Explainable attention based breast tumor segmentation using a combination of UNet, ResNet, DenseNet, and EfficientNet models.

This study utilizes the Breast Ultrasound Image (BUSI) dataset to present a deep learning technique for breast tumor segmentation based on a modified UNet architecture. To improve segmentation accuracy, the model integrates attention mechanisms, such as the Convolutional Block Attention Module (CBAM) and Non-Local Attention, with advanced encoder architectures, including ResNet, DenseNet, and EfficientNet. These attention mechanisms enable the model to focus more effectively on relevant tumor areas, resulting in significant performance improvements.

Combination of clinical factors predicts successful glucocorticoid withdrawal in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): results from a multicentre, retrospective cohort study.

Objective: Glucocorticoid (GC) tapering and withdrawal to reduce damage represents a key aspect of the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) SLE recommendations. However, optimal strategies for relapse-free GC cessation remain ill-defined. We characterised clinical predictors and their combined effect on flares in patients with SLE who discontinued GC.

Diagnostic Accuracy of Four-Dimensional Computed Tomography in Preoperative Localization of Primary Hyperparathyroidism After Negative or Inconclusive Sestamibi: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Objective: The aim of the study is to assess the diagnostic accuracy of 4-dimensional computed tomography (4D-CT) scans for patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (pHPT) after negative or inconclusive Technetium-99m sestamibi single-photon emission computed tomography scan.

Methods: A literature search of several databases was conducted from inception to August 2023. Eligible studies reported adult patients (>18 years old) who underwent 4D-CT after negative or inconclusive sestamibi results.

Hybrid model of tumor growth, angiogenesis and immune response yields strategies to improve antiangiogenic therapy.

Solid tumors harbor a complex and dynamic microenvironment that hinders the delivery and efficacy of therapeutic interventions. In this study, we developed and utilized a hybrid, discrete-continuous mathematical model to explore the interplay between solid tumor growth, immune response, tumor-induced angiogenesis, and antiangiogenic drugs. By integrating published data with anti-angiogenic drugs, we elucidate three primary mechanisms by which anti-angiogenesis influences tumor progression and treatment outcomes: reduction in tumor growth rate by mitigating and temporally delaying angiogenesis, normalization of blood vessel structure and function, and improving immune cell extravasation and activation.

Achievements, priorities and strategies in pediatric nephrology in Europe: need for unifying approaches or acceptance of differences?

Background: There is a lack of information on the current healthcare systems for children with kidney diseases across Europe. The aim of this study was to explore the different national approaches to the organization and delivery of pediatric nephrology services within Europe.

Methods: In 2020, the European society for Paediatric Nephrology (ESPN) conducted a cross-sectional survey to identify the existing pediatric nephrology healthcare systems in 48 European countries covering a population of more than 200 million children.

Early life acute infections and risk for cow's milk protein allergy or atopic dermatitis at 6 months of age in high risk for allergy infants.

Background: Early life infections (ELIs), encompassing both viral and bacterial types, occur within the first six months of life. Influenced by genetic host factors and environmental conditions, the relationship between ELIs and subsequent allergic manifestations, particularly cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA) and atopic dermatitis (AD), is complex and not fully understood.

Objective: The aim of the current study was to examine the potential interplay between nutrition, infections, and allergic manifestations in the first six months of life in infants with a family history of allergies, who were either exclusively breastfed (EBF) or fed a combination of breast milk and standard (SF) or partially hydrolyzed infant formula (pHF).

Design and in silico analysis of a novel peptide-based multiepitope vaccine against glioblastoma multiforme by targeting tumor-associated macrophage.

CD204 is a distinct indicator for tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in glioma. Evidence indicates that CD204-positive TAMs are involved in the aggressive behavior of various types of cancers. This study was conducted to develop a new and effective peptide-based vaccine for GBM, specifically targeting CD204.

Awareness of Lung Cancer Among the Lebanese General Population: a Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: Lung cancer is a significant contributor to mortality worldwide. The aim of this study was to assess the level of lung cancer awareness among the Lebanese general population.

Methods: An online-based questionnaire was completed by 410 participants all over Lebanon.

Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium requirements to improve growth, nutrient and water use efficiency in hydroponic cultivation.

Medicinal and aromatic plant (MAP) production is gaining popularity for industrial agriculture, with phytochemical compounds having a significant impact on human health. Plant fertilization must be carefully considered as it is strongly affecting the biochemical profile of MAPs. The present study examined the responses to different nitrogen (N: 75, 150, and 300 mg/L), potassium (K: 150, 350, and 550 mg/L), and phosphorus (P: 50, 75, and 100 mg/L) concentration in the nutrient solution (NS) in hydroponics.

Advances in electrochemical sensors for naproxen detection: Mechanisms, performance factors, and emerging challenges.

