bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Personality disorders, violence and antisocial behaviour: updated systematic review and meta-regression analysis
Authors: Chow Rachel T.S. , Yu Rongqin , Geddes John R. , Fazel Seena
Published: December 2024

Background

Links between personality disorders and antisocial outcomes has not examined individual personality disorders, and the contribution of comorbidities remain uncertain. Previous systematic reviews are dated.

Aims

To synthesise evidence from observational studies on the risk of antisocial outcomes and recidivism associated with personality disorders.

Method

We searched six bibliographic databases (up to March 2024) for observational studies examining the risk of antisocial behaviour, interpersonal violence and recidivism in individuals diagnosed with personality disorders, compared to controls. We explored sources of heterogeneity using subgroup analyses and meta-regression.

Results

We identified 21 studies involving 83 418 individuals with personality disorders from 10 countries examining antisocial and violent outcomes (Aim 1), and 39 studies of 14 131 individuals from 13 countries with recidivism (or repeat offending) as the outcome (Aim 2). We found increased risks of violence among individuals with any personality disorder (odds ratio 4.5, 95% CI 3.0–6.7), particularly antisocial personality disorder (odds ratio 7.6, 95% CI 5.1–11.5) and borderline personality disorder (odds ratio 2.6, 95% CI 1.8–3.9). Individuals with any personality disorder (odds ratio 2.3, 95% CI 2.0–2.6) and antisocial personality disorder (odds ratio 2.8, 95% CI 1.6–4.9) also demonstrated an elevated risk of recidivism. Personality disorder types and comorbid substance use disorder were associated with between-study heterogeneity.

Conclusions

The assessment and management of personality disorders should be considered as part of violence prevention strategies. Improving identification and treatment of comorbid substance misuse may reduce adverse outcomes in individuals with personality disorders.
Modeling Clinical Radioiodine Uptake By Using Organoids Derived From Differentiated Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Zhang Xinyue , Liu Jiaye , Ni Yinyun , Yang Ying , Tian Tian , Zheng Xiaofeng , Li Zhihui , Huang Rui
Published: December 2024

Radioiodine-refractory differentiated thyroid cancer (RAI-R DTC) accounts for the vast majority of thyroid-related mortality and, until recently, there were limited preclinical models for iodine uptake prediction. In the current study, we aim to establish a primary tumor-derived organoid model of DTC and predict radioiodine (RAI) uptake of tumor residue. The genotypic and phenotypic features between organoid and parental tissue were compared. The RAI uptake assay was used to evaluate the organoid's RAI uptake capacity, and related patients' RAI whole-body scans were used to verify the assay's predictive sensitivity. A total of 20 patient-derived DTC organoids have been established. Whole-exome sequencing and immunofluorescence analysis demonstrated that organoids faithfully recapitulated main features of the original tumor tissue. RAI-avid organoids (n = 11) presented significantly higher RAI uptake than the RAI-refractory (RAI-R) group (n = 9; 384.4 ± 102.7 vs 54.2 ± 13.2 cpm/105 cells, P < .0001). A threshold value in organoids of less than 250 cpm/105 cell was found to have a predictive sensitivity of 95.0% for distinguishing RAI-R from RAI-avid patients when paired to clinical information. Notably, we found that several tyrosine kinase inhibitors moderately re-sensitize iodine uptake by using organoids derived from 3 patients with different genetic mutation backgrounds. In conclusion, patient-derived DTC organoids recapitulated the main characteristics of their parental tissues and preserved ability to uptake radioiodine, showing potential in the development of novel drugs to boost iodine avidity.
Giving an Epistolary Account of Oneself: Hannah Arendt and Mary McCarthy
Authors: Gilmore Leigh
Published: December 2024

This article reads the decades-long correspondence between Hannah Arendt and Mary McCarthy as an account, following Judith Butler. Specifically, it argues that an epistolary subject emerges through the shared act of durational witness enacted in letter writing. Reading the correspondence as a Butlerian account clarifies why subjects choose a relational form like letter writing for the self-representation of trauma. It observes how particular forms of life writing—letters and the eulogy, among them—provide occasions for the reciprocity on which the account depends, even as they unavoidably fail to make selves more knowable to an other than they can be to themselves.
The Natural Rate of Interest in Brazil
Authors: Mecchi Garcia dos Santos Felipe , Kfoury Muinhos Marcelo
Published: December 2024

This work focused on estimating the Natural Rate of Interest for Brazil, employing three different state-space modelling approaches with several combinations of input variables. Results obtained reiterate the downward trend frequently mentioned in the literature before the pandemic shock, after which the NRI started to rise once again: ranged from 1.6% to 4.5% in 2019 and between 3.6% and 5.75% in 2023. Based on the results, the monetary policy stance in Brazil is summarized into five periods: 2000-2006, predominantly contractionary - an adaptation period after the Plano Real; 1Q-2007 to 1Q-2014, a period with noticeably loose monetary policy; 2Q-2014 to 2Q-2019, when the stance was predominantly contrationist; 3Q-2019 to 2Q-2022, when the stance went from neutral to expansionist, specially in the aftermath of the Covid-19 shock; 3Q-2022 to 4Q-2023, with a worldwide contractionary phase to cope with inflationary pressures.
The performance of equity funds-of-funds in Brazil
Authors: Rochman Ricardo , Eid Junior William
Published: December 2024

