bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiological features and temporal trends of the co-infection between HIV and tuberculosis, 1990–2021: findings from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021
Authors: Zhang Shun-Xian , Wang Ji-Chun , Yang Jian , Lv Shan , Duan Lei , Lu Yan , Tian Li-Guang , Chen Mu-Xin , Liu Qin , Wei Fan-Na , Feng Xin-Yu , Yang Guo-Bing , Li Yong-Jun , Wang Yu , Hu Xiao-Jie , Yang Ming , Lu Zhen-Hui , Zhang Shao-Yan , Li Shi-Zhu , Zheng Jin-Xin
Published: August 2024

Background

The co-infection of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) and tuberculosis (TB) poses a significant clinical challenge and is a major global public health issue. This study aims to elucidate the disease burden of HIV-TB co-infection in global, regions and countries, providing critical information for policy decisions to curb the HIV-TB epidemic.

Methods

The ecological time-series study used data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Study 2021. The data encompass the numbers of incidence, prevalence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life year (DALY), as well as age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR), prevalence rate (ASPR), mortality rate (ASMR), and DALY rate for HIV-infected drug-susceptible tuberculosis (HIV-DS-TB), HIV-infected multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (HIV-MDR-TB), and HIV-infected extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (HIV-XDR-TB) from 1990 to 2021. from 1990 to 2021. The estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) of rates, with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), was calculated.

Results

In 2021, the global ASIR for HIV-DS-TB was 11.59 per 100,000 population (95% UI: 0.37–13.05 per 100,000 population), 0.55 per 100,000 population (95% UI: 0.38–0.81 per 100,000 population), for HIV-MDR-TB, and 0.02 per 100,000 population (95% UI: 0.01–0.03 per 100,000 population) for HIV-XDR-TB. The EAPC for the ASIR of HIV-MDR-TB and HIV-XDR-TB from 1990 to 2021 were 4.71 (95% CI: 1.92–7.59) and 13.63 (95% CI: 9.44–18.01), respectively. The global ASMR for HIV-DS-TB was 2.22 per 100,000 population (95% UI: 1.73–2.74 per 100,000 population), 0.21 per 100,000 population (95% UI: 0.09–0.39 per 100,000 population) for HIV-MDR-TB, and 0.01 per 100,000 population (95% UI: 0.00–0.03 per 100,000 population) for HIV-XDR-TB in 2021. The EAPC for the ASMR of HIV-MDR-TB and HIV-XDR-TB from 1990 to 2021 were 4.78 (95% CI: 1.32–8.32) and 10.00 (95% CI: 6.09–14.05), respectively.

Conclusions

The findings indicate that enhancing diagnostic and treatment strategies, strengthening healthcare infrastructure, increasing access to quality medical care, and improving public health education are essential to combat HIV-TB co-infection.

Graphical Abstract
Diffusion of fashion trend information: a study on fashion image mining from various sources
Authors: Choi Woojin , Lee Yuri , Jang Seyoon
Published: August 2024

The advancement in the internet and mobile technologies has substantially altered information diffusion in modern society, creating a diverse environment for generating and sharing various forms of information. Specifically, the emergence of new information sources, such as influencers and online communities, has significantly influenced the formation of consumer opinion. We highlight the changes that have occurred in the diffusion of fashion trend information. To do this, we conducted data mining, which involved three main steps: data preprocessing, specifically converting image data (including images from the 2022 F/W season runway collection, fashion influencer outfits, and best items from online fashion retailers) into textual data; data mining analysis (quantitative analysis); and data post-processing. As a result, we found that even items with low or no appearance on the runway held significance in the best item data or fashion influencer outfits. Specifically, the best items on online fashion retailers, reflecting popular fashion trends, had greater similarity to fashion influencer outfits. However, similarities in silhouette attributes were found among runway collections, fashion influencer outfits, and best items data. This study holds great significance because it focuses on fashion items genuinely consumed by the mainstream consumers rather than only focusing on the four major runway collections. Furthermore, these findings offer valuable insights for merchandising and trend forecasting, emphasizing the importance of selectively utilizing fashion trend information in the planning of fashion products.
Spontaneous mesenteric hematoma occurring during antithrombotic therapy and responsive to surgical treatment: a case report
Authors: Aoki Meiko , Yoshii Hisamichi , Fujino Rika , Izumi Hideki , Mukai Masaya , Makuuchi Hiroyasu
Published: August 2024

Background

Spontaneous mesenteric hematoma is a rare condition that is diagnosed when clinical and pathological findings do not identify an obvious causative disease. Various treatment options for spontaneous mesenteric hematoma exist; however, there are no clear treatment criteria. Herein, we report a case of spontaneous mesenteric hematoma that was successfully treated surgically and discuss the optimum treatment strategy based on similar cases.

Case presentation

A 63-year-old man with abdominal persisting for 3 days presented to our hospital after going into shock without any triggers. The patient had a history of atrial fibrillation, stroke, and an aneurysm, and was receiving antithrombotic therapy. Abdominal contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed a mass structure within the sigmoid mesentery, which was suspected to be a hematoma. The patient was admitted to the hospital for follow-up observation after initial infusion and vital stabilization. However, the following day, the patient developed acute generalized peritonitis with necrosis of the sigmoid colon; therefore, emergency Hartmann’s surgery was performed. Intraoperative and histopathological examinations revealed no evidence of bleeding.

