bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CXCR3-expressing myeloid cells recruited to the hypothalamus protect against diet-induced body mass gain and metabolic dysfunction
Authors: Mendes Natalia , Zanesco Ariane , Aguiar Cristhiane , Rodrigues-Luiz Gabriela F , Silva Dayana , Campos Jonathan , Camara Niels Olsen Saraiva , Moraes-Vieira Pedro , Araujo Eliana , Velloso Licio A
Published: April 2024

Microgliosis plays a critical role in diet-induced hypothalamic inflammation. A few hours after a high-fat diet (HFD), hypothalamic microglia shift to an inflammatory phenotype, and prolonged fat consumption leads to the recruitment of bone marrow-derived cells to the hypothalamus. However, the transcriptional signatures and functions of these cells remain unclear. Using dual-reporter mice, this study reveals that CX3CR1-positive microglia exhibit minimal changes in response to a HFD, while significant transcriptional differences emerge between microglia and CCR2-positive recruited myeloid cells, particularly affecting chemotaxis. These recruited cells also show sex-specific transcriptional differences impacting neurodegeneration and thermogenesis. The chemokine receptor CXCR3 is emphasized for its role in chemotaxis, displaying notable differences between recruited cells and resident microglia, requiring further investigation. Central immunoneutralization of CXCL10, a ligand for CXCR3, resulted in increased body mass and decreased energy expenditure, especially in females. Systemic chemical inhibition of CXCR3 led to significant metabolic changes, including increased body mass, reduced energy expenditure, elevated blood leptin, glucose intolerance, and decreased insulin levels. This study elucidates the transcriptional differences between hypothalamic microglia and CCR2-positive recruited myeloid cells in diet-induced inflammation and identifies CXCR3-expressing recruited immune cells as protective in metabolic outcomes linked to HFD consumption, establishing a new concept in obesity-related hypothalamic inflammation.
Scalable, optically-responsive human neuromuscular junction model reveals convergent mechanisms of synaptic dysfunction in familial ALS
Authors: Chen Daniel , Philippidou Polyxeni , Brenha Bianca de Freitas , Schaffer Ashleigh E. , Miranda Helen C.
Published: April 2024

Neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) are specialized synapses that mediate communication between motor neurons and skeletal muscles and are essential for movement. The degeneration of this system can lead to symptoms observed in neuromuscular and motor neuron diseases. Studying these synapses and their degeneration has proven challenging. Prior NMJ studies heavily relied upon the use of mouse, chick, or isolated primary human cells, which have demonstrated limited fidelity for disease modeling. To enable the study of NMJ dysfunction and model genetic diseases, we, and others, have developed methods to generate human NMJs from pluripotent stem cells (PSCs), embryonic stem cells, and induced pluripotent stem cells. However, published studies have highlighted technical limitations associated with these complex
in vitro
NMJ models. In this study, we developed a robust PSC-derived motor neuron and skeletal muscle co-culture method, and demonstrated its sensitivity in modeling motor neuron disease. Our method spontaneously and reproducibly forms human NMJs. We developed multiwell-multielectrode array (MEA) parameters to quantify the activity of PSC-derived skeletal muscles, as well as measured the electrophysiological activity of functional human PSC-derived NMJs. We further leveraged our method to morphologically and functionally assess NMJs from the familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (fALS) PSCs,
C9orf72
hexanucleotide (G4C2)n repeat expansion (HRE),
SOD1
A5V
, and
TDP43
G298S
to define the reproducibility and sensitivity of our system. We observed a significant decrease in the numbers and activity of PSC-derived NMJs developed from the different ALS lines compared to their respective controls. Furthermore, we evaluated a therapeutic candidate undergoing clinical trials and observed a variant-dependent rescue of functionality of NMJs. Our newly developed method provides a platform for the systematic investigation of genetic causes of NMJ neurodegeneration and highlights the need for therapeutic avenues to consider patient genotype.
«Du blir litt sånn selvsikker, og tenker at ‹wow› noen vil faktisk sende bilen til oss!»
Authors: Gilberg Arnfinn
Published: April 2024

Det er reist mye kritikk om for mye teoretisk innhold på yrkesfag i Norge. Klasseromsundervisning går særlig hardt ut over ungdommer som har mye energi i kroppen og et ønske om å jobbe praktisk. Mange elever i risikosonen for å falle fra videregående opplæring trenger derfor en skolehverdag som inkluderer en betydelig mengde praksis, og en hverdag som gir elevene en opplevelse av mening. Forskning viser at faktorer som familiebakgrunn og kjønn påvirker elevenes sannsynlighet for å fullføre og bestå videregående opplæring. Gutter med minoritetsbakgrunn på yrkesfaglige studieretninger har lavest sannsynlighet for å fullføre på normert tid. Målet med denne artikkelen er å undersøke om bruk av ungdomsbedrift på vg2 Kjøretøy kan fremme mestring og motivasjon for denne elevgruppen på en østkantskole i Oslo og artikkelens forskningsspørsmål er: Hvordan kan et prosjekt med ungdomsbedrift på yrkesfag bidra til relevans for gutter i en storbyskole? Studiens teoretiske perspektiver er basert på teorier som kan brukes i forbindelse med begrepene elever med minoritetsbakgrunn, relevant opplæring på yrkesfag og entreprenørskap. Studiens datagrunnlag er basert på kvalitative intervjuer med ti elever, alle tilknyttet vg2 Kjøretøy, ved en større videregående skole i hovedstadsregionen. Resultatene viser at elevene i hovedsak opplevde arbeidet med ungdomsbedriftene som motiverende og mange elever lærte mye av dette arbeidet.
Læring i teknologifag
Authors: Grydeland Anders , Karstensen Steinar , Lier Arne Roar , Sannerud Arne Ronny
Published: April 2024

