bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing seismic porosity estimation through 3D sequence-to-sequence deep learning with data augmentation, spatial constraints, and geologic constraints
Authors: Xu Minghui , Zhao Luanxiao , Liu Jingyu , Geng Jianhua
Published: April 2024

Estimating porosity from seismic data is critical for studying underground rock properties, assessing energy reserves, and subsequent reservoir exploration and development. For reservoirs with strong heterogeneity, the endeavor to accurately and stably characterize spatial variations in porosity often encounters considerable challenges due to the rapid lateral changes in formations. In view of this, establishing a robust mapping relationship from seismic data to reservoir properties in 3D space is important in addressing this challenge. We transform the conventional 1D sequence-to-point (STP) prediction paradigm into a 3D sequence-to-sequence (STS) prediction paradigm to enable machine learning to extract 3D seismic data features. The 3D STS prediction presents valuable potential for enhancing the geologic continuity and vertical characterization ability of porosity compared to STP. Building upon the 3D STS prediction model, three strategies from different perspectives are introduced to further enhance the performance of seismic porosity estimation. First, we apply a translation-based data augmentation (DA) strategy to mitigate the problem of sparsely labeled data. Second, we develop spatial constraints (SCs) considering absolute coordinates and relative time to boost the spatial delineation of porosity. Third, to incorporate geologic insights into machine learning, we impose geologic constraints (GCs) by measuring the data distribution similarity between around-the-well predictions and well labels. Compared with DA strategies, incorporating SCs and GCs to STS yields more substantial improvements, which illustrates the importance of prior knowledge for physical parameter inversion. Finally, the combined application of these three strategies and the 3D STS method gives better generalization performance and geologic plausibility in the porosity prediction for investigated carbonate reservoirs, outperforming other methods and decreasing error by an average of 8% across 48 wells compared to STP.
Puberty Blocker, Leuprolide, Reduces Sex Differences in Rough-and-Tumble Play and Anxiety-like Behavior in Juvenile Rats
Authors: Oliveira Gabriela de Faria , Nguyen Amber T , Carreras-Simons Leykza , Niepsuj Thomas , Gadelhak Salma H , Johnson Aimee K , Abdalla Ashwakh , Lev Eden , Torres Román Sofia G , Fuchs Samantha N , Jorgensen Joan S , Farhat Walid A , Auger Anthony P
Published: April 2024

We examined the effect of the puberty blocker, leuprolide acetate, on sex differences in juvenile rough-and-tumble play behavior and anxiety-like behavior in adolescent male and female rats. We also evaluated leuprolide treatment on gonadal and pituitary hormone levels and activity-regulated cytoskeleton-protein messenger RNA levels within the adolescent amygdala, a region important both for rough-and-tumble play and anxiety-like behavior. Our findings suggest that leuprolide treatment lowered anxiety-like behavior during adolescent development, suggesting that the maturation of gonadotropin-releasing hormone systems may be linked to increased anxiety. These data provide a potential new model to understand the emergence of increased anxiety triggered around puberty. Leuprolide also reduced masculinized levels of rough-and-tumble play behavior, lowered follicle-stimulating hormone, and produced a consistent pattern of reducing or halting sex differences of hormone levels, including testosterone, growth hormone, thyrotropin, and corticosterone levels. Therefore, leuprolide treatment not only pauses sexual development of peripheral tissues, but also reduces sex differences in hormones, brain, and behavior, allowing for better harmonization of these systems following gender-affirming hormone treatment. These data contribute to the intended use of puberty blockers in stopping sex differences from developing further with the potential benefit of lowering anxiety-like behavior.
Utility of Repeat Sampling in Bilateral Aldosterone Suppression During Adrenal Vein Sampling for Primary Aldosteronism
Authors: Halim Bella , Yong Eric X Z , Egan Matthew , MacIsaac Richard J , O’Neal David , Sachithanandan Nirupa
Published: April 2024

Primary aldosteronism (PA) is the most common form of secondary hypertension. Accurate subtyping of PA is essential to identify unilateral disease, as adrenalectomy improves outcomes. Subtyping PA requires adrenal vein sampling (AVS), which is technically challenging and results from AVS may not always be conclusive. We present a case of a 37-year-old man with PA whose AVS studies were inconclusive due to apparent bilateral aldosterone suppression (ABAS). As a result, our patient was misdiagnosed as having bilateral PA and medically managed until a repeat AVS showed lateralization to the right adrenal gland. ABAS is an underrecognized phenomenon that may confound the subtyping of PA. We recommend repeating AVS in such cases and discuss strategies to minimize ABAS.
Are there Sensitive Periods for Skill Development in Male Adolescent Basketball Players?
Authors: Guimarães Eduardo , Baxter-Jones Adam D. G. , Williams A. Mark , Anderson David I. , Janeira Manuel A. , Garbeloto Fernando , Pereira Sara , Maia José
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Although spurts in physical capacities during adolescence are well-known, little is known about the existence of such spurts in sport-specific skill development, especially during the period of rapid growth in stature. Our aims were to examine the timing, intensity, and sequence of basketball-specific skill spurts aligned with biological [years from peak height velocity (PHV)] rather than chronological age. We then defined putative sensitive periods (windows of optimal development) for each skill aligned to the adolescent growth spurt.

