bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic pitfalls and therapeutic challenges of hypercalcaemia in chronic kidney disease: a case report and a narrative review
Authors: Ruwanpathirana Pramith , Dissanayaka Harsha , Munasinghe Sachith , Wijayaratne Dilushi , Wijewickrama Eranga , Lanerolle Rushika D. , Katulanda Prasad
Published: February 2024

Background

Evaluation of hypercalcaemia in a patient with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is challenging, especially in low-resource settings. Hormone assays should be interpreted with caution as CKD affects both parathyroid hormone (PTH) and vitamin D. Therapies such as bisphosphonates are contraindicated in CKD, while fluid resuscitation can lead to volume overload. We report the diagnostic workup of a patient with stage V CKD who presented with symptomatic hypercalcaemia and discuss the diagnostic pitfalls and therapeutic challenges.

Case presentation

A 72-year-old Sri Lankan woman with stage V, non-oliguric CKD presented with a 2-week history of worsening lassitude, increased thirst and constipation. She was clinically euvolemic and did not have signs of uraemia. Bilateral lung fields had occasional coarse crepitations. The rest of the physical examination was normal. Her serum creatinine level was similar to her baseline (4.7 mg/dl, eGFR 9 ml/min). She was found to have a high serum calcium (14.3 mg/dl) and phosphate (5.0 mg/dl) levels. Her PTH level was 24.1 pg/ml (15–68), and she was deficient in 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (9 mg/ml (30–100)). She was not on calcium or vitamin D supplementation. Disseminated tuberculosis was diagnosed after detecting granulomata in the lungs and abdomen in the contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) and mycobacterial DNA in sputum. She was hydrated with 0.9% NaCl with meticulous use of frusemide. The effect of frusemide waned off by the 10th day, requiring haemodialysis to control the hypercalcaemia. Vitamin D was replaced intramuscularly with 200,000 IU, after which the calcium levels increased. She was treated with IV pamidronate 30 mg, and the calcium levels started reducing drastically. Antituberculous therapy (ATT) was initiated 7 days after pamidronate treatment. The calcium levels normalised 2 days after ATT and sustained beyond 2 months.

Conclusion

Interpretation of PTH and phosphate levels should be done with caution when evaluating hypercalcaemia in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease. First- and second-generation assays detect PTH fragments which accumulate in CKD, leading to false positives. Hypophosphataemic effects of PTH/PTHrP can be masked by accumulation of phosphate in CKD. Bisphosphonates might have a role in treating calcitriol-induced hypercalcaemia, although this needs further evaluation.
Pandemic impacts and experiences after disaster in Australia: qualitative study of compound impacts following the Black Summer bushfires
Authors: Cowlishaw S. , O'Dwyer C. , Bowd C. , Sadler N. , O'Donnell M. , Forbes D. , Howard A.
Published: February 2024

Background

The first cases of the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia were recorded in January 2020, which was during the ‘Black Summer’ bushfires of 2019–20 and prior to additional disasters in some regions. Few studies have considered the compound impact of disasters and the pandemic.

Aims

To improve understanding of the impact on mental health and well-being of the pandemic in disaster-affected communities.

Method

We conducted semi-structured interviews (n = 18) with community members and online focus groups (n = 31) with help providers from three regions of rural Australia affected by bushfires and the pandemic.

Results

Six themes were produced: (a) ‘Pulling together, pulling apart’, describing experiences after bushfires and prior to impacts of the pandemic; (b) ‘Disruption of the ‘normal response’, encompassing changes to post-disaster recovery processes attributed to the pandemic; (c) ‘Escalating tensions and division in the community’, describing impacts on relationships; (d) ‘Everywhere you turn you get a slap in the face’, acknowledging impacts of bureaucratic ‘red tape’; (e) ‘There are layers of trauma’, highlighting intersecting traumas and pre-existing vulnerabilities; and (f) ‘Where does the help come from when we can't do it?’, encompassing difficulties accessing services and impacts on the helping workforce.

Conclusions

This study furthers our understanding of compound disasters and situates pandemic impacts in relation to processes of adjustment and recovery from bushfires. It highlights the need for long-term approaches to resilience and recovery, investment in social infrastructure, multi-component approaches to workforce issues, and strategies to increase mental health support and pathways across services.
Genetic Testing of Children With Familial Tall Stature: Is it Worth Doing?
Authors: Gregorova Katerina , Plachy Lukas , Dusatkova Petra , Maratova Klara , Neuman Vit , Kolouskova Stanislava , Snajderova Marta , Obermannova Barbora , Drnkova Lenka , Soucek Ondrej , Lebl Jan , Sumnik Zdenek , Pruhova Stepanka
Published: February 2024

Context

Familial tall stature (FTS) is considered to be a benign variant of growth with a presumed polygenic etiology. However, monogenic disorders with possible associated pathological features could also be hidden under the FTS phenotype.

Objective

To elucidate the genetic etiology in families with FTS and to describe their phenotype in detail.

Methods

Children with FTS (the life-maximum height in both the child and his/her taller parent > 2 SD for age and sex) referred to the Endocrinology center of Motol University Hospital were enrolled into the study. Their DNA was examined cytogenetically and via a next-generation sequencing panel of 786 genes associated with growth. The genetic results were evaluated by the American College of Molecular Genetics and Genomics guidelines. All of the participants underwent standard endocrinological examination followed by specialized anthropometric evaluation.