I lys av den teknologiske utviklingen i Industri 4.0 har læringsfabrikker blitt en viktig arena for å utvikle teknologisk kompetanse. Men det har vært en økende bekymring for at det menneskelige aspektet og betydningen av bærekraft har blitt oversett. I denne diskusjonen har vi tatt utgangspunkt i seks ulike artikler som omhandler forskjellige aspekter av læringsfabrikker. Vi har også kritisert begrensningen som ligger i Industri 4.0 og trukket inn konseptene Industri 5.0 og Samfunn 5.0 som legger vekt på innovasjon og en mer menneskeorientert tilnærming.
Som et alternativ til den tradisjonelle definisjonen av læringsfabrikk, har vi utviklet en ny definisjon som tar hensyn til disse aspektene: "En læringsfabrikk er et læringsmiljø, hvor prosesser og teknologier er basert på et ekte industriområde som tillater en direkte tilnærming til verdikjeder, produksjons – og arbeidsprosesser. Læringen forankres i en virksomhetsorganisatorisk sammenheng og tar opp i seg skiftene i samfunn og økonomi. Bærekraft og innovasjon er sentralt, der balansering av økonomisk utvikling i lys av samfunns- og klimautfordringer er en del av læringsfabrikkens kontekst. Læringsfabrikken er basert på didaktisk tenkning med vekt på erfarings – og problembasert læring. Kontinuerlige forbedringsfilosofi utvikles gjennom deltakernes egne handlinger og interaktive involvering." Denne definisjonen er utformet for å guide vårt empiriske arbeid med læringsfabrikken på Raufoss. Intensjonen er at den kan bidra til en mer helhetlig og fremtidsrettet forståelse av læringsfabrikk som yrkesdidaktisk konsept.
Energy optimization for wireless sensor network using minimum redundancy maximum relevance feature selection and classification techniques
Authors: Aljawarneh Muteeah , Hamdaoui Rim , Zouinkhi Ahmed , Alangari Someah , Abdelkrim Mohamed Naceur
Published: April 2024

In wireless sensor networks (WSN), conserving energy is usually a basic issue, and several approaches are applied to optimize energy consumption. In this article, we adopt feature selection approaches by using minimum redundancy maximum relevance (MRMR) as a feature selection technique to minimize the number of sensors thereby conserving energy. MRMR ranks the sensors according to their significance. The selected features are then classified by different types of classifiers; SVM with linear kernel classifier, naïve Bayes classifier, and k-nearest neighbors classifier (KNN) to compare accuracy values. The simulation results illustrated an improvement in the lifetime extension factor of sensors and showed that the KNN classifier gives better results than the naïve Bayes and SVM classifier.
Application of BukaGini algorithm for enhanced feature interaction analysis in intrusion detection systems
Authors: Bouke Mohamed Aly , Abdullah Azizol , Cengiz Korhan , Akleylek Sedat
Published: April 2024

This article presents an evaluation of BukaGini, a stability-aware Gini index feature selection algorithm designed to enhance model performance in machine learning applications. Specifically, the study focuses on assessing BukaGini’s effectiveness within the domain of intrusion detection systems (IDS). Recognizing the need for improved feature interaction analysis methodologies in IDS, this research aims to investigate the performance of BukaGini in this context. BukaGini’s performance is evaluated across four diverse datasets commonly used in IDS research: NSLKDD (22,544 samples), WUSTL EHMS (16,318 samples), WSN-DS (374,661 samples), and UNSWNB15 (175,341 samples), amounting to a total of 588,864 data samples. The evaluation encompasses key metrics such as stability score, accuracy, F1-score, recall, precision, and ROC AUC. Results indicate significant advancements in IDS performance, with BukaGini achieving remarkable accuracy rates of up to 99% and stability scores consistently surpassing 99% across all datasets. Additionally, BukaGini demonstrates an average reduction in dimensionality of 25%, selecting 10 features for each dataset using the Gini index. Through rigorous comparative analysis with existing methodologies, BukaGini emerges as a promising solution for feature interaction analysis within cybersecurity applications, particularly in the context of IDS. These findings highlight the potential of BukaGini to contribute to robust model performance and propel intrusion detection capabilities to new heights in real-world scenarios.
The efficacy of single mitochondrial genes at reconciling the complete mitogenome phylogeny—a case study on dwarf chameleons
Authors: Main Devon C. , Taft Jody M. , Geneva Anthony J. , Jansenvan Vuuren Bettine , Tolley Krystal A.
Published: April 2024

