bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ο μύθος της «μυθικής μεθόδου»: Μια φιλολογική ανασκαφή
Authors: Καγιαλής Τάκης
Published: August 2023

The myth of the "mythical method": A philological excavationThis paper seeks to illuminate the meaning and purpose of T. S. Eliot’s “mythical method”, both in its original context (Eliot’s 1923 review of Joyce’s Ulysses) and in Greek critical practice, from the mid-20th century to the present. Beginning with a review of the “mythical method’s” strong impact and widespread use as a critical term in contemporary Greece, it proceeds to present this term’s main interpretations, following its initial formulation by George Seferis: as a general organizing principle or tone of voice (by E. Keeley), as a “myth-historical objective correlative” (by N. Vayenas) and as an allegorical device (by various recent critics), and to discuss their respective shortcomings. Turning to Eliot’s text, the paper shows that the “mythical method” was never meant to be used as a critical term, while Eliot’s definition of it fails to correspond to his prime textual examples. The term’s original formulation was mainly intended to protect The Waste Land, in the context of local literary politics, and so it was effectively repudiated by its author shortly after its introduction. Although the term has been practically abandoned in international critical practice, its proliferation in Greek criticism is remarkable. The paper concludes that, despite the confusion caused by their conceptual failures and wild improvisations, Greek designations of the “mythical method” can be enlightening, as illustrations of the contradictory canonizing strategies operating in the field of Greek criticism during the second half of the 20th century.
Η Μέλπω Αξιώτη στη Γαλλία. Συμπληρωματικά στοιχεία
Authors: Δημητρούλια Τιτίκα
Published: August 2023

Melpo Axioti en France. Quelques éléments supplémentairesCet article se propose de contribuer, par l’ajout de quelques éléments, à ce que furent l’ac-tivité et la création de Melpo Axioti durant son court séjour en France, de 1947 à 1950. Ces éléments proviennent de trois publications appartenant au ou proches du parti com-muniste français de l’époque, à savoir : L’Humanité, Ce soir et Les Lettres Françaises. Dans le contexte particulier d’un exil forcé mais néanmoins heureux pour Axioti, les références faites dans les journaux à sa personne, son activité et son oeuvre mettent en évidence son combat politique, pour la défense de la Grèce démocratique au sein du mouvement com-muniste français, nous permettant ainsi de mieux saisir l’image de médiatrice que le mi-lieu auquel elle appartenait en France se faisait d’elle. Les textes d’Axioti, découverts dans ces mêmes publications et qui, à notre connaissance du moins, ne sont pas recensés jusqu’à présent, parachèvent l’image que nous nous faisons de son esthétique dans cette période, textes dont le plus splendide exemple demeure son roman français République-Bastille, que ses amis français, comme nous l’apprenons par les journaux, connaissaient déjà. Dans leur ensemble, ces éléments nouveaux nous aident à mieux esquisser son por-trait de créatrice exilée engagée, en approfondissant ce que fut sa relation complexe entre création et engagement politique, relation que Valère Staraselski, en parlant d’Aragon, a défini comme une «liaison délibérée»; et de suggérer que cette courte «période française» d’Axioti est d’une importance beaucoup plus grande que nous ne le pensions jusqu’ aujourd’hui.
ΑΛΕΞΑΝΔΡΑ ΣΑΜΟΥΗΛ, Ο Ορφέας, ο Φοίνικας και η Μαρίκα η Πολίτισσα
Authors: Σαμουήλ Αλεξάνδρα
Published: August 2023

Orpheus, the Phoenix and Marika Politissa
This paper concerns the symbols and masks in the poetry of Nikos Engonopoulos drawn from the history of religions, the daemonology and the various realms of esoterism, which highlights at the same time the continuum between his visual and poetic work. More precisely this paper concerns, initially, the myth of the phoenix, a symbol of a living eternity, as he dies and is reborn from his ashes, with which the poet identifies in many of his poems with the most obvious “I zoi kai o thanatos ton poiiton”. In this poem from the cryptic references to Lactantius and Petrarca it follows that the author of Engonopoulos poetry is the dying beauty, personified here in Petrarca’s Laura, which transforms the poet into a phoenix as he aspires his descent into Ades in order to memorise the loss of her mortal beauty, ensuring in this strange way his poetic survival.
              Almost the same subject –the desire to go down to Ades– is developed by Engonopoulos in another of his poems, entitled “O mysticos poiitis”, a poet whose erotic desire concerns the horrible Styx, synonymous with the world of the dead. It turns out that behind Styx and the other female figures of his poetry lies the real Muse of Engonopoulos, the mythical Lilith, the female demon who after the sexual encounter with her victims disappears forcing the poet to transform himself into a phoenix to memorise her demonic beauty.
ΜΙΧΑΛΗΣ Κ. ΑΝΘΗΣ, Κώδικες έμφυλης αναπαράστασης στο εικαστικό έργο του Νίκου Εγγονόπουλου. Διακειμενική προσέγγιση
Authors: Άνθης Μιχάλης Κ.
Published: August 2023

