bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in mental distress among employees during the three years of the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany
Authors: Casjens Swaantje , Taeger Dirk , Brüning Thomas , Behrens Thomas
Published: May 2024

Objectives

The COVID-19 pandemic changed the future of work sustainably and led to a general increase in mental stress. A study conducted during the second and third pandemic wave with a retrospective survey of the first wave among 1,545 non-healthcare workers confirmed an increase in anxiety and depression symptoms and showed a correlation with the occupational SARS-CoV-2 infection risk. This online follow-up survey aims to examine changes in mental distress as the pandemic progressed in Germany and to identify factors influencing potential changes.

Methods

Longitudinal data from 260 subjects were available for this analysis. Mental distress related to anxiety and depression symptoms, assessed by the Patient Health Questionnaire-4 (PHQ-4), and occupational risk factors were solicited at the end of 2022 and retrospectively at the fifth wave. Categorized PHQ-4 scores were modelled with mixed ordinal regression models and presented with odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).

Results

A previous diagnosis of a depressive or anxiety disorder was a strong risk factor for severe symptoms (OR 3.49, 95% CI 1.71–7.11). The impact of occupational SARS-CoV-2 infection risk on mental distress was increased, albeit failing to reach the formal level of statistical significance (high risk OR 1.83, 95% CI 0.59–5.63; probable risk OR 1.72, 95% CI 0.93–3.15). Mental distress was more pronounced in those with a previous diagnosis of anxiety and depression. Confirmed occupational risk factors were protective measures against occupational SARS-CoV-2 infection perceived as inadequate, chronic work-related stress, overcommitment, reduced interactions with fellow-workers, and work-privacy conflicts.

Conclusions

The pandemic had a negative impact on anxiety and depression symptoms among the studied non-healthcare workers, particularly early in the pandemic, although this effect does not appear to be permanent. There are modifiable risk factors that can protect workers’ mental health, including strengthening social interactions among employees and reducing work-privacy conflicts.
A qualitative exploration of the experiences of pregnant women living with obesity and accessing antenatal care
Authors: Charnley Margaret , Newson Lisa , Weeks Andrew , Abayomi Julie
Published: May 2024

Women are advised to optimise weight before pregnancy. However, many are either already living with overweight or obesity prior to becoming pregnant, increasing the risks for adverse outcomes. Health care professionals (HCP) are responsible for advising women of risks throughout and following pregnancy. However, midwives often find broaching the conversation around maternal obesity difficult. This study explored the experiences of pregnant women living with obesity in accessing antenatal care. Seventeen women completed a semi-structured interview. Transcripts were analysed thematically. Four themes were developed: 1) antenatal care is inconsistent, 2) additional support is needed, 3) women feel judged about their weight, and 4) weight cycling is highly prevalent. Findings suggest that pregnant women living with obesity often experience weight bias from HCPs, feel judged because of their weight and are left feeling confused and overlooked. Women reported inconsistencies in advice and care offered and acknowledged a lack of continuity of care throughout pregnancy. We call for an urgent need for further multidisciplinary training to address the concerns, experiences and needs of pregnant women living with obesity.
Behavioural synchronisation between different groups of dogs and wolves and their owners/handlers: Exploring the effect of breed and human interaction
Authors: Heurlin Jasmine , Barabás György , Roth Lina S. V.
Published: May 2024

Dogs have previously been shown to synchronise their behaviour with their owner and the aim of this study was to test the effect of immediate interactions, breed, and the effects of domestication. The behavioural synchronisation test was conducted in outdoor enclosures and consisted of 30 s where the owner/handler was walking and 30 s of standing still. Three studies were conducted to explore the effect of immediate interaction (study A), the effect of breed group (study B), and the effect of domestication (study C). In study A, a group of twenty companion dogs of various breeds were tested after three different human interaction treatments: Ignore, Pet, and Play. The results showed that dogs adjusted their movement pattern to align with their owner’s actions regardless of treatment. Furthermore, exploration, eye contact, and movement were all influenced by the owners moving pattern, and exploration also decreased after the Play treatment. In study B, the synchronisation test was performed after the Ignore treatment on three groups: 24 dogs of ancient dog breeds, 17 solitary hunting dogs, and 20 companion dogs (data from study A). Irrespective of the group, all dogs synchronised their moving behaviour with their owner. In addition, human walking positively influenced eye contact behaviour while simultaneously decreasing exploration behaviour. In study C, a group of six socialised pack-living wolves and six similarly socialised pack-living dogs were tested after the Ignore treatment. Interestingly, these animals did not alter their moving behaviour in response to their handler. In conclusion, dogs living together with humans synchronise with their owner’s moving behaviour, while wolves and dogs living in packs do not. Hence, the degree of interspecies behavioural synchronisation may be influenced by the extent to which the dogs are immersed in everyday life with humans.
Prevalence of oral rehydration solution use and its determinants in the treatment of diarrhea among under-five children in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Adedokun Sulaimon T. , Yaya Sanni
Published: May 2024

Background

Diarrhea is the second leading cause of under-five deaths claiming half a million children every year. Most of these deaths occurred in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. Oral rehydration solution (ORS) has been described as the most effective treatment of diarrhea. However, only 36% of children with diarrhea received ORS in sub-Saharan Africa. This study examined the factors associated with ORS use for children with diarrhea in the sub-region.

