bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between systemic immune-inflammation index and chronic kidney disease: A population-based study
Authors: Li Lin , Chen Kunfei , Wen Chengping , Ma Xiaoqin , Huang Lin
Published: February 2024

Background

Systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) is a new indicator of inflammation, and chronic kidney disease (CKD) has a connection to inflammation. However, the relationship between SII and CKD is still unsure. The aim of this study was whether there is an association between SII and CKD in the adult US population.

Methods

Data were from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) in 2003–2018, and multivariate logistic regression was used to explore the independent linear association between SII and CKD. Smoothing curves and threshold effect analyses were utilized to describe the nonlinear association between SII and CKD.

Results

The analysis comprised 40,660 adults in total. After adjusting for a number of factors, we found a positive association between SII and CKD [1.06 (1.04, 1.07)]. In subgroup analysis and interaction tests, this positive correlation showed differences in the age, hypertension, and diabetes strata (p for interaction<0.05), but remained constant in the sex, BMI, abdominal obesity, smoking, and alcohol consumption strata. Smoothing curve fitting revealed a non-linear positive correlation between SII and CKD. Threshold analysis revealed a saturation effect of SII at the inflection point of 2100 (1,000 cells/μl). When SII < 2100 (1,000 cells/μl), SII was an independent risk element for CKD.

Conclusions

In the adult US population, our study found a positive association between SII and CKD (inflection point: 2100). The SII can be considered a positive indicator to identify CKD promptly and guide therapy.
The research of touch screen usability in civil aircraft cockpit
Authors: Wang Xiaoli , Guo Wei , Zhong Zhenwei , Zeng Rui , Zhang Jiong , Wang Lijing
Published: February 2024

With the advancement of touch screen technology, the application of touch screens in civil aircraft cockpits has become increasingly popular. However, further analysis and research are required to fully promote its applications. The paper researched the usability of touch screens in aircraft cockpit considering the operation performance and subjective NASA-TLX workload evaluation, conducted experimental research on three touch gestures: click, drag, and zoom. Additionally, a comparative analysis was conducted on the touch performance under different layouts, positions, touch sizes, dragging direction angles, and zoom multiples. The touch performance indicators include operation time, error rate, operation speed, and workload. The experimental results show that the 21 mm size has the minimum operation time and workload, and 18 mm size has the lowest error rate in the clicking tasks. Additionally, the performance and workload of the captain’s layout are better than those of the co-pilot’s layout, and the performance of the center console position is best. The operation speed of the dragging tasks is faster when performed at position R3 compared to other positions. The dragging moving angles with better operation speed are 80°-190° and 250°-290°. The operation performance and workload of the zooming tasks vary depending on the zoom multiples. As the multiple increases, the operation time and workload also increase. There is no difference in operation performance or workload between zooming in and zooming out. The paper provides experimental support and suggestions based on human operation and subjective NASA-TLX workload evaluation for the application of touch screens in civil aircraft cockpits.
Real-World evidence revelations: The potential of patient support programmes to provide data on medication usage
Authors: Palffy Eszter , Lewis David John
Published: February 2024

Patient Support Programmes (PSPs) are used by the pharmaceutical industry to provide education and support to consumers to overcome the challenges they face managing their condition and treatment. Whilst there is an increasing number of PSPs, limited information is available on whether these programmes contribute to safety signals. PSPs do not have a scientific hypothesis, nor are they governed by a protocol. However, by their nature, PSPs inevitably generate adverse event (AE) reports. The main goal of the research was to gather all Novartis-initiated PSPs for sacubitril/valsartan, followed by research in the company safety database to identify all AE reports emanating from these PSPs. Core data sheets (CDS) were reviewed to assess if these PSPs contributed to any new, regulatory-authority approved, validated signals. Overall, AEs entered into the safety database from PSPs confirmed no contribution to CDS updates. Detailed review of real-world data revealed tablet splitting or taking one higher dose tablet a day instead of twice daily. This research, and subsequent analyses, revealed that PSPs did not impact safety label changes for sacubitril/valsartan. It revealed an important finding concerning drug utilisation i.e. splitting of sacubitril/valsartan tablets to reduce cost. This finding suggests that PSPs may contribute important real-world data on patterns of medication usage. There remains a paucity of literature available on this topic, hence further research is required to assess if it would be worth designing PSPs for collecting data on drug utilisation and (lack of) efficacy. Such information from PSPs could be important for all stakeholders.
The role of mHealth intervention to improve maternal and child health: A provider-based qualitative study in Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Gilano Girma , Dekker Andre , Fijten Rianne
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Maternal and child mortality remained higher in developing regions such as Southern Ethiopia due to poor maternal and child health. Technologies such as mobile applications in health may be an opportunity to reduce maternal and child mortality because they can improve access to information. Therefore, the main aim of this study was to explore the role of mHealth in improving maternal and child health in Southern Ethiopia.

Methods

This study employed a qualitative study design to explore the role of mHealth in improving maternal and child health among health professionals in Southern Ethiopia from December 2022 to March 2023. We conducted nine in-depth interviews, six key informants’ in-depth interviews, and four focused group discussions among health professionals. This is followed by thematic analyses to synthesize the collected evidence.