Decoding gender representations in some paintings of Nikos Engonopoulos. An intertextual approach
This paper approaches the narrative codes Nikos Engonopoulos used to present, in some of his paintings, the theme of gender representation with the conflicting extensions at an ideological and social level. His surrealist view is potentially a form of denouncement and subversion of dominant stereotypes and traditional meanings of the gender roles of his heroes or heroines. The paintings, which are selectively presented in this paper, reveal Engonopoulos's consistency towards the ethical, ideological, and social principles and ideals of surrealism as well as his sensitivity toward issues related to gender relations. A starting point originating from ancient Greek mythology that stimulates his imagination is the concept of metamorphosis which is dominant in Greek myths. From the cycle of Ovid's Metamorphoses, Engonopoulos selects two myths and creates his surrealistic narrative. The first painting is entitled “Io” (1942) and the second is “Nestor” (1958). Ηorned “Io” (Selene) in Engonopoulos's painting, through its Ovidian origins, incorporates amatory, social (gender violence), aesthetic and psychoanalytic symbolism. Engonopoulos also chooses and paints in the second painting the figure of Nestor mediated, however, by the poetic writing of Ovid. In reality, Eggonopoulos tells the story of Caeneus, originally a woman named Caenis, which has all the characteristics of paradox, and irrationality, and is the story of the transformation of a woman into a man. The visual narrative through which Engonopoulos deconstructs gender stereotypes is analyzed in two more of his works. The first bears the misleading title “Chalkis” (1955). In this painting, Engonopoulos depicts Lykophron, a poet from Chalkis but in reality, he is talking about his work entitled “Alexandra” (Kassandra), a poem with cryptic references. Based on relevant allusions to the latest Greek literature, the codes of gender representation are finally identified in Engonopoulos's work entitled “La fanciulla di Zante” (1952), which is a reference to the lyrical poem “He Pharmakomeni” by Dionysios Solomos. Conclusively, the paintings analyzed in this paper, in addition to the scope of Engonopoulos's reading literacy, also reveal his multi-layered visual discourse.
Το εφαρμοστέο δίκαιο ως προς τις έννομες συνέπειες της δικαστικής απόφασης
Authors: Καλαντζή Αναστασία-Χριστίνα
Published: August 2023

Η διατριβή πραγματεύεται το ζήτημα του εφαρμοστέου δικαίου ως προς τις έννομες συνέπειες της δικαστικής απόφασης. Σκοπός είναι, περαιτέρω, ο προσδιορισμός του εφαρμοστέου δικαίου για κάθε έννομη συνέπεια ξεχωριστά, με βάση τα ιδιαίτερα χαρακτηριστικά της, δεδομένου ότι διαπιστώνεται πως δεν μπορεί να δοθεί ενιαία απάντηση για όλες τις έννομες συνέπειες συνολικά. Στο πρώτο Κεφάλαιο λαμβάνει χώρα η θεμελιώδης διάκριση μεταξύ του εφαρμοστέου δικαίου που διέπει την αναγνώριση και εκτέλεση των αλλοδαπών αποφάσεων, για τον προσδιορισμό του οποίου εφαρμόζεται η lex fori του κράτους υποδοχής, από το εφαρμοστέο δίκαιο που διέπει την αναγνώριση των έννομων συνεπειών των αποφάσεων αυτών, για το οποίο ακολουθείται διαφορετική προσέγγιση. Στο δεύτερο Κεφάλαιο εξετάζεται το εφαρμοστέο δίκαιο ως προς τη δικονομική ωριμότητα της απόφασης. Στην περίπτωση αυτή διαπιστώνεται ότι κεντρικό ρόλο λαμβάνει η θεωρία της επεκτάσεως των ενεργειών και το δίκαιο του κράτους εκδόσεως, με σκοπό τη μέγιστη αποτελεσματικότητα της δικαστικής απόφασης στο κράτος υποδοχής. Τυχόν περιορισμοί που τίθεται στα ευρύτερα όρια της αποφάσεως στο κράτος προέλευσης ελέγχονται υπό το πρίσμα της δημόσιας τάξης. Στο τρίτο Κεφάλαιο εξετάζεται το ζήτημα του εφαρμοστέου δικαίου ως προς την εκτέλεση της δικαστικής απόφασης. Και εδώ θεμελιώδους σημασίας είναι η διάκριση μεταξύ διαδικασίας εκτέλεσης, η οποία, ως πράξη άσκησης εθνικής κυριαρχίας, θα διέπεται από το δίκαιο του κράτους υποδοχής, και της αναγνώρισης της έννομης συνέπειας της εκτελεστότητας, η οποία δεν εντάσσεται στη διαδικασία εκτέλεσης και πρέπει να αντιμετωπίζεται διαφορετικά. Για το εφαρμοστέο δίκαιο στην εκτελεστότητα και τα στοιχεία που την απαρτίζουν, εντοπίζεται και εδώ η σημασία της θεωρίας της επεκτάσεως και του δικαίου του κράτους προέλευσης του εκτελεστού τίτλου. Αντίθετα, στην περίπτωση του αντικειμένου και των μέσων εκτέλεσης κυρίαρχο ρόλο διαδραματίζει η θεωρία της εξομοιώσεως των ενεργειών και το δίκαιο του κράτους υποδοχής, με τους περιορισμούς που μπορεί να ανακύπτουν που περιορίζουν την απόλυτη εφαρμογή της. Τέλος, στο τέταρτο Κεφάλαιο αναλύεται το ζήτημα του εφαρμοστέου δικαίου ως προς τη διαπλαστική ενέργεια των δικαστικών αποφάσεων, στην οποία κατά κύριο λόγο λαμβάνεται υπόψη το δίκαιο του κράτους εκδόσεως και του εφαρμοστέου δικαίου ως προς τις αντανακλαστικές έννομες συνέπειες, για το οποίο κρίσιμος είναι ο διαχωρισμός τους σε ουσιαστικού και δικονομικού δικαίου.
Φυσιοπολιτισμός του κήπου και αστική κηπουρική στη σύγχρονη πόλη του Βόλου
Authors: Μάρου Θάλεια
Published: August 2023

