bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neue Arzneimittel für Pferde und landwirtschaftliche Nutztiere
2023
Authors: Emmerich Ilka Ute
Published: May 2024

Im Jahr 2023 kam für Pferde und landwirtschaftliche Nutztiere kein neuer
Wirkstoff auf den deutschen Tierarzneimittelmarkt. Zwei Wirkstoffe erhielten
eine Tierartenerweiterung. Die Phosphorverbindung Butafosfan wurde auch für
Pferde, Hunde und Katzen und das Mineral Natriumchlorid als isotonische
Natriumchloridlösung auch für Kaninchen und Meerschweinchen zugelassen. Des
Weiteren kamen auf den Markt: ein Wirkstoff (Pergolidmesilat) in einer neuen
Darreichungsform und einem niedrigeren Wirkstoffgehalt, ein Wirkstoff
(Fluralaner) in einer kleineren Packungsgröße sowie ein Wirkstoff
(Oxalsäuredihydrat) mit einer neuen Anwendungsart. Außerdem ist eine
Wirkstoffkombination (Diprophyllin + Heptaminol) wieder auf dem Markt für Pferde
und landwirtschaftliche Nutztiere verfügbar.
Fetal Hyperthyroidism Secondary to Maternal Basedow–Graves' Disease
Authors: Soto Julio , Weissglas Bunio , von Plessing-Pierry Gustav , del Solar Maria Paz , Peña-Villa Carolina , Flores Ximena , Arancibia Monica , Campos Laura
Published: May 2024

Fetal hyperthyroidism is a rare prenatal disease and can be life-threatening. The diagnosis is based on ultrasound in mothers with a history of Basedow–Graves' disease and elevation of thyrotropin receptor antibodies (TRAbs) levels. The treatment consists of antithyroid drugs. We present a mother with Basedow–Graves' disease, treated with radioactive iodine 16 years ago. She had an unplanned pregnancy at the age of 29 years, and an elevation of TRAbs (21 U/L) was found at the sixth week of pregnancy. At 22 weeks of gestation, fetal ultrasound displayed tachycardia, goiter, exophthalmos, and suspicion of craniosynostosis, hence methimazole was started. Concomitantly, suppressed maternal thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) was found. Her daughter was born at 33 + 6 weeks showing clinical and laboratory findings of hyperthyroidism. Consequently, treatment with methimazole was prescribed. Normal thyroid function was documented in the mother after giving birth. Clear explanation has not been found for the alteration of maternal TSH during pregnancy.
Pregnancy-Associated Onset of Adult-Onset Still's Disease
Authors: Zayat Nawras , Arora Avish , O'Brien Joselle , Bal Japjot , Sugarman Rebekah , Rivera Leeshun , Shamshirsaz Amir , Vani Kavita , Mastrogiannis Dimitrios S.
Published: May 2024

Objective This study aims to elucidate the clinical manifestations, diagnostic challenges, and management strategies of adult-onset Still's disease (AOSD) during pregnancy, leveraging a case series overview and a detailed case report from our center.

Study Design A comprehensive review of 21 published case reports on AOSD diagnosed during pregnancy was conducted, alongside a detailed case report of a patient diagnosed and managed at our center. This study emphasizes the importance of recognizing AOSD in pregnant patients, outlines the therapeutic challenges encountered, and discusses the potential complications arising from the disease and its treatment.

Results The onset of AOSD during pregnancy predominantly occurs in the first or second trimester, with a polycyclic disease course observed in most cases. Management primarily involves corticosteroids and immunosuppressive medications, balancing the disease control with potential pregnancy complications. The case report highlights the complex interplay between AOSD, hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, and pregnancy, illustrating a multidisciplinary approach to management that ensured favorable maternal and fetal outcomes despite the significant challenges.

Conclusion AOSD presents unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges during pregnancy, requiring careful consideration of maternal and fetal health. Early diagnosis, a multidisciplinary approach to care, and judicious use of immunosuppressive therapy are critical for managing AOSD flares and associated complications. Further research is necessary to optimize care for this rare condition in the context of pregnancy.
Superoxide Anions Inhibit Intracellular Calcium Response in Porcine Airway Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Krishnan Ramesh , Kannan Mathur S. , Deshpande Deepak A.
Published: May 2024

Background Superoxide anions (O2
−) have multiple effects on pulmonary parenchyma altering cell proliferation, cellular metabolism, and airway smooth muscle (ASM) contraction. Intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) concentration plays a significant role in the regulation of ASM contraction, relaxation, proliferation, and gene expression.

Objective We investigated the effects of O2
− on agonist-stimulated changes in [Ca2+]i in ASM cells.

Design/Methods Fura-2 AM-loaded, freshly isolated porcine ASM (PASM) cells were used to examine [Ca2+]i release in response to acetylcholine (ACh), histamine, endothelin, caffeine, and thapsigargin (TPG) in the presence or absence of extracellular Ca2+.

Results Exposure of PASM cells to xanthine and xanthine oxidase (X + XO) resulted in a time-dependent generation of O2
−, inhibited by superoxide dismutase (SOD). Preincubating PASM cells with X + XO for 15- or 45-minute inhibited net [Ca2+]i responses to ACh, histamine, caffeine, and TPG compared with control cells. Pretreating PASM cells with SOD for 30 minutes mitigated the inhibitory effect of X + XO treatment on ACh-induced Ca2+ elevation suggesting role of O2
−. X + XO treatment also inhibited caffeine- and TPG-induced Ca2+ elevation suggesting effect of O2
− on [Ca2+]i release and reuptake mechanisms.

