bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ВПЛИВ ПОЛІВІТАМІННОГО КОМПЛЕКСУ НА СТАН ПІДШЛУНКОВОЇ ЗАЛОЗИ ХОМ’ЯКІВ ЗА УМОВ ЕКСПЕРИМЕНТАЛЬНОГО МЕТАБОЛІЧНОГО СИНДРОМУ
Authors: Духніч Н. Ю. , Калько К. О. , Міщенко О. Я.
Published: November 2023

Вступ. За умов метаболічного синдрому порушується функція підшлункової залози, тому важливими є панкреапротекторні властивості лікарських засобів, які використовують для лікування цього стану.
Мета дослідження – вивчити вплив полівітамінного комплексу (Aevit premium виробництва АТ “Київський вітамінний завод”), який широко використовують у клінічній практиці, на структуру тканини підшлункової залози сирійських хом’яків за умов експериментального метаболічного синдрому, індукованого кафе-дієтою.
Методи дослідження. Метаболічний синдром у сирійських золотавих хом’яків спричиняла кафе-дієта, складовою якої була суміш з промислово оброблених харчових продуктів із вмістом жирів не менше 40 %. Приготовлену суміш давали тваринам з надлишком упродовж 7 тижнів (49 днів). Питну воду було замінено на 10 % розчин фруктози. Досліджуваний полівітамінний комплекс (у дозі 25,8 мг/кг) та препарати порівняння – метформін (у дозі 60,0 мг/кг) і вітамін Е (у дозі 100,0 мг/кг) застосовували, починаючи з 5-го тижня моделювання метаболічного синдрому, протягом 3 тижнів (21 день).  Мікропрепарати підшлункової залози виготовляли за загальноприйнятими гістологічними методиками. Переглядали мікропрепарати під світловим мікроскопом Granum L 30 (03), фотографували мікроскопічні зображення цифровою відеокамерою Granum DСМ 310, обробляли фотознімки на комп’ютері Pentium 2,4GHz за допомогою програми Toup View.
Результати й обговорення. Після споживання впродовж 7 тижнів кафе-дієти у підшлунковій залозі сирійських хом’яків виявлено певні ознаки виснаженості інсулярного апарату: зниження “якості” частини бета-клітин у панкреатичних острівцях, зменшення чисельності цих клітин, збільшення відносної частки дуже дрібних та дрібних і зменшення частки середніх панкреатичних острівців. Під впливом полівітамінного комплексу чисельність панкреатичних острівців, відсотковий розподіл їх за класами показово перевищували аналогічні показники у тварин контрольної патології і практично відповідали інтактному контролю.
Висновки. Досліджуваний полівітамінний комплекс сприяє зменшенню напруження інсуліноцитів та панкреацитів підшлункової залози у сирійських хом’яків з моделлю метаболічного синдрому. Встановлено, що за виразністю коригувального впливу на стан підшлункової залози хом’яків із метаболічним синдромом полівітамінний комплекс не поступається препаратам порівняння – вітаміну Е і метформіну.
Can There Be Two Perfectly Identical Complexions? Peter of Abano and Jacopo of Forlì on Avicenna’s Interdict
Authors: Zuccolin Gabriella
Published: November 2023

Avicenna, in Book I of the Canon, within the context of his general doctrine of complexion, presents the eight modes of equality (modi aequalitatis) that concern specific or individual complexions. There he states quite clearly that each individual within the human species possesses a complexion that belongs to that individual exclusively, and with which it is impossible to associate another individual. In this contribution, after a brief survey of some features of the discussions around the individuality and unrepeatability of complexions in the physiognomic tradition (with particular reference to twins), I will consider two different takes on this Avicennian interdict: the first, which echoes the Persian philosopher and physician, is proposed by Peter of Abano in his Conciliator; the other is by Jacopo of Forlì, who, in his Questiones super primam et secundam fen primi Canonis Avicenne, seems to cautiously distance himself from Avicenna’s authority. The contrast between these two medieval responses allows us to grasp the importance of complexion as a theoretical tool for explaining differences between individuals of the same species – differences which are not merely random or accidental, nor strictly formal.
Tempering Occult Qualities: Magnetism and Complexio in Early Modern Medical Thought
Authors: Sander Christoph
Published: November 2023

In medieval natural philosophy and medicine, magnetic attraction was the most commonly invoked example for the effects of so-called ‘occult qualities’ or ‘occult powers.’ According to this conception – which dates back to Galen, Alexander of Aphrodisias, and Avicenna – magnetism was caused by an insensible quality and not, therefore, by one of the four primary qualities (hot, cold, wet, dry). Already disputed in medieval times, however, was whether the magnet’s ‘temperament’, ‘mixture’ or ‘complexion’ might not account for the attraction of iron. In the early modern period, trained physicians above all increasingly refuted ‘occult qualities’ in magnetism, while at the same time retaining a Galenic framework. They argued instead for more elaborate theories invoking the magnet’s and iron’s ‘complexion’ or their single primary qualities, such as ‘humidity’ or ‘heat.’ Medical concepts were often combined with meteorological ideas for causal theories of natural phenomena like magnetism. By telling this unheard story of ‘complexion’ in theories of magnetism, we show not only how medical theories were transferred from medicine into other fields of research, but also that an established narrative in modern historiography is highly questionable: contrary to what was assumed by the contemporary critics (e.g., Descartes) and many modern historians, several Galenic physicians did not subscribe to a theory of occult qualities (in the case of magnetism) in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries.
Treisman (1963): An Appreciation
Authors: Wearden John H.
Published: November 2023