Results

The results are based on 226 quotations, 5 major themes, and 24 subthemes. The study participants discussed the possible acceptance of mHealth in terms of its fitness in the existing health system, its support to health professionals, and its importance in improving maternal and child health. The participants ascertained the importance of awareness creation before the implementation of mHealth among women, families, communities, and providers. They reported the importance of mHealth for mothers and health professionals and the effectiveness of mHealth services. The participants stated that the main challenges related to acceptance, awareness, negligence, readiness, and workload. However, they also suggested strategic solutions such as using family support, provider support, mothers’ forums, and community forums.

Conclusion

The evidence generated during this analysis is important information for program implementations and can inform policy-making. The planned intervention needs to introduce mHealth in Southern Ethiopia. Planners, decision-makers, and researchers can use it in mobile technology-related interventions. For challenges identified, we recommend solution-identified-based interventions and quality studies.
The prevalence of chronic pain in adolescents in Central Switzerland: A cross- sectional school-based study protocol
Authors: Schwerdt Helen , Christe Guillaume , Pate Joshua W. , Blake Catherine , Smart Keith M.
Published: February 2024

Background

Chronic pain is associated with substantial personal suffering and societal costs and is a growing healthcare concern worldwide. While chronic pain has been extensively studied in adults, limited data exists on its prevalence and impact in adolescents. Understanding the prevalence and impact of chronic pain and pain beliefs in adolescents is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies. This study aims to estimate the prevalence, characteristics, and impact of chronic pain, and explore adolescents’ knowledge and beliefs about pain.

Methods

This is an observational cohort study of school-going adolescents aged 11 to 17 years in Central Switzerland. The study will estimate the point prevalence, characteristics (location, intensity, frequency, duration) and impact (PROMIS Pediatric Short Form v2.0 –Pain Interference Scale, PPIS) of chronic pain in school-going adolescents. We will also measure and investigate pupils’ beliefs about pain (Concept of Pain Inventory (COPI)). Data will be collected through manual and digital self-report questionnaires and from participants in primary, secondary, and high schools between September 2023 and January 2024.

Analyses

The primary analyses will utilise descriptive statistics to estimate the point prevalence, characteristics, and impact of chronic pain. Secondary analyses will analyse associations and correlations between chronic pain, impact of pain and beliefs about pain.

Outcomes

This study will provide an estimate of the prevalence, characteristics and impact of chronic pain in adolescents in Central Switzerland and a measure of adolescents’ understanding and beliefs about pain. In doing so, this study will provide insights into the scale of chronic pain as a public health concern. By understanding adolescents’ pain beliefs and their influence on pain experience, this study can contribute to the development of educational approaches to enhance adolescents’ knowledge and understanding of pain in order to optimise the prevention and treatment of chronic pain in adolescents. The findings may be useful to healthcare professionals and funders, policymakers, and researchers involved in the prevention, assessment, and treatment of pain in adolescents.
Understanding the diabetes self-care behaviour in rural areas: Perspective of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and healthcare professionals
Authors: Gupta Saurabh Kumar , Lakshmi P.V.M. , Chakrapani Venkatesan , Rastogi Ashu , Kaur Manmeet
Published: February 2024

Background

Diabetes self-care behaviour plays a crucial role in managing the diabetes effectively and preventing complications. Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and health care professionals (HCPs) of rural areas often face unique challenges when it comes to diabetes self-care practices (SCPs). Therefore, this study aim to explore the perspectives of patients with T2DM and HCPs on diabetes SCPs.

Methods

Eight focus group discussions (FGDs) among individuals with T2DM and In-depth interviews (IDIs) with 15 HCPs were conducted in rural areas of Punjab, North India. Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, and Behaviour model (COM-B) was employed for thematic framework analyses.

Results

The study participants perceived that a limited understanding of diabetes mellitus (DM), beliefs in alternative therapies, drug side effects, attitudes towards DM (psychological capability), comorbidities (physical capability), family support (social opportunity), financial and time constraints, and weather conditions (physical opportunity) contributed to lack of DM SCPs. Physicians’ guidance and support were motivating them to adhere to SCPs, especially when aligned with their sense of self-efficacy (reflective motivation). HCPs constraints in providing patient-centred care are due to training limitations (psychological capability) and a lack of essential resources (physical opportunities). Participants expressed need for comprehensive diabetes care (automatic motivation) through structured diabetes education intervention to improve diabetes SCPs.

Conclusions

The study findings indicate that various factors influence diabetes SCPs from the perspectives of both patients with T2DM and HCPs and emphasizes the need for a multi-faceted approach to improve diabetes SCPs in rural areas. Implementing a structured diabetes self-care intervention strategy in rural areas may help for preventing and mitigating the impact of diabetes-related complications in rural areas.
Social media research: We are publishing more but with weak influence
Authors: Elhajjar Samer , Yacoub Laurent
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this paper is to address the chasm between academic research on social media as an expanding academic discipline and at the same time a growing marketing function. A bibliometric analysis indicated the evolution of academic research on social media. The results of a survey of 280 social media practitioners shed the light on the gap between academic social media research and the practice of professionals. A qualitative study also offered novel insights and recommendations for future developments in academic research on social media. The findings of this paper showed that academic research on social media is growing in terms of the number of publications but is struggling in three areas: visibility, relevance, and influence on practitioners. This study contributes to the body of knowledge on social media. The implications of our study are derived from the importance of our findings on the directions to publish more relevant and timely academic research on social media. While extensive studies exist on social media, their influence on practitioners is still limited.
Japan-epiretinal membrane (J-ERM) registry: A prospective cohort study protocol investigating the surgical outcome of epiretinal membrane
Authors: Kanzaki Yuki , Matoba Ryo , Ishihara Kenji , Morita Tetsuro , Muraoka Yuki , Kimura Shuhei , Koto Takashi , Kawasaki Ryo , Baba Takayuki , Okamoto Fumiki , Inoue Makoto , Sakamoto Taiji , Tsujikawa Akitaka , Morizane Yuki
Published: February 2024