Methods

Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) data sets of 31 countries in sub-Saharan Africa were used in this study. The data involved 30,102 under-five children with diarrhea. The multivariable analysis involved binary logistic regression.

Results

Prevalence of ORS use was 38% in sub-Saharan Africa with countries such as Namibia (71.8%), Zambia (66.4%) and Malawi (63.8%) having the highest rates. Use of ORS was most common among children whose mothers had secondary or higher education (45%), were exposed to media (41%) and attended antenatal care (41%). ORS use was significantly associated with secondary or higher education (OR = 1.63; 95%CI: [1.47–1.81]; p<0.001), exposure to media (OR = 1.17; 95%CI: [1.07–1.27]; p<0.001), antenatal care attendance (OR = 2.33; 95%CI: [1.08–1.27]; p<0.001), child’s age (OR = 1.46; 95%CI: [1.35–1.59]; p<0.001), child’s size at birth (OR = 1.08; 95%CI: [1.00–1.17]; p<0.05), household size (OR = 1.28; 95%CI:[1.06–1.54]; p<0.05) and source of drinking water (OR = 1.18; 95%CI: [1.09–1.29]; p<0.001).

Conclusion

This study revealed a 38% prevalence of ORS use during diarrhea episodes in sub-Saharan Africa. This is low as it is less than the 44% recorded for developing countries as a whole. While this study emphasises the need for a further study on effects of severity of diarrhea on ORS use and factors determining differences in ORS use among countries, it also calls for interventions that will increase use of ORS is sub-Saharan Africa. Such interventions should include increase in literacy rate among girls and women, increase in the proportion of women with access to media, involvement of health workers in programmes that would promote antenatal care utilization among women at community level and provision of social amenities like pipe-borne water.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis resides in lysosome-poor monocyte-derived lung cells during chronic infection
Authors: Zheng Weihao , Chang I-Chang , Limberis Jason , Budzik Jonathan M. , Zha Beth Shoshana , Howard Zachary , Chen Lucas , Ernst Joel D.
Published: May 2024

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infects lung myeloid cells, but the specific Mtb-permissive cells and host mechanisms supporting Mtb persistence during chronic infection are incompletely characterized. We report that after the development of T cell responses, CD11clo monocyte-derived cells harbor more live Mtb than alveolar macrophages (AM), neutrophils, and CD11chi monocyte-derived cells. Transcriptomic and functional studies revealed that the lysosome pathway is underexpressed in this highly permissive subset, characterized by less lysosome content, acidification, and proteolytic activity than AM, along with less nuclear TFEB, a regulator of lysosome biogenesis. Mtb infection does not drive lysosome deficiency in CD11clo monocyte-derived cells but promotes recruitment of monocytes that develop into permissive lung cells, mediated by the Mtb ESX-1 secretion system. The c-Abl tyrosine kinase inhibitor nilotinib activates TFEB and enhances lysosome functions of macrophages in vitro and in vivo, improving control of Mtb infection. Our results suggest that Mtb exploits lysosome-poor lung cells for persistence and targeting lysosome biogenesis is a potential host-directed therapy for tuberculosis.
NEM TECNOFILIA OU TECNOFOBIA: CONTRIBUTOS PARA UM DISCURSO CONVERGENTE A EFETIVAÇÃO DOS DIREITOS DA PERSONALIDADE
Authors: Siqueira Dirceu Pereira , Lara Fernanda Corrêa Pavesi
Published: May 2024

Contextualização: O desenvolvimento tecnológico assumiu dimensão existencial inédita na vida humana, tem ampliado fronteiras e transformado as relações interpessoais e de poder. As transformações tecnológicas, como um dos mais importantes fenômenos da história humana, prospectam utopias e distopias e os reflexos nas relações jurídicas são da mais variada ordem. O artigo tem foco na investigação das mudanças impulsionadas pela tecnologia nos direitos da personalidade. Objetivo: O objetivo da pesquisa consiste em analisar, nos textos jurídicos-científicos, a intersecção entre os direitos da personalidade e a tecnologia, com vistas a mapear por qual viés científico a tecnologia é apresentada nos estudos, de modo a contribuir para um discurso científico capaz de compor caminhos para efetivação dos direitos da personalidade. Método: Consolida-se na aplicação da técnica de pesquisa consistente na revisão sistemática da literatura e utilização do método indutivo. Para definição do protocolo de pesquisa parte-se da pergunta norteadora: qual espaço as pesquisas envolvendo os direitos da personalidade ocuparão nas narrativas do século XXI? Os domínios da literatura são: direitos da personalidade e tecnologia, pesquisados nas bases de dados EBSCOhost e Scielo. Resultados: Como resultados, destacam-se a intersecção de várias temáticas como: proteção de dados pessoais, inteligência artificial, acesso à justiça, biodireito, direito ao esquecimento e arrependimento digital. Assim, tecnologia orientada pela ética e o sentido ampliado dos direitos da personalidade assumem evidência.
THE IMPACT OF URBANISATION ON LONG-TERM SUSTAINABILITY IN SOUTH ASIA
Authors: Rodrigues José Noronha , Bhattacharya Sumanda , Cabete Dora Cristina Ribeiro
Published: May 2024

