bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the moderating role of financial development in environmental Kuznets curve for South Africa: fresh evidence from the novel dynamic ARDL simulations approach
Authors: Udeagha Maxwell Chukwudi , Breitenbach Marthinus Christoffel
Published: January 2023

The extant literature has produced mixed evidence on the relationship between financial development and ecological sustainability. This work addresses this conundrum by investigating financial development’s direct and indirect consequences on ecological quality utilizing the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) methodological approach. Our empirical analysis is based on the novel dynamic autoregressive distributed lag simulations approach for South Africa between 1960 and 2020. The results, which used five distinct financial development measures, demonstrate that financial development boosts ecological integrity and environmental sustainability over the long and short terms. In the instance of South Africa, we additionally confirm the validity of the EKC theory. More importantly, the outcomes of the indirect channels demonstrate that financial development increases energy usage’s role in causing pollution while attenuating the detrimental impacts of economic growth, trade openness, and foreign direct investment on ecological quality. Moreover, the presence of an inadequate financial system is a requirement for the basis of the pollution haven hypothesis (PHH), which we examine using trade openness and foreign direct investment variables. PHH for both of these variables disappears when financial development crosses specified thresholds. Finally, industrial value addition destroys ecological quality while technological innovation enhances it. This research provides some crucial policy recommendations and fresh perspectives for South Africa as it develops national initiatives to support ecological sustainability and reach its net zero emissions goal.
Landscape-scale fuel treatment effectiveness: lessons learned from wildland fire case studies in forests of the western United States and Great Lakes region
Authors: Urza Alexandra K. , Hanberry Brice B. , Jain Theresa B.
Published: January 2023

Background

Maximizing the effectiveness of fuel treatments at landscape scales is a key research and management need given the inability to treat all areas at risk from wildfire. We synthesized information from case studies that documented the influence of fuel treatments on wildfire events. We used a systematic review to identify relevant case studies and extracted information through a series of targeted questions to summarize experiential knowledge of landscape fuel treatment effectiveness. Within a larger literature search, we identified 18 case study reports that included (1) manager assessment of fuel treatment effectiveness during specific wildfire events; (2) fuel treatment effects on fire size, severity, and behavior outside of the treatment boundaries; and (3) the influence of fuel treatments on fire suppression tactics.

Results

Seventeen of the 18 case studies occurred in the western United States, and all were primarily focused on forested ecosystems. Surface fire behavior was more commonly observed in areas treated for fuel reduction than in untreated areas, which managers described as evidence of treatment effectiveness. Reduced fire intensity diminished fire effects and supported fire suppression efforts, while offering the potential to use wildfires as a fuel treatment surrogate.

Conclusions

Managers considered treatments to be most effective at landscape scales when fuels were reduced in multiple fuel layers (crown, ladder, and surface fuels), across larger portions of the landscape. Treatment effectiveness was improved by strategic placement of treatments adjacent to prior treatments or past wildfires, in alignment with prevailing winds, and adjacent to natural fire breaks (e.g., ridgetops), efforts that effectively expanded the treatment area. Placement in relation to suppression needs to protect infrastructure also can take advantage of continuity with unvegetated land cover (e.g., parking lots, streets). Older treatments were considered less effective due to the regrowth of surface fuels. Treatment effectiveness was limited during periods of extreme fire weather, underscoring the need for treatment designs to incorporate the increasing occurrence of extreme burning conditions. Overall, fuel treatment effectiveness would be improved by the increased use of landscape-scale treatment designs that integrate fuels, topography, prevailing winds, fire or treatment history, and available infrastructure.
Genome-wide landscape of RNA-binding protein (RBP) networks as potential molecular regulators of psychiatric co-morbidities: a computational analysis
Authors: Nishanth M. J. , Jha Shanker
Published: January 2023

Background

Psychiatric disorders are a major burden on global health. These illnesses manifest as co-morbid conditions, further complicating the treatment. There is a limited understanding of the molecular and regulatory basis of psychiatric co-morbidities. The existing research in this regard has largely focused on epigenetic modulators, non-coding RNAs, and transcription factors. RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) functioning as multi-protein complexes are now known to be predominant controllers of multiple gene regulatory processes. However, their involvement in gene expression dysregulation in psychiatric co-morbidities is yet to be understood.

Results

Ten RBPs (QKI, ELAVL2, EIF2S1, SRSF3, IGF2BP2, EIF4B, SNRNP70, FMR1, DAZAP1, and MBNL1) were identified to be associated with psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, major depression, and bipolar disorders. Analysis of transcriptomic changes in response to individual depletion of these RBPs showed the potential influence of a large number of RBPs driving differential gene expression, suggesting functional cross-talk giving rise to multi-protein networks. Subsequent transcriptome analysis of post-mortem human brain samples from diseased and control individuals also suggested the involvement of ~ 100 RBPs influencing gene expression changes. These RBPs were found to regulate various processes including transcript splicing, mRNA transport, localization, stability, and translation. They were also found to form an extensive interactive network. Further, hnRNP, SRSF, and PCBP family RBPs, Matrin3, U2AF2, KHDRBS1, PTBP1, and also PABPN1 were found to be the hub proteins of the RBP network.

