bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analyzing Trends in Domestic Life Meaning Research Using Text Mining
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Jeon Hyejeong , Kim Sungbong , Zhou He
Published: February 2024

This study aims to examine the trends of research on meaning in life and provide basic data through text mining research methods. 368 academic articles related to the meaning of life were analyzed. In addition to text mining, topic modeling was used. The results of the analysis showed that, first, studies related to the meaning of life were published in 142 academic journals such as the Korean Youth Association and the Korean Counseling Association, and were studied in various fields. Second, keyword frequency analysis showed that meaning, research, result, and relationship were keywords. Third, the topic modeling analysis showed that the topics were: enhancing life satisfaction, resolving negative emotions and experiencing positive emotions, improving emotional efficacy and career adaptability, enhancing social skills, therapeutic characteristics and effects, and program development. This study is significant in that it is an attempt to present research trends related to life meaning and analyze them through text mining and topic modeling techniques, and provides limitations and suggestions along with discussion.
Analysis of Non-face-to-face Art Therapy Research Trends After the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Chung Youngin
Published: February 2024

This study aims to suggest the usefulness and development direction of non-face-to-face art therapy by analyzing research trends on non-face-to-face art therapy after the COVID-19 pandemic. The papers subject to analysis are studies on non-face-to-face art therapy after COVID-19, with a total of 73 papers published from 2020 to 2023. The research results are as follows. First, the most research on non-face-to-face art therapy was conducted in 2022, and there were many master's theses. Second, the most common research method was qualitative research, and many studies were non-face-to-face and real-time video, and did not record whether or not IRB review was approved. Third, most non-face-to-face art therapy sessions were 6 to 10 sessions, lasting less than 90 minutes, and many studies did not record media preparation. Fourth, the number of study subjects was 2-5, and most of them were adults and had emotional problems. Fifth, the research topic was emotion-related, and most of the research involved verifying effects. These research results were able to provide direction and basic data for non-face-to-face art therapy required in the future post-corona era and explore the possibility of applying non-face-to-face art therapy to clinical sites.
A Study on the Impact of Resilience and Social Support on Post-traumatic Growth among North Korean Defectors
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Lee Jae Kwan
Published: February 2024

This study aims to verify the impact of North Korean defectors' resilience and social support on their post-traumatic growth. In this study, the independent variable was selected as resilience, the parameter as social support, and the dependent variable as post-traumatic growth. In this study, questionnaires were distributed to 256 North Korean defectors and the 150 copies collected were analyzed using SPSS 20. First, the descriptive statistics of the variables and the correlations between variables were confirmed. Afterwards, the hypothetical model was tested, and finally, it was confirmed whether the independent variable, resilience, and the mediating variable, social support, affect post-traumatic growth. According to data analysis results, the resilience of North Korean defectors was found to have a significant impact on post-traumatic growth. Additionally, among social supports, emotional support and informational support were found to have a statistically significant effect on post-traumatic growth. Based on the research results, suggestions were made to strengthen the resilience of North Korean defectors and establish a social support system.
A Study on the User Behavior of Chinese Elderly Users in Digital Art Museums Based on the Combination of UTAUT2 and TRI Theory
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Huang Chen
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study is to explore the factors that affect the willingness and behavior of elderly Chinese users to use digital art museums and related new technologies, by combining the UTAUT2 model and the TRI model, in order to provide theoretical basis and practical guidance for the future development and optimization of digital art museums. The research results demonstrate that higher performance expectations, effort expectations, hedonic motivation, price value, and social influence can positively enhance user willingness to use, ultimately affecting usage behavior. And the facilitating factors can directly and positively affect the user's willingness and behavior to use. On the contrary, higher levels of discomfort and lack of security can have a negative impact on the user's willingness to use, affecting their usage behavior.
Practical Education Case Study of Basic Vocalization and Breathing Training for Pop Vocal Major Students
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Lee Hyunsook , Oh Hanseung
Published: February 2024

This study applied and guided systematic vocal education through private lessons for practical vocal majors through actual cases, qualitatively analyzed post-student feedback, and argued this. For this purpose, an objective vocal theory that can be commonly applied to classical vocal music and practical music vocals was presented, and based on this, ‘Concone’ and parts of Berklee College of Music’s vocal textbook were used as students’ assignments. Additional breathing exercises were also conducted to help with vocalization. After completing 15 weeks of practical training, all students responded to a survey that these vocal tasks had a positive effect and help on their singing, indicating that these vocal training tools are meaningful training tools in practical music vocal instruction. It can be seen as meaning. In addition, it was indirectly confirmed that 1:1 apprenticeship classes that allow interaction and intensive hands-on training between instructors and students are very effective in practical music vocal education.
A Study on the Development and Utilization of Convenience Store Brand Characters: A Case Study of CU
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Yoo Youngjae , Kim Gongsook
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study is to find out how brand characters help to form a positive brand image and brand equity through the case of CU. To this end, Heyroo Friends and CU Friends were analyzed based on previous studies on brands and brand characters. Heyroo Friends was only a PB product brand character based on CU's function, but it developed into CU brand character CU Friends by expanding the media from webtoons to web dramas, and metaverse. CU Friends is being actively used as a means to enhance the brand image as the basis for characters in flagship stores and short-form web drama series. Contents based on brand characters is contributing to deepening the relationship between consumers and brands. Through this study, it was confirmed that brand characters can be an effective means of enhancing brand identity and forming familiarity, as well as building brand assets through symbolic differentiation.
Busan’s Coterie Ballet from the Perspective of Genealogy: Based on the Notion of ‘Dispositif of Power and Resistance’
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Jung Doosoon
Published: February 2024

