provided structure and process indicators. Catalonia showed better structure scores (p < 0.001) and less dispersion in both indicators. The greatest areas to improve were accountability (Piedmont) and diversification of strategies (Catalonia). Overall, the regions reported consistent changes in outcome indicators. Antimicrobial usage decreased in 2020, returning to near-pre-pandemic levels in 2021. Alcohol-based sanitizer consumption surged in 2020, then dipped remaining above pre-pandemic levels. AMR trends were minimally affected. ConclusionsThe centralized approach of Catalonia ensured consistent attainment of quality objectives across all facilities, but it may limit facility-specific strategies. In Piedmont, accountability remain one of the most critical factors as in previous years. The pandemic did not substantially disrupt surrogate outcome measures of AMS. However, the data on AMR suggest that maintaining vigilance against this issue remains paramount.

Assessment of image quality and impact of deep learning-based software in non-contrast head CT scans

In this retrospective study, we aimed to assess the objective and subjective image quality of different reconstruction techniques and a deep learning-based software on non-contrast head computed tomography (CT) images. In total, 152 adult head CT scans (77 female, 75 male; mean age 69.4 ± 18.3 years) obtained from three different CT scanners using different protocols between March and April 2021 were included. CT images were reconstructed using filtered-back projection (FBP), iterative reconstruction (IR), and post-processed using a deep learning-based algorithm (PS). Post-processing significantly reduced noise in FBP-reconstructed images (up to 15.4% reduction) depending on the protocol, leading to improvements in signal-to-noise ratio of up to 19.7%. However, when deep learning-based post-processing was applied to FBP images compared to IR alone, the differences were inconsistent and partly non-significant, which appeared to be protocol or site specific. Subjective assessments showed no significant overall improvement in image quality for all reconstructions and post-processing. Inter-rater reliability was low and preferences varied. Deep learning-based denoising software improved objective image quality compared to FBP in routine head CT. A significant difference compared to IR was observed for only one protocol. Subjective assessments did not indicate a significant clinical impact in terms of improved subjective image quality, likely due to the low noise levels in full-dose images.

Compatibility Review for Object Detection Enhancement through Super-Resolution.

With the introduction of deep learning, a significant amount of research has been conducted in the field of computer vision in the past decade. In particular, research on object detection (OD) continues to progress rapidly. However, despite these advances, some limitations need to be overcome to enable real-world applications of deep learning-based OD models. One such limitation is inaccurate OD when image quality is poor or a target object is small. The performance degradation phenomenon for small objects is similar to the fundamental limitations of an OD model, such as the constraint of the receptive field, which is a difficult problem to solve using only an OD model. Therefore, OD performance can be hindered by low image quality or small target objects. To address this issue, this study investigates the compatibility of super-resolution (SR) and OD techniques to improve detection, particularly for small objects. We analyze the combination of SR and OD models, classifying them based on architectural characteristics. The experimental results show a substantial improvement when integrating OD detectors with SR models. Overall, it was demonstrated that, when the evaluation metrics (PSNR, SSIM) of the SR models are high, the performance in OD is correspondingly high as well. Especially, evaluations on the MS COCO dataset reveal that the enhancement rate for small objects is 9.4% higher compared to all objects. This work provides an analysis of SR and OD model compatibility, demonstrating the potential benefits of their synergistic combination. The experimental code can be found on our GitHub repository.

