bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lower extremity peripherally inserted central catheter placement ectopic to the ascending lumbar vein: A case report
Authors: Zhu Xiao-Ju , Zhao Ling , Peng Na , Luo Jia-Min , Liu Shui-Xia
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are an essential infusion route for oncology patients receiving intravenous treatments, but lower extremity venipuncture is the preferred technique for patients with superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS). We report the case of a patient with a lower extremity PICC ectopic to the ascending lumbar vein, to indicate and verify PICC catheterisation in the lower extremity is safe and feasible. And hope to provide different perspectives for clinical PICC venipuncture to get the attention of peers.

CASE SUMMARY

On 24 August 2022, a 58-year-old male was admitted to our department due to an intermittent cough persisting for over a month, which worsened 10 d prior. Imaging and laboratory investigations suggested the patient with pulmonary malignancy and SVCS. Chemotherapy was not an absolute contraindication in this patient. Lower extremity venipuncture is the preferred technique because administering upper extremity venous transfusion to patients with SVCS can exacerbate oedema in the head, neck, and upper extremities. The patient and his family were informed about the procedure, and informed consent was obtained. After successful puncture and prompt treatment, the patient was discharged, experiencing some relief from symptoms.

CONCLUSION

Inferior vena cava catheterisation is rare and important for cancer patients with SVCS, particularly in complex situations involving ectopic placement.
Clinical manifestations and the prenatal diagnosis of trisomy 7 mosaicism: Two case reports
Authors: Hou Fei , Li Yan , Jin Hua
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

The clinical manifestations of trisomy 7 mosaicism are diverse and nonspecific, so prenatal diagnosis is very difficult.

CASE SUMMARY

Two pregnant women with abnormal prenatal screening results were included. One was a 22-year-old woman (G1P0). At 31st week of gestation, ultrasound revealed that the posterior horn of the left lateral ventricle was 10 mm and the right renal pelvis had a separation of 7 mm. The other pregnant woman was 33 years old (G2P1L1A0), and her fetus was found to have a cardiac malformation at the 24th week of gestation. Copy number variation sequencing, whole-exome sequencing and karyotype analysis were carried out after amniocentesis, and both fetuses were diagnosed with trisomy 7 mosaicism. After parental counseling, one woman continued the pregnancy, and the other woman terminated the pregnancy.

CONCLUSION

In trisomy 7 mosaicism, the low proportion of trisomy does not lead to abortion, but can result in abnormal fetal development, which can be detected via ultrasound. Therefore, clinicians need to pay more attention to various aspects of fetal growth and development, combining with imaging, cellular, molecular genetics and other methods to perform comprehensive evaluations of fetuses to provide more reliable genetic counseling for pregnant women.
First knee for pain and function versus second knee for quality of life
Authors: Lewin Adriane M. , Cashman Kara , Harries Dylan , Ackerman Ilana N. , Naylor Justine M. , Harris Ian A.
Published: March 2024

Aims

The aim of this study was to describe and compare joint-specific and generic health-related quality of life outcomes of the first versus second knee in patients undergoing staged bilateral total knee arthroplasty (BTKA) for osteoarthritis.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study used Australian national arthroplasty registry data from January 2013 to January 2021 to identify participants who underwent elective staged BTKA with six to 24 months between procedures. The primary outcome was Oxford Knee Score (OKS) at six months postoperatively for the first TKA compared to the second TKA, adjusted for age and sex. Secondary outcomes compared six-month EuroQol five-dimension five-level (EQ-5D-5L) domain scores, EQ-5D index scores, and the EQ visual analogue scale (EQ-VAS) between knees at six months postoperatively.

Results

The cohort included 635 participants (1,270 primary procedures). Preoperative scores were worse in the first knee compared to the second for all instruments; however, comparing the first knee at six months postoperatively with the second knee at six months postoperatively, the mean between-knee difference was minimal for OKS (-0.8 points; 95% confidence interval (CI) -1.4 to -0.2), EQ-VAS (3.3; 95% CI 1.9 to 4.7), and EQ-5D index (0.09 points; 95% CI 0.07 to 0.12). Outcomes for the EQ-5D-5L domains ‘mobility’, ‘usual activities’, and ‘pain/discomfort’ were better following the second TKA.

Conclusion

At six months postoperatively, there were no clinically meaningful differences between the first and second TKA in either the joint-specific or overall generic health-related quality of life outcomes. However, individual domain scores assessing mobility, pain, and usual activities were notably higher after the second TKA, likely reflecting the cumulative improvement in quality of life after both knees have been replaced.

Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(3):202–209.
NÍVEL DE DIVERSIFICAÇÃO, QUALIDADE DE VIDA E SAÚDE E BEM-ESTAR FINANCEIRO DO INVESTIDOR: Uma Análise Regional
Authors: Araújo Flávia Barbosa de Brito , Maciel Peixoto , Rogers Silva Pablo
Published: March 2024

