bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of preoperative assessment of pain induced by venous cannulation in predicting postoperative pain in patients under laparoscopic nephrectomy: a prospective observational study
Authors: Peng Fei , Li Yanshuang , Ai Yanqiu , Yang Jianjun , Wang Yanping
Published: April 2020

Background

Postoperative pain is the most prominent concern among surgical patients. It has previously been reported that venous cannulation-induced pain (VCP) can be used to predict postoperative pain after laparoscopic cholecystectomy within 90 mins in the recovery room. Its potential in predicting postoperative pain in patients with patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA) is worth establishing. The purpose of this prospective observational study was to investigate the application of VCP in predicting postoperative pain in patients with PCIA during the first 24 h after laparoscopic nephrectomy.

Methods

One hundred twenty patients scheduled for laparoscopic nephrectomy were included in this study. A superficial vein on the back of the hand was cannulated with a standard-size peripheral venous catheter (1.1 × 3.2 mm) by a nurse in the preoperative areas. Then the nurse recorded the VAS score associated with this procedure estimated by patients, and dichotomized the patients into low response group (VAS scores < 2.0) or high response group (VAS scores ≥2.0). After general anesthesia and surgery, all the patients received the patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA) with sufentanil. The VAS scores at rest and on coughing at 2 h, 4 h, 8 h, 12 h, 24 h, the effective number of presses and the number of needed rescue analgesia within 24 h after surgery were recorded.

Results

Peripheral venous cannulation-induced pain score was significantly correlated with postoperative pain intensity at rest (rs = 0.64) and during coughing (rs = 0.65), effective times of pressing (rs = 0.59), additional consumption of sufentanil (rs = 0.58). Patients with venous cannulation-induced pain intensity ≥2.0 VAS units reported higher levels of postoperative pain intensity at rest (P < 0.0005) and during coughing (P < 0.0005), needed more effective times of pressing (P < 0.0005) and additional consumption of sufentanil (P < 0.0005), and also needed more rescue analgesia (P = 0.01) during the first 24 h. The odds of risk for moderate or severe postoperative pain (OR 3.5, 95% CI 1.3–9.3) was significantly higher in patients with venous cannulation-induced pain intensity ≥2.0 VAS units compared to those <2.0 VAS units.

Conclusions

Preoperative assessment of pain induced by venous cannulation can be used to predict postoperative pain intensity in patients with PCIA during the first 24 h after laparoscopic nephrectomy.

Trial registration

We registered this study in a Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR) center on July 6 2019 and received the registration number: ChiCTR1900024352.
Estimated oxygen extraction versus dynamic parameters of fluid-responsiveness for perioperative hemodynamic optimization of patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery: a non-inferiority randomized controlled trial
Authors: Carsetti Andrea , Amici Mirco , Bernacconi Tonino , Brancaleoni Paolo , Cerutti Elisabetta , Chiarello Marco , Cingolani Diego , Cola Luisanna , Corsi Daniela , Forlini Giorgio , Giampieri Marina , Iuorio Salvatore , Principi Tiziana , Tappatà Giuseppe , Tempesta Michele , Adrario Erica , Donati Abele
Published: April 2020

Background

Goal directed therapy (GDT) is able to improve mortality and reduce complications in selected high-risk patients undergoing major surgery. The aim of this study is to compare two different strategies of perioperative hemodynamic optimization: one based on optimization of preload using dynamic parameters of fluid-responsiveness and the other one based on estimated oxygen extraction rate (O2ER) as target of hemodynamic manipulation.

Methods

This is a multicenter randomized controlled trial. Adult patients undergoing elective major open abdominal surgery will be allocated to receive a protocol based on dynamic parameters of fluid-responsiveness or a protocol based on estimated O2ER. The hemodynamic optimization will be continued for 6 h postoperatively. The primary outcome is difference in overall postoperative complications rate between the two protocol groups. Fluids administered, fluid balance, utilization of vasoactive drugs, hospital length of stay and mortality at 28 day will also be assessed.

Discussion

As a predefined target of cardiac output (CO) or oxygen delivery (DO2) seems to be not adequate for every patient, a personalized therapy is likely more appropriate. Following this concept, dynamic parameters of fluid-responsiveness allow to titrate fluid administration aiming CO increase but avoiding fluid overload. This approach has the advantage of personalized fluid therapy, but it does not consider if CO is adequate or not. A protocol based on O2ER considers this second important aspect. Although positive effects of perioperative GDT have been clearly demonstrated, currently studies comparing different strategies of hemodynamic optimization are lacking.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04053595. Registered on 12/08/2019.
When is referral from primary care to specialist services appropriate for survivors of stroke? A modified RAND-appropriateness consensus study
Authors: Lim Lisa , Mant Jonathan , Mullis Ricky , Roland Martin
Published: April 2020

Background

There is guidance in the United Kingdom about what long-term care stroke survivors should receive, but a lack of guidance about who should deliver it and where this care should take place. This is a key issue given the evidence that current needs are not well addressed. The purpose of this study was to explore when a referral from generalist to specialist services is appropriate in the long-term management of stroke survivors.

