bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hyperandrogenism and Hypokalemic Thyrotoxic Periodic Paralysis in a North American Adolescent Girl
Authors: Gladding Anne , Bartoletti Joseph , Iyer Pallavi , Dabrowski Elizabeth
Published: May 2024

We present a unique case of hypokalemic thyrotoxic periodic paralysis (TPP) in an adolescent girl in North America. TPP is a rare but dangerous complication seen in thyrotoxic patients characterized by hypokalemia and acute proximal symmetric lower-extremity weakness. It is an especially rare phenomenon in pediatrics, with roughly 20 case reports described in adolescents worldwide; the majority are male. Our patient is a 14-year-old Asian girl with biochemical hyperandrogenism and known Graves disease who presented with an acute episode of lower-extremity weakness after eating a carbohydrate-rich meal. Laboratory workup revealed hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, an undetectable thyrotropin, and hyperthyroxinemia. Electrolyte derangements responded well to supplementation, and the muscle weakness resolved with electrolyte normalization. Following improvement in thyroid function, the patient underwent thyroidectomy for definitive management of Graves disease. As TPP is potentially exacerbated by higher androgen and insulin levels, we suspect that with increasing rates of obesity and polycystic ovary syndrome, the incidence of TPP among adolescents may increase. It is therefore critically important that there is awareness and recognition of this serious diagnosis among all health care providers.
A cross-sectional observational study to assess socio-demographic factors in newly diagnosed TB DM comorbidity
Authors: Hullalli Rashmi , Gudadinni M R , Motappa Rohith
Published: May 2024

Background Tuberculosis (TB) and diabetes mellitus (DM) co-morbidity is one of the rising public health problems. There is growing evidence that DM is an important risk factor for TB. This study was carried out to know the prevalence of DM among newly detected sputum positive pulmonary TB patients registered in District Tuberculosis Centre and to assess the risk factors of DM among TB patients. Methods In a cross-sectional study, newly detected sputum positive pulmonary TB patients were screened for DM (those having symptoms of DM). Furthermore, they were diagnosed by detecting blood glucose levels (≥200 mg/dL). Mean, standard deviation (SD), Chi-squared and Fisher-Freeman-Halton exact tests were used to determine the significant associations. P-values less than 0.05 were considered to be statistically significant. Results A total of 215 TB patients were included in this study. The prevalence of DM among TB patients was found to be 23.7% (2.8% known and 97.8% new cases). Significant associations were found between age (>46 years old), educational status, smoking habits, alcohol consumption, physical activity, presence of DM symptoms and family history of DM. Conclusions Routine screening for DM is mandatory due to its increasing prevalence, which may help in early diagnosis and to reduce complications by proper management that in turn helps in the successful outcome of TB treatment.
A prospective observational comparative study to compare the diagnostic efficacy of the Fenyo Lindberg scoring system and Yash scoring system in patients of acute appendicitis in tertiary care hospitals in central India
Authors: Srinivasa Reddy Dr Eeda , Tote Dr. Darshana
Published: May 2024

Background Acute appendicitis is a typical surgical emergency requiring prompt and accurate diagnosis for timely intervention. This prospective observational comparative study aims to assess the diagnostic efficacy of two scoring systems, the Yash scoring system and the Fenyo-Lindberg scoring system, compared to the gold standard of histopathological diagnosis. The study is conducted at A.V.B.R.H., a tertiary care hospital in Central India, focusing on providing valuable insights into the comparative performance of these scoring systems in the local patient population. Methods The study adopts a prospective observational comparative design, enrolling clinically diagnosed cases of acute appendicitis from the outpatient and inpatient departments of the Surgery department at A.V.B.R.H. Patients willing to undergo surgery are included. At the same time, those with complicating factors or contraindications are excluded. Data collection involves thorough clinical evaluations, scoring system assessments, and comprehensive investigations, with histopathology as the reference standard. Statistical analyses include descriptive statistics, comparative analyses, primary outcome assessments, and regression analyses, ensuring a robust evaluation of the diagnostic efficacy of the scoring systems. Expected Outcome Anticipated outcomes include a comprehensive understanding of the diagnostic efficacy of the Yash and Fenyo-Lindberg scoring systems in acute appendicitis. The study aims to identify which scoring system demonstrates superior accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity, providing valuable information for clinical decision-making. The results will contribute to optimizing diagnostic protocols for acute appendicitis, potentially influencing patient management and surgical interventions. This study’s findings are expected to be relevant to the local setting and broader contexts, enhancing the knowledge surrounding acute appendicitis diagnosis.
Design of SARS-CoV-2 protein S peptides recognized by the most frequent HLA alleles in the Moroccan population using an immunoinformatics approach
Authors: Fakhkhari Meryem , Badaoui Bouabid , Oumzil Hicham , Sadki Khalid
Published: May 2024

