bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attractive combinations of female gingival displays, buccal corridor sizes, and facial heights according to orthodontists, dentists, and laypeople of different ages and sexes: a psychometric study
Authors: Niknam Ozra , Yousefi Hafshejani Shakila , Rakhshan Vahid
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Esthetics plays a crucial role in orthodontics and many other dental and medical fields. To date, no study has assessed the combined effects of the 3 facial features ‘facial height, gingival display (GD), and buccal corridor size (BC)’ on facial/smile beauty. Therefore, this study was conducted for the first time.

Methods

In this psychometric diagnostic study, beauty of 27 randomized perceptometric images of a female model with variations in facial heights (short, normal, long), gingival displays (0, 2, 4, 6 mm), and buccal corridor sizes (2%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%) were evaluated by 108 judges (36 orthodontists, 36 dentists, 36 laypeople) using a 5-scale Likert scale (1 to 5). Combined effects of facial heights, GDs, BCs, judges’ sexes, ages, and jobs, and their 2-way interactions were tested using a mixed-model multiple linear regression and a Bonferroni test. Zones of ideal features were determined for all judges and also for each group using repeated-measures ANOVAs and the Bonferroni test (α=0.05).

Results

Judges’ sex but not their age or expertise might affect their perception of female beauty: men gave higher scores. The normal face was perceived as more beautiful than the long face (the short face being the least attractive). Zero GD was the most attractive followed by 4 mm; 6 mm was the least appealing. BCs of 15% followed by 10% were the most attractive ones, while 25% BC was the worst. The zone of ideal anatomy was: long face + 0mm GD + 15% BC; normal face + 2mm GD + 15% BC; long face + 2mm GD + 15% BC; normal face + 0mm GD + 15% BC.

Conclusions

Normal faces, zero GDs, and 15% BCs may be the most appealing. Facial heights affect the perception of beauty towards GDs but not BCs.
Detection of HER2 expression using 99mTc-NM-02 nanobody in patients with breast cancer: a non-randomized, non-blinded clinical trial
Authors: Zhao Lingzhou , Xing Yan , Liu Changcun , Ma Shaofei , Huang Wenhua , Cheng Zhen , Zhao Jinhua
Published: March 2024

Background

99mTc radiolabeled nanobody NM-02 (99mTc-NM-02) is a novel single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) probe with a high affinity and specificity for human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). In this study, a clinical imaging trial was conducted to investigate the relationship between 99mTc-NM-02 uptake and HER2 expression in patients with breast cancer.

Methods

Thirty patients with pathologically confirmed breast cancer were recruited and imaged with both 99mTc-NM-02 SPECT/computed tomography (CT) and 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/CT. According to the treatment conditions before recruitment, patients were divided into two groups, the newly diagnosed group (n = 24) and the treated group (n = 6). The maximal standard uptake value (SUVmax) of 18F-FDG and SUVmax and mean SUV (SUVmean) of 99mTc-NM-02 in the lesions were determined to analyze the relationship with HER2 expression.

Results

No meaningful relationship was observed between 18F-FDG uptake and HER2 expression in 30 patients with breast cancer. 99mTc-NM-02 uptake was positively correlated with HER2 expression in the newly diagnosed group, but no correlation was observed in the treated group. 99mTc-NM-02 uptake in HER2-positive lesions was lower in those with effective HER2-targeted therapy compared with the newly diagnosed group. 99mTc-NM-02 SPECT/CT detected brain and bone metastases of breast cancer with a different imaging pattern from 18F-FDG PET/CT. 99mTc-NM-02 showed no non-specific uptake in inflamed tissues and revealed intra- and intertumoral HER2 heterogeneity by SPECT/CT imaging in 9 of the 30 patients with breast cancer.

Conclusions

99mTc-NM-02 SPECT/CT has the potential for visualizing whole-body HER2 overexpression in untreated patients, making it a promising method for HER2 assessment in patients with breast cancer.

Trial registration

NCT04674722, Date of registration: December 19, 2020.
Joint analysis of mutational and transcriptional landscapes in human cancer reveals key perturbations during cancer evolution
Authors: Cho Jae-Won , Cao Jingyi , Hemberg Martin
Published: March 2024

Background

Tumors are able to acquire new capabilities, including traits such as drug resistance and metastasis that are associated with unfavorable clinical outcomes. Single-cell technologies have made it possible to study both mutational and transcriptomic profiles, but as most studies have been conducted on model systems, little is known about cancer evolution in human patients. Hence, a better understanding of cancer evolution could have important implications for treatment strategies.

Results

Here, we analyze cancer evolution and clonal selection by jointly considering mutational and transcriptomic profiles of single cells acquired from tumor biopsies from 49 lung cancer samples and 51 samples with chronic myeloid leukemia. Comparing the two profiles, we find that each clone is associated with a preferred transcriptional state. For metastasis and drug resistance, we find that the number of mutations affecting related genes increases as the clone evolves, while changes in gene expression profiles are limited. Surprisingly, we find that mutations affecting ligand-receptor interactions with the tumor microenvironment frequently emerge as clones acquire drug resistance.