Having begun to be established in 1979 by those teaching and learning ballet in each university of Busan, coterie ballet companies are, in fact, the ‘dispositif of power’ activating powerknowledge. The groups contributed to revitalizing Busan’s Ballet in the 1990s by deconstructing and reconstructing classical ballet grammar through creation, challenging and innovating Busan’s ballet through performances in experimental venues, and forming the public sphere through the work production of social issues. On the other hand, however, they also strengthened the backwardness of Busan’s Ballet because their unique closedness centered around the professor in charge was entrenched in the form of a local coterie ballet. Based on such historical-social conditions surrounding Busan’s coterie ballet, this study carries out two main tasks: first, it analyzes Busan’s coterie ballet as the ‘dispositif of power’ created by the effect of power-knowledge from a genealogical point of view; second, it is proposed that Busan’s coterie ballet also be considered the potential ‘dispositf of resistance’ that can form a new community with some liberation strategy of secularization that cannot ever be governed.
The Needs on the Introduction and Utilization Strategies of Artificial Intelligence-Based Learning Support System in University
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Huh Sunyoung , Lee Gayoung , Chee Hyunkyung , Kim Myungsun , Kim Minji
Published: February 2024

This study aims to explore the current status and needs for the introduction and utilization of artificial intelligence(AI)-based learning support systems in domestic universities. To meet the purpose, interviews were conducted with nine participants responsible for AI-based learning support systems in universities. As the results, AI-based learning support systems in higher education institutions can be categorized into types such as teaching-learning assessment systems and recommendation systems that provide tailored information based on data. The needs revealed based in terms of system introduction, data collection, and system utilization and dissemination. Based on these findings, this study proposes differentiated strategies based on the methods of system implementation (top-down, bottom-up), utilization practices, and tailored service provision according to the circumstances of universities
CORAL INFANTIL AQUARELA: UM RELATO DE EXPERIÊNCIA SOBRE A PRÁTICA DE CANTO CORAL INFANTIL NA CIDADE DE QUATRO BARRAS (PR)
Authors: Karasinski Barros Caroline , Maranho Gomes Solange
Published: February 2024

Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo geral investigar a prática de um projeto de Canto Coral Infantil na cidade de Quatro Barras (PR) ministrado por mim e com um recorte da pesquisa realizado entre Março a Outubro/2019. Os objetivos especí­ficos foram a realização de uma pesquisa bibliográfica sobre o tema no perí­odo de 2009 a 2019, o relato dos principais aspectos presentes nos ensaios e a discussão sobre a literatura encontrada em conjunto com a reflexão da minha prática pedagógico-musical. A fundamentação teórica desta pesquisa se deu em torno do cantar (LEMOS e GOMES 2006; 2005), da canção (KATER e LOBÃO, 2001) e das relações entre ser humano e música desdobradas entre criança e música e entre adulto e música (PAREJO, 2011; MADALOZZO, 2019), incluindo a relação entre professor de música e famí­lias (ILARI, 2011; SUZUKI, 1994). Sua metodologia se deu pelo Relato de Experiência a fim de trazer constantes reflexões para a minha prática. No processo da prática percebi a formação de um plano de ação baseado em três eixos que podem ser desenvolvidos para o amadurecimento do Projeto, abordando fatores musicais e humanos em um contexto de ensino não formal e com caracterí­sticas de Projeto Social. Conclui-se que a pesquisa, a divulgação e o apoio, tanto de parte dos coralistas e de suas famí­lias ao Projeto são elementos essenciais para a continuidade do Coral.
REFLEXÕES SOBRE A RELAÇÃO ENTRE A CÂMERA VIRTUAL E A FOTOGRAFIA CINEMATOGRÁFICA APLICADA AOS VIDEOGAMES
Authors: Carneiro Matheus de Freitas
Published: February 2024

Este artigo resulta de uma parte de meu de Trabalho de Conclusão de Curso, que se constitui a partir de uma abordagem de revisão bibliográfica narrativa associada a um estudo de caso. A temática abrange o binômio: cinema e videogame, onde se busca evidenciar e avaliar as possí­veis influências que a linguagem e estética cinematográficas exercem sobre os videogames, e vice-versa, recortando especificamente o elemento da fotografia como agente catalisador da análise comparativa. A questão norteadora da investigação pretendida é: existe uma correlação entre a fotografia cinematográfica com a estética estabelecida a partir de um conceito de "˜câmera virtual' na produção dos elementos fotográficos nos/dos videogames? O corpus da investigação recai sobre dois videogames especí­ficos: 1) Metal Gear Solid (1998); e 2) Aconcagua (2000). Por meio do estudo de caso - análise comparativa deste material -, os objetivos principais da pesquisa são: 1) estabelecer uma possí­vel correlação entre a fotografia cinematográfica aplicada nas produções de jogos eletrônicos contemporâneos; 2) verificar, de forma comparativa, como cada uma destas linguagens tenta emular as caracterí­sticas da outra em termos artí­sticos e comunicacionais.
O FIGURINO COMO LUGAR-TEXTURA-AMBIENTAÇÃO DA CENA
Authors: Précoma Vinícius Augusto , Silva Amabilis de Jesus da
Published: February 2024