Background The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease, caused by the new coronavirus known as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and exhibits diverse clinical outcomes and symptoms in infected individuals, emphasizing the need to investigate how human genetic diversity influences the virus’s impact. This study aims to employ in silico methods to identify epitopes capable of eliciting an immune response, focusing on the most prevalent HLA-I and HLA-II alleles in the Moroccan population. Methods Our research consisted in predicting peptide-binding affinities between the most prevalent HLA Class I and Class II alleles in the Moroccan population and SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein (S protein) peptides of variants isolated from strains of Moroccan patients. We performed the same analyses for SARS-CoV-2 wild type S protein to assess the ability of these HLA alleles to interact with peptides in the presence or absence of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Results In a broader sense, 12 distinct HLA Class I and Class II alleles in the Moroccan population have been identified as possibly interacting with 19 epitopes in the SARS-CoV-2 S protein. Findings of this study must be validated in both in vitro and in vivo models. Conclusions These data may help clarify the issue of host cell susceptibility and the outcome of SARS-CoV-2 infection, and may guide further research to uncover potential targets for the vaccination strategy.
A new approach to monitoring solvent extraction processes for the nuclear industry
Authors: Cárdenas Edna S. , Hix Jay D. , Ocampo Giraldo Luis A. , Greenhalgh Mitchell R. , Walker Cody M. , Johnson James T.
Published: May 2024

As part of an initiative to steward research, development, and innovation into the nuclear fuel cycle, Idaho National Laboratory is building the Beartooth test bed. Beartooth will include a cascade of centrifugal contactors, glove box lines, and solidification and dissolution equipment to aid in the progression of novel separation techniques and to provide hands-on opportunities to early-career separation engineers. Beartooth will incorporate novel monitoring techniques using sensors and machine learning algorithms to inform process operators of separation conditions. This research is examining unconventional monitoring technologies such as incorporating acoustic microphones, vibration sensors, infrared cameras, red-green-blue color sensors, among others into nuclear separation processes. Research is ongoing in the use of machine learning methods to detect faults and alert operators of typical and anomalous events. Results from this research have the potential to impact safeguards-by-design efforts and real-time decision making. This overview will detail preliminary measurement results from acoustic, vibration, and color sensors.
Sexual functioning is not, but psychological burden is predictive for receiving help in pelvic physical therapy practice: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Brand Alma , Waterink Wim , van Lankveld Jacques
Published: May 2024

Background Pelvic floor complaints are common among women and often accompanied by sexual dysfunction and psychological burden. They are also associated with pregnancy and childbirth. However, not all women with these complaints receive help in pelvic physical therapy practice. This study explored if pregnancy, parity, pelvic floor complaints, sexual functioning, and psychological burden are predictive of receiving help in pelvic physical therapy practice. Methods In a cross-sectional exploratory design, women completed an online survey about pelvic floor complaints, sexual function, and psychological burden. Binary logistic analysis was used to analyze the predictive value of the above-mentioned factors. Results Data from 542 participants were analyzed. Pregnancy and parity, PFC severity, psychological burden, and the interaction between pelvic floor complaints and psychological burden were significant predictors of receiving help. Against expectations, sexual functioning was not predictive of receiving help. Conclusions Women’s psychological burden is an important factor in determining if or when women receive help in PPT practice. More research is needed to unravel the role of sexual functioning in the context of pelvic floor complaints and women’s psychological burden. More insight into this area of expertise could possibly improve and enhance pelvic health care for women with pelvic floor complaints.
A Phase I trial of Non-invasive Ventilation and seizure prophylaxis with levetiracetam In Children with Cerebral Malaria Trial (NOVICE-M Trial)
Authors: Maitland Kathryn , Obonyo Nchafasto , Hamaluba Mainga , Ogoda Emmanuel , Mogaka Christabel , Williams Thomas N. , Newton Charles , Kariuki Symon M. , Gibb Diana M. , Walker A. Sarah , Connon Roisin , George Elizabeth C.
Published: May 2024

Background African children with cerebral malaria and seizures caused Plasmodium falciparum are at greater risk of poor outcomes including death and neurological sequelae. The agonal events are severe hypoventilation and respiratory arrest often triggered by seizures. We hypothesised that prophylactic anti-seizure medication (ASM) could avert ‘spikes’ of intracranial pressure during or following seizures and that adequate ventilation could be supported by biphasic Cuirass Ventilation (BCV) which requires no intubation. Methods A Phase I trial conducted in Kilifi, Kenya designed to provide data on safety, feasibility and preliminary data on seizure control using prophylactic ASM (levetiracetam) and BCV as non-invasive ventilatory support in children with cerebral malaria. Children aged 3 months to 12-years hospitalised with P falciparum malaria (positive rapid diagnostic test or a malaria slide), a Blantyre Coma Score ≤2 and a history of acute seizures in this illness are eligible for the trial. In a phased evaluation we will study i) BCV alone for respiratory support (n=10); ii) prophylactic LVT: 40mg/kg loading dose then 30mg/kg every 12 hours given via nasogastric tube for 72 hours (or until fully conscious) plus BCV support (n=10) and; iii) prophylactic LVT: 60mg/kg loading dose then 45mg/kg every 12 hours given via nasogastric tube for 72 hours (or until fully conscious) plus BCV support (n=10). Primary outcome measure: cumulative time with a clinically detected seizures or number of observed seizures over 36 hours. Secondary outcomes will be assessed by feasibility or ability to implement BCV, and recovery from coma within 36 hours. Safety endpoints include: aspiration during admission; death at 28 days and 180 days; and de-novo neurological impairments at 180 days. Conclusions This is a Phase I trial largely designed to test the feasibility, tolerability and safety of using non-invasive ventilatory support and LVT prophylaxis in cerebral malaria. Registration ISRCTN76942974 (5.02.2019); PACTR202112749708968 (20.12.2021).
Steroid therapy in patients with inflammatory bowel disease complicating diabetes diagnosis
Authors: Knop-Chodyła Kinga , Piasecka Zuzanna , Kochanowska-Mazurek Anna , Głaz Aneta , Wesołek Ewelina , Rudzki Grzegorz
Published: May 2024