Contextualization: Despite the progress made by South Asian nations, a recent analysis by the World Bank indicates that the region has faced challenges in harnessing the potential that urbanisation presents to transform their economy and join the ranks of more prosperous nations in terms of prosperity and living standards. As a result, the suburbs and outskirts of large cities have experienced a more rapid expansion of population. The economics of location and space are influenced by urbanisation's embodiment of agglomeration's density, separation, and variety. It is the main reason for the disparity in prosperity between different parts of the country.
Objective: Propose to investigate the impact of urbanization on long-term sustainability in South Asia.
Methodology: For this article it was used the inductive method, based on primary sources and carrying out documentary and bibliographical research.
Results: The study provides clarification and debate on a current issue linked to the impact of urbanisation on environmental, social and economic sustainability and, at the same time, presents some solutions and policies and strategies to minimise this impact. To this end, it takes a critical look at the impact of urbanisation on long-term sustainability in South Asia. It concludes that urban growth has long-term effects on the way we live, work and interact in cities, so it is crucial to plan and build sustainable communities as the world's population moves to cities.
ENTRE LINHAS DE CÓDIGO E A LINGUÍSTICA: ESTUDO DE CASO DO NOVO DIALETO DESENVOLVIDO POR INTELIGÊNCIAS ARTIFICIAIS DA FACEBOOK
Authors: Pacheco Frederico Reis
Published: May 2024

Este artigo explora o intrigante fenômeno da criação de um dialeto único por sistemas de Inteligência Artificial (IA) da holding Facebook Inc. à luz das teorias da comunicação. Utilizando uma abordagem qualitativa e o método de estudo de caso, a pesquisa investiga as complexidades e as implicações dessa mudança na forma de se comunicar e criar narrativas. O estudo revela que o dialeto desenvolvido pelas IAs convida a uma revisita às concepções tradicionais de linguagem e comunicação, introduzindo uma nova dimensão na discussão acadêmica sobre IA e linguística. O artigo conclui que a possibilidade de variações na comunicação com as IAs levanta questões críticas sobre seus impactos sobre a linguagem humana, a construção de narrativas e até a percepção das pessoas sobre o mundo.
HUMANOS E ROBÔS PARA ALÉM DE DUALISMOS: VISITA ÀS ZONAS CREPUSCULARES DA FICÇÃO CIENTÍFICA
Authors: Nóbrega Lívia de Pádua
Published: May 2024

O artigo objetiva compreender os sentidos circulantes em séries de ficção científica em torno da figura de robôs ao longo do tempo. Para tanto, recorre à Teoria do Imaginário, de Gilbert Durand e aos procedimentos metodológicos por ele sistematizados na Mitocrítica, a fim de mapear os principais elementos simbólicos, arquétipos e mitos que circulam em uma produção cultural midiática. Adota-se como objeto empírico a saga estadunidense Battlestar Galactica (1978 – 2010). Entre os resultados, encontra-se disposto em escala ascendente no desenvolvimento deste universo ficcional, um deslocamento do combate à tentativa de conferir sentido ao medo fundamental do ser - a morte. Assim, constrói-se um imaginário de positivação da finitude humana, delineando um horizonte de eternidade nos termos religiosos como destino comum à humanidade e aos seres artificiais. Dentro desse contexto, ser e saber-se mortal emerge como o que confere sentido à vida, configurando essa condição existencial como consolo frente ao inexorável.
Agama dan Spiritualitas Teosofi di Indonesia: Antara Formalisme dan Subtansialisme
Authors: Abdulloh Hadziq  , Ita Rodiah
Published: May 2024

