bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of myofascial release on spinal curvature, premenstrual symptoms, and quality of life in scoiliotic females with dysmenorrhea: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ibrahim Liza I , ElDeeb Abeer M. , Elkozamy Hamed M. , Zaki Ahmed F. , Abdellatif Amira N.
Published: December 2024

Background

Idiopathic scoliosis is a common musculoskeletal disorder that affects spinal and pelvic alignment and exacerbates menstrual discomfort in young females. Studies have reported the importance of involving myofascial components in treating scoliotic patients; however, few studies have been conducted. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of adding myofascial release (MFR) to corrective stabilizing exercise on spinal curvature, premenstrual symptoms, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in young females with idiopathic scoliosis.

Methods

Fifty-two females with idiopathic scoliosis, aged 18–25 years, and with a body mass index (BMI) of 18.5–24.9 kg/m2 were randomly assigned to two groups equal in number. The control group received corrective stabilizing exercises two sessions/week for 8 weeks. The MFR group received the same exercises and MFR therapy two sessions/week for 8 weeks. The scoliometer was used to evaluate thoracic and lumbar angles, Italian Spine Youth Quality of Life (ISYQOL) to assess HRQOL, and menstrual symptoms questionnaire (MSQ) to evaluate premenstrual symptoms before and after the treatment.

Results

There was a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in the thoracic and lumbar angles, menstrual backache, and PMS score and a significant increase (p < 0.05) in the HRQOL score in the control and MFR groups. However, there were no significant differences (p > 0.05) between both groups after treatment.

Conclusion

Corrective stabilizing exercises with or without MFR effectively improve thoracic and lumbar angles, HRQOL, menstrual backache, and premenstrual symptoms. The addition of MFR to stabilizing exercises produced changes that are clinically important for females with idiopathic scoliosis.
Combined central nervous system tuberculosis and neurocryptococcosis in a non-HIV patient following severe psychological trauma
Authors: Ibrahim Hamdy , Saleh Mohamed , AAref Basma , Safwat Sara , Nassef Mohamed Adel , Mansour Nagy , Yousef Amira , Ali Atta Ahmed , Haron Marwa , Zeineldein Hatem , Sami Rania , Elshymy Mahmoud , Gafar Mohamed , eldeen Ahmed Shams , Wahba Ashraf , Ashraf Mohamed , Badr Mahmoud , Saraya Ahmed , Elfouly Mariam , Refaie Omar , Nasser Mostafa
Published: December 2024

Simultaneous CNS tuberculosis and neuro cryptococcosis are rare in immunocompromised patients and more rare in immune-competent patients, immunosuppression by HIV infection is the main contributing factor, herein, we describe a case of CNS tuberculosis with cryptococcal meningitis after a long period of severe psychological stress alternating with anxiety and depression, the purpose is to highlight the effect of stress on the immune system and the consequent exposure to severe infection.
The Logic of the Void
Authors: Visser Robin
Published: December 2024

This article primarily considers the possibility of translating between Indigenous and settler modes of ecological thought and praxis. The former often manifest analogously to quantum field theory, where, as Indigene Linda Yarrowin states, “it's all connected,” while the latter depend on the Newtonian logic of the void to create simplified universal models. The author first provides green governance examples of these differences from Australia's Northern Territories and Xinjiang Uyghur Region, adopting Karen Barad's agential realism to distinguish among modes of thought. Next is an analysis of Taiwanese novelist Wu Ming-yi's attempt to engage these cosmologies in his acclaimed “ecocosmopolitan” novel The Man with the Compound Eyes (2011), assessing the viability of “patchy Anthropocene” as a means of translating, or making visible, ecologies occluded by Newtonian void logic. The author argues that Wu's novel succeeds in this endeavor by depicting local and global processes of settler-colonial decolonization and indicting epistemologies of “radioactive racism” that view Pacific islands as “empty” of life, logics that rationalized US Cold War nuclear tests and radiation experiments on Marshall Island Indigenes.
Ecology, (Post)Humanism, and Liu Cixin's Three-Body Problem
Authors: Hosek Melissa A.
Published: December 2024

This article reads Liu Cixin's award-winning Chinese science fiction novel The Three-Body Problem (2007, in English 2014) as a work of climate fiction. By analyzing the novel's portrayal of ecological crisis, dystopian outlook, and inexplicable dream sequences, this article identifies an overarching environmental theme complexly entangled in politics and idealism. While signaling a definite shift away from anthropocentrism, the narrative nonetheless reasserts humanist and anthropocentric assumptions. As such, the novel speaks to the inseverable connections between humans and nonhumans while simultaneously contemplating the reality of human extinction events. Riddled with such contradictions, The Three-Body Problem thus represents the experience of hope and cynicism in the face of radically transforming human/nonhuman relationships—a sentiment likely shared by many readers in our age of eco-crisis.
Future Emotions and Senses
Authors: Chu Kiu-Wai
Published: December 2024