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), such as Crohn's disease (CD), ulcerative colitis (UC) or type 1 diabetes (T1D) are autoimmune diseases that may have common susceptibility pathways. In the etiology of these diseases, scientists are seeking not only genetic, but also environmental factors, infections, nutritional deficiencies, and iatrogenic causes, especially in T1D. The relationship between T1D and steroid therapy, used in the treatment of the inflammatory bowel disease, has been well established for years. Steroids are most commonly known for causing drug-induced diabetes. We present a 35-year-old man, in whom a drug-induced diabetes was suggested due to a 4-week steroid therapy used as a treatment for his newly diagnosed ulcerative colitis and a literature review describing a similar problem.
To confirm the association between diabetes and steroid therapy, it was necessary to rule out an autoimmune background of the disease. However, the presence of autoantibodies to GAD and anti-α tyrosine phosphatase (IA-2) confirmed the diagnosis of T1D.
Aim of the study
This review aims to present the issue of type 1 diabetes in patients treated with steroid therapy for inflammatory bowel disease, and to summarize the current state of knowledge, so that in the future it will result in an accurate diagnosis and implementation of appropriate treatment.
Methods and materials
A literature review was conducted based on the PubMed database, using keywords: ”diabetes mellitus”, ”inflammatory bowel diseases”, ”ulcerative colitis”, „steroids”, ”insulin”.
Conclusion
We should suspect T1D in patients, especially in the young population suffering from autoimmune diseases in order to prevent serious complications including dysfunction and failure of various organs, such as eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart and blood vessels.
Nail growth disorder in multiple fingers following harvesting of radial forearm free flap for phalloplasty in gender-affirming surgery: a case report
Authors: Jung Soyeon , Jeong Jiwon , Kim Kuylhee
Published: May 2024

Nail growth disturbance commonly takes place after trauma or relevant diseases, such as infections and tumors. However, abnormal growth of the nail plate sometimes occurs without an obvious causative factor. This report presents the case of a patient who underwent male genital reconstruction with a radial forearm free flap for gender affirmation. Although the entire process was smooth, with no accidental events, the second, third, and fourth phalangeal nail plates of the hand from which the flap was harvested showed no evident growth of the fingernail 2 months postoperatively. Nail production was preserved in the remaining fingernails. Typical symptoms, such as redness, swelling, and tenderness, were noted upon clinical observation. Eventually, nail production restarted 5 months after surgery. Steroid and antibiotic treatment was attempted to reduce periungual inflammation. Additionally, close observation with psychological support was conducted.
Arthrodesis for Eaton-Littler stage III degenerative trapeziometacarpal arthritis: a retrospective comparative study of fixation methods
Authors: Lee Jun-Ku , Oh Chi-Hoon , Ahn Woo Yeol , Lee Sung Woo , Kang Seungyeon , Han Soo-Hong
Published: May 2024

Purpose: This study compared clinical outcomes depending on the fixation modality in patients who underwent arthrodesis surgery for Eaton-Littler stage III trapeziometacarpal (TM) joint arthritis between 2009 and 2022. Methods: In total, 39 patients with 44 hands (five patients had surgery on both hands) were selected. Depending on the operative fixation instruments, patients were divided into two groups: group 1, surgery with 25-gauge interosseous wiring and Kirschner wire or headless screw fixation; group 2, surgery with only multiple headless screws for fixation. Bone union was achieved at 62 days after surgery in group 1 and 75 days in group 2 (p=0.165). Results: The preoperative mean visual analogue scores improved during the postoperative outpatient follow-up period in both groups (group 1, from 4.0 preoperatively to 1.0 at the final follow-up; group 2, from 5.0 preoperatively to 2.0 at the final follow-up). Mean grip strength and pinch strength increased after surgery. One patient (4.8%) experienced nonunion in group 1, whereas nonunion occurred in four patients (17.4%) in group 2. This difference was not statistically significant. Four patients in group 1 and no patients in group 2 underwent fixation instrument removal after sound union. Conclusion: Adequate stability can be achieved during arthrodesis by combining interosseous wiring and other implants or multiple headless compression screws, resulting in successful outcomes for patients with Eaton-Littler stage III degenerative TM arthritis.
Reconstruction methods for large cranial-nasal communications: surgeons’ concerns about proper anterior skull base reconstruction
Authors: Nuch Kong Srey , Hong Jong Won
Published: May 2024

