bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and validation of a nomogram to predict the risk of sepsis-associated encephalopathy for septic patients in PICU: a multicenter retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wang Guan , Jiang Xinzhu , Fu Yanan , Gao Yan , Jiang Qin , Guo Enyu , Huang Haoyang , Liu Xinjie
Published: February 2024

Background

Patients with sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE) have higher mortality rates and longer ICU stays. Predictors of SAE are yet to be identified. We aimed to establish an effective and simple-to-use nomogram for the individual prediction of SAE in patients with sepsis admitted to pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) in order to prevent early onset of SAE.

Methods

In this retrospective multicenter study, we screened 790 patients with sepsis admitted to the PICU of three hospitals in Shandong, China. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression was used for variable selection and regularization in the training cohort. The selected variables were used to construct a nomogram to predict the risk of SAE in patients with sepsis in the PICU. The nomogram performance was assessed using discrimination and calibration.

Results

From January 2017 to May 2022, 613 patients with sepsis from three centers were eligible for inclusion in the final study. The training cohort consisted of 251 patients, and the two independent validation cohorts consisted of 193 and 169 patients. Overall, 237 (38.7%) patients developed SAE. The morbidity of SAE in patients with sepsis is associated with the respiratory rate, blood urea nitrogen, activated partial thromboplastin time, arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide, and pediatric critical illness score. We generated a nomogram for the early identification of SAE in the training cohort (area under curve [AUC] 0.82, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.76–0.88, sensitivity 65.6%, specificity 88.8%) and validation cohort (validation cohort 1: AUC 0.80, 95% CI 0.74–0.86, sensitivity 75.0%, specificity 74.3%; validation cohort 2: AUC 0.81, 95% CI 0.73–0.88, sensitivity 69.1%, specificity 83.3%). Calibration plots for the nomogram showed excellent agreement between SAE probabilities of the observed and predicted values. Decision curve analysis indicated that the nomogram conferred a high net clinical benefit.

Conclusions

The novel nomogram and online calculator showed performance in predicting the morbidity of SAE in patients with sepsis admitted to the PICU, thereby potentially assisting clinicians in the early detection and intervention of SAE.
Mesh-free kinematic shakedown analysis of cohesive soils
Authors: Nosrati Z. , Binesh S. M.
Published: February 2024

A novel mesh-free solution is proposed for kinematic shakedown analysis of cohesive soils under repeating loads. For this purpose, the continuous velocity field in the mathematical expression of Koiter’s theorem is discretized by the Radial Point Interpolation Method (RPIM), as a mesh-free approach. The strain rate smoothing technique is implemented in conjunction with the RPIM to satisfy the admissibility conditions at the entire problem domain. Using the nodal integration and the discretized velocity field, the kinematic shakedown problem is expressed as a nonlinear optimization problem. The optimization problem is solved by separation of plastic and non-plastic/rigid zones using a repetitive algorithm. Eventually, the efficiency of the proposed approach is elucidated by solving examples of a strip footing resting on cohesive soil and a cohesive half space pavement under repeating loads.
Embodied spirituality: Shaolin martial arts as a Chan Buddhist practice
Authors: Nešković Marta
Published: February 2024

This paper explores the intersection of spirituality and martial arts through an in-depth examination of Shaolin Kung Fu as practiced within the Shaolin Monastery in Henan Province, China. Conducting fieldwork from April 2018 to August 2020, the study employs theories of practice and embodiment to understand how religious teachings are interwoven into physical movements and martial practices. This phenomenological analysis of bodily movement integrates the physical body with the sense of self, highlighting the relationship between individual habitus and the agency of the moving body, referred to as the “lived body.” It argues that Shaolin martial artists engage in a form of dynamic embodiment, where Chan Buddhist doctrines are embedded within the “lived body,” influencing both movement and perception. This process allows practitioners to interpret and interact with their socio-cultural environment through a religious lens, highlighting the deep connection between spiritual beliefs and bodily actions.

The paper presents a comprehensive approach, combining intensive participant observation, historical analysis, and a close look at both the communal and individual aspects of monastic life and learning. By examining narratives, daily routines, and pedagogical methods, the study reveals how the socio-cultural setting of the monastery fosters collective habitus and transforms the individual habitus of practitioners. It shows how this transformation contributes to the development of a spiritual dimension in their martial performance. By highlighting the link between the habitus, the lived body, and the dynamic embodiment, the paper extends the current discourse on embodiment, offering a novel perspective on the relationship between spirituality, culture, and physical practice in the context of Shaolin Kung Fu.
Termite species and functional diversity as determined by vegetation and edaphic characteristics in a savanna ecosystem
Authors: Madonsela Zodwa , Magagula Cebisile N.
Published: February 2024

Background

Savanna ecosystems support a diversity of biota and are influenced by vegetation and edaphic characteristics, shaping resident communities. This study was carried out at Mlawula nature reserve, a protected savanna ecosystem to determine impacts of vegetation and edaphic characteristics on termite species and functional diversity, as well as their activity. Termites were sampled from November 2017 to March 2018 in two habitat types, i.e. encroached and non-encroached by Dichrostachys cinerea over five months.