Naproxen (NAP), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic drug, has fewer side effects than similar drugs due to its aryl acetic acid structure. For this reason, it is widely prescribed to manage fever, short-term and long-term pain, and musculoskeletal disorders. However, its use has complications such as changes in kidney function, severe gastrointestinal lesions, and increased bleeding after surgery.

Smart estimation of protective antioxidant enzymes' activity in savory (Satureja rechingeri L.) under drought stress and soil amendments.

Savory (Satureja rechingeri L.) is one of Iran's most important medicinal plants, having low irrigation needs, and thus is considered one of the most valuable plants for cultivation in arid and semi-arid regions, especially under drought conditions. The current research was carried out to develop a genetic algorithm-based artificial neural network (ΑΝΝ) model able of simulating the levels of antioxidants in savory when using soil amendments [biochar (BC) and superabsorbent (SA)] under drought.

Pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) as a first trimester serum biomarker for preeclampsia screening: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Objective: The aim of this study is to systematically examine the role of the pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) serum biomarker in the first trimester screening of preeclampsia (PE).

Materials And Methods: A systematic search of the literature was conducted on PubMed via Medline, and Cochrane Library up to 8 November 2022, for prospective studies evaluating PAPP-A serum levels in first trimester pregnant women as a screening biomarker for PE. Eligible were all prospectively designed case-control or cohort studies, published in English.

Disease control and quality of life in chronic spontaneous urticaria and recurrent angioedema are strongly linked, but not in all patients.

Background: Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) help to assess disease control and quality of life (QoL) in chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) and recurrent angioedema (RA). This study aimed to assess the correlation between two different concepts: disease control and QoL, using disease-specific PROMs.

Methods: We analyzed data from 445 CSU and 330 RA patients who completed both a disease control and QoL PROM as part of the clinical routine.

Updates on the conversion of nanosuspensions to solid oral dosage forms.

Pharmaceutical nanosuspensions, also called nanocrystals, are heterogeneous mainly aqueous dispersions of insoluble drug particles stabilised by surfactants and/or polymers. Nanosuspensions as liquid formulations suffer from instability. Solidification of nanosuspensions to solid dosage forms is a way to combine the advantages of nanocrystals with the advantages of the solid state.

Mapping emissions in Cyprus using TROPOMI observations: evaluation of the flux-divergence scheme using multiple parameter sets.

The production of nitrogen oxides (NO = NO + NO ) is substantial in urban areas and from fossil fuel-fired power plants, causing both local and regional pollution, with severe consequences for human health. To estimate their emissions and implement air quality policies, authorities often rely on reported emission inventories. The island of Cyprus is de facto divided into two different political entities, and as a result, such emissions inventories are not systematically available for the whole island.

R(3780) Resonance Interpreted as the 1^{3}D_{1}-Wave Dominant State of Charmonium from Precise Measurements of the Cross Section of e^{+}e^{-}→Hadrons.

We report the precise measurements of the cross section of e^{+}e^{-}→hadrons at center-of-mass energies from 3.645 to 3.871 GeV.

Hajdu-Cheney Syndrome, a Rare Cause of Acro-Osteolysis and Osteoporosis With Zoledronic Acid Experience.

Hajdu-Cheney syndrome (HCS), caused by a heterozygous gain of function variant of the NOTCH2 gene, is a rare skeletal dysplasia. Although the main presentation is acro-osteolysis, osteoporosis, and facial dysmorphism, having a wide range of clinical manifestations creates diagnostic difficulties. Here, a 15-year-old male patient with HCS who had no complaints until this age except for two short bone fractures and one vertebral collapse fracture due to a fall was reported.

Strongyloides stercoralis infection in a patient initiating corticosteroid therapy for hypereosinophilia: A case report.

Strongyloides stercoralis (S. stercoralis) is a soil-transmitted nematode that is endemic to tropical and subtropical regions. S.

IPEM topical report: guidance on 3D printing in radiotherapy.

There has been an increase in the availability and utilization of commercially available 3D printers in radiotherapy, with applications in phantoms, brachytherapy applicators, bolus, compensators, and immobilization devices. Additive manufacturing in the form of 3D printing has the advantage of rapid production of personalized patient specific prints or customized phantoms within a short timeframe. One of the barriers to uptake has been the lack of guidance.

Inclined distance running at iso-efficient speeds: Effect on joint work.

Runners often reduce their pace during inclined running to maintain a constant metabolic workload, known as iso-efficiency speed (a speed-incline combination with the same metabolic intensity as level running). This study investigates changes in lower extremity (LE) joint work profiles when running on an incline at iso-efficiency speed. Eleven collegiate distance runners completed a treadmill running task under three conditions (0%, 4%, and 8% incline).