Conclusions

Extensive RBP networks involving a few hub proteins could result in transcriptome-wide dysregulation of post-transcriptional modifications, potentially driving multiple psychiatric disorders. Understanding the functional involvement of RBP networks in psychiatric disorders would provide insights into the molecular basis of psychiatric co-morbidities.
Rhino-orbito-cerebral invasive fungal sinusitis associated with COVID-19 infection in a malnurished child
Authors: Kariyappa Mallesh , Patel Ashray Sudarshan , Dhanalakshmi K , Dakshayani B
Published: January 2023

Background

Corona virus disease has been associated with a wide variety of fungal and bacterial co-infections. These secondary infections could be due to the irrational use of antibiotics, immunosuppressive therapy, pre-existing co morbidities, and immune modulator effects of the virus. But here, we report a very rare occurring of rhino-orbito-cerebral invasive fungal sinusitis in a malnourished child and no other co morbidities.

Case presentation

This is a case of a 6-year-old boy with severe thinness and no other co-morbidities, with mild COVID-19 infection, during the course of illness developed rhino-orbito-cerebral invasive fungal sinusitis. The child’s mother had COVID-19 1 week prior to child’s illness. The child then developed fever followed by headache. The child reported to hospital on seventh day of illness and RTPCR for COVID-19, turned positive. The child’s vitals were stable and maintaining saturation. Child was being treated with supplements and symptomatic treatment for fever. On his second day of stay at hospital, he started to develop gradually progressive left-sided peri-orbital swelling. Due to the association of COVID-19 with fungal infection, child was started on AMPHOTERICIN-B and given for 4 days and referred to a higher center for further management. Radiological imaging was suggestive of rhino-sinusitis with orbital cellulitis with meningeal enhancement suggestive of fungal etiology. Debridement was done, child was adequately treated with anti-fungal, and the child showed significant improvement along with radiological clearing.

Conclusion

Invasive fungal infection can occur in association with COVID-19 among malnourished pediatric age groups with no other comorbidities.
Meta-analysis on PET plastic as concrete aggregate using response surface methodology and regression analysis
Authors: Chong Beng Wei , Shi Xijun
Published: January 2023

This paper aims to thoroughly analyze the effect of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic aggregate on concrete compressive strength using a meta-analysis. Forty-three datasets for concrete containing PET coarse aggregate and 60 data sets for concrete containing PET fine aggregate were collected. The input variables used were percentage and nominal maximum size of PET aggregate along with the concrete mix proportions. Main effect plots, contour plots, and surface plots of the expressions were presented to demostrate the effect of PET aggregate on the 28-day compressive strength of concrete. The statistical parameters of the regression equations, such as R2, adjusted R2 and root-mean-square error (RMSE), indicated that the RSM approach is a powerful tool to describe the change of concrete compressive strength by PET aggregate addition. In addition, the study showed that using PET plastic as a fine aggregate replacement performed better than using it as a coarse aggregate replacement in concrete. At up to 30% replacement, concrete containing PET plastic as a fine aggregate can have satisfactory compressive strength.
Light control with Weyl semimetals
Authors: Guo Cheng , Asadchy Viktar S. , Zhao Bo , Fan Shanhui
Published: January 2023

Weyl semimetals are topological materials whose electron quasiparticles obey the Weyl equation. They possess many unusual properties that may lead to new applications. This is a tutorial review of the optical properties and applications of Weyl semimetals. We review the basic concepts and optical responses of Weyl semimetals, and survey their applications in optics and thermal photonics. We hope this pedagogical text will motivate further research on this emerging topic.
A dataset of Gansu soil species based on the Second National Soil Survey
Authors:   Institute of Mountain Hazards and Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, GAO Meirong ,   Key Laboratory of Mounta,   Key Laboratory of Mountain Environment Evolvement and Regulation, ZHANG Yaonan ,   Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences,   National Cryosphere Desert Data Center, KANG Jianfang ,   Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences,   National Cryosphere Desert Data Center
Published: January 2023

Based on the results of the Second National soil Survey, Gansu Soil Species was established to accumulate systematic, standardized and quantitative data of soil classification as a solid foundation for the development of soil science in Gansu province.This dataset is based on the processing and integration of Gansu Soil Species published by Gansu Science and Technology Press in 1992. The original data and information of 285 soil species in the book (e.g. attribution and distribution, main characters, production performance summary, physical and chemical properties of profiles) are extracted and collected in a standardized, structured and digital way, integrated with 8 specialized subject data tables indexed by species ID and species name, and conducive to the development of online query, including soil species classification, distribution and characteristics of main soil types, basic information and distribution of soil species, sampling sites and occurrence layers of typical profiles, statistical physicochemical properties of typical profiles and soil species profiles, etc. This dataset can be widely used in regional land quality assessment, environmental effect research, soil carbon storage research, etc., providing significant scientific support for the promotion of new agricultural technology and rational utilization of soil resources.
Development and Validation of a Genomic Profile for the Omission of Local Adjuvant Radiation in Breast Cancer
Authors: Sjöström Martin , Fyles Anthony , Liu Fei-Fei , McCready David , Shi Wei , Rey-McIntyre Katrina , Chang S. Laura , Feng Felix Y. , Speers Corey W. , Pierce Lori J. , Holmberg Erik , Fernö Mårten , Malmström Per , Karlsson Per
Published: January 2023

PURPOSE

Adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) is used for women with early-stage invasive breast cancer treated with breast-conserving surgery. However, some women with low risk of recurrence may safely be spared RT. This study aimed to identify these women using a molecular-based approach.

