bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnosis Value of the Blood Urea Nitrogen-to-Creatinine Ratio in Determining the Need for Intervention of Acute Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Authors: Liu Hong , Li Yan , Liu Chunliang , Liu Zheng , Chen Kailin
Published: April 2024

Introduction: The blood urea nitrogen (BUN)-to-creatinine (Cr) ratio (BUN/Cr ratio) may be used to evaluate the need for intervention of acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding (AUGIB). This study aimed to explore the predictive value of the BUN/Cr ratio in the need for intervention of AUGIB. Methods: This retrospective observational study included patients with AUGIB in the hospital’s emergency department between August 2019 and May 2023. The patients were grouped according to whether they underwent an intervention for AUGIB. Patients treated between August 2019 and May 2022 were selected as the training set and the others as the validation set. Results: A total of 466 patients (328 males, 138 females) with AUGIB were enrolled in the intervention group (n = 167) and the no-intervention group (n = 299). In the training set, multivariable logistic regression showed that the BUN/Cr ratio (odds ratio [OR]: 1.013, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.003–1.023, p = 0.009), hemoglobin (OR: 0.989, 95% CI: 0.981–0.997, p = 0.010), and a previous history of esophageal variceal bleeding (OR: 6.898, 95% CI: 3.989–11.929, p < 0.001) were independently associated with intervention for AUGIB. The area under receiver operating characteristic curve of BUN/Cr ratio and the prediction model based on logistic regression to predict the need for intervention of AUGIB were 0.604 (95% CI: 0.544–0.664) and 0.759 (95% CI: 0.706–0.812) in the training set and 0.634 (95% CI: 0.529, 0.740) and 0.708 (95% CI: 0.609, 0.806) in the validation set, respectively. Conclusion: The BUN/Cr ratio was associated with the need for AUGIB intervention. Combining it with other parameters might improve its diagnostic value to predict the need for intervention of AUGIB.
Plasma ADAM10 Levels and Their Association with Alzheimer’s Disease Diagnosis in Older Adults with Fewer Years of Formal Education
Authors: Pelegrini Lucas Nogueira de Carvalho , da Silva Vanessa Alexandre , Grigoli Marina Mantellatto , Vatanabe Izabela Pereira , Manzine Patricia Regina , Cominetti Marcia Regina
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Low educational attainment is a potential risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) development. Alpha-secretase ADAM10 plays a central role in AD pathology, attenuating the formation of beta-amyloid peptides and, therefore, their aggregation into senile plaques. This study seeks to investigate ADAM10 as a blood-based biomarker in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and AD in a diverse group of community-dwelling older adults, focusing on those with limited educational attainment. Methods: Participants were recruited from public health services. Cognition was evaluated using Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination – Revised (ACE-R) batteries. Blood samples were collected to analyze plasma ADAM10 levels. A logistic regression was conducted to verify the influence of plasma ADAM10 on the AD diagnosis. Results: Significant differences in age, years of education, prescribed medications, and cognitive test scores were found between the MCI and AD groups. Regarding cognitive performance, both ACE-R and MMSE scores displayed significant differences between groups, with post hoc analyses highlighting these distinctions, particularly between AD and cognitively unimpaired individuals. Elevated plasma ADAM10 levels were associated with a 4.5-fold increase in the likelihood of a diagnosis of MCI and a 5.9-fold increase in the likelihood of a diagnosis of AD. These findings suggest ADAM10 levels in plasma as a valuable biomarker for assessing cognitive status in older individuals with low education attainment. Conclusion: This study underscores the potential utility of plasma ADAM10 levels as a blood-based biomarker for cognitive status, especially in individuals with low educational backgrounds, shedding light on their relevance in AD development and diagnosis.
An Insider’s Perspective about the Pathogenic Relevance of Gut Bacterial Transportomes
Authors: Zafar Hassan , Saier Jr. Milton H.
Published: April 2024

Background: The gut microbiome is integral to host health, hosting complex interactions between the host and numerous microbial species in the gastrointestinal tract. Key among the molecular mechanisms employed by gut bacteria are transportomes, consisting of diverse transport proteins crucial for bacterial adaptation to the dynamic, nutrient-rich environment of the mammalian gut. These transportomes facilitate the movement of a wide array of molecules, impacting both the host and the microbial community. Summary: This communication explores the significance of transportomes in gut bacteria, focusing on their role in nutrient acquisition, competitive interactions among microbes, and potential pathogenicity. It delves into the transportomes of key gut bacterial species like E. coli, Salmonella, Bacteroides, Lactobacillus, Clostridia, and Bifidobacterium, examining the functions of predicted transport proteins. The overview synthesizes recent research efforts, highlighting how these transportomes influence host-microbe interactions and contribute to the microbial ecology of the gut. Key Messages: Transportomes are vital for the survival and adaptation of bacteria in the gut, enabling the import and export of various nutrients and molecules. The complex interplay of transport proteins not only supports bacterial growth and competition but also has implications for host health, potentially contributing to pathogenic processes. Understanding the pathogenic potential of transportomes in major gut bacterial species provides insights into gut health and disease, offering avenues for future research and therapeutic strategies.
Behandlung der eosinophilen Granulomatose mit Polyangiitis: Ist Benralizumab eine Alternative?
Authors: Xanthouli Panagiota
Published: April 2024