Conclusion Superoxide attenuates [Ca2+]i release, reuptake, and may interfere with physiological functions of ASM cells.
Indications for Intravenous T3 and T4
Authors: Feldkamp Jasper David , Feldkamp Joachim
Published: May 2024

Therapy with thyroid hormones normally is restricted to substitution therapy of
patients with primary or secondary hypothyroidism. Typically, thyroid hormones
are given orally. There are few indications for intravenous use of thyroid
hormones. Indications for parenteral application are insufficient resorption of
oral medications due to alterations of the gastrointestinal tract, partial or
total loss of consciousness, sedation in the intensive care unit or shock. In
almost all cases, levothyroxine is the therapy of choice including congenital
hypothyroidism. In preterm infants with an altered thyroid hormone status,
studies with thyroid hormones including intravenous liothyronine showed a
normalisation of T3 levels and in some cases an amelioration of parameters of
ventilation. A benefit for mortality or later morbidity could not be seen.
Effects on neurological improvements later in life are under discussion.
Decreased thyroid hormone levels are often found after cardiac surgery in
infants and adults. Intravenous therapy with thyroid hormones improves the
cardiac index, but in all other parameters investigated, no substantial effect
on morbidity and mortality could be demonstrated. Oral liothyronine therapy in
these situations was equivalent to an intravenous route of application. In
myxoedema coma, intravenous levothyroxine is given for 3 to 10 days until the
patient can take oral medication and normal resorption in the gastrointestinal
tract is achieved by restoring at least peripheral euthyroidism. Intravenous
levothyroxine is the standard in treating patients with myxoedema coma. A
protective effect on the heart of i.v. levothyroxine in brain-dead organ donors
may be possible.
Training in Endoscopic Endonasal Neurosurgical Procedures: A Systematic Review of Available Models
Authors: Porto Edoardo , Rodas Alejandra , Sun Hanyao , Revuelta Barbero Juan Manuel , Cosgrove Megan , Tariciotti Leonardo , Perin Alessandro , Zada Gabriel , DiMeco Francesco , Solares Clementino Arturo , Garzon-Muvdi Tomas , Pradilla Gustavo
Published: May 2024

Background Proficiency in endoscopic endonasal neurosurgery (EEN) requires a unique skill set and is associated with a steep learning curve. Endoscopic simulation models present an opportunity for trainees to enhance their surgical skills and anatomical knowledge in a risk-free environment. To date, four main categories of training modalities have been recorded: cadaveric, synthetic, animal, and virtual reality (VR) models.

Objective To analyze the features, advantages, and disadvantages of each EEN training model, describe the stages of simulation training, and propose future directions and an algorithm for EEN training.

Methods A comprehensive search was performed including studies published before August 2023. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed in the search and selection of studies included. Terms for searching title and abstract were (“simulation”) AND (“endoscopic endonasal”) AND (“neurosurgery”). Articles were screened for duplicates.

Results We identified 176 references, and 43 studies met the inclusion criteria. Twelve articles described cadaveric models, with 7 of them studying internal carotid artery injury management and 3 of them cerebrospinal leak management; 14 articles illustrated synthetic models, 1 article described animal models, and 16 articles outlined VR simulations.

Conclusion Cadaveric models provide realistic hands-on surgical training with acceptable cost and remain the gold standard method for training. Synthetic models are most effective for preoperative surgical planning and animal models are best suited for testing of hemostatic techniques. VR simulations may become the primary training tool for novices to acquire basic anatomical knowledge as their role in advanced surgical planning is evolving.
Cross-Electrophile Coupling of 2-Iodoglycals Enables Efficient Access to 2-C-Glycals
Authors: Chen Shuai , Han Yang , Chen Anrong , Zhu Feng
Published: May 2024

A general strategy was developed for synthesizing 2-C-glycals through a nickel-catalyzed cross-electrophile coupling reaction of 2-iodoglycals with (hetero)aryl iodides. Key to the success of this methodology is the use of an electron-deficient bipyridyl ligand. This innovative approach facilitates the efficient construction of 2-C-glycals, thereby broadening the synthetic repertoire available for glycochemistry.
Syringe Port System as a Tubular Retractor Technique for Brain Lesions: Case Series and Review of the Literature
Authors: Moraes Carlos Augusto Vila Nova , Neto João Augusto Gama da Sila , Guedes Breno William Mariz , Oliveira Arthur Maynart Pereira , Santos Bruno Fernandes de Oliveira
Published: May 2024

Objective To describe a tubular retractor technique for brain lesions through a series of cases and to conduct a literature review on intracranial tubular retractors with emphasis on the syringe port system.

Materials and Methods We described four cases of lesions with an intraventricular component and different pathological patterns. The surgeries were performed between April, 2021 and July, 2022. The images were acquired through computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans and transferred to the Horos software, version 1.1.7. To make the tubular retractor, a 20-mL syringe and a 14-Fr/Ch, 30-mL/cc Foley probe were used. The syringe was sectioned according to the planned depth based on preoperative imaging. The syringe was the retractor itself, while the probe served as a means of dilating the path to the lesion.

Results Gross total resection was achieved in all cases, and the samples collected were satisfactory regarding the results of the anatomopathological study. All patients evolved without any additional deficits and with adequate postoperative image control.