Η διδακτορική διατριβή αυτή, επικεντρώνεται στην ερμηνεία του αστικού οικιακού κήπου ως φυσιοπολιτισμικό δίκτυο, ώστε να αναδείξει το ρόλο και τις δυναμικές της αστικής οικιακής κηπουρικής για την καθημερινή ζωή στις γειτονιές της πόλης. Παράλληλα ιχνηλατεί το αποτύπωμα των κήπων στην αστική ανθεκτικότητα και τις μεταβολές που η ύπαρξή τους δύναται να προκαλέσει στο φυσιοπολιτισμό της πόλης. Η έρευνα που πραγματοποιείται στο πλαίσιο αυτό, κάνει με τη βοήθεια της Θεωρίας του Δρώντος Δικτύου, μια χαρτογράφηση των διαφορετικών υπάρξεων και σχέσεων που αναπτύσσονται στον αστικό οικιακό κήπο, διαμορφώνοντας εντέλει ενεργήματα που υλοποιούνται στο πλαίσιο της χωρικότητας του. Αναδεικνύονται έτσι ενεργήματα, πρακτικές, ρουτίνες του καθημερινού της αστικής ζωής, ιδωμένα πέρα από τα ισχυρά δίπολα της μοντέρνας σκέψης. Οι διαχωρισμοί Πόλης/Υπαίθρου, Αγροτικού/Αστικού, Φύσης/Πολιτισμού, Ανθρώπων/Μη Ανθρώπινων αποδομούνται και διευρύνουν το οπτικό πεδίο, κάνοντας ορατές συγκλίσεις και συνυπάρξεις. Παράλληλα αναδύονται συνδέσεις με όχημα τον πολιτισμό της τροφής, που μεταφέρονται από την ύπαιθρο στην πόλη, «ενεργοποιούνται» μέσα από την αστική οικιακή κηπουρική και εμπλουτίζουν την εργαλειοθήκη του κατοίκου του αστικού ιστού.
Novel five-phase model for understanding the nature of misophonia, a conditioned aversive reflex disorder
Authors: Dozier Thomas , Mitchell Nathanael
Published: August 2023

Background: Misophonia is a recently identified condition in which a person perceives a subtle stimulus (e.g., eating sounds, hair twirling) and has an intense, negative emotional response. Misophonia cannot be classified with established nosological systems.

Methods: We present a novel five-phase model of misophonia from a cognitive-behavioral framework. This model identifies a learned reflex of the autonomic nervous system as the primary etiology and maintenance of misophonia. Phase one is anticipatory anxiety and avoidance. Phase two is a conditioned physical reflex (for example, the tensing of calf muscles) that develops through stimulus-response Pavlovian conditioning. Phase three includes intense negative emotional responses and accompanying physiological distress, thoughts, urges, and emotion-driven behavior. Phase four is the individual’s coping responses to emotional distress, and phase five is the environmental response and resulting internal and external consequences of the coping behaviors. Each phase helps explain the maintenance of the response and the individual’s impairment.

Results: Anticipatory anxiety and avoidance of phase one contributes to an increased arousal and awareness of triggers, resulting in increased severity of the trigger experience. Both the Pavlovian-conditioned physical reflex of phase two and the emotion-driven behavior caused by the conditioned emotional response of phase three increase with in vivo exposure to triggers. Phase four includes internal and external coping behaviors to the intense emotions and distress, and phase 5 includes the consequences of those behaviors. Internal consequences include beliefs and new emotions based on environmental responses to anger and panic. For example, the development of emotions such as shame and guilt, and beliefs regarding how ‘intolerable’ the trigger is.

Conclusions: We assert misophonia is a multi-sensory condition and includes anticipatory anxiety, conditioned physical reflexes, intense emotional and physical distress, subsequent internal and external responses, and environmental consequences.
Deaf professionals’ perceptions of 'trust' in relationships with signed language interpreters
Authors: O'Brien Dai , Hodge Gabrielle , Gulamani Sannah , Rowley Katherine , Adam Robert , Emery Steven , Walker John
Published: August 2023

The concept of ‘trust’ is frequently used when discussing the working relationship between deaf signers and signed language interpreters, with interpreters often claiming that trust is a prerequisite to a successful interaction. This paper presents original data from an in-depth research project which used collaborative autoethnography to gather the experiences of seven deaf academics who work regularly with British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters, who interpret between BSL and spoken English, to analyse the concept of ‘trust’ in our working relations with BSL interpreters. We found that ‘trust’ is not a useful or productive concept for our interpersonal and professional aims. Instead, we outline multiple ways in which deaf academics can assess and evaluate interpreters’ values, competencies, and performance without relying on ‘trust’. Our findings provide an important, powerful and under-explored perspective on the working relations between deaf academics and interpreters. We suggest these findings can be applied by deaf BSL signers and interpreters in contexts beyond academia, and constitute an important contribution to the literature on interpreting.
Evaluating the evaluator: A novel perspective on translation quality
Authors: Nemati Parsa Rouhullah , Afrouz Mahmoud
Published: August 2023

Due to its complex nature, providing a comprehensive framework for translation quality assessment (TQA) has always been a challenging task. To address this gap, many scholars spared no effort to provide a framework, approach or theory from philosophical, linguistic, and cultural perspectives, like those by Williams (2004), House (2015) and Reiss and Vermeer (1984), to mention but a few. According to Drugan (2013: 35), “theorists and professionals overwhelmingly agree that there is no single objective way to measure quality”. In the same vein, Dong and Lan note that “translation evaluation [. . .] remains one of the most problematic areas of translation studies as a field of study” (2010: 48). Notwithstanding, there is no consensus among scholars in this regard. Yet it remains one of the most interesting but controversial research areas in Translation Studies. Bittner’s book presents the historical trajectory of this concept by critically reviewing the eclectic and up-to-date viewpoints of Translation Studies scholars, investigating the pros and cons and applications of each. The book under review consists of seven chapters, each of which investigates a specific topic relating to translation quality assessment.
Optimizing Bank Performance through Loan Recovery in Nigeria: A Comprehensive Analysis of Loan Recovery Strategies of Ecobank Plc.
Authors: Orok Akaninyene Billy , Okon Effiong Asuquo , Titus Idongest Tim
Published: August 2023