Background: Benralizumab is effective in the treatment of eosinophilic asthma and is being investigated for the treatment of other eosinophil-associated diseases. Reports on the use of benralizumab for the treatment of eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) are limited to case reports and small case series. Methods: We conducted a multicentre, retrospective study including EGPA patients treated with off-label benralizumab. The primary endpoint was the rate of complete response defined as no disease activity (Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score=0) and a prednisone dose ≤4 mg/day. Partial response was defined as no disease activity and a prednisone dose ≥4 mg/day. Results: Sixty-eight patients were included, including 31 (46%) who had previously received mepolizumab. The use of benralizumab was warranted by uncontrolled asthma in 54 (81%), persistent ear, nose and throat (ENT) manifestations in 27 (40%) and persistent glucocorticoids (GCs) use in 48 (74%) patients. Median (IQR) follow-up after starting benralizumab was 23 (9–34) months. Thirty-three patients (49%) achieved a complete response, 24 (36%) achieved a partial response and 10 (15%) did not respond. Among the 57 patients who initially responded, 10 (18%) eventually required further line treatments. GCs were discontinued in 23 patients (38%). Prior mepolizumab use was associated with a higher rate of primary failure (26.7% vs 5.4%, p=0.034) and less frequent GCs discontinuation (14.8% vs 55.9%, p=0.001). Vasculitis flares occurred in 7 patients (11%) and were associated with histological evidence of vasculitis and/or antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies positivity at benralizumab initiation (p=0.004).
Metastases Affecting Cranial Nervous Structures in Male Breast Cancer: Two Case Reports
Authors: Valera-Barrero Andrea , Madera-Fernández Jorge , González-Quintanilla Vicente , Sedano-Tous María José , Martínez-Dubarbie Francisco
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Breast cancer in males is a very rare entity, and survival is mainly influenced by the stage at diagnosis. The lack of early detection tools in men results in a diagnostic delay of about 5–10 years and a higher percentage of metastatic disease at diagnosis. However, the characteristics of head metastases are not well defined. Case Reports: We present 2 cases of male breast cancer with metastases affecting cranial nervous structures and we provide imaging and histologic data. Both were middle-aged patients with ductal-type, HER-2- negative, and androgen receptor-positive primary tumors. Conclusion: Although central nervous system involvement is uncommon, this entity should be considered in middle-aged males with focal neurologic symptoms. More cases would be necessary to better understand the biology of this condition in order to establish an adequate diagnosis and treatment.
Narrativas de estudiantes de trabajo social de UNIMINUTO: crisis y sentido de vida, durante el confinamiento por COVID-19.
Authors: Cadena García Héctor Remigio
Published: April 2024

Este documento, resultado de una investigación-creación, expone los procesos narrativos realizados durante el confinamiento por COVID-19, cuando 121 profesionales en formación del programa de Trabajo Social y de la Licenciatura en Educación Artística de UNIMINUTO, de las sedes de Bogotá y Cundinamarca Centro Regional Soacha, a través de relatos escritos refirieron experiencias individuales, familiares y sociales
vividas durante las restricciones a la movilidad. Estas creaciones expresan las dinámicas emergentes debidas a las pérdidas, el reconocimiento de capacidades de afrontamiento y los aprendizajes o ganancias en distintas dimensiones, que se convierten en elementos articulares de una composición multilenguaje, en línea con comprensiones sobre la existencia y con la resignificación integrativa e interdisciplinaria con lo sociorrelacional en forma de narrativas transmedia.
“Mulipropaz”: experiencias de mediación desde la potencia de la vida: una lectura desde la paz imperfecta
Authors: de la Pava Julián Loaiza , Alford Alford Juanita , Salazar Castilla Mónica , León Castaño Daniela
Published: April 2024

Las formas plurales de la paz (las paces) han existido a lo largo de la historia; expresadas de maneras locales, particulares y especialmente de manera imperfecta han permitido que la vida misma pueda prosperar. Sin embargo, las formas de la violencia las han ocultado bajo la premisa de dispositivos del miedo que rompen subjetividades e identidades con el resultado evidente de un ejercicio fáctico del poder hegemónico de unos sobre los otros. En medio de las conflictividades propias de los territorios que históricamente han sido marcados por los empobrecimientos sostenidos de manera violenta, existen colectivos que despliegan acciones que se reconocen como mediaciones pacifistas y que permiten la emergencia de “formas otras” de habitar los territorios en las que se potencia la vida en su sentido más genérico y configuran formas de acción política como posibilidades de re-existencia ante las opacidades de las formas hegemónicas que niegan a los sujetos que en estos habitan. En este artículo se aborda pues la pregunta por formas de movilización local centradas en prácticas pacifistas y no-violentas para la configuración de las formas de habitar y las realidades que se re-quieren transformar.
La configuración de la subjetividad política en jóvenes escolares y su relación con la red social facebook
Authors: Cuenca Córdoba Ana María , Ramírez Sepúlveda Angie , Beltrán Bautista Luz Ángela
Published: April 2024