Purpose: Skull base reconstruction is one of the most difficult reconstructive surgical procedures. Due to its complexity, most surgeons have modified the reconstruction methods to minimize the postoperative complications and mortality rate. In the past, flap surgery was not usually performed, but it has recently become more common due to advances in medicine. In this study, we analyzed successful flap surgery methods in skull base reconstruction for large cranial-nasal communications.Methods: Patients who underwent skull base reconstruction from April 2015 to January 2024 were eligible for this study. Of these patients, we included those who underwent reconstruction using a volumetric flap. Reconstructions that only used the conventional galeal flap, allograft skin, or bone substitute were excluded. The reconstruction methods used local flaps and free flaps.Results: In total, 22 patients underwent skull base reconstruction. The most frequently used local flap was the bilateral reverse temporalis muscle flap (seven of 11 cases), and the most frequent free flap was the anterior lateral thigh flap (10 of 11 cases). Other local flap operations used the modified temporalis muscle flap and scalp flap. A rectus myocutaneous flap was also used. There were no cases of flap necrosis.Conclusion: Flap surgery is needed for skull base reconstruction in patients with large cranial-nasal communications. As long as the flap volume is large enough to block and fill the defect, either a local flap or a free flap can be used for reconstruction.
La flexibilización del estándar de la buena fe exenta de culpa en los procesos de restitución de tierras
Authors: Acevedo González Luisa María , Acevedo González Natalí , Isaza Ramírez Esteban
Published: May 2024

Este capítulo tiene como propósito analizar cómo se ha construido el estándar de la BFEC en la jurisprudencia de las salas civiles especializadas en restitución de tierras de los distintos tribunales superiores del distrito judicial (TERT); cómo este ha variado a través del tiempo; y cómo ha afectado las decisiones sobre las pretensiones de los opositores. Con esto, se evidencia que: i) a través del tiempo ha aumentado el número de fallos a favor del opositor;6 ii) la flexibilización de la BFEC por parte de los TERT es una de las principales razones de esa tendencia; iii) existe una correlación entre la flexibilización del estándar de la BFEC y la situación de vulnerabilidad de los opositores; iv) dicha relación se excepciona en algunos casos en los que los TERT no aplicaron el estándar flexible a los opositores en situación de vulnerabilidad y, en otros casos, el estándar flexible se aplicó a opositores que no se encontraban en situación de vulnerabilidad.
Mapping of Physicochemical Properties of Groundwater Using QGIS of Bhopal District of Madhya Pradesh, India
Authors: Kumar Rajshekhar , Verma Shailza
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the groundwater quality in the Bhopal district, located in the Madhya Pradesh state of India. The water quality parameters spatial distribution map is created using QGIS Desktop 3.22.16. The research aims to calculate the groundwater suitability for purposes of drinking by collecting 47 samples from various locations within the district. The analysis includes eleven parameters related to groundwater quality, which is pH, Turbidity, Alkalinity, Total Dissolved Solids, Electrical Conductivity, Calcium Hardness, Total Hardness, Magnesium Hardness, Chloride, Sulphate, and Iron. Water Quality Index (WQI) has been computed to classify the ground water quality of the study area. Finally, a correlation matrix has been generated to explore the linear relationships between various water quality parameters, using correlation coefficients (r) as indicators of association. The present study shows that almost 80% of the quality is suitable for drinking, and about 20 % of the quality are under poor quality that needs treatment before consumption and at two locations the quality is very poor that needs urgent treatment.
A DINÂMICA DO EMPREGO INDUSTRIAL NO MATO GROSSO DO SUL (2009-2019)
Authors: Fernando Dal Moro Odirlei , Centenaro Moisés , Marques Vieira Rosele , Ramos da Silva Alesandro
Published: May 2024

O objetivo deste artigo é analisar a concentração do emprego industrial no Mato Grosso do Sul entre 2009-2019. Em termos específicos e metodológicos utilizou-se o Quociente Locacional (QL), Coeficiente de Redistribuição (CR), Coeficiente Localização (CL) e Participação Relativa do Emprego (PR) do setor industrial no Mato Grosso de Sul no período 2009-2019, com vistas a analisar a dinâmica do referido segmento. Dentre outras razões, o presente trabalho justifica-se por não há publicações utilizando os mencionados métodos, ao setor industrial e ao estado de Mato Grosso do Sul, atualizados para o período 2009-2019. Ademais, além de ser um dos objetivos de desenvolvimento sustentável da ONU (nono), o segmento industrial representa uma cadeia produtiva significativa, capaz de gerar emprego e renda. Os resultados encontrados mostram a região do Pantanal, Bodoquena e Aquidauana permanecem como as de maior destaque na extrativa mineral, diferentemente da indústria de transformação que possui maior espraiamento no estado.
ESTUDO DA ASCENSÃO CAPILAR DE COMBUSTÍVEIS AUTOMOTIVOS EM SOLOS COMPACTADOS
Authors: Matias Dias Maike , Riseuda Pereira de Sousa
Published: May 2024

O solo adequado ao cultivo agrícola e como reservatórios de água subterrâneos apropriado ao consumo humano possui relação direta com os eventos de deposição de dejetos, como: efluentes industriais, esgotos domésticos, combustíveis automotivos etc. no solo. O vazamento de qualquer resíduo tóxico, como os derivados de petróleos, em quantidade suficiente, na superfície do solo resultará numa migração e contaminação do lençol freático, principalmente se ele se encontrar a baixa profundidade. Vindo com isto a comprometer a qualidade da água e dos cultivos realizados na região afetada.
Temporal Variability in Weaver Ant Oecophylla longinoda Latreille (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) Nest Characteristics in Selected Host Plants
Authors: Ouagoussounon Issa , Rwegasira Rosalia Gration , Adandonon Appolinaire , Mwatawala Maulid , Offenberg Joachim , Kossou Dansou
Published: May 2024