Deep-learning denoising minimizes radiation exposure in neck CT beyond the limits of conventional reconstruction

BackgroundNeck computed tomography (NCT) is essential for diagnosing suspected neck tumors and abscesses, but radiation exposure can be an issue. In conventional reconstruction techniques, limiting radiation dose comes at the cost of diminished diagnostic accuracy. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of an AI-based denoising post-processing software solution in low-dose neck computer tomography. Materials and MethodsFrom 01 September 2023 to 01 December 2023, we retrospectively included patients with clinically suspected neck tumors from the same single-source scanner. The scans were reconstructed using Advanced Modeled Iterative Reconstruction (Original) at 100% and simulated 50% and 25% radiation doses. Each dataset was post-processed using a novel denoising software solution (Denoising). Three radiologists with varying experience levels subjectively rated image quality, diagnostic confidence, sharpness, and contrast for all pairwise combinations of radiation dose and reconstruction mode in a randomized, blinded forced-choice setup. Objective image quality was assessed using ROI measurements of mean CT numbers, noise, and a contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR). An adequately corrected mixed-effects analysis was used to compare objective and subjective image quality. ResultsAt each radiation dose level, pairwise comparisons showed significantly lower image noise and higher CNR for Denoising than for Original (p < 0.001). In subjective analysis, image quality, diagnostic confidence, sharpness, and contrast were significantly higher for Denoising than for Original at 100 and 50 % (p < 0.001). However, there were no significant differences in the subjective ratings between Original 100 % and Denoising 25 % (p = 0.906). ConclusionsThe investigated denoising algorithm enables diagnostic-quality neck CT images with radiation doses reduced to 25% of conventional levels, significantly minimizing patient exposure.

Pollutants In the Selected 3 – Bus Station Microenvironments in Enugu Metropolis

Idling buses in bus station micro-environments potentially pollute ambient air with health implications for commuters with long waiting times. This study aimed at finding the severity of air pollutants in selected three bus station microenvironments in Enugu metropolis, South Eastern Nigeria with the objective to determine the air quality index. Real time measurements of ambient particulates (PM10 and PM2.5) and gaseous pollutants such as SO2, NO2 and CO were monitored, in conjunction with meteorological parameters (wind speed, temperature and relative humidity) on idling buses in selected three bus stations and a control station in Enugu Metropolis. The study spanned through September 2016 to August 2018, covering dry and wet seasons. Hand-held Aeroqual Series - 200 gas monitor/sensors, particulates laser meter and ambient weather anemometer were used to collect data. Results indicated that the daily highest mean concentrations of pollutants were as follows: PM10=228µg/m3 – Young Shall Grow; PM2.5=99.5µg/m3 – Young-Shall-Grow; SO2=0.81ppm – Ifesinachi; NO2= 0.068ppm – Young-Shall-Grow; CO= 7.376ppm – ABC, consistently maintained higher concentrations than those at the control station. AQI was calculated with AQI calculator. The air quality index (AQI) results showed a severe health issue in the selected 3-bus station micro environments. This implies that commuters are highly at risk if they cluster idling buses at bus stations. This study can assist the relevant authorities to set strict ambient air quality objectives for pollutants in transport micro environments.

Honeycomb effect elimination in differential phase fiber-bundle-based endoscopy

Fiber-bundle-based endoscopy, with its ultrathin probe and micrometer-level resolution, has become a widely adopted imaging modality for in vivo imaging. However, the fiber bundles introduce a significant honeycomb effect, primarily due to the multi-core structure and crosstalk of adjacent fiber cores, which superposes the honeycomb pattern image on the original image. To tackle this issue, we propose an iterative-free spatial pixel shifting (SPS) algorithm, designed to suppress the honeycomb effect and enhance real-time imaging performance. The process involves the creation of three additional sub-images by shifting the original image by one pixel at 0, 45, and 90 degree angles. These four sub-images are then used to compute differential maps in the x and y directions. By performing spiral integration on these differential maps, we reconstruct a honeycomb-free image with improved details. Our simulations and experimental results, conducted on a self-built fiber bundle-based endoscopy system, demonstrate the effectiveness of the SPS algorithm. SPS significantly improves the image quality of reflective objects and unlabeled transparent scattered objects, laying a solid foundation for biomedical endoscopic applications.

Gender Differences in Authorship and Quality of Anesthesia Clinical Practice Guidelines From 2016 to 2020 Using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II Instrument.