El presente trabajo desarrolló una propuesta comprensiva sobre la configuración de subjetividad política a partir de las narraciones que jóvenes escolares realizaron en torno a la red social Facebook. Para ello, se trabajó una metodología con enfoque hermenéutico que posibilitó el reconocimiento de los procesos de subjetivación vinculados con las formas específicas de interacción en la red social virtual, la identificación del sentido político implicado en las narraciones de los jóvenes y el análisis de las formas de regulación reconocidas en relación con la política del uso responsable de las TIC. El análisis de la información se realizó a través de las categorías conceptuales propuestas por Ruiz y Prada (2012), lo cual permitió identificar en los jóvenes, formas específicas de ver y posicionarse frente al mundo, caracterizadas por la apropiación de posturas críticas y sentidos ético-políticos definidos, con los que cuestionan la realidad.
Como a ficção televisiva moldou um país: uma história cultura da telenovela brasileira (1963 a 2020)
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Comunicações e Artes, Néia Lucas Martins
Published: April 2024

Este livro se propõe a traçar uma história cultural da telenovela no Brasil, prospectando entrecruzamentos entre televisão, cultura e sociedade desde a veiculação da primeira teleficção diária produzida no país. Sob o viés da espacialidade, foram categorizadas 677 telenovelas nacionais exibidas entre 1963 e 2020, das quais emergiram quatro constructos espaciais predominantes: a cidade de São Paulo; a cidade do Rio de Janeiro; o interior do Brasil; e o exterior. Cruzamos essas informações com periodizações anteriormente propostas para o processo histórico da telenovela brasileira, de modo a dividir nossa jornada diacrônica em quatro fases: (I) fantasia ou sentimental (1963 a 1968); (II) nacional-popular ou realista (1968 a 1990); (III) de intervenção ou naturalista (1990 a 2015); e (IV) neofantasia ou neossentimental (2015 à atualidade). A leitora e o leitor poderão constatar neste passeio que o melodrama, matriz cultural dessas narrativas, foi capaz de orquestrar experiências estéticas e emocionais que reorganizaram noções circulantes na arena das representações da identidade nacional nos últimos 60 anos, projetando a ficção televisiva como um importante agente na reatualização de sentidos de brasilidade e de pertencimento.
Turismo Responsável: resultados que inspiram!
Authors: Costa Marianne de Oliveira , Proença Ana Rosa Guimarães Bastos ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Comunicações e Artes, Pinto Gustavo Pereira ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Filosofia, Letras e Ciências Humanas
Published: April 2024

O livro “Turismo Responsável: casos que inspiram!” apresenta de forma leve e objetiva o panorama do movimento pelo Turismo Responsável, conceitos-chave e dicas de como podemos nos engajar em sua direção. A obra também destaca 10 casos inspiradores que, cada um na sua realidade geográfica, social e de tamanho institucional, compartilham sua tomada de responsabilidade e os desafios enfrentados nesta jornada. Ao final da leitura, após tantas refl exões, convidamos a leitora e o leitor a se juntar a nós, por meio do Manifesto pelo Turismo Responsável, tornando público o seu compromisso com um turismo mais responsável, sustentável e inclusivo.
A Procedure for Testing for Tokyo Type 1 Open-Ended Evolution
Authors: Channon Alastair
Published: April 2024

Tokyo Type 1 open-ended evolution (OEE) is a category of OEE that includes systems exhibiting the ongoing generation of adaptive novelty and ongoing growth in complexity. It can be considered as a necessary foundation for Tokyo Type 2 OEE (ongoing evolution of evolvability) and Tokyo Type 3 OEE (ongoing generation of major transitions). This article brings together five methods of analysis to form a procedure for testing for Tokyo Type 1 OEE. The procedure is presented as simply as possible, isolated from the complexities of any particular evolutionary system, and with a clear rationale for each step. In developing these steps, we also identify five key challenges in OEE. The last of these (achieving a higher order of complexity growth within a system exhibiting indefinitely scalable complexity) can be considered a grand challenge for Tokyo Type 1 OEE. Promising approaches to this grand challenge include also achieving one or both of Tokyo Types 2 and 3 OEE; this can be seen as one answer to why these other types of OEE are important, providing a unified view of OEE.
[ARTICLE WITHDRAWN]Preparation, drug loading and antibacterial properties of zinc-iron-based nanomaterials
Authors: Cheng Wenwen , Zhang Jin , Lin Na , Yuan Ding , Zhang Shuai , Yang Zhonggang , Cao Tianyi
Published: April 2024

THIS ARTICLE WAS WITHDRAWN BY THE PUBLISHER IN JUL 2024
Preparation of iron nanoparticles mediated by Punica granatum and its application for the treatment of denture stomatitis
Authors: Yuan Yue , Mou Haizhang , Dong Yan , Qi Han
Published: April 2024