This article discusses the content of Michel Treisman’s 1963 monograph presenting a “model of the time-keeping mechanism”. Data from the seven experiments reported in the monograph are first discussed, then an attempt is made to explain the structure and operation of the model in some detail. Next, the model’s explanations of several important results found in Treisman’s experiments are presented. One is conformity of data to what Treisman called the ‘Weber function’, a generalized version of Weber’s Law. The second is conformity of data to Vierordt’s Law, the idea that when a range of time intervals is presented, short values tend to be overestimated and long ones underestimated. Finally, there was the phenomenon that Treisman called ‘lengthening’, the finding that responses on reproduction and production tasks tended to become longer as the experiment proceeded. Later sections briefly discuss potential relations between Treisman’s work and Scalar Expectancy Theory (SET) proposed twenty years later, and also how modern treatments of some of the issues that Treisman discussed are similar or different from the ones he proposed in 1963.
Toward an Anthropologically Engaged Theology: Implications from Human Evolution for Theological Anthropology
Authors: Seddon Matthew T
Published: November 2023

Human diversity has posed challenges for theologians working on questions such as the Imago Dei and the nature of the human condition or of what constitutes humanness itself. In addition, humans have significant difficulties in understanding and working with each other to bring about the Reign of God given our cultural diversity. Utilizing the insights from science and theology studies, particularly the emerging concept of science-engaged theology, we can develop an anthropologically engaged theology—one that accurately incorporates the information gained by the study of human evolution. This form of dialog between science and theology is used to suggest that our human specialness, the Imago Dei, consists of our human diversity itself. Such an understanding of humans can overcome the dangers inherent to essentialist approaches, with their concomitant potential for supporting domination and subjugation of humans and our natural environment.
Enhancing Catholic School Identity: Shedding More Light
Authors: McGregor Peter John
Published: November 2023

This article responds to Professor Robyn Horner’s attempt to rebut the claim that the Enhancing Catholic School Identity Project is antithetical to the evangelizing mission of the Church. It does so by engaging in a deeper analysis of some key concepts in the theology undergirding the Project: literal belief, immanence, presence, symbol, recontextualisation, interruption, and hermeneutics. It points out Horner’s misunderstanding of evangelization and draws attention to the fact that she does not attempt to rebut my critique of the Project’s understanding of faith and reason. It concludes by presenting a fundamental theological flaw of the Project: the absence of pneumatology.
Youth educational mobility and the rural family in China
Authors: Zhang Haoyang , Hu Li-Chung , Hannum Emily
Published: November 2023

Urban-rural economic opportunity gaps drive rural youth to seek economic stability by migrating away from home and family. The links between educational attainment and economic outcomes for rural youth are well studied in China and elsewhere, but the implications of educational mobility for rural family relationships remain less understood. Extending tenets of second demographic transition theory, we posit that education sets the stage for “individualization:” geographic mobility for urban work distant from rural family networks. Educational mobility may thus set conditions for upending traditional family co-residence patterns, direct-support relationships, and family-gender attitudes. In this paper, we consider first whether educational advancement is associated with urban economic mobility for rural youth in young adulthood, and then ask whether education is linked to disruption of rural family relations. Specifically, using the case of children growing up in rural northwest China, we estimate relationships between secondary and tertiary educational attainment and (1) economic stability, (2) intergenerational geographic separation and material exchange, and (3) traditional family and gender role attitudes, after adjusting for potential confounders. Results show that for both men and women, education is associated with greater economic stability in young adulthood, across several measures, and with an erosion of adherence to traditional family and gender attitudes. Moreover, for men, education correlates to less family proximity and more material exchange.
“You’ve Got to Put the Student First”: Faculty Advisors as Educators and Emotional Laborers in Community College Baccalaureate Contexts
Authors: Martinez Edna , Velarde Pierce Sharon , Peña Isela
Published: November 2023

Objective: Given funding concerns and heightened work expectations at baccalaureate degree-granting community colleges, we set out to understand faculty advisors’ emotional labor in such context. Methods: We conducted a supra analysis, which is a form of secondary analysis of qualitative data. Existing interview data were drawn from a mixed-methods study focused on changes in academic advising policies and practices at baccalaureate degree-granting community colleges. Results: We identified three interrelated themes: (a) putting students first; (b) overextending oneself selflessly; and (c) pressures of neoliberalism and bureaucratic checkpoints. Conclusion/Contributions: This work addresses an important gap in the literature as it pertains to the complexities of the work and professional lives of community college faculty at CCB-conferring colleges. In addition to highlighting the emotional labor of CCB faculty advisors, this work further illuminates how community colleges have “normalized emotional labor as part of the community college faculty role”.
The Brazilian Feminist Spring: Discourse and Intersectionality in the 2018 Presidential Election
Authors: Batista Silva Peixoto Mariana Rafaela
Published: November 2023