METHODS

We analyzed two randomized trials of women with node-negative invasive breast cancer to ± RT following breast-conserving surgery: SweBCG91-RT (stage I-II, no adjuvant systemic therapy) and Princess Margaret (age 50 years or older, T1-T2, adjuvant tamoxifen). Transcriptome-wide profiling was performed (Affymetrix Human Exon 1.0 ST microarray). Patients with estrogen receptor–positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2–negative tumors and with gene expression data were included. The SweBCG91-RT cohort was divided into training (N = 243) and validation (N = 354) cohorts. A 16-gene signature named Profile for the Omission of Local Adjuvant Radiation (POLAR) was trained to predict locoregional recurrence (LRR) using elastic net regression. POLAR was then validated in the SweBCG91-RT validation cohort and the Princess Margaret cohort (N = 132).

RESULTS

Patients categorized as POLAR low-risk without RT had a 10-year LRR of 6% (95% CI, 2 to 16) and 7% (0 to 27) in SweBCG91-RT and Princess Margaret cohorts, respectively. There was no significant benefit from RT in POLAR low-risk patients (hazard ratio [HR], 1.1 [0.39 to 3.4], P = .81, and HR, 1.5 [0.14 to 16], P = .74, respectively). Patients categorized as POLAR high-risk had a significant decreased risk of LRR with RT (HR, 0.43 [0.24 to 0.78], P = .0055, and HR, 0.25 [0.07 to 0.92], P = .038, respectively). An exploratory analysis testing for interaction between RT and POLAR in the combined validation cohort was performed ( P = .066).

CONCLUSION

The novel POLAR genomic signature on the basis of LRR biology may identify patients with a low risk of LRR despite not receiving RT, and thus may be candidates for RT omission.
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Six Immunotherapy-Based Regimens and Sunitinib in Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Public Payer Perspective
Authors: Yoo Minkyoung , Nelson Richard E. , Cutshall Zachary , Dougherty Maura , Kohli Manish
Published: January 2023

PURPOSE:

Several new treatment combinations have been approved in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). To determine the optimal therapy on the basis of cost and health outcomes, we performed a cost-effectiveness analysis of approved immunotherapy-tyrosine kinase inhibitor/immunotherapy drug combinations and sunitinib using public payer acquisition costs in the United States.

METHODS:

We constructed a decision model with a 10-year time horizon. The seven treatment drug strategies included atezolizumab + bevacizumab, avelumab + axitinib, pembrolizumab + axitinib, nivolumab + ipilimumab (NI), nivolumab + cabozantinib, lenvatinib + pembrolizumab, and sunitinib. The effectiveness outcome in our model was quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) with utility values on the basis of the published literature. Costs included drug acquisition costs and costs for management of grade 3-4 drug-related adverse events. We used a partitioned survival model in which patients with mRCC transitioned between three health states (progression-free, progressive disease, and death) at monthly intervals on the basis of parametric survival function estimated from published survival curves. To determine cost-effectiveness, we constructed incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) by dividing the difference in cost by the difference in effectiveness between nondominated treatments.

RESULTS:

The least expensive treatment was sunitinib ($357,948 US dollars [USD]-$656,100 USD), whereas the most expensive was either lenvatinib + pembrolizumab or pembrolizumab + axitinib ($959,302 USD-$1,403,671 USD). NI yielded the most QALYs (3.6), whereas avelumab + axitinib yielded the least (2.5). NI had an incremental ICER of $297,465 USD-$348,516 USD compared with sunitinib. In sensitivity analyses, this ICER fell below $150,000 USD/QALY if the initial 4-month cost of NI decreased by 22%-38%.

CONCLUSION:

NI was the most effective combination for mRCC, but at a willingness-to-pay threshold of $150,000 USD/QALY, sunitinib was the most cost-effective approach.
Transnasal Humidified Rapid-Insufflation Ventilatory Exchange for Difficult Airway Management in Adults With Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa: A Case Series
Authors: Mittal Brita M. , Sheehan Karen R. , Goodnough Candida L. , Turkmani-Bazzi Sophia , Sheppard Kelly O. , Bushell Erin
Published: January 2023

Airway management of adult patients with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa presents significant challenges associated with tissue fragility and distortion of airway anatomy. This retrospective case series describes 11 adult patients with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa and difficult airways undergoing 24 general anesthetics in which transnasal humidified rapid-insufflation ventilatory exchange was used for preoxygenation and apneic oxygenation. Despite an average time to intubation of over 6 minutes, transnasal humidified rapid-insufflation ventilatory exchange provided oxygenation before endotracheal intubation without the need for bag-mask ventilation or supraglottic airway ventilation, facilitating smooth and atraumatic flexible scope intubation. There were no major adverse events.
Unrepaired Maternal Vein of Galen Malformation in Pregnancy: A Case Report
Authors: Ackerman-Banks Christina M. , Fardelmann Kristen L. , Lam David , Simmons M. Abigail , Elder Robert W. , Matouk Charles , Campbell Katherine H.
Published: January 2023

