bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perceptions of stakeholders on the use of a simplified, combined protocol for treatment of acute malnutrition in Central African Republic
Authors: Ngure Francis M. , Tausanovitch Zachary , Heymsfield Grace A. , Bebelou Siolo Mada , Seboulo Parfait , Tabiojongmbeng Benedict , Dembele Anne Marie , Coulibaly Issa Niamanto , Nikièma Victor , Bailey Jeanette , Kangas Suvi T.
Published: October 2024

Treatment of acute malnutrition requires novel approaches to improve coverage, reduce costs and improve the efficiency of standard protocols that separate the management of moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) and severe acute malnutrition (SAM). The use of simplified, combined protocols to treat both MAM and SAM has drawn research and policy interest among global, regional and national stakeholders. However, the perspectives of local communities and health care workers regarding the use of protocols to treat acute malnutrition in a routine health care system are generally lacking. This was a cross‐sectional mixed‐methods study aimed at assessing the perceptions of different stakeholders on the use of a simplified, combined protocol in two districts in the Central African Republic. Most of the respondents preferred the simplified, combined protocol over the standard protocol. They generally agreed that the protocol was easy to understand, allowed more children to receive treatment and was effective in treating acute malnutrition. The protocol modifications were well received, including the expanded admission criteria, use of mid‐upper arm circumference (MUAC) only for admission and discharge criteria and reduced and simplified ready‐to‐use therapeutic food quantity to treat MAM and SAM. Some caregivers expressed concern with the use of MUAC only to declare recovery, flagging that underlying illnesses could still be present. The caregivers recommended the provision of other food basket interventions to improve the treatment. The support by caregivers and health care workers on the idea of training community health volunteers to treat acute malnutrition points to the potential of scaling up decentralized treatment to increase coverage in remote areas.
Admixture With Cultivated Sunflower Likely Facilitated Establishment and Spread of Wild Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) in Argentina
Authors: Hernández Fernando , Vercellino Román B. , Todesco Marco , Bercovich Natalia , Alvarez Daniel , Brunet Johanne , Presotto Alejandro , Rieseberg Loren H.
Published: October 2024

A better understanding of the genetic and ecological factors underlying successful invasions is critical to mitigate the negative impacts of invasive species. Here, we study the invasion history of Helianthus annuus populations from Argentina, with particular emphasis on the role of post‐introduction admixture with cultivated sunflower (also H. annuus) and climate adaptation driven by large haploblocks. We conducted genotyping‐by‐sequencing of samples of wild populations as well as Argentinian cultivars and compared them with wild (including related annual Helianthus species) and cultivated samples from the native range. We also characterised samples for 11 known haploblocks associated with environmental variation in native populations to test whether haploblocks contributed to invasion success. Population genomics analyses supported two independent geographic sources for Argentinian populations, the central United States and Texas, but no significant contribution of related annual Helianthus species. We found pervasive admixture with cultivated sunflower, likely as result of post‐introduction hybridization. Genomic scans between invasive populations and their native sources identified multiple genomic regions of divergence, possibly indicative of selection, in the invaded range. These regions significantly overlapped between the two native‐invasive comparisons and showed disproportionally high crop ancestry, suggesting that crop alleles contributed to invasion success. We did not find evidence of climate adaptation mediated by haploblocks, yet outliers of genome scans were enriched in haploblock regions and, for at least two haploblocks, the cultivar haplotype was favoured in Argentina. Our results show that admixture with cultivated sunflower played a major role in the establishment and spread of H. annuus populations in Argentina.
Nurse Managers' Perceptions of Family and Community Nurse Practitioners Joining Primary Care Teams in Spain: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Sánchez‐Muñoz Francisca , Ruiz‐Fernández María Dolores. , Ventura‐Miranda María Isabel , Ortega‐Galán Ángela María , del Mar Jiménez‐Lasserrotte María , Fernández‐Medina Isabel María
Published: October 2024

The aim of this study was to explore and describe nurse managers' perceptions of family and community nurse practitioners' impact on primary care teams and public health. A descriptive qualitative study was carried out. The participants were recruited by means of convenience sampling during the months of April and May 2023. 20 nurse managers from different autonomous communities in Spain were interviewed. The data were analyzed following a thematic analysis method using ATLAS.ti nine software. Two main themes and sub‐themes were drawn from the data analysis: (1) Nurse managers' view of primary care: (a) The driving force of primary care and (b) Resistance to the integration of family and community nurse practitioners; (2) Proposals for improvement in light of the Family and Community Nurse Practitioner's unique situation. These specialists are highly qualified professionals in primary care teams, whose expertise is evident in how they deliver community and health education activities, empower patients, and lead the training of new specialists.
Sharing the motherload: A review and development of the CO–Parent conceptual model for early childhood obesity prevention
Authors: Kuswara Konsita , Shrewsbury Vanessa A. , Macdonald Jacqui A. , Chung Alexandra , Hill Briony
Published: October 2024

