bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multisource Holography
Authors: Kuo Grace , Schiffers Florian , Lanman Douglas , Cossairt Oliver , Matsuda Nathan
Published: December 2023

Holographic displays promise several benefits including high quality 3D imagery, accurate accommodation cues, and compact form-factors. However, holography relies on coherent illumination which can create undesirable speckle noise in the final image. Although smooth phase holograms can be speckle-free, their non-uniform eyebox makes them impractical, and speckle mitigation with partially coherent sources also reduces resolution. Averaging sequential frames for speckle reduction requires high speed modulators and consumes temporal bandwidth that may be needed elsewhere in the system.

In this work, we propose multisource holography, a novel architecture that uses an array of sources to suppress speckle in a single frame without sacrificing resolution. By using two spatial light modulators, arranged sequentially, each source in the array can be controlled almost independently to create a version of the target content with different speckle. Speckle is then suppressed when the contributions from the multiple sources are averaged at the image plane. We introduce an algorithm to calculate multisource holograms, analyze the design space, and demonstrate up to a 10 dB increase in peak signal-to-noise ratio compared to an equivalent single source system. Finally, we validate the concept with a benchtop experimental prototype by producing both 2D images and focal stacks with natural defocus cues.
Progressive Shell Qasistatics for Unstructured Meshes
Authors: Zhang Jiayi Eris , Dumas Jérémie , Fei Yun (Raymond) , Jacobson Alec , James Doug L. , Kaufman Danny M.
Published: December 2023

Thin shell structures exhibit complex behaviors critical for modeling and design across wide-ranging applications. Capturing their mechanical response requires finely detailed, high-resolution meshes. Corresponding simulations for predicting equilibria with these meshes are expensive, whereas coarse-mesh simulations can be fast but generate unacceptable artifacts and inaccuracies. The recently proposed progressive simulation framework [Zhang et al. 2022] offers a promising avenue to address these limitations with consistent and progressively improving simulation over a hierarchy of increasingly higher-resolution models. Unfortunately, it is currently severely limited in application to meshes and shapes generated via Loop subdivision.

We propose Progressive Shells Quasistatics to extend progressive simulation to the high-fidelity modeling and design of all input shell (and plate) geometries with unstructured (as well as structured) triangle meshes. To do so, we construct a fine-to-coarse hierarchy with a novel nonlinear prolongation operator custom-suited for curved-surface simulation that is rest-shape preserving, supports complex curved boundaries, and enables the reconstruction of detailed geometries from coarse-level meshes. Then, to enable convergent, high-quality solutions with robust contact handling, we propose a new, safe, and efficient shape-preserving upsampling method that ensures non-intersection and strain limits during refinement. With these core contributions, Progressive Shell Quasistatics enables, for the first time, wide generality for progressive simulation, including support for arbitrary curved-shell geometries, progressive collision objects, curved boundaries, and unstructured triangle meshes - all while ensuring that preview and final solutions remain free of intersections. We demonstrate these features across a wide range of stress-tests where progressive simulation captures the wrinkling, folding, twisting, and buckling behaviors of frictionally contacting thin shells with orders-of-magnitude speed-up in examples over direct fine-resolution simulation.
An Unified
λ
-subdivision Scheme for Quadrilateral Meshes with Optimal Curvature Performance in Extraordinary Regions
Authors: Ma Weiyin , Wang Xu , Ma Yue
Published: December 2023

We propose an unified
λ
-subdivision scheme with a continuous family of tuned subdivisions for quadrilateral meshes. Main subdivision stencil parameters of the unified scheme are represented as spline functions of the subdominant eigenvalue
λ
of respective subdivision matrices and the
λ
value can be selected within a wide range to produce desired properties of refined meshes and limit surfaces with optimal curvature performance in extraordinary regions. Spline representations of stencil parameters are constructed based on discrete optimized stencil coefficients obtained by a general tuning framework that optimizes eigenvectors of subdivision matrices towards curvature continuity conditions. To further improve the quality of limit surfaces, a weighting function is devised to penalize sign changes of Gauss curvatures on respective second order characteristic maps. By selecting an appropriate
λ
, the resulting unified subdivision scheme produces anticipated properties towards different target applications, including nice properties of several other existing tuned subdivision schemes. Comparison results also validate the advantage of the proposed scheme with higher quality surfaces for subdivision at lower
λ
values, a challenging task for other related tuned subdivision schemes.
From Beats to Metabolism: the Heart at the Core of Interorgan Metabolic Cross Talk
Authors: Romero-Becera Rafael , Santamans Ayelén M. , Arcones Alba C. , Sabio Guadalupe
Published: December 2023