We present a case of a pregnant patient with an unrepaired vein of Galen malformation (VGAM) and left ventricular (LV) dilation. Patients with VGAM lesions typically present during childhood with cardiac failure or developmental delay prompting embolization. Therefore, it is highly unusual for an adult to present with an unrepaired lesion.
1
It poses challenges for obstetric and anesthetic management during pregnancy and delivery to reduce the risk of heart failure, arrhythmia, and intracranial hemorrhage. Our patient safely delivered a term neonate by cesarean delivery with neuraxial analgesia at a Level IV Maternal Care Center.
A Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Imaging Journal: Case Report
Authors: Tucker-Bartley Anthony , Li Rupeng , Ahmed Shihab , Birklein Frank
Published: January 2023

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) poses a diagnostic and management challenge for many clinicians, particularly when disease symptomatology waxes and wanes. Monitoring symptom variations with digital and infrared thermal images allows for more accurate evaluation of disease progression overtime. We present the case of a patient who developed CRPS and catalog his symptoms using a digital and infrared thermal imaging diary. The images were instrumental toward establishing the initial diagnosis of CRPS, monitoring disease progression, and assessing response to treatment. We discuss the present understanding of infrared thermography in CRPS and advocate for its routine use at the beside.
Erector Spinae Plane Catheters for Analgesia for Cytoreduction Surgery With Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy: A Case Series
Authors: Fidkowski Christina W. , Hussain Adnan , Younger Joshua D. , Giska Mark A. , McCurry Cory , Loyd Gary E.
Published: January 2023

Cytoreduction surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy is a complex and painful procedure that can cause postoperative hypotension and coagulopathy. Epidural analgesia may worsen hypotension and is contraindicated in the setting of coagulopathy. While alternative regional techniques are being explored, the use of erector spinae plane blocks has not been reported. We present a case series of 6 patients who had erector spinae plane catheters for cytoreduction surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy. They remained stable intraoperatively and had adequate pain control postoperatively. Erector spinae plane catheters may be a suitable alternative for epidural analgesia for these patients.
Anomalous Connection of Superior Vena Cava to Left Atrium—A Rare Congenital Cardiac Anomaly and Its Implications
Authors: Hanumansetty Kartheek , Palamattam Don Jose , V Vipinraj , Koshy Thomas
Published: January 2023

Exclusive drainage of superior vena cava (SVC) into the left atrium (LA) is one of the rare causes of right-to-left connection. Usually, this anomaly occurs in association with other cardiac defects, and is diagnosed in early childhood. But if it remains an isolated anomaly, this connection may be underdiagnosed and could lead to systemic manifestations. We describe a case of anomalous connection of SVC to LA with drainage of right upper pulmonary vein into SVC and its implications for the perioperative physician. The patient presented with dyspnea on exertion, cyanosis, and a past history of cerebral abscess.
A Remimazolam and Remifentanil Anesthetic for a Pediatric Patient With a Medium-Chain Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase Deficiency: A Case Report
Authors: Kiyokawa Masayo , Saito Junichi , Nakai Kishiko , Hirota Kazuyoshi
Published: January 2023

Medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (MCAD) deficiency is one of the most common fatty acid oxidation disorders. The choice of anesthetics and blood glucose management are crucial to prevent metabolic decompensation. A 5-year-old Japanese boy with MCAD deficiency was scheduled to undergo surgery for an inguinal hernia. Glucose was continuously infused perioperatively, and his glucose concentrations were within the normal range. Anesthesia was induced and maintained with remimazolam, remifentanil, and intermittent rocuronium. No metabolic decompensation was observed. This case indicates the importance of a continuous intravenous glucose infusion, and that remimazolam can be the first-line anesthetic for a patient with MCAD deficiency.
Co 2 Rebreathing Observed While Using a Bag-Mask Resuscitator With Integrated Manometer: A Case Report
Authors: Landino-Delgado Marianfeli C. , Le Anh P. , Stein Alecia L. Sabartinelli , Morales Juliana M. , McNeer Richard R. , Maga Joni M.
Published: January 2023

Bag-mask resuscitators with integrated manometry help reduce the risk of pulmonary injury during manual ventilation. All such devices must function as intended while preventing carbon dioxide rebreathing, as unintended hypercapnia can be harmful in critically ill patients. We describe a case of carbon dioxide rebreathing in a patient suspected of having a brain injury after blunt trauma who was manually ventilated with a widely available bag-mask resuscitator with integrated manometry after emergent intubation. This case highlights the importance of vigilant monitoring of end-tidal carbon dioxide and appropriate troubleshooting and investigation of unexplained findings to mitigate and prevent adverse patient outcomes.
Surface Landmarks in the Lateral Decubitus Position Are Unreliable for Thoracic Epidural Catheter Placement: A Case Series
Authors: Dobson Sean W. , Weller Robert S. , Turner James D. , Lack Christopher M. , Henshaw Daryl S.
Published: January 2023