Fathers remain under‐represented in early childhood obesity prevention research and interventions, despite growing evidence that paternal biopsychosocial factors and behaviors from pre‐ and post‐conception can influence lifelong offspring health. Informed by a literature review of high‐quality evidence, “CO–Parent” (childhood obesity–Parent) is a new conceptual model underpinned by couple interdependence theory and a socioecological framework. Literature was searched for the concepts parental AND weight‐related behaviors AND child weight or weight‐related behaviors, in databases including MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Global Health, Scopus, and SocINDEX. Prior evidence syntheses were prioritized as source data to inform model development. “CO–Parent” illustrates the interdependent and independent effects of maternal and paternal weight, weight‐related behaviors, and well‐being, across preconception, pregnancy, postpartum, and the early years on child weight‐related behaviors and weight up to age five. The influences of public policy, social, environmental, economic, community, and other complex modifiable mediating factors are included in the model. The “CO–Parent” conceptual model paves the way for a paradigm shift by recognizing fathers as key figures in early childhood obesity prevention initiatives, encouraging them to “share the motherload.” It highlights both the independent and interdependent roles fathers play in the epidemiology of obesity starting from preconception. CO–Parent also provides the foundations necessary to guide future theory and research to be more inclusive of fathers to further understanding of the independent and interdependent influences of parents in early childhood obesity prevention.
Is It Enough to Stop Distal Fusion at L3 in Mild to Moderate Lenke 5C Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Patients?
Authors: Li Chenkai , Ye Xiaohan , Zhang Haoran , Yang Yang , Du You , Zhao Yiwei , Wang Shengru , Zhang Jianguo
Published: October 2024

Objective

There has been no definitive conclusion on the selection of the lowest instrumented vertebra (LIV) in Lenke 5C adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether it is enough to stop distal fusion at L3 in mild to moderate Lenke 5C AIS patients with posterior selective lumbar fusion, Ponte osteotomies and segmental direct vertebra rotation and to analyze the risk factors for postoperative complications in patients selecting L3 as the LIV.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted on 106 Lenke 5C AIS patients who underwent corrective surgery in our institution from 2010 to 2021, with a minimum 2‐year follow‐up. The LIV was L3 or L4. According to the LIV, patients were initially divided into Group I (the LIV was L3) and Group II (the LIV was L4). Then, Group I was further divided into a complication group and a non‐complication group. Demographics, radiological parameters, postoperative complications, and clinical outcomes were recorded. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic analysis were used to identify the risk factors for postoperative complications in patients with L3 as the LIV.

Results

There were no significant differences in the demographics, radiological parameters, postoperative complications, or clinical outcomes between Group I and Group II (p > 0.05), and the outcomes were satisfactory in both groups. The main postoperative complications were distal adding‐on (11 cases), coronal imbalance (16 cases), proximal junctional kyphosis (2 cases), and internal fixation failure (4 cases). Logistic regression analysis revealed that age and postoperative C7‐CSVL were independent predictors of postoperative complications when selecting L3 as the LIV.

Conclusion

Terminating the distal fusion level at L3 was practical for mild to moderate Lenke 5C AIS patients. For patients selecting L3 as the LIV, younger patients should be cautious, and maintaining postoperative coronal balance is necessary for avoiding postoperative complications.
Precise Acetabular Prosthesis Positioning Using a Novel Robot‐Assisted Total Hip Arthroplasty System: A Multicenter, Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Geng Xiao , Dong Ziyang , Li Yang , Zhao Minwei , Liu Yanqing , Li Zijian , Cai Hong , Zhang Ming , Yan Xinfeng , Sun Zhiwen , Lv Xin , Guo Feng , Li Feng , Tian Hua
Published: October 2024

Objective

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is currently one of the most effective treatment methods for end‐stage hip joint disease, and its long‐term effectiveness largely depends on the accurate placement of the acetabular prosthesis. In conventional surgery, the placement of the acetabular prosthesis mainly relies on the surgeon's clinical experience and surgical techniques. To further improve the accuracy of prosthesis placement, a new robotic system for THA is designed. The purpose of this study is to verify the effectiveness and safety of THA assisted by this robotic system.

Method

A multicenter, prospective, randomized controlled, superiority study design was adopted with statistical methods of t test and Chi‐squared test. Participants undergoing primary THA have been enrolled in three centers of joint surgery in China since July 17, 2023. Robotic THA was operated in the experimental group, and conventional instruments were used in the control group. The primary outcome is the proportion of anteversion and inclination angles in the safe zone. The secondary outcomes include operation time, WOMAC score, Harris score, SF‐36 health questionnaire, dislocation rate of hip joint, and rates of adverse events and serious adverse events.

Results

A total of 138 patients were included in this study. The proportion of both anteversion and inclination angles in the safe zone was 92.2% in the experimental group and 50.8% in the control group, with significant difference (p < 0.01). The average operation time in the experimental group and control group was 116.4 and 80.5 min respectively, with significant difference (p < 0.01). There was no significant difference in WOMAC score, Harris score, and SF‐36 between the two groups (6 ± 2) weeks after operation (p > 0.05). The dislocation rate of hip joint in the experimental group and control group were 3.0% and 1.5%, respectively, without significant difference (p > 0.05). The rate of adverse events and severe adverse events in the experimental group and control group also showed no significant difference (p > 0.05). No adverse events or serious adverse events were judged to be “definitely related” to the experimental instruments.

Conclusion

Robotic THA could prolong the operation time within an acceptable range, but more precise acetabular prosthesis positioning could be obtained when compared with conventional surgery. Besides, no significant difference was found in function scores, dislocation rate or other adverse events, which indicates that this new robot system shows both good effectiveness and safety in THA.

