bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Constraints on Neutron Star Structure from the Clocked X-Ray Burster 1RXS J180408.9−342058
Authors: Dohi 土 A. 肥明 , Iwakiri 岩 W. B. 切渉 , Nishimura 西村 N. 信哉 , Noda 野田 T. 常雄 , Nagataki 長瀧 S. 重博 , Hashimoto 橋本 M. 正章
Published: December 2023

Type I X-ray bursts are rapid-brightening transient phenomena on the surfaces of accreting neutron stars (NSs). Some X-ray bursts, called clocked bursters, exhibit regular behavior with similar light-curve profiles in their burst sequences. The periodic nature of clocked bursters has the advantage of constraining X-ray binary parameters and physics inside the NS. In the present study, we compute numerical models, based on different equations of state and NS masses, which are compared with the observations of a recently identified clocked burster, 1RXS J180408.9−342058. We find that the relation between the accretion rate and the recurrence time is highly sensitive to the NS mass and radius. We determine, in particular, that 1RXS J180408.9−342058 appears to possess a mass less than 1.7M
⊙ and favors a stiffer nuclear equation of state (with an NS radius ≳12.7 km). Consequently, the observations of this new clocked burster may provide additional constraints for probing the structure of NSs.
Magnetogenesis in a Collisionless Plasma: From Weibel Instability to Turbulent Dynamo
Authors: Zhou Muni , Zhdankin Vladimir , Kunz Matthew W. , Loureiro Nuno F. , Uzdensky Dmitri A.
Published: December 2023

We report on a first-principles numerical and theoretical study of plasma dynamo in a fully kinetic framework. By applying an external mechanical force to an initially unmagnetized plasma, we develop a self-consistent treatment of the generation of “seed” magnetic fields, the formation of turbulence, and the inductive amplification of fields by the fluctuation dynamo. Driven large-scale motions in an unmagnetized, weakly collisional plasma are subject to strong phase mixing, which leads to the development of thermal pressure anisotropy. This anisotropy triggers the Weibel instability, which produces filamentary “seed” magnetic fields on plasma-kinetic scales. The plasma is thereby magnetized, enabling efficient stretching and folding of the fields by the plasma motions and the development of Larmor-scale kinetic instabilities such as the firehose and mirror. The scattering of particles off the associated microscale magnetic fluctuations provides an effective viscosity, regulating the field morphology and turbulence. During this process, the seed field is further amplified by the fluctuation dynamo until energy equipartition with the turbulent flow is reached. By demonstrating that equipartition magnetic fields can be generated from an initially unmagnetized plasma through large-scale turbulent flows, this work has important implications for the origin and amplification of magnetic fields in the intracluster and intergalactic mediums.
First Constraints on Helium +He3 Evolution in z = 3–4 Using the 8.67 GHz Hyperfine Transition
Authors: Trott Cathryn M. , Wayth Randall B.
Published: December 2023

We present the first constraints on the cross-correlation power spectrum of the He ii (+He3) signal strength using the redshifted 8.67 GHz hyperfine transition between z = 2.9 and 4.1 and with interferometric data obtained from the public archive of the Australia Telescope Compact Array (ATCA). 210 hr of observations of the primary calibrator source B1934-638 were extracted from data obtained with the telescope from 2014–2021, and coherently combined in a power spectrum pipeline to measure the He ii power across a range of spatial scales, and at three redshifts that span the period of helium reionization. Our best limit places the fluctuation of the brightness temperature to be less than 557 μK on spatial scales of 30′ at z = 2.91, and less than 755 μK on scales of 30′ at z = 4.14 (2σ noise limited). We measure a temperature of 489 μK at z = 2.91. ATCA’s few antennas and persistent remaining radio frequency interference in the data prevent deeper integrations improving the results. This work is a proof of principle to demonstrate how this type of experiment can be undertaken to reach the 0.01–1 μK level expected for the helium signal at z ∼ 4.
Principles of construction and development of an automatic protection system for steam generators of fast reactors
Authors: Borisov Vyacheslav V. , Kamaev Aleksey A. , Myazdrikova Olga I. , Mikhin Stepan A. , Pakhomov Ilia A. , Perevoznikov Sergey V.
Published: December 2023

On the example of domestic fast reactors BN-350, BN-600, BN-800, the evolution of technical solutions for the automatic protection system of sodium-water steam generators (SG APS) is analyzed. The structural diagrams and main characteristics of the SG APS equipment of listed reactors are presented. The effectiveness of the SG APS in conditions of real leaks in steam generators of BN reactors is analyzed. The issues of development and creation of the SG APS of designed BN-1200 and INU MBIR are considered.
Larval polyphagy of Cataspilates marceloi (Lepidoptera, Geometridae), a Neotropical geometrid moth with flightless females
Authors: Vargas Héctor A.
Published: December 2023

Surveys in the arid shrubland of the central Andes revealed larval polyphagy for Cataspilates marceloi Vargas, 2022 (Lepidoptera, Geometridae, Ennominae, Boarmiini), a geometrid moth with flightless females. This discovery suggests that, as well as in the Holarctic fauna, larval polyphagy would have been important for the evolution of flightlessness among Neotropical geometrid moths of the tribe Boarmiini.
A review of the anthidiine bees (Apoidea, Megachilidae) in Thailand
Authors: Nalinrachatakan Pakorn , Ascher John S. , Kasparek Max , Traiyasut Prapun , Thanoosing Chawatat , Warrit Natapot
Published: December 2023