Methods

Altogether, 160 adolescent male basketballers, aged 11–15 years, were tested bi-annually over three consecutive years. The years from attainment of PHV were estimated and six skill tests were aligned to each year from PHV in 3-month intervals. Skill velocities were estimated using a non-smooth polynomial model.

Results

Maximal gains in slalom dribble occurred 12 months prior to PHV attainment (intensity = 0.18 m·s−1·year−1), whereas in speed shot shooting (intensity = 9.91 pts·year−1), passing (intensity = 19.13 pts·year−1), and slalom sprint (intensity = 0.19 m·s−1·year−1) these skill spurts were attained 6 months prior to PHV attainment. The mean gains in control dribble (intensity = 0.10 m·s−1·year−1) and defensive movement (intensity = 0.12 m·s−1·year−1) peaks coincided with attainment of PHV. We identified different sized windows for optimal development for each skill.

Conclusions

Peak spurts in skill development, for most basketball skills, were attained at the same time as PHV. The multiple peaks observed within the defined windows of optimal development suggest that there is room for skill improvement even if gains might be greater earlier rather than later in practice. Our findings highlight the need to make coaches aware of where their players are relative to the attainment of PHV since different skills appear to develop differently relative to PHV. Such knowledge may help in designing more relevant training regimes that incorporate the athlete’s current growth status so that skill development can be maximized.
Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing in a Prospective Multicenter Cohort of Older Adults
Authors: WOLF CODY , BLACKWELL TERRI L. , JOHNSON EILEEN , GLYNN NANCY W. , NICKLAS BARBARA , KRITCHEVSKY STEPHEN B. , CARNERO ELVIS A. , CAWTHON PEGGY M. , CUMMINGS STEVEN R. , TOLEDO FREDERICO G. S. , NEWMAN ANNE B. , FORMAN DANIEL E. , GOODPASTER BRET H.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) measured by peak oxygen consumption (V̇O2
peak) declines with aging and correlates with mortality and morbidity. Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) is the criterion method to assess CRF, but its feasibility, validity, and reliability in older adults are unclear. Our objective was to design and implement a dependable, safe, and reliable CPET protocol in older adults.

Methods

V̇O2
peak was measured by CPET, performed using treadmill exercise in 875 adults ≥70 yr in the Study of Muscle, Mobility and Aging (SOMMA). The protocol included a symptom-limited peak (maximal) exercise and two submaximal walking speeds. An adjudication process was in place to review tests for validity if they met any prespecified criteria (V̇O2
peak <12.0 mL·kg−1·min−1; maximum heart rate <100 bpm; respiratory exchange ratio <1.05 and a rating of perceived exertion <15). A subset (N = 30) performed a repeat test to assess reproducibility.

Results

CPET was safe and well tolerated, with 95.8% of participants able to complete the V̇O2
peak phase of the protocol. Only 56 (6.4%) participants had a risk alert and only two adverse events occurred: a fall and atrial fibrillation. Mean ± SD V̇O2
peak was 20.2 ± 4.8 mL·kg−1·min−1, peak heart rate 142 ± 18 bpm, and peak respiratory exchange ratio 1.14 ± 0.09. Adjudication was indicated in 47 tests; 20 were evaluated as valid and 27 as invalid (18 data collection errors, 9 did not reach V̇O2
peak). Reproducibility of V̇O2
peak was high (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.97).

Conclusions

CPET was feasible, effective, and safe for older adults, including many with multimorbidity or frailty. These data support a broader implementation of CPET to provide insight into the role of CRF and its underlying determinants of aging and age-related conditions.
Comparison of the consistency of structural measurements made using the traditional method and with the use of point cloud from terrestrial laser scanning in a selected site of Radków Bluff (Table Mountains, SW-Poland)
Authors: Sokalski Dominik , Wojewoda Jurand
Published: April 2024

The results from two methods of structural analysis of the morphological rock escarpment are presented – a conventional technique, based on cartographic projection and set of structural measurements, and one based on processed point cloud data obtained from terrestrial laser scanning of the site (TLS). The results refer to one of the numerous sites located at the base of the nearly 40 km long vertical rock cliff (Radków Bluff) in Table Mountains, which locally reaches height of up to 50 m. The selected site in the area of so-called Radków Rocky Towers area is characterized by a complex and multi-stage structural pattern. A method of automatic and semi-automatic determination of discontinuity surfaces in the entire exposure was tested, with particular emphasis on zones of load induced fractures located at the base of the rock wall. The authors obtained a high convergence of the results generated from the point cloud analysis and those made by the traditional method using a geological compass. The paper suggests a correct and effective methodology for surveying and using data, as well as highlighting the benefits of documenting geological sites with the use of TLS. The analysis confirms the role and importance of fractures induced by a localized load in the process of destruction and retreat of morphological slopes.
Conditions and morphogenetic role of the 2018 and 2021 debris flows in Starorobociański Cirque, Western Tatra Mts.
Authors: Siemek Dawid , Gorczyca Elżbieta
Published: April 2024