Denture stomatitis affects around 50% of denture wearers in certain populations as a prevalent oral mucosal lesion. There has been a high interest in utilizing natural antibacterial composites, such as medicinal plants extracts. Punica granatum, a popular medicinal plant, has
various pharmacological applications. In this particular research, iron NPs were formulated by the Punica granatum aqueous extract, following the principles of green chemistry. The study objective was to assess the effectiveness of FeNPs on denture stomatitis. The usual analytical examinations
were applied for FeNPs. The FE-SEM results confirmed that the nanoparticles exhibited a spherical morphology, with sizes ranging from 21.6 to 65.8 nm. This clinical trial involved 30 patients who received FeNPs. Over a period of two weeks, the patients were instructed to consume the mouthwash
four times per day, with 15–20 drops each time, for a duration of 2–3 minutes. Following the mouthwash, they were advised to refrain from eating or drinking for 0.5 hour. The patients in both classes were instructed to consume the medication at particular times. The erythema and
inflammation levels were recorded and assessed at each session using a 6-point scale and a graded blade. Additionally, palatal mucosa mycological samples were collected for culture during each visit. The data revealed a notable reduction in the palatal erythema surface compared to the initial
condition in the follow-up visits. This study suggests that FeNPs can effectively reduce the Candida colonies number and the area affected by erythema in the denture stomatitis management.
Tension anisotropy of rolled AA7075-T6 auminium alloy: Experiments, BP-Neural network modeling and orientation dependent failure mechanisms
Authors: Lv Lin , Lee Wei William , Lin Hui , Jin Tao
Published: April 2024

This paper presents the investigations on anisotropic tension mechanical responses of AA7075-T6 based on experiments, classical strength theory, BP-neural network modeling and fracture morphology characterization. Results show that the tension strength anisotropy weakens with deformation
degree. Compared to the traditional method, the machine learning model exhibits more flexible in solving the anisotropic plastic responses of AA7075-T6 auminium alloy sheet and provides more accurate predictions. Through analyzing the fracture surface of tension specimen at various orientations,
the failure mechanism is sensitive to orientation. Specifically, the irregular distribution of dimples zones and cleavage steps can be observed at lower material orientation. As the orientation increases, the alternative occurrence of ductile and brittle features dominates the failure mechanism.
The medium-size dimple caused by coalescence of small-size dimples represents a transition between ductile features zone and brittle characteristics region.
WMO Typhoon Landfall Forecast Demonstration Project (2010–22): A Decade of Transition from Track Forecasts to Impact Forecasts
Authors: Yu Hui , Chen Guomin , Wong Wai-Kin , Vigh Jonathan L. , Pan Chi-kin , Lu Xiaoqin , Zhang Jun A. , Tang Jie , Zhao Kun , Chen Peiyan , Yu Zifeng , Yang Mengqi , Dunion Jason , Fang Zheqing , Lei Xiaotu , Tyagi Ajit , Chen Lianshou
Published: April 2024

The Typhoon Landfall Forecast Demonstration Project (TLFDP) (2010–22) was an international cooperative scientific project conducted under the framework of the WMO. The primary objectives of the TLFDP were to enhance the capability of tropical cyclone (TC) forecasters and support related decision-makers in effective utilization of the most advanced forecasting techniques for the ultimate purpose of reducing and preventing disasters associated with TC landfall. Forty agencies/organizations/projects globally participated in the activities of the TLFDP following its inception in 2010, although the primary focus was on landfalling TCs in the western North Pacific. The TLFDP facilitated collaborations and workshops that realized notable achievements in four key areas: 1) the collection, production, and sharing of TC data; 2) the development and application of TC forecast verification metrics; 3) research on TC forecast skill; and 4) development of new techniques for TC forecasting. An obvious outcome was the shift from prediction of TC features, including track and intensity, toward prediction of TC impacts with more probabilistic conception. The final years of the project also promoted increasing application of artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques in various techniques for analysis and forecasting of TCs. Although the TLFDP ended in 2022, its core activities have continued to be extended through new WMO projects and regional cooperative initiatives.
The Influence of ENSO Diversity on Future Atlantic Tropical Cyclone Activity
Authors: Mueller Teryn J. , Patricola Christina M. , Bercos-Hickey Emily
Published: April 2024

El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) influences seasonal Atlantic tropical cyclone (TC) activity by impacting environmental conditions important for TC genesis. However, the influence of future climate change on the teleconnection between ENSO and Atlantic TCs is uncertain, as climate change is expected to impact both ENSO and the mean climate state. We used the Weather Research and Forecasting Model on a tropical channel domain to simulate 5-member ensembles of Atlantic TC seasons in historical and future climates under different ENSO conditions. Experiments were forced with idealized sea surface temperature configurations based on the Community Earth System Model (CESM) Large Ensemble representing: a monthly varying climatology, eastern Pacific El Niño, central Pacific El Niño, and La Niña. The historical simulations produced fewer Atlantic TCs during eastern Pacific El Niño compared to central Pacific El Niño, consistent with observations and other modeling studies. For each ENSO state, the future simulations produced a similar teleconnection with Atlantic TCs as in the historical simulations. Specifically, La Niña continues to enhance Atlantic TC activity, and El Niño continues to suppress Atlantic TCs, with greater suppression during eastern Pacific El Niño compared to central Pacific El Niño. In addition, we found a decrease in the Atlantic TC frequency in the future relative to historical regardless of ENSO state, which was associated with a future increase in northern tropical Atlantic vertical wind shear and a future decrease in the zonal tropical Pacific sea surface temperature (SST) gradient, corresponding to a more El Niño–like mean climate state. Our results indicate that ENSO will remain useful for seasonal Atlantic TC prediction in the future.
Submission or Rebellion? Disentangling the Relationships of Anxiety, Attitudes Toward Authorities, and Right-Wing Populist Party Support
Authors: Veit Susanne , Hirsch Magdalena , Giebler Heiko , Gründl Johann , Schürmann Benjamin
Published: April 2024