Methods

A modified RAND-Appropriateness method was used to gain consensus from a range of stroke specialist and generalist clinicians. Ten panelists rated fictional patient scenarios based on long-term post-stroke needs. Round 1 was an online survey in which panelists rated the scenarios for a) need for referral to specialist care and b) if referral was deemed necessary, need for this to be specifically to a stroke specialist. Round 2 was a face-to-face meeting in which panelists were presented with aggregate scores from round 1, and invited to discuss and then re-rate the scenarios.

Results

Seventeen scenarios comprising 69 referral decisions were discussed. Consensus on whether the patient needed to be referred to a specialist was achieved for 59 (86%) decisions. Of the 44 deemed needing referral to specialists, 18 were judged to need referral to a stroke-specialist and 14 to a different specialist. However, for 12 decisions there was no consensus about which specialist the patient should be referred to. For some scenarios (spasticity; incontinence; physical disability; communication; cognition), referral was deemed to be indicated regardless of severity, whereas indications for referral for topics such as risk factor management and pain depended on complexity and/or severity.

Conclusions

There was broad agreement about when a stroke survivor requires referral to specialist care, but less agreement about destination of referral. Nevertheless, there was agreement that some of the longer-term issues facing stroke survivors are best addressed by stroke specialists, some by other specialists, and some by primary care. This has implications for models of longer-term stroke care, which need to reflect that optimal care requires access to, and better co-ordination between, both generalist and specialist healthcare.
Cumulative incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma and hepatitis B surface antigen Seroclearance after Nucleos(t) ide analogue-induced hepatitis B e antigen Seroclearance
Authors: Lee Hyun Woong , Lee Jung Il , Kim Saein , Kim Sora , Chang Hye Young , Lee Kwan Sik
Published: April 2020

Background

Hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) seroclearance has been considered as the treatment endpoint in HBeAg-positive patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). Although HBeAg seroclearance has been accomplished, some aspects are yet unclear. We investigated the cumulative incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and evaluated hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) seroclearance in patients undergoing nucleos(t) ide analogue (NA)-induced HBeAg seroclearance.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, 203 patients with CHB were HBsAg and HBeAg seropositive before NA (entecavir or tenofovir) treatment. All patient who experienced NA -induced HBeAg seroclearance were recruited. Patients with documented HBeAg seroclearance were followed-up every 6 months. Baseline characteristics and laboratory results were recorded.

Results

The mean age at HBeAg seroclearance was 40 years (range, 20–84), and the mean follow-up duration was 5 years (range, 2–11). The cumulative incidence of HCC was 1.5 to 11.5% at 1 to 8 years after HBeAg seroclearance. Cirrhosis was the only significant factor for HCC development (hazard ratio [HR], 24.651; confidence interval [CI], 3.018 to 201.365; P = 0.003). The cumulative incidence of HBsAg seroclearance was 3.5 to 18.7% after 1 to 8 years from HBeAg seroclearance.

Conclusions

A significant proportion of patients developed HCC after NA-induced HBeAg seroclearance. The presence of liver cirrhosis at the time of HBeAg seroclearance serves as an independent factor for HCC development. Some patients with NA-induced HBeAg seroclearance achieved HBsAg seroclearance.
Patient and family experience with chronic transfusion therapy for sickle cell disease: A qualitative study
Authors: Hawkins Lauren M. , Sinha Cynthia B. , Ross Diana , Yee Marianne E. M. , Quarmyne Maa-Ohui , Krishnamurti Lakshmanan , Bakshi Nitya
Published: April 2020

Background

There is a limited understanding of the patient and family experience of Chronic Transfusion Therapy (CTT) for prevention of complications of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). We sought to understand patient and family experience with CTT using qualitative methods.

Methods

Fifteen parents of children < 18 years old and nine children 12–18 years old with SCD who were receiving CTT for > 1 year were interviewed using a semi-structured interview format, and interviews were analyzed using open coding methods.

Results

Four themes created a narrative of the patient and family experience of CTT: 1) Burden of CTT, 2) Coping with CTT, 3) Perceived benefits and risks of CTT, and 4) Decision making regarding CTT. Participants reported substantial burden of CTT, including the impact of CTT on daily life and family, distress about venous access, burden of chelation therapy, and anxiety about CTT complications. Participants described how they coped with CTT. Participants reported increased energy, decreased pain, fewer hospitalizations, and stroke prevention with CTT, but also recognized complications of CTT, though awareness was limited in adolescents. Parents described sharing in the informed decision-making process with their healthcare provider about CTT, but adolescent patient participants reported that they were not involved in this process.