A presente pesquisa tem por propósito investigar as funções outras que o figurino pode ocupar na cena para além da caracterização. Os parâmetros traçados por Konstantin Stanislavski sobre a construção da personagem – tanto no exercí­cio que parte das noções psicológicas (internas) quanto no seu caminho oposto, partindo da externalidade, e objetivando a criação da persona – certamente já ofereceram diversas possibilidades de relação com a totalidade da encenação. No entanto, a diversidade dos modos de inserção do figurino nas práticas teatrais durante todo os séculos XX e XXI, mostram que paralelamente à caracterização, outras funcionalidades podem ser acrescentadas interferindo e auxiliando na estruturação dramatúrgica e/ou nas demais dinâmicas da cena. Diante disso, opta-se pela análise de três aplicabilidades: o figurino como o lugar; como o responsável, ou corresponsável, pelas texturas criadas em cena e também como ambientação. Além disso, interessa para o estudo entender como esse elemento é elaborado levando em consideração suas particularidades enquanto materialidade e notar também a partir de qual momento ele entra no processo de criação das montagens e o quanto se torna estruturante dentro da escritura cênica em conjunto com os demais elementos. Os estudos de caso foram delimitados por apresentarem alguma das três finalidades descritas e também por serem produções recentes. Dois destes estudos são produções curitibanas apresentadas na cidade nos anos de 2017 e 2018. "Hoje é dia de Rock" , com direção e figurinos de Gabriel Villela e "Primavera Leste" , direção de Dimis Jean Sores com figurinos de Val Salles. E por fim, "PI – Panorâmica Insana" , de Bia Lessa, com figurinos de Sylvie Leblanc, produção paulista que cumpriu apresentações no Festival de Teatro de Curitiba em 2019.
Surrealismo e Arte Visionária: Duas Abordagens do Inconsciente na Pintura
Authors: Fier Lucas
Published: February 2024

O presente artigo tem como objetivo apresentar uma comparação de dois distintos movimentos artí­sticos, o Surrealismo e a Arte Visionária, que, sob diferentes aspectos e concepções, visam representar aquilo que está para além dos sentidos e da razão: produtos do Inconsciente e experiências alcançadas em estado não ordinários de consciência. Através da comparação de seus manifestos e de suas produções artí­sticas, visa-se observar em que caracterí­sticas há convergências e divergências entre esses movimentos, revelando assim mais sobre a identidade de ambos, suas relações, origens comuns e influências. Verifica-se que ambas reivindicam artistas do passado, inclusive de povos não ocidentais, e fundamentam-se em teóricos de diferentes áreas, sobretudo da psicologia, mas também em fontes filosóficas, religiosas, ocultistas, psicodélicas e mágicas e visam reavaliar a relação com a realidade por meio da exploração da consciência, através de diferentes métodos que permitem afrouxar o controle da lógica e da linguagem e que liberam o potencial para novas experiências e percepções.
HOMOEROTISMO NO CINEMA LATINO-AMERICANO
Authors: Santos Douglas Carvalho
Published: February 2024

O presente artigo busca evidenciar representações da homoafetividade masculina na cinematografia latino-americana, pontualmente a partir de dois filmes: Madame Satã e Plata Quemada. O corpus de análise é composto de frames de ambos os filmes em que se veem retratados os personagens principais, buscando delinear pela análise de gestos, expressões faciais e corporais, composição do quadro, figurino e outros elementos da mise-en-scène, formas de expressão da afetividade homossexual que se manifestam na corporeidade dos personagens e dos próprios filmes. O modelo adotado levou em conta a experiência latino-americana, sem ignorar seus contextos, como as sequelas dos regimes ditatoriais a penetração dos valores católicos (e a relação incestuosa entre Estado e Igreja) os legados africanos e indí­genas e a herança pós-colonial. A ideia é colocar os filmes em diálogo, para, a partir deste trabalho comparativo, entender pontos de encontro e de dissidência destas representações da homoafetividade, oferecendo subsí­dios para uma compreensão das formas de se representar afetos homoeróticos no cinema latino-americano.
TECIDO ACROBÁTICO: UMA REVISÃO SISTEMÁTICA
Authors: Nascimento João Paulo Oliveira do , Cabo Verde Evandro Jorge Souza Ribeiro , Corrêa Lionela da Silva
Published: February 2024

O tecido acrobático é uma modalidade circense que trabalha uma gama de qualidades fí­sicas, como força, resistência, flexibilidade e sobretudo observa-se que a sua prática e seus praticantes acabam por desenvolver e aprimorar qualidades cognitivas e afetivas, atrelando a momentos do dia a dia, trazendo um intrí­nseco pensamento acerca do corpo, do lazer e do pensar-fazer artí­stico. Assim, este estudo teve como objetivo analisar as pesquisas realizadas no Brasil relacionadas ao tecido acrobático. Trata-se de uma pesquisa bibliográfica descritiva do tipo revisão sistemática integrativa. Encontrou-se um total de 7 artigos publicados que atendiam as necessidades da revisão. Os principais pontos em destaque dos trabalhos foram: a prática do tecido no Brasil; benefí­cios da prática do tecido acrobático e o desenvolvimento cognitivo e motor dos praticantes; tecido acrobático e escola; interdisciplinaridade do tecido: corpo-tecido-dança e Instrumentos de pesquisa voltados para o desenvolvimento e avaliação dos praticantes de tecido. Como principal conclusão, observou-se que há poucos trabalhos relacionados a essa modalidade que vem crescendo, e por isso, destaca-se que é importante fazer pesquisa nessa temática, pois quanto maior o conhecimento acerca dessa modalidade, mais fácil e diretivo seria na sistematização de sua prática em busca de objetivos especí­ficos (desenvolvimento), e auto conhecimento corporal.
TANGO DE BORDEL? REFLEXÕES SOBRE AS POSSIBILIDADES DE ORIGEM DO TANGO
Authors: Taques Leonardo José
Published: February 2024