Background

Epiretinal membrane (ERM) causes visual impairment such as reduction in visual acuity and metamorphopsia due to retinal traction. With the improvement of optical coherence tomography (OCT) and microincision vitrectomy surgery (MIVS), the surgery of ERM has significantly advanced. However, there have been no large-scale studies on the following: (1) how to evaluate visual impairment in ERM, (2) the relationship between OCT findings and visual function, (3) when is the optimal timing of surgery, and (4) the relationship between the surgical instruments as well as techniques and prognosis. The purpose of this study was to obtain evidence regarding these ERM surgeries.

Methods and design

This is a prospective, multicenter cohort study of ERM surgery in Japan from March 1, 2023, to March 31, 2027 (UMIN000048472, R-3468-2). Patients who underwent ERM surgery during the study period and agreed to participate in this study will be included. The goal is to have a total of 5,000 eyes surgically treated for ERM. The following data will be collected: age, gender, medical history, subjective symptoms, visual function before and 6 and 12 months after surgery, clinical findings, OCT data, surgical technique, instruments used in surgery, and complications.

Discussion

The results of this study will support the surgical decisions and procedures in ERM practices.
Nonlinear control of two-stage single-phase standalone photovoltaic system
Authors: Latif Adil , Khan Laiq , Agha Shahrukh , Mumtaz Sidra , Iqbal Jamshed
Published: February 2024

This paper presents a single-phase Photovoltaic (PV) inverter with its superior and robust control in a standalone mode. Initially, modeling and layout of the Buck-Boost DC-DC converter by adopting a non-linear Robust Integral Back-stepping controller (RIBSC) is provided. The controller makes use of a reference voltage generated through the regression plane so that the operating point corresponding to the maximum power point (MPP) could be achieved through the converter under changing climatic conditions. The other main purpose of the Buck-Boost converter is to act like a transformer and produce an increased voltage at the inverter input whenever desired. By not using a transformer makes the circuit size more compact and cost-effective. The proposed RIBSC is applied to an H-bridge inverter with an LC filter to produce the sinusoidal wave in the presence of variations in the output to minimize the difference between the output voltage and the reference voltage. Lyapunov stability criterion has been used to verify the stability and finite-time convergence of the overall system. The overall system is simulated in MATLAB/Simulink to test the system performance with different loads, varying climatic conditions and inverter reference voltages. The proposed methodology is compared with a back-stepping controller and Proportional Integral Derivative (PID) controller under rapidly varying climatic conditions. Results demonstrated that the proposed technique yielded a tracking time of 0.01s, a total harmonic distortion of 9.71% and a root means square error of 0.3998 in the case of resistive load thus showing superior control performance compared to the state-of-the-art control techniques.
Transcriptomic profiles of Mannheimia haemolytica planktonic and biofilm associated cells
Authors: Ma Hao , Alt David P. , Falkenberg Shollie M. , Briggs Robert E. , Tatum Fred M. , Clawson Michael L. , Casas Eduardo , Dassanayake Rohana P.
Published: February 2024

Mannheimia haemolytica is the principal agent contributing to bovine respiratory disease and can form biofilms with increased resistance to antibiotic treatment and host immune defenses. To investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying M. haemolytica biofilm formation, transcriptomic analyses were performed with mRNAs sequenced from planktonic and biofilm cultures of pathogenic serotypes 1 (St 1; strain D153) and St 6 (strain D174), and St 2 (strain D35). The three M. haemolytica serotypes were cultured in two different media, Roswell Park Memorial Institute (RPMI) 1640 and brain heart infusion (BHI) to form the biofilms. Transcriptomic analyses revealed that the functions of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in biofilm associated cells were not significantly affected by the two media. A total of 476 to 662 DEGs were identified between biofilm associated cells and planktonic cells cultured under BHI medium. Functional analysis of the DEGs indicated that those genes were significantly enriched in translation and many biosynthetic processes. There were 234 DEGs identified in St 1 and 6, but not in St 2. The functions of the DEGs included structural constituents of ribosomes, transmembrane proton transportation, proton channels, and proton-transporting ATP synthase. Potentially, some of the DEGs identified in this study provide insight into the design of new M. haemolytica vaccine candidates.
Plasma proteome signature of canine acute haemorrhagic diarrhoea syndrome (AHDS)
Authors: Huber Lukas , Kuropka Benno , Doulidis Pavlos G. , Baszler Elisabeth , Martin Lukas , Rosu Anda , Kulmer Lisa , Frizzo Ramos Carolina , Rodríguez-Rojas Alexandro , Burgener Iwan A.
Published: February 2024