Although genome-scale data generation is becoming more tractable for phylogenetics, there are large quantities of single gene fragment data in public repositories and such data are still being generated. We therefore investigated whether single mitochondrial genes are suitable proxies for phylogenetic reconstruction as compared to the application of full mitogenomes. With near complete taxon sampling for the southern African dwarf chameleons (Bradypodion), we estimated and compared phylogenies for the complete mitogenome with topologies generated from individual mitochondrial genes and various combinations of these genes. Our results show that the topologies produced by single genes (ND2, ND4, ND5, COI, and COIII) were analogous to the complete mitogenome, suggesting that these genes may be reliable markers for generating mitochondrial phylogenies in lieu of generating entire mitogenomes. In contrast, the short fragment of 16S commonly used in herpetological systematics, produced a topology quite dissimilar to the complete mitogenome and its concatenation with ND2 weakened the resolution of ND2. We therefore recommend the avoidance of this 16S fragment in future phylogenetic work.
Pollen thermotolerance of a widespread plant, Lotus corniculatus, in response to climate warming: possible local adaptation of populations from different elevations
Authors: Jackwerth Karolína , Biella Paolo , Klečka Jan
Published: April 2024

One of the most vulnerable phases in the plant life cycle is sexual reproduction, which depends on effective pollen transfer, but also on the thermotolerance of pollen grains. Pollen thermotolerance is temperature-dependent and may be reduced by increasing temperature associated with global warming. A growing body of research has focused on the effect of increased temperature on pollen thermotolerance in crops to understand the possible impact of temperature extremes on yield. Yet, little is known about the effects of temperature on pollen thermotolerance of wild plant species. To fill this gap, we selected Lotus corniculatus s.l. (Fabaceae), a species common to many European habitats and conducted laboratory experiments to test its pollen thermotolerance in response to artificial increase in temperature. To test for possible local adaptation of pollen thermal tolerance, we compared data from six lowland (389–451 m a.s.l.) and six highland (841–1,030 m a.s.l.) populations. We observed pollen germination in vitro at 15 °C, 25 °C, 30 °C, and 40 °C. While lowland plants maintained a stable germination percentage across a broad temperature range (15–30 °C) and exhibited reduced germination only at extremely high temperatures (40 °C), highland plants experienced reduced germination even at 30 °C–temperatures commonly exceeded in lowlands during warm summers. This suggests that lowland populations of L. corniculatus may be locally adapted to higher temperature for pollen germination. On the other hand, pollen tube length decreased with increasing temperature in a similar way in lowland and highland plants. The overall average pollen germination percentage significantly differed between lowland and highland populations, with highland populations displaying higher germination percentage. On the other hand, the average pollen tube length was slightly smaller in highland populations. In conclusion, we found that pollen thermotolerance of L. corniculatus is reduced at high temperature and that the germination of pollen from plant populations growing at higher elevations is more sensitive to increased temperature, which suggests possible local adaptation of pollen thermotolerance.
Three new species of free-living marine nematodes of the Microlaimus genus (Nematoda: Microlaimidae) from the continental shelf off northeastern Brazil (Atlantic Ocean)
Authors: Manoel Alex , F. Neres Patrícia , Esteves Andre M.
Published: April 2024

Three new species of the Microlaimus genus (Nematoda: Microlaimidae) are described from sample sediments collected in the South Atlantic, along the Continental Shelf break of Northeastern Brazil. Microlaimus paraundulatus sp. n. possesses four setiform cephalic sensillae, a buccal cavity with three small teeth, arched and slender spicules and a wave-shaped gubernaculum. Microlaimus modestus sp. n. is characterized by four small cephalic sensillae, a buccal cavity with three teeth (one large dorsal tooth), cephalated spicules and a strongly arched gubernaculum in the distal region. Microlaimus nordestinus sp. n. is characterized by the following set of features: relatively long body, eight rows of hypodermal glands that extend longitudinally along the body and a funnel-shaped gubernaculum surrounding the spicules at the distal end. An amendment of the diagnosis is proposed for the genus.
Rehabilitación de los conjuntos CORVI: Autogestión y autoorganización de equipamientos comunitarios en Santa Olga
Authors:   , Lema Gac Bárbara Emilia
Published: April 2024

