bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Orden europea de detención y entrega y defensa del orden constitucional de los Estados miembros de la UE
Authors: Arenas García Rafael
Published: May 2023

Las órdenes europeas de detención y entrega emitidas por los tribunales españoles con relación a los implicados en el intento de derogación de la Constitución en Cataluña en el año 2017 han supuesto una prueba para el instrumento. En este trabajo se analizan las razones por las que en los distintos países que han conocido del caso (Bélgica, Alemania, Reino Unido e Italia) no han sido ejecutadas, mostrando de esta forma en qué errores han incurrido las autoridades de estos países y cómo influyen estos errores en el deterioro de la confianza mutua entre los Estados miembros de la UE.
A Semismooth Newton-Type Method for the Nearest Doubly Stochastic Matrix Problem
Authors: Hu Hao , Li Xinxin , Im Haesol , Wolkowicz Henry
Published: May 2023

We study a semismooth Newton-type method for the nearest doubly stochastic matrix problem where the nonsingularity of the Jacobian can fail. The optimality conditions for this problem are formulated as a system of strongly semismooth functions. We show that the nonsingularity of the Jacobian does not hold for this system. By exploiting the problem structure, we construct a modified two step semismooth Newton method that guarantees a nonsingular Jacobian matrix at each iteration, and that converges to the nearest doubly stochastic matrix quadratically.

Funding: This work was supported by Canadian Network for Research and Innovation in Machining Technology. The research of H. Hu, H. Im, and H. Wolkowocz was supported by The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada. The research of X. Li was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China [No. 11601183] and Natural Science Foundation for Young Scientist of Jilin Province [No. 20180520212JH].
Disseminated necrotic suppurative ulcers as a manifestation of cocaine abuse
Authors: García Tellado Álex , Lasa Teja Carmen , Rodríguez Vidriales María , De la Fuente Vázquez Mercedes , Marín Oliván Patricia , Arnaiz Las Revillas Almajano Francisco
Published: May 2023

Introduction/Aims/Background: Pyoderma gangrenosum is an immune-mediated illness that can be caused by several affections, such as inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and drug use. We present a rare case of pyoderma gangrenosum induced by levamisole-adulterated cocaine. There have been few cases of this disease reported in the world. Levamisole is an anthelmintic drug used to adulterate cocaine to boost its effect. It also has immune-modulating effects causing, among others, vasculitis and dermatological problems. Materials and Methods: Clinical case of a 46-year-old man admitted to the hospital University Marqués de Valdecilla in Santander, Spain, in August 2022. We diagnosed pyoderma gangrenosum based on clinical, analytical, and histological parameters. Results: We report a case of pyoderma gangrenosum induced by consumption of levamisole-adulterated cocaine. Discussion: This patient suffered from a rare and extensive immune-mediated affection with characteristic primary lesions in the form of suppurative ulcers that responded to immunosuppressive treatment. Behind pyoderma gangrenosum there may be underlying conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, or pyoderma gangrenosum may be secondary to identifiable causes such as cocaine use as in this patient.
Catástrofe, luto e memória: narrar para elaborar as metamorfoses das cidades
Authors: Cezar Brida Emanoele Spohn , Costa Luis Artur
Published: May 2023

Nosso tempo é marcado pelo adensamento das catástrofes presentes e passadas, assim como pelos desafios de narrar tais eventos traumáticos em busca de reparação e elaboração. O presente ensaio experimenta uma reflexão conceitual e sensível sobre nossos encontros com as vertigens das sucessivas desterritorializações urbanas e suas relações possíveis com os corpos que envelhecem nas cidades. O compromisso ético com a memória da catástrofe reside neste desafio paradoxal de trabalhar a favor da lembrança e do esquecimento, visto que, por um lado, os eventos estão ameaçados de soterramento e aniquilação e, por outro, exigem um esforço de elaboração e transmutação. A lembrança, nesta perspectiva, não está comprometida com a tentativa de reiterar o longínquo adormecido; trata-se antes de trazer à tona as multiplicidades inatuais para complexificar o presente em sua duração. O que está em jogo é a ferida que sobrevive, reivindicando não o resgate da paisagem, mas a produção de um desvio a partir das ruínas que já não podem mais ser ignoradas. Liberar o passado para a criação:  desafio daqueles que se debruçam sobre as cinzas para viver o luto e ultrapassá-lo, afirmando uma posição de travessia que acompanha as metamorfoses das cidades.
Por uma ética da memória: a melancolia no campo das políticas contemporâneas
Authors: Bonfrisco Luana De Vargas , Costa Luis Artur
Published: May 2023

O presente artigo versa sobre a nossa relação com o tempo e com a memória, no que perdura de uma experiência nas manifestações sociais de Junho de 2013. O sentimento melancólico que insurge a partir da passagem deste acontecimento de grande intensidade política coloca-nos uma questão: o que estamos fazendo de nós? A questão se propõe a encarar os afetos que mobilizamos e nos mobilizam no âmbito da ação política e suas consequências: como rememorar a partir de uma postura ética com o presente? Utilizamo-nos da melancolia, do luto, do amor fati, do ressentimento, da força plástica, da duração, como diferentes operadores que arranjam uma ética da memória, a fim de pensar as ressonâncias entre 2013 e 2020. Buscamos construir um exercício memorialístico que abandone a posição ruminante em busca do que poderia ter sido diferente e vise a transformação, a produção de outros contornos a uma experiência.
A importância do ensino de Libras na formação em psicologia: por uma promoção de saúde inclusiva e efetiva frente à surdez
Authors: Souza Ayra Audry de Lima , Sotero Gabriel Campelo
Published: May 2023