Acute haemorrhagic diarrhoea is a common complaint in dogs. In addition to causes like intestinal parasites, dietary indiscretion, intestinal foreign bodies, canine parvovirus infection, or hypoadrenocorticism, acute haemorrhagic diarrhoea syndrome (AHDS) is an important and sometimes life-threatening differential diagnosis. There is some evidence supporting the link between Clostridium perfringens toxins and AHDS. These toxins may be partially responsible for the epithelial cell injury, but the pathogenesis of AHDS is still not fully understood. Recent studies have suggested that severe damage to the intestinal mucosa and associated barrier dysfunction can trigger chronic gastrointestinal illnesses. Besides bloodwork and classical markers for AHDS such as protein loss and intestinal bacterial dysbiosis, we focused mainly on the plasma-proteome to identify systemic pathological alterations during this disease and searched for potential biomarkers to improve the diagnosis. To accomplish the goals, we used liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. We compared the proteomic profiles of 20 dogs with AHDS to 20 age-, breed-, and sex-matched control dogs. All dogs were examined, and several blood work parameters were determined and compared, including plasma biochemistry and cell counts. We identified and quantified (relative quantification) 207 plasmatic proteins, from which dozens showed significantly altered levels in AHDS. Serpina3, Lipopolysaccharide-binding protein, several Ig-like domain-containing proteins, Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase and Serum amyloid A were more abundant in plasma from AHDS affected dogs. In contrast, other proteins such as Paraoxonase, Selenoprotein, Amine oxidases, and Apolipoprotein C-IV were significantly less abundant. Many of the identified and quantified proteins are known to be associated with inflammation. Other proteins like Serpina3 and RPLP1 have a relevant role in oncogenesis. Some proteins and their roles have not yet been described in dogs with diarrhoea. Our study opens new avenues that could contribute to the understanding of the aetiology and pathophysiology of AHDS.
Properties of essential oils absorbed on the surface of cardboard pieces after using atmospheric-pressure plasma treatments to develop long-lasting Varroa miticides in honeybees (Apis mellifera)
Authors: Boonmee Thummanoon , Sinpoo Chainarong , Wongthaveethong Laedlugkana , Disayathanoowat Terd , Suanpoot Pradoong , Pettis Jeffery S. , Chaimanee Veeranan
Published: February 2024

The ectoparasitic mite, Varroa destructor is the most serious widespread pest of managed honeybees (Apis mellifera). Several acaricide products, which include essential oils, have been proposed for mite control. In this study, we aimed to apply atmospheric-pressure plasma to modify a cardboard piece surface in order to prolong the delivery of essential oils for controlling Varroa in honeybee colonies. Absorption capacity, release rates and evaporation rates of essential oils were determined. Cardboard piece showed a higher absorption capacity of cinnamon compared to citronella and clove. Surface modification of cardboard pieces using argon plasma at different gas flow rates and treatment durations, significantly affected the absorption of clove oil. Additionally, the release rate of cinnamon, citronella and clove was significantly enhanced after argon plasma treatments. Evaporation of cinnamon was dramatically increased by plasma treatment at 6-h of incubation. The highest evaporation rate was obtained by plasma-treated cardboard piece at a gas flow rate of 0.5 Lpm for 60 s (0.2175 ± 0.0148 μl/g•h). Efficiency of plasma-treated cardboard piece, impregnated with essential oils, was also investigated for Varroa control in honeybee colonies. In the first experiment, formic acid 65% (v/v) showed the highest efficiency of 90.60% and 81.59% with the percent of mite infestation was 0.23 ± 0.13% and 0.47 ± 0.19% at 21 and 35 days, respectively after treatment. The efficacy of cardamon oil (5% (v/v)) delivered using plasma-treated cardboard pieces was 57.71% (0.70 ± 0.16% of mite infestation) at day 21 of experiment. However, the delivery of cardamon oil at the concentration of 1% and 5% (v/v) by untreated cardboard piece had 16.93% and 24.05% of efficacy to control mites. In the 2nd experiment, the application of plasma-treated cardboard pieces impregnated with 5% (v/v) clove oil induced a 38.10% reduction in the population of Varroa mites followed by 5% (v/v) of cardamon with 30% efficiency. Although, the infestation rate of Varroa in colonies was not significant different between treatments, essential oils delivered using plasma-treated cardboard pieces tended to decrease Varroa population in the treated colonies. Hence, atmospheric-pressure plasma for the modification of other materials, should be further investigated to provide alternative control treatment applications against honeybee mites.
The presence of enteropathy in HIV infected children on antiretroviral therapy in Malawi
Authors: Blaauw Julia , Chikwana Jessica , Chaima David , Khoswe Stanley , Samikwa Lyson , de Vries Isabelle , Voskuijl Wieger
Published: February 2024

Background

Undernutrition and malnutrition in children in low- and middle-income countries contribute to high mortality rates. Stunting, a prevalent form of malnutrition, is associated with educational and productivity losses. Environmental enteric dysfunction (EED) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection worsen these conditions. This study seeks to investigate the presence of enteropathy using EED fecal biomarkers in HIV-infected children who are stable on antiretroviral therapy (ART) across various nutritional statuses. By understanding the interplay between EED, HIV, and nutritional status, this study aims to provide insights that can inform targeted interventions to optimize nutritional outcomes in HIV infected children.