Weaver ants (Oecophylla smaragdina and O. longinoda) are famous for their impressive nest constructions where they weave together living leaves on their host plants. Also, they are known to protect tropical tree crops against insect pests and are thus being utilized for biological control. To optimize their use, nest numbers have been used to track weaver ant abundances in plantation, assuming the number of nests reflects ant numbers. In this study we compared nest size, the density of ants and the proportion of workers in nests between three host plants (cashew, citrus and mango) and between two seasons (rainy and dry). Nest size, ant density and worker proportion all differed between host species, whereas only nest size and worker proportion showed seasonal differences and only on mango and citrus, respectively. On hosts with smaller nests (in increasing size order: cashew, citrus mango), ant densities in the nests were higher, and the proportion of workers in the nests seemed to increase during seasons where food production on host trees decreased, or on hosts where more trophobionts were cultured inside nests. These results have implications for the development of methods used to estimate ant numbers and they raise interesting questions about the function of weaver ant nests.
Pollination efficiency and foraging behavior of Bombus pauloensis (Hymenoptera: Apidae) on two highbush blueberry cultivars (Vaccinium corymbosum)
Authors: Cruz Carlos Pinilla , Riaño-Jimenez Diego , Hakim José Ricardo Cure
Published: May 2024

Bombus pauloensis Friese is a promising managed bumblebee that can pollinate crops in South America. Highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) is a recently introduced and economically promising crop cultivated in open fields or greenhouses in Colombia. Although this crop is known to be pollinator-dependent, the efficiency of local pollinators in this geographic area has yet to be established. This study aimed to establish the pollination effectiveness and foraging behavior of B. pauloensis in two of the most common cultivars of highbush blueberries planted in a high Andean region of Colombia. We hand-reared and located B. pauloensis colonies in two different plantations of Sharpblue (open field) and Biloxi (greenhouse) cultivars. The time spent per flower and the number of flowers visited per minute of 300 foragers were registered to characterize the foraging behavior in both cultivars. Pollen analysis was performed once from corbicular loads, larvae, larval cells, and colony feces to identify the pollen sources collected by colonies located in the Sharpblue crop. Analysis of fruit quality was performed to establish the effect of B. pauloensis pollination. Foragers visited blueberry flowers with a corolla aperture of more than 3mm in both cultivars but spent more time visiting Biloxi than Sharpblue flowers. B. pauloensis pollination reduced the ripening time and increased the fresh and dry weight and the number of true seeds in both cultivars. Our results provide evidence that B. pauloensis pollination can improve the fruit quality in the blueberry cultivars evaluated here in Colombia, making it an efficient native pollinator for a promising commercial species.
Disposable World(s): Race and Commerce in Defoe's Captain Singleton
Authors: Turner Cass
Published: May 2024

Abstract: In this essay, I examine Daniel Defoe's less well-known castaway novel, Captain Singleton (1720), in order to show how his fiction at once dramatizes and interrogates the view of colonial commerce he champions in his economic writings. I begin with the claim that Defoe presents a view of economic plenitude premised on the universal disposability of the world's resources—including persons, places, and things. According to this perspective, an object's utility derives from its capacity to be repositioned or repurposed in a new or different context. Captain Singleton translates this theory into fictional form, but in doing so it also reveals features of Defoe's thinking that were obscured in his economic writings. By juxtaposing acts of collective ingenuity and resourcefulness with acts of racialized enslavement, the novel suggests that each could be understood as operations of a commercial system that disregarded the meaning or integrity of individual lives and local sets of relations. I argue, finally, that the novel introduces a system of racialized enslavement whose function is to establish the relative worth of white humans—and their resistance to commercial disposability.
Fabrication and performance evaluation of a design for an extended depth-of-focus intraocular lens based on an improved sinusoidal profile
Authors: Xing Yuwei , Liu Yongji , Li Kunqi , Song Hui , Xu Mengchen , zhang Jie , Liu Hongliang , Zhang Hangjian , Wang Yan
Published: May 2024

This study presents the fabrication and evaluation of a sinusoidal
extended depth-of-focus (EDoF) intraocular lens (IOL) based on our
previously proposed design approach. The power, through-focus MTF, and
surface profile were measured using commercial instruments.
Through-focus images of a United States Air Force (USAF) 1951
resolution target formed by the fabricated IOL were compared with
Symfony and AR40E under monochromatic and polychromatic light using
optical bench testing. Simulations assessed visual acuity (VA) of a
pseudophakic model eye with the EDoF IOL, including evaluation of tilt
and decentration effects. Results indicate that the base power, add
power, and the through-focus MTF@50 lp/mm of the fabricated IOL at a 3
mm pupil size align with the design specifications. The
extended-depth-of-focus and imaging performance for the far vision of
the fabricated IOL under both monochromatic and polychromatic light
conditions at a 3.0 mm pupil diameter is comparable to that of
Symfony. In addition, the fabricated IOL exhibits a similar
extended-depth-of-focus for three discrete wavelengths. The
pseudophakic model eye with the designed EDoF IOL demonstrates a VA
exceeding 0.1 logMAR within a defocus range of 2.44 D. The VA is
tolerant to both IOL tilt and decentration. These findings demonstrate
the promising potential of the sinusoidal EDoF IOL design for future
applications in cataract surgery.
Construction of vector vortex beams on hybrid-order Poincaré sphere through highly scattering media
Authors: Lei Qiannan , Tu Shijie , Gong Haokai , Zhao Lina , Ren Yingying , Cai Yangjian , Zhao Qian
Published: May 2024