Seiring perkembangan studi agama, muncul konsep religiusitas dan spiritualitas yang diperdebatkan oleh para ahli. Agama dan spiritual mulai mengalami pemisahan ketika terjadi sekulerisme Barat pada pertengahan abad 19 masehi. Dalam penelitian ini penulis menggunakan jenis penelitian kepustakaan (Library Research). Religiusitas lebih dianggap sebagai suatu yang formal dan instusional, sedangkan spiritualitas dikaitkan dengan sesuatu pengalaman personal dan bersifat fungsional, serta mencerminkan upaya perolehan tujuan dan makna hidup. Spiritualitas dan religiusitas berbeda dari segi konsep, namun aspek tertentu keduanya bersinggungan. Teosofi yang berarti kebijaksanaan Tuhan adalah suatu perkumpulan yang dipelopori oleh madam Helena Petrovna Blavatsky. Substansi dari ajaran agama ialah spiritualitas sehingga agama tidak bisa lepas dari spiritualitas. Agama dan religiusitas merupakan bentuk formal atau institusi untuk menuju spiritualitas. Regiusitas terpaku oleh tatanan yang dibentuk oleh struktur teologi tertentu sedangkan spiritualitas memiliki kehendak bebas.
[ As the study of religion developed, the concepts of religiosity and spirituality were debated by scholars. Religion and spirituality began to experience separation when Western secularism occurred in the mid-19th century. In this research, the author uses the type of library research. Religiosity is more considered as something formal and institutional, while spirituality is associated with something personal and functional experience, and reflects efforts to obtain the purpose and meaning of life. Spirituality and religiosity are different in terms of concepts, but certain aspects of both intersect. Theosophy, which means the wisdom of God, is an association pioneered by Madam Helena Petrovna Blavatsky. The substance of religious teachings is spirituality so religion cannot be separated from spirituality. Religion and religiosity are formal forms or institutions of spirituality. Religiosity is fixed by the order formed by certain theological structures while spirituality has free will pioneered by Madam Helena Petrovna Blavatsky. The substance of religious teachings is spirituality so religion cannot be separated from spirituality. Religion and religiosity are formal forms or institutions of spirituality. Religiosity is fixed by the order formed by certain theological structures while spirituality has free will.]
MAIN RISK FACTORS FOR THE TREATMENT OF EPISTAXIS AT IPO HOSPITAL SURGICAL CENTER
Authors: Morais Maicon Fernando Lobato de , Sparaga Lucas Demetrio , Matucheski Cainã , Catani Guilherme Simas do Amaral
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Epistaxis is considered one of the main emergencies within the specialty of otorhinolaryngology. It is estimated that 60% of the population has gone through or will go through at least 1 episode of epistaxis during their lifetime. Only 6%, however, require medical intervention. Still, in some cases the severity is such that patients require emergency intervention at risk of death. Objectives: Evaluate the main risk factors and identify the epidemiological profile – age, sex, comorbidities of patients with epistaxis who have required intervention in a surgical center. Methodology: This is a retrospective analytical study with a quantitative approach of patients treated in the emergency department of IPO Hospital, who required surgical intervention between January 1, 2020 and December 31, 2020. Results: A total of 58 medical records were reviewed according to inclusion and exclusion criteria, with 38 male patients (65.5%) and 20 female patients (34.5%). The age group of patients ranged from 10 to 88 years, the most prevalent being from 21 to 30 years, 22.4%. The predisposing factors were: recent nasal surgery (74.1%), systemic arterial hypertension (13.7%), coagulopathies (1.7%). The main procedures were: cauterization of the precise bleeding site (84.4%), cauterization of the sphenopalatine artery (10.3%) and cauterization of the anterior ethmoidal artery (5.3%). Conclusion: The main predisposing factors associated with epistaxis were nasal surgeries, systemic arterial hypertension and coagulopathies. Early intervention in a surgical center is indicated for patients with severe epistaxis and predisposing factors, while avoiding prolonged hospitalization and morbidities associated with nasal packing.
PROFILE OF PATIENTS WHO UNDERWENT CATARACT SURGERY AT THE HOSPITAL PARANAENSE DE OTORRINOLARINGOLOGIA – IPO, IN THE YEAR 2022
Authors: Sicuto Guilherme Sêneca , Rubin Michel Risnic
Published: May 2024

Cataract is the name given to any opacity of the crystalline lens, and is the leading cause of treatable blindness in developing countries. Its main cause is related to aging. This study intends to provide a survey of patients’ profile data regarding age, gender, operated eye, onset of symptoms, level of visual impairment and risk factors of patients who underwent cataract surgery at the Hospital Paranaense de Otorrinolaringologia – IPO between September and October 2022. A descriptive and prospective study was conducted upon approval by IPO’s Research Ethics Committee, based on the analysis of 103 patients indicated for cataract surgery, totaling 154 eyes. The most affected age group was 60- to 69-year-olds, comprising 39 (37.9%) patients; the female gender was 57 (55.3%); the most affected eye was the right one in 80 (51.9%) patients; the onset of symptoms was of 2.2 years on average; the number of eyes already presenting some level of visual impairment was 147 (95.45%); among the systemic diseases the presence of arterial hypertension was found in 56 (54.36%) patients and diabetes mellitus in 30 (29.12%); the use of corticoids was from 3 (2.9%) of the patients. According to the study data and the literature, there was major similarity between the two, especially in there being a predominance of the female gender, mostly elderly, being unilateral or bilateral. Almost all patients had some degree of visual impairment. The most prevalent diseases in the patients studied were arterial hypertension and diabetes mellitus, and some patients used corticosteroids.
EFFECT OF PIEZO IN POST-OPERATIVE ECCHYMOSIS DURATION IN CLOSED RHINOPLASTY
Authors: Chornobay Ana Paula , Sparaga Lucas Demetrio , Prestes Luciano Campelo
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Rhinoplasty is one of the most performed surgeries all over the world and advances in surgical techniques have been happening progressively, although postoperative skin and soft tissue complications, such as edema and ecchymosis, can induce anxiety for patients. Piezo, an instrument that uses ultrasonic vibrations, can provide greater precision and less damage to adjacent soft tissues, causing less surgical trauma and better behavior of soft and hard tissues during healing. Objective: To evaluate the effect of Piezo in duration of postoperative ecchymosis in closed rhinoplasty and the degree of discomfort of patients with this complication. Material and methods: Prospective, longitudinal, analytical, and interventional study in patients undergoing primary closed rhinoplasty, which were divided into 2 groups: Group 1 (control): patients undergoing closed rhinoplasty with conventional osteotomies and Group 2: patients undergoing closed rhinoplasty with osteotomies using Piezo. The evolution of ecchymosis was recorded through photographs sent to the research team until it was not present, the degree of discomfort with ecchymosis was graded from 0-10 at the end of the first week. Results: 13 patients were evaluated, 6 in Group 1 (control) and 7 in Group 2 (Piezo). Age ranged between 18 and 53 years (mean 33.1 years). We had a prevalence of females (69.2%) and the duration of ecchymosis ranged from 0-16 days. The mean duration of ecchymosis was longer in the control group (8 days) compared to the group that used Piezo (4 days). The discomfort in relation to ecchymosis was greater in patients in the control group (5) compared to patients in which Piezo was used (3). Discussion: Piezo has been shown to decrease postoperative morbidity in open and closed rhinoplasties or other surgical procedures. It provides a safe, reproducible and accurate way to perform lateral osteotomies, minor surgical trauma and better soft and hard tissue behavior during healing. In this way, it provides less swelling and ecchymosis compared to conventional osteotomy and can significantly increase overall patient satisfaction. Conclusion: Piezo helps reduce the duration of postoperative ecchymosis after closed rhinoplasty and can reduce the degree of discomfort with this type of complication.
USE OF NASAL SPLINT IN RHNOSEPTOPLASTY SURGERY STRUCTURED BY OPEN TECHNIQUE
Authors: Tironi Sofia Pereira , Dranka Daniela
Published: May 2024