Methods/Principal findings

This study evaluated the levels of alpha-1-antitrypsin, calprotectin and myeloperoxidase in frozen fecal samples from 61 HIV infected (mean age 9.16 ±3.08 years) and 31 HIV uninfected (6.65 ±3.41 years) children in Malawi. Anthropometric measurements and clinical data were collected. The height-for-age z-score (-1.66 vs -1.27, p = 0.040) and BMI-for-age z-score (-0.36 vs 0.01, p = 0.037) were lower in HIV infected children. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were used to measure biomarker concentrations. Statistical tests were applied to compare biomarker levels based on HIV status and anthropometric parameters. Myeloperoxidase, alpha-1-antitrypsin, and calprotectin concentrations did not differ between HIV infected and HIV uninfected children of different age groups. In HIV infected children from 5–15 years, there is no difference in biomarker concentration between the stunted and non-stunted groups.

Conclusion/Significance

Our study found a higher prevalence of stunting in HIV infected children compared to uninfected children, but no significant differences in biomarker concentrations. This suggests no causal relationship between enteropathy and stunting in HIV infected children. These results contribute to the understanding of growth impairment in HIV infected children and emphasize the need for further research, particularly a longitudinal, biopsy-controlled study.
Glucose control and outcomes in diabetic and nondiabetic patients treated with targeted temperature management after cardiac arrest
Authors: Bang Hyo Jin , Youn Chun Song , Park Kyu Nam , Oh Sang Hoon , Kim Hyo Joon , Kim Soo Hyun , Park Sang Hyun
Published: February 2024

Hyperglycemia is commonly observed in critically ill patients and postcardiac arrest patients, with higher glucose levels and variability associated with poorer outcomes. In this study, we aim to compare glucose control in diabetic and nondiabetic patients using glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, providing insights for better glucose management strategies. This retrospective observational study was conducted at Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital from February 2009 to May 2022. Blood glucose levels were measured hourly for 48 h after return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), and a glucose management protocol was followed to maintain arterial blood glucose levels between 140 and 180 mg/dL using short-acting insulin infusion. Patients were categorized into four groups based on diabetes status and glycemic control. The primary outcomes assessed were neurological outcome and mortality at 6 months after cardiac arrest. Among the 332 included patients, 83 (25.0%) had a previous diabetes diagnosis, and 114 (34.3%) had an HbA1c of 6.0% or higher. At least one hyperglycemic episode was observed in 314 patients (94.6%) and hypoglycemia was found in 63 patients (19.0%) during 48 h. After the categorization, unrecognized diabetes was noticed in 51 patients with median HbA1c of 6.3% (interquartile range [IQR] 6.1–6.6). Patients with inadequate diabetes control had the highest initial HbA1c level (7.0%, IQR 6.5–7.8) and admission glucose (314 mg/dL, IQR 257–424). Median time to target glucose in controlled diabetes was significantly shorter with the slowest glucose reducing rate. The total insulin dose required to reach the target glucose level and cumulative insulin requirement during 48 h were different among the categories (p <0.001). Poor neurological outcomes and mortality were more frequently observed in patients with diagnosed diabetes. Occurrence of a hypoglycemic episode during the 48 h after ROSC was independently associated with poor neurologic outcomes (odds ratio [OR] 3.505; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.382–9.663). Surviving patients following cardiac arrest exhibited variations in glucose hemodynamics and outcomes according to the categories based on their preexisting diabetes status and glycemic condition. Specifically, even experiencing a single episode of hypoglycemia during the acute phase could have an influence on unfavorable neurological outcomes. While the classification did not directly affect neurological outcomes, the present results indicate the need for a customized approach to glucose control based on these categories.
El giro a la derecha en Uruguay, su economía política y la política exterior (2020-2023)
Authors: Rocha-Carpuic Cecilia , López Burian Camilo , Hernández Nilson Diego
Published: February 2024

El giro a la derecha en Uruguay, impulsado por una coalición de partidos liderada por el presidente Luis Lacalle Pou, ha introducido importantes reformas en el ámbito doméstico. Con base en la Teoría Liberal de las Relaciones Internacionales y la Economía Política Comparada, mostramos cómo las coaliciones socioeconómicas que sustentan al gobierno han obtenido la satisfacción de muchas de sus preferencias en varias políticas públicas, con foco en áreas claves de economía política. En política exterior también se han promovido cambios concordantes con este modelo doméstico. Sin embargo, estos no han logrado concretarse de la misma forma que aquellos otros, en la medida que las dinámicas políticas internacionales, especialmente las subregionales, se constituyen en un freno para la concreción de los objetivos del gobierno en materia internacional.
latino-americanismo do movimento feminista
Authors: Angelini Carla
Published: February 2024

Em março de 2023, a Corte Interamericana de Direitos Humanos convocou uma audiência de testemunhas e especialistas para avançar no julgamento do caso Beatriz. A ação impulsada pela família da jovem contra o estado de El Salvador baseou-se na proibição de interromper uma gravidez com feto anencéfalo em 2013, situação que agravou as doenças autoimunes que sofria. Organizações feministas salvadorenhas convocaram suas congêneres latino-americanas a estarem presentes nas ruas de San José, na Costa Rica, para apoiar a família de Beatriz na luta pela garantia da autonomia das mulheres e pessoas com possibilidade de gestar. Este projeto fotográfico busca trazer elementos visuais para tornar visível o que aconteceu naqueles dias, mostrando diferentes cenas daquele momento que pode significar um marco no avanço da justiça reprodutiva em toda a região.
A política monetária brasileira nos anos 2000: Uma visão sobre as altas taxas de juros
Authors: Siqueira da Silva Junior Heldo
Published: February 2024