The rise of Jair Bolsonaro to power in 2018 in Brazil was considered a disruptive event characterized by the insurgence of far-right politics and their use of digital platforms to spread disinformation. This election was also marked by an unusual disparity in voting intentions between men and women for Bolsonaro, leading to the rise of the feminist movement named #EleNão (#NotHim). Despite its efforts, #EleNão was, as it is well known, unable to defeat Bolsonaro. Considering these events, in light of discourse and intersectionality theories, this paper aims to discuss the regimes of truth (Foucault, 1971) regarding the intersection of gender, race, class, and religion (Collins, 2019) in the 2018 runoff. The results show that the mobilization of controlling images (Collins, 2002) of feminism done by the far-right played a crucial role and was reinforced by the left's inability to provide a proposal that could address the needs of a wider public, especially evangelical women.

A ascensão de Jair Bolsonaro ao poder em 2018 no Brasil foi considerada um evento disruptivo caracterizado pela insurgência de movimentos de extrema-direita e pelo uso de plataformas digitais para disseminar desinformação no país. Essa eleição também foi marcada por uma disparidade incomum nas intenções de voto entre homens e mulheres para Bolsonaro, levando ao surgimento do movimento feminista chamado #EleNão. Apesar dos esforços, é sabido que #EleNão não conseguiu derrotar Bolsonaro. Considerando esses acontecimentos, à luz das teorias do discurso e da interseccionalidade, este trabalho visa discutir os regimes de verdade (Foucault, 1971) em relação à interseção de gênero, raça, classe e religião (Collins, 2019) no segundo turno de 2018. Os resultados mostram que a mobilização de imagens de controle (Collins, 2002) do feminismo feita pela extrema-direita desempenhou um papel crucial e foi reforçada pela incapacidade da esquerda em apresentar uma proposta que pudesse acolher as necessidades de um público mais amplo, especialmente as mulheres evangélicas periféricas.
Popular Peasant Feminism in La Via Campesina in Latin America
Authors: Schwendler Sônia Fátima
Published: November 2023

Popular peasant feminism was pioneered by Latin American rural women organized by the Coordinadora Latinoamericana de Organizaciones del Campo (Latin American Coordinator of Rural Organizations) member organization of the international peasant movement La Via Campesina (the Peasant Way—LVC). These organizations have moved forward on gender issues to incorporate a socialist-feminist agenda despite the challenge this agenda faces with regard to their organizational practices and political projects. Latin American peasant, indigenous, and black women have produced oppositional and situated feminist practices and epistemologies that enable them to resignify feminism and address their food sovereignty paradigm from a decolonized feminist perspective, interconnecting the struggle for sovereignty with regard to land and territory as well as the body.

El feminismo campesino popular fue iniciado por las mujeres rurales latinoamericanas, organizadas bajo la Coordinadora Latinoamericana de Organizaciones del Campo, organización miembro de el movimiento campesino internacional La Vía Campesina (LVC). Estas organizaciones han avanzado en temas de género buscando incorporar una agenda socialista-feminista a pesar del desafío que enfrenta dicha agenda en relación con sus prácticas organizativas y proyectos políticos. Las mujeres campesinas, indígenas y afrodescendientes latinoamericanas han llevado a cabo prácticas y epistemologías feministas opositoras y situadas que les permiten resignificar el feminismo y abordar el propio paradigma de soberanía alimentaria desde una perspectiva feminista descolonizada, interconectando la lucha por la soberanía con la tierra y el territorio, a la vez que con el cuerpo.
Sesame Street and the City: Revitalizing the City through Popular Culture
Authors: Whitaker Abby
Published: November 2023

In the midst of the urban crisis, the creators of Sesame Street rejected the suburban and classroom set designs of other children’s programs and chose instead a city street. When asked why, producers explained that it would appeal to their target audience: impoverished children in urban communities. But producers chose an urban setting because they believed the city could be saved and their show could be its savior. On-screen, producers crafted a vision for cities: an amalgamation of urban idealism, colorblindness, and nostalgia. Off-screen, producers attempted to improve urban conditions by providing children with access to Sesame Street. Drawing on close readings of the set design, production documents, and viewer mail, this article reconstructs the discourse between set designers, the city street they built, and their audience, to show how Sesame Street revitalized the city, both on and off-screen.
Bilateral Tongue Necrosis in a Young Patient as a Complication of Prolonged Oral Endotracheal Intubation: A Case Report
Authors: ALGhabra Yasser , Hamdi Mohammad , Kammasha Ahmad , Nashawi Faez Ebrahim , Ashreefa Reem , Yousfan Abdulmajeed
Published: November 2023