The heart, once considered a mere blood pump, is now recognized as a multifunctional metabolic and endocrine organ. Its function is tightly regulated by various metabolic processes, at the same time it serves as an endocrine organ, secreting bioactive molecules that impact systemic metabolism. In recent years, research has shed light on the intricate interplay between the heart and other metabolic organs, such as adipose tissue, liver, and skeletal muscle. The metabolic flexibility of the heart and its ability to switch between different energy substrates play a crucial role in maintaining cardiac function and overall metabolic homeostasis. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of how metabolic disorders disrupt cardiac metabolism is crucial, as it plays a pivotal role in the development and progression of cardiac diseases. The emerging understanding of the heart as a metabolic and endocrine organ highlights its essential contribution to whole body metabolic regulation and offers new insights into the pathogenesis of metabolic diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disorders. In this review, we provide an in-depth exploration of the heart’s metabolic and endocrine functions, emphasizing its role in systemic metabolism and the interplay between the heart and other metabolic organs. Furthermore, emerging evidence suggests a correlation between heart disease and other conditions such as aging and cancer, indicating that the metabolic dysfunction observed in these conditions may share common underlying mechanisms. By unraveling the complex mechanisms underlying cardiac metabolism, we aim to contribute to the development of novel therapeutic strategies for metabolic diseases and improve overall cardiovascular health.
Incidental Detection of a Rare Pediatric High-Grade Fibrosarcoma in a Post-traumatic Setting: The Conundrum of Intra-Abdominal Hematoma versus Neoplasia
Authors: Khalaj Kamand , Fattahi Nikoo , Omo-Ogboi Allen C. , Thomas-Ogunniyi Jaiyeola O. , Ogunleye Olanrewaju A. , Khanal Ashish , Kramer Larry A.
Published: December 2023

Infantile fibrosarcoma (IF) is a rare malignant fibroblastic tumor that affects infants and young children, occurring most commonly in the extremities. Here, we present a 14-year-old patient with an abdominal mass incidentally detected after a blunt injury to the abdomen. The initial trauma protocol CT revealed a high attenuation mesenteric lesion in the left central abdomen suggestive of mesenteric hematoma. However, the possibility of a solid neoplastic mass lesion could not be excluded. Further evaluation with dynamic contrast-enhanced serial MRI showed a progressive enhancing mass and excluded a hyperacute hematoma with active bleeding. The mass was resected, and histopathological examination and molecular analysis of tumor cells were consistent with a high-grade fibrosarcoma with KMT2D : BCOR fusion.
Osteosynthesis with Arthroscopy of a Nonunited Tibial Anterior Cruciate Ligament Avulsion Fracture 30 Years after Injury
Authors: Tanaka Jun , Ohno Takuya , Ishikawa Hiroki , Fujita Shogo , Okamura Hiroki , Yamakami Shigeo , Kudo Yoshifumi
Published: December 2023

There are a few reports on the treatment of nonunited tibial anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) avulsion fractures. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a case of nonunited tibial ACL avulsion fracture 30 years after injury. A 36-year-old woman injured her knee during a road traffic accident 30 years ago. Since then, she had persistent knee instability that was left untreated. She presented to our clinic because of knee pain she had been experiencing for a week. Radiography and computed tomography revealed tibial ACL avulsion fracture nonunions. Screw fixation with arthroscopy was performed, and bone fusion was obtained. The knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score improved from 24 points preoperatively to 83 points postoperatively. The nonunion of intercondylar eminence fractures of the tibia, even up to 30 years after the initial injury, can be treated by osteosynthesis with arthroscopy.
Association of Social Media Use with Family Connectedness and Parental Monitoring: A Survey Study of Young Adults in Pakistan
Authors: Tariq Amina , Khan Shanchita R. , Oviedo-Trespalacios Oscar , Basharat Amna
Published: December 2023

An increasing number of young adults are using social media platforms in collectivist family cultures like Pakistan, but little is known about how social media use is associated with family connectedness in this population. This study is aimed (a) at examining the social media usage patterns in Pakistani young adults and how they use it to connect with their parents and (b) at exploring the possible association between social media use and perceived family connectedness and parental monitoring. Data came from an online survey conducted among young adults in Pakistan. Patterns of use across various popular social media platforms were recorded. Additionally, family connectedness and parental monitoring were measured. Multiple linear regression analyses were used to examine the relationship between social media used to connect with parents and family connectedness and parental monitoring. A total of 421 participants responded to the survey. All participants regularly used at least two popular social media platforms. WhatsApp was the most used platform irrespective of gender or age, with about 91% of the participants reporting daily usage. Overall, 63% of participants connected with their parents using social media. This varied significantly among male and female participants with 69% of female participants connecting with their parents on social media compared to 59% of males. Connecting with parents on both Facebook and Instagram was highly associated with participants’ perception of parental monitoring before and after adjusting for age and gender. The study highlights that while family connectedness in collectivist societies like Pakistan is not associated with social media usage, adult children perceive parents monitoring their social media activities.
Design of Wideband Two-Sided Bandpass Frequency Selective Surface for X, Ka, and Ku Band Application
Authors: Vanitha V. , Florence S. Esther , Alaguraj A. , Janaki Gollamudi Lakshmi
Published: December 2023

A novel wideband bandpass frequency-selective surface functioning at X, Ku, and Ka bands is proposed in this article. The designed FSS has a metallic square loop and a circular ring, and they are printed on both sides of the FR4 substrate. The proposed design FR4-based single-layer FSS is operating from 11.075 GHz to 22.075 GHz with a fractional bandwidth of 66.36%. The parameters of the square loop and circular ring regulate the characteristics of the passband. The optimum dimension of these parameters is obtained with parametric analysis. The proposed structure is measured and fabricated. However, the measured results strongly agree with the simulated results, which authenticate the proposed design performance.
Acrylamide Formation during Baking of Whole Wheat Flour Incorporated with Spent Coffee Grounds and Juices of Lemon Fruits and Rosemary Leaves
Authors: Rwubatse Bernard , Okoth Michael Wandayi , Andago Angela Adhiambo , Ngala Sophia , Bitwayiki Clement , Ndungutse Vedaste , Ndahetuye Jean Baptiste
Published: December 2023