This study aims to evaluate the performance of equity funds of funds (FOFs) in Brazil. First, panel regressions were used to identify the determinants of returns and value creation associated with FOFs. We then estimate the probability of FOFs outperforming mirror and master funds and their corresponding determinants. Finally, FOF indices are constructed and their performance is analyzed against the backdrop of the BOVA11 exchange-traded fund (ETF).
The results of this research indicate that the determinants of returns are aligned with the Fama-French ‒Carhart factors, all of which have positive coefficients. However, equity FOFs exhibit lower returns than other equity funds and destroy value relative to mirror and master funds. FOFs are associated with lower risks owing to diversification effects. In terms of probability, equity FOFs are not more likely to achieve superior returns than other funds. During the 2015 economic crisis in Brazil, FOFs were associated with higher probability. Finally, the FOF indices suggest profitable strategies that focus on factors such as size, growth,  and liquidity.
Metodologias de ensino utilizadas em um programa de residência médica em ginecologia e obstetrícia
Authors: Lucena Felix de Oliveira Júnior Osman , Monteiro Costa Juliana , Roberto da Silva Junior Jose
Published: December 2024

Introdução: A utilização de metodologias ativas de ensino tem demonstrado potencial nos programas de residência médica, por se caracterizar como uma estratégia de ensino capaz de proporcionar uma educação crítico-reflexiva na atenção à saúde. Objetivo: Analisar as potencialidades e fragilidades do uso de metodologias ativas de ensino na formação acadêmica na perspectiva dos médicos residentes em Ginecologia e Obstetrícia. Método: Estudo de natureza qualitativa realizado com residentes de um programa de residência no nordeste do Brasil. Como instrumento de coleta de dados utilizou-se um questionário com dados sociodemográficos e acadêmicos, bem como roteiro de entrevista semiestruturada. Os dados foram analisados através da técnica de Análise Temática de Conteúdo proposta por Minayo. A pesquisa foi aprovada sob o CAAE número 45242721.9.0000.5569 Resultados e Discussão: Participaram onze residentes, com idade variando entre 23 e 40 anos. A maior parte dos entrevistados encontrava-se no primeiro e segundo anos de residência e pertencia ao gênero feminino. Os residentes apontam para a força das metodologias ativas nos processos formativos dentro da área da saúde e chamam a atenção que tais metodologias precisam ser inseridas nos cursos de graduação. Por outro lado, ressaltam que é necessário quebrar paradigmas para abraçar o novo, uma vez que todos os entrevistados vieram de uma formação com método tradicional de ensino. Conclusão: Há uma necessidade em considerar a mudança das metodologias tradicionais, visando potencializar a formação prática, humanizada, crítica, capaz de atuar sobre princípios éticos e compromissado com a cidadania.
Empatia no atendimento de pacientes com fibromialgia: percepções de residentes e preceptores em reumatologia
Authors: Campos Sanna Paula Pires Mariano , Soares Maria Roberta Melo Pereira , Da Silva Junior José Roberto
Published: December 2024

Introdução: A empatia é essencial na prática médica, promovendo melhor relação médico-paciente e maior adesão ao tratamento. Contudo, a falta de preparo dos profissionais para lidar com pacientes complexos, como os com fibromialgia, pode comprometer a eficácia do atendimento. Pacientes com fibromialgia frequentemente relatam dores crônicas e sintomas psicológicos, sendo muitas vezes desacreditados e mal compreendidos pelos profissionais de saúde. Objetivo: Analisar a percepção de preceptores e residentes da residência médica em reumatologia sobre a prática de empatia no atendimento a pacientes com fibromialgia. Metodologia: Trata-se de um estudo qualitativo exploratório, envolvendo quatro residentes e quatro preceptores em reumatologia. Foram realizadas entrevistas semiestruturadas, analisadas através da técnica de Análise de Conteúdo, conforme Bardin, categorizando as percepções dos participantes. Resultados: Três categorias temáticas emergiram: (1) o conhecimento dos residentes sobre a fibromialgia e a complexidade no atendimento, (2) a importância da atuação em equipe multiprofissional e (3) a influência da personalidade dos residentes na prática da empatia. Os participantes destacaram a complexidade do atendimento a pacientes com fibromialgia, a necessidade de uma abordagem holística e a importância de habilidades interpessoais e de comunicação não verbal. Conclusão: A prática da empatia facilita uma abordagem integral ao paciente com fibromialgia, valorizando aspectos emocionais e sociais da doença. Essa prática é aprimorada ao longo da residência e reforçada por uma equipe multiprofissional, integrando habilidades técnicas e traços pessoais como paciência e capacidade de escuta.
High-pressure liquid chromatography coupled to post-column derivatization
Authors: Τσιασιώτη Αποστολία
Published: December 2024