Results

Twelve genera were collected over the study period, dominated by Microtermes sp. Termite species diversity and populations were significantly between habitat types, with higher numbers and species in non-encroached sites. Four functional groups (FG) were collected from both habitat types, with FGII being the most dominant group in both and no significant differences in FG diversity between the habitat types. Of the vegetational and edaphic variables measured, only canopy cover was significantly different between habitat types and was higher in encroached sites. Intensity and frequency of attack were significantly higher in non-encroached sites, indicating a decline in termite activity in encroached sites.

Conclusions

Results indicated that, with the exception of canopy cover, vegetational and edaphic characteristics are not affected by increased woody vegetation invasion within the system assessed. However, due to reduction in termite diversity and activity, increased woody vegetation invasion is a threat to termites and associated ecosystem services they provide. The investigation provided information at both community and ecosystem level for the savanna assessed on the need for insect conservation both within protected areas and surrounding landscapes. Since the study suggested that termite populations and associated activity could be reduced due bush encroachment, monitoring of the impacts of increasing woody plant invasions is essential for insect conservation and maintenance of savanna ecosystem function and heterogeneity.
Tetralogy of Fallot with vertebral defect and left aberrant subclavian artery: a rare occurrence
Authors: Hameed Marya , Qureshi Muhammad Fazal Hussain
Published: February 2024

Background

The most prevalent cyanotic congenital heart disease is Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). It has a variety of presentations and is made up of four anatomic abnormalities. Documented literature shows an incidence of 13–20% of a right aortic arch with an anomalous left subclavian artery among individuals diagnosed with TOF. This is the first case that discusses the rare occurrence of overriding of the aortic arch along with the left aberrant subclavian artery and vertebral defect in a 3-week-old girl. Timely identification and management are pivotal in ensuring the best possible outcomes for these young patients.

Case presentation

A 3-week-old female child came with complaints of dyspnea, dysphagia, fatigue, and cyanosis on extreme crying, feeding, and moderate activity. Echocardiography revealed severe pulmonary stenosis with right ventricular dilatation and ventricular septal defect (VSD); a chest computed tomography was performed that revealed four characteristic features of TOF (pulmonary artery stenosis, VSD, right aortic root deviation, and concentric right ventricular hypertrophy) along with overriding of the aortic arch accompanied with the left aberrant subclavian artery (compressing the trachea and infundibulum) and vertebral defect (butterfly vertebra).

Conclusions

The case of this 3-week-old female infant emphasizes the importance of early and accurate diagnosis in congenital heart diseases, particularly when faced with complex presentations such as the TOF. It serves as a testament to the valuable role of advanced diagnostic imaging techniques in unraveling the complexity of congenital heart conditions.
Role of epinephrine in attenuating cytokine storm, decreasing ferritin, and inhibiting ferroptosis in SARS-CoV-2
Authors: EL-Molla Ashraf , Fetouh Fawzia Aboul , Bawazir Samir , Ali Yasser , Alwahby Yehya , Bahadeg Muhammad , Gotah Yousef , Badahdah Fatima Ahmed , Alsaeed Abdullatif H. , Basseet Abdullah
Published: February 2024

Background

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the virus responsible for coronavirus disease 2019. It presents one of the most threatening pandemics in the history of humanity. The mortality and morbidity represent an unprecedented challenge to the modern medical era. SARS-CoV-2 results in acute respiratory distress syndrome, high concentrations of proinflammatory mediators, cytokine storm (CS) due to massive release of cytokines, hypercoagulation, and hemoglobin disintegration. Dysregulation of iron homeostasis, iron overload as indicated by high ferritin level, and ferroptosis are major factors in the pathogenesis of the disease. We report a case of SARS-CoV-2 in which the use of epinephrine (Epi) resulted in an unexpected attenuation of CS, decreasing ferritin level and inhibiting ferroptosis.

Case presentation

A 64-year-old male patient with a history of multiple medical comorbidities had been diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2. Further evaluation showed marked increase in inflammatory markers, severe hyperferritinemia, and lymphopenia in laboratory blood tests. The characteristic score of CS was strongly positive, and in addition to regular treatment, the patient received Epi due to development of acute generalized skin rash, severe itching, and edema of lips and tongue. Epi may have successfully terminated not only the acute cutaneous condition, but also have attenuated CS, decreased ferritin level, and other inflammatory markers in addition to complete patient’s recovery.

Conclusion

Epinephrine may attenuate CS and inhibit ferroptosis which is an iron-dependent, non-apoptotic mode of cell death. Epi interacts with ferric and/or ferrous iron and built a stable complex that impedes activation of beta-adrenergic receptors. Epi may cause marked decrease of ferritin and other inflammatory markers. Epi may be used to decrease iron overload which is associated with many medical diseases like type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiometabolic diseases such as coronary heart disease and cerebrovascular disease. As a new clinical indication extensive studies are required for further assessment and possible therapeutic uses.
Designing and testing novel artificial shelter traps to mass-trap overwintering brown marmorated stink bugs: a proof-of-concept study in Northwestern China
Authors: Zhang Jin-Ping , Avila Gonzalo , Ma Gang , Mi Qian-Qian , Najar-Rodriguez Adriana , Chen Ju-Hong , Ma Chun-Sen , Zhang Feng
Published: February 2024

Background

Halyomorpha halys
Stål (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB), is a highly polyphagous invasive pest worldwide. It is also known to be a nuisance pest as it enters artificial structures, including human habitats, to overwinter and releases very unpleasant odours when disturbed. Overwintering populations can be trapped and killed collectively by targeting the aggregation behaviour of BMSB adults. However, efficient traps for catching overwinter population have not been yet developed and validated. A novel and effective trapping method would be to design shelter traps in the field that entice and mass-trap overwintering BMSB as they initiate to display their typical aggregation behavior and seek shelter in the traps.