Thoracic epidurals remain the optimal method for providing postoperative analgesia after complex open abdominal and thoracic surgeries. However, they can be challenging to both place and maintain, as evidenced by a failure rate that exceeds 30%.
1
Proper identification of the epidural space and accurate placement of the catheter are critical in order to deliver effective postoperative analgesia and avoid failure.
2,3
This case series investigated the difficulty in correctly identifying the proper vertebral level for thoracic epidural catheter procedures when performed in the lateral decubitus position.
Hematoma After Continuous Erector Spinae Plane Block With Catheter Placement: A Case Report
Authors: Williamson Emily S. , Hughes James A. , Bentley Claire M. , Neely Grant A. , Hollis Nicole M.
Published: January 2023

The erector spinae plane block (ESPB) is described as a safe and effective alternative when epidural or paravertebral blocks are contraindicated by anticoagulation therapy. We present a case of subcutaneous hematoma after ESPB catheter placement. The patient received bilateral ESPB catheters for perioperative pain control. Postoperatively, the patient developed tenderness to palpation at the left catheter site. Physical examination revealed a well circumscribed, fluctuant mass that produced bloody material during incision and drainage. This case report describes hematoma as a potential complication of the ESPB. After the procedure, patients should be closely monitored for complications, including hematoma.
The Health Benefits of Resistance Exercise: Beyond Hypertrophy and Big Weights
Authors: Abou Sawan Sidney , Nunes Everson A. , Lim Changhyun , McKendry James , Phillips Stuart M.
Published: January 2023

It is well established that exercise is associated with a reduced risk of several chronic diseases. Currently, aerobic training (AT) receives primary attention in physical activity guidelines with a recommendation for ~150 min of moderate-to-vigorous AT weekly. In most physical activity guidelines, resistance training (RT) is termed a beneficial activity, with a recommendation to engage in strengthening activities twice weekly. However, we propose that the health benefits of RT are underappreciated. There is evidence, established and emerging, that RT can, in many respects, elicit similar health benefits to AT. When combined, AT and RT may yield ostensibly optimal health benefits versus performing either exercise exclusively. We discuss the health benefits of engaging in RT, including healthy aging, improved mobility, cognitive function, cancer survivorship, and metabolic health in persons with obesity and type 2 diabetes—all of which can influence morbidity and mortality. Many of the health benefits of RT can be achieved by lifting lighter loads to volitional failure, highlighting that the benefits of RT do not necessarily require lifting heavier weights. Accumulating evidence also shows a lower mortality risk in those who regularly perform RT. To optimize health, especially with aging, RT should be emphasized in physical activity guidelines in addition to AT.
Low Bone Mineral Density and Associated Risk Factors in Elite Cyclists at Different Stages of a Professional Cycling Career
Authors: HILKENS LUUK , VAN SCHIJNDEL NICK , WEIJER VERA , BOERBOOM MARLEEN , VAN DER BURG ESTHER , PETERS VELIBOR , KEMPERS ROBERT , BONS JUDITH , VAN LOON LUC J. C. , VAN DIJK JAN-WILLEM
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to assess the prevalence of low bone mineral density (BMD) in male and female elite cyclists at different stages of a professional cycling career and to identify potential risk factors of low BMD.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, 93 male and female early career, advanced career, and postcareer elite cyclists completed dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry at the hip, femoral neck, lumbar spine, and total body; blood sampling; assessment of training history and injuries; and the bone-specific physical activity questionnaire. Backward stepwise multiple regression analyses were conducted to explore associations between BMD and its potential predictors in early and advanced career (i.e., active career) cyclists.

Results

With a mean Z-score of −0.3 ± 0.8, −1.5 ± 1.0, and −1.0 ± 0.9, low BMD (Z-score < −1) at the lumbar spine was present in 27%, 64%, and 50% of the early, advanced, and postcareer elite male cyclists, respectively. Lumbar spine Z-scores of −0.9 ± 1.0, −1.0 ± 1.0, and 0.2 ± 1.4 in early, advanced, and postcareer elite female cyclists, respectively, indicated low BMD in 45%, 45%, and 20% of these female subpopulations. Regression analyses identified body mass index, fracture incidence, bone-specific physical activity, and triiodothyronine as the main factors associated with BMD.

Conclusions

Low BMD is highly prevalent in elite cyclists, especially in early career females and advanced career males and females. These low BMD values may not fully recover after the professional cycling career, given the substantial prevalence of low BMD in retired elite cyclists. Exploratory analyses indicated that low BMD is associated with low body mass index, fracture incidence, lack of bone-specific physical activity, and low energy availability in active career elite cyclists.
A model of coercive control in higher education: a qualitative study
Authors: Jakovljevic Maria , Nkopodi Nkopodi
Published: January 2023

Background: A growing body of research indicates that psychological coercive control poses a threat in academic environments. Little is known, however, about the process, the dynamics, and the phases used to impose silently a variety of non-violent assaults on students and academics. A lack of awareness of coercive intimidation and psychological coercive control obstructs a student’s path to academic achievement, which can have an impact on his or her emotional and mental well-being and diminishes the prosperity of society.  

Methods: A methodological selection and review of the scientific literature, theories, and practice on psychological intimidation, coercive control, and systems thinking has been employed in this study. A comprehensive reflective analysis and critical synthesis of the relevant scientific literature were conducted to gain insight into the design of a model of psychological coercive control applicable to educational environments.  