Whole wheat bread is increasingly consumed worldwide. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the addition of spent coffee grounds (SCG), juice of lemon fruits (L) and juice of rosemary leaves (R), and fermentation duration on the acrylamide reduction in whole wheat breads. The dough, comprising whole wheat flour (W), SCG, L, R, and salt, was fermented for 60 min and for 120 min, separately, and baked at 180°C for 20 min. Data were subjected to one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) using SAS System for Windows. Tukey’s test was used to differentiate between treatment means. The least significant difference was accepted at

p
≤
0.05

. Control (with no SCG, L, or R added) whole bread from the Gihundo variety had the highest content of acrylamide (47.23 μg kg-1). Dough incorporated with ingredients (Gihundo W: SCG+LR) gave bread (Gihundo W:SCG+LR) with the lowest acrylamide content (10.5 μg kg-1). The acrylamide content was significantly higher in all breads from dough fermented for 60 min than that of the breads from dough fermented for 120 min. The results of the current study support the use of SCG+LR and an extended fermentation duration as techniques to reduce the amount of acrylamide in whole wheat breads.
RALDH1 Inhibition Shows Immunotherapeutic Efficacy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Yu Pengfei , Cao Shuwen , Yang Shyh-Ming , Rai Ganesha , Martinez Natalia J. , Yasgar Adam , Zakharov Alexey V. , Simeonov Anton , Molina Arocho William A. , Lobel Graham P. , Mohei Hesham , Scott Alexis L. , Zhai Li , Furth Emma E. , Simon M. Celeste , Haldar Malay
Published: December 2023

Globally, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers and a leading cause of cancer-related death. We previously identified an immune evasion pathway whereby tumor cells produce retinoic acid (RA) to promote differentiation of intratumoral monocytes into protumor macrophages. Retinaldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (RALDH1), RALDH2, and RALDH3 are the three isozymes that catalyze RA biosynthesis. In this study, we have identified RALDH1 as the key driver of RA production in HCC and demonstrated the efficacy of RALDH1-selective inhibitors (Raldh1-INH) in suppressing RA production by HCC cells. Raldh1-INH restrained tumor growth in multiple mouse models of HCC by reducing the number and tumor-supporting functions of intratumoral macrophages as well as increasing T-cell infiltration and activation within tumors. Raldh1-INH also displayed favorable pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, and toxicity profiles in mice thereby establishing them as promising new drug candidates for HCC immunotherapy.
Engagement of CD99 Activates Distinct Programs in Ewing Sarcoma and Macrophages
Authors: Manara Maria Cristina , Manferdini Cristina , Cristalli Camilla , Carrabotta Marianna , Santi Spartaco , De Feo Alessandra , Caldoni Giulia , Pasello Michela , Landuzzi Lorena , Lollini Pier-Luigi , Salamanna Francesca , Dominici Sabrina , Fiori Valentina , Magnani Mauro , Lisignoli Gina , Scotlandi Katia
Published: December 2023

Ewing sarcoma (EWS) is the second most common pediatric bone tumor. The EWS tumor microenvironment is largely recognized as immune-cold, with macrophages being the most abundant immune cells and their presence associated with worse patient prognosis. Expression of CD99 is a hallmark of EWS cells, and its targeting induces inhibition of EWS tumor growth through a poorly understood mechanism. In this study, we analyzed CD99 expression and functions on macrophages and investigated whether the concomitant targeting of CD99 on both tumor and macrophages could explain the inhibitory effect of this approach against EWS. Targeting CD99 on EWS cells downregulated expression of the “don't eat-me” CD47 molecule but increased levels of the “eat-me” phosphatidyl serine and calreticulin molecules on the outer leaflet of the tumor cell membrane, triggering phagocytosis and digestion of EWS cells by macrophages. In addition, CD99 ligation induced reprogramming of undifferentiated M0 macrophages and M2-like macrophages toward the inflammatory M1-like phenotype. These events resulted in the inhibition of EWS tumor growth. Thus, this study reveals what we believe to be a previously unrecognized function of CD99, which engenders a virtuous circle that delivers intrinsic cell death signals to EWS cells, favors tumor cell phagocytosis by macrophages, and promotes the expression of various molecules and cytokines, which are pro-inflammatory and usually associated with tumor regression. This raises the possibility that CD99 may be involved in boosting the antitumor activity of macrophages.
Natural Treatment Options for Nail Disorders
Authors: Baboun Daniela , Yaghi Marita , Keri Jonette E. , Morrison Brian W.
Published: December 2023