In this study we used geomorphologic mapping, precipitation analysis and archival photomaps to study debris flows in the Starorobociański Cirque, which were renewed in 2018 and 2021. Debris flow in 2021 was most likely the largest single flow recorded in the Polish Western Tatras in the twenty first century. It reached a length of about 870 m and it covered an area of ​​0.62 to 0.65 ha. We set July 14, 2021, as the date of debris flow initiation and 52.1 mm·d−1 as its threshold value. This is one of the lowest values provided in the literature for such flows in the Western Tatra Mts. On the contrary, debris flow which occurred July 18, 2018 was linked to threshold value of 150.5 mm·d−1. On the basis of former debris flow occurrence as well as precipitation analysis we interpret the appearance of debris flow in 2021 as an effect of short and intense rainfall.
A institucionalização da análise de custo-benefício
Authors: Fuchs Edward P. , Anderson James E.
Published: April 2024

Este artigo examina os esforços das administrações Nixon, Ford, Cartere Reagan para fazer com que as agências reguladoras realizem análisesde custobenefício como parte da tomada de decisões. Conclui que essaexigência ainda não foi totalmente atendida em nível de agência.
O mundo perdido do direito administrativo
Authors: Farber Daniel A. , O'Connell Anne Joseph
Published: April 2024

A realidade do estado administrativo moderno diverge consideravelmente da série de suposições subjacentes à Lei de Procedimento Administrativo (APA) e das decisões judiciais clássicas que se seguiram à APA, analisando as ações das agências. Essas premissas exigem que as diretrizes legais sejam implementadas por uma agência liderada por nomeados presidenciais confirmados pelo Senado com autoridade para tomar decisões. Presume-se que a implementação (na forma de uma ação discreta) seja feita por meio de procedimentos e critérios obrigatórios por lei, com revisão judicial para determinar se os motivos apresentados pela agência no momento de sua ação correspondem às instruções delegadas. Esse é o mundo perdido do direito administrativo, embora seja o que os estudantes ainda aprendem em grande parte.
Atualmente, muitas vezes há diretrizes estatutárias e executivas a serem implementadas por vários órgãos, muitas vezes sem líderes confirmados, onde a autoridade decisória final pode estar fora desses órgãos. O processo de implementação também se dá por meio de mandatos em estatutos e ordens executivas, em que o resultado final enfrenta uma supervisão limitada, se houver, por parte dos tribunais. Essa incompatibilidade tem consequências para a legitimidade e a eficácia da burocracia federal: algumas positivas, muitas negativas. Como não acreditamos que um retorno ao mundo perdido seja possível ou talvez até desejável, propomos algumas reformas possíveis em todos os três ramos do governo federal para fortalecer a correspondência entre as realidades atuais e o direito administrativo e para promover os objetivos do direito administrativo de transparência, estado de direito e implementação fundamentada de mandatos estatutários. Esperamos também que as reformas propostas possam ajudar a promover os objetivos de interesse público da regulamentação moderna, como a qualidade ambiental ou a estabilidade financeira.
Sabemos que muitos acadêmicos e provavelmente pelo menos alguns juízes estão cientes de que os procedimentos administrativos formais, os registros oficiais e a revisão judicial são apenas parte da dinâmica da governança administrativa. No entanto, o direito administrativo, conforme desenvolvido pelos tribunais e nos estatutos que o regem, não enfrentou de forma significativa as realidades contemporâneas do estado administrativo. Assim, ele corre o risco de se tornar irrelevante para a qualidade da governança.
Por uma visão instrumental da sanção administrativa
Authors: Voronoff Alice Bernardo , Lima Cesar Henrique Ferreira
Published: April 2024

Este artigo tem por objetivo estabelecer um comparativo entre duas visões da sanção administrativa: (i) a visão finalística, em que a punição é tida com um fim em si mesmo, i.e., uma resposta automática a partir do descumprimento de normas; e (ii) a visão instrumental, em que é vista como meio a serviço de valores e objetivos caros à sociedade. Como se verá, a acepção compatível com o estado democrático de direito é aquela que enxerga a sanção administrativa como um instrumento, compreendendo-a como uma das respostas possíveis para o cometimento de uma infração, entre outras à disposição do gestor público.
Efficacy of Dashmool Vasti as an adjuvant therapy with the standard of care (modern + physiotherapy) in the rehabilitation of stroke as compared to standard of care – a clinical trial protocol
Authors: Sawarkar Punam , Kuchewar Vaishali , Sawarkar Gaurav , Qureshi Irshad
Published: April 2024