Results: This article identifies gaps in research theory and practice and examines critical issues of intimidation and psychological coercive control that is relevant to educational contexts. The article proposes a conceptual model of psychological coercive control as a direction for further research.  

Conclusions: Adequate awareness, models, and training programmes in relation to coercive infiltration are missing at higher education institutions. There is an urgent need for a curriculum change that may serve to promote support systems thinking and security awareness in educational environments.
A case study of a unique advanced clinical skills elective at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Authors: Lazarus Michael E. , Hernandez Estebes A. , Kahn Daniel G. , Vigallon Stacey , Cooper Christopher B.
Published: January 2023

Proficiency in clinical examination skills upon graduation from medical school is a core competency. Over the last few decades, the ability and confidence in this fundamental and crucial skill set has declined. The motivation and interest in meticulous physical examination by recently graduated residents has also eroded. In this case study, we describe a comprehensive, innovative, and immersive advanced clinical skills elective taken during the second half of the final year of medical school for students at the David Geffen School of Medicine. The course utilizes novel approaches to inspire, refresh and consolidate essential bedside observation skills and examination techniques. This approach gives senior students the confidence and fundamental understanding of how dedication to the patient exam can improve the doctor-patient relationship, core clinical reasoning and the practice of cost-effective and evidence-based care through their careers. We describe how the integration of fine art appreciation and introductory biding techniques are used to help students hone their visual diagnostic skills. We show how this is solidified through a longitudinal series of clinical image review sessions with diagnostic reasoning principles to formulate a clear differential. Point of care ultrasound, EKG analysis, advanced cardiac auscultation and diagnostic imaging skills are integrated in a comprehensive and memorable fashion. We present this case study to inspire clinical skills teachers everywhere to replicate our methods in resurrecting the importance of physical exams for their learners. Opening their trainees’ eyes to new methods of honing their visual intelligence and developing healthy habits for stress and burnout reduction will aid the rest of their professional careers.
GLP-1 agonists in treatment of obesity
Authors: Orłowski Władysław , Merkisz Konrad , Zdun Sylwia , Walczak Klaudia , Walczak Patrycja , Nemeczek Sylwia , Grzybowski Jakub , Marciniak Agnieszka , Jaskuła Karolina , Grzywna Natalia
Published: January 2023

Background: Obesity is a major problem nowadays. It has correlation with metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Due to that it is very important to diagnose and treat obesity properly.

Objective: The purpose of our work is to show effectiveness of GLP1 agonist in treating obesity. 

Method: A literature review was conducted in PubMed database using the key words: „Semaglutide obesity” „Tirzepatide obesity” „Liraglutide obesity” „obesity”.

Results: Using particular drug in addition to lifestyle modification appears to be more effective than using placebo with lifestyle modification. 

Conclusions: Trials showed effectiveness of GLP1 analogs in treatment of obesity. These drugs might be a future of managing with obesity, but we do not know yet how long lasting is the effect of these drugs. The upcoming years will bring us more trials, but in this moment we can say that they have a lot of potential.
Análisis de la relación entre la artefactualidad humana y los valores de género (English).
Authors: González-Martín Joshua Alexander
Published: January 2023

Las concepciones sobre la tecnología han pasado por diferentes etapas. Creíamos, con Rousseau, que el progreso técnico transformaba la sociedad alejándola de la virtud. Creíamos, con Ellul, que la tecnología seguía su propio curso sin interferencias sociopolíticas de ningún tipo. Hoy algunos aceptan que la tecnología responde a factores económicos, sociales y políticos, entre otros. Ya no se considera que los hechos tecnológicos surjan únicamente del puro afán de eficiencia; la tecnología está a la par con las creencias y los valores culturales. La intención de este artículo es mostrar que, en la historia de la tecnología, ocasionalmente se manifiesta una actitud de orden cultural: el androcentrismo. Esta actitud plantea varias cuestiones sobre cómo el desarrollo tecnológico puede verse influido por los prejuicios y los sesgos de género. Así, se presenta el concepto de artefactualidad androcéntrica y se analiza la vinculación de los productos tecnológicos con los prejuicios políticos y sociales; prejuicios que históricamente y aún hoy afectan a las tecnologías con la misma familiaridad.
Praxis digital: Apuntes para una síntesis fenomenológica.
Authors: García-Moncó Íñigo
Published: January 2023

El presente trabajo tiene por objetivo aportar un marco fenomenológico general para el estudio de las experiencias digitales como praxis tecnológica. Dicho enfoque se construye a través de una síntesis de las categorías propias a diversas corrientes de pensamiento como la fenomenología corporal de Merleau-Ponty, la postfenomenología de Don Ihde y su escuela, la hermenéutica y las teorías de la información. Estos apuntes desarrollan un análisis progresivo de las dimensiones fenoménicas que tienen lugar en la interacción usuariodispositivo, desde la base estimular hasta las recreaciones virtuales. A través de la relación intersubjetiva con la máquina, integrada al usuario, este produce y consume el material informativo que se convertirá en sucesivas representaciones digitales de sí mismo y del conjunto de la realidad.
Macanas: the art of clubs from Amazonia
Authors: Bernand Alexandre
Published: January 2023