We present a unique case of complete tongue necrosis caused by a compression of an endotracheal tube (ETT). A 39-year-old female underwent endotracheal intubation secondary to respiratory failure following sudden altered mental status. Tongue swallowing developed and worsened with obvious pallor on examination. Extensive ischemic changes with tongue necrosis developed dramatically due to the compression during her prolonged intubation. This case of tongue necrosis highlights the importance of proper ETT sizing and positioning during prolonged intubation in ICU patients.
Right Parapharyngeal Cavernous Hemangioma, A Rare Entity: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Rose S. Emelda , Toong Liew Yew , Ghauth Sakina , Ong Diana Bee-Lan
Published: November 2023

Cavernous hemangioma is a noncancerous vascular growth that arises from different parts of the head and neck region. However, parapharyngeal space contributes a very small percentage for its occurrence. We present a case of right parapharyngeal cavernous hemangioma, a very rare clinical presentation. This is a 57-year-old female presented with throat discomfort for 3 months. Examination finding showed a soft, diffuse, and non-pulsating mass over the right upper jugulodigastric region. A contrasted computed topographic scan revealed multiple calcifications in right parapharyngeal space. T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging showed right parapharyngeal space mass with high signal and multiple phleboliths and dynamic angiogram unremarkable. Surgical resection done via transcervical approach and histopathological report revealed cavernous hemangioma with calcified thrombi. In conclusion, surgical intervention is the mainstay treatment and transcervical approach which is adopted in this case is the commonest approach used in surgical resection of cavernous hemangioma.
Faculty and Administrator Attitudes Toward Internet-Based Technologies and Virtual Networking Leading to the Development and Support of Social Capital
Authors: Frick John E. , Frick William C.
Published: November 2023

Social capital (or the ways in which people in an organization collaborate and to a greater extent the quality of the professional community in that context) has a variety of implications for organizations, specifically schools. This study examined the relationship between the attitudes of administrators and faculty at the secondary level toward Internet-based technology and virtual networking and the development and support of social capital within school settings. A mixed-methods design was employed consisting of a questionnaire, focus group discussion, and site observations conducted in six secondary schools. Findings demonstrate a significant relationship between (teacher and administrative) perceptions of Internet-based technology and virtual networking and the development of social capital. Evidence suggests that school improvement as demonstrated by student outcomes (e.g., achievement and a sense of community welfare or connectedness) can be achieved by using Internet-based technology for virtual networking and professional community building. Given the proliferation of technology within school settings, this study provides (1) insights into those concerned with 21st-century learning priorities and (2) knowledge that can inform decisionmaking regarding attitudes toward Internet-based technology and virtual networking.
Disruptive change within financial technology: A methodological analysis of digital transformation challenges
Authors: Hughes Laurie , Seddon Jonathan JM , Dwivedi Yogesh K
Published: November 2023

The digital transformation of the FinTech industry has revealed a plethora of significant challenges for industry decision makers and wider stakeholder groups as organisations contend with the onset of new regulatory frameworks, legacy systems, flexible business models and alignment with corporate social responsibility practice. The reshaping of organisations and drive to greater levels of decentralisation and employee centric practice, presents a cultural shift for the sector, with implications for the success and resulting benefits of change across the industry. This study aims to develop novel insight to the ‘lived in’ impact of digital transformation within the FinTech industry from a factor interdependency perspective. This research adopts a mixed methods approach incorporating Interpretive Structural Modelling, Analytical Hierarchy Process and interviews with expert participants, to offer a unique perspective on the challenges and unintended consequences of industry level technological change. The findings highlight the high levels of interdependency and priority for challenges related to the investment in products and infrastructure for new markets, criticality of stakeholder support and development of a digital mindset for the adoption of new technologies.
Digitalization and network capability as enablers of business model innovation and sustainability performance: The moderating effect of environmental dynamism
Authors: Li Ying , Cui Li , Wu Lin , Lowry Paul Benjamin , Kumar Ajay , Tan Kim Hua
Published: November 2023