O artigo objetiva problematizar e levantar uma discussão frente à negligência e desafios que podem ser encontrados ao não se concretizar um ensino efetivo em Língua Brasileira de Sinais (Libras) na formação e ensino em psicologia. Ressalta-se que os possíveis obstáculos encontrados durante o atendimento ou intervenção com pessoas surdas realizados por profissionais em psicologia não capacitados a uma comunicação compreensível com essa população pode não apenas tornar o processo de escuta frustrante e incômodo para ambas as partes, como também pode refletir diretamente nos processos subjetivos e ter repercussões na saúde mental da pessoa que convive com a surdez. A efetivação da Libras na formação do psicólogo se mostra não apenas como uma prática inclusiva, mas também é potencializadora e de extrema importância para viabilizar e promover de forma concreta uma atenção psicológica e cuidado em saúde mental adequado para com as pessoas que convivem com a surdez.
Política de educação e pandemia: desafios para a formação profissional em serviço social e resistências da ABEPSS
Authors: Castro Marina Monteiro de Castro e , Sirelli Paula Martins , Fernandes Rafaela Bezerra
Published: May 2023

O presente artigo realiza uma análise da política de educação na atualidade, especialmente no que tange aos impactos da pandemia no processo de precarização do ensino e da formação profissional em Serviço Social. Nesta esteira, analisa os desafios e as resistências a partir dos posicionamentos e debates da Associação Brasileira de Ensino e Pesquisa em Serviço Social (ABEPSS), destacando a relevância da defesa das diretrizes curriculares da entidade como estratégia de preservação dos pressupostos do projeto de formação do Serviço Social brasileiro. Palavras-Chave: educação; formação; Serviço Social.
Estágio Curricular Obrigatório em Serviço Social e Processo Formativo: Rebatimentos na Atualidade
Authors: De Góis Gilcélia Batista , Feitosa Esther Emanuelle Alves , Severino Maria Do Perpétuo Socorro Rocha Sousa
Published: May 2023

O estágio supervisionado em Serviço Social é considerado um processo fundamental para propiciar uma ação crítica e reflexiva, articulada através das dimensões teórico-metodológica, ético-política e técnico-operativa. No entanto, ainda que se apresente como algo revelador e proveitoso, concomitantemente o processo de estágio é desafiador, à medida que suas peculiaridades se evidenciam aos atores envolvidos. Por esse ângulo, este artigo busca identificar em que condição está sendo realizado o estágio curricular no curso de Serviço Social, de que maneira os docentes e supervisores de campo avaliam esse componente, e por fim, como os discentes estão vivenciando o processo de estágio. Para responder ao objetivo apontado, foi realizado estudo sobre a temática em produções de periódicos de Serviço Social, online, no período de 2015 a 2020. Palavras-chave: estágio curricular obrigatório; formação profissional; projeto ético-político.
A inserção privatista da Fundação Lemann na educação pública brasileira
Authors: Santos Neto Artur Bispo dos , Félix Tatiana Lyra Lima
Published: May 2023

O presente texto busca perscrutar a capilaridade das parcerias público-privadas (PPPs) pela mediação da análise da intervenção da Fundação Lemann (FL) na educação tanto da classe política dirigente quanto dos gestores e educadores das escolas públicas brasileiras. Num primeiro momento, aborda-se a particularidade das PPPs como modalidade específica de privatização, bem como a ideologia que lhe serve de sustentação: o empreendedorismo. Num segundo instante, buscar-se-á apresentar o modus operandi de atuação da FL no universo da educação pública, enquanto espaço privilegiado de propagação de seus preceitos e valores neoliberais. Observar-se-á que a lógica empreendedora, postulada pela FL, serve aos imperativos da reprodução do capital numa etapa de crise das organizações tradicionais. Para operar a análise da peculiaridade da ideologia difundida pela FL aos partícipes da classe política dirigente e dos gestores e educadores da educação pública, recorrer-se-á às investigações desenvolvidas por Marx (2013), Harvey (2004) etc. Palavras-Chave: educação pública; parcerias público-privadas; empreendedorismo.
Changing the trajectory of heart failure and saving lives: a look at the 25in25 global initiative
Authors: Lawson Claire , Barton Carys
Published: May 2023

In this month's column, BANCC secretary Claire Lawson and junior secretary Carys Barton report back from the 25in25 global heart failure summit held in London in March.
How do we ensure that more patients receive stroke thrombectomy in the UK?
Authors: Jabbour Richard J , Routledge Helen , Curzen Nick
Published: May 2023

Stroke is a major cause of death in the UK. Mechanical thrombectomy is the most effective treatment for large vessel ischaemic strokes. Despite this, very few patients in the UK receive mechanical thrombectomy. This editorial explores the main barriers to mechanical thrombectomy use and mechanisms to improve uptake.
Supplemental video and figures for "Computer Vision Approach for Tile Drain Outflow Rate Estimation"
Authors: Young Sierra , Peschel Joshua , Han Meng
Published: May 2023