Banks have significant difficulties in recovering debt, especially when consumers are no longer available following loan disbursement. This study carefully examines the effects of debt management and recovery on bank performance, paying particular attention to the applicability of the credit theory of money. The study's main goals are to thoroughly comprehend the various debt recovery strategies used in Nigeria's banking industry and investigate the connections between outstanding debt, recovered funds, loan client retention, and bank performance. To evaluate the given hypotheses and determine the relationships between these variables, the Chi-Square test was used. The data show that outstanding debt has a considerable influence on bank performance, supporting the credit theory of money. Additionally, a positive correlation between bank performance and loan client retention is discovered and the study finds a link between bank profitability and client relationships. The development of strong, dependable, and good customer connections improves the bank's reputation by increasing client satisfaction, loyalty, and confidence in the bank's dependability as a lender. Credit officers are advised to constantly monitor ongoing debt to avoid payment defaults as part of the study's recommendations. Finally, credit officers should pay frequent visits to borrowers to make sure the money from the loan is being used for what it was intended.
Trialling an expressed breast milk management video for pregnant women in Indonesia
Authors: Sarimin Dorce Sisfiani , Pasambo Yourisna , Desyani Ni Luh Jayanthi
Published: August 2023

Background/Aims

The rate of exclusive breastfeeding among working mothers is low, and can be attributed to the perception of inadequate breast milk, lack of knowledge about expression, limited time to express and lack of support from workplace leaders. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of educational videos on milk management in improving working women's knowledge, attitudes and self-efficacy in expressing breast milk.

Methods

This study used a quasi-experimental design, with a sample of 100 participants selected for a cluster randomised trial. The intervention group (n=50) watched educational videos on expressed breast milk and were mentored through a WhatsApp group, while the control group (n=50) received regular education for pregnant women working in urban areas. Data on the participants knowledge, attitude and self-efficacy were collected via questionnaires both before and after the intervention. The data were analysed using the Mann-Whitney test.

Results

The intervention group had higher knowledge, attitude and self-efficacy scores after watching the educational videos and being mentored (P=0.001).

Conclusions

Educational videos and mentoring can be used by healthcare professionals to provide education and support for working women, to encourage breast milk expression and exclusive breastfeeding.
Midwives’ practice of maternal positions throughout active second stage labour: an integrative review
Authors: Asnawi Damia Hazimah , Idris Deeni Rudita , McKenna Lisa , Abdul-Mumin Khadizah H
Published: August 2023

Background/Aims

Extensive research focuses on the advantages and disadvantages of various positions throughout active second stage labour, but there is limited focus on midwives’ practice. This study aimed to explore midwives’ practice of maternal positions throughout the active phase of second stage labour.

Methods

An integrative review of three databases was carried out for research papers published between 2015 and 2022. Thematic analysis was used for data analysis and synthesis.

Results

Five eligible research papers were included. There were four key findings: maternal positions practised by midwives, midwives as the prime decision maker, midwives’ personal convenience and comfort, and barriers to practising maternal positions.

Conclusions

Midwives were seen as prime decision makers, who hindered informed decision making on maternal positions during active second stage labour. Inadequate knowledge, skills and confidence were barriers to practice and attributed to midwives adopting positions that were convenient and comfortable for themselves. Strategies are needed to enhance practice through review and evaluation of current clinical settings, regular updates to evidence-based practice and refreshing essential midwifery skills.
COVID-19-induced gastrointestinal autonomic dysfunction: A systematic review
Authors: Elbeltagi Reem , Al-Beltagi Mohammed , Saeed Nermin Kamal , Bediwy Adel Salah
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

It is common for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection to occur in the gastrointestinal tract, which can present itself as an initial symptom. The severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is often reflected in the prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms. COVID-19 can damage the nerve supply to the digestive system, leading to gastrointestinal autonomic dysfunction. There is still much to learn about how COVID-19 affects the autonomic nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract.

AIM

To thoroughly explore the epidemiology and clinical aspects of COVID-19-induced gastrointestinal autonomic dysfunction, including its manifestations, potential mechanisms, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, impact on quality of life, prognosis, and management and prevention strategies.

METHODS

We conducted a thorough systematic search across various databases and performed an extensive literature review. Our review encompassed 113 studies published in English from January 2000 to April 18, 2023.

RESULTS

According to most of the literature, gastrointestinal autonomic dysfunction can seriously affect a patient's quality of life and ultimate prognosis. Numerous factors can influence gastrointestinal autonomic nervous functions. Studies have shown that SARS-CoV-2 has a well-documented affinity for both neural and gastrointestinal tissues, and the virus can produce various gastrointestinal symptoms by reaching neural tissues through different pathways. These symptoms include anorexia, dysgeusia, heartburn, belching, chest pain, regurgitation, vomiting, epigastric burn, diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, irregular bowel movements, and constipation. Diarrhea is the most prevalent symptom, followed by anorexia, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Although COVID-19 vaccination may rarely induce autonomic dysfunction and gastrointestinal symptoms, COVID-19-induced autonomic effects significantly impact the patient's condition, general health, prognosis, and quality of life. Early diagnosis and proper recognition are crucial for improving outcomes. It is important to consider the differential diagnosis, as these symptoms may be induced by diseases other than COVID-19-induced autonomic dysfunction. Treating this dysfunction can be a challenging task.