Este estudo tem como objetivo investigar a associação entre diversificação e as variáveis de Bem-Estar Financeiro, qualidade de vida e saúde, depressão e ansiedade dos investidores (Sudeste versus demais regiões). Utilizou-se como proxies a soma dos ativos para diversificação; a escala de WHOQOL-100 para qualidade de vida e saúde; e o inventário de Beck para ansiedade e depressão; e como indicador de bem-estar financeiro adotou-se o conceito do serviço de Proteção ao Crédito. Por meio da modelagem de equações estruturais e teste de invariância, os resultados apontaram uma relação positiva entre diversificação e bem-estar financeiro. Ademais, o bem-estar financeiro revelou uma relação positiva com a qualidade de vida, em contrapartida, apresentou uma relação negativa com as escalas de ansiedade e depressão. Em relação aos testes de invariância, os resultados indicaram que não há diferenças significativas entre os investidores do Sudeste e os aplicadores das demais regiões.
Numerical Analysis of a Supercritical Heat Transfer of Cryogenic Methane in Regeneratively Cooled Rocket Engine
Authors: DJEFFAL Mohammed Amine , BENAMARA Nabil , LAHCENE Abdelkader , BENOUAR Ali , BOULENOUAR Abdelkader , MERZOUG Mohammed
Published: March 2024

A comparative study of supercritical heat transfer in a regeneratively cooled rocket engine was conducted using three-dimensional numerical simulations for two channel geometries: rectangular and square. Various constant heat fluxes, flow velocities, and operating pressures were imposed to study their effect on heat transfer, pressure losses, and the conditions under which heat transfer deterioration HTD occurs. The results show that a rectangular channel is more efficient in terms of heat transfer than a square channel, with a more pronounced difference at high heat fluxes and low velocities, these conditions, in fact, favored the occurrence of heat transfer deterioration, particularly in the square channel. Increasing the flow velocities to reduce the wall temperature and prevent thermal deterioration was accompanied by a significant increase in pressure losses, these pressure losses are greater in the rectangular channel, despite its advantages in terms of heat transfer. Operating pressure also plays an important role in heat transfer, increasing the pressure results in a decrease in wall temperature.
CFD modeling for urban blast simulation
Authors: MARIN Florin Bogdan , BURUIANA Daniela Laura , GHISMAN Viorica , MARIN Mihaela
Published: March 2024

In this paper we present a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations for the case of natural gas explosion in urban area. Blast simulations aid in the development of effective mitigation strategies. By understanding how blast waves propagate through an urban environment, authorities can implement measures such as barriers, protective shields, strategies for firefighting strategy or evacuation plans to minimize damage and casualties. Accurate simulations provide insights into the potential impact of a blast on surrounding infrastructure and populations. This information is crucial for emergency response planning, helping authorities to allocate resources and respond effectively to minimize the consequences of an explosion.
The impact of the Laval nozzle shape on thrust production, using the method of characteristics
Authors: PARASCHIV Andrei - Ionut
Published: March 2024

This investigation examines the influence of Laval nozzle geometry on thrust production using the method of characteristics. It explores various divergent section configurations, analyzing their impact on nozzle design and performance. Comparative analysis of software tools, study of supersonic flow phenomena, and application of the method of characteristics form the core of this research. Findings showcase strong agreement between computational tools, emphasizing the Mach number's role in divergent section shape variations and thrust force. Additionally, the study scrutinizes over-expansion and under-expansion phenomena, validated through computational simulations. Future research should be aimed at enhancing computational methodologies and investigating additional parameters affecting nozzle performance, promising advancements in rocket propulsion technology.
Simulation of pulsatory liposome working using a linear approximation for transmembrane pore dynamics
Authors: POPESCU Dumitru , CONSTANTIN Diana CONSTANTIN , NICULESCU Valentin Ioan Remus
Published: March 2024

This paper presents an analytical solution of the differential equations describing the pulsatory liposome dynamics. We consider a unilamellar liposome filled with an aqueous solution of osmotic solute inserted in a hypotonic aqueous medium. Due to the osmosis process the liposome has a cyclic evolution. The lipid vesicle swells to a critical size, at which point a transbilayer pore suddenly appears. Part of the internal solution leaks through this pore. The liposome relaxes and returns to the initial size. The swelling starts again and the liposome goes through a periodical process. The swelling of the liposome is described by a differential equation. The appearance of the pore changes the evolution of the liposome. The internal solution comes out through the pore and the liposome starts its deflation (relaxation). The evolution of the pore has two phases: first, the radius of the pore increases to its maximum value, then the radius decreases until it disappears, and the liposome reaches its initial size. During each cycle, the liposome will release a quantity (a pulse) of the solution from its interior. All the processes which contribute to the liposome relaxing and its coming back to the initial size are described by three differential equations. This system of differential equations can be integrated using numerical methods. The functions – which model our biological engine in three stages, are as follows: R(t) - the liposome radius, r(t) - the pore radius, C(t) - solute concentration, Q(t) - the osmotic solute amount inside the liposome. The graphs representing these functions contain important linear portions, which suggested a solution using analytical methods. Based on some analytical methods, we solve these equations, and their explicit solutions are validated by comparing with numerical results of previous studies.
Neither Portugal nor Brazil: An Investigation of the Decolonial Efforts in Instructional Materials Adopted in Early Portuguese Courses at US Universities
Authors: Costa-Silva Jean
Published: March 2024