Trial Registration

Clinical Trials: NCT05947734
Shedding Light on Chinese Thinking on AUKUS
Authors: Tzinieris Sarah , Leoni Zeno , Blachford Kevin
Published: October 2024

Western observers have endlessly debated the strategic implications of AUKUS. However, little attention has been paid to Chinese perspectives on AUKUS, despite the pact's implicit rationale to curb Beijing's perceived strategic ambitions. The article provides an objective and evidence‐based examination of thinking on AUKUS within the Chinese decision‐making community. The goal is threefold: first, to inform audiences outside China about its key concerns; second, to understand how these concerns are being constituted as narratives within China; and third, to highlight opportunities for improved dialogue to avoid policymaking communities remaining in self‐contained silos. Some of China's concerns about AUKUS are real and valid, and it is helpful to identify Beijing's perceived threats, which namely concern arms racing, nuclear risks, containment, and a return to a Cold War mentality. Recognizing these does not imply appeasement of China's growing assertiveness. The aim is to create opportunities for strategic dialogue and shape a more peaceful and predictable global system.
Animosity Toward the Japanese Rising Sun Flag in South Korea: A New Development of Anti‐Japanism*
Authors: Chey Hyoung‐kyu , Jeon Jaeho
Published: October 2024

Antagonism toward the Japanese Rising Sun flag is considerable in South Korea, and has often further complicated the bumpy relations between Seoul and Tokyo by reawakening and amplifying the pervasive anti‐Japanism in the country. Despite its significant effects, however, there has been little research on the phenomenon. Against this backdrop, this study analyzes how the strong hostility toward the flag in South Korea has developed, largely through carrying out quantitative text analyses of local newspapers, to thus expand the research on anti‐Japanism in the country. It reveals, surprisingly, that discourse on the Rising Sun flag in South Korea is a recent development, which has become prevalent since the early 2010s only. It argues as well that the aggravation of South Korea–Japan relations since that time, together with the Rising Sun flag's strong image among Koreans as a prime symbol of Japanese militarism, have been behind this development of South Korean animosity toward the flag. Accordingly, this research sheds new light on how the two nations' contemporary bilateral relations affect anti‐Japanese sentiment in South Korea, and also on the roles of symbols in this process, to thus offer a novel analysis of the recent development of anti‐Japanism in the country.
Integrated Metabolomic, Lipidomic and Proteomic Analysis Define the Metabolic Changes Occurring in Curled Areas in Leaves With Leaf Peach Curl Disease
Authors: Novello María Angelina , Bustamante Claudia Anabel , Svetaz Laura Andrea , Goldy Camila , Valentini Gabriel Hugo , Drincovich María Fabiana , Brotman Yariv , Fernie Alisdair R. , Lara María Valeria
Published: October 2024

Peach Leaf Curl Disease, caused by Taphrina deformans, is characterized by reddish hypertrophic and hyperplasic leaf areas. To comprehend the biochemical imbalances caused by the fungus, dissected symptomatic (C) and asymptomatic areas (N) from leaves with increasing disease extension were analyzed by an integrated approach including metabolomics, lipidomics, proteomics, and complementary biochemical techniques. Drastic metabolic differences were identified in C areas with respect to either N areas or healthy leaves, including altered chloroplastic functioning and composition, which differs from the typical senescence process. In C areas, alteration in redox‐homoeostasis proteins and in triacylglycerols content, peroxidation and double bond index were observed. Proteomic data revealed induction of host enzymes involved in auxin and jasmonate biosynthesis and an upregulation of phenylpropanoid and mevalonate pathways and downregulation of the plastidic methylerythritol phosphate route. Amino acid pools were affected, with upregulation of proteins involved in asparagine synthesis. Curled areas exhibited a metabolic shift towards functioning as a sink tissue importing sugars, probably from N areas, and producing energy through fermentation and respiration and reductive power via the pentose phosphate route. Identifying the metabolic disturbances leading to disease symptoms is a key step in designing strategies to prevent or delay the progression of the disease.
The Modulation of Growth and Metabolism in Solanum lycopersicum Contrast With the Leaf‐Specific Regulation of Wild Tomato Species
Authors: Siqueira João Antonio , Martins Auxiliadora O. , Wakin Thiago , Silva Marcelle F. , Batista‐Silva Willian , Brito Fred A. L. , Zsögön Agustin , Fernie Alisdair R. , Nunes‐Nesi Adriano , Araújo Wagner L.
Published: October 2024

Plant organs harbour diverse components that connect their physiology to the whole organism. The turnover of metabolites may be higher in some organs than in others, triggering differential growth patterns throughout the organism. We revealed that Solanum lycopersicum exhibits more coordinated growth and physiology across the entire plant compared to wild tomato species. Specifically, young leaves of S. lycopersicum develop more slowly than mature leaves, whereas wild species do not exhibit this pattern. Wild tomato Solanum pennellii displays young leaves with higher photosynthetic rates than mature leaves. Consequently, sucrose metabolism in S. pennellii is quite similar between young and mature leaves, while expression patterns of circadian clock genes differ significantly between leaves of different ages. Additionally, we demonstrated that introducing alleles related to tomato domestication into the wild tomato Solanum pimpinellifolium promotes coordinated growth between young and mature leaves, resulting in similar patterns to those observed in S. lycopersicum. Collectively, S. lycopersicum appears to exhibit more coordinated regulation of growth and metabolism, and understanding this process is likely fundamental to explaining its elevated harvest index.
Congenital Insensitivity to Pain With Anhidrosis Is Associated With Harlequin Color Change: A Survey Study
Authors: Maazi Mahan , Lam Joseph M.
Published: October 2024