Conclusions

CTT is associated with significant patient and family burden. Support from family, healthcare providers and school may help individuals cope with some of this burden. These findings provide the basis for future studies to identify strategies to mitigate the burden of CTT and improve the patient experience with this therapy. Future studies should also systematically assess patient knowledge about the key components of CTT and chelation using quantitative assessments.
Sustainable livelihood alternatives among Nile perch (Lates niloticus) fishers in Lake Victoria Tanzania: analytical hierarchy process (AHP) approach
Authors: Mkuna Eliaza , Baiyegunhi Lloyd , Adamus Wiktor
Published: April 2020

Sustainable livelihood has been a focal point in many development initiatives by private and public sectors in most African countries. However artisanal fishers in the main lakes of Africa are faced with several alternative decisions to improve their livelihood sustainably. Several studies which have been conducted in Africa offered various options using different models such as sustainable livelihood approach/framework (SLA). This study provides different decision-making alternatives using multi-criteria decision model known as analytical hierarchy process (AHP) to assess the most economical and sustainable livelihood options for Nile perch fishers in Lake Victoria Tanzania. Using structured questionnaires and key informant interviews, different strategic criteria such as environment, economic, social and technology were analyzed and the study found that, important factor in the strategic criteria is environment. Moreover, different livelihood alternatives which include livelihood diversification, fisheries co-management and promotion of aquaculture were analyzed. The study found that livelihood diversification which implies diversifying income-generating activities was identified as the best alternative model for sustainable livelihood development. The study recommends proper income diversification interventions and environment management for the sustainability of Nile perch fishers’ livelihood and fishery resources in Lake Victoria.
Comparative assessment of antimicrobial and antioxidant activity between whole plant and parts of Sphaeranthus indicus Linn. (Asteraceae)
Authors: Tandon Dhananjay , Gupta A. K.
Published: April 2020

Background

Sphaeranthus indicus is an important medicinal plant, which is used to cure various illnesses. The present study is the first investigation of the antimicrobial, antioxidant and phytochemical analysis ofSphaeranthus indicusfrom Chhattisgarh, India.

Methods

The whole plant and plant parts were extracted with polar and non-polar solvents such as water, methanol, ethyl acetate and hexane to assess various bioactivities. The antimicrobial and antioxidant activities were performed by ager well diffusion method and ferrous reducing capacity, respectively; However free radical scavenging activity was analyzed using DMPD and DPPH scavenging assay. The DMPD and DPPH assay were performed in a time dependent manner. Qualitative and quantitative analysis were performed for the total phytochemicals present in the plant extracts. The total content of phenols, flavonoids and terpenoids was analyzed by colorimetric methods.

Results

Ethyl acetate and hexane extract of plant inflorescence and stem exhibited significant antibacterial activity against tested bacterial pathogens. The clinically isolated gram positive pathogenic bacteria responded better as compared to clinically isolated gram negative bacteria as well as pathogenic gram positive and negative bacteria acquired from Microbial Type Culture Collection, India. The leaf and inflorescence exhibited potent antioxidant activity. The polar fraction of leaf methanol extract exhibited the highest reducing power capacity. The aqueous extract of inflorescence exhibited highest inhibition against DMPD and DPPH radicals. The whole plant aqueous extract showed maximum inhibition while aqueous extract of inflorescence exhibited high inhibition among different plant parts. Qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of terpenoids, phenols, flavonoids, tannins and cardiac glycosides in plant parts. Total terpenoid content was found to be highest in polar fraction of stem methanol extract and ethyl acetate extract of inflorescence. However, total phenol was found to be highest in polar fraction of leaf methanol extract, similarly highest flavonoid content was observed in aqueous extract of leaf.

Conclusion

The results suggest that biological activities of plant parts depend on content of active phytochemicals. The inflorescence could be a potential source of antimicrobial and antioxidant compound. Further, investigation pertaining isolation and characterization of active ingredient may provide an insight regarding its phytochemical activity.
A Case of Hypoglycemia Associated With the Ketogenic Diet and Alcohol Use
Authors: Spoke Christopher , Malaeb Samar
Published: April 2020

The ketogenic diet, which has become an increasingly popular diet, severely restricts carbohydrate intake to shunt metabolism towards fatty acid oxidation and production of ketones as a fuel source. There have been many studies illustrating the positive effects of a ketogenic diet in weight loss and other benefits; however, the long-term effects and potential adverse events of a ketogenic diet have not been well studied or documented in literature. There are a few case reports of ketogenic diet resulting in hypoglycemia. We report a case of hypoglycemia with a blood glucose of 39 mg/dL and ketosis in a 69-year-old woman who strictly followed a ketogenic diet for nearly one year. She presented with malaise, sugar cravings, and mental fogginess, and after intake of alcoholic beverages, was admitted to the hospital with hypoglycemia. She had elevated beta-hydroxybutyrate, and low insulin and C-peptide, all consistent with a starvation ketosis. This case illustrates that adherence to a ketogenic diet for a prolonged period of time, in combination with alcohol intake, can disrupt normal glucose homeostatic mechanisms and result in a significant degree of hypoglycemia. This pattern of hypoglycemia may not present with classic symptoms, most likely partly due to effects of the ketogenic diet on brain function. This case provides insight that supports the need to counsel patients about alcohol intake while on the ketogenic diet. More information is needed on long-term complications of the ketogenic diet on glucose homeostasis in the body as well as in the brain.
COVID-19 in the Cancer Patient
Authors: Yeoh Cindy B. , Lee Kathleen J. , Rieth Elizabeth F. , Mapes Renee , Tchoudovskaia Anna V. , Fischer Gregory W. , Tollinche Luis E.
Published: April 2020