Supplementary materials for a vision-based application to estimate outlet flow rate, duration, and occurrence from perched tile drain outlet structures. This submission includes a supplemental video of how the Windows application works and additional images of the flow rate detections.
Bilateral Scapular Fracture due to an Epileptic Seizure: A Case Report
Authors: Chouhan Varun , Ladhania Manish , Vatsa Abhinav
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Bilateral scapular fractures are a very rare injury with only few cases reported in the literature. They are said to be consequence of a violent trauma to the upper part of shoulder or as a result of electrocution or seizures. Glenoid involvement or open scapular fractures are one of the indications for operative treatment in these injuries, in other cases, simple immobilization is sufficient to obtain good results. Here, we report a case of a bilateral scapular fracture following an epileptic seizure, discussing the mechanism and outcome of conservative treatment. Case Report: A 450-year-old healthy man with new-onset seizure with upper backache and bilateral shoulder pain, X-ray, and computed tomography (CT) with 3D reconstruction confirmed fracture of neck and body of bilateral scapula. Treatment consisted of immobilization with simple sling for both shoulders for 4 weeks, followed by early rehabilitation by pendular movements then gradually passive and active exercises of amplitude crossing were started at week 3. At 12-month follow-up, there was good clinical and radiological evolution with good resumption of activities. Conclusion: Bilateral scapular fracture is a rare injury. Scapular fractures should be considered a potential etiology for shoulder and upper back pain following seizure activity. Scapular fracture can be missed easily on plain radiographs. Hence, CT scan with 3D reconstruction is very important in such cases. Treatment of the majority of scapular fractures without intraarticular extension remains to be conservative by simple immobilization. Surgical fixation is reserved for fractures at risk of joint complications or open lesions that would require surgical treatment, because of their long-term functional impact. Keywords: Scapular fracture, bilateral scapular fracture, epilepsy, seizures.
Salvage Tibial-Talocalcaneal Arthrodesis with Retrograde Intramedullary Nail Fixation in Elderly with Posttraumatic Secondary Arthritis: Limb Salvage Reconstruction in Two Cases with Review of Literature
Authors: Tomar Lavindra , Govil Gaurav , Dhawan Pawan
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Posttraumatic secondary arthritis (SA) in the elderly with diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, and neuromuscular affections has poor healing potential, leading to poor clinical and functional outcomes. Tibial talocalcaneal arthrodesis (TTCA) has been used to salvage for resultant hindfoot deformation. Retrograde intramedullary nailing (RIMN) has achieved reasonable fusion rates with improved functional outcomes. Case Report: We report two cases of failed ankle surgery with progressive SA managed with curved RIMN to achieve TTCA. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Hindfoot scale, visual analog scale, radiologic assessment, and clinical examination were used to assess outcome measures. We achieved good ankle scores with pain-free independent mobilization at 4 months. At minimum 1-year follow-up, all had good hindfoot alignment, good fusion, and no implant loosening or failure. Conclusion: Salvage TTCA with RIMN for a hindfoot SA can be a reliable technique to obtain good fusion, high satisfaction rate, and functional improvement following post-traumatic failed ankles in the elderly. The complex procedure has marked clinical improvement with the pain-free walking ability in an arthritic ankle, even with associated medical comorbidity. Keywords: Hindfoot arthritis, hindfoot arthrodesis, tibial talocalcaneal arthrodesis, intramedullary nailing, secondary arthritis, failed ankle surgery.
Anti-retroviral Therapy-Induced Multiple Pathological Fractures in a HIV-Positive Young Female: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Subith S , Tungenwar Shubham , Avhad Tanmay , Apte Tejas , Dakhode Shubham
Published: May 2023

Introduction: A higher prevalence of osteoporosis and osteopenia, as well as an increased risk of fracture is seen in patients with HIV infection. Anti-retroviral therapy (ART) is the one of the factors associated with pathological fractures in those patients. We present one case with multiple pathological fractures secondary to severe osteoporosis in a known case of HIV on Tenofovir-based ART. The patient was managed with a combined surgical and conservative approach with a satisfactory outcome at 1-year follow-up. Case Report: We analyzed a 35-year-old female patient with HIV infection on ART for 5 years. She was diagnosed with right-sided subtrochanteric femur and bilateral forearm fracture and stress fracture in the left lower limb. Tenofovir was substituted with Zidovudine before surgery. Subtrochanteric femur fracture and right forearm fracture were managed surgically, whereas the other fractures were managed conservatively. The patient was followed up till 1 year and assessed with serial X-rays, blood investigations, Harris Hip Score, and Upper Extremity Functional Index. Functional outcome in all four limbs was found to be satisfactory. Conclusion: The patient taking ART based on Tenofovir should be monitored for pathological fractures. ART-induced fractures can be managed surgically and conservatively like any other pathological fracture. Tenofovir-containing regimens may be gradually replaced with alternative regimens for the treatment of HIV infection, especially in those at a higher risk for fragility fractures. Keywords: HIV, tenofovir, antiretroviral therapy, pathological fracture, osteopenia, osteoporosis.
Mallet Finger Autofusion in Adolescent Post-Pin Fixation Surgery – A Case Report
Authors: Millar William A , Marchessault Jeffrey A
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Mallet finger is a common hand injury in sports in which the terminal extensor tendon is disrupted. This case report describes the rare occurrence of joint autofusion following surgical fixation of an unstable mallet finger injury. Case Report: We present a case of a 13-year-old right-hand dominant boy who sustained a right long finger bony mallet injury while playing football. Treatment consisted of closed reduction, percutaneous pinning of the right long finger distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint. He went on to heal with residual DIP joint stiffness and only 20° of residual motion that were noted on the early follow-up. Seven years later, he presented with no motion at the right long finger DIP joint. X-rays of his right long finger showed a complete fusion of bone across the DIP joint. Conclusion: Autofusion as a complication of mallet finger surgery is an unprecedently rare finding, especially in the absence of any predisposing factors. This complication must be considered when treating mallet finger injuries through surgical intervention. Fortunately, the loss of DIP motion, complete in this case, had no long-term effect on the overall use of this patient’s hand. Keywords: Bony mallet finger, adolescent, autofusion.
Suppression of the Talbot effect in Fourier transform acousto-optic imaging
Authors: Bocoum Maïmouna , Figliolia François , Huignard Jean-Pierre , Ramaz François , Tualle Jean-Michel
Published: May 2023