The Nasal Splint in rhinoseptoplasty aims to support and anatomically reconstruct the nasal cavity, in addition to preventing adhesions. Although it is a medical device specially designed to be used in supporting the nasal septal cartilage to avoid the formation of edemas and hematomas, its postoperative symptoms have been poorly assessed in the literature. The objective of this study was to evaluate postoperative nasal symptoms in patients who underwent rhinoseptoplasty with the use of a Splint. The study was carried out using online questionnaires, applied to patients undergoing primary rhinoseptoplasty using Splint from June to September 2023.It aimed to assess the degree of sensation of congestion, obstruction, difficulty in breathing, or difficulty in sleeping in the postoperative period. Additionally, frequencies and percentages of patients were evaluated based on the difference in discomfort scores before and after the removal of the Nasal Splint, stratified into a score up to 5 points for increase or decrease. A statistical analysis was performed using the non-parametric Wilcoxon test, values of p<0.05 were considered. A total of 39 patients were included. Regarding nasal congestion and the feeling of a congested nose in the postoperative period of Rhinoplasty, the results were: 34.2% felt nothing; 39.5% felt very little; 23.7% felt moderately, and 2.6% felt reasonably a lot. The median of patients who experienced this before the removal of the Splint was 2, and after removal, it was 3, with p = 0.311. The result indicates that there is no significant difference between the two assessments concerning the degree of postoperative discomfort when comparing pre- and post-removal evaluations of the Nasal Splint. The use of Splints was well tolerated by patients, with no statistical difference observed in relation to discomfort before and after removal of the Nasal Splint, but the evaluation of postoperative symptoms is still poorly evaluated in the literature.
Adenosine washing improves the retention rate of fat grafts under conditions of obesity
Authors: Kim Beom Jun , Cha Han Gyu , Park Eun Soo , Choi Chang Yong
Published: May 2024

Background Fat grafting is a commonly employed aesthetic procedure for contour enhancement. However, outcome prediction is challenging due to the complex regeneration and remodeling processes involved. We investigated whether adenosine improves engraftment and fat graft survival under conditions of obesity.Methods Fat was harvested from mice fed a high-fat diet. This fat was washed with either Krebs-Ringer bicarbonate HEPES buffer (the vehicle group) or a buffer containing 500 nM adenosine (the adenosine wash group). Subsequently, the fat was transplanted into normal mice at 0.2 mL per mouse. In both groups, 50% of the mice were sacrificed at 1 week and the remainder at 4 weeks post-transplantation. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analysis was conducted during week 1. In week 4, micro-computed tomography, immunofluorescence staining, and RT-qPCR were performed. A sample of the initially harvested fat was set aside for lipolysis assay.Results Adenosine washing improved fat graft retention volumes by up to 50%. One week post-transplantation, the expression of adipogenic and angiogenic genes was found to be upregulated in the adenosine wash group. After 4 weeks, immunofluorescence staining revealed greater adipocyte integrity and an increased number of vessels. Furthermore, adenosine appeared to modulate inflammation by stabilizing the lipolysis rate.Conclusions Adenosine washing increased the fat graft survival rate under conditions of obesity. Clinically, this suggests a simple, cost-effective adjuvant method for improving fat graft survival in individuals with obesity. Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and explore the applicability of this technique for autologous transplantation.
Abdominal closure with different oblique planes in island TRAM flaps: a method for achieving a better scar and contour of the donor site
Authors: Kim Tae Hyun , Kim Deok Yeol , Kim Chung Hun , Kim Suk Wha , Ahn Hee Chang
Published: May 2024