Abstract: This study investigates the efforts towards promoting the decolonial teaching of Portuguese as a foreign language in instructional materials adopted in early Portuguese courses at higher education institutions in the United States. A framework for qualitative analysis of course materials, textbooks, and syllabi was designed based on Zavala's (2016) model for decolonial education and Rodríguez's (2015) studies on deep and surface culture. Eleven Portuguese undergraduate language programs in the United States submitted materials for consideration. Seven of these programs use the same textbook, which splits its linguistic and cultural instruction between Brazil and Portugal, and often presents limited views of other Portuguese-speaking countries. Two programs replace Portugal for Brazil as the core linguistic and cultural content of their course, which may suggest a shift away from colonialism, but towards economic power. The remaining materials adopted by two programs, however, promote the pluricentricity of Portuguese and delve into issues beyond surface-level celebrations of culture or the dissemination of factual information about minority Portuguesespeaking countries. Their materials expose the power imbalances between all Portuguese-speaking countries and give learners the opportunity to hear from the subalterns. Findings show a shortage of Portuguese-oriented materials as well as resources for decolonial language teaching. To help address this shortage, intervention ideas for educators planning to promote decolonial thinking in the Portuguese classroom are proposed.
Gender-inclusive Language in Twitter
Authors: Samples Caitlin E.
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Gender-inclusive language serves to recognize women and people with non-binary gender identities as part of the primary group, and it has been seen in various languages, including Arabic (Berger 2019), English (Berger 2019; Mathews 1995), Hebrew (Berger 2019), Portuguese (Secretaria de Comunicação 2021), Spanish (Berger 2019; Guzmán Stein 2004), and Swedish (Berger 2019; Gustafsson Sendén et al. 2015), among others (Berger 2019). In Spanish, for example, speakers exchange the generic masculine – o gender morpheme for morphemes like –@, – x , or – e . Through an analysis of the use of these morphemes in the word nosotros by Twitter users in or around Madrid, it is argued that a language change based on analogy to non-gender-marked forms such as estudiante and inteligente is in progress (Campbell 2013; Gubb 2013; Moreno, p.c.; Pesce and Etchezahar 2019). Data are manually extracted from tweets posted during the first through the tenth of each month in the years 2010, 2014, and 2018. The data reveal that no inclusive morphemes were used in 2010, but that by 2018, the most frequent gender-inclusive morpheme was –@, – x was the second-most frequent, and – e was the least frequent. The frequency of these morphemes corresponds with their novelty: – @ was created first, and – e is the most recent. Future studies should examine uses of gender-inclusive language in later years, as well as the demographic characteristics of the Twitter users.
Christian Yoga, New Thought, and "The First Hindu American": The Life and Thought of Akhoy Kumar Mozumdar
Authors: Ganguly Tuhina
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT: Akhoy Kumar Mozumdar (1881-1953), New Thought proponent and teacher of Christian Yoga, was among the earliest Indians to get American citizenship and the first Indian immigrant filmmaker in the United States. Yet his name is referenced merely in passing in the histories of both the New Thought movement and early twentieth-century yoga. Focusing on Mozumdar's life and thought, this article argues that Mozumdar's universalist teachings on the power of the human mind were embedded in discourses of racial and caste purity that were crucial to him gaining American citizenship and garnering acceptance as a spiritual teacher among White audiences. His life and work reveal that discourses of racial purity in the United States, evident in New Thought too, were implicated in discourses of caste and Aryan race theory transposed to American shores from overseas.
Design of highly efficient far-field beam shapers with irregular maskless microlens arrays
Authors: Stefanidi Dmitrii , Wilhelm Leo M. , Schreiber Peter , Brüning Robert , Tünnermann Andreas
Published: March 2024

Regular tandem microlens arrays are well described and widely used for beam shaping and homogenization. Applying absorbing slides between the entrance and exit lenslets and channel-wise variation of the slides’ shape and size allows flexible control of the beam’s intensity profile and silhouette. The downside of absorbing slides is a significant transmission loss, limiting the achievable level of system efficiency. This work describes a more efficient method for micro-optical beam shaping with maskless irregular microlens arrays (iMLA). The iMLAs are completely absorption-free elements, enhancing the overall efficiency of the optical system. We describe basic design rules for iMLAs, including stray-light suppression, tolerancing, and modeling under consideration of manufacturing imperfections.
Efficiency enhancement of ultrathin CIGS solar cells by optimal bandgap grading. Part III: piecewise-homogeneous grading
Authors: Ahmad Faiz , Monk Peter B. , Lakhtakia Akhlesh
Published: March 2024

In Parts I [ Appl.
Opt. 58, 6067
(2019)APOPAI0003-693510.1364/AO.58.006067] and II
[ Appl.
Opt. 61, 10049
(2022)APOPAI0003-693510.1364/AO.474920], we used a coupled
optoelectronic model to optimize a thin-film CIGS solar cell with a
graded-bandgap photon-absorbing layer, periodically corrugated
backreflector, and multilayered antireflection coatings. Bandgap
grading of the CIGS photon-absorbing layer was continuous and either
linear or nonlinear, in the thickness direction. Periodic corrugation
and multilayered antireflection coatings were found to engender slight
improvements in the efficiency. In contrast, bandgap grading of the
CIGS photon-absorbing layer leads to significant enhancement of
efficiency, especially when the grading is continuous and nonlinear.
However, practical implementation of continuous nonlinear grading is
challenging compared to piecewise-homogeneous grading. Hence, for this
study, we investigated piecewise-homogeneous approximations of the
optimal linear and nonlinear grading profiles, and found that an
equivalent efficiency is achieved using piecewise-homogeneous grading.
An efficiency of 30.15% is predicted with a three-layered
piecewise-homogeneous CIGS photon-absorbing layer. The results will
help experimentalists to implement optimal designs for highly
efficient CIGS thin-film solar cells.
Analysis of age-related changes in the left ventricular myocardium with multiphoton microscopy
Authors: Bueno Juan M. , Martínez-Ojeda Rosa M. , Pérez-Zabalza María , García-Mendívil Laura , Asensio M. Carmen , Ordovás Laura , Pueyo Esther
Published: March 2024