Conclusion

Spontaneous mesenteric hematomas tend to be associated with intestinal necrosis and may require surgical treatment with bowel resection owing to the difficulty in identifying the responsible vessel. Moreover, our results suggest that the presence of antithrombotic therapy may be an important factor affecting spontaneous mesenteric hematoma development.
Percutaneous pericardiocentesis using the apical approach: case series and review of the literature
Authors: Alaiwah Malek , Hassanin Ahmed , Abbasi Danish , Rayes Hamza , Hassan Zahra , Albadaineh Mu’nes , Mansour Munthir , Devabhaktuni Subodh , Tarun Tushar , Vallurupalli Srikanth , Mounsey John P. , Al’Aref Subhi J.
Published: August 2024

Background

Pericardiocentesis offers a definitive diagnostic and a life-saving therapeutic modality through removal of pericardial fluid and relief of high intrapericardial pressure. Percutaneous pericardiocentesis has been performed via different approaches depending on different institutional experiences. In this paper, we present our institutional experience and review the current literature of the different approaches for performing percutaneous pericardiocentesis.

Materials and methods

We evaluated consecutive patients who underwent echocardiographic-guided pericardiocentesis via the apical approach for pericardial effusion between the period of April 1st, 2022, and April 1st, 2023, at University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS). Health records were reviewed for clinical presentations, available imaging findings, procedural outcomes, and short-term follow up.

Results

A total of eight consecutive cases of pericardiocentesis via the apical approach were found. Seven were successful. No complications were reported. Six patients had evidence of tamponade physiology on echocardiogram.

Conclusion

Historically, pericardiocentesis has been most performed via the subxiphoid approach. However, an ultrasound-guided apical approach offers a safe and effective alternative and may be preferable in patients with challenging anatomies.
Unveiling Meghalaya topography: slope length gradient (LS) factor estimation for insightful soil erosion evaluation
Authors: Badavath Naveen , Sahoo Smrutirekha , Samal Rasmiranjan
Published: August 2024

Meghalaya is known for its complex environment due to its hilly terrain and heavy rains, which result in significant soil erosion challenges. The LS factor is the primary factor used to estimate soil loss. Acquiring accurate LS values has always been a significant challenge. The main aim of this research is to compute the LS factor in the Meghalaya region. Three methods are used to calculate the LS factor: (1) Wischmeier and Smith’s (1978) method, (2) Moore and Wilson’s (1992) method, and (3) Desmet and Gover’s (1996) method. All three approaches used the digital elevation model (DEM) in the spatial domain to determine the LS factor. The results of this investigation demonstrated significant variation in LS factor in all three methods. Wischmeier and Smith’s method yielded LS factor values ranging from 0 to 266.538, Moore and Wilson’s method resulted in values ranging from 0 to 112.631, and Desmet and Gover’s method resulted in values ranging from 0 to 683.679. This study concluded that Wischmeier and Smith’s method resulted in LS factor values distributed uniformly across the spatial domain. In contrast, Moore and Wilson’s method only yielded high values along the flow path and low values in other areas. Additionally, Desmet and Gover’s method identified high LS factors in regions with steep slopes near rivers and streamlines. This study can be helpful in anticipating soil erosion well before time and also in developing a slope management plan in the study region.
The use of angiotensin II for the management of distributive shock: expert consensus statements
Authors: Landoni Giovanni , Cortegiani Andrea , Bignami Elena , De Pascale Gennaro , Donadello Katia , Donati Abele , Grasselli Giacomo , Guarracino Fabio , Monti Gianpaola , Paternoster Gianluca , Tritapepe Luigi , Girardis Massimo
Published: August 2024

Background

Despite the growing body of evidence supporting the use of angiotensin II (ATII) in distributive shock, its integration into existing treatment algorithms requires careful consideration of factors related to patient comorbidities, hemodynamic parameters, cost-effectiveness, and risk–benefit balance. Moreover, several questions regarding its use in clinical practice warrant further investigations. To address these challenges, a group of Italian intensive care specialists (the panel) developed a consensus process using a modified Delphi technique.

Methods

The panel defined five clinical questions during an online scoping workshop and then provided a short list of statements related to each clinical question based on literature review and clinical experience. A total of 20 statements were collected. Two coordinators screened and selected the final list of statements to be included in the online survey, which consisted of 17 statements. The consensus was reached when ≥ 75% of respondents assigned a score within the 3-point range of 1–3 (disagreement) or 7–9 (agreement).

Results

Overall, a consensus on agreement was reached on 13 statements defining the existing gaps in scientific evidence, the possibility of evaluating the addition of drugs with different mechanisms of action for the treatment of refractory shock, the utility of ATII in reducing the catecholamine requirements in the treatment of vasopressor-resistant septic shock, and the effectiveness of ATII in treating patients in whom angiotensin-converting enzyme activity is reduced or pharmacologically blocked. It was widely shared that renin concentration can be used to identify patients who most likely benefit from ATII to restore vascular tone. Thus, the patients who might benefit most from using ATII were defined. Lastly, some potential barriers to the use of ATII were described.