The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was first reported in China in December 2019. Since then, it has spread across the world to become one of the most serious life-threatening pandemics since the influenza pandemic of 1918. This review article will focus on the specific risks and nuanced considerations of COVID-19 in the cancer patient. Important perioperative management recommendations during this outbreak are emphasized, in addition to discussion of current treatment techniques and strategies available in the battle against COVID-19.
Coronavirus Disease 2019: In-Home Isolation Room Construction
Authors: Culp William C.
Published: April 2020

Patient care duties will expose health care workers to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Many are concerned about subsequent household exposure to their families, particularly those family members with high risk of complications or mortality, potentiating additional community spread. Herein is described a temporary isolation room that can be created within a home, thereby decreasing bioburden exposure to family members. The design is simple, expedient, and can be built with locally sourced inexpensive supplies. A viewing and access window facilitates safe family interaction and decreases the emotional costs of isolation while providing a route to pass items as necessary.
Frequency of Blood Eosinophilia in newly diagnosed Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease patients
Authors: Khan Ghulam Maqtada , Zuberi Faisal Faiyaz , Zahra Syeda Bizat uz , Ghafoor Lubna
Published: April 2020

Objective: To determine Blood Eosinophilia frequency in newly diagnosed Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease patients.

Methods: An observational cross-sectional research on newly diagnosed COPD patients with age ≥ 40 years was performed at Ojha Institute of Chest Diseases, Dow University of Health Sciences Karachi. COPD patients diagnosed in outpatient clinic or admitted in Chest Unit during six-month period from September 2018 to May 2019 were selected. Each patient underwent spirometry, and blood was tested for eosinophilia (≥ 2% eosinophils in blood), after obtaining informed consent and clinical history.

Results: One hundred and fifty COPD patients were diagnosed and evaluated for Blood Eosinophilia, out of which 86 (57.3%) and 64 (42.7%) patients were Males and Females respectively with mean age of 63.72 ± 10.24 years. Current Smokers were 48 (32.0%), Ex-Smokers 15 (10.0%), and Biomass Exposure was present in 76 (50.7%) of patients. Spirometric severity of COPD was Mild in 11 (7.3%), Moderate in 68 (45.3%), Severe in 59 (39.3%), and Very Severe in 12 (8.0%) patients. Blood Eosinophilia was present in 59 (39.3%) patients of COPD among which majority 43 (72.9%) were having Moderate 24 (40.7%) and Severe 19 (32.2%) COPD respectively.

Conclusion: Frequency of Blood Eosinophilia in newly diagnosed COPD patients was high, among which most of the COPD patients were moderate to severe.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.4.1624

How to cite this:Khan GM, Zuberi FF, Bizat-uz-Zahra S, Ghafoor L. Frequency of Blood Eosinophilia in newly diagnosed Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease patients. Pak J Med Sci. 2020;36(4):750-754. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.4.1624

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Do you really get what you are looking for? Exploring the medical call writing trend in tertiary care hospitals
Authors: Khan Abdul Rahim , Mahboob Usman , Baseer Najma
Published: April 2020

Objective: To explore the trend of medical call writing by doctors working in tertiary care hospitals.

Methods: A quantitative descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out to evaluate the quality of medical calls written by the doctors at three tertiary care hospitals of Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa between June 2016 to June 2017. An instrument was developed following AMEE Guide 87. Its content validity and reliability were established by 33 consultants from twenty specialties. A total of 198 medical calls (66 each) were collected from medicine, surgery and allied specialties and evaluated on the basis of validated instrument.

Results: During instrument development, six items with content Validity Ratio of 0.78 & Kappa value of 0.70 were deemed most significant in every medical call written. Among all the calls, the great majority (96% and 84.34%) mentioned the reason for referral (item 1) and history of presenting problem (item 2), respectively, while item 6 (explicit mention of the doctor who will receive the call) was addressed the least (17.6%). Item 3 (Result of physical examination) and 4 (what tests have been done/arranged by the referring doctor and a summary of the main findings) were stated in < 30% of the calls whereas item 5 (diagnosis/provisional diagnosis) was specified in less than half of the calls.