Aging induces cardiac remodeling, resulting in an increase in the risk of suffering heart diseases, including heart failure. Collagen deposition increases with age and, together with sarcomeric changes in cardiomyocytes, may lead to ventricular stiffness. Multiphoton (MP) microscopy is a useful technique to visualize and detect variations in cardiac structures in a label free fashion. Here, we propose a method based on MP imaging (both two-photon excitation fluorescence (TPEF) and second harmonic generation (SHG) modalities) to explore and objectively quantify age-related structural differences in various components of cardiac tissues. Results in transmural porcine left ventricle (LV) sections reveal significant differences when comparing samples from young and old animals. Collagen and myosin SHG signals in old specimens are respectively 3.8x and >6-fold larger than in young ones. Differences in TPEF signals from cardiomyocyte were ∼3x. Moreover, the increased amount of collagen in old specimens results in a more organized pattern when compared to young LV tissues. Since changes in collagen and myosin are associated with cardiac dysfunction, the technique used herein might be a useful tool to accurately predict and measure changes associated with age-related myocardium fibrosis, tissue remodeling and sarcomeric alterations, with potential implications in preventing heart disease.
Narrow-linewidth and low RIN Tm/Ho co-doped fiber laser based on self-injection locking
Authors: Yang Dandan , Yan Fengping , Feng Ting , Li Ting , Yu Chenhao , Wang Xiangdong , Guo Hao , Cai Yuezhi , Ji Wenjie
Published: March 2024

A narrow-linewidth and low relative intensity noise (RIN) Tm/Ho co-doped fiber laser based on a saturable absorber and self-injection locking was demonstrated for the first time. Utilizing self-injection locking technology, the frequency noise power spectral density is remarkably reduced by more than 17.1 dB from 1.21 × 106 Hz2/Hz to 7.30 × 103 Hz2/Hz when the frequency is approximately 1 kHz. Furthermore, a laser with a linewidth compressed to a quarter of the original linewidth from 44.386 kHz to 2.850 kHz, a RIN of less than -127.74 dB/Hz, and an optical signal-to-noise ratio of more than 71.6 dB can be obtained. Using a delay fiber, the relaxation oscillation peak frequencies move to lower frequencies, from 27.9 kHz to 15.8 kHz. The proposed laser is highly competitive in advanced coherent light detection fields, including coherent Doppler wind lidar, high-speed coherent optical communication, and precise absolute distance coherent measurement.
Hybrid 3C-silicon carbide-lithium niobate integrated photonic platform
Authors: Krishna Rakesh , Fan Tianren , Hosseinnia Amir H. , Wu Xi , Peng Zhongdi , Adibi Ali
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we demonstrate a novel hybrid 3C-silicon carbide-lithium niobate (3C-SiC-LN) platform for passive and active integrated nanophotonic devices enabled through wafer bonding. These devices are fabricated by etching the SiC layer, with the hybrid optical mode power distributed between SiC and LN layers through a taper design. We present a racetrack resonator-based electro-optic (EO) phase shifter where the resonator is fabricated in SiC while using LN for EO-effect (r33≈ 27 pm/V). The proposed phase shifter demonstrates efficient resonance wavelength tuning with low voltage-length product (Vπ.Lπ ≈ 2.18 V cm) using the EO effect of LN. This hybrid SiC-LN platform would enable high-speed, low-power, and miniaturized photonic devices (e.g., modulators, switches, filters) operable over a broad range of wavelengths (visible to infrared) with applications in both classical and quantum nanophotonics.
Demonstration of stable, long-term operation of a nanosecond pulsed DPSSL at 10 J, 100 Hz
Authors: De Vido Mariastefania , Quinn Gary , Clarke Danielle , McHugh Luke , Mason Paul , Spear Jacob , Smith Jodie M. , Divoky Martin , Pilar Jan , Denk Ondrej , Butcher Thomas J. , Edwards Chris , Mocek Tomas , Collier John L.
Published: March 2024

We report on stable, long-term operation of a diode-pumped solid-state laser (DPSSL) amplifying 15 ns pulses at 1029.5 nm wavelength to 10 J energy at 100 Hz pulse rate, corresponding to 1 kW average power, with 25.4% optical-to-optical efficiency. The laser was operated at this level for over 45 minutes (∼3 · 105 shots) in two separate runs with a rms energy stability of 1%. The laser was also operated at 7 J, 100 Hz for 4 hours (1.44 · 106 shots) with a rms long-term energy stability of 1% and no need for user intervention. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that long-term reliable amplification of a kW-class high energy nanosecond pulsed DPSSL at 100 Hz has been demonstrated.
The prevalence of non-contrast CT imaging abnormalities in reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Gotesman Ryan Daniel , Niznick Naomi , Dewar Brian , Fergusson Dean A. , Mallick Ranjeeta , Shorr Risa , Shamy Michel , Dowlatshahi Dar
Published: March 2024

Background

Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is a syndrome of recurrent thunderclap headaches and reversible vasoconstriction of the cerebral arteries on neuroimaging within 3 months of onset. Initial non-contrast computed tomography (CT) can reveal abnormalities such as ischemic stroke, intracerebral hemorrhage, and subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) can be present in patients with RCVS and may delay diagnosis.

Aims

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of imaging abnormalities on initial non-contrast CT head in adult patients with RCVS.

Data sources & eligibility criteria

We searched electronic databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Register of Clinical Trials from inception to August 2, 2022. Eligible studies included articles reporting the prevalence of non-contrast CT abnormalities on initial neuroimaging in patients with RCVS, aged 18 and older. Case series, observational studies and clinical trials were included. Data was extracted directly from included papers using a standardized data charting form.