In the face of relentless global competition and regulatory pressures, the imperative for firms to digitally transform has become critical. This is particularly salient for Chinese manufacturing firms as they strive for sustainability, a multidimensional construct comprising both economic and environmental performance. Leveraging dynamic capabilities theory, this study aims to unravel the intricate interplay between digitalization, network capability, business model innovation (BMI), and environmental dynamism in shaping a firm’s sustainability performance. Our research is driven by a compelling question: How do digitalization and network capabilities impact firms’ sustainability performance, and what roles do BMI and environmental dynamism play in this relationship? To answer this question, we employed a robust survey-based methodology encompassing 1600 Chinese manufacturing firms, yielding 255 completed and validated responses. The findings reveal that network capability mediates the influence of digitalization on two types of BMI—novelty-centered and efficiency-centered. Further, these forms of BMI act as mediators between digitalization and network capability, and the two dimensions of sustainability: economic and environmental performance. Notably, environmental dynamism serves as a double-edged sword. It negatively moderates the impact of digitalization on efficiency-centered BMI, but positively moderates the influence of network capability on the same. Our study offers nuanced theoretical and practical implications. It extends dynamic capabilities theory by elucidating how digital and network capabilities can be leveraged for sustainable outcomes via business model innovation. Moreover, the research provides managerial insights, particularly for Chinese manufacturing firms, on navigating the complex landscape of digital transformation toward sustainability. Considering these insights, we recommend that firms prioritize network capabilities and strategically innovate their business models to harness the full potential of digital transformation. Simultaneously, organizations should be cognizant of the environmental dynamism within which they operate, as it can both hinder and enable their journey toward sustainability.
Peripheral macrophages in the development and progression of structural cerebrovascular pathologies
Authors: Lauzier David C , Srienc Anja I , Vellimana Ananth K , Dacey Jr Ralph G , Zipfel Gregory J
Published: November 2023

The human cerebrovascular system is responsible for maintaining neural function through oxygenation, nutrient supply, filtration of toxins, and additional specialized tasks. While the cerebrovascular system has resilience imparted by elaborate redundant collateral circulation from supportive tertiary structures, it is not infallible, and is susceptible to developing structural vascular abnormalities. The causes of this class of structural cerebrovascular diseases can be broadly categorized as 1) intrinsic developmental diseases resulting from genetic or other underlying aberrations (arteriovenous malformations and cavernous malformations) or 2) extrinsic acquired diseases that cause compensatory mechanisms to drive vascular remodeling (aneurysms and arteriovenous fistulae). Cerebrovascular diseases of both types pose significant risks to patients, in some cases leading to death or disability. The drivers of such diseases are extensive, yet inflammation is intimately tied to all of their progressions. Central to this inflammatory hypothesis is the role of peripheral macrophages; targeting this critical cell type may lead to diagnostic and therapeutic advancement in this area. Here, we comprehensively review the role that peripheral macrophages play in cerebrovascular pathogenesis, provide a schema through which macrophage behavior can be understood in cerebrovascular pathologies, and describe emerging diagnostic and therapeutic avenues in this area.
Evaluation of endovascular treatment of chronic limb-threatening ischemia for patients in the PLAN gray zone
Authors: Budak Ali Baran , Altınay Levent , Günertem Orhan Eren , Sağlam Muhammet Sefa , Külahçıoğlu Emre , Tümer Naim Boran , Yağız Betül Keskinkılıç , Terzioğlu Serdar Gökay , Saba Tonguç , Özışık Kanat , Günaydın Serdar
Published: November 2023

Objective

To compare the results of endovascular therapy for chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) in patients categorized under the gray and yellow zones of the patient risk, limb severity, and anatomic pattern (PLAN) concept over a 2-year follow-up period.

Methods

Patients who underwent endovascular therapy for peripheral artery disease and presented with CLTI from February 2017 to February 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were grouped into yellow and gray zones based on the PLAN concept. Preoperative and postoperative walking distances, Rutherford classes, and postoperative target vessel patency rates were recorded and compared between the groups. Follow-up evaluations were performed at 1, 6, 12, and 24 months post-procedure.

Results

Of the 387 patients evaluated, the yellow and gray groups comprised 88 patients each. The overall patency rates were similar between the groups (84 (95.45%) vs. 81 (92.05%), respectively). The occlusion-/stenosis-free survival times, amputation-free survival time, and mean survival time were not significantly different. However, the gray group had a significantly higher number of atherectomy interventions (74 vs. 59) and crosser devices used (62 vs. 42).

Conclusion

Endovascular therapy is an effective treatment option for patients in the gray zone of the PLAN color coding system.
On the application of spatial four-bar motion and axode generation for the design of a prosthetic canine knee joint
Authors: Russell Kevin , Chung Cheng-Shu , Lin Lee-Shuan , Chen Chien-Hsing , Lee Wen-Tzong
Published: November 2023

The novelty of this work is that for the first time, spatial four-bar linkage motion generation and axode generation models have been applied for the design of a joint to replicate natural canine knee motion. This canine knee design method incorporates spatial four-bar Revolute-Revolute-Spherical-Spherical linkage motion generation and axode generation models to ultimately produce the rolling cam surfaces needed to produce natural spatial canine knee motion. This work presents the latest findings from an ongoing study where a transfemoral prosthetic knee design method is being applied to produce concept prosthetic knee joints for canines that replicate natural spatial knee motion during treadmill gait. To date, this study has considered three canine subjects, ranging from ages 1.1 to 10 years and treadmill speeds ranging from 1.3 to 2.9 km/h.
Prediction of the efficient heat flux to get an accurate thermal and clad geometry characteristic during laser cladding
Authors: Diwakar Vikas , Sharma Ashwani , Chaudhari Abhimanyu , Yusufzai Mohd Zaheer Khan , Vashista Meghanshu
Published: November 2023