Wooden clubs from Amazonia, called macanas, have been identified and valued by Europeans since the Conquest and quickly became essential additions to Wunderkammern. However surviving pieces often lack a detailed collection history, as they have been brought to Europe over a period of five hundred years by various kinds of visitors with different goals and sets of mind. The first section reviews the early reports and descriptions mentioning those pieces, whether in situ (e.g. chronicles of Columbus voyages or later travelers), or in European collections. We present in the second part a nonexhaustive selection of eleven types of clubs from Amazonia that belong to European (mostly public) collections, and we try to connect these types to the abovementioned historical sources. The aim of this paper is to show the diversity of shapes and also the historical depth of the club tradition in Amazonia.
Dimensión socio-laboral de las relaciones comerciales trasatlánticas: algunas lecciones del pasado.
Authors: Llobera Mireia
Published: January 2023

En la cumbre UE-EE.UU. del pasado 15 de junio de 2021, la Unión Europea y los Estados Unidos realizaron una declaración conjunta en la que anunciaron una asociación transatlántica renovada para la era posterior a la pandemia. De manera que en el momento en el que se refuerzan las negociaciones comerciales entre la UE y EE.UU. vale la pena analizar hasta dónde se llegó en las negociaciones del Acuerdo Transatlántico sobre Comercio e Inversión en el marco de la OMC, en particular en relación a los aspectos más controvertidos desde la perspectiva social. Lo que incluye un análisis comparado específicamente enfocado al tratamiento del desplazamiento de trabajadores en el AGCS y en la Directiva 96/71/CE. Ello nos permitirá determinar en el futuro las diferencias y similitudes con el proceso negociador que ahora se inicia; con la esperanza de que las lecciones surgidas del anterior proceso sirvan para relanzar las relaciones comerciales entre ambos bloques hacia cotas mucho más sociales y hacia una transición medioambiental más justa.
Narrating the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Transhumanism and Critical Posthumanism in Catherine Lacey's The Answers.
Authors: Abizanda Cardona María
Published: January 2023

: Recent scientific breakthroughs under the wing of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, particularly in the realm of biotechnology, have prompted an integral redefinition of the human, looking toward the posthuman state. Stances on this question range from the transhumanists ’ advocacy of overcoming biological limits, to the indexing of technoscientific advancement to an antihumanist and postanthropocentric project championed by critical posthumanism. These debates have been translated into speculative fiction works such as Catherine Lacey’ The Answers (2017). This novel revolves around the Girlfriend Experiment, a state -of-the-art research project aimed at taking the next step in our emotional evolution by eliminating the need for romantic relationships, bankrolled by a film industry mogul. This paper analyses the representation of human enhancement in the novel, arguing that the depiction of the material consequences of the experiment upon its research subjects amounts to a rejection of the unrestricted development of technology along transhumanist and neoliberal tenets. In this, The Answers offers a critical take on the Fourth Industrial Revolution aligned with the principles of critical posthumanism.
De campesinas iletradas a amas de casa instruidas dueñas del hogar: el caso de la sección "Para ti mujer" dentro del semanario El Campesino, 1959-1966.
Authors: Ferrer Avila Oscar Rafael
Published: January 2023

El presente artículo señala un mecanismo que implementó Acción Cultural Popular (ACPO) para la propagación de representaciones, contenidos y discursos sobre un tipo ejemplar de campesina por medio de la sección femenina Para ti Mujer del semanario El Campesino. Para lograr lo anterior se realizó un análisis de 292 ediciones publicadas entre 1959 y 1966 de elementos del tipo literario, operativo, opinión, ocio y formativo. Se detectó que la sección hizo parte de una estrategia de la Iglesia católica para difundir el modelo de mujer cristiana, en un contexto de profundos cambios como las ideas desarrollistas-modernas, el gobierno del Frente Nacional y el impacto del Concilio Vaticano II en Colombia. El resultado expone criterios para el desarrollo de la diagramación y algunos motivos por los cuales finaliza este formato, además contribuye a los estudios sobre género y medios de comunicación
Skoworodiana polskie: Recepcja myśli filozoficznej i twórczości literackiej Hryhorija Skoworody w Polsce
Authors: Pilipowicz Denys
Published: January 2023

Hryhorij Skoworoda (1722-1794) – ukraiński wędrowny filozof, myśliciel i poeta, „ukraiński Sokrates”, już za życia wywoływał żywe zainteresowanie. Jego dzieła poetyckie i filozoficzne, charakteryzujące się bogatą symboliką, licznymi odwołaniami do filozofii antycznej oraz Biblii, nieprzerwanie budzą ciekawość uczonych. Przypadająca w tym roku 300. rocznica urodzin filozofa stała się inspiracją do podsumowania polskiego dorobku skoworodoznawczego, na który składają się syntezy historycznoliterackie, prace językoznawcze, filozoficzne, artykuły popularyzatorskie oraz tłumaczenia. Integralną część monografii stanowią dwa ważne dodatki – pierwszy w formie antologii prezentuje polskojęzyczne teksty poświęcone twórczości Skoworody, które ułożono w porządku chronologicznym, co pozwoli prześledzić ewolucję refleksji naukowej. Do antologii włączono zarówno krótkie wzmianki z syntetycznych opracowań dziejów literatury ukraińskiej, artykuły stale obecne w obiegu naukowym, jak i teksty niesłusznie zapomniane, szczególnie z dziedziny historii filozofii ukraińskiej. Są to np. prace Iwana Mirczuka i obszerny monograficzny artykuł Jarosława Ulwańskiego, do tej pory nienotowany w literaturze przedmiotu. Całości dopełnia bibliografia prac skoworodoznawczych, rejestrująca wszystkie znane pozycje poświęcone twórczości Skoworody, które ukazały się w Polsce, co nie tylko dla polskich uczonych może stanowić punkt wyjścia do inicjowania nowych badań w tym zakresie.
Tarefas do exame Celpe-Bras como potencial material para o ensino de português língua estrangeira
Authors: Gómez Marina Ayumi Izaki
Published: January 2023