Resumo: trata-se de um artigo que discute dois possí­veis espaços e contextos de origem do tango, os cortiços e os bordéis, na cidade de Buenos Aires. O objeto desta pesquisa foi discutido na Monografia intitulada Tango prostibulário? Reflexões sobre duas possibilidades da origem do tango na Pós-graduação Teoria e Movimento da Dança, com Ênfase em Danças de Salão na Universidade Tuiuti do Paraná. A metodologia para discutir este objeto foi a revisão bibliográfica de autores que defendem uma ou outra das duas possí­veis origens. Objetiva-se ressaltar a importância de contextualizar historicamente as práticas de tango, seja nas milongas ou nas salas de aula onde se ensinam esta dança para validar a diversidade e a confluência de imigrantes, gaúchos e afrodescendentes como parte da criação do tango que passou a ser considerado Patrimônio da Humanidade. Com implicações distintas sobre o entendimento de aspectos sociais e econômicos, conclui-se a importância de não vincular a criação do tango seja a dança ou a música, pela desqualificação das pessoas que viviam nos subúrbios ou em condições precárias de sobrevivência.Palavras-chave: tango; dança; música; dança de salão; história.What do you want to do ?New mailCopy
"PRÊMIO ARTE NA ESCOLA CIDADí" : CORPO(S) E PERFORMANCE(S) NAS PROPOSIÇÕES DE MARÍLIA NAVEGANTE E JACSON MATOS
Authors: Gabardo Junior Jair Mario
Published: February 2024

O presente texto é a transcrição de uma entrevista realizada simultaneamente comos artistas e educadores Marí­lia Navegante2 e Jacson Matos3 pelo professor Jair MarioGabardo Junior, para a revista O Mosaico – Revista de Pesquisa em Artes, em julho de2020, por meio do serviço de comunicação por ví­deo, Google Meet. O texto da entrevistaora publicado teve a sua versão final revisada pelos entrevistados.O interesse por esse diálogo polissêmico, interdisciplinar, se não tambémindisciplinado, tem o seu cerne no "Prêmio Arte na Escola Cidadã" – doravante PAEC –promovido pelo Instituto Arte na Escola (IAE). Tratam-se de 20 edições que, desde o ano2000, têm anualmente selecionado e premiado, em todo o território nacional, professoras eprofessores que desempenham práticas pedagógicas em arte a partir da seleção de um(a)ganhador(a) em cada uma das cinco categorias: Educação Infantil, Ensino Fundamental I,Ensino Fundamental II, Ensino Médio e Ensino de Jovens e Adultos.O Instituto é uma associação civil sem fins lucrativos fundada em 1989. Entre osseus objetivos está a busca por qualificar, incentivar e reconhecer o ensino e a aprendizagemartí­stica por intermédio da formação continuada de docentes da Educação Básica.
БУРСКИЕ ЛЕЧЕБНЫЕ ТРАДИЦИИ КАК ЭЛЕМЕНТ КУЛЬТУРНОГО ДОСТОЯНИЯ АФРИКАНЕРОВ
Authors: Нестерова Е.С.
Published: February 2024

С прибытием на территорию Южной Африки голландских колонистов (XVII в.) будущим переселенцам в отсутствие больниц пришлось на своем опыте учиться уходу за заболевшими, разрабатывая собственные уникальные способы профилактики и лечения болезней, облегчения симптомов – «boererate». Несмотря на довольно высокий современный уровень развития медицинской инфраструктуры, выработанная бурами столетия назад система профилактических мер и лечебных способов продолжает успешно функционировать и сейчас, приобретая новых сторонников и расширяя сферу своего применения. В настоящее время насчитывается свыше 8700 готовых рецептов изготовления тех или иных продуктов. Их арсеналширок и своеобразен.
ЖИЗНЬ С БОЛЕЗНЬЮ: САМОПОМОЩЬ И ВЗАИМОПОМОЩЬ ПОЖИЛЫХ ХРОНИЧЕСКИХ БОЛЬНЫХ В ДЕРЕВНЕ ША1 (КИТАЙ)
Authors: Хуань Цзяньли
Published: February 2024