Congenital insensitivity to pain with anhidrosis (CIPA), also known as hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy (HSAN) type IV, is an extremely rare autosomal recessive congenital condition characterized by the loss of sensation to pain and absence of sweating with one case report linking this with harlequin color change. To explore the relationship further, we developed a survey using the Research Electronic Data Capture software and distributed it to families and others with close relationships and knowledge of patients with CIPA. Our results indicate that harlequin color change, characterized by unilateral flushing of the face and/or body, was significant and noted by all respondents as being present early in the condition appearing around the same time as first symptoms and around or before diagnosis of CIPA. Future clinicians should be aware of this dermatological phenomenon and its potential association with CIPA patients, especially during early disease manifestation where diagnosis can be difficult.
The Effect of Cervical Cancer Education Given to Women in Turkey on Knowledge, Attitudes, and Health Beliefs: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Gül Öztaş Hatice , Işik Kevser
Published: October 2024

Objective

The objective of this study was to ascertain the impact of cervical cancer education provided to women in Turkey on their knowledge, attitudes, and health beliefs.

Design

The study was conducted in accordance with the pretest–posttest randomized controlled trial model.

Sample

The participants were randomly assigned to either the experimental or the control groups. The study was completed with a total of 105 women, 51 of whom were in the experimental group and 54 of whom were in the control group.

Measurements

The personal information form, the human papillomavirus (HPV) knowledge scale, and the health belief model scale for cervical cancer and Pap smear test were employed as data collection instruments. The data were analyzed using the SPSS 25.0 package program, and the number, percentage, independent samples t‐test, and paired t‐test were utilized for data analysis.

Results

Upon completion of the training program, the mean scores of the experimental group demonstrated a statistically significant increase in knowledge related to general HPV information, HPV screening tests, general HPV vaccines, and HPV vaccine programs when compared to the control group (p < 0.001). Upon conclusion of the educational intervention, it was determined that the mean scores of cervical cancer sensitivity, caring, health motivation, Pap smear utility, and motivation of women in the experimental group exhibited an increase, while their general perception of Pap smear demonstrated a decrease (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The findings of this study indicate that educational initiatives targeting women regarding cervical cancer have a beneficial impact on their knowledge, attitudes, and health beliefs.

Trial Registration

NCT05990270 registered on https://clinicaltrials.gov/.
Public Health Nurses’ Competence Related to Long‐Term Breastfeeding in the Context of Maternity and Child Health Clinics
Authors: Ojantausta Oona , Pöyhönen Niina , Kaunonen Marja , Huhtala Heini , Ikonen Riikka
Published: October 2024

Aim

To explore public health nurses' competence (namely knowledge, skills, and attitudes) in relation to long‐term breastfeeding and their experience of the need for additional training on the subject.

Design

The study design was quantitative, descriptive, and cross‐sectional.

Sample

Public health nurses (n = 270).

Methods

Data were collected with the Long‐Term Breastfeeding Competence Scale (LBCS) online survey. Data analysis was done with Spearman's correlation analysis and binary logistic regression analysis.

Results

Slightly more than half of the respondents had a good level of knowledge and skills. The majority had a baseline positive attitude toward long‐term breastfeeding, but the attitude became more negative as the age of the breastfed child increased. Better competence was associated with younger age, parenthood, an additional degree in midwifery, and breastfeeding specialist certification. Knowledge and skills, and attitudes revealed a high correlation: the higher the knowledge and skills level, the more positive attitudes. Respondents with better knowledge and skills experienced more often the need for additional training on the subject.

Conclusions

This study addresses that public health nurses lack competence in relation to long‐term breastfeeding. This may compromise the quality of breastfeeding guidance for families in healthcare settings.
Evaluation of Psychological Symptoms in Terms of Childhood Traumas, Spirituality, and Conflict Tactics in Sheltered Battered Women
Authors: Emirza Elif Güzide , Gürhan Nermin
Published: October 2024

Aim and Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate psychological symptoms in terms of childhood traumas, spirituality and conflict styles in women victims of violence staying in women's shelters.

Background

Violence against women is a major public health problem. Spiritual values and practices are especially important for women to cope with the negative effects of violence.

Materials and Methods

The study was conducted in women's shelters in two provinces of the Ministry of Family and Social Policies in Türkiye. The sample consisted of 92 women who had been subjected to violence and stayed in a women's shelter for at least 15 days. The data were collected using the “Brief Symptom Inventory”, “Conflict Tactic Scale”, “Spiritual Well‐Being Scale (SWBS)”, “Childhood Abuse Experiences Scale Short Form”, and “Introductory Information Form” created by the researcher, and the data obtained were evaluated in SPSS 22.0 program. Frequency, percentage, Pearson Product Moment correlation analysis, t‐test, one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used in the evaluation of the data. In all statistical analyses, p < 0.05 was accepted as the significance level.