Conclusions

Our results show that lung cancer and chronic myeloid leukemia maintain a high clonal and transcriptional diversity, and we find little evidence in favor of clonal sweeps. This suggests that for these cancers selection based solely on growth rate is unlikely to be the dominating driving force during cancer evolution.
Multi-omics reveals that alkaline mineral water improves the respiratory health and growth performance of transported calves
Authors: Qi Jiancheng , Gan Linli , Huang Fangyuan , Xie Yue , Guo Hongrui , Cui Hengmin , Deng Junliang , Gou Liping , Cai Dongjie , Pan Chunhui , Lu Xia , Shah Ali Mujtaba , Fang Jing , Zuo Zhicai
Published: March 2024

Background

Long-distance transportation, a frequent practice in the cattle industry, stresses calves and results in morbidity, mortality, and growth suppression, leading to welfare concerns and economic losses. Alkaline mineral water (AMW) is an electrolyte additive containing multiple mineral elements and shows stress-mitigating effects on humans and bovines.

Results

Here, we monitored the respiratory health status and growth performance of 60 Simmental calves subjected to 30 hours of road transportation using a clinical scoring system. Within the three days of commingling before the transportation and 30 days after the transportation, calves in the AMW group (n = 30) were supplied with AMW, while calves in the Control group (n = 29) were not. On three specific days, namely the day before transportation (day -3), the 30th day (day 30), and the 60th day (day 60) after transportation, sets of venous blood, serum, and nasopharyngeal swab samples were collected from 20 calves (10 from each group) for routine blood testing, whole blood transcriptomic sequencing, serology detection, serum untargeted metabolic sequencing, and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The field data showed that calves in the AMW group displayed lower rectal temperatures (38.967 ℃ vs. 39.022 ℃; p = 0.004), respiratory scores (0.079 vs. 0.144; p < 0.001), appetite scores (0.024 vs. 0.055; p < 0.001), ocular and ear scores (0.185 vs. 0.338; p < 0.001), nasal discharge scores (0.143 vs. 0.241; p < 0.001), and higher body weight gains (30.870 kg vs. 7.552 kg; p < 0.001). The outcomes of laboratory and high throughput sequencing data revealed that the calves in the AMW group demonstrated higher cellular and humoral immunities, antioxidant capacities, lower inflammatory levels, and intestinal absorption and lipogenesis on days -3 and 60. The nasopharynx 16S rRNA gene microbiome analysis revealed the different composition and structure of the nasopharyngeal microflora in the two groups of calves on day 30. Joint analysis of multi-omics revealed that on days -3 and 30, bile secretion was a shared pathway enriched by differentially expressed genes and metabolites, and there were strong correlations between the differentially expressed metabolites and the main genera in the nasopharynx.

Conclusions

These results suggest that AMW supplementation enhances peripheral immunity, nutrition absorption, and metabolic processes, subsequently affecting the nasopharyngeal microbiota and improving the respiratory health and growth performance of transported calves. This investigation provided a practical approach to mitigate transportation stress and explored its underlying mechanisms, which are beneficial for the development of the livestock industry.
Ectopic epipericardial fat necrosis: a case report
Authors: Yoshino Ryusei , Nakatsubo Masaki , Ujiie Nanami , Ito Akane , Yoshida Nana , Aoki Naoko , Kitada Masahiro
Published: March 2024

Background

Epipericardial fat necrosis (EFN) is a rare disease in which local inflammation and necrosis occur in the adipose tissue surrounding the heart, particularly epicardial fat. Few cases of EFN in which surgical resection was performed have been reported. We report a case of EFN after surgical resection of a right extrapulmonary tumor, in which a malignant disease could not be excluded.

Case presentation

A 75-year-old male patient presented with fever and chest pain. A contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan of the chest revealed a lesion, 53 × 48 mm in size, with mixed fatty density spanning the middle and lower lobes of the right lung. Thoracic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a mass with mixed fat and soft tissue density in the same area; the lesion was contiguous with pericardial fatty tissue. The tumor was diagnosed as a liposarcoma or teratocarcinoma based on imaging results; however, the possibility of lung cancer could not be excluded. Finally, EFN was diagnosed based on the postoperative histopathological examination. The patient underwent surgical resection of the suspected right extrapulmonary tumor. The intraoperative findings revealed a mediastinal mass contiguous with pericardial fat located between the middle and lower lobes. Intraoperative pathological examination of the lesion was performed using a needle biopsy; however, no definitive diagnosis was made. The tumor may have invaded the middle lobe of the right lung, and partial resection of the right lower lobe was performed in addition to resection of the middle lobe of the right lung. The patient was followed up every 3 months without adjuvant therapy. No recurrence was reported at 1 year after surgery.