Начиная с 1990-х годов, хронические заболевания стали одной из основных проблем здравоохранения в сельских районах Китая. Учитывая длительный и неизлечимый характер хронических заболеваний, многие пожилые пациенты обречены жить со своими болезнями и вынуждены справляться с болезнью и старостью в контексте своей повседневной жизни. Цель данной статьи – изучить стратегии выживания пожилых хронических больных в сельской местности и связанные с ними вопросы самопомощи и взаимопомощи в пределах деревни. Полевые данные, полученные в деревне Ша, показывают, что стратегии выживания хронических больных в сельской местности отражают их субъективность в преодолении страданий и представляют собой не только поведение «самопомощи», но и поведение взаимопомощи – «разделения одного и того же бремени». Взаимопомощь хронических больных в сельской местности – это проявление взаимопомощи в старости, которая переплетается с взаимопомощью по принципу соседства, между родственниками и друзьями, в коллективе, что в совокупности составляет культурную традицию и практическую основу взаимопомощи в старости в сельской местности.
ДОМАШНЯЯ АПТЕЧКА В ПЕРИОД ПАНДЕМИИ И ПОСТПАНДЕМИИ (ИЗ ОПЫТА ПРЕПОДАВАНИЯ ЭЛЕКТИВА «МЕДИЦИНСКАЯ АНТРОПОЛОГИЯ»): часть I
Authors: Дужникова (Ермакова) Е.Е.
Published: February 2024

Пандемийная и постпандемийная эпоха актуализировала медицинские практики и феномены, на которые ранее не делали необходимые акценты. Кроме того, они были актуализированы мною в ходе преподавания электива «Медицинская антропология» для студентов Тюменского государственного университета. Одно из практических заданий сформулировано следующим образом: рассказать о своей домашней аптечке. В статье (часть I) анализируется состав и структура домашней аптечки и делаются выводы, которые демонстрируют отношение людей к своему здоровью.
Khalouta transform and applications to Caputo-fractional differential equations
Authors: Kumawat Nikita , Shukla Akanksha , Mishra Manvendra Narayan , Sharma Rahul , Dubey Ravi Shanker
Published: February 2024

The paper aims to utilize an integral transform, specifically the Khalouta transform, an abstraction of various integral transforms, to address fractional differential equations using both Riemann-Liouville and Caputo fractional derivative. We discuss some results and the existence of this integral transform. In addition, we also discuss the duality between Shehu transform and Khalouta transform. The numerical examples are provided to confirm the applicability and correctness of the proposed method for solving fractional differential equations.

2010 Mathematics Classification

Primary 92B05, 92C60; Secondary 26A33.
The loading direction dramatically affects the mechanical properties of the mouse tibia
Authors: Farage-O’Reilly Saira Mary , Cheong Vee San , Pickering Edmund , Pivonka Peter , Bellantuono Ilaria , Kadirkamanathan Visakan , Dall’Ara Enrico
Published: February 2024

Introduction: The in vivo tibial loading mouse model has been extensively used to evaluate bone adaptation in the tibia after mechanical loading treatment. However, there is a prevailing assumption that the load is applied axially to the tibia. The aim of this in silico study was to evaluate how much the apparent mechanical properties of the mouse tibia are affected by the loading direction, by using a validated micro-finite element (micro-FE) model of mice which have been ovariectomized and exposed to external mechanical loading over a two-week period.

Methods: Longitudinal micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) images were taken of the tibiae of eleven ovariectomized mice at ages 18 and 20 weeks. Six of the mice underwent a mechanical loading treatment at age 19 weeks. Micro-FE models were generated, based on the segmented micro-CT images. Three models using unitary loads were linearly combined to simulate a range of loading directions, generated as a function of the angle from the inferior-superior axis (θ, 0°–30° range, 5° steps) and the angle from the anterior-posterior axis (ϕ, 0°: anterior axis, positive anticlockwise, 0°–355° range, 5° steps). The minimum principal strain was calculated and used to estimate the failure load, by linearly scaling the strain until 10% of the nodes reached the critical strain level of −14,420 με. The apparent bone stiffness was calculated as the ratio between the axial applied force and the average displacement along the longitudinal direction, for the loaded nodes.

Results: The results demonstrated a high sensitivity of the mouse tibia to the loading direction across all groups and time points. Higher failure loads were found for several loading directions (θ = 10°, ϕ 205°–210°) than for the nominal axial case (θ = 0°, ϕ = 0°), highlighting adaptation of the bone for loading directions far from the nominal axial one.

Conclusion: These results suggest that in studies which use mouse tibia, the loading direction can significantly impact the failure load. Thus, the magnitude and direction of the applied load should be well controlled during the experiments.
Influence of various pilot hole profiles on pedicle screw fixation strength in minimally invasive and traditional spinal surgery: a comparative biomechanical study
Authors: Li Yun-Da , Lai Po-Liang , Hsieh Ming-Kai , Chen Weng-Pin , Lee De-Mei , Tsai Tsung-Ting , Tai Ching-Lung
Published: February 2024