The growing demand for natural treatments has raised concerns among clinicians due to limited scientific evidence supporting their use. This review article addresses the issue by assisting dermatologists and general practitioners in recommending natural treatments for the following common nail disorders: nail brittleness, onychomycosis, periungual verrucae, paronychia, chloronychia, nail psoriasis, nail lichen planus, onychocryptosis, onycholysis, and congenital malalignment of the great toenail. One limitation is the scarcity of existing reviews on natural treatment options for nail disorders in the literature. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature, this article consolidates the available evidence on natural treatment options for these conditions. Although some natural treatments for nail disorders are supported by scientific evidence, the indiscriminate use of such remedies may lead to severe poisoning and health problems. Given the widespread and increasing use of natural treatments, clinicians play a pivotal role in educating patients about evidence-based remedies and debunking misleading claims. By doing so, clinicians can enhance patient safety and improve treatment outcomes. It is essential for healthcare professionals to be well-informed and equipped with the knowledge to differentiate between effective natural treatments and unverified claims, ensuring that patients receive appropriate care.
Electroencephalographic Abnormalities in a Patient Suffering from Long-Term Neuropsychological Complications following SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Benis Damien , Voruz Philippe , Chiuve Sabina Catalano , Garibotto Valentina , Assal Frédéric , Krack Paul , Péron Julie , Fleury Vanessa
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Emotional apathy has recently been identified as a common symptom of long COVID. While recent meta-analyses have demonstrated generalized EEG slowing with the emergence of delta rhythms in patients hospitalized for severe SARS-CoV-2 infection, no EEG study or dopamine transporter scintigraphy (DaTSCAN) has been performed in patients with long COVID presenting with apathy. The objective of this case report was to explore the pathophysiology of neuropsychological symptoms in long COVID. Case Presentation: A 47-year-old patient who developed a long COVID with prominent apathy following an initially clinically mild SARS-CoV-2 infection underwent neuropsychological assessment, cerebral MRI, DaTSCAN, and resting-state high-density EEG 7 months after SARS-CoV-2 infection. The EEG data were compared to those of 21 healthy participants. The patient presented with apathy, cognitive difficulties with dysexecutive syndrome, moderate attentional and verbal episodic memory disturbances, and resolution of premorbid mild gaming disorder, mild mood disturbances, and sleep disturbances. His MRI and DaTSCAN were unremarkable. EEG revealed a complex pattern of oscillatory abnormalities compared to the control group, with a strong increase in whole-scalp delta and beta band activity, as well as a decrease in alpha band activity. Overall, these effects were more prominent in the frontal-central-temporal region. Conclusion: These results suggest widespread changes in EEG oscillatory patterns in a patient with long COVID characterized by neuropsychological complications with prominent apathy. Despite the inherent limitations of a case report, these results suggest dysfunction in the cortical networks involved in motivation and emotion.
Real-Life Adherence to Venom Immunotherapy and Adrenaline Autoinjector
Authors: Parke Louise , Fomsgaard Kjaer Henrik , Sivertsen Garvik Olav , Halken Susanne , Broesby-Olsen Sigurd , Bindslev-Jensen Carsten , Mortz Charlotte G.
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Venom immunotherapy (VIT) and adrenaline autoinjector (AAI) are important therapies in venom anaphylaxis. Adherence to VIT and AAI in patients with venom allergy has been evaluated in a few studies; however, solid data are lacking. This study aimed to evaluate VIT and AAI retrieval rates in patients with venom allergy with a special focus on adherence to treatment. Adherence was compared to subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) with inhalant allergens. Methods: This was a retrospective study among patients registered for allergen immunotherapy at the Allergy Center, Odense University Hospital, Denmark, from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2014. Data on purchased immunotherapy and AAI were obtained from the Danish National Health Service Prescription Database. Multivariable logistic regression was used to analyze if allergen, age, sex, mastocytosis, and treatment site affected adherence. Results: The 3-year adherence to VIT was 92.4% (244/264) compared to 87.4% (215/246) in SCIT with inhalant allergens, and the 5-year adherence to VIT was 84.1% (222/264) compared to 74.8% (184/246) in SCIT with inhalant allergens (p = 0.045). Females treated with VIT were more adherent than males (p = 0.45 [3-year], p = 0.008 [5-year]), whereas allergen, age, mastocytosis, or treatment site did not significantly affect adherence. Only 28.6% of patients (12/42) purchased an AAI after premature termination of VIT. Conclusion: In this register-based study, we found that the 3- and 5-year adherences to VIT and SCIT with inhalant allergens are at the upper end of the spectrum hitherto reported. Patients’ 5-year adherence to VIT was higher than patients’ 5-year adherence to SCIT with inhalant allergens. If VIT was prematurely terminated, less than 1/3 would have purchased an AAI.
Adenokarzinom des ösophagogastralen Übergangs: Retrospektive Analyse von Therapieansätzen
Authors: Stahl Michael
Published: December 2023