Conclusions

ATII was recognized as a useful treatment to reduce catecholamine requirements in treating vasopressor-resistant septic shock. At the same time, the need for additional clinical trials to further elucidate the efficacy and safety of ATII, as well as investigations into potential mechanisms of action and optimization of treatment protocols in patients with refractory distributive shock, emerged.
Identifying clinically relevant agranulocytosis in people registered on the UK clozapine Central Non-Rechallenge Database: retrospective cohort study
Authors: Oloyede Ebenezer , Bachmann Christian J. , Dzahini Olubanke , Lopez Alcaraz Juan Miguel , Singh Shaurya Dev , Vallianatu Kalliopi , Funk Burkhardt , Whiskey Eromona , Taylor David
Published: August 2024

Background

Clozapine is the most effective antipsychotic for treatment-resistant psychosis. However, clozapine is underutilised in part because of potential agranulocytosis. Accumulating evidence indicates that below-threshold haematological readings in isolation are not diagnostic of life-threatening clozapine-induced agranulocytosis (CIA).

Aims

To examine the prevalence and timing of CIA using different diagnostic criteria and to explore demographic differences of CIA in patients registered on the UK Central Non-Rechallenge Database (CNRD).

Method

We analysed data of all patients registered on the UK Clozaril® Patient Monitoring Service Central Non-Rechallenge Database (at least one absolute neutrophil count (ANC) < 1.5 × 109/L and/or white blood cell count < 3.0 × 109/L) between May 2000 and February 2021. We calculated prevalence rates of agranulocytosis using threshold-based and pattern-based criteria, stratified by demographic factors (gender, age and ethnicity). Differences in epidemiology based on rechallenge status and clozapine indication were explored. The proportion of patients who recorded agranulocytosis from a normal ANC was explored.

Results

Of the 3029 patients registered on the CNRD with 283 726 blood measurements, 593 (19.6%) were determined to have threshold-based agranulocytosis and 348 (11.4%) pattern-based agranulocytosis. In the total sample (75 533), the prevalence of threshold-based agranulocytosis and pattern-based agranulocytosis was 0.8% and 0.5%, respectively. The median time to threshold-based agranulocytosis was 32 weeks (IQR 184) and 15 (IQR 170) weeks for pattern-based agranulocytosis. Among age groups, the prevalence of pattern-based agranulocytosis and threshold-based agranulocytosis was highest in the >48 age group. Prevalence rates were greatest for White (18%) and male individuals (13%), and lowest for Black individuals (0.1%). The proportion of people who were determined to have pattern-based agranulocytosis without passing through neutropenia was 70%.

Conclusions

Threshold-based definition of agranulocytosis may over-diagnose CIA. Monitoring schemes should take into consideration neutrophil patterns to correctly identify clinically relevant CIA. In marked contrast to previous studies, CIA occurred least in Black individuals and most in White individuals.
Identification and Validation of Prognostic Model for Tumor Microenvironment-Associated Genes in Bladder Cancer Based on Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Data Sets
Authors: Safder Imran , Valentine Henkel , Uzzo Nicole , Sfakianos John , Uzzo Robert , Gupta Shilpa , Brown Jason , Ranti Daniel , Plimack Elizabeth , Haber George , Weight Christopher , Kutikov Alexander , Abbosh Philip , Bukavina Laura
Published: August 2024

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to elucidate the relationship between the tumor microenvironment (TME) and cellular diversity in bladder cancer (BLCA) progression, leveraging single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data to identify potential prognostic biomarkers and construct a prognostic model for BLCA.

METHODS

We analyzed scRNA-seq data of normal and tumor bladder cells from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database to uncover crucial markers within the bladder TME. The study compared gene expression in normal versus tumor bladder cells, identifying differentially expressed genes. These genes were subsequently assessed for their prognostic significance using patient follow-up data from The Cancer Genome Atlas. Prognostic models were constructed using Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator and multivariate Cox regression analyses, focusing on eight genes of interest. The predictive performance of the model was also tested against additional GEO data sets (GSE31684, GSE13507, and GSE32894).

RESULTS

The prognostic model demonstrated reliable prediction of patient outcomes. Validation through gene set enrichment analysis and immune cell infiltration assessment supported the model's efficacy. The results from both the univariate and multivariate analyses suggest that the risk score is an independent prognostic factor with a hazard ratio of 2.97 (95% CI, 2.28 to 3.9, P < .001). In the validation cohort, the AUC at 1, 2, and 3 years is 0.74, 0.74, and 0.72, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our findings proposed biomarkers with prognostic potential, laying the groundwork for future in vitro validation and therapeutic exploration. This contributes to a deeper understanding of the genes associated with bladder TME and may improve prognostic precision in BLCA management.
Extraventricular Neurocytoma of the Sellar Region Presenting With Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuresis
Authors: Lamback Elisa , Filho Ferdinand Duenas Cabrera , Ventura Nina , Chimelli Leila , Christ-Crain Mirjam , Gadelha Mônica R
Published: August 2024