Methods

In this study conducted in Northwestern China, we designed different BMSB overwintering shelter traps made of different materials (i.e., wood or corflute) and lock types (with/without lock, pyrometric or strip door lock) and tested their efficacy at two different sites and three different locations within sites. We also tested the efficacy of the traps with or without the presence of the BMSB aggregation pheromone.

Results

Although trapped BMSB numbers were generally low across all traps tested, the black corflute trap was found to attract the highest average number of BMSB males and females, followed by the wooden-made trap, the bee-hive box and finally the wooden-made locked trap, which attracted the lowest numbers of BMSB. The trapping efficacy was found to not be affected by experimental sites or locations nor by the presence of the BMSB aggregation pheromone lure.

Conclusions

Our results showed that traps made of black corflute with slit doors were generally preferred by overwintering BMSB. This preliminary proof-of-concept study provides valuable information for further improvement of novel overwintering traps that could be used to mass trap BMSB overwintering populations.
Egyptian framework for an age-friendly built environment
Authors: Abd Elaziz Nourhan Mohamed , Shawky Kariman Ahmed
Published: February 2024

In recent years, the Egyptian demographic has changed with an increasing number of older citizens who require special attention. The World Health Organization (WHO) identified 2020–2030 as the “Decade of Healthy Ageing” in response to the worldwide demographic changes. Many international organizations have identified the built environment features of age‐friendly communities, yet they have not been thoroughly analyzed in the Egyptian context. Today, urban designers and city planners have to establish age-friendly communities that can facilitate well-being in old age. The paper aims to provide “Egyptian framework for an age-friendly built environment E-FAB”, that can help architects, urban designers, and decision-makers evaluate Egyptian urban communities towards being age-friendly. The E-FAB is created and designed based on an analytical theoretical approach focused on active older people’s definitions, needs, their relation to the built and social environments, and previous practices of age-friendly cities and communities. In addition, a comparative analysis between previous studies in age-friendly communities. Then, the paper conducted semi-structured interviews targeting active older people, aiming to refine and rank the built environment features of the E-FAB by using SPSS. The findings revealed that the E-FAB is expected to be an initial simple evaluating framework that could contribute positively to improving Egyptian urban areas to be more friendly to older people and address their needs in the built environment.
Maternal Obesity Modulates Cord Blood Concentrations of Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin-type 9 Levels
Authors: Rallis Dimitrios , Papathanasiou Aimilia Eirini , Christou Helen
Published: February 2024

Context

In utero exposure to maternal obesity or diabetes is considered a pro-inflammatory state.

Objective

To evaluate whether cord blood proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin-type 9 (PCSK9), which is regulated by inflammation and metabolic derangements, is elevated in neonates born to overweight, obese, or diabetic mothers.

Methods

A retrospective study in full-term neonates born between 2010 and 2023, at Brigham and Women's Hospital. There were 116 neonates included in our study, of which 74 (64%) were born to overweight/obese mothers and 42 (36%) were born to nonoverweight/nonobese mothers.

Results

Neonates born to overweight/obese mothers had significantly higher cord blood concentrations of PCSK9 compared with neonates born to nonoverweight/nonobese group (323 [253-442] ng/mL compared with 270 [244-382] ng/mL, P = .041). We found no significant difference in cord blood concentrations of PCSK9 between neonates of diabetic mothers compared with neonates of nondiabetic mothers. In multivariate linear regression analysis, higher cord plasma PCSK9 concentration was significantly associated with maternal overweight/obesity status (b = 50.12; 95% CI, 4.02-96.22; P = .033), after adjusting for gestational age, birth weight, male sex, and intrauterine growth restriction.

Conclusion

Neonates born to mothers with overweight/obesity have higher cord blood PCSK9 concentrations compared with the nonoverweight/nonobese group, and higher cord blood PCSK9 concentrations were significantly associated with maternal overweight/obesity status, after adjusting for perinatal factors. Larger longitudinal studies are needed to examine the role of PCSK9 in the development of metabolic syndrome in high-risk neonates born to overweight, obese, or diabetic mothers.
Time Thresholds for Using Pressure Reactivity Index in Neuroprognostication for Patients With Severe Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Chang Jason J. , Kepplinger David , Metter E. Jeffrey , Kim Yongwoo , Trankiem Christine T. , Felbaum Daniel R. , Mai Jeffrey C. , Mason Robert B. , Armonda Rocco A. , Aulisi Edward F.
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Severe traumatic brain injury (sTBI) represents a diffuse, heterogeneous disease where therapeutic targets for optimizing clinical outcome remain unclear. Mean pressure reactivity index (PRx) values have demonstrated associations with clinical outcome in sTBI. However, the retrospective derivation of a mean value diminishes its bedside significance. We evaluated PRx temporal profiles for patients with sTBI and identified time thresholds suggesting optimal neuroprognostication.