Conclusion: In this study, the written medical calls of different specialties were evaluated using specifically designed six items instrument. Unfortunately, the content of medical calls assessed was found to be inadequate probably because medical call writing is not explicitly taught at under and postgraduate levels.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.4.1642

How to cite this:Khan AR, Mahboob U, Baseer N. Do you really get what you are looking for? Exploring the medical call writing trend in tertiary care hospitals. Pak J Med Sci. 2020;36(4):699-704. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.4.1642

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Fatty liver in Pakistani cohort with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Wagan Dr Abrar Ahmed , Bhutto Abdul Qadir , Khan Daim , Raheem Abdul
Published: April 2020

Objective: To determine the frequency of fatty liver (non-alcoholic) disease, Framingham 10-year cardiovascular risk score in rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Methods: This study was conducted from September 1st to March 19, 2019, at Rheumatology OPD, Central Park Medical College Lahore. One hundred ninety two seropositive rheumatoid arthritis patients were recruited. Demographic details were noted, BP, BMI, smoking habits, and waist circumference were noted, then sent to radiology department for ultrasound scan of abdomen by an expert radiologist. On next day 10 ml blood was taken by phlebotomist for lipid profile and fasting blood sugar levels, after availability of results 10-years Framingham cardiovascular risk score was calculated.

Results: Females were (81.3%) mean age of (45.4) years, fatty liver was present in n=39 (20.3%). In positive cases comorbid like metabolic syndrome was present (71.8%), diabetes mellitus (33.3%), hypertension (59%) FRS score (intermediate to high in (33.3%), history of hakeem/desi medication use (51.3%), while on regression analysis all study parameters except DMARD’s had significant association with fatty liver (p<0.05).

Conclusion: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is very widely prevalent in rheumatoid arthritis patients. As in general population, it is multifactorial in origin and needs careful monitoring and treatment.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.4.1984

How to cite this:Wagan AA, Bhutoo AQ, Khan D, Raheem A. Fatty liver in Pakistani cohort with rheumatoid arthritis. Pak J Med Sci. 2020;36(4):723-728. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.4.1984

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Background-suppressed SRS fingerprint imaging with a fully integrated system using a single optical parametric oscillator
Authors: Lombardini Alberto , Berto Pascal , Duboisset Julien , Andresen Esben Ravn , Heuke Sandro , Büttner Edlef , Rimke Ingo , Vergnole Sébastien , Shinkar Vasyl , de Bettignies Philippe , Rigneault Hervé
Published: April 2020

Stimulated Raman Scattering (SRS) imaging can be hampered by non-resonant parasitic signals that lead to imaging artifacts and eventually overwhelm the Raman signal of interest. Stimulated Raman gain opposite loss detection (SRGOLD) is a three-beam excitation scheme capable of suppressing this nonlinear background while enhancing the resonant Raman signal. We present here a compact electro-optical system for SRGOLD excitation which conveniently exploits the idler beam generated by an optical parametric oscillator (OPO). We demonstrate its successful application for background suppressed SRS imaging in the fingerprint region. This system constitutes a simple and valuable add-on for standard coherent Raman laser sources since it enables flexible excitation and background suppression in SRS imaging.
Performance of real-time adaptive optics compensation in a turbulent channel with high-dimensional spatial-mode encoding
Authors: Zhao Jiapeng , Zhou Yiyu , Braverman Boris , Liu Cong , Pang Kai , Steinhoff Nicholas K. , Tyler Glenn A. , Willner Alan E. , Boyd Robert W.
Published: April 2020

The orbital angular momentum (OAM) of photons is a promising degree of freedom for high-dimensional quantum key distribution (QKD). However, effectively mitigating the adverse effects of atmospheric turbulence is a persistent challenge in OAM QKD systems operating over free-space communication channels. In contrast to previous works focusing on correcting static simulated turbulence, we investigate the performance of OAM QKD in real atmospheric turbulence with real-time adaptive optics (AO) correction. We show that even though our AO system provides a limited correction, it is possible to mitigate the errors induced by weak turbulence and establish a secure channel. The crosstalk induced by turbulence and the performance of AO systems is investigated in two configurations: a lab-scale link with controllable turbulence, and a 340 m long cross-campus link with dynamic atmospheric turbulence. Our experimental results suggest that an advanced AO system with fine beam tracking, reliable beam stabilization, precise wavefront sensing, and accurate wavefront correction is necessary to adequately correct turbulence-induced error. We also propose and demonstrate different solutions to improve the performance of OAM QKD with turbulence, which could enable the possibility of OAM encoding in strong turbulence.
Nanostructure-modulated planar high spectral resolution spectro-polarimeter
Authors: Pjotr Stoevelaar L. , Berzinš Jonas , Silvestri Fabrizio , Fasold Stefan , Zangeneh Kamali Khosro , Knopf Heiko , Eilenberger Falk , Setzpfandt Frank , Pertsch Thomas , Bäumer Stefan M. B. , Gerini Giampiero
Published: April 2020

We present a planar spectro-polarimeter based on Fabry-Pérot cavities with embedded polarization-sensitive high-index nanostructures. A 7 µm-thick spectro-polarimetric system for 3 spectral bands and 2 linear polarization states is experimentally demonstrated. Furthermore, an optimal design is theoretically proposed, estimating that a system with a bandwidth of 127 nm and a spectral resolution of 1 nm is able to reconstruct the first three Stokes parameters with a signal-to-noise ratio of -13.14 dB with respect to the the shot noise limited SNR. The pixelated spectro-polarimetric system can be directly integrated on a sensor, thus enabling applicability in a variety of miniaturized optical devices, including but not limited to satellites for Earth observation.
Antifibrotic Effects of the Thiazolidinediones in Eosinophilic Esophagitis Pathologic Remodeling: A Preclinical Evaluation
Authors: Nhu Quan M. , Hsieh Lance , Dohil Lucas , Dohil Ranjan , Newbury Robert O. , Kurten Richard , Moawad Fouad J. , Aceves Seema S.
Published: April 2020