La vivienda social ha sido un tema recurrente a nivel internacional a lo largo de la historia. Sin embargo, su implementación ha enfrentado deficiencias significativas que han impactado negativamente en su efectividad y en la calidad de vida de sus habitantes. Estas deficiencias se han centrado principalmente en dos aspectos fundamentales: la falta de consideración de las necesidades y preferencias de los usuarios en el proceso de diseño y construcción, y la ausencia de servicios comunitarios y compartidos en el entorno de las viviendas. A medida que estas carencias se han exacerbado, se ha vuelto evidente que se requiere un enfoque más integral y colaborativo para abordar estos desafíos.En muchos casos, las viviendas sociales se han concebido de manera unidimensional, sin considerar las particularidades culturales, familiares y personales de los residentes. Esto ha llevado a la estandarización de las viviendas, resultando en una falta de conexión entre los habitantes y sus hogares. Paralelamente, la carencia de espacios comunes y servicios compartidos ha limitado la interacción y colaboración entre los residentes, generando comunidades aisladas y fragmentadas.La propuesta de vivienda colaborativa surge como una solución que aborda estos problemas de manera conjunta. Al involucrar a los futuros habitantes en el diseño y construcción de sus viviendas, se empodera a las comunidades para crear hogares que se ajusten a sus necesidades y preferencias, generando un sentido de arraigo y pertenencia. La implementación de servicios comunitarios y compartidos promueve la interacción y solidaridad entre los residentes, fomentando la creación de comunidades sostenibles.En el contexto chileno, este problema ha persistido a lo largo del tiempo, a pesar de los esfuerzos por parte de entidades como la Corporación de la Vivienda (CORVI) para abordarlo. La deteriorada calidad de las viviendas y la falta de infraestructura urbana han contribuido a la marginación de comunidades vulnerables, agravando la problemática. En este contexto, surge la necesidad de repensar enfoques habitacionales que prioricen la participación ciudadana y la creación de espacios comunitarios.Esta investigación tiene como objetivo analizar las deficiencias históricas de las propuestas de viviendas sociales, tanto a nivel internacional como en el caso chileno, con un enfoque en el complejo habitacional CORVI en Santa Olga. A través de este análisis, se busca identificar estrategias que promuevan la participación activa de los residentes y la integración de servicios comunitarios en la revitalización de estos espacios. La creación de soluciones que aborden estas deficiencias no solo impactará en el bienestar de los habitantes, sino que también contribuirá a la formulación de políticas más eficaces en la búsqueda de viviendas dignas y sostenibles para los sectores más necesitados de la sociedad chilena.
La deformación de la casa, experimentación arquitectonica en Alto Patache
Authors:   , Witto Mayorga Antonia
Published: April 2024

La casa es función que alberga el espacio vivido. Espacio donde ocurre la creación de un mundo a partir de las cosas que acumula el hombre en ella y es también un espacio que protege. Si hoy las casas se ordenan en función de lo público y lo privado ¿Qué será lo que entregue jerarquía para ordenar programas y objetos en la casa de la crisis climática? ¿Cómo será la casa del futuro? Ejercicios experimentales sobre el cuerpo, que involucran tanto rangos de movimiento como volumetría, junto con una investigación que abarca el consumo energético e hídrico promedio de las personas y la dependencia que se tiene a algunos objetos. Además de una detenida lectura climática del desierto. Inician una investigación experimental sobre la forma, el tamaño, el material, los objetos y la tecnología que podrían formar parte del diseño de las casas en el futuro. Dado que actualmente nos encontramos en un periodo de crisis climática la cual nos amenaza constantemente con los cambios que puede producir el calentamiento global es que el oasis de niebla Alto patache, al estar ubicado en el desierto bajo condiciones adversas que se corresponden con las amenazas del cambio climático se presenta como un escenario de prueba y experimentación frente a un futuro posible donde nuestras formas de vivir deban ser transformadas. De esta manera, el proyecto experimenta con el territorio y el habitante. Dando como resultado la deformación de nuestro hábitat usual, la casa. Adaptarse a nuevas prioridades de tipo energético, por ejemplo, altera la disposición de los elementos que dan forma a la arquitectura a la que hoy en día estamos acostumbrados, aquella que prioriza la separación de espacios según distintos grados de privacidad y que busca la mayor eficiencia económica. Por lo tanto, probar estrategias de emplazamiento, ensamblajes de instalaciones energéticas, técnicas de construcción, entre otras cosas. Serán las principales vías de experimentación para determinar cómo se alterarán, deformaran, transformaran las casas de hoy, para construir una casa para el futuro climático hostil.
Merced 738: La reinterpretación del patio como un elemento articulador
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Facultad de Arquitectura, Diseño y Estudios Urbanos, Ormeño Parilo Diego Marcelo
Published: April 2024

La presente investigación tiene como tópico central la re interpretación y conciliación entre programas contemporáneos y atributos patrimoniales en Monumentos Históricos en proceso de obsolescencia funcional. En concreto, se tiene como caso de estudio el inmueble de Merced 738, el cual, si bien cuenta con la protección de la declaratoria como Monumento Histórico (M.H.) desde el año 19811, su reconocimiento principalmente a partir de su valor histórico, no ha evitado las múltiples transformaciones en sus programas, usos e infraestructura a lo largo de su historia, como también la modificación de su protección legal.Son estos constantes cambios, los que dan paso a un proceso de obsolescencia programática el cual se refleja tanto en una ausencia de actividad comercial al interior del inmueble junto a un avanzado deterioro e incluso demolición de parte de los atributos físicos de la vivienda. Así, hoy la residencia del ex Presidente Manuel Montt, queda reducida a un tercio de lo que alguna vez fue y dejando disponible un sitio con excelente ubicación y de gran plusvalía, a la espera de un proyecto donde los valores arquitectónicos e históricos asociados el inmueble prevalezcan sobre los intereses económicos.De esta manera, surge la necesidad de la creación de una propuesta, que no presente al sitio como una tabula rasa, sino como un lugar que, si bien ha experimentado múltiples cambios, aún conserva rastros de lo que alguna vez fue. Así se reconoce la importancia de la conciliación tanto, entre programas propios de una ciudad contemporánea y dinámica como Santiago, como también la identificación y re interpretación de los atributos- presentes o no- que le otorgan valores a Merced 738. Finalmente, se busca entender, tal y como lo enuncia la UNESCO (2013), a la ciudad y a los inmuebles arquitectónicos, como un organismo dinámico, es decir como un concepto en constante movimiento y transformación “destinado a cambiar con la propia sociedad” (p.24).
Espacio público como escenario multicultural: la calle, elemento de integración, existencia y diversidad cultural en Iquique
Authors:   , Maquera Apaza Luis
Published: April 2024