METHODS:

Patients with sTBI and continuous bolt intracranial pressure monitoring were identified. Outcomes were dichotomized by disposition status (“good outcome” was denoted by home and acute rehabilitation). PRx values were obtained every minute by taking moving correlation coefficients of intracranial pressures and mean arterial pressures. Average PRx trajectories for good and poor outcome groups were calculated by extending the last daily averaged PRx value to day 18. Each patient also had smoothed PRx trajectories that were used to generate “candidate features.” These “candidate features” included daily average PRx's, cumulative first-order changes in PRx and cumulative second-order changes in PRx. Changes in sensitivity over time for predicting poor outcome was then evaluated by generating penalized logistic regression models that were derived from the “candidate features” and maximized specificity.

RESULTS:

Among 33 patients with sTBI, 18 patients achieved good outcome and 15 patients had poor outcome. Average PRx trajectories for the good and poor outcome groups started on day 6 and consistently diverged at day 9. When targeting a specificity >83.3%, an 85% maximum sensitivity for determining poor outcome was achieved at hospital day 6. Subsequent days of PRx monitoring showed diminishing sensitivities.

CONCLUSION:

Our findings suggest that in a population of sTBI, PRx sensitivities for predicting poor outcome was maximized at hospital day 6. Additional study is warranted to validate this model in larger populations.
Improved Selectivity in Eliciting Evoked Electromyography Responses With High-Resolution Spinal Cord Stimulation
Authors: Berwal Deepak , Quintero Alejandra , Telkes Ilknur , DiMarzio Marisa , Harland Tessa , Paniccioli Steven , Dalfino John , Iyassu Yohannes , McLaughlin Bryan L. , Pilitsis Julie G.
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

As spinal cord stimulation (SCS) offers a therapy for increasing numbers of patients with chronic pain and spinal cord injury, it becomes increasingly important to better understand its somatotopy. In this prospective study, we investigate whether high-resolution SCS (HR-SCS) offers improved selectivity assessed through elicitation of evoked electromyography (EMG) responses as compared with commercial paddle leads.

METHODS:

Vertical tripole configurations were used to elicit EMG responses in both types of paddles placed for standard-of-care indications between T6 and T10. In HR-SCS, evoked EMG responses in lower extremity/abdominal muscle groups were monitored at 6 to 8 mediolateral sites. All commercial paddle columns were tested. Percentage change in the maximum root mean square value was calculated at a group level. Heat maps were generated to identify responders for each muscle group. Responders were considered patients who had a >50% change in root mean square over baseline.

RESULTS:

We demonstrated significantly greater motor responses across medial and lateral contacts and greater responder rates consistently at the T6 and T9 levels with HR-SCS as compared with commercial paddles in 18 patients. Distal muscle groups (gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior) and proximal muscle groups (biceps femoris and quadriceps) were selectively activated at both levels.

CONCLUSION:

We demonstrate that HR-SCS has greater selectivity in eliciting evoked EMG responses in an intraoperative setting. HR-SCS offers recruitment of muscle groups at lateral contacts concurrently with medial contacts. We provide data that HR-SCS may provide higher spatial resolution, which has the potential to allow for personalization of care and treatment of pain syndromes/symptoms which to date have not been effectively treated.
Supraorbital Eyebrow Approach for Translamina Terminalis Resection of Third Ventricle Metastasis: 2-Dimensional Operative Video
Authors: Vignolles-Jeong Joshua , Finger Guilherme , Magill Stephen T. , McGahan Ben G. , Wu Kyle C. , Godil Saniya , Prevedello Daniel M.
Published: February 2024

Tumors involving the third ventricle are rare, accounting for 0.6%–0.9% of all brain tumors. This deep-seated cavity is surrounded by critical neurovascular structures, making safe surgical resection of lesions in this region challenging. Traditionally, tumors of the third ventricle have been approached through a craniotomy and microsurgical resection.
1-4
The supraorbital keyhole approach is a minimally invasive technique that can be used with minimal retraction of the brain and limited craniotomy while establishing a surgical field comparable with what can be achieved using traditional transcranial approaches. In this video, we describe the case of a 54-year-old man who underwent a supraorbital eyebrow approach for translamina terminalis resection of papillary thyroid carcinoma metastasis to the third ventricle. A gross total resection was achieved. The results achieved in our series are comparable with previously published reports of patients who underwent surgical resection of metastatic lesions involving the third ventricle.
5-11
The patient consented to the procedure and to the publication of his image.
Development and Calibration of a PATCH Device for Monitoring Children’s Heart Rate and Acceleration
Authors: Armstrong Bridget , Weaver R. Glenn , McAninch Jonas , Smith Michal T. , Parker Hannah , Lane Abbi D. , Wang Yuan , Pate Russ , Rahman Mafruda , Matolak David , Chandrashekhar M. V. S.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Current wearables that collect heart rate and acceleration were not designed for children and/or do not allow access to raw signals, making them fundamentally unverifiable. This study describes the creation and calibration of an open-source multichannel platform (PATCH) designed to measure heart rate and acceleration in children ages 3-8 years.