The success of right-wing populist parties (RPPs) is often attributed to their deployment of the rhetoric of fear that capitalizes on societal crisis and corresponding anxieties. However, empirical evidence on the relationship between anxiety and support for RPP (RPP support) remains inconclusive. We argue that right-wing authoritarian (RWA) and populist attitudes imply contradicting views on authority. Anti-elitism, a subdimension of populist attitudes, implies rebellion against established authorities; however, RWA submission relates to the inclination to obey authorities. These contradictory attitudes may account for the mixed results. In relation to anxiety, both rebellion and submission are conceived as defensive responses, but their relation to RPP support is different because the reactions to authority they induce are antithetical. Moreover, we differentiate between two forms of anxiety as sources of RPP support, which are often conflated in empirical studies: situational anxiety arising in response to specific threats and diffuse anxiety or a general sense of anxiety. We draw on mass survey data, including a survey experiment, that examines how anxiety drives support for the German right-wing populist party Alternative für Deutschland (Alternative for Germany, AfD) via attitudes toward authority. The path analyses support our hypotheses and reveal that anti-elitism mediates the positive relationship between anxiety and voter support for the AfD. At the same time, authoritarian submission increases with anxiety, but—unlike anti-elitism—it is negatively associated with AfD support. Furthermore, the two paths are confirmed for situational and diffuse anxiety, with the relative importance of authoritarian submission and anti-elitism varying according to the form of anxiety.
Solitary Isolated Oropharyngeal Neurofibroma Presenting With Dysphagia in the Setting of Von Recklinghausen’s Disease
Authors: Sarkar Shrita , Seth Chandan , Dutta Mainak , Bandyopadhyay Saumendra Nath
Published: April 2024

A 24-year-old man with von Recklinghausen’s disease presented with complaints of difficulty in swallowing for 6 months and change of voice for 3 months. He also had recent-onset difficulty in breathing. Telelaryngoscopy and subsequent contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan revealed a well-defined, smooth submucosal mass in the oropharynx (attached to the posterior pharyngeal wall, superior to the level of left aryepiglottic fold), obscuring the ipsilateral pyriform fossa, and nearly blocking the pharyngeal lumen. The mass was removed with endoscopic coblation-assisted laryngeal surgery, and subsequent histopathology revealed it to be neurofibroma. Neurofibromas are rare neoplasms to be encountered in the oropharynx. However, in the setting of von Recklinghausen’s disease (neurofibromatosis type 1), one or more well-demarcated, submucosal nodular lesions in the upper aerodigestive tract may be considered as neurofibromas, and workup and treatment should be directed accordingly based on this clinical presumption. Endoscopic coblation during laryngeal surgery can effectively be used as a surgical tool to excise such lesions. It provides a relatively bloodless field compared to the conventional cold steel excision, and reduces the risk of complications at surgery and during the follow-up period. This clinical record illustrates the presentation and management of a solitary, isolated oropharyngeal neurofibroma in a man suffering from von Recklinghausen’s disease. It further emphasizes the role of endoscopic coblation-assisted laryngeal surgery in this setup, and the need to maintain a low threshold of suspicion in having a provisional clinical diagnosis of such lesions.
A systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression amalgamating the driven approaches used to quantify dynamic cerebral autoregulation
Authors: Burma Joel S , Roy Marc-Antoine , Kennedy Courtney M , Labrecque Lawrence , Brassard Patrice , Smirl Jonathan D
Published: April 2024

Numerous driven techniques have been utilized to assess dynamic cerebral autoregulation (dCA) in healthy and clinical populations. The current review aimed to amalgamate this literature and provide recommendations to create greater standardization for future research. The PubMed database was searched with inclusion criteria consisting of original research articles using driven dCA assessments in humans. Risk of bias were completed using Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network and Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies. Meta-analyses were conducted for coherence, phase, and gain metrics at 0.05 and 0.10 Hz using deep-breathing, oscillatory lower body negative pressure (OLBNP), sit-to-stand maneuvers, and squat-stand maneuvers. A total of 113 studies were included, with 40 of these incorporating clinical populations. A total of 4126 participants were identified, with younger adults (18–40 years) being the most studied population. The most common techniques were squat-stands (n = 43), deep-breathing (n = 25), OLBNP (n = 20), and sit-to-stands (n = 16). Pooled coherence point estimates were: OLBNP 0.70 (95%CI:0.59–0.82), sit-to-stands 0.87 (95%CI:0.79–0.95), and squat-stands 0.98 (95%CI:0.98–0.99) at 0.05 Hz; and deep-breathing 0.90 (95%CI:0.81–0.99); OLBNP 0.67 (95%CI:0.44–0.90); and squat-stands 0.99 (95%CI:0.99–0.99) at 0.10 Hz. This review summarizes clinical findings, discusses the pros/cons of the 11 unique driven techniques included, and provides recommendations for future investigations into the unique physiological intricacies of dCA.
Imputing Time Series Pedestrian Volume Data With Consideration of Epidemiological-Environmental Variables
Authors: Rafe Amir , Singleton Patrick A.
Published: April 2024