Despite advancements in pedicle screw design and surgical techniques, the standard steps for inserting pedicle screws still need to follow a set of fixed procedures. The first step, known as establishing a pilot hole, also referred to as a pre-drilled hole, is crucial for ensuring screw insertion accuracy. In different surgical approaches, such as minimally invasive or traditional surgery, the method of creating pilot holes varies, resulting in different pilot hole profiles, including variations in size and shape. The aim of this study is to evaluate the biomechanical properties of different pilot hole profiles corresponding to various surgical approaches. Commercially available synthetic L4 vertebrae with a density of 0.16 g/cc were utilized as substitutes for human bone. Four different pilot hole profiles were created using a 3.0 mm cylindrical bone biopsy needle, 3.6 mm cylindrical drill, 3.2–5.0 mm conical drill, and 3.2–5.0 mm conical curette for simulating various minimally invasive and traditional spinal surgeries. Two frequently employed screw shapes, namely, cylindrical and conical, were selected. Following specimen preparation, screw pullout tests were performed using a material test machine, and statistical analysis was applied to compare the mean maximal pullout strength of each configuration. Conical and cylindrical screws in these four pilot hole configurations showed similar trends, with the mean maximal pullout strength ranking from high to low as follows: 3.0 mm cylindrical biopsy needle, 3.6 mm cylindrical drill bit, 3.2–5.0 mm conical curette, and 3.2–5.0 mm conical drill bit. Conical screws generally exhibited a greater mean maximal pullout strength than cylindrical screws in three of the four different pilot hole configurations. In the groups with conical pilot holes, created with a 3.2–5.0 mm drill bit and 3.2–5.0 mm curette, both conical screws exhibited a greater mean maximal pullout strength than did cylindrical screws. The strength of this study lies in its comprehensive comparison of the impact of various pilot hole profiles commonly used in clinical procedures on screw fixation stability, a topic rarely reported in the literature. Our results demonstrated that pilot holes created for minimally invasive surgery using image-guided techniques exhibit superior pullout strength compared to those utilized in traditional surgery. Therefore, we recommend prioritizing minimally invasive surgery when screw implantation is anticipated to be difficult or there is a specific need for stronger screw fixation. When opting for traditional surgery, image-guided methods may help establish smaller pilot holes and increase screw fixation strength.
Fabrication of gelatin-heparin based cartilage models: enhancing spatial complexity through refinement of stiffness properties and oxygen availability
Authors: Lindberg G. , Norberg A. , Soliman B. , Jüngst T. , Lim K. , Hooper G. , Groll J. , Woodfield T.
Published: February 2024

The intricate nature of native cartilage, characterized by zonal variations in oxygen levels and ECM composition, poses a challenge for existing hydrogel-based tissue models. Consequently, these 3D models often present simplified renditions of the native tissue, failing to fully capture its heterogenous nature. The combined effects of hydrogel components, network properties, and structural designs on cellular responses are often overlooked. In this work, we aim to establish more physiological cartilage models through biofabrication of photopolymerizable allylated-gelatin (GelAGE) and Thiolated Heparin (HepSH) constructs with tailorable matrix stiffness and customized architectures. This involves systematically studying how the native glycosaminoglycan Heparin together with hydrogel stiffness, and oxygen availability within 3D structures influence chondrogenic differentiation and regional heterogeneity. A comprehensive library of 3D hydrogel constructs was successfully developed, encompassing GelAGE-HepSH hydrogels with three distinct stiffness levels: 12, 55 and 121 kPa, and three unique geometries: spheres, discs, and square lattices. In soft GelAGE-HepSH hydrogels, the localization of differentiating cells was observed to be irregular, while stiff hydrogels restricted the overall secretion of ECM components. The medium-stiff hydrogels were found to be most applicable, supporting both uniform tissue formation and maintained shape fidelity. Three different 3D architectures were explored, where biofabrication of smaller GelAGE-HepSH spheres without oxygen gradients induced homogenous, hyaline cartilage tissue formation. Conversely, fabrication of larger constructs (discs and lattices) with oxygen gradients could be utilized to design heterogenous cartilage tissue models. Similarly, temporal oxygen gradients were observed to drive interconnected deposition of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Control samples of GelAGE without HepSH did not exhibit any notable changes in chondrogenesis as a function of stiffness, architectures, or oxygen concentrations. Overall, the incorporation of HepSH within GelAGE hydrogels was observed to serve as an amplifier for the biological effects from both stiffness and oxygen cues. In conclusion, fabrication of GelAGE-HepSH constructs designed to impose limitations on oxygen availability induce more zone-specific cartilage tissue alignment. This systematic study of matrix components, network stiffness, and oxygen levels in 3D biofabricated structures contributes to the development of more physiologically relevant cartilage models while further enhancing our overall understanding of cartilage tissue engineering.
Amplitude spectral area of ventricular fibrillation can discriminate survival of patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest
Authors: Gentile Francesca Romana , Wik Lars , Isasi Iraia , Baldi Enrico , Aramendi Elisabete , Steen-Hansen Jon Erik , Fasolino Alessandro , Compagnoni Sara , Contri Enrico , Palo Alessandra , Primi Roberto , Bendotti Sara , Currao Alessia , Quilico Federico , Vicini Scajola Luca , Lopiano Clara , Savastano Simone
Published: February 2024

Background

Evidence of the association between AMplitude Spectral Area (AMSA) of ventricular fibrillation and outcome after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is limited to short-term follow-up. In this study, we assess whether AMSA can stratify the risk of death or poor neurological outcome at 30 days and 1 year after OHCA in patients with an initial shockable rhythm or with an initial non-shockable rhythm converted to a shockable one.

Methods

This is a multicentre retrospective study of prospectively collected data in two European Utstein-based OHCA registries. We included all cases of OHCAs with at least one manual defibrillation. AMSA values were calculated after data extraction from the monitors/defibrillators used in the field by using a 2-s pre-shock electrocardiogram interval. The first detected AMSA value, the maximum value, the average value, and the minimum value were computed, and their outcome prediction accuracy was compared. Multivariable Cox regression models were run for both 30-day and 1-year deaths or poor neurological outcomes. Neurological cerebral performance category 1–2 was considered a good neurological outcome.