Methods

Children (N = 63; Mean age = 6.3) participated in a 45-minute protocol ranging in intensities from sedentary to vigorous activity. Actiheart-5 was used as a comparison measure. We calculated mean bias, mean absolute error (MAE) mean absolute percent error (MA%E), Pearson correlations and Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient (CCC).

Results

Mean bias between PATCH and Actiheart heart rate was 2.26 BPM, MAE was 6.67 BPM and M%E was 5.99%. The correlation between PATCH and Actiheart HR was .89 and CCC was .88. For acceleration, mean bias was 1.16 mg and MAE was 12.24 mg. The correlation between PATCH and Actiheart was .96 and CCC was .95.

Conclusions

The PATCH demonstrated clinically acceptable accuracies to measure heart rate and acceleration compared to a research grade device.
Effect of Running Speed on Knee Biomechanics in Collegiate Athletes Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: KNURR KEITH A. , COBIAN DANIEL G. , KLIETHERMES STEPHANIE A. , JOACHIM MIKEL R. , HEIDERSCHEIT BRYAN C.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Athletes after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) demonstrate altered surgical knee running kinematics and kinetics compared with the nonsurgical limb and healthy controls. The effect of running speed on biomechanics has not been formally assessed in athletes post-ACLR. The purpose of this study was to characterize how knee biomechanics change with running speed between 3.5–7 (EARLY) and 8–13 (LATE) months post-ACLR.

Methods

Fifty-five Division I collegiate athletes post-ACLR completed running analyses (EARLY: n = 40, LATE: n = 41, both: n = 26) at 2.68, 2.95, 3.35, 3.80, and 4.47 m·s−1. Linear mixed-effects models assessed the influence of limb, speed, time post-ACLR, and their interactions on knee kinematics and kinetics.

Results

A significant limb–speed interaction was detected for peak knee flexion, knee flexion excursion, and rate of knee extensor moment (P < 0.02), controlling for time. From 3.35 to 4.47 m·s−1, knee flexion excursion decreased by −2.3° (95% confidence interval, −3.6 to −1.0) in the nonsurgical limb and −1.0° (95% confidence interval, −2.3 to −0.3) in the surgical limb. Peak vertical ground reaction force, peak knee extensor moment, and knee negative work increased similarly with speed for both limbs (P < 0.002). A significant limb–time interaction was detected for all variables (P < 0.001). Accounting for running speed, improvements in all surgical limb biomechanics were observed from EARLY to LATE (P < 0.001), except for knee flexion at initial contact (P = 0.12), but between-limb differences remained (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Surgical and nonsurgical knee biomechanics increase similarly with speed in collegiate athletes at EARLY and LATE, with the exception of peak knee flexion, knee flexion excursion, and rate of knee extensor moment. Surgical knee biomechanics improved from EARLY and LATE, but significant between-limb differences persisted.
The Influence of “Super-Shoes” and Foot Strike Pattern on Metabolic Cost and Joint Mechanics in Competitive Female Runners
Authors: MARTINEZ EDUARDO , HOOGKAMER WOUTER , POWELL DOUGLAS W. , PAQUETTE MAX R.
Published: February 2024

“Super-shoes” are designed to improve endurance running performance by reducing the metabolic demands of running. Although the research on “super-shoes” is still developing and has mostly been studied in male runners, it is not clear how possible mediating factors, such as foot strike pattern, influence the metabolic cost and joint mechanics in competitive female runners.

Purpose

The objective of this study is to assess the influence of “super-shoes” on metabolic cost and joint mechanics in competitive female runners and to understand how foot strike pattern may influence the footwear effects.

Methods

Eighteen competitive female runners ran four 5-min bouts on a force instrumented treadmill at 12.9 km·h−1 in 1) Nike Vaporfly Next% 2™ (SUPER) and 2) Nike Pegasus 38™ (CON) in a randomized and mirrored order.

Results

Metabolic power was improved by 4.2% (P < 0.001; d = 0.43) and metatarsophalangeal (MTP) negative work (P < 0.001; d = 1.22), ankle negative work (P = 0.001; d = 0.67), and ankle positive work (P < 0.001; d = 0.97) were all smaller when running in SUPER compared with CON. There was no correlation between foot strike pattern and the between-shoe (CON to SUPER) percentage change for metabolic power (r = 0.093, P = 0.715).

Conclusions

Metabolic power improved by 4.2% in “super-shoes” (but only by ~3.2% if controlling for shoe mass differences) in this cohort of competitive female runners, which is a smaller improvement than previously observed in men. The reduced mechanical demand at the MTP and ankle in “super-shoes” are consistent with previous literature and may explain or contribute to the metabolic improvements observed in “super-shoes”; however, foot strike pattern was not a moderating factor for the metabolic improvements of “super-shoes.” Future studies should directly compare the metabolic response among different types of “super-shoes” between men and women.
ΙΑΤΡΙΚΗ ΣΤΟΝ ΠΡΩΤΟ ΠΑΓΚΟΣΜΙΟ ΠΟΛΕΜΟ
Authors: Δημαράκη Μαρία Ελένη , Δημοπούλου Κατερίνα , Θανοπούλου Μαρία
Published: February 2024

Αποφασίσαμε να ασχοληθούμε με τον Πρώτο Παγκόσμιο πόλεμο και τις συνέπειες που αυτός είχε στην διαμόρφωση της ιατρικής της σύγχρονης εποχής. Ήταν ο πρώτος πόλεμος στον οποίο ενσωματώθηκαν νέες πολεμικές μέθοδοι με αποτέλεσμα να υπάρχουν πολλοί θάνατοι αλλά και τραυματισμοί οι οποίοι οδήγησαν σε καινούριες ιατρικές ανακαλύψεις.
Mapping the HealthPathways literature: a scoping review protocol
Authors: McGlynn Anna , Ní Shé Éidín , Liaw Teng , Jackson Tony , Harris-Roxas Ben
Published: February 2024

Objective: This scoping review will identify what literature exists on HealthPathways and make suggestions for the direction of future HealthPathways research.