This article focuses on Chinese science fiction writer Chen Qiufan's 陳楸帆 (1981–) short stories to examine the changing environmental messages they convey over the decade 2012–2022. Borrowing environmental philosopher Glenn A. Albrecht's concepts of psychoterratic emotions, the article demonstrates how Chen's “Weilai Bingshi” 未來病史 (A History of Future Illnesses) reflects the collective fear and anxiety of human beings when encountering a range of environmental crises. Turning to his “Balin” 巴鱗 (Balin), “Taikong Dacong” 太空大蔥 (Space Leek), and “Jun Ge” 菌歌 (Do You Hear the Fungi Sing?), the article suggests signs of a positive turn can be seen in Chen's more recent works, with the emphasis gradually shifting from fearful, pessimistic visions of future ecodystopia that alarm us to compassionate visions of multispecies entanglements, as well as the reenchantment of the world through finding mutual enhancements of spiritualism and technologism. By examining the interplay between modernity and tradition, technology and superstition, and by reinventing the spirit of Chinese native-soil and hometown writing, Chen Qiufan's short stories of psychoterratic emotions and senses urge us to reconceptualize and renew our commitments to what we call “home” on both local and planetary scales, in the Anthropocene present as well as post-Anthropocene future.
Indifference as Alienation in Chen Qiufan's Science Fiction Waste Tide
Authors: Hua Yuanyuan , Zhang Yunfan
Published: December 2024

Slow violence, or the gradual ecological devastation that goes unnoticed, is not always discernible to our perceptions. It is the indifference toward environmental degradation and the suffering experienced by marginalized communities that contributes to the phenomenon of slow violence becoming “out of sight.” In its refusal to take responsibility, this type of indifference fails to acknowledge or realize the unequal social structures and systems that have become accepted as “natural” or commonplace. Drawing on the perspective of the Frankfurt school, this article argues that Chen Qiufan's 陳楸帆 (1981–) Huangchao 荒潮 (Waste Tide) serves as an exceptional ecological narrative within Chinese science fiction, shedding light on how indifference leads to the invisibility of environmental degradation and the struggles of marginalized groups. Moreover, it reveals that the perceived “natural” and unequal systems are the root causes behind such irresponsible behavior, serving as a symptom of alienation. Through an analysis of Waste Tide, this article examines the relationship between environmental injustice and indifference, demonstrating that waste, as evidence of environmental injustice, is a social problem inherent in capitalism. Furthermore, this article adopts a global perspective by exploring the manifestations of indifference serving as alienation presented in the novel. By delving into the fictional exploration of ecological and sociological relationships found in Chinese science fiction, this research contributes to the broad discourse surrounding the global ecological and social crisis.
Assessing eye health knowledge and practices amongst primary health care nurses in a rural district, South Africa
Authors: Flatela Lwandile , Xulu-Kasaba Zamadonda
Published: December 2024

Background The burden of visual impairment and avoidable blindness has been attributed to the shortage and poor distribution of adequately trained eye care personnel. In the district health system, primary health care (PHC) nurses are the first point of contact for eye care patients. To provide adequate eye care, the nurses in PHC clinics apply their knowledge on basic eye health to ensure best practices and management for patients that present at their clinics. Anecdotal evidence regarding the knowledge and practices of these PHC professionals is scarce. The purpose of this study was to evaluate PHC nurses’ knowledge and practices on eye health. Methods A quantitative, cross-sectional study was conducted in a rural district of the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. Stratified random sampling was used to select 28 from the 74 PHC clinics in the district. A researcher-administered questionnaire using a 5-point likert scale with options strongly disagree, disagree, neutral, agree and strongly agree, was developed, piloted and finalised for this study. The tool had four sections: demographic information, knowledge of eye health, practices on evaluating visual function and identification and management of presenting eye conditions. Data were collected, captured onto MSXcel, cleaned, coded and analysed descriptively, and for Chi-squared significance at 95%, using R statistical software. Results From 200 responses, 86.4% (n=172) were females of the African race. Most (93.5%, n=187) had never undergone formal training in eye care. Only 28% (n=56) correctly identified a mature cataract while 28% (n=56) correctly identified signs of glaucoma; the global leading causes of preventable blindness. A total of 94% (n=188) failed to accurately measure visual acuity on a patient. Conclusions PHC nurses showed poor knowledge and practices of common eye conditions. There is an urgent need for eye health training for PHC nurses, and the clear management protocols on eye care.
Swedish abdominal massage versus warm water therapy on postoperative constipation: a comparison quasi-experimental study
Authors: Boangmanalu Enny Selawaty , Masfuri Masfuri , Adam Muhamad , Nining Sri , Banna Triani , Pulungan Indira Mastura
Published: December 2024

Background Postoperative immobilizatiton for patients with lower extremity fractures causes constipation, which usually affects 50–70% of patients. When it comes to nursing interventions for postoperative constipation, Swedish abdominal massage and warm water drinking therapy are two possible options. Aim The objective of this study is to compare the effectiveness of drinking warm water and Swedish abdominal massage on constipation scores on post-operative lower extremity fractures. Methods A quasi-experimental pre-posttest design without control group design was applied. 30 respondents used simple random sampling technique. The Constipation Assessment Scale (CAS) questionnaire was used to assess the patient’s constipation levels before and after the intervention. The data analysis used independent t-test. Results The mean score of constipation of drinking water group after the intervention was 4.60 while abdominal Swedish massage was 3.56. Although both significantly reduced the constipation score, the p-value was 0.00. Conclusion The protocol of drinking warm water and Swedish abdominal massage immediately after waking up effectively reduced constipation scores on postoperative lower extremity fracture patients and can be use to adjuvant therapy. Further studies are needed to investigate postoperative constipation patients with immobility and the use of strong analgetics.
Developing and evaluating human-centered design solutions for enhancing maternal health service utilization among vulnerable pregnant women in Oromia, Ethiopia: Study protocol for a quasi-experimental study
Authors: Kang Bee-Ah , Tamene Habtamu , Lakew Yihunie , Stephens Daryl , Rimal Rajiv
Published: December 2024