INTRODUCTION:

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a T-helper 2 (Th2), eosinophilic disease associated with pathologic tissue remodeling that leads to end-organ dysfunction. During early-stage disease, inflammation and subepithelial fibrosis are coupled and reversible, but in late-stage or therapy-resistant disease, there can be uncoupling of these features with progressive esophageal rigidity and strictures contributing to clinical dysphagia and food impactions. No current pharmacotherapeutic interventions directly target esophageal fibrosis. Based on the ability of the thiazolidinediones (TZD) to regulate intestinal and hepatic fibrosis, we tested the antifibrotic effects of the TZDs, rosiglitazone and pioglitazone, in preclinical studies using primary human esophageal fibroblasts.

METHODS:

Primary fibroblasts isolated from normal or EoE esophagi were treated with transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 in the absence or presence of TZDs and, in some experiments, without or with budesonide and analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR and immunoblotting. Immunohistochemical analysis of human esophageal biopsies was performed.

RESULTS:

EoE esophageal biopsies and esophageal fibroblasts expressed higher levels of the TZD receptor, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ), than normal controls. PPAR-γ was inducible by the Th2 cytokine, interleukin 4 (IL-4). TZD significantly reduced TGF-β1-induced myofibroblast and fibrotic gene and protein expression preferentially in EoE, but not normal esophageal fibroblasts. In esophageal fibroblasts, TGF-β1 increased phosphorylated Smad2/3 and p38, but TZDs preferentially inhibited p38 phosphorylation, suggesting signaling pathway-specific effects. The TZDs were more potent than budesonide at decreasing collagen-1α1 expression.

DISCUSSION:

The TZDs preferentially exert antifibrotic effects in TGF-β1-activated EoE fibroblasts and provide a preclinical foundation for further investigation of the potential of the TZDs in EoE pathologic remodeling.
Application of Square and Oblong Pore Shapes in Rotating Membrane Emulsification to Produce Novel Particulate Products
Authors: Aryanti Nita , Williams Richard Andrew , Yuan Qinchung
Published: April 2020

Rotating membrane emulsification (RMR) has been intensively developed and applied for producing emulsion as well as particulate products such as microcapsules. Polyurea microcapsules were generally prepared by interfacial polycondensation polymerisation with addition of modifier to produce more stable microcapsules. In this research, development of the RMR was applied for producing polymer particles stabilised by nanoparticle without any addition of surfactant or modifier. Two types of membrane pores, the square (Type-A) with hydraulic diameter (Dh) of 84 mm and oblong pores with an aspect ratio of 0.33 (Type-B) having Dh of 69 mm was investigated. For the membranes designed in this research, pore shape A membrane could produce good uniformity in both polyurea microcapsule and polymer particle. In the polymer stabilised particle, this membrane type obtained a narrower size distribution than the usage for o/w emulsification. Reasonable uniform particles at high membrane rotation speed could also be achieved with the use of Type-A membrane. The uniformity confirmed that there was only minor breakup of products during operation at high membrane rotation. This attractive feature was significant in the production of fragile or shear-sensitive particulate products since the delicate structure of these products is possibly easy to destroy at high membrane rotation speed.  Keywords: polyurea microcapsules; particles stabilised nanoparticles; slotted pore
Progressive Exercise Strategies to Mitigate Shoulder Injuries Among Weight-Training Participants
Authors: Escalante Guillermo , Fine Daniel , Ashworth Kyle , Kolber Morey J.
Published: April 2020

Nontraumatic shoulder disorders are prevalent among weight-training participants as a result of training patterns as well as adaptive shoulder joint and muscle characteristics. This article presents a progressive approach to exercises designed to mitigate well-known joint and muscle characteristics that have been associated with shoulder disorders. Using a progressive evidence-based model, practical applications are presented that will guide sports medicine and strength training professionals in their ability to provide an evidence-informed upper extremity weight-training program for both patients and clients.
The Impacts of Policy Infrastructures on the International Use of the Chinese Renminbi
Authors: Chey Hyoung-Kyu , Hsu Minchung
Published: April 2020

Despite burgeoning research on the internationalization of the Chinese renminbi, there has been surprisingly little systematic analysis of how the renminbi is actually used in foreign markets. This study provides a cross-country analysis of renminbi use in offshore foreign exchange markets, with special attention to the effects of the cooperative policy measures adopted by China and foreign states to promote the renminbi’s international use. We find that a country’s participation in the Renminbi Qualified Foreign Institutional Investor scheme (which expands its renminbi investment opportunities) and its establishment of an offshore renminbi clearing bank (which provides better renminbi payment services), but not its entry into a renminbi–local currency swap agreement, facilitate use of the renminbi in its foreign exchange markets. States have played a significant role in the rise of the renminbi as a newly internationalizing currency.
China’s Development Assistance in Southeast Asia
Authors: Yamamoto Raymond
Published: April 2020