Background: The FLOT protocol and the CROSS trimodality regimen represent current standards in the management of locally advanced esophageal adenocarcinoma. In the absence of published Randomised Controlled Trial data, this propensity-matched comparison evaluated tolerance, toxicity, impact on sarcopenia and pulmonary physiology, operative complications, and oncologic metrics. Methods: Two hundred and twenty-two patients, 111 in each arm, were included from 2 high-volume centers. Computed tomography-measured sarcopenia, and pulmonary function (forced expiratory volume in first second/forced vital capacity/diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide) were compared pretherapy and posttherapy. Operative complications were defined as per the Esophageal Complications Consensus Group (ECCG) criteria, and severity per Clavien-Dindo. Tumor regression grade and R status were measured, and survival estimated per Kaplan-Meier. Results: A total of 83% were male, cT3/cN+ was 92%/68% for FLOT, and 86%/60% for CROSS. The full prescribed regimen was tolerated in 40% of FLOT patients versus 92% for CROSS. Sarcopenia increased from 16% to 33% for FLOT, and 14% to 30% in CROSS (P <0.01 between arms). Median decrease in diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide was -8.25% (-34 to 25) for FLOT, compared with -13.8% (-38 to 29), for CROSS (P = 0.01 between arms). Major pathologic response was 27% versus 44% for FLOT and CROSS, respectively (P = 0.03). In-hospital mortality, respectively, was 1% versus 2% (P = 0.9), and Clavien Dindo >III 22% versus 27% (P =0.59), however, respiratory failure was increased by CROSS, at 13% versus 3% (P <0.001). Three-year survival was similar at 63% (FLOT) and 60% (CROSS) (P =0.42).
Active Predictive Coding: A Unifying Neural Model for Active Perception, Compositional Learning, and Hierarchical Planning
Authors: Rao Rajesh P. N. , Gklezakos Dimitrios C. , Sathish Vishwas
Published: December 2023

There is growing interest in predictive coding as a model of how the brain learns through predictions and prediction errors. Predictive coding models have traditionally focused on sensory coding and perception. Here we introduce active predictive coding (APC) as a unifying model for perception, action, and cognition. The APC model addresses important open problems in cognitive science and AI, including (1) how we learn compositional representations (e.g., part-whole hierarchies for equivariant vision) and (2) how we solve large-scale planning problems, which are hard for traditional reinforcement learning, by composing complex state dynamics and abstract actions from simpler dynamics and primitive actions. By using hypernetworks, self-supervised learning, and reinforcement learning, APC learns hierarchical world models by combining task-invariant state transition networks and task-dependent policy networks at multiple abstraction levels. We illustrate the applicability of the APC model to active visual perception and hierarchical planning. Our results represent, to our knowledge, the first proof-of-concept demonstration of a unified approach to addressing the part-whole learning problem in vision, the nested reference frames learning problem in cognition, and the integrated state-action hierarchy learning problem in reinforcement learning.
Lions and Tigers and Bears, Oh My: Imprisoned Animals and Humans in the Acts of Paul
Authors: Reiss Naomi
Published: December 2023

This paper will explore the carceral logics affecting nonhuman and human animals in a popular second-century Christian text, the Acts of Paul. Two parallel scenes feature imprisoned animals pitted against imprisoned humans in the punitive entertainment spectacle of the amphitheater. Through these scenes, this paper will examine the ancient practice of animal captivity, the “de-animalizing” effects of imprisonment on human and nonhuman victims, and the problematic witness of early Christian writings to these phenomena as the texts, and the humans in them, variously exploit, fear, threaten, anthropomorphize, are protected by, compete with, and enter into solidarity with other imprisoned animals. Finally, it will discuss the (potentially) inclusive role of this text in naming animals as “confessors,” or imprisoned, suffering witnesses to the gospel, in a carcerally-controlled world.
Hearing their Cries: A Talanoa Response
Authors: Fiu Kolia Brian
Published: December 2023

This essay is a response to the stimulating contributions to this volume, by way of hearing. Here, I use the Indigenous Pasifika form of interrogation known as talanoa that allows us to hear and enter into the subconcious state, to perceive the world of animals from these alternative perspectives, which seek to liberate animal voices and push back at colonial systems that are guilty of meddling with our reading and theorizing of the animal-Other. This talanoa allows us to imagine the contributors sitting around a kava bowl in conversation, as we hear them tell their stories, and hear the humour, the pain, the honesty in the animal experiences.
The Power of Curves: the Rise of Maghribi ṯuluṯ (Fifth–Sixth/Eleventh–Twelfth Centuries)
Authors: Bongianino Umberto
Published: December 2023

This article examines the origin and spread of Maghribi ṯuluṯ, a distinctive epigraphic style employed on buildings and inscribed artefacts in Northwest Africa and al-Andalus, from the late fifth/eleventh century onwards. The rise of Maghribi ṯuluṯ is part of a wider phenomenon that saw curvilinear scripts adopted in contexts and media previously dominated by angular “Kufic” scripts throughout the Islamic world, from Ghazna to Marrakesh. However, the circumstances of this epigraphic revolution differed from region to region, as did the techniques and stylistic features of the new curvilinear inscriptions. The development of Maghribi ṯuluṯ was the result of influences coming from the Eastern Mediterranean, assimilated and transformed in different ways within the cultural and artisanal milieux of Norman Sicily, Khurasanid Tunis, and the Almoravid Empire further west. This article considers the possible channels through which Maghribi ṯuluṯ spread across these regions – with an emphasis on chancery documents and practices – and how the Almohads ultimately transformed this script into a dynastic “brand” with ideological undertones.
The Merchant’s Lamp and the Sufi’s Drum: Two Tales of Mediaeval Damascus
Authors: Juvin Carine
Published: December 2023