In this study, we investigated the quality of pedestrian volume data, which holds significance for safety and urban planning purposes. We employed statistical methods, machine learning methods, and deep learning methods to first detect anomalies in pedestrian activity data, and then imputed missing values. We accomplished this by analyzing daily time series data of pedestrian activity at traffic signals in the state of Utah from 2018 to 2022. Our approach utilized vector autoregression (VAR) analysis—a multivariate time series analysis—by incorporating epidemiological-environmental (EpiEnv) variables, which consisted of average temperature, precipitation, air quality index, and COVID-19 pandemic data. We additionally scrutinized the influence of built environment variables when mixed with EpiEnv variables on fluctuations in pedestrian volume data. Our findings suggested that the density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise method provided superior performance in anomaly detection, and that the random forest, long short-term memory, and gated recurrent unit techniques excelled at imputing various categories of missing value patterns within temporally based pedestrian volumes. The VAR analysis results also indicated that the EpiEnv variables significantly affected the process of anomaly detection and imputation across all traffic signals. Our findings could assist urban and transportation planners in identifying the most impactful EpiEnv variables on pedestrian activity, which in turn could aid in the development of suitable strategies to promote walking as a mode of transportation.
Semen parameter enhancement after varicocelectomy: Insights into varicose vein diameter and BMI influence: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Hariri Mohammad Kazem , Rajabalian Mohammad-Bagher , Narouie Behzad , Ahmadaghayi Sina , Rostami Ghasem , Ezoji Khadijeh , Momeni Hamidreza , Radpour Negar
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

Varicocele is a condition in which the veins in the spermatic cord become enlarged and twisted. Varicocele is widely recognized as the leading cause of male infertility due to its significant impact on reproductive health in men. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the diameter of the varicose vein and the recovery rate of the spermogram after varicocelectomy. Also, the effect of body mass index (BMI) on sperm parameters after varicocelectomy.

Methods:

This descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in Valiasr Hospital’s urology clinic in Qaemshahr, Iran from August 2018 to August 2019 and involved 27 men with unilateral left varicocele who met the inclusion criteria for surgical repair. Before the operation, we recorded demographic information, the maximum diameter of varicose veins in the pampiniform plexus, and spermogram results. We repeated semen analysis 3 months after the operation and analyzed the data using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 21 software.

Results:

Our findings showed that the diameter of the varicose vein before varicocelectomy was not significantly associated with the improvement of main semen parameters after the operation. Furthermore, our study suggested that a lower body mass index might contribute to a greater improvement in sperm motility, as individuals with lower BMI showed more significant improvement.

Discussion:

There is a significant inverse relationship between BMI and sperm motility improvement after surgery. Patients with a lower BMI showed greater improvement in sperm motility.
The Tendency of the Non-Bank Financial Sector to Rise: A Materialist Account of the Growth of Market-Based Finance
Authors: Höfig Bruno , Müller Leonardo Paes , Colombini Iderley
Published: April 2024

This article introduces the distinction between money-as-money dealing capital (MMDC) and money-as-capital dealing capital (MCDC), laying the foundations for new developments in the field of Marxian political economy. First, it explains why banks, which manage the circulation of money-as-money, are able to issue instruments that perform monetary functions, and also why non-bank financial intermediaries, which manage the circulation of money-as-capital, tend to become increasingly important as the capitalist mode of production evolves. The distinction between MMDC and MCDC also allows for a more thorough understanding of the nature of Marx’s category of interest-bearing capital (IBC), explaining when and why a capital’s net income takes the form of profit and interest, unveiling the mechanisms that produce the (socially valid) illusion that every capital bears interest.

JEL Classification: B14, B26, E11, E43, E44
Loss minimization control of interior permanent magnet synchronous motor (IPMSM) based on approximate calculation
Authors: Liu Jingang , Li Ruiqi , Liu Xianghuan , Cheng Jianwen , Zheng Jianyun , Tan Bohuan
Published: April 2024

In this paper, loss minimization control method of IPMSM based on approximate calculation is proposed. Firstly, according to the IPMSM mathematical model considering the equivalent iron loss, the loss minimization extreme value is solved by Lagrange equation, and the electromagnetic current variable is eliminated by the equivalent transformation method. Secondly, the relation of dq axis current is obtained by defining the virtual current. Considering the existence of the square term in the relation, a new approximate calculation method is proposed to eliminate the square term of the given current and obtain the dq axis current with the minimum loss. Finally, in order to further prove the performance of the proposed method, [Formula: see text] control, virtual current control method and torque approximation control method are analyzed and compared in MATLAB/SIMULINK. Simulation results show that the proposed control method is more perfect than the traditional virtual current method and has higher accuracy than the traditional approximate calculation method. Compared with the traditional three control methods, the total loss is reduced by 7.44% at least under rated working conditions.
Numerical study on the effect of Marangoni convection on condensation heat transfer of hydrophobic and hydrophilic hybrid inclined surfaces
Authors: Shahlaei Shahab , Aminian Ehsan , Saffari Hamid
Published: April 2024