Background Disproportionate uptake of and access to maternal and child health services remain significant challenges across and within countries. Differing geographic, economic, environmental, and social factors contribute to varying degrees of vulnerabilities among individuals, which manifest as disparities in maternal and newborn health outcomes. Designing solutions according to need is vital to improve maternal and child health outcomes. In this paper, we describe our study protocol on developing and evaluating the effectiveness of human-centered design (HCD) solutions to improve maternal health service uptake among vulnerable pregnant women in rural areas of Ethiopia. Methods Disproportionate uptake of and access to maternal and child health services remain significant challenges across and within countries. Differing geographic, economic, environmental, and social factors contribute to varying degrees of vulnerabilities among individuals, which manifest as disparities in maternal and newborn health outcomes. Designing solutions according to need is vital to improve maternal and child health outcomes. In this paper, we describe our study protocol on developing and evaluating the effectiveness of human-centered design (HCD) solutions to improve maternal health service uptake among vulnerable pregnant women in rural areas of Ethiopia. Conclusions and Implications Our sequential approach to evaluating initial solutions, which in turn will inform the enhancement of solutions, will provide practical insights into how solutions are accepted among vulnerable women and how they can be better integrated into women’s lives and health systems. This will inform equity-focused practice and policies targeting populations experiencing greater barriers to accessing care and provide insights into system strengthening in rural areas. Our findings will be disseminated to the Ethiopian Ministry of Health and its partners to inform large-scale implementation at the national level.
Update to: Study Pre-protocol for “BronchStart - The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Timing, Age and Severity of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Emergency Presentations; a Multi-Centre Prospective Observational Cohort Study”
Authors: Williams Thomas C. , Cunningham Steve , Drysdale Simon B. , Groves Helen , Iskander Dalia , Liu Xinxue , Lyttle Mark D. , Marlow Robin , Maxwell-Hodkinson Abigail , Mpamhanga Chengetai D. , O'Hagan Shaun , Sinha Ian , Swann Olivia V. , Waterfield Thomas , Roland Damian ,   Paediatric Emergency Research in the UK and Ireland (PERUKI)
Published: December 2024

Background In 2021 we launched the BronchStart study, which collected information on 17,899 presentations in children with serious respiratory tract infections following the release of lockdown restrictions. Our study informed the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation’s decision to recommend the introduction maternal respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination, which was introduced in the United Kingdom in August/September 2024. Study question We modified our original protocol to conduct a United Kingdom-wide assessment of maternal vaccination against RSV. Methods and likely impact We will conduct a multi-centre study, utilising the PERUKI network used in the original BronchStart study, to assess the effectiveness of maternal vaccination using a test-negative study design. We will gather detailed clinical information on children admitted with bronchiolitis in the post-RSV vaccination era, and understand possible reasons for incomplete vaccine uptake.
Ground-based observations of the VLF auroral hiss at Lovozero and Barentsburg observatories
Authors: Nikitenko Aleksandr , Kleimenova Natalia , Fedorenko Yuriy , Beketova Elena
Published: December 2024

The paper presents the results of the analysis of auroral hiss bursts, measured at Lovozero and Barentsburg observatories. These points are located on close geomagnetic meridians in the auroral and circumpolar zones. The auroral hiss bursts occur first in the auroral zone at Lovozero Observatory. Then, they fade out smoothly and occur in the circumpolar zone at Barentsburg Observatory. These events are observed when geomagnetic activity and the source of phase scintillation of GPS signals move from auroral to circumpolar latitudes. Analysis of magnetic field polarization and arrival angles of the bursts has shown that the area on the Earth surface, illuminated by hiss bursts, arose at auroral latitudes near Lovozero Observatory, and then moved to higher latitudes. Since propagation of the hiss to the ground and occurrence of GPS signal scintillation requires the presence of electron density irregularities of similar scales in the ionosphere, we assume that the same irregularities could cause both phenomena. A possible cause of their occurrence is the development of current-convective and (or) drift instability in the ionosphere caused by the development of field-aligned currents. Their development is indicated by the simultaneous recording of Pi1B pulsations. The results show that the termination of hiss at auroral latitudes may be caused by a shift of the geomagnetic disturbance region to high latitudes, rather than changes of wave propagation conditions in the ionosphere.
Spatial distribution of auroral precipitation and failures in railway automatics at the north of European Russia
Authors: Sakharov Yaroslav , Yagova Nadezda , Pilipenko Vyacheslav , Yagodkina Oksana , Garanin Sergey
Published: December 2024