Neurocytomas are neuronal tumors that are usually intraventricular. Rare cases can arise from extraventricular sites. To our knowledge, only 29 cases of extraventricular neurocytoma of the sellar region (EVNSR) have been reported in the literature. We describe a case of a 39-year-old woman who presented with a one-month history of refractory headache, nausea and vomiting. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a 5.1 × 3.1 × 2.2 cm sellar and suprasellar mass, suggestive of a pituitary adenoma (PA). She had hyponatremia, obstructive hydrocephalus, and panhypopituitarism at presentation (hypogonadism, adrenal insufficiency). After glucocorticoid replacement therapy and ventriculoperitoneal shunt, the vomiting and headache resolved, but she remained with nausea and hyponatremia. She was submitted to surgery, and histopathological analysis revealed a neurocytoma with positive immunostaining for arginine vasopressin. Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuresis (SIAD) was diagnosed but did not resolve after surgery due to residual tumor, despite fluid restriction and saline replacement. SIAD later resolved with empagliflozin. In conclusion, EVNSR is extremely rare and can be misdiagnosed as PA on MRI. In the context of SIAD and extraventricular neurocytoma, a secreting arginine vasopressin tumor must be considered. SIAD can be challenging to treat, with excision of the EVNSR the treatment choice and, alternatively, empagliflozin associated with fluid restriction.
Thyroid Paraganglioma: A Rare Manifestation of Paraganglioma Syndrome Associated With Pathogenic Variant in SDHD
Authors: Tarasova Valentina D , Samuel Kelara , McMullen Caitlin , Kushchayev Sergiy , Hernandez Prera Juan C , Veloski Colleen
Published: August 2024

Evaluation of an incidentally discovered indeterminate thyroid nodule (TN) in a previously healthy 59-year female led to diagnosis of thyroid paraganglioma (TPGL) and subsequently hereditary succinate dehydrogenase complex subunit D (SDHD)-related multifocal head and neck paragangliomas (PGLs). An ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy of the 1.7-cm TN was nondiagnostic and core biopsy was suspicious for papillary thyroid carcinoma. Pathology slides reviewed at tertiary center showed neuroendocrine neoplasm consistent with PGL. Her 24-hour urinary catecholamines and metanephrines were normal. Given the diagnosis of TPGL, genetic testing was recommended, which identified a pathogenic variant in SDHD (c.242C > T(p.P81L). Gallium-68-DOTATATE PET/CT revealed multifocal areas of increased somatostatin receptor expression from the skull base to thoracic inlet. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain/neck showed multiple PGLs (right jugular, carotid, thyroid, left vagal, left level II, and superior mediastinal), all measured up to 1.7 cm. The right jugular PGL was treated with external beam radiation therapy of 3000 cGy. All PGLs remained stable and asymptomatic at 22-month follow-up imaging. TPGL should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a hypervascular TN in patients with SDHx-related pheochromocytoma-PGL syndromes and when such lesions with indeterminate cytology are encountered in patients with no known history of SDHx-mutation or syndrome.
Impact of Intraoperative Dexamethasone on Perioperative Blood Glucose Levels: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials
Authors: Katerenchuk Vasyl , Ribeiro Eduardo Matos , Batista Ana Correia
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND:

Dexamethasone is associated with increased blood glucose levels that could impact patient outcomes or management. This study aimed to synthesize the available evidence regarding the impact of an intraoperative single dose of dexamethasone on blood glucose levels.

METHODS:

We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and clinicaltrials.gov for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing a single intraoperative dose of dexamethasone to control in adult patients who underwent noncardiac surgery. We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and the review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023420562). Data were pooled using a random-effects model. We reported pooled dichotomous data using odds ratios (OR) and continuous data using the mean difference (MD), reporting 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs), and corresponding P-values for both. Confidence in the evidence was appraised using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) approach. As primary outcomes we assessed maximum blood glucose levels measurement and variation from baseline within 24 hours of surgery; blood glucose levels measurement and variation from baseline at 2, 4, 8, 12, and 24 hours after dexamethasone administration. As secondary outcomes, we evaluated insulin requirements and hyperglycemic events.

RESULTS:

We included 23 RCTs, enrolling 11,154 participants overall. Dexamethasone was associated with a significant increment in blood glucose levels compared to control at all timepoints. The results showed an increase compared to control of 0.37 mmol L−1 (6.7 mg dL−1) at 2 hours (95% CI, 0.16–0.58 mmol L−1 or 2.9–10.5 mg dL−1), 0.97 mmol L−1 (17.5 mg dL−1) at 4 hours (95% CI, 0.67–1.25 mmol L−1 or 12.1–22.5 mg dL−1), 0.96 mmol L−1 (17.3 mg dL−1) at 8 hours (95% CI, 0.55–1.36 mmol L−1 or 9.9–24.5 mg dL−1), 0.90 mmol L−1 (16.2 mg dL−1) at 12 hours (95% CI, 0.62–1.19 mmol L−1 or 11.2–21.4 mg dL−1) and 0.59 mmol L−1 (10.6 mg dL−1) at 24 hours (95% CI, 0.22–0.96 mmol L−1 or 4.0–17.3 mg dL−1). No difference was found between subgroups regarding diabetic status (patients with diabetes versus patients without diabetes) in all the outcomes except 2 (maximum blood glucose levels variation within 24 hours and variation at 4 hours) and dexamethasone dose (4–5 mg vs 8–10 mg) in all the outcomes except 2 (blood glucose levels at 24 hours and hyperglycemic events).