Bees of the tribe Anthidiini (Apoidea: Megachilidae) are notable pollinators consisting of resin bees, wool-carder bees, and cleptoparasitic bees. Twelve anthidiine species were historically reported in Thailand, though the taxonomic information of the group was needed revising. In this study, 165 (97♀, 68♂) anthidiine bee specimens deposited at the Chulalongkorn University Natural History Museum, Thailand, were examined with material obtained from various museum collections. Specimens were principally collected in Thailand with some from Laos and Myanmar. Here, at least eight genera and 15 species of anthidiine bees are recognized: Anthidiellum (5), Bathanthidium (1), Eoanthidium (1), Euaspis (4), Pachyanthidium (1), Pseudoanthidium (1), Stelis (1), and Trachusa (1). Dianthidium chinensis Wu, 1962, Eoanthidium chinensis (Wu, 1962), Eoanthidium semicarinatum Pasteels, 1972, and Eoanthidium punjabensis Gupta & Sharma, 1953 are relegated as junior synonyms of Eoanthidium (Hemidiellum) riparium (Cockerell, 1929), stat. nov. Both Anthidiellum (Pycnanthidium) latipes (Bingham, 1897) from Phang Nga and Euaspis aff. wegneri Baker, 1995 from Chumphon were identified as new records for Thailand. Trachusa aff. vietnamensis Flaminio & Quaranta, 2021 from Phitsanulok is a new record for the genus found in Thailand, whereas Pseudoanthidium (Pseudoanthidium) orientale (Bingham, 1897) is a new record for Laos. Annotated comments are provided for some taxa and identification keys for the Thai anthidiine bees is provided.
Advanced Nursing Practice In The 21st Century: Do We Want To Be Right or Do We Want To Win?
Authors: Harris Ruth
Published: December 2023

Because cost containment is a priority in our rapidly changing American health care system, the prestigious Pew Health Professions Commission (1995) has predicted a greater role for nurse practitioners (NPs) in the delivery of primary care. Factors favoring a broadened scope of NP responsibility for primary care include: (a) the pressing need to contain the nation's ever-escalating health care costs, (b) the present window of opportunity for advanced nursing practice, and (c) the need to use fewer resources more effectively. Because ours is a market-driven health care system with a growing surplus of physicians, NPs increasingly find themselves in direct competition with physcians for the same primary care jobs. Hence, market-driven (rather than identical) pricing of services is necessary if NPs are to compete successfully with medically trained providers of primary care. The brain has two functions: One is to be right and the other is to survive and sometimes we give up the latter. (Old Chinese proverb)
Financial Compensation and Ethical Issues in Health Care
Authors: Silva Mary
Published: December 2023

As health care workers enter the twenty-first century, they must understand the relationships among market-driven forces, the health care workforce, and financial compensation. This understanding can be facilitated by a grasp of utilitarian ethical theory and by ethical tenets of justice such as distributive justice, material principles of justice, and justice as fairness. Health care workers also need to understand how unfair financial compensation can demoralize them and compromise their values. However, professional associations and health care managers can take a proactive stance to ensure that organizations are ethical in their approach to financial compensation.
Nursing Nomenclature and Classification System Development
Authors: Gordon Marjory
Published: December 2023

Classification is a rather new idea in nursing. It began as a movement to develop a language that would describe the clinical judgments made by nurses. There was great support by clinicians for describing problems that nurses are educated and licensed to treat which are not in medical language systems. Currently there are major efforts nationally and internationally to develop a nursing language system that includes nursing diagnoses, interventions and outcomes. These are the basic elements in a nursing classification for practice, minimum data set for health statistics, in costing out patient care, developing computerized patient records, and for education and research.
Whistleblowing As a Failure of Organizational Ethics
Authors: Fletcher James , Sorrell Jeanne , Silva Mary
Published: December 2023

The move toward managed care and increased competition in health care exacerbates the conditions leading to instances of whistleblowing. We believe that cases of whistleblowing are indicative of an ethical failure at the organizational level. In this paper, we provide an analysis of whistleblowing in health care organizations. We argue that neither the codes of professional nursing associations nor the standards of the Joint Commission on the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) provide, in their current forms, mechanisms to overcome the need for whistleblowing. We believe that JCAHO is in a unique position to require health care organizations (HCOs) to address concerns of organizational ethics in ways that go beyond mere compliance related to business practices. We conclude with recommendations addressing the need to refine approaches to organizational ethics and to protect staff who speak out in the defense of patient health and welfare.
The Regulatory Dilemma Surrounding Interstate Practice
Authors: Gaffney Terri
Published: December 2023

One of the changes with which all health care providers and regulators are grappling is the increasing use of telecommunication technology in the health care delivery system. Historically, regulation of health professionals has been a state-based function. However, the combination of telehealth and the current state-based model of regulation poses a potential problem of widespread unlicensed practice. This paper will offer an historical overview of health care regulation and identify four specific areas of concern related to the regulation of interstate nursing practice, namely, state sovereignty, discipline, information sharing and regulation of advanced practice registered nurses.
The Framework, Concepts and Methods of the Competency Outcomes and Performance Assessment (COPA) Model
Authors: Lenburg Carrie
Published: December 2023