A few artefacts can be connected to mediaeval Syria, and more specifically Damascus, through their inscriptions because they mention the city as a place of manufacture or name an individual who lived there. This is notably the case for two hitherto neglected inscribed objects in the Musée du Louvre, dating to the Mamluk sultanate, which are studied in this article: an enamelled glass lamp and a metal drum. New identifications of their recipients, documented through historical sources, bring light to their particular stories and provide new references for studying the material and social culture during this period.
Discovering Early Islamic Basra: the Origins and Development of Iraq’s Southern Metropolis
Authors: Petersen Andrew , Northedge Alastair , Stremke Frank , Bates Martin , Edwards Ifan
Published: December 2023

This article reports on recent fieldwork at the site of the early Islamic city Basra, located fifteen kilometres to the southwest of the modern city. The article sets the site within the geographical and historical context of early Islamic Iraq with particular reference to Kufa and Wāsit. In addition, the article contains a review of previous archaeological research followed by a summary of the results from current fieldwork carried out by the authors. Finally, this text highlights the need for further fieldwork both to answer research questions and protect the valuable heritage of Iraq’s first Muslim city.
A taxonomic revision of the species of Licea subg. Licea (Myxomycetes)
Authors: WRIGLEY DE BASANTA DIANA , MIER CARLOS DE , LADO CARLOS
Published: December 2023

A taxonomic revision of the genus Licea, subgenus Licea, using type collections and SEM imaging of the type material is presented. The type specimens of 20 species were obtained and studied simultaneously, and detailed comparisons of morphological features by light microscope and SEM were made. In four other species only published information was analized. The SEM imaging of the type material has enabled clarification of some taxonomic characters, such as the number of peridial layers, ornamentation of the inner surface of the peridium, and the ornamentation of the epispore. As a result of this study a new species from Mexico, Licea ampullliformis, has been formally described, and synonymy has been found in the case of two species, L. castanea and the recently described L. bryocorticola. As no type material was found for L. minima, a neotype has been designated here. In the case of L. pusilla an epitype has been selected in addition to the illustration, published in 18th century, which was chosen as a lectotype. A dichotomous key of the species examined is proposed to facilitate their identification.
Associations Between Negative Context of Reception and Depressive Symptoms Among Immigrant Latino Men: The Moderating Effect of Machismo and Hispanicism
Authors: Wuyke Gabriella M. , Cano Miguel Á. , De La Rosa Mario , Rojas Patria , Sanchez Mariana
Published: December 2023

This study examines the cumulative effects of negative context of reception (NCR), traditional Latino gender norms, and acculturation on depressive symptoms among adult Latino immigrant men, and if levels of acculturation and traditional Latino gender norms moderated associations between NCR and depressive symptoms in the study sample. Hierarchical Multiple Regression (HMR) and moderation analyses were conducted on a cross-sectional sample of 280 Latino men. Predictor variables were entered into the HMR model: (1) demographic variables, (2) perceived stress, (3) acculturation and gender norms, and (4) NCR. Subsequently, moderation analysis was conducted using PROCESS v3.2 model 1. 19% of the variance of depressive symptoms was explained by all predictor variables entered in the HMR model. Moderation analyses revealed significant interaction effects with machismo (exacerbating) and Hispanicism (attenuating) the association between NCR and depressive symptoms. Study findings have implications for culturally appropriate interventions that target gender norms among Latino immigrant men.
Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus who are underweight have distinct disease characteristics
Authors: Kwon Oh Chan , Park Min-Chan
Published: December 2023

Objective

This study aimed to detail the disease characteristics of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in individuals who are underweight and assess whether underweight status is associated with SLE disease activity.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study involving 218 patients newly diagnosed with SLE. Patients were categorized as underweight (body mass index [BMI] <18.5 kg/m2) or not underweight (BMI ≥18.5 kg/m2). We reviewed disease characteristics including the SLE Disease Activity Index 2000 (SLEDAI-2K) at diagnosis. High disease activity was defined as SLEDAI-2K ≥10. Disease characteristics were compared between those who were underweight and not underweight. We used multivariable logistic regression analysis to determine whether underweight status is associated with high disease activity.

Results

Out of the 218 patients, 35 (16.1%) were underweight and 183 (83.9%) were not. Underweight patients had less renal involvement (5.7% vs 20.2%, p = .040), lower C-reactive protein levels (1.0 [0.3–2.3] mg/L vs 1.2 [0.8–5.0] mg/L, p = .028), and lower SLEDAI-2K scores (6.7 ± 4.6 vs 9.1 ± 5.7, p = .009), and were less likely to be at high disease activity status (22.9% vs 42.6%, p = .028), compared with those who were not underweight. Following adjustment for multiple covariates, being underweight was inversely associated with high disease activity status (adjusted odds ratio = 0.38, 95% confidence interval = 0.16 to 0.92, p = .031).

Conclusion

Patients with SLE who were underweight showed less renal involvement and lower SLEDAI-2K scores compared with those who were not underweight. Moreover, those with SLE who were underweight had a 60% lower risk of exhibiting high disease activity.
Coprophilia and Coprophagia: A Literature Review
Authors: Arnone Jacqueline M. , Conti Richard P. , Preckajlo Joseph H.
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND:

Coprophilia and coprophagia are distinct paraphilias that fall under the category of other specified paraphilic disorders in the current edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Coprophilia refers to sexual excitement from viewing, smelling, or handling feces, as well as fantasizing about another person engaging in these activities. Coprophagia, or eating one’s own or another person’s excrement, has also been observed in some patients with coprophilia.