CONCLUSIONS:

Mean blood glucose levels rise between 0.37 and 1.63 mmol L−1 (6.7 and 29.4 mg dL−1) within 24 hours after a single dose of dexamethasone administered at induction of anesthesia compared to control, but in most patients this difference will not be clinically relevant.
Perioperative Dexamethasone in Diabetic Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trials
Authors: Jones Ian A. , LoBasso Michael A. , Wier Julian , Gettleman Brandon S. , Richardson Mary K. , Ratto Christina E. , Lieberman Jay R. , Heckmann Nathanael D.
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND:

The perioperative use of dexamethasone in diabetic patients remains controversial due to concerns related to infection and adverse events. This study aimed to determine whether clinical evidence supports withholding dexamethasone in diabetic patients due to concern for infection risk. We hypothesized that there is no difference in infectious outcomes between dexamethasone-treated patients and controls.

METHODS:

A literature search was performed on November 22, 2022 to identify randomized, placebo-controlled trials investigating short-course (<72 hours), perioperative dexamethasone that explicitly included diabetic patients and measured at least 1 clinical outcome. Pertinent studies were independently searched in PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane. Authors for all identified studies were contacted with the aim of performing quantitative subgroup analyses of diabetic patients. The primary end point was surgical site infection and the secondary end point was a composite of adverse events. Qualitative remarks were reported based on the total available data and a quality assessment tool. Meta-analyses were performed using inverse variance with random effects. Heterogeneity was assessed via standard χ2 and I
2 tests.

RESULTS:

Sixteen unique studies were included, 5 of which were analyzed quantitatively. Of the 2592 diabetic patients, 2344 (1184 randomized to dexamethasone and 1160 to placebo) were analyzed in at least 1 quantitative outcome. Quantitative analysis showed that the use of perioperative dexamethasone had no effect on the risk of surgical site infections (log odds ratio [LOR], −0.10, 95%; 95% confidence interval [CI], −0.64 to 0.44) while significantly reducing the risk of composite adverse events (LOR, −0.33; 95% CI, −0.62 to −0.05). Qualitative analysis reinforced these findings, demonstrating noninferior to superior results across all clinical outcomes. There was high heterogeneity between the included studies.

CONCLUSIONS:

Current evidence suggests perioperative dexamethasone may be given to diabetic patients without increasing the risk of infectious complications. Prospective investigations aimed at optimizing dose, frequency, and timing are needed, as well as studies aimed explicitly at exploring the use of dexamethasone in patients with poorly controlled diabetes.
Lost in translation? Jáchym Topol’s The Devil’s Workshop and its local and transnational reader
Authors: Ščasná Bernadette
Published: August 2024

Jáchym Topol, who is a Czech writer and poet, has several times emphasized that he does not care about his readers, especially foreign ones who get to read translated versions of his work, as it is not his job to be understood. With the rise of transnational WWII-related literature in the Czech Republic in the last two decades, I explore how his novel The Devil’s Workshop has become an important work in the realm of transnational literature, despite Topol’s peculiar writing style and stance towards his international readers. In my analysis, I explore Topol’s writing style, the novel’s socio-historical context through the concept of difficult heritage and the juxtaposition of Czech and Belarusian WWII narratives, as well as the novel’s local and international reception.
Salir adelante: género y ciudadanía en la justicia transicional
Authors: Weber Sanne
Published: August 2024

En las últimas décadas se reconoce cada vez más que los conflictos afectan a hombres y mujeres de manera diferente, resultando entre otros en la Agenda de Mujeres, Paz y Seguridad. El género también ha ocupado un lugar central en el ámbito de la justicia transicional (JT) y el desarme, la desmovilización y la reintegración (DDR). Dada la intensa atención que se presta a las cuestiones de género, ¿por qué persisten con tanta frecuencia la desigualdad y la violencia de género en los países en situación de posconflicto? ¿Qué dice esto sobre cómo se aplican las perspectivas y políticas de género? Este libro describe qué significan la paz y la justicia con perspectiva de género para las personas que deberían beneficiarse de estos procesos, basándose en un trabajo de campo etnográfico, participativo y visual en dos localidades de la Costa Caribe colombiana, con hombres y mujeres, sobrevivientes y excombatientes. Basándose en estudios de ciudadanía, el libro ofrece una manera innovadora de repensar la TJ sensible al género. Aplicando una epistemología y métodos visuales feministas y participativos, el libro aporta nuevos datos empíricos, reflexiones metodológicas y éticas, y perspectivas teóricas al campo de la investigación feminista sobre la justicia transicional.
Search in the Dark: The Case with Recall and Gaussian Learning
Authors: Baucells Manel , Zorc Saša
Published: August 2024