A significant category of issues and problems related to promoting competence pertains to the limitations or absence of a cohesive conceptual framework that supports learning and assessment methods focused on practice competencies. Typically, teachers in academic and practice settings use traditional course objectives, lectures, and evaluation methods that often are characterized as teacher-focused, subjective, and inconsistent. These historical practices obscure the development of a specific delineation of practice competencies to be attained and documented. The basic problems center on changing these traditional methods and implementing others that are more outcomes oriented and consistent with contemporary practice needs, and doing so from the foundation of a defensible and cohesive conceptual framework. The purpose of this article is to describe the importance of such a framework and the integration of essential concepts in developing and implementing competency outcomes, interactive learning strategies, and psychometrically-sound performance assessment methods. The COPA Model is explored in detail to illustrate the integration of these concepts into an effective framework that supports competency outcomes and assessment required for contemporary practice. It presents an example to stimulate adaptation and application to meet the goals of diverse academic and practice entities. Although this article describes application of the COPA Model in the academic setting, the principles and criteria presented are equally applicable for educators in the service setting.
Nursing Around the World: Australia
Authors: Stein-Parbury Jane
Published: December 2023

Early nursing in Australia was influenced strongly by the British nursing tradition, characterized by an apprenticeship style of nurse education. However, this influence has been replaced by the transfer of all registered nursing education into the higher education sector. This article will discuss the development of the discipline of nursing in Australia as well as the Australian health care system and nursing work force. Nursing educational programs, registration, organizations, and research will be will be described. Finally current issues in Australian nursing and health care will be presented.
Practice Development Credentialing in the United Kingdom – A Unique Framework for Providing Excellence, Accountability and Quality in Nursing and Healthcare
Authors: Chin Helen , Mc Nichol Elaine
Published: December 2023

This paper will describe the purpose, process and value of an international Practice Development Program by which clinical units can choose to be credentialed. It will describe how the fourteen criteria that a Unit is credentialed against takes them along a journey of practice, personal and professional development that equips them to not only positively respond to, but to proactively influence, the challenges and changes that healthcare is facing globally. It explains how The Program focuses on credentialing sustainable practice development that then contributes to the development of both the capability and capacity of healthcare services. As a result, it crosses professional and organisational boundaries and constraints and concentrates on their shared purpose, delivering excellent patient care.
Intravenous Immunoglobulins for Bilateral Retinochoroiditis in Rhinovirus Infection: A Case Report
Authors: Bourdin Alexandre , Toutée Adélaide , Fardeau Christine
Published: December 2023

A 43-year-old woman presented bilateral anterior granulomatous uveitis associated with bilateral disc edema and bilateral peripheral retinochoroidal lesions. Intravenous corticosteroids after negative investigations for infectious causes did not prevent spreading of the lesions and retinal atrophy. A diagnostic vitrectomy with vitreous analysis, including pan-genomic, next-generation sequencing showed a positive result for rhinovirus HRV B91, and the cytological analysis was suggestive of infection. Intravenous immunoglobulins associated with pegylated interferon-alpha strongly slowed the progression of the lesions and led to scarred and atrophic aspect in both eyes after 6 months.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
2023;54:720–722.]
Clinical Utility of Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography Marker Disorganization of Retinal Inner Layers in Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Singuri Srinidhi , Luo Shiming , Hatipoglu Dilara , Nowacki Amy S. , Patel Riya , Schachat Andrew P. , Ehlers Justis P. , Singh Rishi P. , Anand-Apte Bela , Yuan Alex
Published: December 2023

Background and Objective:

Disorganization of retinal inner layers (DRIL) is a potential spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) imaging biomarker with clinical utility in diabetic retinopathy (DR).

Patients and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted at a large academic center. The cohort was composed of 1,175 patients with type 2 diabetes with and without retinopathy on initial examination between September 2009 and January 2019 (
n
= 2,083 eyes). DR risk and progression factors were obtained from the medical record. Trained graders masked to patients' clinical histories evaluated SD-OCT scans for DRIL.

Results:

Of 2,083 eyes, 28.1% (
n
= 585) demonstrated presence of DRIL with high interrater reliability (
K
= 0.88, 95% CI 0.86–0.90). DRIL was associated with worse visual acuity (VA) (
P
< 0.001) and DR severity (
P
< 0.0001). Insulin users had more severe DR (
P
< 0.0001). DR-related factors, race (Black, White) and sex (male) were significantly associated with DRIL (
P
< 0.05).