Results

The search yielded 722 titles with duplicates removed. Twenty studies that included 379 patients with RCVS met inclusion criteria. We classified non-contrast CT abnormalities as either ischemic stroke, ICH, or SAH. We pooled prevalence data using a random effects model with the inverse-variance weighted method. The most common imaging finding was SAH with a pooled prevalence of 24% (95% CI:17%-33%), followed by ICH at 14% (95% CI:8%-22%), and ischemic stroke at 10% (95% CI:7%-14%). The pooled prevalence of any of these imaging abnormalities on initial non-contrast CT was 31% (95% CI:23%-40%). Risk of bias was moderate to very-high-risk for case-series and low-risk for observational studies.

Conclusion

Our review demonstrates that one-third of patients with RCVS will have an abnormality on initial non-contrast CT head, including either an ischemic stroke, ICH, or SAH. These findings highlight the diagnostic challenges of RCVS imaging and contribute to our understanding of this disease.
Retrospective study of patellar fractures and damage of accessory soft tissue based on MRI
Authors: Hua Yi-Fan , Zhang Yu-Rou , Guo Li
Published: March 2024

Background

To better understand the pathophysiological mechanisms of patellar fractures, MRI was utilized to identify the imaging signs of various types of patellar fractures.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed using MRI images of 52 patients with patellar fractures. Observing the development of patellar and femoral morphology and the imaging manifestations of different fracture types, such as fracture displacement, and damage to accessory ligaments, tendons, and meniscus, type of joint cavity effusion, and damage to surrounding accessory bones were identified.

Results

There were 21 tangential fractures (40.4%), 8 transverse fractures (15.4%), 8 longitudinal fractures (15.4%), 4 oblique fractures (7.7%), and 11 comminuted fractures (21.2%) among the 52 patients with patellar fracture. Tangential fractures begin at a younger age than the other four forms of fractures. When tangential fractures were compared to other types of fractures, medial patellar retinaculum and anterior and posterior cruciate ligament injuries were statistically significant (P< 0.05). The detection rate of trochlear dysplasia, type II and type III patellar was higher in patients with tangential fractures than in other fractures.

Conclusions

Tangential fractures are less common to cause anterior and posterior cruciate ligament injuries than other types of fractures, but they are more likely to cause medial patellar retinaculum injuries.
Towards phenotyping adaptive traits in camels: A study of the influence of hypotonic saline solutions on blood cell area
Authors: Alhaddad Hasan , Alnughaimish Aisha , Alhajeri Dalal , Alhajeri Bader H.
Published: March 2024

Single-humped camels are livestock of physical, physiological, and biochemical adaptations to hot desert environments and to water scarcity. The tolerance of camels to water deprivation and their exceptional capacity for rapid rehydration requires blood cells with membranes of specialized organization and chemical composition. The objectives of this study are to examine the changes in the area (a proxy for volume) of camel blood cells in solutions with decreasing concentrations of NaCl and consequently identify the conditions under which blood cells can be phenotyped in a large population. Whole-blood samples from three healthy adult female camels were treated with four different concentrations of NaCl and examined at six incubation-periods. Observationally, red blood cells in all treatments remained intact and maintained their elliptical shape while white blood cells experienced some damage, lysing at concentrations below 0.90%. Average basal (in 0.90% NaCl) RBC area was ~15 μm² and swelled in the various treatments, in some cases reaching twice its original size. Excluding the damaged cells, the average area of combined WBCs, ~32.7 μm², expanded approximately three times its original size. We find that camel WBCs, like their RBCs, are adapted to hypotonic environments, and are capable of expanding while maintaining their structural integrity.
Symptoms 6 months following SARS-CoV-2 infection in Nepali women
Authors: Shrestha Deepak S. , Manandhar Sajani , Chalise Bimal Sharma , Rajbhandari Sagar Kumar , Bastola Anup , Bhandari Parmananda , Das Santa Kumar , Pant Pankaj , Sharma Sangita , Kattel Hari Prasad , Jha Roshan Kumar , Shrestha Mahendra Raj , Shrestha Anil , Love Richard R.
Published: March 2024

In Nepal, over 1 million individuals have tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. We sought to describe the frequency of nonrecovery from this infection at 6 months and associated symptoms. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 6142 women who had positive and negative PCR tests for this infection 6 months previously at 3 institutions in Kathmandu. In telephone interviews women provided information on 22 symptoms and their intensities, health status and history, and functional status. Of 3732 women who had tested PCR positive, 630 (16.9%) reported that they were unrecovered. These 630 unrecovered women were distinguished statistically from the 3102 recovered women by more frequent histories of allergies, rheumatoid disease, BCG immunization, Covid vaccination, strep throat and recent URIs, and both weight gain and weight losses of more than 5 kg in the 6 months following testing, and stressful events in the preceding year. Fatigue, pain, difficulty remembering, shortness of breath, heat and cold intolerance and unrefreshing sleep were reported in 41.9% to 10.5% of these 630 unrecovered women. Six months after confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection 16.9% of Nepali women have long-COVID manifested as an immune, metabolic, and hormonal systems disruptive and dysfunction syndrome
The price continuity, return and volatility spillover effects of regular and after-hours trading
Authors: Chiu Chien-Liang , Chang Ting-Huan , Hsiao I-Fan , Chiou De-Shin
Published: March 2024