In “Search in the Dark: The Case with Recall and Gaussian Learning,” Manel Baucells and Saša Zorc address the classic sequential search problem where decision makers sample from a distribution to maximize rewards minus sampling costs. They focus on search with recall, where the reward is the highest sampled value. They solve the long-standing problem of determining optimal stopping rules when the sampling distribution is normal but both its mean and variance are unknown, and hence, they are progressively learned via sampling. The solution reveals that traditional methods, which rely on single reservation prices, are inadequate. The proposed approach offers a practical and efficient way to determine the optimal stopping rule. Relevant applications include job search, the sale of an asset, or technology adoption.
TOPLUMSAL CİNSİYET ROLLERİ BAĞLAMINDA NASREDDİN HOCA FIKRALARI
Authors: Alptekin Tuba
Published: August 2024

Bu çalışmanın amacı, Nasreddin Hoca fıkralarının toplumsal cinsiyet rolleri açısından incelenmesidir. Veri toplama aracı olarak Saim Sakaoğlu ve Ali Berat Alptekin tarafından hazırlanan Nasreddin Hoca (2014) kitabındaki 124 fıkra incelenmiştir. Nitel bir yaklaşımın benimsendiği çalışma, doküman analizi deseniyle kurgulanmıştır. Fıkra metinlerindeki Nasreddin Hoca “toplumsal cinsiyet rolleri” hedefinde betimsel analize tabi tutulmuştur. Sonraki aşamada ise elde edilen veriler içerik analiziyle incelenmiştir. Fıkralardan elde edilen incelemeler “cinsiyetlere yüklenen roller”, “cinsiyetlere yüklenen meslek rolleri”, “cinsiyetlere yüklenen olumlu kişilik rolleri”, “cinsiyetlere yüklenen olumsuz kişilik rolleri”, “Nasreddin Hoca ve eşinin bulunduğu mekânlar”, “aile içi roller” şeklinde altı başlıkta değerlendirilmiştir. Araştırma sonucunda fıkralarda erkek karakterlere kadın karakterlerden daha fazla yer verildiği, meslek rolleri bağlamında eşitlikçi bir yaklaşımın benimsenmediği, erkeklerin aktif bir rolü olurken kadınların geri planda kaldığı, olumlu ve olumsuz kişilik rolleri bakımından erkeklerin kadınlara nazaran sayıca fazla olduğu, erkeklerin sosyal alanlarda kadınlardan daha çok yer aldığı, toplumsal cinsiyet rollerinin geleneksel bağlamda toplumda var olan kalıp yargıları genel anlamda yansıttığı görülmüştür.
Computational Fluid Dynamics Modeling of Airflow in Walnut Drying Bins and Bin Modification Effect on Airflow
Authors: McIntyre Joseph Sherwood , Tumuluru Jaya Shankar , Funk Paul , Haff Ronald P. , Breksa Andrew P. , Butts Christopher L.
Published: August 2024

Highlights

Walnut drying bin internal airflow simulation and visualization.

Modeling of airflow through masses of in-shell walnuts.

Effect of walnut drying bin modifications on airflow in the walnut mass.

Comparison of computational fluid dynamic (CFD) solutions to measured air speed.

Abstract. Drying walnuts in conventional drying bins can result in uneven drying reducing quality and shelf life. Improved designs for drying bins are needed, but direct testing of new configurations of drying bins is expensive and time-consuming, so there is a need for a more rapid and less expensive method to investigate drying bin designs. An alternative method to direct testing of bins is computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling, which can be performed rapidly. CDF modeling could provide researchers with valuable information about airflow through drying walnuts that is impractical to obtain by direct measurement. The CFD modeling method based on permeability previously employed to model airflow through drying in-shell peanuts in a drying trailer was successfully applied to modeling airflow through drying in-shell walnuts in drying bins. The results of the CFD model were validated by finding airflow patterns from the CFD analysis that corresponded to those determined from direct measurements. After validating model results, researchers investigated modifying the design of conventional stadium-style drying bins by adding multiple vented end air tubes of various lengths that extended up into the drying walnuts from the floor of the bin. CFD modeling provided researchers with a way to visualize and quantify airflow passing up through walnuts in the modified bin design and then compare it to airflow passing up through walnuts in an unmodified bin design. Study results indicated that airflow quickly slowed in the modified bin design as air moved away from the ends of the air tubes and airflow between the air tubes was slower when compared to airflow in bins without air tubes. The addition of the air tubes to walnut drying bins while producing small areas of faster airflow did not appreciably increase the overall rate of airflow or result in a more even distribution of airflow. The CFD model analysis indicated that the addition of multiple air tubes that released air from end caps at various levels in the drying walnuts would not be expected to enhance walnut drying. Keywords: Airflow, Airflow enhancement, CFD, Computational fluid dynamics modeling, Computational model validation, Drying, Modeling Walnut drying bin, Walnuts.
Spatial and Temporal Variations of Litter Characteristics in a Commercial Turkey Finishing Barn
Authors: Soriano Noelle Cielito , Warmka Anna , Janni Kevin A. , Wilson Melissa , Cortus Erin L.
Published: August 2024

Highlights

Volatile solids, ash, and nitrogen (wet basis) were lower around the waterers and feeders compared to the rest of the barn.

Changes of volatile solids and nitrogen occurred during weeks where bird or bedding movements occurred.

