bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
TSH receptor antibody as a predictor of difficult robotic thyroidectomy in patients with Graves’ disease
Authors: Lee Ja Kyung , Kong Yoon , Choi Jae Bong , Kim Woochul , Yu Hyeong Won , Kim Su-jin , Chai Young Jun , Choi June Young , Lee Kyu Eun 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThyroidectomy in Graves’ disease can be challenging due to greater thyroid size and vascularity. While thyroid stimulating hormone receptor antibody (TRAb) level is associated with disease severity and thyroid vascularity, its impact on operative outcomes remains unclear. This study aimed to compare challenging factors for robotic thyroidectomy (RT) and open thyroidectomy (OT) in Graves’ disease patients, including TRAb as a predictive factor for difficult thyroidectomy. This retrospective study included Graves’ disease patients who underwent total thyroidectomy between September 2013 and January 2023. The clinical characteristics and operative outcomes were compared between patients who received OT and bilateral axillo-breast approach RT. Factors affecting operation time and estimated blood loss (EBL) were evaluated in both groups using regression analyses. A total of 85 patients received either OT (n = 48) or RT (n = 37). Median thyroid volumes in the OT and RT groups were 72.4 g and 57.6 g, respectively. Operation time was affected by thyroid volume in both groups. Additionally, higher thyroid hormone levels and bilateral central neck node dissection prolonged operation time in the RT group. EBL was marginally associated with thyroid volume in the OT group. However, in the RT group, TRAb level was independently associated with greater EBL (p = 0.04), while no significant association was found with thyroid volume. Predictive factors for difficult thyroidectomy differed by operation approaches. TRAb significantly predicted intraoperative bleeding in RT, while this association was absent in OT. Caution is warranted when performing RT on Graves’ disease patients with high TRAb levels.
M2 Microglia-Derived Exosomes Protect Against Glutamate-Induced HT22 Cell Injury via Exosomal miR-124-3p
Authors: Zhu Lan , Ma Limei , Du Xin , Jiang Yuhao , Gao Jiake , Fan Zihao , Zheng Hengheng , Zhu Jianjun , Zhang Gaofeng 
Published: March 2024

AbstractAs one of the most serious complications of sepsis, sepsis-associated encephalopathy has not been effectively treated or prevented. Exosomes, as a new therapeutic method, play a protective role in neurodegenerative diseases, stroke and traumatic brain injury in recent years. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of exosomes in glutamate (Glu)-induced neuronal injury, and to explore its mechanism, providing new ideas for the treatment of sepsis-associated encephalopathy. The neuron damage model induced by Glu was established, and its metabolomics was analyzed and identified. BV2 cells were induced to differentiate into M1 and M2 subtypes. After the exosomes from both M1-BV2 cells and M2-BV2 cells were collected, exosome morphological identification was performed by transmission electron microscopy and exosome-specific markers were also detected. These exosomes were then cocultured with HT22 cells. CCK-8 method and LDH kit were used to detect cell viability and toxicity. Cell apoptosis, mitochondrial membrane potential and ROS content were respectively detected by flow cytometry, JC-1 assay and DCFH-DA assay. MiR-124-3p expression level was detected by qRT-PCR and Western blot. Bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assay predicted and verified the relationship between miR-124-3p and ROCK1 or ROCK2. Through metabolomics, 81 different metabolites were found, including fructose, GABA, 2, 4-diaminobutyric acid, etc. The enrichment analysis of differential metabolites showed that they were mainly enriched in glutathione metabolism, glycine and serine metabolism, and urea cycle. M2 microglia-derived exosomes could reduce the apoptosis, decrease the accumulation of ROS, restore the mitochondrial membrane potential and the anti-oxidative stress ability in HT22 cells induced by Glu. It was also found that the protective effect of miR-124-3p mimic on neurons was comparable to that of M2-EXOs. Additionally, M2-EXOs might carry miR-124-3p to target ROCK1 and ROCK2 in neurons, affecting ROCK/PTEN/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, and then reducing Glu-induced neuronal apoptosis. M2 microglia-derived exosomes may protect HT22 cells against Glu-induced injury by transferring miR-124-3p into HT22 cells, with ROCK being a target gene for miR-124-3p.
Paths Towards LGBT Rights Recognition in Brazil
Authors: de Mello Côrtes Ana , Gonçalves Buzolin Lívia 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Introduction
This article addresses the processes that led to the recognition of LGBT rights in Brazil, the role played by civil society mobilization, and the interaction between the Federal Supreme Court and the National Congress in these processes.