Conclusion The syringe as a tubular retractor associated with the Foley probe as a surgical port dilator was useful, and it enabled the radical resection of intracranial tumors related to the lateral ventricle, not limiting the use of auxiliary instruments, neither of microsurgical instruments; therefore, it is an affordable, secure, and inexpensive method.
Ventriculovesical Shunting in a Patient with Leptomeningeal Carcinomatosis: An Alternative to VP Shunts. A Technique Report
Authors: Andrade Luiz Henrique Vargas de , Carvalho João Pedro Motter de , Narciso Arthur Garani , Félix Alexandre Rossato , Fucio Alisson , Welling Leonardo Christiaan , Rabelo Nicolas N. , Figueiredo Eberval Gadelha
Published: May 2024

Leptomeningeal carcinomatosis (LC) is a rare but serious complication when cancer cells infiltrate the meninges. It is most commonly associated with breast cancer, but only 5% of breast cancer patients develop it. Leptomeningeal carcinomatosis typically presents with headaches, mainly due to hydrocephalus, and the diagnosis involves a cytological analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. The treatment of LC consists of a combination of intra-CSF chemotherapy, systemic therapy, radiation therapy, and/or supportive care, including CSF drainage. In the case herein reported, a technique known as ventriculovesical shunting was performed on a female patient with LC and breast cancer who had hydrocephalus due to this condition. This procedure is not as common as ventriculoperitoneal shunts, which can lead, in this case, to serious complications such as peritoneal carcinomatosis.
Goal-Directed Fluid Therapy Using Normal Saline versus Ringer's Lactate in Pediatric Neurosurgical Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Depuru Aparna , Kaur Kirandeep , Jangra Kiran , Singla Navneet , Bhagat Hemant , Soni Shiv Lal , Panda Nidhi B. , Narayan Vinitha , Prabhakar Anuj
Published: May 2024

Background Ringer's lactate (RL) and 0.9% sodium chloride (NS) are used intraoperatively in pediatric surgical patients. The fluid of choice in pediatric neurosurgical patients is still under research. Hence, we compared NS and RL intraoperatively with a primary objective of measuring the absolute difference in serum chloride concentrations (ΔCl-) after surgery from baseline. Secondary objectives included changes in other electrolytes, osmolarity, pH, creatinine, brain relaxation score (BRS), and neurological outcome at discharge using a modified Rankin scale (mRS).

Methods This prospective randomized trial was conducted in American Society of Anesthesiologists status I to II children, aged 6 months to 14 years, after Institutional Ethical Committee approval and written informed consent. Forty patients were randomized in group-S (received 0.9% Saline) and group-R (received RL). The fluid administration was guided by Pleth Variability Index (target <13%). Arterial blood samples were taken at the start of surgery, during tumor resection, and at the end of surgery.

Results Twenty-one patients in NS and 19 patients in RL were enrolled. ΔCl- was 12 (9–16) mmol/L in NS group and 4 (2–15) mmol/L in RL group, p = 0.03. NS group developed more metabolic acidosis (6 [28.6%] vs. 0 [0.0%], p = 0.021). There was no difference in the other electrolytes, serum osmolarity, BRS, perioperative creatinine, and mRS between groups, p = 0.36, p = 0.096, p = 0.658, and p = 0.168, respectively.

Conclusion Intraoperative use of NS causes derangement in chloride balance, leading to metabolic acidosis compared to RL in children undergoing neurosurgical procedures. However, there was no difference in the other parameters, including serum osmolarity, BRS, and mRS.
Contributing Factors of Dysphagia in Indonesian Elderly
Authors: Dias Randi , Kusdhany Lindawati S. , Indrasari Muslita
Published: May 2024

Objective Dysphagia is one of the signs that can describe oral hypofunction in the elderly. This condition is usually not noticed nor realized by the elderly and their families, resulting in disability and death. Studies on the relationship between age, gender, education, the number of systemic diseases, and the number of remaining teeth toward dysphagia in the elderly are still limited, so further research is needed. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between age, sex, education level, the number of systemic diseases, and the number of remaining teeth with dysphagia and find out which factors contribute the most to dysphagia. The contributing factors need to be known to minimize the risk of dysphagia.

Materials and Methods This is a cross-sectional study with 121 elderly aged 60 years living in community dwellings as subjects of this study. General health data were obtained from anamnesis; demographic data were also collected and an examination of the number of remaining teeth was carried out and recorded on the odontogram by one researcher. After that, a dysphagia screening tool was given for self-assessment or assisted by the two researchers according to the conditions felt. Two researchers were calibrated before collecting data.

Results In the bivariate analysis, age, the number of remaining teeth, and several systemic diseases were associated with dysphagia (p = 0.027, 0.023, and 0.047, respectively). No association was found between gender, education, and dysphagia status (p > 0.05). Age (p = 0.027), gender (p = 0.165), number of remaining teeth (p = 0.023), and the number of systemic diseases (p = 0.047) are the risk factors that were included in the multivariate model. From the final multivariate model, the number of remaining teeth (p = 0.017; odds ratio [OR] = 4.318), several systemic diseases (p = 0.036; OR = 2.427), and age (p = 0.072; OR = 1.962) contributed most to the dysphagia status, after controlling for confounding variables.