Conclusions:

DRIL was strongly associated with DR severity and worse VA, supporting its utility as an unfavorable prognostic indicator.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
2023;54:692–700.]
Subgrain characterization of low carbon copper bearing steel under plane strain compression using electron backscattered diffraction
Authors: Kumar Pawan
Published: December 2023

The restoration mechanism (RM) and subgrain characteristics of 0.05C-1.52Cu-1.51Mn steel in single-hit plane strain compression (PSC) were investigated using a thermomechanical simulator (Gleeble). It was observed that at diminished deformation temperature (DT) and larger strain rate, the austenitic phase (during deformation) showed some thermal/dynamic softening (TH/DRS), but it did not reach the condition where the "work hardening rate" (WH rate)became constant with the stress, i.e., dynamic recovery (DRV) softening balances work hardening (WH). However, it was observed that at higher DT and lower strain rate, the "WH rate" for samples deformed at 850 ℃ (at a strain rate of 0.01 s−1), 950 ℃ (at strain rates of 0.1 and 0.01 s−1) and 1000 ℃ (at strain rates of 0.1 and 0.01 s−1) increased to negative peak, and then decreased to almost zero (for samples deformed at 950 and 1000 ℃ at a strain rate of 0.01 s−1), which is the onset of steady-state flow. When the sample deformed at 750 ℃ followed by quenching, the microstructure was indicative of a deformed microstructure rather than a transformed microstructure. It was observed that there was an increase in the extent of substructure formation and a decrease in mean subgrain size with increasing strain rate. When samples deformed at 850,950 and 1000 ℃, these temperature ranges were above Ar3 temperature. Hence quenching would lead to a phase transformation and hence the deformed microstructure would be eliminated. The room temperature microstructures when the sample deformed at a strain rate of 1 s−1, were nicely equiaxed and clean with no dislocations present. However, at lower strain rates of 0.1 and 0.01 s−1, microstructure showed substructures.
Developing Students’ Scientific Literacy through Wikipedia Digital Library
Authors: Toharudin Uus , Damaianti Lira Fessia , Hizqiyah Ida Yayu Nurul , Setia Kurniawan Iwan
Published: December 2023

This study investigates the impact of utilizing the digital library Wikipedia on high school students’ scientific literacy skills in biology. This research used a quasi-experiment design with a one-group pre-test and post-test method, conducted in a high school in Bandung, Indonesia. The participants consisted of 60 tenth-grade students. The research instrument consisted of 24 multiple-choice questions designed to assess nine scientific literacy indicators, including the ability to describe phenomena scientifically, design and evaluate scientific investigations, and interpret data and evidence scientifically. Each question was scored dichotomously, with the correct answer receiving a score of 1 and incorrect answers assigned a score of 0. Pre-test and post-test scores were analyzed using the Rasch model through Winsteps Version 3.73. Based on data analysis, the items fit with the Rasch model because the infit and outfit MNSQ is 1.0 and the residual item of unexplained variance is 2.3% to 9.8%. The reliability of the items shows an item value of 0.97, which is classified as excellent. The indicators considered the most difficult before being treated were identifying accurate scientific ideas, distinguishing between types of sources, and evaluating literature source validity after the treatment. There was a significant improvement in students’ scientific literacy skills after utilizing the digital library, Wikipedia. The findings provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of integrating digital media into biology courses, highlighting the potential of Wikipedia as a digital reference source for enhancing students’ scientific literacy in high school settings.
Using Autonomous Learning Mode to Improve Students’ Learning Willingness and Resilience
Authors: Yu Jianjun
Published: December 2023

In China, English teaching has become a key part of the education system at all levels. However, despite the significant resources invested in the education system, many students lack the necessary motivation and perseverance to learn. The interactive autonomous learning mode is a newly emerged educational approach that aims to enhance students’ motivation and resilience in learning through interaction and self-motivation. Existing works mostly focus on qualitative analysis and case studies; however, few have comprehensively considered the multiple factors or the future trend. To address this research gap, this paper proposes three novel research methods: predicting future learning willingness using a grey prediction model, evaluating the effectiveness of a learning resilience enhancement strategy using the TOPSIS analysis method, and analyzing the relationship between learning willingness and learning resilience enhancement using an improved grey relation projection method. These methods not only provide a comprehensive and accurate analytical framework, but they also contribute to educational reform and teaching practice.
Parametric Modeling for Optimization of Deposition Rate in Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing of AISI 410 Stainless Steel Using Bead-on-Plate Specimens
Authors: Pradeep Kumar J. , Arun Prakash R. , Kanmani M. , Jaanaki Raman R. , Jerome Festus N.
Published: December 2023

The deposition rate is a critical parameter that has a significant influence in Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) of critical aerospace components made of AISI 410 Stainless steel. In this work, Taguchi parametric modeling for wire arc additive manufacturing is carried out using the input parameters of the welding current (WC), the travel speed of the nozzle (TSN), and the distance between the nozzle and the workpiece (DNW). Each factor is varied at 3 levels and the experiments are carried out based on Taguchi L9 orthogonal array. The response variable considered is the deposition rate (DR). Based on the results from experiments, the optimal combination of process parameters obtained is 140 A of welding current, 3mm/s of the travel speed of the nozzle, and 15 mm of distance between the nozzle and workpiece. The optimum deposition rate achieved is 8.545 g/s. The percentage of contribution of various factors is found to be TSN at 43.65% and WC at 16.6% and DNW at 4.9%.
Design and Optimization of 4D Printed Carbon Fiber Reinforced Poly Lactic Acid Parts Using Fused Deposition Modeling for Shape Memory Applications: A Taguchi Approach
Authors: Venkatesh Pilla , Krishna Pasumarthi Vamsi , Kiran Budireddy Uday , Rao Buddepu Lokeshwar , Kumar Putta Rajendra Vinay , Dhanunjayarao Borra N. , Naidu N.V. Swamy , Phaneendra Y. , Beera Avinash Ben
Published: December 2023