Η παρούσα διατριβή χωρίζεται σε τρία μέρη. Το πρώτο μέρος περιλαμβάνει την ανάπτυξη και επικύρωση δύο αναλυτικών μεθόδων με υγρή χρωματογραφία υψηλής πίεσης σε συνδυασμό με παραγωγοποίηση μετά τη στήλη (HPLC-PCD), ενώ το δεύτερο και το τρίτο μέρος περιλαμβάνουν την εισαγωγή καινοτόμων οργανολογικών διατάξεων στην HPLC-PCD. Οι μέθοδοι που αναπτύχθηκαν, χρησιμοποιώντας HPLC-PCD, περιλάμβαναν τον προσδιορισμό της βιογενούς αμίνης ισταμίνης και της πρόδρομης ένωσής της, ιστιδίνη, σε δείγματα τροφίμων, καθώς και στον προσδιορισμό της γλουταθειόνης και του δισουλφιδίου της σε μία μέτρηση. Εκλεκτικά χημικά συστήματα εφαρμόστηκαν και στις δύο εργασίες δίνοντας αξιόπιστα αποτελέσματα και ικανοποιητικά αναλυτικά χαρακτηρίστηκα. Οι καινοτόμες οργανολογικές διατάξεις, HPLC-Pulsed-PCD και HPLC-ZF-PCD, βασίστηκαν στην εισαγωγή καθορισμένης ζώνης αντιδραστηρίων στο ρέον ρεύμα, σε επιπέδο μικρολίτρων, σε αντίθεση με τη συνεχή ροή που απαιτείται στο κλασική τεχνική. Έτσι, η κατανάλωση των αντιδραστηρίων και των παραγόμενων αποβλήτων μειώθηκε δραματικά. Η ζώνη των αντιδραστηρίων εγχέεται στο ρέον μετά από ακριβή συγχρονισμό με την εκλουόμενη ένωση, για να σχηματιστεί το παράγωγο. Το σύστημα HPLC-Pulsed-PCD εφαρμόστηκε χρησιμοποιώντας τέσσερα διαφορετικά χημικά συστήματα καθώς και για τον προσδιορισμό κοντινών εκλουόμενων ενώσεων. Επίσης, χρησιμοποιήθηκε για την εφαρμογή ενός ακριβού αντιδραστηρίου για πρώτη φορά σε συνθήκες ροής. Το σύστημα HPLC-ZF-PCD αναπτύχθηκε με σκοπό την προώθηση διαφορετικών ζωνών αντιδραστηρίων για τον προσδιορισμό ενώσεων χρησιμοποιώντας διαφορετικές χημικές συνθήκες. Αυτό εξαλείφει ένα δεύτερο μειονέκτημα της κλασικής τεχνικής που απαιτεί τη χρήση μόνο ενός χημικού συστήματος και συμβιβασμό των συνθηκών αντίδρασης.
O λόγος των Ελλήνων για τους πρόσφυγες ως «πολιτισμικά άλλους» και οι συνέπειές του για την κοινωνική τους ένταξη
Authors: Δούμου Κυριακή
Published: December 2024

Στηριζόμενη στην κριτική κοινωνική λογοψυχολογία, η παρούσα έρευνα αποτελείται από δύο μελέτες που διερευνούν τον λόγο των μέσων μαζικής ενημέρωσης και των κατοίκων στην Ελλάδα για τους/τις πρόσφυγες/-ισσες και τον πολιτισμό τους και οι συνέπειές αυτού για την κοινωνική τους ένταξη. Η πρώτη μελέτη διερευνά τις ουσιοποιητικές και αποουσιοποιητικές γραμμές επιχειρηματολογίας που χρησιμοποιούνται σε αναφορές σχετικά με τον πολιτισμό των προσφύγων/-ισσών στον λόγο των μέσων μαζικής ενημέρωσης. Η ανάλυση τεσσάρων ηλεκτρονικών εφημερίδων ανέδειξε επιχειρήματα που είτε ουσιοποιούν είτε αποουσιοποιούν τον πολιτισμό, για να υποστηρίξουν τόσο το αναπόφευκτο της σύγκρουσης των πολιτισμών, όσο και/ή την πιθανότητα συνύπαρξής τους. Για τη δεύτερη μελέτη, πραγματοποιήθηκαν τριάντα ημι-δομημένες συνεντεύξεις με κατοίκους από την Αθήνα, τη Θεσσαλονίκη και τη Λέσβο. Η ανάλυση έδειξε τρεις βασικές γραμμές επιχειρηματολογίας που οδηγούν σε συγκεκριμένες κατηγοριοποιήσεις των προσφύγων/-ισσών. Στην πρώτη επιχειρηματολογική γραμμή, ο πολιτισμός παρουσιάζεται ως ανύπαρκτος και οι πρόσφυγες/-ισσες ως «πρωτόγονοι και απολίτιστοι». Στη δεύτερη γραμμή επιχειρηματολογίας, ο πολιτισμός των προσφύγων/-ισσών συγκρίνεται με αυτόν της Δύσης και οι πρόσφυγες/-ισσες παρουσιάζονται ως μέλη ενός πολιτισμού βίας που τους/τις καθιστά επικίνδυνους/-ες για τη Δύση. Η τρίτη γραμμή παρουσιάζει τον πολιτισμό των προσφύγων/-ισσών ως διαφορετικό, με τους/τις πρόσφυγες/-ισσες να θεωρούνται και ως πηγή πλούτου για τη Δύση, ενώ τονίζεται πως είναι εφικτή η συνύπαρξη με τον δυτικό πολιτισμό. Οι διαφορετικές έννοιες του πολιτισμού και των ίδιων των προσφύγων συζητούνται ως προς τις επιπτώσεις που συνεπάγονται για την κοινωνική τους ένταξη.
A prevention approach to undocumented forms of migration across the Mediterranean Sea: a critical assessment from Italy
Authors: Massari Monica , Miceli Simona , Ingrascì Ombretta
Published: December 2024