Background Stroke is ischemia and neurological dysfunction caused by acute brain circulation loss. It causes acute localized neurological abnormalities such as weakness, sensory deficit, or language issues that require long-term treatment. These deficiencies harm the patient and their family psychologically, socially, and economically. Thus, combination treatment can rapidly rehabilitate such patients. Detoxification methods like Ayurvedic medicated enema help stroke pathophysiology. Physical modalities in physiotherapy have been shown to facilitate normal movement and function on the stroke patient’s affected side, increasing independence with everyday duties. A stroke patient may benefit from Dashmoola Niruha Basti, Function Electrical Stimulation (FES), and Motor Relearning Programme (MRP). Aim & Objectives This study compares the adjuvant role of Dashmoola Basti with MRP and FES in stroke recovery. The main goals of this study are to assess and compare the adjuvant role of Dashmoola Basti with standard control over sensorimotor function of lower extremities, static and dynamic balance in stroke patients; gait parameters; resistance experienced during passive range of motion; quality of life of patients; Barthel Index; Modified Ashworth Scale; and Fuglmeyer assessment, Single Limb Stance Test, Functional Reach Test. Methods A total of 40 patients will be enrolled and divided randomly into two equal groups. In Group A (control), standard treatment (modern + physiotherapy) will be prescribed for one month. In Group B (interventional group), Dashmoola Basti will be added to the aforementioned standard treatment for one month. Expected results Improvement in Fuglmeyer assessment, Single Limb Stance Test, Functional Reach Test, quality of Life of Patients, Barthel Index, Modified Ashworth scale, and National Institute of Health (NIH) stroke-scale-score will be observed and recorded. Conclusions Results and conclusions will be derived according to the data collected in case record form and assessment sheets filled at baseline and follow-up visits. Trial registration CTRI/2021/10/037445 dated 21.10.2021.
Gobernanza, control estatal y marco legal-institucional de las empresas públicas a nivel subnacional en Argentina
Authors: Yañez Manuel
Published: April 2024

El objetivo de este trabajo es analizar la gobernanza de las empresas públicas subnacionales a partir de la consideración de las formas en que se expresa el control estatal en los marcos legales-institucionales a nivel provincial en Argentina. A partir de un abordaje cualitativo con fines descriptivos, se relevaron normativas de las 24 jurisdicciones provinciales argentinas. Entre los hallazgos se destaca que la totalidad de las jurisdicciones presenta un esquema de relación con sus empresas de carácter descentralizado, mediante el ministerio sectorial correspondiente, incluyendo, en algunos casos, la existencia de instancias transversales de control y supervisión.
Enfoque histórico de la interrelación entre la informalidad y el desarrollo
Authors: Celín Camargo Yennifer , Torres Gómez Edwin , López González Mauricio
Published: April 2024

La informalidad laboral afecta el desarrollo económico, y si bien no es el único determinante, es posible afirmar que acciones de política económica dirigidas a incrementar la formalización del empleo pueden contribuir positivamente a mejorar el bienestar de muchos hogares pobres y vulnerables y, por tanto, a transitar a mayores niveles de desarrollo económico. Los estudios empíricos dan cuenta de una relación causal: los empleos malos, de baja calidad o informales, se concentran en mayor medida en hogares pobres, vulnerables, en los cuales no se cuenta con ningún empleo formal. El bajo nivel de ingreso de los empleos informales no permite, en muchas ocasiones, satisfacer las necesidades básicas, al tiempo que también generan mayores niveles de vulnerabilidad en las personas de mayor edad, al no contar con la posibilidad de una pensión.
Supporting sight loss in early years
Authors: Lock Pete
Published: April 2024