This study employs a bivariate EGARCH model to examine the Taiwan Futures Exchange’s regular and after-hours trading, focusing on the critical aspects of spillover and expiration effects, as well as volatility clustering and asymmetry. The objective of this study is to observe the impact on the trading sessions in Taiwan by the influences of the European and American markets, focusing on the essential roles of the price discovery function and risk disclosure effectiveness of the regular hours trading. This research is imperative considering the increasing interconnectedness of global financial markets and the need for comprehensive risk assessment for investment strategies. It also examines the hedging behavior of after-hours traders, thereby aiming to contribute to pre-investment analysis by future investors. This examination is vital for understanding the dynamics of after-hours trading and its influence on market stability. Results indicate price continuity between both trading sessions, with regular trading often determining after-hours price ranges. Consequently, after-hours price changes can inform regular trading decisions. This finding highlights the importance of after-hours trading for shaping market expectations. Significant profit potential exists in after-hours trading open interest, which serves speculative and hedging purposes. While regular trading volatility influences after-hours trading, the reverse is not true. This suggests Taiwan market information poses a higher risk impact than European and American market data, emphasizing the unique position of the Taiwan market in the global financial ecosystem. After-hours trading volatility reflects the absorption of international market information and plays a crucial role in advance revelation of risks. This underscores the importance of after-hours trading in global risk management and strategy formulation.
General practitioners’ experiences of providing lifestyle advice to patients with depression: A qualitative focus group study
Authors: Astaire Emma , Jennings Laura , Khundakar Martina , Silverio Sergio A. , Flynn Angela C.
Published: March 2024

Objective

Depression is an increasingly common mental health disorder in the UK, managed predominantly in the community by GPs. Emerging evidence suggests lifestyle medicine is a key component in the management of depression. We aimed to explore GPs’ experiences, attitudes, and challenges to providing lifestyle advice to patients with depression.

Method

Focus groups were conducted virtually with UK GPs (May-July 2022). A topic guide facilitated the discussion and included questions on experiences, current practices, competence, challenges, and service provision. Data were analysed using template analysis.

Results

‘Supporting Effective Conversations’; ‘Willing, but Blocked from Establishing Relational Care’; ‘Working Towards Patient Empowerment’; and ‘Control Over the Prognosis’ were all elements of how individualised lifestyle advice was key to the management of depression. Establishing a doctor-patient relationship by building trust and rapport was fundamental to having effective conversations about lifestyle behaviours. Empowering patients to make positive lifestyle changes required tailoring advice using a patient-centred approach. Confidence varied across participants, depending on education, experience, type of patient, and severity of depression.

Conclusions

GPs play an important role in managing depression using lifestyle medicine and a patient-centred approach. Organisational and educational changes are necessary to facilitate GPs in providing optimal care to patients with depression.
Correlation of handgrip strength with quality of life-adjusted pulmonary function in adults
Authors: Jung Hae In , Gu Kang-Mo , Park So Young , Baek Moon Seong , Kim Won Young , Choi Jae-Chol , Shin Jong-Wook , Kim Jae-Yeol , Chang Young D. , Jung Jae-Woo
Published: March 2024

Background

Handgrip strength (HGS) is acknowledged as a key indicator of overall physical fitness and is associated with various health outcomes.

Objectives

This research investigates the correlation between HGS and quality of life (QoL), focusing on its relation to pulmonary function in the general adult population.

Method

The study involved 19,402 participants aged 40 and above, spanning from 2014 to 2019, who underwent pulmonary function and HGS tests. Participants were categorized based on lung function, and regression analyses were employed to examine the relationship between HGS and QoL, with adjustments made for lung function.

Results

The average age of the cohort was 58.2 years, comprising 44.6% males and 41.2% smokers. Out of the 18,708 participants who completed the European Quality of Life Scale-Five Dimensions (EQ-5D-3L) assessment, higher severity levels in mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain or discomfort, and anxiety or depression were linked to lower HGS in both sexes. Additionally, among the 3,723 participants who completed the Health-related Quality of Life Instrument with 8 Items (HINT-8) assessment, higher severity levels in pain, work, and depression were associated with lower HGS in men. In women, higher severity levels in climbing stairs, pain, vitality, and work correlated with lower HGS.

Conclusions

As problems indicated by EQ-5D worsened, there was a consistent decrease in handgrip strength (HGS) across both genders. The HINT-8 assessment further revealed that increased severity in pain and work-related issues led to reduced HGS in both men and women. This study highlights the relationship between HGS and Quality of Life (QoL), taking lung function into consideration, and underscores the importance of HGS as a potential marker of physical health and fitness.
Four-Variable Jacobian Conjecture in a Topological Quantum Model of Intersecting Fields
Authors: De Miguel Bueno Alfonso
Published: March 2024

This preprint introduces in a visual and conceptual way a model of two intersecting curved fields with a shared nucleus, whose quantized dynamics offer po tential cases of the four-variable Jacobian conjecture and a nonlinear Hodge cycle.

The Kummer type geometry of the model sug gests a unified framework where abstract mathemat ical developments like Tomita-Takesaki, Gorenstein, and Dolbeault theories, can be conceptually linked to the Jacobian, Hodge, and Riemann conjectures.

Other mathematical physics topics, like the mass gap problem, reflection positivity, the emergence of imaginary time, or t-duality, are also considered within this context.