Background: HealthPathways is a free to access, password protected online tool containing practical, easy to use, localised clinical and referral information that is primarily aimed at GPs. HealthPathways originated in Canterbury, New Zealand in 2008. Since this time the program has spread and is being used in 50 health systems across New Zealand, Australia, and the United Kingdom (Streamliners, 2022a). Despite such large spread of the program there has been relatively little literature published on the utility, usefulness and cost-effectiveness of HealthPathways.

This scoping review aims to identify and describe all current HealthPathways literature and make recommendations for the direction of future HealthPathways research.

Methods: The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology will be used to develop the scoping review. Databases included in the search include MEDLINE (PubMEd), Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Emerald and Cochrane. The inclusion criteria are studies and grey literature on HealthPathways that are published in English, with no time limit. Grey literature will be identified through searching relevant credible organisations and websites. All results will be entered into Covidence to be assessed by two reviewers against a set tool. The PRISMA extension for scoping reviews will be used for reporting. Ethics approval is not required as only published information will be used. The research will be disseminated through publication in an open access peer reviewed journal.

Conclusions: This protocol is published to make the process for the review transparent and replicable. The scoping review will highlight the extent of evidence that exists on HealthPathways and may provide direction for decision making and future research.
A review on optimum substrate surface roughness to create better wetting
Authors: H.S. Chiranth , H.R. Pavan Kumar , Rathod Sachin , Manojkuma Y Karnam , . Satyanarayan , Kusammanavar Basavaraj
Published: February 2024

Surface roughness or texture is one of the key parameters for liquid fluids or the liquid metals to achieve good or poor wetting. In certain applications surface roughness of smooth surface [mirror finish] is treated as slippery surface for poor wettability however in few applications’ roughness surfaces is considered as better wetting especially for liquid metals. In this regard, to understand the optimum surface roughness of the substrates to achieve good wetting is essential. In the present review paper, an attempt has been made to find the better roughness value of the substrate for better wetting of liquid metals or alloys based on substrates and fluids.
Effects of antioxidant supplementation for polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Łopacińska Olga , Stańczyk Katarzyna , Korn Aleksandra , Czarnecka Karolina , Wójcik Emilia , Korczak Anna , Jędrzejczyk Justyna , Szewczyk Oliwia , Olek Ewa , Burda Katarzyna
Published: February 2024

Introduction and purpose: Polycystic ovary syndrome is the most common endocrinopathy in women, with a prevalence ranging from 10% to 13%. Oxidative stress and decreased antioxidant levels contribute to the development of various diseases, and one of them is polycystic ovary syndrome. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the current knowledge about the effects of antioxidant administration in PCOS treatment.
A brief description of the state of knowledge: Oxidative stress is an imbalance between increased levels of reactive oxygen species and a decreased efficiency of antioxidant mechanisms, which can potentially cause damage. The harmful effects of free radicals might be neutralized by antioxidants obtained from the diet, such as polyphenols, vitamins C, and E. These compounds improve several aspects of the PCOS pathomechanism, including hormonal imbalance, glucose metabolism, lipid profile, and ovarian functionality.
Conclusions: The outcomes of all the reviewed studies in this paper indicate that antioxidants such as resveratrol, curcumin, vitamin C and E, N-acetylcysteine, and melatonin have therapeutic potential in the management of PCOS. However, currently antioxidant therapies cannot be recommended in PCOS therapy since there is a need for more prospective randomized clinical trials on a larger sample to establish a long-term effects of antioxidants supplementation in PCOS, the optimal dosage, and finally to assess which antioxidant is the most efficient in PCOS treatment.
Vínculos entre movimientos sociales y partidos políticos, y su impacto electoral en el contexto del estallido social en Bolivia, 2019-2020
Authors: Valdivia Rivera Soledad
Published: February 2024

