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The Baveno VII guidelines were proposed to identify which patients could safely avoid screening esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) for gastroesophageal varices. We aimed to evaluate the frequency of gastric neoplasia in compensated advanced chronic liver disease (cACLD) patients who underwent EGD for screening of gastroesophageal varices (GOEV) compared to a healthy population. Retrospective study that enrolled all cACLD patients who underwent EGD for GOEV screening (January 2008-June 2018) in a tertiary reference center. cACLD patients were compared with asymptomatic healthy individuals who underwent EGD in a private hospital setting (April 2017-March 2018). We evaluated 1845 patients (481 cACLD patients, 1364 healthy individuals). A significantly higher frequency of gastric neoplasia was observed in patients with cACLD compared to healthy individuals (4.0% vs. 1.0 %; p < 0.001). Rare histopathological subtypes (WHO Classification) accounted for 28.7 % of gastric carcinoma cases in the cACLD cohort. Seven cases of gastric neoplasia (36.8 % of gastric neoplasia cases in the cACLD patients) were diagnosed in patients who, according to the Baveno VII criteria, would have not been submitted to EGD. We found an increased frequency of gastric neoplasia in patients with cACLD in comparison with healthy individuals. In countries with intermediate-high risk for GC, continuing to perform EGD could be beneficial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study describes a new species of nematode, Orientatractis matosi n. sp. (Atractidae), from the stomach and large intestine of Podocnemis unifilis Troschel, 1848 (Testudinidae), collected in the Tocantins and Xingu rivers in the Brazilian state of Pará. The new species was described using light and scanning electron microscopy and differs from its congeners mainly in the number and distribution of the male caudal papillae and by having a shorter right spicule. Orientatracits matosi n. sp. is the eleventh species of the genus Orientatractis Petter, 1966, the third reported from the Amazon, and the second described from P. unifilis. [Display omitted] • Orientatractis matosi n. sp. (Atractidae) is a new parasite of Podocnemis unifilis (Testudines: Podocnemididae) from the Amazon region. • This is the second known species of the genus Orientatractis in P. unifilis. • Orientatractis matosi n. sp. has nine pairs of caudal papillae and the shortest right spicule amongst its congeners. • Orientatractis matosi n. sp. is the third species reported from the Amazon region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To link to full-text access for this article, visit this link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.futures.2010.04.005 Byline: Isabel Loupa Ramos Abstract: The European Landscape Convention (ELC) calls for the definition of 'landscape quality objectives' (LQO) as 'the formulation by the competent public authorities of the aspirations of the public with regard to the landscape features of their surroundings'. However, it is not yet defined how the integration of the visions of the public should be carried out. Notably in regions with poor participatory culture and in rural landscapes abandoned by people and consequently by their activities, dealing with the future does not seem a straightforward task. In these marginal rural landscapes the role of agriculture is being altered under the influence of the new rationale of the Common Agriculture Policy, so it may have to assume different functions in the future. Thus, this paper aims at showing how the development of 'exploratory landscape scenarios' can be a useful tool, firstly to find plausible landscape futures, and secondly to trigger discussions with the public regarding their aspirations for their landscape. The development procedure for 'exploratory landscape scenarios' builds on the 'intuitive logics' approach that focuses on the production of a variety of scenarios as starting point for discussion about the future rather than on finding an optimal one, which can limit the options unnecessarily from the beginning. The methodological approach is illustrated at a local scale by using the case study of Mertola in southeast Portugal. The results of the scenario exercise point out the adequateness of the methodology in the development of futures that are perceived as plausible by local stakeholders and, thereby, able to bring out their desires and threats towards the future of their landscape. Author Affiliation: CESUR, Technical University of Lisbon, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisbon, Portugal

Pyrolysis of formamidinium halide salts (FAI, FABr) results in a new type of amorphous carbon nitride materials with a mass fraction of 40–50% nitrogen content. Pyrolysis temperature drives final chemical composition, morphology, optical and electrical properties of the material independently of the halide precursor and identifying triazine ring, instead of typical heptazine unit, as the main building block of this material. We elaborated a temperature dependent mechanism of formation for these materials and foresee its potential value as native passivation layer in the field of perovskite solar cells. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To link to full-text access for this article, visit this link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jss.2008.01.016 Byline: Javier Aroba (a), Juan J. Cuadrado-Gallego (b), Miguel-Angel Sicilia (b), Isabel Ramos (c), Elena Garcia-Barriocanal (b) Keywords: Software effort estimation; Parametric software estimation models; Fuzzy clustering Abstract: Parametric software cost estimation models are based on mathematical relations, obtained from the study of historical software projects databases, that intend to be useful to estimate the effort and time required to develop a software product. Those databases often integrate data coming from projects of a heterogeneous nature. This entails that it is difficult to obtain a reasonably reliable single parametric model for the range of diverging project sizes and characteristics. A solution proposed elsewhere for that problem was the use of segmented models in which several models combined into a single one contribute to the estimates depending on the concrete characteristic of the inputs. However, a second problem arises with the use of segmented models, since the belonging of concrete projects to segments or clusters is subject to a degree of fuzziness, i.e. a given project can be considered to belong to several segments with different degrees. This paper reports the first exploration of a possible solution for both problems together, using a segmented model based on fuzzy clusters of the project space. The use of fuzzy clustering allows obtaining different mathematical models for each cluster and also allows the items of a project database to contribute to more than one cluster, while preserving constant time execution of the estimation process. The results of an evaluation of a concrete model using the ISBSG 8 project database are reported, yielding better figures of adjustment than its crisp counterpart. Author Affiliation: (a) Information Technologies Department, University of Huelva, Ctra. Huelva-La Rabida s/n, 21071 Huelva, Spain (b) Computer Science Department, University of Alcala, Campus Universitario, Ctra. Barcelona km. 33.6 28871 Alcala de Henares, Madrid, Spain (c) Dpto. Lenguajes y Sistemas Informaticos, University of Sevilla, Avda. Reina Mercedes s/n, Sevilla, Spain Article History: Received 10 July 2006; Revised 11 January 2007; Accepted 19 January 2008

Purpose: E-learning has been revealed as an a useful tool among continuing education within health professionals, namely for radiographers or radiologic technologists. Therefore like traditional learning, this teaching approach needs continuous evaluation in order to validate its effectiveness and impact. Kirkpatrick's model has been widely used for this purpose by health information management instructors. Our aim was to assess an E-learning Course on Breast Imaging for radiographers based on the first three levels of Kirkpatrick's framework: reaction, learning and behaviour.Methods and Materials: An E-learning course was developed for radiographers in order to provide an easy-to-understand, succinct and current overview in breast imaging, namely mammography technique and image interpretation. The program structure were built based on the guidelines proposed by the European Society of Breast Cancer Specialists (EUSOMA). Learner's satisfaction was assessed through a questionnaire and Knowledge gain was assessed using pre- and post-testing. After 6 months of complying the course, the learners were contacted through a questionnaire in order to give feedback on whether their behaviour changed in workplace.Results: Two editions of the breast imaging course were performed by 64 learners. In general, 97% of the learners stated that the program content was very good and excellent, all learners considered the content was delivered in a very good or excellent way. High percentages of learners stated to be satisfied with the distribution of the content among each module (94%) and 86% of learners stated that your level of dedication was high or very high. Concerning improvement of knowledge, we found an evolution of 4 percentual points between pre and post-tests (p = 0,001). The learners have identified two main changes on their practice, the first one related with patient care, improving communications and positioning skills and the second one related with image interpretation, improving the image processing and analyses.Conclusion: These global results show that e-learning can provide statistically relevant knowledge gains in Radiographers. This course is an important contribution to the improvement of mammography education, impacting on the development of students' and radiographers' skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Pregnancy anxiety at 19 and 31 weeks and levels of placental CRH at 31 weeks predicted gestational length. • Latinas reported higher pregnancy anxiety at each time point during pregnancy compared to non-Latina White women. • Pregnancy anxiety at 19 weeks and increases from 19 to 31 weeks predicted placental CRH at 31 weeks, which in turn predicted gestational length. • The mediated effect of placental CRH at 31 weeks was significant for Latinas only. Abstract Objective Previous research has shown that a woman's anxiety about her pregnancy predicts gestational length. Placental corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH) is a stress-responsive peptide proposed as a mechanism. We examined placental CRH as a physiological mediator of the association between pregnancy anxiety and gestational length in Latina and non-Latina White women to replicate evidence of associations between pregnancy anxiety, placental CRH and gestational length; to test whether placental CRH levels or changes mediate effects of pregnancy anxiety on gestational length; to examine ethnic differences in pregnancy anxiety, placental CRH, and gestational length; and to explore whether the effects of pregnancy anxiety on gestational length as mediated by placental CRH vary by ethnicity. Methods In a prospective study of 337 pregnant Latina and non-Latina White