Results

In total, 34 children (19 girls) with FTS were enrolled in the study. Their median height and their taller parent's height were 3.1 SD and 2.5 SD, respectively. The genetic cause of FTS was elucidated in 11/34 (32.4%) children (47,XXX and 47,XYY karyotypes, SHOX duplication, and causative variants in NSD1 [in 2], SUZ12 [in 2], FGFR3, CHD8, GPC3, and PPP2R5D genes). Ten children had absent syndromic signs and 24 had dysmorphic features.

Conclusion

Monogenic (and cytogenetic) etiology of FTS can be found among children with FTS. Genetic examination should be considered in all children with FTS regardless of the presence of dysmorphic features.
Low Handgrip Strength (Possible Sarcopenia) With Insulin Resistance Is Associated With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Tajima Tsubasa , Kaga Hideyoshi , Someya Yuki , Tabata Hiroki , Naito Hitoshi , Kakehi Saori , Ito Naoaki , Yamasaki Nozomu , Sato Motonori , Kadowaki Satoshi , Sugimoto Daisuke , Nishida Yuya , Kawamori Ryuzo , Watada Hirotaka , Tamura Yoshifumi
Published: February 2024

Context

Older adults with sarcopenic obesity are at high risk for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, few East Asians have sarcopenic obesity. Since many East Asians have insulin resistance (IR) without obesity, it is possible that older East Asians with sarcopenia and IR might be at high risk for T2DM. However, this relationship has not been studied.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 1629 older adults aged 65 to 84 years registered in the Bunkyo Health Study. All underwent a 75-g oral glucose tolerance test and handgrip strength measurement. Participants were classified into 4 groups by possible sarcopenia (handgrip strength <28 kg in men and <18 kg in women) and IR status (triglyceride glucose [TyG] index ≥8.79 for men and ≥8.62 for women [third quartile]). Modified Poisson regression was used to estimate relative risk (RR) and 95% CIs for T2DM with adjustment for confounding factors.

Results

The mean age was 73.1 ± 5.4 years. T2DM was diagnosed in 212 (13.0%) participants. After adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, use of lipid-lowering medications, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease, possible sarcopenia and IR were associated with T2DM, with their coexistence showing a notably stronger association (control: RR, 1.00 [Reference]; possible sarcopenia: RR, 1.55 [95% CI, 1.04-2.30]; IR: RR, 2.69 [95% CI, 1.99-3.65]; and IR possible sarcopenia: RR, 4.76 [95% CI, 3.34-6.79]).

Conclusion

Possible sarcopenia based on low handgrip strength and IR based on the TyG index are independently associated with T2DM in older Japanese individuals. Their coexistence shows a particularly strong association with T2DM.
Βακτηριακή διαμετάθεση σε μοντέλο ασφυξίας σε νεογνά χοιρίδια
Authors: Ματάρα Δήμητρα-Ιφιγένεια
Published: February 2024

Εισαγωγή και στόχοι: Ο όρος "βακτηριακή μετατόπιση" (ΒΤ) αναφέρεται στη μετανάστευση βακτηρίων ή προϊόντων τους από τη γαστρεντερική οδό σε ιστούς που βρίσκονται έξω από αυτήν και μπορεί να συμβεί μετα από εντερική ισχαιμία-επαναιμάτωση. Ο όρος «ενδοτοξίνη» είναι συνώνυμος και χρησιμοποιείται εναλλακτικά με τον όρο λιποπολυσακχαρίτης (LPS). Ο LPS, ένα συστατικό των Gram-αρνητικών βακτηρίων του εντέρου, είναι ένας ισχυρός μικροβιακός παράγοντας λοιμογόνου δράσης, που μπορεί να προκαλέσει την παραγωγή προφλεγμονωδών μεσολαβητών, προκαλώντας εντοπισμένη και συστηματική φλεγμονή. Ο στόχος αυτής της μελέτης είναι να διερευνήσει εάν η νεογνική ασφυξία προκαλεί BT και αυξημένη συγκέντρωση LPS σε ένα ζωικό μοντέλο ασφυξίας σε χοιρίδια.Υλικό και μέθοδοι Είκοσι ένα (21) νεογέννητα αρσενικά χοιρίδια Landrace/Large White, ηλικίας 1-4 ημερών, καταναμήθηκαν τυχαία σε τρεις ομάδες, ομάδα ελέγχου (Α), ασφυξίας (Β) και ασφυξίας-καρδιοπνευμονικής αναζωογόνησης (CPR) (Γ). Όλα τα ζώα που χρησιμοποιήθηκαν, αναισθητοποιήθηκαν και υποβλήθηκαν σε αιμοδυναμική παρακολούθηση. Στην ομάδα Α, τα ζώα υποβλήθηκαν σε ευθανασία. Στην ομάδα Β, ο ενδοτραχειακός σωλήνας αποφράχθηκε για να προκαλέσει ασφυξία που οδηγεί σε καρδιοπνευμονική ανακοπή. Στην ομάδα Γ, τα ζώα αναζωογονήθηκαν μετά από ασφυξία και παρακολουθήθηκαν περαιτέρω για 30'. Η βακτηριακή μετατόπιση αξιολογήθηκε με τη μέτρηση της ενδοτοξίνης στο αίμα από την πυλαία φλέβα και την αορτή, καθώς και με τη μέτρηση της ενδοτοξίνης στους μεσεντερικούς λεμφαδένες (MLNs) κατά την ευθανασία. Τα αποτελέσματα δίνονται ως διάμεσος (IQR) με συγκέντρωση LPS σε EU/mL. Αποτελέσματα: BT παρατηρήθηκε σε όλες τις ομάδες με ελάχιστη συγκέντρωση LPS στους MLNs και μέγιστη συγκέντρωση στην πυλαία φλέβα. Τα επίπεδα LPS στους MLNs ήταν υψηλότερα στην Ομάδα Β: 6,38 EU/mL (2,69-9,34) σε σύγκριση με τις άλλες ομάδες (Ομάδα A: 2,1 EU/mL (1,08-2,52), Ομάδα Γ: 1,66 EU/mL (1,51- 2,48), p = 0,012). Η διαφορά LPS αορτής προς MLNs (%) ήταν χαμηλότερη στην Ομάδα Β: 0,13% (0,04-1,17), σε σύγκριση με την Ομάδα Α: 5,08% (2,2-10,7) και την Ομάδα Γ: 3,42% (1,5-5,1)) (σ. = 0,042). Το ίδιο εντοπίστηκε για διαφορά LPS από πύλη προς MLN (%), η οποία ήταν χαμηλότερη στην Ομάδα Β: 0,94% (0,5-3) σε σύγκριση με την Ομάδα Α: 4,9% (4-15) και την Ομάδα Γ: 3,85% (1,5-5,1). )) (p = 0,044). Συμπεράσματα: Η νεογνική ασφυξία μπορεί να προκαλέσει ΒΤ και αυξημένη συγκέντρωση LPS στο αίμα και στους ιστούς που βρίσκονται εκτός του γαστρεντερικού συστήματος.
The fall of genres that did not happen: formalising history of the “universal” semantics of Russian iambic tetrameter
Authors: Martynenko Antonina , Šeļa Artjoms
Published: February 2024