Methods
The study’s primary method is document analysis. Our sample was established in 2021 and includes four court decisions and 93 law proposals presented from 2011 to 2020 by 83 legislators whose profiles are also analysed (data collected in 2021). Moreover, the article references secondary source interviews conducted in 2017 and 2018.

Results
The Federal Supreme Court was responsible for all the LGBT rights recognized at the federal level in Brazil. Our data shows that federal legislators, on the other hand, have been unable to make bills focused on LGBT rights (pro or against) pass. Some highlights from the results show that 46.2% of the proposals on the matter are contrary to those rights, and 48.2% of the legislators who mobilize the matter are affiliated with the Evangelical Bench, an influential conservative institution in the Brazilian National Congress. Although not yet able to make law proposals pass, those legislators with a conservative profile tend to use LGBT rights as political currency by presenting bills or making speeches against these rights. They also play a role in not allowing pro-LGBT rights achievements in the legislative arena. Aware of the legislators’ profile, civil society organizations tend not to focus all their efforts on this arena and to take or create legal opportunities, even though the path through courts still represents several obstacles. Moreover, although the Brazilian Federal Supreme Court has shown a willingness to decide on LGBT rights, the outcomes of the rulings depend on the composition of the body, which is influenced by nominations made by the president. That is, the same court Brazil has relied on to recognize LGBT rights could be responsible for denying them had it had the same powers but different members.

Conclusions
While the deadlock in the Federal Congress persists, and the judicial decisions that recognized LGBT rights remain effective, LGBT persons continue to exercise their conquered rights. However, the conservative wave in Brazil places the country in a context of uncertainty and vulnerability with regard to LGBT rights.

Policy Implications
This study’s contribution lies in showing why Brazil is an unpaired case when it comes to LGBT rights recognition and how vulnerable these conquered rights are in the country. The article provides an overview of the recognition processes taking multiple arenas and actors into account. Therefore, the analyses and the database of law proposals fill a gap in the literature and can contribute to future work from both scholars (for example, other studies from the database) and practitioners (for example, the development of legal mobilization frames and strategies).
Geriatric Emergency Departments: Emerging Themes and Directions
Authors: Schumacher John G. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Purpose of the Review
Globally, emergency departments are recognizing their rapidly growing number of older adult patients and some have responded with care models and associated processes broadly described under the umbrella of geriatric emergency departments (Geriatric EDs). This review seeks to identify emerging themes in the Geriatric ED literature from the period 2018–2023 to provide a synthesis of concepts and research to assist emergency medicine healthcare professionals and policymakers in improving the delivery of emergency medical care to older patients.

Recent Findings
Emerging themes in Geriatric EDs include “calls to action” in the field regarding 1) health system level integration; 2) developing care processes; 3) implementing minimum Geriatric ED standards; and, 4) setting future research agendas. The research is international in scope with contributions from Canada, Australia, United Kingdom, Belgium, and the United States among others. A focus on Geriatric EDs’ financial sustainability as well as the overall efficacy of the care model is apparent. Recent seminal resources in Geriatric EDs include the Geriatric Emergency Department Collaborative, the Geriatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network, and the Geriatric Emergency Department Accreditation program. Attention to workforce education and specific care process/protocols for screening/assessment, cognitive dysfunction and falls is growing. Overall findings support the effectiveness and potential of Geriatric EDs in enhancing emergency care for older adults.