The manufacturing industry has witnessed substantial interest in the advancement of 4D printing technology in recent years. This technology has enabled the production of complex structures with enhanced functionality and adaptability. Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) has become a preferred technique for 4D printing due to its ease of use, affordability, and versatile nature. To achieve efficient and effective 4D printing, the process parameters must be optimised to ensure the desired shape recovery behaviour of the printed parts. The main objective of this study is to optimize the process parameters for the production of 4D printed components using FDM technology and Carbon Fiber reinforced Poly Lactic Acid (CF/PLA) Shape Memory Polymer Composites (SMPCs). This study examines the shape recovery properties of the printed components by modifying the process parameters, including Infill Density (ID), Geometrical Thickness (GT), and Bending Angle (BA), through the implementation of Design of Experiments (DOE) L9 Orthogonal Array (OA). Utilizing Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to determine the significant factors and their optimum levels, the process parameters are statistically analysed. The results indicate that ID and GT are the statistically significant parameters, and the optimum levels for parameters includes 20% ID, 1.5mm GT, and 300 BA led to faster shape recovery. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of the Taguchi approach in the design and optimization of the process parameters for 4D printed parts using FDM.
Study on Recyclebot with 3D Printing Wastes for Circular Economy
Authors: Ezhilan J. James , Damodaran Ajith , Ashok K.G.
Published: December 2023

Plastic is widely used today. Plastic-made items and components have limited lifespans and are quickly disposed of in landfills. Finding new pathways for plastic waste recycling has become a critical focus of sustainability efforts, especially within additive manufacturing (AM) . This paper evaluates the feasibility of producing filaments from the waste plastics using recyclebot for fused deposition modeling (FDM), a widely used AM technique. An indigenous recyclebot was designed and developed. Trial studies have been carried out using ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) pellets. Dimensional quality tests were performed on the extruded filaments. Effects of moisture content on the dimensional quality are evaluated. Additionally, the filaments exhibited good flexibility and consistent density. This study establishes that by incorporating recyclebots with existing FDM techniques will significantly reduce the plastic waste within manufacturing and can easily incorporate with circular economy model.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Friction Stir Dissimilar Welding of Pure Ti and 6061 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Cheng Chin-Pao , Kuo Chen-Tien
Published: December 2023

Taking the advantage of its low density, high specific strength and strong corrosion resistance, titanium and aluminum alloys have high marine adaptability and can be directly used in various marine engineering equipment that will expose to seawater or directly contact with seawater. The seawater heater has to withstand 90~120°C corrosion in seawater. This unique working condition makes titanium and aluminum alloys are superior materials which can significantly lower the heater construction cost. In this study, the technology of friction stir welding was used to join the dissimilar materials of aluminum alloy 6061 and commercially pure titanium by means of butt joint. High-speed steel stir rod was used for the friction stir welding, and a 2o title was applied to the stir rod during friction stir welding. To discuss the influence of different rotating speeds and travel speed, the specimens were analyzed for their microstructure, mechanical properties, and elemental analysis was carried out followed by the friction stir welding. Experimental results showed that the best mechanical properties of the butt joint can be obtained by setting the rotational speed of 1000 rpm and the travel speed of 100 mm/min. After welding, grain refinement can be observed in the stirring zone. However, the grains in the heat-affected zone had become larger, and there had a tendency of hardness decreasing, causing failure in this area during tensile testing.
Choosing Wisely Italy, and the role of doctors in containing the climate emergency
Authors: Bonaldi Antonio
Published: December 2023

The philosopher of science, Telmo Pievani, in his beautiful and passionate presentation on 30 September 2023, at the conclusion of the 60th National Congress of the Italian Association of Hospital Dermatologists (ADOI) held in Vicenza, reminded us with simple words and concrete examples of the devastating impact of human behavior on the environment and biodiversity, highlighting the growing deterioration of the delicate natural balances that preserve terrestrial ecosystems and with them life on our planet [...]
THE EVOLUTION OF ITALIAN-TAIWANESE RELATIONS IN LIGHT OF THE GROWING US-PRC COMPETITION
Authors: Pelaggi Stefano
Published: December 2023

L’articolo analizza la storia delle relazioni diplomatiche tra Italia e Taiwan dagli anni ‘80 ad oggi, attraverso sia gli scambi istituzionali tra Roma e Taipei, sia le interazioni informali che hanno sopperito alla mancanza di relazioni diplomatiche ufficiali tra i due paesi. La ricerca si basa sui documenti d’archivio, perlopiù inediti, provenienti dall’Ufficio Italiano di Promozione Economica, Commerciale e Culturale a Taipei. La vicinanza della sinistra italiana alle posizioni di Pechino, la forte volontà degli ambienti industriali di penetrare il mercato cinese e l’azione di lobbying per gli interessi taiwanesi portata avanti dalla destra conservatrice italiana sono gli elementi essenziali che hanno caratterizzato il percorso delle relazioni italo taiwanesi sin dal secondo dopoguerra. L’incredibile sviluppo dell’economia taiwanese, contestuale al progressivo isolamento diplomatico del paese, ha generato una inedita capacità di attrazione nei confronti di Taiwan nel periodo preso in esame nella ricerca. L’avanzamento delle relazioni italo taiwanesi negli anni Novanta è riconducibile sia all’azione di lobbying di Taiwan in Italia sia alla concessione di importanti appalti pubblici ad aziende italiane. Un percorso interrotto, nei primi anni Duemila, dall’ascesa economica e industriale della Cina; la capacità di attrazione di Taiwan diminuisce drasticamente e le relazioni tra Roma e Taipei si complicano all’interno dei limiti della One China Policy. L’approccio revisionistico di Pechino e la crescente competizione egemonica tra la Repubblica Popolare cinese e gli Stati Uniti modificano in maniera radicale la percezione di Taiwan, e conseguentemente lo stato delle relazioni italo taiwanesi. La questione taiwanese diventa un elemento rilevante per la politica estera italiana, tradizionalmente lontana dal quadrante Asia Pacifico, mentre le relazioni con Taipei sono sempre più associate a una dimensione valoriale, segnata dalla dicotomia tra valori democratici e autoritarismo.
CONCORRENZA E POLITICA INDUSTRIALE NELLE VIE DEL CAPITALISMO ITALIANO: ASPETTI STORICI
Authors: Coltorti Fulvio
Published: December 2023