We study the relationship between space weather disturbances and spatial distribution of failures in railway automatics at segments of Northern and October railways in 2001–2006. During the most intensive magnetic storms that caused numerous failures, latitude distribution of auroral electron precipitation and local geomagnetic disturbance, determined as mean absolute value of time derivative of the geomagnetic field horizontal component |dBH/dt|, are examined. We show that in magnetic storm main and recovery phases the segments, where the failures were recorded, correspond to the region of intense auroral precipitation and |dBH/dt| exceeded 5 nT/s. The relationship between position of auroral oval equatorial boundary and spatial distribution of failures is analyzed for individual magnetic storms and statistically for five years of observations. Both individual cases and statistic tests show that southward displacement of the auroral oval equatorial boundary correlates with increase in the proportion of failures at lower latitude railway segments.
Ponderomotive redistribution of heavy ions along a magnetic field line
Authors: Guglielmi Anatol , Feygin Feliks , Potapov Alexander
Published: December 2024

We set up the problem of ponderomotive separation and acceleration of ions with different charge-to-mass ratios under the influence of Alfvén waves, which constantly exist in the magnetosphere in the form of geomagnetic pulsations. Formulas for partial ponderomotive forces acting on light and heavy (metallic) ions are derived. In the quasi-hydrodynamic approximation, a system of equations is obtained which describes the distribution of ions along magnetic field lines in Earth’s magnetosphere. The Clarke number, which characterizes plasma metallicity, is found to be maximum at a minimum magnetic field on the field line along which the Alfvén wave propagates. This leads to the accumulation of heavy ions at the top of the field line at the point of its intersection with the magnetic equator. The theoretical conclusions agree with satellite measurements of the distribution of heavy ions along field lines in Earth’s magnetosphere.
Response of the mid-latitude atmosphere to sporadic cosmic ray variations in the western Siberian region
Authors: Yanchukovsky Valery
Published: December 2024

The article presents the results of long-term observations of cosmic ray variations and changes in atmospheric parameters at midlatitudes in the Novosibirsk Region. The atmospheric response to Forbush decreases in galactic cosmic rays (CR) and solar proton events is analyzed. The analysis involves 181 Forbush decreases and 18 GLEs (Ground Level Enhancement) for the period 1967–2019. This makes it possible to examine the effect depending on season. The effect of increasing pressure during the Forbush decrease in cosmic rays is more pronounced in the autumn-winter period. Nonetheless, it also occurs in the warm season. For midlatitudes, there is also a tendency for pressure to increase after GLE. At the Forbush decrease front, with a decrease in CR intensity and an increase in atmospheric pressure, an increase in the average mass and surface temperature is observed. In the intensity recovery phase after the Forbush decrease, a decrease in the average mass and surface temperature occurs. The observed variations in atmospheric parameters are assumed to be due to changes in the ionization rate under the influence of cosmic rays in variations in atmospheric transparency and cloudiness.
Estimating the average energy of auroral electrons from 427.8 nm emission intensity measurements
Authors: Dashkevich Zhanna , Ivanov Vladimir
Published: December 2024

We propose a method for estimating average energy of precipitating electrons from 427.8 nm emission intensity measurements. This method is based on the experimental dependence of the ratio of λ630.0 and λ427.8 nm emission intensities on the λ427.8 emission intensity and model calculations of the dependence of the average auroral electron energy on the I₆₃₀.₀/I₄₂₇.₈ ratio. We present numerical estimates of the influence of three factors on this dependence: the shape of the auroral electron energy spectrum, the atomic oxygen concentration, and the NO concentration. The dependence of the average energy of the auroral electron flux on the 427.8 nm emission intensity is obtained and its analytical approximation is presented.
The Anglo-Catholic Perspective of George Gascoigne’s 1572 Masque of Montacutes
Authors: Stelzer Emanuel
Published: December 2024

When considering Gascoigne’s 1572 masque, scholars often point out the poet’s ingenuity in connecting the surname of his patron with the Montagues and Capulets of the Romeo and Juliet story and in interweaving that fictional feud with two historical events which had recently taken place in the Mediterranean: the siege of Famagusta and the Battle of Lepanto. Building on this work, this essay revisits the sociopolitical premises of Gascoigne’s text, emphasizing their transnational character and considering how the triangulation of Englishness, Catholicism, and the dehumanization of the Turks fit into the Elizabethan cultural context.
Optimizando la enseñanza a través de un ciclo de mejora: las escrituras góticas como herramienta innovadora
Authors: Fernández Cobano Abraham
Published: December 2024

En el presente trabajo se muestran los resultados obtenidos en la aplicación de una mejora docente en la asignatura de Paleografía del Grado en Historia de la Universidad de Sevilla. Mediante la realización de este ciclo de mejora
en el aula (CIMA) se expusieron los contenidos de la asignatura pertenecientes
a las escrituras góticas. Tras una breve reflexión sobre la metodología que se estaba empleando, se diseñó un conjunto de actividades orientadas a otro modelo de enseñanza más dinámico. Dejando atrás las viejas clases magistrales, en
este modelo se favorece un aprendizaje significativo del alumnado, creando un
clima de trabajo adecuado donde los alumnos puedan exponer sus ideas libremente. Después del análisis de los resultados obtenidos, podemos afirmar que
los objetivos marcados al comienzo de nuestro ciclo de mejora se han cumplido
considerablemente
Democratizando el aula: así habló el alumno. Aplicación del segundo Ciclo de Mejora en el Aula de la Asignatura Historia de al-Andalus
Authors: Toro Piqueras José María
Published: December 2024