Summary
A review providing an overview of current themes and future directions of Geriatric EDs through a thematic analysis of the current literature. Key Geriatric ED themes include four “calls for action”, assessment of the model’s financial sustainability, an examination of the model’s efficacy and quality, and an identification of key resources foundational to Geriatric EDs. Targeted Geriatric ED workforce education programs and attention to care processes are contributing to improving outcomes for older adult in the ED.
Deficits in blood culture collection in the emergency department if sepsis is suspected: results of a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Berninghausen Charlotte , Schwab Frank , Gropmann Alexander , Leidel Bernd A. , Somasundaram Rajan , Hottenbacher Lydia , Gastmeier Petra , Hansen Sonja 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Blood cultures (BCs) are key for pathogen detection in septic patients. We investigated the extent to which sampling was performed and what factors were associated with the absence of general or inadequate BC sampling.

Methods
We conducted a retrospective cohort study of hospitalized patients with sepsis admitted to one of three EDs in 2018. Primary outcome was the extent of general BC collection of at least 1 set. Secondary outcome was the extent of adequate BC sampling, defined as ≥ 2 sets before antibiotic therapy (AT). Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with deficits in both outcomes.

Results
1143 patients were analyzed. BCs were collected from 946 patients. Single BCs were taken from 520 patients, ≥ 2 sets from 426 patients. Overall, ≥ 2 BCs were taken from 349 patients before AT. BC sampling before AT occurred significantly more frequently when ≥ 2 BC sets were taken rather than a single one (81.9%, versus 68.4%, p < 0.001) and this also led to the highest pathogen detection rate in our cohort (65.6%). A body temperature of ≥ 38 °C was the a supporting factor for general and adequate BC collection in all three EDs. Retrospective analysis of 533 patients showed that the qSOFA score had no influence on general or adequate BC collection.

Conclusion
Data on everyday clinical practice in the pre-analytical phase of microbiological diagnostics shows considerable deficits and indicates the need for more implementation of best practice. The variations identified in BC sampling between EDs should be further investigated.
Animated PowerPoint Videos: An Underutilized Anatomy Educational Tool?
Authors: Patera Eleni , Khamuani Munesh Pal 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThe subject of anatomy is an integral component of medical and dental education which are constantly evolving. Hence, educators continuously attempt to take advantage of technological advancements to create resources that will improve students’ higher cognitive skills. This article describes the creation of an e-learning resource in the form of an animated PowerPoint video that was designed based on evidence-based principles and educational theories to introduce the concept of tooth anatomy. Additionally, it outlines how this resource can be potentially integrated into a broader educational system as well as encourage anatomy and medical educators to use less complex technological equipment to create accessible educational resources.
HoloSLAM: a novel approach to virtual landmark-based SLAM for indoor environments
Authors: Lahemer Elfituri S. , Rad Ahmad 
Published: March 2024

AbstractIn this paper, we present HoloSLAM which is a novel solution to landmark detection issues in the simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) problem in autonomous robot navigation. The approach integrates real and virtual worlds to create a novel mapping robotic environment employing a mixed-reality technique and a sensor, namely Microsoft HoloLens. The proposed methodology allows the robot to interact and communicate with its new environment in real-time and overcome the limitations of conventional landmark-based SLAMs by creating and placing some virtual landmarks in situations where real landmarks are scarce, non-existent, or hard to be detected. The proposed approach enhances the robot’s perception and navigation capabilities in various robot environments. The overall process contributes to the robot’s more accurate understanding of its environment; thus, enabling it to navigate with greater efficiency and effectiveness. In addition, the newly implemented HoloSLAM offers the option to guide the robot to a specific location eliminating the need for explicit navigation instructions. The open-source framework proposed in this paper can benefit the robotics community by providing a more reliable, realistic, and robust mapping solution. The experiments show that the Ellipsoidal-HoloSLAM system is accurate and effectively overcomes the limitations of conventional Ellipsoidal-SLAMs, providing a more precise and detailed mapping of the robot’s environment.
Better Late than Never: Promoting Cultural Consumption Among the Elderly
Authors: Biondo Alessio Emanuele , Moscarola Flavia Coda , Zanola Roberto 
Published: March 2024