women, participants completed in-person interviews that included a 10-item measure of pregnancy anxiety and provided blood samples assayed using radioimmunoassay at three timepoints (19, 25, and 31 weeks gestation). Results Pregnancy anxiety at 19 and 31 weeks and levels of placental CRH at 31 weeks predicted gestational length. Tests of indirect effects were consistent with mediation such that both pregnancy anxiety at 19 weeks and increases from 19 to 31 weeks predicted placental CRH at 31 weeks, which in turn predicted gestational length. Tests of moderated mediation by ethnicity showed that the mediated effect of placental CRH at 31 weeks was significant for Latinas only. Conclusions These findings add to growing evidence of the involvement of pregnancy anxiety in the timing of birth, address mechanisms, and suggest possible ethnic differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peri-urban areas have no clear boundaries, both in geographic and conceptual terms. This paper presents a transdisciplinary approach for the identification of typologies of peri-urban areas and applies it to the Lisbon Metropolitan Area (LMA), Portugal. It is based on the assumptions that more than one type of peri-urban region around an urban core can exist, and that a transdisciplinary approach, linking the physical, economic, social and personal aspects, is needed to capture the intrinsic variability and the complexity of the peri-urban character. The approach is based on four sequential steps: (i) identifying the important peri-urban dimensions to be considered, based on expert-knowledge and stakeholder perspectives; (ii) defining a set of indicators for each dimension; (iii) summarizing redundant information for each dimension; and (iv) applying cluster analysis to identify typologies of peri-urban. This approach was applied to the 211 parishes comprised in the LMA. Seven types of parishes were identified, of which two can be considered urban and five peri-urban, although with quite distinct features. This approach has the potential to be applied to other metropolitan regions, and the resulting peri-urban (and urban) typologies can contribute to a better understanding of the peri-urban character, and to a more targeted implementation of planning and management strategies taking into consideration the diversity and specificities of each peri-urban type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of the peripheral European rural landscapes, the role of the urban population, generally referred to as the ‘outsiders’, has shown to be influential in the dynamics of rural space. This influence occurs namely through the demand for non-productive functions leading to the emergence of new modes of occupancy. In addition, the emerging policy framework concerning policies and planning in rural landscapes call for an improved understanding of the diversified social demands for these landscapes. We argue that a more profound knowledge on the urban demand for rural landscape is needed to better integrate the urban interests into rural policy and planning. The present paper aims to gain greater insight on this demand by identifying landscape preferences of urban users, framed by the multifunctional transition theory, and using a photo-based survey with contrasting land covers derived from CORINE Land Cover classes. Furthermore, the use of land cover classes as the main landscape component, and thereby relating preferences to specific land covers, offers a sound basis for a territorial approach, able to integrate landscape into rural policy and land use planning practice. A case-study in Southern Portugal was developed at the regional scale and results showed different appreciation patterns for rural landscapes varying from humanised and more naturalised landscapes according to the different functions sought by urban users. Another prominent result is that urban demand for rural landscapes, even if driven by consumption, is strongly influenced by both protection and production values. A deeper knowledge on the interests of urban population can be a step forward for rural communities, land managers, and sectoral policy decision-makers to better define investment strategies in rural-urban partnerships facing the growing urban demand over rural space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Landscape is recognised to be an important asset for people's quality of life and people and the landscape interact in multiple and complex ways. Both in science and policy, this interaction has been dealt with in a fragmented way, depending on the objectives, the disciplinary perspective, as well as the used conceptual backdrop. In this wider framework, landscape identity emerges in policy discourses as a powerful argument to value landscape but it lacks an operationalised framework for policymaking. This paper has two major goals. One is to review the conceptual dialogue between landscape's and people's identity. The other is to identify contents of identity in the landscape (i.e. attributes used to define landscape identity) and the complexity of the identity (i.e. dimensions used to define landscape identity) as a way to increase efficiency in more spatially targeted policies. Above all, this paper discusses how landscape identity has been approached, in order to get an improved understanding of its potential for introducing the landscape concept at multiple levels of governance and how an increased knowledge base might be useful to inform policy making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction The literature on tooth dimensions in subjects with Down syndrome (DS) is scarce. To our knowledge, no studies have yet been published in