The prediction of the accurate thermal and clad geometry characteristics plays a significant role in obtaining a better metallurgical bond between the cladding material and the substrate. The estimation of temperature distribution is difficult experimentally within the melt pool. A suitable and accurate heat flux is needed to apply during the numerical modeling to get clear and accurate process parameters before conducting the actual experiments. Therefore, different heat flux is used to get the best-suited heat flux which gives an accurate response during the laser cladding. The same processing parameters were considered during the simulation for the different heat sources. In all the cases, the maximum temperature was obtained at the center of the melt pool and decreased when moving away from the center of the melt pool in-depth and across the scanning speed direction. A similar shape of the melt pool is formed when three-dimensional volumetric Gaussian heat flux and conical heat flux are used, which gave best suited and efficient heat flux for the numerical simulation before actually conducting experiments. When egg-shaped heat flux is applied, an insufficient temperature was reached at the interface of the powder and substrate, whereas more dilution appeared for parabolic heat flux.
Pathways for China's sustainable energy transition: Examining the effects of exchange rate volatility on renewable energy investment
Authors: Li Biqing , Zheng ShiYong , Majeed Muhammad Tariq
Published: November 2023

The relationship between exchange rate volatility (ERV) and other macroeconomic factors, including trade flows, domestic production, inflation, money demand, and economic growth, has remained a topic of a large number of studies in international finance. However, the research question that the past empirics have overlooked is whether ERV has any role in helping an emerging economy like China in its journey toward a renewable energy transition. To answer this question, this analysis intends to scrutinize the nexus between ERV and renewable energy investment (REI) in China over 1991Q1-2021Q4. Moreover, due to the asymmetric behavior of ERV, we have based our analysis on the asymmetric assumption. For analyzing the short and long-run impacts of ERV on REI in China, we used the linear autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) and nonlinear ARDL methods. In the long term, the ARDL model predicts that stricter environmental policies and higher GDP will lead to more investment in renewable energy. As far as the nonlinear model is concerned, the long-term negative change in ERV does not affect REIs, whereas a long-term positive change in ERV reduces such investments. Likewise, unfavorable short-term exchange rate shocks encourage REI while positive short-term shocks discourage such development. Moreover, investment in renewable energy is bolstered by GDP, environmental policy strictness, and financial development, but is dampened by CO2 emissions in the short term in both models. On the basis of these results, we suggest that policymakers should consider implementing measures to stabilize exchange rates to promote investment in renewable energy.
‘Women helping women’: Deploying gender in US counterinsurgency wars in Iraq and Afghanistan
Authors: Head Naomi
Published: November 2023

Central to the goal of ‘hearts and minds’ counterinsurgency is the need for knowledge, understanding and influence in relation to local populations. Building on feminist scholarship on counterinsurgency, the article focuses on the ‘female engagement’ work undertaken by four programmes developed by the US military between 2003 and 2014. The article offers three key arguments. First, it maintains that the gendered subjectivities of Iraqi and Afghan women and US female counterinsurgents are constructed as strategic assets and as vulnerable subjects. Second, these programmes reveal the extent to which gendered counterinsurgency is constituted and regulated by emotional and embodied norms and rules for both female soldiers and civilians. Third, it suggests that the discursive construction of ‘winning hearts and minds’ works to render less visible the violence of gendered counterinsurgency practices. Although gendered counterinsurgency mobilizes a relational ontology predicated on the emotional labour required for developing knowledge of the Iraqi and Afghan ‘other’, female engagement activities cannot escape the logic of instrumental reasoning within which they are located. Ultimately, recognizing the policy of female engagement as central to forms of knowledge production reveals the extent to which the violences of war rely on a complex set of gendered and affective relations.
Ultimobranchial body cyst in an adult horse: clinical, histopathologic, and immunohistochemical features
Authors: Souza Anderson F. , Volpato Maria E. , Hagen Stefano C. F. , Takenaka Celina S. , Maiorka Paulo C. , Ressio Rodrigo A. , Silva Luis C. L. C. , Baccarin Raquel Y. A.
Published: November 2023

A 9-y-old Mangalarga Marchador gelding was referred to a veterinary hospital because of a swelling on the upper right side of the neck. Ultrasound examination revealed a multilocular structure adjacent to the thyroid gland with low echogenic content suggestive of fluid. The mass was removed surgically. Histologically, the cystic cavities in the surgical sample were filled with abundant eosinophilic secreta and lined by cuboidal, segmentally ciliated, columnar epithelium with interspersed goblet cells. Segmental crowding of the multilayered lining of the cyst was noted. Immunohistochemistry suggested the presence of both C cells and follicular cells, given the positivity of the immunomarkers calcitonin and TTF-1, respectively. The histogenesis of ultimobranchial cysts is uncertain. Based on clinical, histopathologic, and immunohistochemical identification, the cystic structure in this case is compatible with an ultimobranchial body cyst.
‘That Sounds to Me Like You Are Making This Too Complicated …’: Reflections on a Social Media Recruitment Effort for a Study on Masculinities and Contraception
Authors: Zielke Julia , Morawe Jan Marc , Aktan Alev Nazli , Miani Céline
Published: November 2023