Conclusion

EFN should be considered in the differential diagnosis of an extrapulmonary tumor when continuity with the pericardial space is observed on MRI or other imaging studies. Surgical resection is useful in the diagnosis and treatment of EFNs. Preoperative three-dimensional reconstructive imaging and MRI should be used to identify vascular structures and confirm the continuity of the lesion with the surrounding tissues to ensure safe and rapid tumor removal.
Dynamic connectedness and hedging opportunities of the commodity and stock markets in China: evidence from the TVP-VAR and cDCC-FIAPARCH
Authors: Li Binlin , Haneklaus Nils , Rahman Mohammad Mafizur
Published: March 2024

This study examines the dynamic connectedness and hedging opportunities between CSI300 (China Security Index 300) and copper, gold, PTA (purified terephthalic acid), and soybean in China from January 09, 2008, to June 30, 2023. A TVP-VAR and cDCC-FIAPARCH modeling framework was used for the empirical investigation. The results show that the total connectedness index can effectively capture cross-asset information transmission in China’s financial markets. Copper returns are the dominant volatility transmitters, while CSI300, gold, and soybean returns are net recipients. The Russian–Ukraine war reinforced the safe-haven role of gold. Finally, investors with CSI300 long positions may benefit from prioritizing gold for hedging, while those with CSI300 short positions profit more from allocating gold to PTA. Portfolio managers and investors can use the findings to track the dynamics of systemic risk and adjust their long/short positions when investing in China's stock and commodity markets.
Relationship between automated choroidal thickness measurements and retinal sensitivity using microperimetry in patients with myopia and different stages of myopic maculopathy
Authors: da Silva Fillipe de Biaggi Borges , Silva Luis Claudio Pimentel , Cunha Leonardo Provetti , Zacharias Leandro Cabral , Navajas Eduardo V. , Monteiro Mario L. R. , Preti Rony C.
Published: March 2024

Purpose

To assess the relationship between macular choroidal thickness (CT) measurements and retinal sensitivity (RS) in eyes with myopia and different stages of myopic maculopathy.

Methods

A masked, cross-sectional, and consecutive study involving patients with emmetropia/myopia (control group) and high myopia (HM) eyes. Automated choroidal thickness (CT) and manual outer retinal layer (ORL) thickness were acquired using swept-source optical coherence tomography, while retinal sensitivity (RS) assessed by microperimetry (MP3) in all regions of the macular Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) grid. Comparisons were made between groups, and correlations were performed among these measurements, demographic and ocular parameters and myopic maculopathy classification.

Results

A total of 37 (74 eyes) patients were included in the study. The mean age was 39 ± 13 years, and 28 patients (76%) were female. HM eyes exhibited inferior best-corrected visual acuity and a more advanced myopic maculopathy classification compared to the control group. The mean macular CT were 255 and 179 μm in the control and HM eyes (P < 0.001), respectively. In the HM eyes, superior ETDRS region presented the greatest values. Mean RS in control and HM groups was 28 and 24 dB (P = 0.001), respectively. Inner temporal followed by superior, were the regions of higher RS. Mean ORL thickness was 83 and 79 μm (P < 0.001), in the control and HM groups, respectively. The inner temporal ETDRS region presented the thickest measure. CT correlated significantly with RS (r = 0.41, P < 0.001) and ORL thickness, (r = 0.58, P < 0.001), which also correlated with RS (r = 0.40, P < 0.001). Spherical equivalent, axial length and myopic maculopathy stage were the parameters that most correlated with CT, RS and ORL thickness. For every 100 μm increase in thickening of CT there was an average increase of 3.4 μm in ORL thickness and 2.7 dB in RS. Myopic maculopathy classification demonstrated influence only with CT.

Conclusion

Myopia degree is related to ORL and choroidal thinning and deterioration of retinal sensitivity in some ETDRS regions of the macula. Choroidal thinning is associated to with a decline of retinal sensitivity, thinning of ORL, and worsening of myopic maculopathy classification, so new treatments are necessary to prevent myopia progression.
Seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis among children with autism
Authors: El-Sayed Shaimaa Helmy , Al-Shewy Khaled Abdel Haleim , Abdin Emad Mearouf , Hasan Haytham Mohamad
Published: March 2024

Background

Toxoplasmosis is considered one of the most common public health troubles. Among these health troubles, toxoplasmosis was recently linked to many neuropsychiatric and behavioral disorders, especially autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The purpose of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in children with ASD.

Methods

The study was conducted on 100 children, grouped in two groups; group 1 (patient group) included 50 children with ASD and group 2 (control group) included 50 healthy children. ASD in the patient group was diagnosed according to DSM 5 criteria of ASD. Every child involved in this study underwent a history taking, a clinical examination, and laboratory investigations to detect serum anti-Toxoplasma IgG and IgM antibodies using ELISA. Children of the patient group were further assessed using the Childhood Autism Rating Scale to evaluate the severity of their symptoms.

Results

The seroprevalence of IgG among ASD children was highly significant compared to the healthy children. The detected difference between the 2 groups regarding seroprevalence of anti-Toxoplasma IgM antibodies was insignificant. No significant correlation could be demonstrated between Toxoplasma infection and severity of autistic symptoms in the ASD group. Furthermore, the study revealed an increase in anti-Toxoplasma IgG antibodies in ASD children with positive family history of ASD rather than those with no such history. In addition, an increase in seroprevalence of both anti-Toxoplasma antibodies among children with low socioeconomic standards compared to children with moderate or high standards.