We report on the observation and correction of an imaging artifact attributed to the Talbot effect in the context of acousto-optic imaging using structured acoustic waves. When ultrasound waves are emitted with a periodic structure, the Talbot effect produces π-phase shifts of that periodic structure at every half of the Talbot distance in propagation. This unwanted artifact is detrimental to the image reconstruction, which assumes near-field diffraction is negligible. Here, we demonstrate both theoretically and experimentally how imposing an additional phase modulation on the acoustic periodic structure induces a symmetry constraint leading to the annihilation of the Talbot effect. This will significantly improve the acousto-optic image reconstruction quality and allows for an improvement of the reachable spatial resolution of the image.
Output characteristics’ static fluctuations versus the pump power in 1018 nm fiber oscillators
Authors: Sarabi Hassan , Latifi Hamid , Lafouti Majid , Fathi Hossein , Sarikhani Saeed
Published: May 2023

This paper investigates the static fluctuating behavior of output parameters in 1018 nm fiber lasers using 20/400 µm and 25/400 µm ytterbium-doped fibers (YDFs). It is seen that by increasing the pump power, some static fluctuations is induced in the output characteristics of the lasers, such as output power, back-reflected power, and beam quality factor (M2). The growth of these parameters fluctuates versus the pump power, without any modulation frequency in the temporal behavior of the output beam profile. This effect, which to the best of our knowledge is reported for the first time, occurs at powers much lower than the threshold for dynamic transverse mode instability (TMI). It was found that the static mode-coupling occurs between two lowest-order modes and causes these fluctuations in the lasers’ output parameters. Conducting the experiment for 1080 nm fiber lasers with different lengths of YDF, in addition to confirm the descriptions about how the static fluctuations occurs, shows that this effect occurs in other wavelengths as well.
3D Target Detection and Spectral Classification for Single-photon LiDAR Data
Authors: Halimi Abderrahim , Belmekki Mohamed Amir Alaa , Leach Jonathan , Tobin Rachael , Buller Gerald , McLaughlin Stephen
Published: May 2023

3D single-photon LiDAR imaging has an important role in many applications. However, full deployment of this modality will require the analysis of low signal to noise ratio target returns and very high volume of data. This is particularly evident when imaging through obscurants or in high ambient background light conditions. This paper proposes a multiscale approach for 3D surface detection from the photon timing histogram to permit a significant reduction in data volume. The resulting surfaces are background-free and can be used to infer depth and reflectivity information about the target. We demonstrate this by proposing a hierarchical Bayesian model for 3D reconstruction and spectral classification of multispectral single-photon LiDAR data. The reconstruction method promotes spatial correlation between point-cloud estimates and uses a coordinate gradient descent algorithm for parameter estimation. Results on simulated and real data show the benefits of the proposed target detection and reconstruction approaches when compared to state-of-the-art processing algorithms.
Round-window delivery of lithium chloride regenerates cochlear synapses damaged by noise-induced excitotoxic trauma via inhibition of the NMDA receptor in the rat
Authors: Choi Ji Eun , Carpena Nathaniel T. , Lee Jae-Hun , Chang So-Young , Lee Min Young , Jung Jae Yun , Chung Won-Ho
Published: May 2023

Noise exposure can destroy the synaptic connections between hair cells and auditory nerve fibers without damaging the hair cells, and this synaptic loss could contribute to difficult hearing in noisy environments. In this study, we investigated whether delivering lithium chloride to the round-window can regenerate synaptic loss of cochlea after acoustic overexposure. Our rat animal model of noise-induced cochlear synaptopathy caused about 50% loss of synapses in the cochlear basal region without damaging hair cells. We locally delivered a single treatment of poloxamer 407 (vehicle) containing lithium chloride (either 1 mM or 2 mM) to the round-window niche 24 hours after noise exposure. Controls included animals exposed to noise who received only the vehicle. Auditory brainstem responses were measured 3 days, 1 week, and 2 weeks post-exposure treatment, and cochleas were harvested 1 week and 2 weeks post-exposure treatment for histological analysis. As documented by confocal microscopy of immunostained ribbon synapses, local delivery of 2 mM lithium chloride produced synaptic regeneration coupled with corresponding functional recovery, as seen in the suprathreshold amplitude of auditory brainstem response wave 1. Western blot analyses revealed that 2 mM lithium chloride suppressed N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor expression 7 days after noise-exposure. Thus, round-window delivery of lithium chloride using poloxamer 407 reduces cochlear synaptic loss after acoustic overexposure by inhibiting NMDA receptor activity in rat model.
The financial performance of private hospitals in Saudi Arabia: An investigation into the role of internal control and financial accountability
Authors: Al Rahhaleh Naseem , Al-khyal Tawfeek A. , Daghran Alahmari Abdullah , Al-Hanawi Mohammed Khaled
Published: May 2023