AIMS:

The purposes of this review are to examine the current literature on the etiology, symptoms, interviewing techniques, pharmacotherapy, and psychotherapy used for each disorder and to elicit best practice guidelines in the treatment of patients with coprophila and coprophagia.

METHODS:

Electronic and hand searches were initiated using CINAHL, EBSCOhost, SAGEpub, and MEDLINE databases between 1990 and 2022 using the terms “coprophilia,” “coprophagia,” “paraphilia NOS,” and “other specified paraphilic disorder” restricted to English.

RESULTS:

Individual case reports and limited studies were found in this literature. Reported treatment protocols included individual and tandem use of pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy, with mixed outcomes. Future studies are needed to explore the factors that mitigate the paraphilias, therapeutic management, and treatment outcomes, to produce evidence-based practice treatment guidelines.

CONCLUSIONS:

Understanding the psychological and biological factors that may contribute to these disorders’ manifestations may portend a greater understanding and insight into the genesis of the paraphilias. Having specific evidence-based treatment protocols will afford the psychiatric nurse practitioner to render patient-centered, safe, and culturally competent care and effect better patient outcomes among this understudied population.
A new position: Creativity as ecological responsiveness. The sociomateriality of creativity - reviewed
Authors: Mayoni Nørgaard Julie , Tanggaard Lene
Published: December 2023

The aim of this paper is to set out a new position within the socio-material field of creativity research that puts a great emphasis on an ecological and social awareness. As part of a new research project on Creativity and Performance Pressure, the authors map recent contributions to the field of creativity research with an emphasis on socio-materiality. 25 studies are displayed to explore the relation between man, materials and making as creative doings. Based on the findings, the authors argue that an individualized and isolated understanding of creativity endorses a growth paradigm that increasingly challenges both the globe and the life upon it. Future investigations on creativity should aim to learn more about human relatedness and how it contributes to prosperity among all life forms. This leaves behind the isolated individualistic approach towards creativity and replaces it with an ethnographic-informed human curiosity towards social and situational responsiveness.
Sensing pain: Embodied knowledge in endometriosis
Authors: Helosvuori Elina , Oikkonen Venla
Published: December 2023

The article explores how sensations of pain are turned into embodied knowledge in endometriosis, a chronic gynaecological illness characterized by persistent, possibly paralysing pain. While previous studies have shown how people with endometriosis struggle to achieve accurate diagnosis and effective treatment, we examine the ways in which some of these difficulties are rooted in the complexities of embodied experiences of endometriosis pain and the challenges of translating the sensed patterns and shifts in pain into a language acknowledged within a clinical setting. Building on a phenomenologically inspired approach to chronic pain and drawing on interviews with people diagnosed with endometriosis in Finland, we examine how our interlocutors use their embodied sensations of pain to adapt to the evolving biomedical and lived surroundings in which their pain is evaluated and managed. The analysis shows how living with chronic pain involves constantly attuning to the multitude of symptoms as well as developing personal strategies of communicating sensations of pain to gain medical recognition and care. We argue that while the lived complexities of the body with endometriosis may fall outside the scope of medical practices of measuring, such complexities nevertheless require medical acknowledgment and careful attention.
Zone 2 Aortic Arch Repair With Single-Fenestrated Physician-Modified Endografts, at Least 3 Years of Follow-up
Authors: Bacri Christoph , Ata Ozdemir Baris , Hireche Kheira , Alric Pierre , Canaud Ludovic
Published: December 2023

Objective:

The aim of this study is to report the efficiency and safety of single-fenestrated physician-modified endografts (PMEGs) in zone 2 aortic arch pathologies with at least 3 years of follow-up.

Methods:

All consecutive patients with a pathological aortic arch who underwent aortic repair combined with homemade single-fenestrated stent-graft from 2015 to 2020 were reviewed. The patients with a target vessel different from the left subclavian artery (LSA) were excluded.

Results:

A total of 63 patients were treated for a pathological arch in zone 2 with a single-fenestrated PMEG. 73% were male, and the mean age was 65 years old. 25% were treated for a degenerative aneurysm, 19% for a post dissection aneurysm and 24% for an acute type B dissection. 52% of the patients were treated as an emergency and half of those for an aortic rupture. The LSA fenestration was stented in 70%. During 30 days of follow-up, 2 strokes (3%) were reported, 6 patients (10%) died with 4 of those treated for aortic rupture and 1 had a retrograde aortic dissection. During at least 3 years of follow-up (median 49 months), no reintervention was needed for endoleaks, there was no stent fracture or stent migration. No patient died from an aortic cause. Subgroup analysis comparing the endovascular treatment for various aortic pathologies did not find significant differences in death rate or comorbidity including stroke. When comparing emergent and elective aortic repair, operating time was similar (64 vs 65 minutes), and the LSA fenestration was less frequently stented (52%) in the emergency group. There was no difference in stroke frequency. There was a higher rate of death in the emergency group at 30 days of follow-up, but no patient died from aortic cause in the long-term follow-up.