There are currently over 4,000 0-4-year olds living with a vision impairment in the UK. Pete Lock, Guide Dogs National Habilitation lead on Guide Dogs My Time To Play, shares more about how practitioners can spot sight loss in children and adjust their practice, as well as more about the Guide Dogs My Time to Play service.
Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of Primary Vitreoretinal Lymphoma in Northern Thailand
Authors:   Ophthalmology department, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Choosri Pantaree , Pathanapitoon Kessara ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Kunavisarut Paradee ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Choovuthayakorn Janejit ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Apivatthakakul Atitaya ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Kulniwatcharoen Pichaya ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Rothova Aniki ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVE This study aims to describe clinical characteristics and outcomes after treatment of primary vitreoretinal lymphoma (PVRL). METHODS Fifteen patients with a proven diagnosis of PVRL by histology, cytology and/or flow cytometry were analyzed. RESULTS The median age of the 15 patients was 59 years (range 41-71). Median follow-up time was 37 months (IQR 22.5-80) (range 4-106). Ophthalmic presentations of 25 eyes included vitritis (72%), chorioretinal infiltrations (60%), and retinal vasculitis (20%). Bilateral involvement was observed in 10 patients at presentation and in 4 patients during follow up. Ten patients (67%) developed brain involvement after ocular presentation with a median time of 22.5 months (range 2-84). Treatment modalities were included: 1) isolated intravitreal (IVT) methotrexate (6/15 patients; 40%) with a median number of injections of 4 (IQR 1,6) (range 1-16) 2) combined with IVT metho-trexate and/or rituximab and systemic chemotherapy and/or radiation (8/15; 53%) with a median of 6 injections (IQR 1,11) (range 1-16) and 3) systemic chemotherapy alone (1/15; 7%). Whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT) was performed in 10 of 15 patients (67%). Among the 6 patients who received isolated IVT methotrexate, 3 patients had complete remission (3/6; 50%), one died at 96 months after treatment, and one was lost to follow up after a single injection. Nine of 15 patients who received systemic chemotherapy with or without IVT chemotherapy and/or WBRT had complete remission (8/9; 89%). CONCLUSIONS Vitritis and chorioretinal infiltrations were the main ocular presentations of PVRL. Two-thirds of the patients developed brain involvement which resolved after treatment. Systemic chemotherapy tends to provide a higher rate of complete remission compared to local therapy alone.
Blood Plasma as a Sampling Model during Drug-induced Thrombocytopenia: Effects of Antioxidants
Authors:   Department of Biotechnology, School of Sciences, JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), India, Ananthakrishna Anusha Berikai , Mithun Manasa ,   Department of Biotechnology, School of Sciences, JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), India, Harish Archana ,   Department of Biotechnology, School of Sciences, JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), India, Ali Fazeelath ,   Department of Biotechnology, School of Sciences, JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), India, Lewis Onival Oushal ,   Department of Biotechnology, School of Sciences, JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), India, Devi Pavithra ,   Department of Biotechnology, School of Sciences, JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), India, Rao Sushmitha ,   Department of Biotechnology, School of Sciences, JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), India, Rajashekaraiah Vani ,   Department of Biotechnology, School of Sciences, JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), India
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVE Blood plasma, a complex biological mixture, plays a part in a variety of roles including clotting, defense, and transport, and reflects the overall status of blood components. Drug-induced thrombocytopenia (DIT) is characterized by abnormally low platelet count (below ~150,000 per μL) which can be caused by adverse effects of medications. This study aims to address a basic question, can plasma be employed as a sampling model to assess the oxidative stress (OS) changes and antioxidant status during DIT? The objective was to analyze the antioxidant status and OS in plasma during DIT, and to determine the effects of antioxidant supplementation such as Caripill™, L-Carnitine (LC), and vanillic acid (VA) during DIT. METHODS Male Wistar rats were used as animal models and grouped into control groups (n=5) and thrombocytopenia groups (n=5). Antioxidants were given to the thrombocytopenic and the control rats (50 mg/kg body weight) once a day for 7 days. Blood plasma from both groups was evaluated for total antioxidant capacity, antioxidant enzymes, markers of lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, and OS. RESULTS The antioxidants significantly increased the total antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC) and ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) of the plasma and decreased the levels of conjugate dienes. Caripill™ also reduced lipid peroxidation, significantly elevated protein sulfhydryl and nitrite/nitrate levels, LC elevated lactate dehydrogenase levels, and VA increased superoxide dismutase activity and attenuated lipid peroxidation during DIT. CONCLUSIONS The antioxidants Caripill™, vanillic acid, and L-carnitine were demonstrated to be beneficial during DIT and to have prospects in alternate therapeutics. This study confirms that plasma can be utilized as a sampling model to study changes during OS situations.
Fetal Anemia in Northern Thailand: Etiologies and Outcomes
Authors:   Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Ratarat Chitsanupong , Natesirinilkul Rungrote ,   Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Choed-Amphai Chane ,   Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Fanhchaksai Kanda ,   Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Charoenkwan Pimlak ,   Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Tongsong Theera ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVE In Southeast Asia, hemoglobin (Hb) Bart’s disease is the primary cause of fetal anemia, although other causes are increasingly being identified. This study aimed to characterize the etiologies and outcomes of fetal anemia in northern Thailand. METHODS A retrospective chart review was conducted, involving pregnant women who attended antenatal care at Chiang Mai University Hospital between 2014 and 2021 and had a diagnosis by ultrasound findings of fetal anemia, or a fetal diagnosis of Hb Bart’s disease or other known hereditary anemias. RESULTS Among 71 fetuses from 64 pregnancies, 45 (63.4%) had Hb Bart’s disease. Twelve cases (16.9%) of fetal anemia were from other causes, including three cases of homozygous Hb Constant Spring, three cases of hereditary pyropoikilocytosis, one case of suspected red cell membrane disorder, one case each of Rh(D) alloimmunization, Hb H/Hb Pakse disease, transient abnormal myelopoiesis, syphilis infection, and one of unknown cause. All of the seven sets of twins (19.7%) had twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). Intrauterine transfusion was given in four cases of fetal hemolytic anemia which rendered good outcomes. Overall, 12 cases (16.9%) survived beyond the neonatal period. CONCLUSIONS Hb Bart’s disease remains the leading cause of fetal anemia in northern Thailand. Increasingly, frequently diagnosed causes include hemoglobinopathies and red cell membrane disorders.
Exploring Synergies of Lotus Seed Extract-Hyaluronic Acid Gel for Enhanced Local Drug Delivery
Authors:   Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences(SIMATS) Saveetha University, India, Suresh Nidhita , Gurumurthy Kaviyaselvi ,   Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences(SIMATS) Saveetha University, India, K Saranya ,   Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences(SIMATS) Saveetha University, India
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVE The plant species Nelumbo nucifera (lotus) is widely used in traditional medicine and is known to contain flavonoids, alkaloids, and other polyphenols which contribute to its potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory properties in addition to its being a remedy for cardiac diseases. Hyaluronic acid, present in skin and connective tissue, is well known for its tissue regeneration and wound healing properties. The present study aimed to determine the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect of the hyaluronic acid gel combined with lotus seed extract and how this combination could be used as an effective local drug delivery system for the treatment of periodontitis. METHODS A 2% solution of hyaluronic acid gel was combined with increasing concentrations of prepared lotus seed extract. A DPPH test was conducted to determine the antioxidant activity of the resultant mixture at increasing concentrations. Additionally, anti-inflammatory activity was assessed using a UV spectrometer, and the spreadability of the gel was measured using the sliding glass slide method. The values obtained were plotted on graphs.. RESULTS The DPPH scavenging assay revealed that lotus seed extract with 2% hyaluronic acid gel exhibited increased antioxidant activity in a dose-dependent manner with IC50 at 76 μL. The lotus seed extract with 2% hyaluronic acid gel also showed increased anti-inflammatory properties in a dose-dependent manner with IC50 at 271 μL. Moreover, the spreadability of the lotus seed extract with 2% hyaluronic acid gel was found to be 42 mm. CONCLUSIONS Lotus seed extract shows potent antioxidant and anti- inflammatory activities which vary with the concentration of the extract, and can serve as an effective local drug delivery system.
Concomitant treatment of ureteral calculi and ipsilateral pelvic sciatic nerve schwannoma with transperitoneal laparoscopic approach: A case report
Authors: Xiong Yang , Li Jin , Yang Han-Jie
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Schwannomas are rare peripheral neural myelin sheath tumors that originate from Schwann cells. Of the different types of schwannomas, pelvic sciatic nerve schwannoma is extremely rare. Definite preoperative diagnosis of pelvic schwannomas is difficult, and surgical resection is the gold standard for its definite diagnosis and treatment.