This reflection focuses on the methodological and ethical challenges encountered during the recruitment stage in a focus group and interview study that sought to investigate how men (co-)construct (their) masculinity in the context of contraception and family planning. We critically engage with the comments sections of our social media recruitment announcements and draw lessons in regard to (i) the ‘correct’ and socially acceptable terminology when trying to recruit men in an inclusive manner and (ii) the feasibility of our method more generally. We asked what we may learn about ourselves, our specific research project, and the conduct of research more generally when we view the ethical challenges arising during the recruitment stage as an integral part of reflexive research ethics.
Reconciling Our Strivings: Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) in Contemporary Contexts
Authors: Bonner Fred A. , Marbley Aretha F. , Flowers Alonzo M. , Burrell-Craft Kala , Jennings Michael E. , Louis Dave A. , Goings Ramon B. , Smith Stella L. , Tilley Stephanie D. , Garcia-Powell Barbara , Bolton Terrance J. , Tarlton Edward L.
Published: November 2023

Throughout history, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have overcome countless challenges to achieve their goals of maintaining cultural traditions, providing key leadership and role models, assuring economic functions, addressing issues between minority and majority populations, and producing Black agents for research, institutional training, and information dissemination within the Black and other minority communities. Using a Scholarly Personal Narrative (SPN), this article focuses on the function, legacy, and relevance of current HBCUs. Using W. E. B. Du Bois’s “double consciousness” as a theoretical framework, each of the 12 contributing scholars address these questions: How have you reconciled your individual strivings? Has the HBCU placed a role in your reconciliation process? What SPN is emblematic of your reconciliation process? These questions are addressed through vivid narrative accounts that speak to the critical constructs of belonging—Black identity; gifted education, selfhood, spirituality, and theoretical frameworks. Each of these constructs represents an identity vector that points inward to the core—the HBCU.
Sex Trafficked Women, Drug Dealers, and Men Who Buy Sex: A Look at “Race”
Authors: Meshelemiah Jacquelyn C. A. , Thanises Atelma C. , Yeboah Philomina Oyeh
Published: November 2023

Black, Native American, Latinx, Asian, and Pacific Islander women all have histories of sexual violence in the United States. Their historical victimizations have set a precedence for contemporary commercial sex victimization. The purpose of this study was to examine the role of “race” in sex trafficking. Data from 50 women with sex trafficking histories resulted in three candidate themes and five subthemes that include (a) sex trafficked women (White women, Black women vs. White women, and all women with unique subthemes related to drug use and locations); (b) Black male traffickers; and (c) Black and White male customers.
Robotic tomographic ultrasound and artificial intelligence for management of haemodialysis arteriovenous fistulae
Authors: Carroll John , Colley Eamonn , Cartmill Michael , Thomas Shannon D
Published: November 2023

Background:

Arteriovenous fistulae (AVF) and Arteriovenous Grafts (AVG) may present a problematic vascular access for renal replacement therapy (RRT), reliant on recurrent specialist nurse and medical evaluation. Dysfunctional accesses are frequently referred ‘out of the dialysis clinic’ for specialist sonographic examination, with associated delays potentiating loss of vascular access viability and/or need for emergency intervention. Definitive anatomical and functional diagnostics based in the dialysis unit may help to solve these delays and associated complications.

Objectives:

This publication reports a novel vascular access monitoring concept, Robotic Tomographic Ultrasound (RTU).

Research design:

Robotic Tomographic Ultrasound incorporates a semi-autonomous, robotic vascular ultrasound system and purpose designed analysis software that can be deployed at the point of care. Three-dimensional scan data, as well as conventional B-Mode and Doppler data are obtained by the system and transferred to a cloud based reporting and analysis software. Scans are remotely annotated and interpreted by a sonographer, with diagnostic data presented securely to clinicians on their preferred web based application/web connected device.

Results:

Software developed specifically for pre AVF mapping, maturation and monitoring protocols, analyse the data and then present interpreted results to all caring clinicians to assist with decision making. Vascular access planning can be determined with high confidence with data from the Map module. Maturation data can be presented in line with institutional requirements to the dialysis nurse, facilitating precocious needle access.

Conclusion:

Robotic Tomographic Ultrasound is a novel approach to vascular access management that may reduce the risk of loss of functional access by regular monitoring with the system; automated alerts guiding clinicians to the need for pre-emptive intervention, and the potential to increase longevity of the vascular access.
The RADAR technique in reconstruction of failed autologous arteriovenous fistulas due to juxta-anastomotic stenosis is equivalent to that with traditional surgery in maintenance hemodialysis patients
Authors: Xu Shuqi , Wang Jie , Tang Lijun , Cao Wei , Liang Liming , Wei Kai , Wang Zunsong , Kong Xianglei
Published: November 2023

Objective:

Autologous arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is recommended as superior vascular access for hemodialysis but has a high rate of failure, and juxta-anastomotic stenosis (JAS) is one of the predominant causes of fistula failure. The aim of this study was to compare the primary patency in reconstruction of failed AVFs due to JAS between the radial artery deviation and reimplantation (RADAR) technique and traditional surgery (end-vein to side-artery neo-anastomosis) in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients.