En este trabajo se recoge la aplicación del segundo Ciclo de Mejora en el Aula
(CIMA) aplicado en la asignatura de segundo curso del Grado en Estudios Árabes
e Islámicos Historia de al-Andalus dentro del marco del Programa FIDOP (Formación e Innovación Docente del Profesorado) de la Universidad de Sevilla. El desarrollo del Ciclo ha conllevado una reelaboración de cómo esta asignatura se
ha impartido tradicionalmente poniendo un especial enfoque en cómo el alumnado puede ocupar un rol preminente en el aprendizaje. Tras una introducción al
contexto de la materia, se detalla el diseño previo del CIMA deteniéndonos en el
Mapa de contenidos y problemas, modelo metodológico y breve secuencia de actividades. Asimismo, se analizarán el cuestionario inicial y final de evaluación y
la aplicación del Ciclo de Mejora, afín de comprender lo que ha ocurrido durante
las sesiones. Finalmente, comentaremos la evaluación del aprendizaje de los estudiantes y la valoración de la experiencia, de la que sacaremos lo que ha funcionado y lo que no, para orientar nuestra práctica futura mediante los Principios
Docentes Didácticos.
Más allá de la imaginería: Interpretando el arte de la comunidad escultórica de Tengenenge.
Authors: Imbayago Solomon , Mamvuto Attwell , Katsamudanga Seke , Kwaira Peter
Published: December 2024

Zimbabwean visual art has significantly metamorphosed from the pre-colonial era to the present
day. Within this period of development, Tengenenge Art Centre has been one of the steadiest visual art centres that witnessed the evolution of Zimbabwean stone sculpture up to the contemporary era.
This paper explores the visual imagery at Tengenenge Art Centre in the context of stone sculpture
in Zimbabwe and its interface with African indigenous knowledge systems. Through a combination
of visual analysis and ethnographic research, the paper illuminates how these sculptures serve as
conduits of history, identity, and socio-economic realities, ultimately illustrating their enduring
relevance in contemporary discourse on African art and cultural heritage. Situated within the
cultural and socio-political context of Zimbabwe, the sculptures from Tengenenge are analyzed not
merely as static forms, but as dynamic expressions laden with deeper meanings and narratives. By
delving into the symbolism, techniques, and cultural significance embedded in these sculptures,
this study aims to uncover the layers of interpretation that enrich our understanding of Tengenenge
art. Data were generated through a series of interviews with purposively selected sculptors, analysis
of their work, and observation of the artists in practice. The findings reveal that Tengenenge
sculpture community has a rich cultural heritage that is inspired by indigenous knowledge systems
and African imagery. Because of cultural diversity among the artists, the sculpture has no overall
common visual language. Therefore, Tengenenge is a valuable resource centre for the
understanding of social, cultural, and spiritual parameters of Sub-Saharan African aesthetics.
“Showing the Best Version of Yourself”: The Importance of Dynamic Assessment for Trainees Undergoing Workplace-Based Assessments in Postgraduate Training
Authors: Sandars John , Cecilio-Fernandes Dario , Patel Rakesh
Published: December 2024

Workplace-based assessments (WPBAs) in postgraduate training may not always provide an accurate representation of a trainee’s capability to perform a given task, or a true measure of a trainee’s overall competence in clinical practice settings. This article describes how trainers can use a theory-driven and evidence-based intervention called dynamic assessment for providing an individual with the best opportunity to demonstrate a more accurate representation of their performance, and ultimately present the best version of themselves when undergoing an observed WPBA, such as a Direct Observation of Procedural Skills (DOPS) or Mini Consultation Evaluation Exercise (MiniCEX). Dynamic assessment simultaneously combines educational support with assessment as the trainee undergoes the WPBA by using focussed questions as prompts to facilitate an individual trainee’s essential coordination of their motivational and thinking processes since this is often challenged during assessments. In addition, the response to the prompts can also provide trainers with information to inform specific feedback for future professional development.
Predictive Value of Serum Lactate Levels for Mortality in Patients with Hepatitis B-Related Decompensated Cirrhosis: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Yang Hong , Zhang Bin , Peng Chunxian , Yu Chun , Mou Xiaolin
Published: December 2024

Aims/Background Decompensated cirrhosis is characterized by the progression of cirrhosis from an asymptomatic state to elevated portal pressure and marked deterioration of liver function. This pathological condition progresses rapidly following onset, significantly raising the risk for mortality. The aim of this study is to explore the association between serum lactate concentrations and mortality rates in individuals with hepatitis B-induced decompensated cirrhosis and to evaluate its potential as a clinical prognostic indicator.

Methods This retrospective analysis involved 200 individuals (134 men and 66 women) diagnosed with decompensated cirrhosis related to hepatitis B and hospitalized between March 2017 and May 2023. Out of these patients, 162 survived while 38 did not. Clinical information and laboratory results, including the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score, Child-Pugh score, and serum lactate levels, were collected. Logistic regression was applied to identify mortality risk factors from the patient sample and groups categorized according to gender. The predictive value of serum lactate levels for mortality was assessed using the area under the curve (AUC), i.e., receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results The surviving patient group showed significantly lowered MELD scores, Child-Pugh scores, and serum lactate levels compared to those who were deceased (p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis revealed that the MELD score, Child-Pugh score, and serum lactate levels were independent predictors of mortality in patients with decompensated hepatitis B cirrhosis, with odds ratios (OR) of 1.321, 1.432, and 49.082, respectively (p = 0.012, 0.028, and <0.001, respectively). Additionally, the OR for serum lactate levels was notably higher in female patients compared to male patients (46.824 vs. 30.451). Thus, the MELD score, Child-Pugh score, and serum lactate levels are effective predictors for mortality in cirrhosis patients (AUCs = 0.628, 0.675, and 0.809; p = 0.014, 0.001, and <0.001, respectively), with serum lactate levels showing the most excellent predictive efficacy profile (sensitivity 65.8% and specificity 97.5%). Additionally, the AUC value for serum lactate levels was lower in male patients (0.785) compared to female patients (0.875), indicating that changes in serum lactate levels were more sensitive in female patients. In summary, serum lactate concentration is a prognostic indicator of mortality in individuals with decompensated cirrhosis due to hepatitis B, exhibiting higher predictive significance in female patients.