Results

Out of the 578 patients included, 494 (85%) died and 10 (2%) had a poor neurological outcome at 30 days. All the AMSA values considered (first value, maximum, average, and minimum) were significantly higher in survivors with good neurological outcome at 30 days. The average AMSA showed the highest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (0.778, 95% CI: 0.7–0.8, p < 0.001). After correction for confounders, the highest tertiles of average AMSA (T3 and T2) were significantly associated with a lower risk of death or poor neurological outcome compared with T1 both at 30 days (T2: HR 0.6, 95% CI: 0.4–0.9, p = 0.01; T3: HR 0.6, 95% CI: 0.4–0.9, p = 0.02) and at 1 year (T2: HR 0.6, 95% CI: 0.4–0.9, p = 0.01; T3: HR 0.6, 95% CI: 0.4–0.9, p = 0.01). Among survivors at 30 days, a higher AMSA was associated with a lower risk of mortality or poor neurological outcome at 1 year (T3: HR 0.03, 95% CI: 0–0.3, p = 0.02).

Discussion

Lower AMSA values were significantly and independently associated with the risk of death or poor neurological outcome at 30 days and at 1 year in OHCA patients with either an initial shockable rhythm or a conversion rhythm from non-shockable to shockable. The average AMSA value had the strongest association with prognosis.
Genetic, clinical and imaging implications of a noncompaction phenotype population with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Grebur Kinga , Mester Balázs , Fekete Bálint András , Kiss Anna Réka , Gregor Zsófia , Horváth Márton , Farkas-Sütő Kristóf , Csonka Katalin , Bödör Csaba , Merkely Béla , Vágó Hajnalka , Szűcs Andrea
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The genotype of symptomatic left ventricular noncompaction phenotype (LVNC) subjects with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and its effect on clinical presentation are less well studied. We aimed to characterize the genetic, cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) and clinical background, and genotype-phenotype relationship in LVNC with preserved LVEF.

Methods

We included 54 symptomatic LVNC individuals (LVEF: 65 ± 5%) whose samples were analyzed with a 174-gene next-generation sequencing panel and 54 control (C) subjects. The results were evaluated using the criteria of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics. Medical data suggesting a higher risk of cardiovascular complications were considered “red flags”.

Results

Of the LVNC population, 24% carried pathogenic or likely pathogenic (P) mutations; 56% carried variants of uncertain significance (VUS); and 20% were free from cardiomyopathy-related mutations. Regarding the CMR parameters, the LVNC and C groups differed significantly, while the three genetic subgroups were comparable. We found a significant relationship between red flags and genotype; furthermore, the number of red flags in a single subject differed significantly among the genetic subgroups (p = 0.002) and correlated with the genotype (r = 0.457, p = 0.01). In 6 out of 7 LVNC subjects diagnosed in childhood, P or VUS mutations were found.

Discussion

The large number of P mutations and the association between red flags and genotype underline the importance of genetic-assisted risk stratification in symptomatic LVNC with preserved LVEF.
Upper extremity phlegmasia cerulea dolens complicating supra vena cava embolism in a cervical cancer patient: case report
Authors: Ge Jinting , Weng Chengxin , Zhao Jichun , Yuan Ding , Wang Tiehao
Published: February 2024

Phlegmasia cerulea dolens (PCD) is a rare yet severe complication of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), characterized by a high amputation rate and mortality. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing this condition. PCD predominantly affects the lower extremities rather than the upper extremities. We herein present a rare upper extremity PCD case accompanied with supra vena cava and pulmonary embolism in a cervical cancer patient, who presented to our institution with severe pain, edema and irreversible venous gangrene of right upper limb with no response to anticoagulation therapy. Emergency fasciotomy and amputation were performed due to the progressed venous gangrene, however, the patient developed severe infection and coagulation disorders, gastrointestinal bleeding and disseminated intravascular coagulation after the surgery. Despite medical interventions, her family chose to withdraw treatment and the patient died in ICU at the fourth day following emergency surgery.
Characterizing patient details-related challenges from health information technology-related incident reports from Swedish healthcare
Authors: Jabin Md Shafiqur Rahman , Pan Ding , Nilsson Evalill
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Despite many benefits offered by Health Information Technology (HIT) systems, new technology brings new and unforeseen risks to healthcare quality and patient safety if they're not properly planned, designed, implemented, and managed. This study examined health information technology-related (HIT) incidents to identify patient details-related issues, their association with contributing factors, and outcomes.

Methods

Sources of information comprised retrospectively collected incident reports (n = 95) using two sampling methods, i.e., purposive and snowball sampling. The incident reports were analyzed using both the inductive method (thematic analysis) and the deductive approach using an existing framework, i.e., the International Classification for Patient Safety.

Results

The studies identified 90 incidents with 120 patient details-related issues—categorized as either information-related (48%) or documentation-related (52%) problems; around two-thirds of the 120 issues were characterized by human factors. Of the total sample, 87 contributing factors were identified, of which “medical device/system” (45%) and “documentation” (20%) were the most common contributing factors. Of 90 incidents, more than half (59%) comprised patient-related outcomes—patient inconvenience (47%) and patient harm (12%) and the remaining 41% (n = 37) included staff or organization-related outcomes.