Background An autologous abdominal flap can provide an aesthetically pleasing breast with a natural feel. However, contracted scars and hourglass contour deformities at the abdominal donor site can sometimes occur. These complications can reduce patient satisfaction and quality of life. Therefore, we performed different oblique plane closure of the abdominal donor site and evaluated the aesthetic scores in comparison with the conventional vertical single plane closure.Methods The procedures begin with a beveled incision down to the fascia level during transverse rectus abdominis muscle flap elevation. At the time of donor site closure, Scarpa’s fascia and the subcutaneous layers are sutured while being pulled downward. Sixty patients were divided into two groups: group A (single vertical plane closure) and group B (different oblique plane closure). Abdominal scars were scored by five reviewers using the scar scale.Results There were no significant differences in scores for vascularization, dog-ear presence, and umbilical shape of the scar between the two groups. However, group B showed marked improvements in flatness, contracture, and thickness of the scar surface. Notably, the different oblique plane closure in group B achieved much higher scores for the abdominal contour than group A.Conclusions The vertical single plane suture of the abdominal donor site may result in depressive contracture with poor cosmetic outcomes. The different oblique plane closure technique markedly improved the appearance of scars on the abdomen. This technique is likely to enhance patient satisfaction with both the breast and abdominal outcomes of breast reconstruction using an abdominal flap.
Bilateral giant juvenile multilobulated fibroadenomas of the breast: a case report
Authors: Ha Nonhyun , Yun Junseo , Shin Hee Chul , Myung Yujin
Published: May 2024

Fibroadenomas are the most common benign breast tumors in women. Giant juvenile fibroadenomas, which represent about 0.5% to 2% of all fibroadenomas, are a rare variant of these tumors. Giant juvenile fibroadenomas develop between the ages of 11 to 18 years and are usually unilateral and solitary. In the case presented, a 21-year-old woman was found to have multilobular fibroadenomas in both breasts, each with a maximum diameter of over 20 cm. The masses weighed 636 g on the right side and 752 g on the left. The patient underwent nipple-sparing mastectomy and immediate reconstruction with implant insertion in both breasts. This case is notable for the unusual size and shape of the masses, which presented considerable challenges for surgical removal and breast reconstruction. The patient was discharged without postoperative complications and remains under outpatient observation.
Scar endometriosis as an easily misdiagnosed abdominal mass: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Lee Chi Hyun , Yi Changryul Claud , Ahn Ji Hyun , Kim Joo Hyoung
Published: May 2024

Scar endometriosis, which is characterized by ectopic endometrial-like glands and stroma surrounding scar tissue, is rare and presents diagnostic challenges due to its inconsistent presentation. We report a case of a 40-year-old woman who had previously undergone two cesarean sections and a hysterectomy, in whom a mass in the subcutaneous layer of the lower abdomen was incidentally discovered by computed tomography (CT). A physical examination revealed a linear cesarean scar with a palpable, pigmented mass. An enhanced abdominal CT scan revealed an approximately 3.5-cm ill-defined soft tissue mass infiltrating the rectus abdominis muscle. A desmoid tumor was suspected based on the radiological findings, and endometriosis was also considered in light of the patient’s medical history. Wide mass excision was performed, ensuring 5-mm margins. The mass was completely excised, and a histopathological examination revealed endometriosis. Due to its rarity, scar endometriosis in the abdominal area can be easily misdiagnosed. Therefore, a heightened suspicion of scar endometriosis should be maintained in female patients with a history of abdominal or pelvic surgery presenting with an abdominal mass. Although imaging modalities can play a supportive role in the diagnosis, an extensive medical history assessment and comprehensive physical examination remain crucial.
Reconstruction of a deformed umbilicus with a keloid using a single triangular incision line: a case report
Authors: Joo Hong Sil , Kim Hyun Been
Published: May 2024

A common goal in reconstructing the umbilicus is to achieve an aesthetically pleasing result. This single-subject study demonstrates the outcome of managing an umbilical keloid scar using a single excisional line. A patient presented with a large, oval keloid scar at the center of his abdomen. The scar, measuring 4×3 cm in diameter, was deformed to the extent that it completely obscured the umbilicus. The patient frequently experienced intermittent inflammation at the site of the scar. We planned a triangular incision around the keloid. The umbilical keloid was excised and reconstructed using a flap anchored along the lower edge of the triangle. The triangular flap was elevated and the deep dermis of its cephalic portion was attached to the linea alba. The remainder of the flap was sutured at the center to create a conical shape. Eleven months post-procedure, the umbilicus maintained an aesthetically pleasing appearance with proper depth, superior hooding, and a concave shape without protrusion. An advantage of this straightforward surgical method is that it allows for simultaneous resection and reconstruction without the need for additional flap design. This method is expected to be a useful option for reconstructing umbilical keloids the size of a fully developed umbilicus.
QTCS: Efficient Query-Centered Temporal Community Search
Authors: Lin Longlong , Yuan Pingpeng , Li Rong-Hua , Zhu Chunxue , Qin Hongchao , Jin Hai , Jia Tao
Published: May 2024