This work can inform sampling procedures for nutrient management plans and simple gas emission estimation methods.

Abstract. The objective of this study was to identify spatial and temporal variations of litter characteristics in a commercial turkey finishing barn. Seven litter samples representing different areas of the barn (waterer and feeder areas, open areas of the barn) were collected during each sampling event. We analyzed the moisture content (MC), volatile solids (VS), ash, and nitrogen (N) content in the litter six times during a 56-day grow-out period for turkey hens on both a wet and dry basis. On a wet basis, generally, results showed significant differences in litter composition by position and time. By position, litter characteristics were generally wetter and less nutrient-dense around the waterer and feeder areas, compared to the open area in the middle of the barn. Over time, there was also a significant difference in litter composition between day 7, right after the birds were moved in, and day 56, towards the end of the grow-out period. Significant differences in N and VS concentrations (wet basis) were also observed during bird movement and/or bedding addition events. On a dry basis, there were generally significant differences by position but not by day. Findings from this work can inform sampling procedures for nutrient management planning. Litter characteristic data can also be used as input data for simple gas emission methods like the IPCC approach. Keywords: Ash, Litter composition, Moisture content, Nitrogen, Turkey finishing barn, Turkey, Volatile Solids.
Fakt versus Fake: Kommunikative Strategien in Faktenchecks auf Instagram
Authors: Stelter Judith
Published: August 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused uncertainty in society and thus created a breeding ground for fake news. In social media in particular, targeted disinformation was and is practiced in order to emotionalize, confuse and manipulate users to achieve political and economic goals. In keeping with its educational and orienting function and in order to curb the spread of fake news, the established news magazine DER SPIEGEL carries out so-called fact checks and publishes the results on the social network Instagram. Although the text type “fact check” is considered young and poorly defined, its importance in socially uncertain times and its potential for a quick, safe and educational function are clear. In order to approach the text type “fact check” specifically in a social media environment, a selected corpus of 12 Instagram posts from @spiegelmagazin in the period between March and May 2020 will be examined using a multimodal, qualitative discourse analysis. Taking an inductive perspective, we ask which strategic text-image strategies can be found in the Instagram posts, which communicative functions are fulfilled and which overarching intentions should be taken into account. The study itself is intended to offer a first approach to the text type “fact check” and open the view to further, relevant questions.
Searching for Dido in the Latin Epics of Colonial Mexico
Authors: Valdivieso Erika
Published: August 2024

summary: Dido is a common feature of early modern imitations of the Aeneid , but there is no Dido figure in extant Latin epics from the Americas. This paper argues that this lacuna is a form of colonial loss and traces her absence from these Latin texts to her elimination from Jesuit curriculum and Jesuit textbooks in the Americas. These pedagogical texts shaped the composition of Latin epic by Jesuit students. Through this case study, I suggest that Latin from the Americas provides an opportunity for classicists to contribute to the interdisciplinary study of colonial loss.
The United States, China, and Planetary Solidarity
Authors: Zhang Yongjin
Published: August 2024

Abstract: We are living in a world of multiple crises and an age of megathreats. The COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on the global economy and left a long trail of death, social destruction, and discontent worldwide. The threat of nuclear Armageddon has reared its head in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. With regards to climate change, UN Secretary General António Guterres warned sternly at the COP 27 Summit in Egypt that humanity is "on a highway to climate hell with our foot on the accelerator." In this world ridden with multiple crises, the relationship between the United States and China, Ian Bremmer observes, "is headed in the wrong direction." The two global powers are engaged in unconstrained geopolitical and technological rivalries. Washington has identified the increasingly authoritarian, assertive, and powerful China as an adversary, a hostile power, and a threat to a wide range of American strategic and security interests. At the same time, Beijing sees American policy "to contain China in every possible way" as the product of mounting fear and envy. The intensifying US-China strategic rivalry does more to impair than to invigorate the existing international order in our world of multiple crises. If the pursuit of human progress, freedom, peace, and prosperity on a livable planet is the ultimate objective of American foreign policy, as Secretary Antony Blinken recently stated, does the United States need to "beat" its main geopolitical rival China? Can common humanity and planetary solidarity take precedence over U.S.-China strategic rivalry?
LGBTQ+ Activism Under Attack: The Legitimation Crisis of Lebanon's Power-Sharing
Authors: Nagle John
Published: August 2024

Abstract: This article examines the current wave of harassment of Lebanese LGBTQ+ activism in the context of the power-sharing government undergoing a "legitimation crisis." It argues that as Lebanon's power-sharing system has increasingly become more semi-authoritarian, state and non-state actors have responded to popular dissent by framing LGBTQ+ activism as a security threat. The article concludes by questioning the role of international actors as supporters of Lebanese LGBTQ+ rights.
Hundred Eyes or Hundred Wild Geese: An Examination of How Historical Sources were Made in Marco Polo’s Time
Authors: Liu Haiwei
Published: August 2024