The research aims to enhance condensation heat transfer efficiency in microelectronics and energy conversion systems by examining the impact of Marangoni convection on droplet heat transfer dynamics on hybrid hydrophilic-hydrophobic surfaces. It evaluates droplet contact angle, surface inclination and heat transport mechanisms, integrating the thermocapillary effect and employing three dimensionless parameters. By establishing this theoretical framework, the study provides predictive insights to optimize heat transfer performance. It improves the model to compute the maximum radial radius for droplet detachment, considering droplet sliding, rolling or jumping as detachment modes, mirroring real-world scenarios. Utilizing a numerical analysis approach, the study employs the Wenzel and Cassie–Baxter wettability models to simulate condensation on hybrid surfaces. These simulations are performed using thermal resistance network (TRN) calculations implemented in MATLAB. The research uncovers four pivotal findings: (a) The Wenzel model indicates an optimal heat transfer range for hybrid surfaces with specific contact angles, CAH (contact angle hysteresis) and WFWC values. (b) Heat flux performance improves with increasing surface inclination angles under the Wenzel mode, a trend that becomes more pronounced at higher angles. (c) The Cassie–Baxter model, at a CAH of 3°, demonstrates superior efficiency across various surface inclinations and CAH values, outperforming alternative models. (d) For all widths of the hydrophilic region, the Wenzel model exhibits superior heat flux performance at CAH values of 20° and above.
Clandestine Freedom: Toward the Development of a Queer Incarnational Theology
Authors: Salazar Marilú Rojas
Published: April 2024

This article seeks to explore critical notions for developing a queer incarnational theology perspective. It begins by examining the concepts of “freedom” and “clandestinity” and then moves into the post-human question, drawing on ecological feminism and queer/cuir theologies. In the final section, ideas are outlined that contribute to a queer incarnational theology, recovering the prophetic sense of the Gospel. This approach integrates freedom from a queer/cuir perspective into a theological framework that resonates with human diversity and embraces the interconnectedness of all forms of life, challenging oppressive structures, and recognizing the prophetic vitality of the Gospel.
Correlation of serum anti-Mullerian hormone and Inhibin-B levels with osteoporosis of menopausal woman in Chinese Daur ethnic group
Authors: Ma Xiaorui , Tang Le , Wang Hanyu , Chi Na , Wang Yanhua , Wang Xiuqing
Published: April 2024

Purpose

To investigate the diagnostic value of anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) and Inhibin B (InhB) in menopausal women with osteoporosis from the Chinese Daur ethnic group.

Methods

A total of 175 menopausal women were selected and divided into the osteoporosis group ( N = 90) and the control group ( N = 85). BMD was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, and laboratory indicators of osteoporosis, for example, serum osteocalcin (OC), β-collagen special sequence (β-CTX), and procollagen type I amino-terminal propeptide (PINP), bone alkaline phosphatase (BALP), AMH, and InhB were measured by commercial kits. The relationship between osteoporosis and AMH or InhB was analyzed. The predictive values of AMH and InhB were reflected by the ROC curve and logistic regression.

Results

The level of BMD was decreased and the levels of OC, β-CTX, PINP, and BALP of the menopausal osteoporosis group were increased. The concentration of AMH and InhB in the menopausal osteoporosis group was decreased and they had connections with each other. AMH and InhB could be used as independent indicators for the occurrence of osteoporosis in menopausal women and their combination had a higher diagnostic value.

Conclusion

AMH and InhB measurements in menopausal women had a certain clinical significance in the detection of osteoporosis. The occurrence of osteoporosis was related to BMD, OC, β-CTX, BALP, AMH, and InhB.
‘Fanning the flame’: Aboriginal girls, women, and their communities define success for the Shooting Stars empowerment program
Authors: Whitau Rose , Bolton-Black Latoya , Slater Olivia
Published: April 2024

Education and engagement programs for Aboriginal young people tend to propagate Western, colonial paradigms: Aboriginal populations are targeted, yet Aboriginal voices are rarely heard throughout the planning, delivery, and evaluation stages of program implementation. It is essential that the voices of program participants – and the communities within which these programs serve – are provided a platform to determine what those outcomes are to be, and how they are to be achieved. Shooting Stars is a holistic engagement program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander girls based in 20 remote and regional schools in Western Australia and South Australia. Shooting Stars staff (85% Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) facilitate yarning circles with program participants, local steering committees, and broader community groups in order to tailor program delivery to local needs and assess the effectiveness of the program. From 2020 to 2021, we yarned with our participants, communities, and localised steering committees about their definitions of success and how Shooting Stars can help to grow successful young women. In this article, we explore a complex, multidimensional definition of success defined by program participants and their communities, and describe how we are reflecting and implementing this definition across program delivery and evaluation.
Femicide and Domestic Violence Against Women During the First Year of the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Israeli Case
Authors: Yehuda Limor , Ein-Tal Irit
Published: April 2024

This paper presents an empirical study of femicide and intimate partner violence (IPV) in Israel during 2020, the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic compared to previous years. Studies worldwide found elevated IPV during 2020 and a mixed picture of femicide, as both increases and decreases were reported, depending on the country. In Israel, the media reported a growth in IPV and femicide. However, no comprehensive empirical comparison of femicide and IPV during the lockdown months in 2020 in comparison to previous years was conducted. The current study fills this gap, comparing the 2014–2020 period in terms of IPV and femicide to determine whether the first pandemic year was unusual in terms of femicide and IPV. Data were collected from news websites, the Knesset (Israeli parliament) report, and annual public police reports to break down case-by-case femicide reports. The findings show a growth in femicide and IPV in the pandemic’s first year, compared to 2019. However, compared to previous years, 2020 was not unusually high in terms of femicide. However, IPV was higher in 2020 than that in previous years. Hence, the media claims about the pandemic’s elevated risk of femicide and IPV are only partially true.
Effects of an Animation-Based Comprehensive Sexuality Education Package: A 2-Year Repeated Intervention Study
Authors: Zhou Hui , Zhang Hanxiyue , Xiao Angela Y. , Yu Lei , Tang Kun
Published: April 2024