This paper examines thematic features of the “universal” poetic meters that are disproportionately popular in a tradition. Focusing on the example of 19th-century Russian iambic tetrameter, we propose a method for diachronic analysis of semantic structure of a meter based on the combination of topic modelling and network analysis. We represent each poem as topic probabilities and use most probable topics appearing within one poem to build up the connections of a network. This representation allows us to detect a chronological process of semantic expansion of the meter: its usage spreads to various thematic domains contributing to its perception as “universal”. At the same time, we show that the expansion of iambic tetrameter does not lead to the collapse of semantic traditions of other meters and their associations with certain genres. Testing the amount of shared connections between meters against randomized data demonstrates that the increase in number of topics within a meter is mostly driven by the sample size, rather than by the direct borrowing from other meters. The stability of thematic connections inside each meter displays the conservative nature of poetic meters and surprisingly strong retention of association between meter and semantics.
La enseñanza virtual en el contexto de la educación actual
Authors: Gutiérrez Villamil Claudia T. , Hernández Calderón Luz Helena , González Hernández Gilberto , Guevara Beltrán César Augusto , Flórez Castillo José Luis
Published: February 2024

La enseñanza virtual ha venido incursionando en forma progresiva en la educación actual, principalmente como método de formación y actualización en la población adulta después de graduada. Sus características exigen un replanteamiento de las funciones tanto de los alumnos como de los docentes. Este artículo pretende, por un lado, evaluar las similitudes y diferencias entre la enseñanza presencial y la virtual, y, por otro, mostrar algunas de las habilidades requeridas por los docentes para realizarla.
Autismo: estado del arte
Authors: Talero Claudia , Martínez Luis E. , Ovalle Juan Pablo , Velásquez Alejandro , Zarruk Juan Guillermo
Published: February 2024

El autismo es un síndrome que compromete la calidad de vida de quien lo sufre y de su familia, dificulta la relación social y el aprendizaje y hace incierto el futuro en cuanto a independencia, autocuidado y vida productiva del paciente. A pesar de los esfuerzos orientados a la compresión y desarrollo de técnicas terapéuticas, sólo se ha logrado una respuesta parcial de mejoría de algunos síntomas. En la última década, la investigación relacionada con esta entidad se multiplicó en forma importante y con esto se inició un camino del cual todavía queda mucho por recorrer, pero que ya empieza a dar luces en cuanto a la etiología y a los mecanismos que subyacen en las dificultades del autista. En el presente artículo se revisan los datos históricos y el estado actual en relación con su etiología, fisiopatología, sintomatología, diagnóstico y tratamiento.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of an Al-Mg-Si-Cu Alloy for High Temperature Applications
Authors: Adil H. , Audebert F. , Saporiti F. , Gerguri S. , Bonatesta F. , Durodola J. F.
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACT: The high specific properties of aluminium based nanostructured alloys have attracted significant attention due to their promise for structural applications especially at elevated temperatures such as pistons for internal combustion engines. Several types of aluminium-based nanostructured alloys have been developed with microstructures of nanometre-sized particles embedded in the aluminium matrix. In this work a newly developed aluminium based nanostructured alloy is studied to understand its microstructure formation, stability and mechanical properties at elevated temperatures. The microstructure was characterised by means of X-ray diffraction, light and scanning electron microscopies. Heat treatments were carried out to determine the T6 condition properties and the microstructural stability at elevated temperatures for long periods of exposure. The hardness of the new alloy at T6 was 30% higher than the corresponding to Al-4032 which is the commonly used alloy for piston application. The work also compared the mechanical properties of the new alloy with two conventional aluminium alloys used in piston applications. The new alloy has 1.3–4.7 times higher strengths than Al-4032.
Ultrasonic-Assisted Synthesis of Silicon/Exfoliated-Graphite Nanocomposite as Anode Material for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Bejjanki Dinesh , Dharmik Vrushabh , Babu Gara Uday Bhaskar , Puttapati Sampath Kumar
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACT: Currently, lithium-ion batteries have the highest energy density; hence naturally, this chemistry is the most promising solution for high-density energy storage. This means the commercially used anode material, that is, graphite with a theoretical capacity of 372 mAh/g, needs to be improved; hence the implementation of more capacity material is needed. In regard, silicon is the best alternative available for this with ~4200 mAh/g theoretical capacity. In this work an industrially scalable procedure using ultrasonication followed shear mixer to synthesize a composite of ball-milled silicon with exfoliated graphite for the anode material in lithium-ion batteries. The material is characterized using X-ray diffraction for crystallite information, and scanning electron microscopy shows the composite visuals with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to indicate bonding details in the composite, along with half coin-cell tested for18 cycles with a capacity of 222.48 mAh/g and columbic efficiency of 97.86%. Hence the silicon/exfoliated graphite composite using 2 step ultrasonic and shear process can be economical and scalable.
Fast Coupling Iterative Algorithm for Media Rough Surface with Multiple Targets Below
Authors: Lei Lilan
Published: February 2024