Results

It was found that 64.1% of the women in the study had at least one psychiatric diagnosis and major depression was in the first place (32.2%). According to the mean scores of the Brief Symptom Inventory, the relationships between all subdimensions except the somatization subdimension and the mean scores of the SWBS were found to be inversely significant at p < 0.05 significance level. According to the mean scores of the SWBS, the relationships between all subdimensions except the transcendence subdimension and the mean scores of the Conflict Methods Scale were found to be inversely significant at the p < 0.05 level of significance.

Conclusion

According to the findings obtained from the study, it has been concluded that women should be encouraged to support them in order to be able to cope with the mental problems experienced in the psychiatric sense and to realize their spiritual beliefs and practices.
Addressing governance challenges of digitalisation and sustainability: The case of central bank digital currency
Authors: Wang Heng
Published: October 2024

Digitalisation and environmental sustainability are widely discussed topics. However, their nexus remains underexplored and can pose significant challenges for governments and industries alike. The environmental implications of digitalisation are becoming increasingly pertinent with the advent of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) and their inherent energy consumption and production of e‐waste. On the other hand, digitalisation could potentially support sustainability efforts. This begs the question of how systems of governance, such as regulatory frameworks and internal organisational governance, should harmonise digitalisation and sustainability goals. Such harmonisation entails ensuring that digitalisation processes are environmentally responsible while exploring how the application and features of digitalisation can help achieve environmental goals. By drawing insights from the case study of CBDCs, this article will utilise the paradigm of adaptive governance to seek potential solutions to the environmental implications of digitalisation.
Singularity formation for the relativistic Euler equations of Chaplygin gases in Schwarzschild spacetime
Authors: Hu Yanbo , Guo Houbin
Published: October 2024

We study the formation of singularities of smooth solutions to the relativistic Euler equations of Chaplygin gases in Schwarzschild spacetime. The system is in the spherically symmetric form, and its coefficients and nonhomogeneous terms contain a parameter reflecting the mass of the black hole, which makes it highly nonlinear and complicated. To overcome the influence of the mass parameter of black hole, we introduce a pair of suitable auxiliary variables related to it and derive their characteristic decompositions to establish the estimates of the smooth solution. We show that, for a kind of initial data, the smooth solution develops singularity in finite time and the mass‐energy density itself approaches infinity at the blowup point.
Asynchronous teledentistry program in two long‐term care facilities: Iowa's virtual dental home pilot project
Authors: Hartshorn Jennifer E. , Nwachukwu Pamela C. , Heeren Tessa , Castelaz McAllister , Johnson Tessa , Pendleton Chandler , Glassman Paul , Levy Steve M. , Reynolds Julie C.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Older adults living in long‐term care facilities (LTCFs) often have poor oral health and difficulty accessing dental services. The aim was to implement a virtual dental home (VDH) program for residents in two LTCFs utilizing asynchronous teledentistry techniques and mobile dental equipment.

Methods

This pilot project was a 6‐month longitudinal cohort study in two LTCFs. Dental hygienists and dentists from a local community health care center utilized asynchronous teledentistry to provide diagnostic and preventive dental services onsite and to establish a dental home for additional comprehensive care services. Data were collected, including resident's demographics, oral health status, and dental services received. Descriptive data analyses, Wilcoxon signed rank, and McNemar tests were conducted.

Results

Thirty‐four residents completed in‐person baseline oral exams and 16 residents completed the recall exams. Ninety‐two percent (n = 23) of dentate residents (n = 25) had untreated caries and 64% (n = 16) of dentate residents had at least one sextant of severe gingival inflammation. The median number of teeth with active untreated caries (p = .01) significantly decreased and arrested caries (p = .02) significantly increased from baseline.

Conclusion

Iowa's VDH pilot project was successful in establishing a dental home using asynchronous teledentistry for residents in two LTCFs and providing resident access to preventive and disease control dental services.
Flow Cytometry for the Detection and Quantification of Mast Cells in Lymph Nodes: A Prospective Study in 64 Dogs With Mast Cell Tumour
Authors: Iamone Giulia , Chalfon Carmit , Marconato Laura , Miniscalco Barbara , Sabattini Silvia , Agnoli Chiara , Martano Marina , Spindler Kevin Pascal , Morello Emanuela , Iussich Selina , Ferraris Erica Ilaria , Riondato Fulvio
Published: October 2024