This article is aimed at providing a solid empirical basis which can inspire the development of more informed strategies in the field of prevention of undocumented forms of migration across the Mediterranean. Besides, more traditional forms of human smuggling and trafficking, a new phenomenon has emerged especially along the Central Mediterranean route, i.e. trafficking in itinere, which affects people who had originally sought irregular travel services but then ended up in being kidnapped, tortured and kept in detention centres during their migratory path. Therefore, their irregular journey to Europe becomes the only way to survive. The methodology adopted draws from in-depth interviews with experts in Italy – especially prosecutors, law enforcements officers, representatives of NGOs and journalists -, the analysis of institutional reports and sources, as well as biographical accounts provided by migrants. The analysis critically addresses the countereffects produced by the hardening of borders and militarisation of sea routes in the Mediterranean area especially in terms of enhancement of the smuggling industry, increased human rights violations and clandestinization of migrants whose experiences and knowledge are too often underrepresented or misrepresented in the public debate. This results in a negative impact on migration policy-making and on the adoption of more effective measures aimed at addressing the governance of borders and the reception system in the EU. In conclusion, some recommendations are made, which call for a reconsideration of the distinction between economic and political migrants, an enhancement of the right to migrate which can guarantee safer forms of mobility toward the EU, a serious reconsideration of the politics of externalization of European borders with its extremely severe costs in terms of human rights, and a stronger valorisation of migrants’ actual needs, expectations and projects in the design of more effective policies aimed at improving the overall EU reception system.
Comparison of auditory fMRI protocols for a voice localizer
Authors: Trapeau Régis , Sein Julien , Obliger-Debouche Manon , Belin Pascal
Published: December 2024

Auditory functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) presents unique challenges due to scanner noise interference, which can limit the detection of stimulus-related brain activity. This study systematically evaluates five different fMRI protocols—continuous, sparse, fast sparse, clustered sparse, and interleaved silent steady state (ISSS)—to determine their effectiveness in capturing auditory and voice-related brain activity under identical scanning conditions. Participants passively listened to vocal and non-vocal sounds during fMRI protocols of the same duration, and the ability of each protocol to detect auditory and voice-specific activation was evaluated. Results showed that continuous imaging produced the largest and highest auditory activation, followed closely by clustered sparse sampling. Both sparse and fast sparse sampling yielded intermediate results, with fast sparse sampling performing better at detecting voice-specific activation. ISSS had the lowest activation sensitivity. The results highlight that continuous imaging is optimal when participants are well protected from scanner noise, while clustered sparse sequences offer the best alternative when stimuli are to be presented in silence.
Dispositivos jurídicos de regulación de la alimentación de proximidad en función de la realización del derecho humano a la alimentación
Authors: Bonet Ana María , Alé María Cristina , Belbey Paulina
Published: December 2024

Este trabajo parte de la premisa acerca de la vinculación entre la alimentación industrializada y las crisis alimentarias, que se traducen en graves violaciones al derecho humano a la alimentación. Postula que la realización efectiva del derecho humano a la alimentación se encuentra vinculada con la recuperación de los sistemas alimentarios locales. Compila, presenta y caracteriza, a modo de tipología, dispositivos regulatorios de la alimentación de proximidad en función de su potencial para políticas públicas alimentarias sustentables.
Postpartum HELLP syndrome associated with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome
Authors: Pinto Medeiros Rita , Ruão Maria , Vita Pedro , Monte Raquel , Marinho Aníbal
Published: December 2024

Haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets (HELLP) syndrome is a poorly understood, life-threatening multisystemic condition related to pregnancy with a rapid onset, typically observed in patients with severe pre-eclampsia. Various mechanisms may lead to diffuse endothelial damage associated with HELLP and possible brain involvement. A comprehensive review of PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases was conducted to examine the clinical, laboratory and radiological features associated with postpartum HELLP syndrome, particularly its potential association with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES). This review was prompted by a rare case we encountered. The literature review identified 10 articles documenting this association during pregnancy and 7 articles reporting it in the postpartum period. Our patient developed multiple organ dysfunction (renal, hepatic, haemolysis and thrombocytopenia) postpartum associated with an arterial hypertensive profile. The patient experienced seizures along with the maintenance of an arterial hypertensive profile resistant to pharmacological therapy. Brain magnetic resonance imaging allowed the diagnosis of PRES and pituitary adenoma/apoplexy. Follow-up led to complete recovery.
We've explored…: garden design
Authors: Rawstrone Annette
Published: December 2024

Creating a display for RHS Tatton Flower Show enabled the children at one kindergarten in Cheshire to get involved in all aspects of gardening. By Annette Rawstrone
working with mixed ages: Real things
Authors: Tassoni Penny
Published: December 2024

The first of a new series by Penny Tassoni offers low-cost activity suggestions to promote skills development in mixed-age settings
making ends meet – part 6: Cost benefit
Authors: Jones Leah
Published: December 2024

In part 6 of our series, we look at how to reduce spending on staffing costs without losing employees and retaining the quality of care. By Leah Jones
Effect of Turmeric Powder Supplementation on Physical and Chemical Egg Quality, Antioxidant Activity, and Yolk Fatty Acid Profile
Authors:   Department of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Bulaksumur, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia, Hanif Muhammad Fathin , Agus Ali ,   Department of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Bulaksumur, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia, Ariyadi Bambang ,   Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Bulaksumur, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia, - Muhlisin ,   Department of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Bulaksumur, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia, Pambuka Sesotya Raka ,   Department of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Bulaksumur, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia
Published: December 2024