This paper proposes a fast mutual coupling iteration algorithm for analyzing the composite electromagnetic scattering characteristics of a Gaussian rough surface with multiple targets below it. Firstly, an electromagnetic scattering model of Gaussian rough surface with multiple targets underneath is established. To improve the efficiency of electromagnetic scattering calculations, the (banded matrix iterative approach canonical grid - conjugate gradient method (BMIA/CAG-CMG) algorithm is used to calculate the surface scattering of the rough surface, while for the scattering of the targets, the traditional numerical algorithm moment of methods (MoM) is used for the calculation. Its main acceleration principle is to decompose the matrix into banded and Toeplitz matrices during the solution process, and then use fast Fourier transform (FFT) for fast solution based on their characteristics. By comparing the calculation results of this algorithm with those of the MoM algorithm, the correctness of this algorithm is verified. Several examples are studied, and the impact of different parameters on the surface current and composite scattering characteristics is discussed, which have important significance for deepening the understanding of scattering characteristics in complex electromagnetic environments.
Analytical Solution of Eddy Current in Parallel Conducting Strips for Low-frequency Shielding Purposes
Authors: Jaradat Hamzeh M. , Qananwah Qasem M. , Dagamseh Ahmad M. , Al-Zoubi Qasem M.
Published: February 2024