Conclusions:

Aortic arch repair with single-fenestrated PMEGs for zone 2 pathological arch disease is associated with acceptable early and midterm major morbidity and mortality. It is suitable for emergency situations.

Clinical Impact

Single-fenestrated PMEG for the left subclavian artery is a safe and efficient option in the short and medium term for the treatment of the aortic arch in zone 2 with 98% technical success. It allows for aortic repair and subclavian artery revascularization in a single step for all patients. It is suitable for a range of main pathologies, including degenerative, dissection-related, isthmus rupture, and embolic pathologies. Additionally, it is always available and easily utilized in emergency cases.
Delay time model for determining the effectiveness of a system under adverse conditions of production and inspection
Authors: Cavalcante Cristiano AV , Santos Augusto CJ , Paiva Rafael GN , Aribisala Adetoye A , Da Silva Roberta B
Published: December 2023

The effectiveness of production is influenced by different events that may disrupt the original production plan, such as degradation in the production process, additional demands and inspection errors. To analyze the impact of these issues on production planning, we propose a delay time model for a single-component system that can experience four different states: good, minor defective, major defective and failed. The model uses cost-rate as a measure of production effectiveness. We conducted an investigation into the consequences of the degradation process, specifically focusing on its impact on the generation of nonconforming products. Additionally, we examined the effects of additional demands on the rate of rework products and analyzed the impact of inspection errors, including both the induction and non-detection of defects. These issues represent adverse conditions that many production systems run into their operation and maintenance processes. The results of our study advise the best strategies to deal with these adverse conditions in order to minimize their impacts on effectiveness of a production system. The proposed model serves as a guide and illustrative example of how these issues can be incorporated in the process of optimizing the effectiveness of production. From this perspective, this paper’s main contribution is a series of insights that widens the manager’s view about the production process in a real system, in which perfect and suitable conditions are not commonly present.
Views of Men Regarding Not Availing Antenatal Care for Their Pregnant Partners in West Bengal
Authors: Das Prakriti
Published: December 2023

Antenatal care (ANC) is essential for the health of both the mother and the baby. Though females are the direct receivers of this care, yet the understanding of their husbands is crucial in determining the pregnant women’s access to ANC. NFHS–5 ( National Family Health Survey, 2019–2020 ) has reported that about 5.6% of women in West Bengal aged 15–49 who had a live birth in the five years preceding the survey had no ANC visit during their pregnancy. In this study, both qualitative and quantitative techniques have been used to understand the views of men whose female partners did not receive any ANC during their pregnancy in West Bengal. Data collection has been done from 130 respondents using a structured questionnaire, and then, statistical analysis has been performed using SPSS. Qualitative data have been collected from nine selected participants through telephonic interview. The result is that men’s views for their pregnant partners not availing ANC are influenced by the place of residence, educational qualification and number of children (statistically significant at p value < .05). However, lack of awareness, financial constraint, poor spousal relationship and inaccessibility to the maternity clinics are a few important reasons that have been focused in this study.
Teclistamab impairs humoral immunity in patients with heavily pretreated myeloma: importance of immunoglobulin supplementation
Authors: Frerichs Kristine A. , Verkleij Christie P. M. , Mateos Maria Victoria , Martin Thomas G. , Rodriguez Cesar , Nooka Ajay , Banerjee Arnob , Chastain Katherine , Perales-Puchalt Alfredo , Stephenson Tara , Uhlar Clarissa , Kobos Rachel , van der Holt Bronno , Kruyswijk Sandy , Kuipers Maria T. , Groen Kaz , Vishwamitra Deeksha , Skerget Sheri , Cortes-Selva Diana , Doyle Margaret , Zaaijer Hans L. , Zweegman Sonja , Verona Raluca I. , van de Donk Niels W. C. J.
Published: December 2023

Teclistamab and other B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA)–targeting bispecific antibodies (BsAbs) have substantial activity in patients with heavily pretreated multiple myeloma (MM) but are associated with a high rate of infections. BCMA is also expressed on normal plasma cells and mature B cells, which are essential for the generation of a humoral immune response. The aim of this study was to improve the understanding of the impact of BCMA-targeting BsAbs on humoral immunity. The impact of teclistamab on polyclonal immunoglobulins and B cell counts was evaluated in patients with MM who received once-weekly teclistamab 1.5 mg/kg subcutaneously. Vaccination responses were assessed in a subset of patients. Teclistamabinduced rapid depletion of peripheral blood B cells in patients with MM and eliminated normal plasma cells in ex vivo assays. In addition, teclistamab reduced the levels of polyclonal immunoglobulins (immunoglobulin G [IgG], IgA, IgE, and IgM), without recovery over time while receiving teclistamab therapy. Furthermore, response to vaccines against Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae type B, and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 was severely impaired in patients treated with teclistamab compared with vaccination responses observed in patients with newly diagnosed MM or relapsed/refractory MM. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) use was associated with a significantly lower risk of serious infections among patients treated with teclistamab (cumulative incidence of infections at 6 months: 5.3% with IVIG vs 54.8% with observation only [P < .001]). In conclusion, our data show severe defects in humoral immunity induced by teclistamab, the impact of which can be mitigated by the use of immunoglobulin supplementation. This trial was registered at www.ClinicalTrials.gov as #NCT04557098.