which the morphometry of the teeth in DS subjects has been determined using computed tomography. Methods The study group consisted of 40 subjects with DS, aged 10 to 40 years. An age- and sex-matched control group was selected. Cone-beam computed tomography images were retrieved from the archive of the Santiago de Compostela University in Spain. The maxillary central incisors, canines, and first molars were evaluated. The following variables were analyzed: overall tooth length, crown height, root length, mesiodistal diameter, vestibular-palatine diameter, crown-to-root ratio, and cervical circumference. Results The teeth of subjects with DS were smaller than those of the controls, although the crown-to-root ratio was maintained. No clear sexual dimorphism was detected, but the root lengths of the incisors were greater in male subjects. Crown height, mesiodistal diameter, and crown-to-root ratio showed progressive reductions with age. There appeared to be a degree of “fluctuating dental asymmetry” with respect to vestibular-palatine diameter and cervical circumference. Conclusions Our findings confirm microdontia of the permanent teeth and progressive reductions in tooth sizes with age in persons with DS. These variations might be relevant to orthodontic treatment planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] This paper explored which physical landscape components relate to the subjective landscape dimensions. [•] The role of land cover as a mean to communicate about cultural landscapes was assessed. [•] Results suggest that land cover is an important asset as more than 30% of the respondents referred to it. [•] Landscape dimensions such as place attachment and identity are important in framing land use policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The processes that take place during singing and acting are complex. However, morphologic and dynamic studies of the vocal tracts during speech have been gaining greater attention, mainly because of the rapid technical advances being made with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and image analysis and processing techniques. Objectives/Hypothesis and Methods: Our aim was to describe the morphologic differences in the vocal tract resonance cavities among voice professionals using MRI, and with the three-dimensional models built from the MRI data, compare the volumes calculated for the whole vocal tract and its major resonance cavities. Study Design: Prospective study. Results: The images acquired during the spoken and singing tasks provided morphologic information about the whole vocal tract cavity and also its two major resonance cavities: the oral and the pharynx cavities; differences were observed in the volumes measured during the production of some vowels. Conclusions: The morphologic differences found in the singing voices indicated an increase in the oral cavity volume, resulting in an increase in the overall volumes measured. In the acting voices, both the resonance cavities of the vocal tract contributed to the differences measured. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) is the most widely used technique in clinical practice to assess changes in bone mineral density (BMD) and to predict fracture risk. Its application to lumbar spine and proximal femur BMD measurements is extremely useful in diagnosing bone mass decrease and implementing therapeutic interventions. As a consequence, its use in clinical practice requires capacity to tailor procedures to individual cases, knowledge to prevent potential sources of error, to provide measurement reproducibility and analysis, and interpretation abilities. Its advantages include the use of low radiation doses, short scan time, high precision and good patient acceptance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Outbreaks of influenza A (H1N1) of avian- or swine-related origin have substantially impacted human populations. The most dramatic pandemic of influenza H1N1 occurred during 1918–1919 producing significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. In the 20th century, two other major pandemics took place but they were the H2N2 and H3N2 reassorted influenza strains. In 1976, a small outbreak of swine-related H1N1 in the U.S. led to a national scare but without any significant public health impact. More recently, in April 2009, in Mexico, and subsequently worldwide, an influenza (H1N1) triple reassortant strain produced >200,000 laboratory-confirmed cases and resulted in >2000 deaths. In August 2009, WHO declared this outbreak as the first influenza pandemic of the 21st century. It is critical to apply lessons learned during previous pandemics to mitigate the public health impact of the ongoing influenza pandemic in 2009. In particular, it is useful to compare the events in Mexico in 2009 to those during the Spanish influenza pandemic of 1918–1919. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Urbanization and other human activities have led to habitat destruction and the extinction of a large number of species globally. Despite general acknowledgement that the involvement of citizens in conservation is pivotal to halting the loss of biodiversity, there is still relatively little understanding of the knowledge lay people have of the concept of biodiversity as well as their overall perception of what biodiversity is about. As the majority of the global population is urban or urbanized, this study aims to contribute to the understanding of how the biodiversity value of the place people live in shapes their perceptions, attitudes, preferences, and social representations of biodiversity. Methodologically it engages in a comparative study of two areas in a peri-urban setting, showing a similar composition of artificial and natural land covers. Both areas show the presence of the same range of biodiversity values but a contrasting all-over biodiversity value. A multi-method approach is used combining attitudinal scales, visual methods, and open questions in a questionnaire. The results show that context matters, meaning that experiencing a landscape of higher biodiversity value can shape positively people's knowledge, perception, and attitudes; and that using mixed methods in a complementary way enhances the understanding of people's relationship with biodiversity. These results allowed for the conclusion that not only the presence of biodiversity values is relevant, but above all that the promotion and communication of biodiversity values in people's surroundings through public policies that enhance the social status of biodiversity can contribute to their overall understanding of biodiversity and well as their attitudes. Ultimately, this study shows that novel approaches to green infrastructure planning have to be developed, so as to make biodiversity visible in ways that make it more accessible physically and cognitively. • The biodiversity value of the place people live in shapes their perceptions, attitudes, and social representations of biodiversity. • A multi-method approach combining attitudinal scales and visual methods, can improve knowledge about biodiversity perception. • Experiencing a landscape of higher biodiversity value can shape positively people's knowledge, perception, and attitudes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pregnancy anxiety predicts adverse developmental outcomes in offspring from infancy through late childhood, but studies have not examined associations with outcomes in early childhood, nor clarified ethnic or cultural variations in these processes.Aims: (1) To examine differences in pregnancy anxiety and related concerns between non-Hispanic White women, Latina women who prefer to speak in English, and Latinas who prefer Spanish; (2) To test prospective associations between pregnancy anxiety and child negative affect and moderation by ethnicity and language preference, used as a proxy for acculturation.Study Design and Methods: This longitudinal study included 95 women (40 Non-Hispanic Whites, 31 Spanish-preference Latinas, and 24 English-preference Latinas). Language preference was provided at study entry. Pregnancy anxiety was assessed in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy with two standardized measures. Mothers reported child negative affect at age 4.Results: Spanish-preference Latinas had significantly more pregnancy-related anxiety about their health and safety in childbirth and concerning the medical system compared to English-preference Latinas and non-Hispanic White women. Adjusting for covariates, pregnancy anxiety in the second trimester, though not the third trimester, predicted significantly higher child negative affect in the full sample. A significant moderation effect indicated that the association was strongest among the lower acculturated Latinas, i.e., those who preferred Spanish.Conclusion: These results document higher risk for offspring associated with pregnancy anxiety in the second trimester especially among less acculturated Latina women, and suggest the need for culturally-sensitive screening tools and interventions to improve outcomes for Latina mothers and their children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A large variation of dose values per procedure and department were found. • DRLs were defined for PTBD, BAE, TACE, IEAE, TIPS e ETFPA, in terms of P KA in Gy.cm2, K a,r in mGy and Fluoro time (FT) in minutes. • The results revealed a relevant potential for optimisation and harmonisation of dose values. • Standardisation of data collection methods to set national DRLs in order to facilitate comparisons. To establish Portuguese Diagnostic Reference Levels (DRLs), for six body fluoroscopy guided interventional procedures (FGIP). A retrospective study was conducted in five interventional departments most representative of Interventional Radiology (IR) practice. Dose values, in terms of air kerma area product (P KA in Gy.cm2), air kerma at the patient entrance reference point (K a,r in mGy), and exposure parameters (fluoroscopy time (FT) and number of cine runs) were collected. Examinations were selected per procedure (at least 20), according to the antero-posterior and lateral diameter mean value (±5 cm), measured on previous Computed Tomography (CT) examinations. Data of 489 body FGIP show a large variation on dose values per procedure and per department. National DRLs in terms of P KA were 20.2 Gy.cm2 for Percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD), 98.2 Gy.cm2 for Bronchial artery embolisation (BAE), 247.7 Gy.cm2 for Transarterial chemoembolisation (TACE), 331.6 Gy.cm2 for Inferior epigastric arteries embolisation (IEAE), 312.0 Gy.cm2 for Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) and 19.3 Gy.cm2 for Endovascular treatment of femoral popliteal arteries (ETFPA). This is the first study reporting Interventional Radiology DRLs in Portugal and we propose preliminary national estimates for the six more common body FGIP. The results of this study will be presented and discussed with all Portuguese IR departments, to promote procedures optimisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to explore the presence of mycotoxins in total mixed rations (TMR) employed for feeding dairy cattle and their potential carry-over to milk. A total of 87 TRM samples were collected in farms from the north of Portugal from 2019 to 2022. A method based on