Temporal community search is an important task in graph analysis, which has been widely used in many practical applications. However, existing methods suffer from two major defects: (i) they only require that the target result contains the query vertexq, leading to the temporal proximity betweenqand other vertices being ignored. Thus, they may find many temporal irrelevant vertices (these vertices are called query-drifted vertices) concerningqfor satisfying their objective functions; (ii) their methods are NP-hard, incurring high costs for exact solutions or compromised qualities for approximate/heuristic algorithms. In this paper, we propose a new problem named query-centered temporal community search to overcome these limitations. Specifically, we first present a novel concept of Time-Constrained Personalized PageRank to characterize the temporal proximity betweenqand other vertices. Then, we introduce a model calledβ-temporal proximity core, which can seamlessly combine temporal proximity and structural cohesiveness. Subsequently, our problem is formulated as an optimization task that finds aβ-temporal proximity core with the largestβ.We theoretically prove that our problem can circumvent these query-drifted vertices. To solve our problem, we first devise an exact and near-linear time greedy removing algorithm that iteratively removes unpromising vertices. To improve efficiency, we then design an approximate two-stage local search algorithm with bound-based pruning techniques. Finally, extensive experiments on eight real-life datasets and nine competitors show the superiority of the proposed solutions.
Optimizing Data Acquisition to Enhance Machine Learning Performance
Authors: Wang Tingting , Huang Shixun , Bao Zhifeng , Culpepper J. Shane , Dedeoglu Volkan , Arablouei Reza
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we study how to acquire labeled data points from a large data pool to enrich a training set for enhancing supervised machine learning (ML) performance. The state-of-the-art solution is the clustering-based training set selection (CTS) algorithm, which initially clusters the data points in a data pool and subsequently selects new data points from clusters. The efficiency of CTS is constrained by its frequent retraining of the target ML model, and the effectiveness is limited by the selection criteria, which represent the state of data points within each cluster and impose a restriction of selecting only one cluster in each iteration. To overcome these limitations, we propose a new algorithm, called CTS with incremental estimation of adaptive score (IAS). IAS employs online learning, enabling incremental model updates by using new data, and eliminating the need to fully retrain the target model, and hence improves the efficiency. To enhance the effectiveness of IAS, we introduce adaptive score estimation, which serves as novel selection criteria to identify clusters and select new data points by balancing trade-offs between exploitation and exploration during data acquisition. To further enhance the effectiveness of IAS, we introduce a new adaptive mini-batch selection method that, in each iteration, selects data points from multiple clusters rather than a single cluster, hence eliminating the potential bias due to using only one cluster. By integrating this method into the IAS algorithm, we propose a novel algorithm termed IAS with adaptive mini-batch selection (IAS-AMS). Experimental results highlight the superior effectiveness of IAS-AMS, with IAS also outperforming other competing algorithms. In terms of efficiency, IAS takes the lead, while the efficiency of IAS-AMS is on par with that of the existing CTS algorithm.
FluidKV: Seamlessly Bridging the Gap between Indexing Performance and Memory-Footprint on Ultra-Fast Storage
Authors: Lu Ziyi , Cao Qiang , Jiang Hong , Chen Yuxing , Yao Jie , Pan Anqun
Published: May 2024

Our extensive experiments reveal that existing key-value stores (KVSs) achieve high performance at the expense of a huge memory footprint that is often impractical or unacceptable. Even with the emerging ultra-fast byte-addressable persistent memory (PM), KVSs fall far short of delivering the high performance promised by PM's superior I/O bandwidth. To find the root causes and bridge the huge performance/memory-footprint gap, we revisit the architectural features of two representative indexing mechanisms (single-stage and multi-stage) and propose a three-stage KVS called FluidKV. FluidKV effectively consolidates these indexes by fast and seamlessly running incoming key-value request stream from the write-concurrent frontend stage to the memory-efficient backend stage across an intermediate stage. FluidKV also designs important enabling techniques, such as thread-exclusive logging, PM-friendly KV-block structures, and dual-grained indexes, to fully utilize both parallel-processing and high-bandwidth capabilities of ultra-fast storage hardware while reducing the overhead. We implemented a FluidKV prototype and evaluated it under a variety of workloads. The results show that FluidKV outperforms the state-of-the-art PM-aware KVSs, including ListDB and FlatStore with different indexes, by up to 9× and 3.9× in write and read throughput respectively, while cutting up to 90% of the DRAM footprint.
Circulating extracellular vesicle characteristics differ between men and women following 12 weeks of concurrent exercise training
Authors: Kargl Christopher K. , Sterczala Adam J. , Santucci Daniella , Conkright William R. , Krajewski Kellen T. , Martin Brian J. , Greeves Julie P. , O'Leary Thomas J. , Wardle Sophie L. , Sahu Amrita , Ambrosio Fabrisia , Nindl Bradley C.
Published: May 2024

Concurrent resistance and endurance exercise training (CET) has well‐studied benefits; however, inherent hormonal and genetic differences alter adaptive responses to exercise between sexes. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are factors that contribute to adaptive signaling. Our purpose was to test if EV characteristics differ between men and women following CET. 18 young healthy participants underwent 12‐weeks of CET. Prior to and following CET, subjects performed an acute bout of heavy resistance exercise (AHRET) consisting of 6 × 10 back squats at 75% 1RM. At rest and following AHRET, EVs were isolated from plasma and characteristics and miRNA contents were analyzed. AHRET elevated EV abundance in trained men only (+51%) and AHRET‐induced changes were observed for muscle‐derived EVs and microvesicles. There were considerable sex‐specific effects of CET on EV miRNAs, highlighted by larger variation following the 12‐week program in men compared to women at rest. Pathway analysis based on differentially expressed EV miRNAs predicted that AHRET and 12 weeks of CET in men positively regulates hypertrophy and growth pathways more so than in women. This report highlights sex‐based differences in the EV response to resistance and concurrent exercise training and suggests that EVs may be important adaptive signaling factors altered by exercise training.
Reallabore in und für Bibliotheken – der Versuch einer Einordnung
Authors: Georgy Ursula
Published: May 2024