CONCLUSION

To ensure the best possible outcomes for COVID-19 patients, it is essential to take a multidisciplinary approach involving providing supportive care, treating the underlying infection, managing dysfunction, monitoring for complications, and offering nutritional support. Close monitoring of the patient's condition is crucial, and prompt intervention should be taken if necessary. Furthermore, conducting thorough research on the gastrointestinal autonomic dysfunction caused by COVID-19 is vital to manage it effectively.
Meta-analysis of outcomes from drug-eluting stent implantation in infrapopliteal arteries
Authors: Li Ming-Xuan , Tu Hai-Xia , Yin Meng-Chen
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous drug-eluting stent implantation (DESI) is an emerging and promising treatment modality for infrapopliteal artery diseases (IPADs). This systematic review and meta-analysis summarizes and quantitatively analyzes the outcomes of DESI in IPADs considering the hazard ratio (HR), which is a more accurate and appropriate outcome measure than the more commonly used relative risk and odds ratio.

AIM

To explore the superiority of drug-eluting stents (DESs) vs traditional treatment modalities for IPADs.

METHODS

The following postoperative indicators were the outcomes of interest: All-cause death (ACD)-free survival, major amputation (MA)-free survival, target lesion revascularization (TLR)-free survival, adverse event (AE)-free survival, and primary patency (PP) survival. The outcome measures were then compared according to their respective HRs with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The participants were human IPAD patients who underwent treatments for infrapopliteal lesions. DESI was set as the intervention arm, and traditional percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) with or without bare metal stent implantation (BMSI) was set as the control arm. A systematic search in the Excerpta Medica Database (Embase), PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library was performed on November 29, 2022. All controlled studies published in English with sufficient data on outcomes of interest for extraction or conversion were included. When studies did not directly report the HRs but gave a corresponding survival curve, we utilized Engauge Digitizer software and standard formulas to convert the information and derive HRs. Then, meta-analyses were conducted using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

Five randomized controlled trials and three cohort studies involving 2639 participants were included. The ACD-free and MA-free survival HR values for DESI were not statistically significant from those of the control treatment (P > 0.05); however, the HR values for TLR-free, AE-free, and PP-survival differed significantly [2.65 (95%CI: 1.56-4.50), 1.57 (95%CI: 1.23-2.01), and 5.67 (95%CI: 3.56-9.03), respectively].

CONCLUSION

Compared with traditional treatment modalities (i.e. , PTA with or without BMSI), DESI for IPADs is superior in avoiding TLR and AEs and maintaining PP but shows no superiority or inferiority in avoiding ACD and MA.
Anti-phospholipase A2 receptor-associated membranous nephropathy with human immunodeficiency virus infection treated with telitacicept: A case report
Authors: Wang Jin-Ling , Sun Yan-Ling , Kang Zhe , Zhang Sheng-Kun , Yu Chun-Xin , Zhang Wan , Xie Hua , Lin Hong-Li
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

The co-occurrence of Anti-phospholipase A2 receptor-associated membranous nephropathy (anti-PLA2R-MN) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a rare clinical scenario, presenting significant challenges in terms of management and treatment.

CASE SUMMARY

A 32-year-old Chinese male diagnosed with HIV infection presented with a clinical history of proteinuria persisting for over two years. A kidney biopsy demonstrated subepithelial immune complex deposition and a thickened glomerular basement membrane, indicative of stage I-II membranous nephropathy. Immunofluorescence staining revealed granular deposition of PLA2R (3+) along the glomerular capillary loops, corroborated by a strongly positive anti-PLA2R antibody test (1:320). Initial treatment involving losartan potassium, rivaroxaban, tacrolimus, and rituximab was discontinued due to either poor effectiveness or the occurrence of adverse events. Following a regimen of weekly subcutaneous injections of telitacicept (160 mg), a marked decline in the 24 h urine protein was observed within a three-month period, accompanied by a rise in serum albumin level. No significant reductions in peripheral blood CD3+CD4+T and CD3+CD8+T cell counts were detected. The patient's physical and psychological conditions showed significant improvements, with no adverse events reported during the treatment course.

CONCLUSION

Telitacicept might offer a potential therapeutic avenue for patients diagnosed with anti-PLA2R-MN concomitant with HIV infection.
Persistent dysexecutive syndrome after pneumococcal meningitis complicated by recurrent ischemic strokes: A case report
Authors: Abbruzzese Laura , Martinelli Giulia , Salti Giulia , Basagni Benedetta , Damora Alessio , Scarselli Cristiano , Peppoloni Giulia , Podgorska Aleksandra , Rosso Giuliana , Bacci Marco , Alfano Alba Rosa , MANCUSO MAURO
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Meningitis is a possible complication of pneumococcal infection concerning acute otitis media and sinusitis. It might compromise cognitive function, both for the infection itself and the vascular events that sometimes follow the acute phase.

CASE SUMMARY

Here we describe the case of a 32-year-old female patient admitted to the emergency room due to extensive pneumococcal meningitis as a consequence of sinus outbreak. She presented with extensive laminar ischemic damage in the acute phase, resulting in severe cognitive and behavioural impairment. Four years of follow-up, through neuropsychological assessments and neuroradiological investigations, demonstrated the presence of subsequent vascular events, 3 months and 2 years after onset.

CONCLUSION

The case is discussed in light of scientific knowledge of the long-term outcomes of this pathology in order to potentially improve diagnosis and promote better outcomes.
Kawasaki disease with peritonsillar abscess as the first symptom: A case report
Authors: Huo Li-Man , Li Li-Min , Peng Hao-Yang , Wang Li-Jia , Feng Zhang-Ying
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Kawasaki disease (KD), also known as mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, is an acute, self-limiting vasculitis of unknown aetiology that mainly involves the medium and small arteries and can lead to serious cardiovascular complications, with a 25% incidence of coronary artery aneurysms. Periton–Sillar abscesses are a rare symptom of KD and is easily misdiagnosed at its early stages.