Conclusion It is concluded that the number of remaining teeth, several systemic diseases, and age are the factors that contribute the most to the occurrence of dysphagia.
A Study of Outcome of Detethering in Delayed Presentation of Tethered Cord Syndrome
Authors: Beniwal Hemant Kumar , K. N. Pratap , G. Prakash Rao , Srinivas K. , Talari Krishnamurthy , Nookathota Uday Goutam
Published: May 2024

Introduction Tethered cord syndrome (TCS) is a stretch-induced functional disorder associated with tethering of caudal spinal cord to dura mater with inelastic tissue, limiting its movement. It not only manifests in childhood but also noted in adults. Here, we studied the role of detethering on delayed presentation of TCS.

Material and Methods All patients of symptomatic TCS from January 2011 to December 2019 were included. Preoperative evaluation was done through X-ray; ultrasonography kidney, ureter, urinary bladder; magnetic resonance imaging spine and brain; and urodynamic studies. Detethering was done and associated pathology was excised. Preoperative and postoperative comparison was done through Necker functional score using chi-squared system.

Results Age range was 8 to 30 years with mean age of 13.8 years. Most common presentation was urological manifestations in ∼61.1% of cases followed by pain in 41.6%, sensory deficits in 38.8%, asymmetric weakness in 30.5%, orthopaedic and trophic ulcers in 22.2% each, and bowel abnormalities in 13.8% of cases. Mean duration of symptoms was 5.52 years. Improvement in urological manifestations was in 71.4% patients, pain in 80%, sensory dysfunctions in 71.4%, bowel dysfunctions in 80%, motor weakness in 90.9%, and trophic ulcer in 100% patients. On comparison, chi-squared value was 25.9993 and p-value was 0.000032, which was significant (<0.05).

Conclusion Detethering in early ages is already proven with good results. In our study, detethering showed statistically significant improvement even in delayed presentation. So, authors recommend to surgically interfere by detethering, even if tethering is detected late with significant deficits.
Bulk-Fill Ormocer versus Methacrylate-Based Resin Composite Restorative Systems: The Effect of Flowable Lining on Two-Year Clinical Performance in Class II Cavities
Authors: Elsharkawy Moustafa Ahmed , Ibrahim Radwa Ali , Hamama Hamdi Hosni , Mahmoud Salah Hasab
Published: May 2024

Objective The aim of this study was to assess and compare the impact of bulk-fill flowable resin composite liners (BFFL) on the 2-year clinical performance of bulk-fill ormocer (BORC) in comparison to methacrylate-based resin composites (BMRC) in Class II cavities.

Materials and Methods Thirty participants, each aged between 18 and 30 years, were included in the study, each presenting four class II cavities. A total of 120 restorations were placed, with participants randomly assigned to one of four restorative systems through a blind drawing: Admira Fusion X-Tra (AFX) alone, AFX after lining with Admira Fusion Xtra-Base (AFB), X-Tra Fill (XF) for complete cavity filling, and XF after lining with Xtra-Base (XB). The universal adhesive system (Futura U bond Voco, Germany) was consistently applied for all restoration techniques using selective enamel etching. A single operator, following the manufacturer's instructions for each material, performed all restorations, and finishing/polishing occurred immediately after placement. Clinical evaluation, based on World Dental Federation (FDI) criteria, was conducted by two blinded examiners at baseline (7 days) and at 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively.

Results The chi-squared test was used to compare the four applied restorative systems within each follow-up period, while the marginal homogeneity test was employed to assess changes over time. No statistically significant differences were observed among the four restorative systems at any evaluation period.

Conclusions After 2 years, the clinical performance of BFFL or complete bulk-fill technique remained similar, regardless of the material composition.
Fracturas de fémur distal en población geriátrica: Evaluación de estadía hospitalaria y morbimortalidad
Authors: Edwards Diego , Guiloff Rodrigo , Arellano Sergio , Schmidt-Hebbel Andrés , Valderrama Carlos , Vaisman Alex
Published: May 2024

Introducción Las fracturas de fémur distal (FFD) son un problema importante de salud pública. Con el envejecimiento de la población, se espera un incremento de esta lesión en los próximos años.

Objetivo Describir las complicaciones y la mortalidad de las FFD en un grupo de pacientes geriátricos.

Materiales y Métodos Estudio descriptivo y retrospectivo de pacientes mayores de 60 años operados por FFD, todos tratados en un mismo centro, entre 2011 y 2015, con al menos 1 año de seguimiento. Se excluyeron pacientes con ficha incompleta. Se analizaron los datos demográficos y radiológicos, las complicaciones locales y sistémicas, la estadía hospitalaria y la mortalidad.

Resultados En total, 16 pacientes cumplieron con los criterios de selección; tenían una mediana de edad de 73 (rango: 61 a 93) años, y 14 (87,5%) eran mujeres. La clasificación de la Asociación para el Estudio de la Fijación Interna (Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen, AO, en alemán) de las fracturas fue: A –12 (75%); B – 2 (12,5%); y C – 2 (12,5%). No hubo casos de fractura expuesta. Un total de 9 (56,3%) pacientes fueron operados con placa condilar dinámica, 4 (25%), con placa bloqueada, y 3 (19%), con clavo retrógrado. La mediana de latencia quirúrgica fue de 10 (rango: 3 a 27) días, con una mediana de hospitalización de 14 (rango: 5 a 47) días. Complicaciones fueran presentadas por 6 (37,5%) pacientes: 2 (12,5%) casos de tromboembolismo pulmonar y 4 (25%) casos que requirieron reintervención (2 fallos de osteosíntesis, 1 artrofibrosis y 1 no unión aséptica). No hubo complicaciones infecciosas. La mortalidad a 12 meses fue de 0%.