Mesmo após o Plano Real e a flexibilização cambial a partir de 1999, as taxas de juros brasileiras seguem entre as mais elevadas do mundo. Nem mesmo a adoção do tripé macroeconômico permitiu a diminuição da diferença entre os juros brasileiros e internacionais. Muitos autores atribuem este fato a problemas nos mecanismos de transmissão monetária da economia brasileira. Este trabalho busca mostrar uma visão alternativa a esta, procurando analisar a proporção de moeda corrente (M1) como participação da renda. A manutenção baixa desse indicador exige da autoridade monetária pagar taxas de juros altas para manter esses saldos na forma de reservas remuneradas. Esse poderia ser um dos motivos de o Banco Central brasileiro teria que pagar um prêmio mais alto que os outros para a manutenção de suas reservas. O artigo objetiva propor um modelo de análise estatística e o aplica ao Brasil com dados a partir dos anos 2000 para fazer inferências sobre a política econômica adotada no país. Argumenta-se que os mecanismos de política monetária funcionam adequadamente no Brasil, mas buscam-se resultados que a mesma não pode obter.
Para uma teoria geral da renda em Marx: um estudo sobre a renda básica
Authors: De Azevedo Raquel
Published: February 2024

A separação entre valor e forma de participação no valor é a característica comum às três formas de renda do capital – lucro, juro e renda terra – e à forma-salário. Este artigo propõe que a renda básica seja pensada em série com as demais formas de renda desde que a tomemos como uma nova forma de participação no valor. Para além das interpretações da renda básica como resposta ao desemprego tecnológico ou como forma de cidadania pelo consumo, procuramos enquadrá-la como resultado do que chamamos de acumulação primitiva do nosso tempo: a separação dos trabalhadores de sua capacidade de se organizar.
Un control cultural transicional
Authors: Bettendorff Paulina
Published: February 2024

El archivo de la Dirección de Inteligencia de la Policía de la Provincia de Buenos Aires (DIPPBA), uno de los archivos de la represión más extensos en ser desclasificados en Argentina, permite conocer un discurso particular de control a la cultura que funciona de forma paralela y, en ocasiones, entrecruzada con la censura: el discurso de la vigilancia llevada adelante por servicios de inteligencia. Las artes del espectáculo, entre las que se destacan el teatro y el cine, fueron el ámbito cultural más vigilado por esta dependencia policial. Esa vigilancia se instituyó en 1956 y se sostuvo a lo largo de casi toda la segunda mitad del siglo XX, hasta el momento de su clausura en 1998. En este artículo, en el marco de los estudios del discurso, se analiza un período particular del archivo: los años que se extienden entre 1984 y 1988, en los que se observa un discurso “transicional” de control a los espectáculos. En este período permanecen bajo la mirada de la DIPPBA espacios de exhibición que organizan funciones de un cine y un teatro sospechosos de “adoctrinamiento político” y de ataque a los valores “occidentales y cristianos” –caracterizaciones propias de la censura y la vigilancia de las décadas del sesenta y setenta–, pero al mismo tiempo hay una reconfiguración de la presentación de sí de la comunidad de inteligencia, que oscila entre posicionamientos propios de los años de la dictadura y una imagen de “objetividad” profesional.
Cenotafio a los Caídos en Malvinas en Rosario como espacio de memoria, reflexión e identidad
Authors: Kobryn Mila
Published: February 2024

El siguiente trabajo pretende describir y analizar el Cenotafio a los Caídos en Malvinas, ubicado en el Parque Nacional a la Bandera de la ciudad de Rosario. Este espacio fue erigido con múltiples intenciones: es un sitio pensado desde un lugar ideológico, pero también estético. Es un lugar de memoria, de homenaje y de identidad nacional. Al mismo tiempo es una obra de arte y, complementariamente, un lugar de encuentro y congregación. Distintos hilos se entrecruzaron en este Cenotafio brindándole complejidad y riqueza.
Acerca del surgimiento y desarrollo del cine moderno en Argentina
Authors: Moreira Facca Enzo
Published: February 2024

En este artículo buscaremos problematizar acerca del desarrollo del cine moderno en la Argentina, para lo cuál llevaremos adelante un repaso histórico en torno a las diversas avanzadas de estos impulsos estéticos, en la que reconocemos dos: una primera avanzada de autores independientes por fuera del sistema de estudios, que acompaña el desarrollo de los nuevos cines durante la década del 60’; y una segunda avanzada que inicia tras el golpe de estado de 1966 y es impulsada por autores provenientes de los nuevos medios en auge, como lo eran la publicidad y la televisión. Dentro de esta segunda avanzada, a su vez, planteamos la diferencia entre dos corrientes: por una banda a las obras realizadas por los grupos militantes, y por otra banda a las obras llevadas a cabo por los grupos de vanguardia; para esta última, nos interesa subcategorizar a las distintas expresiones que se dan hacia adentro de un mismo contexto cultural. Como conclusión, encontramos que son las nuevas inquietudes estéticas que surgen en los emergentes entornos artísitcos las que llevan a desarrollar un cine al margen de la industria cinematográfica.
Invocaciones cercadas
Authors: Navarta Bianco Fabiana
Published: February 2024