Vector vortex beams (VVBs) have attracted extensive attention due to their unique properties and their wide applications in fields such as optical manipulation and optical imaging. However, the wavefronts of the vector vortex beams are highly scrambled when they encounter highly scattering media (HSM), such as thick biological tissues, which greatly prevents the applications of VVBs behind HSM. To address this issue, we propose a scheme to construct VVBs of freewill position on the surface of hybrid-order Poincaré sphere (HyOPS) through HSM. With the measurement of two orthogonal scalar transmission matrices, the conjugated wavefronts for constructing orbital angular momentum beams with arbitrary topological charge in right and left circularly polarized states through HSM can be calculated, respectively. When an input wavefront superimposed by the two conjugated wavefronts with an appropriate ratio and phase delay, impinges on the HSM, the desired VVB can be created through HSM. To demonstrate the viability of our scheme, a series of VVBs on different locations of various HyOPSs have been reconstructed through a ZnO scattering layer experimentally. Furthermore, to characterize the polarization distribution of the generated beams, the polarization maps of these beams are derived by measuring the four Stokes parameters, which agree well with the theoretical distributions. This work will promote the applications of VVBs in highly scattering environments.
‘It is what was handed over to us as our heritage and must not be taken away just like that’: Traditional birth attendants’ attitudes towards the elimination of intergenerational female genital mutilation/cutting in Osun State, Nigeria
Authors: Fafowora Rosemary Omolara , Duma Sinegugu Evidence
Published: May 2024

Female genital mutilation/cutting is a harmful practice that violates the sexual and reproductive health rights of women and girls. The practice is often perpetrated directly or indirectly from one generation to another as a way of preserving the culture, thus making it difficult to tackle using ordinary prevention interventions. The purpose of the study was to assess the attitude of the traditional birth attendants as community leaders towards the elimination of intergenerational female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) of girls and to determine their level of readiness and preparedness towards achieving it in Osun State, Nigeria. A qualitative research design, using the adapted REPLACE community readiness tool to end female genital mutilation/cutting interview guide, was used to individually interview eight traditional birth attendants who were identified through purposive sampling method as community leaders and key informants. Thematic Analysis was used to analyze the data which yielded female genital mutilation/cutting as traditional heritage, defiance against government efforts and debunking all “western” information about dangers of female genital mutilation to women as lies as findings. The current defensive attitudes of the TBAs as community leaders and custodians of the FGM/C tradition are that of denial and resistance which is characterised by misconception and incorrect knowledge about the issue as well as misconception and lack of support for addressing the issue which is an indication of low level of no readiness for any intervention to prevent or eliminate FGM/C in Osun state, Nigeria. Serious engagement and dialogue between policy makers and health professionals on FGM/C and its effects on women is highly recommended for effective FGM/C elimination strategies to be co-developed with community leaders. Such engagements should adopt a non-confrontational, respectful, and honest approach so as to not alienate the TBAs.
Perinatal loss in Tanzania: Perspectives of maternal-child healthcare providers
Authors: Rent Sharla , Gaffur Raziya , Nkini Getrude , Sengoka Enna Geofrey , Mlay Pendo , Moyer Cheryl A. , Lemmon Monica , Docherty Sharron L. , Mmbaga Blandina T. , Staton Catherine A. , Shayo Aisa
Published: May 2024

Over 98% of stillbirths and neonatal deaths occur in Low- and Middle-Income Countries, such as Tanzania. Despite the profound burden of perinatal loss in these regions, access to facility or community-based palliative and psychosocial care is poor and understudied. In this study we explore perinatal loss through the lens of front-line healthcare providers, to better understand the knowledge and beliefs that guide their engagement with bereaved families. A Knowledge Attitudes and Practices survey addressing perinatal loss in Tanzania was developed, translated into Swahili, and administered over a 4-month period to healthcare professionals working at the Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center (KCMC). Results were entered into REDCap and analyzed in R Studio. 74 providers completed the survey. Pediatric providers saw a yearly average of 5 stillbirths and 32.7 neonatal deaths. Obstetric providers saw an average of 11.5 stillbirths and 13.12 neonatal deaths. Most providers would provide resuscitation beginning at 28 weeks gestational age. Respondents estimated that a 50% chance of survival for a newborn occurred at 28 weeks both nationally and at KCMC. Most providers felt that stillbirth and neonatal mortality were not the mother’s fault (78.4% and 81.1%). However, nearly half (44.6%) felt that stillbirth reflects negatively on the woman and 62.2% agreed that women are at higher risk of abuse or abandonment after stillbirth. A majority perceived that women wanted hold their child after stillbirth (63.0%) or neonatal death (70.3%). Overall, this study found that providers at KCMC perceived that women are at greater risk of psychosocial or physical harm following perinatal loss. How women can best be supported by both the health system and their community remains unclear. More research on perinatal loss and bereavement in LMICs is needed to inform patient-level and health-systems interventions addressing care gaps unique to resource-limited or non-western settings.
Cervical Cancer With The Active And Stable PI3K/MTOR/AKT Pathway In Azerbaijan Patients
Authors: Mardanova Konul S. , Rahimzade Sevinj E. , Aliyev Jamil A. , Mansurov Elchin B. , Aliyeva Elnara E. , Mehdizadeh Sabina Q. , Melikova Leylakhanim A.
Published: May 2024