L’inadeguatezza del settore privato in Italia ha fatto sì che lo Stato fosse sempre il principale proprietario delle grandi aziende. Dal 1948 ad oggi, il controllo privato ha seguito una parabola che, inizialmente, è stata sostenuta da una classe dirigente adeguata. Dopo il miracolo economico degli anni ’60, tuttavia, si sono verificati gli effetti di politiche sbagliate, sia a livello nazionale che aziendale. Hanno spinto le entità controllanti a preferire operazioni finanziarie volte a massimizzare i rendimenti a breve termine, anche a costo di delocalizzazioni, delocalizzazioni e vendite di quote di maggioranza di società a imprenditori stranieri. La presenza di privati e investitori nelle grandi imprese operanti in Italia si è quindi fortemente ridotta. Le forze dello sviluppo e del progresso sociale sono ormai rappresentate soprattutto dalle imprese più piccole: non è chiaro fino a che punto e per quanto tempo gli ultimi grandi privati riusciranno a mantenere la loro precaria stabilità finanziaria.
PAOLO BUZZI, FUNZIONARIO E UOMO DI LETTERE
Authors: Colombo Elisabetta
Published: December 2023

Paolo Buzzi è stato uno degli esponenti più rappresentativi della prima generazione del Futurismo letterario. Fu poeta, romanziere e drammaturgo, impegnato nelle battaglie d'avanguardia dell'inizio del XX secolo. Lavorò anche presso la Provincia di Milano per quasi quarant'anni (1898-1935), ricoprendo infine l'incarico di Segretario generale. Il contributo analizza i primi anni della carriera burocratica di Buzzi: letterato per vocazione, costretto dalla necessità a un impiego nel pubblico impiego locale. Oltre alla documentazione archivistica provinciale inedita e a stampa, è stato consultato l’archivio privato di Buzzi, conservato presso la Biblioteca Comunale Centrale di Milano. Tra le sue carte c'è la ponderosa autobiografia in cinque volumi, mai pubblicata, intitolata Pane e poesia, che contiene brevi e frammentari riferimenti al suo lavoro burocratico. Emerge così una rappresentanza interna al servizio pubblico.
Lumbosacral pain in a patient with psoriatic arthritis: when the rheumatic disease is innocent
Authors: Parente H. , Pontes Ferreira M. , Soares C. , Guimarães F. , Azevedo S. , Santos-Faria D. , Tavares-Costa J. , Peixoto D. , Afonso C. , Roriz D. , Teixeira F.
Published: December 2023

Lumbar pain is a very common symptom that derives from benign musculoskeletal conditions, rheumatic inflammatory diseases, neoplasms, and referred and/or nociplastic pain. A 70-year-old man with psoriatic arthritis presented with early-onset lumbosacral pain without evident red flags. Symptomatic treatment was unhelpful. Radiographic imaging showed subtle signs of a disease that could easily be missed. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a massive prostatic malignancy with bone (sacral and iliopubic) metastasis. Awareness must be given not to disregard every lumbar pain as part of the preexisting rheumatic inflammatory disease (spondyloarthropathy in this case) or a common muscle/ligament/articular disarrangement. Persistence of pain, albeit not inflam-matory nor sharp in nature, despite adequate treatment might be just as important as an acute red flag and requires proper follow-up.
Emergence of acute promyelocytic leukemia in a patient with granulomatosis with polyangiitis during treatment with cyclophosphamide: a rare case report
Authors: Gorial F.I. , Awadh N.I. , Shaheen N.W. , Dheyaa A. , Ali Z.H. , Wajdi N.
Published: December 2023

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is a rare autoimmune disease that affects multiple organs and causes inflammation, necrosis, and vasculitis in small blood vessels. Treatment for GPA involves achieving and maintaining remission. In recent studies, cyclophosphamide-based regimens have been linked to comorbidity hazards, including an increased risk of malignancies, especially hematological ones. Acute myeloid leukemia is the main hematologic malignancy that can complicate GPA. In this context, we report the case of a middle-aged woman with GPA who developed acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) during maintenance with cyclophosphamide. She was treated with all-trans retinoic acid at 50 mg/day and arsenic trioxide at 10 mg/day, along with steroids. This case highlights the unique emergence of APL in a GPA patient during cyclophosphamide therapy. A single case has previously been reported on the development of APL in a patient with GPA while using azathioprine monotherapy for 2 years.
Janus kinase inhibitors: between prescription authorization and reimbursability
Authors: Spinelli F.R. , Conti F. , Caporali R. , Iannone F. , Cacciapaglia F. , Steering Committee of the Italian Society of Rheumatology On behalf of the
Published: December 2023