AbstractCultural activities are greatly beneficial to older individuals but, unfortunately, many still face significant barriers that limit their ability to enjoy the arts. To tackle this issue, we have analysed data from an Italian audience development and engagement program for seniors, which was implemented at local level. By using an agent-based model, we discuss the potential effectiveness of audience development policies before implementation. Our research shows that social policies aimed at promoting cohesion and creating personal relationships can significantly increase the success of such initiatives. Moreover, our findings underline the importance of implementing targeted policies and engaging key individuals to ensure that older people can access and enjoy cultural activities.
Modelling the Impregnation of a Pressure-Tight Casting
Authors: Réger Mihály , Horváth Richárd , Fábián Enikő Réka , Réti Tamás 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Pressure tightness is important for many die-cast aluminium castings, but the interconnected porosity formed in the aluminium alloy high-pressure die castings (HPDC) can form a network connecting several surfaces of the casting, especially as a result of machining after casting. The resulting potential leakage path can be imagined as a series of discontinuities varying in size over wide limits, where voids of different volumes are connected by channels of smaller cross section. Although vacuum impregnation is often used to ensure pressure-tightness is a robust technology, cavity systems through the casting can still cause leakage after impregnation. This study addresses the issues of the impregnation of discontinuities with a complex geometry. The elementary part of a complex cavity geometry consists of a cavity and a capillary channel. We estimated the limited permeability of the capillary section using a mathematical model based on the Hagen–Poiseuille equation. The calculation results prove that the degree of filling of the cavity with a capillary section is basically a function of the geometrical characteristics of the cavity, primarily the radius of the capillary. If the cavity system also contains a section with a diameter of less than 28 μm, impregnation does not necessarily ensure the gas tightness of the casting. Depending on the radius of the capillary, the impregnation of a cavity of a given volume and connected to the surface through a capillary section of a given length can produce three different results. Above a certain capillary radius, filling is complete, below a certain capillary radius only the capillary itself will contain resin, and between the two limit values, the partial impregnation of the cavity is expected but the capillary section is not filled.
Role of Vitamin E Supplementation on the Reproductive and Growth Performance, Hormonal Profile and Biochemical Parameters of Female Hybrid Red Tilapia
Authors: Griesh Alaa Sh. , El-Nahla Amal M. , Aly Salah M. , Badran Mohamed F. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThe present study aimed to evaluate the effect of vitamin E (VE) supplementation on the reproductive and growth performance, hormonal profile, and biochemical parameters of female hybrid red tilapia before spawning season. Seventy-two female hybrid red tilapia were caught with an average body-weight 272.56 ± 34.84g and an average total length 24.3 ± 2.5 cm. Healthy fish were distributed equally into 4 treatments supplemented with (0, 50, 100, 200 mg/kg) of VE given for 8 weeks. VE significantly improved weight gain, length gain, specific growth rate, average daily gain, feed conversion ratio, and protein efficiency ratio. 50 mg of VE/kg diet could improve the viscerosomatic index, hepatosomatic index, and gonadosomatic index. Also, it could improve the parameters of biochemical (aspartate aminotransferase, alanine transaminase, total protein, albumin, globulin, triglyceride, and alkaline phosphatase) and haematology (total erythrocytic and leucocytic count, hematocrit and hemoglobin) and increase FSH, LH, E2 and, progesterone concentrations significantly. The conclusion revealed that the addition of 50 mg of VE /kg diet has a beneficial impact on reproductive and growth performance, hormonal profile, and biochemical parameters of female hybrid red tilapia. So, it is advisable for adding 50 mg/kg of vitamin E to the fish diet before the spawning season (pre-spawning).
A democratic curriculum for the challenges of post-truth
Authors: Nally David 
Published: March 2024