CASE SUMMARY

A 5-year-old boy who presented to a community hospital with a 3-d fever, difficulty in opening his mouth, and neck pain and was originally treated for throat infection without improvement. On the basis of laboratory tests, ultrasound of submandibular and superficial lymph nodes and computed tomography of the neck, the clinician diagnosed the periamygdala abscess and sepsis that did not resolve after antibiotic therapy. On the fifth day of admission, the child developed conjunctival congestion, prune tongue, perianal congestion and desquamation, and slightly stiff and swollen bunions on both feet. A diagnosis of KD was reached with complete remission after intravenous immunoglobulin treatment.

CONCLUSION

Children with neck pain, lymph node enlargement, or airway obstruction as the main manifestations are poorly treated with intravenous broad-spectrum antibiotics. Clinicians should not rush invasive operations such as neck puncture, incision, and drainage and should be alert for KD when it cannot be explained by deep neck space infection and early treatment with aspirin combined with gammaglobulin.
Treatment of a patient with severe lactic acidosis and multiple organ failure due to mitochondrial myopathy: A case report
Authors: Chen Ling , Shuai Tian-Kui , Gao Yu-Wei , Li Min , Fang Peng-Zhong , Christian Waydhas , Liu Li-Ping
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Mitochondrial myopathy is a rare genetic disease with maternal inheritance that may involve multiple organ systems. Due to the lack of typical characteristics, its clinical diagnosis is difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed or even missed.

CASE SUMMARY

The patient was a young college student. When he presented at the hospital, he had severe lactic acidosis, respiratory failure, and shock with multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). He was treated by mechanical ventilation, veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, and other organ support. However, his condition continued to worsen. After a thorough and detailed medical and family history was taken, a mitochondrial crisis was suspected. A muscle biopsy was taken. Further genetic testing confirmed a mitochondrial gene mutation (TRNL1 3243A>G). The final diagnosis of mitochondrial myopathy was made. Although there is no known specific treatment, intravenous methylprednisone and intravenous immunoglobulin were started. The patient’s shock eventually improved. The further course was complicated by severe infection in multiple sites, severe muscle weakness, and recurrent MODS. After 2 mo of multidisciplinary management and intensive rehabilitation, the patient could walk with assistance 4 mo after admission and walk independently 6 mo after admission.

CONCLUSION

More attention should be paid to mitochondrial myopathy to avoid missed diagnosis and misdiagnosis.
Early esophageal carcinomas in achalasia patient after endoscopic submucosal dissection combined with peroral endoscopic myotomy: A case report
Authors: An Bai-Quan , Wang Chun-Xiao , Zhang Hai-Yan , Fu Jin-Dong
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Achalasia is associated with high risk of esophageal carcinoma. However, the optimal endoscopic surgery for patients with early esophageal carcinoma concomitant with achalasia remains unclear.

CASE SUMMARY

A combination of concurrent endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) and modified peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) was performed on a 62-year-old male, who presented with multiple early esophageal carcinomas concomitant with achalasia. The patient exhibited an improvement in feeding obstruction, and presented no evidence of disease during the 3-year follow-up.

CONCLUSION

The combination of ESD and POEM is a feasible treatment modality for patients with early esophageal carcinoma concomitant with achalasia.
A Traumatic Reading of Maurya's Passivity in Synge's Riders to the Sea
Authors: He Chu
Published: August 2023

Abstract: This essay gives a traumatic reading of Maurya's passivity. Traumatized by her sons' deaths, Maurya develops PTSD symptoms including hyperarousal, intrusion, and constriction, and through keening she moves towards a recovery. Synge's deft use of symbols, repetition, and imagery to stage trauma makes Riders a precursor to later trauma plays.
"It's More Terrible Not to Remember": Alexievich and Women's War Literature
Authors: Vickroy Laurie
Published: August 2023

Abstract: Svetlana Alexievich's text brings to light women veterans' testimonies of lingering World War II traumas that challenge militaristic discourses. This study analyzes how Alexievich helped them claim their testimonial voices and provoked them to reveal traumatic effects and to contextualize and organize their words into trauma narratives.
Prosodic Change in Thomas More’s Epitaphs for Henry Abyngdon (1518): From Medieval to Renaissance
Authors: Carlson David R.
Published: August 2023

Abstract: Analysis of a corpus of Anglo-Latin verse epitaphs published in the period 1380–1520 establishes that a shift from medieval rhymed dactylic verse, including Leonines and more complex polyrhymed varieties, to Renaissance-humanist classical-style unrhymed verse occurred in the period, irreversible by about 1460. Near the same date, Thomas More’s humanist contemporaries began to practice types of non-dactylic Greco-Roman lyric meters that More himself did not much essay; meanwhile, his two epitaphs for the practical musician Henry Abyngdon, the one humanist, the other a parody of the ornate rhymed style, depend for their meaning on this prosodic shift from medieval to Renaissance.
Polarization-insensitive phase-modulated metasurface using single thermally stimulated vanadium dioxide chip
Authors: Ma Yan Li , Chen Qiang , Zheng Yue Jun , Shuai Chen Yang , Fu Yun Qi
Published: August 2023