Conclusion Deceased patients with decompensated cirrhosis linked to hepatitis B exhibit markedly increased serum lactate levels. Thus, monitoring serum lactate levels offers an effective tool for predicting patient prognosis, exhibiting higher sensitivity for disease detection in female patients.
Responding to crisis: The Cuban leadership copes with mass protests, 2020–2022
Authors: Domínguez Jorge I.
Published: December 2024

How did the Cuban government and Communist Party respond to mass protests in 2020–2022? This article explores the official tools used to respond to such protests. Contrary to common perceptions, the government and the party did not merely repress their opponents. Instead, they combined repression with some economic, social, and political changes. Mass protests in Cuba 2020–2022 challenged the political order the most in 40 years. Repression, ‘socialist legality’, emigration, elements of political accountability, and selective political liberalisation targeting appeals to churches, LGBTQI+, and Afro-descendant groups were within the toolkit. There was also some liberalisation within the National Assembly and the Supreme Court as well as selective democratisation, submitting the draft Family Code to public discussion and referendum, permitting opposition. The enactment of limited market reforms, which had been first authorised ten years earlier, also accelerated.
4˝ × 6˝ Time Machines: Nabokovian Mnemotechnics and Interwar Psychical Research
Authors: Meng Elvin
Published: December 2024

abstract: Taking the recently published records of Vladimir Nabokov's 1964 dream experiments as a point of departure, this article considers media affinities between transatlantic interwar psychical research—taking John William Dunne's 1927 An Experiment with Time , which inspired the novelist's experiments, as a focal point—and Nabokov's idiosyncratic conception of narrative fiction as a spatial (rather than temporal) medium. I suggest that, instead of modernity's better-known time media, both Dunne and Nabokov appropriated the media logic of older inscription technologies in their respective attempts (a metaphysics of serial time for Dunne and an aesthetics of timelessness for Nabokov) to overcome time's linearity.
A Contagious Ophthalmic Psychosis: Carl Julius Salomonsen and the Epidemic of Artistic Modernism in Europe, 1919–20
Authors: Hodgson Andrew
Published: December 2024

abstract: In 1919, chief medical officer of Denmark, Carl Julius Salomonsen, began giving public lectures focused on his art-medical theory of Dysmorphism. His theory was that modernist art and writing were the pathogens of a contagious psychopathy passed via the eye that was, in the wake of World War I, sending the European populace insane. He published the scripts for the lectures as pamphlets and in newspapers. This article looks to this heteroclite art-medical attempt to decode the social affect of early modernist artwork as contagious psychopathy, and in doing so opens up new avenues of contemporaneous reflection on modernist aesthetics.
Polarimetric analysis of whitefly larvae on pomegranate leaves via Mueller matrix imaging
Authors: Hashemi Mozhgan , Rasouli Saifollah , Soltani Peyman
Published: December 2024

This study explores the use of Mueller matrix imaging polarimetry (MMIP) to analyze whitefly larvae on a pomegranate leaf. Utilizing a dual-rotating retarder setup, we captured detailed Mueller matrix images of the infested leaf with whitefly larvae and after removing them. Through polar decomposition, we quantified depolarization, diattenuation, and retardance properties, providing insights into the structural and optical characteristics of the sample. The results indicate that the presence of larvae significantly alters the depolarization and retardance parameters, demonstrating the efficacy of MMIP in discerning fine structural and compositional changes in plant tissues.
Sampling function application in the driving waveform of electrowetting displays toward high performance
Authors: Xu Wanzhen , Yang Huakang , Luo Dongxiang , Wang Li , Li Liangyu , Li Xiuxiu , Zhou Guofu , Yi Zichuan
Published: December 2024

Microfluidic technology is a new interdisciplinary subject involving chemistry, fluid physics, and biomedical engineering, which has a wide application prospect. The electrowetting display (EWD) technology based on microfluidic technology has also received extensive attention and is expected to become a new generation of paper-like display technology. However, the grayscale response speed of EWDs driven by DC driving waveforms is slow, which seriously affects its use experience. So, combined with the principle of EWDs, the influence of the driving waveform’s shape and driving voltage on EWDs’ performance was investigated. And then, a novel, to our knowledge, composite function driving waveform based on a sampling function was presented, which consisted of an initial driving stage and a backflow suppressing stage. In the initial driving stage, the pixel was driven quickly by using an overdriving voltage, and the overdriving voltage was attenuated to target voltages, thus preventing the pixel from being destroyed. In the backflow suppressing stage, an AC voltage was used to neutralize trapped charges in the insulating layer. The results showed that compared with the DC driving waveform, the proposed driving performance has been improved in luminance, grayscale response speed, and stability; the maximum luminance of the grayscale has been improved by 5.43% and the response time has been shortened by 12.34%.
Overview and progress on the XCAN digital laser
Authors: Lechevalier Corentin , Andrieu Jordan , Ranély-Vergé-Dépré Claude-Alban , Fsaifes Ihsan , Boer Gerben , Chanteloup Jean-Christophe
Published: December 2024