In instrumentation systems, shielding is the main issue that judges the performance of the system. The electromagnetic (EM) noise may affect the performance of the instrumentation system if inadequate protection is reached. It is considered the main source of unprotectable interference that may affect these systems in many cases. In this paper, shielding is attained by wrapping the source carrying signal with periodic thin conductive strips separated by slots or openings. This arrangement will protect the sources from the outside EM fields. Shielding factor and shielding efficiency are studied by extracting magnetic fields. For this purpose, an analytical solution based on solving Laplace’s equation for the magnetic vector potential in the region of interest is presented. A closed form of the induced eddy current in the conductive strips is calculated based on Fourier series expansion. Furthermore, numerical simulation using the commercial software MWS CST is employed to validate the analytical solution. The performance of the proposed shielding structure is studied and analyzed in terms of shielding factor and shielding efficiency. The outcomes of both methods are showing very good agreement.
Characteristics of sleeping sites and sleeping trees selected by Celebes crested macaques (Macaca nigra) in Tangkoko, North Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: QOMARIAH INDIRA NURUL , PERWITASARI-FARAJALLAH DYAH , ISKANDAR ENTANG , BERTHIER JULIETTE MORGAN
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Qomariyah IN, Perwitasari-Farajallah D, Iskandar E, Berthier JM. 2023. Characteristics of sleeping sites and sleeping trees selected by Celebes crested macaques (Macaca nigra) in Tangkoko, North Sulawesi, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 24: 6200-6208. Research on the selection of sleeping sites is imperative in providing information on the fitness and survival of a species. We investigated the characteristics of the sleeping sites and the sleeping trees selected by wild Celebes crested macaques (Macaca nigra Desmarest 1822) in North Sulawesi, Indonesia, as well as their spatial and temporal use. The study was conducted in two groups of macaques for nine months (187 study days) from September 2020 to June 2021. These macaques avoided using the same sleeping site on consecutive nights. Two predator encounters (Python reticulatus Schneider 1801) were recorded near the sleeping sites, but pythons caught no monkeys during the study period. The macaques used 58 trees from 13 species as sleeping trees, of which 79% of the sleeping trees were also food trees. M. nigra chose sleeping trees with higher diameter, height, and a bigger Important Value Index than the surroundings. The average distance between sleeping trees and feeding trees in the morning and evening were 203 m and 127 m, respectively. These results suggest that optimal foraging strategy and predator avoidance are important factors in selecting sleeping sites, providing a broader understanding of the habitat preferences of the Critically Endangered M. nigra.
Sound management strategies in swiftlet ranching from Southern Thailand
Authors: PONGPATTANANURAK NANTACHAI , PHUMSATHAN SANGSAN , SOMLEEWONG TANIT , RASRI PHRUT
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Pongpattananurak N, Phumsathan S, Somleewong T, Rasri P. 2023. Sound management strategies in swiftlet ranching: An experiment from Southern Thailand. Biodiversitas 24: 6218-6228. Edible-nest swiftlets are well-known for the medicinal properties of their nests. With the global demand, swiftlet ranching has emerged as a vital industry. Swiftlet houses employ acoustic stimuli to entice wild swiftlets. However, the use of loud acoustic stimuli in swiftlet houses has inadvertently led to sound pollution in urban areas. This study investigates the interplay of acoustic stimuli, loudness, and environmental factors in attracting swiftlets while reducing noise. Our findings highlight the critical role of sound management in swiftlet ranching. Higher loudness, especially around 80-90 dB, significantly increases swiftlet activity and maximizes daily counts. Furthermore, optimizing loudness levels, particularly at around 80 dB, extends the swiftlet presence duration, offering valuable ranching benefits. Strategic loudness management is recommended to balance attraction and noise control. Timing acoustic stimulation during mornings and late afternoons aligns with swiftlets' natural behavior. Lowering loudness to under 70 dB during midday minimizes disturbances, especially in populated areas. Weather conditions, including outdoor absolute humidity and temperature, also influence swiftlet attraction. The study finally provides guidance for complying with environmental noise regulations, demonstrating that sound levels of 70-80 dB effectively control noise. These insights support swiftlet ranching while respecting urban communities and coexisting harmoniously.
Physicochemical, structure and functional characteristics of Tacca leontopetaloides starches grown in Indonesia
Authors: YONATA DIODE , TRIWITONO PRIYANTO , LESTARI LILY ARSANTI , PRANOTO YUDI
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Yonata D, Triwitono P, Lestari LA, Pranoto Y. 2023. Physicochemical, structure and functional characteristics of Tacca leontopetaloides starches grown in Indonesia. Biodiversitas 24: 6396-6406. Understanding the physicochemical, structure and functional characteristics of tacca tuber (Tacca leontopetaloides) starch is crucial as a scientific basis for its development, especially in the food industry. Despite the abundance of starch in Indonesian tacca tubers, its potential remains largely untapped. This research aims to determine the physicochemical, structure and functional characteristics of tacca tuber starch from three different regions in Indonesia: Bangkalan, Garut and Sumenep. Wet extraction yielded tacca tuber starch with yields ranging from 21.26 to 26.42%. Significant differences (p<0.05) were observed in proximate composition (ash, lipid, and protein), starch purity (97.35-98.48%), amylose content (32.81-35.26%), and functional properties like swelling power (9.67-10.51 g/g at 95°C), solubility (4.93-5.87% at 95°C), water holding capacity (0.77-0.90 g/g), oil holding capacity (0.62-0.71 g/g), and relative crystallinity (24.22-27.03%). Thermal properties and pasting properties (except breakdown viscosity) exhibited significant variations. The gelatinization temperature profile of tacca tuber starch ranged from 57.92 to 76.38°C, with an ?H value of around 3.81-4.62 J/g. Meanwhile, the temperature of tacca tuber starch paste ranged from 72.12 to 72.88°C. Tacca tuber starch granules are polygonal, elliptical, oval to slightly ellipsoidal, with an average granule diameter of 20.21-40.43 ?m. Based on the X-ray diffraction pattern, tacca tuber starch shows the CA-type, containing orthorhombic and hexagonal structure crystals. Tacca tuber starch has a high lightness (92.01-93.62) and whiteness index (91.68-92.74). In conclusion, the cultivation location significantly influences the physicochemical, structural, and functional characteristics of tacca tuber starch.
Preserving Jewish Identity Without Returning to the Ghetto: A Case Study of the École Maïmonide, France's First Jewish Secondary School, 1935–2022
Authors: Voignac Joseph
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACT: This article analyzes the history of France's first Jewish secondary school: the École Maïmonide, from its founding in Paris in 1935 to the present day. With close to 1,500 pupils today, it has become one of France's largest Jewish schools. Born out of a fear that exclusive reliance on secular French public education could lead to the inexorable erosion of Jewish religious practice and culture in France, the École Maïmonide was designed to provide French Jews with a Jewish alternative to the State's lycées, where pupils could follow a solid Jewish studies program alongside a high-quality general studies syllabus. While such a project implied a degree of separation from mainstream French society, the École Maïmonide's founders remained committed to public education for the majority of Jewish youth and the full integration of their pupils into French society. Analyzing the ways in which these aspirations materialized in the school's day-to-day organization and how the balance between them evolved throughout its history, this case study seeks to further our understanding of the history of Jewish education in France as well as the evolution of the discourse on identity preservation within the French Jewish community.
Shanxi's Men on the Spot: The Rise of Long-Distance Trading Firms on the Northern Frontier
Authors: Qiao George Zhijian
Published: February 2024

Abstract: Using archival records of the Gao Pu jade-smuggling case of the late Qianlong reign, this essay reconstructs the life story of Zhang Luan, the case's merchant protagonist. By foregrounding how Sanyihao, a Shanxi trading firm based in Guihuacheng (Hohhot), shaped Zhang's career, I aim to reveal unknown details about the Shanxi firms' operation and provide new perspectives on the evolution of the Chinese firm prior to the nineteenth century. I argue that the thriving long distance trade on the Qing Empire's northern frontier provided a crucial stimulus in spurring the development of the firm organization in China during the eighteenth century.
Woodcuts, Woodcutters, and the Art of Savoring the World
Authors: Brewer David A.
Published: February 2024