Among the reproductive cancers cervical cancer has special place, because the second most frequent cause of cancer-related death among women worldwide. The studies suggested that the PI3K/mTOR/AKT signaling pathway is associated with certain reproductive tumors. A lot of research is ongoing for understanding this pathway evidence of its role in promoting tumorigenesis and recent progress in the development of therapeutic agents that targeted PI3K/AKT. In this a single-arm study included 34 Azerbaijan population woman with HPV-negative cervical tumors. The core genes of PAM signaling pathway were analyzed using RT-PCR method. Our preliminary results suggested that tumorgenesis of HPV-negative cervical cancer patients approximately 25% associated with dysregulation of PAM signaling pathway reason which are core genes alteration. The overall survival times in the PAM-active and PAM-stable patients were not significantly varies. However, the main factor for overall survival times were treatment strategy: both PAM-active and PAM-stable patients who received radiation therapy alone had a shorter overall survival than patients who received radiation plus chemotherapy. The patients with alteration of ATK1 and mTOR genes in PAM signaling pathway had poor prognosis then patients with PIK3CA and PTEN mutation
Health in everyday teaching practice in Sweden: a social pedagogical analysis of high school teachers’ descriptions
Authors: Hammerin Zofia , Basic Goran
Published: May 2024

This article aims to contribute a social pedagogical perspective of high school teachers’ descriptions of working with student health in their teaching practice in Sweden. Ten high school teachers were interviewed. The teachers considered their student health work as consisting of two main aspects: creating a good relationship and helping the students to succeed. These aspects are implicitly and explicitly described as comprising the recognition of the actors’ social and pedagogical identities. This study shows that social pedagogical recognition is significant for common success in school practice in relation to student health work. Clarifying the teachers’ responsibility and competence in student health work and strengthening teachers in their identity as health promoters could improve student health practice.
Accessory Flexor Carpi Ulnaris Muscle in Humans: A Rare Anatomical Case with Clinical Considerations
Authors: Borthakur Dibakar , Ganapathy Arthi , Ansari Mohammed Ahmed , Sehgal Ritu
Published: May 2024

Anatomical variations of the forearm flexor muscles are occasionally encountered. Though usually observed incidentally during autopsies or imaging studies, they may at times cause concern due to associated clinical symptoms. This report presents a case of unilateral accessory flexor carpi ulnaris (AFCU) muscle observed in a human male cadaver aged 78 years. During routine cadaveric dissection, an anomalous AFCU muscle was observed in the left forearm of a human male cadaver aged 78 years. Standard institutional guidelines pertaining to the use of human cadaver for teaching and research were followed. A thorough literature review about the flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU) through the PubMed, Embase and Google scholar databases was undertaken, using the keywords – accessory flexor carpi ulnaris muscle, aberrant flexor carpi ulnaris muscle and anatomical variation of flexor carpi ulnaris muscle. Relevant gross anatomical findings were recorded and photographed. AFCU was identified on the medial aspect of the distal third of the left forearm. The AFCU was found originating from the ante-brachial fascia and the fascia covering the FCU on the left forearm, forming a small separate belly deep to the main muscle. It terminated as a thin tendon running alongside the hypothenar muscles and attached distally to the base of the proximal phalanx of the little finger. The AFCU was found to be innervated by a branch of the ulnar nerve. Awareness about the rare AFCU muscle is clinically important as a possible cause of ulnar nerve compression but also as a possible graft in reconstruction surgeries.
The Effects of Urbanization and Economic Growth on The Igarapes of the Legal Amazon
Authors: Júnior Antônio Pereira , Piratoba Gundisalvo , Morales Norma Ely Santos Beltrão , Da Silva Marília Palheta , De Jesus Edmir dos Santos , Pereira Lucimar Costa
Published: May 2024

This study shows the primary mechanisms causing alteration and degradation of water bodies. Data analysis on the condition of urban streams in the Eastern Amazon (53,8%) shows that Pará state is the most affected (n = 67,8%). The Almas and Mata Fome creeks in the Bengui neighborhood have undergone the most significant and irreversible environmental changes. Similarly, the Paragominas stream is experiencing ongoing harm due to urban and economic expansion. In the Western Amazon (46,1%) and Amazonas state (9.5±4.9), research on 16 streams says a housing shortage and an increase in peripheral development along these water bodies. Urbanization and economic growth are altering the ecosystem functions of urban streams, highlighting the urgent need for water management authorities in the legal Amazon region to focus on this issue.
The role of enhanced expression of Cx43 in patients with ulcerative colitis
Authors: Liu Weidong , Feng Yan , Li Ting , Shi Tian , Hui Wenjia , Liu Huan , Gao Feng
Published: May 2024

The pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC) involves chronic inflammation of the submucosal layer and disruption of epithelial barrier function within the gastrointestinal tract. Connexin 43 (Cx43) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of intestinal inflammation and its associated carcinogenic effects. However, a comprehensive analysis of Cx43’s role in mucosal and peripheral immunity in patients with UC is lacking. In this study, the colon tissues of patients with UC exhibited severe damage to the intestinal mucosal barrier, resulting in a significant impairment of junctional communication as observed by transmission electron microscopy. The mRNA expression of Cx43 was found to be significantly elevated in the UC group compared to the control group, as determined using the Affymetrix expression profile chip and subsequently validated using qRT-PCR. The immunofluorescence analysis revealed a significantly higher mean fluorescence intensity of Cx43 in the UC group compared to the control group. Additionally, Cx43 was observed in both the cell membrane and nucleus, providing clear evidence of nuclear translocation. The proportion of Cx43 in the UC group for CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes was increased in the control group, but only the proportion of Cx43 for CD8+ T lymphocytes showed significant difference by flow cytometry. The involvement of Cx43 in the pathogenesis of UC and its potential role in mucosal immunity warrants further investigation, as it holds promise as a prospective biomarker and therapeutic target for this condition. The proportion of Cx43 in the UC group for CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes was increased in the control group, but only the proportion of Cx43 for CD8+ T lymphocytes showed a significant difference.
Frequency down-conversion of terahertz waves at optically induced temporal boundaries in GaAs waveguides
Authors: Takano Keisuke , Uchiyama Satoko , Nagase Shintaro , Tsuchimoto Yuka , Nakanishi Toshihiro , Nakata Yosuke , Pérez-Urquizo Joel , Madéo Julien , Dani Keshav M. , Miyamaru Fumiaki
Published: May 2024

In this study, the frequency down-conversion of terahertz waves is analytically and experimentally demonstrated at the temporal boundaries within a GaAs waveguide. The temporal boundary is established by photoexciting the top surface of the waveguide, thereby instantaneously increasing its electrical conductivity. This photoexcited waveguide supports a transverse electromagnetic (TEM) mode with a frequency lower than those of the transverse magnetic (TM) modes present in the original waveguide. At the temporal boundary, the incident TM mode couples with the TEM mode, resulting in frequency down-conversion. Subtracting the propagation loss from the frequency-converted components indicates that the frequency conversion occurs with an efficiency consistent with the analytical predictions. The propagation loss is primarily due to ohmic loss, caused by the finite electrical conductivity of the photoexcited region. Given that the frequency of transverse electric modes is up-converted at the temporal boundary, our findings suggest that the direction of frequency conversion (upward or downward) can be controlled by manipulating the incident polarization. The polarization-dependent frequency conversion in waveguides holds significant potential for applications in devices designed for the interconversion of terahertz signals across various frequency channels. This capability is instrumental in the development of frequency-division-multiplexed terahertz wave communication systems, thereby enabling high data transfer rates.
Ready to bleed when touched – Moral Injury in the Special Operations Forces military population
Authors: Gielas Anna M.
Published: May 2024

The armed forces combine different military populations with specific patterns of psycho-medical challenges and needs. The Special Operations Forces (SOF) exhibit one such pattern because they undergo more rigorous selection procedures, train differently and generally engage in different types of missions than other military populations. The aim of this commentary is to briefly introduce the psycho-medical patterns of SOF while paying particular attention to the growing discussion of Moral Injury (MI) in this military population. The mental health construct of MI refers to the persistent psycho-social harm resulting from exposure to events that clash with an individual’s moral beliefs. So far, research has focused on causes and symptoms of MI, less on prevention strategies and early intervention opportunities. This article advocates making a regular screening for symptoms of MI an element of routine physical check-ups of SOF to identify MI-related problems earlier and destigmatise mental health struggles, thereby countering severe manifestations of MI and alleviating suicidality rates in the SOF military population.
Foam concrete for lightweight construction applications: A comprehensive review of the research development and material characteristics
Authors: Liu Yajun , Zhao Zhilong , Amin Muhammad Nasir , Ahmed Bilal , Khan Kaffayatullah , Arifeen Siyab Ul , Althoey Fadi
Published: May 2024

Foam concrete or foamcrete is a lightweight, porous material with a wide range of applications in the construction domain. This article focused on reviewing porosity, thermal conductivity, acoustic properties, compressive strength (f
c′), elastic modulus (E), flexural strength (f
y), stability, resistance to hostile environments, density, and fire resistance of foam concrete. A systematic literature analysis was conducted to identify relevant research trends on foam concrete. The challenges and limitations of foam concrete research were highlighted, including the lack of standardized testing methods and the need for more research on the long-term durability and structural performance of foam concrete. The analysis of the literature data revealed that there had been a growing interest in foamcrete research over the past decade. Foam concrete may be utilized in several construction applications due to its adaptability and wide range of uses. Its potential uses can be increased by developing new manufacturing methods and the inclusion of certain admixtures. The present research has the potential to be advantageous for scholars interested in collaborative advancement and the exchange of novel tactics and concepts, owing to the visual and statistical representation of the regions/countries and researchers that have contributed.