Turmeric powder (TP) supplementation is a widely used strategy to enhance hens' productivity and potentially mitigate egg fat oxidation by increasing antioxidant activity. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the impact of TP supplementation on egg quality, antioxidant activity, and yolk fatty acid profile. A total of 100 56-week-old Novogen strain laying hens, matched in body weight (1799 ± 124 g), were divided into four treatments (with 5 replications per treatment, and 5 hens per replication). The treatments included control (CON), basal diet + 0.25% TP (T25), basal diet + 0.5% TP (T50), and basal diet + 0.75% TP (T75) administered for 8 weeks. Egg samples were collected on days 28 and 56 for analysis of physical and chemical quality, antioxidant activity, and fatty acid profile. On day 28, TP supplementation at 0.25% increased egg weight and specific gravity (P <0.05), while on day 56, the supplementation at 0.50% and 0.75% reduced yolk cholesterol content (P <0.05). TP supplementation at 0.5% and 0.75% also increased antioxidant activity and decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) content (P <0.05). In conclusion, supplemention of TP enhanced egg quality, and antioxidant activity and also decreased cholesterol.
Prevalence with precise diagnosis of Hepatitis-Hydropericardium Syndrome (HHS) in broiler chicken in eastern Bangladesh
Authors:   Department of Medicine, Surgery and Obstetrics, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Science, Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University (HSTU), Dinajpur-5200, Bangladesh, Kingshuk Md Masuk Rahman , Rahman Md Shajedur ,   Department of Medicine, Surgery and Obstetrics, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Science, Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University (HSTU), Dinajpur-5200, Bangladesh, Rumi Nazmi Ara ,   Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Science, Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University, Dinajpur-5200, Bangladesh, Akter Mst Aireen ,   Department of Medicine, Surgery and Obstetrics, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Science, Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University (HSTU), Dinajpur-5200, Bangladesh, Hossain Hemayet ,   Faculty of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Sylhet Agricultural University, Sylhet-3100, Bangladesh, Islam Md Nurnoby ,   Department of Medicine, Surgery and Obstetrics, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Science, Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University (HSTU), Dinajpur-5200, Bangladesh
Published: December 2024

Hepatitis-Hydropericardium Syndrome (HHS) is an increasingly prevalent poultry disease, particularly affecting broiler chickens in Bangladesh. HHS is caused by Fowl Aviadenovirus Serotype 4 (FAdV-4), characterized by the accumulation of clear or yellowish-brown fluid in the pericardium. This study, conducted over one year from March 2022 to February 2023, examined a total of 109,000 broiler birds to assess the prevalence and precise diagnosis of HHS. Diagnosis was performed systematically and ethically through physical and clinical examinations, including the evaluation of clinical symptoms and post-mortem lesions. The presence of the causal agent was confirmed via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) from liver and kidney samples, using FAdV-specific primers targeting the hexon-b gene. The study found an overall prevalence of HHS in broilers to be 10.55% (95% CI: 10.37-10.73). The disease was infrequently observed in birds younger than two weeks, with the highest prevalence noted between two to three weeks of age (15.31%). Seasonally, HHS incidence was higher during the summer (13.92%) and rainy season (12.86%), while it was significantly lower in the winter (4.35%). The case fatality rate was determined to be 58.77%, with an average mortality rate of 6.20%. These findings provide critical insights for the poultry industry in Bangladesh, enabling the development of effective strategies for the prevention and control of HHS
Effect of adding Houttuynia cordata and Perilla frutescens leaves powders in diets on growth, intestinal microflora and meat quality of local chickens in Vietnam
Authors:   Vietswan Poultry Production Joint Stock Company, Binh Duong 820000, Vietnam, Phuong Le Thanh , Cong Ha Nguyen ,   Institute of Food and Biotechnology, Can Tho University, Can Tho City 900000, Vietnam, Thi Thuy Nguyen ,   Faculty of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Can Tho University, Can Tho City 900000, Vietnam
Published: December 2024

A study was carried out to determine the effect of Houttuynia cordata (HC) and Perilla frutescens (PF) leaves powders supplementation in diet on growth performance, intestinal microflora and meat quality of local chickens (Noi). A total of 240 Noi chickens at the 4 weeks of age was randomly distributed in a completely randomized design experiment, with 3 treatments and 4 replicates (2 male and 2 female pens), each replicate consisted of a pen with 20 chickens/pen. Control treatment (Cont): Basal diet (B) no supplementation; HCP: B + 2% HC leaves powder; PFP: B+ 2% PF leaves powder in the diet. The results showed that, average daily feed intake (ADFI) was not effected by all supplementations (P>0.05), and average daily gain (ADG) slighly improved in HCP (17.26 g/day) and PFP (16.94 g/day) to compared with Cont (15.65 g/day) (P>0.05). Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was improved (P<0.05) in HCP (3.42 kg feed/kg gain), and PFP (3.54 kg feed/kg gain) compared to control (3.61kg feed/kg gain). And also adding HC and PF leaves powders reduced Salmonella.spp and E. coli in the feces of Noi chickens (P<0.05). Supplementation of HC and PF leaves powders reduced fat content in breast meat (P<0.05), and slighly improved yellow color (b value) of breast meat (P<0.05) to compare to the control. In conclusion, HC and PF leaves powders supplemented in the diet at 2% improved FCR and color of meat, reduced fat content of breast meat and also reduced intestinal microflora in the feces of Noi chickens.
Diagnosis of hindlimb lameness using acupuncture points in sport horses
Authors:   Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, Phetkarl Tanakorn , Kidtiwong Angkana ,   Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, Isawirodom Ashannut ,   Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, Watchararat Kritsana ,   Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, Na Lampang Kannika ,   Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, Khumsap Siriporn ,   Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, Rungsri Porrakote ,   Department of Companion Animal and Wildlife Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
Published: December 2024