Considering that typically more than two pin diodes or other tunable elements are required in the unit cell of polarization-insensitive reconfigurable metasurfaces (RMs), this paper proposes a new approach to design a polarization-insensitive RM unit using only one VO2 chip. A polarization-insensitive phase-modulated metasurface (PMM) using single VO2 chip is presented. The surface layer is composed of an outer ring and an inner cross, with a VO2 chip loaded at the connection of the cross. As the VO2 chip can be connected with the metal patch on all sides, only one VO2 chip is used in this polarization-insensitive design. By thermally controlling VO2 chips switch between low-resistance and high-resistance states, the PMM achieves a 1-bit phase shift within 180° ± 37° from 7.85 to 15 GHz. A prototype is fabricated and measured, and the measured results have verified the correction of the design and analysis of the designed PMM.
Sub-ppb NaCl aerosol detection at a distance of 30 meters by femtosecond laser induced plasma spectroscopy
Authors: Guo Jiewei , Zhang Zhi , Zhang Nan , Shang Binpeng , Xue Jiayun , Wang Yuezheng , Tao Shishi , Xie Bofu , Guo Lanjun , Lin Lie , Liu Weiwei
Published: August 2023

In this work, sub-ppb aerosol detection is achieved by femtosecond laser filament with a single pulse energy of 4 mJ at a distance of 30 m. A concave mirror with an open aperture of 41.4 cm is employed in an off-axis optical system to focus the femtosecond laser beam and collect the fluorescence of NaCl aerosol. The simulation and experimental results show that the astigmatism can be greatly reduced when femtosecond laser beam is incident non-symmetrically on the concave mirror. Compared with the case that femtosecond laser strikes at the center of the concave mirror, the intensity of acoustic signal emitted from the optical filament is increased by 69.5 times, and the detection of limit of sodium element in aerosol is reduced by 86%, which is down to 0.32 ppb. The improved excitation scheme in this work utilizes the nonsymmetrical beam spot on the concave mirror to compensate the non-symmetry induced by the off-axis setup, reducing the astigmatism of the focusing laser beam and decreasing the sodium chloride aerosol’s detection of limit.
Multi-focused electric and magnetic field sourcing from an azimuthally polarized vortex circular hyperbolic umbilic beam
Authors: Song Jinqi , Zhang Naichen , Wang Wenzhe , Liu Fengqi , Sun Mingli , Huang Kaikai , Zhang Xian , Lu Xuanhui
Published: August 2023

In this paper, one kind of multi-focusing electric and magnetic field which is sourced from an azimuthally polarized vortex circular hyperbolic umbilic beam (APVCHUB) is presented. After passing through a high NA objective, both the electric and magnetic fields of the APVCHUBs will focus multiple times, and a high-purity longitudinal magnetic field (p
q
=80%) will be generated. Besides, the mutual induction of the vortex phase and azimuthal polarization changes the electric and magnetic fields’ vibration state and intensity distribution, making the longitudinal magnetic field carry an m-order concentric vortex. Our findings suggest that the APVCHUB could have potential applications in magnetic particle manipulation, extremely weak magnetic detection, data storage, semiconductor quantum dot excitation, etc.
Emergence of linkage between cooperative RNA replicators encoding replication and metabolic enzymes through experimental evolution
Authors: Ueda Kensuke , Mizuuchi Ryo , Ichihashi Norikazu
Published: August 2023

The integration of individually replicating genes into a primitive chromosome is a key evolutionary transition in the development of life, allowing the simultaneous inheritance of genes. However, how this transition occurred is unclear because the extended size of primitive chromosomes replicate slower than unlinked genes. Theoretical studies have suggested that a primitive chromosome can evolve in the presence of cell-like compartments, as the physical linkage prevents the stochastic loss of essential genes upon division, but experimental support for this is lacking. Here, we demonstrate the evolution of a chromosome-like RNA from two cooperative RNA replicators encoding replication and metabolic enzymes. Through their long-term replication in cell-like compartments, linked RNAs emerged with the two cooperative RNAs connected end-to-end. The linked RNAs had different mutation patterns than the two unlinked RNAs, suggesting that they were maintained as partially distinct lineages in the population. Our results provide experimental evidence supporting the plausibility of the evolution of a primitive chromosome from unlinked gene fragments, an important step in the emergence of complex biological systems.
Establishment and application of unbiased in vitro drug screening assays for the identification of compounds against Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto
Authors: Kaethner Marc , Preza Matías , Kaempfer Tobias , Zumstein Pascal , Tamponi Claudia , Varcasia Antonio , Hemphill Andrew , Brehm Klaus , Lundström-Stadelmann Britta
Published: August 2023