Conclusions

The study revealed that the old but not the recent infection with Toxoplasma in children could be linked to their ASD.
Effectiveness of Endoscopic Screening on Esophageal Cancer Incidence and Mortality: A 9-Year Report of the Endoscopic Screening for Esophageal Cancer in China (ESECC) Randomized Trial
Authors: Liu Mengfei , Yang Wenlei , Guo Chuanhai , Liu Zhen , Li Fenglei , Liu Anxiang , Yang Haijun , Shen Lin , Wu Qi , Duan Liping , Wang Hui , Tian Hongrui , Shi Chao , Pan Yaqi , Liu Ying , Liu Fangfang , Weiss Noel S. , Cai Hong , He Zhonghu , Ke Yang
Published: March 2024

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effectiveness of endoscopic screening against incidence of and mortality from esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).

METHODS

From January 2012 to September 2016, we conducted a community-based cluster randomized controlled trial involving permanent residents age 45-69 years in a high-risk region for ESCC in northern China. A total of 668 targeted villages were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to the screening group (offered Lugol's chromoendoscopy) or control group (no screening). Intention-to-treat and per-protocol analyses were performed to compare esophageal cancer (EC) incidence and mortality between the two groups. The per-protocol analysis adjusted for nonadherence to the screening procedure.

RESULTS

A total of 33,847 participants were included in the analysis: 17,104 in the screening group, 15,165 (88.7%) of whom underwent screening, and 16,743 in the control group. During a maximum follow-up of 9 years, EC incidence in the screening and control groups were 60.9 and 72.5 per 100,000 person-years, respectively; mortality in the screening and control groups were 29.7 and 32.4 per 100,000 person-years, respectively. Compared with the control group, the incidence and mortality of the screening group reduced by 19% (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.81 [95% CI, 0.60 to 1.09]) and 18% (aHR, 0.82 [95% CI, 0.53 to 1.26]), respectively, in the intention-to-treat analysis; and by 22% (aHR, 0.78 [95% CI, 0.56 to 1.10]) and 21% (aHR, 0.79 [95% CI, 0.49 to 1.30]), respectively, in the per-protocol analysis.

CONCLUSION

With a 9-year follow-up, our trial suggests that chromoendoscopic screening induces modest reductions in EC incidence and mortality. A more efficient strategy for EC screening and subsequent patient management should be established to guarantee the effectiveness of endoscopic screening.
Perceived Barriers Toward Patient-Reported Outcome Implementation in Cancer Care: An International Scoping Survey
Authors: Eng Lawson , Chan Raymond J. , Chan Alexandre , Charalambous Andreas , Darling H.S. , Grech Lisa , van den Hurk Corina J.G. , Kirk Deborah , Mitchell Sandra A. , Poprawski Dagmara , Rammant Elke , Ramsey Imogen , Fitch Margaret I. , Cheung Yin Ting
Published: March 2024

PURPOSE

Implementation of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) collection is an important priority in cancer care. We examined perceived barriers toward implementing PRO collection between centers with and without PRO infrastructure and administrators and nonadministrators.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We performed a multinational survey of oncology practitioners on their perceived barriers to PRO implementations. Multivariable regression models evaluated for differences in perceived barriers to PRO implementation between groups, adjusted for demographic and institutional variables.

RESULTS

Among 358 oncology practitioners representing six geographic regions, 31% worked at centers that did not have PRO infrastructure and 26% self-reported as administrators. Administrators were more likely to perceive concerns with liability issues (aOR, 2.00 [95% CI, 1.12 to 3.57];
P
= .02) while having nonsignificant trend toward less likely perceiving concerns with disruption of workflow (aOR, 0.58 [95% CI, 0.32 to 1.03];
P
= .06) and nonadherence of PRO reporting (aOR, 0.53 [95% CI, 0.26 to 1.08];
P
= .08) as barriers. Respondents from centers without PRO infrastructure were more likely to perceive that not having access to a local PRO expert (aOR, 6.59 [95% CI, 3.81 to 11.42];
P
< .001), being unsure how to apply PROs in clinical decisions (aOR, 4.20 [95% CI, 2.32 to 7.63];
P
< .001), and being unsure about selecting PRO measures (aOR, 3.36 [95% CI, 2.00 to 5.66];
P
< .001) as barriers. Heat map analyses identified the largest differences between participants from centers with and without PRO infrastructure in agreed-upon barriers were (1) not having a local PRO expert, (2) being unsure about selecting PRO measures, and (3) not recognizing the role of PROs at the institutional level.

CONCLUSION

Perceived barriers toward PRO implementation differ between administrators and nonadministrators and practitioners at centers with and without PRO infrastructure. PRO implementation teams should consider as part of a comprehensive strategy including frontline clinicians and administrators and members with PRO experience within teams.
Buddhism, Heaven, and the Yellow Springs
Authors: Yi Zhao
Published: March 2024