En el siguiente texto exploraré tres obras de la escultora cordobesa Martha Bersano (1952-), expuestas en la muestra individual titulada La mujer en el arte: esculturas de martha bersano, desarrollada en el en el Centro Multinacional de la Mujer dependiente de la Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, en la ciudad de Córdoba en 1989. Una de ellas se tituló Cerco (Cerco I), ejecutada en 1983 previa a la asunción del presidente electo Raúl Alfonsín. Las dos restantes denominadas El Cerco IV e Innovaciones, las produjo durante el instable año electoral de 1989, en el cual la incertidumbre política y económica incentivaron el malestar social, acelerando el traspaso presidencial de Alfonsín a Menem. Infiero que estas tres esculturas de bulto pueden haber representado gritos, ahogados, súplicas, como una posible respuesta artística a la coyuntura de 1983, y posteriormente de 1989, año de la citada exposición.
De la comuna a la parcela. Crítica de la película los reyes de mundo
Authors: Romo Mateo
Published: February 2024

El arte, entre sus muchas virtudes, tiene las de fungir como denunciante, catalizador del dolor y de las desgracias, báculo de sueños diurnos, escriba de la historia a contrapelo, vigía de las promesas aplazadas, autor y partícipe de la fundación de períodos, así como dador de sentido a la vida personal y colectiva. La película Los reyes del mundo, de la directora colombiana Laura Mora, tiene mucho de esto y más. La historia se ambienta en un momento de coyuntura: la fase de posconflicto y los desafíos de la restitución de tierras, en el marco de la Ley 1448 de 2011. Este artículo ensayístico se propone dar cuenta de algunas de las ideas motrices de la película, basado en la premisa de que, en cuanto filme que presenta una genuina lectura sobre la violencia y propicia un viaje a las profundidades de los que sufren, es una experiencia de concientización colectiva que ojalá anime el afloramiento de emociones políticas como la empatía. ¡Basta ya
Explotación de hidrocarburos y generación de conflictos en Colombia
Authors: Collazos Ortiz Adriana , Paz Parra Alejandro
Published: February 2024

Este artículo analiza la exploración y la explotación de hidrocarburos en determinadas zonas de Colombia que son habitadas por comunidades ancestrales indígenas, afrodescendientes, rai-zales, palenqueras, rom, y otras protegidas por el ordenamiento jurídico. Lo anterior, con la finalidad de examinar la situación colombiana en el marco de la exploración y la explotación de hidrocarburos, y sus conflictos étnicos, para así contribuir a la discusión de hidrocarburos y etnicidades. Asimismo, los investigadores buscan profundizar en el conocimiento de los con-flictos surgidos en el contexto de los proyectos de exploración y explotación de hidrocarburos, a escala nacional e internacional, y comprender la naturaleza de los costos derivados para el Estado, las comunidades afectadas y las empresas. Los resultados se demuestran con el caso colombiano y a partir de dos casos de estudio de otros países, de manera que se revisan algunas variables de desarrollo regional y se concluye que la explotación no se traduce en beneficios reales para los individuos de las comunidades; por el contrario, estos ven desmejoradas las condiciones de vida y el hábitat del territorio.
Feasibility of oropharyngeal and respiratory muscle training in individuals with OSA and spinal cord injury or disease: A pilot study
Authors: Sankari Abdulghani , Najjar Abed Alkader , Maresh Scott A. , Prowting Joel L. , Fung Constance H. , Knack Arthur , Yarandi Hossein , Badr M. Safwan
Published: February 2024

Objectives

To examine the feasibility of individuals with spinal cord injury or disease (SCI/D) to perform combined oropharyngeal and respiratory muscle training (RMT) and determine its impact on their respiratory function.

Methods

A prospective study at a single Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center. Inclusion criteria included: 1) Veterans with chronic SCI/D (>6 months postinjury and American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) classification A–D) and 2) evidence of OSA by apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI ≥5 events/h). Eligible participants were randomly assigned to either an experimental (exercise) group that involved performing daily inspiratory, expiratory (using POWERbreathe and Expiratory Muscle Strength Trainer 150 devices, respectively), and tongue strengthening exercises or a control (sham) group that involved using a sham device, for a 3‐month period. Spirometry, maximal expiratory pressure (MEP), maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), polysomnography, and sleep questionnaires were assessed at baseline and at 3 months.

Results

Twenty‐four individuals were randomized (12 participants in each arm). A total of eight (67%) participants completed the exercise arm, and ten (83%) participants completed the sham arm. MIP was significantly increased (p < 0.05) in the exercise group compared with the baseline.

Conclusions

Combined oropharyngeal and RMT are feasible for individuals with SCI/D. Future studies are needed to determine the clinical efficacy of these respiratory muscle exercises.
Implementierung von Alma & Primo VE an der Bayerischen Staatsbibliothek
Authors: Gillitzer Berthold , Kratzer Mathias , Moravetz-Kuhlmann Monika , Schäffler Hildegard , Schwarz Stephan
Published: February 2024

Dieser Bericht über die Implementierung der cloudbasierten Bibliotheksmanagement- und Discovery-Lösung Alma & Primo VE von Ex Libris an der Bayerischen Staatsbibliothek beleuchtet die für dieses Großprojekt spezifischen bis einzigartigen Aspekte. Sie ergeben sich aus der Größe und zum Teil besonderen Art des Bestands, der arbeitsteiligen Organisation von Geschäftsgängen, den überregionalen Aufgaben der Bibliothek und ihrer gemeinsamen Nutzerschaft mit der Universitätsbibliothek der Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München.
Rechtsfragen zur generativen KI
Authors: Rack Fabian
Published: February 2024