CASE SUMMARY

We present a case of pelvic schwannoma arising from the sciatic nerve that was detected in a 40-year-old man who underwent computed tomography for intermittent right lower back pain caused exclusively by a right ureteral calculus. Subsequently, successful transperitoneal laparoscopic surgery was performed for the intact removal of the stone and en bloc resection of the schwannoma. The total operative time was 125 min, and the estimated blood loss was inconspicuous. The surgical procedure was uneventful. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 5 with the simultaneous removal of the urinary catheter. However, the patient presented with motor and sensory disorders of the right lower limb, caused by partial damage to the right sciatic nerve. No tumor recurrence was observed at the postoperative appointment.

CONCLUSION

Histopathological examination of the specimen confirmed the diagnosis of a schwannoma. Thus, laparoscopic surgery is safe and feasible for concomitant extirpation of pelvic schwannomas and other pelvic and abdominal diseases that require surgical treatment.
Consent: What are ‘available’ treatments and ‘reasonable’ alternatives?
Authors: Sarela AI
Published: April 2024

When is it appropriate to offer an alternative treatment option to patients?
Una docencia centrada en las competencias: experiencia de la asignatura “Oratoria y metodología jurídica” en los estudios de grado en Derecho
Authors: Sánchez Hidalgo Adolfo
Published: April 2024

La asignatura de Oratoria y Metodología jurídica se creó en 2010 con motivo de la implantación del Plan de Bolonia. El objetivo de la asignatura es proporcionar competencias transversales en la formación de los juristas como aprender a razonar y argumentar jurídicamente, así como aprender a dominar el lenguaje legal y las intervenciones en público. La finalidad del artículo es mostrar las razones y oportunidades para su inserción en los nuevos planes de estudios del Grado en Derecho, que serán introducidos por la LOSU.
The leadership of quality strategic for improvement lecture performance toward excellence’s university
Authors: Asrin Asrin , Sudirman Sudirman , Makki Muhammad , Maulyda Mohammad Archi
Published: April 2024

This research found the strategic leadership of quality for improving lecture performance at the university as a public service. Leadership strategic aspects have affected the lecture performance. This research uses mix methods design. This research has been developed by strategic leadership for a quality model at the University of Mataram with qualitative case study. This research found strategy leadership of quality has an effective contribution to improving the lecture, dean, and head of study’s program performance at the University of Mataram, The strategy leadership for quality has more contributions to improve the lectures and education staff of study program. The faculty leadership element, namely the dean and head of a study program, has a considerable contribution to improving the performance of the institution he leads. The dean of the faculty must be able to plan educational and research programs well, this is seen from the planning, coordination, monitoring, and evaluation of each organizational unit within the University of Mataram. Furthermore, the head of the study program must also be able to transform superior study programs, such as doctoral study programs, and doctoral study programs at the University of Mataram.
“Barcelona tiene talento”. Narrativas legitimadoras en las políticas urbanas de atracción de trabajadores: un análisis de la construcción discursiva del distrito 22@
Authors: Puigbó Testagorda Josep
Published: April 2024