Nodal metastasis is a negative prognostic factor in dogs with mast cell tumours (MCTs), thus early detection enables more informed decision‐making and provides valuable prognostic information. The aim of this study is to assess the concordance between histopathologic findings of LNs and cytology and flow cytometry (FC), respectively, and to evaluate the ability of FC to differentiate between metastatic (HN2–HN3) and non‐metastatic (HN0–HN1) LNs. Overall, 117 LNs from 64 dogs with first occurring MCTs were submitted for cytology, histology and FC. LNs were cytologically and histologically classified according to Krick and Weishaar systems, respectively. Using FC, mast cells (MCs) were identified as IgE+ CD117+ CD5− CD21− cells and quantified as a percentage. When compared with histologic classification, cytology showed an accuracy of 88.2% in distinguishing between metastatic and non‐metastatic LNs but did not detect 25.3% of metastatic cases. FC revealed an increase in the median percentages of MCs across histologic classes, progressing from HN0 to HN3. ROC curves pinpointed 0.3% as the optimal cut‐off for distinguishing between metastatic and non‐metastatic LNs, with an accuracy of 84.3%. A 1.1% cut‐off proved valuable in identifying HN3 LNs. The combined interpretation of cytology and FC increased accuracy to 92.2%. An algorithm for guiding the combined interpretation of cytology and FC is suggested based on these findings. In conclusion, FC proves beneficial in enhancing the early detection of metastatic LNs, particularly when utilised alongside cytology. Histopathology remains essential for confirmation, enabling the discrimination of HN classes or, in doubtful cases, for the detection or exclusion of nodal metastases.
Detection of Mycobacterium bovis in Free‐Ranging Sapajus nigritus, Argentina
Authors: Lamattina Daniela , Martinez Mariela Florencia , Couto Esteban Manuel , Scarry Clara , Tujague María Paula , Arrabal Juan Pablo , Di Nucci Dante Luis , Lestani Eduardo Ariel , Bombelli Diego , López Marcela Andrea , Sasoni Natalia , Piloni Rossana , Kim Angélica , Zenobi Carlos , Marfil María Jimena , Trigo Roberto , Pérez Néstor Eduardo , Cáceres María Gabriela , Salomón Oscar Daniel
Published: October 2024

Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium tuberculosis are the most relevant among pathogenic mycobacteria, both belonging to the M. tuberculosis complex (MTC). Samples of blood, liver, spleen, kidneys, lungs and caseous tubercles were collected from a free‐ranging juvenile black capuchin monkey (Sapajus nigritus) showing non‐specific signs of illness. Macroscopic findings included emaciation, a caseous lesion in a tooth and gingiva, disseminated nodules in both lungs and left kidney parenchyma and caseous nodules on the pleura and mesentery. The lesions suggested MTC infection, a diagnosis subsequently supported in the lung by bacilloscopy, immunochromatography and PCR. A multiplex PCR further validated the presence of M. bovis genes. Cases of tuberculosis in platyrrhine primates have only been reported in animals maintained in captivity. We describe for the first time the pathological and molecular findings of M. bovis infection in a free‐ranging platyrrhine monkey within an area of intense human–wildlife interaction, which has important implications from a One Health perspective.
STUDY OF REGENERATION POTENTIAL IN COMMON MILLET (PANICUM MILIACEUM L.) VARIETIES IN VITRO CULTURE
Authors: Zhumabek A.T. , Sutula M.Y. , Manabayeva S.A.
Published: October 2024

In Kazakhstan, common millet (Panicum miliaceum L.) stands as a significant agricultural crop, annually cultivated over an area of approximately 17.5 thousand hectares. This study aimed to develop and optimize a simple and effective method for inducing callus formation and plant regeneration in millet. The research focused on exploring the regeneration potential of Kazakhstani varieties, Kormovoe-14 and Yarkoe-6. Seeds of millet were cultivated on modified Murashige and Skoog medium supplemented with Gamborg B5 vitamins and growth regulators, including 2 mg/L 2,4-D and 0.5 mg/L 6-BAP, to induce callusogenesis. Additionally, amino acids such as 500 mg/L L-proline and 300 mg/L casein hydrolysate were added to the medium to provide an additional nitrogen source. The induction frequency of callusogenesis averaged 95% for both Kormovoe-14 and Yarkoe-6 breeding lines. All examined varieties exhibited 100% induction of embryogenic callus when using MS medium supplemented with 2 g/L L-proline, 30 g/L maltose, 5 mg/L 2,4-D, and 1 mg/L BAP. Morphogenic, friable, and compact Type II calli with chlorophyll-containing zones were transferred to MS medium for regeneration, containing 4 mg/L BAP and 500 mg/L L-proline. The maximum number of shoots for both varieties was obtained on auxin-free MS medium containing 4 mg/L BAP, with a regeneration frequency of 47.5% (Kormovoe-14) and 37.5% (Yarkoe-6). Regenerated plants were transferred to full-strength MS medium supplemented with 0.2 mg/L IAA and 0.1 mg/L BAP, 2% sucrose, for rhizogenesis. Successfully rooted plantlets were adapted and transferred to soil. These findings lay the groundwork for the development of effective genetic transformation methods and the creation of transgenic proso millet plants.
EPIZOOTIC LYMPHANGITIS - THE FORGOTTEN DISEASE OF UNGULATES
Authors: Kaisenov D.N. , Esimbekova N.B. , Ershebulov Z.D.
Published: October 2024

Epizootic lymphangitis, as a forgotten disease of ungulates, again attracts the attention of veterinarians and zoologists. This infection, caused by pathogenic microorganisms, leads to inflammation of the lymphatic vessels, which can cause serious complications and even death of the animal. Despite the rarity of cases in recent decades, epizootic lymphangitis leaves a significant mark on the history of veterinary medicine, causing alertness among specialists.
The purpose of the review. To summarize current scientific data on the etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis and prevention of equine epizootic lymphangitis in order to assess the risk of introduction and spread of the disease to disease-free territories.
Results. The review presents the epidemiological characteristics of the etiological agent of the disease, possible main and intermediate reservoirs of the pathogen in nature, mechanisms of transmission of infection, promising directions for the development of prevention and treatment tools.
Conclusion. The causes of epidemics remain a mystery, but the factors contributing to the spread of the disease range from lack of vaccinations to unfavorable conditions of detention. The fight against this disease should be carried out through vaccination, isolation and quarantine of sick animals, disinfection of animal housing and equipment, as well as surveillance.
Type Synthesis of a Novel Class of One-DOF Multi-Mode Parallel Mechanisms
Authors: Kong Xianwen , He Xiuyun , Kostalas Tom
Published: October 2024