The detection of hindlimb lameness is usually considered to be more difficult than the forelimb lameness; thus, it tends to be overlooked. Therefore, an alternative diagnostic method employing acupuncture points for diagnosis of hindlimb lameness is being considered. The objective of this study was to identify the diagnostic acupoints associated with hock pain in sport horses with hindlimb lameness. In this study, 33 sport horses from polo and riding activities were examined for hock pain through acupuncture diagnosis (AD), subjective lameness examinations (SE) by experienced equine veterinarians’ opinions, and objective lameness examinations (OE) using body-mounted inertial sensor systems. From 33 horses, 14 horses with hock pain were included in this study and underwent intra-articular analgesia at the tarsometatarsal joint (TMT block). Each horse was then assessed and graded with the score of improvement for sensitivity of acupuncture points and lameness. From 14 horses, the results indicated that the kappa test for agreement of diagnostic method in determining lame limbs between AD and OE was 71.43% (95%CI = 51.33% - 86.77%), which was significantly higher when compared with the agreement between AD and SE at 64.29% (95%CI = 44.07% - 81.36%). Among the improved horses after TMT block, the score of improvement for sensitivity of acupuncture points also improved significantly on four transpositional acupoints. Based on our findings, Gallbladder-27, Spleen-13, Bladder-39a, and Bladder-39b were determined to be valuable suggestive acupoints for hock pain in horses with different sport activities. In conclusion, the results of this study advocate for the use of acupuncture diagnosis as a supporting lameness diagnosis method.
Obesity paradox in patients with community-acquired pneumonia: Have you fully considered the confounding factors?
Authors: Sun Jin-Ke , Tian Hui
Published: December 2024

There exists a notion that there is an obesity paradox in the prognosis of community-acquired pneumonia. In other words, obese individuals with community-acquired pneumonia have a better prognosis. The study by Wang et al supports this claim, but we believe that the obesity paradox should not be proposed hastily as it is influenced by numerous subjective and objective confounding factors.
Differential diagnosis of uterine vascular anomalies: Uterine pseudoaneurysm as a cause of massive hemorrhage
Authors: Gastañaga-Holguera Teresa , Campo Gesto Isabel , Gómez-Irwin Laura , Calvo Urrutia Marta
Published: December 2024

In this article, we comment on the paper by Kakinuma et al published recently. We focus specifically on the diagnosis of uterine pseudoaneurysm, but we also review other uterine vascular anomalies that may be the cause of life-threating hemorrhage and the different causes of uterine pseudoaneurysms. Uterine artery pseudoaneurysm is a complication of both surgical gynecological and non-traumatic procedures. Massive hemorrhage is the consequence of the rupture of the pseudoaneurysm. Uterine artery pseudoaneurysm can develop after obstetric or gynecological procedures, being the most frequent after cesarean or vaginal deliveries, curettage and even during pregnancy. However, there are several cases described unrelated to pregnancy, such as after conization, hysteroscopic surgery or laparoscopic myomectomy. Hemorrhage is the clinical manifestation and it can be life-threatening so suspicion of this vascular lesion is essential for early diagnosis and treatment. However, there are other uterine vascular anomalies that may be the cause of severe hemorrhage, which must be taken into account in the differential diagnosis. Computed tomography angiography and embolization is supposed to be the first therapeutic option in most of them.
Clinical results of autologous fat transfer for basal thumb arthritis with a minimum of three years’ follow-up
Authors: Haas-Lützenberger Elisabeth M. , Emelianova Iana , Bader Moritz C. , Mert Sinan , Moellhoff Nicholas , Demmer Wolfram , Berger Ursula , Giunta Riccardo
Published: December 2024

Aims

In the treatment of basal thumb osteoarthritis (OA), intra-articular autologous fat transplantation has become of great interest within recent years as a minimally invasive and effective alternative to surgical intervention with regard to pain reduction. This study aims to assess its long-term effectiveness.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with stage one to three OA received a single intra-articular autologous fat transplantation. Fat tissue was harvested from the abdomen and injected into the trapeziometacarpal (TMC) joint under radiological guidance, followed by one week of immobilization. Patients with a minimum three-year post-procedure period were assessed for pain level (numerical rating scale), quality of life (Mental Health Quotient (MHQ)), the abbreviated version of the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (QuickDASH)), and grip and pinch strength, as well as their overall impression of the treatment. Wilcoxon tests compared data from pre-intervention, and at one and three years post-intervention.

Results

Out of 136 treated joints, the study involved 87 patients (37 patients were loss to follow-up, and 12 patients (9%) who underwent resection arthroplasty) with a median follow-up of 4.9 years (IQR 5.4 to 5.9). Pain, both at rest and during stress, significantly improved at one year and remained stable through three years. Sex, age, and stage of disease were not associated with postoperative pain levels. Patient-reported outcome measures for QuickDASH and MHQ improved up to at least three years post-treatment. Patients reported high satisfaction and willingness to recommend the procedure. Grip and pinch strength did not significantly change over time.