Echinococcus multilocularisandE.granulosus s.l. are the causative agents of alveolar and cystic echinococcosis, respectively. Drug treatment options for these severe and neglected diseases are limited to benzimidazoles, which are not always efficacious, and adverse side effects are reported. Thus, novel and improved treatments are needed. In this study, the previously established platform forE.multilocularis in vitrodrug assessment was adapted toE.granulosus s.s. In a first step,in vitroculture protocols forE.granulosus s.s. were established. This resulted in the generation of large amounts ofE.granulosus s.s. metacestode vesicles as well as germinal layer (GL) cells.In vitroculture of these cells formed metacestode vesicles displaying structural characteristics of metacestode cysts generatedin vivo. Next, drug susceptibilities ofE.multilocularisandE.granulosus s.s. protoscoleces, metacestode vesicles and GL cells were comparatively assessed employing established assays including (i) metacestode vesicle damage marker release assay, (ii) metacestode vesicle viability assay, (iii) GL cell viability assay, and (iv) protoscolex motility assay. The standard drugs albendazole, buparvaquone, mefloquine, MMV665807, monepantel, niclosamide and nitazoxanide were included. MMV665807, niclosamide and nitazoxanide were active against the parasite in all four assays against both species. MMV665807 and monepantel were significantly more active againstE.multilocularismetacestode vesicles, while albendazole and nitazoxanide were significantly more active againstE.multilocularisGL cells. Albendazole displayed activity againstE.multilocularisGL cells, but no effects were seen in albendazole-treatedE.granulosus s.s. GL cells within five days. Treatment of protoscoleces with albendazole and monepantel had no impact on motility. Similar results were observed for both species with praziquantel and its enantiomers against protoscoleces. In conclusion,in vitroculture techniques and drug screening methods previously established forE.multiloculariswere successfully implemented forE.granulosus s.s., allowing comparisons of drug efficacy between the two species. This study providesin vitroculture techniques for the reliable generation ofE.granulosus s.s. metacestode vesicles and GL cell cultures and describes the validation of standardizedin vitrodrug screening methods forE.granulosus s.s.
Immunogenic mapping of rDyn-1 and rKDDR-plus proteins and selection of oligopeptides by immunoblotting for the diagnosis of Leishmania infantum-infected dogs
Authors: Siqueira Williane Fernanda , Cardoso Mariana Santos , Fraga Vanessa Gomes , Ottino Jennifer , Ribeiro Vitor Márcio , Gondim Carolina Novato , de Paiva Barçante Joziana Muniz , Amado Gomes Ana Carolina , Galdino Alexsandro Sobreira , Eersels Kasper , van Grinsven Bart , Bartholomeu Daniella Castanheira , Bueno Lilian Lacerda , Cleij Thomas , Fujiwara Ricardo Toshio
Published: August 2023

Endemic in Brazil, visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a zoonotic infection that is among the most important parasitic diseases transmitted by vectors. Dogs are the main reservoirs of canine leishmaniasis (CanL) and their identification is used in some countries as part of disease prevention and control measures in the canine and human population. In this context, serological tests are necessary, composed of antigens capable of correctly identifying infected dogs, minimizing the number of false-negative cases. This study aimed to identify more immunoreactive peptides derived from two previously described whole proteins (rDyn-1 and rKDDR-plus) and compare their performance to the control antigens rK39 and the crude extract for the detection of dogs infected with L. infantum, especially the asymptomatic ones. The three selected peptides and a mixture of them, along with the rDyn-1, rKDDR-plus, rK39, and crude extract antigens were evaluated using indirect ELISA with sera samples from 186 dogs with CanL, being asymptomatic (n = 50), symptomatic (n = 50), co-infected (n = 19), infected with Babesia sp. (n = 7), Ehrlichia sp. (n = 6), T. cruzi (n = 20) and uninfected (n = 34). The results showed that the rDyn-1 protein and the peptide mixture had the highest sensitivity (100% and 98.32%, respectively) and specificity (97.01 and 98.51, respectively). A high degree of kappa agreement was found for rDyn-1 protein (0.977), mixed peptides (0.965), rKDDR-plus protein (0.953), K-plus peptide 1 (0.930) and Dyn-1 peptide (0.893). The mixture of peptides showed the highest likelihood (65.87). The ELISA using the mixture of peptides and the rDyn-1 protein showed high performance for CanL serodiagnosis. More mix combinations of the peptides and additional extended field tests with a larger sample size are recommended.
Amygdalar activity measured using FDG-PET/CT at head and neck cancer staging independently predicts survival
Authors: Hassan Malek Z. O. , Tawakol Ahmed , Wang Ying , Alvi Raza M. , Awadalla Magid , Jones-O’Connor Maeve , B. Bakar Rula , Banerji Dahlia , Rokicki Adam , Zhang Lili , Mulligan Connor P. , Osborne Michael T. , Zarif Azmaeen , Hammad Basma , Chan Annie W. , Wirth Lori J. , Warner Erica T. , Pitman Roger K. , Armstrong Katrina A. , Addison Daniel , Neilan Tomas G.
Published: August 2023

Importance

The mechanisms underlying the association between chronic stress and higher mortality among individuals with cancer remain incompletely understood.

Objective

To test the hypotheses that among individuals with active head and neck cancer, that higher stress-associated neural activity (ie. metabolic amygdalar activity [AmygA]) at cancer staging associates with survival.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Academic Medical Center (Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston).

Participants

240 patients with head and neck cancer (HNCA) who underwent 18F-FDG-PET/CT imaging as part of initial cancer staging.

Measurements

18F-FDG uptake in the amygdala was determined by placing circular regions of interest in the right and left amygdalae and measuring the mean tracer accumulation (i.e., standardized uptake value [SUV]) in each region of interest. Amygdalar uptake was corrected for background cerebral activity (mean temporal lobe SUV).

Results

Among individuals with HNCA (age 59±13 years; 30% female), 67 died over a median follow-up period of 3 years (IQR: 1.7–5.1). AmygA associated with heightened bone marrow activity, leukocytosis, and C-reactive protein (P<0.05 each). In adjusted and unadjusted analyses, AmygA associated with subsequent mortality (HR [95% CI]: 1.35, [1.07–1.70], P = 0.009); the association persisted in stratified subset analyses restricted to patients with advanced cancer stage (P<0.001). Individuals within the highest tertile of AmygA experienced a 2-fold higher mortality rate compared to others (P = 0.01). The median progression-free survival was 25 months in patients with higher AmygA (upper tertile) as compared with 36.5 months in other individuals (HR for progression or death [95%CI], 1.83 [1.24–2.68], P = 0.001).

Conclusions and relevance

AmygA, quantified on routine 18F-FDG-PET/CT images obtained at cancer staging, independently and robustly predicts mortality and cancer progression among patients with HNCA. Future studies should test whether strategies that attenuate AmygA (or its downstream biological consequences) may improve cancer survival.