We present recent progress achieved on XCAN coherent beam combining laser, enabling versatile capabilities such as on-demand far-field energy distribution, polarization control, and access to several pulse
Efficient and scalable scheme for overcoming the pulse energy bottleneck of sub-cycle laser sources
Authors: Nishimiya Kaito , Takahashi Eiji j
Published: December 2024

We evaluate the amplification characteristics for the development of a multi-TW MIR sub-cycle laser by advanced dual-chirped optical parametric amplification method, which aims to generate high harmonics with a continuous region of >70%.
2-J, 20-Hz Pulse Laser System Operating at Room Temperature and Wavelength Conversion to 266 nm
Authors: Hirosawa Kenichi , Ohata Nobuo , Kausas Arvydas , Yahia Vincent , Taira Takunori
Published: December 2024

We have developed a 2-J at 1064 nm and 200-mJ at 266 nm laser system using Distributed-Faced-Cooling chips. This paper shows characteristics when the repetition rate was increased from 1 Hz to 20 Hz.
Sub-15 fs Jitter After Multi-Pass Cell Pulse Compression at the Beamline FL23 of the FLASH Facility
Authors: Schwickert David , Alisauskas Skirmantas , Kschuev Nick , Calendron Anne-Laure , Seifi Ayhan Tajalli , Cirmi Giovanni , Düsterer Stefan , Cankaya Huseyin , Hartl Ingmar , Schulz Sebastian , Schlarb Holger
Published: December 2024

The temporal stability of laser pulses after a high-energy compression stage using a multi-pass cell with transport beamline was investigated, resulting in correctable ~1 ps long-term drift, and 11 fs residual jitter (10 s integration).
Spectral Reflectance of Femtosecond Laser-induced Columnar Structures on Al
Authors: Park Taehoon , Kim Yong-dae , Lee Byounghwak , Hwang Taek Yong
Published: December 2024

In this work, we investigate the spectral reflectance of femtosecond laser-induced columnar structures on Al, and find that the spectral reflectance of the structures unusually increases with the number of irradiating pulses.
Off-Center Feedback-Based Phase Synchronization in Tiled Array Coherent Beam Combination
Authors: Sooraj M. S. , Maji Satyajit , Sankar Viswanathan , Srinivasan Balaji
Published: December 2024

We propose and experimentally demonstrate a novel method for phase synchronization in hexagonal tiled array coherent beam combination based on single point partial feedback from an off-center location in the far field.
Amplifying Watt-level Femtosecond Pulses at 1770 nm Using Tm:Tb:ZBLAN Fibers
Authors: Banguilan Dina Grace , Okada Kaito , Fuji Takao
Published: December 2024

We have developed a laser system that can amplify watt-level pulses at 1770 nm using thulium- and terbium-doped fluoride fibers, and can compress these pulses to 259 fs using a grating-prism pair.
Generation of Intense Attosecond Soft X-ray Field by High-Precision Focusing System
Authors: Imasaka Kotaro , Kanda Natsuki , Dong Dianhong , Xue Bing , Egawa Satoru , Hosobata Takuya , Takeda Masahiro , Yamagata Yutaka , Takahashi Eiji J.
Published: December 2024

The peak intensity from high harmonic generation source is approaching PW/cm2, which enables us to observe attosecond nonlinear optical phenomena in solids. We developed a high-precision focusing system to improve the peak intensity.
All Optical Detection of Phase Differences in Divided Pulse Amplification
Authors: Miyake Haruyuki , Yoshizawa Kazuki , Tünnermann Henrik , Shirakawa Akira
Published: December 2024

Using second harmonic generation to detect phase differences between divided pulses in divided pulse amplification with 4 or more division is proposed. Modulation-free, all optical phase detection was experimentally demonstrated in 4 division.
MXene-based SERS spectroscopic analysis of exosomes for lung cancer differential diagnosis with deep learning
Authors: Chen Xi , Liu Hongyi , Fan Dandan , Chen Nan , Ma Pei , Zhang Xuedian , Chen Hui
Published: December 2024