Conclusion

The data show that autologous fat transfer has a longer-lasting effect in two-thirds of re-examined patients. If patients had an initial positive response, the pain-reducing effect lasted for at least three years. Therefore, this minimally invasive approach can offer a valuable treatment alternative for basal thumb OA.
Isolation of Bacillus spp. from Korean fermented
foods and their application in black rice bran fermentation
Authors: Yoon Hyun Joo , Lee Kyoung Ah , Lee Na-Kyoung , Jang Hye Ji , Paik Hyun-Dong
Published: December 2024

An appropriate strain of Bacillus spp. derived from traditional
Korean fermented foods was selected for fermentation of black rice bran, and the
fermented bran’s nutritional components were analyzed. Among 18 isolated
Bacillus spp. strains, the five (KU3, KU24, KU28, KU611,
and KU612) that exhibited both amylolytic and proteolytic activities were
selected for fermentation. Among these, Bacillus sp. KU3 showed
notable dual enzymatic activity. During fermentation in black rice bran medium,
Bacillus sp. KU3 increased from 5.83 to 7.83 Log CFU/mL
after 24 h. The KU3 strain was identified as Bacillus subtilis
using an API 50 CHB kit and 16S rRNA sequencing. Black rice bran (4% w/v) was
fermented with B. subtilis KU3 at 37°C, 150 rpm for 24
h. Following fermentation, the main component of the fermented black rice bran
was carbohydrate (77.13%). An increase in ash content was observed, while other
nutritional components showed no significant changes. These results suggest that
B. subtilis KU3 is a viable strain for black rice bran
fermentation.
Mapu's Meliẓah , Auerbach's Figura and Mendelsohn's Sublime: Rhetoric and the Critique of Haskalah Ideology
Authors: Banbaji Amir
Published: December 2024

Abstract: This article revisits the concept of meliẓah (eloquent language) and its significance in the development of Hebrew literary thought. The study begins with an analysis of meliẓah in the works of maskilim and scholars of Haskalah such as Euchel, Zederbaum, and Finer, who typically viewed meliẓah as a derivative concept that serves a wider philosophical or historical framework. The main body of the article explores how maskilim used meliẓah and figurative language in ways that question the aesthetic affirmation of philosophical knowledge and challenge established views of historical continuity. Drawing from Erich Auerbach's elaborate discussion of figurative speech, this study illustrates how Hebrew writers, including Moses Mendelssohn and Abraham Mapu, employed meliẓot not just to embellish already-accepted images of nature or history. In a manner akin to Auerbach's figura, meliẓah highlights the evasive, transitory, and ideological aspects of literary mediations of history, leading to alternative mediations. The concluding sections focus on Abraham Mapu's fictional portrayal of meliẓah, arguing it should not be read as an imitation of Alexander Pope's concept of "wit." Instead of portraying nature or history in their "methodized" version, I show how Mapu's fiction deprives historical fiction of its rationalist and idealist aura. Rather than self-justifying images, Mapu's meliẓot operate as rhetorical structures that summon up conflicted versions of social reality.
Reading for Material: Our Boys and Foxtrot
Authors: Nir Oded
Published: December 2024

Abstract: The point of departure for this article is the observation that materialist critique is the dominant critical practice today, rather than being subservient to idealist criticism. However, Marxist critique, I argue, has been absent from Israeli cultural critique and should be distinguished from other forms of materialist critique, in particular the materialist interpretive philosophies of surface reading and speculative realism. I argue that Marxism should be seen as these approaches' antagonist, as it refuses the primacy of objecthood, asserted in both of these other philosophies. Instead, I argue, faced with today's materialist hegemony, Marxism remains true to materiality precisely by focusing on the contradictions, self-negations, and incompletenesses of the supposedly objective world. I then offer a brief Marxist interpretation of the Israeli film Foxtrot and the TV show Our Boys . I show how a Marxist critique differs from what would be the dominant materialist interpretation of these, as reflecting on Israel/Palestine. In Our Boys , the formal representation of crowds makes them into figures for working-class threat across the Palestine/Israel divide. Foxtrot , alternately, allegorizes the process of Israeli films' autonomous meaning-making, rendering its very freedom the carrier of proletarian revolutionary possibilities. These interpretations, I suggest, are the Marxist alternative to Our Boys and Foxtrot 's hegemonic materialist reading, whose horizon — by now reified and predictable — would be the politics of Palestine/Israel.
Artists' Books and the Repurposing of Jewish Literature
Authors: Mann Barbara
Published: December 2024