Neste artigo, propomos apresentar tarefas do Certificado de Proficiência em Língua Portuguesa para Estrangeiros (Celpe-Bras) e discutir seus aspectos constituintes. As tarefas são de natureza comunicativa e priorizam ações relevantes para interação em situação real de uso da língua. Para o contexto de ensino e aprendizagem de Português Língua Estrangeira, essas tarefas podem se configurar como potencial material didático. Levando em consideração o impacto de um exame em diversas esferas sociais, o Celpe-Bras também tem colaborado para o redirecionamento da ação docente por meio de reflexão sobre a prática em sala de aula. Nesse sentido, temos expectativa de que esta breve discussão possa ampliar reflexão sobre o fazer pedagógico.
Pavlo Movchan about language
Authors:   State Institution Luhansk Taras Shevchenko National University, Hlukhovtseva Kateryna , Hlukhovtseva Iryna ,   Volodymyr Dahl East Ukrainian National University
Published: January 2023

The deal with figurative statements about the language of Pavel Movchan and reveals their correspondence to modern trends in the development of linguistic thought. In the study, we use the descriptive method, as well as the analysis of the semantic components of the text. The source base of the research was the articles, prefaces, interviews included in the collection «Vertical Word» (Kyiv, 2022, 608 p.), the lion’s share of which is included in the section «In the beginning was the Word». Among them, we highlight the following: «Language is a cosmic phenomenon», «Reborn in the word», «The word is dead and alive», «Language and writing: eternal categories». The article proves that the name of the collection of articles is symbolic. It encodes the development path of the Ukrainian national language, which, according to the publicist, can be defined as vertical development, that is, from the bottom to the mountain, from the pole to the elite. At the same time, the author is convinced that the primacy of oral speech and the secondary nature of literary speech in no way limit the functional possibilities of the modern Ukrainian literary language, but only attests to the inextricable connection between these two forms of language existence. On the other hand, the title of the collection of journalistic and literary works of Pavel Movchan uses the idea of ancient philosophers about the four elements (elements) – water, earth, fire and air. The publicist suggests that the fifth ethereal element is language, which enlivens the World, focuses its energy in itself. Language is a kind of synthesis of everything national, the focus of his vision. As a supporter of the hypothesis of polygenesis in the question of the origin of language, Pavlo Movchan, presenting its interpretation, emphasizes the social nature of language, its creation by means of a unique linguistic picture of the world. In the writer’s field of vision are the peculiarities of the communication of native speakers, which he imagines as a kind of power line from one to another. The publicist is also convinced that language affects a person’s anthropological code. Interpretations of the language through the prism of the individual who uses it are also imbued with the depth of the author’s vision and an objective assessment of the linguistic individual creativity. Pavlo Movchan defends the right of every person to use his native language. He sees it as an opportunity to be himself, to be self-determined. The writer’s thoughts about language and the word are marked by metaphorical definitions of their essence, which the artist successfully implements with the help of metaphor.
Discourses of aggressiveness in Ukrainian daily discourse
Authors:   Dnipro University of Technology, Ihnatieva Svitlana
Published: January 2023

The article deals with the discourse of aggressiveness. The study is based on the material of the Ukrainian diary discourse. The research material is the diary entries of Ukrainian diarists. A complex of general scientific and special research methods is used: analysis and synthesis, observation, definition, systematization. It enables generalization and specification of the theoretical foundations of the study of the speech aggression problem in the diary discourse. The investigation focuses on the phenomenon of speech aggression from the latest positions of cognitive and communicative paradigms – the selected language facts are described and systematized; contextualized fragments of diary texts containing speech aggression are identified and described. The article proves that verbal aggression is most evident in the context of daily discourse. Discourse semes of aggressiveness at the lexical level have significant opportunities for the diarist's verbal realization of his negative perception of a certain situation or the interlocutor`s personality. They form the evaluative content of diary communication reflecting its peculiarities. A convincing feature in the semantic field of aggression is the high semiotic density of negative behavioral characteristics and emotional evaluations. The evaluative content contained in the aggressiveness discourse semes allows the diarist to express his disapproval, rejection, negativism towards the opponent or the subject of the dispute. The analysis of the actual material proves that verbal aggression in the diary discourse is a special type of speech behavior of the diarist. The internal structure of text messages in this type of discourse serves as a means of rendering intolerant information, containing a wide range of specialized and non-specialized invectives.