Conclusiones Los pacientes con FFD en esta cohorte geriátrica presentaron una larga estadía hospitalaria, con una alta tasa de complicaciones, que incluye un 25% de reintervenciones. Pese a esto, la mortalidad a 12 meses fue de 0%.
Low-Titer Type O Whole Blood for Transfusing Perinatal Patients after Acute Hemorrhage: A Case Series
Authors: Carr Nicholas R. , Bahr Timothy M. , Ohls Robin K. , Tweddell Sarah M. , Morris David S. , Rees Terry , Ilstrup Sarah J. , Kelley Walter E. , Christensen Robert D.
Published: May 2024

Objective Acute and massive blood loss is fortunately a rare occurrence in perinatal/neonatal practice. When it occurs, typical transfusion paradigms utilize sequential administration of blood components. However, an alternative approach, transfusing type O whole blood with low anti-A and anti-B titers, (LTOWB) has recently been approved and utilized in trauma surgery.

Study Design Retrospective analysis of all perinatal patients who have received LTOWB after acute massive hemorrhage at the Intermountain Medical Center.

Results LTOWB was the initial transfusion product we used to resuscitate/treat 25 women with acute and massive postpartum hemorrhage and five infants with acute hemorrhage in the first hours/days after birth. We encountered no problems obtaining or transfusing this product and we recognized no adverse effects of this treatment.

Conclusion Transfusing LTOWB to perinatal patients after acute blood loss is feasible and appears at least as safe a serial component transfusion. Its use has subsequently been expanded to multiple hospitals in our region as first-line transfusion treatment for acute perinatal hemorrhage.

Key Points

Low-titer type O whole blood (LTOWB) was our initial transfusion product for 30 perinatal patients with acute hemorrhage. Twenty-five of these were obstetrical patients and five were neonatal patients. We encountered no problems with, or adverse effects from LTOWB in any of these patients. LTOWB transfusions to women were ten days since donor draw (interquartile range, 8–13) and to neonates was six days (5–8).
Percutaneous Drainage for Giant Pulmonary Interstitial Emphysema in a Tiny Infant with a Birth Weight of 327 g
Authors: Hoshina Yuta , Ogawa Ryo , Oda Arata , Kamei Yoshiya , Nakamura Tomohiko
Published: May 2024

Giant pulmonary cyst in extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants has been described as one of severe pulmonary diseases. Any definitive therapy for refractory cases, where conservative methods of treatments are not effective, has not been established as a standard. Herein, we report an ELBW infant with a giant pulmonary cyst cured by percutaneous drainage without any adverse events. A female infant was born with a birth weight of 327 g. Surfactant was administered on days 1 and 2 of life to treat respiratory distress syndrome. Tracheal intubation was performed and synchronized intermittent mandatory ventilation was promptly initiated following birth. On the course, right giant pulmonary cyst developed on day 9 after birth. Although we started conservative therapy, including right lateral decubitus positioning, high-frequency oscillatory ventilation, and systemic corticosteroid administration, the diameter of the cyst had reached 34 mm, and mediastinal displacement was observed on day 28 after birth when she weighed 393 g. She recovered by percutaneous drainage followed by suction with a pressure of −10 cm H2O under mild sedation for 3 days. We believe that percutaneous drainage can be one of the available options for unilateral pulmonary interstitial emphysema.
The selections and differences in mathematical problem-posing strategies of junior high school students
Authors: Guo Yufeng , Yan Jiajie , Zhou Wenjia , Dang Guoqiang
Published: May 2024

To illustrate the selections and differences in mathematical problem-posing (MPP) strategies of junior high school students, this study constructs a theoretical framework for mathematical problem-posing strategies and then conducts an empirical study through a survey of 1653 Chinese junior high school students. The results show that students prioritize accepting the given information to pose mathematical problems, while few choose to change the given information. Most students used chaining, and very few students used symmetry to pose mathematical problems. From a developmental perspective, excluding the number of problems, there were grade differences in the selectivity of MPP strategies among students in grades 7, 8, and 9. Still, for each grade, accepting the given information and chaining were the most used strategies in the category therein. More than 77.56% (1282 students) chose category B to pose further mathematical problems after accepting or changing the given information to pose mathematical problems. The results of path analysis illustrate that there are two main routes of the evolution of the selections of the strategies of MPP of junior high school students: the first one is from category A to category B, and the second one is after the students use changing the given information, they are present with the selection of strategies, either use symmetry or chaining. The results may have important implications for the teaching and learning of problem-posing.
Development and implementation of personal learning environment-based writing for publication scaffolding platform for Ph.D. Students
Authors: Xu Xiaoshu , Liu Jia , Zhang Yunfeng , Zhang Huanhuan
Published: May 2024