Abstract: This essay explores the material history of Jewish literature by examining a trio of artists' books featuring the work of early twentieth-century poets. Each artists' book treats its original source material as a physical object: Moshe Gershuni's Thirteen Etchings for Poems by H. N. Bialik (1987) reproduces pages of the landmark 1923 edition of Bialik's collected poems, illustrated by Yosef Budko, alongside Gershuni's prints; City-Poem: Unpublished Poems by Leah Goldberg Inspired by Woodcuts by Franz Masereel (2012), includes expressionist woodcut prints and images of handwritten poems from a 1929 Masereel edition once owned by Goldberg; The Unlocked Diary: Collected Works (2021), contains facsimile reproductions and translations of poems and excerpts from a personal diary by Matilda Okinaite, a Lithuanian Jewish poet who was murdered in 1941. I use the term "repurposing" to indicate how these works respect the autonomy and inviolability of the earlier texts while also promoting the creation of new meaning for contemporary readers. As a group, these books illuminate the often-precarious conditions in which modern Jewish literary sources were produced, and their ongoing physical vulnerability in archival settings. This appreciation for literature's material qualities allows for a better understanding of how residual traces of the sacred continue to shape the evolution of secular literary genres.
Index modulation-aided ACO-OFDM differential chaos shift keying system for optical wireless communications
Authors: Peng Qingbin , Wang Huiqin , Wang Zhen , Zhang Yue , Tang Qihan , Cao Minghua
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we introduce differential chaos shift keying (DCSK) into asymmetrically clipped optical orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (ACO-OFDM) and propose the index modulation-aided ACO-OFDM differential chaos shift keying (IM-ACO-OFDM-DCSK) system. Our aim is to eliminate the need for channel state information (CSI) estimation in the index modulation-aided OFDM (IM-OFDM) system for optical wireless communication (OWC). In our design, we transmit the DCSK or its orthogonal signal as the information-bearing signals on non-indexed and indexed subcarriers, respectively. This scheme allows each subcarrier to convey constellation symbols, thereby addressing the resource wastage problem and enhancing the transmission rate. We derive the theoretical bit error rate (BER) expressions over the exponential Weibull channel and analyze the spectral efficiency, energy efficiency, and complexity. Monte Carlo simulations validate the theoretical analysis. The results show that the proposed scheme completely avoids complex channel estimation procedures and improves the transmission rate and energy efficiency, albeit at a higher complexity cost compared to ACO-OFDM-DCSK.
Abel inversion from central-projection background oriented schlieren observations for reconstruction of axisymmetric refractive media
Authors: Champagnat Frédéric , Plyer Aurélien , Léon Olivier , Cornic Philippe , Donjat David , Nicolas François
Published: December 2024

The background oriented schlieren (BOS) technique provides quantitative measurements of integrated light deflection caused by gradients of refractive index in an optical medium. For an axisymmetric medium and parallel rays orthogonal to the axis of symmetry, Abel inversion enables fast, direct, and non-iterative reconstruction of the refractive index distribution. In this work, we relax the parallel ray hypothesis, demonstrating that Abel inversion can be effectively applied to observations obtained by central projection with a standard entocentric lens, with a simple correction for measured deflections. This correction derives from an original second-order approximation of ray deflection under the paraxial approximation. The accuracy of the method is demonstrated using a synthetic low-density jet and a cone of vision aperture of approximately 40°. Its practical relevance is further illustrated by reconstructing the temporal mean density fields of two experimental cases: a heated high-subsonic dual-stream jet and an under-expanded supersonic jet characterized by significant shock-induced discontinuities.
Where has all the time gone? A retrospective editorial from outgoing Editor-in-Chief James Leger
Authors: Leger James
Published: December 2024

Outgoing Editor-in-Chief James Leger reflects on his time with Optics Express.
High-numerical-aperture and high-efficiency polarization-based metalenses with pitch size control utilizing silicon-rich nitride
Authors: Khalilian Alireza , Yu Bowen , Tsoi Konstantin , Yi Yasha
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the role of pitch size in achieving high numerical aperture (NA) and focusing efficiency in metalens design, while demonstrating how high refractive index materials contribute to performance enhancement by enabling smaller pitch sizes through reduced filling ratios. Silicon-rich nitride (SRN) was chosen as the material platform due to its high refractive index, CMOS compatibility, and cost-effective fabrication. Two SRN-based metalenses were designed: a geometric phase metalens (GPM) and a propagation phase metalens (PPM), each evaluated at aspect ratios of 10:1 and 4:1. The GPM achieved an NA of 0.99 with focusing efficiencies of 26.6% (10:1) and 17.6% (4:1), while the PPM achieved NAs of 0.95 (10:1) and 0.97 (4:1) with focusing efficiencies of 65.6% and 32.1%, respectively. Our findings demonstrate that smaller pitch sizes reduce spatial discretization errors, enhancing phase fidelity and focusing efficiency, which is applicable to various applications such as imaging and polarimetry.
Ultralong waveguide grating antenna enabled by evanescent field modulation: publisher’s note
Authors: Yao Weiming , Huang Zhengquan , Chen Jiaxin , Li Wanxin , Yu Lin , Zou Yi , Zhao Xiangjie , Duan Jiazhu , Yao Yong , Xu Xiaochuan
Published: December 2024

This publisher’s note contains a correction to Opt. Lett. 47, 5397 (2022)10.1364/OL.470365.
Quantum correlated image recording through noisy and turbulent channels
Authors: Freitas Brayden A. , Zhang Yingwen , England Duncan G. , Lundeen Jeff S. , Sussman Ben J.
Published: December 2024

Various quantum imaging techniques have been shown to be effective at
imaging through some aspects of traditionally difficult free-space
channels, including ghost imaging through turbulent channels or
quantum illumination through channels with noisy backgrounds. While
effective, these techniques have only ever been shown to work
independently, whereas real-world free-space channels are often both
turbulent and noisy. This work experimentally demonstrates that
quantum correlated imaging using a spontaneous parametric
downconversion source and a time-tagging camera can be made robust
against both turbulent media and a noisy background in free-space
channels by implementing filtering based on the temporal and spatial
correlations of paired photons. Furthermore, the filtering reduces
accidental coincidence counts between uncorrelated photons, allowing
the pair source to operate at high brightness which, in turn, leads to
video-rate integration times. These quantum correlated recordings
allow for improved object tracking, while the longer integration time
images improve image fidelity over turbulent and noisy channels. This
demonstration could allow for new improvements in communication,
measurement, and sensing through turbulent and noisy free-space
channels.