a QuEChERS extraction followed by UHPLC-MS/MS detection was employed for sample analysis. The method was in-house validated in terms of matrix effect, linearity, sensitivity, accuracy and precision. The most frequently detected regulated toxins were fumonisins, with a positivity rate of 74%, while deoxynivalenol and zearalenone were found in approximately 35% of the samples. Among the emerging toxins, beauvericin and enniatins exhibited the highest detection rates. In addition, milk samples were collected from 21 farms, providing insights into the carry-over of these toxins and roquefortine to milk, with an estimated rate ranging between 2% and 10%. • A total of 87 TRM samples were collected from 2019 to 2022 • An UHPLC-MS/MS detection method was employed for sample analysis • Roquefortine, beauvericin and enniatins are carried-over to milk [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heparan sulfate (HS) proteoglycans (HSPGs) are abundant glycoconjugates in cells' glycocalyx and extracellular matrix. By acting as scaffolds for protein-protein interactions, HSPGs modulate extracellular ligand gradients, cell signaling networks, and cell-extracellular matrix crosstalk. Aberrant expression of HSPGs and enzymes involved in HSPG biosynthesis and processing has been reported in tumors, with impact in cancer cell behavior and tumor microenvironment properties. However, the roles of specific glycosyltransferases in the deregulated biosynthesis of HSPGs are not fully understood. In this study, we established glycoengineered gastric cancer cell models lacking either exostosin-like glycosyltransferase 2 (EXTL2) or EXTL3 and revealed their regulatory roles in both HS and chondroitin sulfate (CS) biosynthesis and structural features. We showed that EXTL3 is key for initiating the synthesis of HS chains in detriment of CS biosynthesis, intervening in the fine-tuned balance of the HS/CS ratio in cells, while EXTL2 functions as a negative regulator of HS biosynthesis, with impact over the glycoproteome of gastric cancer cells. We demonstrated that KO of EXTL2 enhanced HS levels along with concomitant upregulation of Syndecan-4, which is a major cell surface carrier of HS. This aberrant HS expression profile promoted a more aggressive phenotype, characterized by higher cellular motility and invasion, and impaired activation of Ephrin type-A 4 cell surface receptor tyrosine kinase. Our findings uncover the biosynthetic roles of EXTL2 and EXTL3 in the regulation of cancer cell GAGosylation and proteoglycans expression and unravel the functional consequences of aberrant HS/CS balance in cellular malignant features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomedical engineering has been targeted as a potential research candidate for machine learning applications, with the purpose of detecting or diagnosing pathologies. However, acquiring relevant, high-quality, and heterogeneous medical datasets is challenging due to privacy and security issues and the effort required to annotate the data. Generative models have recently gained a growing interest in the computer vision field due to their ability to increase dataset size by generating new high-quality samples from the initial set, which can be used as data augmentation of a training dataset. This study aimed to synthesize artificial lung images from corresponding positional and semantic annotations using two generative adversarial networks and databases of real computed tomography scans: the Pix2Pix approach that generates lung images from the lung segmentation maps; and the conditional generative adversarial network (cCGAN) approach that was implemented with additional semantic labels in the generation process. To evaluate the quality of the generated images, two quantitative measures were used: the domain-specific Fréchet Inception Distance and Structural Similarity Index. Additionally, an expert assessment was performed to measure the capability to distinguish between real and generated images. The assessment performed shows the high quality of synthesized images, which was confirmed by the expert evaluation. This work represents an innovative application of GAN approaches for medical application taking into consideration the pathological findings in the CT images and the clinical evaluation to assess the realism of these features in the generated images. • AI models require massive datasets, but, acquiring medical datasets is challenging. • Generative models allow increasing the dataset by generating high-quality samples. • Two GAN approaches were used to synthesize images using masks and semantic annotations. • The synthetic images was evaluated by objective metrics and expert assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peri-urban areas are usually a heterogeneous mosaic of rural, urban and natural systems which are quite dynamic across time. In this paper we contrast a static and a dynamic-based classification of local administrative units (LAU) in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area (LMA) to gain further insights onto the current land cover patterns and recent land cover changes in urban and peri-urban areas of the LMA. Using 16 landscape pattern indicators, we characterized the 211 LAU in the region contrasting a static (2006 data) and a dynamic-based (changes during the period 1990–2006) approach, and used cluster analyses to identify LAU typologies. Using the static approach we identified seven types of LAU, of which two were clearly urban, two could be considered rural, and three could be considered peri-urban. These latter could be distinguished among themselves by the landscape matrix type where urban areas were inserted. The