The fields model also lies the foundation of a novel deterministic quantum atomic system with a super symmetric dual nucleus structure of matter and mir ror antimatter
A VEICULAÇÃO E PRODUÇÃO DE INFORMAÇÕES SOBRE VIOLÊNCIA SEXUAL CONTRA CRIANÇAS EM JORNAIS DIGITAIS DE MATO GROSSO DO SUL
Authors: Domingos da Silva Gislaine , Constantina Xavier Filha
Published: March 2024

A presente pesquisa teve por objetivo analisar e discutir sobre a veiculação e produção de informações sobre violência sexual contra crianças em jornais digitais de Mato Grosso do Sul. A problemática foi a seguinte: como são veiculadas e produzidas as informações sobre violência sexual contra crianças em reportagens de jornais digitais em Mato Grosso do Sul? Os referenciais teóricos dos Estudos de Gênero, Estudos Culturais, na perspectiva da metodologia pós-crítica em educação. Foram divididas em dois agrupamentos e subagrupamentos: Nomenclaturas utilizadas pelas reportagens, perfil das vítimas e perfil do/a agressor/a das violências sexuais contra crianças nas reportagens das mídias sociais e Análise referente ao perfil de agressores/as relatados/as nas reportagens analisando a veiculação e produção de informações dos jornais digitais. O resultado pesquisa: todas a violências sexuais são carregadas de outras violências: física e psicológica, em todos os casos analisados, os abusadores tinham algum tipo de vínculo com as vítimas.
RACISMO NA LITERATURA INFANTIL
Authors: Borges dos Santos Correia Larissa , Ribeiro Campos Lucas
Published: March 2024

Este estudo tem como objetivo compreender como a história e a cultura afro-brasileira é representada no livro Abecê da Liberdade. Trata-se de uma pesquisa exploratória de abordagem qualitativa, valendo-se da análise documental. Para o tratamento dos dados, utiliza-se a análise textual discursiva. Assim, os resultados apontam que a obra traz a história do povo negro através da trajetória do Luiz Gama, evidenciando a participação negra na história do Brasil. Entretanto, o livro cometeu equívocos ao romantizar a vivência de crianças dentro do regime escravista, ressaltando aspectos desumanos que desqualificam o negro e sua cultura. Logo, sugere-se uma reorganização nos parâmetros de seleção dos livros infantis das instituições de ensino, assim como uma revisão editorial na intenção de ampliar o acervo da literatura afro-brasileira positiva, garantindo às crianças o conhecimento da realidade e não as manter à mercê da lógica da sociedade racista.
OS PRÉ-VESTIBULARES PARA PESSOAS TRANS* E A CONSTRUÇÃO DE UM ESPAÇO SEGURO
Authors: Reis Santos Jeferson
Published: March 2024

A partir de 2015 é possível notar o surgimento de diversos pré-vestibulares sociais voltados, de forma exclusiva ou prioritária, para a população trans* e travesti. A partir de uma abordagem qualitativa, realizamos seis entrevistas com interlocutores/interlocutoras que narraram suas experiências como docentes ou discentes nestes projetos. Em diálogo com a proposta de “espaços seguros” de Patricia Hill Collins (2019) e “precariedade” (BUTLER, 2019a; 2015; 2011), apresentamos a maneira como estes cursinhos preparatórios são planejados e construídos cotidianamente a partir de uma posição anti-transfóbica. O nosso objetivo principal foi analisar as estratégias assumidas pelos projetos na busca de uma educação antitransfóbica. Os resultados apontam o reconhecimento das diversas experiências de gênero e o compromisso com a autodefinição como pontos fundamentais nestes projetos. Argumentamos ainda a importância de recorrer às experiências localizadas como produtoras de conhecimentos e práticas que ajudam a construir uma efetivamente comprometida com a superação das opressões.
PERFORMATIZAÇÕES DA LINGUAGEM PARA QUEER(CUIR)IZAR AS MASCULINIDADES NO VOLEIBOL
Authors: Brito Leandro Teofilo de
Published: March 2024

Este artigo busca discutir enunciações subversivas proferidas por jovens atletas de voleibol, que se identificavam como homens cisgêneros homossexuais e bissexuais, e os seus efeitos performativos no contexto esportivo pesquisado. Como referencial teórico mobilizei os estudos queer/cuir em textos de Judith Butler, Paul Preciado, Eve Sedgwick, entre outros, além do pensamento da desconstrução de Jacques Derrida. Os caminhos metodológicos também foram conduzidos pela perspectiva queer/cuir, por meio de observações participantes, conversas informais e entrevista narrativa. Entre os resultados, as enunciações performatizadas pelos jovens atletas desestabilizaram a identificação unívoca da masculinidade normalizadora naquele espaço, visibilizando, ainda que dentro de um contexto restrito, possibilidades alternativas de performatizações das masculinidades em um contexto esportivo.
Synergistic Municipal-community partnership: Resolving Challenges in the Implementation of the National Slum Upgrading Program (KOTAKU) in Gajah Wong Riverbank Area, Yogyakarta
Authors: Widati Widati , Sesotya W Ratna , Albizzia Oktarina
Published: March 2024