Abstract: This essay explores what difference it makes that late seventeenth-century Japanese prose fiction, including the work of Ihara Saikaku, was far more frequently and extensively illustrated than its European counterparts. Part of the explanation for this may simply be economic and technological, but a more interesting answer lies in Japanese books' commitment to a far more visual (and often far less moralized) aesthetic, one that encourages a surprised and delighted savoring of the world (a stance intriguingly modeled for us, both visually and textually, by a passing woodcutter in Saikaku's Kōshoku gonin onna [ Five Women Who Loved Love ]). This intensely visual aesthetic, in turn, solicits a rather different kind of narrative engagement than that invited by most European fiction of the period: one far less interested in individuals qua individuals, far less obsessed with interiority, and far more willing to acknowledge the place that pleasure can and ought to have in our lives. All of which is to say that Saikaku's work and other ukiyo-zōshi [books of the floating world] can usefully contribute to the ongoing project of provincializing Europe (and the equally urgent project in literary studies of provincializing Defoe and perhaps the Anglophone novel more generally).
Measuring spectral extinction with digital holography
Authors: Berg Matthew J. , Aleau Killian , Ceolato Romain
Published: February 2024

The optical extinction caused by a small particle, such as an aerosol
particle, is an important measurable quantity. Understanding the
influence of atmospheric aerosols on the climate, assessing visibility
in urban environments, and remote sensing applications such as lidar
all need accurate measurements
of particle extinction. While multiple methods are known to measure
extinction, digital in-line holography (DIH) features the unique
ability to provide contact-free images of particles simultaneously
with estimates for the extinction cross section. This is achieved
through an integration of a measured hologram followed by an
extrapolation. By means of a supercontinuum laser, we investigate the
measurement of the cross section via DIH for stationary particles
across a broad spectrum, from 440 nm to 1040 nm. The
particles considered include a 50 µm glass microsphere, a
volcanic ash particle, and an iron(III) oxide particle. The results
show the ability to estimate a particle’s cross section to within 10%
error across portions of the spectrum and approximately 20% error
otherwise. An examination of the accompanying hologram-derived
particle images reveals details in the images that evolve with
wavelength. The behavior suggests a basic means to resolve whether
absorption or scattering dominates a particle’s extinction.
Ultraviolet active novel chalcogenides BAlTe2 (B = Rb, Cs): the structural, optoelectronic, mechanical, and vibrational properties for energy harvesting applications through first principles approach
Authors: Fatima Rabail , Khalil R. M. Arif , Hussain Muhammad Iqbal , Hussain Fayyaz
Published: February 2024

In this study, ternary aluminum-based chalcogenide materials are discussed since these are found to be very appealing for multifunction devices. Here, the structural, optoelectronic, mechanical, and vibrational properties of RbAlTe2 and CsAlTe2 are observed via density functional theory (DFT). An indirect energy band gap is noted to be increased from 1.33 eV to 1.96 eV for RbAlTe2 and 1.28 eV to 1.83 eV for CsAlTe2 by employing improved functional as modified by Trans and Blaha. The calculated formation energy appears to be decreasing, such as -4.39 and -3.83 eV for RbAlTe2 and CsAlTe2, respectively. The investigation of PDOS revealed that Rb-d, Cs-p, Al-p/s, and Te-p orbitals are located prominently and contribute mainly to boosting the conduction mechanism. The optical results declare CsAlTe2 as the strongest absorptive substance, which may be used to devise optoelectronic and photovoltaic devices. Moreover, six independent elastic constants show that these are mechanically stable materials, their brittle nature is confirmed by obeying Born’s stability requirements. According to the density functional perturbation theory (DFPT) approach used for analyzing phonon dispersion, there is no imaginary phonon frequency in both cases (RbAlTe2 and CsAlTe2). The overall results show that the studied materials are potential candidates for applications in photovoltaic and optoelectronic devices.
Broadband Intelligent Programmable Metasurface with Polarization-Modulated Self-Adaptively Electromagnetic Functionality Switching
Authors: Li Ximing , Xu Rui , Du GuoHong , Sun XiaoFeng , Zhao Yuan , Yang Zhao
Published: February 2024

Programmable metasurfaces have received a great deal of attention due to their ability to dynamically manipulate electromagnetic (EM) waves. Despite the rapid growth, most of the existing metasurfaces require manual control to switch among different functionalities, which poses severe limitations on practical applications. Here, we put forth an intelligent metasurface that has self-adaptively EM functionality switching in broadband without human participation. It is equipped with polarization discrimination antennas (PDAs) and feedback components to automatically adjust functionalities for the different incident polarization information. The PDAs module can first perceive the polarization of incident EM waves, e.g., linear or circular polarization, and then provide the feedback signal to the controlling platform for switching the EM functionality. As exemplary demonstrations, a series of functionalities in 9-22 GHz bands have been realized, including beam scanning for x-polarization, specular reflection for y-polarization, diffuse scattering for left-handed circular polarization (LCP), and vortex beam generation for right-handed circular polarization (RCP) wave. Experiments verify the good self-adaptive reaction capability of the intelligent metasurface and are in good agreement with the designs. Our strategy provides an avenue toward future unmanned devices that are consistent with the ambient environment.
More than malware: unmasking the hidden risk of cybersecurity regulations
Authors: Kianpour Mazaher , Raza Shahid
Published: February 2024