Funerary jars called hunping were only produced within a short time frame (250s–320s ce) and in one specific region (southeastern China). Their function, the reason for their emergence, and the nature of their Buddha-like images have been controversial. By analyzing the basic structure and pictorial programs on hunping, this essay argues that they embody a binary structure comprising “heaven atop the axis mundi of Mount Kunlun” and the “underworld at the Yellow Springs.” In the third century, beliefs about “binary souls” changed. People in the south started to believe that the spiritual soul of the deceased (hun), traditionally worshipped at a family shrine, could instead be buried in a tomb. Moreover, they also worried about the haunting by the ghosts turned from the bodily souls whose corpuses decomposed too fast. This essay considers hunping as vessels to send binary souls each to their own place, heaven or the underworld. To better preach Buddhism with the approach of “match meaning” (geyi), early clerics adapted the cosmological theme of heaven and axis mundi by associating Mount Kunlun with Mount Sumeru and the Chinese heaven with Trāyastrimsa. They peopled Mount Sumeru with Buddhist arhats to replace the immortals on Mount Kunlun. Most of the Buddha-like images that appear on hunping depict those arhats.
The incubation environment does not explain significant variation in heart rate plasticity among avian embryos
Authors: Cones Alexandra G. , Schneider Eve R. , Westneat David F.
Published: March 2024

The conditions an organism experiences during development can modify how they plastically respond to short-term changes in their environment later in life. This can be adaptive because the optimal average trait value and the optimal plastic change in trait value in response to the environment may differ across different environments. For example, early developmental temperatures can adaptively modify how reptiles, fish and invertebrates metabolically respond to temperature. However, whether individuals within populations respond differently (a prerequisite to adaptive evolution), and whether this occurs in birds, which are only ectothermic for part of their life cycle, is not known. We experimentally tested these possibilities by artificially incubating the embryos of Pekin ducks (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus) at constant or variable temperatures. We measured their consequent heart rate reaction norms to short-term changes in egg temperature and tracked their growth. Contrary to expectations, the early thermal environment did not modify heart rate reaction norms, but regardless, these reaction norms differed among individuals. Embryos with higher average heart rates were smaller upon hatching, but heart rate reaction norms did not predict subsequent growth. Our data also suggests that the thermal environment may affect both the variance in heart rate reaction norms and their covariance with growth. Thus, individual avian embryos can vary in their plasticity to temperature, and in contrast to fully ectothermic taxa, the early thermal environment does not explain this variance. Because among-individual variation is one precondition to adaptive evolution, the factors that do contribute to such variability may be important.
Risk Factors of Open Surgery Conversion in Laparoscopic Partial Nephrectomy to Achieve Nephron Sparing
Authors: Keskin Emin Taha , Can Osman , Özdemir Harun , Şam Özdemir Merve , Tataroğlu Özgür Deniz , Şimşek Abdülmuttalip
Published: March 2024

Objectives

We aimed to evaluate the risk factors for the conversion from laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) to open surgery to achieve partial nephrectomy (PN).

Methods

Data from patients who underwent LPN between June 2020 and September 2023 were analyzed retrospectively. Patients in whom the PN procedure could be completed laparoscopically were recorded as the ‘Fully Laparoscopic’ (FL) group (n = 97), and those converted to open surgery from laparoscopy were recorded as the ‘Conversion to Open’ (CTO) group (n = 10). The demographic and pathologic variables were compared between groups. Regression analyses were used to define predictor factors, and receiver operating characteristic analysis was used to define the cut-off value of the surgical bleeding volume.

Results

Conversion to open surgery was found in 10/107 patients (9.3%). There was no statistical difference between groups in demographic and pathologic variables. Intraoperative blood loss volume, upper pole localized tumor, and posterior localized tumor were found to be statistically higher in the CTO group (p = 0.001, p = 0.001, and p = 0.043, respectively). Furthermore, these factors were only found to be statistically significant predictors of conversion to open surgery in both univariate and multivariate regression analyses. 235 cc was found to be the cut-off value of intraoperative blood loss volume for predicting conversion to open surgery (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

Using these predictive factors in clinical practice, treatment planning will lead to the possibility of starting the treatment directly with open surgery instead of minimally invasive options, and it may also provide a chance of being prepared for the possibility of conversion to open surgery peroperatively.
DA HIPERVULNERABILIDADE DO CONSUMIDOR IDOSO FRENTE AO SUPERENDIVIDAMENTO
Authors: Fazolli Silvio Alexandre , Dias Maria Eduarda Frazatto , Pinzan Pedro Henrique Roncada
Published: March 2024

Contextualização: Na contemporaneidade, desenvolveu-se aquilo que pode ser denominado de sociedade de massa, que é marcada, principalmente, pelo consumo excessivo de bens materiais e por diversos abusos em face de sujeitos vulneráveis, como é o caso dos idosos. No sentido de proteger tais indivíduos, surge a Lei nº 14.181/2021, a qual busca estabelecer o reconhecimento da condição hipervulnerável da pessoa idosa e do dever de salvaguarda de seus direitos defronte ao superendividamento.
Objetivo: Investigar as implicações proporcionadas pela Lei nº 14.181/2021, especialmente no sentido de perquirir os contornos da hipervulnerabilidade do idoso e sua propensão ao endividamento excessivo, sem, contudo, ignorar as inovações proporcionadas pelo princípio do crédito responsável, o combate ao assédio de consumo, bem como o instituto da repactuação de dívidas do consumidor superendividado.
Metodologia: O presente estudo foi conduzido por meio da seleção de bibliografia especializada, bem como de entendimentos jurisprudenciais recentes e decisões proferidas pelo Conselho Nacional de Autorregulamentação Publicitária, utilizando-se, para isso, do método dedutivo.
Conclusões: Os preceitos tratados pela Lei nº 14.181/2021, além de criarem e reforçarem os direitos e as garantias individuais do idoso devidamente reconhecidos pelo ordenamento jurídico, estabelecem ainda novas óticas ao tratamento do endividamento excessivo do idoso como consumidor hipervulnerável.
Што то єст лемківска/русиньска штука і ци тото звіданя ма буд-якє значыня?
Authors: Duć-Fajfer Helena
Published: March 2024