AbstractPost-truth has been widely applied in the wake of COVID-19, to stipulate causes for growing economic and political inequalities, misinformation in digital spaces and disillusionment with political institutions and notions of common/public good, to name a few. To address these concerns, this article constitutes a series of suggestions for how educators might engage with curricula that are embedded with democratic ideals. The first section will provide a brief survey of how various incarnations of the national curricula in Australia have been used as a vehicle for both envisaging a future in Australia and promoting civic participation as a way of fostering an inclusive society. The forms it developed into during the 1980s to the 2010s, however, usually promoted national priorities over localised concerns, such as the aims of individual teachers, schools and curricula. Over the long term, these tendencies have provided the foundation for a shift in educational discourse from generating social capital under the Whitlam government (Lingard, 2000). More recent discourse by contrast has focused on how digital resources can be effectively used, accountability, minimising teacher demoralisation and burnout, maximising student engagement (Dunning, 2022) and tinged with concerns about how constructive critical thinking can be better encouraged (Paterson & Gavrin, 2022). In this article, the structures which catalysed such changes will be contextualised in relation to how post-truth has emerged as a byword for a range of disruptive factors, such as denial of knowledge expertise (Malpas, 1992; Coper, 2022), and how authorities (in governments and media) have pragmatically lied to subordinates (Tesich, 1992; Keyes, 2004; Consentino, 2020). The second part examines how these same conditions have been recently perpetuated through schools being characterised as key to economic recovery, rather than places to regenerate relationships such as those between community-school or curriculum-teacher-student in response to the disruption which has emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic. Lastly, there is a focus on what is being—and could be—done to encourage democratic thinking in an Australian classroom context, as ways of addressing phenomena linked with post-truth by generating cultural and political capital.
Student-centred curriculum integration in primary schools: nurturing democratic citizenship in Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Dowden Tony , Brough Chris , Fogarty-Perry Barbara 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThis article investigates how James A. Beane’s model of student-centred curriculum integration (CI) enhances students’ learning experiences in the classroom by meeting diverse learning needs and fostering democratic citizenship. It discusses the theory of Beane’s model of CI with respect to John Dewey’s underpinning philosophy of democratic education and explores the practice of Beane’s model via the narratives of two of the authors who implemented the model in primary schools in Aotearoa/ New Zealand (NZ). The findings show that implementing student-centred CI in contexts that are meaningful and relevant to students has the capacity to enhance the value and impact of students’ learning experiences. In the process, the democratic design of Beane’s model allows issues of social justice, inclusion and multiculturalism to be tackled by giving students agency and enabling them to ‘make a difference’ within their communities.
Spiritism in Germany: A Resource of Integration for Brazilian Migrants?
Authors: Kurz Helmar 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThis account of qualitative anthropological field research in Brazil and Germany explores the importance of translocal Spiritist/Kardecist networks as resources for Brazilian migrants in Germany. It focuses on aspects of integration with the host society and conflicts arising from divergent expectations and habits. It introduces the author’s multi-sited investigation within the DFG-funded research project “Diversification of Mental Health: Therapeutic Spaces of Brazilian Spiritism” (implemented by Prof. Dr. Helene Basu 2015–2018) and elaborates on the approach of “translocal relations” as crucial for the theoretical discussion before introducing relevant literature reviews and original research data. Case studies confirm the supportive functions of Brazilian Spiritist centers in Germany for migrants but also illustrate that they serve integration only to a marginal degree. Brazilians use Spiritist centers as a resource for not having to integrate and instead staying among themselves. Being aware that this habit contradicts adaptation to new environments and serves critical political approaches, a small group of Brazilians and Germans establish contested integrative practices. In conclusion, this contribution discusses conflicts emerging from Brazilian migration to Germany in religious-spiritual contexts and illustrates that integration is a multi-directional task.