Lung cancer with heterogeneity has a high mortality rate due to its late-stage detection and chemotherapy resistance. Liquid biopsy that discriminates tumor-related biomarkers in body fluids has emerged as an attractive technique for early-stage and accurate diagnosis. Exosomes, carrying membrane and cytosolic information from original tumor cells, impart themselves endogeneity and heterogeneity, which offer extensive and unique advantages in the field of liquid biopsy for cancer differential diagnosis. Herein, we demonstrate a Gramian angular summation field and MobileNet V2 (GASF-MobileNet)-assisted surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) technique for analyzing exosomes, aimed at precise diagnosis of lung cancer. Specifically, a composite substrate was synthesized for SERS detection of exosomes based on Ti3C2Tx Mxene and the array of gold-silver core-shell nanocubes (MGS), that combines sensitivity and signal stability. The employment of MXene facilitates the non-selective capture and enrichment of exosomes. To overcome the issue of potentially overlooking spatial features in spectral data analysis, 1-D spectra were first transformed into 2-D images through GASF. By using transformed images as the input data, a deep learning model based on the MobileNet V2 framework extracted spectral features from higher dimensions, which identified different non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines with an overall accuracy of 95.23%. Moreover, the area under the curve (AUC) for each category exceeded 0.95, demonstrating the great potential of integrating label-free SERS with deep learning for precise lung cancer differential diagnosis. This approach allows routine cancer management, and meanwhile, its non-specific analysis of SERS signatures is anticipated to be expanded to other cancers.
Warm/cool judgments as a function of hue, value, and chroma
Authors: Devinck Frédéric , Knoblauch Kenneth
Published: December 2024

Besides conventional perceptual attributes of hue, brightness, and saturation, colors are universally classified along a warm/cool dimension. Previous estimates of how warm/cool values are distributed across color space have relied on subjective ratings. Here we employed simple ordinal judgments between stimulus pairs using maximum likelihood conjoint measurement (MLCM) to assess the influence of Munsell hue, value, and chroma on warm/cool judgments. We also evaluated an identification task for single stimulus presentations. For the MLCM procedure, observers judged on each trial which of the two stimuli appeared warmer. For the identification task, observers classified individually presented color patches as cool or warm. The judgments were analyzed with probit regression to estimate the underlying perceptual scale values. The results confirm that the contributions of different dimensions to warm/cool variations in color space can be estimated using only ordinal judgments. While for most observers, warm/cool judgments depended on hue, there were individual variations in the extent to which value contributed to warm/cool, and little evidence for an effect of chroma.
Tm:YLF Lasers for Emerging Applications
Authors: Kiani Leily , Hubka Zbynek , Tamer Issa , Owens Jason , Church Andrew , Batysta Frantisek , Galvin Thomas , Willard Drew , Yandow Andrew , Galbraith Justin , Alessi David , Harthcock Colin , Hickman Brad , Jackson Candis , Nissen James , Tardif Sean , Nguyen Hoang , Sistrunk Emily , Spinka Thomas M. , Reagan Brendan A.
Published: December 2024

We present Tm:YLF laser technology development including joule-level short pulse amplification and gas-cooling at high heat loads in two separate experiments, which shows the potential suitability of Tm:YLF based lasers for drivers of emerging applications.
Raman LiDAR for Ocean Remote Sensing of Temperature and Salinity
Authors: Pask Helen , Taylor Carolyn , Curtis Simon , Spence David , Kitzler Ondrej , Dawes Judith , Downes James
Published: December 2024

Ocean LiDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) is being used increasingly for the profiling of water properties. We will show how Raman LiDAR can measure water temperature and salinity and discuss key design considerations.
Optical System for In-situ Detection of Microplastics
Authors: Campman Geoffrey , van Iersel Miranda
Published: December 2024

A portable optical system to detect, identify, continuously monitor, and quantify microplastics is developed. The system uses optical techniques to observe the temporal behavior of the amount of microplastics present at a certain location of a natural water body.
Quantum squeezing in on-chip degenerate optical parametric oscillator microring
Authors: Danilin Andrei N. , Chermoshentsev Dmitry A. , Masalov Anatoly V. , Bilenko Igor A.
Published: December 2024

We report the direct observation of 2 dB squeezed vacuum in Si3N4 optical microring degenerate parametric oscillator. After accounting for optical losses, the inferred on-chip squeezing is approximately ~ 5 dB.
Laguerre-Gaussian Beam Propagation through Anisotropic Turbulence: A Comparison of the Extended Huygens-Fresnel Principle and Perturbation Method
Authors: Ghanati Elaheh , van Iersel Miranda
Published: December 2024

A Laguerre-Gaussian beam is propagated through anisotropic atmospheric turbulence using the extended-Huygens-Fresnel principle and perturbation method. The normalized intensity profile and spot size are calculated using both methods and compared.
Dynamic all-optical beam steering
Authors: Hentz Aurélie , Gutzwiller Jean-Louis , Alassir Michel , Sciamanna Marc
Published: December 2024

We experimentally explore a beam steering system implementing Risley prism and variable magnification beam expander. It adapts to scanning windows dimensions and distances, with a given spatial resolution, enabling scan in several hundreds milliseconds.
Integrated photonic crystal beam splitters based on thin film lithium niobate
Authors: Zhou Siyuan , Chen Guanyu , Wu Yu , Lu Jindong , Su Wenqu , Liu Yushan , Zhang Ziyao , Yu Hua
Published: December 2024

We propose and demonstrate integrated photonic crystal (PhC) beam splitters based on X-cut thin film lithium niobate (TFLN). Its working principle is based on bandgap guidance and total reflection in the PhC slab. We designed two structures: one features a triangular lattice, while the other exhibits a tetragonal lattice. These structures have compact footprint, with size of 14.857×4.982 and 15.275×5.295 µm2 for triangular and tetragonal lattices, respectively. We fabricate these devices by directly etching the TFLN. The measured insertion losses are 3.482 (triangular lattice) and 2.181 (tetragonal lattice) dB. Our proposed PhC beam splitter provides a novel approach for the realization of compact photonic devices on TFLN.