Das Thema Reallabore, auch vielfach bezeichnet als Living Labs, nimmt in den letzten Jahren an Fahrt auf. Auch Bibliotheken sind bereits auf den Trend aufgesprungen. Dieser Beitrag ordnet das Thema der Reallabore in das Innovationsmanagement ein und stellt dar, welche Möglichkeiten der Partizipation sich Bibliotheken durch Reallabore eröffnen.
Panel Technical Efficiency of Korean Companies in the Energy Sector based on Digital Capabilities
Authors: Choi Jong Woo , Park Chankook
Published: May 2024

Digitalization is a crucial driver of enhanced energy system efficiency, facilitating the energy transition and offering a gateway for technology companies to enter the sector. This study, employing stochastic frontier analysis as the chosen methodology, investigates the efficiency challenges faced by companies venturing into the energy industry with a digital technology focus. Our empirical analysis reveals a positive correlation between higher total assets and increased research and development expenditures, signifying the vital importance of talent acquisition and securing R&D funding. Additionally, it is noteworthy that smaller companies experienced a more pronounced negative impact of COVID-19 on their efficiency. These findings contribute to refining digitalization strategies in the energy industry, emphasizing the role of efficiency from a corporate perspective.
An optimal concentric circular antenna array design using atomic orbital search for communication systems
Authors: Durmus Ali , Yildirim Zafer , Kurban Rifat , Karakose Ercan
Published: May 2024

In this study, optimum radiation patterns of Concentric Circular Antenna Arrays (CCAAs) are obtained by using the Atomic Orbital Search (AOS) algorithm for communication spectrum. Communication systems stands as a nascent technological innovation poised to revolutionize the landscape of wireless communication systems. It distinguishes itself through its hallmark features, notably an exceptionally high data transmission rate, expanded network capacity, minimal latency, and a commendable quality of service. The most important issue in wireless communication is a precision antenna array design. The success of this design depends on suppressing the maximum sidelobe levels (MSLs) values of the antenna in the far-field radiation region as much as possible. The AOS, which is a rapid and flexible search algorithm, is a novel physics-based algorithm. The amplitudes and inter-element spacing of CCAAs are optimally determined by utilizing AOS to the reduction of the MSLs. In this study, CCAAs with three and four rings are considered. The number of elements of these CCAAs has been determined as 4–6–8, 8–10–12 and 6–12–18–24. The radiation patterns obtained with AOS are compared with the results available in the literature and it is seen that the results of the AOS method are better.
The role of digital technologies and Human-Computer Interaction for the future of education
Authors: Herczeg Michael
Published: May 2024

Over the last 50 years education has been transformed by digital technologies. Many efforts have been made to create and apply “digital” teaching and learning methods, tools and platforms. The last 25 years of computer-based education can be characterized by the availability of digital information sources and the implementation and operation of digital learning management platforms based on the Internet. The question about further meaningful and effective progress in the next decades is openly discussed. Many expect strong influences and changes from artificial intelligence systems that generate contextualized information from various sources. Some see interactive virtual worlds expanding and partially replacing the physical world. Many believe in the further development of learning management and communication platforms. Others do not expect much valuable change at all due to the slow pace of complex educational systems with recent studies even showing a decline in the quality of educational outcomes during the last five years as a result of even too much digitalization in education. This paper discusses these positions with an emphasis on the roles of humans and computers and their interfaces, i.e. Human-Computer Interaction, for future learning and teaching with rapidly changing information technologies in the next 25 and 50 years.
Palm oil amends serum female hormones, ovarian antioxidants, inflammatory markers, and DNA fragmentation in favism-induced female rats
Authors: Koriem Khaled M. M. , Arbid Mahmoud S. S.
Published: May 2024

Background

Favism is a metabolic disease and this study evaluates the effectiveness of palm oil and its triacylglycerol constituent in favism-induced female rats to restore serum female hormones, ovarian antioxidants, inflammatory markers, and DNA fragmentation.

Methods

Animals were 36 female albino rats. They classified to two equal (normal and favism) groups. The normal group was divided into three equal subgroups: the control, palm oil, and triacylglycerol subgroups. The normal rats were given 1 mL of saline, 1 mL of palm oil, and 1 mL of triacylglycerol orally, respectively. The Favism group was classified also into three equal subgroups: the favism group, the favism + palm oil, the Favism + triacylglycerol. The favism rats were given 1 mL of saline, 1 mL of palm oil, and 1 mL of triacylglycerol orally. For four weeks, all treatments were administered orally via oral gavage once daily.

Results

The hemoglobin, hematocrite, the blood cells, glucose and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, and liver function were decreased in favism. Female hormones such as serum luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, Estrone, Estriol, 17α-Estradiol, 17β-Estradiol, and Estradiol-17-β-stearate were decreased in favism. Ovarian antioxidants were decreased while ovarian inflammatory markers were increased in favism. Favism induced ovarian DNA apoptosis. Furthermore, oral administration with palm oil or its triacylglycerol constituent in favism-induced female rats restored all these parameters to be approached the control levels.

Conclusions

Palm oil restored serum female hormones, ovarian antioxidants, inflammatory markers, and DNA fragmentation in favism-induced female rats and this effect related to oil triacylglycerol constituent.