Abstract: By analyzing two similar but different prophecies respectively preserved in Marco Polo’s travelogue and Chinese writings, this article seeks to shed light on the mechanism of information circulation and preservation in Mongol Eurasia. It shows that the prophecy in Marco Polo’s book was compatible with European imagination of the Mongols during the thirteenth century while the prophecy in Chinese sources was consistent with Chinese understanding of the Mongols in this time. It argues that during the Mongol period historical information compatible with authors’ repertoires of knowledge and with target audiences’ understanding were more likely preserved in written texts.
Filament-induced breakdown spectroscopy of solids through highly scattering media
Authors: Frigerio Leandro , Latty Kyle , Burger Miloš , Hartig Kyle C. , Jovanovic Igor
Published: August 2024

Ultrafast laser pulse filamentation in the air can be used for remote
sensing by exciting a characteristic optical emission, which is
usually referred to as filamentation-induced breakdown spectroscopy.
In environments that impede light propagation, such as fog, haze, or
clouds, scattering makes it challenging to propagate laser beams and
retrieve generated optical signatures. We demonstrate the
effectiveness of laser filamentation for simultaneously clearing the
path for intense femtosecond pulse propagation in a highly scattering
medium, generation of luminous plasma on a solid target, and
counter-propagation of a characteristic spectroscopic signal over a
cleared channel along the filament path. In a dense cloud, the
counter-propagating signal predominantly transits the cleared on-axis
path but is highly affected by the negative thermal lensing of a
Gaussian beam. These insights enhance our understanding of laser
filamentation in atmospheric sensing and could substantially improve
remote detection capabilities in poor visibility conditions.
Low-loss and low-cross talk polarization-insensitive multimode silicon waveguide crossing
Authors: Chen Yun , Wang Pengjun , Fu Qiang , Sun Yuhan , Zou Yi , Dai Shixun , Chen Weiwei , Chen Haoqi , Li Jun , Dai Tingge , Yang Jianyi
Published: August 2024

A polarization-insensitive multimode silicon waveguide crossing is investigated and experimentally characterized in this Letter. By employing the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm and finite difference time domain (FDTD) method, the lengths and widths of the waveguides in the proposed device are optimized for attaining wide bandwidth, small insertion loss (IL), low cross talk (CT), and compact size. Measurement results reveal that the footprint of the presented device is 11.92 μm × 11.92 μm. From 1520 to 1600 nm, the measured insertion loss and cross talk are smaller than 0.67 dB and −28.6 dB in the case of the TE0 mode, lower than 0.65 dB and −28.7 dB in the case of the TE1 mode, less than 0.48 dB and −36.3 dB in the case of the TM0 mode, and lower than 0.62 dB and −28 dB in the case of the TM1 mode.
Physical processes of mirror reversal based on the real image of the optical system
Authors: Tanaka Junichi
Published: August 2024

All explanations for the mirror reversal phenomenon thus far before the author’s work have been based on the geometric illustration of plane symmetry, whether or not the explainer thinks the illustration is based on the optical principle. However, optically, those illustrations are based on the virtual image, and such situations as the plane symmetry can also be substantialized by using real objects of an enantiomorphic pair, such as right and left hands, without using optical explanation. Thus, only such an illustration of the plane symmetry does not represent the optical mechanism of the mirror reversal phenomenon perfectly. Another lack of understanding in explanations thus far is that directional notions such as top-bottom, front-back, and right-left are not geometric, so such directional notions cannot be used in strictly explaining physical processes. This time, I analyzed the problem based on the real image formed in a camera system as a substitute for the human eye, utilizing the Cartesian coordinate system. Thus, the study clarified the physical process of the mirror reversal phenomenon optically, directly from the specular reflection of the ray, resolving the above two problems. Further, this study proved that the concept of isotropic and anisotropic spaces underlies the mirror recognition and the mirror reversal phenomenon.
A Luminance Uniformity Modulation Procedure for Grating-based Exit-pupil Expander
Authors: Hsieh Kuan Chun , Chen Chi-Feng , SU YI-WEI , TSAI YU-HSIN
Published: August 2024

A luminance uniformity modulation procedure is proposed for grating-based exit-pupil expander (EPE) using in waveguide display. Whereas the diffractive efficiency of the extracted light via coupling-out structure area (COSA) has been analyzed by both rigorous coupled wave analysis (RCWA) and finite difference time domain (FDTD) wave optics theory in RSoft®. We have also imported bidirectional scattering distribution function (BSDF) file into waveguide optical system using LightTools® to validate the desired purpose. The luminance uniformity results of 5 COSAi have been achieved excellent performance 99.44% with a good overall light extracting rate 19.27 % and no optical crosstalk issue has occurred.
Analytical solution to the problem of polarization drift compensation in all-fiber QKD system
Authors: Shakhovoy Roman , Mayboroda Vladimir , Rudavin Nikita , Kupriyanov Pavel , Fatyanov Oleg
Published: August 2024

A novel method for simultaneous compensation of polarization drift in a fiber-optic quantum channel and a fully fiber-optic receiver has been successfully developed, implemented, and tested using a commercial QKD system. The method is based on the exact analytical solution we derived which gives the necessary corrective transformation for polarization. Noise and imperfections in any realistic system require iterative application of the computed corrections. In our case, polarization drift compensation was completed on average in 2-3 iterations. This is an improvement by a factor of 10-100 compared to the common methods based on hill-climbing algorithms.