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between internal control, financial accountability, and financial performance in the private healthcare sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) through a questionnaire survey of 78 private hospitals. Drawing on agency theory, the study utilized structural equation modelling with partial least-squares technique to test multiple hypotheses. Results indicate a significant positive relationship between internal control and financial performance, with financial accountability acting as a mediator. Additionally, financial accountability was found to have a direct positive effect on financial performance. These findings provide new evidence for improving financial performance in private hospitals in the KSA through the implementation of internal control and financial accountability measures. Further research could examine additional factors that may impact financial performance in the healthcare sector.
GAD65 deficient mice are susceptible to ethanol-induced impairment of motor coordination and facilitation of cerebellar neuronal firing
Authors: Matsunaga Wataru , Shinoe Toru , Hirono Moritoshi
Published: May 2023

γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a major inhibitory neurotransmitter and its concentrations in the brain could be associated with EtOH-induced impairment of motor coordination. GABA is synthesized by two isoforms of glutamate decarboxylase (GAD): GAD65 and GAD67. Mice deficient in GAD65 (GAD65-KO) can grow up to adulthood, and show that GABA concentration in their adult brains was 50–75% that of wild-type C57BL/6 mice (WT). Although a previous study showed that there was no difference in recovery from the motor-incoordination effect of acute intraperitoneally administered injections of 2.0 g/kg EtOH between WT and GAD65-KO, the sensitivity of GAD65-KO to acute EtOH-induced ataxia has not been fully understood. Here, we sought to determine whether motor coordination and spontaneous firing of cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs) in GAD65-KO are more sensitive to the effect of EtOH than in WT. Motor performance in WT and GAD65-KO was examined by rotarod and open-field tests following acute administration of EtOH at lower-doses, 0.8, 1.2 and 1.6 g/kg. In a rotarod test, there was no significant difference between WT and GAD65-KO in terms of baseline motor coordination. However, only the KO mice showed a significant decrease in rotarod performance of 1.2 g/kg EtOH. In the open-field test, GAD65-KO showed a significant increase in locomotor activity after 1.2 and 1.6 g/kg EtOH injections, but not WT. In in vitro studies of cerebellar slices, the firing rate of PCs was increased by 50 mM EtOH in GAD65-KO compared with WT, whereas no difference was observed in the effect of EtOH at more than 100 mM between the genotypes. Taken together, GAD65-KO are more susceptible to the effect of acute EtOH exposure on motor coordination and PC firing than WT. This different sensitivity could be attributed to the basal low GABA concentration in the brain of GAD65-KO.
Functional characterization of the gonococcal polyphosphate pseudo-capsule
Authors: Manca Benedetta , Buffi Giada , Magri Greta , Del Vecchio Mariangela , Taddei Anna Rita , Pezzicoli Alfredo , Giuliani Maria
Published: May 2023

Neisseria gonorrhoeae is an exclusively human pathogen able to evade the host immune system through multiple mechanisms. Gonococci accumulate a large portion of phosphate moieties as polyphosphate (polyP) on the exterior of the cell. Although its polyanionic nature has suggested that it may form a protective shield on the cell surface, its role remains controversial. Taking advantage of a recombinant His-tagged polyP-binding protein, the presence of a polyP pseudo-capsule in gonococcus was demonstrated. Interestingly, the polyP pseudo-capsule was found to be present in specific strains only. To investigate its putative role in host immune evasion mechanisms, such as resistance to serum bactericidal activity, antimicrobial peptides and phagocytosis, the enzymes involved in polyP metabolism were genetically deleted, generating mutants with altered polyP external content. The mutants with lower polyP content on their surface compared to the wild-type strains, became sensitive to complement-mediated killing in presence of normal human serum. Conversely, naturally serum sensitive strains that did not display a significant polyP pseudo-capsule became resistant to complement in the presence of exogenous polyP. The presence of polyP pseudo-capsule was also critical in the protection from antibacterial activity of cationic antimicrobial peptide, such as cathelicidin LL-37. Results showed that the minimum bactericidal concentration was lower in strains lacking polyP than in those harboring the pseudo-capsule. Data referring to phagocytic killing resistance, assessed by using neutrophil-like cells, showed a significant decrease in viability of mutants lacking polyP on their cell surface in comparison to the wild-type strain. The addition of exogenous polyP overturned the killing phenotype of sensitive strains suggesting that gonococcus could exploit environmental polyP to survive to complement-mediated, cathelicidin and intracellular killing. Taken together, data presented here indicate an essential role of the polyP pseudo-capsule in the gonococcal pathogenesis, opening new perspective on gonococcal biology and more effective treatments.
The Rvv two-component regulatory system regulates biofilm formation and colonization in Vibrio cholerae
Authors: Kitts Giordan , Rogers Andrew , Teschler Jennifer K. , Park Jin Hwan , Trebino Michael A. , Chaudry Issac , Erill Ivan , Yildiz Fitnat H.
Published: May 2023