Las ciudades cada vez reciben más variedad de inmigrantes de procedencias nacional o extranjera, y su desenvolvimiento y expresión se cristaliza mediante el uso del espacio público, por esto la investigación se focaliza en el estudio de las ventajas y desventajas del encuentro cultural que se producen. Los distintos escenarios generados debido a las interacciones entre los ciudadanos y los grupos o personas que traen consigo su cultura, siendo este el tema de diversas investigaciones, para este caso nos dirigiremos a la búsqueda de una positiva evolución cultural e intervenciones urbanas integradoras o en pro de la cohesión social, para proponer al final una solución que sea viable para nuestro caso de estudio, Iquique
Reconversión de edificios de oficinas ante la crisis habitacional: Vivienda y equipamiento en el ex edificio Endesa
Authors:   , González Marín Javiera Constanza
Published: April 2024

Chile atraviesa una crisis habitacional visibilizada por el aumento de personas en situación de calle, asentamientos informales y soluciones abusivas como arriendos con cobros excesivos y hacinamiento. Para hacerle frente a esta crisis, el gobierno dio paso al Plan de Emergencia Habitacional (PEH, 2022) que busca abordar con sentido de urgencia la necesidad de viviendas definitivas. Se identifica que existe una población fuera de la política habitacional, que no puede acceder a ningún tipo de vivienda, existiendo un vacío respecto a la transición. Sumado a la falta de vivienda por escasez y costo de suelo y la falta de integración social, se identifica que existe vacancia de los edificios de oficina en los centros de las ciudades que podrían dar respuesta a la demanda por la vivienda transitoria.Bajo este contexto, se evalúa utilizar los edificios de oficinas en desuso para reconvertirlos a viviendas y generar integración social. Según estimaciones de la empresa de servicios inmobiliarios Colliers, hay 60 mil metros cuadrados de oficinas desocupadas solo en la comuna de Santiago, con los que se podrían crear alrededor de mil viviendas (Troncoso, 2023). La reutilización de los edificios traería la reactivación de zonas degradadas en los últimos años, que se han expresado en un centro de Santiago irreconocible, el que destacaba por la dinamicidad de su casco histórico.En función a lo anterior, se propone la reutilización del otrora edificio Endesa, ubicado en Santa Rosa 76, debido a su emplazamiento estratégico y estado de obsolescencia económica y funcional. La primera pérdida de valor por factores económicos, cambios en la demanda del mercado o costos operativos elevados y, la segunda, por la incapacidad del edificio para cumplir eficazmente con su función original, como adaptarse a las cambiantes necesidades de los usuarios, tener un diseño anticuado o no cumplir con los estándares tecnológicos y de seguridad actuales. Ambas afectando su valor y utilidad.La articulación entre la reutilización de edificios de oficinas y falta de viviendas puede contribuir a la disminución del déficit frente a la crisis habitacional en Chile. Esto no solo proporcionaría alojamiento temporal a quienes más lo necesitan, sino que también contribuiría a la revitalización de áreas urbanas y a la promoción de una sociedad más inclusiva y estable. La implementación de esta estrategia tiene como rol abordar los desafíos habitacionales en el país y mejorar la calidad de vida de sus habitantes. Esta investigación resalta la importancia de la reutilización adaptativa y la creación de viviendas definitivas y de transición, no solo como una solución temporal, sino como un paso crucial en la lucha contra la crisis habitacional y en la promoción de la inclusión social en la sociedad chilena.
Melipilla sin violencia en Booktube
Authors:   , García Ruiz-Tagle Sofía Paz
Published: April 2024

La propuesta consiste en llevar a cabo la segunda versión de la estrategia "Melipilla sin violencia en corto" en YouTube. Se mantendrán los objetivos de la estrategia inicial y se promoverán interacciones, intercambio de contenido y participación activa. Los relatos serán contados oralmente, grabados y publicados en un canal de Booktube en YouTube. La invitación a los participantes es para todos los que conforman la comunidad educativa o trabajen en educación. Los encargados de convivencia escolar serán responsables de generar encuentros para fomentar la participación y el uso adecuado del canal. El canal estará disponible para todas las escuelas de "Escuelas para el buen convivir" y será regulado por los encargados de cada colegio.
Predicción semiautomatizada de respuesta a quimioterapia neoadyuvante en pacientes con cáncer de mama: protocolo de segmentación y modelo radiómico-clínico con imágenes de resonancia magnética
Authors:   , Ramírez Bunster María Belén
Published: April 2024