This research tackles the challenges Ph.D. students face in academic publishing, which are not fully addressed by existing support systems. It introduces the personal learning environment-based writing for publication (PLE-WfP) platform, created to offer extensive support in academic writing and publication. Developed and tested over ten months with thirteen Year 1 Ph.D. Chinese students at a Thai university, the platform uses a mixed-methods approach encompassing development, intervention, and feedback analysis through reflective diaries. The PLE-WfP platform, structured in individual, group, and submission stages, guides students from beginning writing to collaborative research and final publication, addressing common publishing challenges. Participants expressed a strong preference for the platform’s personalized assistance over conventional methods, highlighting its relevance, adaptability, promptness, and thoroughness. The importance of the academic community in enhancing collaborative writing, confidence, emotional regulation, and resource sharing was also emphasized. This study highlights the need for emotional and financial support in addition to cognitive and technical assistance in academic writing. By providing a novel scaffolding approach, this research contributes valuable insights and solutions to the academic community, demonstrating significant theoretical and practical benefits for global academic discourse.
Effect of phase exchange kinetics on Taylor dispersion of chemically reactive solutes in an oscillatory magnetohydrodynamics flow between two parallel plates
Authors: Poddar Nanda , Saha Gourab , Mondal Kajal Kumar , Dhar Subham , Mazumder B. S.
Published: May 2024

The study of kinetic sorptive effects on the transport phenomena of reactive solute has numerous real-world applications, including in the industrial and environmental sectors. These kinds of investigations become more realistic when an oscillatory pressure gradient with both the reversible and irreversible reactions at the channel walls is considered in a magnetohydrodynamics flow. In the past, Ng and Yip [J. Fluid Mech. 446, 321–345 (2001)] studied the effect of sorptive phase exchange at boundaries on the solute transport phenomena in an open-channel flow using Mei's multiple-scale homogenization technique. They considered fluid flows without magnetic field and boundary absorption. This work uses the above-mentioned method to investigate the phase exchange kinetics of Taylor dispersion phenomena in a two-dimensional magnetohydrodynamics fluid flowing through a parallel channel. The paper discusses how various parameters and dimensionless numbers, such as the Hartmann, oscillatory Reynolds, and Damkohler, affect the flow velocity, transport coefficient, multi-dimensional concentration distributions, and transverse variation rate. Due to the strong magnetic field, the flow velocity and Taylor dispersivity are adversely affected and conspicuously reduced. Additionally, for large Damkohler numbers, the total dispersion coefficient and the Taylor dispersion coefficient both decrease. However, the longitudinal concentration distribution rises with the Hartmann number and partition coefficient. It is worth noting that in the presence of unequal boundary absorption, there is no occurrence of transverse symmetry in solute concentration at any given time. Controlling various processes of tracer dispersion in environmental systems, especially water purification and the chemical industry, may benefit from these intriguing findings.
Phonon drag thermopower persisting over 200 K in FeSb2 thin film on SrTiO3 single crystal
Authors: Yamamoto Chihiro , He Xinyi , Hanzawa Kota , Katase Takayoshi , Sasase Masato , Yamaura Jun-ichi , Hiramatsu Hidenori , Hosono Hideo , Kamiya Toshio
Published: May 2024

FeSb2 is known as a potential low-temperature thermoelectric material with the record-high power factor (PF) originating from the huge phonon drag thermopower (Sg). However, the Sg contribution to PF has been observed only at very low temperatures (T) < 40 K. In this paper, we found that the Sg persists at much higher T up to 240 K and enhances PF in FeSb2 thin films deposited on SrTiO3 single crystals. The FeSb2 films showed phonon drag Sg peak at T ∼ 60 K, and the Sg peak value was largely enhanced from 56 to 208 μV/K by varying film thicknesses from 10 to 100 nm. Due to thickness-dependent Sg contribution, the maximum PF = 31.3 μW/(cm K2) was obtained for a 37-nm thick film. In addition, the onset temperature, where Sg starts to appear, can be largely increased due presumably to the enhanced electron–phonon interaction by phonon leakage from the SrTiO3 substrate to the thin FeSb2 layer. Heterostructuring with an oxide would be an effective approach to enhance the phonon drag effect to increase PF in higher T regions for future thermoelectric cooling and energy conversion devices.
The influence of installation deviation on the upper guide bearing thermo-hydrodynamic characteristics of a 1000 MW giant hydropower unit
Authors: Shi Yishu , Cao Jingwei , Zhai Liming , Wang Zhengwei
Published: May 2024

The operating stability of guide bearings under load fluctuations in giant hydro turbines is a critical issue. As a crucial component supporting rotating machinery and enduring radial forces, guide bearings suffer from problems including rapid wear and unstable operation. In this study, a three-dimensional thermo-hydrodynamic model of the 1000 MW giant Francis turbine unit guide bearing is applied to analyze the oil film lubrication characteristics and flow in a turbine tank. The effects of installation deviations on the upper guide bearing are analyzed, and the results demonstrate that the cooler has little effect on the pressure and the velocity distribution within the oil film. A Q-criterion is defined to analyze the flow in the tank, and the results indicate that the high-velocity and strong-vortex regions are mainly distributed within the rotating oil line and the oil film region. In the oil tank, the velocity and vorticity are relatively low despite the presence of chaotic spiral vortices. The maximum values of the temperature and pressure within the oil film and the unbalanced radial force increase with the level of deviation. As a result, the temperature distribution becomes more uneven. The conclusions obtained in this paper can be used to guide engineering practice.
High levels of mislabelling of shark flesh in Australian fish markets and seafood shops
Authors: Parker Kielniacz Teagan J. , Stow Adam J. , Armansin Nicolette C.
Published: May 2024