El análisis sobre estallidos sociales suele enfocarse en el interior de la movilización social. Tomando el caso del estallido social en Bolivia en 2019, este artículo explora, más bien, los vínculos entre movimientos sociales y partidos políticos, y su efecto en el desempeño electoral. Los movimientos sociales jugaronun papel importante al construir las condiciones para el estallido y marcar la evolución de la crisis hacia su resolución. Dada su cercanía en el tiempo, las elecciones de 2019 y 2020 presentan una oportunidad particular para estudiar el efecto electoral de las vinculaciones en el contexto del estallido social. Se analizan cuatro conexiones entre movimientos sociales y partidos políticos: Movimiento al Socialismo, Comunidad Ciudadana, Bolivia dice No y Creemos. El artículo identifica y explora las diferencias cualitativas entre estas conexiones —que varían entre partido orgánico, partido movimiento y alianzas circunstanciales—, las cuales se relacionan con los resultados electorales, disimiles al momento de considerar el escenario político en que operan. Este trabajo sugiere que, la vinculación de los vehículos electorales con movimientos sociales y organizaciones de la sociedad civil emerge como condición de éxito electoral en la contienda boliviana, en un escenario en el que la protesta social se constituye en canal convencional de participación política y articulación de demandas ciudadanas.
Strategic Content Generation and Monetization in Financial Social Media
Authors: Li Ding , Goh Khim-Yong , Heng Cheng-Suang
Published: February 2024

Strategic Content Generation and Monetization in Financial Social Media

Abstract

Financial social media, which relies on social media analysts (SMAs) to contribute content to investors, is a crucial channel for investors to gain financial information and for SMAs to monetize their content. The interactive nature of financial social media has given SMAs the opportunity to gain access to the investor preferences of their own audience base for financial content. Our study documents that SMAs would exploit this opportunity to strategically generate and monetize content by catering to investor preferences. Specifically, SMAs would increase the (negative) sentiment of the content if paid subscribers’ preferences for (negative) sentiment grow. Additionally, an SMA is more likely to produce paid content when the expected free readership increases and is less likely to do so when the expected paid subscriptions increase. Our findings suggest that the sentiment of financial social media content is not a mere reflection or prediction of stock market movements but also a result of SMAs’ reaction to investor preferences. We thus illustrate an approach to identify the SMAs who may amplify the investors’ confirmation biases because of such catering behaviors so that platform managers and regulators alike can utilize this method to improve the content quality of financial social media.
Advances in laryngeal and airway surgery: what has changed?
Authors: Atsmoni Smadar Cohen , Kinshuck Andrew
Published: February 2024

Laryngeal and airway surgery continues to see innovation and advances, similar to other specialties of modern medicine. Research in this field has led to a greater understanding of conditions resulting in new terminology, diagnoses and change in management. This article looks at advances in laryngeal and upper airway surgery and discusses their ongoing impact on clinical practice.
Vital role of advanced data analytics in achieving net zero
Authors: Bansil Paul
Published: February 2024

Companies grappling with the complexity of CO2 emissions reporting need a more comprehensive approach to quantifying their emissions, if they are to pinpoint where improvements can be made. This article offers a five-step approach to achieving this.
New Data on Urostylis trullata Kerzhner, 1966 (Heteroptera, Urostylididae) from the South of the Russian Far East
Authors: MARKOVA TATYANA O. , KANYUKOVA ELENA V. , MASLOV MIKHAIL V.
Published: February 2024

The paper presents observations on the developmental dynamics of the genus Urostylis Westwood, 1837 in the natural conditions of the southern Primorsky Krai, Russia. The aim of the study is to show the developmental features of Urostylis trullata Kerzhner, 1966 and provide a comparative analysis of the duration of ontogenesis of three species: U. trullata, U. annulicornis Scott, 1874 and U. lateralis Walker, 1867. Nymphs of U. trullata from eggs that had overwintered in Quercus mongolica Fisch. ex Ledeb. under rhytidome were reared in cages. Instar I–II nymphs hatch before the onset of oak’s growing season and develop under rhytidome, feeding on the jelly-like coat of the egg clutch and molting. As Mongolian oak leaves unfold, instars III nymphs their shelters and begin feeding on leaf sap. The postembryonic phase in all three species lasts, on average, 65–68 days. However, observations on U. annulicornis and U. trullata have shown their ability to complete postembryonic development for minimal periods of 54 and 58 days, respectively.
After-action Review of Hospital Environments Exploring the ‘New Normal,’ Focusing on Structural Management Aspects and Bacterial Culture in Thai Hospitals Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors:   Department of Occupational and Environmental medicine, Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital, Thailand, Chongchitpaisan Wanna , Bandhukul Adul ,   Department of Occupational and Environmental medicine, Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital, Thailand
Published: February 2024

OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore the management of hospital environments during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on the structural aspects of ‘new normal’ health services delivery practices and bacterial culture in hospital rooms. METHODS This study employed a cross-sectional design that involved the evaluation of hospital environment management, the detection of indoor bacterial colonies in hospitals, and interviews with healthcare administrators on the ‘new normal’ measures. RESULTS The evaluation form was completed by 543 healthcare division heads from 30 hospitals. Respondents in each group reported that hospitals where they worked had effectively implemented new normal measures, making changes to the structure, processes, and personnel management components in line with the ‘new normal’ concept. The majority of the hospitals investigated, accounting for 71.7%, were found to have pathogenic bacterial counts lower than the permissible limits. The statistical analysis identified a significant association between ventilation, structural management under the ‘new normal’, and bacterial counts (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The incorporation of the structural aspects of new normal practices for managing the workplace environment should be a routine and integral part of efforts to control healthcare-associated infections in hospitals. KEYWORDS hospital environment, the new normal, COVID-19, bacterial culture
Bios-Ethics and the Bios Emergency: Finding the Real Work
Authors: Schenck David
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACT: This article presents a case for transforming traditional bioethics into "Bios-ethics." This exposition relies on three propositions: (1) the climate emergency is the "Bios emergency"; (2) in the Bios emergency, bioethics must be replaced by Bios-ethics; and (3) the top and overwhelming priority of Bios-ethics is to address the Bios emergency. Biocentrism, habitat, and environmental ethics are discussed in light of their contribution to the development of Bios-ethics, and potential lines of research in Bios-ethics are outlined. The urgency of undertaking substantive conceptual and practical innovations in response to our current danger is emphasized throughout.
Decolonial Architecture and Urbanism: Symbolic Formation of Regions in Post-Soviet Russia
Authors: Malyshev Gavriil
Published: February 2024