Anticipar el resultado de la respuesta tumoral a quimioterapia neoadyuvante podría implicar cambios en la planificación del tratamiento para conducir a mejores resultados clínicos y cambios en la calidad de vida del paciente.En este trabajo se desarrolló un código computacional en lenguaje Python para construir modelos de predicción de la respuesta patológica del tumor (pCR / no-pCR) en base a información clínica y radiómica extraída de imágenes MRI de 59 pacientes con cáncer de mama sometidas a NACT. Específicamente, se utilizaron las secuencias de imágenes T1w y DCE, elaborando un protocolo de segmentación semiautomatizado del tumor y del parénquima de la mama lesionada para el posterior análisis y selección de atributos (features).Se construyeron modelos uni- y multi-variados basados en Machine Learning utilizando distintos algoritmos supervisados de clasificación y, mediante la técnica de validación cruzada k-fold estratificada con repetición con k=3 y n=500 repeticiones, se evaluaron las métricas AUC y Accuracy para analizar el rendimiento de éstos como predictores de pCR del tumor a la terapia neoadyuvante en la cohorte de pacientes con cáncer de mama.
Association between Peripheral Arterial Thrombosis and COVID-19 using CT Angiography: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Joshi Manisha Vishnu , Nag Poonam , Shetty Dev , Mopuri Seshasai Vijaykumar , More Pranoti Krantikumar
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Arterial thromboembolism is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients in both General Inpatient ward and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) settings. As COVID-19 is associated with coagulopathy or vasculopathy, it is necessary to investigate whether the peripheral vessels were also affected due to COVID-19-related thrombosis. Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA) is a quick, accurate, non invasive, and reliable method for assessing the location, extent and severity of arterial thrombosis. Aim: To evaluate the association of acute peripheral arterial thrombosis in patients with COVID-19 infection and assess the differences in peripheral extremity clot burden using peripheral limb CTA. Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Radiology, Topiwala National Medical College and B.Y.L. Nair Charitable. Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, from April 2020 to April 2021. A total of 70 patients with medical records of acute limb ischaemia, consisting of 35 Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection-positive patients and 35 SARS-CoV-2 negative patients, who underwent peripheral CTA were included in the present study. For calculating arterial clot severity and extent in the peripheral extremities, three different systems were used. Age, sex, symptoms, co-morbidities, and CT thrombus burden score were analysed in both groups. The association between variables was analysed using the Chi- square test. Results: The age range of patients presenting with acute limb ischaemia was 24-74 years (mean age=50 years). Claudication, pain and redness had a significant association with COVID- 19 positive patients (p-value<0.001). It was also observed that proximal vessels had a slightly higher preponderance for thrombosis. A significant mean difference in arterial thrombus burden was observed in SARS-CoV-2 infection positive patients, with greater thrombus burden involving proximal vessels. In only the proximal vessels, the overall clot burden was 2.31±3.09 and 0.89±1.25 in the COVID-19 positive and negative groups, respectively (p-value=0.014). COVID-19 infected patients had a predilection for peripheral arterial thrombosis compared to controls, with a significant p-value of 0.034 in proximal upper limb involvement. Conclusion: Computed tomography angiography is the preferred diagnostic modality for the evaluation of arterial thrombosis. Greater clot burden was seen in the proximal vessels of both upper and lower limbs in COVID-19 patients.
Ulnar Neuropathy Caused by Repeated Thrombophlebitis of the Slow-flow Venous Malformation in the Cubital Tunnel: A Case Report
Authors: Samireddypalle Yugandhar , Marla Shilpa , Lingaiah Purushottam , Arumulla Mithilesh , Reddy Prudhvinath
Published: April 2024

Cubital tunnel syndrome is the most common entrapment neuropathy of the ulnar nerve at the elbow. Although there are many primary and secondary causes of cubital tunnel syndrome, ulnar neuropathy secondary to recurrent thrombophlebitis of the slow- flow Venous Malformation (VM) in the vicinity of the cubital tunnel has not been reported. Hereby, authors discuss a case of 22- year-old female with slow-flow VM in the vicinity of the cubital tunnel causing symptoms of transient ulnar neuropathy, progressing to ulnar neuritis resulting in persistent ulnar neuropathy. This was successfully treated by direct Stick Sclerotherapy of the VM, leading to complete relief of the symptoms. Follow-up Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revealed near-total resolution of the VM with complete resolution of the ulnar neuritis. This was an atypical presentation of ulnar neuropathy secondary to recurrent thrombophlebitis of a slow-flow VM in the cubital tunnel, which was successfully managed by treating the malformation.
Incidental Primary Cystic Duct Lymph Node Tuberculosis in a 28-year-old Female: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Paridhi . , Bahadur Shalini , Adhlakha Bhuvan , Kalhan Shivani , Baidya Manabendra
Published: April 2024

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by acid-fast bacilli Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB). The lung remains the most common site involved by it. Extrapulmonary sites of TB are lymph nodes, pleura, bone, joints, urogenital tract, and meninges. Isolated Cystic Duct Tubercular Lymphadenitis (CDL TB) without involving the gallbladder is an uncommon manifestation of TB that primarily affects the lymph nodes around the cystic duct. A multidisciplinary approach is essential for accurate diagnosis and successful management of such cases. The authors hereby present a case of a 28-year-old female, without any evidence of TB elsewhere and an incidental finding of CDL TB. “The patient was sent with a clinical diagnosis of Chronic Calculus Cholecystitis (CCC)”. This highlights the need for comprehensive clinical evaluation and diagnostic investigations to avoid misdiagnosis or delayed management. This underscores the significance of maintaining a high index of suspicion for extrapulmonary TB, particularly in regions where the disease remains endemic. Healthcare practitioners should be vigilant when encountering unusual clinical presentations or when dealing with atypical combinations of gallbladder pathologies, as illustrated by the concurrent occurrence of CDL TB with CC with evidence of Pyloric Metaplasia (PM) and cholesterolosis without cholelithiasis, as in the patient of the present case report.
Effects of Metrical Context on the P1 Component
Authors: Lee Kyung Myun , Kang Soojin , Hong Sung Hwa , Moon Il Joon
Published: April 2024