Following the restrictions on the reimbursability of Janus kinase inhibitors introduced by the Italian Medicines Agency, the Italian Society of Rheumatology has drafted this document to shed light on the clinical conditions and reimbursability criteria set out in the prescription forms.
Tenerezza: commento all’articolo ‘Passione e tenerezza come forze politiche’ di Jô Gondar
Authors: Leoncini Luca
Published: December 2023

Dopo aver letto più volte quest’articolo continua ad arrivarmi una duplice sensazione: piacere e straniamento. Mi chiedo il perché e (come mi accade di frequente) cerco su Google la definizione della parola ‘tenerezza’; Oxford Languages riporta questa definizione: 1. Scarsa resistenza alla pressione, al taglio o alla lavorazione, alla masticazione: carni pregiate per la loro t.; la t. degli anni, dell’età, con riferimento alla fragilità di organismi molto giovani. 2. Sentimento o manifestazione di fiduciosa commossa gentilezza nei confronti dell’oggetto amato. [...]
Uno spazio per chi non ha dimora
Authors: Raimondi Silvia , Riefolo Giuseppe
Published: December 2023

Area 95 è prima di tutto un dispositivo di accoglienza che intercetta una serie di richieste prevalentemente relative all’ambito della salute mentale per persone senza dimora, spesso senza documenti e/o residenza, persone migranti dell’ambito della estrema marginalità. Si tratta di bisogni che, nonostante l’estrema regressione dello stile di vita, sono destinati altrimenti a rimanere inevasi per ragioni di ordine organizzativo/burocratico che mal si conformano al tipo di utenza richiedente. [...]
Assessment of Patency of Internal Jugular Vein in Carcinoma Oral Cavity Patients Undergoing Neck Dissection: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Baunthiyal Vinay , Rao Pankaj P. , Tyagi Arvind , Routh Dronacharya , Rehsi Simarjit Singh
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

Neck dissections in carcinoma oral cavity are associated with various postoperative comorbidities. Internal jugular vein (IJV) occlusion and stenosis is a rare serious complication, which leads to serious clinical sequalae. Existing medical literature reports an incidence of this complication varying from 0% to 30%. Lacunae exist regarding any correlation between clinicopathological parameters and treatment options, of such patients, with the incidence of this complication, which might aid in adapting a preventive approach accordingly.

Aims and Objectives: a. Primary objective:

To study the patency of IJV postoperatively with preoperative status b. Secondary objective: Correlation of postoperative IJV patency with clinicopathological parameters (age, subsite, and pathological nodal status) and treatment options offered (neck dissection, radiotherapy, and reconstruction).

Subject and Methods:

Patency of IJV was analyzed preoperatively and postoperatively and correlated with various parameters, after neck dissection in 50 carcinoma oral cavity patients.

Settings and Design:

Prospective observational study at a tertiary care hospital done over 2 years.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Data were recorded in Excel data sheet and statistically analyzed by using the SPSS Ver 22.0.

Results:

IJV occlusion was demonstrated in 2 (4%) patients and IJV stenosis in 7 (14%) patients. Postradiotherapy patients had higher incidence of occlusion compared to patients who did not undergo radiotherapy (11.7% vs. 0%; P < 0.05). The incidence of stenosis and occlusion was significantly higher in left side neck dissection (20.6%; P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Radiotherapy and left sided neck dissection are statistically significant risk factors for postoperative IJV occlusion in carcinoma oral cavity patients.
Study of Spectrum of Cavernous Sinus Syndrome in Tertiary Care Centre
Authors: Kotaru V.V.S. , Rohatgi Shalesh , Nirhale Satish , Gupta Sahil , Rao Prajwal , Naphade Pravin , Khan Furqan , Dave Dhaval , Gitay Advait , Dubey Prashant
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Cavernous sinus syndrome (CSS) is a condition with varied etiology. It is characterized by ophthalmoplegia, facial sensory loss, and Horner’s syndrome. The objective of this study was to determine the clinical and radiological presentations and to identify the factors that could help in the identification of etiology.

Methods:

We prospectively observed all the patients presenting with CSS from October 2019 to September 2021 at a tertiary care hospital. Patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-associated mucormycosis were excluded. All of these patients underwent detailed clinical examination, hematological, radiological, and specialized investigations based on clinical suspicion. Clinical presentations, imaging characteristics, etiology, and clinical outcomes were analyzed. 45 patients were included in our study.

Results:

The mean age was 44.6 ± 10.8 years with a female preponderance. The most common presentation was diplopia which was seen in all patients. The commonest cranial nerve involved was the abducens (75.9%). Infections (12 (26.6%)) constituted the commonest cause of CSS, followed by neoplastic involvement in 11 (24.4%), Tolosa–Hunt syndrome in 9 (20%) and vascular involvement in 8 (17.7%) patients. Other inflammatory causes were seen in 5 (11%) patients. Diabetes was positively associated with fungal infections. The presence of bruit was strongly associated with vascular etiology. The presence of sinusitis with bony erosions was strongly associated with fungal infections. Evidence of dilated superior ophthalmic vein with early filling in the angiographic phase was associated with carotid-cavernous fistulas.