Este artículo analiza las narrativas legitimadoras vinculadas a las políticas de promoción económica local de atracción de talento en contraposición con las motivaciones y perspectivas de estas personas. La combinación del debate teórico con el estudio de caso sobre los discursos de atracción en el distrito tecnológico del 22@ de Barcelona señala las disyuntivas existentes entre la perspectiva oficial y la realmente existente. La narrativa legitimadora defiende que el distrito tecnológico supone el mantenimiento del sentido histórico productivo de Poblenou y conecta con unos sujetos deseados sobre el espacio urbano, los trabajadores tecnológicos, que asocia a un ideal de emprendimiento histórico de la ciudad. Pero las perspectivas de los trabajadores tecnológicos ponen en cuestión este razonamiento en dos sentidos. Por un lado, los trabajadores tecnológicos locales se muestran decepcionados por la diferencia entre las promesas de vanguardia laboral y tecnológica de la narrativa oficial y el espacio urbano resultante. Mientras que, por otro lado, los discursos de los trabajadores internacionales atraídos revelan una desconexión con el discurso oficial de emprendimiento y expresan un interés por una dimensión recreativa.
When Medical Ethics and Military Ethics Collide
Authors: Gross Michael L.
Published: April 2024

Abstract: In 12 narratives, medical workers from Afghanistan, Darfur, Gaza, Iraq, Israel, Myanmar, and Ukraine describe the day-to-day challenges of providing quality medical care in austere conflict zones. Faced with severe shortages of supplies, overwhelmed by sick and injured civilians and soldiers, and subject to constant attacks on medical personnel and facilities, the contributors to this collection confront difficult dilemmas of justice, medical impartiality, neutrality, burnout, and moral injury as they struggle to fulfill their duties as medical professionals, military officers, and conscientious citizens.
LMA fibers with increased higher-order mode loss for high average power, pulsed, diffraction-limited lasers
Authors: Glick Yaakov , Pincha Jose , Kansal Ishu , Windeler Robert , Lukonin Vasiliy , Monberg Eric , Lamb Erin S. , Bansal Lalitkumar , Nicholson Jeffrey W.
Published: April 2024

We demonstrate new, large-mode area (LMA) gain fibers with ∼25 µm mode-field diameter, and increased higher-order mode loss that enable diffraction limited, pulsed fiber lasers operating at high average power with high pulse energy. We achieved 1.6 mJ, ns pulses, with 1.2 kW average power and 370 kW peak power in one of the new Yb-doped gain fibers. In a second, higher absorption fiber, we demonstrate 2 mJ pulse energy with peak power of >420 kW at an average power of 660 W. To the best of our knowledge these are the highest demonstrated energies, powers and peak powers for any nanosecond diffraction-limited, all-fiber laser. The TMI thresholds of two of these fibers were measured to be 1.8 kW and 1 kW respectively.
Cross-connection of multiplexed cylindrical vector beams using off-axis spin-decoupled metasurfaces
Authors: Xie Zhiqiang , Liu Junmin , Wang Xinrou , Wu Haisheng , Xie Chuangxin , Zeng Qingji , Ye Huapeng , Zhou XinXing , Fan Dianyuan , Chen Shuqing
Published: April 2024

Cylindrical vector beam (CVB) multiplexing communication demands effective mode cross-connection techniques to establish communication networks. While methods like polarized grating and coordinate transformation have been developed for (de)multiplexing CVB modes, challenges persist in the cross-connection of these multiplexed mode channels, including multi-mode conversion and inhomogeneous polarization control. Herein, we present an independent off-axis spin–orbit interaction strategy utilizing spin-decoupled metasurfaces. Cross-connection is achieved by encoding conjugated Dammann optical vortex grating phases onto the two orthogonal circularly polarized components of CVBs. Experimental results demonstrate the successful interconversion of four CVB modes (CVB+1 and CVB−2, CVB+2 and CVB−4) using a Si-based metasurface with a polarization conversion efficiency exceeding 85%. This facilitates the cross-connection of 200 Gbit/s quadrature phase-shift keying signals with bit-error-rates below 10−6. Offering advantages such as ultra-compact device size, flexible control of CVB modes, and multi-mode parallel processing, this approach shows promise in advancing the networking capabilities of CVB mode multiplexing communication networks.
Optical damage thresholds of single-mode fiber-tip spintronic terahertz emitters
Authors: Paries Felix , Selz Felix , santos Cristiane Nascimento , Lampin Jean-Francois , Kolejak Pierre , Lezier Geoffrey , Tiercelin Nicolas , Vanwolleghem Mathias , Kampfrath Tobias , Seifert Tom , von Freymann Georg , Molter Daniel
Published: April 2024

Spintronic terahertz emitters (STEs) are gapless, ultrabroadband terahertz sources that can be driven within a wide pump-wavelength and repetition-rate range. While STEs driven by strong pump lasers operating at kilohertz repetition rates excel in generating high electric field strengths for terahertz spectroscopy or ellipsometry, newly advancing technologies such as ultrafast modulation of terahertz polarization, scanning tunneling microscopy, laser terahertz emission nanoscopy, and fully fiber-coupled integrated systems demand an STE pumping at megahertz repetition rates.
In all these applications the available terahertz power is ultimately limited by the STE's optical damage threshold. However, to date, only very few publications have targeted this crucial topic, and investigations beyond the kilohertz repetition-rate regime are missing.