Der Beitrag gibt einen Einstieg in ausgewählte Rechtsfragen der generativen KI. Der Blick richtet sich auf Betreiber, die fremde Materialien einsammeln, um ihre KI-Modelle zu trainieren. Die hierfür geltende gesetzliche Grundlage und ihre Grenzen werden dargestellt. Außerdem wird beleuchtet, was aus Nutzersicht im Hinblick auf fremde Urheberrechte zu beachten ist und wann eigene Urheberrechte beim Einsatz generativer KI entstehen. Auch datenschutzrechtliche Fragestellungen werden thematisiert.
20 Jahre Koordinationsstelle für die dauerhafte Archivierung elektronischer Unterlagen (KOST): Rückblick und Ausblick
Authors: Büchler Georg
Published: February 2024

Die Koordinationsstelle für die dauerhafte Archivierung elektronischer Unterlagen (KOST) unterstützt seit 20 Jahren öffentliche Archive in der Schweiz in allen Aspekten der digitalen Archivierung. Ihre Aktivitäten reichen von der Standardisierung über Forschung und Projektbegleitung bis zur individuellen Unterstützung ihrer Trägerarchive. Die neue Strategie der KOST fokussiert auf eine weitere Stärkung des Gemeinschaftsgedankens durch die Schaffung gemeinsamer Grundlagen, Werkzeuge und Weiterbildungsangebote.
Spatial and time-resolved properties of emission enhancement in polar/semi-polar InGaN/GaN by surface plasmon resonance
Authors: Ikeda Kento , Kawai Kanata , Kametani Jun , Matsuyama Tetsuya , Wada Kenji , Okada Narihito , Tadatomo Kazuyuki , Okamoto Koichi
Published: February 2024

Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are widely used as next-generation light sources because of their various advantages. However, their luminous efficiency is remarkably low at the green-emission wavelength. The luminous efficiencies of InGaN/GaN quantum wells (QWs) significantly decrease with increasing indium content in the green wavelength region, mainly owing to the quantum-confined Stark effect (QCSE). This green gap problem can be solved using QWs grown on semi-polar GaN substrates, such as the {11–22} planes, to reduce the QCSE. We propose that the use of surface plasmons (SPs) is a promising way to improve the light emission efficiency of light-emitting materials such as InGaN/GaN QWs. SP resonance increases the spontaneous emission rates of the excited states, causes a relative reduction in non-radiative relaxation, and ultimately increases the internal quantum efficiencies. In this study, the light emissions of InGaN/GaN QWs grown on polar and semi-polar GaN were investigated using micro-photoluminescence (PL). We successfully enhanced the light emission of semi-polar GaN via SP resonance. The PL peak intensities and wavelengths were mapped and compared to determine the underlying mechanisms. We also measured the emission lifetimes by time-resolved PL and interpreted the detailed mechanism of SP-enhanced emissions. It was found that SP resonances can control not only the emission efficiency but also the exciton dynamics, such as exciton localization effects, QCSE screening, and defect level saturation. We conclude that the green gap problem can be solved by SP-enhanced light emission in semipolar InGaN/GaN.
Dual high-Q Fano resonances metasurfaces excited by asymmetric dielectric rods for refractive index sensing
Authors: Wang Tianyu , Liu Siqi , Zhang Jiahang , Xu Liang , Yang Mingyu , Ma Ding , Jiang Sijia , Jiao Qingbin , Tan Xin
Published: February 2024

The metasurface refractive index sensor has a high degree of tunability and flexibility, providing excellent performance for high precision refractive index sensing applications. The metasurface absorber with metallic structure has been hindered in further sensor applications due to the inherent Ohmic loss of the metallic material. In this study, a dual nanorod metasurface structure based on semiconductor Si was designed, introducing a symmetry-breaking structure to excite dual ultra-narrow q-BIC resonance peaks with Fano line shapes. Both peaks are located in the near-infrared region, and multipole analysis shows that this strong field enhancement effect is induced by a magnetic dipole. Experimental results demonstrate the potential of this sensor to provide dual-channel detection while achieving high sensitivity and high Q-factor. We believe that this device exhibits outstanding performance and high practicality, providing a reference for the development and application of biological and environmental sensors.
Multi-wavelength structured light based on metasurfaces for 3D imaging
Authors: Lyu Baiying , Chen Chen , Wang Jian , Li Chang , Zhang Wei , Feng Yuxiang , Dong Fei , Zhang BaoShun , Zeng Zhongming , Wang Yiqun , Wu Dongmin
Published: February 2024

Structured light projection provides a promising approach to achieving fast and non-contact three-dimensional (3D) imaging. The resolution is a crucial index that represents security and accuracy in applications such as face recognition and robot vision. It depends on the density of dots in the projection. However, further improving the density of dots in the current system must be at the cost of speed or volume. Here, an all-dielectric ultra-thin metasurface is designed and fabricated to project a multi-wavelength dot array. The density of dots is improved because projected dots with different wavelengths fill the gaps with each other. The experimental results demonstrate that the multi-wavelength projection improves the resolution of 3D imaging. Furthermore, the multi-wavelength system is beneficial to measuring a surface with varying colors. The approach has the potential to achieve a new generation of high-resolution systems for tiny fluctuations and colorful 3D imaging in dark environments.