CZYM JEST SZTUKA ŁEMKOWSKA/RUSIŃSKA I CZY TO PYTANIE MA JAKIEKOLWIEK ZNACZENIE?W artykule poddane zostaje opiniowaniu i refleksji pojęcie sztuki łemkowskiej/ rusińskiej zmierzające do uzyskania ogólnego oglądu procesu włączania etnicznych wyobrażeń o swojej sztuce/kulturze w pole nowoczesności. Refleksja bazuje na autorskim doświadczeniu w wypełnianiu dziedzictwa kulturowego wspólnoty tekstami interpretowanymi w kodzie wartości rdzennych, którym nadaje się sensy i cele etniczne i ukazuje jako żywy proces budowania tożsamości w oparciu o ciągłość pamięci wspólnotowej. Na podstawie odpowiedzi na pytania z ankiety rozesłanej do osób opiniotwórczych oraz wywiadów, w których postawione zostały pytania o sens i treść pojęcia sztuki łemkowskiej/rusińskiej, a także o granice tego pojęcia, rozwijana jest w artykule refleksja o dylematach, wyzwaniach, funkcji, wykluczeniach, zawłaszczeniach w obrębie sztuki tożsamościowej wspólnot mniejszych, nie posiadających instytucjonalnego zabezpieczenia dla swych osiągnięć kulturowych. Ukazany jest też folklorowy mechanizm działający w oparciu o estetykę tożsamości, który zastępuje instytucje w wyznaczaniu granic swojego i obcego, w adaptowaniu elementów zewnętrznych do własnego, uspójniającego systemu wartości, bądź w wykraczaniu poza wspólnotowe granice na własnych zasadach, bez tracenia związku z rodzimym gruntem. Konkluzją z tych rozważań jest konstatacja o wciąż żywym mechanizmie kultury łemkowskiej/rusińskiej, który pozwala wspólnocie mierzyć się z wyzwaniami współczesności dzięki dysponowaniu wartościami i dobrami kulturowymi, które ją upodmiotawiają i reprezentują.
Academic Advising’s Hidden Role in Fostering Validation/Belonging Leading to Improved Grades
Authors: DeRosa Erin L.
Published: March 2024

Recognizing the increasing role academic advising has come to play in student success strategies, this quantitative study sought to explore the relationships between advising, validation/belonging, and students’ college grade point average (GPA). The researcher also examined how students’ marginalized status played a role in these relationships. A national sample of 7,211 graduating senior students was used to test a path model. Multiple regression analyses revealed that while there was no direct relationship between advising and GPA, advising had an indirect impact on GPA via students’ experiences of validation/belonging. Moving forward, student success strategies should situate validating practices that foster belonging and validation at the center of advising interventions.
The Declaration of Independence and the Language of Slavery
Authors: Boulton Alexander
Published: March 2024

Abstract: It is often noted that the word “slavery” does not appear in the U.S. Constitution, but it is rarely noted that it also does not appear in the Declaration of Independence. This is surprising since the idea that the American colonists were being “enslaved” by Great Britain was a consistent theme of patriot rhetoric in the months leading up to the outbreak of the war. This article describes how during the process of writing, editing, and revising by Jefferson, Franklin, Adams, and the Continental Congress virtually all mentions of slavery disappeared from the final document. These deletions of specific references to slavery elevated the Declaration from being a document merely reflecting the specific and particular moment of its creation to a document espousing abstract, universal values.
Tennessee's New South: Marquita Bradshaw and Her Call for Environmental Justice
Authors: Scholer Phil
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT: In 2020 Marquita Bradshaw became the first African American woman to win a state-wide race in Tennessee, soaring past her establishment opponents to clinch the Democratic primary for United States Senate. Throughout her campaign, Bradshaw evoked the increasingly popular progressive rallying cry "New South." Bradshaw's vision for a New South is characterized by her call for environmental justice. By speaking about her personal experience with environmental racism, Bradshaw organized a compelling campaign rooted in environmental justice and economic equity based on class solidarity. This article analyzes the powerful yet often overlooked part of Bradshaw's campaign: the religious underpinnings of her environmental justice advocacy. It also examines the historical significance of Bradshaw's use of the term "New South" and how Bradshaw interprets Memphis journalist Ida B. Wells as an inspiration for her movement.
Measuring non-linear Faraday rotation in cold atoms in presence of persistent transverse fields using tunable differential imaging
Authors: Garain Sujit , Sahoo Surya Narayan , Mohapatra Ashok K.
Published: March 2024