China’s growing development assistance has become commonly perceived as a threat to the autonomy and development of Southeast Asian countries that had promoted by Japan in the past. This paper challenges that understanding by comparing China’s development assistance with Japan’s engagement in the region. The comparison supports an alternative perspective, which sees Chinese development assistance as favorable for Japan’s interests.
Online Connective Representation in China
Authors: Heberer Thomas , Shpakovskaya Anna
Published: April 2020

In this article, we join an ongoing debate among Western scholars on political representation and argue that political representation is undergoing a transformation stimulated by the rapid proliferation of the new information and communication technologies. We propose that in China, the new social media have stimulated a shift from representation by official organizations to bottom-up self-representation, and from mandate political representation to embodiment. To grasp this change, we select private entrepreneurs as our focus of study and propose the concept of “connective representation.” Drawing on fieldwork in China from 2015 through 2019 and on analysis of online materials, we demonstrate how private entrepreneurs in China form and advance their collective interests through online connectivity. The concept of connective representation adds to the conventional perspectives on political representation, particularly in the authoritarian setting.
Text and Subtext: On the Example of Two Poems by Boris Pasternak
Authors: Venclova Tomas
Published: April 2020

A close reading of two poems by Boris Pasternak (“A Storm in July” and “To the Memory of Demon”). Both poems are considered to be inverted variants (or “antitexts”) of Russian classical poems by Fiodor Tiutchev and Mikhail Lermontov (Tiutchev‘s “Spring Storm” and Lermontov‘s “Demon,” respectively). According to the author, this technique may be typical for many other poetic texts written by Pasternak.
La place de la psychanalyse dans l’édificationde la sémiotique de Greimas: De «Sémantique structurale» à «Sémiotique des passions». Transl. by Lina Perkauskytė
Authors: Darrault-Harris Ivan , Perkauskytė Lina
Published: April 2020

Les relations de Greimas avec la psychanalyse n'ont pas suscité jusqu‘à présent d’étude systématique. Et pourtant, dès «Sémantique structurale» (1966), Greimas construit ses premiers modèles sémiotiques (ainsi le célèbre modèle actantiel) dans le dialogue, quelquefois, certes, très polémique, avec la psychanalyse (cf. sa sévère critique de la psychocritique de Ch. Mauron); il va même jusqu’à évaluer son modèle narratif transformationnel en analysant des séances de psychodrame psychanalytique (avec l’aide de M. Safouan). On s’efforcera donc de préciser à la fois les emprunts à la psychanalyse mais aussi les différences fermement affirmées qui ont permis à Greimas de poser l’identité de la discipline, la sémiotique, qu’il créait, dépassant de fort loin son projet initial de fonder une sémantique.On découvrira chemin faisant les influences, les échos, les homologations suscitées essentiellement par la lecture, sur une longue période, du texte de Freud le plus important à ses yeux, soit la « Traumdeutung ». Et même si les références à la psychanalyse, dès après «Sémantique structurale», s’appauvrissent au point de finir par disparaître totalement.Enfin, les rares allusions de Greimas aux apports de Lacan (ainsi le concept d’ «assomption») permettront de clarifier ses rapports avec celui qui, en psychanalyse, fut constamment le partenaire le plus attentif mais aussi le plus critique des linguistes.
The Dichotomy of Cold and Heat in the Packaging of Stumbras Vodka Premium Organic
Authors: Kavarskas Edvardas
Published: April 2020

Over the last few decades we may discover and follow the significant changes extending in the segment of vodka. The globalgrowth of vodka usage publicly proportionally supplements the demand of the image value. The appearance of luxury category required sophistication and legitimation of vodka in the context of the noble spirits that already had high standards for both – their image and storytelling. To add more, in the past few years dozens of organic vodkas entered the global market. AB “Stumbras” – the largest Lithuanian alcoholic beverages producer was the first company to step out with the organic vodka label in Lithuania. Although “Stumbras Vodka Premium Organic” is not in a competition with “Grey Goose” or “Belvedere” in the terms of price, yet is a number one candidate to the title of the most expensive Lithuanian serial vodka. The answer of the question on what actually inspires the appearance of exclusive, highly priced vodkas, is hidden behind the stories and legends that are and will always be the most essential part of super premium segment products. People like listening to stories as well as telling them. And this could be done not only via text, but also images. In the spirits market – images first, are acknowledged and understood as packaging. Form, label and material used stimulates not only visible reflects, but also the senses of touching and even listening.This article will give us a closer look to the “Stumbras Vodka Premium Organic” packaging legend over the prism of visual semiotics. The habitual methodological instruments used in visualsemiotics – the analysis of plastic dimension and figurative level – layer after layer opened the inspirations and metaphors of the creative team. It also gave an opportunity to identify the visual oppositions and tension, felt in compositions that are found in the work. The article reveals topologic, chromatic, eidetic and textural characteristics of the visual part. Typefaces typology as well as the semantic messages found in the design are also analyzed. Additional attention is focused on the fund inspiration of the creative team – flax, as “Stumbras Vodka Premium Organic” is represented as “the only Lithuanian vodka filtered through flax” and flax plays an exceptional role in the mythological consciousness of Lithuanians.The end of the article synthesizes the cohesion between analyzed plots in order to find semi-symbolism. It also seeks for the answer to the question if the particular packaging adequately represents content and the target audience. First, the parsing supplements the following allegation: the hotter vodka, the colder packaging it comes with. Based on this paradox visual text is created, which at the end is actually the vodka packaging design. Second, it reveals friction of the fundamental gender stereotypes and confirms the esthetical requirements brought by the millennial generation. The concept and its implementation appear in the luxury of less design.
La sémiotique de Greimas: un projet scientifique de long terme. Transl. by Kęstutis Nastopka
Authors: Fontanille Jacques , Nastopka Kęstutis
Published: April 2020