Multi-mode parallel mechanisms (PMs) are a class of reconfigurable mechanisms that can switch between different operation modes without the need for disconnection and reassembly. Although a number of multi-DOF multi-mode PMs have been presented in the literature, very few 1-DOF multi-mode PMs have been proposed. This paper deals with the type synthesis of a novel class of 1-DOF multi-mode PMs, which have one 1-DOF translation mode and at least one 1-DOF planar motion mode, using a construction method by leveraging symmetry of mechanisms and merging two multi-mode mechanisms. By inserting a revolute (R) joint into Sarrus-6R like six-joint mechanisms, 1-DOF two-mode two-legged PMs, which are composed of a moving platform and a base connected by one three-joint leg and one four-joint leg, are constructed first. From each 1-DOF two-mode two-legged PM, one can construct a 1-DOF two-mode three-legged PM by adding a third four-joint leg which is the mirror image of the four-joint leg about the plane of motion of the three-joint leg. Subsequently, 1-DOF three- and four-mode three-legged PMs are constructed by merging two 1-DOF multi-mode three-legged PMs. The instantaneous DOF of the above multi-mode PMs in a transition configuration is analyzed using screw theory. This work complements the existing approaches to the type synthesis of multi-mode PMs and hybrid reconfigurable mechanisms.
Consistency Analysis of Burst Pressure in Corroded Pipelines
Authors: Chen Zhan-Feng , Huang Yapeng , Wang Wen , Wang Yanxin
Published: October 2024

Due to the influence of the working environment and transport medium, corrosion defects inevitably occur on the inner and outer walls of the pipelines. Authors have often studied the effect of internal and external corrosion defects on pipe burst pressure based on finite element method and experimental data, respectively. It is not clear whether single-point internal corrosion defects and single-point external corrosion defects are consistent in burst pressure of pipelines. For this reason, this paper establishes the internal and external corrosion defect model of the pipe with the same geometry and material properties based on finite element method. In addition, the burst pressures of pipelines with internal corrosion defects are compared with that with external corrosion defects. Finally, a burst pressure equation is proposed for the pipelines with internal corrosion defects and external corrosion defects. It was found that the burst pressure of the pipelines with internal and external corrosion defects was consistent. It provides a new idea for the establishment of a unified model to predict the burst strength of corroded pipelines.
Large Eddy Simulation Analysis of Loss Anomaly of a Turbine Blade With Large Trailing Edge Radius
Authors: Miki Kenji , Ameri Ali , Giel Paul
Published: October 2024

There is great interest in the usage of ceramic matrix composites (CMC) as a turbine blade material. However, depending on the manufacturing process of the CMC, blades may have a thicker trailing edge. The design space therefore needs to be updated due to the resulting flow physics. Recently, experimental results acquired at the NASA Glenn Transonic Turbine Blade Cascade Rig showed that a loss measure generally increased with increasing trailing edge thickness. For some cases, however, the general downward trend of the loss with increasing Reynolds number (Re) was interrupted by a local loss peak around Re ∼1.24 × 106, and then subsequently dropped to the original pre-peak trend. A possible cause of this intriguing phenomenon was speculated to be transonic vortex shedding, which is the mechanism of vortex shedding promoted by reflected shed pressure waves at the trailing edge at relatively high Reynolds numbers and transonic Mach numbers. A Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes analysis or an under-resolved large eddy simulation (LES) does not reproduce this apparent anomaly and thus a highly-resolved LES (the total mesh count of ∼290 million cells) was performed to investigate the aerodynamics of the CMC blade. The numerical results at Re = 1,246,350 show that the pressure waves generated by the vortex shedding in the wake travel upstream and significantly influence the transition and separation on the suction side thus enhancing the vortex shedding in the wake. This feedback does not hold under a low-Re condition (Re = 621,900). The Reynolds number dependence was also examined by numerical perturbation of the pressure waves in the wake and by examining how such perturbation attenuates or endures. It is confirmed that the perturbation of the pressure waves is quickly damped below a set Reynolds number.
Optimal Tungsten Inert Gas Welding Parameters of Dissimilar Aluminum Alloys Al 7075 and Al 6061 Using Ultrasonic Vibration and Nanocomposite Filler (Al 5356/ZrB2) to Alleviate Hot Cracking Phenomenon
Authors: Rangasamy Gokul Raju , Nampoothiri Jayakrishnan , Annamalai Dhilip , Algappan Lakshmanan
Published: October 2024