Non-linear Faraday rotation in cold atoms promises precision magnetometry due to narrower magnetic resonance linewidth compared to the linear Faraday effect. Imaging techniques based on linear Faraday effect have emerged as a tool to characterize the dynamics of ultracold atomic clouds. Using a camera instead of balanced detectors, we can obtain the spatial distribution of polarization rotation in a uniformly intense optical beam. However, the finite dynamic range of the imaging device limits the sensitivity to measure non-linear Faraday rotation at a given incident power. Here, we experimentally demonstrate a differential imaging technique in which we can tune parameters to improve contrast and the sensitivity to the non-linear Faraday rotation signal by a factor of ≈7 over existing imaging methods. The atomic cloud experiences a uniform optical field even when shifted by persistent magnetic fields making the method robust. This allows us to study the effect of transverse fields on non-linear Faraday rotation in ultra-cold atoms, paving the way toward spatially resolved vector magnetometry.
Modulation format recognition in a UVLC system based on an ultra-lightweight model with communication-informed knowledge distillation
Authors: Yao Li , Li Fujie , Zhang Haoyu , Zhou Yingjun , Wei Yuan , Li Ziwei , Shi Jiangyang , Zhang Junwen , Shen Chao , Chi Nan
Published: March 2024

Modulation format recognition (MFR) is a key technology for adaptive optical systems, but it faces significant challenges in underwater visible light communication (UVLC) due to the complex channel environment. Recent advances in deep learning have enabled remarkable achievements in image recognition, owing to the powerful feature extraction of neural networks (NN). However, the high computational complexity of NN limits their practicality in UVLC systems. This paper proposes a communication-informed knowledge distillation (CIKD) method that achieves high-precision and low-latency MFR with an ultra-lightweight student model. The student model consists of only one linear dense layer under a communication-informed auxiliary system and is trained under the guidance of a high-complexity and high-precision teacher model. The MFR task involves eight modulation formats: PAM4, QPSK, 8QAM-CIR, 8QAM-DIA, 16QAM, 16APSK, 32QAM, and 32APSK. Experimental results show that the student model based on CIKD can achieve comparable accuracy to the teacher model. After knowledge transfer, the prediction accuracy of the student model can be increased by up to 87%. Besides, it is worth noting that CIKD’s inference accuracy can reach up to 100%. Moreover, the parameters constituting the student model in CIKD correspond to merely 18% of the parameters found in the teacher model, which facilitates the hardware deployment and online data processing of MFR algorithms in UVLC systems.
Experimental demonstration of 17.5 Gb/s physical layer key distribution over 100 km fiber link based on channel physical intrinsic property and polarization reciprocity
Authors: Qiu Taihang , Deng Lei , Yang Qi , Dai Xiaoxiao , Liu Deming , Cheng Mengfan
Published: March 2024

Secure key distribution (SKD) schemes based on fiber channel reciprocity provide information-theoretic security as well as a simple symmetric structure. However, the nonlinear effects and backscattering effects introduced during the bidirectional transmission process degrade the channel reciprocity. Recent unidirectional SKD schemes avoid non-reciprocal factors but require additional negotiation mechanisms to aggregate the transmitter and receiver data. Here, we propose a unidirectional SKD scheme based on channel physical intrinsic property and polarization reciprocity. The designed loopback structure constructs asymmetry between legitimate and illegitimate parties while aggregating data. The deployment of a broadband chaotic entropy source significantly improves the key generation rate (KGR). In the experiment, the KGR reaches 17.5 Gb/s, and the distribution distance reaches 100 km.
Digitales Prozessmanagement: Eine Reflexion aus praktischer Sicht zur Förderung des Austauschs zwischen Forschung und Praxis
Authors: Schönig Stefan , Jablonski Stefan
Published: March 2024

Prozessmanagement ist sowohl in der Wissenschaft als auch in der Praxis weit verbreitet. Wir möchten persönliche Einblicke in beide Bereiche teilen, um die weitere Entwicklung und Anwendung von Prozessmanagementkonzepten zu fördern. Wir setzen uns für einen intensiveren Dialog zwischen Wissenschaft und Industrie ein. Aus praktischer Sicht müssen kritische Aspekte wie die organisatorische und sicherheitstechnische Perspektive intensiver erforscht und umgesetzt werden. Praktikable, umsetzbare akademische Prototypen sind entscheidend, um diese Lücken zu schließen. Vielversprechende Konzepte aus der Wissenschaft, wie die Modellierung von Organisationen und sicherheitstechnische Perspektiven, finden oft keine effektive Umsetzung in praktische Prozessmanagementprodukte, wie durch relevante Projekte nachgewiesen wird.
Model design choices impact biological insight: Unpacking the broad landscape of spatial-temporal model development decisions
Authors: Yu Jessica S. , Bagheri Neda
Published: March 2024