Background and Objectives: The temporal structure of sound, characterized by regular patterns, plays a crucial role in optimizing the processing of auditory information. The meter, representing a well-organized sequence of evenly spaced beats in music, exhibits a hierarchical arrangement, with stronger beats occupying higher metrical positions. Moreover, the meter has been shown to influence behavioral and neural processing, particularly the N1, P2, and mismatch negativity components. However, the role of the P1 component in the context of metrical hierarchy remains unexplored. This study aimed to investigate the effects of metrical hierarchy on the P1 component and compare the responses between musicians and non-musicians.Subjects and Methods: Thirty participants (15 musicians and 15 non-musicians) were enrolled in the study. Auditory stimuli consisted of a synthesized speech syllable presented together with a repeating series of four tones, establishing a quadruple meter. Electrophysiological recordings were performed to measure the P1 component. Results: The results revealed that metrical position had a significant effect on P1 amplitude, with the strongest beat showing the lowest amplitude. This contrasts with previous findings, in which enhanced P1 responses were typically observed at on-the-beat positions. The reduced P1 response on the strong beat can be interpreted within the framework of predictive coding and temporal prediction, where a higher predictability of pitch changes at the strong beat leads to a reduction in the P1 response. Furthermore, higher P1 amplitudes were observed in musicians compared to non-musicians, suggesting that musicians have enhanced sensory processing. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the effects of metrical hierarchy on the P1 component, thereby enriching our understanding of auditory processing. The results suggest that predictive coding and temporal prediction play important roles in shaping sensory processing. Further, they suggest that musical training may enhance P1 responses.
Evaluation of the Mutagenic Potential of Artavol® Using the Ame’s Test
Authors: Oloro Joseph , Kasazza Kennedy , P’okello Oscar Okidi , Mucunu James M. , Maitho Timothy E. , Ganafa Amon A.
Published: April 2024

Background: The worldwide increase in the use of herbal medicinal - products calls for their safety testing to protect the public from unintended hazardous effects. However, most are not tested, putting the public at risk. The modified Ames ISO test is a useful resource for determining the mutagenic potential of medicinal products and was used in this study to determine the safety of an herbal tea like Artavol®.
Methods: This study used Ame's Modified ISO test to analyze aqueous extract of Artavol®, in a Level II biosafety cabinet. Artavol® was extracted using the infusion method 1,2, freeze dried, diluted to concentrations of 125µg, 250µg, and 500µg and used in the study. Mutagenicity was tested by culturing Salmonella typhimurium TA98 and TA100. Results were considered by observing colour change in the wells of the microtitre plates from purple to yellow indicating mutation. Valid results were determined by comparing negative and positive control plates after 3 days of incubation, with positive results showing a color change from purple to yellow.
Results:  Colour changes were not observed in all wells containing 125µg, 250µg, and 500µg of Artavol® up to day 3, while negative control showed color changes equivalent to 80% for TA98 and 70% for TA100.
Conclusion: Aqueous extract of Artavol® is not mutagenic. Further safety test such as sub-chronic toxicity study ad teratogenicity studies are recommended to provide more safety data on the product.
Understanding the Nigerian Domestic Debt
Authors: Ajayi Kayode Johnson
Published: April 2024

The portion of a country's overall public debt that is owed to domestic lenders is known as its internal or domestic debt. The public debt profile of a nation is comprised of its external and domestic debt stock. This article provides insights into the various components and major holders of the country's domestic debt. The Country’s domestic debt profile, which is currently on the rise, has led to numerous challenges in the economy such as debt overhang, higher debt servicing costs, unstable currency rates, and crowding out impacts on the private sector, among others. Therefore, measures have been recommended to curtail the level of increasing borrowings. The goal of setting up a distinct public debt management agency such as the Debt Management Office (DMO) by the government was to continuously accomplish the benefits of cautiously sourcing financing to cover for government deficits at reasonable rates and with manageable medium to long-term risks.
Factors Determining Private Agricultural Investment: A Comparative Case Study of Two States of India
Authors: Meher Surendra
Published: April 2024

The study endeavours to examine the pattern and determinants of agricultural investment in two states of India viz., Haryana and Odisha. The existing literature points out that public investment in agriculture is one among the strongest determinants of private investment and output in agriculture. Accordingly, emphasis has been laid to accelerate the rate of public investment. The present study using primary data in two diverse regions of India is an attempt in that direction. Data from 150 households from both states have been collected using proportionate stratified random sampling method. The study finds that private farm investment as well as output are relatively lower in Odisha, being an agriculturally lagged region. It is further seen that private investment in agriculture has been significantly influenced by canal irrigation, institutional credit, and land size in Odisha. While in Haryana, farmer’s education, land size and institutional credit positively and significantly affected private farm investment. Capital use in agriculture turned out to be positive and significant variables influencing agricultural productivity in both regions. The study thus recommends to ensure public policies on the aspects of irrigation infrastructure, research and extension, improvement rural infrastructure etc. in stimulating private investment and agricultural output. Public investment in agriculture on these components would bridge inter-regional inequalities and ensure inclusiveness as it promotes employment opportunities and sustainable growth in agriculture. In the context of Odisha, being a poorer state, these policies could serve as important tools of poverty alleviation.
Baddeley revisited: The functional approach to autobiographical memory
Authors: Bluck Susan
Published: September 2009