The successful resolution of challenges faced during the implementation of the National Slum Upgrading (KOTAKU) Program in Gajah Wong Riverbank area, marked by initial resistance from affected communities, was achieved through the inclusive engagement of diverse community elements and collaborating agencies. This intricate interplay among stakeholders has a profound influence on the program’s effectiveness. This study aims to unravel the dynamic relationships forged among various agencies and community components within the conflict management framework, ultimately enhancing program implementation. To attain this objective, a qualitative methodology employing a case study approach was utilized. The investigation revealed that the local government, in executing the National Slum Upgrading (KOTAKU), fostered collaboration with other governmental entities through a synergistic alignment of related programs. Reinforcing the program through the utilization of complementary initiatives contributed to achieving program objectives without resource constraints. The synergy among agencies was bolstered by optimizing existing social institutions within the community as active program implementers. This, in turn, positively influenced the processes of identification, socialization, and coordination, ensuring their effectiveness. Furthermore, the active involvement of the local community played a pivotal role in addressing challenges and overcoming initial resistance. The application of a persuasive socialization model effectively conveyed the program’s significance in improving the residents’ welfare, thereby fostering acceptance. This collaborative pattern depicts a synergistic model aligning policy maker interests with community needs, characterized by a continuous spectrum of participation and empowerment.
Composición, estructura y diversidad florística del bosque Monteleón: Un relicto urbano del bosque subandino (Manizales, Colombia)
Authors: Gutiérrez-Duque David , Prieto-Luna Jessica Alejandra , Andrade-Ramos Maria José , Sierra-Giraldo Julio Andrés , Feuillet-Hurtado Carolina
Published: March 2024

Monteleón es considerado un relicto de bosque subandino, y su biodiversidad está amenazada por distintos factores antropogénicos, lo que causa su fragmentación y la pérdida del hábitat de las especies que allí habitan. Con el objetivo de conocer su actual composición, estructura y diversidad florística, se establecieron tres parcelas de 0.1 ha en zonas con distintos grados de perturbación. En total se registraron 941 individuos y 116 especies, donde la parcela con perturbación baja presentó la mayor diversidad alfa. Según el análisis de la diversidad beta, entre las comunidades, los individuos de las especies que se pierden son en su mayoría sustituidos por individuos de otras especies, y un pequeño porcentaje se pierde sin sustitución. En conclusión, se registró un estado de afectación en el bosque debido a su heterogeneidad, que aun así se encuentra en un estado natural de recuperación.
SARAY BAHÇELERİNDEN KENT PARKLARINA SINIR VE SINIRSIZLIĞIN DEĞERLENDİRİLMESİ
Authors: ADA Elvan
Published: March 2024

İnsanın çevresini tasarlama ve inşa etme becerisinin dününün ve bugününün incelenmesi, gelecekte yapılacak tasarım ve planlamaların ne şekilde kurgulanabileceği ile ilgili ipuçları barındırmaktadır. Bu bağlamda, insan ve doğanın ortak eserlerinden oluşan ve kültürel peyzaj alanları tanımı içerisinde yer alan saray bahçeleri ve kent içi parkların geçirdiği tarihsel sürecin değerlendirilmesi önem arz etmektedir.

Avrupa’da Rönesans düşüncesi ile beraber insanın doğa üzerindeki hakimiyeti, bahçe tasarımlarında kendini göstermeye başlamıştır. 16. yüzyılın ikinci yarısına doğru bahçeler, içinde yaşanacak bir mekân olmaktan çok lüks ve gösterişe yönelen alanlar olarak gelişmeye başlamış, monarşinin mutlak gücünün temsili bahçelerde yansımalarını bulmuştur. Avrupa’da bahçe mimarisi İtalya’daki Rönesans Bahçelerinden ilham alarak gelişmiş; 17. yüzyılda Fransız “Büyük Stiline “evrilerek sonraki yüzyılda, natüralistik peyzaj stiliyle doğal unsurların hâkim olduğu bir bahçe anlayışına dönüşmüştür. İmparatorlukların yıkılmaya başladığı, 19. yüzyılın Avrupası’nda, Endüstri Devrimini takiben sanatçı ve felsefecilerin söylemlerinden ilham alan kent parkları, kamusal buluşma mekanları olarak inşa edilmeye başlanmıştır. Osmanlı İmparatorluğu sınırlarında ise Avrupa’daki bahçe sanatı anlayışına benzer bir yaklaşım ancak 18. yüzyılda görülmeye başlamıştır.

Çalışmada, 16. yüzyılda Avrupa’da ve 18. yüzyılda Osmanlı İmparatorluğu’nda hanedan ve yakınlarının kullanımı için inşa edilmeye başlanan saray bahçelerinin siyasal, sosyal ve kültürel dinamiklerin etkisi ile günümüze dek geçirdiği değişim süreci ele alınmıştır. Bu kapsamda, Avrupa’dan Luxemburg Bahçeleri, Osmanlı İmparatorluğu Döneminden ise Yıldız Sarayı Bahçeleri örnek olarak seçilmiş ve incelenmiştir. Seçilen bahçe ve parklar ile ilgili, inşa edildiği dönem ile günümüzdeki kullanım koşulları, işlevleri ve tasarım dili çerçevesinde arşiv araştırması yapılmış; elde edilen veriler, yerinde gözlem sonucu değerlendirilmiştir.

Araştırmada, hanedanın kullandığı ve mutlak gücün simgesi olarak inşa edilen saray bahçelerinin, aynı zamanda dönemin kültürleşme sürecinin de somut örneklerini oluşturduğuna yönelik bilgilere ulaşılmıştır. Yüzyıllarca, halk ve hanedan arasında sınır teşkil eden bahçe duvarları yerini halkın geçişine imkân veren açık kapılara bırakmış, halkın rekreatif ihtiyaçlarını karşılayan kent içi parklar tesis edilmiştir. Bu hususlara yönelik elde edilen bilgiler ışığında, sınır ve sınırsız kavramlarının simgesel anlamının tartışıldığı bir yaklaşım sunulmuştur.