Background

Preadolescents, who are in a transitional phase of development, may experience higher exposure to heterosexual interactions while facing higher risks regarding misinformation in sexual knowledge and unsafe engagement in sexual activities. There is a deficiency in the availability of qualified educators and age-appropriate teaching materials for sexuality education in China.

Methods

We implemented an animation-based comprehensive sexuality education package among preadolescents aged 9 to 12 years from eight schools in Anhui, China. The first round of intervention included 1,835 participants, lasting 2 months from September to November 2020. A total of 374 participants, accounting for 52% of the intervention group, received a second round of intervention in September 2021. Participants completed immediate follow-up assessment and 1-year follow-up assessment to assess changes in their sexual knowledge, attitudes, and other outcomes. Propensity score matching and difference-in-difference analysis were performed to determine the short- and long-term impacts.

Results

Significant improvements were observed for both sexual knowledge and sexual attitudes in the immediate follow-up. There was no significant effect on pornography-seeking behavior or awareness of experiencing sexual abuse. After 1 year, the effect was sustained for sexual knowledge, but slightly declined for sexual attitudes. The second intervention significantly improved sexual knowledge; however, no significant change in sexual attitudes, pornography-seeking behavior, or awareness of experiencing sexual abuse was observed.

Conclusions

Our comprehensive sexuality education package was effective in improving sexual knowledge both immediately and 1 year after the intervention. Repeated intervention can be an effective strategy for promoting preadolescent health development regarding comprehensive sexuality education.
Psyllium husk powder increases defecation frequency and faecal score, bulk and moisture in healthy cats
Authors: Keller Emeline , Laxalde Jeremy , Tranier Nelly , Belmar von Kretschmann Pablo , Jackson Ailsa , van Hoek Ingrid
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Constipation is the infrequent or difficult emission of hard, dry faeces and is a common digestive condition in cats. Psyllium is a low-fermentable fibre, with soluble and insoluble components and water-holding properties. It forms a mucilaginous gel with water and is used for the symptomatic treatment of constipation in various species. This study evaluated the effect of dietary psyllium on faecal characteristics in cats.

Methods

Healthy neutered adult cats (six female and three male, aged 3.3–4.4 years) were consecutively fed a dry extruded diet containing either 6% psyllium (test) or 6% cellulose (control) for 10 days each. During the last 3 days (the collection days) of both feeding periods, bowel movements and faecal scores were recorded, and faeces were collected to measure wet weight and moisture. The statistical analysis used linear mixed models with diet, day and their interaction as fixed effects and animal as a random term.

Results

The test diet was associated with significantly more bowel movements per day over 3 days ( P = 0.0052) and on collection day 2 ( P = 0.0229) than the control diet. The mean faecal score was higher (softer faeces) over all three collection days ( P <0.0001) and on collection days 1, 2 and 3 ( P = 0.0011, P = 0.0349, P = 0.0003, respectively) for the test diet vs the control diet; the total faecal wet weight ( P = 0.0003) and faecal moisture (%) were also higher ( P = 0.0426) for the test diet. Faeces associated with the test diet often had a dry shell and soft interior, which increased the faecal score.

Conclusions and relevance

Psyllium promoted more bowel movements and higher faecal moisture and faecal score in healthy cats, consistent with a previous uncontrolled clinical trial in constipated cats. Together, the studies support the use of dietary psyllium for managing cats with constipation.
Study on the effect of residential interior decoration on children’s respiratory diseases: A field trial conducted in Chongqing, China
Authors: Wang Lexiang , Yu Wei , Zhou Haixia , Zhang Yan , Cheng Dandan
Published: April 2024

Pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene series compounds and total volatile organic compounds (TVOC) released by residential interior decoration activities (including household renovation and new furniture) pose a severe threat to children’s respiratory health. To study the effect of indoor decoration on children’s respiratory diseases and provide suggestions to prevent it, we conducted a cross-sectional questionnaire survey amongst 6547 preschoolers from 34 kindergartens in Chongqing, China, and selected 39 houses to measure their indoor air pollutants concentrations. The results showed that household decoration, during pregnancy and early childhood, would increase the risk of children’s rhinitis, asthma and pneumonia. Vacancy time after the completion of decoration, furniture pieces and decoration materials significantly affected the concentration of formaldehyde, xylene and TVOC, which could pose a potential risk to children’s respiratory health. The concentration of xylene and TVOC and the incidence of children’s asthma and pneumonia were both negatively correlated with the vacancy time. Decoration materials such as composite and ceramic tile/stone/cement flooring and water-based/latex/oil-based paints emit more gaseous pollutants than solid wood flooring and wallpaper, respectively, which were more likely to increase the risk of children’s respiratory diseases. Adequate ventilation and air purification can reduce the impact of home decoration.