The facultative human pathogen, Vibrio cholerae, employs two-component signal transduction systems (TCS) to sense and respond to environmental signals encountered during its infection cycle. TCSs consist of a sensor histidine kinase (HK) and a response regulator (RR); the V. cholerae genome encodes 43 HKs and 49 RRs, of which 25 are predicted to be cognate pairs. Using deletion mutants of each HK gene, we analyzed the transcription of vpsL, a biofilm gene required for Vibrio polysaccharide and biofilm formation. We found that a V. cholerae TCS that had not been studied before, now termed Rvv, controls biofilm gene transcription. The Rvv TCS is part of a three-gene operon that is present in 30% of Vibrionales species. The rvv operon encodes RvvA, the HK; RvvB, the cognate RR; and RvvC, a protein of unknown function. Deletion of rvvA increased transcription of biofilm genes and altered biofilm formation, while deletion of rvvB or rvvC lead to no changes in biofilm gene transcription. The phenotypes observed in ΔrvvA depend on RvvB. Mutating RvvB to mimic constitutively active and inactive versions of the RR only impacted phenotypes in the ΔrvvA genetic background. Mutating the conserved residue required for kinase activity in RvvA did not affect phenotypes, whereas mutation of the conserved residue required for phosphatase activity mimicked the phenotype of the rvvA mutant. Furthermore, ΔrvvA displayed a significant colonization defect which was dependent on RvvB and RvvB phosphorylation state, but not on VPS production. We found that RvvA’s phosphatase activity regulates biofilm gene transcription, biofilm formation, and colonization phenotypes. This is the first systematic analysis of the role of V. cholerae HKs in biofilm gene transcription and resulted in the identification of a new regulator of biofilm formation and virulence, advancing our understanding of the role TCSs play in regulating these critical cellular processes in V. cholerae.
Llençar fang a l’oceà: la Festa d’Elx i el patrimoni immaterial
Authors: Massip Francesc
Published: May 2023

La Festa és una joia artística d’elevat valor des de segles abans de la declaració de la UNESCO, que hauria de reconsiderar les seues clàusules en la consideració de Patrimoni Cultural Immaterial per tal que el Misteri pugue mantenir-s’hi sense perjudici de la seua íntegra singularitat, original i única. Altrament, més li valdria desempallegar-se d’un distintiu (PCI) que l’obligués a una deterioració irreversible.
Notes sobre la poesia de Fuster: el jo convuls
Authors: Salvador Vicent
Published: May 2023

Podem definir la figura de Joan Fuster com la d’un escriptor polièdric, en el sentit que el seu jo, la seua subjectivitat, és el vèrtex des del qual es projecta sobre diversos gèneres i temàtiques. Però el jo no és tan unitari com semblaria, sinó que pot experimentar convulsions i fins i tot escindir-se, en especial quan opera en el terreny emocional de la producció poètica. Una comparació de l’erotisme líric fusterià amb el del seu coetani Vicent Andrés Estellés ajuda a entendre les seues característiques. Si bé les contradiccions “racionals” són assumides per l’assagista com un moviment lliure del pensament, les contradiccions més íntimes, manifestades en la poesia, són més cridaneres i difícils d’assumir amb coherència. Probablement és per això que, en la seua trajectòria com a escriptor, Fuster va abandonar la creació poètica i va optar per l’assaig com a gènere on es trobava més còmode i amb més eficàcia per a actuar en l’esfera pública de la seua societat.
Thematic analysis of google play reviews of lifestyle apps
Authors: Keller Veronika , Ercsey Ida
Published: May 2023

Worldwide, numerous studies have been conducted on m-health applications and the results show that, if well-designed, they can regulate and track medication and reduce healthcare costs. The aim of this research is to analyze the experiences of users connected to different lifestyle apps, in particular (1) to explore the negative, neutral and positive topics in the reviews, and (2) to discover the role of health improvement among the comments. The present paper is part of a complex empirical research project. A qualitative and quantitative content analysis was conducted of the user reviews in the Google Play store for the 16 lifestyle apps selected during the first phase of the empirical research (quasi experiment). All in all, 2,835 comments were analyzed. The negative comments mentioned unreliable tracking functions, problems with updates, or high prices. The neutral comments outlined some missing functions or problems with the operation of the app. The positive comments were related to health improvement, usefulness, ease of use, engagement and willingness to recommend the app. Physical activity, facilitating a specific diet, weight loss, wellbeing, tracking progress and health awareness were among the common health aspects of the lifestyle apps. The results of this research will be particularly useful for consumers, app developers and service providers who focus on health awareness and health promotion.
Abordaje transperitoneal laparoscópico: elección en la corrección de estenosis pieloureteral en el riñón en herradura pediátrico
Authors: Rosales Parra Nicolás , Molina Valencia Juliana Lucia , Cadavid Navas Marcela , Romero Espitia Walter David
Published: May 2023