Here, we present a complete study of our single-mode fiber-tip STEs’ optical damage thresholds covering the kilohertz, megahertz, and gigahertz repetition-rate regimes as well as continuous-wave irradiation. As a very important finding, we introduce the necessity of classifying the optical damage threshold into two regimes: a low-repetition-rate regime characterized by a nearly constant fluence threshold, and a high-repetition-rate regime characterized by an antiproportional fluence dependence ("average-power threshold"). For our single-mode fiber-tip STEs, the transition between these regimes occurs around 4 MHz.

Moreover, we present a cohesive theory of the damaging thermodynamical processes at play and identify temperature-driven inter-layer diffusion as the primary cause of the STE failure. These findings are substantiated by atomic force microscopy, infrared scattering-type scanning near-field optical microscopy, and scanning transmission electron microscopy measurements.

This new level of understanding offers a clear optimization lever and provides valuable support for future advancements in the promising field of spintronic terahertz emission.
Modeling endosymbioses: Insights and hypotheses from theoretical approaches
Authors: Souza Lucas Santana , Solowiej-Wedderburn Josephine , Bonforti Adriano , Libby Eric
Published: April 2024

Endosymbiotic relationships are pervasive across diverse taxa of life, offering key avenues for eco-evolutionary dynamics. Although a variety of experimental and empirical frameworks have shed light on critical aspects of endosymbiosis, theoretical frameworks (mathematical models) are especially well-suited for certain tasks. Mathematical models can integrate multiple factors to determine the net outcome of endosymbiotic relationships, identify broad patterns that connect endosymbioses with other systems, simplify biological complexity, generate hypotheses for underlying mechanisms, evaluate different hypotheses, identify constraints that limit certain biological interactions, and open new lines of inquiry. This Essay highlights the utility of mathematical models in endosymbiosis research, particularly in generating relevant hypotheses. Despite their limitations, mathematical models can be used to address known unknowns and discover unknown unknowns.
The well-being and work-related stress of senior school leaders in Wales and Northern Ireland during COVID-19 “educational leadership crisis”: A cross-sectional descriptive study
Authors: Marchant Emily , Dowd Joanna , Bray Lucy , Rowlands Gill , Miles Nia , Crick Tom , James Michaela , Dadaczynski Kevin , Okan Orkan
Published: April 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic caused far-reaching societal changes, including significant educational impacts affecting over 1.6 billion pupils and 100 million education practitioners globally. Senior school leaders were at the forefront and were exposed to particularly high demands during a period of “crisis leadership”. This occupation were already reporting high work-related stress and large numbers leaving the profession preceding COVID-19. This cross-sectional descriptive study through the international COVID-Health Literacy network aimed to examine the well-being and work-related stress of senior school leaders (n = 323) in Wales (n = 172) and Northern Ireland (n = 151) during COVID-19 (2021–2022). Findings suggest that senior school leaders reported high workloads (54.22±11.30 hours/week), low well-being (65.2% n = 202, mean WHO-5 40.85±21.57), depressive symptoms (WHO-5 34.8% n = 108) and high work-related stress (PSS-10: 29.91±4.92). High exhaustion (BAT: high/very high 89.0% n = 285) and specific psychosomatic complaints (experiencing muscle pain 48.2% n = 151) were also reported, and females had statistically higher outcomes in these areas. School leaders were engaging in self-endangering working behaviours; 74.7% (n = 239) gave up leisure activities in favour of work and 63.4% (n = 202) sacrificed sufficient sleep, which was statistically higher for females. These findings are concerning given that the UK is currently experiencing a “crisis” in educational leadership against a backdrop of pandemic-related pressures. Senior leaders’ high attrition rates further exacerbate this, proving costly to educational systems and placing additional financial and other pressures on educational settings and policy response. This has implications for senior leaders and pupil-level outcomes including health, well-being and educational attainment, requiring urgent tailored and targeted support from the education and health sectors. This is particularly pertinent for Wales and Northern Ireland as devolved nations in the UK, who are both implementing or contemplating major education system level reforms, including new statutory national curricula, requiring significant leadership, engagement and ownership from the education profession.
Fibration symmetries and cluster synchronization in the Caenorhabditis elegans connectome
Authors: Avila Bryant , Serafino Matteo , Augusto Pedro , Zimmer Manuel , Makse Hernán A.
Published: April 2024

Capturing how the Caenorhabditis elegans connectome structure gives rise to its neuron functionality remains unclear. It is through fiber symmetries found in its neuronal connectivity that synchronization of a group of neurons can be determined. To understand these we investigate graph symmetries and search for such in the symmetrized versions of the forward and backward locomotive sub-networks of the Caenorhabditi elegans worm neuron network. The use of ordinarily differential equations simulations admissible to these graphs are used to validate the predictions of these fiber symmetries and are compared to the more restrictive orbit symmetries. Additionally fibration symmetries are used to decompose these graphs into their fundamental building blocks which reveal units formed by nested loops or multilayered fibers. It is found that fiber symmetries of the connectome can accurately predict neuronal synchronization even under not idealized connectivity as long as the dynamics are within stable regimes of simulations.