Cybersecurity investments are made within a complex and ever-evolving environment, where regulatory changes represent a significant risk factor. While cybersecurity regulations aim to minimize cyber risks and enhance protection, the uncertainty arising from frequent changes or new regulations can significantly impact organizational response strategies. This paper explores the determinants and implications of regulatory risks associated with cybersecurity, aiming to provide a deeper understanding of how these risks influence strategic decision-making. The study delves into the suggestion of preventive and mitigative controls that enable businesses to adapt to and mitigate potential disruptions caused by regulatory changes, thereby preserving their established cybersecurity practices. Another key contribution of this study is the introduction of a stochastic econometric model that illustrates how regulatory risks and uncertainties can affect investment behaviors, often prompting a “wait-and-see” stance. This model synthesizes the complex relationship among investment choices, regulatory changes, and cybersecurity risks, providing insights into the dynamic nature of cybersecurity investment strategies. The research findings offer valuable guidance for risk management and strategic planning in cybersecurity investments. By comprehensively understanding the drivers and impacts of regulatory risks, businesses and policymakers can develop more effective risk evaluation and management approaches. This is essential for sustaining a strong cybersecurity posture while navigating the changing regulatory environment.
Effect of montelukast in preventing dengue with warning signs among patients with dengue: A multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Nitinai Nattapat , Nasomsong Worapong , Chuerboonchai Worayon , Tweekittikul Akarawin , Khingmontri Vutthikorn , Panuvatvanich Bawornnan , Bangchuad Thananut , Pongpraijaroen Maynanchaya , Roongfa-ngarm Tanapol , Vasikasin Vasin
Published: February 2024

Background

Montelukast has shown potential as a candidate treatment for dengue. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of montelukast in preventing dengue with warning signs.

Methods

This multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial enrolled adult participants with NS1 antigenemia in Thailand. The participants were randomly assigned to receive either oral montelukast (10 mg) or a placebo for 10 days or until all symptoms resolved.

Results

Between January 2021 and June 2023, 358 participants were enrolled and randomly assigned (1:1) to receive either montelukast or placebo. The incidence rate of warning signs in the montelukast group and the placebo group were 9.5% and 7.8% per day, respectively. There was no difference between the two groups (HR 1.36; 95%CI 0.94–1.96, P = 0.105). No statistically significant differences were observed in the incidence rate of severe dengue, hemoconcentration, thrombocytopenia, admission, or recovery from dengue. Neither dengue shock, nor mortality occurred. The montelukast group exhibited a decreased incidence rate of transaminase elevations (0.7% vs 1.4% per day, HR: 0.48, 95%CI 0.25–0.90, P = 0.023).

Conclusion

Oral montelukast does not reduce the incidence of warning signs among patients with dengue. Nevertheless, the observed decrease in transaminase elevations warrants further investigation to evaluate the potential effect of montelukast.

Clinical Trials Registration

Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT04673422, registered on 9 December 2020
Machine learning-based identification of contrast-enhancement phase of computed tomography scans
Authors: Guha Siddharth , Ibrahim Abdalla , Wu Qian , Geng Pengfei , Chou Yen , Yang Hao , Ma Jingchen , Lu Lin , Wang Delin , Schwartz Lawrence H. , Xie Chuan-miao , Zhao Binsheng
Published: February 2024

Contrast-enhanced computed tomography scans (CECT) are routinely used in the evaluation of different clinical scenarios, including the detection and characterization of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Quantitative medical image analysis has been an exponentially growing scientific field. A number of studies reported on the effects of variations in the contrast enhancement phase on the reproducibility of quantitative imaging features extracted from CT scans. The identification and labeling of phase enhancement is a time-consuming task, with a current need for an accurate automated labeling algorithm to identify the enhancement phase of CT scans. In this study, we investigated the ability of machine learning algorithms to label the phases in a dataset of 59 HCC patients scanned with a dynamic contrast-enhanced CT protocol. The ground truth labels were provided by expert radiologists. Regions of interest were defined within the aorta, the portal vein, and the liver. Mean density values were extracted from those regions of interest and used for machine learning modeling. Models were evaluated using accuracy, the area under the curve (AUC), and Matthew’s correlation coefficient (MCC). We tested the algorithms on an external dataset (76 patients). Our results indicate that several supervised learning algorithms (logistic regression, random forest, etc.) performed similarly, and our developed algorithms can accurately classify the phase of contrast enhancement.
Understanding the current acute aortic syndrome (AAS) pathways—The Collaborative Acute Aortic Syndrome Project (CAASP) protocol
Authors: Zhong Jim , Vigneswaran Ganesh , Safdar Nawaz Z. , Mandal Indrajeet , Singh Aminder A. , Nandhra Sandip ,   on behalf of the CAASP steering committee
Published: February 2024

Background

Acute aortic syndrome (AAS) is an emergency associated with high peri-hospital mortality rates. Variable clinical presentation makes timely diagnosis challenging and such delays in diagnosis directly impact patient outcomes.

Aims and objectives

The aims of the Collaborative Acute Aortic Syndrome Project (CAASP) are to characterise and evaluate the current AAS pathways of a cohort of hospitals in the UK, USA and New Zealand to determine if patient outcomes are influenced by the AAS pathway (time to hospital admission, diagnosis and management plan) and demographic, social, geographic and patient-specific factors (clinical presentation and comorbidities). The objectives are to describe different AAS pathways and time duration between hospital admission to diagnosis and management plan instigation, and to compare patient outcomes between pathways.