Computational models enable scientists to understand observed dynamics, uncover rules underlying behaviors, predict experimental outcomes, and generate new hypotheses. There are countless modeling approaches that can be used to characterize biological systems, further multiplied when accounting for the variety of model design choices. Many studies focus on the impact of model parameters on model output and performance; fewer studies investigate the impact of model design choices on biological insight. Here we demonstrate why model design choices should be deliberate and intentional in context of the specific research system and question. In this study, we analyze agnostic and broadly applicable modeling choices at three levels—system, cell, and environment—within the same agent-based modeling framework to interrogate their impact on temporal, spatial, and single-cell emergent dynamics. We identify key considerations when making these modeling choices, including the (i) differences between qualitative vs. quantitative results driven by choices in system representation, (ii) impact of cell-to-cell variability choices on cell-level and temporal trends, and (iii) relationship between emergent outcomes and choices of nutrient dynamics in the environment. This generalizable investigation can help guide the choices made when developing biological models that aim to characterize spatial-temporal dynamics.
Special function form solutions of multi-parameter generalized Mittag-Leffler kernel based bio-heat fractional order model subject to thermal memory shocks
Authors: Riaz Muhammad Bilal , Rehman Aziz Ur , Martinovic Jan , Abbas Muhammad
Published: March 2024

The primary objective of this research is to develop a mathematical model, analyze the dynamic occurrence of thermal shock and exploration of how thermal memory with moving line impact of heat transfer within biological tissues. An extended version of the Pennes equation as its foundational framework, a new fractional modelling approach called the Prabhakar fractional operator to investigate and a novel time-fractional interpretation of Fourier’s law that incorporates its historical behaviour. This fractional operator has multi parameter generalized Mittag-Leffler kernel. The fractional formulation of heat flow, achieved through a generalized fractional operator with a non-singular type kernel, enables the representation of the finite propagation speed of heat waves. Furthermore, the dynamics of thermal source continually generates a linear thermal shock at predefined locations within the tissue. Introduced the appropriate set of variables to transform the governing equations into dimensionless form. Laplace transform (LT) is operated on the fractional system of equations and results are presented in series form and also expressed the solution in the form of special functions. The article derives analytical solutions for the heat transfer phenomena of both the generalized model, in the Laplace domain, and the ordinary model in the real domain, employing Laplace inverse transformation. The pertinent parameter’s influence, such as α, β, γ, a0, b0, to gain insights into the impact of the thermal memory parameter on heat transfer, is brought under consideration to reveal the interesting results with graphical representations of the findings.
Expectations, experiences and challenges of nursing students using the virtual learning medium during the COVID-19 pandemic: A descriptive phenomenological study
Authors: Gracious Puoza Deo , Armah Jerry , Boateng Edward Appiah , Bam Victoria , Dzomeku Veronica , Kyei-Dompim Joana , Oklodu-Abbey Ampem Darko , Amponsah Abigail Kusi
Published: March 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic caused several higher educational institutions to switch from traditional face-to-face to virtual learning medium. This abrupt shift came with new expectations, experiences and challenges to nursing/ midwifery students, particularly new users, and even more so when preparation, orientation, and support were lacking or ineffective. The present study therefore aimed at exploring the expectations, experiences and challenges of nursing students using the virtual learning medium during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

This was a descriptive phenomenological design using 12 purposively sampled nursing and midwifery students from a public university in Ghana. With the aid of a semi-structured guide, individual face-to-face interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim at a later time and deductively analyzed into themes using the customer experience execution model.

Results

Participants were aged 22–36 years and involved equal number of males and females (n = 6), with majority being Christians (n = 11). Six themes were generated from the study: (1) “Initial thoughts and emotions” described participants initial reactions to the virtual educational medium during the pandemic; (2) "Expectations with the virtual medium" referred to the participants’ anticipations regarding the convenience offered by the virtual medium; (3) "Experiences with the virtual medium" depicted the participants’ recognition of both positive and negative encounters while using the virtual learning platform; (4) “Evaluation and recommendation” described participants’ reports of meeting expectations and recommendations they made to enhance virtual learning; (5) "Challenges and limitations of the virtual medium" typically represented the obstacles encountered by nursing/ midwifery students when they embraced the virtual medium; (6) “Prospects of the virtual medium” referred to participants’ views on the future of the virtual medium.

Conclusion

The study has brought to light that the virtual education environment comes with its own expectations, experiences and challenges to students. Provision of adequate support such as orientation and simulation laboratories by higher education institutions to satisfy students’ needs is necessary to enhance nursing education.
Planetary health: Sickness, the environment and air in film
Authors: Konrad Tatiana
Published: March 2024

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic reminds us that human and more-than-human health is connected to environmental (un)health. This article explores the linkages between health and the environment in cinema. It draws on such issues as pandemics, pollution and air to illustrate how films like Wolfgang Petersen’s Outbreak (1995), Todd Haynes’s Safe (1995), M. Night Shyamalan’s The Happening (2008), Steven Soderbergh’s Contagion (2011) and Colm McCarthy’s The Girl with All the Gifts (2016), each in their unique ways, address the problem of planetary health. Airborne zoonoses, monstrous plants, toxic fungi and pollution – the films tackle all these issues to emphasize invisible danger, toxicity and sickness that surround humans and more-than-humans alike. Connecting the ideas of health and well-being to the environment and illustrating how this nexus becomes visible in film, specifically through air, this article calls for justice, consideration and care of planetary health. Explicating the tight linkages between pandemics, climate change and environmental degradation at large, as depicted in the selected cinematic examples, this article claims that the recognition of humanity’s dependence on and responsibility for more-than-humans is crucial in times of environmental and health crises.