In Baddeley's (1988) classic article he challenged researchers to take a functional approach by asking, for their phenomenon of interest, “but what the hell is it for?” In twenty years, how far has the field advanced in addressing this question, particularly in examining the functions of autobiographical memory? This introductory article provides an overview of the functional approach. Next, eight core articles appear, each framed to address Baddeley's question. The core articles are written by experts on distinct empirically established autobiographical memory phenomena: each presents a synopsis of current research in their area and then examines the function that their specific autobiographical memory phenomenon serves in human activity and adaptation. The issue ends with two commentaries by scholars who provide analyses of the functional approach from unique perspectives. Revisiting Baddeley provides an opportunity for a current discussion of the strengths and challenges of taking a functional approach to autobiographical memory. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role of subjective time in identity regulation
Authors: Wilson Anne E. , Gunn Gregory R. , Ross Michael
Published: September 2009

We explore the function of subjective perceptions of time in regulating personal identity. Events that reflect favourably on the self feel more recent than events that reflect negatively on the self. We propose that this systematic bias in subjective time judgment serves an identity regulation function: These biases allow people to maintain a favourable evaluation of current self. Recent events are likely to be judged as ‘belonging’ to the current self and thus incorporated into current identity. Distant events are more likely to be viewed as belonging to a former self who is quite distinct from the today's self. Therefore, by perceiving past positive experiences as more recent than negative ones, people are able to continue to take credit for former glories while reducing the threat of past failings on present identity. We discuss evidence for both the motivational account of subjective distancing and its role in regulating and maintaining a desired current identity. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Predictors of multitasking performance in a synthetic work paradigm
Authors: Hambrick David Z. , Oswald Frederick L. , Darowski Emily S. , Rench Tara A. , Brou Randy
Published: September 2009

This study investigated determinants of success in a ‘synthetic work’ task designed to reflect the requirement for multitasking that is common to many occupations. Participants were administered tests of working memory capacity (WMC) and processing speed (PS), and they reported experience with videogames, a type of activity presumed to involve multitasking. Results revealed that WMC was a strong predictor of multitasking in a ‘non‐emergency’ condition when the pace of the tasks was relatively slow, whereas PS was a weaker predictor. Additionally, there was evidence for the incremental validity of videogame experience (VGE), consistent with the possibility that multitasking is supported by a general, trainable skill. Finally, individual differences in strategy use accounted for a large proportion of the variance in multitasking, above and beyond other predictor variables, and WMC predicted use of an effective strategy. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Urban Otaku: Electric Lighting and the Noctambulist
Authors: Bell John Culmer
Published: September 2009

Street lighting extends the life of the city far beyond nightfall, perpetuating the day's activities while also making the metropolis a hub for leisure and entertainment. What if, however, it was necessary to curtail the use of electric lighting to conserve energy and to limit the impact of global warming? John Culmer Bell, founder of FXV, a studio concerned with researching the potential of new technologies and media in design, looks at how significant the lumination of the city is for urban culture. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Groom's Gospel
Authors: Glassner Bastian
Published: September 2009

Bastian Glassner, a director at Lynn Fox, the makers of high‐profile commercials and pop promotions, summons up a simultaneously sumptuous and visceral vision ‐ The Groom's Gospel. For this new project, produced for this publication in January 2009, guts and innards make the improbable transformation into delicate baroque forms. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Carbon Casino
Authors: Bevan Richard
Published: September 2009

Richard Bevan re‐imagines Heathrow Airport four decades on in 2050. In an age where Personal Carbon Allowances (PCAs) have become the dominant currency, the facilities at Heathrow are turned over to a carbon casino that affords airside and landside customers the opportunities to participate in gambling with the relevant tax breaks applied. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cortical Plasticity
Authors: Farmer Dan
Published: September 2009

Could the near future for architects all be in the mind? With further neurological metamorphosis, Dan Farmer suggests that spatial awareness and experience could be stipulated by cortical plasticity, stimulated by electrical impulses. With this shift to internalised space perception, the disciplines of architecture and cognitive science become blurred as the relationship between the object and its environment dissolves. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Migration Pattern Process
Authors: Beames Simon , Fraser Kenneth
Published: September 2009

Within the international community architects are regularly typecast as exporters of predetermined solutions, rarely given the opportunity to respond appropriately, sensitively and effectively to specific and real emergencies. At the core of any impact are people like you and I; their welfare and successful healing creates a catalyst for the community to rebuild lives and esteem. Since 2007, Diploma Unit 7 at the Architectural Association in London, led by Simon Beames and Kenneth Fraser, has been researching the philosophical, social, political, economic and technical response to long‐term humanitarian relief and the resocialisation of displaced people and damaged communities in conditions of extreme hardship. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.