Greimas définissait sa sémiotique comme un « projet scienti-fique », mettant ainsi l’accent sur une construction en cours. Il nous faut donc comprendre pourquoi elle se présente comme un pro-gramme ouvert dans de multiples directions. La sémiotique de Greimas définit une série de problèmes à traiter, et pose des jalons au très long terme. Greimas lui-même ne traite qu’une partie de ces problèmes, et les autres restent en attente des réponses que ses successeurs peuvent apporter. Dans cette perspective, il avait lui-même encouragé ses collaborateurs à se répartir les différentes voies ouvertes dans son programme. Ces différentes évolutions sont connues : la sémiotique subjectale, la sémiotique tensive, la sémiotique morpho-dynamique, la sociosémiotique, la sémiotique de la perception, notamment. Il est donc possible aujourd’hui d’évaluer les effets de ces parcours de recherche. Mais de nom-breux problèmes restent encore ouverts : le parcours génératif de l’expression, la diversité, les conditions et l’instabilité des sémioses, le dialogue avec les autres « sciences du sens ». Et enfin, le projet lui-même doit être reconfiguré et mis à jour sous toutes les dimen-sions de son ancrage dans le monde d’aujourd’hui, près de soixante ans après sa conception.
The Grammar of the Fall
Authors: Kazarinova Ksenija
Published: April 2020

The aim of this analysis is to show the way of sin formation in one’s mind. As illustration for it, the biblical text is chosen. The story of original sin is quite short, but mysterious. How does it happen that Adam and Eve choose evil instead of God? Are they thrown into the sin or construct it by their selves?Using the semiotics of passions the author of the article tries to show the mechanism of transformation of the subject’s conscious-ness. The doubt about God makes subject to choose another axio-logical system. What is more, he is trying to become god himself. The formation of sin goes through the main phases: communica-tion with the tempter and interest → the doubt about God → eu-phoric visions of the future → rebellion against God → rebellious action.The consequences of sin are painful and not such euphoric as it seemed before. The person loses the harmony with everything in the world, he can only feel his own nakedness and vulnerability. However, notwithstanding human betrayal, God makes everything to save the mankind.
La valeur de la vide
Authors: Petitimbert Jean-Paul
Published: April 2020

Cet article est consacré à l’étude sémiotique de la notion de vide et du sens qu’elle peut prendre en marketing, et plus particulièrement en communication comme en design de produits. Il s’appuie sur un exemple international originaire du Japon, celui de la marque MUJI.Le cadre méthodologique choisi pour cette analyse du discours non verbal tenu par une marque est le modèle interactionnel développé en socio-sémiotique par E. Landowski.L’étude s’efforce de rendre compte de l’efficacité stratégique attendue de l’indétermination sémantique délibérément affichée dans les campagnes publicitaires de la marque, là où l’on s’attendrait classiquement à des significations clairement articulées. Elle montre sur quelle base (à savoir la syntaxe de «l’ajustement») et avec quels effets les récepteurs sont invités à attribuer par eux-mêmes un sens aux très grands espaces vides apparaissant sur les affiches MUJI.Elle explique en outre comment une politique publicitaire aussi inhabituelle est devenue une philosophie de marque, et comment cette philosophie a été également appliquée au design des produits : le cœur de l’étude vise à montrer comment une «éthique de marque» et une «esthétique de marque» peuvent se manifester à la fois dans des signes bidimensionnels et tridimensionnels (c.-à-d. dans des affiches et dans des produits), et exploiter ensemble le même régime interactionnel de l’«ajustement».Enfin, l’étude se termine sur l’analyse de la structure énonciative mise en œuvre dans l’ensemble des productions de la marque. La dernière partie de l’article est ainsi consacrée aux différents types d’énonciataires construits par ces « textes » (publicités et produits), ainsi qu’à la notion de méta-choix, un concept proposé par Landowski, et comment cette nouvelle approche de la gestion de la marque remanie l’ensemble du paradigme marketing.