Context Overfishing is a major cause of decline for many shark species globally, which can be largely offset by shifting consumer demand to sustainable harvests. The inherent difficulty identifying shark species after processing makes informative labelling fundamental to achieving a sustainable market. Aims We evaluated the level of mislabelling in Australia from shark flesh samples obtained from seafood suppliers across the country. Methods We used sequence data from the cytochrome oxidase subunit one gene (COI) and the 12S mitochondrial RNA gene (12S) to identify genera and likely species. Key results We used genetic sequence data to identify species from tissue samples from 91 fillets labelled as shark. Of these, 64 (70%) were mislabelled, and 9 comprised three species listed as threatened in Australia, the scalloped hammerhead (Sphryna lewini), greeneye spurdog (Squalus chloroculus) and school shark (Galeorhinus galeus). The scalloped hammerhead and greeneye spurdog were being sold under the label ‘flake’. Overall, 70% of samples were mislabelled and the proportion of mislabelling was significantly greater in takeaways compared with fish markets and wholesalers. Conclusions High levels of mislabelling of shark product in Australian fish markets and seafood shops was apparent both with respect to the genetically identified shark sample not matching the label and the use of ambiguous labels that do not adhere to the Australian Fish Names Standard. Mislabelling masked the presence of threatened species. Implications Our results reveal labelling practices that are not providing consumers with reliable information to identify shark products, and we demonstrate the utility of molecular methods in seafood trade monitoring.
Turkish women’s perception of low sexual desire, its causes and consequences: an online qualitative survey
Authors: Tetik Sinan , Yalçınkaya Alkar Özden
Published: May 2024

Background The nature of sexual desire is complex, and little phenomenological consensus exists about its meaning. Low sexual desire (LSD) is a commonly reported sexual difficulty among women, but it is less frequently associated with sexual distress. The aim of this qualitative study is to explore women’s understanding of sexual desire, and their perceptions of factors that may contribute to LSD, its effects and their methods of seeking help. Methods The research employed a questionnaire with 12 open-ended questions, developed by the researchers based on sexual script theory. Data were collected from 165 heterosexual Turkish women who reported LSD, recruited through social media platforms between August and October 2021. The data were analysed using a contextual form of thematic analysis to identify and explore patterns. Results The ages of the participants ranged from 20 to 63 years. The majority of participants held a Bachelor’s degree (81.2%) and in a relationship (78.8%). Three main themes emerged from the study: (1) gendered messages concerning sex, (2) multi-level sexual desire, and (3) minimisation. The research revealed that women’s sexual desire is often ignored and repressed, and has negative consequences if not expressed in socially acceptable contexts. The causes of LSD in women go beyond personal factors, and include relational and social influences. Women experiencing LSD report distressing effects on their relationships and general wellbeing, yet they tend not to seek help. Conclusions Our findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the factors impacting women’s sexual desire and the barriers to seeking help.
Modeling direct air carbon capture and storage in a 1.5 °C climate future using historical analogs
Authors: Edwards Morgan R. , Thomas Zachary H. , Nemet Gregory F. , Rathod Sagar , Greene Jenna , Surana Kavita , Kennedy Kathleen M. , Fuhrman Jay , McJeon Haewon C.
Published: May 2024

Limiting the rise in global temperature to 1.5 °C will rely, in part, on technologies to remove CO
2
from the atmosphere. However, many carbon dioxide removal (CDR) technologies are in the early stages of development, and there is limited data to inform predictions of their future adoption. Here, we present an approach to model adoption of early-stage technologies such as CDR and apply it to direct air carbon capture and storage (DACCS). Our approach combines empirical data on historical technology analogs and early adoption indicators to model a range of feasible growth pathways. We use these pathways as inputs to an integrated assessment model (the Global Change Analysis Model, GCAM) and evaluate their effects under an emissions policy to limit end-of-century temperature change to 1.5 °C. Adoption varies widely across analogs, which share different strategic similarities with DACCS. If DACCS growth mirrors high-growth analogs (e.g., solar photovoltaics), it can reach up to 4.9 GtCO
2
removal by midcentury, compared to as low as 0.2 GtCO
2
for low-growth analogs (e.g., natural gas pipelines). For these slower growing analogs, unabated fossil fuel generation in 2050 is reduced by 44% compared to high-growth analogs, with implications for energy investments and stranded assets. Residual emissions at the end of the century are also substantially lower (by up to 43% and 34% in transportation and industry) under lower DACCS scenarios. The large variation in growth rates observed for different analogs can also point to policy takeaways for enabling DACCS.
University students’ use of language learning strategies in English-medium instruction classes
Authors: Garner Joe
Published: May 2024

The last twenty years have seen dramatic growth in the provision of English-medium instruction (EMI) courses at
universities. On such courses, many students learn academic content through a language other than their first language (L1). This
often poses significant language-related challenges to students which can impede content learning. To cope with the linguistic
challenges, students sometimes employ language learning strategies (LLS). However, despite the rapid growth in the provision of
EMI, little research has been conducted into LLS use in an EMI context. This systematized review examines 36 relevant studies. The
findings show that over time EMI students modify their strategic behavior as they become more aware of the strategies which meet
their learning needs. Furthermore, learners gradually use more content-related strategies as they progress through their EMI
courses. Although strategy deployment is generally self-directed, the findings indicate that LLS instruction can benefit learners.
Therefore, it is recommended that EMI courses be supported by embedded EAP courses which provide strategy instruction alongside
the teaching of discipline-specific vocabulary and discourse practices. The review also raises questions about the role of
students’ L1 in EMI. By shedding light on existing studies in the field, the review highlights opportunities for future
research.
Asymmetry in temporal specification between affirmation and negation
Authors: Miestamo Matti , Silvennoinen Olli O. , Yurayong Chingduang
Published: May 2024