Discussion

More than half of the incidents resulted in patient-related outcomes, namely patient inconvenience and patient harm, including disease risks, severe health deterioration, injury, and even patient death. Incidents associated with patient details can cause deleterious effects; therefore, characterizing them should be a routine part of clinical practice to improve the constantly changing healthcare system.
Serum afamin and its implications in adult growth hormone deficiency: a prospective GH-withdrawal study
Authors: Ratku Balázs , Lőrincz Hajnalka , Csiha Sára , Sebestyén Veronika , Berta Eszter , Bodor Miklós , Nagy Endre V. , Szabó Zoltán , Harangi Mariann , Somodi Sándor
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Adult growth hormone deficiency (AGHD) is associated with a high prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MS), which contributes to the unfavorable cardiovascular risk profile in these patients. Insulin like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) is a widely used biomarker, however it does not always reflect the cardiometabolic risk and has a poor relationship with clinical efficacy endpoints. Consequently, there is an unmet need for biomarkers to monitor responses to GH-replacement. Afamin is a hormone-like glycoprotein, expressed in the liver. Higher afamin levels are strongly associated with MS and insulin resistance (IR). Although both MS and IR are very common in AGHD, afamin has not been investigated in these patients.

Purpose

To investigate afamin as a potential biomarker in patients with AGHD.

Materials and methods

Participants included 20 AGHD patients (11 GH-substituted and 9 GH-unsubstituted) and 37 healthy controls. Subjects underwent routine laboratory examinations, anthropometric measurements, body composition analysis using multi-frequency bioelectrical impedance analysis (InBody720) and measurement of serum afamin concentrations. In GH-substituted subjects, GH-substitution was withdrawn for 2 months. Measurements were carried out right before GH-withdrawal, at the end of the 2-month withdrawal period, and 1 month after reinstituting GH-replacement therapy (GHRT).

Results

GH-unsubstituted patients demonstrated higher afamin levels compared to controls (p=0.03). Afamin positively correlated with skeletal muscle mass, bone mineral content, total body water, extracellular- and intracellular water content, insulin (all, p<0.01), HOMA-IR (p=0.01) and C-peptide (p=0.03) levels in AGHD but not in healthy controls. In GH-substituted patients 2-month of GH-withdrawal caused significant changes in body composition, including decreased fat-free mass, skeletal muscle mass, total body water, and intracellular water content (all, p<0.01); but these changes almost fully recovered 1 month after reinstituting GHRT. Unexpectedly, afamin levels decreased after GH-withdrawal (p=0.03) and increased with reinstitution (p<0.01). Changes of afamin levels during GH-withdrawal positively correlated with changes of HOMA-IR (r=0.80; p<0.01) and changes of insulin (r=0.71; p=0.02).

Conclusion

Higher afamin levels in unsubstituted AGHD patients might indicate severe metabolic dysregulation. Significant changes accompanying GH-withdrawal and reinstitution, along with strong correlations with measures of IR, suggest that afamin could be a promising biomarker to monitor GHRT-associated changes of insulin sensitivity.
Modeling and simulation of direct contact membrane distillation system integrated with a photovoltaic thermal for electricity and freshwater production
Authors: Maqbool Faisal , Soomro Mujeeb Iqbal , Kumar Laveet , Harijan Khanji
Published: February 2024

Energy drives the growth, transformation, and economic development of every nation. The vitality of human existence and progress hinges on the accessibility of both energy and water resources. As freshwater resources are diminishing, therefore, desalination needs have increased. In solar membrane distillation systems, the key challenge is maintaining the intake water temperature in the membrane distillation system with fluctuating solar radiation intensity which affects the distillate water quantity and quality. The objective of this study is to enhance and optimize a mathematical model for analyzing a cutting-edge solar-integrated PV/T-DCMD system. In this innovative integration, the direct contact membrane distillation intake water temperature is derived from the photovoltaic thermal output. The integration of direct contact membrane distillation with photovoltaic thermal systems represents a cost-effective and technologically advantageous concept. As the water temperature increases, there is a notable improvement in the evaporation efficiency of PV/T-DCMD systems, with an increase from 35.08% to 42.01%. Additionally, there is a reduction in specific thermal energy consumption, decreasing from 1,192 to 1,386 kWh/m3 as a consequence of the elevated feed water temperature.
Impact of household population ageing on carbon emissions: micro-scale evidence from China
Authors: Chai Shijun , Qiao Hong , Li Yize
Published: February 2024

Carbon emissions reduction and population ageing are two major challenges faced by human society in the 21st century. Based on data from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS), we investigated the impact of population ageing on carbon emissions at the household level along with the potential mechanisms of this impact. We found that households with a higher older adult population proportion and age of the household head emitted less, and these results were shown to be very robust and reliable across a series of endogeneity and robustness tests. Furthermore, population ageing contributed to carbon emission reductions for all groups; however, compared with urban households, rural households were more sensitive to population ageing. Mechanism analysis showed that population ageing can reduce household carbon emissions through more frugal life attitudes and lower future income expectations, whereas it increases carbon emissions due to weaker environmental awareness among older adults. However, overall, population ageing has a significant inhibitory effect on household carbon emissions. The findings of this study contribute to our understanding of the micro-scale mechanisms of residents’ carbon emission behaviour and provide new insights for designing targeted policies for carbon reduction from the perspective of population structure.