Women continue to be underrepresented in academic anesthesiology. This study assessed guidelines in anesthesia journals over the past 5 years, evaluating differences in woman-led versus man-led guidelines in terms of author gender, quality, and changes over time. We hypothesized that anesthesia guidelines would be predominately man-led, and that there would be differences in quality between woman-led versus man-led guidelines. All clinical practice guidelines published in the top 10 anesthesia journals were identified as per Clarivate Analytics Impact Factor between 2016 and 2020. Fifty-one guidelines were included for author, gender, and quality analysis using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research & Evaluation (AGREE) II instrument. Each guideline was assessed across 6 domains and 23 items and given an overall score, overall quality score, and overall rating/recommendation. Stratified and trend analyses were performed for woman-led versus man-led guidelines. Fifty out of 51 guidelines were included: 1 was excluded due to unidentifiable first-author gender. In total, 255 of 1052 (24%) authors were women, and woman-led guidelines (woman-first author) represented 12 of 50 (24%) overall guidelines. Eighteen percent (9 of 50) of guidelines had all-male authors, and a majority (26 of 50, 52%) had less than one-third of female authors. The overall number and percentage of woman-led guidelines did not change over time. There was a significantly higher percentage of female authors in woman-led versus man-led guidelines, median 39% vs 20% (P = .012), as well as a significantly higher number of female coauthors in guidelines that were woman-led median 3.5 vs 1.0, P = .049. For quality, there was no significant difference in the overall rating or objective quality of woman- versus man-led guidelines. However, there was a significant increase in the overall rating of all the guidelines over time (P = .010), driven by the increase in overall rating among man-led guidelines, P = .002. The overall score of guidelines did not increase over time; however, they increased in man-led but not woman-led guidelines. There was no significant correlation between the percentage of female authors per guideline and either overall score or overall rating. There is a substantial disparity in the number of women leading and contributing to guidelines which has not improved over time. Woman-led guidelines included more women and a higher percentage of women. There was no difference in quality of guidelines by first-author gender or percentage of female authors. Further systematic and quota-driven sponsorship is needed to promote gender equity, diversity, and inclusion in anesthesia guidelines.

Ultra-high resolution coronary CT angiography on photon-counting detector CT: bi-centre study on the impact of quantum iterative reconstruction on image quality and accuracy of stenosis measurements

PurposeTo assess the impact of different quantum iterative reconstruction (QIR) levels on objective and subjective image quality of ultra-high resolution (UHR) coronary CT angiography (CCTA) images and to determine the effect of strength levels on stenosis quantification using photon-counting detector (PCD)-CT. MethodA dynamic vessel phantom containing two calcified lesions (25 % and 50 % stenosis) was scanned at heart rates of 60, 80 and 100 beats per minute with a PCD-CT system. In vivo CCTA examinations were performed in 102 patients. All scans were acquired in UHR mode (slice thickness0.2 mm) and reconstructed with four different QIR levels (1–4) using a sharp vascular kernel (Bv64). Image noise, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), sharpness, and percent diameter stenosis (PDS) were quantified in the phantom, while noise, SNR, contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), sharpness, and subjective quality metrics (noise, sharpness, overall image quality) were assessed in patient scans. ResultsIncreasing QIR levels resulted in significantly lower objective image noise (in vitro and in vivo: both p < 0.001), higher SNR (both p < 0.001) and CNR (both p < 0.001). Sharpness and PDS values did not differ significantly among QIRs (all pairwise p > 0.008). Subjective noise of in vivo images significantly decreased with increasing QIR levels, resulting in significantly higher image quality scores at increasing QIR levels (all pairwise p < 0.001). Qualitative sharpness, on the other hand, did not differ across different levels of QIR (p = 0.15). ConclusionsThe QIR algorithm may enhance the image quality of CCTA datasets without compromising image sharpness or accurate stenosis measurements, with the most prominent benefits at the highest strength level.