Abstract: My research examines post-Soviet architecture in Russia through a postcolonial lens, focusing on decentralization processes from 1990 to 2010. I analyze the role of architecture in the construction of regional and ethnic identities, using classic post- and decolonial theories and concepts on identity and regionalism. In this paper I identify and describe decolonial architectural practices in regions of Russia and their relationship with decentralization and regional autonomous subjectivity. I claim that post-Soviet architecture was a tool in regional symbolic politics that was used by local elites to establish regions as unique and rightful territorial social groups or to challenge the established order. I show, however, the hybridity of such regional architectural practices, which were both empowering and suppressive, decolonial and orientalist. Finally, I propose the new perspective to describe the architecture in regions as "symbolic regimes," linking the local political, economic, and cultural disposition with architectural practice.
Optical Measurements of Oscillating Shock Waves by High-Speed Mach-Zehnder Interferometry with the finite-fringe setting
Authors: Inadomi Takato , Nakao Shinichiro , Miyazato Yoshiaki
Published: February 2024

A high-speed Mach-Zehnder interferometry with the finite-fringe setting is used to capture the time-resolved density field of oscillating shock waves that appear in supersonic air flows.
Tilted fiber Bragg grating sensing platforms: how to process their comb-like amplitude spectrum?
Authors: Fasseaux Hadrien , Loyez Médéric , Caucheteur Christophe
Published: February 2024

Tilted fiber Bragg gratings are very sensitive to surrounding refractive index changes, especially when they are surrounded by a thin gold film. We review here the main strategies to demodulate their comb-like transmitted amplitude spectrum.
Performance of Fibre Optical Parametric Amplifiers for QAM signals amplification
Authors: Bastamova Mariia , Gordienko Vladimir , Doran Nick J. , Ellis Andrew D.
Published: February 2024

We numerically and experimentally characterise the required-OSNR penalty induced by a fibre optical parametric amplifier (FOPA) on 16QAM signals. We consequently demonstrate that the FOPA pump phase modulation is the key source of signal degradation.
Characterisation of Mode Field Diameter for “Quantum-Grade” Interconnects
Authors: Ferguson R. A. , Felix J. , Hall S. R. G.
Published: February 2024

The paper describes the characterization of “quantum-grade” interconnects using Mode Field Diameter as a figure of merit. We discuss the metrology needs for Quantum Network interconnects, supporting the development of commercially relevant traceable standards.
Accelerating finite-difference frequency-domain simulations of inverse designed structures in nanophotonics using deep learning
Authors: Schulte Lukas A. K. , Butz Marco , Becker Marlon , Risse Benjamin , Schuck Carsten
Published: February 2024

The inverse design of nanophotonic devices is becoming increasingly relevant for the development of complex photonic integrated circuits. Electromagnetic first-order simulations contribute to the overwhelming computational cost of the optimization routines in established inverse design algorithms, requiring more efficient methods for enabling improved and more complex design process flows. Here we present such a method to predict the electromagnetic field distribution for pixel-discrete planar inverse designed structures using deep learning. Our model is able to infer accurate predictions used to initialize a conventional finite-difference frequency-domain algorithm and thus lowers the average time required for simulating the electromagnetic response of nanophotonic device layouts by up to 53% in iterative design process flows. We demonstrate the applicability of our deep learning method for the inverse design of photonic integrated powersplitters and mode converters, and we highlight the possibility of exploiting previous learning results in subsequent design tasks of novel functionalities via fine-tuning reduced data sets, thus improving computational speed further.
Fiber-interferometric second harmonic generator with dual-color standard quantum-limited noise performance
Authors: Edelmann Marvin , Pergament Mikhail , Hua Yi , Sedigheh Malek M. , Kärtner Franz X.
Published: February 2024

We present a novel fiber-interferometric device that achieves dual functionality: simultaneous amplification of the pulsed input signal and generation of its second harmonic while effectively suppressing the intensity noise in both modes, reaching the standard quantum-limit. The underlaying mechanism is based on phase-biased nonlinear polarization rotation coupled with type-I phase-matched second harmonic generation, a concept that is both theoretically investigated and experimentally verified. In the experiment, a fiber-optic system is constructed capable of generating 42 MHz ultra-low noise sub-150 fs output pulse trains simultaneously at 1030 nm and 515 nm, with average powers of 165 mW and 50 mW, respectively. Systematic frequency-resolved intensity noise measurements confirm dual wavelength, quantum-limited noise suppression beyond 100 kHz offset-frequency, with suppression levels up to 14 dB, showing correlation with local maxima in average power in both fundamental and second harmonic mode.