Methods:

A total of 1215 MHD patients with failed AVF were enrolled in this retrospective cohort study, and 614 patients with failed AVF received surgical intervention. Among these surgical interventions, 417 patients experienced AVF failure due to JAS. Finally, 25 patients who received the RADAR technique were enrolled. Controls of 50 patients received traditional surgery were randomly selected matched by age and sex. Clinical data such as age, sex, comorbidities, and blood biochemical indices were collected. Kaplan-Meier survival curves and Cox proportional hazards analyses were used to explore the difference between the RADAR group and the traditional group in reconstruction of failed AVFs.

Results:

The RADAR group and the traditional group shared common baseline characteristics. The primary patencies of the reconstructed AVFs were 88.8%, 79.0%, 72.2%, 57.4%, and 38.3% at 12, 24, 36, 48, and 60 months among the 75 patients, respectively. Kaplan-Meier survival curve analysis demonstrated similar primary patencies in the two groups (log-rank test, p = 0.73). Compared with the traditional group, the RADAR group had no difference in predicting AVF failure after adjusting for potential confounders, with an HR of 0.92 (95% CI, 0.18–4.63).

Conclusions:

The primary patency of the RADAR technique and the traditional surgery in the reconstruction of failed AVFs due to JAS is almost equal in 5 years.
Distal radial approach for arterial pressure monitoring with a long catheter provides safe and stable monitoring in the intensive care unit: A single-center retrospective study
Authors: Maruhashi Takaaki , Oi Marina , Hattori Jun , Asari Yasushi
Published: November 2023

Background:

To compare the distal radial artery approach (DRA) with a longer catheter to DRA with a shorter catheter in arterial catheter (AC) placement in the intensive care unit (ICU).

Methods:

This was a single-center retrospective cohort study of DRA with a long catheter (60 mm) for arterial catheterization in the ICU. DRA with a short catheter (25–30 mm) was used in the control group, and the groups were compared using multivariate regression analysis. The primary study endpoint was the incidence of unplanned AC removal. The secondary endpoint was the incidence of other inappropriate events, namely loss of arterial pressure waveforms, bleeding, catheter-related infection, pressure ulcer, and other complications associated with the AC.

Results:

In this study, the DRA with a long catheter was used in 50 patients. No unplanned AC removals or other inappropriate events occurred, and there were no complications associated with the DRA. The DRA procedural success rate was 100%. There was no significant difference in hemostasis times between the groups. Loss of arterial waveforms was an early predictor of unplanned AC removal.

Conclusions:

The DRA with a long catheter provided stable monitoring and was associated with a low unplanned removal rate. This method has the advantages of fewer complications and shorter hemostasis time compared with the DRA with a short catheter, and may become a new AC option in the ICU.
Early-cannulation arteriovenous grafts: Multidisciplinary learning is essential to optimize outcomes
Authors: Kingsmore David B , Stevenson Karen S , Edgar Ben , Aitken Emma , Jackson Andrew , Isaak Andrej , Richarz Sabine , Bainbridge Leigh , Stove Callum , Kasthuri Ram , Thomson Peter C
Published: November 2023

Background:

It is likely that there will be an increasing role for early-cannulation arteriovenous grafts (ecAVG) with a wider recognition of the need to tailor vascular access to avoid futile procedures and unnecessary TCVC. However, experience of these products is not common and limited to early surgical adopters, with little information on the systemic changes and multi-disciplinary care needed to optimize outcomes. The aim of this study was to report the impact of a multi-disciplinary approach on quantifiable outcomes.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database of 295 ecAVG implanted over an 8-year time-period was performed. Indicative outcomes were chosen to reflect nephrology (patient selection), nursing care (cannulation complications of infection and pseudoaneurysm) and radiology (thrombosis) on cumulative impact (functional patency) over three distinct time periods.

Results:

The incidence of ecAVG increased 10-fold over the three time periods. The use of ecAVG changed significantly from salvage tertiary access to TCVC avoidance and salvage of existing AVF. Nursing complications reduced markedly with significantly fewer over-cannulation episodes and pseudo-aneurysms. With an improved pro-active surveillance programme, the time to first thrombosis doubled and the risk of thrombosis halved. Ultimately this resulted in significantly improved functional patency with a risk of ecAVG loss less than one-third by the last time-period.

Conclusions:

All aspects of ecAVG use require scrutiny and critical appraisal. Failure or success is not simply achieved by performing good technical surgery with an efficacious product, but by the care taken across a wide range of elements spanning case selection, implantation, use and maintenance.