dynamic-based approach yielded five types of LAU with specific trajectories in time, ranging from stable to highly dynamic. The frequency of the different dynamic typologies was not independent from the static ones, with typically urban areas being predominantly stable and rural areas having characteristic and exclusive trajectories of change. Peri-urban LAU were mostly moderately dynamic but shared a typology profile mixing highly dynamic LAU with moderately dynamic and stable ones. The combination of a static and dynamic view provides added value for the formulation of spatial planning policies in peri-urban areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To assess how the joint use of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and kinetic parameters (uptake phase and delayed enhancement characteristics) from dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) can boost the ability to predict breast lesion malignancy. Materials and methods Breast magnetic resonance examinations including DCE and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) were performed on 51 women. The association between kinetic parameters and ADC were evaluated and compared between lesion types. Models with binary outcome of malignancy were studied using generalized estimating equations (GEE), (GEE), and using kinetic parameters and ADC values as malignancy predictors. Model accuracy was assessed using the corrected maximum quasi-likelihood under the independence confidence criterion (QICC). Predicted probability of malignancy was estimated for the best model. Results ADC values were significantly associated with kinetic parameters: medium and rapid uptake phase ( p <0.001) and plateau and washout curve types ( p =0.004). Comparison between lesion type showed significant differences for ADC ( p =0.001), early phase ( p <0.001), and curve type ( p <0.001). The predicted probabilities of malignancy for the first ADC quartile (≤1.17×10 −3 mm 2 /s) and persistent, plateau and washout curves, were 54.6%, 86.9%, and 97.8%, respectively, and for the third ADC quartile (≥1.51×10 −3 mm 2 /s) were 3.2%, 15.5%, and 54.8%, respectively. The predicted probability of malignancy was less than 5% for 18.8% of the lesions and greater than 33% for 50.7% of the lesions (24/35 lesions, corresponding to a malignancy rate of 68.6%). Conclusion The best malignancy predictors were low ADCs and washout curves. ADC and kinetic parameters provide differentiated information on the microenvironment of the lesion, with joint models displaying improved predictive performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To evaluate two fat-suppression techniques: short tau inversion recovery (STIR) and spectral adiabatic inversion recovery (SPAIR) regarding image quality and diagnostic performance in diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) of breast lesions at 3 T. Materials and methods Ninety-two women (mean age 48 ± 12.1 years; range 21–78 years) underwent breast MRI. Two DWI pulse sequences, with b-values (50 and 1000 s/mm 2 ) were performed with STIR and SPAIR. The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), suppression homogeneity, and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values were quantitatively assessed for each technique. Values were compared between techniques and lesion type. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis was used to evaluate lesion discrimination. Results One hundred and fourteen lesions were analysed (40 benign and 74 malignant). SNR and CNR were significantly higher for DWI-SPAIR; fat-suppression uniformity was better for DWI-STIR ( p < 1 × 10 −4 ). ADC values for benign and malignant lesions and normal tissue were 1.92 × 10 −3 , 1.18 × 10 −3 , 1.86 × 10 −3 s/mm 2 for DWI-STIR and 1.80 × 10 −3 , 1.11 × 10 −3 , 1.79 × 10 −3 s/mm 2 for SPAIR, respectively. Comparison between fat-suppression techniques showed significant differences in mean ADC values for benign ( p = 0.013) and malignant lesions ( p = 0.001). DWI-STIR and -SPAIR ADC cut-offs were 1.42 × 10 −3 and 1.46 × 10 −3 s/mm 2 , respectively. Diagnostic performance for DWI-STIR versus SPAIR was: accuracy (81.6 versus 83.3%), area under curve (87.7 versus 89.2%), sensitivity (79.7 versus 85.1%), and specificity (85 versus 80%). Positive predictive value was similar. Conclusion The fat-saturation technique used in the present study may influence image quality and ADC quantification. Nevertheless, STIR and SPAIR techniques showed similar diagnostic performances, and therefore, both are suitable for use in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excessive mobility of the bladder neck and urethra are common features in stress urinary incontinence. We aimed at assessing, through computational modelling, the bladder neck position taking into account progressive impairment of the pelvic ligaments. Magnetic resonance images of a young healthy female were used to build a computational model of the pelvic cavity. Appropriate material properties and constitutive models were defined. The impairment of the ligaments was simulated by mimicking a reduction in their stiffness. For healthy ligaments, valsalva maneuver led to an increase in the a angle (between the bladder necksymphysis pubis and the main of the symphysis) from 91.8° (at rest) to 105.7°, and 5.7 mm of bladder neck dislocation, which was similar to dynamic imaging of the same woman (a angle from 80° to 103.3°, and 5 mm of bladder neck movement). For 95% impairment, they enlarged to 124.28° and 12 mm. Impairment to the pubourethral ligaments had higher effect than that of vaginal support (115° vs. 108°, and 9.1 vs. 7.3 mm). Numerical simulation could predict urethral motion during valsalva maneuver, for both healthy and impaired ligaments. Results were similar to those of continent women and women with stress urinary incontinence published in the literature. Biomechanical analysis of the pubourethral ligaments complements the biomechanical study of the pelvic cavity in urinary incontinence. It may be useful in young women presenting stress urinary incontinence without imaging evidence of urethral and muscle lesions or organ descend during valsalva, and for whom fascial damage are not expected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Although uncommon, genitourinary tuberculosis is the most common site of extrapulmonary tuberculosis infection. Its diagnosis is often difficult. This article provides an overview of the pathologic and radiologic findings of this disease process. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Radiological findings of abdominal tuberculosis can mimic those of many different diseases. A high level of suspicion is required, especially in high-risk population. In this article, we will describe barium studies, ultrasound (US) and computed tomography (CT) findings of abdominal tuberculosis (TB), with emphasis in the latest. We will illustrate CT findings that can help in the diagnosis of abdominal tuberculosis and describe imaging features that differentiate it from other inflammatory and neoplastic diseases, particularly lymphoma and Crohn''s disease. As tuberculosis can affect any organ in the abdomen, emphasis is placed to ileocecal involvement, lymphadenopathy, peritonitis and solid organ disease (liver, spleen and pancreas). A positive culture or hystologic analysis of biopsy is still required in many patients for definitive diagnosis. Learning objectives: [1.] To review the relevant pathophysiology of abdominal tuberculosis. [2.] Illustrate CT findings that can help in the diagnosis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• A new method was developed for the analysis of 40 mycotoxins in milk. • A QuEChERS extraction procedure was optimized to minimize matrix effect. • The method was applied to 31 raw milk samples. • There was a high occurrence of beauvericin and enniatins in milk. A simple method for the quantification of 40 mycotoxins in milk was developed. This method is based on a QuEChERS extraction followed by the ultra-high liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) detection, and allows the simultaneous analysis of regulated, emerging, and modified mycotoxins. A sample treatment procedure was optimized to include a concentration step for the analysis of some compounds such as aflatoxin M 1. The method was in-house validated in terms of limits of detection (LODs), limits of quantification (LOQs), linearity, recoveries, and precision. LOQs lower than 10 ng/mL were obtained, and recoveries ranged from 61% to 120% with a precision, expressed as the relative standard deviation, lower than 15%. Therefore, acceptable performance characteristics were obtained fulfilling European regulations. The method was successfully applied for the quantification of mycotoxins in raw milk. It can be highlighted high occurrence of beauvericin and enniatins were found in low amounts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The globalization of food systems has created new challenges for sustainability governance. Voluntary certification schemes, or eco-labels, have emerged as the primary mechanism to improve production practices in complex commodity supply chains. However promising, these programs are difficult to assess in practice, and evidence of their effectiveness is mixed. In the oil palm sector, the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) has become the standard for sustainable production but there has been no evaluation of whether certification actually improves social and environmental practices on farms. To our knowledge, this study provides the first farm-level assessment of certification programs in the oil palm sector by focusing on RSPO and Organic (IFOAM) certified smallholders in Magdalena, Colombia. We conducted field surveys to evaluate management practices using a case-control pair-wise matching approach and non-parametric tests to assess outcome variables between certified and non-certified groups. We found evidence for better environmental practices among certified producers including the substitution of synthetic fertilizers with organics, less agrochemical use, and larger areas of farms being set-aside for conservation. Socio-economic outcomes were mixed, with certified producers paying higher wages, but employing fewer workers due to lower yields. Price premiums were an important motivation for smallholders to both join and remain in certification schemes. In the degraded oil palm landscapes of Colombia and elsewhere in Latin America, certification standards could be improved by including provisions for increased habitat restoration on plantations and smallholder plots. We find that certification is making progress but is not a panacea for transforming the industry. Going forward, new strategies should be sought in tandem with certification to overcome smallholder informality, enhance inclusion, and capture more value in sustainable supply chains. • First field assessment of certified oil palm production practices. • Certified producers used less chemicals inputs and kept larger conservation areas. • Motivations for becoming certified were price premiums and access to new markets. • Shortcomings of certifications are habitat restoration and food security. • Enhancing smallholder inclusion and performance will require multiple strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]