One cross-linguistically recurrent asymmetry between affirmation and negation is the neutralization of
tense-aspect distinctions in negatives. A functional explanation proposed for this is that in their typical discourse context
negatives have less need for temporal specification than affirmatives and in some languages this discourse preference is reflected
as fewer tense-aspect distinctions in grammar. To examine whether such a discourse preference exists, we compare the use of
temporal adverbials in affirmatives and negatives in English, Finnish and Korean corpus data. The results provide qualified
support for the hypothesized discourse preference: in English and Korean, affirmatives are likelier to have temporal adverbials
than negatives, but Finnish shows no statistically significant difference. In English and Finnish, affirmatives are likelier than
negatives to contain adjuncts indicating temporal position. Verb semantics is found to interact with temporal specifications. The
study also uncovers further differences between affirmatives and negatives in the use of adverbials.
Exploring the role of service dogs for Canadian military Veterans experiencing suicidality
Authors: Pavelich Alexandria R. , Dell Colleen A. , De Groot Paul
Published: May 2024

Despite ample anecdotal evidence, there are limited meaningful studies speaking to the important role of the human-animal bond (HAB) in reducing suicidality. However, research is increasingly showing the viability of service dogs (SDs) as a complementary approach for military Veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use harms – two of the strongest indicators of suicidality across any population. An original, exploratory study completed in 2020 focused on how SDs supported Canadian Veterans living with PTSD and substance use concerns. From this work, a secondary analysis was then undertaken: 28 transcripts were examined through thematic analysis to explore the experiences of the Veterans who were identified as being at high risk for suicide to better understand how SDs may assist with their suicidality. Our methodological approach for the secondary analysis employed affective coding to discover how the social support system enabled by the SDs reduced experiences of loneliness and hopelessness, as well as symptoms of PTSD, depression, and substance use concerns that are commonly associated with suicidality. The SDs were reported by the Veterans as being a catalyst in reducing self-harm and suicidality, as the HAB provided a unique and necessary form of social support for Veterans that was distinct from what other human-human interactions could provide. While acknowledgement of how context specificity and the lived experience of each individual remains crucial for making sense of suicidality, the significant finding from this research has been the identification of the critical impact that SDs have in the lives of Veterans when it comes to preventing suicide. The SD has been explained as a bridge to improve Veterans’ overall quality of life and reduce markers commonly recognized as precursors to suicide – a finding that may be critical in helping reduce future suicide risk among military Veterans, and warrants further investigation.
Catalyst-free MBE growth of PbSnTe nanowires with tunable aspect ratio
Authors: Mientjes Mathijs G C , Guan Xin , Lueb Pim J H , Verheijen Marcel A , Bakkers Erik P A M
Published: May 2024

Topological crystalline insulators (TCIs) are interesting for their topological surface states, which hold great promise for scattering-free transport channels and fault-tolerant quantum computing. A promising TCI is SnTe. However, Sn-vacancies form in SnTe, causing a high hole density, hindering topological transport from the surface being measured. This issue could be relieved by using nanowires with a high surface-to-volume ratio. Furthermore, SnTe can be alloyed with Pb reducing the Sn-vacancies while maintaining its topological phase. Here we present the catalyst-free growth of monocrystalline PbSnTe in molecular beam epitaxy. By the addition of a pre-deposition stage before the growth, we have control over the nucleation phase and thereby increase the nanowire yield. This facilitates tuning the nanowire aspect ratio by a factor of four by varying the growth parameters. These results allow us to grow specific morphologies for future transport experiments to probe the topological surface states in a Pb1–x
Sn
x
Te-based platform.
Simulations of superconducting quantum gates by digital flux tuner for qubits
Authors: Geng 耿 Xiao 霄 , He 何 Kaiyong 楷泳 , Liu 刘 Jianshe 建设 , Chen 陈 Wei 炜
Published: May 2024

The interconnection bottleneck caused by limitations of cable number, inner space and cooling power of dilution refrigerators has been an outstanding challenge for building scalable superconducting quantum computers with the increasing number of qubits in quantum processors. To surmount such an obstacle, it is desirable to integrate qubits with quantum–classical interface (QCI) circuits based on rapid single flux quantum (RSFQ) circuits. In this work, a digital flux tuner for qubits (DFTQ) is proposed for manipulating flux of qubits as a crucial part of the interface circuit. A schematic diagram of the DFTQ is presented, consisting of a coarse tuning unit and a fine-tuning unit for providing magnetic flux with different precision to qubits. The method of using DFTQ to provide flux for gate operations is discussed from the optimization of circuit design and input signal. To verify the effectiveness of the method, simulations of a single DFTQ and quantum gates including a Z gate and an iSWAP gate with DFTQs are performed for flux-tunable transmons. The quantum process tomography corresponding to the two gates is also carried out to analyze the sources of gate error. The results of tomography show that the gate fidelities independent of the initial states of the Z gate and the iSWAP gate are 99.935% and 99.676%, respectively. With DFTQs inside, the QCI would be a powerful tool for building large-scale quantum computers.