In this study, the welding of dissimilar aluminum alloys, Al 7075 and Al 6061, was investigated using Al 5356 filler rods reinforced with ZrB2 particles. The welding process was conducted using tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding, with and without ultrasonic vibration, to enhance weld quality and reduce hot cracking. Optimization of process parameters for dissimilar TIG welding was performed through Response Surface Methodology (RSM), which generated a design matrix to analyze the influence of process parameters on response variables. Numerical and graphical optimization was applied to minimize hot cracking sensitivity and maximize microhardness. The RSM-based models suggested an optimal welding current of 93 A, the use of Al 5356/ZrB2 nanocomposite filler, and the application of ultrasonic vibrations. Experimental validation of the identified solution demonstrated improvements in weld quality, including increased yield strength and ductility. The combination of nano-reinforced fillers and ultrasonic vibrations was found to enhance weldability and mitigate hot cracking in dissimilar aluminum joints. The mechanism of hot cracking reduction involved grain refinement, degassing, and homogenization due to ultrasonic vibrations, as well as the modification of weld pool chemistry and control of dilution by the nanocomposite filler, which collectively minimized solidification shrinkage and stress. Under these optimized conditions, no hot cracking was observed experimentally.
Hablando de otros: La cristiandad como distinción social en los contactos tempranos de Latinoamérica
Authors: Danziger Eve
Published: October 2024

Durante más de trescientos años las historias orales de los mayas mopán han conservado detalles muy precisos sobre sus primeros contactos con los misioneros españoles. Estas historias aportan información significativa a los documentos españoles sobre la resistencia mopán a la conversión cristiana y dan testimonio de un período prolongado en el que los mopanes cristianizados que vivían en aldeas misioneras españolas coexistieron como vecinos y comerciantes con los que no estaban bautizados. Desde la perspectiva de los mopanes, dentro de las aldeas cristianas había un claro y doble contraste entre el bosque y la aldea. Por un lado, porque la política española convertía en fugitivos del bosque a aquellos que no deseaban recibir el bautismo cristiano, y por otro porque ya existía una concepción de que el bosque y otras áreas naturales, como las veneradas montañas, eran dominio de criaturas sobrenaturales y no humanas. Los datos del análisis lingüístico-antropológico de la voz, la mirada y los gestos manuales revelan cómo los relatos mopán modernos presentan la residencia en el bosque no como incidental o como resultado de la identidad no cristiana, sino como una parte crucial de la construcción, causa o incluso explicación de esa identidad.
Escenas de un pensamiento incómodo: género, violencia y cultura en una óptica decolonial, de Rita Segato
Authors: Zurita Márquez Evelina
Published: October 2024

Este libro, como la autora señala en el prefacio a esta edición en español, reúne escritos publicados y conferencias impartidas a lo largo de unos treinta años; son textos dispersos a los que no se podía acceder fácilmente. Fue publicado primero en Brasil e inmediatamente en Argentina. En la edición en español, aparece un texto adicional a la primera edición en portugués, que es el último capítulo: «El tiempo en la obra de Aníbal Quijano». En la obra de Rita Segato solemos encontrar siempre retazos de autobiografía intelectual, tan útiles para entender el pensamiento «en situación» y para comprender cómo se han labrado trayectorias investigadoras e intelectuales como la suya: sus puntos de partida, cómo han evolucionado, sus dudas teóricas, sus frustraciones y logros, el reconocimiento de errores de posición y cómo este reconocimiento ha dado pie a reformulaciones que hicieron avanzar el propio pensamiento. El libro anterior a este, Contrapedagogías de la crueldad (Segato, 2018) y este mismo que reseñamos aquí, ahondan aún más en estos procesos autorreflexivos. El nombre que da título a este conjunto de ensayos evidencia esto que señalamos, que da cuenta también del papel de lo eventual y fortuito en las decisiones, y constituye el relato de una situación que expone a la pensadora como sujeto social y como intelectual. Cuenta Rita que se encontraba en una reunión de amigos y que la llamaron por teléfono para pedirle que, sobre la marcha, diera un nombre para la cátedra creada en la Universidad Nacional de San Martín para la que había sido designada como responsable. Ella relata que no atinaba a encontrar un nombre en ese momento, y uno de sus amigos aseveró: «¡Cátedra Rita Segato de pensamiento incómodo!» Ella le preguntó, perpleja, que por qué ese nombre y su amigo respondió: «Rita, cuando vos pensás, incomodás». Ni qué decir tiene que no solo se quedó la cátedra con ese nombre, sino que, además, vino a adjetivar el título de este libro.
Synthesis and electrical transport properties of superconducting platinum silicide thin films and devices
Authors: Nanayakkara Tharanga R. , Bollinger Anthony T. , Li Ruoshui , Zhou Chenyu , Rumaiz Abdul K. , Tong Xiao , Zhang Lihua , Kisslinger Kim , Black Charles T. , Liu Mingzhao
Published: October 2024

We evaluate the material characteristics of superconducting platinum silicide (PtSi) thin films as candidate materials for superconducting quantum information devices compatible with silicon technology. These films were synthesized using magnetron sputtering under ultrahigh vacuum conditions, followed by rapid thermal annealing. Polycrystalline PtSi films synthesized by this method have the favorable properties of superconducting critical temperature of 0.95 K and relatively long zero-temperature Ginzburg-Landau coherence length of 76 nm. We further studied coplanar microbridge devices fabricated by electron beam lithography and chlorine-free reactive ion etching, finding that the temperature-dependent critical current density follows the Ginzburg Landau depairing mechanism.