Conclusions:

CSS has variable etiology and radiological presentation. The presence of rapid progressive ophthalmoplegia with underlying diabetes with imaging evidence of sinusitis and bony erosions mandates a high degree of suspicion of fungal infections and empirical antifungal therapy needs to be considered for better outcomes.
Does the Human Embryo Culture Media Has Any Impact on Implantation and Live Birth Rate in ART Cycles? A Comparative Study
Authors: Viswam Sreesha , Ramakrishnan Sujatha , Ravindran A. David , Varghese Alex C. , Ashraf C. Mohammed
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Culture media plays a pivotal role in the embryo culture system apart from the other crucial components as air quality, temperature, humidity etc., so that the selection of embryo culture media is a crucial step for the embryology team for the optimal blastocyst development and for achieving a viable pregnancy. There are two opposing views for the selection of embryo culture medium. One is embryo free choice’-“Let the embryo choose” (single-step media) and the other one is “back to nature” (sequential media) approach. Present study analyses the efficacy of these media in terms of embryo developments in vitro and pregnancy rates.

Materials and Methods:

Patients were randomly recruited for single step or sequential media culture post intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Inclusion criteria were patients with no severe male or female factors. To minimize the confounding variables, patients with surgically retrieved sperm samples were excluded from the study. Biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy, implantation rate, live birth rate and miscarriage rate were analyzed.

Results:

Biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy and live birth rate were favorable for group 2 (sequential media) but not statistically significant. None of the analyzed parameters differed significantly among the two media.

Conclusion:

There is a lack of solid scientific data to support the sequential media culture. However, moving embryos from one medium to another in a sequential media system probably adds significant stress to the preimplantation developing embryos in-culture apart from the unintentional humane errors. Moreover, this approach is quite labor-intensive and expensive.
Effects of Acute Altitude Exposure in Humans: Requirements for Physiological Protection
Authors:   A-10 Aircraft Oxygen Equipment Committee
Published: December 2023

The intent of this SAE Aerospace Information Report (AIR) is to describe the effects of the environmental changes on human physiology and the protection required to avoid negative consequences resulting from altitude exposure. A brief presentation of basic terms and considerations required to discuss the topic of human physiology at altitude is followed by an overview of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Issues specifically related to human exposure to altitude are discussed. Hypoxia, hyperventilation, barotrauma, and decompression sickness (DCS) are each addressed. One goal of this AIR is to demonstrate the necessity of oxygen use for prevention of physical and psychological problems, or loss of consciousness in an aircraft. This should provide a clear understanding as to why the use of supplemental oxygen is required for flight crew and healthy passengers at altitude greater than 10000 feet (3048 m).
Medidas de germinação de sementes e emergência de plântulas de espécies nativas brasileiras
Authors: Ranal Marli A. , Ferreira Wanessa Resende
Published: December 2023

O objetivo deste trabalho foi apresentar um levantamento de espécies nativas brasileiras produtoras de sementes, cujos processos de germinação ou emergência foram avaliados por meio de medidas da dinâmica desses processos (tempo, velocidade, homogeneidade, incerteza e sincronia). O levantamento se restringiu às publicações do século XXI. Foram levantadas 261 espécies brasileiras, pertencentes a 52 famílias, com Fabaceae (50 spp.), Melastomataceae (29 spp.), Cactaceae (22 spp.), Bromeliaceae (17 spp.), Bignoniaceae (14 spp.), Malvaceae (13 spp.) e Asteraceae (11 spp.) como as mais representadas. As sementes das espécies levantadas são muito lentas a rápidas e também são muito assíncronas a muito síncronas para germinar e emergir, o que é compatível com a heterogeneidade das espécies nativas da flora brasileira. Sementes com germinação muito rápida e muito sincronizada precisam de pequenas janelas ambientais para se estabelecerem em relação àquelas com germinação muito lenta e muito assíncrona. Portanto, cada ambiente, com seu regime climático específico, deve ser cuidadosamente analisado para a melhor escolha da época de semeadura. Essas são importantes informações para planejar a conservação e o manejo de áreas nativas, bem como para restaurar ou recuperar áreas degradadas.
Categorical composable cryptography: extended version
Authors: Broadbent Anne , Karvonen Martti
Published: December 2023

We formalize the simulation paradigm of cryptography in terms of category
theory and show that protocols secure against abstract attacks form a symmetric
monoidal category, thus giving an abstract model of composable security
definitions in cryptography. Our model is able to incorporate computational
security, set-up assumptions and various attack models such as colluding or
independently acting subsets of adversaries in a modular, flexible fashion. We
conclude by using string diagrams to rederive the security of the one-time pad,
correctness of Diffie-Hellman key exchange and no-go results concerning the
limits of bipartite and tripartite cryptography, ruling out e.g., composable
commitments and broadcasting. On the way, we exhibit two categorical
constructions of resource theories that might be of independent interest: one
capturing resources shared among multiple parties and one capturing resource
conversions that succeed asymptotically.