Methods

The study is a multicentre, retrospective service evaluation project of adult patients diagnosed on imaging with AAS. It will be coordinated by the UK National Interventional Radiology Trainee Research (UNITE) network and Vascular and Endovascular Research Network (VERN) in conjunction with The Aortic Dissection Charitable Trust (TADCT). All AAS cases diagnosed on imaging between 1st January 2018 to 1st June 2021 will be included and followed-up for 6 months. Eligibility criteria include aortic dissection (AD) Type A, Type B, non A/B, penetrating aortic ulcer, and intramural haematoma. Exclusion criteria are non-AAS pathology, acute on chronic AAS, and age<18. This project will evaluate patient demographics, timing of presentation, patient symptoms, risk factors for AD, physical examination findings, timing to imaging and treatment, hospital stay, and mortality. Univariate and multivariate analysis will be used to identify predictors associated with prolonged time to diagnosis or treatment and mortality at 30 days.
Starting an undergraduate degree amid the COVID-19 pandemic: A mixed-method egocentric network study on student loneliness
Authors: Richardson Leonie , Long Emily , Goodfellow Claire , Milicev Jelena , Gardani Maria
Published: February 2024

Students who began their undergraduate university studies in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic (the ‘COVID cohort’), may have been particularly at risk for experiencing increased loneliness. This study employed an exploratory egocentric network and mixed-methods approach to investigate the links between social networks and loneliness in the COVID cohort. Of sixty-one respondents meeting inclusion criteria for the study, fifty-eight first-year undergraduate students from the September 2020 intake at a large Scottish University provided egocentric network data via an online survey, as well as responses to three open-ended questions which were aimed at generating qualitative data about participants’ experiences of starting university in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Bivariate analyses suggest that having a larger social network, and higher satisfaction with that network, was associated with reduced loneliness. We additionally explored these associations in subsamples of students living on-campus and living off-campus. Our qualitative data adds valuable insight into the impact that pandemic-related social-distancing restrictions had on limiting students’ opportunities for meeting their peers and forging meaningful social connections at university. Limitations of this study include a small sample size and an exploratory approach requiring further investigation and replication. However, in the context of universities continuing to use hybrid teaching models, this study provides useful initial insights, highlighting potential avenues for institutions to support students in developing social connections in the transition to higher education.
Understanding coverage of antenatal care in Palestine: Cross-sectional analysis of Palestinian Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey, 2019–2020
Authors: Horino Masako , Massad Salwa , Ahmed Saifuddin , Abu Khalid Khalid , Abed Yehia
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Antenatal care is an essential component of primary healthcare, providing opportunities to screen, prevent, and treat morbidity to preserve the health of mothers and offspring. The World Health Organization now recommends a minimum of eight antenatal care contacts, instead of four, which is challenging in countries exposed to political violence and structural disparities in access to social, economic and healthcare resources as exist in Palestine. This study examines the compliance of the recommend standard of antenatal care in Palestine.

Methods

We analyzed data from the UNICEF’s Palestinian Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) 2019–2020. The eligible sample consisted of 2,028 women, 15–49 years of age, living in Palestine, on whom data were available on reported antenatal care services received during the most recent pregnancy within the last two years. Outcome variables of interest were the reported frequencies of antenatal care visits, gestational timing of 1st visit, and services received. Potential risk factors were assessed in women attending less than eight versus eight or more antenatal contacts, as recommended by WHO, by estimating prevalence ratios with 95% Confidence Intervals.

Results

Overall, 28% of women did not meet the WHO’s recommendation of eight or more antenatal contacts, varying from 18% in Central West Bank to 33% in South West Bank across the four areas of Palestine (North, Central, and South West Bank and Gaza Strip). Twelve percent of women reported having had no antenatal contacts in the 1st trimester, and these women were two- to three-folds more unlikely to meet WHO recommendation of antenatal contacts than mothers who initiated the antenatal contact in the 1st trimester. Women who had less than eight antenatal contacts were generally poorer, higher in parity, lived in North and South West Bank, sought ANC from either doctor or nurse/midwife only, and initiated antenatal contact in 2nd-to-3rd trimesters.

Conclusion

There were considerable socioeconomic and geographic inequalities in the prevalence of not meeting WHO recommended number of antenatal contacts in Palestine, offering the opportunity to inform, improve and continuously reassess coverage of antenatal care.
Cano, B., Pascua, M. y Pastor, S. (2022). Sujetos precarios en las literaturas hispánicas contemporáneas. Peter Lang
Authors: Lorenzo García Víctor
Published: February 2024

Reseña del libro: Cano,B., Pascua, M. y Pastor, S. (2022). Sujetos precarios en las literaturas hispánicas contemporáneas. Peter Lang, 202 pp., ISBN 9783631844632.
Roas, D. (dir.). (2023). Historia de lo fantástico en las narrativas latinoamericanas I (1830-1940). Iberoamericana / Vervuert. Colección Ediciones de Iberoamericana
Authors: Alemany Bay Carmen
Published: February 2024

Reseña del libro: Roas, D. (dir.). (2023). Historia de lo fantástico en las narrativas latinoamericanas I (1830-1940). Iberoamericana / Vervuert. Colección Ediciones de Iberoamericana, 132». 418 pp. ISBN: 978-84-9192-306-0.
Continuing Medical Education Questions: February 2024
Authors: Batheja Mashal A.
Published: February 2024

Article Title: Thirty-Day Readmissions Are Largely Not Preventable in Patients With Cirrhosis
Continuing Medical Education Questions: February 2024
Authors: Rangray Rajani
Published: February 2024

Article Title: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Propranolol Use During Ligation Program for Secondary Prophylaxis of Esophageal Variceal Bleeding