Antecedentes: el riñón en herradura (RH) se asocia en un 33 % de los casos con estenosis pieloureteral (EPU), por lo que se requiere una reconstrucción, sin ser necesario dividir el istmo, actualmente se está dando una transición hacia el manejo laparoscópico de esta entidad Reporte de caso: masculino con diagnóstico prenatal de hidronefrosis izquierda, persistencia de hallazgo en etapa postnatal, además confirmación de fusión de polos renales inferiores (riñón en herradura), en seguimiento se observó patrón obstructivo en uroresonacia, se llevó a pieloplastia transabdominal laparoscópica sin complicaciones. Discusión: el abordaje mínimamente invasivo para la realización de pieloplastia es una técnica relativamente nueva, con pocos reportes en la población pediátrica, siendo aún más escasos los reportes en riñones no ortotópicos. Conclusión: el abordaje laparoscópico transperitoneal para pieloplastia en el riñón con herradura proporciona una adecuada visualización de las estructuras, además espacio de trabajo adecuado, permitiendo una tasa de éxito y seguridad elevadas.
Chat Generative Pretrained Transformer Fails the Multiple-Choice American College of Gastroenterology Self-Assessment Test
Authors: Suchman Kelly , Garg Shashank , Trindade Arvind J.
Published: May 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Chat Generative Pretrained Transformer (ChatGPT) is a natural language processing model that generates human-like text.

METHODS:

ChatGPT-3 and ChatGPT-4 were used to answer the 2022 and 2021 American College of Gastroenterology self-assessment tests. The exact questions were inputted in both versions of ChatGPT. A score of 70% or higher was required to pass the assessment.

RESULTS:

Overall, ChatGPT-3 scored 65.1% on 455 included questions and GPT-4 scored 62.4%.

DISCUSSION:

ChatGPT did not pass the American College of Gastroenterology self-assessment test. We do not recommend its use for medical education in gastroenterology in its current form.
A Miniaturized wide Stopband Low-pass Filter using T and Modified L Shapes Resonators
Authors: Fadaee Mani D. , Shama Farzin , Feali Mohammad S. , Gilan Maryam S.
Published: May 2023

A new structure of microstrip-based low-pass filter with wide stopband and sharp roll-off is introduced, in this paper. In the proposed topology, resonators with T and modified L Shapes have been used. To improve the suppression factor and relative stopband bandwidth, the second resonator has been added to the first resonator. The designed filter has been fabricated on a 20 mm thickness RO4003 substrate, which has a loss tangent of 0.0021 and a relative dielectric constant equal to 3.38. All parameters including roll of rate, stopband, bandwidth, return loss, insertion loss, and figure of merit have significant coefficients. Simulation has been ran using advanced design system software. The 3dB cutoff frequency is appropriate. The value of the insertion loss parameter is <0.1 dB and the S11 parameter is −22 dB at this point. The stopband is extended from 2.42 up to 24 GHz, which shows an ultra-stopband. The results of the simulation and experiment are almost similar, which indicates a proper performance of the designed structure.
Vascular Anatomy and Variations of the Anterior Abdominal Wall – Significance in Abdominal Surgery
Authors: Kostov Stoyan , Dineva Svetla , Kornovski Yavor , Slavchev Stanislav , Ivanova Yonka , Yordanov Angel
Published: May 2023

Detailed knowledge of the human anatomy is an integral part of every surgical procedure. The majority of surgery related complications are due to a failure to possess appropriate knowledge of human anatomy. However, surgeons pay less attention of the anatomy of the anterior abdominal wall. It is composed of nine abdominal layers, which are composed of fascias, muscles, nerves, and vessels. Many superficial and deep vessels and their anastomoses supply the anterior abdominal wall. Moreover, anatomical variations of these vessels are often presented. Intraoperative and postoperative complications associated with entry and closure of the anterior abdominal wall could compromise the best surgical procedure. Therefore, sound knowledge of the vascular anatomy of the anterior abdominal wall is fundamental and a prerequisite to having a favourable quality of patient care. The purpose of the present article is to describe and delineate the vascular anatomy and variations of the anterior abdominal wall and its application in abdominal surgery. Consequently, the most types of abdominal incisions and laparoscopic accesses will be discussed. Furthermore, the possibility of vessels injury related to different types of incisions and accesses will be outlined in detail. Morphological characteristics and distribution pattern of the vascular system of the anterior abdominal wall is illustrated by using figures either from open surgery, different types of imaging modalities or embalmed cadaveric dissections. Oblique skin incisions in the upper or lower abdomen such as McBurney, Chevron and Kocher are not the topic of the present article.
The effect of isometric exercise training on arterial stiffness: A randomized crossover controlled study
Authors: Edwards Jamie J. , Jalaludeen Navazh , Beqiri Arian , Wiles Jonathan D. , Sharma Rajan , O'Driscoll Jamie M.
Published: May 2023

Isometric exercise training (IET) is an effective intervention for the management of resting blood pressure (BP). However, the effects of IET on arterial stiffness remain largely unknown. Eighteen unmedicated physically inactive participants were recruited. Participants were randomly allocated in a cross‐over design to 4 weeks of home‐based wall squat IET and control period, separated by a 3‐week washout period. Continuous beat‐to‐beat hemodynamics, including early and late systolic (sBP 1 and sBP 2, respectively) and diastolic blood pressure (dBP) were recorded for a period of 5 min and waveforms were extracted and analyzed to acquire the augmentation index (AIx) as a measure of arterial stiffness. sBP 1 (−7.7 ± 12.8 mmHg, p = 0.024), sBP 2 (−5.9 ± 9.9 mmHg, p = 0.042) and dBP (−4.4 ± 7.2 mmHg, p = 0.037) all significantly decreased following IET compared to the control period. Importantly, there was a significant reduction in AIx following IET (−6.6 ± 14.5%, p = 0.02) compared to the control period. There were also adjacent significant reductions in total peripheral resistance (−140.7 ± 65.8 dynes·cm‐5, p = 0.042) and pulse pressure (−3.8 ± 4.2, p = 0.003) compared to the control period. This study demonstrates an improvement in arterial stiffness following a short‐term IET intervention. These findings have important clinical implications regarding cardiovascular risk. Mechanistically, these results suggest that reductions in resting BP following IET are induced via favorable vascular adaptations, although the intricate details of such adaptations are not yet clear.
Selective Bond Purchases – May the ECB Chose Winners and Losers?
Authors: Bernoth Kerstin , Dietz Sara
Published: May 2023

The European Central Bank (ECB) is currently facing major challenges. Fragmentation of government bond yields across Member States of the European Economic and Monetary Union, based on different economic and fiscal policies, hampers a uniform transmission of monetary policy. At the same time, climate-related financial risks need to be addressed. In recent years, the ECB is meeting these challenges by making selective bond purchases and deviating from the principle of market neutrality. This study discusses whether such selective interventions by the ECB are justified from economic and legal perspectives. We conclude that choosing winners and losers, discriminating on the grounds of social, economic, environmental, or other grounds is beyond the ECB’s competence and outside of the ECB’s democratic foundation.
In Defense of Disinformation
Authors: Murphy Brian J.
Published: May 2023

Disinformation is not as intuitively understood in the security disciplines as those speaking about it seem to believe. Where we do find definitions, they vary considerably. As a result, the term has become politized and, instead, has lost value. Given the shallow roots behind classifying content as disinformation, it is not surprising that it has been sucked into the hyperpolarized maelstrom of politics and the media. That is unfortunate, given that disinformation is a demonstrated element of national power. Adversaries such as Russia have wielded the concept as an effective weapon to undermine and weaken rivals. Incorporating a framework through which disinformation can be identified anchors the term for security professionals. Without such an anchor, disinformation will continue to blow about aimlessly. I identify three criteria that a piece of content must successfully be passed through to qualify as disinformation. The first criterion is that the identity of the content originator is intentionally masked; second, the released information is harmful or destructive content intended to influence an outcome; and lastly, the originator has a predetermined political, military, economic, or social objective. Failure to defend disinformation and frame it properly leaves a confused homeland apparatus and weaker national security.
On the local time of Gaussian and Lévy processes
Authors: Boudebane Zineb , Rezgui Anis
Published: May 2023

The local time (LT) of a given stochastic process

{

X
t

:

t
≥
0

}

\{X_{t}:t\geq 0\}

is defined informally as

L
X

⁢

(
t
,
x
)

=

∫
0
t

δ
x

⁢

(

X
s

)

⁢

d
s

,

L_{X}(t,x)=\int_{0}^{t}\delta_{x}(X_{s})\,ds,

where

δ
x

\delta_{x}

denotes the Dirac function; actually, it counts the duration of the process’s stay at 𝑥 up to time 𝑡.
Using an approximation approach, we study the existence and the regularity of the LT process for two kinds of stochastic processes.
The first type is the stochastic process defined by the indefinite Wiener integral

X
t

:=

∫
0
t

f
⁢

(
u
)

⁢

d

B
u

X_{t}:=\int_{0}^{t}f(u)\,dB_{u}

for a given deterministic function

f
∈

L
2

(

[
0
,
+
∞

[
)

f\in L^{2}([0,+\infty[)

, and secondly, for Lévy type processes, i.e. ones that are stationary and with independent increments.
Photocatalytic degradation of atrazine and abamectin using Chenopodium album leaves extract mediated copper oxide nanoparticles
Authors: Arif Hamza , Yasir Muhammad , Ali Faisal , Nazir Arif , Ali Abid , Al Huwayz Maryam , Alwadai Norah , Iqbal Munawar
Published: May 2023

The study focusses on the ecofriendly synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) using aqueous extract of Chenopodium album leaves. The prepared NPs were characterized using techniques such as Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). UV–Vis spectroscopy exhibited absorption maximum (λ
max) at 271 nm for CuO NPs. The average size of crystallite was observed as 17 ± 3 nm using XRD. SEM illustrated that the shape of fabricated NPs was spherical. Elemental composition was further supported by EDX. The photocatalytic nature of prepared NPs was assessed by degradation of atrazine and abamectin. Maximum degradation 53.61 % and 57 % of abamectin and atrazine was observed in presence of these particles after the 180 min exposure time. The pesticides removal followed the zero-order kinetics. It may be concluded that CuO NPs synthesized from C. album could behave as suitable candidate for the degradation of toxic pollutants in wastewater.